HEXCO aligns qualifications framework with Africa standards

The Higher Education Examinations Council (HEXCO) has referenced its National Qualifications Framework to the African Continental Qualifications Framework (ACQF), marking a significant step toward harmonising Zimbabwe's qualifications with regional and continental benchmarks.

The move is expected to align assessment principles, credit systems, and qualification standards with partners within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, strengthening comparability and recognition across borders.

The ACQF brings together countries and regions working to establish a sustainable common space of trusted qualifications and credentials, supporting inclusive mobility for learners and workers across Africa.

Speaking at a strategic convention organised by HEXCO this week, Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology, Simelisizwe Sibanda, stressed that the referencing process was substantive.

"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," he said.

A key focus of the convention was aligning HEXCO's strategic plans with Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy (NDS2). Deputy Minister Sibanda emphasised that the development presents an opportunity for HEXCO to enhance its credibility beyond national borders.

"When a Zambian training authority seeks HEXCO support, it is our credibility that travels across the border. Let us ensure it arrives intact," he noted.

As part of efforts to drive regional and continental qualifications alignment, HEXCO has partnered with the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education and the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council. The collaboration will focus on harmonising standards to ensure Zimbabwean qualifications are widely recognised and open opportunities across the continent.