Quality Assurance in Higher Education: KNUST’s Quality Assurance Trajectory

Abstract

The paper examined the quality assurance trajectory of KNUST within the broader context of higher education in Ghana. It explored the historical evolution of KNUST’s quality assurance framework, including its policies, accreditation processes and institutional structures. The qualitative research gathered data through document analyses and interviews with knowledge-rich current and former staff, experienced on quality assurance evolution at KNUST. The paper reveals that KNUST has made considerable progress in implementing quality assurance mechanisms with various institutional structures including its committee system of governance, subjecting itself to accreditation and international ranking mechanisms, decentralising quality assurance issues and enabling policies with support systems. However, it is challenged by bureaucratic delays in accreditation and curriculum reviews, resource constraints and resistance to change. The paper concludes by emphasising the need for continuous policy review and institutional governance reforms to enhance the sustainability of quality assurance. The insights provided contribute to the broader discourse on higher education quality management and serve as a model for other universities seeking to strengthen their quality assurance frameworks.

Keywords: Quality Assurance, Higher Education Institutions, KNUST, Accreditation, Ghana

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/16-5-06

Publication date: May 30^th 2025