Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) has secured the first position among all public universities in Bangladesh in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026.
Globally, the university jumped into the 401–600 band a significant leap from its 801–1000 position last year marking a major milestone for the country's higher education and research sectors.
According to a press release issued by GAU Public Relations Officer Md. Rony Islam, the UK-based publication released the rankings on its official website on Wednesday. This year’s index evaluated 1,646 universities across 116 countries and regions based on their research, education and social impact toward the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Nine public universities from Bangladesh were featured on the list.
GAU achieved standout global positions in several specific SDG categories are SDG-2 (Zero Hunger): 66th worldwide (Score: 78.3), SDG-1 (No Poverty): 82nd worldwide (Score: 74.8) and SDG-4 (Quality Education): 101–200 band globally (Score: 68.5–74.5).
University officials attribute this rapid one-year rise to strategic leadership with planned academic progress and a strong commitment to sustainable development.
GAU’s recent success extends beyond the THE rankings. It also secured the top spot among Bangladeshi agricultural universities in the QS World University Sustainability Rankings 2026. Additionally, GAU is the only government university in Bangladesh to place in the global top 100 of the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026 ranking 23rd in the "Financial Impact Driven Technology Transfer" category.
In response to the achievement, GAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. GKM Mostafizur Rahman praised the campus community.
"This success is not just a ranking; it is a recognition of the collective efforts of our teachers, researchers, students, staff and alumni," Dr. Rahman said. "Today's achievement increases our responsibility. We are determined to contribute to national development and global sustainability goals through world-class education, research and value-driven leadership."
