China’s involvement in Africa has long been a talking point, with some commentators convinced of its good intentions and others sceptical. A North-West University (NWU) PhD graduate, Reverend Dr Dimpho Gaobepe, has brought some much-needed balance to the debate through his PhD research on international relations.
In his thesis, he explored whether China's concept of peaceful development, emphasising a positive-sum game and friendly collaboration, is a strategy to obscure its primarily economic actions in various regions, particularly Africa. Given the increasing focus on Africa, it is essential to examine the level of reciprocity in the bilateral relations between China and the continent.
Focusing on the role of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Reverend Dr Gaobepe’s study concluded that FOCAC has the potential to change perceptions of China's economic involvement in Africa. “This is based on a shared commitment to sustainable development and progress, which can be realised through cooperative and accountable actions,” he says.
His PhD thesis is titled “The role of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in China’s Lebensraum into Africa through Economic Expansionism ( 2000-2018)”.
While working on his PhD, he continued to fulfil his usual roles as a family man, employee and church leader. Reverend Dr Gaobepe is the Director of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation in the Office of the Secretary of the North West Provincial Legislature and a founding leader at the African Methodist Episcopal Church-Moses Reid Temple in Mahikeng.
Balancing studying, work and pastoral ministry can be challenging, he says, but with the right approach, it is possible. “It is essential to rely on God’s strength.”
He believes that God has called him to all these responsibilities and will equip him to manage them. By seeking wisdom through prayer and trusting that God will provide the grace to balance everything, he navigates these commitments effectively.
"All I can say is that a person must make a genuine commitment and be intentional about continuing studies, as pursuing education is one of the best investments one can make. It opens doors to new opportunities, deepens one's knowledge, and fosters personal and professional growth. However, the journey can be challenging, and staying motivated is essential," says Reverend Dr Gaobepe.
“In the face of challenges, it is important to reflect on the reasons that prompted your initial endeavour. Maintain focus, draw inspiration and have confidence in your abilities; your potential extends beyond what you may perceive. Continue to advance with determination.”
He motivates some of his peers to pursue further qualifications by emphasising that hard work always pays off and that research can be both rewarding and challenging.
“The first challenge that comes to my mind is selecting a relevant and original topic that has sufficient resources but isn’t overly explored. I overcame this challenge by reading recent literature extensively, identifying research gaps and consulting with my advisor and others who have completed their PhDs to help refine my focus area for study.”
Reverend Dr Dimpho Gaobepe.
