Latest news with #KhalifaUniversity
The National
15 hours ago
- Business
- The National
UAE universities on the rise in world education rankings as Harvard leads way
UAE universities have risen up the rankings in a new global higher education league table, in which the US's under-fire Harvard cemented top spot for the 14th consecutive year. Abu Dhabi's Khalifa University led the way for the country, jumping up 30 places to 846th out of 21,462 higher education institutions assessed in the 2025 Centre for World University Rankings (CWUR), released on Monday morning. Khalifa University placed in the top 4 per cent of universities worldwide and was the 10th best in the Middle East in the annual list measured on quality of education, employability, quality of faculty and research. United Arab Emirates University climbed 91 places to 1,022 (in the top 4.8 per cent), ahead of the University of Sharjah – up 161 places to 1,092 (top 5.1 per cent) and New York University Abu Dhabi at 1,116 (top 5.2 per cent). The CWUR referred to the strong research performance of the universities as being central to their move up the rankings. Nadim Mahassen, president of the CWUR, hailed the significant progress being made by UAE universities. 'With four of its institutions in the rankings, the United Arab Emirates is well represented among the world's top universities," he said. "Further financial backing, and placing the development of education and science higher on its agenda, will allow the country to be even more competitive in the rapidly evolving global academic landscape." King Abdullah University of Science and Technology was the top performer in the region, moving up to 237th from 249th position last year. Fellow Saudi institution King Abdulaziz University broke into the 250, rising from 254th to 249th. UAE makes its mark Senthil Nathan, managing director and co-founder of Edu Alliance, a UAE-based higher education consultancy company, said it was significant that this particular ranking places an emphasis on the success of universities in preparing students for the world of work. 'Before reflecting on any world rankings, it is essential to understand their underlying methodologies. CWUR assesses rankings without relying on surveys and university data submissions,' Mr Nathan said. 'A significant weight [50 per cent] of this ranking is given to the success of the university's alumni.' Mr Nathan – a former deputy vice chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology in Abu Dhabi – said the CWUR considers the average number of former students who have held top positions at the world's largest 2,000 public companies since 2011. This performance indicator will frustrate some newer universities, such as those in the Emirates. 'The improvement in the rankings of four of the universities in the UAE is commendable," he said. "On a first glance, their CWUR ranking may seem lower as compared to their ranking in other systems. 'However, this is mainly because of the way CWUR measures success of the alumni. Khalifa University and NYUAD are relatively young universities and have been graduating students only for less than 15 years.' The UAE government has taken significant steps to drive up higher education standards in recent years in an effort to compete with the world's best seats of learning. In June 2024, the UAE set out plans for local universities to be subjected to regular assessments and clustered based on performance. Both public and private higher education institutions are included in the assessment, with rankings based on factors including teaching quality and student life, employability, scientific research and international collaboration. Recognition for troubled Harvard The Ivy League Harvard University, which is the subject of a controversial plan by the Trump administration to prevent it enrolling foreign students, topped the rankings once again. Washington has accused the Ivy League university of not doing enough to fight anti-Semitism and change its admissions practices – allegations the university has strongly denied. Harvard said the proposed ban is a 'blatant violation' of the law and free speech rights. Harvard was joined in the top three by two other US universities, MIT and Stanford, with the UK's world renowned Cambridge and Oxford making up the top five. While US universities make up the rest of the top 10, Mr Mahassen said this dominance was not reflected in the wider global top 2,000 and points to potential challenges ahead as academic competition hots up and universities face up to funding cuts. 'While the United States still boasts the top universities in the world, the decline of the vast majority of its higher education institutions should be of concern to US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and the wider Trump administration," he said. 'At a time when Chinese universities are reaping the rewards of years of generous financial support from their government, American institutions are grappling with slashed federal funding and disputes over academic freedom and free speech. 'With the United States surpassed by China as the country with the most representatives in the rankings, its reputation in the global higher education sector is under serious threat. 'The sharp decline of US universities parallels that of institutions in Japan, France, and Germany, while UK and Russian universities have fared only slightly better. With the extraordinary rise of Chinese institutions, universities in the Western world cannot afford to stand still and rest on their laurels.'
