Master’s Study Considers Youth Livelihood Vulnerability in the Era of COVID-19

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On a remarkable journey composed of chapters of both difficulty and reward, resolute graduate, Ms Sarojini Govender, has emerged triumphant with a master’s degree in Industrial Organisational Labour Studies just before her 60^th birthday.

In the midst of a global pandemic, Govender embarked on a mission to investigate the pressing issue of youth livelihood vulnerability in the Phoenix area, Durban.

The study, supervised by Dr Mabuyi Gumede, revealed that before the world grappled with the far-reaching effects of COVID-19, the Phoenix community was already dealing with the crippling crisis of unemployment. The pandemic only exacerbated this dire situation.

Said Govender, ‘This grim reality prompted me to delve into the economic challenges plaguing my community, with a particular focus on the youth. I was fuelled by curiosity, driven by a sense of civic duty, and grounded in the desire to understand the new dimensions of hardship that COVID-19 had added to the lives of my fellow citizens.’

Despite a tumultuous start which threatened to derail her aspirations, Govender fearlessly navigated the complexities of academic study and followed every protocol, until she took a positive turn.

‘My new supervisor, a dynamic female academic, saw great potential in me and the topic I chose for my research, which was current and relevant at that time. She felt my pain and never rested until my degree was completed. She gave me hope again in the academic world. The rest is history!’ said Govender.

Said Gumede, ‘It always gives me great pleasure to work with a student like Ms Govender who pays attention to detail and has confidence in my supervision and guidance because it makes my life so much easier. Deducing from my own journey as a PhD candidate a couple of years ago, my experience has given me courage to hold my students’ hand in case of a negative comment and nurture positive thinking and cultivate positive attitudes that keep them going even when they reach a point of giving up. “Onwards ever, backwards never!” is my slogan.’

Govender attributes her success to her unwavering confidence, the support of her family, and impeccable time management. Offering the following advice to fellow students facing difficulties, she said, ‘Stand up for your dreams with respect and substantiated evidence. Never let anyone discourage or obstruct your path.’

As an active participant in the political field, Govender has already made impactful proposals on employment creation through government structures and plans to pursue PhD studies.

Words: Rakshika Sibran

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini