Abha, December 24, 2024 — King Khalid University (KKU) has achieved a remarkable milestone in higher education by securing fifth place among 373 universities across 16 countries in the prestigious Arab University Rankings (ARU) for 2024, and second place among Saudi universities. This accomplishment underscores the university's steadfast commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service, aligning closely with Saudi Vision 2030 and contributing to the strategic goals of the Qimam and Shem development strategy for the Aseer Region.
The Arab University Rankings (ARU) are a widely recognized benchmark for measuring the performance of universities in the Arab world. The rankings are based on a rigorous set of qualitative criteria that assess an institution’s overall performance in several key areas, including education and learning, scientific research, creativity and innovation, national and international collaborations, and community service. King Khalid University's impressive standing in the 2024 rankings reflects its continuous efforts to enhance these aspects, marking a significant step forward in its development as a leading institution both within Saudi Arabia and on the global stage.
Prof. Hamed Majdou Hasan Al-Qarni, Vice President for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at KKU, emphasized that the ARU rankings are a testament to the university's consistent dedication to advancing quality education and impactful research. He explained that KKU is rigorously working to improve its performance in all the criteria assessed by the rankings, which is part of a broader vision to integrate academic excellence with sustainable development. The university’s efforts are in line with the Qimam and Shem strategy, a comprehensive regional development plan that aims to transform the Aseer region into a distinguished global destination by combining sustainable development with high-quality education and community service.
The Qimam and Shem strategy, as outlined by the Aseer Region Development Council, seeks to strengthen the region's economic, social, and educational infrastructure. KKU’s role in this strategy is pivotal, with the university actively contributing to regional development by aligning its academic and research projects with the needs of the local community. These initiatives not only foster the growth of knowledge and innovation but also support the region’s long-term competitiveness and sustainable development goals.
The achievement of this top-tier ranking also highlights the university's growing global presence. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qahtani, the General Supervisor of the International Rankings Unit at KKU, stated that this accomplishment reaffirms the university's position as a leader in higher education, both nationally and regionally. Al-Qahtani noted that the International Rankings Unit has been instrumental in implementing strategies to enhance the visibility and reputation of the university, focusing particularly on strengthening international and local collaborations in scientific research and innovation. These efforts have contributed significantly to the university's improved standing in global rankings.
Furthermore, the university is deeply invested in supporting the Qimam and Shem strategy through a variety of academic and research projects. These projects aim to enhance the region's competitiveness, align educational outcomes with market demands, and establish a solid foundation for long-term sustainable development. By focusing on community-oriented education, KKU is playing a crucial role in creating a knowledge-driven economy for the region, which is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
This achievement also reinforces the role of higher education institutions in the broader goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, foster innovation, and promote regional development. KKU’s commitment to improving its educational offerings and research capabilities is paving the way for the university to become a key player in both the national and global higher education landscapes.
With this significant recognition, King Khalid University continues to strengthen its position as an academic powerhouse, not only within Saudi Arabia but also in the broader Arab world. The university’s ongoing investments in research, innovation, and community development ensure that it will remain at the forefront of higher education excellence in the years to come, contributing to the Kingdom's vision for a knowledge-based economy and sustainable growth.