AUN-QA 4.0: Assessment for the improvement and enhancement of pharmacy education quality (Part 2)

Part 2: Three days of official assessment – ​​Communication, listening and learning

From June 9 to 11, 2026, the Faculty of Pharmacy at Lac Hong University underwent a quality assessment of its academic program based on the AUN-QA 4.0 (ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance) standards. The three-day process was conducted in an atmosphere of professionalism, transparency and openness. This served as an opportunity for the Faculty of Pharmacy to receive feedback and recommendations from international experts, aiming to further refine and enhance the quality of its education.

The assessment process began with an opening session attended by the AUN-QA assessment team, the university leadership, the Faculty of Pharmacy’s management and representatives from relevant departments.

On the first day of the visit, the assessment team toured the facilities, laboratories, library and operation units associated with the Pharmacy training program. This activity provided the assessors with a practical overview of the conditions under which the program is implemented, allowing them to cross-reference these observations with the contents of the self-assessment report.

A key focus of the assessment visit was the series of interviews with the Self-Assessment Report (SAR) team and various stakeholders, including faculty members, support staff, students, alumni and employers. Through these discussions, the assessors clarified numerous aspects of the training program, such as learning outcomes, teaching and learning activities, student support services, scientific research, and facilities, as well as the program's ability to meet the practical demands of the profession. Insights gained from these stakeholders provided the assessment team with a solid basis for an objective and comprehensive evaluation of the program.

During the interviews, faculty members, students and other stakeholders shared their real-world experiences regarding their studies, teaching and professional work with openness and candor. Notably, students from the LHU Faculty of Pharmacy demonstrated confidence, initiative and fluent English communication skills while interacting with the assessors.

The assessment concluded with a closing session on the morning of June 11, 2026. During this session, the assessment team presented a preliminary report, highlighting the strengths of the training program and discussing opportunities for future improvement. The team's feedback serves as a valuable resource for the Faculty of Pharmacy to continue reviewing and refining its curriculum, enhancing teaching quality, and improving the student experience.

The three-day engagement with the AUN-QA assessment team was not merely a quality assessment process; it was also an opportunity for the Faculty of Pharmacy to comprehensively evaluate its achievements and identify areas requiring further refinement. This serves as a vital foundation for the Faculty to continue elevating the quality of education and striving toward regional quality standards.

In the final installment of the series "AUN-QA 4.0: Assessment for improvement and quality enhancement in Pharmacy Education", the Faculty of Pharmacy will share the value derived from this assessment, along with reflections from those who directly participated in the journey.