TAU’s THE Impact Rankings Journey

With a ranking in the 601–800 global bracket since 2021 and most recently in the 801–1,000 tier in 2024 among 1,963 institutions globally, Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) has maintained its strong presence in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. This achievement underscores TAU’s importance as a sustainable university in the Philippines and throughout Southeast Asia and demonstrates the university’s growing commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notably, TAU is ranked among the best institutions in Central Luzon and continues to be a pioneer in sustainability-related projects, especially in the SDGs focusing on poverty alleviation, food security, gender empowerment, high-quality education, and partnership development.

TAU has consistently scored highly in SDGs 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 5: Gender Equality, and SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals throughout the rankings, demonstrating its commitment to inclusiveness and meaningful community participation. The university has achieved one of the highest rankings among Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) thanks to its initiatives, which include gender equality policies, support for sustainable development education, and multisectoral cooperation. Furthermore, TAU’s focus on agricultural innovation, food safety and access, and anti-poverty programs greatly enhances the university’s accomplishments in SDGs 1: No Poverty and 2: Zero Hunger, demonstrating its dedication to tackling local and global issues.

Strong institutional support, including its SDG Technical Working Group and Secretariat and partnership with the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) International Affairs Service (IAS) office, enables TAU to make these valuable contributions. In order to gauge its success, the university consistently uploads statistics on all 17 SDGs, demonstrating transparency to promote sustainable development and social change. TAU also advances environmental conservation and resilience by coordinating its research and outreach activities with international sustainability standards through programs like the SMART Agriculture Center, the eBamboo Facility and Bamboo Forest Park, the Rootcrops Research and Training Center, and the Calao Forest Reserve.

TAU actively incorporates sustainability into its operations under the direction of Dr. Silverio Ramon DC. Salunson. To improve resource efficiency, the university has modified its austerity program, adopted solar energy, and maintained a Materials Recovery Facility. Also equal access to education and services is guaranteed by its Affirmative Action Plan, Equal Opportunity Policy (EOP), and Student Inclusion Unit, so that TAU can address social inequalities and advance community well-being by implementing SDG-specific policies. 

TAU’s accomplishments in the THE Impact Rankings serve as a reminder of the university’s long march towards the attainment of SDGs and establish it as a driving force for progress both in the Philippines and in the international arena.

 

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