CUT listed among world’s most sustainable universities

The Cyprus University of Technology (CUT-TEPAK) has been awarded another important international recognition, ranking in 740th place out of 1,743 universities included on the new ‘QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025’ list.

As noted in a press release from the university, CUT recorded a remarkable increase compared to last year's ranking of 1201st place and improved in most evaluation criteria. Furthermore, it was listed among the top 31% of universities in the region, occupying 205th place among 661 universities.

The ranking assesses the social and environmental impact of universities, taking into account their role as educational and research institutions, but also as large employers facing the challenges of sustainable operation of a large and complex organization. The assessment is based on three main axes- Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and Governance.

The significant improvement in the ranking position highlights CUT’s commitment to the development of actions that promote sustainability. It reflects the University's systematic effort to design and implement innovative initiatives for sustainable development and the improvement of the quality of university life and society more widely.

These actions promote and support the achievement of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals through teaching, research and knowledge transfer, while at the same time being integrated into the University's strategies, policies and procedures.

Indicatively, the following actions are mentioned:

Environmental Impact

• The design and development of energy-efficient buildings and renewable energy and energy saving systems.
• Strengthening the use of renewable energy sources and implementing practices to reduce carbon emissions.
• Implementation of Green Public Procurement, with the inclusion of green specifications in University contracts, where possible.
• Support student initiatives that promote sustainability.
• Offering curricula and courses on climate change, renewable energy sources and environmental sciences, while integrating the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• The design and development of an interdisciplinary, English-language undergraduate B.Sc. in Sustainable Development program, in collaboration with partners of the European University of Technology (EUt+) alliance (under development).

Social Impact

• Adopting policies and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and social inclusion, creating an inclusive university community, with an emphasis on inclusion, mutual respect and the integration of diversity, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
• Supporting vulnerable social groups through scholarships, empowerment programs and targeted policies.
• Providing mental health and well-being services and programs for students and the wider community.
• Collaborations with local communities to address social challenges and implement outreach programs in the wider community (including student volunteering activities), promoting the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
• Collaborations with local and national health agencies, and active participation in national committees and scientific advisory groups, with the aim of improving health and well-being outcomes, and promoting sustainable public health solutions.

Governance

• Ensuring transparency in decisions regarding the University's strategic planning.
• Adoption of open and participatory decision-making processes.
• Active representation of students in administrative bodies and their involvement in decision-making to meet their needs.
• Support for academic freedom, integrity and compliance with applicable legislation.
• Modernization and formulation of policies, procedures and strategies that ensure the continuous improvement and efficient operation of the institution, with the aim of enhancing quality and promoting academic excellence.
• Promotion of e-government and implementation of electronic signature in all internal processes and activities.
• Simplification and computerization of key internal processes, promoting automation and efficient task execution.

With the above actions, CUT continues to lead the way in promoting sustainable development, social responsibility and ethical governance. The highest priority for the University is to maintain its high performance, while with continuous effort, hard work and commitment to strategic goals, we will strengthen the areas that need improvement, the press release concluded.