Senior Education Officers' Views on Strategies to Increase Learner Enrolment in the Commerce Field of Study in Namibia Secondary Schools

Abstract

This study investigated the perspectives of Senior Education Officers (SEOs) on strategies to increase learner enrolment and retention in commerce subjects in Namibian schools, as well as the factors they perceived as hindering the successful implementation and teaching of these subjects. Despite the importance of commerce education in equipping learners with skills for trade, entrepreneurship, and economic management, enrolment has steadily declined. Using a qualitative approach design, the study collected qualitative data from SEOs interviews. Findings revealed that while SEOs recognise the potential of strategies such as commerce competitions and teacher training, their implementation remains limited, particularly at regional levels. Barriers found include learners' perceptions that science subjects offer better career opportunities, the perceived difficulty of commerce subjects such as accounting, and national performance concerns that discourage enrolment. The study recommends targeted regional partnerships, awareness campaigns to reframe career opportunities in commerce, and strengthened teacher support systems to sustain commerce education in Namibia.