Manifestations of resilience among final year students of Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration in the context of COVID-19 at Makerere University

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the manifestations of resilience in the context of COVID 19 among final year students of BSWSA at Makerere University. The study examined the following specific objectives; the meaning of resilience among final year students of BSWSA at Makerere University, how resilience was manifested among BSWSA final year students at Makerere University, and the effects of COVID 19 on the final year students of BSWSA at Makerere University. The study employed a qualitative study approach with a case study research design so as explore how final year students of BSWSA manifested resilience in the context of COVID 19 at Makerere University and to understand the effects of COVID 19 to them as students. The study involved a sample of fifteen (15) primary respondents who were selected from final year students of BSWSA class and one (1) key informant, a lecturer from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. I used face to face in depth interviews and key informant interviews as my data collection methods. Data was analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The study findings showed that resilience is associated with the ability to adapt quickly and be able to engage in quick problem solving, effective decision making, seeking support or networking to solve different challenges. It is the ability to persevere in the times of challenges or uncertainties for example the sudden outbreak of COVID-19. Students revealed that they faced several challenges such as learning difficulties, stress and depression, and poor internet connectivity for online learning in the context of COVID-19. BSWSA final year students adopted several ways to help them stay resilient such as communicating to friends in case of any problem so as to seek advice, trying to stay hopeful that COVID -19 would come to an end, having supportive family members and trying to keep in touch with their lecturers. The study findings established that creating a supportive environment between the students and the lecturers can enable the development of a resilient community. The study also established that COVID-19 resulted in several opportunities for academic growth and development among final students of BSWSA at Makerere University because they were compelled to learn how to use different digital tools and as well utilize the internet for study purposes.