Nene Ernest Khalema

Professor Ernest Nene Khalema (B.A., G.Dip.Ed. MEd., PhD-Sociology) is a Full Professor in the discipline of Development Studies (Community Development) within the School of Social Sciences. He is the former Dean and Head of School of Built Environment & Development Studies (2017-2024) and former acting Dean of the School of Applied Human Sciences (2020) and currently serves UKZN as a Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of College of Law and Management Studies (https://ww2.clms.ukzn.ac.za/). Before joining UKZN, he was a Senior Research Specialist and was then promoted to Chief Research Scientist/Specialist at the Human Sciences Research Council of South Africa (2011-2015). Professor Khalema’s academic career began in Canada where he was an Assistant Professor of Social Work at the University of Calgary in Canada (2007-2011), a lecturer in various Canadian universities and liberal arts colleges since 2001 (i.e. Athabasca University, University of Alberta, MacEwan University, and Concordia University of Edmonton), just to name a few. Professor Khalema also served as Adjunct Professor of Public Health from 2012 to 2017 at the University of Alberta’s Centre for Health Promotion Studies (Canada), specializing in African migrant epidemiology, health equity for vulnerable populations, and chronic disease prevention.

Professor Khalema is a recipient of several teaching, research, and leadership awards. In 2010, he received the Centre for Community Engaged Learning Teaching Innovation Award for Service Learning and Student Engagement from the University of Calgary, Canada. In 2011, he was awarded the John Humphrey Centre for Peace & Human Rights’ Individual Human Rights Award; and in 2012 Centre for Race & Culture honoured him with the prestigious community leader Antiracism Award, recognizing his efforts in antiracism/anti-oppression research and scholarship.

His area of research specialization includes participatory action approaches (quantitative, mixed method, qualitative, and evaluative) in critical sociology of development, sociology of knowledge, sociology of race, gender and identity, and the sociology of health and illness (i.e. social epidemiology). Professor Khalema has led and co-led numerous national and international research projects and his areas of research interest in numerous countries including seminal work in Canada, Brazil, Mozambique, and currently South Africa. Research projects he has led include health of vulnerable populations (including migrants and refugees, those experiencing homelessness, people diagnosed with mental health illness, and survivors of racial/gender/sexual violence). His projects have tackled interventionist work for community empowerment/engagement and has particularly focused on the impacts of racialization, development discourses, modernity, and decolonial thought on individual and collective emancipation. Professor Khalema takes a community-based participatory approach to both quantitative and qualitative research, often partnering with community members, government departments, and practitioners to identify critical issues, appropriate methodologies, and relevant recommendations for future research, policy development, programme implementation, and responsive interventions. This focus aims to holistically unpack socio-political, cultural, and economic determinants of wellbeing through the life-course to respond to barriers impacting underserved and marginalised communities. The aim of this approach is to refine service delivery, monitor and evaluate (in)formal intervention programs, and advance knowledge that will equip communities with the necessary tools to co-create solutions. This approach is grounded and rooted in the belief that documenting and exploring lived experiences and foregrounding contextual challenges and opportunities will encourage structural change to facilitate impact

PhD Sociology (specializing in Medical Sociology, Population Health and Social Epidemiology, Social Stratification, & Comparative Social Policy). University of Alberta, Canada
MEd Educational Foundation Studies (specializing in Theoretical, Cultural & International Studies in Education). University of Alberta, Canada
Graduate Diploma Education Policy Studies (specializing in International/Intercultural Studies (Development and Global Economics, Globalization and Peace Studies). University of Alberta, Canada
Bachelor of Arts Sociology (major) and Psychology (minor), University of Alberta, Canada

Selected Research Projects as PI or Co-PI

Professor Khalema’s research has involved evidenced-based, policy/practice–driven, and community responsive work that is mindful of context. As a mixed methodologist, Prof Khalema has led funded projects as PI, Co-PI, Project Leader, and Co-investigator contributing his research expertise as a mixed methodologist with a strong community-based praxis. The areas of thought leadership Prof Khalema has contributed to are diverse and transdisciplinary [i.e. health disparities for marginalised communities, socio-cultural determinants of health and wellbeing, decoloniality and sociology of knowledge, community development praxis, community-based crime prevention, transcultural mental health, youth transitions, imaginations of difference (i.e. race, identity, class and so forth), employment (in)security; and most importantly migration (with emphasis on international immigration policies, forced migration issues, violence as a result of migration, criminality, xenophobia, migrant integration, (re)settlement of refugees and asylum seekers in health and education systems)]. Below is a selected list of research grants awarded as PI and /or CoPI:

(Co-PI) Developing a Strength-Based Youth-led Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Information Network for Diverse Youth in Southern and Eastern Africa (2025-2026)
(Co-PI) Mobilizing Knowledge on African Studies Curricula: Decolonial Exchanges Across Borders (2024-2025)
(Co-PI) Umlazi Surveillance Initiative to Nurture Grassroots Action (USINGA) (2022-2028)
(Co-I) Community-based Responses to Gender-based Violence during the COVID 19 Pandemic: What Works? (2022-2025)
(Co-PI) African Refugee Youth: Transition as Social Justice Concerns from South African Basic Education to Higher Education Institutions (2022-2025)
PI) Contextualizing African Spatial Humanities: Probing Space and Place (2018-2023)
(Co-PI)Drug Regimes in Southern Africa: Pharmaceutical Regulation and Consumption in Twentieth Century Contexts (2017)
(PI)Evaluating Safer Cities Unit of the eThekwini Municipality (2016)
(PI)Understanding Homelessness in the City of Durban (2015-2016)
(Co-PI)Post 1994 Genocide Survivors in Edmonton: Rwandan Community-based Research Project Exploring Mental Health Challenges, Strengths and Pathways to Healing (2015-2016).
(Co-PI)Millennium Development Goals Country Report 2015 (2015)-Lead Author: MDG3: Gender Equality & Empowerment of Women (2015)
(Co-PI)Future Impact Evaluation for Informal Settlements Targeted for Upgrading in South Africa (2014-2016)
(Co-PI) Social Cohesion: The missing Link in overcoming Violence, Inequality and Poverty in South Africa and Brazil (2013-2015)
Co-PI)Assessing Awareness, Understanding, and Implementation of Population Policy in South Africa (2015)
(PI)Situational Analysis of Population and Development in Eight Priority areas of KZN & EC (2013)
(Co-PI)Circular Migration in the Eastern Cape and its Implications on Service Delivery (2013-2014)
(Co-PI) Unspoken Skills and Tactics: Essentials for Immigrant Professionals in Integration to Workplace Culture (2012-2014)
(Co-PI) Education and Emancipation: A Critical, Intervention-Orientated Investigation of Obstacles and Opportunities within the-Higher-Education-and Training Sector in South Africa (2012-2017)
(Co-PI) Migration Management in South Africa (2013)
(PI)Understanding the Nature and Extent of Substance Abuse/Use in Mpumalanga (2012)
(PI)Enhancing the Research Capacity and Literacy of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial and Local Government Planners, Community Health Workers, and Community Practitioners Engaged in Research on “War on Poverty Survey” and Project Management (2012)
(Co-PI) Diagnostic Review: Current Monitoring and evaluation Systems Focused on Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities within the National and Provincial Governments of South Africa
(PI)A Review of Risk Factors and Community based Crime Prevention Strategies for Somali- Canadians in Alberta (2011)
(PI)A Qualitative Longitudinal Cohort Assessment of Unaccompanied Refugee Youth in Edmonton: Pathways and Transition Options for Successful Integration and Resettlement (2010-2011)
(Co-PI) Access to Healthcare Services in the Hospital Emergency Room for Street Involved Youth (2010)
(Co-PI)Support needs of postsecondary students who experience mental health difficulties (2009)
(Co-PI)Finding Firmer Ground: Support Intervention Preferences for Immigrant Seniors (2005)

Throughout his career, Professor Khalema has developed and taught social science and humanities courses in the disciplines of sociology, social work, and development studies. He has further developed expertise in the sub-disciplines of community development, demography and population studies, inclusive education, and community health since 2001. Below is a list of Professor Khalema’s areas of teaching expertise:

Quantitative Research Methods
Qualitative Research Methods
Social Epidemiology and Medical Sociology
Migration and Urbanization
Sustainability and Livelihoods
Community Participatory Action Research
Sociology of Race & Ethnicity
The Theory and Practice of Community Development

At the UKZN, Professor Khalema has expertise in the following areas:

Undergraduate Teaching Expertise (Community Development)

CMDV 101 HC Introduction to Community Development
CMDV 203 HC Development Theories
CMDV 303 HC Population & Community Development
CMDV 304 HC Community Profiling

Postgraduate Teaching Expertise (Community Development)

CMDV 605 Independent Study
CMDV 612/712 HC Research Design
CMDV 613/712 HC Research Methodology
CMDV 706 HC Power, Participation and Social Change
CMDV` 811 HC Advanced Community Economic Development
CMDV 812 HC Sustainable Community Development
CMDV 814 HC Indigenous Knowledge Systems
CMDV 820 HC Research Methods

Postgraduate Teaching Expertise (Population & Development Studies)

DEVS 815 HC Migration & Urbanization
DEVS 816 HC Population and Development
DEVS 817 HC Population and Health
DEVS 810 HC Gender and Development
DEVS 803 HC Comparative Development Problems and Policies

Selected INTERNATIONALIZATION & GLOBAL EDUCATION INITIATIVES

2025-2028 Erasmus+ ICM Staff & Student Mobility Fellowship, University of Malta (um.edu.mt)
2023-2026 Abdias Nacsimento Brazilian/ South Africa Student Exchange Program: ‘Amerfrican’ Territories and Heritage Project: Spatial Imaginaries, Ecological Urgencies, Pedagogical Practices, and Epistemic Justice in Brazil and South Africa. University of Johannesburg, Federal University of Bahia (Brazil), and Federal University of Para (Brazil)
2023 Erasmus+ EU Staff Mobility Fellowship, International Summer School of Smart Cities, Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour (UPPA), Bayonne France, June 26-30, 2023

Selected Publications

Professor Khalema’ publication record includes co-authored books, book chapters, technical research reports, conference proceedings, referred journal articles, and policy/research briefs.

Selected Edited Books (2013-2025)

Mdlalose, M.Z., Khambule, I.B., & Khalema, N.E (2025). Contemporary South Africa and the Political Economy of Regional Development. Routledge DOI: http://doi.org/10.4324/9781003397823
Patrick, H.O. & Khalema, N.E (2024). Migration and Identity Construction in Africa: Implications for Policy and Practice. CSSALL Publishers: Alternation Journal African Scholarship Book Series Vol. 18, DOI: https://doi.org/10.29086/978-0-9869937-9-4/2024/AASBS18
Patrick, H.O. & Khalema, N.E (2024). Migration and Integration in Africa: Implications for Policy and Practice. CSSALL Publishers: Alternation Journal African Scholarship Book Series Vol. 17 (2024), DOI: DOI: https://doi.org/10.29086/978-0-9869937-8-7/2024/AASBS17
Sooryamoorthy, R & Khalema, N.E. (2023). The Oxford Handbook of the Sociology of Africa. Oxford University Press
Andrews, N., & Khalema, N.E. (2023). Decolonizing African Studies Pedagogies: Knowledge Production, Epistemic Imperialism, and Black Agency. Palgrave McMillan
Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Moletsane, R., Khalema, N.E., Arogundade, E., Groenewald, C., and Cooper, A. (2018). Studying While Black: Race, Education, and Emancipation in South African Universities. HSRC Press.
Magidimisha, H. H., Khalema, N.E., Chipungu, L Chirimabmowa, T., &Chimedza, T (2018). Crisis, Identity and Migration in Post-Colonial Southern Africa. Springer (Advances in African Economic, Social and Political Development Series). ISBN 978-3-319-59234-3
Makiwane^,M., Nduna, M., & Khalema, N.E (2016). Children in South African Families: Lives and Times. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. ISBN (13):978-1-44389735-8
Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E. & Assie-Lumumba, N’Dri (2015). Millennium Development Goals in Retrospect: Africa’ Development Beyond 2015. Springer (Social Indicators Series) ISBN: 978-3-319-16165-5
Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E., Oriola, T., and Odoom, I (2013). Africa Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Exploring the Multi-dimensional Discourses on ‘Development’ Cambridge Scholars Publishing. ISBN (10):1-4438-4184-6

Selected Journal Articles (2015-2026)

Ngcobo, A.S., Khalema, N.E., & Patrick, H.O. (2026). “Collaborative Synergy: Community-Based Research as a Catalyst for Enhancing Community Well-Being in KwaZulu-Natal” Inkanyiso: Journal of African Thought
Mahlungulu, Z & Khalema, N.E., (2025). “Intersecting Marginalities: Physical Disability in the Context of Forced Migration”. Journal of African Foreign Affairs Vol. 12(3), p133-153 DOI: https://doi.org/10.31920/2056-5658/2025/v12n3a7
Ngcobo, A.S & Khalema, N.E., Masuku, M.M., Mlondo, N.M, Mncube, T., Ramphabana, L.B., and Matse, M.P (2025). The Role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Ubuntu in Addressing Gender-based Violence against Young women in Rural KwaZulu-Natal” Journal of Social Service Research. https: doi.org/10.1080/01488376.2025.2515420
Ngcobo, A. S., Chamane, S., Masuku, M.M., Khalema, E. N., Mabaso, M. L., Dlamini, S. S.. & Shabalala K.K. (2025). “Evaluating Community Trust in the South African Government: An Analysis of Community Perceptions” International Journal of Research in Business & Social Science 14 No 4, 2025) with a DOI number https://doi.org/10.20525/ijrbs.v14i4.4261
Ngcobo, S. A., Khalema, N. E., & Makusha, T. (2024). “Partnership and Coalition Efforts for Community-based Research: Towards A Liveable Urban and Rural Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal”. CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development, 7 (1). https://doi.org/10.7454/jid.v7.i1.1096
Masuku, B & Khalema, N.E., (2024). “Reimagining South Africa’s Urban Food Security and Nutrition through the lens of Informal Food Sector: The Case of Buffalo City Municipality” Journal of Inclusive Cities and Built Environment. Vol. DOI: 10.54030/2788-564X/2024/Is7v4a5
Oyebade, O.O. & Khalema, N.E. (2024). “Between Shaming and Cyberbulling: A Critique of Socialization of Credit-Default in Digital Loan Schemes” Journal of African Films and Diaspora Studies (JAFDIS)7(1): 199-122. https://doi.org/10.31920/2516-2713/2024/7n1a9
Patrick, H.O., Mdlalose, M; Tshishonga, N., Abiolu – Patrick, R.T.I., and, Khalema, N.E. (2023). “Frustration, Aggression, and the Covid-19 Pandemic Impact in South Africa; Insights on the South African July 2021 Protest” African Journal of Development Studies. Vol. 13 (4). Pp 83-105
Mahlungulu, Z & Khalema, N.E., (2023). “Causes for the Exclusion of Visually Impaired Individuals in Community Development Projects in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa” African Journal of Development Studies. Vol. 13(1), p. 131-154
Khalema, N.E. (2022). “Transformational (Re)Encounters: Enacting a Decolonial Praxis at a UKZN School” Journal of KZN Region of SAIA. Vol 47 (2) p. 2-3· https://www.kznia-journal.org.za/sites/default/files/web_2-2022_saia-kzn_e-final.pdf
Patrick, H.O., Khalema, N.E., & Abiolu-Patrick, R.T.I. (2022). “Interrogating Coloniality on the Citizenship Discourse: The Nigerian Experience” Africa Insight. Vol 50 (4), p. 55-71
Muzerengi, T., Khalema,N.E. & Zivenge, E., (2021). ‘The synergistic relationship between Amartya Sen entitlement theory and the systems theory in developing a food security implementation model in Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe’, Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies 13(1), a965. https://doi.org/ 10.4102/jamba. v13i1.965
Patrick, H.O. Khalema, N.E., Abiolu, R.T.I., Mbara, G (2021). “National Interest and Collective Security: Assessing the ‘Collectivity’ of Global Security in the Covid-19 Era” Humanities and Social Sciences Reviews [eISSN 2395-6518]
Patrick, H.O. Khalema, N.E., Ijatuy, E.J., Abiolu, O.A., and Abiolu, R.T.I. (2021). “South Africa’s multiple vulnerabilities, food security, and livelihood options in the Covid-19 new order: An Annotation” The Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa
Patrick, H.O. & Khalema, N.E. (2020). “The Impact of Climate Change on Water Security in Rural Communities: A review of Planning and Coping Strategies for South Africa” Town and Regional Planning. Vol.77, p.18-30. ISSN 2415-0495. http://dx.doi.org/10.18820/2415-0495/trp77i1.2.
