CELEBRATING DR BONGI DUBE-OWUSU’S PHD TRIUMPH

By Cuma Pantswa

• Dr Bongi Dube-Owusu, from Gcilima, KwaZulu-Natal, recently earned her PhD, showcasing her dedication to education and community development amidst personal tragedy.
• Her research on the impact of COVID-19 on rural women highlights gender inequalities, contributing significantly to social justice discourse.
• As the Director of Gender and Women Empowerment at the Department of Social Development, Bongi’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and education, inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

In the small village of Gcilima in KwaZulu-Natal, where the lush landscapes tell tales of endurance, a young woman embarked on a journey that would not only transform her life but inspire countless others. Today, Dr Bongi Dube-Owusu stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and empowerment, having recently earned her PhD—a testament to her unwavering commitment to education and community upliftment.

Bongi’s journey is deeply rooted in a belief in the transformative power of education. “Education has the power to open locked doors and change your background,” she often says, living the truth of her words. Born into a family where education is revered, Bongi’s academic pursuits were more than personal ambitions—they were a continuation of a legacy that honours knowledge and progress.

Balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and full-time employee while pursuing a PhD was no small feat. Yet, Bongi managed these responsibilities with a grace that reflects her inner strength and the robust support system around her. “A PhD is very demanding, and without support, it is not possible to succeed,” Bongi acknowledges. Her journey was made possible by the unwavering support of her family—her husband, who is also academically inclined; her late mother, a retired nurse with a Master’s degree in nursing science; and her father-in-law, a professor who has been her academic mentor. “I am fortunate to come from a family of academics,” Bongi shares. “My father-in-law is a professor and has been very supportive during this journey, and my late mother had an MA in nursing science. My husband has a BSc in Chemistry and is busy with his MA in Public Health. He has been my anchor throughout my journey. So education is part of our DNA, if I may put it that way.”

Even with a strong foundation, the path was not without its challenges. The loss of her mother and brother to COVID-19 in 2021 was a devastating blow, nearly derailing her studies. “They were very supportive and proud of the journey I was embarking on. Unfortunately, they both succumbed to COVID-19, and coping without them was incredibly difficult.” Despite this immense hardship, Bongi’s resilience carried her through, and she completed her PhD in September 2023, a semester later than planned, but with a renewed sense of purpose and strength.

Her PhD research, titled “Repercussions of Coronavirus Disease on the Livelihood of Rural Women,” is a critical examination of how the pandemic exacerbated existing gender inequalities. Bongi’s work is more than academic; it is a significant contribution to ongoing discussions about gender and social justice, particularly regarding rural women whose voices are often unheard. Her findings illuminate the gendered impact of the pandemic, advocating for more inclusive policies that address the unique challenges faced by women in rural areas.

Bongi’s academic journey is complemented by her achievements as a published author. Her book, Silent Pain, tells the poignant story of a young widow’s struggle and ultimate reclamation of her life, inspired by her own experiences and those of her late mother. “My mother motivated me to write a book and share my journey,” Bongi shares. Silent Pain is not just a story; it is a tribute to the strength of women who, despite immense hardships, find the courage to rebuild their lives.

As Bongi looks to the future, she is not resting on her laurels. She is finalising her second book and working on academic articles that delve into gender and sexuality in the workplace and the support available for women in leadership. Her newly acquired qualifications will undoubtedly enhance her role within her organisation, particularly in developing gender-responsive approaches to disaster management.

For working parents and aspiring academics, Bongi offers invaluable advice: “Don’t procrastinate. If you want to further your studies, the best time to do it is now. It is doable; nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it.” Her words reflect her life’s journey—a journey far from over but already filled with achievements that inspire and empower others.

Dr Bongi Dube-Owusu is not only a recent PhD graduate but also serves as the Director of Gender and Women Empowerment within the Department of Social Development. Her leadership role within the department reflects her deep commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women, both professionally and academically.

As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, the Department of Social Development honours remarkable women like Dr Bongi Dube-Owusu, whose work is changing the status quo. Dr Dube-Owusu embodies the spirit of empowerment and resilience, not just through her academic achievements but in her unwavering commitment to uplifting women and communities. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and faith, any challenge can be overcome.

“It is never too late to be what you might have been,” she concludes, inspiring others to dream boldly and pursue their goals with passion and perseverance.