It is not often that undergraduate students stand before leading experts to present original research at a national conference, but for University of Fort Hare Bachelor of Science Speech-Language Pathology students Sive Mntwapi and Oratilwe Tsotsotso, this moment was nothing short of transformative.
The pair delivered a powerful presentation grounded in their study titled “Exploring attraction and retention strategies for speech-language therapists working in rural communities” at the South African Speech-Language Hearing Association (SASLHA) Conference in Gqeberha last month.
Supervised by Prof Mikateko Ndhambi and Ms Charne Christians, their research provides timely insights into one of the country’s most pressing healthcare challenges: equitable access to specialized therapy services in underserved communities. At the heart of their research lies a simple yet profound question: What motivates a speech therapist to choose rural practice and stay?
A Study Rooted in Purpose
While many healthcare workers migrate to urban centres in search of resources, career growth, and professional networks, Sive and Oratilwe were intrigued by those who choose the opposite path. Through qualitative research grounded in Interpretative Phenomenology, they interviewed Speech Langauage Therapists (SLP’s) working in rural facilities within the Amathole District, uncovering the realities, struggles, and deeply personal motivations that shape their professional journeys.
Their findings revealed a complex interplay of systemic barriers and personal anchors. Limited posts, infrastructure challenges, and scarce developmental opportunities continue to push therapists away.
“The study has shown that financial incentives alone are not sufficient without mentorship, strong leadership, and ongoing professional development.” the students noted. Yet, mentorship, leadership support, community connection, autonomy, and a sense of purpose keep others rooted.
Key Recommendations for Rural Workforce Sustainability
The duo’s study provides actionable guidance for health policymakers and institutions. Their recommendations include:
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Establishing formal mentorship programmes for early-career therapists
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Strengthening professional development pathways
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Implementing structured rural orientation processes
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Building interdisciplinary teamwork and stronger leadership support
They argue for integrated strategies that address both the personal and professional dimensions of rural practice. “Short-term fixes cannot solve long-term challenges,” they explained. “Sustainable change must be holistic.”
A Moment of Pride at SASLHA Conference
Presenting at the conference was a milestone neither will soon forget.
“Being surrounded by esteemed professionals was incredibly inspiring. We engaged with experts, built networks, and gained mentors who broadened our thinking. It made us believe even more in the impact we want to make,” they said.
Their participation not only showcased the calibre of UFH’s Speech-Language Pathology programme but also reflected the university’s growing footprint in health sciences research.
Ambitions Rooted in Service
Both students are driven by a deep commitment to contribute to South Africa’s health sector. Oratilwe hopes to return to UFH as a lecturer, championing representation and culturally relevant speech therapy services.“I want to train and inspire the next generation of therapists, especially therapists of colour, so that communities see themselves reflected in the care they receive.”
Sive envisions a future in paediatric speech therapy, working at the intersection of clinical practice, research, and community upliftment. “My goal is to make a meaningful difference for children and families in underserved areas. I want my work to shape policy, practice, and access.”
A Future Publication in Sight
Inspired by their research journey, Sive and Oratilwe plan to publish their study to spark national dialogue on rural health workforce retention. They hope their findings will support policymakers, create awareness of rural constraints, and motivate more SLTs to consider rural practice as a meaningful and rewarding career path.