This Code of Conduct is to advise National Coordinators of Accreditation (NCAs) and to provide a framework for APACC Accreditors undertaking reviews of TVET institutions and programs operating in CPSC member countries. It is intended to strengthen the working relationship among APACC accreditors and quality assurance agencies in member countries and encourage and enhance ongoing cooperation and communication.

It is not intended that the Code, in any case indicate in precise terms particular action which should or should not be taken, but sets out principles which APACC accreditors are required to apply with good sense, honesty and integrity in the spirit of the Code.

Principle 1. Considerations and Actions for APACC Accreditors When Determining to Undertake Accreditation Reviews of TVET Institutions and Programs in Member Countries

APACC accreditors will:

• assure clear understanding of the relationship of the APACC review to any international agreements that address accreditation and quality assurance;
• project the true image of their respective institutions and APACC which they represent, as an epitome of a strong professional quality agency;
• assure that they have professional capacity to undertake an international review (e.g., qualification, proper training, experience, language proficiency and basic information about the country);
• promulgate a clear statement of the scope of the accreditation and the use of APACC accredited status by an institution or program in a member country, especially with regard to transfer of credit and degree and qualifications equivalency.

Principle 2. Expectations for Conduct of Accreditation Reviews of TVET  Institutions and Programs in Member Countries

APACC accreditors will:

• inform, consult and cooperate with national quality assurance agencies in countries where reviews are undertaken and seek information and guidance from these agencies;
• assure that they are adequately informed about TVET system  and quality assurance in the countries in which they are conducting reviews to preclude the appearance of country-specific educational systems ignorance;
• maintain cordial relationship with fellow accreditors and the constituents of the institution where reviews are undertaken;
• demonstrate integrity and must not  be affected or influenced by any form of extraordinary mode of hospitality accorded by the host institution;
• avoid comparing his institution with the institution under review;
• never make any insinuation or veiled desire to be entertained as VIPs;
• demonstrate decency and must not brag about their roles as accreditors nor engage in any form of argument/debate;
• avoid maligning or discrediting fellow accreditors or colleagues in his own institution and the institution under review.

Principle 3.  APACC Accreditor Expectations for Conduct of Official Interactions and Decorum

APACC accreditors must:

• never indulge in any form of vice, or display offensive or disgraceful behavior;
• not be too demanding in satisfying personal comfort, or in requiring necessary accreditation materials;
• avoid having an "all-knowing" attitude;
• never take along anybody (or extra luggage) during the accreditation visit;
• never attempt to get back home much earlier or ahead of the rest.
• be discreet and careful in handling sensitive matters at all times;
• always use cautious or elegant language in dealing with anyone;
• seek clarification, devoid of pre-conceived notions;
• manage time very well;
• always acknowledge the help extended by others;
• always maintain good grooming and proper decorum; and
• conduct at all times in a professional and collegial manner.

Implementation

This Code of Conduct is to be applied nationally and internationally, and should be the basis for the decisions by APACC for the purpose of self-regulation.

All APACC accreditors must abide by and uphold this Code of Conduct and obey all founding documents and regulations of APACC.

Failure to observe the Code could lead to appropriate action in accordance with the Complaints Procedure set out by APACC.

(Approved by APACC Committee)
 

Any request for interpretation of the principles contained in this Code should be submitted to APACC Secretariat.