In honour of Women’s Month, the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) proudly presents the Women of Impact Series. This series celebrates the outstanding achievements of our female graduates, partners, and project leaders in the Humanities and Social Sciences. We showcase the groundbreaking research, extraordinary dedication, and inspiring visions of these accomplished women. Through their innovative work and unwavering commitment, they have advanced in their respective fields and shaped a more inclusive and diverse future. Join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions and stories.
- Can you please share a brief overview of your research and the significance of it in the HSS space?
The study is about Grade 11 English First Additional Language Learners’ challenges to write coherent and cohesive essays. They write essays with loose content and improper sequencing and organisation of ideas. The importance of this study is to equip learners with knowledge to write different types of essays, arrange ideas logically, and use cohesive devices to produce a coherent essay that conveys the right message. The study will allow learners to engage in opportunities for further education and careers after the completion of Grade 12, as academic abilities and achievements depend on their ability to express themselves in writing.
- How has funding and support from the NIHSS influenced your academic journey and personal growth?
The funding has helped to pay my tuition fee and outstanding balance I had when I completed my honours degree. It has relieved me of a financial burden. I had a chance to focus on my studies without worrying about my finances. I had an opportunity to collaborate with my peers, senior lecturers, doctors, and professors from various institutions at The Ranch Resort during the writing retreats. I learnt how to harvest articles from my study and publish them in accredited journals. I was inspired by the doctors that shared their journeys with us. I was motivated and encouraged to register for PHD.
- What inspired you to pursue your Masters Degree and what challenges did you overcome during your academic journey?
I was inspired by how I completed my honours degree. It took me a year to complete it, so I was eager to register for a Masters degree. Although it was challenging to balance my academics with my work, I managed to do so through engagement with other students, especially the NIHSS beneficiaries that became my friends in academia. I was able to stay motivated and manage time effectively to ensure that I also completed my Masters Degree on time.
- What does the celebration of Women’s Month mean to you?
I was raised and moulded by women, my aunt and grandmother. I was taught to be confident, do things for myself, and grasp every opportunity to succeed and grow. I was taught the importance of education—to believe I can achieve everything through hard work and perseverance. Thus, I believe I have achieved many things because of the love, courage, support, and inspiration from women. Therefore, this month means a celebration of fearless, powerful, and ambitious women, including those who marched to the Union Building on 9 August 1956 to protest against passing laws to women. It is a month that reminds women to support and motivate one another to become the best we can be.