NUC accreditation: A means of assessment and improvement of university libraries in Nigeria

Abstract

In order to avoid total collapse of the entire university community, every University library needs total and adequate attention as it is regarded as the most essential part of any academic institution. The aim of the National Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation exercise in Nigerian universities is to achieve a uniform Maximum Academic Standard (MAS). To ensure that the process meets up with the set goals and objectives, this study examined NUC accreditation as a means of assessment and improvement of libraries in Nigeria. In this study, a descriptive survey design was adopted and the total enumeration technique was used to select 41 Heads of Department in federal university libraries in South-East Nigerian universities as the sample population. Questionnaire rated using the 4 point scale was used for data collection which was analyzed using mean scores. The outcome of the findings showed that accreditation exercise is very beneficial to the libraries in terms of increase in acquisition of library information resources, subscription to internet and online database, employment of adequate and qualified staff, procurement of library equipment. The result also indicated that when there is no accreditation, the libraries are not given adequate attention in terms of funds resulting to inadequate library services and resources, no acquisition of new library resources, no procurement of library furniture and poor maintenance of library equipment. The study therefore recommends that NUC accreditation exercise should be a continuous process in Nigerian universities and there should be a parameter of enforcing the release of 10% total budget for institutional recurrent expenditure as stipulated. The researchers concluded that regular accreditation is required for improvement of libraries.