Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh's higher education minister Yogendra Upadhyaya on Monday stated that the state government is making concerted efforts to align its higher education system with global standards. Speaking at a press conference in Lucknow, the minister highlighted that universities which were once limited to B and B+ grades in NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) rankings have now achieved A++, A+, and A grades after the Yogi government assumed office.
Seven Universities Achieve NAAC A++ Ranking
So far, seven state universities have attained the prestigious NAAC A++ ranking, while four have secured A+ and two have reached the A grade category, the minister said. He further added that after giving an identity to universities, the government will now assist degree colleges in the state to achieve national and international rankings.
“UP is moving rapidly towards becoming not only the state with the highest number of universities, but also a leading centre of quality higher education,” Upadhyaya asserted.
Governor's Role in Improving Rankings
Thanking Governor and Chancellor of universities, Anandiben Patel, for her consistent support and guidance in motivating universities to achieve NAAC rankings, Upadhyaya noted, “Special workshops were organised for universities by the governor. In these workshops, universities were given guidance to improve quality, research, digital resources, teaching systems and academic environment.”
With this, two state universities have made their presence felt on international platforms – the QS World Ranking, and six secured a place in QS Asia Rankings. In addition, three universities have also attained the UGC Grade-1 category, granting them more autonomy.
Enhancing Student Enrolment
The minister said the government is working on ways to enhance student enrolment in degree colleges by developing courses in line with the National Education Policy and promoting employment-oriented education. “Degree colleges with low enrolment is a concern for us. We have asked principals to hold meetings with the school heads of inter colleges to convince students to enrol in colleges,” Upadhyaya explained.
He added, “Principals have also been asked to improve institutional quality, research culture, digital education, infrastructure, and student facilities to achieve rankings that will attract students.”
