More than a site visit: inside the PAQAA agency review process

Since the beginning of 2026, PAQAA agency reviews have been taking place across Africa, with site visits already completed in Lesotho, Namibia, Egypt and Guinea, and a second round now underway in Senegal, Morocco and Angola. While these visits are the most visible part of the process and usually attract the most attention, they represent only one stage of a review cycle that spans approximately 14 months and includes preparation, training, self-assessment, peer review and follow-up activities.

The process begins long before experts arrive on site. Participating agencies first engage in targeted training on the African Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance (ASG-QA), the review methodology and the preparation of a Self-Assessment Report (SAR). This analytical and reflective exercise allows agencies to examine their own practices and performance before entering the external review phase.

The site visit itself is conducted by a panel of African experts, including a student expert, who review documentation, meet with agency leadership, staff and stakeholders, and discuss achievements, challenges and future developments. The visit serves to verify and deepen the evidence gathered throughout the process and forms the basis for the External Review Report.

Through this approach, agency reviews are not only an assessment exercise but also a structured process of peer learning, dialogue and capacity development. As additional reviews continue across the continent throughout 2026, HAQAA3 will continue sharing insights into the people and processes behind this African-led initiative. Testimonials from experts and agency leaders involved in the first reviews are already available on the HAQAA3 YouTube channel, providing a first-hand look at the experience of participating in a PAQAA agency review.