HEA Confronts Corruption Risks Head-On in Higher Education Regulation
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) has acknowledged the inherent corruption risks within the regulation of higher education, as it moves to strengthen internal safeguards through the establishment of an Integrity Committee.
This follows a strategic meeting with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) held on Friday, 17th April, 2026, in the HEA Boardroom in Lusaka.
HEA Director – Quality Assurance, Dr. Martin Mushumba, openly noted that the Authority’s work, which includes registering institutions, accrediting programmes and auditing compliance, places it in direct interaction with individuals and entities with vested interests.
“We interact with the public, and at every given time, there are pressures that can compromise fairness if not properly managed,” Dr. Mushumba said.
The Director – Quality Assurance highlighted risks such as bribery and facilitation pressures, conflict of interest, manipulation of inspection reports and influence in institutional registration processes.
The ACC, through its Director – Corruption Prevention, Mrs. Glenda Mungalaba, reinforced this position, noting that regulatory institutions are particularly vulnerable due to their gatekeeping role.
“By virtue of your institution, there is potential for various offences,” She said, adding, “The need for an Integrity Committee can never be overemphasised.”
HEA’s move signals a shift from reactive to preventive governance, recognising risks early and building systems to manage them.
In doing so, the Authority is setting a clear standard that quality assurance must be matched by integrity assurance.
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