Why NAAC Accreditation System Needs a rethink
V. Ramgopal Rao | 15 February 2025 | The Times of India
The recent arrests of key figures within the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) for alleged bribery and misconduct have sent shockwaves through the higher education sector. This crisis is deeply concerning, not just for the institutions involved, but for the credibility of the accreditation process, which is meant to be rigorous and impartial.
The evaluation of an institution’s quality based on academic standards, faculty strength, research output, and infrastructure is tied to funding and regulatory approvals. Institutions with high ratings qualify for greater autonomy and access to govt grants. NAAC also plays a crucial role in shaping how universities and colleges are perceived both nationally and internationally. However, for years, there have been murmurs within academic circles about inconsistencies in its ratings…