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Experiencing loss : traumatic memory and nostalgic longing in Anne Landsman's The Devil's Chimney and The Rowing Lesson, and Rachel Zadok's Gem Squash Tokoloshe

Explaining the endurance of poverty and inequality : social policy and the social division of welfare in the South African health system

  • Authors: Du Plessis, Ulandi
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Health system , Private health , Public health , Poor , Subsidies , Profit motive , Quality , Efficiency , Public health -- Finance -- Research -- South Africa , Medical care -- Research -- South Africa , Poverty -- Research -- South Africa , Equality -- Research -- South Africa , South Africa -- Social conditions
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:2755 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002002
  • Description: This thesis examines the structure and flow of public funding between the public and private sectors in the South African health system and the consequences thereof for the achievement of equity. The conceptual framework used to undertake the analysis derives from Richard Titmuss’ core theoretical framework, the Social Division of Welfare. The application of the Social Division of Welfare applied to the South African health care context demonstrates how state resources end up benefitting the non-poor and, as a result, reproduce inequality. Those who access public institutions such as public health care are assumed to be ‘dependent’ on the state, whilst those who access private health facilities claim to be ‘independent’ of the state. However, this thesis shows that these assumptions are flawed. Access to the formal labour market, and subsequently the paying of taxes, authorises one to access state subsidies not available to those who do not. The application of the Social Division of Welfare shows that tax-paying private health care patients benefit considerably from state resources. This thesis argues that due to cost escalation in the private health sector, a consequence of the commodification of health care, these private health care ‘consumers’ as well as the private health industry in general are dependent upon state resources. This thesis analyses the role played by the profit motive present in the private health industry and the consequences for equity, quality, access and efficiency in health care provision
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Explorative study on the efficacy of the Total Quality Management System as a performance enhancement instrument: the case of Walter Sisulu University (Eastern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa)

  • Authors: Gwele, Xolani
  • Date: 2013
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: vital:11681 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013544
  • Description: With the advent of a democratic South Africa in 1994, national public administration has effected reforms to improve government performance and service delivery. The importance of education for the development of excellence, expertise and knowledge leading to overall development in economy cannot be undermined. This has necessitated a sound strategy for the development of higher education in South Africa. Establishing leadership in this country is possible only when there is a developed system of higher education in which efficiency remains the sole criteria to evaluate performance. Higher education institutions are faced with an increasing number of complex challenges including implementing and maintaining a quality management system. This study seeks to explore the efficacy of total quality management as the performance enhancement instrument at Walter Sisulu University, in the Eastern Cape Province – South Africa. Relevant literature regarding quality, quality assurance, total quality management and performance management has been reviewed in order to establish and test if this study is researchable. Interviews with students have been conducted in order understand a sense of student perception towards quality assurance in the university. Observations and Staff questionnaires have been used to collect more data on total quality management and performance management system. The data collected is analysed and interpreted in chapter four and chapter five provides for findings and recommendations in concluding this study.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploratory study of the University of Fort Hare students' perception of the role of global television in cultural homogenisation

  • Authors: Moyo, Rachel
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: University of Fort Hare , Globalization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mass media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Television viewers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Television broadcasting -- Social aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Com)
  • Identifier: vital:11365 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005988 , University of Fort Hare , Globalization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mass media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Television viewers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Television broadcasting -- Social aspects
  • Description: The implications of globalisation in African societies raise an interesting debate and also pose a challenge to 21st century scholars of media/cultural tradition. While the media/cultural imperialism theory views global media as perpetuating cultural imperialism, revisionist theories of the media such as the audience reception theory argue against this, saying that media texts can be negotiated with. Both sides have always provided facts to argue their cases and the argument between them remains fluid. This study, which is a quantitative survey of some University of Fort Hare students’ perception of the role of global television in cultural homogenisation, has adopted the second phase of revisionism which is a counter to the audience reception theory, arguing that in the process of interaction with media texts, there may be transference of cultural values. This study used the media imperialism theory and the cultivation theory in exploring respondents’ perceptions of whether global television is perpetuating cultural imperialism and consequently cultural homogenisation among receiving cultures. The study adopted the quantitative methodology and a self-administered questionnaire structured according to the Likert Scale of measurement was used to gather data. Four cultural products of language, music, dress and religion were used as the measurable indicators to determine perceptions of global television consumption’s influence in cultural imperialism. The study used the case of University of Fort Hare students since they are a heterogeneous group and because there is not much research done concerning the influence of technological advancement, especially on the youth in remote areas such as Alice town where Fort Hare is situated. Although there were problems in the sampling process, most respondents did seem to perceive the notion that global television consumption does perpetuate cultural imperialism and that this is consequently leading to cultural homogenisation to a certain extent. According to the sampled group, the measure of the extent of homogenisation caused by global television consumption was 67.69%, falling behind by 27.31% from the anticipated standard of 95%. The difference between the anticipated standard and the realised standard was attributed to the dialectical debates emanating from the study findings which were also reiterated in the literature review. Importantly, the respondents indicated their preference for local media productions while at the same time agreeing that they were often unavailable, which leaves them without much choice but to watch those Western programmes that are readily available on both local media stations and on global television. To this end, most students denied that their own cultural values have deteriorated.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring a grade 5 English teacher's strategies for helping her learners develop their reading literacy: a case study

