The shocking case of the rape and murder of 19-year-old university student Ms Uyinene Mrwetyana which dominated national headlines in 2019 led Master of Laws in Advanced Criminal Justice cum laude graduate Ms Nosipho Ndlovu to research how rape is sentenced in South Africa.
‘The devastating case revealed a complex web of issues. As I delved deeper, I discovered that sentencing decisions are sometimes influenced by harmful rape myths, prompting me to explore this critical aspect further,’ said Ndlovu.
The study titled: Recommendations for Dispelling Rape Myth Reliance in the Sentencing of Rape Offenders in South Africa was supervised by Dr Khulekani Khumalo.
‘My research contributes to the ongoing conversation about criminal justice reform, advocating for evidence-based sentencing practices that prioritise victim-centred approaches. Throughout my research, I strived to maintain objectivity, acknowledging my own biases and actively working to set them aside,’ said Ndlovu.
‘This allowed me to approach the complex topic with sensitivity and nuance, ensuring a comprehensive understanding. The journey was transformative, equipping me with advanced knowledge, critical thinking skills, and a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding criminal justice.’
During her LLM studies, Ndlovu served as Academic Development Officer (ADO) at UKZN’s School of Law and is currently working as a candidate legal practitioner, serving Articles of Clerkship under Findlater Attorneys Inc (an all women law firm with a prime focus on public interest law).
‘I tutored and lectured students from first year to final year while managing my own research and studies. Sacrifices included reduced social time and increased stress levels. However, the sense of accomplishment and growth made it worthwhile. I’m a dedicated individual driven by a strong sense of justice, with a focus on public interest law. My passion lies in promoting gender equality, challenging harmful gender norms, and protecting marginalised communities from violence and exploitation,’ she said.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini