Exploring the Potential of Yemeni Universities for Rankings: An Analytical Study of Prominent International University Ranking Systems

Specifically targeting Yemeni universities, this research focuses on their potential to enter and enhance their positions in the international rankings such as Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), Times Higher Education World University Ranking (THE), Quacquarelli Symonds World University Ranking (QS), and Webometrics Ranking and SCImago Institutions Rankings (SIR). Its objective is to encourage Yemeni universities to prioritize the criteria outlined in these rankings and view them as a means to access other international rankings. The research tackles the challenge of comprehending the criteria and application process required for Yemeni universities to participate in these rankings, as well as the rankings they have achieved. The study highlights the importance of this research by providing Yemeni university administrators with valuable insights regarding the criteria used for international rankings and the rankings obtained by Yemeni universities. This understanding can facilitate efforts to enhance the quality of higher education within these institutions. The findings of the study reveal that two Yemeni universities are listed in the QS. The University of Science and Technology, Yemen, ranks 151-170, while Thamar University in Thamar, Yemen, ranks 171-200. The findings of the study reveal that Ibb University secures the highest position among Yemeni universities in the SIR for 2023, with an overall score of 15.4 and a world rank of 3130. Sana’a University follows closely behind, ranking second among Yemeni universities according to these criteria, with a total score of 14.9 and a world rank of 3190.