International Journal of Language & Linguistics

Exploring how Early School Dropouts Cope as Survivalist Entrepreneurs: A Case Study
Dr Thulani E. Mhlongo, PhD

Abstract
This article reports on the findings of a research project that was designed to explore how early school leavers cope as survivalist entrepreneurs. The project had four purposes, namely: to determine demographics of this group; to find out how are they able to survive; to get some insight into what they used to do before and to determine variation among vendors in their experiences of street vending. 20 participants were selected randomly. Qualitative Data was collected using interview, observation and reflective notes. Thereafter, data was analyzed using open coding. All participants were school drop- out boys who did not complete their secondary school education. Consequently, they lack specialized knowledge and skills on how to grow their business. About 70% were immigrants from neighboring countries. Surprisingly, these are able to support themselves and survive as street sellers. The biggest challenge identified by this particular group was weather conditions and harassment by law officials. To improve their working conditions it is up to local municipality to develop rationale policies for understanding the poor street vendors by treating them as part of the broader structural policies aimed at improving their standard of living.

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