Khaleej Times
17 hours ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE universities rise in global rankings, led by Khalifa University
UAE's Khalifa University has soared 30 places to rank 846th globally, placing it in the top four per cent of universities worldwide. That's according to the 2025 edition of the Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR), which shows how the UAE has strengthened its global academic standing, with four of its universities making significant gains in this year's edition. This year's CWUR report highlights a notable improvement in research performance as the key driver behind the rise of UAE institutions in the global standings. United Arab Emirates University follows closely, climbing 91 places to 1,022nd in the top 4.8 per cent, while the University of Sharjah jumps 161 spots to rank 1,092nd in the top 5.1 per cent. New York University Abu Dhabi is also featured at 1,116th standing among the top 5.2 per cent. What is helping UAE climb the academic ladder? The UAE's ongoing investment in research and education infrastructure appears to be paying off — marking a clear signal of ambition to become a leading hub for higher education in the region and beyond. CWUR analysed over 74 million outcome-based data points across four key performance indicators: quality of education (25 per cent), employability (25 per cent), faculty quality (10 per cent), and research output (40 per cent). Of the 21,462 institutions assessed, only the top 2,000 qualified for the published list, spanning 94 countries. Dr Nadim Mahassen, President of CWUR, said, 'With four of its institutions in the rankings, the United Arab Emirates is well represented among the world's top universities. Further financial backing, and placing the development of education and science higher on its agenda will allow the country to be even more competitive in the rapidly evolving global academic landscape.' He added, 'While the United States still boasts the top universities in the world, the decline of the vast majority of its higher education institutions should be of concern to US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and the wider Trump administration." 'At a time when Chinese universities are reaping the rewards of years of generous financial support from their government, American institutions are grappling with slashed federal funding and disputes over academic freedom and free speech. With the United States surpassed by China as the country with the most representatives in the rankings, its reputation in the global higher education sector is under serious threat.' Mahassen added, 'The sharp decline of US universities parallels that of institutions in Japan, France, and Germany, while UK and Russian universities have fared only slightly better. With the extraordinary rise of Chinese institutions, universities in the Western world cannot afford to stand still and rest on their laurels.' Global highlights Harvard University, a prestigious member of the Ivy League, has once again secured the top spot in university rankings for the 14th consecutive year. This achievement comes even as the university faces a contentious proposal from the Trump administration aimed at blocking it from admitting international students. The US government has also criticized Harvard for allegedly failing to adequately address anti-Semitism and for its admissions policies, claims the university firmly denies. MIT and Stanford University follow closely behind, securing the second and third spots in the rankings, respectively. The University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford top the list of public institutions globally, ranking 4th and 5th respectively. While the US dominates the top ten with eight entries, its overall performance shows signs of decline, with only 40 of its 319 listed universities improving and 264 dropping in rank -- down from 329 last year. Canada features 38 universities, with the University of Toronto leading at 23rd place. Europe, despite having 621 institutions in the Global 2000, also sees widespread declines; in the UK, only 16 universities improved while 67 dropped in rank, with similar downward trends observed in France, Germany, and Russia.
