EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF STATE HIGHER EDUCATION POLICY REFORMS IN UKRAINE UNDER SOCIOCULTURAL CHALLENGES: INTERNATIONAL RANKINGS AS DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of state higher education policy reforms in Ukraine through the lens of international university rankings from 2020 to 2025, during a period of unprecedented sociocultural challenges including armed conflict, demographic decline, and post-pandemic recovery. The research employs quantitative analysis of Ukrainian universities' performance in four major global ranking systems (ARWU, QS, THE, CWTS) to assess the outcomes of Bologna Process implementation and national reform initiatives. The study utilizes both quantitative metrics (institutional representation ratios) and qualitative scoring methodologies (point-rating systems) to evaluate changes in Ukrainian higher education quality indicators. Findings reveal a complex transformation pattern where despite increasing international collaboration and institutional resilience during wartime, Ukrainian universities face persistent challenges in global competitiveness metrics. The analysis demonstrates that 17 Ukrainian institutions achieved inclusion in THE World University Rankings 2025, representing a significant milestone, yet most remained in lower-tier categories (1501+). The research identifies critical gaps between national policy objectives and international recognition outcomes, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategic recalibration. Key sociocultural challenges include infrastructure displacement affecting 19 state institutions since 2014, demographic shifts reducing student populations, and the necessity for digital transformation acceleration under martial law conditions. The study concludes that while Ukrainian higher education has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and international engagement growth (20% increase in global research collaborations 2019-2023), systematic policy interventions are required to address fundamental quality assurance mechanisms, resource allocation optimization, and strategic positioning within European Higher Education Area frameworks. These findings contribute to understanding the relationship between national education policies and international recognition metrics, providing evidence-based recommendations for future reform strategies that align domestic priorities with global competitiveness requirements while addressing unique Ukrainian sociocultural contexts.