  • Authors: Robertson, Sally-Ann, 1952-
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching (Primary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape English language -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Foreign speakers Reading (Elementary) -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Literacy -- Education (Primary) -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education, Primary -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:1389 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001667
  • Description: Despite South Africa’s constitutional commitment to multilingualism, literacy in English is important in education and the economy. English is widely perceived as the language of opportunity, and many South African primary schools have chosen English as their language of learning and teaching (LoLT). In terms of South Africa’s 1997 Language in Education Policy, this choice means that such a school has to comply with English Home Language curriculum requirements. In situations where few learners (or teachers) have English as a home language, the choice of English as LoLT poses particular challenges, perhaps most crucially in the early years of literacy development. This investigation explores the work of an intermediate phase teacher working in the Eastern Cape province at a “no-fee” school where English is the chosen LoLT, but where the majority of learners have isiXhosa as their home language. A qualitative interpretive approach was used to focus on the teacher’s strategies for developing her Grade 5 learners’ reading literacy in English. Data were derived via lesson observation and in-depth interviewing. Fourteen of the teacher’s English lessons were observed and she was interviewed twice. Analysis of the data shows that few learners meet the reading literacy levels outlined in National Curriculum Statement guidelines. The teacher, working as she is in what are essentially subtractive bilingualism circumstances, is poorly equipped to cope with the task of developing her learners’ reading literacy. I argue that educational policy, contributing as it does to the ongoing displacement, by English, of many South African children’s home languages, not only undermines the post-apartheid Government’s attempts at linguistic equity, but also contributes significantly to unequal reading literacy achievement across South Africa’s different socio-economic sectors. Department of Basic Education officials, academics and others involved in decision-making around teacher education and development need to work together to interrogate policy and put in place more effective support structures to help teachers better cope with the exigencies outlined above.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring learning and teaching support given by principals to Grade R teachers in Mqanduli Area in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Pantshwa, Zimasa Prudence
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Teaching and Learning support -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
  • Identifier: vital:18438 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007197
  • Description: The study was conducted in the Mthatha District, Mqanduli area, and it sought to enquire about the role of junior secondary school principals in supporting Grade R teachers in order to make teaching and learning in the Grade R classes effective. The researcher has noticed with concern the poor conditions of Grade R classes in the schools and felt a need for proper support. She felt the principal could champion the concept of support better, in his capacity as a manager in the school. Studies in Early Childhood Development have been done, and they pertained to all aspects of child development, parental support etc., but studies that view support from a managerial perspective in Mthatha District are scarce. Under quantitative research design, a survey research method was employed to collect a large portion of the data. A questionnaire consisting of closed and open ended questions was used in order to collect data from the Grade R teachers. Open ended questions were used in order to get a broader view and perceptions. Comprehensive sampling was used in this study because the whole population fell into the sample. All ethical considerations were observes and after receipt of permission to conduct research in the schools, a questionnaire was distributed personally to all the schools in the sample. Data was analyzed by means of the SPSS. Some of the findings identified in the study pertained to: the need for material support including good infrastructure, poor communication between principal and Grade R teacher, scarce meetings specifically for Grade R. The individual findings, together with the implications were discussed in relation to the research questions. The researcher recommended that technical support should be attended to and the principal must communicate frequently with the Grade R teacher. Financial limitations and negative attitudes from some principals were the major limitations the researcher encountered.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring linguistic thresholds and reading comprehension and skills-transfer in a grade 6, isiXhosa-English additive bilingual context

