ZOU defends credibility of degrees

THE Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has challenged the public's negative perceptions about the credibility of the institution's academic programmes saying its courses met all required standards.

ZOU degrees have been previously questioned following allegations that they did not meet the set standards.

Speaking at a ZOU career development and training workshop in Bulawayo under the theme "Learn While You Earn", the institution's acting regional director Onias Mafa said they offered reliable degrees.

"ZOU's degrees are reliable and the courses that we offer have been recognised by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (Zimche)," said Mafa.

"Zimche would have stopped us if our degrees were not up to standard."

Mafa said the issue was being raised as a way of assuring the public to continue its faith in ZOU and not question the credibility of degrees.

He pleaded with stakeholders to help ZOU when it comes to research and attachment opportunities.

Mafa said the career development workshop was held to inform stakeholders to encourage their employees to study through ZOU and have collaborations between stakeholders and the university.

"We are kindly asking stakeholders to work with our institution in terms of attachment opportunities and to build a solid relationship."

The workshop attracted a number of stakeholders, who included the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Bulawayo Polytechnic and National Museums and Monuments.

ZOU has a unique intake where individuals with ‘O' Levels can be enrolled and study towards one of the 39 degree programmes offered by the institution.

The institution arranges payment plans for all students as a way of accommodating those facing challenges in paying tuition fees.