Abstract

The study examined the implementation challenges of quality assurance in public universities in Ghana with a focus on University for Development Studies (UDS). The study adopted a qualitative case study design. The data for the study was collected through in-depth interviews, document analysis and participants observation. The study revealed that the Directorate of Academic Quality Assurance (DAQA) undertakes many activities geared towards quality assurance and enhancement of quality in the University. The findings of the study suggest that UDS has taken pragmatic steps to assure quality in its operations. However, the implementation challenges of quality assurance include: staffing and offices; quality culture; physical and financial resources; commitment and support for quality assurance; and absence of a current strategic plan. The author recommends that as a multi-campus University, there should be staff and offices on each of the Campuses for effective coordination of quality assurance activities. The study concludes that the Directorate of the Academic Quality Assurance should be supported to develop a quality assurance culture in the University.   

Key words: Quality assurance, challenges, establishment, directorate, university.