Ministry of Education has reaffirmed that the Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) programme offers reliable, high-quality education to learners across Malawi.
Speaking at the 2025 National ODeL Symposium hosted by the Malawi College of Distance Education (MCDE), Principal Secretary for Education, Science and Technology Ken Ndala said the ministry has strong systems in place to safeguard standards, with the National Council for Higher Education (Nche) regulating university programmes.
He said it is unfortunate that some employers still undervalue ODeL graduates, noting that many accomplished Malawians, including people in his age group, passed through MCDE.
Said Ndala: “The ministry has the Department of Quality Assurance, which ensures that quality is being provided in all our primary and secondary schools.
“We also have the National Council for Higher Education, whose mandate is to regulate all programmes offered in the country.”
The PS added that ODeL is now widely accepted and offered in most public universities.
“I can assure you that open and distance learning is now being accepted almost in all our public universities,” he said.
On his part, MCDE acting deputy director Fedellis Makaula said ODeL students use the same learning materials as those in face-to-face programmes, dismissing perceptions that the mode delivers inferior education.
“Materials for Open Distance and e-Learning are the same as those used by face-to-face students,” he said.
Makaula added that MCDE continues to use its radio station to expand access to education and raise public awareness on ODeL.
