Lucknow: In a major step to enhance the transparency, accountability, and quality of higher education in Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi Adityanath-led government is preparing to make timely NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) evaluations mandatory for all eligible colleges and universities across the state.
With the target of ensuring 25% of the state’s colleges obtain NAAC accreditation by 2025–26, the initiative is being actively driven by the Higher Education Department in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh State-Level Quality Assurance Cell (UP-SLQAC).
Binary System Introduced to Simplify Accreditation
To streamline the process, the state has introduced a binary system of evaluation, making it simpler, transparent, and outcome-oriented. This approach helps institutions secure timely NAAC approval and grading with fewer procedural delays. A new policy is also in the works that will make the process not only mandatory but also time-bound and accountability-based for all eligible higher education institutions.
1000 Colleges Selected, 6 Universities Already Achieve A++
As part of the state’s larger education reform push, 1,000 colleges have already been selected for NAAC accreditation under this initiative. So far, six universities in the state have secured the top-tier A++ grade, setting benchmarks for others to follow. The current target aims to replicate these standards across a wider pool of colleges.
A Vision for Global Recognition in Higher Education
According to Uttar Pradesh Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay, this move is a “strategic step under CM Yogi Adityanath’s leadership to elevate UP’s academic institutions to global standards.” Accredited institutions are expected to provide students with better infrastructure, experienced faculty, and wider recognition at both national and international levels.
The campaign forms part of a broader government mission to bring quality, accountability, and technological integration into the state’s higher education framework, ultimately benefiting both institutions and students.
What Is NAAC and Why Does It Matter?
NAAC is an autonomous institution funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC). It assesses the quality of higher education institutions in India and assigns them grades ranging from 1.5 (minimum) to 4.0 (maximum) based on parameters such as curriculum, faculty, research, infrastructure, governance, and student services.
Institutions receiving a grade of A++ are recognized for offering high-quality education, while those graded D fail to meet minimum standards and do not receive accreditation. Thus, NAAC serves as a crucial benchmark for institutional performance.
Benefits for Students
For students, NAAC ratings offer clear and credible insight into an institution’s academic environment. They can evaluate the quality of teaching, research opportunities, infrastructure, and institutional reputation before making admission decisions. Additionally, NAAC-accredited degrees carry more weight in the job market and in applications for higher studies abroad.
A New Era for Higher Education in UP
By aiming to bring a quarter of all colleges in the state under the NAAC umbrella this year, the Yogi government is setting the foundation for a robust, modern, and globally competitive higher education ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh. The reforms are expected to uplift the standard of education while empowering students to make informed academic choices and institutions to strive for excellence.
