By Kathrina Antonio & Jennielou Pigao

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has once again established itself as a leading institution in the Philippines, maintaining its impressive global standing in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. MMSU ranks 601-800 globally and fifth in the Philippines. Replicating last year’s feat, MMSU remains the nation’s number one for SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), with a global rank of 301-400.

Home to the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center, MMSU also excels in SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), ranking 101-200 globally and 2nd in the Philippines. In SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals), the university ranks 301-400 globally and 2nd in the nation.

MMSU achieved remarkable ranks across various SDGs. In Quality Education (SDG 4), the university ranks 301-400 globally and 2nd in the Philippines. For Gender Equality (SDG 5), MMSU is placed 301-400 globally and 7th in the Philippines. Under Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), MMSU ranks 601-800 globally and 6th in the Philippines. In Life on Land (SDG 15) category, the university is positioned 301-400 globally and 4th in the Philippines. For Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), MMSU ranks 401-600 globally and 4th in the Philippines.

MMSU also ranks 401-600 globally and 12th in the Philippines for No Poverty (SDG 1), 601-800 globally and 10th in the Philippines for Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), 401-600 globally and 5th in the Philippines for Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), 301-400 globally and 6th in the Philippines for Life Below Water (SDG 14), 401-600 globally and 3rd in the Philippines for Climate Action (SDG 13), 401-600 globally and 5th in the Philippines for Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), 401-600 globally and 9th in the Philippines for Zero Hunger (SDG 2), 601-800 globally and 2nd in the Philippines for Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), and 801-1000 globally and 7th in the Philippines for Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis commended the entire university community, particularly the Internationalization, Linkages, and Partnerships Office, which spearheaded the application. “Our performance in the 2024 THE Impact Rankings reflects our strong commitment to helping improve the quality of life for our people,” she expressed. She highlighted that this achievement would not have been possible without the support of all stakeholders who have consistently believed in MMSU’s mission to make a significant difference both nationally and globally.

Dr. Mee Jay Domingo, MMSU Director for International Linkages and Partnerships, added, “This recognition underscores the collaborative efforts and dedication of our faculty, staff, and partners.” He noted that MMSU’s high rank in SDG 17-Partnership for the Goals will “further motivate us to continue meaningful international and local partnerships that contribute to our global impact and sustainable development goals.”

The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings are renowned for being among the most prestigious and influential higher education ranking bodies, assessing universities against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These rankings provide a comprehensive and balanced comparison across four broad areas: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. This year, a total of 2,152 institutions worldwide participated in the rankings.

Over the years, MMSU has inspired and assisted other Philippine higher education institutions in pursuing international rankings. This has led to a notable increase in the number of Philippine universities and colleges participating in prestigious global rankings.