Trevor Sworn
The Cambodian Institute of Directors (Cam-IoD) was established to elevate corporate governance in Cambodia by delivering high-quality educational programmes for directors and board members. Recognising the critical need for strong governance skills among senior professionals, we embarked on the development of the Certified Directors Course. This course is specifically designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills essential for excelling in their leadership and governance roles, both in local businesses and international contexts.
In a rapidly changing business environment, where the demand for transparency and accountability is higher than ever, effective governance is paramount. The Certified Directors Course not only equips participants with foundational governance principles but also prepares them to navigate complex challenges, make informed decisions, and foster a culture of integrity within their organisations.
Read More: The Certified Directors Course: A Pathway to Strengthened Governance and Leadership in Cambodia
Each module of the course is crafted to build upon the knowledge gained in the previous one, facilitating a progressive learning experience. The curriculum covers critical areas such as financial management, strategic planning, risk management, and ethical leadership. By addressing these key aspects of governance, the course prepares participants to take on more significant responsibilities within their organisations.
Creating the Course Standards
Developing the Certified Directors Course involved a thorough understanding of international standards to enhance both the credibility and recognition of the qualification. This alignment with established frameworks is vital for ensuring that the course is respected not only within Cambodia but also in the wider international context. By adhering to recognised standards, Cam-IoD assures participants that their educational investment will yield substantial benefits in their careers.
To establish a solid foundation for the course, I conducted extensive research into various educational standards from countries recognised for their governance frameworks. My aim was to identify a system that would seamlessly integrate into our Certified Directors programme while remaining relevant to the Cambodian business landscape. This involved analysing the structures, assessment methodologies, and learning outcomes of multiple international frameworks.
After careful consideration, I determined that aligning the course with the UK’s Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) was the most suitable choice. The RQF is widely acknowledged for its rigorous standards and systematic classification of qualifications based on both difficulty and size. By integrating these standards, the course offers participants a qualification that not only enhances their credibility as directors but also significantly supports their career progression.
The decision to adopt the RQF was not made lightly. It was driven by the need for a framework that provides clarity and consistency in learning outcomes, allowing participants to engage in a structured educational journey. This alignment with the RQF ensures that our course meets the highest educational standards and prepares participants for the challenges they will face in their governance roles.
Course Credits
The Certified Directors Course comprises six modules designed to cover a wide range of topics essential for effective governance. The first module requires 60 hours of study, while the remaining five modules each require 40 hours, culminating in a total of 26 RQF credits. This structure strikes a balance between providing comprehensive learning experiences and accommodating the time constraints of busy professionals.
Assessment Approach
To ensure that participants can effectively apply their learning, I designed a practical assessment structure that includes a combination of group projects and written assignments.
- Group Projects: These projects encourage collaboration among participants, allowing them to tackle real-world governance challenges. This practical application of knowledge not only enhances understanding but also fosters teamwork and leadership skills.
- Written Assignments: These assignments require participants to analyse and reflect on governance issues, encouraging critical thinking and deeper engagement with the course material.
This two-pronged approach to assessment ensures that participants can demonstrate their understanding in varied contexts.
Ensuring Quality and Fairness
At Cam-IoD, we are committed to maintaining high academic standards throughout the course. Our grading system is aligned with UK standards, categorising performance into Distinction, Merit, Pass, and Fail. This clear classification helps participants understand their performance and areas for improvement.
In addition to the grading structure, we have established a transparent process for participants to appeal their grades if they believe they have been unfairly assessed. This commitment to fairness not only upholds academic integrity but also builds trust among participants, reassuring them that their efforts will be recognised and valued.
Accreditation and Certification
As an independent institution, we implement a self-certification process for the course. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate that acknowledges their achievements and reflects the standards set by the UK framework. This certification not only serves as a testament to their hard work but also enhances their professional credentials, making them more competitive in the job market.
Conclusion
The Cam-IoD Certified Directors Course embodies our dedication to building leadership capacity in Cambodia. By combining local needs with international standards, we equip future leaders with the skills necessary to excel in their governance roles. Our commitment to quality education and professional development aims to foster a culture of responsible leadership that contributes to the long-term success of organisations in Cambodia.
In a world where the importance of effective governance continues to grow, the Cam-IoD is proud to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of corporate governance in Cambodia. Together, we can empower leaders to not only meet the challenges of today but also to drive positive change for tomorrow.
For more information about the Cam-IoD visit: www.cambodian-iod.com
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Trevor Sworn is Working Group Chair of the Cam-IoD and designed and delivers the Certified Director Course.
