Pondicherry University underwent the 5th cycle of accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) during May 28-30, 2025. It involved a comprehensive evaluation of the University's performance in the five years (2019-24). The University was accredited with an ‘A’ grade in 2018 and in the current cycle, the University is poised for a better grading.
In a first for the University, the evaluation was conducted in a hybrid format. Alongside a two-member visiting team, a five-member NAAC committee participated online to ensure a detailed and collaborative assessment.
The NAAC Peer Team commenced their visit on Day 1 with an introductory meeting following which the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Prakash Babu made a comprehensive presentation highlighting the University’s academic offerings, physical and digital infrastructure, research metrics, collaborations with national and international institutions of repute and future plans. A documentary, Pondicherry University – Towards the light of knowledge, showcasing the University's milestones and facilities was screened.
The NAAC team engaged in detailed discussions on academic and research aspects, particularly focusing on the University's research output, examination system, and digital student services. Subsequently, the team met with the members of Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) when the Coordinator (IQAC), Prof. K. Tharanikkarasu presented the quality initiatives, 4th cycle post-accreditation developments, and the University’s innovative feedback mechanism that involves different stakeholders, including the employers/recruiters.
As part of the physical inspection, the Peer Team visited several academic departments, the Central Instrumentation Facility, and laboratories in the science departments. They also held discussions with the Director (Research & Development) focusing on research projects, patents, and the utilization of grants.
Day 2 of the visit saw the team engage with departments involved in social outreach activities, followed by discussions with the Librarian and students at the Central Library. Closed door interactions with alumni and current students were also held. The Registrar and Finance Officer presented the various governance and administrative measures taken by the University. The team also inspected campus infrastructure including the impressive 2.4MW solar plant, Sewage Treatment Plant and waste management facilities.
On the final day, the Peer Team interacted with key personnel associated with institutional best practices such as the Central Instrumentation Facility and the Digital Governance system that was developed in-house for paperless process at every stage of the students’ journey in the University and. Unique initiatives like the Community College, "Puduvai Vani" Community Radio, environmentally-sustainable practices, and the Legal Clinic for students from the North-East region were presented as examples of the University's distinctiveness. The Peer Team also held interactions with teaching and non-teaching staff. The outcome of the current assessment is expected to be released in the coming weeks. A good rating will enhance the University’s reputation and national/international visibility and, thereby position Pondicherry University to attract more funding opportunities and recruiters and project Puducherry as a destination for quality higher education.
IQAC activities are run by a dedicated team consisting of Prof. R.Vishnu Vardhan (Deputy Coordinator), Dr.N.Vijayakumar (Assistant Coordinator), Dr. G. Subhalakshmi (Assistant Coordinator), and support staff. This cell is responsible for planning and monitoring the quality initiatives and facilitating audits and accreditation by external agencies.
By voluntarily subjecting itself to an evaluation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council, Pondicherry University demonstrates its commitment to quality, transparency, and continuous improvement to ensure quality and relevance in higher education.