Near East University, which places the philosophy that “universities are the looms of society” at the heart of its institutional vision, has been ranked 39th most influential university in the world, being first in Turkey and Cyprus in Times Higher Education’s “Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026” research, announced today.
Near East University, which is among the top 500 universities in the world, has attracted global attention with its success in the Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 results announced by the international higher education ranking organization Times Higher Education (THE). In the research, which assessed world universities based on the United Nations’ 17 sustainable development goals, Near East University was ranked as the 39th most influential university in the world. Near East University also ranked first in Turkey and Cyprus.
39th in the World’s Most Influential University!
The results obtained in THE Sustainability Impact Ratings, considered one of the world’s most comprehensive higher education assessments measuring performance towards sustainable development goals, demonstrate the strong impact of Near East University’s holistic approach in education, research, health, community contribution, and international collaborations.
Ranked 39th overall in the world, Near East University has once again shown that it is among the most influential institutions not only in its region but also in the global higher education system.
Ranked Third in Global Partnerships!
The most remarkable achievement among the results was the third place in the world “Partnerships for Goals” category. This ranking demonstrates that Near East University’s international academic collaborations, research partnerships, and work towards global development goals are exemplary on a global scale. This achievement also stands out as a significant indicator of Near East University’s capacity to connect its scientific output with international networks and develop joint solutions.
Global Success in Education, Arts, Health, and Urban Planning
Near East University ranked 8th globally in the “Sustainable Cities and Communities” category, which recognizes universities that lead the way in the development of arts and social heritage at regional, societal, and global levels. This achievement highlights the impact of Near East University’s holistic vision in preserving, sustaining, and transmitting cultural heritage to future generations. Near East University is also one of the world’s leading cultural and artistic centers, with museums, nearly 500 exhibitions, and outdoor art exhibitions.
Near East University also ranked 11th globally in “Quality Education”, 32nd in “Health and Quality of Life”, and 71st in “Gender Equality”, demonstrating international recognition for its quality education, contributions to healthcare, and practices supporting a sustainable living culture.
Prof. Dr. İrfan Suat Günsel: “This result is a global confirmation of our half-century-long vision!”
Recalling the words of Near East University Founding Rector Dr. Suat İrfan Günsel, “Universities are the looms of society”, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Near East Enterprises, Prof. Dr. İrfan Suat Günsel, said, “For over half a century, guided by this philosophy, we have been progressing with an understanding that centers education, science, art, and social development. Being the 39th most influential university in the world today is a proud proof that our vision has been internationally recognized.”
Emphasizing that Near East University is internationally recognized as a world university that shapes the future and creates value for humanity, Prof. Dr. İrfan Suat Günsel added that they will resolutely continue their mission of “producing knowledge for humanity and transforming this knowledge into social value.”
Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ: “This is a result of our competencies, our scientific self-confidence, and the bridges we have built with our international partners.”
Near East University Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ described the achievement as “the result of our competencies, scientific self-confidence, and the bridges we have built with our international partners.” He said, “Being ranked 39th among the world’s most influential universities and among the world’s most influential universities in five different areas of sustainable development is a strong indicator of our mission to add value to humanity as much as our scientific output.” Prof. Dr. Şanlıdağ added, “Our ranking as third in the world, particularly in the ‘Partnerships for Goals’ category, demonstrates the level of international collaborations and global impact we have achieved.”