OI (or Outreach and Inclusivity) in NIRF evaluates an institute’s demographic diversity and inclusivity for underrepresented groups like women, marginalized communities, minorities, and the physically challenged. It comprises sub-parameters focusing on each group’s outreach and inclusivity, contributing to a total of 100 marks in the NIRF assessment.
IITs have a diverse student body from different states and countries, necessitating an inclusive environment for international students. However, challenges persist, such as low representation of females in both student and administrative roles and the need for support for economically and socially challenged groups like SC, ST, and OBC. It’s crucial to ensure provisions for the physically challenged to overcome academic hindrances. The sub-parameters of OI look at all these questions and are as follows:
- Regional Diversity (RD) - 30 marks: RD is based on number of students from other states and international locations, to determine the diversity within the student community.
- Women Diversity (WD) - 25 marks: This is mainly based on the percentage of female students and female faculty in senior administrative posts like HoDs, Deans, Directors, etc. The ideal expectation to score maximum WD is 50% women students, 20% women faculty, and 2 women in senior administrative positions.
- Economically and Socially Challenged Students (ESCS) - 25 marks: ESCS looks at the percentage of marginalized students, and students receiving fee reimbursements and should ideally be 50%.
- Physically Challenged Students (PCS) - 20 marks: Any institute can score maximum in PCS if all facilities for the physically challenged are available, accessible, and maintained well.
You can view the scores of IIT Madras in each of the above categories here. To get information on other IITs, visit here.
IT Madras actively engages international students through the Global Engagement Council and the regional groups host various cultural events throughout the year. The institution prioritizes women’s welfare with the Women’s Forum, offering mentorships, anti-harassment programs like STEWARD and POSH, and initiatives for health and well-being.
Financial support, including fee reimbursements and scholarships, assists socially and economically challenged students. NIRF data indicates an 80% accessibility rate for physically challenged students across institute buildings. Essential provisions like lifts, ramps, accessible toilets, and transport facilities are available and well-maintained.