Chester’s impact in advancing gender equality recognised in global university rankings

The findings for the University of Chester’s work on gender equality are part of the Times Higher Education’s (THE’s) 2026 Impact Ratings, which assess the progress of universities towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

More than 1,600 universities in total, from 116 countries or territories, were scored across the goals - described as “the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all”.

Identifying and celebrating universities that “demonstrate comprehensive excellence in contributing to global sustainable development”, the rankings showcase their commitment to addressing pressing world challenges.

The University scored in the top 20% globally for its contribution towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality. These results highlight universities that excel in eliminating forms of discrimination and violence against women, enhancing women’s access to reproductive rights and ensuring their effective participation in leadership and public life. The organisers add: “Through dedicated research, comprehensive policies and inclusive practices, these institutions play pivotal roles in empowering women and advancing gender equality across global communities.”

The University was also ranked in the top third for:

• SDG 1: No Poverty
• SDG 4: Quality Education
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

The University was placed in the top 40% for:

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

In addition, Chester was in the top half of universities for:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Overall, therefore, the University was in at least the top half for all eight SDGs it submitted evidence for, and saw an increase on its overall 2025 ranking, which was the first year it took part.

The submission required the University to provide evidence against specific criteria relating to the SDGs. The University’s submission included: colleagues' work with local communities in challenging the stigma around poverty; equality policies for students and staff; Chester Business School's free micro MBA (Master of Business Administration) provision, and Law students' award-winning efforts providing pro-bono (free) advice to those experiencing domestic abuse in the Chester area.

Professor Eunice Simmons, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Chester said: “We are pleased that the University’s contribution towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals has been recognised again, particularly our achievement in Gender Equality. This performance reflects our ongoing commitment at Chester to the promotion of diversity and equality and the elimination of discrimination in all its forms.”

She added: “We are constantly challenging ourselves to consider the SDGs across all of our activities, and the THE's Sustainability Impact Ratings are an opportunity to acknowledge the breadth of activities colleagues undertake in pursuit of this commitment. Our submission included the range of forwarding-thinking policies and support we offer our staff and students, as well as the work colleagues undertake within our local, national and global communities.”

Professor Simmons shared more on how the activities and findings aligned with wider commitments: “Locally, Cheshire and Warrington has published its aspiration of being ‘the healthiest, most sustainable, inclusive, and fastest-growing place in the UK by 2045’, with associated goals and a focus on collaborative working. As a key local partner, we recognise the contribution that we make - and could make in future - to this ambitious vision. Taking a broader view, our university welcomes students from more than 130 countries, making us a truly global institution. This rich and diverse community inspires us to think deeply about global challenges and our role and actions in responding to them.”

For further information on the United Nations’ SDGs, please visit: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/

To find out more about the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings, go to: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/impactrankings

Image: Left to right: Professor Emma Rees; Kathryn Leighton, HR Manager (Organisational Development and Equality); Councillor Sherin Akhtar; Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eunice Simmons, and Alumna, Pat Ransome at the University of Chester annual International Women’s Day celebration, held earlier this year, centred on the theme ‘Give to Gain’.