ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN: In a significant boost to Pakistan’s higher education landscape, 48 universities from across the country have made it to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026 — the highest representation Pakistan has ever achieved.
Out of 99 universities that submitted data, 48 qualified for the official ranking while the remaining were listed as “reporters,” reflecting an encouraging expansion of academic recognition on the global stage.
Leading the national chart once again is Quaid-i-Azam University, securing a spot in the 401–500 global band, followed closely by NUST, COMSATS University Islamabad, University of Lahore, Air University, and Sukkur IBA University, all ranking in the 601–800 band.
Other notable institutions such as LUMS, UET Taxila, and University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Lahore also earned places in the subsequent tiers, underscoring the country’s growing academic footprint worldwide.
Analysts note that this surge in representation is a testament to Pakistan’s improved focus on research, innovation, and academic partnerships. However, experts caution that the real challenge lies in sustaining progress through better funding, infrastructure development, and stronger faculty retention policies.
The milestone reflects not just academic success, but also the nation’s growing resolve to compete on a global scale in education and innovation.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.