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Item Embargo Gendered Dynamics of Online Harassment: Experiences of Facebook Users in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, South Africa(2026-05-19) Mbulaheni, Tshililo; Chari, T.; Mabika, M.Despite the growing concern about online harassment globally, there is a significant gap in understanding the experiences of Facebook users in the global South contexts, particularly in relation to gender. While research has shown that online harassment is a pervasive issue worldwide, there is limited research that specifically explores the gender dynamics of online harassment in the South African context. This knowledge gap is significant, as South Africa has a unique cultural and social landscape that may influence the ways in which online harassment is perpetuated and experienced. Furthermore, a lack of research on this topic in the African context means that there is limited understanding of the impact of online harassment on different genders. To address this knowledge gap this study explored the gendered dynamics of online harassment, focusing on the experiences of Facebook users in Thohoyandou Limpopo Province, South Africa. The types of harassment experienced by Facebook users, how male and female users of Facebook experienced harassment, and the possible ways of mitigating harassment on Facebook were key questions addressed in this study. Data were collected using a combination of semi-structured interviews with 10 residents of Thohoyandou who were identified through the referral sampling strategy. Data from semi-structured interviews were complemented by qualitative content analysis of Facebook posts on Facebook accounts of three purposively selected prominent public personalities, namely, Makhadzi, Queen Beyonce Makondo, Captain SABC Livhu online TV. Qualitative data from interviews and content analysis was thematically coded to extract themes relating to the gendered dynamics of harassment on Facebook. Findings reveal that online harassment is deeply gendered, with women experiencing frequent, severe, sexualised abuse targeting appearance and sexuality, while men face attacks questioning masculinity and status; prevalent forms include body shaming, cyberbullying, sexual harassment, and hate The study underscores the need for strengthened, gender‑sensitive platform moderation, accessible reporting mechanisms, community support systems, and digital‑citizenship education to mitigate harassment and promote safer, inclusive online environments in Thohoyandou. The study revealed that harassment on Facebook takes multiple forms, including body shaming, cyberbullying, racial and cultural discrimination, sexual harassment, hate speech, impersonation, stalking, boundary crossing, trolling and revenge porn. Together, these behaviours create a hostile online environment that undermines users’ emotional wellbeing, social relationships and sense of safety. The study underscores the need for strengthened, gender‑sensitive platform moderation, accessible reporting mechanisms, community support systems, and digital‑citizenship education to mitigate harassment and promote safer and inclusive digital spaces.Item Embargo Adoption of Social Media in Community Radio Content Production and Programming in South Africa: A case of MakhadoFM(2026-05-19) Mundalamo, Ndwakhulu; Chari, T. J.Social media has fundamentally transformed the community broadcasting landscape globally, South Africa included. Social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and WhatsApp are increasingly integrated into the daily operations of community radio stations, reshaping how news is gathered, produced, and distributed. These platforms facilitate participatory communication, allowing audiences to contribute insights, opinions, and feedback, and enabling stations to promote their programmes and personalities to a broader and more engaged audiences (Bulani et al., 2023). Community radio stations can leverage on the technological affordances of social media for audience building, branding, accessing expert content, and real-time listener engagement. Technical attributes of social media such as interactivity, network building, and information sharing-support the participatory ethos central to community broadcasting. Despite these benefits, the process of adopting social media in community radio has been uneven and often unstructured. Many stations lack formal guidelines or designated personnel to manage digital integration, resulting in underutilisation of social media’s full potential. This can create a disconnect between on-air listenership and online engagement and restricts the ability of stations to expand their reach and impact (Bosch, 2014). While there is a growing body of research on the adoption of social media in mainstream media, there remains a significant gap in scholarship specifically focused on community radio’s integration of these platforms in South Africa (Bulani et al., 2023). Drawing insights from the Technology Adoption Model Theory (TAM) and Diffusion of Innovation theory, a qualitative case study research design anchored on semi-structured interviews, document analysis and observations was deployed to gain insights into how social media is integrated in the everyday operations of MakhadoFM in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study revealed that MakhadoFM deploys a variety of social media platforms for news sourcing, news dissemination and audience engagement to enhance its operations in an increasingly competitive media environment. The study broadens existing literature on social media usage and adoption of digital media in community broadcasting in contexts where communities are underserved by the mainstream media.Item Embargo The efficacy of digital media marketing in student recruitment in Higher Education: the case of a rural-based university(2026-05-19) Nemasetoni, Mphinyana; Chari, T.Underpinned by the Technology Acceptance Model, this study examined the effectiveness of digital media marketing in student recruitment at rural-based higher education institutions in South Africa, with specific reference to the University