A Review of Quality Assurance Frameworks in African Universities: Implications for Policy and Practice

HRMARS - Quality assurance (QA) underpins credibility, recognition, and student outcomes in African higher education; yet, practices remain uneven and overly compliance-driven due to resource constraints. The study synthesises peer-reviewed evidence (2005–2025) on QA frameworks, mechanisms, outcomes, and enabling or constraining factors, and proposes an institutional roadmap. A systematic literature review was conducted using multi-database searching, explicit eligibility criteria, dual screening, and a Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) / Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) appraisal, followed by thematic synthesis and PRISMA-aligned reporting. Five themes emerged—structures and governance, resources and capacity, scope imbalance, quality culture, and regional harmonisation—each accompanied by graded confidence statements. The study offers actionable guidance for universities, regulators, and partners and outlines a targeted research agenda.