The global ranking entity "Times" has released its classification for the impact of universities on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for 2024. The results for Saudi universities align with the efforts of the Kingdom and contribute to achieving the objectives of Vision 2030. Notably, 32 Saudi universities have been classified as globally influential in realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and King Faisal University were ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide in the overall classification for these goals, achieving advanced positions in most of the 17 goals.
Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, and Prince Mohammed bin Fahd University ranked between 101-200, while King Abdulaziz University was positioned between 201-300. This ranking is significant for evaluating universities based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and is based on carefully calibrated indicators to provide a comprehensive and balanced comparison across four wide areas: research, supervision, outreach, and education, in line with the nature of each of the 17 goals.
This ranking began in 2019 with three Saudi universities included, growing to six universities in 2020, twelve in 2021, 22 in 2022, 25 in 2023, and reaching 32 in 2024. Simultaneously, scientific research and innovation are fundamental pillars in the Vision 2030 strategy, essential for achieving sustainable development goals and transforming various economic, social, educational, and health sectors. The role of universities and research institutions in developing research projects across various fields is being enhanced, with over 200 research centers in different regions of Saudi Arabia affiliated with universities and research-focused sectors.
Additionally, the Kingdom has expanded the establishment of many of these centers to foster innovation and provide an appropriate environment for scientists and researchers to work on developing research projects. These projects focus on areas such as renewable energy, technology, agriculture, environment, health, and education, among others. Numerous programs, competitions, and initiatives have been launched to enhance the culture of scientific research and innovation within Saudi society across all demographics, supporting and encouraging youth to develop their scientific and technical skills and motivating them to innovate; transforming their ideas and discoveries into applicable products and services.
Saudi universities invest in scientific research and innovation through the production of new research projects and distinguished scientific studies, developing professional expertise, advancing research methodologies, and providing consultations and studies while focusing on contributing to the growth of knowledge, excellence, and leadership in scientific research in collaboration with prestigious universities and educational institutions worldwide, aiming to achieve Vision 2030 objectives in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
