The Higher Education Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has announced plans to implement a comprehensive ranking system for all universities and colleges within the province. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of education and provide students with clear insights into institutional performance.
Objective of the Ranking System
Provincial Minister for Higher Education, Meena Khan Afridi, emphasized that the primary goal of this ranking system is to improve access to quality education. She expressed confidence that the rankings would lead to significant improvements in education standards across universities and colleges.
Data Collection and Assessment
To ensure an accurate evaluation, the department has directed relevant authorities to gather performance data from the past three years for all institutions. This data-driven approach will facilitate a fair assessment of each institution’s achievements and areas for improvement.
Current University Rankings in Pakistan
In the meantime, several universities in Pakistan have been recognized for their academic excellence. According to the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, the top universities include:
- Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad
- Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS)
- National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST)
- Aga Khan University
- COMSATS Institute of Information Technology
These institutions have consistently demonstrated high standards in education, research, and community service.
Level 1 Universities in Pakistan
The Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) accredits engineering programs at various universities, categorizing them into different levels based on quality and infrastructure. Level 1 universities are those that offer engineering programs meeting the highest standards. Some of the Level 1 universities in Pakistan include:
- Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad
- University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore
- National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad
- University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Peshawar
- University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Taxila
These institutions are recognized for their rigorous academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities.
University of South Asia’s Standing
The University of South Asia, located in Lahore, has been recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan for its commitment to quality education. The university has established a Directorate of Quality Enhancement and has achieved the W level of Internal Quality Assurance (IQA), reflecting its dedication to maintaining high educational standards.
Addressing Underperforming Institutions
While many universities in Pakistan strive for excellence, some institutions have faced criticism regarding their quality of education and employability of graduates. For instance, Karachi University has been mentioned in discussions about universities with lower employability rates.
The introduction of the ranking system by KP’s Higher Education Department is expected to provide a transparent framework for assessing and improving the quality of education across universities and colleges in the province. This initiative aligns with global trends where university rankings serve as a tool for accountability and continuous improvement in higher education.
