LJMU Strengthens UK Standing Through Commitment to UN Goals

Liverpool John Moores University Secures Spot Among World’s Top 400 for SDGs

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has once again affirmed its commitment to global responsibility and academic advancement, as demonstrated in the latest Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. For the second consecutive year, LJMU has been placed among the top 300–400 institutions globally, an achievement that underscores its unwavering commitment to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Nationally, LJMU ranked within the top 60 universities in the United Kingdom, thereby reinforcing its domestic standing. Notably, this recognition comes during only the institution’s second year of participation in the rankings, underlining its growing reputation for promoting sustainability, social equity, and inclusive development across the academic landscape.

This year’s edition saw over 500 additional universities submitting entries. The rankings offer a comprehensive assessment of institutional performance across four key dimensions: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching, enabling a balanced comparison. Professor Keith George, Chair of the Sustainable Development Goals Steering Group, expressed sincere appreciation to students and staff for their collective efforts in furthering LJMU’s commitment to the SDGs. He emphasised the university’s focus on producing impactful research and fostering knowledge exchange aimed at real-world transformation. According to him, LJMU’s mission remains clear: to improve lives through quality education and practical solutions to global challenges.

For this cycle, LJMU provided evidence for seven out of the 17 SDGs, namely, Good Health and Wellbeing; Quality Education; Responsible Consumption and Production; Climate Action; Life on Land; Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions; and Partnerships for the Goals. The university received particularly strong evaluations in Climate Action, Life on Land, and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

Illustrative examples of its contributions include research on flood resilience, innovative applications of artificial intelligence to mitigate biodiversity loss, and student-led law clinics offering legal support to vulnerable groups and communities. LJMU’s sustained commitment to the SDGs reflects its alignment with the wider global vision articulated by the United Nations, one that aspires to peace, prosperity, and sustainability for people and the planet alike. This growing recognition confirms LJMU’s role as a purposeful and globally engaged institution, shaping a more sustainable future.

Editor’s Note:

Liverpool John Moores University’s steady rise in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings is more than just a reason to celebrate; it shows that real progress in higher education doesn’t have to come only from the oldest or most well-known universities. While many institutions continue to chase rankings through traditional measures, LJMU has taken a different route, one that focuses on making a difference. By aligning its work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the university is proving that education can be a powerful force for global good. This success highlights what can happen when universities put people and the planet at the centre of their mission. It’s a reminder that meaningful change comes from clear purpose and consistent effort, not just prestige. However, being recognised is only the beginning. The bigger challenge is making sure these achievements lead to lasting change. Issues like sustainability, equality, and inclusive growth are not passing trends; they are essential goals for the future.

Skoobuzz holds the view that universities have a responsibility to lead by example, showing how education can shape a better and fairer world. LJMU is on the right path, but the journey must continue with determination and vision.