The Quality Assurance Office has organised a forum entitled "Enhancing National Qualifications Framework Submissions: Insights, Challenges, and Best Practices" at the Al-Fahm Hall. A group of academics and experts in quality assurance and academic accreditation units participated in the forum.

The forum commenced with a welcome speech by Prof. Sulaiman Al-Balushi, Director of Quality Assurance Office. This was followed by an introductory presentation on the National Qualifications Framework in the Sultanate of Oman, which outlined its fundamental concepts and role in developing academic and professional qualification standards. The presentation also highlighted key findings from the review of NQF submissions by various colleges, the most significant lessons learned, and the challenges encountered by educational institutions in this context.

The forum also featured discussions on the experiences of different colleges in submitting their applications for programme listing. The College of Education and the College of Engineering presented the key strengths and opportunities for improvement in their NQF-listed programme applications. Additionally, the College of Economics and Political Science shared insights into the challenges faced during the programme accreditation process and the best practices that could be adopted to enhance future submissions.

The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring Prof. Hussain Al-Kharusi, Assistant Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Service, Prof. Sulaiman Al-Sabei, Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Sulaiman Al-Balushi, and Prof. Thaqib Ali, Assistant Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Research at the College of Economics and Political Science. The panellists explored prospects for improving NQF submission processes and the challenges faced by academic institutions in this regard.

This forum is part of the QAO's ongoing efforts to raise awareness among faculty members and specialists about the importance of the NQF and to ensure that academic programmes align with its requirements. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of higher education in the Sultanate of Oman.