In a landmark achievement, the Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) has secured prestigious global accreditation from the UK's Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). This historic feat distinguishes APU as the first and only Malaysian university to earn this recognition, underscoring its dedication to academic excellence and rigorous quality standards.
The announcement, made on May 10, 2024, on QAA’s official website, highlights APU’s successful completion of the International Quality Review (IQR), a comprehensive assessment designed to measure the university’s adherence to international quality benchmarks. "Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation in Malaysia has successfully completed its International Quality Review and has been awarded global quality accreditation by QAA", the statement read.
The QAA accreditation process is known for its stringent evaluation criteria, rooted in the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area. This rigorous assessment encompasses ten pivotal areas, including teaching and learning, programme design, student support, research, facilities, resources, governance, and ongoing quality assurance processes.
APU’s accreditation followed nearly a year of meticulous preparation, involving extensive documentation and a thorough on-site audit conducted in March. The review process was carried out by independent QAA reviewers who assessed APU’s compliance with global educational standards.
"The QAA International Quality Review has been a transformative journey towards global recognition and excellence for APU," remarked Prof. Dr. Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor of APU. "The review process has not only reinforced our existing quality standards but has also empowered us to proactively address challenges and adapt to the evolving needs of our students and stakeholders worldwide."
This accolade places APU on an equal footing with 98% of UK universities that are members of QAA, aligning APU’s educational standards with leading institutions globally. The accreditation affirms APU's commitment to delivering high-quality education and enhances its international reputation for academic innovation and quality.
Datuk Parmjit Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of APU, emphasized the broader significance of this milestone for Malaysian and international higher education. "QAA’s recognition places APU at the forefront of international higher education, opening doors to enhanced collaboration and opportunities for our students and faculty", he stated. Singh highlighted that this achievement reflects APU's relentless pursuit of academic quality and its dedication to fostering a global perspective within its educational framework.
APU comprises 14 academic schools, with 11 focused on specific disciplines and three on programme-based studies, with a notable emphasis on digital technology education. Its diverse student body, representing over 130 countries, further enriches the university's global outlook. Parmjit added, "Our student body enriches the learning experience, preparing graduates for success in an interconnected world."
Locally, APU is recognized as a Premier Digital Tech Institution by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation. The university has a robust track record of producing skilled graduates ready to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving technology sectors. The strategic positioning of its campus within Technology Park Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, underscores APU’s commitment to innovation, facilitating collaboration with industry partners, and paving the way for advanced research and industry-relevant programmes.
Chris Bland, Head of Accreditation and Consultancy at QAA, congratulated APU on this notable accomplishment. "QAA is delighted to congratulate Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation on its successful completion of the International Quality Review. We’ve enjoyed working with our colleagues in Malaysia and very much look forward to collaborating with them in the future," Bland said.
APU’s achievement of UK QAA accreditation not only enhances its stature in the global educational landscape but also reaffirms its mission to deliver excellence in higher education. This milestone positions APU to continue its role in shaping future leaders and innovators, particularly in the digital age, while reflecting its steadfast commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation. As APU progresses on its path of academic excellence and international recognition, it sets a new benchmark for Malaysian higher education on the world stage.
