Alberta College joins the CHAIN5 Association

In 2025, Alberta College became a member of the CHAIN5 Association. CHAIN5 is an international cooperation platform that brings together higher education institutions, professional colleges, employers’ organisations, student bodies, and other partners involved in short-cycle higher education (leading to EQF Level 5 qualifications).

Among the members of the association are:

• national and international associations and networks for VET, HE, SCHE, HVET and other Level 5 qualifications;
• employers’ organisations;
• student organisations;
• universities, colleges, universities of applied sciences, and vocational education institutions (both public and private);
• business academies;
• experts in EQF Level 5;
• researchers and consultancy agencies.

Within CHAIN5, several thematic teams operate, focusing on specific areas, including: Work-based Learning, Internationalisation, Stakeholders and Level 5, National Networks, Quality Assurance, VET4EU2, Projects, High VPE / Level 5 Area, Conferences, and Communication.

What is CHAIN5 and why is membership important?

The aim of CHAIN5 is to promote cooperation between member countries and organisations, strengthen quality standards in short-cycle education, develop international initiatives, and facilitate the exchange of experience. It is a platform that unites institutions implementing Level 5 study programmes and supporting innovation and quality improvement in education systems.

What does CHAIN5 membership mean for Alberta College?

Membership in CHAIN5 provides Alberta College with significant advantages and development opportunities:

• Development of new international cooperation projects with educational institutions of a similar profile across Europe.
• Participation in regional meetings, thematic working groups, and initiatives.
• Strengthening research capacity in the field of Level 5 education.
• Promotion of Latvia’s short-cycle education experience on a European scale through the association’s extensive network.
• Opportunities to engage actively in policy discussions, quality assurance matters, and international projects.

A step forward in the international development of the College

Joining CHAIN5 is an important step in the international growth and academic advancement of Alberta College. It aligns with the College’s strategic goals — promoting internationalisation, strengthening scientific cooperation, and improving the quality of education.

More about the CHAIN5 Association: https://www.chain5.net/