Understanding the perceptions of academic advising among male students in South African Universities: A qualitative study

Understanding the perceptions of academic advising among male students in South African Universities: A qualitative study

Mlondolozi Mvikweni , Sabelo Peter & Tembela Mthengi

Issue: Vol. 7 No.5 2026 Article 9 pp.1281 – 1298
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2026759 Published online 23rd June 2026

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ABSTRACT

This study explores the perceptions and experiences of male students regarding academic advising in higher education institutions. Male students often underutilize academic advising services, which can influence their academic success, retention, and overall engagement. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through a Google Forms survey with open-ended questions targeting 20 male undergraduate students from a South African university. Thematic analysis revealed key themes regarding perceptions of advising, factors influencing engagement, and barriers to participation. Findings suggest that male students perceive academic advising as beneficial but often avoid it due to stigma, lack of awareness, time constraints, or prior negative experiences. Recommendations emphasize the need for targeted advising strategies that consider gendered experiences, culturally responsive communication, and the integration of digital advising tools. This study contributes to higher education scholarship by offering insights for improving academic advising services tailored to male students’ needs, particularly within the challenging context of the Global South.

Keywords: Academic advising, male students, perceptions, qualitative study, higher education, engagement, retention.

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ABOUT AUTHOR(S)

Mlondolozi Mvikweni is a South African legal scholar, researcher, and Junior Lecturer at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). He is highly recognized for his academic contributions to transformative constitutionalism, healthcare access, and socio-environmental justice.

Sabelo Raymond Peter is a South African higher education strategist, researcher, and the Tutor Development Coordinator at Walter Sisulu University (WSU). Working primarily out of WSU’s Centre for Learning and Teaching Development (CLTD) in Mthatha.

Dr. Tembela Mthengi is a Doctor of Education and an Academic Advisor at Walter Sisulu University (WSU)in Mthatha, South Africa. Working within the Faculty of Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences, Dr. Mthengi specializes in post-graduate supervision, academic retention, and at-risk student interventions.

TO CITE ARTICLE

Mvikweni, Mlondolozi, Sabelo Peter Raymond, and Tembela Mthengi. “Understanding the Perceptions of Academic Advising among Male Students in South African Universities: A Qualitative Study.” E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences 7, no.5 (2026): 1281 – 1298. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.2026759