UFS RANKS AMONG THE TOP 200 GLOBALLY FOR SDG10 IN THE SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT RANKINGS 2026

By: Neo Ntsele

The University of the Free State (UFS) has made notable progress in the Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026, achieving its highest global performance in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities.

The University is positioned in the 101–200 band, placing it among the leading institutions worldwide.

This ranking places UFS among a distinguished group of universities globally recognized for translating the promise of equity into tangible progress, expanding access, and creating pathways for participation across higher education systems.

UFS’ involvement in the 2026 cycle covers seven SDGs, including Zero Hunger (SDG 2 – ranked between 201–300), Quality Education (SDG 4 – ranked between 301–400), Gender Equality (SDG 5 – ranked between 201–300), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6 – ranked between 301–400), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10 – ranked between 101–200), and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16 – ranked between 301–400).

These six SDGs place the University, on average, among the top 300 universities globally. Partnership for the Goals (SDG 17) shows a vulnerability, leading to an overall rank of 801-1000.

Nonetheless, this marks a significant improvement from 1501+ in 2025.

This change indicates consistent institutional progress and highlights the University’s enhanced contribution to global sustainability efforts, achieved through continuous work in teaching, research, engagement, and institutional practice.

UFS Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Hester C. Klopper stated that the results reflect the University’s ongoing dedication to societal impact in its core mission.

“The University of the Free State’s advancement in the rankings showcases our commitment to responsible societal futures,” said Prof Klopper.

She further noted, “These outcomes illustrate the deliberate efforts across the institution to ensure that access, inclusion, and social impact are integral to how we teach, research, and engage with society.”

The SDGs, adopted by the United Nations, represent a global call for urgent and coordinated action on poverty, inequality, education, health, climate change, and environmental sustainability.

Advertisement

Within this framework, universities are increasingly recognized as key players in generating knowledge, innovation, and partnerships that advance these goals.

At UFS, this commitment is evident in daily academic and institutional life.

Efforts in the Quality Education and Gender Equality SDGs are reflected in initiatives to broaden access, enhance participation, and improve outcomes for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those entering higher education for the first time and those who have been historically excluded from opportunities.

This is also evident in ongoing efforts to enhance inclusion for staff and students with disabilities, alongside ongoing institutional work to tackle discrimination and create environments where participation is more equitable and supported across all areas of university life.

Collectively, these efforts represent a university that is actively shaping how access and inclusion are experienced—not as abstract goals, but as lived institutional practices.