Khalema, N.E. (2020). “Linking Blackness to Criminality: A Critical Appraisal of Literature on “Crimigration’ Tropes of Canadian Youth of Somali Descent” Journal of Somali Studies. Vol 7 (2) 101-123 DOI: 10.31920/2056-5682/2020/7n2a5
Khalema, N. E. (2020).”Affirming Blackness in Post-racial Contexts: On Race, Colorism and Hybrid Identities in Brazil” Africa and Black Diaspora Volume 13 (3), p. 330-342 DOI:10.1080/17528631.2020.1766132
Ngumbela, X.G., Khalema, N.E. & Nzimakwe, T.I., 2020, ‘Local worlds: Vulnerability and food insecurity in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa’, Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies 12(1), a830. https://doi.org/10.4102/jamba.v12i1.830
Spitzer, D. L., Torres, S., Zwi, A.B., Khalema, N.E., & Palaganas, E., (2019). “Towards Inclusive Migrant Health Care”. British Medical Journal.366:14256. DOI:10.1136/BMJ.14256
Ngumbela, X. G., Khalema, N.E., & Nzimakwe, T.I. (2019). “Food Insecurity Conundrum: A Case Study of Amathole District in The Eastern Cape Province of South Africa”. International NGO Journal Vol. 14(3), p. 13-21.
Ngumbela, X. G., Khalema, N.E., & Nzimakwe, T.I. (2019). “Vulnerability and Food Security in Relation to Status of Rural Poverty in South Africa: A Case of The Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa” Open Science Journal. Vol. 4(1) 1-19
Ngumbela, X. G., Khalema, N.E., & Nzimakwe, T.I. (2019). “Critical Appraisal of the Eastern Cape’s Provincial Integrated Anti-Poverty Strategy” International Journal of Humanities and Social Science. Vol. 9(6)
Muzerengi, T & Khalema N.E. (2019). “An Assessment of Food-Security-Related Articles and Lessons Learnt from Zimbabwe: A Critical Analysis” Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies. Vol 11 (1) DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/jamba.v11i1.799
Curtin, K. D., Loitz, C. C., Spencer-Cavaliere, N., Khalema, N. E. (2018). “Challenges of being new to Canada: Considerations for Physical Activity”. Global Health Promotion. Vol 25 (2) 25-33
Shankar, J., Ip, E, and Khalema, N.E (2017). “Addressing Academic Aspirations, Challenges and Barriers of Indigenous and Immigrant Students in a Postsecondary Education Setting” Journal of Ethnic & Cultural Diversity in Social Work. https://doi.org/10.1080/15313204.2017.1409675
Ndinda, C & Ndlovu, T; & Khalema, N.E (2017). “Unpacking Community Conceptions of Family Planning in Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Lessons for Programming. International Journal on Environmental Research and Public Health. 14(4), 353; doi:10.3390/ijerph14040353i
Lai, D.W.L., Shankar, J., Khalema., N.E (2017). “Unspoken Skills and Tactics: Essentials for Immigrant Professionals in Integration to Workplace Culture” Journal of international Migration and Integration. DOI:10.1007/s12134-017-05135
Shankar, J. Khalema, N.E., Zulla, R, Ali, A (2016). Supporting Visible Minority and Indigenous Students in a Postsecondary Education Setting: Addressing their Academic Aspirations, Challenges, and Barriers. Journal of Educational Studies. Vol 2 (3), 46-56
Khalema, N.E., Zulla, R., Shankar, J., Chui, Y., & Ortiz, L. (2016). “Participatory Community Action Process Addressing Employment Integration of Internationally Trained Professionals (ITPs) in Canada: Performing CBPR Principles from the Bottom-up”. Action Learning Action Research Journal Vol. 22 (2) p.118-161
Khalema, N.E. (2016). “Linguicism and Nationalism: A Post-Colonial Gaze on the Promotion of Afrikaans as a National Language in Apartheid South Africa” International Journal of Language Studies.Vol10 (2), 91-110
Khalema, N. E., (2015). The Fecundity of the Race Discourse in Public Health and Epidemiology: Understanding the Limits of Explaining Health Disparities Using Race Categories in Brazil. International Journal of Translation & Community Medicine, Vol. 3(4), 71-78
Costumado, M.G.S., Khalema, N.E., Ndinda, C., &, Hari Domingos, M. (2015). “Women’s Access to Sexual Reproductive Health & Rights (SRHR) Services in Mozambique: Advocacy Strategies to Address Barriers” Ubuntu: Journal of Conflict & Social Transformation. Vol. 4 (1), 55-82

