News & Media
Driving communities to a specific destination
On 26 September 2023, the Unisa Midlands Region hosted a community development workshop at the Northern Cape Rural Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, Upington Campus, with the aim of deepening the agency for change within Upington communities.
Dr Genevieve James (centre), Deputy Director, of Community Engagement and Outreach at Unisa, with attendees
In outlining the importance of building sustainable praxis and partnering for effective developmental action, Deputy Director of Community Engagement and Outreach at Unisa, Dr Genevieve James, highlighted various tools that can help individuals understand community development. She recommended correcting those systems and structures which impinge on community wellbeing, working with existing community networks, integrating community development initiatives with the praxis cycle for community development, and fostering those skills and attitudes that are vital for bringing about development.
James stated that, for communities to transform and develop, various processes may be followed to assist them in moving from vulnerability to resilience, from victimhood to agency, from limited to optimal access, and from dependency to self-reliance. Men and women alike should be empowered, learn how to interpret the needs of their respective communities, and be given the necessary entrepreneurial skills to build the areas in which they live.
In reflecting on the current state of communities in South Africa, James pointed out that many are characterised by dependence syndrome, education and healthcare crises, political leaders not serving the interests of the people, and a hunger for knowledge and connectivity. She made it clear that government alone cannot solve all a community’s challenges – the onus is on citizens to participate in, and contribute to, the National Development Plan.
Government, in turn, needs to engage in community consultation to share its vision and goals, exercise justice and prioritise the welfare of inhabitants. Individuals can and should exert a positive influence on their communities, by helping to drive them to a specific and desired destination. To do so, "we need democratic leaders who will build and not break, and also share with communities," said James.
In closing, James urged individuals to have a shared vision, to set attainable goals and develop action plans with timelines. She emphasised the importance of finding ways to measure progress, including developing a strategy to share knowledge and skills so that citizens can be part of learning and sustainable communities. Each community’s vision must be linked with a proclamation. "Don’t ignore the systems that cause destruction in your communities," James warned.
The workshop was attended by representatives from civil society, government, non-profit organisations, community-based organisations and business communities that are involved in development efforts. The session was interactive, allowing individuals to raise concerns and share experiences from their respective communities.
* By Thotogelo Masenya, Communication and Marketing Officer, Midlands Region
Publish date: 2023/10/12
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