What is The Gambia National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority (NAQAA)

The National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority (NAQAA) is the regulatory body overseeing the Gambia National Qualifications Framework (GNQF). As the guardian of educational quality and standards, NAQAA ensures that Gambian institutions meet the necessary benchmarks for excellence in education and training.

NAQAA’s role, as outlined in the NAQAA Act, focuses on promoting the goals of the GNQF, advancing higher education standards, and coordinating various academic and vocational frameworks. Below are NAQAA’s core functions:

• Monitor the implementation of the GNQF and collaborate with educational institutions to ensure compliance.
• Develop and enforce quality assurance policies and standards for post-secondary institutions.
• Accredit qualifications and institutions under the GNQF.
• Recognize professional bodies and certify qualifications within The Gambia.
• Engage in research and maintain international partnerships to enhance educational quality.
• Maintain the National Learners' Records Database for transparency and accountability.
• Provide evaluation services for foreign qualifications for recognition in The Gambia.
• Raise public awareness on the importance of quality education.
• Offer expert advice to the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology on accreditation and quality assurance.