Sol Plaatje University (SPU) takes immense pride in introducing its first two master’s graduates, Vhugala Mulaudzi and Kagiso Moroane, who are breaking new ground in their respective research fields of rural health services and the gig economy.
Ms Mulaudzi and Ms Moroane graced the stage at the University’s 8th graduation ceremony on 6 May 2023 at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre. Praise and ululation filled the room at the auspicious ceremony as SPU capped its first master’s graduates since opening its doors nine years ago.
Vhugala Mulaudzi, a resolute and persistent academic, embarked on her academic journey at SPU in 2021, inspired by a fervent desire to understand the intricacies of sexual and reproductive health among young people. Her drive was fuelled by rising teenage pregnancies, school dropouts, and HIV infections in Limpopo province. Her seminal research, “Utilisation of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Rural South Africa: Knowledge, Perceptions, and Experiences of Youth in Mutale Village, Limpopo Province”, shed light on these pressing public health issues. Throughout her academic pursuit, Mulaudzi demonstrated a remarkable quest for knowledge, tenacity, and commitment to her work, acknowledged in part to the unwavering support of her mentors, Dr Jacob Mati, and Dr Simbarashe Gukurume, and her family.
Kagiso Moroane, a fellow pioneer, commenced her academic journey at SPU in 2019. Her dedication to advancing her career led her to delve into Social Science, with a focus on Sociology. Moroane’s master’s research offered a deep dive into the rapidly evolving gig economy. Inspired by the worldwide surge in gig and platform work, Moroane examined the daily experiences of gig workers, particularly food delivery workers in a small South African town. Despite various challenges and self-doubt, Moroane persisted, a testament to her resilience, dedication, and the support of her supervisor, Dr Crispen Chinguno.
Both Mulaudzi and Moroane’s experiences at SPU have furnished them with the necessary skills and knowledge to flourish as researchers. As they step into their futures, they are proud to be the trailblazers of SPU’s master’s program and look forward to the opportunities this accomplishment will open in their careers.
