Srinagar: The University of Kashmir has secured the prestigious A++ grade in the latest NAAC reaccreditation cycle—an achievement that places it among the top-ranking institutions in the country and marks a historic academic milestone for the region.
According to official results, KU earned an outstanding CGPA of 3.68, the highest in its history, under NAAC’s revised and more rigorous framework.
KU in a statement issued here to news agency JKNS that Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan called the rating “a tribute to the collective efforts” of KU’s students, faculty, and staff, adding, “This A++ grade strengthens our resolve to become a globally recognised knowledge hub, responsive to challenges of climate change, biodiversity, and society.”
University of Kashmir became the first higher education institution in Jammu & Kashmir to undergo assessment under NAAC’s revised criteria. The seven-member NAAC Peer Team (two on-site, five virtual) visited from May 29 to 31 and lauded KU’s digital governance, academic flexibility, and NEP-2020 implementation especially the “Design Your Own Degree” programme and futuristic courses in AI and Data Science.
KU’s use of DigiLocker, its integration with the National Academic Depository, and student support systems such as single-window services earned notable praise. The Student Satisfaction Survey registered an impressive 78% verified satisfaction on teaching and mentorship.
This marks KU’s fourth accreditation cycle, previously earning Grade A in 2002 and 2011, and A+ in 2019. The current A++ signifies a dramatic leap in quality. Assessment included curriculum, teaching, research, governance, infrastructure, and institutional values.
KU’s research profile features 3,300+ publications, 22 patents, ₹112 crore+ in grants, and 87 grassroots innovations. The university also hosts two Centres of Excellence in Himalayan Biodiversity (UGC) and Glaciology (DST), alongside the interdisciplinary CIRI.
Peer Team commended KU’s commitment to community engagement through initiatives like USHA Silai Schools for women, menstrual health drives, and urban resilience programmes.
Spread across Hazratbal (Main Campus), Zakura, Baramulla, and Anantnag, KU boasts 232 smart classrooms, 186 labs, a fully automated Allama Iqbal Library, world-class Convocation Complex, and inclusive facilities for specially-abled students.
This recognition, KU noted, is the result of “relentless teamwork” and reflects the university’s growing stature as a centre of academic and research excellence in India. (JKNS)