  • Authors: Jackson, Mary-Jane
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Reading comprehension Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape English language -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- Foreign speakers Xhosa language -- Study and teaching (Elementary) Reading -- Ability testing
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:1905 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006353
  • Description: Reading is the key to knowledge and learning and by implication, life success. Most South African children „learn to read‟ in their home languages (HL), such as isiXhosa in the Eastern Cape, and then at the beginning of Grade 4 are expected to make two significant transitions: they must begin to „read to learn‟ and they must do so in an additional language (usually English). The research evidence is damning: Intermediate Phase children are failing to read and failing to learn. This study is concerned with two of the possible, and often conflicting, reasons for the reading problem: 1) that too little time is spent developing learners‟ English language proficiency and 2) that the development of learners‟ reading comprehension skills in the HL is neglected, preventing the transfer of skills to reading in English additional language (EAL). This thesis explores the relations between English Language Proficiency (ELP) and isiXhosa Reading Comprehension (XRC), and between ELP and English Reading Comprehension (ERC), in a unique, additive bilingual context in the rural Eastern Cape, where isiXhosa is maintained as part-LoLT (language of learning and teaching) to the end of Grade 6. The Linguistic Threshold and Linguistic Interdependence Hypotheses constitute the theoretical framework of the study. The design of the research is exploratory and descriptive. The Woodcock-Muñoz Language Survey was used to measure the language proficiency (English relative to isiXhosa) of the sixteen Grade 6 learners in the study, while two sample, expository passages from the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (2006) were used to measure the reading comprehension abilities of learners, in both isiXhosa and English. A questionnaire provided additional information – about the learners‟ perceptions of reading– which assisted in the interpretation of the statistical data. „Mean scores‟ and „standard deviations‟ were used to describe the ELP (relative to the isiXhosa language proficiency) of the participants, while „frequency‟ was used to describe the reading comprehension scores. Correlational statistics were then employed to test the strength of the relationships between the variables, while regression analyses were used to predict the relative contribution of each of ELP and XRC to ERC. The study reveals that while the learners‟ isiXhosa language proficiency far exceeded their English language abilities, their reading comprehension scores in both languages were equally poor. ELP correlated significantly with ERC; and XRC and ERC were also covaried, thus corroborating the findings of international research: that in this particular context, second language (L2) reading is a consequence of both ELP and first language(L1) reading ability. The regression analyses showed that while the potential for reading comprehension transfer in the direction L1 to L2 existed, this possibility was short circuited, both by learners‟ poor ELP and their poor L1 reading skills.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring managers' experiences of a monitoring and evaluation dashboard in an Eastern Cape hospital complex

  • Authors: Scholl, Joy
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Performance -- Management , Management -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- Evaluation , Dashboards (Management information systems)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:10008 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021089
  • Description: Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are essential tools for businesses, projects and service delivery structures. The majority of managers in health institutions are from a clinical background and do not use business intelligence principles to manage or monitor performances in their domains. Literature has revealed that managers in South African public health institutions do not monitor and evaluate their data regularly; likewise the most important information is not consolidated for easy reference and assessment. A pilot study of the introduction of an M&E dashboard was implemented at the East London Hospital Complex (ELHC) in May 2011 at the request of the Superintendent General of the Eastern Cape Department of Health to address this challenge. The current study explored the experiences of managers in the implementation of an M&E dashboard at the ELHC in the Eastern Cape. To establish managers’ experiences, a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive study was undertaken to gain insight, while accurately depicting the experiences and perceptions of managers of the dashboard. A survey questionnaire was developed to undertake a case study with respondents, who were involved in the initial implementation of the dashboard project at the ELHC. The results were analysed and recommendations were made addressing the design of the dashboard, and communication and change management in the introduction of the monitoring and evaluation tool. Further recommendations were made relating to future potential research in this area. An important finding of the research is that thirty-one (31) of the thirty-four (34) managers (91 percent) responded positively about the dashboard, while 9 percent were neutral. None of the respondents encountered negative experiences of utilising the dashboard. This indicates that the implementation of the dashboard was an overwhelming positive experience. The dashboard can be implemented in other healthcare institutions in the Eastern Cape, thereby encouraging more reliable methods to monitor data, improve staff efficiency and above all service delivery to patients.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring teachers' perceptions of the barriers and solutions to using one teacher laptop per class in a multi-grade context : the case of Intel®Teach-ICT implementation

