The Namibian College of Open Learning (NAMCOL) is a Parastatal. This educational institution was created by an Act of Parliament (Act 1 of 1997) which provides learning opportunities for adults and out-of-school youth.

In November 1994, NAMCOL was initially established as a directorate within the then Ministry of Basic Education and Culture (MBEC). This transition period was completed on 1st April 1998, when the newly-established institution took over responsibility for all continuing education programmes formerly administered by the MBEC.

NAMCOL is an autonomous institution, directed by a Board of Governors. At the helm of the management is a Director, assisted by three Deputy Directors, four Regional Managers, a Senior Manager of Finance and Administration  and Middle Management.

NAMCOL employs the services of 87 full- time staff members, and more than 1 500 part-time staff members country wide.  Since its inception, the College has accommodated a total of 337351 learners through its Secondary Education and Professional Programmes. NAMCOL Head Office is situated in Independence Avenue, Katutura, Windhoek.

This complex was formally inaugurated by the then Minister of Basic Education, Sport and Culture (MBESC) on 29 October 1998, Honourable John Mutorwa.

The College’s services are extended throughout the whole of Namibia via the four Regional and Sub-Regional Offices in Ongwediva, Rundu, Otjiwarongo, Windhoek, Gobabis, Keetmanshop and Katima Mulilo.