UNS Receives QS Recognition Award for Performance Improvement, Climbs to 158th in Asia

UNS – Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) has received the QS Recognition Award for Performance Improvement from QS Quacquarelli Symonds in recognition of its significant progress in the QS World University Rankings (WUR): Asia over the past five years. The award highlights UNS’s consistent efforts to enhance the quality of education and research, as well as its global reputation.

UNS is the only university in Indonesia to receive the QS Recognition Award for Performance Improvement for two consecutive years, in 2026 and 2027. Other recipients include Chitkara University (India) and INTI International University (Malaysia).

The award was presented by Jessica Turner (Chief Executive Officer of QS) and Ben Sowter (Senior Vice President of QS) to UNS Rector Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., during the welcome dinner for the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026 at the Bali International Convention Centre, Nusa Dua, on Tuesday evening (November 3, 2026), local time. On the same occasion, QS released the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2027, placing UNS 158th in Asia.

Consistent Improvement in Asian Rankings

This achievement marks a significant upward trajectory for UNS in the QS World University Rankings: Asia. Over the past five years, UNS has demonstrated consistent progress, climbing from the 351–400 range to 158th in Asia. According to QS rankings, UNS was ranked in the 351–400 range in 2023, then moved up to 301–350 in 2024. In 2025, UNS reached 221st, followed by 168th in 2026, and ultimately secured 158th place in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2027.

Prof. Hartono stated that the award represents global recognition of the collective spirit and commitment of the entire UNS academic community, known as UNS DREAMTEAM (Digital, Research, Education, Autonomous, Modern, Together, Equilibrium, Active, Manpower), in driving the university’s progress. “The QS Performance Improvement Award is global recognition of the dedication and collective commitment of UNS DREAMTEAM. In a relatively short period, UNS has demonstrated that strategic collaboration and continuous innovation can propel an institution to a higher level,” Prof. Hartono said on the sidelines of the event.

He added that the improvement from the 351–400 range to 158th place within five years demonstrates that UNS is on the right track toward becoming a world-class university.

“We are determined not to stop here. This achievement serves as a stepping stone for us to strengthen UNS’s contributions and reputation further on the global stage,” he added.

The award also serves as motivation for UNS to continue enhancing academic quality, research productivity, innovation, international collaboration, and meaningful contributions to society.

QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026

The QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2026 is a leading forum in the Asia-Pacific region that brings together university leaders, higher education experts, business representatives, and government officials to drive positive change in higher education.

Under the theme “Advancing Education for Purpose and Impact,” this year’s summit was held in Bali, Indonesia, with BINUS University serving as the host institution. The summit welcomed approximately 1,560 delegates from 40 countries, representing higher education institutions, the business sector, and government agencies.

UNS’s participation in this international forum further strengthens its global network and creates opportunities for strategic collaboration, enhancing the university’s competitiveness at both regional and global levels.

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