Page 16 - Professorial Lecture - Prof Nengomasha

information communication technology systems are introduced. This could be
one of the many factors which has led to challenges with the implementation
of the EDRMS reported by several researchers (Iipumbu, 2023; Kazavanga, 2022;
Karlos & Nengomasha, 2018; Negumbo, 2018; Nengomasha & Chikomba, 2018).
Challenges reported include low to no usage of the system attributed to low to
no awareness and ownership of the system, a lack of management support,
and failure to address organisational culture and change management. Similar
studies, in Botswana by Mosweu, et al. (2016) and in South Africa by Kwatsha
(2010), identified similar challenges.

Other Ministries in the public service of Namibia have implemented their own
systems to manage electronic records and information. A study by Uahengo
(2022) reported a system meant to manage records but lacking records keeping
functional requirements such as retention schedules. The same study reported a
lack of awareness and training of staff on the management of electronic records.
This supports Note (2020) who argues that the current challenge in archives and
records management is the development of new skills to expedite the transfer of
digital files and to evaluate file format longevity and authenticity (Note, 2020).
However, it is not only training on records management that is required but also
training of members of staff of the public service of Namibia in the use of ICTs. This
was one of the recommendations by Kazavanga (2022) to address the low and
in some cases nonuse of the electronic document and records management
system of the public service. The sharing of knowledge using various ICT platforms
could enhance the adoption of the use of EDRMS. Records management in a
digital environment largely rests with the creators of the records, who have a
large part to play in ensuring that their records are captured in the EDRMS.

Several authors (Karlos, 2023; Mulokoshi, 2023; Tlou, 2020) have researched
on other technology applications in the management of records. Tlou (2020)
researched on the application of modern technologies in the management of
records in public libraries in South Africa and reported awareness of the benefits of
block chain, cloud computing, AI and IoT but slow adoption of the technologies
due to a lack of information technology infrastructure, technical support, and
knowledge and skills. A study in Namibia’s private sector by Karlos (2023) on the
adoption of cloud computing for records management, found some companies
providing cloud computing services to some Government institutions. The
study reported that it was not evident whether the decisions to adopt cloud
computing services were based on electronic records management functional
requirements or convenience and cost. The study also found poor understanding
of electronic records management functions due to lack records management
expertise by cloud service providers or within their organisations. A study in

Prof. Cathrine Nengomasha | Professorial Lecture 16