By Frederick Philander
WINDHOEK
The Institute for Open Learning (IOL), which presently boasts a student roll of more than 14 000 countrywide, was last Thursday officially inaugurated as the University of Open Learning at the National Theatre of Namibia.
In a keynote address the Chief Executive Officer of the institution Nick Hearns informed the large audience present that the IOL was established by takeover in 2005 by the Trustco Group of Companies.
“At that point in time IOL had a student complement of 2 500 students.
Today I am glad to announce that the IOL is now officially transformed into the University for Open Learning, UOL, one of the largest distance learning institution in Namibia. This gives you a growth in student numbers of over 500% in a two-and-a-half year period!” Hearns said proudly.
According to him the UOL has invested in excess of N$83 million in financing students to further their studies.
“I am glad to say that this is a prime example of how the private sector supports human resource development in Namibia. UOL accept the responsibility for distance education in Namibia for Namibia. This responsibility and commitment will enhance our mission to improve the quality of life of all Namibians,” he concluded.