Bhubaneswar, May 8: The department of higher education has directed all colleges and universities in the state to submit the status of their National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) certification by May 15.

Three universities and 147 colleges under the department are yet to renew their certification.

The accreditation is necessary for higher education institutions to get funds and recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The defaulting varsities include Utkal University in Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur University and Berhampur University. Certification of 20 colleges under Berhampur University, 17 colleges under Fakir Mohan University in Balasore and six colleges under the North Odisha University in Baripada have lapsed. The situation is similar for 25 colleges affiliated to Sambalpur University and 79 constituent colleges affiliated to Utkal University.

According to guidelines, the institutions must apply for re-accreditation six months before the five-year certification period expires.

“Since the private and government colleges and universities have not applied for re-accreditation, they are not eligible for the UGC grant,” an official of Utkal University said.