of Venda. While digital media marketing has become an essential tool for student recruitment globally, its effectiveness within rural-based institutional contexts remains underexplored. This study examined the efficacy of digital media marketing in student recruitment at the University of Venda, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative research approach within an exploratory research design to gain an in-depth understanding of institutional practices and stakeholder perceptions. Data were collected through focus group interviews with students and alumni, as well as indepth interviews with staff members involved in marketing, communication, student recruitment and student administration. The qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis supported by the Atlas.ti version 8 software. The findings revealed the strengths and limitations of existing digital media marketing strategies at the University of Venda, including challenges related to institutional capacity, resource allocation, digital skills, platform selection, and audience reach within rural contexts. Furthermore, the study identified the type of institutional support, strategic alignment and digital innovation required to enhance the effectiveness of digital media marketing in student recruitment. The study also contributed to academic scholarship on digital marketing in higher education, while also providing practical recommendations to improve student recruitment strategies at rural-based universities in South Africa.Item Embargo Efficacy of communication strategies employed by the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve to promote environmental awareness and sustainability(2026-05-19) Sebashe, Taetso Bridget; Chari, T.; Nodoba, T.Communication plays an important role in fostering environmental awareness and sustainable behaviour in biosphere reserves. Existing studies emphasise the importance of communication in biosphere reserves. However, these studies often lack context-specific analysis. The communication strategies employed by biospheres, including the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve (VBR), are poorly studied in South Africa, making it difficult to understand how these initiatives influence local communities' environmental awareness and behaviour. Therefore, this study evaluates the effectiveness of the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve's communication strategies in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. The communication strategies employed by the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve to create environmental and sustainability awareness among stakeholders, the effectiveness of these strategies in creating environmental and sustainability awareness among stakeholders, and the possible ways the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve uses to enhance environmental awareness and sustainability are the core questions in this investigation. The study employed a qualitative research method involving semi-structured interviews with 3 purposively sampled participants from VBR and 14 purposively selected stakeholders. Semistructured interviews were complemented by data document analysis. The findings reveal that Vhembe Biosphere Reserve employs a multi-channel communication strategy that utilises digital, traditional, and face-to-face engagement channels. Although digital methods broaden reach and improve visibility, they are ineffective in isolation. Integrated and participative communication, especially with marginalised community members, fosters trust, inclusion, and sustained engagement. The study concludes that strengthening environmental communication within the VBR requires a shift towards more integrated, participatory, and community-centred approaches that combine digital and traditional communication channels. This study contributes context-specific insights to environmental communication scholarship and offers practical guidance for enhancing inclusive and sustainable environmental awareness initiatives in South African biosphere reserves.Item Embargo Social media deployment in climate change advocacy in South Africa: the case of Living Limpopo and Earthlife Africa organisations(2026-05-19) Theko, Mmakgotso; Chari, T.Social media has become a key tool for climate change advocacy, allowing environmental advocacy organisations to shape public attention, share information, and mobilise communities. In South Africa, where climate impacts are severe and access to information is unequal, effective communication is essential. Underpinned by the agenda-setting theory and media richness theory, this study investigates the deployment of social media in climate change advocacy in South Africa, using Living Limpopo and Earthlife Africa as case studies. How Living Limpopo and Earthlife Africa use social media for climate change advocacy, why they use social media for climate change advocacy, as well as the milestones and constraints they face in using social media for climate change advocacy, are the core questions in this study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and textual/content analysis of social media platform posts. An interview guide was used to collect data from participants, while a code sheet was used to collect data from social media platforms. In this study, content analysis was employed to complement the findings obtained from interviews. The findings show that both organisations use social media to raise awareness, promote public education, and mobilise audiences around advocacy campaigns. The use of rich media formats such as images, videos, and infographics improves message clarity and audience engagement. However, limited resources, inconsistent posting, and digital inequalities affect the effectiveness of communication. The study concludes that social media is a vital agenda-setting and advocacy tool when integrated with rich media and supported by offline engagement in the South African context.Item Open Access An Evaluation of Grades 10 and 11 English First Additional Language Learners’ Interpretation of Verbal and Nonverbal Cues in Cartoons: A Case Study of the