Sonipat:  The Haryana-based O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) has been awarded an ‘A’ grade by the University Grants Commission (UGC) — the highest rating given to a private university in the state.

The rating was awarded by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) of the autonomous UGC.

“It is, indeed, a proud moment for us,” said Naveen Jindal, founding chancellor of the university, in a statement on Monday.

“In a short span of six years for JGU to be able to receive accreditation and achieve the distinction of being awarded the A grade from NAAC. It is a fitting tribute to the outstanding contribution of all individuals connected to the JGU working under the dynamic and inspiring leadership of its founding vice chancellor, professor C. Raj Kumar,” Jindal added.

Calling it a “remarkable achievement of JGU” for being the first private university in Haryana to receive the ‘A’ grade from the NAAC, Kumar said: “It is a stellar recognition of the commitment and dedication of the Deans, faculty members, students, staff and alumni of JGU over the years.”

“It also reflects the deeper sense of engagement of JGU to fulfill its vision and mission to be a world-class university that is committed to promoting excellence in institution building for nation building,” he added.

The university “will continue to draw upon the legacy of Mr. O.P. Jindal and the inspiration of Mr. Naveen Jindal,” said the vice chancellor of Sonipat-based university.

He added: “It is his vision, philanthropy, and imagination that have culminated in the success of JGU as an institution of national and global excellence and I thank him for inspiring us!”

The criteria adopted by the NAAC for assessing all higher education institutions in India include curricular aspects, teaching, learning and evaluation, research, consultancy and extension, infrastructure and learning resources, student support and progression, governance, leadership and management, innovations and best practices.

“We will continue to strive towards raising quality and promoting excellence in institution building as the recognition by the NAAC has further motivated us to develop a sense of renewed confidence in our conviction to transform the landscape of higher education in India,” university registrar Y.S.R. Murthy said.

“As the first private university that was established in the state of Haryana in 2009, we assumed a leadership role in promoting best practices in all aspects of teaching, research and administration. We are seeing its results today,” added Aman Shah, director, quality assurance and accreditation office.