IQAC stands for Internal Quality Assurance Cell. It is a vital mechanism established in higher education institutions (HEIs) in India and some other countries to ensure continuous improvement in the overall performance of the institution, especially concerning quality enhancement and sustenance.
🔹 What is IQAC?
The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) is a post-accreditation quality sustenance measure recommended by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Every accredited institution is required to establish an IQAC to develop a system for conscious, consistent, and catalytic improvement in the performance of institutions.
🔹 Objectives of IQAC
1. To ensure quality culture in the institution.
2. To plan and implement quality enhancement initiatives.
3. To act as a nodal agency for coordinating quality-related activities.
4. To develop a mechanism for consistent academic and administrative performance.
5. To integrate modern teaching-learning methods and promote innovation.
🔹 Functions of IQAC
- Development and application of quality benchmarks.
- Facilitating a learner-centric environment.
- Collection and analysis of feedback from students, faculty, and stakeholders.
- Documentation of programs and activities for quality improvement.
- Preparation of the Annual Quality Assurance Report (AQAR) for submission to NAAC.
- Organizing workshops, seminars, and training for faculty and staff.
🔹 Significance of IQAC
1. Promotes Continuous Improvement: Encourages institutions to evaluate and upgrade their practices regularly.
2. Institutional Accountability: Helps maintain transparency and accountability in governance.
3. Accreditation Readiness: Plays a crucial role in preparing institutions for NAAC accreditation and reaccreditation.
4. Stakeholder Satisfaction: Ensures better services and teaching-learning outcomes for students and other stakeholders.
5. Strategic Planning: Supports the institution in data-driven decision-making and future planning.