Selected Chapters in Books (Refereed) 2015-2025

Oyebade, O.O., Oyebamiji, S. I., Kiyala, K. J., Khalema, N.E. & Solomon, O.O (2025) Effects of Soft Power Diplomacy on Peace and Security in BRICS+ Nations: The Case of South Africa. In Kiyala, J,C. K., Tshikovhi, N., Ngwenya, D.M., and Netswera, F. (Eds). Expanded Brics Nations. Palgrave McMillan, Singapore. https: doi.org/10.1007/978-981-96-6986-8_11,197-220
Ngcobo, A.S., Khalema E. N., Matse M. P. & Mncube T. (2025) “Shaping Cultural Norms: The role of Restorative Justice in Fighting Gender-based Violence” Gender and Sexuality. Gender-based Violence: A Community and Development Studies Perspective. Peter Lang Ltd, International Academic Publishers
Khalema, N.E. Costumado, M.G.S., Masuku, B., and Ngcobo A.S. (2025) “Methodological Advances for Regional Analysis in the Global South: Prospects for South Africa and Beyond’ in Mdlalose, M.Z., Khambule, I.B., & Khalema, N.E (Eds) Contemporary South Africa and the Political Economy of Regional Development. Routledge, 214-234
N.E., Costumado, MGS., Ngcobo, A.S, and (2024) “Migration and Gendered Dynamics in South Africa: A Brief Synthesis” CSSALL Publishers: Alternation Journal African Scholarship Book Series Vol. 18 (2024), p. 102-124
Ngcobo, S.A & Khalema, N.E., (2024). “Partnership and Coalition efforts for Community-based Research: Key to bridging the urban and rural divide in KwaZulu-Natal” in Popoola, A.A., Magidimisha, H. H., & Chipungu, L (Eds). Managing the Urban-Rural Divide Through an Inclusive Framework. IGI-Global (ISBN13: 9781668462584)
Sooryamoorthy, R & Khalema, N.E. (2023). “Sociology of Africa: A Thematic Contextualization of the Discourse” in Sooryamoorthy, R & Khalema, N.E. (Eds). The Oxford Handbook of the Sociology of Africa. Oxford University Press, p. 3-18
Khalema, N.E. (2023) “Race and its Sociological Inquiry in Africa: Problematic Suppositions and Contemporary Predicaments” in Sooryamoorthy, R & Khalema, N.E. (Eds). The Oxford Handbook of the Sociology of Africa. Oxford University Press, p. 59-75
Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E. (2023). Re-Storying African (Studies) Pedagogies: Decolonizing Knowledge and Centering Black Agency?. In: Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E. (eds) Decolonizing African Studies Pedagogies. Political Pedagogies. Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-37442-5_1 1-29
Khalema, N.E. (2023). Agency, Africanity, and Some Propositions for Engaged Scholarship. In: Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E. (eds) Decolonizing African Studies Pedagogies. Political Pedagogies. Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-37442-5_10. p, 213-226
Khalema, N.E., Masuku, B., Zakwe, P.M. (2023). The Façade of “Transforming” Post-apartheid Universities in South Africa: Towards African-Centred Practices and Processes of Redress. In: Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E. (eds) Decolonizing African Studies Pedagogies. Political Pedagogies. Palgrave Macmillan, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-37442-5_9, 185-212
Mdlalose, M, Khalema N.E., Ntini, E. (2021). “The Covid-19 Pandemic as An Agency for The Neoliberal Shock Doctrine in South Africa”. In Fares, L, S And Duarte, P, H, E (Eds), Decent Work or Decent Income? ‘Corona Crisis’ Experiences. ICDD And GLU Community. Chapter 10, 225-242 DOI:10.5771/9783957103895-225
Ochuodho, S & Khalema, N. (2020). “Enhancing Food Security and Poverty Reduction through Community Participation in Smallholder from Irrigation Project in Kenya” in Ganu, D., Nyakora, M., Razafiarivony, M.A., & Ganu, J (Eds). Rethinking Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: Emerging Trends and Issues. CUEA Press, Chapter 19, page 169-179
Khalema, N.E. (2018) “Navigating Race in Higher Education and Beyond” in Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Moletsane, R., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E., Groenewald, C. & Cooper, A., (Eds). Studying while Black: Race, Education and Emancipation in South African Universities. HSRC Press, p. 50-67
Khalema, N.E. (2018) “Gender Dynamics and (in)Equality of Experiences” in Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Moletsane, R., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E., Groenewald, C. &Cooper, A., (Eds). Studying while Black: Race, Education and Emancipation in South African Universities. HSRC Press, p.68-79.
Khalema, N.E., Magidimisha, H. H., Chirimabmowa, T., Chipungu, L., & Chimedza, T (2018). “Crisis, Identity, and (Be)longing: A Thematic Introduction of the Vestiges of Migration in Post-independence Southern Africa” in Magidimisha, H. H., Khalema, N.E., Chirimabmowa, T., Chimedza, T & Chipungu, L (Eds). Crisis, Identity and Migration in Post-Colonial Southern Africa. Springer (chapter 1), p.3-21
Matsinhe, D.M., Khalema, N.E., Costumado, M.G.S. (2018). “From Reservoir to Corridor Changing Patterns of Migration in Mozambique” in Magidimisha, H. H., Khalema, N.E., Chirimabmowa, T., Chimedza, T & Chipungu, L (Eds). Crisis, Identity and Migration in Post-Colonial Southern Africa. Springer (chapter 10), p.125-140
Khalema, N.E., Magidimisha, H. H., & Chipungu, L., (2018). “Regeneration and Integration in Southern Africa: Concluding Comments on Contemporary Challenges and Possibilities” in Magidimisha, H. H., Khalema, N.E., Chirimabmowa, T., Chimedza, T & Chipungu, L (Eds). Crisis, Identity and Migration in Post-Colonial Southern Africa. Springer (chapter 16), p. 225-234
Makiwane, M.B., Khalema,N.E., Gumede, N and Nduna, N (2016). “Children in South African Families” in Makiwane^,, Nduna, M., & Khalema, N.E (Eds). Children in South African Families: Lives and Times. Cambridge Scholars Publishing; ISBN (10):1-4438-4184-6, p. xiv-xxi
Khalema, N.E., Vawda, M., Ndinda,C., and Makiwane, M. B (2016). “Contesting Children’ Positioning in South African Families: Concluding Comments” in Makiwane^,, Nduna, M., & Khalema, N.E (Eds). Lives and Times: Children in South African Families. Cambridge Scholars Publishing: ISBN (10):1-4438-4184-6, p. 307-312
Khalema, N.E & Andrews, N. (2015). “Introduction: Debating Global Development Agenda(s) and the possibilities of Addressing the Millennium Development Goals in Africa” in Andrews, N., Khalema, NE. & Assie-Lumumba, N’Dri (Eds). Millennium Development Goals (MDSs) in Retrospect: Africa’s Development Beyond 2015. Springer, p. 1-16
Khalema, N. E., Ndinda, C, Makiwane, M., Vawda, M., Bhembe, L., Mahapa, N, and Zondo, N. (2015). “(Ad) dressing Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Issues and its Determinants in Eight Priority Areas of South Africa: Evidence from a Situational Analysis of MDGs in EC and KZN” in Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E. & Assie-Lumumba, N’Dri. Millennium Development Goals (MDSs) in Retrospect: Africa’s Development Beyond 2015. Springer, p.139-158
Khalema, N.E., Makiwane, M., & Andrews, N (2015). “Conclusion: Prospects Beyond 2015” in Andrews, N. Khalema, NE. & Assie-Lumumba, N’Dri. Millennium Development Goals (MDSs) in Retrospect: Africa’s Development Beyond 2015. Springer, p309-318
Ndhlovu, T.P. & Khalema, N.E. (2015) “Southern Africa”. In Barnett, V. (Eds). The Routledge Handbook of the History of Global Economic Thought. London: Routledge. 257-268.
Andrews, N., Khalema, N.E., Oriola, T., & Odoom, L. (2013). “Getting the Bigger Picture: Exploring the Multi-Dimensional Discourses on Africa’s ‘Development”. In Andrews et al. (Eds.), Africa Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Exploring the Multi-dimensional Discourses on Development. 1-17. London, UK: Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
Khalema, N.E., & Nyibek, P. (2013). “The articulation of the ‘responsibility to protect’ (R2P) in combatting state crimes: A Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) of Francis Deng’s work and the on-going Situation in South Sudan”. In Andrews et al. (Eds.), Africa Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Exploring the Multi-dimensional Discourses on Development. 151-169. London, UK: Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
Khalema, N.E., Andrews, N., & Odoom, L. (2013). “What now? Some thoughts on the future of Africa’s development”. In Andrews et al. (Eds.), Africa Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Exploring the Multidimensional Discourses on Development. p. 288-299. London, UK: Cambridge Scholars Publishing

Selected Book Reviews Technical Research Reports

Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E., Cooper, A., & Groenewald, C. (2016). “Annual Progress Report: Education and Emancipation-A five-year Longitudinal, Qualitative Study of Agency and Impasses to Success amongst Higher Education Students in a Sample of South African Universities”, November 31, 2016
Khalema, N.E., Mothibi, K., Mahapa, N., Costumado, M.G.S., & Makgato, E.M. (2016). Evaluating the Safer Cities Program of the Ethekwini Municipality. Ethekwini Municipality, March 30, 2016
Khalema, N.E., Groenewald, C., Sausi, K., Mthembu, Z., Masvaure, S, Desmond, C., & Timol, F (2015). A Qualitative Assessment of Pathways, Challenges, Opportunities, and Services for Street and Shelter Living in Central Durban. Phase 1 Report-developed for the EThekwini Municipality: Safer Cities Unit, November, 2015.
Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E., Morison, T., Molefi, S., Groenewald, C. (2015). Annual Progress Report: Education and Emancipation-A five-year Longitudinal, Qualitative Study of Agency and Impasses to Success amongst Higher Education Students in a Sample of South African Universities, November, 2015
Ndinda, C; Hongoro, C; Labadarios, D; Ngandu, S; Mokhele, T; Khalema, N.E; Weir-Smith, G; Tshitsangano, F. (2015) Future Impact Evaluation for Informal Settlements Targeted for Upgrading: A Technical Research Report. Department of Human Settlements (DHS), December, 2015.
Setswe,G S.Motala, M.Mabaso, S.Ngandu,S.Mti, F.Arends, L.Winnaar, Khalema, N.E., M.Makiwane, C.Ndinda, B.Moolman, T.Maluleke,L.Chola, G.Setswe, M.Mabaso, S.Karuaihe, C.Nhemachena, P.Martin (2015). Millennium Development Goals: Country Report 2015. Statistics South Africa, May 2015
Khalema, N. E., Ndinda, C., Moolman, B., & Makiwane, M., (2015). Gender Equality and Empower Women: MDG 3 Goal Report. Statistics South Africa, June 2015.

Chapters In Technical Research Reports

Khalema, N.E. (2017) “Race, Integration, and Post Secondary Student Success in Higher Education in South Africa” in Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E.,Cooper, A., & Groenewald, C. (2017). “Annual Progress Report: Education and Emancipation-A five-year Longitudinal, Qualitative Study of Agency and Impasses to Success amongst Higher Education students in a Sample of South African Universities”, November 2016
Khalema, N.E (2017). “Class Intersections and Post Secondary Student Success in Education in South Africa” in Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E., Cooper, A., & Groenewald, C. (2017). “Annual Progress Report: Education and Emancipation-A five-year Longitudinal, Qualitative Study of Agency and Impasses to Success amongst Higher Education students in a Sample of South African Universities”, November 2016
Khalema, N.E. (2017) “Gender (In)Equity and Student Success in Higher Education in South Africa” in Swartz, S. Mahali, A., Arogundade, E., Khalema, N.E.,Cooper, A., & Groenewald, C. (2016). “Annual Progress Report: Education and Emancipation-A five-year Longitudinal, Qualitative Study of Agency and Impasses to Success amongst Higher Education students in a Sample of South African Universities”, November 2016  
Khalema, N.E. & Ndinda, C (2015). “Attitudes towards Foreigners within Informal Settlements Contexts in South Africa”. in Ndinda, C; Hongoro, C; Labadarios, D; Ngandu, S; Mokhele, T; Khalema, N.E; Weir-Smith, G; Tshitsangano, F. (2015) Future Impact Evaluation for Informal Settlements Targeted for Upgrading: A Technical Research Report. Department of Human Settlements, December 2015
Khalema, N. E., Ndinda, C., Moolman. B., & Makiwane, M. (2015). “Millennium Goals Report: Goal 3- Gender Equality and Empower Women” in Setswe, S.Motala, M.Mabaso, S.Ngandu, S.Mti, F.Arends, L.Winnaar, E.Khalema, M.Makiwane, C.Ndinda, B.Moolman, T.Maluleke, L.Chola, G.Setswe, M.Mabaso, S.Karuaihe, C.Nhemachena, P.Martin in the Millennium Development Goals: Country Report 2015. Statistics South Africa, May 2015
Khalema, N.E. (2014). “Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED): Upgrading Public Spaces and Community Infrastructure for Violence and Crime Prevention” in Barolsky, V., Sanchez, D., Khalema, N.E., Davis, D., Mngqibisa, N., Yu, Ke, and Roberts, B (2014). Social Cohesion: The Mission Link in Overcoming Violence and inequality. IDRC, October 2014
Khalema, N.E. & Makiwane, M (2015). “Population and the Environment” in Makiwane, M and Chimere-Dan, G. C. (2015). Eastern Cape: The State of the Population 2014. Department of Social Development, Bisho. South Africa, p. 149-156
Khalema, N.E. (2015). “Population and Poverty” in Makiwane, M and Chimere-Dan, G. C. (2015). Eastern Cape: The State of the Population 2014. Department of Social Development, Bisho. South Africa, p. 86-100
Makiwane, M. & Khalema, N.E. (2015). “Migration and Development” in Makiwane, M and Chimere-Dan, G. C. (2015). Eastern Cape: The State of the Population 2014. Department of Social Development, South Africa, p.76-84.

