The National Entity for Accreditation and Quality Assurance in Higher Education (NEAQA) marks the International Day of Education on Saturday, 24 January 2026, emphasizing the importance of quality, inclusive and internationally recognized higher education as a cornerstone of social development and youth empowerment.
The theme of the International Day of Education 2026 – “The Power of Youth in Co-creating Education” – aligns closely with NEAQA’s mission. Quality assurance in higher education is a fundamental prerequisite for enabling students and young people to actively participate in shaping education systems, institutional governance and public policies.
The Role of NEAQA
NEAQA plays a central role in the national system of quality assurance in higher education by:
- Ensuring and continuously enhancing quality
NEAQA conducts accreditation and external quality assurance procedures of higher education institutions and study programmes in accordance with national legislation and the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG). - Safeguarding student interests
Through transparent and clearly defined quality criteria, NEAQA contributes to ensuring that students receive education that equips them with relevant knowledge, skills and competences for further academic and professional development. - Supporting student participation in quality assurance
NEAQA promotes the involvement of students in external quality assurance processes and decision-making, reinforcing the role of students as key stakeholders and partners in higher education development. - Strengthening international trust and recognition
Accreditation supports the recognition of qualifications and enhances the mobility of students, academic staff and researchers within the European and global higher education areas.
Why NEAQA Marks This Day
By marking the International Day of Education, NEAQA reaffirms its commitment to:
- continuous improvement of higher education quality in the interest of students and society,
- the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG 4 – Quality Education,
- UNESCO values promoting inclusive, equitable and accessible education for all.
On the occasion of the International Day of Education, NEAQA extends its congratulations and reiterates its commitment to acting responsibly and consistently in enhancing the quality of higher education, in line with national and international standards, for the benefit of present and future generations.
NEAQA congratulates all young people who, through their knowledge, ideas and engagement, contribute to the development of society and remains committed to creating conditions for quality and relevant higher education that empowers youth to become agents of change.