Rector of UIN Jakarta: Academic accreditation must adapt to the new normal era

Rectorate, UIN News Online – The Rector of UIN Jakarta Amany Lubis emphasized the need for an academic accreditation system to adapt to the new normal situation after the Covid 19 pandemic in various countries, including Indonesia. On the other hand, higher education institutions should maintain the academic quality they offer to the public.

This was said by Amany Lubis in her speech during the Islamic Quality Assurance (IQA) Webinar 2020 on Tuesday (12/08/2020). By raising the theme on “Higher Education Accreditation amidst Covid-19 and New Normal: Opportunities and Challenges”, the webinar was attended by University Rectors, assessors, international QA experts, and higer education policy makers from various countries.

Apart from Rector Amany, the webinar also presented three other speakers, namely the CEO of the National Center for Academic Accreditation and Evaluation Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Sohall Salim Bajammal, Executive Board Member YODAK / Higher Education Council North Cyprus Olgun Cicek, Deputy CEO of the Malaysian Qualification Agency Khairul Salleh and moderated by the CEO of Education & Training Quality Authority Kingdom of Bahrain Jawaher Shaheen Al Mudhahki.

Rector Amany in her presentation said that academic accreditation is one of the important parameter in ensuring the quality of education offered by a higher education institution. In addition to responding to public expectations for quality education, accreditation also plays an important role in fulfilling industry expectations on high quality graduates.

However, she continued, the process of accreditation and assessment carried out by accreditation agencies needs to adapt to the new normal era. It is known, the new normal era encourages every activity to be carried out by complying with strict health protocols.

“This new normal era presents a complex situation, where human health and safety must be a priority. On the other hand, we need to preserve the quality of the higher education we provide,” said Rector Amany.

She also added that several important issues related to accreditation process adjustment during a pandemic are absolutely necessary. Starting from regulations, processes and procedures, instruments, and academic integrity. (usa/zm)