Understanding Challenges Facing Male Students at a South African University: Enrolment, Retention, Throughput, and Targeted Support Strategies | [Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences • 2025]

Author(s):

1. Munienge Mbodila: Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

2. Kanyisa Mbali: Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

3. Musa Malongete: Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

Abstract:

This study investigates the academic challenges confronting male students at a South African university, drawing on institutional data from the Student Tracking Unit and Institutional Research. By analyzing enrollment patterns, retention rates, dropout trends, and throughput outcomes, the study uncovers persistent gender disparities, with male students demonstrating lower enrollment figures, higher attrition rates, and weaker graduation performance relative to their female peers. Employing cohort analyses, trend evaluations, survey responses, and institutional datasets, the research pinpoints critical dropout phases, especially during the initial years of study, and reveals significant disparities across different campuses and faculties. The results underscore acute challenges at the Mthatha and Buffalo City campuses, where male students face the most pronounced struggles in academic achievement and overall well-being. The paper advocates for university-wide co-curricular programs specifically designed to address male students' needs and challenges. Furthermore, it proposes data-informed strategies for tailored interventions and strengthened support mechanisms, in alignment with the institution's Vision 2030 goals. These recommendations seek to dismantle systemic obstacles, boost retention, and advance equitable academic outcomes for male students.

Page(s): 1000-1009

DOI: 10.57239/PJLSS-2025-23.2.00228

Published: Journal: Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences, Volume: 23, Issue: 2, Year: 2025

Keywords:

Student Success Male Student Student Retention Gender Disparities

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