Teacher exclusion from vital curriculum decision-making processes remains an arching issue to date. Although there are enormous benefits when teachers participate in making decisions on curriculum-related matters, educational authorities in many parts of the globe sideline them. This study aims to find out how teachers understand their role as curriculum leaders and the challenges they encounter in fulfilling these roles. This qualitative study used a multiple-site case study approach. By purposively and conveniently selecting twenty teachers from four secondary schools, the researcher generated data through individual interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), meetings, and lesson observations. From the thematically analysed data, the findings indicated that teachers understand their role as partners in curriculum decision-making at any level, and as designers of learning and teaching materials (LTMs), facilitators, and subject specialists. The study also found that exclusion from vital curriculum decision-making processes is the worst challenge teachers face. The researcher proposed a model to include teachers in curriculum decision-making at any level. The researcher also recommended future studies with education authorities to obtain a better understanding of teacher exclusion from curriculum-related decision-making processes. It is hoped that the outcome of this study will contribute to closing the existing gap of teacher exclusion in vital curriculum decision-making processes. Keywords: Curriculum Leadership, Teacher Leadership, Decision-Making, Teacher Exclusion, Teacher Inclusion

This qualitative study investigated the adverse implications of Bronco drug abuse on the educational attainment of rural female adolescents in Masvingo West constituency, Zimbabwe rural area, employing Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory as a guiding framework. The research aimed to identify the underlying causes of drug abuse and explore potential solutions to mitigate its effects. Through purposive sampling, 15 participants were selected based on specific criteria such as gender, geographical location, and relevant experiences with Bronco drug abuse. This diverse group comprised six female learners aged 15 to 18, two teachers, two parents, a counsellor, a police officer, a Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education official, a parliamentarian, and a village head, ensuring a broad perspective on the issue. Data collection involved two focus group discussions—one for adolescents and another for adults—to create a safe space for open dialogue. Each discussion lasted 90 minutes and was semi-structured, allowing participants to share their experiences regarding the impact of Bronco drug abuse on their education. Thematic analysis, guided by Clarke and Braun’s framework, involved familiarization with the data, coding, and theme identification. The findings indicate that Bronco drug abuse severely undermines academic performance, leading to increased absenteeism and diminished motivation among affected learners. A key recommendation is to implement community-based intervention programs that provide educational support and resources for both adolescents and their families. Through addressing the social and environmental factors contributing to drug abuse, these initiatives can enhance educational resilience and improve academic outcomes for affected learners. Keywords: Bronco, Drug Abuse, Educational Attainment, Rural Female Adolescent, Zimbabwe

The article aimed to discuss the psychological effects associated with sexual bereavement in the Didi Location of the Eastern Cape. The article investigated 12 participants using a qualitative approach, a descriptive and explorative research design, and a phenomenology cum case study as a specific research study. Worden’s Four Stages of Mourning provided the article with a theoretical frame. The findings established that the memory of the lost child is grief-provoking, declining intimacy after the death of one’s child, and losing a child establishes episodes of anger and outbursts. The article recommends that the Department of Health deploy, and station registered counsellors, social workers, and psychologists in the communities to advocate for and assist communities undergoing trauma and bereavement ensuring that that these bereavement psychological services are accessible to the wider communities. The article is essential to widen the horizon of literature to future researchers in the domain of sexual bereavement. Keywords: Sexual Bereavement, Psychological Doldrums, Trauma and Grieving, Declining Sexual Intimacy, Hallucinations

