A Tracer Study of Library and Information Science Graduates of Mzuzu University, Malawi

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to trace Diploma and Bachelor of Library and Information (LIS) graduates from Mzuzu University (Mzuzu University), Malawi between 2005 and 2015. The study’s intention was to ascertain the LIS graduates’ career path, to find out the relevance of their educational attainment to their present careers, and to examine their perception about the LIS curriculum. A quantitative study through use of questionnaire, consisting of closed-ended and open-ended questions was executed to collect data. Data were analysed quantitatively. A total of 66 responses were received and used for the study. Most of the respondents were employed in the academic sector and held positions of librarians, information officers and lecturers. The non-library and information science positions held included Information Technology Officer, IT Network Engineer, Marketing Officer, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, and Programme Directors.  Although satisfied with the skills and knowledge they acquired from their LIS programme, the graduates recommended more practical sessions in cataloguing and classification courses and some more courses in ICT.

Keywords: Tracer Study; Library and Information Science Career; Malawi