Ethics Guidelines for the Global Academy of Quality Assurance (GAQA)

The Global Academy of Quality Assurance (GAQA) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and transparency in all of its activities. These Ethics Guidelines provide a framework for the behavior and decision-making of GAQA members, staff, faculty, and stakeholders. Our goal is to ensure that all actions taken under the Academy's name align with ethical principles that promote accountability, responsibility, and trust within the global community.

1. Integrity

• Honesty: All individuals associated with GAQA shall act with honesty in their professional conduct and dealings. Misrepresentation, falsification of information, or dishonesty in any form is prohibited.
• Transparency: GAQA will maintain clear and open communication regarding its policies, procedures, and decisions. Stakeholders should have access to accurate and understandable information relevant to their involvement.

2. Accountability

• Responsibility: Individuals within GAQA shall be accountable for their actions, decisions, and the use of the Academy’s resources. They must fulfill their duties with competence and diligence.
• Oversight: The Academy will regularly monitor and review its operations and the actions of its members to ensure adherence to ethical standards and accountability.

3. Fairness

• Equity: GAQA is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly, without bias, and with equal opportunity. Discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected status is unacceptable.
• Impartiality: GAQA members should act impartially, avoiding conflicts of interest and making decisions based solely on merit and fairness, free from personal biases or external pressures.

4. Confidentiality

• Privacy Protection: Sensitive information, including personal data, proprietary information, and academic work, must be kept confidential and protected from unauthorized disclosure.
• Respect for Intellectual Property: All intellectual property developed within the Academy must be respected, and credit should be given where it is due.

5. Commitment to Excellence

• Continuous Improvement: GAQA is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in all its endeavors. Individuals should strive for continuous learning, development, and the improvement of quality in their work.
• Academic Integrity: All research, assessments, and academic activities must adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty. Plagiarism, cheating, and other forms of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited.

6. Respect and Professionalism

• Courtesy: All members, students, and partners of GAQA should treat one another with respect and dignity, fostering a professional and collaborative environment.
• Constructive Feedback: When providing feedback, it should be respectful, focused on improvement, and aimed at encouraging professional growth.

7. Responsibility to Society

• Social Responsibility: GAQA and its members should act in ways that benefit society, uphold human rights, and contribute positively to global development and sustainability.
• Environmental Responsibility: GAQA is committed to ethical practices that promote sustainability and environmental stewardship in its operations.

8. Conflict Resolution

• Dispute Resolution: Any conflicts that arise should be handled with fairness, respect, and professionalism. Disputes should be resolved through open dialogue, mediation, or other peaceful means, keeping the best interests of all parties in mind.

9. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

• Legal Compliance: All GAQA members must adhere to local, national, and Quality Assurances and regulations, including those related to education, accreditation, and certification practices.

10. Ethical Leadership

• Role of Leaders: Leaders within GAQA are expected to model ethical behavior, setting a standard for others to follow. They should act with fairness, respect, and commitment to the Academy’s values.

These Ethics Guidelines are intended to ensure that GAQA maintains its credibility, reputation, and trustworthiness as a global leader in quality assurance and education. By adhering to these guidelines, we uphold the highest ethical standards and ensure that our actions benefit our students, stakeholders, and the global community.

All members of GAQA are expected to fully understand and comply with these ethical guidelines, and violations may result in corrective actions or sanctions.