Sustainable development: The University of Bologna is once again ranked first in Italy, and third in the EU

For the fourth consecutive year, the University of Bologna is ranked first in Italy in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, which assess the impact of universities on the social fabric and their commitment to sustainable development. The University of Bologna also confirms its third place among European Union countries, after the University of Coimbra (Portugal) and the University of Aalborg (Denmark).

This ranking considers the actions undertaken and the funds invested by each participating university to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) of the 2030 Agenda adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations.

This year, THE included 1406 universities worldwide in its Impact Rankings - many more than last year, which saw only 1115 being evaluated. The University of Bologna improves its overall score from 92.8 to 93.1, ranking 37th overall.

"As I have repeatedly said, the University of Bologna can be proud of its records and international rankings, but it must aim at the good of society and not only at climbing the rankings. Nevertheless, among the many rankings that acknowledge us nationally and internationally, this one gives us particular satisfaction. It recognizes our commitment to the fundamental themes and profound values of our great public university: inclusive education, environmental sustainability, the promotion of human rights, and the reduction of inequalities," says Rector Giovanni Molari.

A number of particularly strong placings stand out when looking at specific indicators. Firstly, the University ranks fourth worldwide in the Quality education goal (SDG 4) that tracks the actions promoting inclusive and quality education for all and lifelong learning. Additionally, the University of Bologna ranks ninth for the Peace, justice and strong institutions goal (SDG 16). This SDG measures the ability to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provides access to justice for all and builds effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions.

Also noteworthy are the 13th place worldwide for Gender equality goal (SDG 5), which assesses attention to policies designed to overcome gender inequalities, and the 15th place for the Reduce inequality within and between countries goal (SDG 10), which measures actions related to improving working conditions and redistributing resources.