QAA signs Memorandum of Understanding with the Commission for Academic Accreditation

QAA and the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), the UAE’s National Accreditation Agency affiliated with the Ministry of Education, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, agreeing to a new mutually supportive and collaborative framework for engagement between the two bodies.

The formalisation of this relationship builds on previous engagement and will lead to greater sharing of information and collaboration on mutually agreed projects and activities.

The partnership will see the development of a report targeted for UK higher education providers to assist in developing transnational education arrangements in the UAE. It will also support the development of an International Quality Assurance Programme, localised to meet the needs of the UAE and the broader region.

Douglas Blackstock, Chief Executive of QAA said: ‘I’m delighted to sign this agreement with CAA, which reflects the importance of the UAE as a partner bringing benefit to UK higher education. It will support the development of the UK’s transnational education provision and provide opportunities for us to share information and collaborate in areas such as the promotion of academic integrity.’

Professor Mohammed Yousif Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor and CEO of the CAA said: ‘The CAA welcomes this association with QAA. The agreement provides a vehicle for promoting excellence in higher education, and in building the capabilities of UAE graduates to embark on future career opportunities across the globe. It brings benefits to universities in the UAE and the UK, by promoting understanding and upholding standards that encourage distinction, innovation and academic excellence within higher education. QAA has continuously been a true ally of the CAA and formalising the relationship in this way will set the basis for future collaborative work in the higher education sector”.