HEA, ZAQA Move to Streamline Validation of Qualifications for University Enrolment
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) have initiated critical discussions aimed at clarifying the validation of academic qualifications in the enrolment of students into Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
The engagement, held on Thursday, 9th April, 2026, in HEA’s Boardroom in Lusaka, focused on enhancing coordination, resolving operational grey areas and ensuring that both regulators speak with one voice in guiding HEIs.
A key issue raised during the meeting was whether students should be admitted into universities before their qualifications are verified by ZAQA, a matter that has increasingly affected admission processes across the country.
HEA Director – Quality Assurance, Dr. Martin Mushumba, noted that HEIs have been seeking clarity on the requirement, particularly in light of concerns that verification processes may slow down enrolment, especially for students in remote areas.
On its part, ZAQA, through its Director – Qualification Services, Mr. Fedelis Cheelo, clarified that the requirement for verification should be understood within the context of enrolment, not initial admission. This distinction provides an important pathway for students.
“Prospective students can apply and receive admission offers using their results, but are expected to complete the verification process before formal enrolment into their respective programmes,” Mr. Cheelo said.
The approach ensures that institutions maintain academic flow while safeguarding the integrity of qualifications within the system.
The requirement is anchored in the Zambia Qualifications Authority Act, 2024, which mandates the verification of qualifications to ensure authenticity and recognition within the national framework.
The discussion further highlighted the need to improve messaging to the public, ensuring that students understand that verification can be initiated immediately after results are released, rather than waiting until admission.
This alignment between HEA and ZAQA is expected to reduce delays in student progression, protect institutions from regulatory breaches, enhance public confidence in qualifications, and ensure that graduates hold recognised and verifiable credentials
The engagement reflects a shared commitment by both institutions to remove barriers while strengthening quality assurance mechanisms across the sector.
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