The University is among the top 100 universities in THE Impact Ranking
The University is among the top 100 universities in THE Impact Ranking. Important recognition of the University of Padua’s role in pursuing the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
On Wednesday 27 April 2022, the results of the fourth edition of the University Impact Rankings were published. The rankings were drawn up by the international publication Times Higher Education (THE) with the aim of highlighting how the Higher Education and Research sector is addressing the sustainable development goals set out by the UN in 1987. The ranking provides a representation of the influence of the work of universities on the community, in a perspective that goes beyond the primary mission of teaching and research. Specifically, it aims to assess the contribution to the well-being and knowledge transfer of society. These activities are nowadays commonly seen in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In this ranking, which sees 1406 participating universities, the University of Padua ranks 76th in the world, climbing 23 places from 99th in 2021.
The index is compiled on the basis of the results obtained for UN Goal 17 (“Implementation arrangements and partnerships to achieve the SDGs”), a prerequisite for participation in the ranking, and the best three results obtained in relation to the other SDGs. Analysing the rankings for the individual Objectives, the University of Padua achieves the best result in Quality of Teaching (SDG 4), where it ranks 24th, slightly down on last year. The ranking considers the institution’s commitment to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education while promoting equal learning opportunities for all. The second best result is seen in SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, where the university is ranked 25th in the world (a clear improvement from 47th place in 2021). This index assesses environmental sustainability practices and commitment to the enhancement of historical, artistic and cultural heritage. The third best position is in SDG 3 – Health and Well-being, 47th in the world (84th in 2021). This ranking considers the extent to which the institution is able to promote healthy living and ensure social well-being by reducing the incidence of disease. Finally, the university is confirmed among the top 100 universities in the world for its commitment to SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, where the University of Padua ranks49th. This index assesses investments in infrastructure – transport, irrigation, energy and information and communication technologies – which are key to pursuing and realising sustainable development and empowering communities. This is followed by Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8, 52nd) and finally Gender Equality(SDG 5, 63rd).
.