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York University ranks 35th globally in 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

York University recognized for leadership in sustainable cities and communities

York University has once again solidified its reputation as a prestigious institution by jumping five spots to rank 35th in the world according to the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. This recognition comes from York’s impressive dedication to sustainability and positive global change.

THE Impact Awards recognize higher education institutions from around the world that have committed to meeting the United Nations’ seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

York University has earned impressively high marks for its efforts, ranking second globally and first in Canada for its efforts towards zero poverty (SDG 1). York also secured the top spot in Canada for reducing inequalities (SDG 10).

The university excelled in the following SDG categories:

– 13th place for sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11)

– A rise of over 30 spots to 35th in the world for partnerships to achieve the goals (SDG 17)

– Top 50 placements for gender equality (SDG 5), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), and peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)

“This is a University-wide achievement by our students, staff and faculty to demonstrably make a positive impact on the sustainable development goals through research, teaching, creativity and innovation,” says Rhonda Lenton, President and Vice-Chancellor of York University. “We have done particularly well in SDGs that align most strongly with our values as a University, including zero poverty, reduced inequalities, and sustainable cities and communities. I am proud that we continue to be recognized for our leadership in building a more sustainable and inclusive world.”

York’s commitment to social justice is demonstrated through the Osgoode Hall Law School’s Parkdale Community Legal Services and Community Legal Aid Services provide legal support to low-income residents. The Canadian Observatory on Homelessness and the Homeless Hub further demonstrate York’s dedication to reducing poverty.

York has also been at the forefront of supporting Indigenous research and refugee studies. The University has allocated $1 million towards Indigenous research and has been a leader in refugee studies for over 35 years. York’s student body consists of 16,000 first-generation university students, a testament to their commitment to inclusivity and opportunity.

As for sustainability efforts, York’s role as the academic lead of the UNITAR Global Water Academy and its new OneWATER research unit, addressing local and global water challenges, provided a big boost in the rankings. The University’s Disaster and Emergency Management program has played a vital role in training first responders and enhancing community development through knowledge exchange and capacity building.

York’s spot on the list of Canada’s Greenest Employers for the 12th consecutive year proved highly valuable for THE Rankings’ criteria. York also ranked among Canada’s Best Diversity Employers.

Through its wide array of initiatives, York University continues to champion the UN SDGs, embodying its core mission of driving positive change both locally and globally.


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