UCC Still Reigns as Ghana and West Africa’s Top University

For the fifth year in a row, the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has proved once again that excellence is not an accident. The institution has retained its crown as the number one university in both Ghana and the entire West African sub-region, according to the latest Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.

This year’s ranking places UCC 11th in Africa, a remarkable achievement that cements its reputation as one of the continent’s leading research universities.

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings, considered one of the most respected yardsticks of global academic performance, evaluated over 2,191 universities from 115 countries for the 2026 edition. The rankings focus on five major indicators: teaching environment, research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry engagement.

Speaking at a press conference to celebrate the milestone, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto described UCC’s continued success as a reflection of the university’s dedication to impactful research and academic excellence.

“Within our national corridors, this feat remains unmatched in Ghana’s history. UCC is still the only university in the country to hold this position in the entire West African sub-region,” he said.

Prof. Aheto also highlighted that UCC emerged as Ghana’s top university for Quality Education (SDG 4) in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, tying with Ashesi University. Globally, UCC placed in the 101–200 band for quality education and stood out as the only Ghanaian university ranked within that same range for Life Below Water (SDG 14), a nod to its research focus on marine and environmental sustainability.

According to Prof. Aheto, these achievements underscore UCC’s steady progress and commitment to global academic standards.

“This success speaks to the tireless efforts of our faculty, staff, and students, who continue to produce research that matters to society,” he noted.

He extended his appreciation to past Vice-Chancellors, Pro Vice-Chancellors, Registrars, and key administrative units such as the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Consultancy (DRIC) for ensuring accurate and reliable data submission over the years.

He also acknowledged contributions from the Management Information Section, Finance Directorate, Human Resource, Office of International Affairs, Students Records Management Section, School of Graduate Studies, and various colleges and departments that supported the ranking process.

Adding to the discussion, Prof. David Teye Doku, Director of DRIC-UCC, emphasized the need for continuous innovation.

“To rise even higher on the African ladder, UCC must keep advancing in high-quality teaching, research, and outreach initiatives,” he said.

Five years on, the University of Cape Coast’s consistent performance stands as a source of national pride, a reminder that Ghanaian universities can shine not just on the continent, but on the world stage.