National Council for Higher Education of Namibia NCHE

Overview

The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) is Namibia’s statutory body responsible for regulating and enhancing higher education. It promotes a coordinated higher education system, equitable student access, and quality assurance, while advising government on public higher education funding. Based on uniRank research, NCHE is a vital institution for maintaining standards and fostering coordinated growth in Namibia’s higher education sector.

Historical and Legal Framework

NCHE was formally established by Act No. 26 of 2003 and mandated to advise on higher education policy, funding, coordination, and quality assurance. The Council operates under the Higher Education Act and is empowered to:

• Accredit higher education programmes (in partnership with the Namibia Qualifications Authority).
• Monitor institutional quality assurance systems.
• Promote student access to higher education.
• Conduct relevant research and advise the Minister of Education.

NCHE’s quality assurance framework was solidified in the 2009 Quality Assurance System for Higher Education, introducing programme accreditation and institutional audits.

Mission, Vision and Objectives in Higher Education

Vision: To be a valued leader and partner in coordinating higher education toward a knowledge-based society.

Mission: To ensure a coordinated, responsive system through equitable access and quality service delivery. NCHE’s core values include integrity, professionalism, accountability, empathy, and innovation.

• Coordinate higher education development to support a knowledge-based society.
• Ensure programmes speak to national development needs.
• Oversee funding and promote institutional equity.
• Enhance access, quality, and relevance in higher education.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

NCHE is housed within the Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Innovation (MHETI), with a dedicated directorate. Responsibilities include promoting coordinated higher education, programme accreditation, institutional audits, and managing the public higher education funding framework. NCHE’s structure features a council and executive directorate, facilitating independent professional oversight while aligning with national policy.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

NCHE is responsible for accrediting higher education programmes (at NQF Level 5 and above), in concurrence with Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA), and for institutional quality assurance audits. The accreditation process involves:

1. Programme submission and self-evaluation by institutions.
2. Review against NCHE’s Quality Assurance System and accreditation manual.
3. Coordinated approval with relevant professional bodies when required.
4. Valid accreditation for up to six years, with provisions for earlier review if significant changes occur.

These mechanisms uphold academic standards and facilitate continuous quality improvements across Namibia's higher education landscape.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

NCHE promotes partnerships to strengthen quality assurance. It coordinated with the African Development Bank-supported project to build capacity for implementing its quality assurance system. It also engages in harmonizing regional and global standards through alignment with SADC and international education goals.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

NCHE continues shaping higher education through rigorous accreditation, institutional audits, and funding advice, fostering trust and quality in the sector. Capacity-building initiatives, research outputs, and multi-stakeholder collaborations are driving NCHE’s evolution as an influential planning and oversight body within Namibia’s Vision 2030 framework.

Summary

The National Council for Higher Education of Namibia is the keystone body for ensuring quality, access, equity, and coordination in higher education. Backed by law and structured governance, it oversees programme accreditation, institutional audits, policy guidance, and funding advice—all underpinned by a mission to foster a knowledge-based society. NCHE’s contributions are central to the sustained growth and integrity of Namibia’s higher education system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is NCHE’s role?
  NCHE regulates programme accreditation, institutional quality assurance, policy advice, and funding recommendations in Namibia’s higher education system.
• When was NCHE established?
  NCHE was established by Act No. 26 of 2003 under the Higher Education Act.
• How long is accreditation valid?
  Programme accreditation is valid for up to six years, subject to earlier review if significant curriculum or delivery changes occur.
• Does NCHE work with other agencies?
  Yes, NCHE accredits programs with the concurrence of the Namibia Qualifications Authority and collaborates with professional bodies as needed.
• How does NCHE influence funding?
  NCHE advises the government on the equitable allocation of public funds to higher education institutions and helps balance quality, equity, efficiency, and effectiveness in funding decisions.

Organization Name

National Council for Higher Education of Namibia

Acronym

NCHE

Year of Establishment

1/01/2004

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

08 Newton Street, Philadelphia House No. 6
Windhoek
Khomas Region Namibia

Phone

+264 (61) 307 012

Fax

+264 (61) 307 014

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

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LinkedIn

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YouTube

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Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

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