By Burnett Munthali
The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) has achieved a significant milestone, being ranked as the best university in Malawi by Times Higher Education. LUANAR also holds the 15th position out of 129 universities ranked across 22 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa for 2024.
The Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) secured the second spot in Malawi and ranks 22nd in the Sub-Saharan region. This reinforces its growing reputation as a center of excellence in science, technology, and innovation.
Interestingly, some of Malawi’s other prominent universities are absent from the 2024 rankings, sparking discussions about the state of higher education in the country.
The rankings are based on a methodology designed to measure the impact of universities in addressing critical challenges faced in the region. These include contributions to economic development, research addressing regional priorities, and educational outcomes that align with societal needs.
LUANAR’s achievement highlights its commitment to academic excellence and its role in tackling pressing issues such as food security, sustainable agriculture, and natural resource management. Similarly, MUST’s ranking reflects its dedication to advancing science and technology in Malawi and beyond.
These rankings place Malawi on the map for quality education and research in Sub-Saharan Africa, but they also underscore the need for continued investment in the country’s higher education sector to ensure all institutions can contribute meaningfully to national and regional development.
LUANAR and MUST’s recognition serve as an inspiration for Malawi’s education sector and a call to action for other institutions to strive for greater impact and relevance.
