Bangkok, June 20, 2025—In a historic milestone reflecting Walailak University’s strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), the university has been ranked 93rd globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025 — its highest position since joining the prestigious ranking in 2021. Most notably, Walailak University achieved the No. 1 global ranking for SDG 5: Gender Equality, affirming its leadership in promoting inclusivity and empowerment across all genders.
At 6:01 AM Thailand Time on 18 June 2025, Times Higher Education announced the results of the 2025 Impact Rankings, which assess universities worldwide based on their contributions to the UN SDGs. Walailak University now ranks 93rd out of 2,526 institutions from 130 countries — an impressive leap from its position in the 101–200 band last year among 2,152 universities from 125 countries.
Nationally, the university also rose in the ranks, now holding fifth place among 83 Thai universities, up from a joint 5th position out of 77 institutions last year. Professor Dr Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, said that global university rankings are a strategic priority, serving as a benchmark to elevate the university's standards and global profile.
“Global rankings in various fields are one of the university’s key goals, serving as a tool to measure our institutional standards. When discussing which universities are outstanding or well-known, rankings can provide a clearer picture. In the case of the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, the focus is on the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The rankings assess whether universities have implemented these goals in developing their institutions and supporting their communities. Those that make tangible progress in specific SDGs are scored accordingly,” said Professor Sombat.
“It is very pleasing to see how rapidly we have progressed. Just five years ago, when we first participated in the THE Impact Rankings, we were ranked 601–800. Since then, we have continued our efforts, and last year we reached the 101–200 band. This year, we’ve made it into the global Top 100, ranking 93rd worldwide. Even more impressive is that we achieved the No. 1 global ranking for SDG 5: Gender Equality. That’s a remarkable accomplishment and a standout success for all of us.”
This year, Walailak University topped the global chart for SDG 5: Gender Equality, highlighting its commitment to eliminating violence and discrimination against women, ensuring access to reproductive health services, and promoting women’s leadership and participation in public life. Through research, policy implementation, and community engagement, the university plays a vital role in advancing gender equality and empowering women at all levels.
Assistant Professor Dr Amonsak Sawusdee, Director of the Centre for Academic Services — a key driver of the university’s SDG initiatives — shared his thoughts on the achievement: “We’re both surprised and honoured, considering this is the first year we submitted data for SDG 5: Gender Equality. To be ranked No. 1 in the world is truly rewarding for our hard work.”
“This recognition reflects the university’s commitment to driving meaningful change — whether through gender-focused research, especially in the social sciences, advancing reproductive rights, or implementing inclusive policies and support systems for women in education.”
Dr Amonsak also emphasised that Walailak University promotes equality and respect for all members of its community, including students, faculty, staff, and the LGBTQ+ community. “Women hold strong representation in our senior academic leadership — from vice presidents to other high-level roles. We also monitor women’s graduation rates across all disciplines, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men, and provide mentorship, parental leave, childcare services, and non-discrimination policies to support their academic and professional growth.”
To further promote gender inclusivity, Walailak University organises projects such as the annual Miss Lady Boy Competition, providing a platform for the LGBTQ+ community to showcase their talents. The university also upholds a gender-inclusive dress code policy, allowing students to dress in accordance with their gender identity.
The 2025 Impact Rankings evaluate universities across four core areas: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. Walailak University participated in nine of the 17 SDGs. In addition to its No. 1 ranking for Gender Equality, the university earned Top 50 global positions in five more goals:
SDG 2: Zero Hunger – 32nd worldwide, 2nd in Thailand SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – 33rd worldwide, 3rd in Thailand SDG 14: Life Below Water – 38th worldwide, 3rd in Thailand SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – 39th worldwide, 4th in Thailand SDG 4: Quality Education – 50th worldwide, 3rd in Thailand
It also placed in the Top 100 globally for two more goals:
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – 54th worldwide, 2nd in Thailand SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – 76th worldwide, 4th in Thailand
For SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, Walailak University was placed in the 301–400 global band, joint 14th in Thailand.