The British Times Higher Education (THE) Foundation announced today, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, the results of the Impact Rankings 2025, one of the most important global rankings in higher education. This ranking evaluates universities’ performance in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Al-Mustaqbal University made a historic achievement by securing first place among Iraqi public and private universities, positioning itself at the forefront of national higher education institutions embracing a comprehensive sustainable development vision and enhancing its scientific and research status regionally and internationally.
Globally, Al-Mustaqbal University ranked within the 201–300 category out of 2,526 participating universities from 130 countries across all continents. This record-breaking position reflects the highly competitive nature of this prestigious ranking. The university excelled in several UN goals, achieving first place worldwide in Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), outperforming renowned universities from Europe, America, and Asia. This demonstrates the capability of Iraqi universities to make a tangible and significant impact on major contemporary issues, including environmental sustainability and renewable energy.
The university also achieved leading positions in other UN goals as follows:
* Goal 1 (No Poverty): First in Iraq and ranked 101–200 globally
* Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Second in Iraq and 101–200 globally
* Goal 4 (Quality Education): First in Iraq and 201–300 globally
* Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): First in Iraq and 60th globally
* Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): First in Iraq and worldwide
* Goal 13 (Climate Action): First in Iraq and 201–300 globally
* Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): First in Iraq and 101–200 globally
This significant scientific and leadership achievement is the result of a clear strategic vision set by the university to be at the heart of modern developmental transformations. The university successfully aligned its educational and administrative systems with international sustainability standards, involving the academic community and students in innovative initiatives and programs aimed at achieving sustainable development in all its dimensions.
In this context, Professor Dr. Hasan Shakir Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, stated:
“We are proud of this historic achievement that proves the university is confidently moving towards global recognition. It is no longer merely a local academic institution but has become a model to be emulated in the field of sustainable development and quality education. We have succeeded in building an integrated educational and research environment that fosters creativity, encourages innovation, and contributes to producing knowledge committed to solving local and global challenges. This ranking is a true reflection of the tremendous efforts made by all university members—faculty, researchers, students, and administrative staff.”
These results represent a pivotal milestone in the university’s journey, reflecting the depth of its local and international impact and confirming its strong presence in the equation of sustainable education in the Middle East. The ranking also highlights the university’s active role in integrating education, research, and community service, as well as strengthening its international relationships through partnerships with leading universities and research centers, opening broad horizons for further progress and innovation in the coming years.
Al-Mustaqbal University — the leading university in Iraq.