Online Reporter
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THE Higher Education Examinations Council (HEXCO) has referenced its national qualifications framework to the African Continental Qualifications Framework (ACQF) for standard harmonisation and benchmarking procedures.
Aligning national qualifications with regional and continental standards is set to harmonise assessment principles, credit systems and qualification benchmarks with partners in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
The ACQF is a community of countries and regions engaged in building a sustainable common area of trusted qualifications and credentials, supporting the achievement of the African demographic dividend for the inclusive mobility of learners and workers.
At a strategic convention organised by Hexco last week, Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda said the referencing of qualifications was “not a ceremonial exercise”.
“We have referenced our national qualifications framework to the ACQF. This is not a ceremonial exercise. Hexco must now lead the harmonisation of assessment standards, credit systems and qualification benchmarks with our SADC partners,” Deputy Minister Sibanda said.
One of the key initiatives of the strategic convention was to streamline plans with the country’s National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2). Deputy Minister Sibanda said it was the opportune moment for Hexco to ensure that its reputation and credibility travel across borders. This, he noted, would allow the institution to reflect positively as a competent player alongside its regional and continental partners.
“When a Zambian training authority seeks Hexco support, it is our credibility that travels across the border. Let us ensure it arrives intact,” he said.
As part of its strategy to drive regional and continental qualifications alignment, Hexco revealed that it is now collaborating with the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) and the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council.
The joint effort will focus on the practical work of harmonising standards, a move aimed at ensuring Zimbabwean qualifications carry weight and open doors across the continent.
Tinaye Agere