BEIRUT - The Lebanese American University (LAU) has ranked third globally in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1, which focuses on ending poverty in all its forms everywhere, according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026.
The university placed 55th worldwide overall in the global rankings, achieving strong results across several SDGs, particularly SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.
In a statement, LAU said the 2026 THE Impact Rankings highlighted the university’s continued progress in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals through its academic, social and community initiatives. The university has strengthened its position over the past four years as a leading institution in social responsibility and sustainable development.
LAU advanced from fifth place globally in SDG 1 in the previous year to third place in 2026, a result the university attributed to its extensive scholarship programmes and financial aid initiatives aimed at supporting students and improving access to higher education.
The university also achieved a strong position under SDG 8, ranking 19th globally for its efforts to promote decent work and economic growth. THE recognised LAU’s initiatives, programmes and curricula designed to improve graduates’ employability and expand economic opportunities for students.
Under SDG 17, which measures partnerships supporting sustainable development, LAU ranked 24th worldwide, reflecting the impact of its broad network of local, national and international collaborations.
At the overall global level, LAU ranked first among Lebanese universities and continued its upward trajectory in the THE Impact Rankings.
The university moved from the 601–800 range in 2023, to the 401–600 range in 2024, before reaching the 101–200 range in 2025, and ultimately securing the 55th position globally in 2026.
The THE Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, evaluating their social impact, sustainability practices, community engagement and commitment to addressing global challenges.
LAU President Dr. Chawki Abdallah said the university’s performance, particularly in areas related to poverty reduction, employment, health, education, equality and partnerships, demonstrated its role beyond being an academic institution.
“These results reflect the university’s effectiveness within society, Lebanon and the wider region in which it operates,” Abdallah said, adding that LAU would continue building on these strengths to expand its contribution and impact.
Dr. Nadim Farjallah, head of sustainability at LAU, said the rankings reflected some of the university’s most significant contributions to sustainable development.
“These goals represent areas where the university has demonstrated institutional capabilities, implemented effective programmes and policies, and achieved measurable impact,” he said.
This continued progress confirms the Lebanese American University’s commitment to integrating the principles of sustainability and social responsibility across all aspects of its academic and community work.
