Viet Nam's higher education system has developed significantly in recent years, due in part to increasing interest from foreign and private institutions following accession to the World Trade Organization in 2007. Challenges remain, however, to enhancing its quality and there is a critical need for improved quality assurance and accreditation (QAA) mechanisms.

In response to a request from the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET), UNESCO Ha Noi is providing technical assistance to develop a comprehensive QAA mechanism for higher education based on international standards, thereby building the ministry's capacity to develop policies and guidelines that deal with quality cross-border higher education.

In 2010, with the support of UNESCO, MOET completed a draft proposal for a QAA framework which focuses on strengthening the current system as well as addressing its gaps. This framework proposal was developed in consultation with the MOET Task Force on QAA and is based on a review and mapping of national practices and legislation, and on international best practices.

In 2011, UNESCO is working closely with MOET to develop a draft structure for setting up a Quality Assurance and Accreditation body at the national level. In addition, the institutional capacities of this body will be strengthened through training workshops and study tours.