Key words: accreditation, external quality assurance, higher education institutions, management system, quality assurance, institutional development, higher education reforms.
Summary
In the context of globalization and increasing international competition, quality assurance has become an essential element of effective governance in higher education institutions. Accreditation, as a key external quality assurance mechanism, plays an important role in improving governance structures, decision-making processes, accountability, and institutional development. This article analyzes the impact of the accreditation system on the governance of higher education institutions in Azerbaijan, focusing on its influence on management practices, internal quality assurance systems, and strategic planning. The study shows that accreditation functions not only as a control mechanism but also as a developmental tool contributing to sustainable institutional improvement. At the same time, the effectiveness of accreditation depends largely on the integration of its outcomes into internal management processes and the existing quality culture within higher education institutions.
