NEW RANKING SYSTEM FOR HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN OMAN AS A TOOL FOR ACHIEVING SDGS

Abstract

This study aims to construct a conceptual framework for ranking Higher Education Institutions in Oman (OHEIs) to achieve country-level Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study utilizes a quantitative research design with focus groups being surveyed in five well-respected universities in Oman. The findings indicate that the newly proposed assessment criteria match and complete the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking, which overlooks the majority of OHEIs. The practical novelty of this study lies in proposing Oman's first multidimensional ranking system for higher education institutions, which can be applied to other countries’ SDG-monitoring approach modification and improving Oman’s sustainable development. The theoretical novelty of this paper includes a new interpretation of SDGs, with a focus on higher education institutions, which can be used in future similar studies. The significance of this study lies in its proposal of a novel ranking system for OHEIs that is expected to contribute to SDG achievement in Oman.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62185/issn.3023-5448.2.2.6