Muscat – Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation launched a regional symposium in cooperation with Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization on Wednesday aimed at improving the global standing of Arab universities.

 Titled ‘Improving the Ranking of Arab Universities in Global Rankings and the Mechanism for Entry into the Arab University Rankings and University Accreditation’, the two-day symposium was held under the patronage of H E Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation.

The symposium aims to enhance the academic reputation of Omani universities and improve their regional and international competitiveness. It has brought together experts and academics from across the Arab world to share insights on aligning institutional practices with global standards, improving research quality, and navigating the evolving landscape of university rankings and accreditation systems.

Yahya bin Salam al Mandhari, Director General of Scholarships at the ministry, emphasised the critical role private universities and colleges play in strengthening Oman’s academic profile. He highlighted the national goal of placing four Omani universities among the world’s top 500 in the QS World University Rankings by 2040, adding that progress is already being made.

“Sultan Qaboos University is currently ranked 362 globally, while Sohar University is placed in the 1001-1200 band,” Mandhari said, noting that seven Omani universities are now included in the QS rankings, including one public and six private institutions.

Dr Mahmoud bin Abdullah al Abri, Secretary of Oman National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, underscored the growing strategic importance of university rankings.

“These are no longer just indicators of academic reputation,” he said. “Rankings now serve as vital tools for shaping education policy, attracting international students, facilitating research and forging global partnerships.”

He added that the symposium provides a valuable platform for Arab universities to exchange experiences and explore ways to enhance institutional performance amid rapidly evolving global standards.