The benefits of and possible improvements to University extension education in Lusaka Province

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Date
2014-10-29
Authors
Ng'ambi, Namwai Stabile
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The purpose of the study was to investigate the benefits of and possible improvements to university extension education. The objectives were to establish the benefits of university extension education to its stakeholders who were the graduates, students and members of staff and identify areas of possible improvement in the provision of university extension education. A case study method was employed, in which questionnaires and an interview guide was used to collect data from a sample of 231 respondents. The respondents consisted of 100 student, 100 graduates, 30 part-time tutors and one resident lecturer. The findings showed that students, graduates, tutors and the resident lecturer benefited in numerous ways from participating in university, extension education. The study revealed the following benefits: Acquisition of knowledge; employment both in the formal and informal sector; income acquisition and increased earnings; ability to meet family responsibilities; upgrading of qualifications; opportunity to study while working; involved in the cheapest form of education; opportunity to go for further studies; chance to change career or receive promotion; change of attitude and gain of recognition and respect from society which lead to improved self-esteem. In line with possible improvements to university extension education. The findings revealed that graduates, students, tutors and the resident lecturer suggested the following: setting up libraries and computer labs; building and buying infrastructure; improved communication by administration; employ qualified tutors; market university extension education programmes; formation of a student’s union board; upgrade to teaching degrees and run as a directorate; establish recognition to courses being offered; provision of uniform teaching and learning materials; improve funding and employ more workers in the provinces. In view of the findings the following recommendations are being suggested: university management must provide libraries and computer labs in all the centres. The university must allow extension education to teach degree courses and run as a directorate, improve tutors remuneration and increase funding to university extension education.
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University Extension Studies-Zambia
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