Looking back at 2018, the Agency reviewed 565 programmes under the VSMA Framework for the ex-ante accreditation, monitoring, modification and ex-post accreditation of recognised degree programmes at Catalan universities. This was 10% more than the number of programmes reviewed in 2017, and twice the number of programmes reviewed in 2011.
In addition, 3,042 applications for teaching staff assessment were processed and completed during 2018. This was 16% more than in 2017 and twice the number in 2011.
In short, the Agency doubled the number of its programme and teaching staff reviews and evaluations in seven years. This was unfortunately not accompanied by a comparable proportional increase in resources, meaning that the staff and experts working with AQU Catalunya were directly impacted by the increase in the corresponding level of responsibility and burden, without any additional compensation.
Together with its quality assurance activities, the Agency's knowledge generation activities also increased. 2018 saw the consolidation of the surveys coordinated by AQU Catalunya, with the presentation of the results and findings of the survey of the employment outcomes of Master's graduates and the first report on the results and findings of the satisfaction survey of recent graduates.
Núria Balada
President, Institut Català de les Dones
The principle and fundamental right of equality between women and men is an essential requirement of society. This right, in addition to being recognised by legislation, must be applied effectively in all policies and areas and aspects of life in order for women and men to enjoy the same rights.
In spite of efforts in many sectors in society and government, persistent political, economic and cultural inequalities are the result of social structures grounded in multiple stereotypes associated with the family, education, culture and civil society, which are an obstacle to progress.