Mid-term Evaluation of Assuring Quality Higher Education in Sierra Leone (AQHEd-SL) SPHEIR project
Funding
Sierra Leone
2020
Higher Education
Evaluation & Monitoring I Curriculum Development & Reform I Quality Assurance
Introduction
Paeradigms undertook an extensive mid-term evaluation of the ongoing curriculum review (CR) process within eight universities in Sierra Leone. The assessment focused on undergraduate programmes in pharmacy, agriculture, accounting, and business administration, specifically analysing the quality of the CR process and the approach taken by project partners.
Objectives
Paeradigms was brought in to:
Carry out the midterm evaluation of the AQHEd-SL project across the specified disciplines.
Identify operational challenges and blockages faced.
Provide recommendations to ensure continued project momentum.
Background
AQHEd-SL aimed to transform the higher education landscape of Sierra Leone in quality, relevance, access, and affordability. The initiative brought together seven national higher education institutes, the Sierra Leone Tertiary Education Commission, and two international entities. Initial stages of the project experienced challenges in driving forward with multiple partners to achieve its ambitious outputs.
Approach
Paeradigms’ methodology involved:
Secondary data analysis: Delving into available resources and datasets.
Stakeholder engagement: Conducting interviews with both participants and associated stakeholders.
Findings validation: Using triangulation for deeper accuracy and organising a conclusive workshop with partners to validate insights.
Outcome
Paeradigms successfully delivered:
Identification of gaps and risks to address during the remainder of the project.
Recommendations for the remaining phase.
A detailed report.