Beyond Theory – Interview with Dr. Tshepo Mosweu (University of Botswana) by Lerato Tshabalala

Could you please share your journey into the field of audiovisual archiving? What initially drew you to this specialisation?

When I first joined the Botswana National Archives and Records Services in 2008, one of my key responsibilities was collecting oral histories. As you know, oral history involves producing audio-visual recordings, which are a vital part of audio visual archives materials. Before embarking on an oral history field trip, I would ensure that all necessary equipment was available and ready. After the trip, I would process the recordings. This process is what led me to develop an interest in the field of audio-visual archiving. I am now glad that one of the modules I teach at the University of Botswana is the management of audio-visual archives to forth year students.

How does cultural heritage play a role in your approach to audiovisual archives in an academic setting?

With nearly a decade of experience as a practicing archivist, I find that the practical knowledge I gained during that time greatly enriches my academic work. Both inside and outside the classroom, I am able to present students with real-world cases and scenarios related to the management and use of audio-visual archives. This approach helps students better understand the importance of preserving cultural heritage and encourages them to appreciate how archival practices impact society.

How do you see the role of academia evolving to support the future of audiovisual archives?

Thanks for asking that question. I believe that the role of academia in this field is evolving. It is no longer just about imparting knowledge to students in class or conducting research on audio-visual archives. Academia is increasingly involved in developing industry standards for audio-visual archives, collaborating with archival institutions on preservation efforts, and engaging with related industries such as film production and media companies.

Could you share a significant project or initiative you've led or been involved with that reflects your contributions to the field? How have these projects impacted students, the university, or the larger archival community?

As an audio-visual archiving lecturer, I have initiated several significant projects. One key initiative involves taking students on field trips to the Department of Information and Broadcasting, a major institution that generates a large volume of audio-visual materials daily. During these trips, students witness firsthand the creation, management, and use of audio-visual content. Afterward, they write critical reports reflecting on their experiences and connecting them with what they’ve learned in class.

Another initiative I’ve implemented is inviting guest lecturers to speak on specialized topics related to audio-visual archiving. For example, I hosted Mr. Antonio Carlos da Silva, Chief of the Multimedia Resources Unit at the United Nations in New York, who shared insights into their audio-visual digitization projects. I have also invited Ms. Brenda Kotze, Deputy Director of the National Film, Video, and Sound Archives of South Africa, who has shared the South African experience and emphasized the role of audio-visual archiving in preserving cultural heritage. Additionally, I invited local Botswana film producer Mr. Mpho Dintwa to discuss his experience on the use of audiovisual archives in film making and production. I am grateful to all my guest lecturers for the practical knowledge they provide, and these engagements highlight the importance of collaboration between academic institutions, audio-visual centers, archival institutions and other stakeholders. Students are always elated to interact with industry people.

What role do you believe international collaboration and knowledge-sharing play in advancing the field of audiovisual archiving?

International collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential for advancing audio-visual archiving. By comparing resources and sharing training opportunities, financial support, and equipment, we can strengthen the field globally. Such collaborations also play a critical role in developing the necessary standards for managing and preserving audio-visual archives, ensuring that these valuable resources are safeguarded for future generations.

Is there anything else you would like to share regarding your experiences or thoughts on audiovisual archiving?

Audio-visual archiving is a vital aspect of preserving our cultural and historical heritage. In my experience, working in the field has been both rewarding and challenging. My journey began when I joined the Botswana National Archives and Records Services, where I specialized in collecting oral histories. This involved working with audio-visual materials, such as recordings, which deepened my understanding of the complexities of preserving and managing such media.

One of the key challenges in audio-visual archiving is the rapid pace of technological change. Formats become obsolete quickly, and it’s crucial to keep up with digitization and preservation technologies to ensure that materials remain accessible for future generations. Another challenge is the lack of resources especially in our region, Africa, which can make it difficult to maintain and properly store large collections of audio-visual materials. However, these challenges present opportunities to innovate and collaborate across sectors, whether with filmmakers, broadcasters, or other similar institutions.

What excites me about the field is its evolution. Beyond the traditional role of simply preserving records, I see audio-visual archiving as a field that increasingly intersects with areas like film production, media, and even digital technology. I’ve been fortunate to be involved in initiatives that allow students to engage directly with the audio-visual archiving process, from field trips to institutions that generate audio-visual materials to hosting guest lecturers from international organizations. These experiences not only give students practical insights but also emphasize the importance of international collaboration in setting standards and sharing resources.