In the Times Higher Education (THE) “Impact Rankings 2025” released on June 18, Tamkang University continued its upward trajectory. Following last year’s entry into the global top 100 for SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), the university has now also ranked in the top 100 for SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), placing 22nd and 54th globally, and 2nd and 3rd nationally, respectively.

The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings are the only global performance rankings that evaluate universities based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Institutions are assessed across four dimensions—research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. Tamkang University selected 7 SDGs based on its available resources for evaluation. This year, 2,526 universities from 130 countries participated, 563 more than the previous cycle, yet Tamkang advanced significantly in the global standings. In addition to major jumps in SDG 6 and SDG 7, the university also saw substantial progress in SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Overall ranking and performance in SDG 4, SDG 11, and SDG 12 remained steady (see detailed table).

Tamkang first entered the top 100 for SDG 7 last year, ranking 53rd. This year, the university surged to 22nd, climbing 31 places. The leap reflects the accelerated progress in net-zero carbon actions during the data collection period (2023). Dean of General Affairs, Prof. Ruey-Shiang Shaw, gave a presentation on “Energy Conservation and Sustainable Development” at the National University Presidents’ Conference in February, affirming the significance of THE’s SDG-based global rankings. “This new type of global university ranking promotes institutional diversity and gives recognition to universities beyond traditional research-focused ones,” he said. Under his leadership, Tamkang’s Energy Management System (EMS) utilizes digital twin technology to predict electricity demand. From 2015 to 2024, the university achieved a cumulative 14.26% improvement in energy use intensity (EUI), saving over NT$30 million in electricity costs annually. In terms of clean energy, the university has collaborated with SINBON Electronics to develop green energy, installing solar panels on the rooftops of 13 campus buildings. Additionally, the launch of the “TKU 12 Effective Carbon-Reduction Actions” by the Center for Sustainable Development—mobilizing faculty, staff, and students—has been key to the university’s year-on-year advancement in SDG 7.

As for SDG 6, Tamkang made a dramatic leap from the 201–300 range in the previous year to 54th globally, making it one of the most notable achievements this year. Prof. Yen-Ling Lin, Chief Audit Executive and leader of the Department of Economics’ USR (University Social Responsibility) team “Eco & Edu,” which focuses on water resources, remarked: “Tamkang’s efforts on water-related issues have been widely recognized. The submitted materials for this ranking highlighted research centers focused on hydrology and water environments, along with the outstanding performance of our USR team—both key to the university’s advancement.”

Tamkang continues to conduct professional research on water resources, providing data-driven decision support and generating real-world benefits for public welfare. Notable initiatives include: faculty from the Department of Chemistry holding water quality monitoring workshops for the Gongsitian River Patrol Team, training them in testing techniques, data interpretation, and collection methods; and collaborative research between the Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering and National Taiwan University. By combining Central Weather Bureau typhoon path big data and AI technology, the team developed rainfall prediction models for catchment areas. These predictions have been used by Shimen Reservoir during typhoon seasons to regulate water flow, helping to ensure a reliable water supply for households, agriculture, and industry in northern Taiwan—an impactful application of academic expertise.

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