The University of Aberdeen’s social and economic impact has seen it ranked 70th in the world and 18th in the UK in an influential league table.
In the fifth annual edition of the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, which recognises universities for their work under the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the University has risen significantly from its previous place in the 100-200 range globally and outside the UK top 20 in 2022.
Out of 1,591 ranked institutions spanning 112 countries worldwide, the University was ranked 1st in the UK and 4th globally for Partnership for the Goals (SDG17); 7th in the UK and 17th globally for Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG16); 17th and 29th for Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG12); and 5th and 31st respectively for its work connected to Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG11).
Overall, it is in the top quartile for all 17 SDGs globally, which includes Quality Education, Climate Action, Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities; and Affordable and Clean Energy.
Today’s announcement means the University now ranks in the top 70 in the world and top 20 in the UK in both the THE Impact Rankings and the QS Sustainability Rankings published in October. The University ranked 64th in the world and 17th in the UK in the latter rankings, which showcase what universities are doing to accelerate environmental and social change in response to the climate crisis threatening the world.
Senior Vice-Principal Professor Karl Leydecker said: “The THE Rankings shine a light on the demonstrable differences universities are making to the world around them.
“This year, against a backdrop of an increased number of participating institutions, our performance in the rankings is testament to the breadth and depth of our commitment to creating positive social, environmental and economic change, as set out in our Aberdeen 2040 vision.
“We aim to inspire our students and staff to achieve extraordinary things and everyone within the University community can feel extremely proud today to have their hard work over the past 12 months recognised at this global level.
“We look forward to continuing our progress in the years ahead as part of our ongoing efforts to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
The University has produced a short introductory video outlining its approach to the SDGs which can be viewed here.
Notes for Editors
| Notes for Editors | Taken from the University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences website. The University of Aberdeen published this article here on 01 June 2023. Image: View toward’s King’s and the Crown |
| Reference | https://www.abdn.ac.uk/sbs/news/17071/ |
| Published | Thursday June 1st, 2023 |
