Quality Enhancement in Business Education through Accreditation Policies: An Empirical Study of Public and Private Universities in Sindh, Pakistan
Keywords:
Accreditation, Quality Enhancement, Business Education, Higher Education, Graduate Attributes, PakistanAbstract
Accreditation and internal quality enhancement mechanisms have become central to improving the standards of higher education, particularly in business education. This study explores how accreditation frameworks, in conjunction with Quality Enhancement Cells (QECs), contribute to improving program quality and graduate attributes in higher education institutions. Employing a qualitative research design, the study draws insights from key stakeholders, including representatives from accreditation bodies and QEC directors. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and were analyzed thematically using qualitative analysis software. The findings indicate that although accreditation councils and QECs are established to ensure quality assurance, their effectiveness remains constrained by several institutional and systemic challenges. These include limited influence on curriculum development, insufficient alignment with industry requirements, gaps in faculty development, and external interferences affecting institutional autonomy. The study highlights the need for stronger integration between accreditation policies and QEC practices to enhance program quality and graduate competencies in business education. The findings offer practical implications for policymakers, accreditation bodies, and university administrators in strengthening quality assurance systems in Pakistan.
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