QAA signs Memorandum of Understanding with the Independent Agency for Quality Assurance in Education, Kazakhstan

QAA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Independent Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (IQAA), an independent agency responsible for the accreditation of higher education institutions and study programmes in Kazakhstan, agreeing a framework for partnership between both agencies.

The agreement builds on previous engagement between QAA and IQAA, both of whom are members of the European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ENQA) and the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE). This will lead to greater information sharing and collaboration on mutually agreed programmes and activities, such as academic integrity.

The partnership will also lead to the development of a report on the regulatory context of higher education in Kazakhstan, which will assist UK providers in developing transnational education (TNE) arrangements in a country where there is a growing UK presence.

Douglas Blackstock, Chief Executive of QAA, said: ‘I’m honoured to sign this agreement with IQAA, with whom we share common missions and organisational objectives in the pursuit of high-quality higher education. Formalising this partnership with IQAA will allow us to build upon our existing relationship and work on a number of joint priorities, leading to improved opportunities for the higher education sectors in both our countries.’

Professor Sholpan Kalanova, President of IQAA, said: ‘It is an honour to sign this agreement with QAA, one of the leading quality assurance agencies in the world that has vast experience in the field of quality assurance in higher education. The agreement sets a stage for cooperation and partnership, which will provide opportunities for the two agencies to work together, exchange best international practices, and participate in joint projects with the aim of improving quality in higher education,’

The agreement will last for a period of three years, with the potential of an extension for a further three years upon the agreement of both parties.