The IUA and the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) have recently put in place a Framework Implementation Network, bringing together representatives from all universities, the associated Colleges of Education, the National University of Ireland and the NUI Recognised Colleges. The Network is intended to assist institutions, both on a collective and individual basis, in the implementation of the operational and academic changes arising from the introduction of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), providing a forum where members can share experiences, develop and disseminate good practice, and develop common principles and approaches.
The network is chaired by Prof. John Scattergood of TCD, and supported by both the NQAI and IUA. The first meeting of the Network took place at IUA on 12 December 2007, at which a number of concrete action areas were explored. It is envisaged that working groups will be established to advance in several areas, with the Network meeting up to three times during 2008.
The creation of this Framework Implementation Network comes as the Universities are in the final stages of placing their Higher Diplomas and Postgraduate Diplomas on the NFQ, as well as many of their minor, special purpose and supplemental awards. Further information about the NFQ and the universities can be obtained through the IUA publication "The Universities and the National Framework of Qualifications".