RMIT announced number three globally in Impact Rankings

RMIT has been ranked number three overall in the world in the 2021 Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings.

Now in its third year, the THE Impact Rankings were designed to showcase progress against the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by measuring a university’s environmental, social and economic impact.

Standout results across the SDGs included the University being placed 2nd in the world for its efforts to reduce inequality within and among countries (SDG 10) and 3rd for strengthening partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Martin Bean CBE said he was proud of the outstanding results.

“It’s wonderful to have moments like these when the efforts of our extraordinary community are recognised far and wide,” he said.

“This is an outstanding achievement and a remarkable improvement from ranking 10th last year, reflecting our collective determination to shape the world and contribute in meaningful ways to the communities we’re so passionate about.

“We’re living our purpose as a university focused on practical impact and I’m so proud of the many thousands of people, staff and students, who earned this recognition.”

RMIT ranked 5th in the world for SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth for the second consecutive year, 13th for SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and 23rd for SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

The University rose 18 places to be ranked 40th for SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and was ranked 84th for SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Chief Operating Officer and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Dionne Higgins said the SDGs provide a valuable common platform and hope for organisations, governments and the community to work together towards a brighter future.

“At RMIT we understand the vital role of the education sector in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and helping to create a more sustainable future,” she said.

“To be ranked as one of the very top global universities in this area is testament to the incredible passion and dedication of our RMIT community.

“From our innovative research, teaching and learning to our governance and operations, we’ve made a genuine commitment to tackling some of the biggest societal and environmental challenges.

“We’re also proud of the extensive national and global partnerships with industry sectors and inter government agencies that are helping us to make a real and positive contribution towards achieving the United Nations global sustainable development agenda.

“As our global community continues to respond to COVID-19, it is clear that our collective efforts are vital to ensure a better world for everyone.”

Through the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), and along with 11 other Australian universities, in 2017 RMIT made a public commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. RMIT strives to play a leadership role at a national and international level to shape a sustainable environment and society. Read more about RMIT’s commitment and contribution.

*Note: The Times Higher Education overall impact ranking score is generated from SDG 17 (up to 22% of the overall score), plus the three other strongest SDGs, for which an institution provides data (up to 26% of the overall score).

Story: Kate Milkins and Angel Calderon

Society and Environment

22 April 2021

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Society and Environment

22 April 2021

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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RMIT announced number three globally in Impact Rankings