Policy issues in the harmonisation of quality assurance systems for higher education in Africa

Abstract

Harmonised quality assurance systems for higher education are imperative for Africa to realise the vision of an integrated and prosperous continent characterised by economic growth, deeper integration and competitiveness in the global economy. Diverse higher education systems have resulted in a lack of mutual recognition of credits and qualifications, constraining academic integration and student mobility across Africa. The African Union has promoted policies that should harmonise and strengthen higher education quality in Africa to ensure local relevance and global competitiveness. This chapter shows that despite these efforts and attendant benefits that these initiatives may offer, implementation has been very slow. This consequently call for sound policies, planning, resources and efficient implementation arrangements, mechanisms for monitoring, evaluation and evidence-based policy formulation and implementation.