QAHE Announces Dual Accreditation Arrangement with AAKR in the Kyrgyz Republic

Jun 26, 2024

International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE) is pleased to announce a groundbreaking Dual Accreditation Arrangement with the Quality and Rating Accreditation Agency (AAKR) in the Kyrgyz Republic. This collaboration provides an exciting opportunity for QAHE-accredited educational institutions to obtain additional accreditation from AAKR, further enhancing the recognition and credibility of their academic programs.

About AAKR

In December 2022, the Quality and Rating Accreditation Agency (AAKR) was officially registered in the National Register of Accreditation Agencies of the Kyrgyz Republic. AAKR's mission is to help improve the quality of the education system in the Kyrgyz Republic through independent accreditation of educational organizations and programs, as well as determining their rating in the context of global educational trends.


AAKR has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Agency for Quality Assurance in Higher Education and Career Development (AKKORK), agreeing to collaborate on various education quality assurance initiatives. These include conducting institutional and program accreditation, assisting in improving educational program quality, organizing conferences and training events, conducting research, carrying out rating studies, participating in international quality assurance networks, and developing educational materials.


The Dual Accreditation Arrangement

The Dual Accreditation Arrangement between QAHE and AAKR was formalized through an MOU signed in January 2020. This strategic partnership aims to:

  • Enable QAHE-accredited institutions to seamlessly obtain AAKR accreditation: QAHE-accredited educational institutions can now easily obtain additional accreditation from AAKR, further strengthening their credentials.
  • Streamline the accreditation process for educational institutions in Kyrgyzstan: The collaboration between QAHE and AAKR simplifies the accreditation process for Kyrgyz institutions, making it more efficient and accessible.
  • Promote the quality and sustainable development of QAHE-accredited institutions: Through joint initiatives, the partnership aims to enhance the quality and ongoing development of QAHE-accredited institutions in the region.

Benefits for QAHE-Accredited Institutions

By participating in the Dual Accreditation Arrangement, QAHE-accredited educational institutions can enjoy the following benefits:

  • Obtain dual accreditation from both QAHE and AAKR: Institutions can now proudly display the prestigious accreditations of both quality assurance agencies.
  • Enhance the reputation and recognition of their academic programs: Dual accreditation will significantly boost the standing and credibility of QAHE-accredited institutions, both in Kyrgyzstan and globally.
  • Leverage the complementary expertise and best practices: The partnership allows institutions to benefit from the combined knowledge and experience of QAHE and AAKR.
  • Participate in joint research, training, and capacity-building initiatives: QAHE-accredited institutions can actively engage in collaborative projects organized by the two agencies.
  • Collaborate with a wider network of quality-focused educational institutions: The arrangement enables QAHE-accredited institutions to connect with a broader community of quality-driven peers in the region.

How to Apply

QAHE-accredited institutions interested in obtaining AAKR accreditation can apply for the Dual Accreditation Arrangement by following these steps:

  1. Contact the QAHE Accreditation Committee at accreditation@qahe.org to express your interest.
    • The QAHE team will guide you through the application process and provide the necessary information and support.
    • Once the application is submitted, QAHE and AAKR will coordinate the dual accreditation review and decision.

    Fees and Important Note

    • The fees for the Dual Accreditation Arrangement will depend on the size, structure, and complexity of the educational institution. Interested QAHE-accredited institutions are encouraged to contact the QAHE Accreditation Committee at accreditation@qahe.org to discuss the specific fees and payment options.
    • It is important to note that the AAKR accreditation obtained through this arrangement will be valid for three years, as long as the QAHE accreditation remains in good standing. If the QAHE accreditation is expired, revoked, or suspended for any reason, the AAKR accreditation will be immediately terminated.
    • For more details on the Dual Accreditation Arrangement, please visit the QAHE website or reach out to the QAHE Accreditation Committee at accreditation@qahe.org.

    Regards,
    Natasha Perkins
    Accreditation Committee
    International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE)

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