Beyond Compliance in the Implementation of Quality Assurance in Ghanaian Higher Education

Abstract

This chapter examines how quality assurance is viewed and implemented in higher education sector in Ghana. It discusses and provides up-to-date overview of the QA systems, procedures and mechanisms that are employed by the external quality assurance agency and higher institutions to improve the quality of education provided and identifies challenges faced in implementing recommendations made by the 1991 educational reforms in relation to the quality of higher education in Ghana. Desk data that involves analyzing information that already exists was employed. The chapter also reviews existing literature on approaches made by higher institutions to address QA practices at the international level. Based on the conclusions and lessons drawn from these analyses, the chapter proposes for government, policy makers, the external quality assurance agencies, and higher institutions some actions that should be taken to strengthen the internal quality assurance structures that will contribute to efficient and effective quality enhancement within higher institutions in Ghana.