Collaboration between stakeholders throughout the Asia-Pacific region is increasingly important to develop quality and relevant lifelong learning systems. Technical planning documents like qualifications frameworks aim to promote transparency around expected learning outcomes.

What is a qualifications framework?

A qualifications framework is a system for classification, publication and articulation of quality-assured qualifications according to a set of criteria. Qualifications frameworks establish levels of learning based on learner outcomes. Many countries have a national-level qualifications framework.

Main features of a National Qualifications Framework (NQF):

• Levels based on expected learning outcomes – Most commonly, NQFs describe tertiary qualifications based on levels of knowledge, skills, competencies, values and attitudes, etc. NQFs provide bases for the development of different  levels and types of qualifications and how they connect vertically and horizontally with one another and how equivalences are established (e.g. how academic and vocational qualifications compare).
• Part of a system of quality assurance policies – An effective system of quality assurance is fundamental to support a well-functioning NQF.
• Multiple sectors and learner pathways – While diverse, NQFs tend to be inclusive of all tertiary education and training sectors and learning pathways (e.g. Technical Vocational Education and Training and higher education institutions, and cover public and private institutions).
• Embrace different ways of learning – NQFs often include different modes of learning, including formal, non-formal and informal learning, so that outcomes are comparable, recognizable and transferable, and thus contribute to lifelong learning. Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) is one example of how authorities can consider flexible learning pathways.

Learn more

• Tokyo Convention on recognition
• Global Convention on recognition
• Guidelines on Developing and Strengthening Qualifications Frameworks in Asia and the Pacific: Building a Culture of Shared Responsibility (UNESCO, 2018)
• Developing Holistic Indicators to Promote the Internationalization of Higher Education in the Asia-Pacific (UNESCO, 2018)
• Guidelines on Implementing Qualifications Frameworks in Asia and the Pacific at Subject Level: Educational Studies and Cultural Heritage Management (UNESCO, 2020)