  • Authors: Subramanien, Brenda
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Combination of grades , Information technology projects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:9441 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021039
  • Description: This interpretive exploratory case study investigated the challenges and barriers to the multi-grade context in general, as well as to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) implementation in a multi-grade context. Possible solutions based on teacher perceptions were generated inductively within a three-level typology. The research took place in three phases. Pre-training data were gathered in the first phase, using an open-ended questionnaire (all participants: n=20); personal interviews (n=9); and two focus group interviews, which consisted of three participants per focus group. Training on the Intel® Teach ICT programme and the provision of laptops (one per teacher) constituted the second phase. The third phase included post-training data generation using an open-ended questionnaire (all participants) and two focus group interviews, which consisted of three participants per focus group, to elicit teacher perceptions of the training programme and their use of the laptops in the classroom after the training. The findings suggest that first order (school or meso level) challenges pertaining to multi-grade teaching relate to the lack of resources; curriculum challenges; learner related challenges; isolation, impact on communication and teaching; time constraints; and a work overload as a result of the multiple roles. Second order challenges (self or micro level) related to the perceived uncaring attitude of the Department of Basic Education that left teachers feeling hurt and neglected; the unpreparedness for the multi-grade context which demotivated teachers; and the negative perceptions the teachers had about their learners. Third order challenges (system level, beyond the school level or micro level) were related to the lack of Departmental support from officials; the lack of curriculum training for the multi-grade context; and the lack of support on various fronts. Regarding ICT related challenges, the findings suggest that first order barriers related to the lack of suitable infrastructure for ICT implementation; lack of peer support; lack of access to appropriate hardware and software; and lack of time. Second order barriers related to the negative beliefs in the self; negative perceptions about the learners’ ability to use the laptop; and negative beliefs related to teaching and learning. The third order barriers were related to the lack of support and assistance from the Department of Basic Education for ICT implementation. The findings suggest that the participants viewed the provisioning of enabling programmes for parents as an important solution to first order challenges, and a change in mindset as the most important solution for second order problems. Third order solutions included a “multi-grade Renaissance” towards a new model for multi-grade teaching; re-thinking the curriculum requirements regarding multi-grade teaching by the Department of Basic Education; increased support and training from the Department; incentives to teach with ICT in the multi-grade context; encouraging further research inmulti-grade teaching; providing sufficient resources; establishing partnerships with stakeholders; and the closure and merger of multi-grade schools. There was evidence that the laptops provided were used in a variety of ways after the Intel® Teach training by the participants, including email as a tool to communicate with their fellow multi-grade peers, which serve to break their sense of isolation. Quantitative data from the open-ended questionnaire confirmed an increase in the usage of the laptop after the Intel® Teach training intervention. Although the participants generally experienced the Intel teach training intervention as positive, they also identified negative experiences. These findings enabled the embedding of ‘self and sustainable support from stakeholders’ more explicitly in the professional teacher development ICT implementation framework of Du Plessis and Webb (2012b), which suggests that the Intel® Teach training intervention can be used as a vehicle to address ICT implementation within the multi-grade context. It is suggested that the Department of Basic Education should consider exposing all teachers to the Intel® Teach programme and assist multi-grade teachers by providing better on-going support and putting the necessary policies, implementation and infrastructure in place.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the challenges of income generating projects funded by the Department of Social Development at Kwa-Nobuhle, Uitenhage, in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Filita, Unathi Samora
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Public investments -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Poverty -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Economic conditions
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:9191 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020323
  • Description: Income generating projects represent one strategy adopted by the Department of Social Development to alleviate poverty. The purpose of this study is to explore challenges of an income generating project funded by the Department of Social Development in Kwa-Nobuhle, Uitenhage of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa., A sample of thirty respondents was drawn from ten income generating projects funded by the Department of Social Development. The sampling method of this study was purposive sampling. Data was gathered through semi-structured questionnaires. Related literature has been reviewed that focuses on income generating projects for poverty alleviation. Various recommendations have been made on the findings of the study. The findings of the study indicated the need for regular visits from the officials of the Department, to conduct monitoring and evaluation. Project members also need training on financial management so they cannot mismanage their finances. The research findings indicated clearly that strategies that were used by the Department were not effective enough to achieve desired goals of poverty alleviation.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the correlation between language medium and academic achievement: a comparative study of the language of learning and teaching (LoLT) and mathematics results in the 2010 Grade 12 National Senior Certificate examinations in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Mbude-Shale, Beryl Ntombizanele
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Academic achievement -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Language and education -- Research -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Language policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Matric Learners Language planning Mathematics Policies Academic performance Mother-tongue
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:3559 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001863
  • Description: In 2009, of the 68,129 learners who wrote Matric, only 34,731 learners passed. In 2010, there was an increase in the provincial pass rate causing much excitement across the board. The reality was that of the 64,090 learners who wrote, only 37,345 learners passed. In 2010, a result below 50% was recorded for Mathematics and Physical Science nationally (DBE; 2011). Despite efforts by the Education Department to support MSTE; establishing Mathematics and Science schools, NGOs and HEIs giving extra Mathematics and Science support to students and teachers, the offering of Saturday classes and incubation camps, we still get minimal return on investment. This thesis analyses these results against the backdrop of language planning theory, particularly language-in-education policies, pre and post-apartheid. The correlation between language medium and academic performance in language (LoLT) and Mathematics of Grade 12 learners is explored. Worldwide the issue of low achievement in Mathematics by ESL students is of great concern (Cuevas, 1984). The 2004 Systemic Evaluation sample of learners was in Grade 6 then; in 2010 they wrote Grade 12. The purpose of the systemic evaluation was to provide an insight into the levels of learner performance in Maths, Natural Science and LoLT in Grade 6 (IPSER, 2006). A major finding of the IPSER was that language was an important factor related to learner achievement. A major disparity was observed in this research, that although the Eastern Cape performed below the national average in the three subjects evaluated, the learners for whom LoLT was the same as their home language obtained scores that were significantly higher than those whose home language was different from the LoLT. The provincial average for Mathematics was 23.40% compared to the national average of 27.80%. For LoLT the province scored 30.16 against the national score of 38.03%. Of interest in this study is a juxtaposition of the Matric results of this same group of learners in 2010 and see whether issues that came up then are still significant in mitigating achievement in Mathematics and Language (LoLT). Some research studies have been conducted in South Africa (Adler, 1998; Setati, 1996-2002; Moloi, 2006) identifying the vital role language plays in learning Mathematics, especially for English L2 learners. Building on research and findings of academics such as the late Alexander, Ramani, Joseph, Hendricks, Heugh, Dalvit, Webb and Murray, this thesis suggests that a mother-tongue-based-bilingual approach to education should be adopted as a matter of urgency
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the influence of spirituality on students' well-being

