South London university ranked third in the world for reducing inequality
London South Bank University (LSBU) has been ranked third in the world for reducing inequality in the Times Higher Impact Rankings 2024.
The ranking, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, measures universities’ research on social inequalities, their policies on discrimination and their commitment to recruiting staff and students from under-represented groups.
Higher education institutions from 125 countries and regions took part in this year’s ranking, which assesses universities’ commitment to sustainability across four broad areas: research, stewardship, outreach and teaching.
With more than 2,000 institutions participating, LSBU’s performance was based on key achievements including supporting students with disabilities, raising awareness of STEM careers for female students and programmes supporting the community.
Since 2023, LSBU has seen a 19 per cent rise in the number of students with disabilities. The university has also worked with primary and secondary schools in the area to encourage girls to study STEM subjects at university.
Times Higher Impact Rankings 2024 also considered a number of LSBU’s UK-first research projects. These include blood pressure testing at barbershops as well as analysis of the gaps in outcomes among free school meal students in higher education.
The university was also awarded for its work within the community which has seen the launch of the LSBU Energy Advice Clinic which offers residents free support on how to save money on energy bills and Legal Advice Clinic which provides free advice on legal issues.
Professor David Phoenix, LSBU vice chancellor and chief executive of LSBU Group, said: “This was only possible thanks to the outstanding work of our staff and students and I am really proud of what has been achieved.”
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings follow the 14 national awards won by LSBU students and staff in the past year, which include being named Best University for Apprenticeships.
Pictured top: Students at London South Bank University (Picture: LSBU)