Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, has reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence as it hosted a high-level workshop on global university rankings facilitated by the Times Higher Education (THE), one of the world’s most respected ranking bodies.

The workshop, led by Mr. Victor Okeugo, Regional Manager (Sub-Saharan Africa) for Times Higher Education, brought together Principal Officers, Deans, Directors, and Heads of Departments of the university for an enlightening session on the standards, expectations, and strategies needed to elevate institutions to top global ranking positions.

Mr. Okeugo urged university academics to deepen their engagement in meaningful research that not only advances knowledge but also enhances the visibility and reputation of their institutions. He stressed that impactful research, especially research that responds to community needs, plays a crucial role in attracting grants, partnerships, and improved ranking outcomes.

According to him, universities must pay greater attention to their immediate communities, develop programmes that positively affect their catchment areas, and embrace innovation and digital learning. He noted that many institutions globally are now collaborating across continents, and Nigerian universities must also embrace this progressive trend to remain competitive.

He further reminded university administrators that institutions lacking strong reputational capital or proper fund utilization often struggle to rise in global rankings or attract meaningful collaborations. “You should be innovative and progressive in creating programmes. This will help attract collaboration from other institutions,” he advised, emphasizing the need to overcome conservative mindsets that hinder growth.

Mr. Okeugo also cautioned against the misuse of global ranking processes by individuals for personal gain, noting that such acts undermine institutional credibility and must be addressed.

Responding on behalf of the university management, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Sergius Udeh, noted that the workshop was organized to strengthen the research capacity of academic staff. He emphasized the university’s commitment to empowering its staff with the skills necessary for high-quality research, publications, and programme development that meet global standards.

Professor Udeh encouraged teaching staff and heads of directorates to pursue projects and research initiatives that will attract international partnerships and further boost the university’s already impressive ranking profile.

Participants at the workshop described the session as highly enlightening, enriching, and invaluable to their academic activities and the growth of the university.

Godfrey Okoye University, established in 2009, continues to rise as a centre of excellence. With seven faculties, a College of Medicine, a School of Nursing, a Teaching Hospital, and a vibrant School of Postgraduate Studies, the university is currently ranked the best private university in the South-East and South-South, and the 4th best private university in Nigeria.