The Catholic University of Zimbabwe (CUZ) successfully hosted a comprehensive Quality Assurance Workshop aimed at strengthening academic standards, enhancing institutional performance, and aligning the University with regional and international higher education quality benchmarks.
The workshop brought together key academic and administrative staff for a full day of engagement, reflection, and strategic planning. Facilitated by the Quality Assurance Directorate, the session focused on improving academic delivery, strengthening internal systems, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement across all faculties and departments.
Purpose of the Workshop
The primary goal of the workshop was to:
- Reinforce CUZ’s commitment to high-quality teaching and learning
- Equip staff with updated approaches to programme evaluation and accreditation
- Strengthen internal policies and quality assurance processes
- Prepare the University for future audits and institutional assessments
- Encourage collaboration and consistent quality standards across departments
The workshop emphasized the importance of aligning CUZ’s quality framework with the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) standards, regional benchmarks such as SADCQF, and international good practices.
Key Areas Covered
Participants engaged in detailed discussions and activities covering:
- Academic Programme Development and Review
Staff were guided on curriculum design, learning outcomes, and ensuring programmes remain relevant to industry needs and national development priorities.
- Student Assessment and Moderation
The workshop highlighted the need for transparent, fair, and well-documented assessment processes. Staff examined best practices in internal assessment, external moderation, and feedback mechanisms.
- Teaching & Learning Standards
Facilitators shared updated approaches to enhancing teaching effectiveness, integrating technology, and supporting diverse learning styles.
- Institutional Self-Assessment and Audit Preparedness
The session focused on internal audit readiness, documentation standards, and strengthening evidence-based reporting.
- Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)
Participants discussed how departments can consistently monitor performance, identify gaps, and implement improvements throughout the academic year.
Outcome of the Workshop
The workshop ended with key resolutions and action points, including:
- Strengthening departmental quality champions
- Improving documentation, policies, and reporting processes
- Enhancing collaboration between faculties and administrative units
- Implementing continuous monitoring tools for teaching and learning
- Aligning CUZ systems with national and regional quality assurance frameworks
Participants expressed appreciation for the workshop, noting that it helped clarify roles, improve understanding of quality standards, and strengthen CUZ’s overall commitment to academic excellence.
Commitment to Quality
The Quality Assurance Directorate reaffirmed CUZ’s dedication to building a strong internal quality culture rooted in:
- Accountability
- Transparency
- Student-centered education
- Continuous institutional improvement
The University remains committed to delivering high-quality academic programmes that meet global standards while responding to the needs of Zimbabwean communities and the region.
Report by QAD
