Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025

1. Overview

Baku State University (BSU) has achieved a remarkable improvement in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, advancing to the 401–600 global range. This represents a major leap from the 1001–1500 range in 2024, underscoring BSU’s strengthened commitment to sustainable development and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Global Rank (2025): 401–600

• Global Rank (2024): 1001–1500

• Universities included worldwide (2025): 2,318

• Overall Performance Score: Increased by 35% (from 53.2 in 2024 to 71.8 in 2025)

• SDGs Covered: 15 out of 17 (up from 9 in 2024)

2. BSU’s Global Rankings by SDG

Top Achievements (Global Top 100):

• SDG 1: No Poverty – Rank 47

• SDG 4: Quality Education – Rank 46

• SDG 5: Gender Equality – Rank 85

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Rank 53

Strong Performance (101–200 Range):

• SDG 15: Life on Land – 101–200

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions – 101–200

Solid Results (201–300 Range):

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger – 201–300

• SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation – 201–300

• SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth – 201–300

• SDG 14: Life Below Water – 201–300

Developing Areas (401+ Range):

• SDG 3: Good Health & Well-being – 601–800

• SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy – 601–800

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure – 601–800

• SDG 13: Climate Action – 401–600

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – 301–400

3. Comparative Progress (2024 vs 2025)

• Number of SDGs Participated: Increased from 9 (2024) to 15 (2025).

• Overall Score Growth: Improved from 53.2 to 71.8 (+35%).

• Rank Movement: Advanced by approximately 600–900 positions globally.

This progress reflects BSU’s implementation of new sustainability strategies, expanded research and teaching contributions, and enhanced engagement with local and global communities.

4. Strategic Strengths

• Education & Social Impact Leadership: High global rankings in Quality Education, Gender Equality, and Reduced Inequalities demonstrate BSU’s strong academic and social responsibility impact.

• Research & Policy Influence: Strong performance in Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions and Life on Land highlights BSU’s growing research visibility and contribution to policy and sustainability.

• Global Reputation: Entering the 401–600 range has positioned BSU among the top-performing universities in the region on sustainability.

5. Areas for Improvement

1. Health & Well-being (SDG 3): Expand initiatives in student health services, mental well-being, and healthcare research.

2. Affordable & Clean Energy (SDG 7): Increase investment in renewable energy infrastructure and research.

3. Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure (SDG 9): Strengthen university–industry partnerships and innovation ecosystems.

4. Climate Action (SDG 13): Enhance BSU’s resilience and contributions to climate mitigation and adaptation policies.

5. Partnerships (SDG 17): Broaden international collaborations and global sustainability partnerships.

6. Conclusion

Baku State University’s entry into the 401–600 global band in THE Impact Rankings 2025 is a milestone achievement, reflecting its rapid advancement in sustainability performance. With Top 100 rankings in four SDGs and significant growth in participation, BSU is establishing itself as a regional leader in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. To sustain momentum, BSU should continue investing in energy, innovation, health, climate action, and partnerships while leveraging its strong position in education, equality, and institutional impact.