A framework for archives and records management education in an open distance e-learning environment in eSwatini

Abstract

Literature review reveals that in sub-Saharan Africa, archives and records management (ARM) education is not yet grounded in institutions for higher learning. In eSwatini (previously Swaziland) the situation is even worse as only one institution of higher learning, the Institute of Development Management (IDM) offers ARM programmes at undergraduate diploma level. This is compounded by a lamentation by the beneficiary of the programme, the eSwatini National Archives (ENA), and the education regulator, the eSwatini Higher Education Council (EHEC), that the programme does not address the public sector’s needs in the country and is below the expected standards. Furthermore, the University of eSwatini, which is the biggest institution of higher learning in the country with economies of scale, does not offer any programme in ARM. As a result, organizations in eSwatini either send their records management staff to neighbouring countries such as South Africa, Botswana and Namibia for training, or engage external consultants to conduct in-house training. Sending employees out of the country for training is expensive for organizations and it also paralyses operations during the absence of these staff members. Furthermore, in-house training does not address the in-depth needs and requirements of ARM due to time limitations. In light of this situation in eSwatini, this study proposes a framework for the design and implementation of an open distance e-learning programme on ARM programme. Such a programme can be offered through the University of eSwatini to accommodate students within and outside the country and thus ensuring the eSwatini becomes a player in ARM space within the African continent.