Department of Youth in Development

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Open Access
Challenges faced by female police officers within the South African (SAPS): a case study of two police stations in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2016-02-02) Mutwanamba, Rendani Emmely; Maqubela, N. L.; Thobejane, T. D.
Open Access
Challenges facing women in leadership positions in government institutions : a case study of Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District
(2015-03-02) Mutele, Tshilidzi Constance; Thobejane, T. D.; Mphasha, L. E.
Open Access
Contributory factors leading to domestic violence: A case study of Mangaya Village in Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2018-05-18) Nemasisi, Rofhiwa Ronald; Thobejane, T. D.; Mogorosi, L. D.
 Domestic violence is a social problem experienced by people in various settings and social relationships. Factors such as cultural beliefs, patriarchal practices, economic background, socialization process, gender stereotypes are key drivers of domestic violence in our communities. Internationally, the problem is said to be a social ill that contributes to many social problems. Domestic violence takes place across all walks of life regardless of race, age, sexual orientation or gender. It takes place in urban areas and in rural areas all over the world. Domestic violence happens to people who are legally or traditionally married and amongst intimate partners. This study therefore explores the contributory factors leading to domestic violence. The study made use of qualitative research approach. Purposive sampling procedure was used to identify participants who were more willing to take part in the study. The study used Semi structured interviews to collect data. Thus, discourse analysis was used in the study to analyse data. The study was conducted at Mangaya village in Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province in South Africa. The study findings revealed that unemployment is a challenge and contributory factor leading to domestic violence, most of women had suffered domestic violence for a long period of time, children are directly affected by domestic violence within families, most women sacrifice themselves in order to save their marriages and protect their children. The findings of the study indicate that there are various aspects that contribute to the problem of domestic violence. The study recommends that community and police should actively work together in helping the victims of domestic violence to overcome their irrational thinking that is combed by remaining in abusive situations.
Open Access
Contributory factors of conflict in intimate relationships among students: the case of the University of Venda
(2017-05-18) Manjome, Joyce; Raselekoane, N. R.; Mudau, T. J.
Conflicts in intimate relationships causes enormous problems for the well-being of individuals. Young people are particularly vulnerable as they may make bad choices or decisions that may breed conflict in their relationships. This may have far-reaching implications on their well-being. Such conflicts may lead to stress, isolation, violence and suicide among other things. The rate of conflict in intimate relationships has greatly increased among youths. The aim of this study was to explore the contributory factors to conflict in intimate relationships among students at the University of Venda. This study used a qualitative research approach and was exploratory in nature. The study was conducted at the University of Venda, Thohoyandou in Limpopo province, South Africa. The population of the study comprised of University of Venda’s students. Non-probability purposive technique was used for the selection of the study sample. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The interview guide was pre-tested in a pilot study involving the research participants to identify errors in the research questions and to ensure that the data collected would be relevant and as precise as possible. Findings from this study revealed how conflicts are bred in intimate relationships and the ways in which students react and deal with the conflict in intimate relationships. The research recommended that there should be laws enforced to protect the people in intimate relationships.
Open Access
Customary Marriages and Young Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights in Makwarela (South Africa) And Concession (Zimbabwe)
(2021-06-23) Gwatimba, Leah; Raselekoane, N.R.; Nwafor, A. O.
