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269 submissions
| # Sort descending | Operations | Status | Status | Title | Lastname | Firstname | Institution | Title of Presentatation | Theme Selection | Abstract | SID | |
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| 255 | Accepted | Pending Review | Dr. | Human-hendricks | Anja | ahuman@uwc.ac.za | University of the western cape | Title: The Intergenerational Transference of Parenting and the Influential Aspects of Social Inequalities in a South African Rural Community | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Title: The Intergenerational Transference of Parenting and the Influential Aspects of Social Inequalities in a South African Rural Community Authors: Anja Human-Hendricks¹* and Nicolette V. Roman² Affiliations: ¹ Department of Social Work, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa ² Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of Children, Families and Society, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa Corresponding author: Anja Human-Hendricks, ahuman@uwc.ac.za, +27 818582873 Presentation format: parallel session presentation Abstract: South Africa’s rural communities continue to grapple with the enduring effects of social inequalities, which significantly influence parenting practices and family dynamics. This study investigates how parenting strategies are transmitted across generations within a rural South African context marked by poverty, unemployment, and limited access to services. Guided by the Life Cycle Theory, the research employed a qualitative case study design involving three families across three generations. Data were collected through storytelling interviews, allowing for rich, narrative insights into the evolution of parenting practices over time. Thematic analysis revealed that intergenerational parenting is deeply shaped by structural inequalities, including historical legacies of apartheid, economic hardship, and social instability. Dysfunctional family structures, substance abuse, and educational barriers emerged as recurring themes that hinder positive parenting. Despite these challenges, the study also identified parental competencies as adoptive strategies within families. Based on these findings, the study developed a set of positive parenting guidelines aimed at enhancing parental knowledge, skills, and attitudes to foster nurturing and supportive environments for children. These guidelines align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The research underscores the urgent need for policy and community-based support systems that address the root causes of inequality and promote intergenerational wellbeing. It contributes to the growing body of knowledge on parenting in low-resource settings and offers practical implications for social work, family support services, and developmental policy in South Africa. Keywords: Parenting, intergenerational parenting, parenting practices, social inequalities, transference, rural communities, SDGs |
1454 | |
| 256 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Human-hendricks | Anja | ahuman@uwc.ac.za | University of the western cape | Social Issues Affecting Social Cohesion in Low-resource Communities in South Africa | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | Title: Social Issues Affecting Social Cohesion in Low-resource Communities in South Africa Authors: Leoba Nyathi¹, Tolulope Balogun², Janine de Lange², Anja Human-Hendricks²*, Fundiswa Khaile², Kezia October², Nicolette Roman² Affiliations: ¹ University of Cape Town, South Africa ² University of the Western Cape, South Africa *Corresponding author: ahuman@uwc.ac.za Presentation format: parallel session presentation Abstract: South Africa’s rural and low-resource communities continue to face deep-rooted social and economic challenges that undermine social cohesion and inclusive development. This study explores the lived experiences and perceptions of residents in four South African communities—Philippolis, Lamberts Bay, Caledon, and Grabouw—regarding the social issues that affect cohesion. Using a qualitative, phenomenological approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 25 participants, including family members and community stakeholders. Thematic analysis revealed that social cohesion is significantly disrupted by complex family dynamics, high levels of violence, substance abuse, and limited access to education and basic services. Participants highlighted how dysfunctional family structures, historical legacies of apartheid, and contemporary issues such as urban migration and unemployment contribute to social fragmentation. Crime and violence, often rooted in socio-economic deprivation, were found to be both symptoms and drivers of weakened community bonds. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive, context-sensitive interventions that address the structural and interpersonal dimensions of inequality. Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 10—reducing inequality within and among countries—requires coordinated efforts from government and civil society to foster inclusive, resilient communities. This study contributes to the limited body of research on rural social cohesion in South Africa and emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic barriers to unity and inclusion. Keywords: Social issues, Social cohesion, Low-resource communities, Sustainable Development Goal 10, South Africa |
1455 | |