The National
a day ago
- Business
- The National
UAE universities on the rise in global education rankings as Harvard leads way
UAE universities have risen up the rankings in a new global higher education league table, in which the US's under-fire Harvard cemented top spot for the 14th consecutive year. Abu Dhabi's Khalifa University led the way, jumping up 30 places to 846th out of 21,462 higher education institutions assessed in the 2025 Centre for World University Rankings (CWUR), released on Monday morning. Khalifa University placed in the top 4 per cent of universities worldwide and was the 10th best in the Middle East in the annual list measured on quality of education, employability, quality of faculty and research. United Arab Emirates University climbed 91 places to 1,022 (in the top 4.8 per cent), ahead of University of Sharjah – up 161 places to 1,092 (top 5.1 per cent) and New York University Abu Dhabi at 1,116 (top 5.2 per cent). The CWUR cited the strong research performance of the universities as central to their move up the rankings. Nadim Mahassen, president of the CWUR, hailed the significant progress being made by UAE universities. 'With four of its institutions in the rankings, the United Arab Emirates is well represented among the world's top universities. Further financial backing, and placing the development of education and science higher on its agenda, will allow the country to be even more competitive in the rapidly evolving global academic landscape,' he said. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology was the top performer in the region, moving up to 237th from 249th position last year. Fellow Saudi institution King Abdulaziz University broke into the 250, rising from 254th to 249th. UAE makes its mark Senthil Nathan, managing director and co-founder of Edu Alliance, a UAE-based higher education consultancy company, said it was significant that this particular ranking places an emphasis on the success of universities in preparing students for the world of work. 'Before reflecting on any world rankings, it is essential to understand their underlying methodologies. CWUR assesses rankings without relying on surveys and university data submissions,' said Dr Nathan. 'A significant weight (50 per cent) of this ranking is given to the success of the university's alumni.' Dr Nathan – a former deputy vice-chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology in Abu Dhabi – said the CWUR considers the average number of alumni who have held top positions at the world's largest 2,000 public companies since 2011. This performance indicator will frustrate some newer universities, such as those in the Emirates. 'The improvement in the rankings of four of the universities in the UAE is commendable. On a first glance, their CWUR ranking may seem lower as compared to their ranking in other systems. 'However, this is mainly because of the way CWUR measures success of the alumni. Khalifa University and NYUAD are relatively young universities and have been graduating students only for less than 15 years.' The UAE government has taken significant steps to drive up higher education standards in recent years in an effort to compete with the world's best seats of learning. In June 2024, the UAE set out plans for local universities to be subjected to regular assessments and clustered based on performance. Both public and private higher education institutions are included in the assessment, with rankings based on factors including teaching quality and student life, employability, scientific research and international collaboration. Recognition for troubled Harvard The Ivy League Harvard University – which is the subject of a controversial plan by the Trump administration to prevent it enrolling foreign students – topped the rankings once again. Washington has accused the Ivy League university of not doing enough to fight anti-Semitism and change its admissions practices – allegations the university has strongly denied. Harvard said the proposed ban is a 'blatant violation' of the law and free speech rights. Harvard was joined in the top three by two other US universities, MIT and Stanford, with the UK's world renowned Cambridge and Oxford making up the top five. While US universities make up the rest of the top 10, Dr Mahassen said this dominance is not reflected in the wider global top 2,000 and points to potential challenges ahead as academic competition hots up and universities face up to funding cuts. 'While the United States still boasts the top universities in the world, the decline of the vast majority of its higher education institutions should be of concern to US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and the wider Trump administration. 'At a time when Chinese universities are reaping the rewards of years of generous financial support from their government, American institutions are grappling with slashed federal funding and disputes over academic freedom and free speech. 'With the United States surpassed by China as the country with the most representatives in the rankings, its reputation in the global higher education sector is under serious threat.' 'The sharp decline of US universities parallels that of institutions in Japan, France, and Germany, while UK and Russian universities have fared only slightly better. With the extraordinary rise of Chinese institutions, universities in the Western world cannot afford to stand still and rest on their laurels.'
