jordan pulse -

The Higher Education Accreditation Commission (HEAC) of Jordan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pearson, the global education and publishing company (FTSE: PSON.L), to align Pearson’s Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) qualifications with Jordan’s higher education accreditation standards. This collaboration aims to expand academic pathways for Jordanian students pursuing higher education after completing BTEC programs.

The agreement reinforces a shared commitment to enhancing education and advancing technical and vocational training in Jordan. Under the MoU, institutions granting higher national diplomas to BTEC graduates must comply with HEAC’s accreditation guidelines to secure local recognition. The partnership also facilitates stringent quality assurance measures while maintaining Pearson’s globally recognized standards.

HEAC President Dr. Dhafer Youssef Al-Sarayrah emphasized the impact of this initiative, stating: “This MoU aligns our accreditation standards for technical disciplines with Pearson’s global benchmarks. Beyond ensuring the quality of Pearson’s programs in Jordanian higher education institutions, it strengthens accreditation frameworks, improving program outcomes and aligning them with labor market needs.”

Since its introduction in 2012, BTEC programs have significantly contributed to Jordan’s education sector, with over 74,000 students enrolling in fields such as engineering, ICT, business, construction, media, hospitality, healthcare, and more. Following a 2023 partnership between Pearson and Jordan’s Ministry of Education, 15,500 students earned a Level 2 diploma, and enrollment is expected to reach 54,000 by September 2025.

Jane Baker, Pearson’s VP of Vocational Qualifications, highlighted the significance of the MoU: “This agreement strengthens our commitment to empowering Jordanian youth with globally recognized qualifications that equip them with essential skills for today’s workforce. By aligning Pearson’s accreditation processes with HEAC’s standards, we’re creating more seamless transitions from BTEC programs to Jordanian higher education institutions.”

Over the next five years, this initiative will play a key role in bridging education and workforce needs in Jordan. Pearson has already trained 1,650 educators across 310 public schools, and the MoU is set to expand these efforts, ensuring students gain practical skills tailored to Jordan’s labor market and beyond.