In an era where higher education institutions (HEIs) are increasingly evaluated on holistic development and societal contribution, student engagement in sustainable initiatives has taken center stage. But did you know that your NSS drives, NCC campaigns, and Eco Club activities could directly impact your NIRF Perception Score?

Let’s explore how student-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiatives can transform not just campus culture—but also national rankings.

Why Perception Matters in NIRF

The Perception parameter in the NIRF ranking system accounts for 10% of the total score. It captures how stakeholders—students, employers, and the general public—view your institution’s brand, societal relevance, and outreach.

The Power of Student Clubs

Across Indian HEIs, active units like:

• • NSS (National Service Scheme)
    

• • NCC (National Cadet Corps)
    

• • Eco Clubs, Rotaract, SDG Clubs, and Social Outreach Cells
    

are driving initiatives that align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). These include tree plantation drives (SDG 13), gender equality seminars (SDG 5), rural health awareness (SDG 3), and clean energy campaigns (SDG 7).

Each activity creates tangible social value—and improves how your institution is perceived by stakeholders.

How This Impacts NIRF Perception

Here’s how SDG-aligned student engagement contributes to perception:

From Activity to Impact: MapSDG’s Tracking Flow

MapSDG simplifies the documentation and reporting of all SDG-linked activities. Here’s how:

1. 1. Plan & Execute – Conduct SDG-linked activities via student clubs.
   2. Map the Event – Log activities using MapSDG’s event-mapping feature, tagging relevant SDG goals.
   3. Generate Reports – Automatically generate SDG alignment reports, dashboards, and heat maps.
   4. Demonstrate Value – Use these insights to enhance Perception-related documents in NIRF submissions.

Bonus: These records also serve your AQAR, NAAC, QS I-Gauge, and Times Higher Education SDG rankings.

Final Thoughts: Engage, Track, Elevate

IQAC teams and NIRF Coordination Cells must now look beyond classrooms and research scores. Real transformation—and reputation—starts on the ground, where students lead change.

Leverage tools like MapSDG to:

• • Showcase your commitment to societal impact

• • Systematically track and report club activities

• • Elevate your NIRF perception score through data-driven visibility
    
    

Ready to make your student engagement count? Start tracking with MapSDG. Let your outreach speak for your institution’s excellence.