Focusing Towards Malaysia QA: Country-based AUN-QA Tier 1 Training at Universiti Malaya

During 5 - 8 August 2024, AUN-QA in collaboration with Universiti Malaya, conducted a specialised AUN-QA Training Course for Accomplishing Programme Assessment in Malaysia. The training was based on the Guide to AUN-QA Assessment at Programme Level, Version 4.0, which provided the participants with the most updated guidelines and information. For this round of AUN-QA Tier 1 training, it is established as being country-based targeting personnels in Malaysia in charge of Quality Assurance at public and private universities. The acquired knowledge will benefit the participants in understanding quality assurance requirements for academic programmes at local and international levels in order to be able to take the opportunity in conducting them as well.
Leading the workshop were the following two coaches from Malaysia that are highly experienced in the QA environment of their own country:

1. Prof. Dr. Fauza Ab. Ghaffar, AUN-QA Technical Team and AUN-QA Trainer
2. Prof. Ir. Dr. Shahrir Abdullah, Special Advisor to AUN Executive Director and AUN-QA Trainer

With the focus on QA context in Malaysia, the workshop was able to offer development of the following skills that have been adapted to be highly suitable for Malaysian context:

• Explain AUN-QA framework and importance of programme assessment
• Interpret the AUN-QA programme assessment model, its criteria, and requirements
• Identify strengths, gaps, and actions for improvement relating to respective criteria in their current QA practices
• Produce an AUN-QA self-assessment report for programme assessment.

13 participants across 4 different universities, including Universiti Malaya, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and Multimedia University, participated in this special country-based AUN-QA Tier 1 Training. The participants gained valuable insights into the AUN-QA framework, assessment processes, and proven quality assurance practices. The training also offered practical strategies for effective self-assessment and reporting, enhancing the participants’ skills and provided valuable networking opportunities.

The trainers also received positive feedback reflecting the training’s relevance and impact. These new insights will be invaluable to enhancing their own academic programmes as well.