Pune: Maharashtra Leads the Nation in NAAC Assessment of Higher Education Institutions
Pune, 13th August 2023: For the first time, Maharashtra has emerged as a trailblazer in the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) evaluation process across the country. Recent data released by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council highlights that a total of 1,957 higher education institutions, encompassing 35 universities and 1,922 colleges, in the state have successfully completed the rigorous NAAC assessment.
In the pursuit of fostering superior standards of higher education, universities, colleges, and higher education institutions are mandated to undertake NAAC evaluation and re-evaluation. The NAAC assessment categorization provides a clear indication of an institution’s ranking. Despite the intricacies and time-intensive nature of the NAAC assessment process, several institutions in the state had initially overlooked its significance. However, adhering to the guidelines of the National Education Policy 2020, essential modifications are being introduced into the evaluation framework for higher education institutions. Until the new methodology takes effect, the NAAC assessment remains obligatory. The Department of Higher Education has diligently endeavored to ensure compliance among colleges and universities within the state for conducting NAAC assessments.
May 2023 data published on the NAAC website underscores Maharashtra’s prominence, boasting the highest number of 1,957 higher education institutions successfully evaluated by NAAC. This figure surpasses Karnataka, with 1,028 higher education institutes, that ranks second under Maharashtra in NAAC assessment. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu has concluded the NAAC evaluation process for 904 higher education institutions. Although Maharashtra is home to a substantial number of colleges, the state had initially lagged behind in NAAC assessment due to the reluctance of colleges to participate. However, this scenario has undergone a transformation, propelling Maharashtra to the forefront in the national NAAC assessment landscape.
Undoubtedly, quality education is the inherent right of every student. Hence, it becomes imperative for colleges and universities to undertake NAAC evaluation and re-evaluation. This commitment has been consistently underscored by the Directorate of Higher Education, leading to proactive measures. Directives were issued to universities, necessitating the cessation of first-year admissions for colleges failing to undergo NAAC assessment and re-evaluation, and the suspension of affiliations for non-compliant colleges, all in accordance with relevant provisions.
There has been a notable surge in the number of colleges engaging in NAAC evaluation and re-evaluation, ultimately positioning Maharashtra as the pioneering state in NAAC assessment. This achievement has garnered national attention, with other states now looking to Maharashtra for inspiration, said Dr. Shailendra Deolankar, Director of Higher Education, Maharashtra.
