Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education CANQATE

Overview

The Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education (CANQATE) is a regional professional network dedicated to enhancing and promoting quality assurance (QA) practices in higher education across the Caribbean. Established in 2004 as a sub-network of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE), CANQATE serves as a collaborative platform for quality assurance agencies, higher education institutions and related stakeholders within the Caribbean region. Its primary mission is to facilitate the sharing of information, best practices and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening the quality and standards of tertiary education in the region.

1. Historical and Legal Framework

CANQATE was formally established in 2004 following discussions at the 2002 INQAAHE Members' Forum and Workshop held in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The forum highlighted the need for a regional network to address the unique challenges and opportunities in quality assurance within Caribbean higher education. As a sub-network of INQAAHE, CANQATE operates under a framework that aligns with INQAAHE's objectives, focusing on the maintenance, evaluation, accreditation and improvement of higher education quality. The network's activities are guided by its mission to disseminate good practices in quality assurance and to support the development of robust quality assurance systems across the Caribbean.

2. Mission, Vision and Objectives

Mission: To promote and enhance quality assurance in tertiary education in the Caribbean through collaboration and cooperation among its members.

Vision: To be a leading regional network that fosters a culture of quality in higher education, ensuring that institutions meet international standards and contribute to the development of the Caribbean.

Objectives:

• Facilitate the sharing of information and best practices in quality assurance.
• Support capacity-building initiatives for quality assurance agencies and higher education institutions.
• Promote the adoption of regional standards and frameworks for quality assurance.
• Enhance the recognition and credibility of Caribbean higher education qualifications.
• Foster collaboration among stakeholders to address common challenges in quality assurance.

3. Governance, Structure and Independence

CANQATE operates as a non-governmental, non-profit organization governed by a Board of Management elected by its members. The Board is responsible for setting the strategic direction, policies and overseeing the implementation of the network's activities. The Secretariat, based in Jamaica, manages the day-to-day operations and coordinates events, communications and member services. While CANQATE collaborates with governmental bodies and international organizations, it maintains its independence to ensure that its activities are driven by the needs and priorities of its members.

4. Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role

CANQATE does not serve as an accrediting agency but plays a pivotal role in supporting and strengthening quality assurance mechanisms within the Caribbean. The network provides a platform for the exchange of information on accreditation standards, processes and outcomes. It also offers training and professional development opportunities for quality assurance practitioners, thereby enhancing the capacity of institutions and agencies to conduct effective evaluations. Through its activities, CANQATE contributes to the development of a harmonized approach to quality assurance across the region.

5. International Cooperation and Network Memberships

As a sub-network of INQAAHE, CANQATE is part of a global network of quality assurance agencies, facilitating international collaboration and the exchange of best practices. The network also engages with regional organizations such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to align its activities with broader regional development goals. Through these partnerships, CANQATE ensures that Caribbean higher education institutions are integrated into global quality assurance frameworks and that their qualifications are recognized internationally.

6. Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

CANQATE's initiatives have significantly influenced the quality assurance landscape in Caribbean higher education. By promoting the adoption of regional standards and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the network has contributed to the development of more robust quality assurance systems. Looking forward, CANQATE aims to continue its efforts in enhancing the quality and relevance of tertiary education in the Caribbean, ensuring that institutions are responsive to the evolving needs of students, employers and society. The network's focus on capacity building and regional cooperation positions it as a key player in shaping the future of higher education in the Caribbean.

7. Summary

The Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education (CANQATE) is a regional network committed to enhancing the quality of higher education in the Caribbean. Through its collaborative approach, the network supports the development of effective quality assurance systems, promotes the sharing of best practices and fosters regional cooperation. While not an accrediting body, CANQATE plays a crucial role in strengthening the quality assurance infrastructure within the Caribbean, contributing to the global recognition and credibility of Caribbean higher education institutions.

8. FAQs

1. What is CANQATE?
   CANQATE is a regional network established to promote and enhance quality assurance in tertiary education across the Caribbean through collaboration and cooperation among its members.
2. When was CANQATE established?
   CANQATE was established in 2004 as a sub-network of the International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE).
3. Does CANQATE accredit institutions?
   No, CANQATE does not serve as an accrediting agency. It supports and strengthens quality assurance mechanisms within the Caribbean by providing a platform for the exchange of information and best practices.
4. How can institutions become members of CANQATE?
   Institutions interested in joining CANQATE can apply for membership through the network's official website, where they can find information on membership criteria and benefits.
5. Where is CANQATE headquartered?
   CANQATE's Secretariat is based in Jamaica, which serves as the operational hub for the network's activities.

Organization Name

Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education

Acronym

CANQATE

Year of Establishment

1/01/2004

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

International

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Level 1, Maritime Centre, 29 Tenth Avenue
Barataria
Jamaica

Phone

+ 1 868 285 9177

Fax

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education's Facebook page

X (Twitter)

Not available

LinkedIn

Not available

YouTube

Not available

Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

Not available

Unlock your University's potential: spotlight your Institution on UniRank for leads, local recognition and branding. Enquiry now to feature your University here.

Explore other Jamaican higher education-related organizations and authorities.

Find top-ranked Universities in Jamaica.

Search for courses and scholarships with the uniRank World Universities Search Engine.