13 May 2024
Volume: 12
Issue: 13
Dr Boluwatife Olalusi.

Raising Awareness on Climate Change

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Driven by the desire to promote awareness of climate change and ensure the well-being of current and future generations, Development Studies PhD graduate, Dr Boluwatife Olalusi’s novel research examined middle-class perceptions and lifestyle choices towards sustainable climate change behaviour in eThekwini Municipality.

Dr Nompilo Mjwara.

Doctoral Research Investigates Young Fathers’ Experiences

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The number of young people who become parents is growing in South Africa. Seeking to address this issue, Dr Nompilo Mjwara’s PhD study focused on the experiences of young fathers in KwaHlabisa, eMpembeni.

Master’s in Population Studies graduate, Ms Princess Bidi.

Unveiling the Truth: Investigating Intimate Partner Abuse and Challenging Perceptions

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‘As an aspiring academic with a keen interest in social issues, I pursued a Master’s in Population Studies to grow intellectually and address the pressing issues faced by South African society,’ said Ms Princess Bidi.

Master of Social Sciences in Population Studies graduate, Ms Yolanda Mngadi.

Research Explores Zimbabwean Migrant Men’s Health-Seeking Behaviours

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Despite facing challenges like language barriers, building trust with Zimbabwean men, navigating ethical considerations, and managing time constraints, Ms Yolanda Mngadi successfully completed her Master of Social Sciences in Population Studies.

Mr Ryan Henry.

Graduate Sets his Sights on Academia

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Political Science master’s graduate, Mr Ryan Henry is proud of his achievement, but says ‘it is one of many I plan to achieve. I want to study further, perhaps another master’s or my PhD. I aim to expand into other fields of academia while giving back the gift of knowledge.’

Ms Slungile Sigwebela master’s research looks at the impact of COVID-19 on Local Economic Development.

The Economic Impact of Lockdown

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The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in unprecedented challenges in the global and South African landscapes, with its effects still apparent.

Master’s graduate, Ms Amina Ayamu.

Exploring Black Women’s Perceptions of Body Image

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We live in a world ruled by beauty stereotypes. From fad diets promising miraculous results to beauty standards that change constantly, “perfection” is fast becoming a wild rollercoaster through a funhouse of illusions.

Master of Arts graduate, Ms Sindisiwe Zungu.

Study Delves into the Media’s Role in Shaping Gender Identities

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Ms Sindisiwe Zungu received her Master of Arts in Sociology for her research on how media influences public perceptions of gender and stereotypes.

PhD graduate, Dr Kainos Mverecha celebrates his achievement.

Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for Resilience

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Dr Kainos Mverecha’s doctoral study revealed the transformative potential of indigenous knowledge to navigate crises and reimagine development paradigms.

Anthropology master’s student, Ms Nompumelelo Madlala graduating in style.

Study Explores African Female Students’ Perceptions of Beauty

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Perceptions of beauty among Black African female students from rural KwaZulu-Natal registered at UKZN was the subject of Ms Nompumelelo Madlala’s study that earned her a Master of Social Science.

Ms Noxolo Xulu, master’s graduate, beaming with joy.

IsiZulu Proverb Fuels Graduate to Succeed

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An IsiZulu saying: “Qoqa Yonke Into Kusakhanya Ngoba Kungenzeka Kusasa Uvuke Kungasekho” (translated as “Collect everything while it’s still light because you might wake up tomorrow and it’s gone”) inspired Ms Noxolo Xulu’s rural matriarchal family to refuse to let poverty define them and encouraged her to dream big, work hard and succeed.

Master’s graduate, Ms Nonkazimulo Magwaza.

Quitting was Never an Option

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Ms Nonkazimulo Magwaza faced numerous challenges during the course of her studies that nearly broke her mentally.

Master’s graduate, Mr Nirdosh Ramjiawan.

Holistic Healing Through Architectural Design

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A passion for integrating holistic healing principles into architectural design culminated in a novel study that envisions a natural healing retreat in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

Master’s graduate, Ms Nthuseng Nakin.

Impact of the Social Relief of Distress Grant in Cato Manor

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The study by Master of Social Science in Development Studies graduate, Ms Nthuseng Nakin, offers insight into the transformative role of the Social Relief of Distress Grant (SRD Grant) within the vibrant community of Cato Manor, Durban, an area marked by economic challenges and social disparities.

A proposed SMME business hub was the focus of study for master’s graduate, Mr Aaron Biggar.

Transforming Urban Spaces Through Architectural Vision

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Inspired by invigorating runs along Durban’s vibrant streets, Mr Aaron Biggar, an avid sport and fitness enthusiast was awarded his master’s degree for his study on harnessing architecture as a catalyst for economic and social transformation within Durban’s central business district (CBD).