The University of Glasgow has been ranked 13th in the world in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2023, released today (1 June 2023).

The THE Impact Rankings are a measure of the contribution of over 1,700 universities to the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This result also puts Glasgow first in Scotland and second in the UK.

The SDGs cover activities across social, economic, and environmental sustainability, such as ‘Reduced Inequalities’ (SDG 10); ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’ (SDG 8); and ‘Climate Action’ (SDG 13).

Among the most notable results for the University of Glasgow are:

  • Second in the world for SDG11: Sustainable Cities and Communities;
  • Sixth in the world for SDG16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions;
  • Ninth in the world for the mandatory SDG - SDG17: Partnership for the Goals.

Over 1,700 universities are ranked in this year’s THE Impact Rankings, an increase of 181 participating institutions compared with last year. The overall ranking is an improvement on last year’s result, where the University of Glasgow ranked 19th in the world.

Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Glasgow, said: “We are extremely proud that the University has improved upon last year’s strong performance in the THE Impact Rankings, particularly given the increase in participating institutions. As a civic University we are committed to contributing to the delivery of the SDGs and making an impact on our city, on Scotland and globally, too.

“I’d like to thank all colleagues who have been involved in working towards the SDGs. Our exceptional performance for the second consecutive year is a result of their hard work and dedication, and is testament to the role the University of Glasgow can play in addressing some of the most pressing global challenges we face."

On the University of Glasgow’s ranking, Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Scotland’s universities are rightly renowned across the world – and I am delighted to see the University of Glasgow recognised for its internationally leading social impact.

“Our higher education sector will be a key partner in helping government to meet some of the greatest challenges society faces, from climate change to inequalities. I was pleased recently to see first-hand some of the outstanding research being done at the University of Glasgow which will help to inform government policy as we seek to shift the dial on poverty, and child poverty in particular.

“Our universities are a real success story for Scotland on the international stage – and I look forward to working with the University of Glasgow and all of our institutions as we look to make Scotland a fairer, more equal place for everyone who lives here.”

On the University of Glasgow’s ranking, Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer for Times Higher Education, said: “The THE Impact Rankings are unique in that they rigorously assess universities’ contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals across all key activities: teaching; research; community outreach; and the stewardship of their resources. The University of Glasgow has passed the assessment with flying colours, taking a position of 13th in the world and rising up the rankings in the face of ever-increasing competition, as more and more universities globally step up to demonstrate their commitment to the global goals.

“What is particularly impressive is that Glasgow has made a commitment to submit for detailed assessment against each and every one of the 17 UN goals, which provide a complex, inter-related and interdisciplinary framework for taking-on the world’s biggest challenges, from tackling poverty, driving equality, supporting economic growth and addressing the climate crisis. It excels across many areas, showing real leadership across the sustainability agenda.”

First published: 1 June 2023

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