Challenges in managing postgraduate distance education in a Sub-Saharan African higher education institution

Abstract

Although distance education (DE) is steadily deepening its relevance in the contemporary global higher education landscape, its management is beset with challenges in some developing countries. This study examined the challenges in managing postgraduate DE programs in a public higher education institution in a Sub-Saharan African country. Qualitative data were gathered from course facilitators, managers of the programs, and students, through structured interviews and focus group discussions. It was established that the programs faced challenges related to course material development, internet access, access to the library, Information and Communication Technology, and physical infrastructure, The programs were more print-media supported and face-to-face based than technology-anchored and online-based. For purposes of modernity, cost-effectiveness, and continuous quality improvement, the program managers should develop course manuals and modules and utilise technology-supported virtual teaching and learning instead of the current state of overreliance on face-to-face interactions. For sustainability reasons, the program managers should devise innovative ways of making the programs more practice-oriented to meet the demands of the growing competitive job market.