. Prospects and Challenges of Postgraduate Education in the Diaspora: A Case of Ugandan Returnee Students from South Africa

Abstract

Abstract
The forces of global capital, cultural exchange, technological advancements and the free flow of information have necessitated a reconsideration of the African Diaspora and its evolving meanings. ‘Diaspora’ refers to a dispersed population with a shared heritage residing across the globe. Diasporas can have a signifycant impact on the economic development of their countries of origin, contributing through financial remittances, facilitating access to quality education, fostering networks, transferring technology, knowledge, and skills, fostering career development, promoting trade and foreign direct investment, establishing businesses, and stimulating entrepreneurship, among other factors. Research indicates a consistent increase in Ugandan students seeking to study in the Diaspora. However, those who have returned home face numerous challenges while living in the host country. This study aimed to examine the prospects and challenges of postgraduate education in South Africa for Ugandan students and propose strategies for improvement. The super-diversity theory served as the appropriate theoretical framework for this study. Utilising a phenomenological research design and employing a qualitative research approach, the researchers employed an interview schedule to gather data. The snowball sampling identified respondents, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive participant pool. The findings revealed various challenges, including a lack of funding and inadequate support systems from both the host and the students’ country of origin.