Rehan Khan
O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) in India has achieved the top global position and been awarded the prestigious “Gold” distinction in the inaugural Times Higher Education (THE) Online Learning Rankings 2024. This accomplishment highlights JGU’s excellence in online education, with the university achieving the highest scores across four key evaluation areas: Resources, Engagement, Outcomes, and Environment. These rankings mark the first-ever attempt by THE to assess online learning globally and classify institutions into Gold, Silver, and Bronze categories instead of traditional ranking formats.
The metrics for assessing resources include financial investment per student, faculty availability, and development hours for staff. Engagement is evaluated through factors such as staff interaction, peer collaboration, accessibility, and the variety of programs offered. Outcomes are determined by student progression rates and recommendations, while the environment focuses on inclusivity, gender diversity among staff, support infrastructure, and digital connectivity. With an aggregate score of 287.7, JGU outperformed 120 participating universities, surpassing renowned institutions like Arizona State University, University of Essex, University of Liverpool, and University of South Australia. Among Indian universities, only one other institution made it to the Gold category alongside JGU.
Reflecting on the achievement, Mr. Naveen Jindal, Founding Chancellor of JGU, remarked, “In just 15 years, JGU has established itself as a globally acclaimed, multidisciplinary institution, setting benchmarks in Indian higher education. Being ranked No.1 globally and receiving the Gold standard in online learning is a testament to our relentless pursuit of institutional excellence aimed at nation-building.”
He further emphasized that JGU’s commitment to delivering world-class education has enabled individuals worldwide to access high-quality online programs, empowering individuals across different age groups and regions. Mr. Jindal expressed confidence that this milestone would encourage the institution to foster innovation and uphold its educational values.
Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, underlined the significance of the recognition, stating, “For the first time in the history of global university rankings, an Indian institution has achieved the top spot globally. This historic accomplishment underscores India’s emergence as a leader in higher education on the global stage.”
Highlighting JGU’s journey, Dr. Kumar noted that within a period of just four years of initiating online degree programs in 2020, the university has built a thriving community of over 5,000 online learners. He also pointed out that these rankings provide crucial guidance to prospective students by categorizing online programs based on demonstrated excellence.
JGU offers a range of globally recognized online degree programs, including M.A. in International Relations, M.A. in Public Policy, and a Master of Design in User Experience. By 2025, it plans to expand its offerings with new programs such as M.A. in International Accounting and Finance, BBA, M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, and M.A. in India Studies. In collaboration with platforms like Coursera and upGrad, JGU also provides specialized courses and MOOCs designed to cater to diverse career aspirations and learning needs.