Quality management strategies for technical and vocational education and training institutions in Botswana

Abstract

Education is undoubtedly of great significance to everyone, and as a consequence countries are working hard to ensure that their educational systems are responsive to their socio-economic needs. In search for competitive advantage, institutes of higher learning throughout the world are focussing their attention in ensuring the provision of quality academic programmes. Botswana's public technical colleges are no exception. In recent years, the government of Botswana through Department of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (DTVET) has stepped up its efforts to expand and transform technical and vocational education in that country. In spite of these investments, studies show that the quality of training is still a serious concern. This study aims to explore the extent to which the Botswana institutions implement quality management systems. Critical areas and attributes where institutions should focus their efforts in relation to quality are explored. To achieve the objective of the study, both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies were used. The case study research method was employed to investigate issues which have affected the capacity of the institutions to implement quality management systems. Data was gathered from students, teachers and the college management team members by means of a self-administered questionnaire. This study hopes to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by providing insights into the implementation of quality management systems in the training institutions in Botswana.