Sri Lankan universities decline in QS Asia rankings

Eight Sri Lankan universities have experienced a decline in their positions in the latest QS Asia University Rankings. The University of Colombo fell 46 places to rank 364th in Asia, while the University of Peradeniya and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura dropped to 389th and 398th, respectively.

Despite these declines, the University of Colombo remains the country’s top institution and is the only local university ranked within Asia’s top 200 for employer reputation. Conversely, some institutions showed improvement, with the University of Moratuwa climbing 37 spots to 517th and the University of Kelaniya rising 44 places to 687th.

Analysts suggest the downward trend may be driven by regional competition, as nearly 200 new institutions entered the rankings pool. Rapidly funded universities in China, India, and Southeast Asia are increasing their research and infrastructure investments. Local challenges, including inadequate funding, faculty shortages, and limited international research collaboration, also impact the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s state university system.