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The Executive Secretary of TEC, Patrick Molutsi, said the private institutions' speedy response could have been influenced by the government's promise that they will sponsor students once these institutions register with TEC. Molutsi affirmed that a lot of institutions have not applied for registration due to lack of experience. "Our intention is to produce quality education, therefore, we require a comprehensive business plan; one that indicates business viability. We also want evidence that quality education shall be provided," he said. Molutsi affirmed that there are public institutions that are not yet registered and that they are assisting them to meet the requirements. By registering tertiary institutions, Molutsi believes they will get rid of bogus institutions that are often owned by families. Should any institution fail to have registered by the end of the year, Molutsi said legal action should be taken. Upon receiving an application, it takes the council up to two months to assess if the institution qualifies, he said. Prior to registration of a private tertiary institution, the council has to be satisfied that the registration is in the best interest of tertiary education in Botswana. There should be sufficient proof of the continuing need for the institution and its services. The institution should also make a significant contribution towards broadening the availability and access of tertiary education. It should also stand a good chance of operating successfully continuously. The applicant shall provide ownership; they should represent a body corporate legally constituted in Botswana. There should be an indication that the people have the credibility and expertise to govern the institution. Applicants should produce a master plan that shows services infrastructure that is sufficient to the number of staff and students. Library facilities should be in place to cater for programmes offered. The public tertiary schools have to prove the continuing need for their services. It should show that it stands a good chance of maintaining high organisational and academic standards. Molutsi said the first batch of registered schools would be released soon. So far TEC has received applications from the University of Botswana, Institute of Health Sciences-Gaborone, Botswana College of Agriculture and BOCODOL. Meetings and consultations were held with the Institute of Health Sciences for Lobatse and Serowe and Bamalete School of Nursing. Colleges of education had to be returned to rectify some shortcomings in certain areas. Molutsi said that some institutions have applied for universities but their applications were turned down as they did not have sufficient funds.
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