  • Authors: Magula, Nokuzola Princess
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Sprituality , Well-being , Students , Christians , Rhodes University , College students -- Religious life -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Christian college students -- Religious life -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- Religion -- Research , Well-being -- Religious aspects , Spirituality -- Research
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:2918 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002083
  • Description: This study was aimed at exploring the impact of spirituality on the well-being of students at Rhodes University in South Africa. The study was conducted within a qualitative research paradigm deploying an interpretive phenomenological analysis strategy for data analysis. The study involved a sample of four female Honours students who were all active Christians. The selected students were interviewed to elicit their experiences of spirituality and how this related to their everyday lives. The study used semi-structured interviews in order to get as much information as possible from the small sample of research participants. Data generated in this study was processed, presented and interpreted inductively and hermeneutically in order to identify emerging superordinate themes. This study found that spirituality was experienced as having a positive impact on well-being by all the four students. The study revealed that belief and faith in God amongst the students resulted in enhanced and positive experiences of hope, optimism and compassion which provided the students with a deeper sense of meaning of life and a source of direction in difficult times. The study further showed that participants experienced spirituality as a regulatory mechanism shaping their lifestyles and behaviours. Participants viewed their spirituality and religiosity as a source of social support helping them to cope with distressful situations. The findings of this study are consistent with the findings of previous studies done in the field of psychology and spirituality. The fact that this study has shown that spirituality and religion has a positive impact on student’s well-being may mean that University administrators and psychologists may find the study interesting and valuable
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the management of information technology funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning : a case study of two schools in the King William's Town Education District

