Examining Quality Assurance Frameworks: A Comparative Analysis of ISO 21001 Principles and Morocco’s National Framework for Evaluation and Quality Assurance (RNEAQ)

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<ns5:p>Background The study aims to assess the consistency between the criteria set forth in Morocco’s National Quality Assessment and Assurance Framework (RNEAQ) and the principles established in the ISO 21001 standard. The objective is to determine to what extent the implementation of the RNEAQ criteria would enable compliance with the ISO 21001 standard, as well as to identify areas that need to be strengthened to ensure better alignment. Methods To support this approach, we used a qualitative content analysis method. We analyzed the RNEAQ criteria and, for each criterion, identified the corresponding standard principles, as well as those requiring strengthening and the stakeholders likely to contribute to their implementation. Results The findings of this study reveal that the university in question can meet certain requirements of the ISO 21001 standard. However, particular attention should be paid to ethical conduct, the process-based approach, traceability, and data security. It is important to note, however, that assessing the alignment between the RNEAQ and the principles of the ISO 21001 standard is only a first step. A more in-depth analysis could be conducted to examine the alignment between the RNEAQ criteria and the specific requirements of the ISO 21001 standard, with the aim of further improving the RNEAQ criteria and aligning them with international standards. Conclusion In a context marked by a growing international trend toward the harmonization of practices, aligning with standards such as ISO 21001 is not merely an option but is part of a commitment to continuous improvement. This study could guide educational policies and practices by encouraging institutions worldwide to adopt quality criteria aligned with international standards.</ns5:p>