In a major development for international higher education quality assurance, the International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre Tertiary and Higher Education (QAHE) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Slovenian Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (NAKVIS). The agreement, finalized on 9 March 2026, establishes a long term framework for cooperation in accreditation, professional development, and the exchange of global best practices.
The partnership marks a significant milestone for both organizations, each recognized for their commitment to strengthening educational standards and promoting transparency in institutional evaluation. According to QAHE, the newly signed MOU is designed to “enhance collaboration in accreditation, quality assurance, professional development, and the exchange of expertise between the two organizations,” reflecting a shared vision for elevating global education quality.
A Strategic Alliance to Strengthen International Accreditation Standards
At the core of the agreement is a commitment to mutual recognition of standards, enabling QAHE and NAKVIS to acknowledge each other’s accreditation decisions while maintaining independent evaluation processes. This approach supports international mobility and comparability of qualifications without compromising the integrity of each agency’s accreditation framework.
The MOU also emphasizes the importance of joint promotion of events and activities, including conferences, workshops, and professional development programs. By leveraging their respective communication platforms, both organizations aim to expand outreach and increase global participation in quality assurance initiatives.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange at the Heart of the Agreement
One of the most impactful components of the partnership is the focus on training and capacity building. QAHE and NAKVIS will collaborate on developing training programs for evaluators, reviewers, and institutional leaders, with an emphasis on emerging trends in higher education quality assurance. These initiatives may include webinars, certification programs, and specialized workshops designed to strengthen institutional governance and academic integrity.
The agreement further outlines a commitment to exchange expertise and best practices, enabling both organizations to share research, policy updates, publications, and sector insights. This exchange is expected to enhance the professional competencies of quality assurance practitioners and contribute to the global dialogue on educational excellence.
A Five Year Framework for Sustainable Cooperation
The MOU will remain in effect for five years, with the option for renewal upon mutual agreement. During this period, both organizations will identify and implement specific joint projects aligned with their shared objectives. The agreement also clarifies that the MOU expresses shared intentions and does not create legally binding obligations, ensuring flexibility as the partnership evolves.
A Milestone for Global Higher Education Quality Assurance
The signing of the QAHE–NAKVIS MOU represents a significant advancement in international cooperation within the higher education sector. As QAHE continues to expand its global network of partners, this collaboration reinforces its role as a leading organization dedicated to promoting excellence, transparency, and continuous improvement in education worldwide.
With growing demand for credible, internationally recognized quality assurance frameworks, the partnership between QAHE and NAKVIS is expected to contribute meaningfully to the global education landscape—benefiting institutions, learners, and quality assurance professionals across regions.
