In a landmark achievement for higher education in Jammu & Kashmir, the University of Kashmir (KU) has been awarded the prestigious A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in its latest re-accreditation cycle. This distinction, based on a record Institutional Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.68, places KU among the top-ranking universities in the country.
This is the first time any higher educational institution from Jammu & Kashmir has been assessed under NAAC’s revised and more stringent accreditation framework. The latest recognition marks the University's fourth accreditation cycle, having previously earned Grade ‘A’ in 2002 and 2011, and Grade ‘A ’ in 2019.
Congratulating the entire university fraternity, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan said, “This recognition is a tribute to the collective efforts of our faculty, students, and staff. As the flagship institution of the region, we remain committed to the ideals of NEP 2020 and academic innovation. From introducing flexible degree programs to securing over ₹112 crore in research funding, this A grade inspires us to further strengthen our global presence.”
Prof. Khan added that during the assessment period, KU focused on restoring the academic calendar, conducting timely exams, and ensuring adherence to degree timelines. The university also introduced a single-window student services mechanism and strengthened its digital governance framework by integrating with the National Academic Depository (NAD).
The NAAC Peer Team—comprising seven expert members (two on-site and five online)—conducted their evaluation from May 29 to May 31, 2025. Their report commended KU’s efforts in research, innovation, IT-enabled teaching, and student support systems. The University received praise for:
Cutting-edge academic offerings like Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at the Zakura Campus
The ‘Design Your Own Degree’ (DYD) initiative under NEP 2020
KU’s use of DigiLocker for seamless digital access to academic records
Vibrant entrepreneurship initiatives through the NewGen Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (NewGen IEDC)
Student Satisfaction Survey (SSS) with a 78% satisfaction score
KU also stood out in criterion-wise assessments for Curricular Aspects, Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, Student Progression, Infrastructure, and Governance.
The University reported over 3,300 high-quality publications, 22 granted patents, and support for 87 grassroots innovations. It houses two Centres of Excellence—one in Himalayan Biodiversity (UGC) and another in Glaciology (DST). The Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations (CIRI) has further strengthened its research ecosystem.
In infrastructure, KU boasts 232 smart classrooms, 186 labs, a fully automated Allama Iqbal Library, and a world-class Convocation Complex. Campuses at Hazratbal, Zakura, Delina (North Campus), and Anantnag (South Campus) extend KU’s academic footprint across the Valley.
KU’s community engagement includes initiatives like the USHA Silai Schools for Women, menstrual hygiene awareness, and climate resilience programs. The University’s commitment to inclusion is visible in its green campus practices and accessible facilities for differently-abled students.
With this A grade, the University of Kashmir has not only raised the bar for higher education in the UT but also reaffirmed its vision of becoming a globally recognised knowledge hub. The milestone reflects years of dedicated work by KU's leadership, faculty, scholars, and students in pursuit of academic excellence and social relevance.