UNIVERSITY RANKING: A CROWN JEWEL OR A POISON CHALICE?

Abstract

A key focus area of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is to achieve excellence in educational and research quality. Achieving and maintaining high quality learning and research environment will have a direct impact on their recognition both nationally and internationally. The rankings of HEIs in globally recognised university ranking lists such as the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) and Times Higher Education (THE) are used to highlight institutional excellence. These rankings very often provide confidence for prospective students, their employers, prospective faculty applicants and grant funders to engage the HEIs. However, there are challenges in getting into these rankings especially if the HEIs are located in resource poor settings. The presentation will focus on the strengths, limitations and the challenges that some of the HEIs face in their quest to achieve quality and excellence. The presenter will also share his experiences and reflections regarding HEIs rankings and quality assurance processes.