By Phenyo Mokgothu and Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

For his PhD study challenging traditional gender roles in education, North-West University (NWU) alumnus Dr Obakeng Kagola has received the Best Doctoral Thesis Award for 2024 from the South African Education Research Association (SAERA).

Dr Kagola received the award during SAERA’s annual conference, held from 29 October to 1 November at the University of the Free State, another of his alma maters.

His award-winning study, titled “Exploring nurturing masculinity amongst Eastern Cape-based male foundation phase teachers”, uses participatory and visual methodologies to address stereotypes that often view nurturing and teaching young children as incompatible with masculine identity.

More men needed in early childhood education

He argues that men in early childhood education contribute positively to gender diversity, and he aims to inspire more men to join this field. “Receiving this award transcends personal achievement. It represents a breakthrough for my family, community and friends in the academy,” he says.

The SAERA award for an outstanding doctoral thesis considers originality, research quality and potential impact on education policy and practice. Dr Kagola’s research, which reflects a transformative intent, was commended for its potential to drive social change and challenge longstanding norms in the education system.

Dr Kagola, who is originally from Wolmaransstad in the North West Province, is the first in his family and community to earn a doctoral degree. Reflecting on the recognition, he said, “This award carries the weight of generations of dreams. It highlights that research can drive change, and for my community, it’s a sign that breaking generational barriers is achievable.”

His first two degrees, a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase in 2014 and an honours degree in 2015, were completed at the NWU. Next, he completed his master’s in education at Nelson Mandela University in 2020, studying school governing bodies’ perceptions of male primary school teachers. In 2023, he earned his PhD in curriculum studies from the University of the Free State.

Currently, he is a curriculum studies lecturer at Sol Plaatje University and a research associate at Nelson Mandela University’s Faculty of Education.

NWU alumnus Dr Obakeng Kagola has received the Best Doctoral Thesis Award for 2024 from the South African Education Research Association.