Patriarchy continues to place limitations on women’s rights in many societies. This is manifested by the unequal gender power relations between sexes, which also adversely impact women’s sexual and reproductive health rights. The well-being and health of women are compromised by society’s indifference to women’s sexual and reproductive health rights. Using the key human rights principles of non-discrimination and gender equality, this study aims to promote women’s rights and emancipation, through the abolition of primordial cultural practices in customary marriages which infringe on the rights and dignity of young women. This study interrogated, compared, and analysed the effects of customary marriages on women’s sexual and reproductive health rights and gender equality in Makwarela (South Africa) and Concession (Zimbabwe). A mixed method approach was used, where both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analysed. The qualitative results assisted in the development of a survey instrument for the quantitative phase of the study. Data were collected from young women aged between 18 and 40 years who are engaged in customary marriages and men in customary marriages who are aged between 20 and 45 years. The collected data were purposively sampled for the qualitative study using a semi-structured interview. The quantitative phase surveyed 802 participants (i.e. 401 from each country) who were selected randomly. Data were analysed using narrative analysis and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found that payment of roora/mamalo affects the power dynamics in the family which subordinates women to men and makes it difficult for women to assert their sexual and reproductive health rights. The study reveals that there are various challenges that women face in their customary marriages which impede the enjoyment of their sexual and reproductive health rights. The study exposed challenges like the effects of dry sex, being unable to practise safe sex, and widowhood rites of being celibate. The study also found that relationship control factors make it difficult for wives to refuse sexual advances from their husbands as well as to negotiate for condom use. The study also put forward the intervention strategies that can be used for the promotion and protection of sexual and reproductive health rights of women. The study recommends that the Multi-level Approach to Strengthen, Protect, and Promote Sexual and Reproductive Rights of Women be adopted to facilitate women’s enjoyment of their sexual and reproductive health rights in its entirety.
Open Access
Employees' perceptions towards gender equality: A case study of two mining companies in Limpopo Province
(2017-09-18) Nndanduleni, Dakalo Happyness; Maqubela, L. N.; Mulaudzi, T. P.
Despite a huge increase in female labour force participation in South Africa, gender inequalities continue to undermine decent work objectives. Women employees face inequality and disadvantages in the workplace. Women currently face glaring pay differences, gender stereotyping, discrimination based on family responsibilities and difficulties in balancing work and family life. Gender inequality has always been a problem in the developing countries, and South Africa is no exception. There is extensive evidence concerning the level of gender inequality in the mining sector. This study explores the perceptions of mining employees towards gender equality. The study used mixed methods research approach. The study employed self-report to solicit the perception of gender equality at two mining companies located in Limpopo province, South Africa. A nonprobability type (purposive) of sampling was used to select participants because the interview depended on the availability of participants. The major findings illustrate that the mining sector still remains highly masculine though there has been a movement towards the integration of women into this masculine culture. It further demonstrates that some men believe that women in the mines can only do what is considered to be ‘soft’ duties which are related to domestic chores within the households.
Embargo
Evaluation of Gender Mainstreaming on the appointment process of senior management: A case study of the Office of the Premier in Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2024-09-06) Ngobeni, Ellah Nkensani; Mukwevho, M. H.; Thobejane, T. D.
The challenges of inequality in South Africa’s workplace are compounded by the legacy of the system of apartheid and colonialism. Gender inequality continues to exist even during the new dispensation despite the existence of national, regional and international legislation to address inequality. This study evaluated the extent of the implementation and enforcement of employment equity policies on the appointment of senior management officials at the Office of the Premier. The study adopted a feminist qualitative approach to collect data. The sample of the study comprised males and females in the Office of the Premier. Non-probability purposive sampling to identify and select Deputy Directors, Directors and Chief Directors was used as these categories of employees are in the pipeline and poised to take different senior management positions. Data was collected using interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Due to my position as the Chief Director working in the Office of the Premier, I relied on the process of reflexivity to question and analyse any biases I may have had in the process of collecting and analysing the data. Reflexivity is a process of continual internal dialogue and critical self-evaluation of the researcher’s positionality as well as active acknowledgement; and explicit recognition that this position may affect the research process. Collected data was analysed using thematic analysis. Ultimately, findings and recommendations from the study were shared with the Institutional Development Support Branch in the Office of the Premier for implementation by all sector departments in the Limpopo Provincial Administration.
Open Access
An evaluation of the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in rehabilitating the youth in South Africa: a case study of Bosasa Youth Development Centre's Diversion Programmes in Polokwane
(2015-05) Gwatimba, Leah; Raselekoane, N. R.; Majake, T. W.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Experiences of Abused Unemployed Young Women at Acornhoek Village, Bushbuckridge Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
(2023-10-05) Shai, Doris Felicity; Thobejane, T. D.; Mudau, T. J.
Domestic violence and the economic dependency of unemployed young women are inextricably intertwined. Hence, the most reason why women become victims of domestic abuse is because they are financially dependent on their partners. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the link between domestic violence and the economic dependency of unemployed young women. A qualitative research method was embarked upon to solicit the views of young women who depend on their spouses for their survival. The population was abused, and unemployed young women aged between 28 to 35 years who are from Acornhoek village in Bushbuckridge Municipality. Non-probability purposive and snowball sampling was used as a method to select the participants. To choose the participants, a non-probability purposive and snowball sampling technique was adopted. Ethical considerations were considered for the sake of confidentiality and the safety of the research participants. Semi-structured interviews were employed in the study to obtain data. A thematic data analysis approach employing Atlas.ti software was used to systematically evaluate and report the data. The study revealed that economic independency does not give an individual immunity to abuse. However, it also revealed that economic dependency puts young women at a greater risk of being domestically victimized by their intimate partners. Men view financial support as a grant for entitlement over their partners.
Open Access
Experiences of academic employees in relation to gender equality in leadership positions: A case study of semi-urban University in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
(2018-05-18) Munyai, Ndivhuwo; Thobejane, T. D.; Sikhwari T. D.
Institutions of higher learning continue to reflect gender biases in their endeavor to create an egalitarian atmosphere in their learning environments. These institutions serve to equip people with the intellectual capacities needed to pursue national and regional development advancements. However, gender inequality persists within them. Women continue to be underrepresented at all levels. Women have proven to be productive, more committed, more focused, more competent in executing whatever roles they are given. This study focused on the experiences of academic employees‟ in relation to gender equality in leadership positions at a semi-urban University in Limpopo province. The main aim of the study was to probe the experiences of academic employees‟ in relation to gender equality in leadership positions at this university. The research design was qualitative in approach. This study was conducted at the University of Venda which is situated in Thohoyandou in the Thulamela Local Municipality under the Vhembe District in the Limpopo province, South Africa. The study used purposive sampling to collect data from the participants. Academic employees were the interviewees. The findings of the study are as follows: Institution should encourage the formation of academic and leadership support networks for women; Deans of faculties should support women who aspire to move up the academic ladder instead of frustrating them; Institutions should formulate policies geared at fast-tracking women with leadership potential; Employment equity policies should be fairly implemented so as not to advantage one ethnic or racial group over another, a larger scale study is needed that will cover a considerable number of institutions to gain deeper insight into the problem.
Open Access
Experiences of Student Youth Workers During Work-Integrated (WIL) at Mavambe Secure Care Centre in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2021-06-23) Rankakane, Ngadi Pertunia; Raselekoane, N. R.; Morwe, K. G.; Obadire, S.
Student youth workers are exposed to a variety of challenging situations during work-integrated learning (WIL), especially those placed at centres dealing with young people in conflict with the law. This study aimed to explore the experiences of student youth workers during work-integrated learning (WIL) at Mavambe Secure Care Centre (Mavambe SCC) in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. This study was qualitative in nature. The population of the study was the University of Venda’s Bachelor of Arts, Youth in Development (BAYID) fourth-year student youth workers doing work-integrated learning (WIL) at Mavambe Secure Care Centre. The non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select participants for the study. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews to get in-depth information from the participants through open-ended questions and vignette technique to ease the sensitivity of the research topic. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Ethical considerations were taken into account to protect the participants from any form of harm. The study found that inadequate safety and security, lack of support and monitoring of student youth workers during WIL compromise the quality and effectiveness of WIL. The study recommended that safety and security at the hosting agencies as well as support and monitoring of student youth workers during WIL should be improved.
Open Access
An exploration of experiences and sexual orientation of homosexual (LGBTIs) student of a TVET college in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2017-08-18) Mahasha, Kelly; Maqubela, L. N.; Raselekoana, N. R.
‘Gonyalelwa lapa’ is a form of a marriage whereby a family marries a woman to a deceased son who passed on without having biological children, for the purpose of restoring or reviving the deceased’s name. The woman is married with her existing children, or to bear children who will take the surname of the deceased man. Women find it difficult to leave such marriages for the fear of losing their children whom they signed off by accepting to be married under this type of marriage. This study employs the feminist standpoint methodological approach in order to explore experiences of women who are married for ‘lapa’. The study purposefully selected a sample of 8 women who are married under ‘Gonyalelwa lapa’ as well as 4 key informants. Findings demonstrate that women marry for ‘lapa’ mainly for economic reasons, to escape stigmatization, for the acquisition of the marital surname, which is tied to being acknowledged, respected and recognized by the community. Nevertheless, these women face multidimensional challenges within their in-laws’ households: they receive no support from the inlaws; their girl-children suffer discrimination based on ‘sex-preference’, boys are given more value on the basis that a boy will be able to perpetuate a deceased man’s name. Most women married under this type of marriage suffer from emotional and economic abuse at the hands of their in-laws. The study reveals that these challenges are attributed to lack of physical presence of the husband in the family. The study recommends that a large scale study be conducted on this or related topic, to build knowledge and create an awareness of such a marriage as to facilitate its inclusion in Customary Marriage Act.
Open Access
An exploration of gender mainstreaming in institutions of Higher learning: The case of rural university in Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2018-09-22) Okere, Barnabas Chemachukwu; Thobejane, T. D.; Obadire, S.; Mogorosi, L. D.
Gender mainstreaming has been adopted as a strategy for promoting gender equality in institutions of higher learning worldwide, and not least in Africa. There are perceptions that most strategic higher positions in institutions of Higher learning are dominated by men while women are marginalized. This study therefore explored Gender Mainstreaming in institutions of higher learning. In particular, the study was based at a rural university in Limpopo, South Africa. The study was based on a Feminist Theoretical Framework, where a mixed method approach was embarked upon. The study involved a population of 840 participants who were sampled to 84. Purposive sampling was used to select 9 participants who were interviewed and stratified sampling was used to select a sample of 75 participants who were given questionnaires. The findings of the study are as follows: Males at the University of Venda continue to occupy higher echelons of power. Women continue to be under-represented in the positions of Deans, HODs, School Administrators and Directors. The university has strategies in place for female staff to acquire equal representation in senior management positions. Factors hindering the implementation of the 50/50 parity on gender stem from the lack of commitment from top management, and the stereotyping of women’s roles. Some respondents indicated that they do not know of the gender policy at the University of Venda. The university uses the Employment Equity Act of 1998, but, it is not clear whether line managers are aware how it should be implemented. Gender mainstreaming policy is feasible. The study recommends that there should be more gender awareness activities such as workshops, conferences, and symposia for workers and staff members in order to sensitize them about gender mainstreaming.
Open Access
An Exploration of Leadership Experiences and Challenges of Junior Female Managers in a Rural Hospital Environment, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2018-09-21) Machevele, Kulani Precious; Thobejane, T. D.; Raselokoane,N. R.
In spite of the golden age of women which was ushered in by the Berlin Conference of 1995, women continue to be disadvantaged when it comes to public participation, both in the public and private sectors of the society. On a global scale even when they are well-qualified and in spite of the mainstreaming of more women into public life, women remain discriminated against in terms of accessing leadership positions. Despite their positive contribution, women continue to be significantly underrepresented in leadership positions. The aim of this study was to explore on the experiences and challenges of junior female managers at Tshilidzini Hospital in Vhembe District in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Qualitative method was used because it enabled the researcher to gain in-depth information about the challenges and experiences of junior female managers at Tshilidzini Hospital. This study is exploratory in nature. The population of this study consisted of junior female managers. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select the research participants for this study. Ethical principles were considered, to ensure maximum protection of the research participants in this study. Face to face interviews were used to solicit information on the experiences and challenges of junior female managers at Tshilidzini Hospital. Thematic data analysis method was used in this study. The study found that gender discrimination is still widespread in South Africa, despite of the availability of many gender equality policies. The study recommends that policy makers, various government departments and law enforcement agencies makers should strengthen the gender machinery, to ensure that women are not denied an opportunity to take up leadership positions.
Open Access
An exploration on the challenges faced by youth in lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and intersex relationships at Mkhuhlu Location, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
(2018-05-18) Mohale, Robert; Thobejane, T. D.; Chari, T.
This study seek to explore the challenges that are faced by youth in lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) relationships at Mkhuhlu location. The study argues that this cohort, just like any other, should be afforded human rights, and the choice to be in lesbians, gays, bisexual, transgender and intersex relationships. Research has shown that those who believe sexual orientation is inborn are more likely to have tolerant attitudes towards lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and intersex people, whereas those who believe it is a choice have less tolerant attitudes. The study was undertaken at Mkhuhlu location and the respondents were males and females in lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and intersex relationships. A feminist epistemological approach to doing research guided the process of data collection while also employing a qualitative approach in interpreting the data. An exploratory design was used to gain a broader understanding in the challenges that youth in lesbians, gays, bisexual, transgender and intersex relationships are faced with every day. A Sample of 10 respondents from Mkhuhlu location was selected. Non-probability sampling was used and snow-ball sampling method was also used to draw the required sample. The data was collected through the use of guided unstructured interviews. The findings in this study reveal that LGBTI youth have faced various challenges in their daily lives. LGBTI people face considerable levels of stigmatization, discrimination and harassment in their daily lives. These challenges have negative impact in the lives of LGBTI youth and also bring various emotions, which include intense sadness, anxiety, loneliness, discomfort in social situations, and feeling overwhelmed. The study also found that there are strategies that can be employed in order to alleviate the challenges of LGBTI youth, through education the misperception that LGBTI sexual interest is uncommon and sinful may be corrected if realistic, developmentally appropriate sex education is made accessible to the public.
Open Access
An Exploratory Study of Crime Among High School Learners in Nzhelele East Circuit, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2015-05-18) Mathungeni, Recheal Nthangeni; Raselekoane, N. R.; Mashau, T. S.
High school crime has become a major problem all over the world including South Africa. The aim of this study was to explore the nature, causes and effects of youth crime amongst learners in high schools in Nzhelele East Circuit. Three high schools known for high crime rate were purposefully selected. A mixed method approach was adopted. Focus groups were conducted among the Life Orientation teachers in the selected schools to collect qualitative data, and questionnaires were administered to learners to collect quantitative data. Purposive sampling was used to sample Life Orientation teachers for the focus groups. Stratified random sampling was used to survey 40 grade 10 and 40 grade 11 learners from each of the three high schools (240 learners). Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and the quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics methods. Consequently, the results from the two methods were compared and triangulated. Ethical precautionary measures were taken to avoid harm to the research participants. The study found that a variety of family, economic and environmental factors contribute to crime in schools. Findings of this study assist the teachers, learners, parents and the Department of Education authorities in the Vhembe District to gain a better understanding of the nature, causes and effects of crime among high school learners. Only a multi-pronged strategy can be effective in overcoming crime which is plaguing many high schools in South Africa.
Open Access
Exploring experiences of female academics at a higher education institution Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2017-09-18) Muleya, Abgirl; Maqubela, L. N.; Mulaudzi, T. P.
