DOI: 10.36347/sjahss.2014.v02i04.017

Pages: 574-578

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) has become an accepted and indispensable part of education systems in both developed and developing countries. The emergence of ODL within the last decade particularly via information communication technologies has altered global market structures. In a dynamic society like the Southern African region, ODL has been used for outreach programmes in remote population groups, to support school education, provision of education and training opportunities for adults’ vocational courses, higher and continuing education. Flexibility and access are clear benefits since ODL frees the student from travelling to a fixed place, at a fixed time, to meet a fixed person so as to be trained. This article aims to explore the various challenges faced by SADC Member States in the development and deployment of ODL practices. Open and distance learning in the Region faces a lot of challenges such as not having national ODL policy frameworks to regulate ODL provision, failing to meet the demand for ODL programmes due to insufficient capacity, negative misconceptions and possibility of not utilizing technology potential. The paper further aims to highlight how these challenges can be addressed at regional and national levels. In order to improve access to quality education, the SADC Secretariat has facilitated the development of an evidence based Regional Open and Distance Learning Policy Framework to support integration, harmonisation and maximisation of resources. The Policy framework provides for harmonisation of both quality and educational outputs.