Sibasa Circuit, Limpopo Province(2026-05-19) Nelwamondo, Anza; Sikitime, T. E.; Demana, N. V.English First Additional Language (EFAL) learners often struggle to interpret verbal and nonverbal cues in visual texts, affecting comprehension and engagement. This study aimed to evaluate the interpretative repertoire of Grade 10 and 11 learners regarding verbal and nonverbal cues in cartoons, focusing on selected English First Additional Language (EFAL) learners in the Sibasa Circuit, Limpopo Province. The study sought to answer the following question: How do EFAL learners interpret verbal and nonverbal cues in cartoons? The study adopted an exploratory design to generate insights and identify key variables, while the descriptive part provided a more detailed, structured analysis, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem. The population for the study comprised 18 grade 10 and 11 EFAL learners from purposively selected secondary schools within the Sibasa Circuit. The study adopted administered tests for data collection. Data was triangulated with thematic and relevance theory underpinning analytical perspectives. The findings of the study show that participants face various challenges that affect their ways of attaching meaning to visual texts (cartoons). The ability to make meaningful connections, plausible interpretations, and inferences seems to be limited. These include a limited ability to infer covert and implicit meanings. Furthermore, learners have difficulty engaging with visual literacy elements such as font, font size, and the meaning of body language and gestures in visual texts.Item Open Access Exploring digital strategies used for English First Additional Language reading by Grade 4 teachers: A case of Thohoyandou Cluster(2025-05-19) Mulaudzi, Israel Creleanor; Lambani, M. N.; Klu, E. K.; Nephawe, F. T.This study, grounded in the pragmatist paradigm, employs a mixed-methods approach underpinned by both positivist and interpretivist paradigms to investigate digital strategies for teaching English First Additional Language (EFAL) reading to Grade 4 learners in the Thohoyandou Cluster. A convergent parallel design was used to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings. The study is framed by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), alongside Shulman’s Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, Constructivist Learning Theory, and Cognitive Load Theory. It aimed to explore how digital strategies can help address EFAL reading difficulties. One hundred Grade 4 EFAL teachers completed questionnaires for the quantitative phase, while ten teachers were purposively selected for semi-structured interviews and classroom observations in the qualitative phase. Data analysis involved SPSS Version 29 for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Findings suggest that digital strategies enhance learner engagement and language proficiency, contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive EFAL reading programme. However, systemic difficulties such as limited digital infrastructure and insufficient teacher training hinder full implementation. The study recommends that policymakers invest in targeted professional development to build teachers’ digital and pedagogical skills.Item Embargo Broken Men, Redeemed Love: Masculinity in Dudu Busani-Dube's Hlomu Series(2026-05-19) Tshikwama, Pfunzo; Montle, M. E.; Mahori, F.Through an examination of Dudu Busani-Dube's Hlomu series, Hlomu the Wife (2015), Zandile the Resolute (2015), and Naledi His Love (2015), Iqunga (2020), Mess (2020) and The End (2022), this study is positioned within major discourses about the construction and evolution of masculinity in the country today. Situated within contemporary South African socio-cultural contexts, the study examined how masculine identity is shaped by power, provision, emotional discipline, and relational dynamics, and how these elements become destabilised throughout the series. Using masculinity studies, trauma theory, and intersectionality, the research employed qualitative textual analysis to show a shift from hegemonic masculinity to psychological fragmentation and relational repair. Early novels depict masculinity through authority, financial success, and emotional restraint, aligning with dominant models of male power. In contrast, later texts highlight emotional vulnerability, unresolved trauma, and existential crises, leading to the concept of the “broken man”, where characters who appear dominant yet struggle internally. As the series progressed, masculinity was neither fully condemned nor redeemed; instead, it was reimagined through confession, accountability, and emotional expression. The dissertation introduced the concept of “narrative repair” and illustrated how fractured identities are reconstructed through relational engagement and self-reflection. Ultimately, the study argues that the Hlomu series challenges rigid patriarchal norms while recognising their enduring presence in post-apartheid South Africa. By analysing popular romance-crime fiction as a site of gender critique, this research contributes to scholarship on African popular literature and contemporary masculinities, showcasing Busani-Dube’s nuanced examination of power, vulnerability, and transformation in masculinity.Item Embargo Corporate Reputation Management during a Social-Mediated Crisis: The Case of Clicks-TRESEmme Controversy(2026-05-19) Khadammbi, Dakalo; Mabika, M.While social media now plays a central role in amplifying and managing corporate crises, limited empirical research has examined how organisations respond to and manage reputational crises in the South African social media context. This study examines how Clicks managed its corporate reputation during the TRESemmé controversy in a social-mediated South African context. Using the social-mediated crisis communication model (SMCC) and the image repair theory (IRT) as primary theoretical frameworks, and drawing on supporting insights from the situational crisis communication model (SCCT), the study answers three core questions: how was the Clicks-TRESemmé controversy framed and amplified on social media? Which crisis communication strategies did Clicks use to manage its reputation? And how were public segments and stakeholder engagement reflected in Clicks’ TRESEmmé controversy social media responses during the crisis? The empirical data for this study were collected through a qualitative case study approach. Four Clicks’ official statements, five third-party/external responses and ten public comments were purposely selected from social media platforms and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that crisis meaning was co-constructed by various social media actors who challenged Clicks’ crisis response, leading Clicks to lose control over the crisis narrative online. The findings further indicate that Clicks relied primarily on 4 image repair strategies, mortification, corrective action, bolstering and compensation to manage its reputation and restore its image. However, stakeholder responses demonstrated expectations and demands for corporate accountability, ethical responsibility and social responsiveness. The study contributes to social media crisis scholarship by highlighting how socio-cultural factors amplify crisis and affect reputational management in the digital space.Item Embargo Podcasts as Alternative media in South Africa: The Case of Podcast and Chill with Mac(2026-05-19) Mbedzi, Uaripfa Ndiene; Chari, T.The digital era has fostered the emergence of podcasts, and these platforms have grown in popularity as spaces that operate outside mainstream media frameworks and structures. Mainstream media has been perceived as highly institutionalised, centralised and commercialised, which limits its ability to fully play its role in society and affects the content it disseminates. The shortcomings of mainstream Media have led to the emergence of alternative media spaces, such as podcasts, that fill the gap left by mainstream media. However, there is a scarcity of scholarly work on how such alternative media, specifically podcasts, function as authentic and critical spaces that address the shortcomings of mainstream media in the global South, particularly in South Africa. Grounded in Alternative Media Theory, this study explored the potential of podcasts as alternative media within the South African media landscape, using the popular South African podcast, “Podcast and Chill with MacG”, as a case study. This study employed a qualitative method design using semi-structured interviews and netnography to gain insights into the podcast’s structure, formation, and audience's perception of it as an alternative media. To explore the podcast’s content and to gain an in-depth understanding of the potential of Podcasts and Chill with MacG as an alternative media, 6 episodes of the podcast were purposively selected. To gain an indepth understanding of audiences’ perceptions of the podcast's potential as an alternative media and their interactions with it, 10 viewers of the podcast aged 18 to 30 who regularly watch the podcast were purposively selected. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data derived from interviews, and content analysis was used to analyse data derived from netnography. The study revealed that Podcast and Chill with MacG exhibits various attributes that position it as a significant alternative media, representing marginalised groups, centred on participatory culture, perceived as an independent and counter-hegemonic space, and a platform that informs, educates, and raises awareness of social issues. The podcast thus acts as a disruptive medium that challenges mainstream media because of its asynchronous element, uncensored and unregulated content, its unique structure and format, and its effect on mainstream media viewership. Furthermore, the study reveals that funding constraints, credibility issues, and profane language limited the podcast's ability to fully play its role as an alternative medium. The study contributes to the literature on how podcasts play the role and limits of podcasts of alternative media in the global South context, particularly in Africa where some societies and some segments of society are underserved by the mainstream media.Item Embargo Audience Perceptions of Gender-based Violence in Skeem Saam among Thohoyandou Viewers in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province(2026-05-19) Sikhala, Thuso Charity; Mabika, M.; Nodoba, T.This study employs a qualitative case study design to examine six key forms of gender-based violence (GBV) in South African soap opera: physical violence, psychological/emotional violence, cultural/traditional violence, economic violence, digital/online violence, and sexual violence. It explores audience perceptions of GBV framing, character dynamics, and the effects on viewers’ attitudes, perceptions, and behaviours. Grounded in Media Feminist and Cultivation Theory, the research utilises semi-structured interviews to collect data from Skeem Saam viewers residing in Thohoyandou, Vhembe District, Limpopo province. Thematic Analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and themes, providing a nuanced understanding of how GBV is portrayed and received. The study recommends the development of media policies, social intervention strategies, and audience engagement approaches to foster critical thinking and proactive responses to GBV. By addressing the implications of media portrayals, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of television in shaping societal attitudes and behaviours. It highlights the need for responsible portrayals of women, emphasising the importance of collaboration between media stakeholders, regulators, and policymakers in promoting gender equality and challenging harmful narratives. The findings underscore the broader impact of media representation on public perception and policymaking, offering insights into strategies for ethical and effective media engagement.Item Open Access Exploring the Use of Social Media Platforms as a Marketing Tool in Institutions of Higher Learning in South Africa: A Case Study of the University of Venda(2026-05-19) Takalani, Thabo; Nodoba, T.; Mabika, M.Social media has transformed communication and marketing practices globally, enabling institutions to reach large audiences more quickly, affordably, and interactively than traditional methods such as radio, print, and television. Although social media has transformed communication and marketing practices globally, its potential as a strategic marketing tool remains underutilised in some institutions of higher learning in South Africa. This study examined the use of social media platforms as marketing tools in institutions of higher learning, with a specific focus on the University of Venda in South Africa. Despite many advantages, many South African universities, including the University of Venda, do not seem to have fully utilised social media’s potential to engage students and promote institutional services. The study employed qualitative research design within an interpretivist paradigm. Likewise the study used data collected through semi-structured interviews with students, academic staff, and marketing personnel, and that was complemented by social media ethnography. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Social Media Marketing Theory (SMMT) the study explained how perceptions of usefulness and ease of use influence the adoption of social media in university marketing. This study revealed several important findings regarding the use of social media in higher education. The study affirmed that social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and LinkedIn are widely used and effective for marketing, communication, and stakeholder engagement. The findings also indicated that the effectiveness of social media is constrained by challenges including limited staff capacity, inconsistent content management, and the absence of a coordinated institutional strategy. Further, the study discovered that the strategic use of planned content, interactive engagement, and continuous feedback significantly enhances visibility, participation, and communication with both internal and external stakeholders. To address these issues, the study recommends strengthening staff training, adopting structured content planning, promoting interactive communication, establishing clear social media policies, and implementing regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The research aims to contribute to knowledge on digital communication in higher education and provides recommendations for developing effective social media marketing strategies.Item Embargo An analysis of syntactic errors in sentence construction: a case study of selected undergraduate first-year English majors in a South African University(2026-05-19) Ndou, Thompho; Maluleke, M. J.; Bvuma, V. T.This study provides an analysis of syntactic errors in sentence construction by first-year undergraduate English students in one of rural-base university located in Limpopo. The process of arranging words to form comprehensible sentences is governed by a set of rules, known as syntactic rules, which ensure that sentences are constructed coherently and convey concise meanings to readers. Some research studies conducted in South Africa and other countries have indicated that writing is challenging, particularly for students with limited knowledge of a second language (L2). English sentences commonly consist of three important components: the subject, the verb, and the object. These components should be effectively aligned in both simple, compound, and complex sentences to convey a complete, meaningful thought. If the subjects and verbs are not effectively aligned, it may be difficult for the readers to grasp the intended messages. Therefore, this study aims to investigate syntactic errors made by the first-year English majors in simple, compound, and complex sentences at a selected South African university. This study is underpinned by error analysis theory (EA) and grounded theory (GT). An exploratory qualitative approach was adopted in this study, using a combination of document analysis, group discussions, and case studies as primary data collection methods to gain in-depth insights into sentence composition. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select 20 students as participants. A deductive approach, which is one of the thematic data analysis techniques, has been used to analyse the data collected from students’ essay writing and group discussions. Descriptive analysis has been employed to interpret the collected data and report the findings in words, making it easier for readers to understand the study's findings quickly. The results revealed that the students know about constructing simple sentences but faced difficulties in linking independent clauses with each other or with dependent clauses to form grammatical compound and complex sentences. It was because most students were identified as having a low proficiency level in the correct use of punctuation, coordinating, and subordinating conjunctions. Furthermore, the results revealed that most students were able to distinguish the structural variations between phrases, clauses, and sentences, but found it challenging to link phrases and clauses to form grammatically correct sentences, particularly complex sentences. Based on the data analysis and interpretation in Chapter 4, it was found that the omission of a comma, subject-verb agreement errors, run-on sentences, redundancy, comma splices, and pronoun-noun agreement issues were common types of errors committed by the students. In conclusion, the study wanted to identify critical challenges faced by the students in sentence construction. It is found that the students are able to align words properly to form phrases and sentences. However, most of the faced difficulties in using coordinating and subordinating conjunctions to form comprehensible sentence, which is a challenge in academic writing. Most of the students demonstrated lack of knowledge in concord rules. Some corresponded plural subjects with singular verb forms while other aligned singular subjects with verbs that are in plural states, which is regarded as subject-verb agreement errors. Lastly, the students can also use grammar books and study syntax chapters to have deep understanding in linking different words to form well-organised simple, compound, and complex sentences. The results of this study are expected to help the curriculum advisors, L2 lecturers, syllabus designers, and future researcher to be able to identify the critical challenges faced by the students in sentence construction.Item Embargo Digital Wounds, Literary Testimony: Trauma, Trafficking, and Gendered Violence in Jackie Phamotse's Bare Series(2026-09-19) Sibara, Elphus; Montle, M. E.; Mahori, F.This study examines the representation of human trafficking, torture, trauma, and mental scars in Jackie Phamotse's Bare series, comprising five novels published between 2017 and 2023: Bare: The Blesser's Game (2017), Bare II: The Cradle of the Hockey Club (2020), Bare III: Ego (2021), Bare IV: Mercy (2022), and Bare V: Curtain Call (2023). Through close textual analysis grounded in an integrated theoretical framework combining African literary theory, feminist standpoint theory, trauma theory, and ethical literary criticism, this research illuminates how Phamotse's work constitutes a significant intervention in contemporary South African discourse on gendered violence, economic exploitation, and the psychological consequences of systemic oppression. The analysis reveals that the series offers a Complex portrayal of the complex intersections between digital technologies, the blesser-blessee economy, and human trafficking networks in post-apartheid South Africa, demonstrating that social media platforms function as active facilitators of gendered economic violence where visibility becomes synonymous with worth and algorithmic logic enables the commodification of female bodies. This study contributes to filling a significant gap in scholarship, as no previous academic study has comprehensively examined how South African fiction represents the experiences of trafficking victims, the trauma they endure, and the mental scars they carry. The findings demonstrate that Phamotse portrays vulnerability to trafficking and exploitation as shaped by the intersection of race, class, and gender, depicting how young Black women from disadvantaged backgrounds are disproportionately targeted by traffickers and blessers, reflecting the persistence of racialised economic inequality decades after the formal end of apartheid. The study also examines how Phamotse represents institutional responses to trafficking, critiquing the inadequacy of police responses, social services, and the justice system in protecting vulnerable women. The significance of this research extends beyond literary analysis to engage with pressing social issues, as human trafficking has emerged as one of the most critical human rights violations of the contemporary era, with an estimated 40 million people subjected to trafficking globally; in South Africa, the phenomenon presents particular complexity due to the country's position as both a destination country for transnational trafficking and a source country for internal trafficking, combined with Complex legal frameworks and persistent implementation challenges.Item Embargo The (MIS)Match between the Curriculum and Assessment Policy and Classroom Practice in English First Additional Language: A Case of Secondary Schools in Limpopo Province, South Africa(2025-09-05) Chauke, Gezani Thomas; Maluleke, M. J.; Sikitime, T. E.This study explored the use of English First Additional Language (EFAL) as a Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT) in three Non-Native Speakers of English (NNSE) rural high schools, in Limpopo province. This was triggered by the realisation that the silence that arises in the classroom when learners exclusively use English as a LoLT makes teaching and learning ineffective, and much unproductive than what the curriculum policy was meant to deliver. In reaction, this study was conceived, with the aim of exploring the (mis)match between the Curriculum and Assessment Policy and the language practice that emerge when English EFAL is used as a LoLT in Grade 10 EFAL classrooms. To achieve this, a qualitative approach grounded on constructivist research paradigm was adopted, due to the social nature of this study; and employed a combination of multiple case study design and action research for data collection. Multiple data collection instruments including semi-structured interviews; focus-group interviews; and observation were employed, to gather data from 4 EFAL teachers and their 15 learners. These participants were purposively selected from a population of Grade 10 EFAL classes in the selected high schools; to gather data that explored (i) the teaching and learning patterns that emerge when English is used as a LoLT; (ii) EFAL learners’ and teachers’ perceptions about the use of English as a LoLT (iii) how the teaching approaches and LTSM employed shape the learning process in EFAL classrooms. The findings from the study confirmed that there are indeed patterns of policy-practice mismatches that arise from the three objectives of the study, and this study treats them as the research gaps it sought to address. These include knowledge and pedagogical gaps, among others. These findings are critical because likely to have significant implications on language policy direction, transformative impact on the current teaching practice and teachers’ indepth understanding of the harms they cause to learners due to limited understanding of their realities.Item Embargo Digital Migration in South Africa: Experiences of Rural Selected Communities in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province(2025-09-05) Ralufuluvhi, Gudani Julius; Nodoba, T.; Chari, T.The global transition from analogue to digital broadcasting has been a significant shift driven by advancements in information and communication technologies. Digital migration offers benefits such as improved picture quality, efficient spectrum usage, and accommodating multiple channels on a single frequency. However, this transition has presented challenges for various stakeholders, particularly in developing regions and rural communities. This study focuses on the experiences of rural communities in the Thulamela Municipality, located