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Breaking barriers, inspiring change: Dr Mavis Soko makes history on UFS Qwaqwa Campus

04 April 2025 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Supplied

A landmark achievement has etched itself into the annals of the University of the Free State (UFS). Dr Mavis Soko became the first woman to earn a PhD in Sociology from the Qwaqwa Campus vibrant community. Her journey, a testament to resilience and unwavering dedication, serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scholars, particularly women, across the region and beyond.

Born in the Goromonzi district of Zimbabwe in 1977, Dr Soko's academic trajectory is a mosaic of diverse disciplines and unwavering intellectual curiosity. From a Diploma in Secretarial Studies at Ranche House College to a Master of Science in Population Studies at the University of Zimbabwe, her path reflects a commitment to lifelong learning. This culminated in her groundbreaking doctoral research at the UFS, solidifying her expertise in the intricate tapestry of social dynamics.

Beyond lectures, research shapes policy

Her professional narrative is equally compelling. Dr Soko’s career began at the University of Zimbabwe, where she ascended from a secretary to a faculty administrator, showcasing her exceptional work ethic and leadership potential. Currently, she imparts her knowledge as a junior lecturer in the Department of Business Enterprise and Management and serves as a part-time lecturer at the Zimbabwe National Defence University.

Beyond the lecture halls, Dr Soko's impact resonates through her industry-focused research and consultancy work, particularly in corporate governance. Her research interests, deeply rooted in the intersection of gender and ethnicity, explore pivotal themes such as women's empowerment, sexual rights, leadership ethics, and diversity.

Her PhD thesis, Ethnic and Gendered Implications of Sexuality and Sexual Rights: Prospects for an Ethnic-Specific Intervention Among Karanga and Zezuru Women in Zimbabwe, supervised by Dr Divane Nzima, represents a significant contribution to the field. It delves into the complex interplay of ethnicity and gender in shaping women's sexual autonomy in rural Zimbabwe. Dr Soko’s research has illuminated the restrictive influence of patriarchal norms and cultural practices, highlighting the urgent need for culturally sensitive interventions.

Meaningful contributions, scholarly excellence applauded

In a resounding endorsement of Dr Soko's groundbreaking accomplishment, her supervisor, Dr Nzima, offered heartfelt congratulations, highlighting the significance of her PhD in Sociology. "Congratulations on earning your PhD in Sociology," Dr Nzima stated. "This is a remarkable achievement that reflects your dedication and passion for understanding the complexities of society."

He further emphasised the potential impact of Dr Soko's research, expressing his confidence in her future contributions. "Wishing you all the best as you continue to make meaningful contributions to the world through your knowledge and insights," Dr Nzima added. His words serve as a powerful testament to the rigorous scholarship and profound societal relevance of Dr Soko's work, solidifying her place as a leading voice in the field.

The findings of her research have resonated on the international stage. Dr Soko presented her work at the prestigious 16th Southern African Nordic Centre (SANORD) Conference at the University of the Western Cape and the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development at the University of Kigali. At these platforms, she engaged with global thought leaders, highlighting the practical implications of her research for shaping inclusive and sustainable development policies.

Dr Soko's achievement is more than a personal triumph; it is a powerful statement of progress. Her work calls for a deeper understanding of cultural nuances in addressing sexual rights, advocating for community-driven engagement and policy reforms. Her journey inspires us to challenge existing paradigms and strive for a more equitable and just society. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering spirit of a woman who dared to break barriers and make history.

News Archive

SASOL TRAC laboratory launched at UFS Qwaqwa Campus

2006-05-08

Some of the guests attending the launch of the Sasol TRAC Laboratory at the University of the Free State's (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus were from the left Prof Peter Mbati (Principal of the Qwaqwa Campus), Mrs Zimbini Zwane ( Communications Manager of Sasol Infrachem), Prof Gerhardt de Klerk (Dean : UFS Faculty of the Humanities), Prof Fred Hugo
Director of TRAC SA) and Prof Jack van der Linde (Director of RIEP at the UFS).

SASOL TRAC laboratory launched at UFS Qwaqwa Campus

The Research Institute for Education Planning (RIEP) of the University of the Free State (UFS) today unveiled the Sasol TRAC Laboratory at its Qwaqwa campus.

The laboratory will be used to help grade 10, 11 and 12 learners and educators from the Qwaqwa region to conduct the experiments from the physical sciences outcome-based curriculum.

“The Sasol TRAC Laboratory introduces learners not only to the latest technology used by engineers and other scientists in practice but also to stimulate the learner’s interest in the field of science in such a way that more of them will enter into science related careers,” says Mr Cobus van Breda, Co-ordinator of the TRAC Free State Regional Centre.

According to Mr van Breda the newly established Sasol TRAC Laboratory will enable RIEP to train learners and their educators in Physical Sciences. The laboratory will consist of six work stations equipped with computers and electronic sensors.

“Learners from the Qwaqwa region will visit the Sasol TRAC Laboratory on regular basis to conduct experiments based on the curriculum. Data will be collected with electronic apparatus and presented as graphs on the computer so that results can be analysed and interpreted,” says Mr van Breda.

“There is a serious shortage of suitable qualified teachers in maths and science in the Qwaqwa region. Many schools in the region are not yet part of the RIEP project and are in dire need of assistance. A large number of these schools are in remote areas not reached regularly by intervention programmes,” says Prof Peter Mbati, Principal of the UFS Qwaqwa Campus.

“The establishment of the Sasol TRAC Laboratory at the Qwaqwa Campus provides us the opportunity to engage with our community and assist in the development and training of these vital education subjects. We are pleased that Sasol agreed to fund the project,” says Prof Mbati.

Students from the Qwaqwa Campus will also benefit from the TRAC programme. “Some promising students will also undergo further training and become assistants for the TRAC programme,” says Prof Mbati.

“Nurturing science and mathematical skills is of great importance in growing our national economy. Annually, Sasol invests more than R50 million in supporting mathematical and science education in South Africa. Our primary aim is to increase the number of learners gaining access to tertiary education in the science fields. Therefore, our Corporate Social Investment (CSI) education interventions at secondary school level focus on educator development and direct learner interventions such as the Sasol TRAC Laboratory,” explains Ms Pamilla Mudhray, CSI and SHARP manager at Sasol.

According to Ms Mudhray the implementation of the National Curriculum Statement for physical sciences in the further education and training (FET) phase from 2006, under resourced schools will need greater access to the tools and equipment necessary to teach the syllabus and fulfil the ideals of the curriculum.

TRAC South Africa is a national non-profit programme focused on supporting and expanding science, mathematics and technology education in secondary schools. The programme was first introduced to South Africa in 1994. In 2005, RIEP established the TRAC Free State regional centre on the UFS Main Campus in Bloemfontein.

Media release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Media Representative
Tel: (051) 401-2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@mail.uovs.ac.za
5 May 2006

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