This theoretical paper examines the role of artificial intelligence as a tool for supporting the lifelong learning of students in Internet Technologies. With the advancement of artificial intelligence technology, education can be transformed through customized and flexible active learning. However, integrating artificial intelligence into Internet Technologies is a challenge, including coping with rapid technological change, lack of proper infrastructure, addressing the issues of varied learning, securing data privacy, and integrating artificial intelligence with existing educational frameworks. To do these things, the paper employed Activity Theory as a lens to explore the possibilities of AI as a learning mediator in social, cultural and historical settings, where communities and societies have a relation and attachment to learning. As a framework, Activity Theory was used to understand the relationship among students, artificial intelligence applications and their learning contexts, and how they affect students’ participation and level of learning. This study is based on secondary data to investigate the role of artificial intelligence in lifelong learning for Information Technology students. Literature was sought from different databases, including Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus. The study stresses the importance of adapting artificial intelligence applications to different educational settings to maximize their effectiveness. It highlights that, when thoughtfully integrated, artificial intelligence can significantly enhance lifelong learning for Internet Technologies students, who must continually adapt to rapidly changing technological advancements. The argument premised in this paper is that artificial intelligence used in internet technologies has the potential to promote lifelong learning among university students. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Internet Technologies, Activity Theory, Lifelong Learning, Information Technology

Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into mathematics education signifies a pivotal transformation in pedagogical practices, presenting remarkable opportunities and formidable challenges for educators, policymakers, and learners. This conceptual paper employed a theory synthesis approach to critically analyse the implications of AI adoption in mathematics education, concentrating on three fundamental dimensions: stakeholder roles, implementation pathways, and future trajectories. The investigation explored the potential of AI tools, including platforms like ChatGPT, to mitigate barriers in academic writing and enhance inclusivity in scholarly communication while assessing AI’s broader pedagogical implications for mathematics instruction. The findings indicated that effective AI integration necessitates a balanced framework that harmonises technological infrastructure with pedagogical innovation, all while prioritising educational equity. The paper contributes to the existing literature by offering a structured framework for stakeholder engagement, actionable implementation strategies, and a forward-looking research agenda that underscores the necessity for longitudinal studies, cross-cultural comparative analyses, and adaptive assessment models. Furthermore, it advocates for a synergistic approach that combines traditional methodologies with AI-enhanced techniques, positing that the future of mathematics education hinges on this thoughtful integration. This work aims to foster inclusive and dynamic learning ecosystems in mathematics education by providing theoretical insights and practical guidance, equipping educational institutions, policymakers, and practitioners with the tools necessary to navigate this evolving landscape. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence in Education, Mathematics Education, Stakeholder Analysis, Educational Technology Integration, Pedagogical Innovation.

This research investigates the function of social entrepreneurship in addressing social development issues in South Africa. It underscores the increasing importance of social entrepreneurs in utilising business tactics to develop innovative, sustainable solutions to urgent community challenges such as environmental degradation, youth unemployment, educational disparities, health care inequalities and poverty. By combining business mechanisms with a social mission, these entities make significant contributions to inclusive development and the overarching goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Systematic Literature Review (SLR) technique was used in this paper, investigating an extensive array of peer-reviewed journal publications, pertinent case studies, and policy document reports about the South African setting. The SLR methodology facilitated a thorough and organised integration of current knowledge, enabling the recognition of prevalent themes, research deficiencies and practical approaches in social entrepreneurship. The findings revealed the necessity to improve public awareness of social entrepreneurship, establish supportive institutional and policy frameworks, increase access to funding and promoting community engagement. The study underscored the need for capacity-building activities and educational programs to equip aspiring social entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge. The study concluded that social entrepreneurship has revolutionary potential in South Africa by empowering marginalised people and promoting sustainable development. Mitigating institutional challenges and fostering a supportive environment for social entrepreneurs can accelerate social innovation and enhance sustained socio-economic advancements. Keywords: Social Entrepreneurship, South Africa, Social Development, Systematic Literature Review, Education Inequality, Youth Unemployment

