Training programme

The QADOC training program aims to strengthen the capacities of ministries, quality assurance agencies, and partner African universities in the evaluation of doctoral training and research. Aimed at representatives from the six universities in the consortium, as well as ministries and agencies from the participating African countries (Senegal, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Guinea), this plan combines a hybrid approach with theoretical resources, case studies, practical models, and educational videos, while incorporating European and international best practices adapted to the African specificities.

The stages of the programme

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Phase 1: Online training (March – April 2025)

At the beginning of the program, online training will be offered. This phase will include a workshop on the use of assessment tools developed within the framework of QADOC, such as external assessment standards, the assessment guide, and an introduction to self-assessment processes. Participants will also have access to online resources to prepare for upcoming study visits.

Access training on evaluating research and doctoral programs Access the webinar “Strengthening academic research – European-African perspectives on quality assurance”
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Phase 2: Study visits in Europe (7 – 11 April 2025)

Once the online training is complete, participants will have the opportunity to take part in study visits in Europe, including Barcelona, Tarragona, and Montpellier. These visits will provide an opportunity to discover European best practices in research evaluation and doctoral training. Meetings with experts will be organized to enable participants to discuss quality assurance processes.

Training materials – Study visit in Europe (April 8–10, 2025)
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Phase 3 : Mentoring and Gap Analysis (April–June 2025)

In this phase, African universities will be supported by European partners in analyzing the gaps identified during the visits. Mentoring sessions will help guide institutions in implementing quality assurance processes in accordance to their needs. Each participating institution will write a self-assessment report that will serve as the basis for the next steps in continuous improvement.

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Impact evaluation

To ensure the program’s effectiveness, evaluation mechanisms will be put in place, such as participant surveys and impact reports. These tools will allow to evaluate the application of the skills acquired and identify areas for improvement for future editions of the program.