Abstract
M.A.
Social networks play a very important role in initiating and perpetuating migration. However,
their role has not been discussed in-depth in migration studies pertaining to the Southern African
context. Many studies (Pendleton & Crush, 2005; Ramphele, 1999) have tended to focus mainly
on structural conditions that cause migration. This study attempted to understand the role social
networks play in the cross-border migration of students. To do so, the social networks of
Basotho students, studying at the Kingsway Campus of the University of Johannesburg (UJ)
were examined as to how they facilitate the cross-border migration process.
Literature works on cross-border migration, the causes of student migration and social networks
were reviewed. Migration theories were defined by the level of analysis they focus on, which are
micro, macro and meso level. The meso-level theories explain both the cause and perpetuation
of migration, and thus have the greatest applicability to this study. They explain social networks
as aiding the perpetuation of migration by providing the resources needed during the migration
process. This is found in Ritchey’s (1976: 389) hypotheses that summarised the role of social
networks in migration. Social networks provide information and facilitate migration of new
migrants.
Data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Twenty participants were interviewed, of
whom fifteen were current students, and the remaining five were UJ alumni from Lesotho. The
findings show social networks of relatives and/or friends as initiating and perpetuating the crossborder
migration of these Basotho students. This was done by providing students with the
required information and resources needed during the cross-border migration process. Students
got information about the place of destination from the social network that also assisted them
with accommodation, as well as financial and emotional support. These findings support
Ritchey’s hypotheses that show the influence of social networks in migration. This implies that
during the migration process, information and resources are important, especially when they
come from the people trusted, such as relatives and friends.
In order to assist future students migrating from Lesotho to South Africa, former students should
form an association that could dispense information to new students. A comparative study
should be done among Basotho migrant students studying at different universities in South
Africa to see whether they have similar social networks.