  • Authors: Ngcoza, Xoliswa Phyllis
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Information technology--Management Management information systems
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17439 , vital:40968
  • Description: Today the term ‘Information Technology’ (IT) is a buzz word globally. It is an indispensable tool in government departments and it enhances management, planning and organisation of all activities in the departments. Information Technology (IT) refers to equipments such as overhead and digital projectors, digital cameras, cell phones, Television recorders, language laboratories, printers, computers and all its components such as different soft wares, hard wares, Central Processing Units (CPU) etc. These machines are teaching aids just like pens, rulers, writing boards etc when they are used by teachers and become learning tools when they are used by learners. It can be argued that IT can be the life blood of management in schools because by using it all the departments in the institutions are managed and co-ordinated easily. The database containing information about the learners, the staff, the subjects offered, the compiling and filing of mark schedules are easily done and are available at any time on request. IT helps in the managing of learning and teaching. The main focus of this study is to explore the management of IT funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning. Today without funds IT use would be impossible. Relevant soft wares for all subjects taught such as Mathematics, Biology, Physical Education Environmental Studies etc are managed and planned by the management of the institutions to enable teachers to teach effectively and efficiently and to make studies easy for the learners to understand and to do research on their own. When the IT equipments are used properly, fast, efficient and effective service delivery would be realized. All these technological tools aforementioned depend on the availability of funds in the institutions.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the management of inter-clan conflict by non-governmental organisations in Wajir Country, Kenya

  • Authors: Noor, Mohamed Sheikh
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Conflict management -- Kenya -- Wajir District , Clans -- Kenya -- Wajir District , Non-governmental organizations -- Kenya -- Wajir District
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:8293 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018701
  • Description: The reality today is that we are all interdependent and have to co-exist on this small planet therefore, the only sensible and intelligent way of resolving differences and clashes of interests, whether between individuals or nations, is through dialogue --the Dalai Lama Nomadic pastoralist communities all over the world depend on the keeping livestock for their livelihood, and are characterized by constant migration, in search of pasture and water, or what others may call “search for greener pastures”. Most often as the case such as in Northern Kenya these communities or clans are in conflict with each other mainly over the same scarce resources- water and pasture. This particular treatise explores the role of local NGOs in managing such inter-clan conflict. As aptly put by Lewis (1981: 10-13), when grazing land is abundant, settlement patterns of the pastoral communities may include many non patrilineal kin, or other clans, the true patrilineal kin is honored when pressure arises in the form of diminishing water and pasture, in such instances those who are not one‟s clan become undesirable aliens, thus it is was not a surprise to witness, in the course of conducting the study the many sprouting settlements in Wajir County consisting of entirely agnatic kin, meant to protect “clan‟s” ideals at any costs. Intra-clan and inter-clan conflicts are thus common in the entire Northern Kenya; this study explores the management of inter-clan conflict in Wajir County, North Eastern Province of Kenya. In particular, this research offers an exploration and discussion of the sources of inter-clan conflict, the role of the local NGOs and the perceptions of the local communities, politicians, provincial administration and the local peace committees in the processes of the managing inter-clan conflicts by the local NGOs. With reference to relevant research and literature, as well as the researcher‟s good background understanding on the interventions of the local NGOs in Wajir County, this treatise will provide a series of recommendations to respond to the recurrent inter-clan conflict in the Wajir County, which to some extent could also be applicable to communities with similar settings in Africa and beyond.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the possibility of an Ubuntu-based political philosophy

  • Authors: Furman, Katherine Elizabeth
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Ubuntu , Political philosophy , Ethical theories , Law , South Africa , Ubuntu (Philosophy) -- Research -- South Africa , Political science -- Philosophy -- Research , Philosophy, African -- Research , Social values -- Research South Africa , Ethics -- Research -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:2756 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002003
  • Description: It is typically said that there are two questions that political philosophy seeks to address: ‘who gets what?’ and ‘who decides on who gets what?’ South Africa, along with much of the rest of the world, has answered the second question badly and currently ranks as one of the world’s most unequal societies. Counter-intuitively, South Africa maintains a social-political order that (re)produces this inequality along with great enthusiasm for ubuntu, an African ethic that at a minimum requires that we treat each other humanely. However, due to the view that ubuntu has been co-opted in support of South Africa’s unjust system, ubuntu has largely been ignored by radical thinkers. The aim of this thesis is therefore to explore the possibility of an ubuntu-based political philosophy, with the core assumption that political philosophy is rooted in ethical theory. Three tasks are therefore undertaken in this thesis. Firstly, ubuntu is articulated as an ethic. Secondly, it is compared to similar Western ethical theories in order to determine if there are distinguishing characteristics that make ubuntu a more appropriate founding ethic for South African political philosophy. Finally, whether ubuntu can find real-world applicability will be assessed by looking at the way ubuntu has been used in the law
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Exploring the role of an education non-governmental organisation's contribution towards fighting HIV/AIDS: a case study of South African partners

