An exemplary success in sustainable development!
The success of Izmir University of Economics (IUE) stood out in the 2025 Impact Rankings prepared by the UK-based evaluation organization Times Higher Education (THE), which assesses universities based on their contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals. IUE ranked first among all foundation universities in the Aegean Region in the list that included 2 thousand 526 universities from 30 countries. Nationally, IUE ranked 9th among Turkish foundation universities and was listed in the 601–800 range globally, outperforming many internationally recognized, prestigious institutions. IUE Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu said, “As a University, we don’t focus solely on academic success. We place great importance on environmental awareness, social responsibility, and the principles of sustainable development. This achievement is a clear indication of that.”
In Times Higher Education 2025 World University Impact Rankings, universities were evaluated based on their efforts aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The rankings assessed universities’ impact in research, governance, community outreach, and education, as well as their contributions to social, environmental, and societal development. In addition to the overall ranking, IUE achieved great success by ranking in the 201-300 range in the ‘Gender Equality’ and ‘Climate Action’ categories, and in the 301-400 range in the ‘Reduced Inequalities’ and ‘Partnerships for the Goals’ categories.
“THE RESULT OF A COLLECTIVE EFFORT”
Emphasizing that a university’s true success should be measured not only by its scientific output but also by the value it adds to society and the planet, Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Hakan Abacıoğlu said, “In every strategy we integrate into our education, we consider the United Nations’ 17 global goals, and we raise our students with that awareness. This success is the result of the collective efforts of our academic and administrative staff, our students, and our partners. Last year, we were ranked in the 801–1000 range in the overall list. Despite a 20% increase in the number of participating universities this year, we managed to improve our position and moved up to the 601–800 range.”
“WE WILL CONTINUE TO PLAY A LEADING ROLE”
Prof. Dr. Abacıoğlu stated the following: “Universities have responsibilities to society, to their cities, and to the world. Globally, resources are decreasing, environmental degradation is increasing due to global warming, and the population is rising. To ensure a healthy future for our youth and children, we must prioritize sustainability and place it at the center of our mission. As a University, we must guide society in the right direction and accurately analyze the future. Our position in the global rankings clearly shows that we are on the right path and doing successful work. As a University that offers creative and transformative solutions for a sustainable future, we will continue to play a pioneering role.”
