SOME PRACTICAL ISSUES IN THE EVALUATION OF FOREIGN CERTIFICATES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

The quality of the qualifications possessed by mobile students affects job opportunities and the eligibility for other higher qualifications in a country different from the issuing country. The processes involved in the evaluation run on some principles that are worthy of investigation because of the potential consequences which they can have on the aspirant student, institution and labour provider. This paper employed the qualitative method for its interrogation of the issues; hence data collection is through the desktop modality to source relevant information from, published academic journals, books and relevant guidelines. The discussion examined; the procedure for the evaluation of foreign certificates in South Africa and the different approaches to quality management systems in higher education that posed challenges to the evaluation of foreign qualifications. The paper recommends that quality assurance agencies may engage in networking with external agencies and programme experts to ensure appropriate standards are set for the review of qualifications across borders, such external involvement will provide the necessary information and manpower required for such exercise. Also, a constant monitoring and review of the processes and approaches to quality in higher education is of great importance. There is a need to set up mechanisms for the verification of qualifications by all institutions to eliminate falsification and purchase of issued certificates. And lastly, reviewers should maintain ownership of the report of an evaluation of foreign certificates.