Promoting QAHE in Asia: Elevating Educational Standards

The International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE) is making significant strides in promoting quality education across Asia. With its recent initiatives and partnerships, QAHE is positioned as a leader in the realm of educational quality assurance, helping institutions align with international standards and best practices. This article explores the various collaborations and achievements of QAHE, highlighting its impact on educational institutions in the region, including those that have received accreditation.

In November 2023, QAHE signed a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Agency for Accreditation of Educational Organizations and Programs "Sapattuu Bilim," a key player in the Kyrgyz Republic's educational landscape. As a member of the Eurasian Association for Quality Assessment in Education (EAOKO), Sapattuu Bilim has shown a steadfast commitment to maintaining rigorous quality standards in education. Furthermore, its full membership in the International Network of Agencies for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (INQAAHE) and the Asia-Pacific Quality Network (APQN) underscores its dedication to upholding international best practices. The agency’s expertise was recognized by the Kyrgyz Republic’s Ministry of Education and Science, which granted it License No. LS200000806 to conduct advanced training courses for teaching staff. These courses focus on "Pedagogy and Psychology in the Educational Process" and "Education Quality Management System," showcasing the agency's commitment to professional development in education.

QAHE's collaboration with Sapattuu Bilim is just one of several partnerships aimed at enhancing educational quality in the region. In February 2023, QAHE entered an MOU for reciprocal recognition with the Agency for Accreditation of Educational Programs and Organizations (AAEPO) in Kyrgyzstan. AAEPO is instrumental in improving the competitiveness of vocational education through accreditation and is a full member of both INQAAHE and APQN. This partnership reflects a shared goal of advancing the quality and effectiveness of educational institutions.

In July 2023, QAHE also partnered with the Independent Accreditation Agency “Elbaasy.” Established in 2014, Elbaasy has been conducting independent accreditation of educational organizations since 2017. This collaboration aims to bolster global quality assurance efforts in education, thereby enhancing the credibility and recognition of accredited institutions. The commitment to continuous improvement in quality assurance is a hallmark of QAHE’s approach.

Quality assurance is an ongoing process, and QAHE, along with its partners, is dedicated to ensuring that standards are consistently met. For example, Sapattuu Bilim underwent an external assessment by the European agency ASIIN in September 2022, ensuring compliance with the European Standards and Guidelines (ESG) for quality assurance in higher education. Such evaluations are vital for maintaining high standards and fostering a culture of excellence within educational institutions. Similarly, QAHE's collaboration with the Agency for Quality Assurance in Education “EdNet” further strengthens its network in Kyrgyzstan. Established in 2012, EdNet has played a crucial role in developing the legislative framework for independent accreditation in the country. Its status as the first independent accreditation agency in Kyrgyzstan highlights its pioneering efforts in promoting quality education.

QAHE’s influence extends beyond the Kyrgyz Republic. The Accreditation Council for Education (ACE) in Indonesia is another notable partner. ACE is dedicated to ensuring the quality and excellence of educational programs in Indonesia and adheres to ISO 9001:2015 standards. By collaborating with QAHE, ACE aims to elevate the standards of quality assurance in education to an international level. This partnership facilitates the exchange of best practices and fosters international collaboration, ultimately enhancing educational quality in Indonesia.

Moreover, QAHE has established partnerships with various organizations across Asia, including the All Pakistan Private Schools' Federation (APPSF) and the Tamilnadu Council for Open and Distance Learning (TCODL) in India. These collaborations aim to promote quality assurance in education, particularly in the fields of open and distance learning, thereby broadening access to quality education.

The impact of QAHE’s initiatives is evident in the growing list of accredited institutions across Asia. These institutions include the Kyrgyz National Agrarian University in the Kyrgyz Republic, the Maldivian Business School in the Maldives, and the Youth Pastoral Career Planning Center in Hong Kong. Additionally, the iFEEL – Institute for Future Education Entrepreneurship and Leadership and the Etsah Trinity, Inc School of Professional Research Training and Development in India are also recognized for their commitment to quality education. Other accredited institutions include Netversity International in Indonesia, Rob School in Kosovo, and Tatweer Industrial Inspection & Training Services with offices in Pakistan, Oman, and Abu Dhabi. The list extends to Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University in Cambodia, PhilbeautiQ International Academy in the Philippines, and Saint Nicholas School English Programme in Thailand. Furthermore, the KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research in Belagavi, India, the Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch in Iran, and the National Institute of Plantation Management in Sri Lanka are also part of this growing network of accredited institutions.

QAHE’s commitment to fostering quality education is further exemplified by its partnership with the Society for Community Strengthening and Promotion of Education, Balochistan (SCSPEB). This collaboration aims to improve educational quality in Balochistan, particularly for girls, through community mobilization strategies and government partnerships. SCSPEB's notable achievements, such as receiving the UN Award for promoting female education, highlight the importance of engaging various stakeholders in the quest for educational excellence.

In conclusion, the International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE) is playing a crucial role in transforming the educational landscape in Asia. Through strategic partnerships, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a focus on quality assurance, QAHE is helping institutions elevate their standards and enhance their credibility. As educational institutions across the region strive for excellence, QAHE stands as a vital ally in ensuring that quality education remains at the forefront of their efforts. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, QAHE is not only enhancing the quality of education in Asia but also contributing to the development of a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce for the future.