The University of the West Indies (UWI) has achieved a perfect score in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, announced last month, thanks to its strategic focus on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Over the past decade, The UWI has established joint global centers and initiatives with other respected universities to advocate for and develop outcomes around sustainable development. This strategic approach paid off as The UWI earned a perfect score of 100% for its relationships supporting the goals in pursuit of SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles responded to Times Higher Education’s report, saying, “Our vision for The UWI requires the implementation of multiple strategies, and we are very proud that the work of our faculties in particular has won the recognition of the global university environment. This is a great moment for The UWI.”
THE’s Impact Rankings identify and celebrate universities that excel in advancing multiple SDGs, and evaluating their research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. The UWI also earned notably high scores in several other areas: collaborations and health services in assessing SDG 3: Good Health and Well Being; the proportion of women receiving degrees in assessing SDG 5: Gender Equality; environmental education measures as part of its Climate Action (SDG 13); and research into partnerships for the goals under SDG 17.
UWI to launch International School for Development Justice
This recognition by Times Higher Education coincides with the upcoming launch of UWI’s International School for Development Justice (ISDJ) later this year. This new school, a significant milestone in the University’s journey toward advancing sustainable development, addresses the global need for education that equips current and future activists and leaders with the knowledge and skills to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The ISDJ combines UWI’s two decades of experience and excellence in online education with its steadfast commitment to the SDGs, positioning it as a pioneering institution in this field.
This year marks The UWI’s fifth consecutive year participating in the prestigious global impact rankings. Although the University has consistently been ranked among the best in the world by THE, recognition in this niche area of SDG impact is particularly significant as it acknowledges The UWI’s intentional generation and dissemination of knowledge to support various UN goals as part of its strategic plan.
 Impact Rankings, announced last month.){kind=link}