University of Nicosia Recognised by Times Higher Education for its Global Impact
The inaugural THE Impact Rankings recognised universities across the world for their social and economic impact, with UNIC ranking among the top 201-300 universities for Quality Education and in the top 301+ universities overall
The first ever Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings, released on 3 April 2019, rank the University of Nicosia (UNIC) among the top 301+ universities globally in terms of their social and economic impact. Hundreds of universities across 76 countries, including strong representation by the US, the UK, Japan and the Russian Federation, took part in the new THE ranking, which is the first to measure global universities’ success in delivering the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The UN Sustainable Development Goals and targets stimulate action over the next fifteen years in areas of critical importance for humanity and the planet”, noted Professor Dimitris Drikakis, UNIC Vice President for Global Partnerships and Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Office.
“The University of Nicosia is committed to making a contribution to the UN’s SDGs, and the excellent result of the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings is a reflection of our impact worldwide”.
This inaugural edition of the Impact Rankings included metrics based on 11 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, with UNIC ranking across all defined categories in the major areas of: Good Health and Well-being; Quality Education; Gender Equality; Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Reduced Inequalities; Sustainable Cities and Communities; Responsible Consumption and Production; Climate Action; Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions; and Revitalising Global Partnerships for the Goals.
Commenting on this development, the President of the Council of the University of Nicosia, Professor Nicos Kartakoullis, said it was indicative of UNIC’s far-reaching contribution to society. “The results clearly demonstrate our vital role in improving the overall quality of life for Cypriots and non-Cypriots residing in the country, in line with the UN SDGs. At the same time, this latest ranking success signifies that UNIC is recognised by THE as a leading higher education provider with a strong commitment to Social Responsibility”, continued Professor Kartakoullis.
On his part, the Rector, Professor Philippos Pouyioutas, highlighted the active engagement and strong sense of responsibility of the University.
“In line with EU priorities in Higher Education, the University’s strategy and role extends beyond the creation and dissemination of knowledge, to osmosis with society and the betterment of humankind. The ranking by THE, one of the most important rankings in the world, reaffirms the University’s leading international position, in all three pillars underpinning a modern university, namely research, teaching/learning, and contribution to society”
The Rector concluded by underscoring that: “The increasing international recognition of the University and its growing global impact are the result of its most important asset: its people”.
