Social Challenges Faced by the LGBTQIA Community at the University of Eswatini

Table of Contents

CHAPTER ONE

Introduction

1.1 Background of the study

1.2 Problem Statement

1.3 Justification /Rationale

1.4 Aim of the study

1.5 Study Objectives

1.5.1 General objective

1.5. 2 Specific Objectives

1.6 Research Questions

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Introduction

2.1 Theoretical Framework

2.3 Empirical Studies and social challenges

2.4 Chapter Summary

CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

3.1 Methods

3.2 Research Design

3.3 Population and Sampling

3.4 Study procedures

3.5 Data Collection techniques and tools

3.5.1 Interviews

3.5.2 Focus group discussions

3.6 Data analysis techniques

3.7 Ethical Consideration

3.8 Limitations

3.9 Tentative report outline

Research Objectives and Focus Areas

The primary goal of this study is to explore and identify the underlying social challenges faced by the LGBTQI community at the University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni campus, with the intent of fostering a more inclusive environment and providing actionable solutions to mitigate discrimination and stigma.

• Analysis of social and cultural challenges encountered by LGBTQI students at the Kwaluseni campus.
• Examination of the experiences related to living and studying within an environment governed by strict local cultural norms.
• Application of African-informed theories, specifically Ubuntu, to navigate and address LGBTQI rights and acceptance.
• Proposal of strategies and a tentative lasting remedy to improve the social inclusion and treatment of LGBTQI individuals.
• Development of insights that can support future policy making for better protection of minority groups in Eswatini.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

CHAPTER ONE: This chapter introduces the study background, problem statement, research aims, objectives, and research questions concerning LGBTQI social challenges in Eswatini.

CHAPTER TWO: This chapter reviews the literature and establishes the theoretical framework, incorporating Ubuntu philosophy, identity theory, social ecological theory, and minority stress theory.

CHAPTER THREE: This chapter describes the qualitative research methodology, including the ethnographic design, sampling, data collection techniques like interviews and focus groups, ethical considerations, and data analysis procedures.

Keywords

LGBTQI, Eswatini, Kwaluseni Campus, Social Challenges, Ubuntu, Discrimination, Stigma, Minority Stress Theory, Qualitative Research, Ethnography, Human Rights, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation, Social Exclusion, Inclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core focus of this research?

The research focuses on the social challenges encountered by the LGBTQI community specifically within the University of Eswatini's Kwaluseni campus, addressing their lack of societal acceptance.

What are the primary themes investigated?

Key themes include societal discrimination, lack of legal protections, cultural norms influencing exclusion, and the psychological impact of stigma on LGBTQI individuals.

What is the main research objective?

The primary aim is to sensitize the university community to the struggles of LGBTQI individuals and to propose practical solutions, such as memoranda of understanding, to improve their treatment.

What research methodology does the author employ?

The study utilizes a qualitative research methodology, specifically an ethnographic approach, to gain a deep understanding of the participants' experiences in their natural environment.

How is the main body structured?

The main part of the work moves from an introduction and problem identification to a theoretical foundation (covering Ubuntu and stress theories) and finally a detailed methodological plan for primary data collection.

Which specific theories underpin this study?

The study is theoretically supported by the Ubuntu philosophy, identity theory, social ecological theory, and minority stress theory to analyze the experiences of the LGBTQI population.

How is Eswatini's legislative context described in the study?

The study identifies that there is currently no specific legislation in Eswatini recognizing or protecting LGBTQI individuals, leading to limited rights and pervasive discrimination.

What is the role of Ubuntu in this research?

Ubuntu is used as an African-informed theoretical framework to advocate for empathy, interdependence, and the inclusion of LGBTQI individuals as valid members of society, challenging heteronormative discourse.

How will the data be collected from students?

Data will be collected through individual interviews and focus group discussions with a sample of 15 members of the LGBTQI community, selected via snowball sampling.

What methods will be used to analyze the collected data?

The research will employ thematic analysis, involving familiarization with the data, coding, searching for themes, and defining those themes to address the research questions.