Criminology PhD Champions Child Justice

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For Dr Precious Nolwazi Ntuli, graduating with a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology and Forensic Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) marks the culmination of a rigorous academic journey grounded in purpose, justice and a commitment to protecting vulnerable children.

A lecturer in the School of Social Sciences at UKZN, Ntuli has spent years immersed in the complexities of the criminal justice system. Her doctoral research, ‘The Role of the Judiciary in the Preliminary Process of Diversion Programmes in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa’, examines a critical yet often underexplored stage in the child justice process: the preliminary inquiry.

This is where decisions are made about whether children in conflict with the law are diverted away from formal court proceedings.

“Diversion programmes are designed to prioritise rehabilitation over punishment,” Ntuli explains. “They aim to protect children from the harmful effects of formal court processes, while still ensuring accountability.”

Her study interrogates whether these processes are working as intended, and whether decisions made at this stage are fair, consistent and in the best interests of the child.

Driven by a passion for social justice and human rights, Ntuli was particularly interested in the discretionary power held by key role players within the system. This includes probation officers, prosecutors and magistrates. Her findings reveal that while probation officers play a vital role in assessing children and making recommendations, prosecutorial and judicial decisions ultimately determine whether diversion is granted.

“The process is highly dependent on the interaction between different role players,” Ntuli says. “This can lead to inconsistencies, which raises important questions about fairness and transparency.”

Central to her research is the concept of procedural justice, which ensures that children are treated with dignity, that their voices are heard, and that decisions are made in a transparent and equitable manner. Ntuli’s work highlights that when these safeguards are weak or inconsistently applied, there is a risk that outcomes may not fully reflect the best interests of the child.

Her research calls for clearer guidelines, improved training, and a stronger emphasis on child-centred practices within the justice system. “Strengthening procedural justice at this stage enhances both the legitimacy and effectiveness of diversion,” she notes.

Balancing the demands of doctoral research with her role as a lecturer was no small feat. Ntuli describes her PhD journey as both intellectually demanding and deeply transformative. “It required sustained commitment and critical engagement with complex legal and criminological frameworks,” she reflects.

She credits her supervisor, Professor Shanta Balgobind Singh, for providing invaluable guidance and mentorship throughout the process. “Her support helped me navigate every stage of the research, from conceptualisation to completion,” Ntuli says.

Beyond academia, Ntuli’s work is driven by a broader vision: to contribute to a justice system that is not only effective, but humane. “Children in conflict with the law are in a uniquely vulnerable position,” she explains. “They require responses that balance accountability with rehabilitation and protection.”

As a woman in academia, Ntuli sees her achievement as symbolic reflecting the growing contribution of women in research spaces and the importance of perseverance, discipline and purpose.

Looking ahead, she hopes her research will inform policy and practice within South Africa’s child justice system, contributing to more consistent and transparent decision-making processes. She also sees it as a foundation for future research into the long-term impact of diversion programmes.

Words: Lorna Charles-Wright

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini