University for Development Studies Rises to 3rd in Ghana and 35th in Sub-Saharan Africa in THE 2024 Rankings

Ferdinand | EducationGhana |  December 01| University for Development Studies Rises to 3rd in Ghana and 35th in Sub-Saharan Africa in THE 2024 Rankings

The University for Development Studies ranks 3rd in Ghana and 35th in Sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 THE rankings. Learn about UDS’ achievements, history, and future plans.

The University for Development Studies (UDS) has achieved a historic milestone in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings, securing the 3rd position in Ghana and an impressive 35th out of 129 universities in Sub-Saharan Africa. This marks a remarkable rise from its 44th position in the 2023 rankings, solidifying its reputation as a leader in academic excellence and sustainable development in Africa.

About the Times Higher Education Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings

The THE Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings provide a nuanced evaluation of universities across the region, emphasizing their unique opportunities and challenges. The rankings assess institutions across five key pillars:

1. Access and Fairness:
   • Measures inclusivity, particularly how universities support disadvantaged students.
2. Teaching Skills:
   • Focuses on equipping students with employable skills through high-quality teaching.
3. Student Engagement:
   • Evaluates how well universities engage with their student body to foster development.
4. Knowledge Transfer and Impact:
   • Analyzes partnerships with industries and the impact of university research on local and regional development.
5. Research Productivity and Visibility:
   • Considers the volume, quality, and international reach of academic research.

UDS: A Rising Star in Higher Education

The improved ranking of UDS reflects its dedication to:

• Enhancing teaching quality and preparing students with practical skills for employment.
• Expanding access to education, particularly for underserved communities, aligning with its mission as a developmental university.
• Promoting impactful research that addresses the developmental needs of Ghana and the broader Sub-Saharan region.

These efforts are central to UDS’ commitment to its core mandate of advancing sustainable development and addressing socio-economic challenges through education and innovation.

Implications of the Ranking for UDS

This achievement strengthens UDS’ reputation as a premier higher education institution in Ghana and an influential player in regional academic circles. Key implications include:

1. Enhanced Global Profile:
   • The ranking will attract more international students, research collaborations, and partnerships with global institutions.
2. Increased Funding Opportunities:
   • Recognition from THE rankings can facilitate funding for research and developmental projects.
3. Attracting Top Talent:
   • The university’s improved standing will likely draw high-caliber faculty members and students from diverse backgrounds.

About the University for Development Studies

Founded in 1992, UDS is Ghana’s first public university in the northern part of the country. It was established with a unique focus on addressing the developmental needs of deprived communities. Its multicampus structure, spanning various regions, allows it to serve a diverse population and extend education to underserved areas.

UDS has distinguished itself through its:

• Community-based research initiatives, aimed at solving real-world problems.
• Strong emphasis on rural development and public service.
• Dedication to equitable access to education for all, regardless of socio-economic background.

What’s Next for UDS?

The rise in rankings positions UDS as a university to watch on the African academic landscape. Moving forward, UDS aims to:

• Expand its research capabilities to address global challenges like climate change and food security.
• Build stronger partnerships with local and international stakeholders to enhance its knowledge transfer efforts.
• Continue to innovate in teaching, ensuring students graduate with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving job market.