Grade nine learners’ experiences on Ubuntu workshop in Mopani District of South Africa: An appreciative inquiry

Abstract

Background: Teenage pregnancy remains a significant public health concern in South Africa that remains a challenge in the context of Ubuntu in the African philosophy.

Aim: This article explores grade nine leraners’ experiences on Ubuntu workshop in Mopani District.

Setting: The study was conducted in Limpopo province of South Africa. Limpopo province is one of the nine provinces on the far northern side of South Africa. It is bordered by Mozambique and Zimbabwe as its neighbouring countries.

Methods: A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was used based on the 4-cycle appreciative inquiry. A non-probability purposive sampling was used to select 32 participants who were grade nine learners who participated in the health education programme for teenage pregnancy. Data were gathered through workshop group discussions. The interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to categorise and analyse themes that emerged from the data.

Results: Four main themes were identified: Empowering self and others; Outcomes for the future; Imparting knowledge; and Shaping others.

Conclusion: Based on the four themes that emerged from the findings, it is clear that participants prioritise personal growth, empowerment and positively impacting others. These findings suggest that teenage pregnancy prevention programmes should focus on empowering teenagers to empower others and that knowledge sharing with the infusion of Ubuntu principles promotes self-worth, dignity and empowerment, enabling teenagers to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Contribution: Adds to the body of knowledge by presenting Ubuntu teenage pregnancy prevention programmes.