On May 7th, 2025, the Kurdistan Accrediting Association for Education (KAAE) held a comprehensive Foundational Criteria Assessment Workshop at Salahaddin University – Hawler, guiding participants through the 21 eligibility criteria required for institutions seeking to begin the accreditation process.
The workshop provided a structured and detailed review of the foundational elements that institutions must demonstrate before entering formal accreditation. These included governance and leadership structures, mission alignment, transparency in operations, student learning assessment practices, financial sustainability, and evidence of institutional planning.
Throughout the session, KAAE’s team facilitated discussions that encouraged participants to reflect on their current institutional practices, identify areas requiring development, and consider the types of documentation needed to demonstrate compliance. The workshop emphasized the importance of systematic evaluation and the role of clear, verifiable evidence in supporting institutional claims.
Participants engaged actively with the material, raising questions and sharing experiences related to their internal processes. This interactive format supported a more practical understanding of the criteria and helped institutions begin building internal readiness for future accreditation cycles.
This workshop forms part of KAAE’s ongoing efforts to support higher education institutions in the Kurdistan Region as they work toward strengthening operational effectiveness and meeting national quality assurance expectations. By equipping institutions with a clear understanding of the eligibility requirements, KAAE aims to create a more consistent and transparent foundation for accreditation across the sector.
Additional workshops will continue throughout the year as part of KAAE’s broader strategy to advance institutional preparedness and promote a culture of continuous improvement.