Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) has proudly entered the global stage with its debut in the prestigious Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025. Securing a position among the top 801-1000 institutions worldwide, UTB’s inclusion highlights its rapid ascent as a leading institution in higher education. UTB now ranks among the Top 23 universities in ASEAN, an impressive accomplishment reflecting its strong focus on academic excellence and innovation within the competitive landscape of Southeast Asian academia.
UTB’s recognition among the world’s top universities marks a significant step toward realizing its vision of becoming a ‘Global University of the Future.’ The university’s debut ranking alongside renowned institutions such as the National University of Singapore (ranked 17th globally) and Nanyang Technological University (ranked 30th) is a testament to its upward trajectory and influence in the region.
The THE World University Rankings rigorously evaluate institutions based on five essential criteria of education excellence: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry engagement, and international outlook. UTB’s strongest performance was in the International Outlook category which highlights its dedication to fostering global collaboration. With an increasingly diverse student body and numerous international research partnerships, UTB is solidifying its position on the global academic stage.
In addition to its international recognition, UTB stands out in the Teaching and Research Quality criteria, demonstrating its commitment to delivering a high- quality learning experience. The university’s well-structured academic programmes and emphasis on maintaining a balanced student-to-faculty ratio, ensures a supportive and engaging learning environment. This dedication has not only enhanced the quality of education at UTB but also strengthened its research capabilities, contributing to a notable rise in citation impact and research excellence.
Moreover, UTB also achieved commendable results in the Industry Engagement criteria, which reflects its ability to bridge academia and industry. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders and engaging in collaborative projects, UTB is contributing to innovation in key sectors such as engineering, technology, and sustainable development.
In the Research Environment criteria, UTB has demonstrated strength in research productivity and the ability to generate research income. This achievement emphasises the university’s ongoing dedication to fostering a vibrant research culture that encourages creativity and forward-thinking innovation. By actively securing funding for pioneering projects, UTB is empowering its researchers and students, enabling them to explore new frontiers of knowledge. Reflecting this innovative drive, the university is further expanding its research capabilities and funding initiatives. A notable example is the recent introduction of the AI-powered TutorBot, further showcases UTB’s commitment to modern learning and cutting-edge solutions. These efforts position UTB as a leading institution in research-driven innovation, helping to shape the future of higher education in Brunei and beyond.
UTB’s inclusion in the THE 2025 World University rankings is more than just a recognition – it is a statement of intent. A reflection of its unwavering commitment to excellence in education and research. By focusing on global collaborations, innovative research, and fostering talent, UTB is making significant strides in realizing Wawasan Brunei 2035. This recognition not only reinforces the university’s strategic direction but also enhances its global prominence, setting the stage for continued growth and future achievements on the international stage.
