UP degree colleges will now get national rankings like universities: Minister

Lucknow: UP’s higher education minister Yogendra Upadhyaya on Monday said govt is making efforts to align its higher education system at par with global standards. Universities that were once limited to B and B+ grades in NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) rankings have earned A++, A+ and A grades after Yogi govt came to office, the minister said at a press conference in Lucknow.

So far, seven state universities have achieved NAAC A++ ranking, while four have secured A+ and two have reached the A grade category, he said. The minister said after giving an identity to universities, govt will now help degree colleges in the state 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 said.

Thanking Governor and Chancellor of universities, Anandiben Patel, for her consistent support and guidance in convincing universities achieve NAAC ranking, Upadhyaya said, “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, getting more autonomy.

He said govt 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 said.

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.”