Women’s Transition Back to Office Life Post-Pandemic

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Ms Perdita Naidoo, a dedicated staff member, has completed her master’s dissertation titled “Investigating Women Employees’ Experiences of Returning to the Office After Working Remotely Due to Coronavirus: The Case of the College of Humanities, Pietermaritzburg Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal”.

The research sheds light on often overlooked realities faced by women employees returning to office life after transitioning from remote work during the pandemic.

Supervised by Professor Janet Muthuki, Naidoo’s study offers a unique dual perspective - as both researcher and professional. ‘As a remote worker during the pandemic, a mother of two, and an advocate for gender equity, I experienced both the advantages and challenges of working remotely. Conversations with colleagues revealed substantial gaps in understanding the reintegration experiences of women staff members,’ she said.

These shared stories ignited her desire to formally document and analyse these issues, with the hope of influencing policy and fostering more supportive post-pandemic work environments.

Naidoo utilised her insider status to ask precise and contextually grounded research questions. Her familiarity with institutional practices enabled more targeted inquiry, although she remained mindful of objectivity and professional boundaries throughout.

The decision to focus on women was both personal and political. ‘Being a woman, I’ve noticed how our experiences are so different in the workplace. I want the findings to inform policy changes and make a difference. My investigation highlights how some women often carry disproportionate childcare and domestic responsibilities, which limit their ability to pursue promotions and career advancement.’

‘The disparity was particularly stark during the pandemic, with male counterparts reportedly experiencing fewer barriers to progress. Women with younger children faced more challenges since their children depended more on them,’ she noted.

Naidoo believes her study holds relevance across the Higher Education sector, noting the potential for similar research to be conducted across South African universities.

Participants cited several challenges upon returning to on-site work, including increased anxiety, mental health struggles and burnout. According to Naidoo, these difficulties were compounded by lingering fears around COVID-19 exposure and a sense of isolation brought on by the loss of flexibility.

Still, there were silver linings. Many women appreciated the adaptability of the hybrid model. Their experiences of remote work empowered them to advocate for flexible schedules, reinforcing the value of more balanced working conditions.

Naidoo advocates for the full integration of gender-sensitive workplace policies. ‘Flexible working arrangements can support women’s career progression and work-life balance. On-campus childcare and proactive support systems would help reduce the burden many women continue to carry,’ she said.

From a Gender Studies perspective, Naidoo views remote and hybrid work as an opportunity to challenge outdated norms. She believes that remote work policies can and should acknowledge caregiving responsibilities, contributing to both productivity and staff well-being. However, she cautions that without an equity-centred approach, such policies could entrench - rather than dismantle - existing inequalities.

The research process also prompted personal reflection. ‘Am I inclined to perceive someone as less committed because they leave early for caregiving responsibilities?’ she asked, demonstrating the empathetic and reflexive outlook her study cultivated.

Naidoo champions awareness of the lived realities women face in balancing careers, families and well-being in a world still adjusting to the post-pandemic landscape. She encourages colleagues to pursue postgraduate research and is eager to apply her findings to drive meaningful change within the University.

Words: Rakshika Sibran

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini