Smt Kasturbai Walchand College (SMT-KWC), Sangli Recognization & Accreditations

National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) was founded in 1994 as an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC), headquartered in Bengaluru. NAAC's primary goal, as outlined in its vision statement, is to integrate quality assurance into the functioning of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). NAAC operates through its General Council (GC) and Executive Committee (EC), which comprise educational administrators, policymakers, and senior academicians from various sectors of the Indian higher education system. The President of the UGC serves as the President of the GC of NAAC, while an eminent academician nominated by the President of the GC chairs the EC. The Director serves as the academic and administrative head of NAAC and is the member-secretary of both the GC and the EC. Additionally, NAAC receives guidance from advisory and consultative committees formed periodically to advise on its policies and activities.

Established in 1962, Shivaji University derives its name from the Great Maratha Warrior and founder of the Maratha empire, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The university's inauguration on November 18, 1962, by Dr. Radhakrishnan, the then President of India, marked the beginning of a new chapter in higher education. Among the primary objectives of its establishment was to address the regional educational needs of South Maharashtra. Today, Shivaji University's jurisdiction extends over three districts, namely Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara, hosting approximately 300,000 students across 280 affiliated colleges and recognized institutes. This region boasts a rich socio-cultural heritage, shaped by the innovative and socially reformist leadership of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the princely ruler of Kolhapur. Under his guidance, the city emerged as a hub of educational opportunities for diverse classes and communities across Southwestern Maharashtra and the northern parts of neighboring Karnataka. Additionally, this land is renowned for the pioneering efforts of Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil, who championed the cause of mass education through his innovative 'Earn and Learn' scheme. Enshrined in the Shivaji University Act of 1962, the university's objectives encompass making higher education accessible to rural youth, conducting fundamental and applied research in science and humanities, and fostering regional growth and development. Since its inception, the university has experienced remarkable growth, evolving from 34 affiliated colleges and 14,000 students to a network of 280 colleges and a student strength of 300,000. Offering education across ten major faculties, including Arts, Social Science, Science, Commerce, Education, Fine Arts, Law, Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, Engineering, and Technology, Shivaji University continues to be a beacon of academic excellence and societal progress in the region.