16 Jul 2015

Ministry of Health is aware that the majority of lecturers at Francistown Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) are first degree holders and the institution offers higher diploma, says Assistant Minister, Dr Alfred Madigele.

Dr Madigele told Parliament that IHSs were affiliates of University of Botswana.

According to affiliations and validation policy of 2003, he said first degree was an appropriate qualification for lecturers in a diploma offering institution citing Directive 21 of 1993 scheme of service second and third level education (lecturing cadre).

He said it explains that for training and professional development at diploma level, a degree level qualification and experience in teaching were required.

Therefore, he said lecturers at HIS were qualified to teach a higher diploma.

The assistant minister said his ministry trains staff up to masters’ level including staff from IHS.

Further, he said ministry recognises and appreciates the need for training up to PHD and had candidates who had indicated interest in pursuing such training.

Francistown East MP, Mr Buti Billy had asked the minister if he was aware that the majority of lecturers at Francistown IHS were first degree holders whereas the institution was now training higher national diploma, and if so, would he consider upgrading the teaching services to masters and PhD level. ENDS