Durban University of Technology (DUT) has further strengthened its global profile after being ranked among the top 6% of higher education institutions worldwide, in the 2026 Webometrics Ranking of World Universities.
The latest ranking assessed more than 32000 higher education institutions (HEIs) across the globe, positioning DUT within a select group of universities recognised for their digital visibility, research excellence and commitment to open access knowledge. In South Africa, the ranking included 124 institutions, among them all 26 public universities, reflecting a highly competitive national higher education environment.
DUT was ranked as South Africa’s leading University of Technology, underscoring its sustained academic and digital performance. In the 2025 Webometrics Rankings, DUT was also placed among the top 6% of universities worldwide.
The Webometrics Ranking of World Universities has been published since 2004 by the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), the largest public research organisation in Spain. Unlike many global rankings that primarily focus on long-established, globally recognised universities, Webometrics evaluates a broad spectrum of institutions, including those in the Global South that are often overlooked.
The ranking aims to promote open access to knowledge produced by universities and places emphasis on the quantity and quality of higher education web content. According to Webometrics, rankings play a critical role in shaping academic behaviour and institutional direction, noting that they are “one of the most powerful tools for initiating and consolidating change in academia, increasing scholars’ engagement, and establishing long-term strategies.”
Commenting on the achievement, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT said, “The result reflects the university’s sustained focus on impactful and accessible scholarship. This recognition affirms DUT’s commitment to producing high-quality, socially responsive, impactful research that is visible, accessible and relevant beyond our institutional boundaries.”
He added that the Webometrics 2026 ranking highlights the collective efforts of the university’s academic community. “Being placed in the top 6% globally, out of more than 32000 institutions, is a significant milestone. In line with our ENVISION2030 strategy, it speaks to our growing research excellence, our digital maturity and our determination to contribute knowledge that makes a meaningful difference to society,” he said.
Pictured: DUT’s Steve Biko campus in Durban.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Alan Khan
