A Reflective Experience of Postgraduate Education in South African Higher Education Institutions

Lawrence Abiwu

doi:10.25159/2312-3540/17760

Authors

Lawrence Abiwu University of Kwazulu-Natal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2312-3540/17760

Keywords:

access to funding, cultural shock, Higher Education Institutions, international postgraduate students, research supervision

Abstract

Postgraduate education is a significant aspect of higher education that has a fundamental influence on the global economy, governance, and social justice. However, most postgraduate students go through diverse experiences as they struggle with constructing their identities toward becoming researchers. This article reflects upon the author’s lived experience during his postgraduate education in one of South Africa’s higher education institutions (HEIs). Reflecting on the author’s lived experience, the article aims to expound on challenges experienced by international postgraduate students in South African HEIs. Based on the lived experience, the author identified six themes that revolve around the experience of international postgraduate students: access to funding; study and work permit; employment opportunities; xenophobic attacks; research supervision; and cultural shock. The study recommends that to ensure that the right knowledge is produced for a knowledge-based economy and evidence-based practice, challenges associated with postgraduate education need to be addressed, with particular emphasis on culture diversity training for international students, development of clear guidelines for postgraduate research supervision, and recruitment of high-potential postgraduate students. The article provides a better understanding of the challenges faced by international postgraduate students in South African HEIs, which adds to the body of knowledge on the experiences of international postgraduate students.

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