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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

UFS discontinues one Masters programme

2006-07-26

As from next year, the University of the Free State (UFS) will no longer offer one of its specialist master’s degrees in education – the M Ed in Education Management.

The other six M Ed programmes that are currently being offered at the UFS will continue as normal.

The decision to discontinue one of the M Ed programmes follows a national review of M Ed programmes in Educational Management and Leadership by the Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC) of the Council on Higher Education (CHE).

Of the 23 tertiary institutions whose M Ed programmes in Educational Management and Leadership were reviewed by the HEQC, only 7 received full accreditation.

“The findings of the HEQC affect only one of our M Ed degree programmes, namely the M Ed in Educational Management,” said Prof Magda Fourie, Vice-Rector: Academic Planning at the UFS

“We will be paying full attention to the findings of the HEQC with a view to correcting some of the shortcomings that have been identified by the HEQC and will consider submitting a reviewed proposal for such a qualification in two years time,” she said.

According to Prof Fourie, the programme currently has 30 students enrolled. “These students – spread across their first and second years of the degree programme – will be allowed to complete their studies with the full support of the UFS and the School of Education,” said Prof Fourie.

“The qualification that has been awarded to students who have already completed their studies for this specific M Ed in Education Management degree programme remains a valid qualification and is not affected by the HEQC review,” said Prof Fourie.

She said the UFS welcomed the efforts of the HEQC to ensure that all academic programmes offered by higher education institutions meet certain standards.

“One of the primary problem areas in the M Ed in Educational Management offered by the UFS identified by the HEQC, was that the programme is too practice orientated and must be more theoretical to comply with the academic requirements of a master’s degree. This was a result of the fact that the programme was initially compiled in consultation with principals and the provincial Department of Education to address their needs,” said Prof Fourie.

“The UFS will in the mean time offer an advanced certificate in Educational Management and Leadership from next year. This is a new course that will stretch over a period of two years and will ensure that we can still address the needs of teachers and principals,” said Prof Fourie.

“The UFS remains committed to providing top quality degree programmes in all its six faculties and will continue to work with the HEQC in ensuring that this actually happens,” said Prof Fourie.

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

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