The Namibia College of Open Learning (Namcol) is working towards transforming into an open university, with a planned launch in 2028 or 2029. This move aims to expand educational opportunities for students across the country. Deputy executive director for higher education, training, research and innovation Lisho Mundia stated that the ministry is seeking Cabinet approval for the transformation. The process has not yet begun, but the ministry is working to obtain the necessary approval.
Namcol, established in 1997, is a state-owned institution providing open and distance learning opportunities to students who cannot attend conventional schools or institutions. The institution's chief executive, Kadhila Ngepathimo, revealed that the transformation agenda has been underway following the endorsement of the minister of education and the establishment of a transformation committee. A technical expert from the Commonwealth of Learning is assessing Namcol's current position and benchmarking it against comparable open universities.
The proposed transformation will not compromise Namcol's existing triple mandate of secondary education, technical and vocational education and training, and higher education. The institution plans to maintain and strengthen these areas, expanding its program offerings from secondary and vocational qualifications to degrees and postgraduate studies. Namcol will continue to provide flexible and technology-enhanced learning to working adults, out-of-school youth, and people in rural communities.
Students currently enrolled with Namcol can expect continuity in their studies, with the transformation opening up a broader range of qualifications and progression routes over time. Ngepathimo assured that the change will not disrupt the current academic programs. The transformation is expected to improve the social perception of qualifications obtained through Namcol, as some people do not take Namcol qualifications seriously due to their association with subject upgrading and alternative education.
Namibia National Students Organisation spokesperson Ndayola Mulongeni welcomed the proposed transformation, saying it could expand access to higher education for students, particularly those in rural, underserved, and remote areas. She believes this development will positively impact many students' lives and make university education more accessible to people who cannot attend traditional institutions.
Mulongeni also noted that the transformation could improve the social perception of qualifications obtained through Namcol. She stated that some people do not take Namcol qualifications seriously due to the institution's association with subject upgrading and alternative education. The transformation is expected to change this perception and increase the value of Namcol qualifications.
The transformation of Namcol into an open university is a significant development in Namibia's education sector. With the planned launch in 2028 or 2029, Namcol aims to provide more opportunities for students to access higher education. The institution's focus on accessible education and distance-learning models is expected to make a positive impact on the country's education landscape.
Key points
- Namcol targets a 2028 launch as an open university to expand student opportunities.
- The transformation will maintain Namcol's existing triple mandate and expand program offerings.
- The change is expected to improve the social perception of qualifications obtained through Namcol.
