Istanbul, June 19, 2025 – BINUS University continues to demonstrate its firm commitment to global sustainability and international collaboration through its participation in the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Sustainable Development Congress 2025 (GSDC 2025), held from June 16 to 19, 2025, in Istanbul, Türkiye. Represented by Vice Rector Collaboration and Global Engagement, Dr. Rini Setiowati, S.E., M.B.A., and her team, BINUS University joined more than 5,000 delegates from higher education institutions, industries, governments, policy bodies, and NGOs worldwide. Among the high-level speakers were government and NGO leaders, including the Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Turkey, who underscored national-level strategies for sustainable innovation, and the Chief Executive Officer of the NGO Cybersecure Group, who highlighted the role of cybersecurity and digital equity in achieving the SDGs. 

This year’s congress carried the theme “Convening the Global Sustainability and Higher Education Community,” highlighting key pillars of sustainable development, including climate action, inclusive education, digital transformation, food and water security, and global health. The event served not only as an international forum for dialogue but also as a strategic platform to initiate aligned with BINUS University’s long-term goals. 

Through active engagement in discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, BINUS University took steps to explore academic collaboration, research partnerships, and global initiatives, particularly with top universities from around the world. This aligns closely with the university’s long-term ambition to strengthen its academic visibility and impact on the global stage. 

A significant highlight for BINUS University during the event was the official announcement of its improved position in the THE Impact Rankings 2025, where BINUS University moved up to the 301–400 band, representing a notable leap from its previous year’s position in the 401–600 band. This achievement reflects the university’s ongoing dedication to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in fostering inclusive education, responsible innovation, and meaningful partnerships.

Phil Baty (Chief Global Affairs Officer, THE) and Mei Mei Lim (President, APAC, THE) announcing the live results of THE Impact Rankings 2025 at THE GSDC in Istanbul.

Another important announcement from THE during the congress was the upcoming transformation of the THE Impact Rankings into the “THE Sustainability Impact Ratings” starting in 2026. This shift represents a new framework that goes beyond rankings, moving toward a certified rating system that recognizes institutional progress in sustainability through more dynamic, evolving, and mission-driven assessments. The new format will be part of a Sustainability Impact Network, enabling deeper collaboration, ongoing benchmarking, and broader engagement for institutions committed to real-world change. BINUS University welcomes this transformation and is fully committed to preparing and aligning its sustainability strategies, data frameworks, and initiatives to support this shift. With its ongoing efforts to advance the SDGs, BINUS University is confident in its readiness to participate in this next phase of global sustainability assessment.

Official reveal of the THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 by Phil Baty during THE Global Sustainable Development Congress 2025 in Istanbul.

As a follow-up to this participation, BINUS University is initiating collaborative discussions with several globally ranked institutions to develop academic programs, research partnerships, and student engagement initiatives focused on sustainability, entrepreneurship, student exchange, and enhancing global rankings. These efforts aim to support the development of BINUS University’s upcoming SDG Center, a dedicated platform designed to coordinate, scale, and communicate sustainability-related initiatives across faculties, research units, and international partners. This step not only aligns with BINUS University’s 2035 Strategic Plan but also demonstrates a tangible pathway for contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making a real impact for both internal stakeholders and the broader global community.

The participation of BINUS University at THE GSDC 2025 is more than just attendance; it reflects our values, strategic direction, and determination to be a leading force in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for higher education.  

 

BINUS University explores potential collaborations with global institutions during the networking session at THE GSDC 2025 in Istanbul.

 

This article reflects BINUS University’s participation in the THE Global Sustainable Development Congress 2025.
More details about the event can be found at:
https://www.timeshighered-events.com/gsd-congress-2025