ISSN 2167-0439
International Journal of Management and Business Studies ISSN: 2167-0439 Vol. 2 (3), pp. 054-058, December, 2012. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Re-tooling open and distance learning institutions for competitive survival: Answering the challenges in the Zimbabwe Open University’s Masvingo regional campus
Dumbu Emmanuel* and Chadamoyo Patrick
*Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]
Received 09 August, 2012; Accepted 22 December, 2012
Abstract
As competition in the higher education environment intensifies, opportunities can be harvested only with the right operational mode and the right partners. The study sought to cross-examine how the Zimbabwe Open University, an open and distance learning institution survive in the competitive environment. A convenient sampling sample of 50 Zimbabwe Open University Faculty of Commerce and Law students in Masvingo region participated in the study. The study used a qualitative research design whereby questionnaire with open-ended items solicited responses to how to survive the competition. Data was qualitatively analysed thematically. Findings indicated that the region apply the global service approach by meeting customer demands, efficiency service, maximising business opportunities and differentiating against competitors. The study recommends the global service delivery approach than the traditional fragmented model of delivering service and the region to establish global network solution centres, global delivery centres and local project organisations to beat competitors and satisfy customers.
Key words: Re-tooling, competition, open and distance learning, challenges.