| 257 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Mr. | Mthombeni | Siphamandla thiwe | sphuuu90@gmail.com | Department of social development. | Exploring The Views Of Parents, Early Childhood Development Practitioners, And Learner Support Educators On Access And Realisation of The Right To Early Childhood Education For Children With Disabilities In Ward 3, Nquthu, Kwa-Zulu Natal. | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Access to Early Childhood Education (ECE) for children with disabilities continues to pose a substantial issue, notwithstanding national and international commitments made by South African government to inclusive education. This study explored the views of parents of children with disabilities, ECD practitioners, and Learner Support Educators (LSEs) concerning access and realisation of the right to early childhood education in Ward 3, Nquthu. This study aimed to investigate the degree to which children with disabilities in Ward 3 of the Nquthu area have accessed their right to early childhood education and to identify challenges, barriers, and the role to be played by relevant stakeholders in realising this right. A qualitative research method was utilised, and the purposive sample was used to select the study population. The study comprised twelve participants: five parents of children with disabilities, five ECD practitioners, and two LSEs from the Umzinyathi District, Department of Basic Education (DBE). This study found that access to early childhood education for children with disabilities in Ward 3 in the Nquthu area is limited. The main obstacles hindering these children from exercising their right to attend ECE comprise limited resources, untrained ECD practitioners on inclusive policies, insufficient personnel, poor infrastructure, and societal stigma and prejudice. The findings of this study align with those of previous research. Children with disabilities continue to be excluded from early education because of systemic barriers. Given that this constitutes a violation of their rights, some of the recommendations made suggest that the government should consider strengthening inclusive education policies, monitoring and evaluating the implementation of these policies, and further provide funding to ECD centers to ensure accessibility, and capacitate ECD practitioners with inclusive education training. The Department of Social Development should lead awareness campaigns and programmes aimed at eradicating stigma and prejudice attached to children with disabilities. |
1456 | |
| 258 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Lekgau | Boitumelo | boitumelolekgau7@gmail.com | Smu | Understanding clients as individuals | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | The profile of people using nyaope admitted in substance abuse treatment center in Tshwane district. Lekgau Boitumelo, Mathibe Mmampedi Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Department of Public Health Background: Nyaope is a commonly used drug in South Africa. It has negative impacts on both the user and society at large. However, it has received the least attention in proper documentation of people who are admitted in substance abuse treatment centers. This study aimed to profile the people using nyaope who are admitted in substance abuse treatment centers in Tshwane district. Methodology: A cross-sectional quantitative descriptive design was employed. A total of 224 participants aged 18-54 years were recruited from substance abuse treatment center in Tshwane. Validated self-administered questionnaire using a Google form was used to collect data. Data was analysed statically using STATA 18 software. Results: Of the 224 participants 159(71%) were males and 65(29%) females with mean age of 28 (SD 6.1). All participants were Blacks, single and coming from an impoverished area dominated by Blacks. Almost all the participants were unemployed. Majority (80%) were first-time admissions in the treatment center. About 144 (64%) started using cigarette followed by cannabis 55 (24.5%). Almost all the participants 223(99.6%) used nyaope to deal with stress caused by lack of finances, unemployment, ill health and loitering. About 82(37%) reported to be tired of using nyaope.. The prevalences were 71% males and 29% females with mean age of 28 (SD 6.1). All the participants were Blacks, unemployed from Black dominated disadvantaged background. While Majority (80%) were first time admissions in the treatment center, about 64% reported to have started using drugs with cigarette. Only 37% reported willingness to quit nyaope, hence the admission. Almost all the participants (99.6%) used nyaope as a stress reliver. Discussion and Conclusion: Both the use of cigarette and cannabis can lead to nyaope use. Being unemployed is a main factor to nyaope use as it leads to stress. Lack of finances and loitering are mentioned as well. The main reason for seeking admission is to quit abusing nyaope due to its consequences. |
1460 | |
| 259 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Ntandoyenkosi | Maphosa | ntandom@uj.ac.za | University of johannesburg | Domestic Violence Exposure as Child Abuse: The Case of South African Adolescents | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | South African adolescents are exposed to Domestic Violence (DV) in their homes. The effects of Child Exposure to DV are reported to be adverse, possibly life-long and negative. These include, behavioural issues, mental health challenges and poor psychosocial and developmental outcomes. These effects have led some child advocates, social service providers and policymakers to conclude that child exposure to domestic violence (CEDV) is a type of child abuse warranting urgent intervention and mandatory reporting. The Children’s Act 38 of 2005, defines child abuse as exposing and subjecting a child to behaviour, that may harm the child emotionally and psychologically. Yet, there is limited research on how social workers address CEDV as a safety threat and the resulting effects on the child. This presentation seeks to foreground the voices of adolescents, by exploring