Photo via Walailak University

 

Walailak University in Bangkok has achieved global recognition by being ranked as the number one university worldwide for promoting gender equality. This accolade was part of the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, which evaluate universities based on their contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

Announcing the rankings on June 30, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, Anukool Pruksanusak, congratulated Thai universities for their outstanding performances. The assessment included 2,526 institutions from 130 countries.

 

Five Thai universities secured places in the global top 100, with Walailak University ranked first for SDG 5: Gender Equality. This highlights their commitment to empowering women and girls.

 

Other Thai universities also excelled:

 

• Chulalongkorn University and Chiang Mai University: 44th place
• Mahidol University and Thammasat University: 64th place
• Walailak University: 93rd place overall

 

In addition to leading in gender equality, Mahidol University was ranked third globally for SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

 

Thai institutions received high global rankings in various SDG categories, such as:

 

• SDG 1 (No Poverty): Prince of Songkla University – 32nd
• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) – 18th
• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Mahidol University – 3rd
• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Chiang Mai University – 17th
• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi – 44th
• SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Prince of Songkla University – 83rd

 

Anukool highlighted that these achievements reflect the dedication of Thailand’s higher education institutions, which play a pivotal role in advancing the UN’s goals and enhancing global competitiveness. The government is committed to continuing its support for these institutions in driving sustainable national development.

 

However, despite progress in gender equality, recent events have highlighted ongoing challenges. Two transgender students reported discrimination during a teacher licensing examination, where they were removed for dressing according to their gender identity. This incident raises questions about the Teachers’ Council of Thailand's commitment to gender equality, emphasising the need for consistent application of these principles across all educational spheres.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-30

 

 

So that's one uni not to send the kids to then, great info, thanks.

I always thought that universities were places to study ones chosen field,  Is coming 93rd really something to shout about?

Who cares.

 

What  is their ranking world wide in regards to overall quality of education ?