VC: A++ grade by NAAC aggressive response to critics

VC: A++ grade by NAAC aggressive response to critics

Shinjini.Ghosh@timesgroup.com

New Delhi:  16.12.2021

Jamia vice-chancellor Najma Akhtar on Wednesday said that it was a matter of pride that the varsity had been accredited with the highest grade of A++ by the NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) and that it was an “aggressive reply” to its critics.

The university was not demoralised by the violence which took place two years ago on December 15, she claimed.

“It is a day to remember, but we have moved forward. Had we been demoralised that day, then we would have lost. This (the NAAC ranking) is an aggressive reply from us stating we did not lose two years ago,” Akhtar said.

Speaking about the steps taken by the university to improve its ranking, Akhtar said, “Active steps were taken throughout by all the university stakeholders concerned. Even during the pandemic, our teachers were trained to hold online classes, unlike other universities. The university also saw good placements despite the pandemic.”

Stating that the varsity was not competing with either the Jawaharlal Nehru University or Indira Gandhi National Open University — the other universities in the capital region with an A++ grade — Akhtar added, “Ours is a multi-faculty university and it cannot be compared with the others. We generally do not get the cream students, but when they graduate, they are the best in their fields.”

The vice-chancellor also said that with a minority institution getting the highest grade, the university’s value has also increased manifold.

“This rank will also help us in getting funding for various projects. We are also in touch with the government to approve a medical college. We are now confident that such projects will also take off thanks to our improved rankings. We cannot relax now and need to ensure that we maintain our position,” said Akhtar.