The Mauritius Qualifications Authority (MQA) was established under the Mauritius Qualifications Authority Act 2001. Its primary objectives are to develop, implement, and maintain the National Qualifications Framework (NQF); ensure compliance with registration and accreditation provisions; and guarantee that standards and registered qualifications are internationally comparable.

Objectives of the Authority:

  1. Developing the NQF: The MQA is responsible for creating a comprehensive framework that encompasses qualifications from primary to tertiary levels. This framework ensures coherence in the qualification system and facilitates the recognition of skills and knowledge.
  2. Ensuring Compliance: The MQA ensures that all institutions comply with the registration and accreditation provisions stipulated in the Act. This compliance guarantees the integrity and quality of educational and training institutions.
  3. International Comparability: The MQA ensures that Mauritian qualifications are on par with international standards, enabling local qualifications to be recognized and valued globally.

Functions of the Authority:

(a) Formulating and Publishing Policies: The MQA formulates and publishes policies and criteria for:

  • The registration of bodies responsible for establishing national standards and qualifications.
  • The accreditation of bodies that monitor and audit these standards and qualifications.
  • The registration and accreditation of training institutions. This ensures that all educational bodies meet the required standards for delivering quality education and training.

(b) Generating and Registering National Standards: The MQA generates national standards for various occupations, ensuring that these standards meet the demands of the job market and are aligned with industry requirements.

(c) Registering Qualifications: The Authority registers qualifications from primary to tertiary levels, providing a structured and recognized system for educational achievements. 

(d)Registering and Accrediting Training Institutions: The MQA registers and accredits training institutions in Mauritius, ensuring they meet the necessary standards for delivering education and training.

(e) Recognizing and Validating Competencies: The Authority recognizes and validates competencies obtained outside formal education and training systems. This validation is crucial for individuals who have gained skills and knowledge through work experience or other informal means.

(f) Evaluating Qualifications: The MQA evaluates qualifications to ensure they meet the national standards and are comparable to international qualifications. This evaluation helps maintain the quality and integrity of the Mauritian education system.

(g) Publishing Annual Lists: The MQA publishes an annual list of registered unit standards, qualifications, and training institutions, providing transparency and information to stakeholders.

(h) Advising the Minister: The Authority advises the Minister on matters related to the National Qualifications Framework, ensuring that the framework remains relevant and responsive to changing educational and industry needs.

(i)  Additional Functions: The MQA performs any other function assigned by the Minister that is relevant to the National Qualifications Framework, ensuring a dynamic and responsive educational system.

By fulfilling these objectives and functions, the MQA plays a pivotal role in maintaining the quality and integrity of Mauritius’ education and training systems, ensuring that qualifications are recognized both locally and internationally.

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