Selected Reviews and popular Publications

Ndinda, C., Hongoro, C., Labadarios, D., Mokhele, T., Khalema, N.E., Weir-Smith, G. & Sobane, K. (2017). Status of Informal Settlements targeted for Upgrading: Implications for Policy and Impact Evaluation. HSRC Review. 15(2):16-19.
Curtin K, Loitz, C., Spencer-Cavaliere, N & Khalema, N.E. (2016).“Fitting it in: How being new to Canada influences physical activity” WellSpring , Volume 27, Number 5, May 01, 2016 Available at: https://www.centre4activeliving.ca/news/2016/05/newcomers-to-canada-influences-physical-activity/
Groenewald, C., Timol, F., Khalema, N.E., & Desmond, C (2015). “More than Just a Roof: Unpacking Homelessness” HSRC Review, 13 (1), March 2015.
Khalema, N. E (2005) “Who’s Healthy? Who’s Not? A Social Justice Perspective on Health Inequities”. CrossLinks, March 2005 Available at: http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/chps/crosslinks_m arch05.cfm

Selected Conferences (Local, National & International) 2015-2026

Mayombe, C., Khalema, N.E., Visser, A., and Mbatha, Z.P. (2026). “Young Refugees’ access to, participation and experiences in higher education institutions in South Africa” Education Association of South Africa (EASA). 2026 Annual Conference, Protea Hotel, Stellenbosch (WC), January 13, 2026
Ngcobo A. S., Khalema E. N. & Moyane S. P (2026). “Decolonising Strategies for Climate Action: Community Engagement and Human Behaviour in Mitigation and Adaptation” Climate Change and Economic Management for Sustainable Future Conference, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa. February 25-27, 2026.
Ba, O., Bøås, M., Fosu, M., Grant, J.A., Khalema, N.E., Mohammed, W.F., and Olaitan, Z (2026). “The Geographies of Knowledge Production in the Global South: An African Perspective” International Studies Association Conference, Columbus, Ohio, USA, March 22-25, 2026
Ngcobo, A.S., Moyane, S. P., Reddy, R., Chamane, S.C. & Khalema, N.E. (2026). “Managing Cultural Differences in Digital Interpersonal Communication” 11th World Conference on Media and Mass Communication, Bali, Indonesia, March 23-24th, 2026

Zulla, R., Fjeld, A., Ball, R., N.E., Nicholas, D., Warria, A., Ochuodho, S., Costumado, M.G.S., Nyandat, C., Achieng, B., Odhiambo., Dlamini, M., and Tshishimba, F (2026). “Mapping Learnings of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services for Diverse Youth: A Scoping Review of Youth- friendly Sexual and Reproductive health services in the Pan African Region”. World Conference on Social Work and Social Development, Nairobi, Kenya. June 26-29, 2026.

Ndlovu, Z., Dlamini, N., Mcloughlin, J., Khalema, N.E., Meyiwa-Luvuno, Z.P.B., Mathonsi, C, and Mjwarq, N (2025). “Bridging the Gap Between Community, Programme Implementation, and Research to Improve the HIV and AIDS Response in KwaZulu-Natal”: 12^th SA AIDS Conference. Emperors Palace, Johannesburg September 09,2025
Khalema, N.E., Zulla, R., Nicholas, D. B., Warria, A., Costumado, M., & Ochudho, S. (2025). Building international transdisciplinary community-based youth-focused research in Canada, South Africa, Mozambique and Kenya: Navigating the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion and decolonization one step at a time. C2UExpo (Community-Campus-Exposition) Community-Based Research’s Canada’s International Conference. Edmonton, AB. Canada, May 12^th-15^th, 2025.
Khalema, N.E., Zembe, Y., Zulla, R., Mathonsi, C., Govender, K., Kharsany, A., Naidoo, L., Mtapuri, O., Ngcobo, S., Matse, M., & Dlamini, N. (2025). ‘Linking communities of practice in implementation science: The role of community-based participatory research (CBPR)”. C2UExpo (Community-Campus-Exposition) Community-Based Research’s Canada’s International Conference. Edmonton, AB. May 12^th-15^th, 2025.
Ngcobo A. S. & Khalema E. N. (2025) “Reclaiming our Roots Through Community-Based Research and Ubuntu to Foster Inclusive Power-Sharing in Rural Communities in KwaZulu-Natal” presented at the C2UExpo2025: Community-Engaged Learning & Development Conference, May 12-15, 2025, MacEwan University, Alberta, Canada https://www.c2uexpo2025.ca/schedule-1
Ngcobo, A. S. & Khalema, E. N. (2025). “Community Engagement Strategies for Improving Access to Youth-Friendly Sexual Reproductive Health Services in Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa” STI & HIV 2025 World Congress. July 26 to 30, 2025, in Montreal, Canada.
Mahlungulu., & Khalema, N.E. (2025). “Intersectional Perspectives of Disability and Forced Migration” 8th International Conference on Advanced Research in Social Sciences. 27-29 March 2025, Worcester College, Oxford UK
Mahlungulu, Z. & Khalema, N.E. (2024). The Barriers and Facilitators to the Employment of people with disabilities in the Public Service: Conference of Public Innovation Development and Sustainability. October, 26 2024, Durban: South Africa
Oyebade, O.O. & Khalema, N.E. (2024). “Rethinking Democracy in West Africa: A Critical Appraisal of Trends in State Capturing, Insurrection and Danger of Flawed Elections in Surviving Democracies” 2nd African Union Studies Annual Symposium on “Inclusive Development and the Future of Democracy in Africa: The Role of the AU and the RECs” Pretoria, South Africa, November 4-6 2024.
Mbatha Z.P., Khalema N.E., & Ngcobo A.S. (2024). “The grit and determination in cross-border mobility: Threats Facing Women Refugees and Labor Migrants in South Africa”. 6^th Global Congress on Gender and Sexuality Studies, 2024. London UK, October 21-22, 2024
Khalema, N.E (2024). “Critical Challenges for Refugee Integration in South African Higher Education Sector: Possibilities for Community Cohesion” The National Planning Commission (NPC) and International Organisation for Migration (IOM)’s ‘Migration as a Development Catalyst through Policy Development Based on Evidence, Diaspora Involvement and International Collaboration’ Conference, Pretoria, South Africa, August 20-23, 2024
Ngcobo, A.S., & Khalema, N.E. (2024). “Social Resilience by Integrating Community Collision Action Theory and Community-Based Research: An Approach to Empowering Sustainable Communities Well-being” 3rd AHSRA International Research Conference: Collaboration, Capacity Building, Community Engagement, and Social Justice: Leveraging Human-subject Research for Holistic Transformation on the African Continent. Heidelberg College of Higher Education at Somerset West, Cape Town, June 19-23, 2024
Mayombe, C., Khalema N.E., Visser, A., Mbatha, Z (2024). “African young refugees’ access to and retention in higher education institutions in South Africa: Social Justice Concerns” Harmony in Crisis: Critical Discussions Towards Social Justice Access to Quality Education: Elangeni Hotel, Durban, South Africa, 15-18 September 2024
Patrick H & Khalema, N.E. (2023). “Exploring Lived Experiences and Perceptions on Sustainable Practices within Student Housing Communities at UKZN Howards Campus” Internationalization Summit, UKZN
Andrews, N. & Khalema, N.E. (2023). “Re-Storying and Decolonializing African (Studies) Pedagogies: Asserting Africanity and Recasting Epistemic Decolonization to Nurture Black Agency?” International Studies Association Conference, ifrane, Morocco, June 21-23, 2023

