Curriculum Research and Development (CRD)
The CRD Unit operates under the Quality Assurance and Standards (QAS) Department to develop, review, accredit, and monitor curricula for TVET institutions, ensuring alignment with national and international standards.
Overview
The Curriculum Research and Development (CRD) Unit operates under the Quality Assurance and Standards (QAS) Department within the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development.
Its mandate is to develop, review, accredit, and monitor curricula for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to ensure alignment with national and international standards.
The CRD Unit works in close collaboration with HEXCO, NAMACO, and other stakeholders to ensure that all TVET programmes meet the requirements of the Zimbabwe National Qualifications Framework (ZNQF) and SADC regional standards.
CRD Unit Highlights
Curriculum Development
Industry-aligned programme design and review
Quality Assurance
Rigorous accreditation and monitoring standards
Regional Standards
ZNQF and SADC framework compliance
Institution Registration
Comprehensive TVET institution oversight
Contact Information
Key Functions
Registration and Inspection of Training Institutions
Register and inspect non-government vocational or technical training institutions and examination boards. Ensure compliance with the Manpower Planning and Development Act.
TVET Compliance Inspections
Monitor institutions' adherence to approved standards and ZNQF requirements. Conduct national and regional inspections in collaboration with relevant authorities.
Curriculum Development and Review
Develop and review occupational profiles, qualification standards, and skills proficiency schedules. Ensure curricula align with ZNQF and SADC regional standards.
Accreditation and Assessment of Qualifications
Evaluate both local and foreign programmes for credibility and relevance. Recommend accreditation or equivalence placement based on established benchmarks.
Granting of Charters
Review and approve examination board charters to ensure credibility and governance compliance. Conduct legal, financial, and operational evaluations.
Qualification Confirmation and Exemptions
Authenticate local and foreign qualifications. Process exemptions and credit transfers for recognized prior learning.
Examination Monitoring and Assessment
Monitor examination boards to ensure fairness, integrity, and compliance with set standards. Conduct external assessments and provide curriculum feedback.
Continuous Assessment and Industry Engagement
Monitor curriculum implementation in institutions. Engage assessors and industry experts to ensure training relevance and skills alignment.
Advocacy and Publicity
Participate in provincial, national, and international exhibitions to promote CRD functions and foster collaboration with industry stakeholders.
Support Services
Secretariat & Administrative Services
- •Organize workshops, meetings, and technical sessions
- •Prepare and circulate minutes, circulars, and reports
- •Provide technical advice and coordinate with HEXCO, NAMACO, and other stakeholders
General Office Procedures
- •Manage correspondence, assets, and staff records efficiently
- •Uphold confidentiality and communication protocols in line with the Official Secrecy Act
Grievance & Feedback Handling
- •Receive and forward institutional or regional grievances through established channels
- •Ensure timely resolution and transparent communication with all parties involved
Registration Criteria
Institutions applying for registration must provide the following:
- 1.Letter of Intent to the Secretary
- 2.Completed MPD1 Form and proof of payment (USD 500 non-refundable)
- 3.Local Authority approval and inspection report
- 4.Proof of ownership or lease (minimum 2 years)
- 5.Qualified staff and adequate facilities
- 6.Financial proof of sustainability
- 7.Accredited programmes and compliance with the Factories and Works Act
Important: Registered institutions pay an annual licence renewal fee of USD 500 due by 31 January.