Faculty as invited Guest Speaker - Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences

Dr. Vasanthakumar, Chief Librarian, ACU, participating as invited Guest Speaker at the National Conference on Transforming Libraries: Synergy between Accreditation, Technology, and Academic Excellence

Dr. Vasanthakumar, Chief Librarian of Adichunchanagiri University, was invited as a distinguished speaker at the National Conference hosted by Jain University, Bengaluru on 23rd & 24th May 2025. The event focused on the evolving role of libraries in advancing academic excellence through integration with accreditation frameworks and emerging technologies.

Dr. Vasanthakumar delivered a presentation on the topic “Best Practices in Library Management with Reference to Accreditation.” His presentation offered insightful perspectives on the significance and procedural overview of accreditation in India, particularly under the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) framework. He emphasized the critical role of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in ensuring continual improvement and compliance with accreditation standards.

He highlighted the NAAC accreditation framework in India and the function of the IQAC, comparing it with Saudi Arabia’s NCAAA (now NCAAE) and the Deanship of Quality Affairs. His talk emphasized:

• Enhancing learning efficiency through library services

• Library usage and its impact on academic and research outcomes

• Promoting sustainability by sharing resources, technology, and engaging communities

• Best practices in supporting research and aligning with SDGs, particularly in education, health, green campus, and resource efficiency

Dr. Vasanthakumar also showcased Adichunchanagiri University’s initiatives aligned with SDGs.

Other highlights from the conference included:

• The proposed binary accreditation structure of NAAC and the critical role of libraries under Criterion 5 – Teaching and Learning.

• Brille Centres for visually challenged students at Jadavpur and Mysore Universities

• IIM Bangalore Library’s transition from D-Space to Digital Commons

• Maya Somaiya Library’s integration of academic and outdoor spaces

In conclusion, the discussions underscored the evolving responsibilities of libraries in governance and administration, resource development, service delivery, staff development, continuous assessment, and strategic accreditation planning. Dr. Vasanthakumar’s presentation was well-received for its depth, comparative perspective, and practical insights, significantly contributing to the objectives of the conference.

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