Khalema, N.E. (2023). Migration and (Im)mobility in Times of Entangled Crises: Concepts, Practices, and Governance, Neuchatel Graduate Conference for Migration and Mobility Studies: University of Neuchatel, Switzerland, July 11-12, 2023.

Khalema, N.E. & Patrick H (2021). “Critical Policy Challenges and Possibilities for Integrated Migration Management in Southern Africa” National Migration and Urbanisation Policy Conference. The Department of Social Development (DSD) and Statistics SA (Stats SA), July 30, 2021
Ochuodho, S & Khalema, N.E. (2018). “Enhancing Food Security and Poverty Reduction through Community Participation in Smallholder from Irrigation Project in Kenya” 4^th AUG SDGs Conference, Nairobi, Kenya, September 13-15,2018
Costumado, M.G.S., Khalema, N.E., & Sitoe, L (2017). “Experiencias de Uso de Contraceptivo Mordeno eutre mulheres que se casaram prematuramente no distrito de Namaacha, Mocambique” IV Conferência Internacional do Conhecimento às Decisões: desafio para um diálogo social permanente. Centro de Estudos Africanos, Eduado Montlane University, Mozambique, November 29–30, 2017
Yohani, S., Kreitzer, L., Bayingana, S. & Khalema, N. E. (2016). Community-based Research with Survivors of the Rwandan Genocide: Reflections from the Field. Presentation at the 77^th Annual Canadian Psychology Association Convention, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, June 08, 2016
Khalema, N.E. (2016). “The Ethics of Unpacking Mental Health Issues in the Research on Homelessness: Process, Methods, and Observations from a CBPAR Project in Durban, South Africa” Paper presented at Panel Discussion for the International Community Psychology Conference, Durban South Africa, June 21, 2016

Khalema, N.E. (2016). Participatory Action Process of a Mixed-method Community-based Participatory Action Research (CBPAR) Project that Examined the Nature and Context of Street and Shelter Living in Central Durban” Paper presented at the International Community Psychology Conference, Durban South Africa, June 21, 2016

Professor Khalema is affiliated with a number of local, national, and international community, advocacy, and research organizations including the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM); The Migration, Health, and Development Research Initiative (MHADRI); the International Collaboration on Participatory Health Research (ICPHR), and US Africa Collaborative just to name a few. He also sits on a number of Q1 and Q2 Journals as a board/review member. He has collaborated with local and international NGOs, community organizations, and government departments on a variety of community empowerment projects in Canada, USA, South Africa, Kenya, Mozambique, and Brazil.

Professor Khalema is affiliated with a number of local, national, and international community, advocacy, and research organizations including the African Population and Health Research Center (Nairobi Kenya); UN International Organization for Migration (IOM); The Migration, Health, and Development Research Initiative (MHADRI); International Collaboration on Participatory Health Research (ICPHR); and EThekwini Municipality (Safer Cities, MILE) just to name a few. He has collaborated with NGOs, community organizations, and government on a variety of community empowerment projects in Canada, South Africa, and Brazil.

Professor Khalema has successfully supervised, mentored, and graduated a number of post-graduate Diploma, Honors, Masters, and PhD students in South Africa and abroad since 2007. In 2022 he is supervising 3 Masters, 14 PhD candidates` in the disciplines of community development, development studies, population studies, and other cognate disciplines. Prof Khalema also serves in graduate supervisory committees for graduate students as an internal examiner, external examiner, and content expert in number disciplines including public health, development studies, political science, sociology, social work, and psychology. He is currently available to supervise Masters and PhD candidates in his areas of research and teaching specialization.

School of Social Sciences