in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa, during the shift from analogue to digital broadcasting. The motivation for this study stems from the delayed migration to digital television in South Africa, which began in 2009 but missed International Telecommunications Union deadlines for analogue switch-off in June 2015. Rural communities, especially those similar to the Thulamela Municipality, have faced difficulties related to infrastructural deficits, economic constraints, and limited access to digital equipment such as Set-Top Boxes. The research adopted a qualitative approach, gathering experiences from 15 purposively selected community members of Thulamela Municipality through semi-structured interviews. These interviews aimed to understand the challenges faced by these communities during the digital migration, the impact of the switchover on their access to broadcasting services, and any benefits derived from the digital transition. The results revealed that while there are potential benefits associated with digital migration, most rural households remained disconnected due to inadequate infrastructure, delays in Set-Top Box distribution, and a lack of public awareness campaigns about the transition. This research is based on the theoretical underpinning of communication rights, digital rights, and universal access, emphasising equal opportunities for access to information technologies for all actors. The concept of communication rights is highly relevant as it underscores citizens' right to freely seek, receive, and impart information, compromised due to the irregular establishment of digital infrastructure in many rural communities. The survey findings suggest that the well-intentioned policies of the South African government fell short in addressing the specific needs of rural communities, leading to a digital divide. The study highlights the implications of more inclusive policies and their proper implementation to ensure that all citizens, regardless of geographical location or economic status, benefit equally from digital broadcasting. This dissertation provides insight into the socio-economic implications of digital migration in rural South Africa and emphasises the need to improve efforts toward digital inclusion to reduce the disparities between urban and rural areas. The dissertation offers practical recommendations for policymakers, broadcasters, and other stakeholders involved in the digital migration, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to achieve universal access to digital broadcasting services in underserved regions.Item Embargo Student's perspectives on the role of internal communication in students academic performance at highrt learning institutions in South Africa: A case study of University of Venda(2025-09-05) Ramonetho, M. B.; Mabika, M.; Nodoba, T.Internal communication between lecturers and students is increasingly recognised as a key factor influencing academic performance in higher education institutions. Research suggests effective communication contributes to students' understanding of course material, motivation, and overall academic success. However, there is a limited exploration of how this dynamic operates within the South African context, particularly in historically disadvantaged institutions. The gap in the literature lies in a lack of in-depth studies that specifically examine the internal communication structures in place and their direct impact on student outcomes at institutions like the University of Venda, which faces unique socio-economic and cultural challenges. This study addresses the problem by investigating how internal communication practices between lecturers and students affect students' academic performance at the University of Venda. It seeks to fill the gap by exploring the quality, frequency, and effectiveness of communication between students and lecturers, and how these factors contribute to or hinder students’ academic success. The main objective of this study is to examine how internal communication impacts students' academic performance, focusing on the experiences and perceptions of students across various faculties at the University of Venda. The study will focus only on students’ perspectives; hence the role of internal communication can be best evaluated from students’ side as they are recipients of academic services facilitated by internal communication. Through a qualitative approach, the study draws on 20 students selected using purposive sampling. An interpretive paradigm guides the research, employing semi-structured interviews for data collection. Thematic analysis is used to interpret the findings, offering insight into the communication strategies that foster or impede academic success. The study is supported by triangulation, System Theory, stakeholder theory, and Constructivist Learning Theory to offer a comprehensive understanding of internal communication in higher education.Item Embargo Translating and interpreting South Africa’s cultures: art, song and dance in Mda’s selected novels(2025-09-05) Makhafola, Thabo; Ndlovu, I.; Mahori, F.This study explores the translation and interpretation of South African cultures through art, song, and dance in Zakes Mda's following novels: Ways of Dying (1995), She Plays with the Darkness (1995), The Heart of Redness (2000), and The Sculptors of Mapungubwe (2013). The study employs post-colonial theories and decolonial perspectives to discern how Mda deploys these artistic expressions to transcend their aesthetic value, acting as powerful symbols of resistance, unity, and healing. These narratives have been selected because they highlight Mda's skill in navigating the complexities of translating South African cultural realities into narrative form. By examining how Mda incorporates and reinterprets traditional South African art forms, music, and dance, this study reveals the complex dynamics of cultural expression and translation. The study argues that Mda navigates the tensions between cultural preservation and innovation, highlighting the ways in which art, song, and dance serve as powerful tools for storytelling, social commentary, and cultural critique. The selected