Accreditation is often perceived as stifling innovation—a rigid process focused on compliance and control. In reality, when designed thoughtfully, it can be a strategic accelerator for change and innovation. By setting ambitious expectations, safeguarding trust, and promoting continuous improvement, accreditation frameworks can shape how universities evolve, experiment, and stay relevant in rapidly shifting contexts.

This panel will bring together international leaders from accreditation agencies and commissions to explore how quality systems can act as powerful catalysts for transformation, helping higher education institutions foster innovation, strengthen resilience, ensure equity, and remain aligned with future societal and workforce needs.

Aims

1. Examine how accreditation can shift from a compliance-driven exercise to a strategic driver of innovation, resilience, and transformation.
2. Discuss how quality frameworks can protect trust and equity while supporting new learning models, digital transformation, and diverse student pathways.
3. Explore ways accreditation can enable institutional agility, ensuring programs, governance, and practices keep pace with evolving global challenges and opportunities.
4. Share global perspectives and innovative practices from quality agencies and commissions, highlighting approaches that inspire collaboration and continuous improvement.
5. Reflect on how accreditation can reinforce alignment with national and international priorities, particularly around future skills, sustainability, and societal impact