their experiences of CEDV and how these have influenced their mental health. Ethical clearance was received for the study and thereafter data collected through a self administered survey to 848 grade 8 adolescent learners from four high schools in the Ekurhuleni region in South Africa. Most of the respondents exposed to DV presented with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, high depression and stress levels, post-traumatic stress disorders and inability to regulate their emotions. The findings showcase the significant psychological and emotional harm that DV exposure causes to adolescent’s and why it should be classified and treated as child abuse given the threat to the child’s safety and well being whilst implementing statutory measures such as mandatory reporting to protect the child. The paper recommends that it is paramount to develop appropriate interventions to address the harmful effects of DV exposure, to improve overall developmental outcomes for the affected children and mitigate the risk presented whilst bolstering their resilience. Treating and addressing DV exposure as a form of child abuse is in alignment with SDG Goal 16 which seeks to end abuse and all forms of violence against children. | 1463 | |
| 261 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Ntombela | Lindani patrick | 35059494@mylife.unisa.ac.za | Department of social development | Perinatal HIV infected children from the age of 12 to 18 years and their feelings towards their parents in Umvoti Sub-District. | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Perinatal HIV infected children from the age of 12 to 18 years and their feelings towards their parents in Umvoti Sub-District. Authors: Lindani Patrick Ntombela The study intended to investigate the feelings of perinatal HIV acquired children towards their parents after disclosure. It is intended to find out whether this group of children has received the conducive space to express their emotions regarding their status to their parents during the disclosure process. It was discovered that different studies have been done on perinatal HIV infected children and disclosure but does not focus on the point where these children have space to express themselves towards their parents. A qualitative exploratory and descriptive research design as well as non-probability purposive sampling was used to select Primary healthcare facilities and convenience sampling was used to select participants (children). In-depth individual interviews were used to gather data until it was saturated. The Tesch’s eight steps was used to analyze data. The study findings entail resentment, emotional exhausted and neglected, loneliness, and aggression towards their parents and HIV service providers involved. The study reveals the lack of inadequate implementation of the disclosure guidelines and mental health support in primary health facilities. Inclusion, psychosocial support need to be a priority when it comes to perinatal HIV infected children and their caregivers from birth throughout their lives, to avoid the buildup of antisocial personalities and characters that are unconsciously build. HIV service providers need to formulate strategies and guidelines to ensure that psychosocial support or mental health treatment is provided to these children and their families at least once in 3 months because disclosure and acceptance of status is an ongoing process that needs all the parties involved unconditionally. Key words: Perinatal, HIV, Children, disclosure, investigate, emotions, feelings and aggression |
1467 | |
| 262 | Accepted | Accepted | Prof. | Ncube | Mpumelelo | ncubeme@ufs.ac.za | University of the free state | Integrating Environmental Justice, Peacebuilding, and Sustainable Development into Social Work Education in Southern Africa | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | This desktop-based theoretical review explores how social work education in Africa can more effectively integrate the interconnected themes of environmental justice, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Anchored in the social development approach, which promotes inclusive, participatory, and rights-based development, the study critically examines current pedagogical frameworks and curricular content within social work programmes on the continent. The review draws on scholarly literature, regional education policies, and global development agendas to assess the extent to which social work teaching prepares graduates to engage with the complex, overlapping challenges of ecological degradation, social inequality, and structural violence. Findings indicate that while social development principles are frequently cited in policy and academic discourse, their operationalisation within teaching and practice remains inconsistent. The study highlights a gap in the deliberate integration of environmental and peacebuilding dimensions into social work curricula, despite their relevance to sustainable development in the Southern African context. It concludes by advocating for a transformative shift in social work education, one that centres the nexus of justice, peace, and sustainability as foundational to both the theory and practice of social development. | 1479 | |
