In the prestigious international Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, the University achieved the highest placement among Czech institutions in the category Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), securing 71st position globally. VSB-TUO also improved its overall performance, placing in the 401–600 band. Out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) assessed, the University participated in eight, showing progress in several areas compared to the previous year. Among the 2,318 ranked institutions worldwide, 13 Czech universities were included - three more than last year.
“The THE Impact Rankings reflect how universities contribute to addressing global social, environmental, and economic challenges. VSB-TUO’s excellent results show that our commitment is more than just words - we deliver real impact. We focus on modern energy systems, environmental research, and sustainable development through several research projects, including strategic ones. We are developing innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future,” said Vice-Rector for Science and Research, Jana Kukutschová.
The Affordable and Clean Energy category assesses research activities in the energy-related fields, energy-saving initiatives, and the university’s role in promoting clean energy development both on campus and in broader society. The ranking considers not only academic publications and their citations but also institutional measures that support clean and affordable energy, energy consumption, as well as public education and outreach efforts.
Strong results across other SDGs
VSB-TUO was newly ranked in the Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6) category, which focuses on water management, research, and community engagement. The University placed in the 101–200 range, sharing first place in the Czech Republic with the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague and Masaryk University. Significant progress was also made in the Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) category, where VSB-TUO improved from last year’s 201–300 placement to 101–200. This category assesses both research and practical initiatives aimed at supporting sustainable urban and community development. VSB-TUO also advanced in the Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) category, rising from 601–800 last year to 301–400. Participation in this SDG, along with three others, is required for inclusion in the overall ranking. The University maintained its placement in Quality Education (SDG 4) at 401–600 and in Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9) at 601–800.
Beyond innovation: building a sustainable campus
What makes the THE Impact Rankings unique is their emphasis not only on academic performance but also on a university’s real-world societal impact, operational sustainability, and engagement at local, national, and global levels. Participation in the rankings reflects a commitment to transparency, openness, and accountability to society.
“Our aim is to deliver innovative solutions for a sustainable society through research, while also building a sustainable university from within. We have already implemented concrete measures, including rainwater retention systems for efficient water management. Across our campus, we are constructing buildings that are not only modern but also environmentally friendly - featuring solar panels, waste heat recovery systems, and geothermal energy. We strive to be a role model regionally, nationally, and internationally,” added Kukutschová.
Among Czech universities, Palacký University Olomouc achieved the highest overall placement, ranking in the 201–300 band.
The complete results are available here.