New Delhi, February 27 – In a significant overhaul, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has dismissed 20% of its assessors following concerns over irregularities in evaluations, officials confirmed on Thursday. The move is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and quality assurance in the accreditation process for higher educational institutions (HEIs).
To strengthen its assessment framework, NAAC has recruited over 1,000 new reviewers based on recommendations from a committee that included vice-chancellors from various universities. These assessors will undergo training to ensure they meet NAAC’s revised quality standards.
Crackdown on Irregularities
NAAC’s decision follows an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into allegations of bribery involving the Guntur-based KLEF. The institution reportedly paid off a NAAC team to secure an A++ rating. In response, NAAC debarred the seven assessors involved and initiated a thorough review of its evaluation process.
A senior NAAC official stated, “Reviewing assessors’ performance has been an ongoing process, but widespread irregularities led to strong action this time. Many assessors were inactive and have been removed, while others have been suspended for six months to a year or permanently debarred.”
Transition to Online Evaluations
In a major shift, NAAC has also decided to discontinue physical inspections of colleges, opting for a fully online assessment system. However, universities will undergo a hybrid evaluation process, with select reviewers still conducting on-site visits for oversight.
Established in 1994 as an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC), NAAC is responsible for accrediting HEIs across India. This latest reform aims to restore credibility to its accreditation process and ensure institutions meet the required quality benchmarks.
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