| 263 | Accepted | Pending Review | Mr. | Sinkintana | Xolisile | xsinkintana@ufh.ac.za | University of fort hare | Impact of Public Transport Accessibility and Safety on Older Persons’ Quality of Life: A case of Mdantsane Township, Eastern Cape, South Africa | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Impact of Public Transport Accessibility and Safety on Older Persons’ Quality of Life: A case of Mdantsane Township, Eastern Cape, South Africa Abstract This article seeks to explore the impact of public transport accessibility and safety on older persons the quality of life. A selected number of older persons start to adjust their driving, or at times stop driving completely, due to health problems or when health issues arise. On the other hand, others solely depend on public transport to access amenities. Transportation is an important activity that provides access to services and activities, whilst the quality of options available may affect older persons' participation in other activities. This article explores how the accessibility, safety, and reliability of public transportation influence the well-being of older persons and how it shapes their quality of life. This study will utilize a qualitative research approach with an explorative research design to study elderly people’s experiences using public transport from their perspectives. The study will be guided by the Person’s Person-Centered Approach and Abraham Maslow’s (1943) hierarchy of human needs theoretical framework to explore the older person’s experiences using public transport. The data will be collected through one-on-one interviews with fifteen (15) elderly persons between the ages of 60-75 years of different genders living in Mdantsane Township. The thematic analysis approach by Braun and Clarke will be used to analyze data. The article hopes to provide information which may contribute to identifying the barriers in the transport system and get a broader understanding of the experiences of older persons in using public transport and how that affects their quality of life. |
1484 | |
| 264 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Ntandoyenkosi | Maphosa | ntandom@uj.ac.za | University of johannesburg | Child Exposure to Domestic Violence as Child Abuse | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | South African adolescents are exposed to Domestic Violence (DV) in their homes. The effects of Child Exposure to DV are reported to be adverse, possibly life-long and negative. These include, behavioural issues, mental health challenges and poor psychosocial and developmental outcomes. These effects have led some child advocates, social service providers and policymakers to conclude that child exposure to domestic violence (CEDV) is a type of child abuse warranting urgent intervention and mandatory reporting. The Children’s Act 38 of 2005, defines child abuse as exposing and subjecting a child to behaviour, that may harm the child emotionally and psychologically. Yet, there is limited research on how social workers address CEDV as a safety threat and the resulting effects on the child. This presentation seeks to foreground the voices of adolescents, by exploring their experiences of CEDV and how these have influenced their mental health. For data collection, a survey was administered to 848 grade 8 adolescent learners from four high schools in the Ekurhuleni region in South Africa. Most of the respondents exposed to DV presented with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, high depression and stress levels, post-traumatic stress disorders and inability to regulate their emotions. The findings showcase the significant psychological and emotional harm that DV exposure causes to adolescent’s and why it should be classified and treated as child abuse given the threat to the child’s safety and well being whilst implementing statutory measures such as mandatory reporting to protect the child. The paper recommends that it is paramount to develop appropriate interventions to address the harmful effects of DV exposure, to improve overall developmental outcomes for the affected children and mitigate the risk presented whilst bolstering their resilience. Treating and addressing DV exposure as a form of child abuse is in alignment with SDG Goal 16 which seeks to end abuse and all forms of violence against children. |
1488 | |
| 265 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Matsebula | Charlotte | matsebulacharlotte@gmail.com | University of limpopo | Rendering Psychosocial Services to Mental Health Care Users: Social Workers’ Lived Experiences and Their Role in Achieving SDG 3 in Mpumalanga, South Africa. | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Rendering Psychosocial Services to Mental Health Care Users: Social Workers’ Lived Experiences and Their Role in Achieving SDG 3 in Mpumalanga, South Africa ABSTRACT: Social workers play a pivotal role in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all, by rendering psychosocial services to mental health care users. In South Africa, particularly within the Mpumalanga Province, these professionals often face complex challenges with minimal institutional recognition or support. Despite their essential contribution to the mental health sector and global sustainability efforts, their lived experiences remain underexplored. This study explored the lived experiences of social workers providing psychosocial services to mental health care users in Mpumalanga, aiming to highlight both the challenges they face and the support mechanisms needed to enhance their roles in contributing to SDG 3. A qualitative, phenomenological research design was adopted, utilising semi-structured interviews with 11 purposefully selected social workers from three offices of the Mpumalanga Mental Health Society: Nelspruit (4), Bushbuckridge (3), and Lydenburg (4). Thematic analysis was used to interpret and synthesise participants' narratives. Key findings include a lack of understanding of mental health policies and legislation, weak stakeholder engagement, and insufficient financial, structural, family, and moral support. These experiences underscore the need for systemic interventions to empower social workers and improve service delivery in the mental health field. To better support social workers and strengthen their contribution to SDG 3, the study recommends enhanced mental health education at the undergraduate level, stricter implementation of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and broader stakeholder involvement. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure both the well-being and mental health of care users and the sustainability of social work practice. Keywords: Mental Health; Mental illness; Social workers; Experiences; Challenges; Mental health-care users. 1. Matsebula CN 2. Singwane TP 3. Rapholo SF |