The Russian-Ukraine conflict drew Africa’s attention, which saw an opportunity to promote its philosophy of Ubuntu. This is where South and African leaders emphasize the principles of nation-building and peace initiatives. Additionally, African leaders further urged the leaders of both states to follow Ubuntu’s principles to prevent further humanitarian crises. In the same breath, South Africa also depicted such attributes in the stance against Israel’s brutality towards Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting the genocide and mass killings. South Africa argued that this cannot be condoned in any way, hence advocating for communalism and peace. South Africa believes that communalism through intense consensus can bring peace and stability to the Gaza war. This action reflects the Ubuntu principle of social justice and reconciliation advocated by the late Rev. Desmond Tutu. From this perspective, the paper employs a qualitative research method, including a desktop study and search engines, to examine South Africa’s contribution to global conflict resolution and peacebuilding, using the Israel-Palestine dispute as a case study. The findings show that South Africa has contributed a lot of philosophical perspectives, such as Ubuntu, communalism, and villagisation in Africa. Thus, the paper concludes that South Africa, like other African leaders, advocates for conflict resolution and peacebuilding in the Middle East conflict, and achieves these through the application of African philosophy. Keywords: Israel-Palestine, South Africa, Conflict Resolution, African Philosophy, Peacebuilding

This study explored the role of university choir participation in fostering social cohesion, emotional well-being, and skill development among students from various disciplines. It investigated how choir involvement affects music and non-music students, examining their motivations, experiences, and challenges in balancing choir commitments with academic responsibilities. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilising thematic analysis of interviews with twenty (20) participants, including fifteen (15) Public Relations, Electrical Engineering, and Management Sciences students and five (5) Music students. Findings revealed that students joined the choir with a passion for music, social interaction, and stress relief. Choir participation contributed to developing time management, communication, and teamwork skills, which enhanced academic and personal growth. However, challenges emerged, particularly regarding the balance between choir participation and educational commitments. The study underscores the significance of choir involvement in enhancing students’ social experiences and emotional well-being while preparing them for future professional environments. The findings advocate for more excellent institutional support for extracurricular music activities, suggesting that universities recognise and integrate choir participation as a developmental tool that enhances students’ holistic learning experiences. Recommendations for curriculum adjustments and structured support systems are provided to maximise the benefits of choir involvement for university students. This study contributes to the growing discourse on holistic student development within South African higher education. Keywords: Choir Participation, Social Coherence, Emotional Well-Being, Music Education, Higher Education

This study investigated the impact of Baptist Christianity on parenting styles and children’s morality in the Sakumono zone, focusing on discipline, nurturing, guidance, and moral decision-making. Through purposive sampling and interviews with 20 participants from different Baptist churches in Sakumono, a suburb of Accra, the research revealed how Baptist beliefs shaped parenting practices, emphasizing doctrinal teachings, discipline, and moral integrity. The study highlighted the significance of prayer and Bible reading in fostering children’s spiritual growth and encouraging independent moral choices, with family dynamics reflecting a strong faith where children actively corrected parents if their actions contradicted scripture, promoting forgiveness, love, and loyalty. These findings contribute to understanding Moral Development Theory within the Baptist tradition and offer practical guidance for professionals working with Baptist families, recommending policy interventions to integrate religious education and support family-based initiatives. Acknowledging limitations such as sample size and potential biases, the study suggested future research to broaden its scope and enhance understanding across diverse religious denominations and geographical areas, fostering interfaith dialogue and collaboration to enrich discussions on religion, parenting, and morality. Keywords: Baptist, Parenting, Morality, Christianity

The research literature extensively discusses the negative impact of divorce on an individual’s well-being, yet there remains a limited understanding of their psychological adaptation. Although some individuals may find relief, divorce and the subsequent adjustment process are challenging for most. Therefore, this paper explored social workers’ experiences in assisting divorced individuals to develop guidelines to enhance social work practice. The primary objective of this research study was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the social work services provided to divorced individuals. The study employed a qualitative research approach characterised by an explorative, descriptive, and contextual research design. The sample encompassed 10 social workers from diverse organisations in the Gauteng province, South Africa, selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using Tesch’s eight-step framework. Guba’s model was employed for data verification. The findings illuminated that social workers provide generalist services, except for divorce cases, and concentrate on tending to children post-divorce. This includes addressing parental rights and responsibilities through mediation and formulating parenting plans. Although there are social workers who believe that the counselling services provided to divorced persons are helpful, most of them were not entirely satisfied and feel that they could do more by involving group work and community work methods of social work practice Subsequent to the findings, the study presented actionable recommendations that would inform social welfare policies and social work practice Keywords: Experiences, Divorce, Social Workers, Social Work Services