HEA, ZAQA Address Programme Gaps to End “Back-and-Forth” for Universities
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) have moved to address one of the most persistent challenges faced by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) the back-and-forth between programme accreditation and qualification registration.
This was one of the key issues discussed during a joint engagement held on Thursday, 9th April, 2026, in HEA’s Boardroom in Lusaka, aimed at enhancing coordination and ensuring both regulators speak with one voice.
HEA Director – Quality Assurance, Dr. Martin Mushumba, noted that HEIs have repeatedly raised concerns over situations where programmes approved by HEA are later returned by ZAQA for not meeting certain requirements.
This has often led to confusion among HEIs and raised questions from the public regarding the consistency of regulatory processes.
“If it should be good for one institution, it should be good for the other. And if it is good for both of us, then it is good for the sector,” Dr. Mushumba emphasised.
In response, ZAQA, through its Director – Qualification Services, Mr. Fedelis Cheelo, outlined some of the common gaps identified during qualification registration.
“These gaps include insufficient notional hours for programmes, weakly defined learning outcomes, limited stakeholder involvement in programme design, and misalignment between competencies and expected qualification levels,” Mr. Cheelo stated.
Both Authorities agreed on the need to strengthen alignment at the point of accreditation, ensuring that programmes meet the full requirements for registration before reaching ZAQA.
This approach is expected to significantly reduce delays and improve efficiency for institutions, while enhancing confidence in the higher education system.
The discussions reflect a shared understanding that quality assurance does not end at accreditation, but extends to ensuring that qualifications are recognised, registered, and aligned with national and international standards.
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