A quarterly publication of AQU Catalunya
He leaves behind a more resilient, accessible and highly regarded agency. Jaume’s approach to leadership, combining high standards with a willingness to listen and engage in dialogue, will leave a lasting impression.
Jaume Valls i Passola’s term as director of the Catalan University Quality Assurance Agency (AQU Catalunya) ends on 30 September, making this edition the perfect opportunity to share with the AQU community our appreciation and gratitude for his outstanding contribution as head of the institution.
Throughout his tenure as director, Jaume Valls has demonstrated strong yet collaborative leadership, guided by an open, constructive mindset and a constant focus on finding solutions. He has played a key role in strengthening the relationship between the agency and the universities, consistently showing a willingness to listen, understand and help, while upholding the rigour and high standards expected of an institution dedicated to quality.
His time in office has been guided by a firm commitment to transparency, institutional collaboration, and ongoing improvement. Among his most significant achievements, the push for institutional accreditation deserves special mention. This step has enabled progress towards a more mature and sustainable model of quality assurance and strengthened confidence in universities’ ability to manage their own academic quality.
Under his leadership, AQU Catalunya has cemented its role as a benchmark in the Catalan Higher Education System. It has also increased its presence and recognition nationwide, particularly within the Spanish Network of University Quality Agencies (REACU), where the organisation’s voice has been heard and valued. Internationally, his proactive involvement in organisations such as ENQA and INQAAHE has helped solidify AQU’s global reputation as a committed and innovative quality assurance agency.
He leaves behind a more resilient, accessible and highly regarded agency. Jaume’s approach to leadership, combining high standards with a willingness to listen and engage in dialogue, will leave a lasting impression.
We wish him all the best for the future and are confident that he will continue to contribute, wherever he may be, to the further development of the higher education system and the promotion of quality. Many thanks.