The Sisters of the Holy Rosary joyfully celebrate the graduation of Sr. Justina Ngulube, a member of the Sisters of the Holy Rosary Congregation, who has successfully obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Development Studies from the Catholic University of Malawi. Her academic journey reflects dedication, perseverance, faith, and commitment to service.
Above all, Sr. Justina gives thanks to Almighty God for His guidance, protection, wisdom, and blessings throughout her studies. She also expresses her heartfelt gratitude to the Sisters of the Holy Rosary Congregation for giving her the opportunity to pursue higher education and for their continuous spiritual, moral, and emotional support during her academic journey.
Special appreciation goes to the ASEC Program for supporting her education through the provision of tuition fees, a laptop, and books which greatly contributed to the successful completion of her studies.
Her dissertation was titled: “An Analysis of Gender Disparities among Smallholder Tobacco Farmers: A Case Study of Timothy Botha Village, Mzimba District.” Through this research, Sr. Justina explored challenges affecting gender equality among smallholder tobacco farmers and contributed knowledge that can help promote inclusive rural development and social transformation.
The study revealed that gender disparities in land ownership remain a major challenge among smallholder tobacco farmers, particularly affecting women in rural communities. The research established that customary laws, inheritance systems, limited legal awareness, and financial constraints continue to restrict women’s access to productive land. The findings further highlighted that unequal land ownership negatively affects agricultural productivity, household welfare, and women’s economic empowerment.
Through this research, Sr. Justina contributed valuable knowledge towards promoting gender equality, inclusive rural development, and social transformation within farming communities
Sr. Justina acknowledges that the knowledge and skills she has acquired during her studies will greatly assist her in serving communities in different areas of development work, research, social empowerment, and congregational activities. She remains committed to using her education for the betterment of society and in the mission of the Church.
She further extends sincere appreciation to the Sisters of the Holy Rosary, her parents, relatives, brothers and sisters, friends, lecturers, classmates, and everyone who supported, encouraged, and prayed for her throughout this journey. Their support played a significant role in her success.