Institutions of higher learning are still masculine-orientated; this creates a barrier for women in terms of career advancement. To this effect women are under-represented in top academic positions. The study employed qualitative research methods to explore factors that contribute to the under-representation of women in senior positions at the University of Venda. A combination of purposive and convenience sampling was used to select twenty five female academics (25). Data was collected through primary and secondary data, semi-structured interviews were used to elicit and illuminate women’s voices on issues that affect them and a thematic analysis was used to analyse the collected data. The research findings demonstrate that the University’s environment continues to be masculine-oriented within most of employment categories as well as in academia where women struggle to thrive. Women face multiple challenges in ascending the academic ladder which results in the under-representation of women in management and academic levels. These challenges included: the stringent criteria for promotion which do not seem to accommodate women, especially mothers, lack of female role-models, mentors and networks. The second major barrier is the teaching work-load which poses difficulties for women, preparations for teaching took long hours leaving them with no time for family, research, publication, as well as to further their studies, which are necessary requirements for promotion. The third major barrier women are faced with is the challenge of balancing multiple roles - as students, workers and mothers. Balancing these multiple roles makes it difficult for women to meet the highly stringent promotion criteria in the University
Open Access
Exploring gender division of labour within households: the case of Schoemansdal Village in Nkomazi Local Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
(2018-05-18) Shabangu, Busi Florence; Thobejane, T. D.; Mogorosi, L. D.
One of the most pressing issues contributing to the persistence of gender inequality is the gendered division of domestic labour. Women still carry out more domestic labour than men. Housework is shared quite unequally among most married couples. Work performed directly in the service of families including housework and childcare is often unacknowledged all over the world because of cultural assumptions that a wife or mother should work in the privacy of the home. This study adds extra depth to the doing gender approach by testing whether or not couple negotiate specific conjugal and parent roles in terms of the division of household labour. This study therefore seeks to discuss numerous variables that impact the division of household labour between men and women. This study suggests that patriarchal power structures seem to take a powerful and effective impact on the South African marriage institution, especially in the black communities. The study was therefore conducted in Schoemansdal village situated in Nkomazi region, Mpumalanga Province. To explore issues behind gender division of labour within households. The study embarked on a qualitative research design to collect and analyze the data. Samples of married men and married women were selected in this study. The findings of the study are as follows: Women do a disproportionate share of the housework, even when the women work and the men don‟t, and even when the women want to share the housework more equally. When men aren‟t working, they don‟t see domestic labour as a means of contributing. In fact, they double down and do less of it, since it challenges their masculinity. But when men earn more, women who are almost all working too, feel obliged to contribute in some way to maintaining the household, generally by cooking and cleaning.
Open Access
Exploring socio-economic challenges faced by female headed households in rural districts: The case of Manama village, Matebeleland South Province in Zimbabwe
(2018-05-18) Nyathi, Abigail Nkazimulo; Thobejane, D. T.; Ndlovu, I
In most developing countries, poverty is concentrated in female headed households especially in rural areas. Notably, these rural areas are fast becoming female spaces, as most men migrate to urban areas and neighbouring countries. The critical role of rural women in eradicating poverty through agricultural labour force, subsistence farming and rural development in sub-Saharan Africa, has been recognised by scholars yet they are the poorest and their contribution has not been fully acknowledged by the community or governments. To understand this phenomenon this study investigated the socio-economic challenges faced by female headed households, causes of high vulnerability and their coping strategies in Manama village, Matabeleland South province, Zimbabwe. This study was informed by feminist theoretical approaches of conducting research as it employed several qualitative research methods, namely key participant individual in-depth interviews; Focus group discussions; field participatory observation and documentary reviews to collect data. The findings of the study were that, due to the country’s economic situation, constrained mobility and lack of collateral security to secure credit, women have a double burden of responsibility with numerous challenges such as unequal wages in hired labourer work, inadequate food for the family, financial burdens. However they have their own coping strategies such as voluntary community networks. This study concludes by making recommendations, for gender mainstreaming in policy, agricultural extension services for Female headed households, creation of markets, counselling and psychosocial support. This research contends that although these women find themselves in a patriarchal frame they have decided to outgrow it and be autonomous as they fight the socio-economic challenges they face. They have numerous socio-economic challenges but the participants themselves are self-asserted. They are not stopped by patriarchy and are exemplary as they work hard and venture outside the domestic space to engage in honest work to take care of their households.
Open Access
Gender differences in the socialization patterns of children within the family: a case study of Mashau Bodwe Village, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2015-05) Ramashau, Mulalo; Thobejane, T. D.; Lehloka, M. G.
See the attached abstract below