Introduction to RIPE
The Review of Institutional Performance and Enhancement (RIPE) is a critical element of the quality assurance framework of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. It is designed to comprehensively assess and improve the performance and development of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across the country.
Objectives of RIPE:
1. A Comprehensive Evaluation: RIPE offers a structured methodology for evaluating a variety of facets of an institution’s performance, such as academic programmes, governance, research output, and student services. Commission for Higher Education
2. Continuous Improvement Process: Institutions are encouraged to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies for ongoing enhancement through the Continuous Improvement process.
3. Stakeholder Assurance: RIPE is to provide information to the general public, parents, and students regarding the quality and standards of universities and their affiliated colleges. Commission for Higher Education
Execution:
By June 30, 2025, the HEC has established specific objectives for Quality Enhancement Cells (QECs) within HEIs to accomplish. These targets are included in the evaluation of the Yearly Progress Report (YPR) for the 2023-24 period. The HEC intends to implement RIPE on a limited number of Degree Awarding Institutions (DAIs) to guarantee that they adhere to quality standards.
Relationship to Other Quality Assurance Measures:
RIPE is a component of the Pakistan Precepts, Standards, and Guidelines for Quality Assurance (PSG-2023), a comprehensive document that delineates the policies for internal quality assurance at both the institutional and program levels. The Programme Review for Effectiveness and Enhancement (PREE) is another critical element that emphasizes the self-assessment of academic programs. Commission for Higher Education
In conclusion, RIPE is an essential instrument for the HEC to monitor and improve the quality of higher education in Pakistan, guaranteeing that institutions adhere to established standards and consistently pursue excellence.
Standards of RIPE
The following are standards on which RIPE is conducted:
Standard 1 Vision, mission, goals and strategic planning
Standard 2 Governance, leadership and organization
Standard 3 Institutional resources and planning
Standard 4 Audit and finance
Standard 5 Affiliated colleges/institutions
Standard 6 Internationalization of higher education and global engagement
Academic Development Standard 7 Faculty recruitment, development and support services
Standard 8 Academic programmes and curricula
Standard 9 Admission, progression, assessment, and certification
Standard 10 Student support services
Standard 11 Impactful teaching and learning and community engagement
Standard 12 Research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industrial linkage
Institutional Development Standard 13 Fairness and integrity
Standard 14 Public information and transparency
Standard 15 Institutional effectiveness, quality assurance and enhancement
Standard 16 CQI and cyclical external quality assurance