We had the privilege of welcoming Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Executive Director for Africa, Middle East & South Asia at QS Quacquarelli Symonds Ltd (UK), for an insightful and thought-provoking session on university rankings and their broader implications.

This was more than a discussion about numbers and data, it was a critical dialogue on how rankings shape stakeholder perceptions within a competitive global landscape.

Together, we explored how to critically assess rankings, viewing them not merely as outcomes but as tools for continuous improvement. The conversation emphasized the importance of data accuracy, alumni engagement, and student awareness in creating a sustainable feedback loop that contributes to institutional advancement.

A heartfelt thank you to all students and alumni who participated in the exchange and shared their questions and perspectives. Your active involvement brought energy and depth to the discussion.

Special thanks to Dr. Ashwin Fernandes for his time, clarity, and generosity in unpacking the complexities of ranking systems and helping us better understand their strategic value.

Let’s continue this journey, strengthening alumni networks and empowering students.

Beyond the Numbers: A Critical Look at University Rankings

On May 13, 2025, the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) hosted distinguished academic leaders and experts from across four countries for a rich and thought-provoking public conference titled:
“Beyond the Numbers: A Critical Look at University Rankings.”

This conference brought together voices from diverse experiences to reflect on how universities perceive and use rankings.

We welcomed esteemed speakers:

• - Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Executive Director, QS Quacquarelli Symonds (Africa, Middle East & South Asia)
• - Prof. Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor, Abu Dhabi University
• - Prof. Bassam Alameddine, President, Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST)
• - Prof. George Yahchouchi, President, American University of the Middle East (AUM)

Each of them brought insights, drawing from unique institutional journeys and highlighting how rankings should be critically approached, not blindly followed. The session emphasized that while rankings may serve as indicators of performance, they must never become an objective.

From data accuracy to qualitative impact, student outcomes to faculty empowerment, the speakers underscored the importance of context, integrity, and purpose in shaping a university’s path forward.

While many ideas were explored, one common thread united all contributions: rankings are a result, not a goal. Institutions must focus on their mission, cultivate internal excellence, and continuously engage with their communities to ensure that their impact is both measurable and meaningful.

A special thank you to Dr. Ashwin Fernandes for his time and expert insights over these two days. And to our guest speakers, your presence and perspectives were instrumental in creating an atmosphere of deep learning and exchange.

This event was also a moment of connection, as we welcomed friends, partners, and colleagues from other universities.

As USJ proudly celebrates 150 years of academic excellence, we remain committed to fostering such moments of critical dialogue and reflection. We look forward to continuing this important conversation in Lebanon and beyond.

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