HA Academy advocates for expanding Qualifications Framework recognition

The HA Academy was established in 2023 and comprises five member institutes offering more than 70 vocational and professional training programmes, some of which have already attained recognition in the Education Bureau’s Qualifications Framework (QF). The Professional Diploma in Nursing, for instance, is accredited at QF Level 5 – equivalent to a bachelor’s degree – while eight Advanced Specialty Programmes (ASPs) offered jointly with universities are accredited at QF Level 6, which is equivalent to a master’s degree. Head of HA Academy Dr David Sun says applications will be submitted to the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) to obtain QF recognition for more programmes, including the Enrolled Nurse (General) Training Programme, the Patient Care Assistant Programme, and various ASPs for different professionals.

Dr Sun points out that the academy will also apply for becoming a Programme Area Accreditation Operator. If approved, the academy is allowed to develop and operate programmes within an approved programme area at the approved QF level or lower levels without the need for individual programmes to be accredited by the HKCAAVQ. Dr Sun explains, “this will enhance HA’s reputation and the recognition of its programmes, enabling staff to obtain recognised qualifications. It will also strengthen collaboration with other academic institutions, facilitate programme articulation, and support staff in their professional development.” He adds, “in addition, the academy will have greater flexibility to introduce more practical and QF-accredited programmes and expand training initiatives based on HA and industry needs, supporting the development of more healthcare professionals.”

Furthermore, the HA Academy is committed to fostering exchanges between staff and healthcare professionals from different regions. This includes collaborations with multiple Mainland institutions for mutual visits, as well as coordinating training in Hong Kong for middle and senior level healthcare management professionals in a range of disciplines, such as paediatrics, psychiatry, accident and emergency.