1502 | |
| 266 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Dr. | Nashandi | johanna christa ndilimeke | jnashandi@unam.na | University of namibia | The role of Afrikan wellbeing resources in adolescent young mothers school engagement | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Although adolescent young mothers return and engage in school, little is known about the role of Afrikan wellbeing resources. This qualit | 1503 | |
| 267 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Sematu | Boipelo | boipelosematu16@gmaill.com | University of johannesburg | From the ground up: Women at the forefront in environmental justice movements and pursuit of equity in marginalised communities | THEME 5: Feminist Perspectives and Environmental Justice | Despite women being the first responders to environmental crises, their experiences in protecting the environment and local knowledge are often overlooked for top-down approaches. South Africa has the highest number of women in parliament, yet gender inequality remains prevalent. As a result, this silences the women, rendering them incapable of taking up spaces and ‘emotional’ when advocating for justice. Therefore, in this desktop research we examine how patriarchal systems and tokenism continue to silence women advocating for environmental justice. The study uses document qualitative method on interpreting the meaning and context of the systemic exclusion of women. The findings of the study reveals two major findings, patriarchal and institutional challenges. The study concludes that the power of male dominance in sectors like NGOs and the green economy must be disseminated, allowing women to occupy more leadership positions as a just and inclusive response. It is recommended that addressing challenges calls for transformational change through cross-examination of existing policies, recognising that there is intersectionality between environmental and gender justice. |
1505 | |
| 268 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Ms. | Ngubane | Samkelisiwe ngubane | samkembuthu@gmail.com | Africa health research institute | The impact of extreme weather events on the mental health of vulnerable populations in Africa (WEMA project) | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Topic: The impact of extreme weather events on the mental health of vulnerable populations in Africa (WEMA project) Background The WEMA project focuses on the critical issue of how extreme weather events (EWEs) affect the mental health of vulnerable populations in Africa, particularly in Burkina Faso, Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of heatwaves, floods, and droughts, exacerbating health conditions and disproportionately impacting resource-poor settings. While the physical impacts of climate change are well-documented, the mental health consequences are often overlooked. Methods Our goal is to highlight the direct link between EWEs and common mental disorders (CMDs) among vulnerable populations. To achieve this, we've assembled a transdisciplinary team of experts, including community members, climate scientists, psychiatrists, epidemiologists, and social workers. Over 36 months (April 2024 to March 2027), we'll use mixed methods research to: 1. Generate new evidence on the effects of EWEs on CMDs using existing data. 2. Investigate the burden and impact of CMDs among vulnerable populations exposed to EWEs. 3. Engage stakeholders in interpreting evidence and brainstorming context-specific interventions. 4. Deliver a targeted public engagement and strategic communication campaign to drive policy change. Results The project's findings are expected to demonstrate a direct link between EWE-related displacement and poor mental health among vulnerable populations. The results will inform targeted interventions and policy formulation tailored to each country's needs, advocating for the integration of psychosocial well-being into climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. Ultimately, the WEMA project aims to enhance resilience and reduce health inequities in affected communities. By amplifying our findings through advocacy and strategic communication, we hope to drive urgent policy and practice change at scale. |
1509 | |
| 269 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Ogar | Godwin | godwinogar139@gmail.com | University of calabar, nigeria | Assessing the Effectiveness of Green Entrepreneurship as a Catalyst for Climate Resilience in South South Nigeria | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Assessing the Effectiveness of Green Entrepreneurship as a Catalyst for Climate Resilience in South South Nigeria Abstract This study focused on green entrepreneurship and climate change adaptation. The study examined how green innovation affects business continuity and assessed the effect of eco-friendly product design on sustainable adaptation. The study employed a survey research design. The research focused on business enterprises located in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers states in the South-South region of Nigeria, which are recognized for their diverse industrial activities, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The study used primary data collected directly through an administered, well-structured questionnaire. A sample size of 384 was determined, ensuring sufficient data collection for analysis and reliable inferences. The study applied a multi-stage sampling technique for sample selection. The study employed construct validity (with CR > 0.70). The study used the Cronbach test for the reliability of constructs, and the results showed alpha coefficients greater than 0.70. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistical statistics for data analyses. Structural Equation Model was used for hypotheses testing. Findings showed that green innovation has a significant positive effect on business continuity (β = 0.874; p-value < 0.01) and that eco-friendly product design has a significant positive effect on sustainable adaptation (β = 0.745; p-value < 0.01). The study concluded that green practices are fundamental drivers of sustainability and adaptability in today’s business and environmental landscapes. The study recommended that firms should prioritize green innovation by integrating sustainable practices into their strategic and operational frameworks and also focus on eco-friendly product design by investing in sustainable materials and processes that align with environmental standards. Keywords: Green Entrepreneurship, Green Innovation, Business Continuity, Eco-Friendly Product Design, Sustainable Adaptation. |
1510 | |
| 270 | Accepted | Rejected | Ms. | Sithole | Thule | thulesithole1@gmail.com | Ukzn | Investigating the experiences of woman on Gender Based Violence in Ixopo KwaZulu-Natal | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | This is an empirical study conducted to investigate the experiences of women on Gender Based Violence in Ixopo Kwazulu-Natal. Ten women were purposely selected for this research. Ten women were selected because they were directly involved in the incidences of the gender-based violence. The study sought to understand the impact of gender based violence on the women in Ixopo. It also sought to establish if there was any tension between this impact and the existing policy regarding gender-based violence in legislations. The study found that the policies do not adhere to a certain extent, to the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The study recommends that police (SAPS) should create a police unit to specifically deal with the issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in each police station and improves the policies which deals with faith based organization and their teachings perpetuates gender based violence. |
1518 | |
| 271 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Dr. | Makhanya | Thembelihle brenda | Thembelihle.Makanya@ump.ac.za | University of mpumalanga | Reimagining Social Work Pedagogy through Critical Reflexivity: A Practitioner’s Journey in Higher Education. | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | The poster presents a critically reflexive account of my professional development as a Social Work educator through participation in a Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (LTHE) course at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Based on first-person writing, the poster reflects on activities conducted in this semester's course and how they influence the shift and re-evaluation of my teaching practices in higher education for the advancement of reflective, developmental, and practically relevant learning. Drawing on critical pedagogy, decolonial theory, and adult learning frameworks, the reflection explores how engagement with core topics such as own teaching voice, humanistic teaching, AI in education, inclusive pedagogy, semantic waves, and threshold concepts shaped my evolving teaching philosophy. The discussion considers how epistemic justice, identity, and power inform curriculum decisions and classroom practice, particularly in the context of African higher education. The discussion also reveals how critical reflection serves as a transformative pedagogical tool, challenging the myth of educator neutrality and positioning teaching as a relational, political, and ethical endeavour in Social Work education. Keywords: reflexivity, practitioner, teaching, learning, pedagogy, Social Work. |
1530 | |
| 272 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Gamedze | Temantimandze | temantimandzegamedze95@gmail.com | Eswatini medical christian university | Green Social Work and Agriculture: Rethinking Sustainability in Eswatini’s Rural Communities | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Eswatini’s economy has long depended on agriculture,not just for income, but for identity and survival. Yet, while climate change and environmental degradation are now at the centre of global discussions, there remains a troubling silence when it comes to the needs of Eswatini’s rural farmers, particularly in under-resourced areas like Lavumisa or Lundzi. This study explores the potential of green social work as a transformative framework that brings together people, land, and policy for long-term sustainability. Rooted in indigenous African philosophies such as ubuntu and ukama which emphasize interconnectedness between human beings and nature the study argues for a more inclusive and culturally grounded approach to agriculture and environmental care. Drawing on a qualitative study and existing literature, the research highlights the gaps in rural agricultural support and environmental planning. While government efforts do exist, they often fall short of reaching the most vulnerable communities. The findings suggest that sustainable agricultural development in Eswatini cannot happen in isolation. It requires collaborative effort between social workers, local farmers, government institutions, and individual citizens. Green social work, when practiced in context and partnership with rural voices, can be a bridge between climate justice and food security.Ultimately, this study calls for a shift from reactive agricultural policies to proactive, sustainable, and community-driven strategies that respect both the land and the people who rely on it. If we are to preserve Eswatini’s natural beauty and ensure agricultural livelihoods for future generations, then multisectoral commitment must begin now. | 1542 | |
