Education and Social Cohesion: Towards Sustainable Learner Success in South Africa

Bonginkosi Hardy Mutongoza is a transformative education researcher and social justice advocate. With a PhD in Education from the University of Fort Hare, his work focuses on decolonisation, reducing inequality, and addressing violence within educational systems. He has held teaching and research roles at various institutions, including serving as a lecturer at the University of Fort Hare and as a postdoctoral research fellow at the Walter Sisulu University in South Africa. Dr Mutongoza’s research is widely published in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters, exploring topics such as curriculum violence, gender-based violence, and the psychosocial outcomes of inequality in education. His commitment to community engagement is evident in his efforts to support disadvantaged schools and develop innovative strategies for sustainable education reforms. In this book, Dr Mutongoza contributes his deep insights into the transformative potential of equitable and inclusive education systems, drawing from both scholarly rigour and practical experience. 

Eleanor Alvira Hendricks is a dedicated and seasoned social work professional with extensive academic and practical experience. She currently serves as an Associate Professor at North-West University, focusing on social work education and research. Prof Hendricks earned her PhD in Social Work from the University of Fort Hare in 2017 and has since contributed significantly to the field through her research on youth development, gender-based violence, and the psychosocial wellbeing of vulnerable populations. Her scholarly work includes numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes, addressing critical social challenges such as school violence and adolescent pregnancy. She is a sought-after supervisor, mentoring postgraduate students across multiple institutions. In addition to her academic pursuits, Prof Hendricks engages in community development initiatives, including youth counselling and crime prevention programmes. With a strong commitment to education, policy development, and social justice, Prof Hendricks continues to influence the academic and social work landscapes in South Africa and beyond. In this book, Prof Hendricks brings her wealth of knowledge and lived experiences to explore innovative pathways for creating equitable and effective educational environments.