IN A historic feat, Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) has become the first and only Malaysian university to receive accreditation from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) in the UK.
This accreditation underscores APU’s commitment to excellence, rigorous quality assurance processes and student-centred education.
“Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation in Malaysia has successfully completed its International Quality Review and has been awarded global quality accreditation by QAA,” said the official announcement on QAA’s website, which was made on May 10.
This recognition is the result of a rigorous review process carried out by independent QAA reviewers.
As a result of the accreditation, APU will now be recognised on an equal basis with UK universities.
Renowned for its adeptness in quality assurance, QAA employs rigorous evaluation criteria rooted in the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area.
This comprehensive assessment encompasses 10 pivotal areas, ranging from teaching and learning, programme design, student support, research, facilities, resources and governance to ongoing quality assurance.
The accreditation process involved almost a year of intense preparation and documentation, followed by a comprehensive physical audit, conducted at APU in March.
“The QAA International Quality Review has been a transformative journey towards global recognition and excellence for APU,” says APU vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ho Chin Kuan.
“The review process has not only reinforced our existing quality standards but has also empowered us to proactively address challenges and adapt to the evolving needs of our students and stakeholders worldwide.”
This accreditation aligns APU’s standards with 98% of UK universities from the membership body of QAA, underlining the university’s commitment to delivering top-tier education and solidifying its international stature by highlighting its relentless pursuit of academic quality and innovation.
APU chief executive officer and co-founder Datuk Parmjit Singh emphasised the significance of this milestone within Malaysian and global contexts.
“QAA’s recognition places APU at the forefront of international higher education, opening doors to enhanced collaboration and opportunities for our students and faculty,” he said.
APU comprises 14 academic schools, including 11 discipline-based and three programme-based schools, with a strong focus on digital technology education.
Coupled with its diverse student population from over 130 countries, APU reflects a global outlook.
“Our student body enriches the learning experience, preparing graduates for success in an interconnected world,” adds Parmjit.
Locally, APU is recognised as a Premier Digital Tech Institution by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation and boasts a proven track record of producing skilled graduates for burgeoning tech sectors.
The strategic positioning of its campus within Technology Park Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur reinforces the university’s commitment to innovation, fostering collaboration with industry partners and paving the way for cutting-edge research and industry-relevant programmes.
“QAA is delighted to congratulate Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation on its successful completion of the International Quality Review. We’ve enjoyed working with our colleagues in Malaysia and very much look forward to collaborating with them in the future,” says QAA accreditation and consultancy head Chris Bland.
APU’s notable feat with UK QAA accreditation reaffirms its commitment to excellence in higher education, positioning itself to mould future leaders and innovators in the digital age. As APU continues its mission of excellence, the journey towards international recognition stands as a testament to its steadfast commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation.
For more information, visit www.apu.edu.my
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