IQAC continuous improvement role – UGC NET Question

NAAC explicitly recommends establishing an Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in accredited institutions. This cell plans, guides and monitors quality enhancement efforts on a continuous basis. It also coordinates documentation and follow-up of accreditation outcomes. Therefore, the missing word in the stem must be “Cell.”

Option A:
The term Bureau usually refers to a large administrative office and is not used in NAAC documents for this internal structure. It does not capture the specialised quality assurance function. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option B:
A Directorate is a high-level administrative unit headed by a director, often focused on broader management or projects. NAAC does not label the internal quality mechanism as a directorate. Therefore, this option does not match the standard terminology.

Option C:
A Centre can host training or research activities, but the specific quality unit mandated by NAAC is called a Cell. Using “centre” would create ambiguity and does not align with the prescribed nomenclature IQAC.

Option D:
The word Cell appears in the official phrase “Internal Quality Assurance Cell.” It highlights a small, focused unit with a clear mandate to strengthen quality culture. This is why “Cell” correctly completes the statement.