Not a single engineering college in Bihar currently holds accreditation from the National Board of Accreditation. This status has serious implications for students pursuing technical education in the state. Only NBA-accredited engineering colleges are considered eligible for higher studies abroad. Graduates from non-accredited institutions also face limited global job opportunities.
The All India Council for Technical Education has released the latest list of NBA-accredited engineering colleges across India. Bihar does not feature in this list. In contrast, several institutions from neighboring Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh have secured NBA recognition. The absence of accreditation raises concerns about the quality and global acceptance of engineering education in Bihar.
AICTE List Highlights Bihar’s Absence
The accreditation list published by All India Council for Technical Education includes colleges meeting defined quality benchmarks. However, no engineering college from Bihar appears on the list. This exclusion affects students planning overseas education or employment.
NBA accreditation plays a key role in international academic recognition. Without it, degrees from Bihar engineering colleges may not be accepted by foreign universities. This restriction applies especially to students aiming for master’s programs abroad.
Impact on Higher Education and Global Careers
According to education experts, only students from NBA-accredited colleges can pursue master’s degrees overseas. This recognition is accepted by institutions in nearly 20 countries worldwide. Without NBA approval, Bihar engineering graduates face restricted mobility.
Former MIT professor and ex-principal of Bhagalpur and Gaya engineering colleges, Professor Nirmal Kumar, highlighted the issue. He stated that lack of accreditation blocks both higher studies and international job prospects. Bihar currently has 38 engineering colleges operating across the state.
What Colleges Need for NBA Accreditation
To receive NBA accreditation, engineering colleges must meet several academic and infrastructure standards. Adequate faculty strength is a core requirement. Each department must maintain a proper teacher-to-student ratio.
Colleges must also have modern and well-equipped laboratories. Academic records should be properly documented and updated. Institutional activities need systematic recording for evaluation.
Strong placement records play a vital role during accreditation assessment. Colleges must demonstrate functional infrastructure and adequate learning facilities. Libraries should be well-stocked with physical books and digital resources.
Continuous project-based learning is also essential. Faculty members and students must engage in regular research and project work. This improves practical skills and academic outcomes.
Faculty Shortage Remains a Major Obstacle
One of the biggest challenges for Bihar engineering colleges is faculty shortage. Many institutions, including MIT, lack sufficient teaching staff. There is a significant shortage of professors at senior levels.
NBA guidelines require colleges to have professors of required ranks. Several departments in MIT do not meet this criterion. Limited availability of experienced faculty weakens accreditation efforts.
Laboratories in many colleges also lack modern equipment. This further affects the evaluation process. Without infrastructure upgrades, meeting NBA standards remains difficult.
Why NBA Accreditation Is Essential for Quality Education
NBA accreditation is considered mandatory for ensuring quality engineering education. It certifies that institutions meet national and international benchmarks. Accredited colleges gain credibility among students, recruiters, and foreign universities.
National Board of Accreditation accreditation also improves teaching methods and curriculum delivery. It encourages outcome-based education and continuous improvement.
AICTE has repeatedly instructed engineering colleges to apply for NBA accreditation. Authorities emphasize that institutions should complete the process at the earliest. Accreditation benefits students and strengthens institutional reputation.
MIT Efforts to Regain Accreditation
MIT is currently attempting to secure NBA accreditation for three disciplines. These include Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Leather Technology. Earlier, MIT held NBA accreditation for Civil Engineering. However, that accreditation has expired.
Officials believe renewed efforts may help MIT regain recognition. However, challenges related to faculty and infrastructure remain. Without addressing these gaps, accreditation approval may be delayed.
Regional Comparison Raises Concerns
While Bihar struggles with accreditation, neighboring states show better performance. Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh have multiple NBA-accredited engineering colleges. This highlights a regional disparity in technical education standards.
Students from Bihar may increasingly seek admission in other states. This trend could weaken local institutions further. Experts warn that urgent reforms are needed to prevent long-term damage.
Need for Immediate Policy and Institutional Action
Education experts stress the need for coordinated efforts by the state government. Recruitment of qualified faculty should be prioritized. Infrastructure upgrades must receive adequate funding.
Colleges should also focus on academic documentation and student outcomes. Industry partnerships and placement improvement are essential. Without these changes, NBA accreditation will remain out of reach.
The absence of NBA accreditation for Bihar engineering colleges is a serious concern. It limits students’ global opportunities and questions educational quality. AICTE guidelines make accreditation essential for international recognition.
Unless immediate corrective steps are taken, students from Bihar may continue to face disadvantages. Strengthening faculty, infrastructure, and academic processes is the only way forward. NBA accreditation is no longer optional for engineering education growth.
