Academic Discussion Session

About the Global Academy of Training and Research (GATR)

The Global Academy of Training and Research (GATR) is a registered research organization based in Malaysia, dedicated to advancing academic excellence and professional development across disciplines and regions.

GATR provides inclusive platforms for early-career scholars, experienced researchers, academic professionals, and industry practitioners to collaborate, exchange ideas, and contribute to meaningful research that supports academic progress and socio-economic development in their respective countries.

As part of its ongoing commitment to knowledge sharing and intellectual engagement, GATR is proud to host the Academic Discussion Session at the upcoming conference in Bangkok, Thailand.

Academic Discussion Session

Topic: Is University Ranking Driving Quality or Killing Diversity?

The Academic Discussion Session at GCBSS 2026 invites participants to engage in a lively and critical exchange on the global obsession with university rankings and their growing influence on higher education policy, practice, and perception.

This year's topic, "Is University Ranking Driving Quality or Killing Diversity?", explores how ranking systems (such as QS, THE, and others) have shaped institutional priorities across the world. While some argue that rankings encourage global benchmarking and performance excellence, others warn that they distort academic values, marginalise under-resourced institutions, and reduce diversity in teaching and research.

Panelists will reflect on how rankings impact decisions around research funding, publication pressure, teaching quality, public/private competition, accreditation standards, and global academic mobility.

Each invited panel member will have 5 minutes to share their perspective, followed by open discussion with attendees. The session aims to move beyond surface-level opinions and foster a constructive dialogue about what quality in higher education should really mean, and who gets to define it.

Join us for this engaging session that promises to challenge assumptions and spark ideas for a more inclusive and meaningful future in higher education.