Islamic University of Gaza has achieved a significant milestone by securing a joint first position among Palestinian universities in the prestigious Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings. This noteworthy accomplishment underscores the university’s resilience and dedication to advancing education, even in challenging circumstances.
In 2021, the Dean of Scientific Research and Postgraduate Studies launched the “200 Target” programme with the primary aim of entering the Times Higher Education ranking for the first time in the university’s history. This achievement aligns with the Islamic University’s strategic plans and its commitment to delivering exceptional higher education and innovative academic programmes that meet the needs of Palestinian society. Beyond academic offerings, the university actively supports the community through advisory services and initiatives that uphold the values and cultural identity of Palestinian society. In parallel, it has strengthened research output in both quality and quantity, with successive administrations allocating funds, recruiting exceptional staff, and introducing new PhD and Master’s programmes to achieve these goals.
The establishment of the university’s Executive Committee for International Rankings has played an essential role in advancing these achievements by setting requirements and conducting regular assessments. First entering this ranking in 2022 with a commendable third-place standing, the university’s research faculty have propelled its success, publishing papers in Scopus-indexed journals and garnering significant citations, which led to a prominent placement in the 2023 rankings. This progress has been further supported by the diligent efforts of the Offices of External Relations, Quality and Development, and Research & Postgraduate Studies, which have aligned university policies with international standards. As a result, in 2023, the Islamic University advanced 10 positions at the Arab level, claiming joint first place in Palestine. This accomplishment marks a significant step forward in the university’s journey toward IUGVision2026, a vision aiming to secure a place among the top 1,000 global universities by 2026.
Professor Dr. Ayman Al-Saqqa, President of Islamic University of Gaza, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the university community and the Palestinian people for this distinguished achievement. Dr. Al-Saqqa remarked that this success, achieved under extremely challenging conditions, affirms the university’s commitment to advancing higher education in Palestine and enhancing its academic and research stature. He acknowledged the concerted efforts of the university’s faculties and units, as well as the invaluable contributions of the university’s esteemed researchers and scholars who have excelled in international publishing.
Dr. Al-Saqqa expressed his hopes for continued excellence at the Islamic University and wished for a swift and lasting peace for the people of Palestine.
