QCU Rises in Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 through Stronger Contributions to UNSDGs

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Quezon City University (QCU) has reached another milestone in its journey toward global academic recognition after improving its standing in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings. QCU advanced to the 1001–1500 band from the 1501+ bracket in 2025, reflecting its growing impact in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) through quality education, research, innovation, community engagement, and institutional stewardship.

The THE Sustainability Impact Ratings is a global assessment of higher education institutions based on their contributions to the SDGs. Unlike traditional university rankings that primarily measure research and teaching performance, these rankings recognize how universities create meaningful societal impact through policies, partnerships, research, outreach, and educational initiatives that address today’s most pressing global challenges.

Among QCU’s most notable achievements is its advancement in SDG 1: No Poverty, where it ranked 201–300, a significant improvement from its 401–600 ranking in the previous year. The recognition reflects the University’s sustained commitment to making higher education accessible to economically disadvantaged students through free tertiary education, scholarships, student support programs, and community extension initiatives that empower individuals and improve livelihoods.

This year’s rankings also mark a significant milestone for QCU, as the University participated in all 17 SDGs and earned recognition across each category—an expansion from its participation in 11 SDGs in 2025. This broader engagement reflects the University’s deepening commitment to sustainability and demonstrates how the principles of sustainable development have become increasingly integrated into its academic programs, research initiatives, institutional operations, and community extension efforts.

Following its strongest performance in this year’s rankings, QCU placed 201–300 in SDG 1: No Poverty, reflecting its sustained commitment to expanding access to higher education, supporting student success, and implementing community-centered initiatives that uplift underserved sectors. This achievement stands as QCU’s highest-ranked SDG and highlights the institution’s growing contribution to social inclusion and economic empowerment.

Building on this success, QCU also recorded notable achievements in environmental sustainability, ranking 401–600 in SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 15: Life on Land, while earning a 401+ ranking in SDG 14: Life Below Water. These results reflect the University’s increasing focus on environmental stewardship, sustainable resource management, and conservation-oriented initiatives integrated into its academic, research, and extension programs.

The University likewise demonstrated strong performance across several areas that promote inclusive and sustainable development, ranking 601–800 in SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. These placements underscore QCU’s efforts to foster innovation, advance equitable opportunities, strengthen institutional governance, and contribute to the development of resilient communities.

Further affirming its commitment to educational excellence and workforce readiness, QCU ranked 801–1000 in SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, highlighting its continued focus on providing accessible, industry-responsive education while preparing graduates to become competent professionals and responsible citizens.

The University also earned recognition for its initiatives supporting SDG 2: Zero Hunger (601+), SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being (1001+), SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (601+), SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy (801+), and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (801–1000), demonstrating the breadth of its programs and collaborations that advance health, sustainability, resource efficiency, and multi-sector engagement in support of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The University’s improved standing reflects the collective efforts of its administrators, faculty members, researchers, staff, students, alumni, and partners, whose shared commitment continues to elevate QCU’s role in addressing local and global challenges through education and innovation.

QCU President Dr. Theresita V. Atienza welcomed the University’s improved performance, emphasizing that the recognition is a testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives and communities.

“Our continued progress in the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings affirms that Quezon City University is fulfilling its mission of providing quality education while creating a meaningful and lasting impact on society. Every initiative—from research and innovation programs to community extension projects and student-centered services—contributes to advancing sustainable development. This achievement belongs to our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners who continuously work together to make QCU a university that transforms lives and communities,” Dr. Atienza said.

For QCU, this year’s results signify more than an improvement in global standing—they affirm the University’s continuing transformation into an institution that places sustainability and inclusive development at the core of its mission. Through strategic initiatives that expand access to education, strengthen research and innovation, promote environmental responsibility, and cultivate meaningful partnerships, QCU continues to align its programs and operations with the UNSDGs.

This achievement reflects the University’s vision of becoming a globally recognized local university that champions academic excellence, innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. As QCU continues to strengthen international collaborations, advance research initiatives, and deepen its engagement with communities, its improved performance in the 2026 THE Sustainability Impact Ratings demonstrates that local higher education institutions can make meaningful contributions to global sustainable development while remaining firmly committed to serving the Filipino people.

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