Al-Mustaqbal University Tops Iraqi Universities in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2026, Reinforcing Its Global Leadership in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

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In a new academic achievement that further consolidates its leading position at both national and international levels, Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq has achieved a remarkable milestone by ranking first among all Iraqi public and private 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 secured the top position among the 43 Iraqi public and private universities participating in the ranking, reaffirming its national leadership and continuous excellence in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and transforming them into impactful institutional practices and real-world initiatives. At the SDG level, Al-Mustaqbal University ranked first 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 achieved second place nationally in SDG 4: Quality Education, highlighting the 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 maintained its position as the leading Iraqi university in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for the second consecutive year, while also retaining its status as the top-ranked private university in Iraq for the fourth consecutive year. This achievement reflects 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 through a comprehensive set of indicators, including educational quality, sustainability-related research, knowledge transfer, community engagement, good governance, equality and inclusion, environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, climate initiatives, local and international partnerships, and the university's overall impact in addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges at both local and global levels. On this occasion, Professor Hassan Shaker Majdy, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, expressed his great pride in the achievement, emphasizing that this success is the outcome of the university's strategic vision and unwavering commitment to sustainability principles and institutional excellence. He noted that the achievement reflects the continuous efforts of the university community across academic, research, and societal domains. He further stated that the university's leadership among Iraqi institutions and its advanced global standing in this prestigious ranking demonstrate its success in aligning its activities and programs with the Sustainable Development Goals and strengthening its role as a pioneering university contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future. In a statement to the University Media Office, Professor Hassan Shaker Majdy commended 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 working with a unified team spirit to maintain its advanced position and strengthen its global presence in line with its mission of serving society, shaping the future, and promoting sustainable development at both national and international levels. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First University in Iraq.