The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has officially overtaken Stellenbosch University in the latest 2025/26 US News Best Global Universities rankings. This marks a major milestone for UJ, which now ranks third in South Africa, behind only the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
This achievement reflects UJ’s growing global reputation, driven by strong research output, impactful community projects, and a focus on sustainable development. In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, UJ also soared to 23rd place globally and secured the number one spot in South Africa and Africa.
UJ’s rise is especially impressive considering its relatively young age. Founded in 2005, the university has rapidly built a name for itself in areas like engineering, business, and social impact. It now ranks among the top 30 universities worldwide for its contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi credited the university’s success to its commitment to societal change. He highlighted projects in Limpopo and the Eastern Cape, where UJ has helped communities with food security, clean water, and digital access.
Meanwhile, Stellenbosch University remains a strong academic institution, ranking in the global top 500 and leading in fields like agriculture, theology, and environmental sciences. However, UJ’s momentum signals a shift in the balance of power among South Africa’s top universities.
UJ’s performance in employability is also noteworthy. According to the QS World University Rankings, it scored 98.9 out of 100 for employment outcomes, the highest in the country. This makes it a top choice for students seeking both academic excellence and career readiness.
The university’s Strategic Plan 2035 focuses on three pillars: societal impact, global partnerships, and future-ready technology. These priorities are clearly paying off, as UJ continues to climb in multiple global rankings.
As South Africa’s higher education landscape evolves, UJ’s rise could inspire other institutions to rethink their strategies and invest more in innovation, accessibility, and community engagement.
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