The NAAC has offered a few options to the HEIs by issuing a note dated 10 Feb 2025 to the HEIs :
1. Binary (Basic)- Apr-May 25
2. Maturity-based Graded Levels (Levels 1 to 5)-After May 25
3. Current NAAC RAF (those already applied but want to stick to it or wanting to switch over to the New Framework).
Now let’s get an ample clarity :-
👉🏿First-time HEIs not yet applied: Apply for only the Binary in Apr-May 25.
👉🏿First-time HEIs who applied to NAAC, may apply for Binary in Apr-May 25 or choose to apply in the current format.
👉🏿Cycle 2 and above who have not applied for the NAAC, their NAAC validity continues until issuance of Binary and Maturity-based Graded Levels (MBGL). They can either choose Binary or MBGL.
👉🏿Cycle 2 and above who had applied for the NAAC are being given two options to choose from (a) Choose Binary or MBGL (b) Choose the current format of RAF (colleges getting online and universities getting hybrid-online cum physical inspection method of evaluation)
Strategy for the Preparations for the NAAC
Not waiting for the issuance of the new framework, HEIs should be preparing for the Binary/MBGL, as applicable. The strategy recommended is:-
* If in Cycle 2 and above, and already applied, choose the option for the new NAAC framework rather than the sufficiently defamed current RAF. Soon, more and more HEIs will start basking in the glory of the Levels. Moreover, Level 5 specific to global potential n’ credibility is not existing in the current NAAC RAF.
* Though NAAC is also giving a yet another option for the Binary to the Cycle 2, and above HEIs, in my view, it might not be a good idea for the cycle 2 and above HEIs to choose option of Basic (Binary) accreditation. Advantages of going for the MBGL would be far larger.
* Implement as many NEP reforms as possible from AY 2025-26, if not done already. There are at least 8 major reforms already lined-up. Their compliances would be asked.
* Build one Master data on every perceivable area of HEIs performance and outcomes with focus on impact and outcomes.
* Change research track to publishing only in the high impact peer reviewed journals. Draw focus to impact of research and citations.
* Go through Dr Radhakrishnan’s Report and pick up possible metrics to work on for the MBGL. You will be easily able to cover at least 75% of the metrics expected to be picked up from the ones stated in the Report.
-By Prof JR Sharma: Mentor to HEIs. Interpretation of the UGC Note dated 10 Feb 2025 and the views expressed are personal.
