On Wednesday, 9 October 2024, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) celebrated the professorial inauguration of Professor Lauren Graham, a development sociologist and Director of the Centre for Social Development in Africa. The ceremony, held at the Ubuntu Chambers in the Madibeng Building on Kingsway Campus, highlighted Professor Graham’s significant contributions to social development research.
Addressing structural barriers to inclusion
In her inaugural address, titled “Unlocking Human Potential through Social and Economic Inclusion,” Professor Graham discussed the enduring challenges South Africa faces 30 years into democracy, particularly high unemployment and precarious work. Drawing from her extensive research, she focused on how structural barriers prevent individuals, especially unemployed youth and marginalised workers, from realising their full potential.
Professor Graham emphasised the critical role of social and economic inclusion in fostering human development. She argued that the “decent work” agenda and active labour market policies are essential for creating meaningful inclusion, especially in South Africa and other parts of the Global South.
The interplay of social and economic inclusion
Professor Graham presented research demonstrating that social inclusion often precedes and reinforces economic inclusion. In studies such as the Siyakha Youth Assets project, it was shown that participants in youth employability programmes who experienced enhanced self-esteem and self-efficacy were more resilient in job searches, particularly among vulnerable youth. Soft skills training, which emphasised personal and interpersonal development, also significantly improved employment prospects for those with less education and those in non-urban areas.
In collaboration with Professor Ariane De Lannoy at the University of Cape Town, Prof Graham is also studying a coaching programme designed for young people not in employment or education. The programme, which provides social support and referrals to educational and economic opportunities, has led to measurable improvements in participants’ wellbeing, self-esteem, and mental health. Notably, 40% of participants connected to a training or earning opportunity after just four coaching sessions.
Following her address, Distinguished Professor Leila Patel from the Centre for Social Development in Africa served as respondent, further enriching the discussion. The event featured an academic procession, with esteemed guests including Prof Sarah Gravett – VC Functionary – Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation, and Professor Kammila Naidoo, Executive Dean: Faculty of Humanities.
A celebrated academic career
Prof Graham is a Development Sociologist committed to social justice, focusing on enhancing social and economic inclusion for marginalised groups. Her research examines structural barriers that contribute to social and economic exclusion, particularly affecting unemployed youth, individuals with disabilities, vulnerable workers, and children in difficult circumstances. As Director of the Centre for Social Development in Africa at the University of Johannesburg, she leads applied research aimed at improving social development outcomes and shaping policy.
Prof Graham holds a D Litt et Phil in Development Sociology and has published over 30 journal articles, as well as more accessible research reports. She has supervised 35 postgraduate students and is actively engaged in advancing social development both locally and globally.
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