HEA, ZAQA Tackle Risk of “Diploma Mills” to Protect Integrity of Qualifications
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the integrity of academic qualifications, amid growing concerns over the potential abuse of awarding powers within the higher education sector.
The issue formed part of discussions during a strategic engagement held on Thursday, 9th April, 2026, in HEA’s Boardroom in Lusaka, focused on strengthening coordination and ensuring both regulators speak with one voice.
A key concern raised during the meeting was the risk of institutions, particularly outside the traditional university structure, operating without sufficiently robust governance systems to support credible awarding of qualifications.
ZAQA highlighted the importance of maintaining strong safeguards to prevent the emergence of so-called “diploma mills,” where qualifications may be issued without meeting the required academic and quality standards.
In response, HEA emphasised that the responsibility to protect the integrity of qualifications cuts across the entire sector.
The same quality assurance framework applies to both colleges and universities, and must remain robust enough to prevent abuse at all levels.
The discussions pointed towards a shared position, that strengthening internal quality assurance systems, governance structures, and regulatory oversight is key to maintaining the credibility of Zambia’s higher education system.
Both institutions acknowledged that public confidence depends not just on access to education, but on the assurance that qualifications awarded are credible, recognised, and reflective of real competencies.
The engagement signals a united front in protecting the value of education and ensuring that Zambia’s qualifications remain respected locally, regionally, and globally.
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