MAHE Tops THE Impact Rankings 2026 with No. 1 Global SDG 5 Rank

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has earned global recognition by securing the No. 1 position worldwide for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 – Gender Equality in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026. The latest rankings also highlight MAHE's continued progress across several sustainability indicators, strengthening its position among leading higher education institutions committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The achievement reflects the university's sustained efforts to promote inclusive education, gender equity, impactful research, and community engagement while expanding its global academic reputation.

MAHE Achieves Historic Global Recognition in THE Impact Rankings 2026

The Impact Rankings 2026 evaluate universities based on their contribution to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Institutions are assessed on parameters including research, stewardship, outreach and teaching that contribute to sustainable development. MAHE emerged as the world's highest-ranked university for SDG 5 – Gender Equality, marking a notable improvement over its previous performance. The recognition acknowledges the institution's policies and initiatives aimed at promoting equal opportunities, women's leadership, inclusive education, workplace diversity, and community outreach. Apart from its outstanding performance in SDG 5, MAHE also recorded competitive positions in several other SDGs, demonstrating balanced progress across sustainability-related indicators.

What do the Impact Rankings Measure?

Unlike conventional university rankings that primarily focus on academic reputation and research output, the THE Impact Rankings assess how universities contribute towards solving global challenges identified under the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This framework enables universities to showcase their broader societal impact beyond traditional academic metrics. The rankings consider evidence submitted by universities across multiple categories, including:

• Research related to sustainability
• Gender equality initiatives
• Health and well-being
• Quality education
• Climate action
• Industry collaboration
• Community engagement
• Institutional governance

MAHE Strengthens India's Global Presence

MAHE's latest achievement further enhances India's visibility in global higher education rankings focused on sustainability. Indian universities have steadily increased their participation in the THE Impact Rankings over recent years, reflecting growing institutional emphasis on sustainable development, social responsibility, and inclusive growth. The university's performance demonstrates how Indian higher education institutions are expanding their global footprint by integrating sustainability into academic programmes, research activities, and institutional governance.

MAHE Focus on Gender Equality Drives Recognition

The top global position in SDG 5 reflects MAHE's sustained emphasis on creating an inclusive academic environment. Universities evaluated under this category are assessed on measures such as gender balance among students and staff, leadership representation, anti-discrimination policies, support systems, research addressing gender issues and outreach programmes. Strong institutional policies combined with measurable outcomes contributed to MAHE's leading position in this year's rankings.

Significance for MAHE Students and Higher Education

Global recognition in the THE Impact Rankings strengthens MAHE's reputation among prospective students, researchers, and international academic partners. Performance in sustainability-focused rankings increasingly influences institutional collaborations, research opportunities, and international visibility. The latest achievement also highlights the growing importance of integrating sustainable development goals into higher education, encouraging universities to contribute meaningfully to social, environmental, and economic progress alongside academic excellence. With its No. 1 global ranking for SDG 5 and improved performance across several sustainability indicators, MAHE continues to establish itself as one of India's leading institutions committed to advancing education, research, and sustainable development on the global stage.