MFHEA presents the new guidelines for online accreditation: from 2026 the pilots, from 2027 the entry into force. Institutes called upon to reorganize themselves and invest in internal skills.

Yesterday morning, Friday 5 September 2025, the launch event of the new Guidelines for Quality Assurance for Online Learning Providers took place at the Hyatt Regency Malta in St Julian’s. The meeting, included in the official program of the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA), saw the opening speeches of Ghania Zgheib and Martin Debattista, followed by a discussion with the participants. Among the guests was also, Sergio Passariello CEO of Malta Quality Education, who followed the proceedings by underlining the strategic importance of this update for the Maltese education system.

The work agenda, developed in two sessions, offered a complete overview of the updated guidelines, with space for questions and answers and networking moments between institutions, experts and operators in the sector.

The new guidelines for online accreditation

The document, officially published on 29 August 2025, represents the first revision of the indications introduced in 2021. While maintaining the eight-domain structure, the online accreditation guidelines have been updated to reflect post-pandemic industry changes and the impact of digital technologies, with a focus on the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

The eight domains are divided into four macro-sections:

• The institution, which includes leadership, governance, and personnel development.
• The program, with an emphasis on learning outcomes, curricular design, assessments, and ongoing review.
• Resources, with a focus on technologies, their sustainability and data protection.
• The student, at the center of information, support and inclusion policies.

This approach aims to ensure that online accreditation in Malta is not just a formal procedure, but a coherent framework for the quality of the educational offer.

MFHEA and the change taking place

The work presented today testifies to a precise strategic choice: the MFHEA does not limit itself to defining static criteria but constantly updates its vision to remain in line with the transformations of the sector. Online accreditation therefore becomes a dynamic process, which requires institutions to adopt new organizational models and to face challenges related to resources, technologies and regulatory compliance.

For many institutions, this is a challenging path, which involves reviewing internal strategies, adapting technology platforms and defining clear policies on the use of artificial intelligence. The Authority, for its part, confirmed that the guidelines will be subjected to cyclical revisions in collaboration with stakeholders, to ensure continuity and consistency with the European reference standards.

Staff training as a priority

One of the most relevant points of the guidelines concerns the training of academic and technical staff. Online accreditation cannot be obtained without ensuring that teachers, tutors, administrative and support staff are adequately trained.

The document explicitly refers to the need for constant updating paths, which also include skills related to the ethical and pedagogical use of artificial intelligence. Institutions will therefore have to invest in the professional growth of their human capital, so that online methodologies are not only available, but above all effective and compliant with standards.

Implementation timeline: pilot in 2026 and full entry into force in 2027

During today’s event, it was confirmed that the guidelines on online accreditation will come into force in 2027. Earlier, during 2026, MFHEA will launch a pilot phase  with a selected group of providers, to test the applicability of the provisions, consolidate processes and collect feedback from operators.

This step-by-step approach will allow institutions to plan the required changes more consciously, avoiding being unprepared for the new procedures.

An invitation to preparation and discussion

Considering the innovations presented, Malta Quality Education invites all operators in the sector to start a preparation process immediately. The guidelines on online accreditation will require an internal review of procedures, regulations and organisational structures.

Institutions wishing to acquire a new licence, as well as those already operational, will be able to turn to Malta Quality Education for support and advice, so as to face this transition phase with greater confidence.

The message that emerges from today’s event is clear: online accreditation is no longer a simple technical requirement, but a fundamental step to ensure quality, transparency and trust in the Maltese education system.

Future perspectives between innovation and responsibility

Today’s presentation of the guidelines marks a turning point for online accreditation in Malta. The MFHEA has reiterated its desire to keep the national education system aligned with European and international standards, while institutions are called upon to face a challenging but necessary adaptation phase.

The combination of regulatory review, investment in technology and staff training is the basis for a future in which online accreditation will be synonymous with recognized quality and opportunities for students and providers.

For information and support on online accreditation and to prepare for the adaptation process, readers can contact Malta Quality Education directly.