The Intricacy of Quality Assurance Practices in University System in Nigeria: The other Side of the Coin

Abstract

This paper, titled ‘The Intricacy of Quality Assurance Practices in the University System in Nigeria’: The Other Side of the Coin, addresses critical but often overlooked obstacles that hinder the pursuit of quality assurance in Nigerian universities. Ensuring quality in Nigerian universities is intricate, requiring a balance between academic standards and their challenges. While quality assurance is universally recognized as an essential goal, this paper points out that numerous underlying issues such as outdated curricula, reduced productivity, mismanagement, corruption, and internal discord persist, thereby impacting the quality and performance of universities across the country. This research argues that for any institution to effectively ensure quality, it must confront these internal barriers and work towards establishing a foundation rooted in integrity, transparency and cooperation. This can be done through integrating the 'other side of the coin' which is quality control. Quality control which involves identifying and rectifying mistakes and after quality assurance strategies have been effected, it is vital for the reassessment of quality assurance strategies to enhance inclusivity, promote academic development, and foster advancements in research. The paper urges university stakeholders, policymakers, educators and administrators to move beyond conventional approaches in their quality assurance initiatives. This should involve balancing quality assurance and quality control to contribute to the creation of a more dynamic and resilient education system because quality control and quality assurance when balanced maintain educational standards and foster ongoing enhancement. Effective suggestions for the benefit of stakeholders and the university system include enhanced funding, modernized infrastructure and improved governance.