UP is second best university in SA

The University of Pretoria (UP) has been ranked the second-best university in the country and continent, according to the recent Times Higher Education (THE) Sub-Saharan Rankings for 2024.

UP moved up two spots from last year to claim the runner-up position while the University of Johannesburg (UJ) claimed the top spot.

This year, THE ranked 129 universities from 22 countries using a methodology which seeks to address challenges faced by the areas surrounding these institutions.

The methodology has 20 metrics, addressing five essential areas: Resources and Finances, Access and Fairness, Ethical Leadership, Student Engagement and Africa Impact.

The other South African universities on the list are Wits (fourth), UKZN (10th), Durban University of Technology (11th place), North-West University (17th), Unisa (25th), University of Venda (41st), TUT (51st) and St Joseph Theological Institute (101st).

UP vice-chancellor and principal Professor Francis Petersen was ecstatic.

“This achievement underscores UP’s pivotal role in Africa and demonstrates its commitment to addressing the continent’s unique challenges through impactful research, innovation and inclusivity. By focusing on African collaboration, heritage and sustainable solutions, UP contributes to sustainable development while staying rooted in its African identity, positioning itself as a leader in driving progress and shaping the future of higher education in the region,” he said.

This year, a total of 171 universities participated in the data collection; of those, only 129 received the requisite number of student survey responses to be ranked.

In an official statement released by UP, the university said that through innovative teaching methods and real-life applications, its students will be able to critically navigate the ever-changing and demanding job market.

UP said these skills are essential during the age of artificial intelligence which requires knowledge professionals who can balance the technological proficiencies and human element.

“One of the unique components of this ranking is the inclusion of the student survey, which incorporates the student voice in evaluating and assessing university performance.

This reflects the principles of ubuntu, emphasising the interconnectedness and importance of community, where students are seen as vital contributors to the growth and improvement of the institution. This highlights UP’s student-centric approach in valuing student feedback as a critical component of its institutional performance and strategy,” Prof Petersen said.

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