To come from B++ to A++, it needs vision and mission: KU VC

Srinagar, June 10: Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Prof. Nilofar Khan, said the university’s A++ grade in the NAAC accreditation was the result of months of rigorous preparation and years of consistent growth.
“Believe me, it was not easy. Institutions don’t come up overnight. They develop over time. To come from B++ to A, then A+, and now A++, it needs vision and mission,” she said.
Prof. Khan emphasised that the university is a collective asset that belongs to society as a whole, not just to faculty, staff, or students. “It belongs to the community, and we are deeply aware of that responsibility,” she added.
She expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to this achievement, including the faculty, students, scholars, administration, and government representatives. “The Honourable Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor, and Education Minister have remained consistently supportive and concerned throughout the process,” she said.
Regarding the NAAC assessment, she shared that the evaluation took place on May 29, 30, and 31. Two assessors visited in person, while five others joined virtually. “We were engaged from morning until 10 p.m. every day. The heads of departments, deans, faculty, and students all came together for this crucial process. It was about preserving the honor of the institution,” Prof. Khan recalled.
As an alumna of the university, Prof. Khan reflected on her nearly 40 years at KU and noted the institution’s steady growth. “We have now reached a level where we can compete on a global stage,” she said.
She added that the A++ grade should be viewed as the beginning of a new phase rather than the culmination of their efforts. “We must continue to move forward with a renewed purpose and meet the expectations of society,” she said.
Prof. Khan highlighted the institutional changes over the years, noting that the university’s campuses in Kargil and Leh are now part of Ladakh University, and the Regional Engineering College, once under KU, is now NIT Srinagar. “Despite facing challenges, we’ve continuously updated our admission processes and focused on maintaining high standards of quality,” she added.
She also underscored the transparency of the NAAC process. “We were not allowed to offer flower bouquets during the assessment. Even I didn’t know who the assessors would be. The five online assessors didn’t know each other either. That’s how confidential the process was,” Prof. Khan said.
Acknowledging the efforts of previous Vice Chancellors, Prof. Khan shared that her focus has been on systematising processes and addressing gaps in technology, examinations, academics, and recruitment.
“Alhamdulillah, we are here today with our heads held high, having met the expectations of our people,” she said.