novels foreground and epitomise a deeper understanding of the role of art, song and dance in shaping South African identity and experience.Item Embargo Challenges in Teaching and Learning of Reading in English as a Second Language in Ghanaian Basic Schools(2025-09-05) Dorvio-Dzakpa, Comfort; Klu. E. K.; Sikitime, T. E.; Mashige, M. C.This study investigated the challenges pre-service teachers from Accra College of Education encountered when teaching reading comprehension in English as a second language within Ghanaian basic schools. It was conducted in the school environments of six basic schools drawn from the basic schools of Accra College of Education. The participants were Level 400 students (final-year pre-service teachers) from Accra College of Education, learners they instructed during their macro teaching practice, and their mentors (teachers from the basic schools). The study was an action research design utilizing a mixed-method approach. The sequential explanatory design was adopted to enable the collection of quantitative data (the primary source of data) first, followed by gathering qualitative data to enhance the initial findings. The quantitative data were collected through questionnaires and tests as instruments. One hundred pre-service teachers responded to the questionnaires, while three hundred and sixty learners were assessed through the pre-test and post-test. An intervention interspaced the tests. Then, the qualitative data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with in-service teachers, and focus group discussions involving pre-service teachers and learners. The qualitative data were organized through thematic analysis, highlighting the key themes emerging from the data, with content analysis providing interpretation of these themes, supported by direct quotes from participants. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 21. The findings identified teaching large classes, limited availability of English reading textbooks in the basic schools, and learners' lack of foundational reading skills, even at the Junior High (Basic Eight) level, as some challenges that pre-service teachers encounter in delivering reading comprehension instruction in the basic schools. The study also highlighted a disconnect between the strategies intended for teaching reading comprehension to basic school learners and the training received by pre-service teachers in college. Based on the findings, suggestions and recommendations were made to policymakers, teacher education curriculum designers, and the Heads of Colleges of Education in Ghana.Item Embargo Implementation of South African Government Language Policy in Public Institutions: A Case Study of Siloam Hospital(2025-09-05) Tshigabe, Aluimelwi JohnThis study investigated the implementation of the South African Government Language Policy within public institutions, using Siloam Hospital, a district hospital located in the rural Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, as a case study. Rooted in the constitutional recognition of twelve official languages, including the recent inclusion of South African Sign Language (SASL) in 2023, this study critically assessed how public healthcare institutions align with national and departmental language policies, specifically the National Department of Health Language Policy of 2015. The research was anchored in Spolsky’s Theory of Language Policy, which emphasises the interplay of language practices, beliefs, and management within multilingual contexts. Employing a qualitative research design, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and paramedics, as well as through the examination of internal hospital documents, signage, and notices. The study explored both the internal communication dynamics among staff and the external interactions between healthcare providers and patients, with an emphasis on how linguistic mismatches affected service delivery, diagnosis, treatment adherence, and patient satisfaction. Findings revealed a persistent gap between language policy mandates and actual practices at Siloam Hospital. Although the Constitution and departmental policies require the use of multiple official languages in government institutions, English continues to dominate most interactions. The hospital’s staff composition, comprised of multilingual professionals from various regions, faces challenges in communicating effectively with patients who primarily speak Tshivenda, Xitsonga, or Sepedi. A lack of trained interpreters, limited translation infrastructure, and insufficient awareness of language policy obligations contribute to systemic communication barriers. These barriers often result in misdiagnosis, ineffective treatment, and heightened patient anxiety, undermining the goals of equitable and inclusive healthcare. The study also addressed historical and socio-political factors influencing language use in South African institutions, including the legacy of colonial and apartheid-era language dominance. It examined the slow progression in the elevation of African indigenous languages in public life, despite constitutional provisions and policy frameworks designed to reverse historical injustices. The research highlights the contradiction between legal mandates and practical implementation, exacerbated by socioeconomic challenges, staff shortages, budgetary constraints, and public attitudes that prioritise English for perceived upward mobility. The study concludes that while policies advocating multilingualism exist on paper, their practical execution remains inadequate in healthcare settings such as Siloam Hospital. It recommends the appointment of trained interpreters, increased budgetary allocation for language services, targeted staff training, community language profiling, and robust policy monitoring mechanisms. By bridging the gap between policy and practice, public institutions can foster inclusive service delivery, enhance healthcare outcomes, and promote the dignity of all official languages. This research contributes to the broader discourse on language rights, public health equity, and post-apartheid transformation in South African governance.