Mumbai, India, 18 May 2023: Education New Zealand (ENZ), Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the world’s leading provider of university rankings and evaluations and NMIMS University held a successful Ranking Workshop– Process & progress with QS : Inclusion & Improvement in the Asia and World University Rankings Landscape on 20th April, 2023. The event was attended by delegates from eight New Zealand Universities, ENZ, and Indian Universities and aimed to create opportunities for delegates from both countries to network, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations in the field of education.
The workshop focussed on how collaboration can support university rankings, and how research partnerships feature in QS Asia and World University Rankings (WUR). The workshop offered both a beginners view as well as an advanced understanding of rankings. The workshop also touched up the methodology revision expected in the next edition of QS World University Rankings.
Institutions seeking to be ranked must be degree-granting, offering both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, in at least two out of the broad five faculty areas as per QS. Inclusion is subject to a published threshold every year (1400 for World and 700 for Asia). Those seeking to be in the world ranking must meet a paper threshold of 100 papers in Scopus over the last 5 years, and must feature in the top 50% of a regional ranking (Asia). Institutions also need to feature in the top 30% of academic reputation.
Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Regional Director for Africa, Middle East, and South Asia at QS and an ambassador of the quality movement in education, emphasised the importance of continuous improvement and raising the bar in education. “By setting these standards and continuously evolving them over time, we aim to provide a relevant benchmark for institutions that are seeking global recognition” he said. He also added that “QS Rankings have been produced keeping students at heart of the exercise and our rankings should be relevant to them, and support them in making decisions on higher studies’ ‘.
Mr. Grant McPherson, Chief Executive of Education New Zealand, emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with international partners. “The presence of all eight universities from New Zealand in this session is a testament to our commitment towards collaborating and finding solutions for our academics, students, and researchers,” he said.
To further strengthen the education relationship between India and New Zealand and encourage dialogue on research, innovation and education cooperation, ENZ organised a New Zealand India Education Week from 17-22 April, featuring 23 representatives from eight New Zealand universities and government agencies, including a ranking workshop.
“As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is essential for universities to forge global partnerships and collaborations. The Ranking Workshop organized by Education New Zealand, Quacquarelli Symonds, and NMIMS University provided a platform for universities from New Zealand and India to come together, share insights and best practices, and explore opportunities for collaboration. I am confident that these discussions will pave the way for meaningful partnerships that will benefit students and researchers in both countries.” Dr. Meena Chintamani, Pro Vice Chancellor, SVKM, NMIMS, looking forward to hosting such interactive sessions for students to learn about Inclusion in International Universities.
ENZ is dedicated to promoting New Zealand’s education system as one that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and enlightened learning, resulting in successful careers and a positive impact on the world. The event was a success and provided a platform for universities to collaborate and explore potential partnerships in education.
