Ozyegin University Tops Turkish Private Universities in THE Impact Rankings 2024

Ozyegin University in Istanbul has achieved significant recognition by securing the top position among Turkish private universities in the "THE Impact Rankings 2024." This ranking, conducted by the London-based higher education rating organization Times Higher Education (THE), evaluates universities worldwide based on their contributions to society.

In the latest rankings, Ozyegin University was ranked 5th among Turkish universities and 1st among Turkish private universities. The ranking has seen a steady increase in participation since its inception as a pilot study in 2019. In 2024, the number of universities included in the general ranking reached 1963, with 91 universities from Turkey participating.

Ozyegin University has been part of this ranking since 2019, consistently improving its sustainability-focused initiatives. The university advanced one band in the 2024 ranking, placing within the 201-300 band among 1963 universities. The university achieved notable results in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) category.

According to the results, Ozyegin University ranked 92nd globally and 1st among Turkish private universities in SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). In SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), the university ranked within the 201-300 band globally. Ozyegin University secured the 2nd position among Turkish private universities in SDG 7 and 1st in SDG 8.

The university also performed well in SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), ranking within the 101-200 band globally and 1st among Turkish private universities. In SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), the university was placed 69th globally and 2nd among Turkish private universities. Ozyegin University also ranked within the 201-300 band globally in SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), securing the 2nd position among Turkish private universities.

In 2017, Ozyegin University established the TUSIAD – Ozyegin University Sustainable Development Forum (SDF) in collaboration with TUSIAD. The forum aims to accelerate sustainable economic growth and smart industrialization by developing new approaches and methods to minimize adverse impacts on society and the environment. Following the establishment of the forum, the university launched the Sustainability Platform to promote sustainable living practices beyond the business world.

Ozyegin University has also signed the United Nations Global Compact, a strategic policy initiative for organizations committed to aligning their operations and strategies with universally accepted principles in human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. Additionally, the university is a signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME).

Professor Dr. Esra Gencturk, Rector of Ozyegin University, highlighted the university's contributions to addressing global and national issues through scientific research aligned with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Gencturk stated, "Since 2019, we have been proud to be the top private university in Turkey on the THE Impact list for six consecutive years. Furthermore, our ranking of 69th globally in SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) is not a coincidence."

Gencturk emphasized that this achievement reflects the university's expanding scientific research, collaborations with internal and external stakeholders, and applied education programs. She added, "Instead of using sustainability merely as a theoretical concept, we have integrated it as a fundamental component into the first-year curriculum of our undergraduate programs. This prepares our students to be aware and knowledgeable future decision-makers and change agents in sustainability."

Concluding her remarks, Gencturk noted, "Our university will continue to support and collaborate with individuals and institutions from all sectors to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals."

This recognition underscores Ozyegin University's commitment to sustainability and its significant role in advancing education and societal impact both in Turkey and globally.