The University of Delhi has secured an A++ grade in its second cycle of NAAC accreditation by being a role model for other state universities in delivering high standards of education. DU Vice Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh credits this success, with a high CGPA of 3.55 on a scale of 4, to the tireless work of its teachers. They have worked hard to streamline the methodology of teaching, induce good quality research among students and enable publication of in-depth study papers. In the future, DU now intends to enhance innovation by establishing incubation centers in all its colleges, enabling students to become future entrepreneurs.
Delhi University’s grading improvement
The past three or four years have seen Delhi University make a number of significant strides in growth and development. Perhaps the most dramatic shift was a large recruitment drive under which more than 5000 new teachers were added to various colleges and departments. This has resulted in a more favourable teacher-student ratio and higher research activity.
To enhance the quality of research, DU initiated new policies like incentives for publication in highly ranked journals. Now research accepted for PhD degrees, faculty recruitment and appointing college principals only that is indexed in Scopus or cleared as per the new rules of UGC is considered. By 2024, DU had published more than 5,200 research articles in Scopus-indexed journals, which made the university rank higher in national and international rankings like NIRF and QS.
The Indian government has also extended robust support to the university through programs such as the Institution of Eminence (IoE) and the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA). With that, DU has improved its infrastructure, enhanced libraries and research databases and refurbished academic buildings. A sum of INR 300 to 400 crore was spent in constructing the Central Research Facility, which has provided students with state-of-the-art labs, advanced research equipment and improved learning tools.
DU Plans to set up more Incubation Centres
After earning a high NAAC grade, DU is currently working on enhancing research, innovation and entrepreneurship among students. Although there is a central incubation centre, DU has plans to open additional ones in all its colleges with a well-defined research policy. Over the last four years, DU has appointed more staff, revised courses to suit industry requirements and instituted new academic programs. With 5,000 PhD students currently enrolled, the university wishes to expand this figure. DU also finances student start-ups with incubators, seed funds and internships. The vision is to build a strong start-up culture and a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.
A few of the colleges have complained of teacher vacancies and inadequate infrastructure, primarily because of previous neglect from the government. Delhi University is currently actively addressing these issues, particularly for vocational and elective streams. In order to accommodate more students, DU is constructing new campuses in East Delhi and West Delhi, including Dwarka, Surajmal Vihar and Najafgarh. This indicates DU's effort to upgrade facilities and appoint more teachers to provide quality education.
