A workshop on Quality Assurance Awareness and Training for Early-Career Academics was held on August 6, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM at the Faculty Seminar Room, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Organized by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the event aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the importance and impact of quality assurance practices in higher education. Designed specifically for early-career academics, the workshop provided valuable insights into maintaining academic standards, enhancing teaching effectiveness, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. The workshop was attended by a total of 27 participants, comprising academic staff members from the FAS. Their active involvement contributed to a dynamic and insightful learning environment throughout the event.
Objectives
- Enhance Understanding of Quality Assurance (QA):Introduce the fundamental principles, processes, and frameworks of QA in higher education.
- Highlight the Importance of QA in Academic Practice:Emphasize how QA contributes to maintaining academic standards, improving teaching and learning, and ensuring institutional credibility.
- Build Capacity for QA Engagement:Equip early-career academics with the knowledge and skills needed to actively participate in QA activities within their departments.
- Promote a Culture of Continuous Improvement:Encourage reflective practices and ongoing enhancement of academic programs through QA mechanisms.
The workshop was led by Prof. Nishantha Perera from the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, whose expertise provided valuable insights into the principles and practices of quality assurance in higher education.
Topics Covered: Core aspects of Quality Assurance (QA) in universities, Overview of key QA manuals: Institutional Review, Undergraduate Programme Review, Postgraduate Programme Review, External Programme Review, Introduction to the Sri Lanka Qualifications Framework (SLQF), The critical importance of QA in maintaining academic standards and fostering continuous improvement
Outcomes
- Improved Awareness of QA Principles:Participants gained a clear understanding of the core concepts, standards, and practices involved in academic quality assurance.
- Strengthened Commitment to Academic Excellence:A renewed focus on maintaining high standards in teaching, learning, and research through consistent QA practices.
