Par panel suggests mechanism for accreditation of institutes

The committee heard the views of AICTE Chairman S S Mantha and IGNOU Vice Chancellor V N Rajasekharan Pillai on a Bill which seeks to make it mandatory for every higher educational institution to be accredited by an independent accreditation agency.

The National Accreditation Regulatory Authority for Higher Educational Institutions Bill, 2010 was introduced in the Lok Sabha in May 2010 and then referred to the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development.

One of the members of the standing committee said the underlying observation of the committee was to ensure that students have access to quality education and that there is "absolute transparency" by higher education institutes in imparting education.

The Bill seeks to establish a National Accreditation Authority for Higher Education, which shall register accreditation agencies, lay down norms and policies for assessment of academic quality in higher education institutions.

It will also undertake audit on matters related to conflict of interest, disclosure of information and transparency, levy of fees, advise central and state government, and collect and disseminate information on accreditation of higher educational institutions