Prof Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe | Development Studies Award | Best Researcher Award
Prof Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe, University of Pretoria, South Africa
š Prof. Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe is an accomplished academic with a PhD in Development Studies from the University of East Anglia. Currently serving as Professor and Head of Department at the University of Pretoria, he brings extensive experience in teaching, research, and community engagement. His expertise spans areas such as social theory, political economy of development, and agrarian development. With a career dedicated to academia, Dr. Thebe has held various roles globally, contributing significantly to the field of development studies. Passionate about education, he has developed numerous courses and continues to inspire future generations in the realm of development.
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
š Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe’s academic journey began with a BSc in Sociology Honours from the University of Zimbabwe in 1993. Building upon this foundation, he pursued a MA in Rural Development at the University of East Anglia in 2004, delving deeper into Development Studies. His quest for knowledge culminated in a PhD in Development Studies from the same institution in 2007. š This academic progression reflects his commitment to understanding and addressing the complexities of development, shaping him into the esteemed scholar and educator he is today.
WORK EXPERIENCE
šØāš« Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe’s professional journey is marked by a rich tapestry of academic roles spanning prestigious institutions worldwide. Starting as a Branch Head & Lecturer at Bantori College from July 1995 to September 2003, he then ventured into tutoring as an Associate Tutor at the University of East Anglia from September 2006 to December 2007. His career flourished further as a Lecturer at the National University of Lesotho from July 2008 to September 2014. Joining the University of Pretoria in various capacities, he ascended to the position of Professor and Head of Department, shaping minds and fostering community engagement since July 2020. š
TEACHING
š Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe’s teaching portfolio reflects his comprehensive expertise in development studies across various academic levels. From foundational courses like Social Theory & Development and Agrarian and Rural Development for undergraduate students to advanced topics such as Political Economy of Development and Comparative Development for MA students, he demonstrates a commitment to cultivating a deep understanding of global development issues. With a blend of self-developed and established courses, Dr. Thebe fosters critical thinking and practical skills in his students, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in development. His dedication to education is evident in his diverse and engaging curriculum. š±
RESEARCH FOCUS
š Dr. Vusilizwe Thebe’s research focuses primarily on the complex dynamics of development, particularly in Southern Africa. He explores issues such as gender stereotyping in the labor market, youth livelihoods in post-colonial contexts, and the intersection of migration, identity, and livelihoods. Through a multidisciplinary lens, he delves into topics ranging from rural development policy to land reform and agricultural sustainability. His extensive publication record reflects a deep commitment to understanding the intricacies of social, economic, and environmental challenges facing marginalized communities. Dr. Thebe’s research contributes significantly to scholarly discourse, shedding light on pressing issues and offering insights for policy and practice. š
PUBLICATION TOP NOTES
āBasali ba lifemengā:1 Gender Stereotyping and the Low Absorption of Male Labour in Lesothoās Textile Industry
Changing Households Social Dynamics and Agriculture Crisis in Shamva District, Zimbabwe
After āSiziphileā Land Occupations: Youth Land Occupiers, Livelihoods and the Complex Realities of a Worker-Peasantry in North-Western Zimbabwe
SOUTH AFRICAāS STRUCTURAL UNEMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN AND YOUTH: AN ANALYSIS OF THE EXPANDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME MODEL
Youth, Livelihoods, and Complex Realities in a Former Migrant Labour Reserve in North-western Zimbabwe
Living on the Periphery and Challenges of Mobility: a Tale of Transport-Induced Social Exclusion in Southlea Park, Harare, Zimbabwe
Siziphile Land Occupations, Wilderness Farming, Threat of the Wild and Livelihood Vulnerability in Western Lupane District