University rankings

August 30, 2026

Pakistan’s strong representation in the US News Best Global Universities Rankings 2026-27 is encouraging news. A total of 33 Pakistani universities have been included in the global list, and public-sector institutions account for 27 of them. This shows that public universities continue to play the leading role in Pakistan’s research and academic progress.

The figures are a matter of pride, but they should also encourage us to look beyond rankings. Universities are not simply buildings that award degrees or institutions competing for better positions on international lists. Their real purpose is to educate young people, produce useful research and help solve the problems faced by society.

Pakistan is facing serious challenges, including poverty, unemployment, climate change, water shortages, weak public services and a shortage of skilled workers. Our universities should be at the centre of efforts to find solutions. Research should not remain limited to libraries and academic journals. It should reach farmers, businesses, government departments and ordinary citizens.

Public universities, in particular, have a special responsibility because they are largely supported by taxpayers’ money. They must ensure that students receive quality education and practical skills that can help them find jobs or start businesses. Universities also need to strengthen links with industry so that what students learn matches the needs of the modern economy.

At the same time, the government must provide universities with stable funding, modern laboratories and a fair environment for research. Private universities also have an important role and should contribute more to national research and development.

International rankings can be useful indicators of academic performance, but Pakistan should not become obsessed with numbers alone. The real success of a university should be measured by the difference it makes in the lives of Pakistanis.