  • Authors: Chiguvare, Admire D
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , HIV infections -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Prevention , Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:9219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020870
  • Description: The problem this research seeks to address concerns related to the role allocated and strategies implemented by HIV and AIDS education NGOs, in mitigating the impact of HIV and AIDS in Nelson Mandela Bay. The problem is approached as a development challenge and examples are drawn from the undertakings of South African Partners (SAP), an NGO operating in the education field. The study adopted qualitative research, relative unstructured interviews, direct observation and literature review as methods of data collection. The study further identified specific roles that education NGOs play in response to HIV/AIDS and delineated the strategies that HIV and AIDS education NGOs employ in responding to HIV/AIDS. The research found that HIV/AIDS education NGOs have become important channels through which people affected and living with HIV/AIDS participate in development, share their experience and access information and resources. Further noted was that HIV/AIDS results in a diminished workforce and a higher allocation of state funds to public healthcare. The research findings showed that an education NGO in a prison context serves to mobilise the prison community and sensitise it to HIV and AIDS issues. This, through its addressing of the needs and causes of HIV infections in prison. SAP aid recipients were found to be satisfied for the most part, with the service rendered them by the education NGO. The study found that HIV prevention educational sessions were quite effective in disseminating HIV and AIDS basic information and that SAP achieves their goals through their training of facilitators who employ the STEPS curriculum. The trained facilitators facilitate group discussions, distribute condoms and lubricants through partnerships, and solicit behavioural change through the use of theatre to disseminate HIV prevention information. Key recommendations of the study are that HIV and AIDS education NGOs must integrate poverty reduction interventions in their activities and that further, they would do better to form coalitions in order to strengthen their capacity to sustain their activities and manage partnerships. Education NGOs should form partnerships that provide social protection. Ruther recommended is that education NGOs should further their curriculum in consideration for sexual preferences.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Expropriation of mineral resourses and the implications for conflict transformation in the Democratic Republic of Congo

  • Authors: Nibishaka, Emmanuel
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Postwar reconstruction -- Congo (Democratic Republic) , Minerals -- Congo (Democratic Republic)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:8294 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018880
  • Description: The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced constant instability and conflict since 1996. With the collapse of the state of Zaire and the renaming of the country by the late Laurent Desire Kabila in late 1996, there were high expectations from the Congolese population that the country was going to move forward. However, in less than two years, the central government in Kinshasa was facing a new rebellion from the east of the country, followed by widespread violence and criminal activities by armed and militia groups. Although military intervention from Zimbabwe, Namibia and Angola halted the rebellion march to Kinshasa, the capital city of DRC, and allowed the DRC government to sign peace agreement with its opponents in 2002; since then, the prospect of peace in the eastern DRC, especially the North and South Kivus seems bleak. Since 2002, that region has been the theatre of armed and militia groups (both local and foreign), owing to, in the views of various experts, the presence of mineral resources to support their criminal activities, as well as the economic interests of regional actors to create proxy militia and armed groups in the absence of central government in much of eastern DRC. The purpose and rationale of this study is to critically identify actors in the postconflict reconstruction process, and examine the role of mineral resources among other perpetuating factors of the protracted conflict in eastern DRC, in order to arrive at a comprehensive analysis of the reasons for the failure of peace building and post-conflict reconstruction processes that have been undertaken. This study aims to fill a gap in available literature, by pointing to some conflict drivers and factors which have previously been overlooked in post-conflict reconstruction, and in existing research on the topic, especially the role of mineral resources in sustaining conflict. A thorough conceptualization of relevant conflict theory and a historical overview of the conflict in DRC were provided as a point of departure in order to understand other factors that contribute to the intractability of conflict in eastern DRC, this study found that those factors were rooted in the legacy of colonialism; the bad leadership under both the colonial powers and subsequent government of Joseph Mobutu, manipulation and politicization of ethnic identities especially in the South and North Kivu and the geopolitical location of the eastern DRC. This study further established that the presence of mineral resources in eastern DRC indeed contributes to the continued insecurity in that region by providing succour to armed groups, thus undermining peace agreements especially the Pretoria agreement that formally ended hostilities in 2002. Furthermore, the study found that the issue of mineral resources is not the sole driver of the eastern DRC conflict, as the issues of ethnic polarisation especially, discrimination against Kinyarwanda speaking Congolese in the east, and the view that only military means can solve this problem; coupled with other security threats including the presence of foreign militia groups motivate the neighbouring countries of Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi to constantly meddle in DRC's internal affairs. The study suggests that additional research be conducted to further investigate the regional dimensions of the conflict and how perceived interests in mineral revenue contribute to the polarisation of the population in eastern DRC; leading to the proliferation of armed groups.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Factors affecting customer retention at an automative manufacturing organisation

