Assessing the implementation of the fourth strategic plan (2011-2015) of the University of Namibia

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study was to assess the implementation of the Strategic Plan (2011- 2015) of the University of Namibia. The study applied the mixed methods research approach involving survey and key informant interviews. The population of the study was 689 and the sample size was 239, which was selected using MEDLAB computer software sampling technique. Purposive or judgemental sampling technique was used to select key informants while stratified random sampling was used to select the survey respondents. The study revealed that even though there is a Strategic and Physical Planning Unit spearheading the strategic planning activities at the University of Namibia the process was not fully participatory. It also revealed that the strategic plan could not be effectively implemented due to too many unplanned activities, a high workload for staff, lack of strategic leadership, lack of commitment, lack of funding, lack of support and engagement of stakeholders, as well as the absence of a performance management system. The study recommends the establishment of a strategic planning committee at the institution to co-ordinate and communicate the strategic planning process and that the Strategic and Physical Planning Unit consider holding faculty/centre/unit-specific workshops to ensure carefully designed participation and periodic inputs at all levels. In addition, adequate resourcing and funding of the university by the Government of Namibia as well as the creation of a third income stream to reduce the burden on the government in terms of finances is recommended. Furthermore, the university management should provide strategic leadership to empower staff members to ensure the successful implementation of the strategic plan.