The University of Pretoria (UP) has achieved the top position in South Africa for artificial intelligence (AI) research, according to the latest rankings of higher education institutions published by EduRank.
The analysis, based on over 61 200 academic papers and 969 000 citations from 24 South African universities, places UP No. 1 in South Africa, No. 2 in Africa, and No. 532 globally for research output and impact in AI.
The ranking reflects the University’s growing influence in AI scholarship and its commitment to advancing
knowledge that addresses both local and global challenges. UP’s success is built on years of strategic investment
in research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation that benefits society.
Professor Sunil Maharaj, UP Vice-Principal for Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Education, said the result
was a testament to the dedication and vision of UP’s research community.
“This ranking confirms UP’s role as a leader in developing AI technologies that are impactful, ethical and relevant. Our researchers are helping shape the future of this field in Africa and beyond.”
The announcement comes at a time when UP’s AI research capacity has been significantly strengthened by new
funding to one of its leading academics. Professor Vukosi Marivate, who holds the ABSA-UP Chair of Data Science
in the Department of Computer Science, has secured substantial international investment to advance African-led
AI initiatives. The funding will enable his team to expand research in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, climate resilience and language technology, with a strong emphasis on ethical practices and inclusion.
Prof Marivate’s work focuses on creating AI systems designed for African contexts – systems that can process
underrepresented languages, provide locally relevant data insights, and address pressing social and economic
issues. The new funding will also support postgraduate training and collaborative projects, fostering the next
generation of African AI researchers.
“We are committed to ensuring that AI solutions emerging from Africa are shaped by African priorities,” Prof
Marivate said. “This support allows us to grow the capacity of local researchers and build tools that have direct,
meaningful impact on communities.”
UP’s leadership in AI goes beyond technical innovation to integrate societal impact into the research process.
Projects under the University’s AI umbrella often involve partnerships across faculties, industry collaborations,
and engagement with policymakers to ensure that the benefits of AI are widely shared.
Professor Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UP, said the combination of the new ranking and
recent funding reflects the University’s mission.
“We aim to be a thought leader in areas that matter most to society. Our AI research is a flagship example of how UP can deliver solutions that are both globally competitive and deeply relevant to Africa’s development.”
With a No. 1 national ranking, and fresh resources to expand its AI research footprint, UP is positioned to drive
innovation that is ethical, inclusive and transformative – ensuring that Africa’s voice is strong in the global AI
conversation.
