The event gathered representatives from SADC Member States, the SADC Secretariat, and regional experts to advance the revision and implementation of the SADCQF. The meeting constitutes an important step in the broader reform process launched following the decision of SADC Ministers in June 2025 to strengthen the framework and enhance regional cooperation.

Key discussions and technical inputs

Participants reviewed and validated the revised SADCQF Policy and Guidelines, building on the outcomes of previous technical workshops and consultations.

The presentation and discussion of the first SADCQF survey provided a shared evidence base on the state of implementation across Member States, including progress in national qualifications frameworks and key priorities for further development.

Technical exchanges were further enriched by presentations and discussions on:

• The establishment and governance of the SADC Qualifications Verification Network (QVN), aimed at strengthening trust, transparency and mutual understanding of qualifications systems across the region;

• National developments in qualifications frameworks and ongoing reforms across Member States;

• Emerging approaches to micro-credentials, including discussions on definitions, quality assurance considerations and the development of regional guidelines.

Strengthening implementation tools and ACQF-II contributions

A key outcome of the meeting was the validation of the SADC Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Practitioners’ Handbook, developed with support from the ACQF-II project. The handbook provides practical guidance to support institutions and practitioners in implementing recognition systems and expanding access to lifelong learning opportunities.

The ACQF-II project provided inputs on:

• The development of the Qualifications and Credentials Platform, supporting transparency and comparability of qualifications;

• Progress in referencing national qualifications frameworks to the African Continental Qualifications Framework (ACQF), contributing to continental alignment;

• Ongoing ACQF network activities and preparations for upcoming regional events.

In addition, updates from the HAQAA 3 initiative highlighted complementary regional efforts to strengthen quality assurance in higher education systems across Africa.

Towards a coordinated implementation roadmap

The revised SADCQF will be submitted for endorsement at the Joint Ministerial meeting planned for 2027.

Building on these discussions, the TCCA laid the foundations for a new SADCQF implementation roadmap for the period June 2026 to December 2027. The roadmap will guide coordinated actions, including monitoring, data collection, policy development and support to Member States.

The meeting concluded with discussions on national implementation plans and agreement on priority areas for regional cooperation. Overall, the TCCA meeting reinforced a shared commitment among SADC Member States to advance qualifications transparency, strengthen systems of recognition, and promote lifelong learning across the region.