MDU reaffirms NAAC validity, says no ambiguity in distance, online courses

Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) has issued a detailed clarification to dispel concerns raised in sections of the media regarding its NAAC accreditation status and the validity of its distance and online education programmes. The university asserted that its accreditation remains valid under NAAC’s transition framework and that all online and distance programmes continue to run with due regulatory approval.

Addressing a press conference, Registrar Dr Krishan Kant and Dean Academic Affairs Prof SC Malik said MDU strictly follows all guidelines of national regulatory bodies and maintains “top priority to quality in teaching, research, and community service.”

Dr Kant said MDU received an ‘A ’ grade from NAAC in 2019, valid for five years. Before its expiry, NAAC began shifting from the Revised Accreditation Framework to a new system based on the Dr. Radhakrishnan Committee’s recommendations. Through public notices on January 27, 2024, and December 5, 2025, NAAC announced its transition to Basic (Binary) Accreditation and the Maturity-Based Graded Levels (MBGL) model.

“These notifications clearly state that institutions accredited under RAF—and falling within the transition window—will continue to be treated as accredited until the new system becomes operational, plus an additional grace period,” he said. MDU had already written to NAAC seeking permission to apply under the new process. “As soon as NAAC opens the application window, MDU will immediately apply. We are fully prepared,” he added.

Prof Malik said the IQAC is strengthening quality benchmarks in line with national policies.