The Inadequacy of Current Records Management Education in Preparing Zambian Professionals for Electronic Records Management

Abstract

Zambia's "Smart Zambia" initiative prioritises the digital transformation of public services, a goal contingent on the effective management of electronic records. However, the deployment of an Integrated Electronic Records Management System (IERMS) has been stalled for over a decade. While infrastructural and policy challenges exist, this paper argues that a primary cause is the systemic failure of current records management education in Zambia to equip professionals with the necessary skills to manage electronic records. This study presents a needs assessment survey that juxtaposes the skills gap among practicing records officers against the curriculum offerings of Zambian training institutions. Findings reveal that most records officers lack fundamental e-records competencies, such as identifying core EDRMS and metadata standards. Concurrently, an analysis of existing educational programmes shows a significant lag in incorporating digital curation, information and communication technology (ICT), and contemporary electronic records management content. The study concludes that a fundamental recurriculation of records management education in Zambia is urgently required. It recommends a shift from traditional, paper-based paradigms towards practice-oriented, technology-integrated training programmes developed in partnership with industry and international experts to build a workforce capable of supporting national digital governance goals.