Leyte Normal University (LNU) has achieved a historic milestone on the international stage after advancing to the 401–600 global bracket in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026, placing among 1,603 participating institutions worldwide.

This achievement marks a significant improvement from the university’s standing in the 2025 edition, where LNU was ranked within the 601–800 bracket.

The THE Impact Rankings serve as a global performance framework that evaluates universities based on their contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the assessment of research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching, the rankings measure how institutions contribute to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Demonstrating its comprehensive commitment to sustainable development, LNU submitted evidence for all 17 SDGs in this year’s evaluation.

LNU’s most notable achievement came under SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, where the university secured an impressive global rank of 64, placing it among the world’s top-performing institutions in this category.

The ceremonies were further graced by distinguished guest speakers: Dir. Karina Rosa S. Tiopes, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region VIII, for the College of Management and Entrepreneurship (CME); and Hon. Jude A. Acidre, Chairperson of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, for the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the Graduate School (GS). Their inspiring messages offered guidance and encouragement to the graduates as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Congratulations to the Leyte Normal University Class of 2026!

The THE Impact Rankings serve as a global performance framework that evaluates universities based on their contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the assessment of research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching, the rankings measure how institutions contribute to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Demonstrating its comprehensive commitment to sustainable development, LNU submitted evidence for all 17 SDGs in this year’s evaluation.

LNU’s most notable achievement came under SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, where the university secured an impressive global rank of 64, placing it among the world’s top-performing institutions in this category.

The university also recorded strong performances in several other SDGs, ranking within the 101–200 bracket for SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and the 301–400 bracket for the following areas:

* SDG 2: Zero Hunger

* SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

* SDG 13: Climate Action

* SDG 14: Life Below Water

LNU likewise earned placements within the 401–600 bracket for:

* SDG 1: No Poverty

* SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

* SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

* SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

* SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

* SDG 15: Life on Land

Meanwhile, the university placed within the 601–800 bracket for:

* SDG 4: Quality Education

* SDG 5: Gender Equality

* SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

* SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Under SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, LNU was placed in the 1001–1500 global bracket, reflecting the university’s ongoing efforts to strengthen local, national, and international collaborations to support sustainable development.

This international milestone cements LNU’s position as a regional leader dedicated to fostering transformative global change and academic distinction.

Published by: Rico Combinido | IT Support Office