The study sought to ascertain staff competencies in the planning and establishing of an open repository at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). The study used the following critical questions as guide: What knowledge, skills and personal attributes are required in the planning and establishing of a successful open repository in an academic institution?; How significant a role do personal attributes such as attitudes and perceptions play in the planning and establishing of an open repository at BUAN?; and, What measures may be put in place to reinforce the planning and establishing of an open repository at the BUAN? The study adopted a case study approach. The study population consisted of BUAN academics, Library staff, and Information Technology (IT) staff. A number of knowledge sets, skills and personal attributes emerged from the study as being required in the planning and establishing of a successful open repository at BUAN, critical amongst these being knowledge of metadata and metadata standards as well as research data management. An important recommendation emanating from the study related to repository advocacy and outreach among BUAN academics as well as on-going training of library repository staff to keep them abreast of latest repository developments.