On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, Technical Education, and Vocational Training honored Yemeni universities that participated in the first cycle of the National University Ranking 2024, during an official ceremony held in the interim capital, Aden.

In his speech at the event, Minister of Higher Education Dr. Khaled Al-Wasabi praised the efforts of the universities in taking part in the ranking process, describing it as a qualitative step aimed at enhancing the quality of higher education and promoting academic excellence. He explained that the ministry began developing national ranking standards in 2018, based on scientific indicators designed to encourage universities to improve their performance and strengthen their societal role.

The minister also announced the beginning of preparations for the 2025 university ranking cycle and called on all Yemeni universities—public and private—to participate, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting this strategic academic initiative.

Dr. Khaled Basaleem, Deputy Minister for Academic Affairs and Chair of the National Ranking Committee, noted that the project was implemented in partnership with Al-Awn Foundation for Development. Despite facing many challenges in its first edition, the project succeeded in establishing a solid foundation for evaluating universities according to international standards, thereby fostering academic competitiveness both locally and globally.

For his part, the President of the University of Aden, Dr. Al-Khadr Nasser Laswar, expressed his appreciation for this unprecedented initiative, affirming that it would motivate universities to enhance their educational and research environments in line with modern demands.

Meanwhile, Acting Executive Director of Al-Awn Foundation for Development, Mr. Mohammed Al-Sabban, emphasized the foundation’s belief in the importance of higher education as a driver of development and reiterated its continued support for such national initiatives.

The event concluded with the presentation of honorary shields to participating universities and the recognition of the members of the Higher Ranking Committee in appreciation of their efforts in making this national initiative a success.