23 May 2018

The chief curator of Archeology and Monuments at the National Museum, Dr Phillip Segadika says museums need to change their strategy of marketing themselves by using new technology of Internet connectivity.

Speaking at the annual International Museum Day which was held at Kgosi Sechele I Museum in Molepolole under the theme: Hyper connected museums: New approaches, new public, DrSegadika said museums should not neglect the new technology development used in the 21^st century as it could be a marketing tool for them.

He emphasised that as the Internet technology was a fast and reliable tool, people outside Botswana would access services and products provided by museums within a short period of time.

He further said through the new Internet technology, artists’ exhibits would be marketed easily and fast, and that it would change their lives.

Dr Segadika said as the theme focused on the use of Internet technology by museums, it was important to know their audience and involve them to understand the technology better, indicating that there should be interaction. “Museums are challenged to come on board to consider new approaches to address the needs and lifestyle of the new public,” he said.

Dr Segadika said museum were the mirror of society, indicating that it should be a place where everyone was welcomed to learn more about the history and archeology of the past.

He Segadika said as a new regional museum for Kweneng would be built in Molepolole, it was a great investment and that it should not only reflect Bakwena history, noting that every Motswana should feel part of the museum, hence the use of Internet technology.

He said it was time for technology engineers to be involved and work around the clock for museums to achieve the benefits of using Internet technology. Kgosi Sechele I Museum curator, Power Kawina said they were currently developing a website which they would use to market and sell their services to society, adding that as artists were their critical partners, they would use the website to sell their exhibits.

He said the museum, in partnership with Sequel Enterprises, was developing a mobile software application which would enable people to access every information they needed to know about Kgosi Sechele Museum wherever they were through their phones. The museum curator emphasised that through the software application they intended to attract more people, especially the new generation in the country.

He further said as Kgosi Sechele I Museum they wanted to partake in the development of the country by continuing to promote artists, indicating that Internet technology would improve artists’ lives.

A representative from Sequel Enterprises, Mogomotsi Motlogelwa emphasised that as most people nowadays used Internet technology like social media, it was time for museums to use Internet technology as it would enable them to compete in the market around the world.. ENDS