A delegation from the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) discussed ways to enhance the quality of engineering education with the Washington Accord Executive Committee at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) on January 24, 2025.

The IUB IQAC delegation comprised of Prof. Dr. Md Abdur Razak, Director of IQAC, and Prof. Dr. Md Abdul Awal Khan, Additional Director of IQAC, while on behalf of the Washing Accord Executive Committee, Prof. Lock Kai Sang, Chair of the Committee and Head of the Energy Efficiency Technology Centre at SIT, was present.

Discussions centered on implementing Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and aligning accreditation processes with international standards, particularly those outlined by the Washington Accord.

Professor Lock highlighted the importance of OBE in modern engineering curricula. He provided insights into developing program objectives and learning outcomes that meet industry requirements and global competencies. The meeting also covered the specific criteria and standards set by the Washington Accord for accrediting engineering programs. Professor Lock emphasized the need for continuous improvement and for programs to demonstrate that graduates possess the necessary skills and knowledge.

The delegation discussed self-assessment processes and the role of IQAC in fostering a culture of continuous quality improvement within IUB's engineering programs. They explored potential collaborations between IUB and SIT, focusing on faculty development, joint research projects, and student exchange programs to enhance educational quality and global exposure.

IUB's IQAC plans to revise the engineering curriculum to incorporate OBE principles, ensuring alignment with international accreditation standards. Plans include organizing workshops and training sessions for faculty members on OBE and accreditation processes, potentially involving experts from SIT. Both institutions agreed to maintain ongoing communication to monitor progress and explore further avenues for collaboration.

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