Upgrading Extension Programs from Diploma to Degree level at the University of Zambia

The purpose of the study was to explore the views of stakeholders regarding upgrading University Extension programmes from diploma to degree level. This paper is an extract from the thesis submitted for the award of a Master degree.  The objective was to explore on the views of stakeholders regarding upgrading University Extension programmes from diploma to degree level. Through the findings of the study, it may add to the body of knowledge. The study may also help the curriculum specialist at the University to adjust the curriculum.  The University of Zambia Extension Studies may be aware of the stakeholders’ views regarding upgrading University Extension programmes from diploma to degree level. A Concurrent mixed design was employed, the population of the study included students, graduates, part-time tutors and Resident Lecturer. A sample size of 256 respondents was used. The sample size was broken down as follows; 215 students, 30 graduates, 10 part-time tutors and 01 Resident Lecturer. The main respondents of the study were the students. While graduates, part-time tutors and Resident Lecturer were involved in the study for the purpose of triangulating the findings of the study. Expert sampling was used to sample Residentt Lecturer and the part-time tutor and students. While simple random sampling and snowball sampling were used on graduates. Questionnaires and an interview guide were used to collect data. Data was analysed thematically and descriptively. The study showed that the stakeholders were in support of the University of Zambia to upgrade University Extension programmes from diploma to degree level. It was concluded that there are many reasons contributing to stakeholders demanding for the introduction of degree programmes. Some of the reasons were: Competition on the job market, keeping updated with the ever-changing world of technology, earning a good salary, promotion and personal stratification. The study also established that stakeholders preferred to maintain the evening classes. The study recommended that the University of Zambia should clearly show the progression patterns by diploma students from University Extension studies into the mainstream University by providing exemptions for the courses that were covered at certificate and diploma level in respective fields of study. It also recommended that the University of Zambia should also show the various alternatives one can use to progress from diploma to degree level: such as exemptions and/ or bridging courses between the diploma and degree content (if any). Draw supportive structures that will make Extension Studies a formidable avenue of delivering quality University Education to the community and expand the enrolment of the University of Zambia.