• Level descriptors

The TQFMC proposes a ten (10) level qualifications framework. This proposal is premised on the fact that most of the member states have or are developing NQFs with ten levels. The level descriptors have been drafted and are included in the consultation document. It is imperative to note that where qualification types are added it is done for illustrative purposes only. The actual registration of qualifications will employ the quality assurance mechanisms that have been collectively agreed to by Small States of the Commonwealth.

• Qualifications assurance guidelines

The quality assurance mechanism for the TQF adopts a flexible directive approach rather than being prescriptive. It relies exclusively on the quality assurance systems of the National Quality Assurance Agencies (NQAAs) of the member states or other recognized QAA, as such agencies tend to have a legitimate status. Guidelines have been drafted to which we hope the providers and NQAAs would subscribe. These guidelines are predominantly informed by the UNESCO guidelines for quality provision of crossborder higher education. A difference is that the TQF is based on voluntary membership premised on acceptance of its guidelines prior to the registration of qualifications.

Although qualifications nomenclature is not uniform across the small states, there is a groundswell of common activities relating to quality assurance of education and training in these member states. This would strengthen the growth and the expansion of the TQF.

• Qualifications guidelines

The TQF was also mandated to develop guidelines for translation of qualifications. To this end proposals are made with regard to different qualification types, credits, translation criteria and credit transfer. Attention was also given to processes leading to the registration of qualifications onto the TQF.