46th Global Ranking Highlights Leadership in AI-Driven Creativity Economy
Kuala Lumpur, Monday 11 August 2025 – As
it celebrates its 40th Anniversary, HELP University has secured 46th
place globally in the “Visionary Leadership” category of the 2025 World
University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), marking its position among top
institutions preparing students for a rapidly evolving, AI-driven world.
A New Standard in University Rankings
Unlike traditional rankings based on historical prestige,
WURI highlights institutions reimagining education for the future. HELP’s
recognition reflects its commitment to equipping students with skills suited
for the fast-changing global economy, where adaptability and innovation
outweigh legacy.
HELP outperformed renowned institutions like Soochow
University, Shandong University, the University of Chicago, and Columbia
University. This signals a shift in what defines academic excellence—real-world
impact over tradition.
Responding to the AI Era
As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, the global
economy is moving toward a “Creativity Economy.” Success in this
environment depends on critical thinking, innovation, and adaptability.
HELP recognises that traditional models don’t meet future
demands. Instead, the university focuses on human-centred skills, including
creative problem-solving, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and
entrepreneurship—abilities that remain essential even as AI takes over routine
tasks.
Innovating Since 1986
HELP University’s ranking reflects nearly 40 years of pushing
educational boundaries from providing Global Access as the first outside the UK
to offer the University of London External Programme Diploma in Economics and
the full degree, making world-class education accessible to Malaysian students
to offering Twinning Programs: HELP pioneered Malaysia’s first 3+0 programmes
with universities in the UK and Australia, allowing students to earn foreign
degrees locally.
In Mental Health Leadership, it was the first private
university in Malaysia to offer psychology counselling services and full
psychology degrees, anticipating rising mental health needs.
Pioneering in Lifelong Learning through APELQ, HELP recognises
work experience as part of academic qualification, supporting adult learners in
lifelong experiential learning. This has democratized learning and helps
everyone to self-actualise as part of personal development.
A Philosophy of Impact
WURI values universities that create real change. HELP
doesn’t just transmit knowledge—it helps students build the skills needed to
adapt and thrive in unpredictable futures. This includes fostering continuous
learning, reflexive thinking, and creative problem-solving.
Recognised for Humane Entrepreneurship
HELP’s commitment goes beyond education. The International
Council for Small Business (ICSB) and the Mayor’s Office of Jinju, South Korea,
recently selected HELP as a Center for Humane Entrepreneurship. Chancellor
Datuk Dr Paul Chan received the Humane Entrepreneurship Award for advancing
education with a human-centred focus.
Leading Dialogue on AI and Design
HELP is organising the upcoming Forum on AI-Driven Design
Technology and Packaging, reinforcing its role in shaping the conversation
around AI and creative industries. Events like the Hunan University of
Technology Packaging and Design Exhibition Workshop (25–27 August 2025) also
showcase its leadership in this space.
Professor Datuk Dr Paul Chan highlighted the importance of
this recognition:
“We mentor our students to have the Prepared Mind—ready for the unknowable.
We focus on disciplined character, reflexive practices, and creative thinking.
Our Mission as a University of Achievers strongly inspires what we do: ‘To HELP
people succeed in life and to live a life of significance through education.’”
Looking Ahead
HELP University’s WURI recognition marks more than just a
global ranking—it reflects a shift in how we define academic success in the
21st century. As AI transforms work and society, the institutions that
prioritize innovation, creativity, and human values will shape the future.
HELP University stands not just as a Malaysian leader, but as
a model for universities worldwide preparing students for the challenges and
opportunities of tomorrow’s creativity ecology.