Varendra University Ranks in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2026 for the Second Time
Rajshahi, Bangladesh — June 18, 2025
Varendra University has once again secured its place in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026, marking the second consecutive year of recognition for its contributions toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The rankings, released last Wednesday, evaluated 2526 universities from 130 countries, assessing how effectively universities are addressing global challenges through education, research, and community impact.
Varendra University Among Top Institutions in Bangladesh
This year, a total of 20 Bangladeshi universities—including 8 public and 12 private institutions—made it to the Impact Rankings. Among them, Varendra University is jointly ranked 6th at the national level, reinforcing its growing reputation as a leader in sustainable development-focused higher education.
Contributions Across Multiple SDGs
Varendra University has demonstrated significant impact in the following Sustainable Development Goals:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4: Quality Education
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The university’s inclusion in the overall ranking category further highlights its balanced and broad-based approach to addressing key global development goals.
Leadership Reactions
Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Md. Khademul Islam Molya, expressed pride in this achievement:
“This is an important achievement for us. This recognition proves that a university outside Dhaka can lead in international quality education and research.”
Professor Dr. AHM Rahmatullah Emon, Director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Research, stated:
“Barendra University has achieved the highest score among the 17 SDG indicators for ‘Ensuring Quality Education.’ This result bears witness to the university’s relentless efforts to ensure quality in education, research, and knowledge expansion. We are hopeful that Barendra University will secure an even higher position in future rankings.”
Significance of THE Impact Rankings
The THE Impact Rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the UN’s 17 SDGs, offering insights into how universities are contributing to solving global issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and access to education. Varendra University’s consistent performance emphasizes its commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, particularly in the context of South Asia.