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Having an impact
Western Sydney University ranks first worldwide .
By Emilie Lauer
For the second year , Western Sydney University has ranked first worldwide for its commitment to gender equality , wellbeing , climate action and global sustainability .
WSU has topped over 1,500 universities from 112 countries and scored first place in the latest round of The Times Higher Education ( THE ) impact rankings .
The ranking measures universities ’ efforts to reach the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ( UNSDGs ), which include gender equality , sustainable cities and communities , no poverty , zero hunger and climate action .
WSU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Barney Glover AO said scoring the world top position for the second time showed the “ dedication and passion ” of staff , students and community partners .
“ Western Sydney University is proud to be an institution working with its students , staff and communities to make the world a better place ,” Professor Glover said .
“ We are a young and modern university , and tackling the most pressing social and environmental challenges has always been important to our core mission .”
According to Professor Glover , the university has worked to ensure its teaching , research and international partnerships are fully aligned with the UN ’ s Sustainable Development Goals since it was adopted by all 193 United Nations member states in 2015 .
“ For example , our world-leading researchers are finding practical solutions locally and globally on important issues like food and water security in the face of climate change , and addressing housing affordability and creating more sustainable , resilient urban communities ,” said Professor Glover .
Western Sydney University also reached its carbon-neutral target and hopes to become ‘ climate positive ’ by 2029 .
The ranking included 24 Australian universities , of which three were in the top 10 .
The University of Tasmania ranked fifth worldwide - a jump from its 25th position in 2022 and 76th overall position in 2021 .
Vice-Chancellor , Professor Rufus Black , said the results showed Tasmania ’ s response to climate change could be a “ model ” for the rest of the world .
“ We need a bold shift in our global trajectory if we are to be more a sustainable , more just , and more equal world ,” Professor Black said .
“ This achievement recognises the excellence and dedication of so many of our staff and students who are deeply committed to embedding sustainability in all that we do .
“ Their efforts are making the University of Tasmania a recognised global leader in how universities can contribute to tackling our planet ’ s greatest challenges .”
In Victoria , RMIT scored seventh worldwide for its environmental , social and economic impact .
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Alec Cameron said the ranking showed staff and students ’ determination and hard work .
“ I ’ m incredibly proud that RMIT has been ranked seventh globally in the 2023 THE Impact Rankings ,” Professor Cameron said .
“ This is a significant rise and a direct reflection of our impact on society through stewardship initiatives , leading education offerings and impactful research ,” Cameron said .
Worldwide , the UK was the mostrepresented nation in the ranking ’ s top 100 , with 26 institutions , followed by Australia with 16 and Canada with 15 .
The University of Manchester scored second worldwide , while Canada-based Queen ’ s University took third place . ■
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