South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SAARC

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SAARC

Overview

Overview

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union of South Asian states. Established on 8 December 1985 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, SAARC aims to promote economic and regional integration, social development, and cultural cooperation among its eight member countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The SAARC Secretariat, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, coordinates and monitors the implementation of SAARC activities and serves as the channel of communication between the association and its member states as well as other regional organizations.

History and Legal Framework

The idea of regional cooperation in South Asia was first raised in November 1980. After consultations, the foreign secretaries of the seven founding countries—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka—met for the first time in Colombo in April 1981. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was formally established on 8 December 1985 with the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Afghanistan became the newest member of SAARC at the 13th annual summit in 2005. The headquarters and Secretariat of the Association are at Kathmandu, Nepal.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

SAARC's mission is to promote welfare of the people of South Asia and improve their quality of life; accelerate economic growth, social progress, and cultural development in the region; provide all individuals the opportunity to live in dignity and realize their full potential; and promote and strengthen collective self-reliance and mutual collaboration in various agreed areas of mutual interest. In higher education, SAARC aims to enhance regional cooperation by promoting educational exchanges, collaborative research, and the sharing of best practices among member countries.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

SAARC is governed by a Council of Ministers, comprising the Foreign Ministers of the member states. The Council formulates policies, reviews progress, and makes decisions on new areas of cooperation. The Secretariat, based in Kathmandu, coordinates and monitors the implementation of SAARC activities. The organization operates on the principle of consensus, ensuring that all member states have an equal say in decision-making processes. While SAARC is an independent entity, its effectiveness is often influenced by the political dynamics among member countries.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

SAARC does not have the authority to accredit higher education institutions. However, it plays a significant role in promoting regional cooperation and integration in higher education and research. The organization facilitates the exchange of information, organizes workshops and conferences, and supports initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education in the region. For instance, the SAARC Framework for Action for Education 2030 outlines strategies to address educational challenges and promote quality education across member states.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

SAARC collaborates with various international organizations to enhance its initiatives. It has observer status with several entities and engages in partnerships to address regional challenges. While the organization primarily focuses on South Asia, its collaborative efforts extend beyond the region, fostering global cooperation in areas such as education, health, and economic development.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

SAARC's impact on higher education is evident through its initiatives aimed at fostering regional collaboration. The proposed SAARC University Network (SUN) seeks to emulate successful models like the ASEAN University Network, promoting joint research, student exchanges, and academic programs. Such initiatives aim to enhance the quality of higher education, promote mutual understanding among South Asian nations, and address common challenges in the education sector.

Summary

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation is a key regional organization dedicated to promoting economic, social, and cultural development in South Asia. Through its initiatives in higher education, SAARC strives to enhance regional cooperation, improve educational standards, and address common challenges faced by member countries. While its effectiveness is influenced by political dynamics, SAARC continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of the region.

FAQs

  • What is the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)?

    SAARC is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising eight South Asian countries, established to promote economic and regional integration, social development, and cultural cooperation.

  • When was SAARC established?

    SAARC was established on 8 December 1985 with the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

  • What is SAARC's role in higher education?

    SAARC promotes regional cooperation in higher education through initiatives like educational exchanges, collaborative research, and the sharing of best practices among member countries.

  • Does SAARC accredit higher education institutions?

    No, SAARC does not have the authority to accredit higher education institutions. However, it supports initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education in the region.

  • How does SAARC collaborate with international organizations?

    SAARC collaborates with various international organizations by engaging in partnerships to address regional challenges and enhance its initiatives in areas such as education, health, and economic development.

Organization Profile


Organization Name




Acronym

SAARC


Year of Establishment

8/12/1985


Control Type

Public


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

8


Contact Details

Address

PO Box 4222; Tridevi Marg
Kathmandu
Bagmati Pradesh Nepal


Phone

+977 (1) 444 5788

Fax

+977 (1) 422 7033

Location Map



Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

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