HKUST ranks 36th globally in University Impact Rankings 2024, topping HK and mainland China

12th June 2024 – (Hong Kong) In the recently announced Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2024, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has achieved an impressive global ranking of 36, marking its debut in the top tier. HKUST has also emerged as the leading institution in both Hong Kong and mainland China. The rankings specifically acknowledge HKUST’s notable contributions to building resilient infrastructure, advancing industrial development, accelerating innovation, promoting sustainable urban development, and fostering responsible consumption and production.

These rankings were unveiled at the Global Sustainable Development Conference (GSDC) held in Bangkok on the 11th of June by Times Higher Education (THE). At the conference, HKUST extended its commitment to sustainable development by inviting 15 institutions from Asia, Europe, Oceania, North America, and the Middle East to join in signing a carbon neutrality declaration. This declaration signifies HKUST’s dedication to transforming its campus into a living laboratory, promoting innovative applications, and taking tangible actions towards creating a sustainable future.

Professor Yang Wang, Vice-President for Institutional Advancement of HKUST, emphasised that these rankings affirm the university’s contributions to improving the quality of human life and addressing complex challenges. In addition to leveraging technology, Professor Wang stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among universities to tackle various issues. As a breeding ground for innovative technologies, universities should assume leadership roles and foster greater cooperation to promote global intelligence and sustainable development.

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) also secured a commendable position in the rankings, placing 77th globally. PolyU’s achievements in promoting sustainable development were particularly recognised in the “Good Health and Well-being” category, where it ranked first among local universities. Additionally, PolyU claimed the top position in the “Quality Education” category among local institutions and ranked fourth globally. President Teng Jin-guang expressed the university’s commitment to pursuing excellence in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, contributing towards the goal of sustainable development.

The Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2024 evaluated 2,152 universities across 125 countries/regions to determine the overall impact ranking. Western Sydney University from Australia secured the top spot for the third consecutive year, with the University of Manchester in the UK and the University of Tasmania in Australia following closely in joint second place.

India emerged as the most-represented country in the overall rankings, with 96 institutions making their mark.