More than 300 students graduate from Institute for Open Learning

The Institute for Open Learning had its two biggest graduation ceremonies to date when more than 300 candidates officiallly received their qualifications, consisting of certificates, diplomas and degrees during the past two weeks.

This graduation is an historic occasion for the institute as it conferred for the first time ever, the Bachelors of Education (honours) degree.

The core qualifications include the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL), the Policing Pre-qualification Certificate, the Certificate in Policing, the Diploma in Pre-Primary Education, the Advanced Certificate in Senior Primary Education, the Advanced Certificate in Secondary Education, and the Bachelor of Education (hons).

According to IOL Head of Education, Ilana Calitz, except for the ICDL, all the qualifications are locally developed in collaboration with industry partners, the National Institute for Educational Development under the Ministry of Education, and representatives of various schools.

The Institute for Open Learning said it subscribes to the National Curriculum for Basic Education which directs educational institutions catering for part-time learners.

For instance, the institute redesigned the Pre-Primary Diploma in Education, which formerly focused strictly on Grade 0, to the Junior Primary Diploma that prepares teachers to teach from pre-primary up to grade 3. The three-year programme is accredited on NQF Level 7.

Speaking at the Windhoek graduation, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Training and Innovation, Dr Becky Ndjoze-Ojo, encouraged graduates to use their experiences during their training to guide them to become soldiers for Namibia’s economic development.

She further requested the graduates to assist the government and institutions such as the Institute for Open Learning in “Enhancing inclusivity in education especially for marginalised and vulnerable communities.”

This sentiment was echoed by Onamutai circuit acting Deputy Director and Education Inspector, Hilma Nuunyango, who stated that the graduates are embarking on a rewarding and exceptionally important career. “Teaching young people of any age means you make a difference to their lives as they learn, develop and become young adults and for some, leaders in society” she said adding that teachers carry a huge responsibility.

Ndinelao Iimbondi, an Advanced Certificate in Senior Primary Education graduate could not hide her excitement saying that graduating is one of the most rewarding achievements of her life.