Namibia Qualifications Authority Urges Accreditation of Educational Institutions The Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) has made an urgent plea to all educational institutions in the country to obtain accreditation for their programs. This call comes amid concerns over the proliferation of unaccredited institutions offering substandard education and qualifications. Accreditation by the NQA ensures that educational programs meet established quality standards and are recognized by employers and other stakeholders. It provides students with the confidence that their qualifications will be valued and accepted in the job market. NQA CEO, Franklyn Becker, emphasized the importance of accreditation for both students and institutions. “Accredited institutions guarantee students that the qualifications they obtain are credible and will enhance their career prospects,” he said. “For institutions, accreditation serves as a mark of quality and helps them attract students and build their reputation.” The NQA has established a process for institutions to apply for accreditation, which involves a rigorous evaluation of their programs, faculty, and facilities. Institutions that meet the required criteria are granted accreditation for a specified period of time, after which they must undergo a renewal process. Becker urged institutions that have not yet obtained accreditation to take immediate steps to do so. “The NQA is committed to supporting educational institutions in achieving accreditation and ensuring the quality of education in Namibia,” he said. “Accreditation is essential for the development of a skilled and competent workforce and for the overall economic growth of the country.” The NQA’s accreditation drive aims to create a transparent and accountable education system in Namibia, where students can make informed choices about their educational pursuits and employers can trust the qualifications of their employees. By ensuring the quality of educational institutions, the NQA is contributing to the long-term competitiveness and prosperity of the nation.Namibia’s NQA Encourages Accreditation for Education ProvidersNamibia’s NQA Encourages Accreditation for Education Providers The Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) urges all education and training providers in the country to prioritize the accreditation of their institutions and qualifications. Accreditation serves as official recognition by the NQA that an institution meets established standards and has the capabilities to deliver high-quality educational programs. It is mandatory for all training providers in Namibia offering courses leading to recognized qualifications. Acting chief executive Harmoni Beukes emphasizes that accreditation distinguishes NQA’s role from the registration of higher education institutions, which falls under separate authorities. NQA accreditation involves verifying an institution’s ability to deliver courses effectively, rigorously assess student performance, and certify their competencies. Institutions seeking accreditation should purchase application forms from NQA offices or download them from its website, www.namqa.org. The process involves submitting a completed form, supporting documentation, and a self-assessment demonstrating compliance with accreditation criteria. The processing time typically ranges from three to six months, depending on the completeness of the application and prevailing circumstances. Fees are associated with accreditation, including: * New Request: N$5,000.00 * Expansion of scope: N$+2,000.00 * Reaccreditation: N$1,000.00 * Annual fee (based on student enrollment): Varies Opting for an accredited institution offers advantages such as fostering public trust, assuring students of a reputable education, and minimizing the risk of wasting resources on an education that may not provide in-demand skills. Beukes encourages education providers to prioritize accreditation to enhance the quality of education in Namibia.The Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) has urged educational institutions to apply for accreditation to ensure the quality and relevance of their qualifications. The NQA, which is responsible for the regulation and quality assurance of education and training in Namibia, has embarked on a nationwide campaign to encourage institutions to seek accreditation. “Accreditation is a voluntary process that provides assurance that the qualifications offered by an institution meet the required standards and are fit for purpose,” said NQA Chief Executive Officer, Franz Gertze. He added that accreditation is critical for institutions to gain recognition and credibility both locally and internationally. “It also helps institutions to improve the quality of their teaching and learning, and to align their qualifications with the needs of the labour market,” Gertze said. Institutions that are accredited by the NQA are added to the Namibian Qualifications Register, which provides a database of all recognised qualifications in the country. The NQA has established a Quality Assurance Department responsible for assessing and accrediting educational institutions. Institutions can apply for accreditation by submitting a self-assessment report and supporting documentation. The NQA encourages educational institutions to take advantage of the accreditation process to enhance the quality of their offerings and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce in Namibia.