A state-level workshop on Outcome-Based Education and NBA Accreditation for government polytechnics and engineering colleges in the state was organized today at the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Science City auditorium in Patna, jointly organized by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and the State Council of Technical Education (SBTE), Bihar. The workshop aimed to practically prepare technical educational institutions for the accreditation process, evaluation system, and quality assurance standards.

Topics such as the NBA accreditation framework, evaluation methodology, international recognition under the Washington Accord, GAPC Version 4.0, and preparation of the Self-Assessment Report 2024 were discussed at the workshop. The assessment of course outcomes, program outcomes, and program educational objectives, the use of assessment tools, and the process of continuously improving teaching and learning based on evaluation were explained through simple examples. Separate sessions were held for engineering colleges and polytechnic institutes to provide guidance on implementing accreditation requirements at the institutional level.

Addressing the program, Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh, Secretary, State Council for Technical Education, Bihar, stated that Bihar's polytechnic institutes are making significant contributions to skill-based education and employment generation. He added that outcome-based education connects learning to students' actual competencies and employability, ensuring accountability for institutions.

Prof. Suresh Kant Verma, Vice-Chancellor, Bihar Engineering University, stated that clear determination of course outcomes and program outcomes in engineering colleges makes teaching and assessment more effective. He explained that academic guidance is being provided to institutions at the university level to prepare for accreditation, streamlining processes such as self-assessment reports.

In his address, Prof. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe, Chairman, National Board of Accreditation, stated that NBA accreditation is a reliable means of quality assurance in technical education. He explained that it simplifies institutions' processes, clarifies responsibilities, and makes decision-making more transparent. He described it as an important step towards improving the ease of doing education in technical education, emphasizing innovation and continuous improvement.

Addressing the program, Mr. Ahmed Mahmood, Director, Department of Science, Technology, and Technical Education, stated that the state's government polytechnic and engineering colleges are providing high-quality technical education at very minimal fees, which is directly impacting students' employment and self-employment opportunities. He stated that the department is committed to further strengthening quality assurance in technical institutions through accreditation.

Senior officials of the department, as well as principals of all government polytechnic and engineering colleges under the department, also participated in the workshop.