The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) is a key body in educational institutions, particularly in colleges and universities that aims to promote and ensure quality enhancement in all aspects of institutional functioning. The establishment of the IQAC is the first step towards institutionalization and internalization of quality enhancement initiatives. Its success depends on its sense of belongingness and participation in all the activities of the institution. It will not be yet another hierarchical structure or a record-keeping unit of the institution but will be a facilitative and participative unit of the institution. It has the potential to become a vehicle for ushering in quality enhancement through its planned and interventionist strategies to remove deficiencies and enhance quality, as in Quality Circles in industries.
The prime task of the IQAC is to act as a catalyst and develop a system for conscious and consistent improvement in the overall performance of its institution. The IQAC plays a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the standards of the institution, ensuring it remains competitive and responsive to changing educational demands.
Vision of IQAC:
To ensure quality culture as the core component of the institution's functioning, paving the way for it to evolve as a centre of academic excellence and societal contribution.
Key elements of the vision:
Mission of IQAC:
To foster a culture of quality enhancement by establishing and sustaining a system of conscious, consistent, and catalytic action for improving the academic and administrative performance of the institution. It aims to promote innovative practices and enhance the institution’s capacity to provide holistic education and ensure stakeholder satisfaction.
Key aspects of the mission:
OBJECTIVES AND FUNCTIONS
Objectives of IQAC:
The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) is established to systematically enhance and sustain quality in all institutional processes. Its objectives include:
Foster a culture of continuous improvement in academic, administrative, and infrastructural domains.
Establish and maintain quality standards for teaching, learning, research, and administration.
Encourage innovative teaching methods and learning environments for student success.
Involve students, faculty, staff, alumni, and employers in quality enhancement activities.
Enhance the credibility of the institution through systematic documentation and transparent processes.
Promote the adoption of ICT tools, pedagogical innovations, and interdisciplinary approaches.
Facilitate the institution’s preparation for accreditation and re-accreditation by ensuring adherence to quality parameters.
Functions of IQAC:
The IQAC performs several functions aimed at achieving and maintaining institutional quality. These include:
Formulate and implement quality parameters for various academic and administrative activities.
Collect and analyse feedback from students, staff, alumni, and other stakeholders for quality improvement.
Conduct workshops, seminars, and training sessions to promote awareness and enhance skills.
Identify, document, and disseminate best practices across departments and stakeholders.
Promote faculty and student research and collaboration with other institutions and industries.
Prepare the Annual Quality Assurance Report (AQAR) and other documentation for submission to accreditation bodies like NAAC.
Review teaching-learning processes, evaluation systems, and administrative efficiency to ensure alignment with quality standards.
Conduct internal and external audits to evaluate and improve institutional performance.
Promote extension activities and community services that reflect institutional social responsibility.
Create an environment conducive to the all-round development of students and faculty.
By integrating these objectives and functions, the IQAC serves as a vital mechanism for fostering a culture of excellence and accountability within the institution.