AUS commits to maintaining high educational standards, hosting CAA Certified Reviewer Project Workshop

In its commitment to maintaining superior educational standards in the region, American University of Sharjah (AUS) recently hosted the Certified Reviewer Project Workshop organized by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the UAE Ministry of Education's Higher Education Affairs Division. The three-day workshop, held from May 1 to 3, 2023, brought together academic professionals from different higher education institutions across the region to participate in the comprehensive training program.

The CAA is a UAE government agency responsible for licensing higher education institutions and evaluating their academic programs for accreditation. It works with both international and local authorities to safeguard academic standards and enhance the learning experience for students in higher education institutions.

The Certified Reviewer Project prepares and certifies academics as reviewers for higher education institutions and academic programs. The project consists of three workshops: Preparing the Self-Study Document, Preparing External Reviewers and the Onsite Visit and Onsite Practical Experience (Shadowing).

The second in the series, this workshop introduces participants to the activities and procedures of External Review Teams. Attendees gain the necessary skills to analyze the self-study document submitted by institutions under review, and plan and execute an onsite visit to evaluate the institutions according to the set standards.

Dr. Juan Sanchez, AUS Provost and Chief Academic Officer, said: "At AUS, we are proud to support the CAA's mission of safeguarding academic standards and ensuring the best possible learning experience for students in higher education institutions. The Certified Reviewer Project Workshop is a valuable opportunity for academics across the region to develop their skills and contribute to this important work. We are pleased to host this workshop and play a role in building a strong foundation for the future of higher education in the UAE."

“One of the strategic goals of the CAA is to foster capacity-building activities.  This workshop is a prime example of how the CAA implements this important strategic goal,” said Professor Dawit Teklu,  Commissioner at CAA.

All AUS degree programs are accredited by the CAA reflecting the university's commitment to superior educational standards. Hosting the CAA's Certified Reviewer Project Workshop further supports this commitment to providing a world-class education to students and contributing to the development of a top-notch education system in the UAE.