Abstract:
Harmonization of higher education addresses challenges associated with intra-
and inter-country variability in quality delivery of higher education institutions.
T
he journey towards a harmonized, inclusive African higher education space may
remain elusive if individual nations fail to observe that “charity begins at home.”
T
his entails nations first making their education systems transparent and integrated
as a precedent to sub-regional and regional harmonization efforts. Leveraging on
the affordances of the self-study methodology, the paper showcases the process of
harmonizing higher education undertaken by one quality assurance agency to assure
quality in a constantly changing higher education environment. This case serves
as a real-life example that provides a context for understanding the complexities,
processes and positive impacts of harmonization activities. Due to the multifaceted
nature of harmonization, the paper focuses only on providing information regarding
the development of a common policy framework for higher education as a record
and resource for countries still developing quality assurance frameworks. The paper
concludes by highlighting critical learning points by way of recommending best
practice
