International Office Discusses ASEAN Qualifications Framework Alignment in Research Progress Meeting: Preparing for DAAD Research Grant Application
Cirebon, August 07, 2025 — An internal meeting to discuss the progress of research on National Skills Qualifications (NSQ) and National Qualifications Frameworks (NQF) in 10 ASEAN member countries was held this week. The session was led by the Director of the International Office, Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D, together with four members of the Global Engagement Team (GET). The discussion focused on differences in qualification levels between countries and their implications for the recognition of skills and competencies at the international level. This meeting forms part of a strategic effort to strengthen educational cooperation and workforce mobility across the ASEAN region. Importantly, this internal meeting represents a crucial step in preparing for the upcoming DAAD research grant application, which offers the opportunity to realize a research project from Germany.
During the discussion, it was revealed that each country adopts a different approach in structuring and defining its qualification levels. For example, Indonesia applies a nine-level NQF system, while Laos and Vietnam have only eight levels. This variation is not merely about numbers but reflects differences in the mapping of skills, competencies, and learning outcomes. “It is not about the number of levels, but the quality and scope represented by each level,” said Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D, during the meeting.
One of the notable findings was the comparison between Level 6 in Indonesia and Singapore. Although the numbers are the same, Singapore’s Level 6 may have higher competency standards than Indonesia’s due to differences in the depth and breadth of skills required. This underscores that determining qualification equivalence cannot be based solely on the level number but must consider the substance of the competencies. This point is considered crucial in establishing a fair qualification recognition agreement.
The meeting also discussed the importance of aligning national qualification systems with international standards without overlooking local characteristics. This is necessary because direct recognition between countries is often difficult due to differences in competencies, assessment methods, and learning pathways. As a solution, an equivalency framework is needed to translate qualifications into contexts relevant to each country.
In addition, the concept of lifelong learning was given significant attention. Learning is not confined to formal education but continues throughout life, both through formal and non-formal channels. Adaptive and flexible qualification systems are essential to ensure that an individual’s skills can be recognized at various stages of their career. This principle has become one of the key foundations in the ongoing research.
The idea of a tiered recognition system also emerged, with clear categorization—such as A, B, or C based on mutually agreed competency benchmarks. This approach is expected to assist institutions, employers, and governments in understanding and assessing qualification equivalence. In doing so, the mobility of students, workers, and professionals within ASEAN can be better facilitated.
At the close of the meeting, Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D, emphasized the importance of continued research and cross-country collaboration. “This is not only about aligning education and training, but also about building trust in the quality of our human resources,” she stated. With solid collaboration, it is hoped that a fair, transparent, and mutually beneficial qualification recognition framework can be established for all ASEAN member countries.
Author: Cindi Aulia