Boipelo Kesamang, Regional Director of the Botswana Open University (BOU) Maun campus, has raised concerns over low student enrolment despite steady registration figures, urging a higher uptake of open and distance learning (ODL) in the North West District.
Presenting before the North West District Council (NWDC), Kesamang revealed that while registration numbers typically hover around 150, actual enrolment remains significantly lower, currently standing at only 95 students.
She noted that 40 learners have been successfully admitted into senior secondary schools, attributing this progress to targeted interventions such as increased partnerships, greater use of technology, a strengthened research culture, and deliberate community engagement.
Despite these gains, Kesamang highlighted several challenges hindering the institution’s growth. These include a declining government subvention, which impacts operations, human resources, and infrastructure development. She also cited negative perceptions surrounding ODL, low income among prospective students, and poor connectivity in rural areas as major barriers.
The presentation further revealed a significant gender imbalance, with females accounting for 81 percent of the student population compared to just 19 percent males. Additionally, 62.5 percent of students are currently employed, reflecting the flexibility of the BOU learning model.
Kesamang encouraged the public to enrol children who have dropped out of school, as well as adults wishing to continue their education, emphasising that learning must remain accessible to all.
Thamalakane Riverside Councillor, Tebogo Mokoya, urged the institution to intensify outreach efforts by engaging communities directly and raising awareness among young people who may be unaware of their options to return to school. He also encouraged BOU to assist learners in accessing employment opportunities.
Area Councillor for Kgosing Kubung, Magonamo Mmolainyana, stressed that education should not be limited to the youth, noting that lifelong learning is essential in a rapidly evolving digital world.
“Even farmers need to be educated, as services from the Department of Veterinary Services are now accessible through the internet,” he said, adding that this requires basic literacy and digital skills. Mmolainyana also expressed concern over the low male enrolment and encouraged more men to seize these learning opportunities.
NWDC Chairperson, Honourable Itumeleng Kelebetseng, urged the institution to utilise kgotla meetings to reach a wider audience and ensure communities are fully aware of the opportunities available to further their education.
