Dr. Mzuhleli Makapela was among 16 doctoral candidates who proudly walked the stage to receive their doctoral degrees, marking a significant milestone in academic achievement. His research, titled “A Socially Designed Framework to Improve the Training of Emerging Farmers through Adult Education Approaches”, represents an important contribution to rural education and agricultural development in South Africa.

Dr. Makapela’s study focused on enhancing the training of emerging farmers in the rural Eastern Cape. Employing Bricolage and Transformative Learning Theory within a Participatory Action Research framework, he collaborated closely with farmers, agricultural facilitators, and key sector stakeholders as co-researchers. This inclusive methodology ensured that the voices of those directly impacted were central to the research process.

With an MSc in Agriculture specialising in Agricultural Extension and Education, Dr. Makapela combined academic rigour with practical insights. His study addressed critical challenges such as exclusion, poor coordination, and ineffective implementation in farmer training programs. These issues were examined through a comprehensive five-pillar framework encompassing Collaboration, Shared Vision, SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), Strategic Planning, and Monitoring and Evaluation.

The framework led to the development of practical solutions and policy guidelines designed to improve agricultural extension services and promote more responsive farming practices. His work provides valuable recommendations for agricultural policy development and makes a meaningful contribution to adult education, rural development, and sustainable agriculture.

Reflecting on his research, Dr. Makapela explained, “Emerging farmers struggle to grasp information and are overly dependent on government support and grants. My goal was to design a socially responsive framework that empowers them through participatory and adult education approaches.”

Dr. Makapela’s scholarly and professional contributions are poised to create lasting impact in rural communities by fostering self-reliance and sustainability among emerging farmers.

Uploaded: 10 September 2025