By Kgaugelo Jessica Selane
Maintaining its presence in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings released on 18 June 2025, proves the Tshwane University of Technology’s commitment to social impact and sustainable development. With improved results in key areas, particularly in the fight against poverty, the University’s performance reflects a growing emphasis on community, inclusivity and student empowerment.
The THE Impact Rankings assess over 2,500 universities from 130 countries, measuring their contributions toward the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For the 2025 edition, TUT submitted evidence in four categories: No Poverty (SDG 1), Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) as well as Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
One of the University’s most notable achievements this year is the significant rise in its SDG 1 ranking, moving from the 301 – 400 brackets in 2024 to the 101 - 200 range in 2025. This improvement places TUT among the top performing institutions worldwide for poverty related initiatives which is a proud moment for a University committed to driving change in South Africa’s most underserved communities.
“We are deeply encouraged by the leap in our poverty alleviation ranking. This is not just a number - it reflects the real impact of our work with staff, students, communities and partners who are dedicated to social justice,” said Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement.
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement
The University also submitted data for SDG 8, being Decent Work and Economic Growth, for the first time. Landing within the 801–1000 band, this entry highlights TUT’s growing efforts in boosting graduate employability, advancing fair labour practices and also contributing to the national economy.
The 2025 results were not without challenges though. TUT’s performance in SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) saw a sharp decline from the 401–600 bracket in 2024 to 1001–1500 in 2025. This drop signals a need for renewed focus on international collaboration and cross sector partnerships, especially as universities globally double down on SDG-aligned engagement.
Despite this, TUT’s overall position remained stable within the 1001–1500 range. Among South African institutions, it ranks 11th out of 13 universities participating in the rankings, standing shoulder to shoulder with the Durban University of Technology in the universities of technology category. The University’s performance is closely tied to its Institutional Strategic Plan (ISP 2020–2025), which prioritises social impact, inclusive growth and global competitiveness.
Papu-Zamxaka said that moving forward, TUT’s internal efforts to improve SDG reporting, strengthen partnerships and expand community education outreach will play a critical role in boosting the University’s future rankings and overall impact. She also added that while the road ahead includes challenges, the 2025 results serve as both a benchmark and a motivator. With a sharpened focus on sustainable development and evidence based reporting, TUT is well positioned to continue shaping a future defined by opportunity, innovation and equitable progress.