| 273 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Buthelezi | Velile nontethelelo | buthelezivelile@gmail.com | University of south africa | Exploring the relationship between Gender Based Violence and Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Focus on the lived experiences of Positive Black Women in Ubombob Rural area,KwaZulu-Natal | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | This study investigates the intersectionality of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among HIV-positive black women in the rural Ubombo area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Despite extensive research on HIV and GBV in urban regions, rural areas like Ubombo remain underexplored, particularly in relation to how these two phenomena intertwine. The high prevalence of both HIV and GBV in Ubombo demands a focused inquiry into the lived experiences of black women who face these dual challenges. The study articulates its primary objective as exploring how socio-cultural norms, economic disparities, and healthcare barriers exacerbate the vulnerability of HIV-positive women to GBV, thereby complicating their access to treatment and support services. The research employs a qualitative methodology, guided by the Social Ecological Model (SEM), to examine the complex interactions between individual, interpersonal, community, and societal factors that influence the experiences of black women in Ubombo. Data collection is carried out through semi-structured interviews with 15 women, selected through purposive sampling, who have experienced both GBV and HIV. Thematic analysis is applied to identify key patterns and themes from the narratives, providing a nuanced understanding of the socio-cultural, economic, and health-related challenges faced by these women. Preliminary findings suggest that deeply ingrained patriarchal norms and economic dependence limit women's autonomy in sexual relationships, increasing their risk of both HIV and GBV. Stigma and fear of reprisal further inhibit their ability to seek medical care and support services. Additionally, the study finds that existing intervention programs in the area are often inadequate, lacking in cultural sensitivity and failing to address the compounded issues of GBV and HIV in an integrated manner. The broader impact of this research lies in its contribution to policy development, advocating for the implementation of culturally informed, integrated intervention programs that address both HIV and GBV simultaneously. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions that empower women in rural areas, address healthcare gaps, and challenge harmful socio-cultural norms that perpetuate violence and HIV transmission. |
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| 274 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Ms. | Buthelezi | Velile | buthelezivelile@gmail.com | University of south africa | Exploring the Relationship Between Gender-Based Violence and Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Focus on the Lived Experiences of Positive Black Women in Ubombo Rural Area, KwaZulu-Natal | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | 1544 | ||
| 275 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Damons | Mary-ann | maryanndamons7@gmail.com | None | Reimagining Social Work through Afrocentric Lenses: A Multi-Perspectival and Transdisciplinary Approach | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | This paper interrogates the conceptual foundations and practical implications of integrating an Afrocentric lens into social work education. It proposes a multi-dimensional, multi-perspectival framework that enhances transdisciplinary collaboration to enrich curriculum development and pedagogical strategies responsive to the complexities of African realities. This paper is grounded within Africana Critical Theory (ACT); the lens seeks to transcend social identities and foster an African consciousness that resists binary thinking and racial essentialism. This framework is developed through voluntary collaboration among a diverse transdisciplinary team; it emerged from sustained dialogue, critical reflection, and reflexive action, employing Participatory Action Research (PAR) as a research approach and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as an analytic technique. The literature underscores the limitations of reducing African identity to a singular Black ethnic experience and critiques traditional notions of community. Key findings reveal contextual challenges, including a disconnect from lived realities, which contributes to the inadequacy of responses to post-apartheid social, ideological, and cultural tensions. These findings highlight the urgent need for a shared humanity, re-humanisation, and mutual humanisation. Importantly, the philosophy of Ubuntu is shown not to be exclusively African but to derive its significance from Africa’s historical and global context. The paper advocates for Africana critical theorisation and Afrocentric conceptualisation in social work education, practice, and policy. It positions this framework as a vital component of macro-transformative strategies aimed at fostering holistic development and advancing social justice. Keywords: Afrocentric social work, African realities, African identity, African consciousness, Ubuntu, transdisciplinary |
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