Hi Dubai
4 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
MOCCAE Strengthens Food Security and Sustainability with Key Strategic Agreements
The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has signed seven strategic agreements aimed at boosting sustainable food security, supporting local agriculture, and promoting environmental sustainability during the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 in Al Ain. The agreements, formalised over the first two days of the event at the ADNEC Centre, were signed in the presence of Minister Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak. These partnerships align with the UAE's broader goals of becoming a global leader in sustainable agriculture and food systems. One major agreement saw MOCCAE and Silal commit to building a data-driven, sustainable food strategy that improves health and supports long-term food security. Additional partnerships with Barakat and Lulu Group focus on reducing food waste, promoting eco-friendly packaging, and expanding retail access for local produce. The National Agriculture Centre signed multiple MoUs, including with Lulu Retail to support accredited local farmers and with Khalifa University to develop agricultural innovation through research, funding, and mentorship. MOCCAE also partnered with the Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence to establish a new AI research lab aimed at advancing agricultural technologies. Further collaboration with the University of Sharjah, Khalifa University, University of Khorfakkan, and University of Al Dhaid will drive joint agricultural research and capacity building initiatives. An amendment was also signed with the Islamic Development Bank Group, reinforcing support for the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture. Collectively, these agreements underscore MOCCAE's commitment to transforming the UAE's food systems through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
DoE to enhance innovation and research in water, energy sectors
The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) and Khalifa University of Science and Technology have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation in research, development, and innovation in the water and energy sectors. The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the 'World Utilities Congress 2025,' held at Adnec Abu Dhabi and runs through May 29th. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Abdullah Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the DoE. The MoU was signed by Eng. Ahmed Mohamed Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary of the DoE, and Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, in the presence of several officials and experts from both sides. This strategic partnership reflects Abu Dhabi's commitment to accelerating the transition toward a sustainable future by developing innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency of vital resource use and contribute to building a more resilient and sustainable system in the face of climate change and rising demand for water and energy. Al Rumaithi emphasised, 'This agreement represents a pioneering model of integration between government entities and national academic institutions. It aligns with our ongoing efforts to enhance water and energy security in the emirate through integrated strategies and policies focused on efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.' He added that this collaboration is a strategic step toward leveraging academic knowledge to develop effective solutions that enhance resource management efficiency, support the achievement of sustainable development goals, and improve quality of life in the emirate. For his part, Al Hajri stated, 'We are honoured to sign this MoU with the Department of Energy, which reflects the university's strategy to play a pivotal role through education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, while contributing to economic growth and focusing on government sustainability priorities, especially in the energy sector.' He added that this collaboration underscores the government sector's confidence in Khalifa University's research output, as the university consistently ranks highly in various global academic and research indices. The areas of cooperation include supporting integration between academic, industrial, and governmental entities to develop sustainable policies and technologies in the fields of energy, water, and renewable energy. The partnership also explores new horizons in sustainable energy generation, storage, and the integration of renewable sources into smart grids, in addition to enhancing energy and water use efficiency on the demand side. The agreement also supports the development of advanced technologies to address challenges related to efficient and economical energy generation, including waste-to-energy and technologies that reduce CO₂ emissions from gas-fired power plants. The cooperation further includes the design of energy models and methodologies and the provision of technical and economic analyses to enable decision-makers to adopt more informed and effective policies. It also extends to supporting ambitious projects in hydrogen, biofuel, and alternative fuels, focusing on the development of carbon-neutral hydrogen production technologies, as well as its storage, transport, and use in electricity production, fuels, and various industries. Environmentally friendly technological solutions will also be explored for cooling systems, including the use of low global warming potential refrigerants. Additionally, the parties will analyse the current status and future of the renewable energy sector in the emirate and collaborate on formulating future energy policies aligned with global and regional developments while improving the overall regulatory framework for energy. The collaboration also includes a joint research project to develop 3D-printed graphene-enhanced materials to improve water quality a model application of innovation and modern technology in tackling environmental challenges. Joint initiatives will also feature knowledge exchange, organisation of scientific conferences and workshops, academic training and exchange opportunities for students, and the alignment of Khalifa University's Virtual Research Institute activities with the DoE's research priorities. Meanwhile the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) have signed a Service Level Agreement (SLA) on cooperation and data sharing for the Agriculture and Food Security Data Platform in the emirate. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Abdulla Humaid Al Jawan, Chairman of the DoE. It was signed by Engineer Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary of the DoE, and Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting Director-General of ADAFSA. WAM
