Al-Mustaqbal University Tops Iraqi Universities in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2026, Reinforcing Its Global Leadership in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
In a new academic achievement that further strengthens its leading position at both the national and international levels, Al-Mustaqbal University has attained a remarkable milestone by ranking first among all public and private Iraqi universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026. The university was placed within the 201–300 global band among 1,603 universities worldwide included in this year’s ranking.
The university also ranked first among all participating Iraqi universities, totaling 43 public and private institutions, reaffirming its national leadership and continuous excellence in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and translating them into institutional practices and impactful initiatives.
At the level of individual SDGs, Al-Mustaqbal University achieved first place in Iraq in several key goals, including:
SDG 1: No Poverty
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
SDG 13: Climate Action
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The university also secured second place nationally in:
SDG 4: Quality Education
This achievement reflects the high quality of its academic programs and educational initiatives aimed at developing human capital capable of leading sustainable development efforts.
This accomplishment represents a continuation of the university’s sustained success, as Al-Mustaqbal University has maintained its position as the top-ranked Iraqi university in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for the second consecutive year, while also retaining its status as the leading private university in Iraq for the fourth consecutive year. These results demonstrate the sustainability of its institutional performance and the effectiveness of its strategic plans.
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a broad range of indicators, including the quality of education, sustainability-focused research, knowledge transfer, community engagement, good governance, equality and inclusion, environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, climate initiatives, local and international partnerships, and the university’s impact in addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges at both local and global levels.
On this occasion, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdy, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, expressed his great pride in the results achieved, emphasizing that this accomplishment is the outcome of the university’s strategic vision and steadfast commitment to sustainability and institutional excellence. He noted that the achievement reflects the continuous efforts of the university community across academic, research, and societal fields.
He added that the university’s leadership among Iraqi universities and its advanced global standing in this prestigious ranking demonstrate its success in aligning its activities and programs with the Sustainable Development Goals, while reinforcing its role as a pioneering institution contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future.
In a statement to the University Media Office, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdy praised the significant efforts made by faculty members, researchers, staff, and students, congratulating them on this distinguished national achievement. He affirmed that Al-Mustaqbal University will continue to work in a spirit of teamwork to preserve its advanced position and strengthen its global presence, in line with its mission of serving society, shaping the future, and advancing sustainable development at both the national and international levels.