Dhaka University (DU) has risen to the 401-600 band in this year’s Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, a marked improvement from its 1001-1500 position last year. The UK-based higher education publication released the rankings today, according to a statement from the university’s Public Relations Office.

The rankings assess universities worldwide on their contributions to education, research, innovation, policy and social engagement in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the release said.

This year, 1,646 universities from 116 countries and territories were evaluated.

DU also recorded notable performances in several SDG-specific categories.

According to the press release, the university ranked 24th globally in SDG 16, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

It was placed in the 101-200 band in both SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals.

The university secured positions in the 301-400 band for SDG 1, No Poverty, and SDG 4, Quality Education.

DU was ranked in the 401-600 band in SDG 3, Good Health and Wellbeing, and SDG 10, Reduced Inequalities.

It was also placed in the 201-300 band in SDG 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and the 601-800 band in SDG 5, Gender Equality.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof ABM Obaidul Islam said the progress reflected the collective efforts of the university's teachers, researchers, students, officials and employees.

He said the university's continued work in education, research and social responsibility towards achieving the SDGs had received international recognition.

The vice-chancellor described DU's 24th-place ranking in SDG 16 as a matter of pride.

He said the university remained committed to addressing national and global challenges through knowledge-based research, innovation, good governance, social inclusion and human resource development.