Patna University (PU) is set to embark on a significant transformation in its quality assessment process. The university is preparing to seek its re-accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) under a completely new and modern framework. This move marks a decisive shift away from the older Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) system.
A Strategic Shift in Accreditation Framework
The decision was a key agenda point during a crucial meeting held on Tuesday. The gathering, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Namita Singh, included heads of all post-graduate departments and principals of affiliated colleges. The focus was to chart a unified path forward for the upcoming accreditation cycle.
At the meeting, Birendra Prasad, the director of PU's Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), detailed the nuances of NAAC's new maturity-based graded binary accreditation system. This innovative framework is designed for institutions that already meet essential quality standards. It represents a progression model, where institutions are assessed on a scale from Level 1 (Foundational) to the pinnacle of Level 5 (Global Excellence).
How the New Binary System Will Work
A major technological upgrade accompanies this new system. Peer team assessments will largely be conducted virtually, minimizing physical visits and leveraging digital tools for evaluation. This approach aims to streamline the process and reduce logistical burdens.
Professor Prasad emphasized that the core objective of this new binary grading mechanism is to foster wider participation among higher education institutions. It ensures that all universities and colleges first achieve a fundamental quality benchmark before striving for higher levels of excellence.
Following the deliberations, it was unanimously decided that all institutions under Patna University will commence comprehensive preparations. The goal is not just to meet NAAC's requirements but to secure a commendable grade that truly reflects the university's performance and potential.
Preparations and Past Performance
To aid in the procedural and technical aspects, officials from PU and NAAC coordinators from various colleges received specialized training. Teams from the Samarth initiative of Delhi University and Patna University provided crucial insights into the file management components of e-governance, which will be vital for the digital assessment process.
Patna University's previous accreditation resulted in a B+ grade in 2019. The university administration has confirmed that it will promptly apply for re-accreditation in the second cycle as soon as NAAC opens its submission portal for applications. This proactive step underscores PU's commitment to institutional improvement and national quality standards.
