Quality Management in the Context of the Transformation of Higher Education in Ukraine

The article reveals the content and evolution of quality management systems in higher education institutions in Ukraine and worldwide. It analyzes the integration of international ESG standards and identifies barriers to implementing modern quality models in the Ukrainian context. Particular attention is paid to internal quality assurance systems, digitalization, stakeholder engagement, and practices of quality self-regulation. The article examines the use of metrics and performance indicators, the involvement of students and academic staff in quality assessment processes, and the link between educational quality and graduate employability. A comparative analysis of quality models in European countries is presented, as well as the challenges faced by Ukrainian higher education institutions under martial law. The authors propose a modern interpretation of the educational quality management system as a dynamic and adaptive mechanism that goes beyond formal control. The novelty lies in the conceptualization of a dual model for improving the educational process (Kaizen and Kairyo), in the interpretation of quality as part of organizational culture, and in the proposal of a self-regulatory approach to quality assessment in higher education institutions. The results of the article can be used by university leaders to enhance internal quality assurance systems and to develop strategic documents and institutional development plans. Additionally, the approaches outlined in the article may be applied to the development of institutional strategies for sustainable development, curriculum modernization, and the implementation of innovations in teaching and learning processes. This is particularly relevant in the context of global competition and the need to align with the requirements of the European Higher Education Area.