  • Authors: Yam, Bonga Sherperd Elvis
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Consumer satisfaction , Customer relations , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: vital:8809 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018573
  • Description: South African vehicle manufacturers are under immense competition from vehicle manufactures from India and China. The global financial crises also put these organisations under intense pressure and this resulted in these organisations having to start seeing the need to focus on issues that affect customer retention. The way that business is done in the 21st Century is forcing organisations to implement strategies that are geared towards increasing customer retention and growing the business. Organisations need to build relationships with their customers with the hope that these customers will in turn extend their stay with the organisation when an opportunity to replace their vehicles arises or keep on servicing with them. In order to establish a good relationship with customers, organisations need to understand customer expectations by being customer orientated and by providing customers with value. The primary objective of this study is to improve customer retention for a selected vehicle manufacturer after the warranty and service plans have expired, by investigating the relationship between customer service quality, customer loyalty, and customer retention. The results obtained from the 64 respondents who participated in the survey revealed that although all the above-mentioned variables play a role in increasing customer retention, customer service quality exerts the most influence. The study also highlights areas that should be improved, as well as recommendations on how to improve them. Recommendations for future research are also provided.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Factors affecting rural farming households’ willingness to participate in a proposed irrigation scheme: a situation analysis of Guquka in Nkonkobe District Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Ngwenya, Kwanele
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
  • Identifier: vital:11198 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007145 , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Description: Previous studies conducted in the study area recommended an irrigation scheme as a much desired intervention in order to reduce poverty levels, reduce unemployment, provide a livelihood for the households and trigger development. The Land Bank of South Africa has shown keen interest to provide funds to set up an irrigation scheme in Guquka. Absence of peoples’ involvement and farmer participation has been identified as one of the causes of poor performance of smallholder irrigation schemes in South Africa. The poor performance of smallholder irrigation projects in South Africa provided a good basis for exploring factors that could possibly affect farmer participation and the success of the proposed irrigation scheme. This knowledge would be useful to providers of extension services, capital providers, policy makers and the recipients of the proposed irrigation scheme. The main objective of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the willingness of farming households to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. This investigation helped to analyse demographic; socio economic situation; farming practices; economic activities; water sources, uses and management in the study area. The major tool of enquiry in this study was the questionnaire which was used to collect data from the households. Household and farm characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires with the help of locally recruited and trained enumerators. The data used for the empirical analysis was obtained from a survey of 50 farming households in Guquka, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The following variables were selected to determine the scope of their influence on farmer willingness to participate in the proposed scheme: age; membership in local group; investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers, knowledge, household size, labour and gender. A logit model was used to determine the extent to which these selected characteristics influence the willingness of farmers to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. The results showed that willingness to participate in the scheme was significantly influenced by the afore mentioned variables as well as knowledge about the planned irrigation scheme which is mainly provided by extension agents; and total household income. Age was found to decrease the willingness of farmers to participate in irrigation. A positive association existed between participation and the following variables; membership in local group, investment in agriculture, educational level of the farmers and knowledge. On the other hand, household size, labour and gender were not significant variables affecting willingness to participate in the proposed irrigation scheme. Based on the results from the logit regression model, it can be concluded that membership in a local group, investment in agriculture, education, knowledge and total household income are responsible for increasing the probability of participation. The negative relationship on age and participation indicates that the older the person is, the lesser the chances of participation. It is recommended that stakeholders should improve access to education and farmer training programmes. Support systems to disseminate information, training and knowledge should be enhanced. Improving institutional support and access to financial services should be prioritised by the stakeholders in the study area. Further studies on building institutional capacity and a cost benefit analysis of irrigation options in the study area are recommended.
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  • Date Issued: 2013

Factors affecting the impact of BEE strategies in enhancing previously disadvantaged beneficiaries in Manquma Local Municipality

  • Authors: Bota, Patrick Mziwoxolo
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Municipal government -- South Africa , Economic development
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:9174 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020115
  • Description: This research project is about the “Factors Affecting the impact of Black Economic Empowerment strategies in enhancing previously disadvantaged beneficiaries in Mnquma Local Municipality.” The purpose is to examine the challenges faced by previously disadvantaged beneficiaries so as to emerge with new innovative BEE mechanisms that can be implemented to improve the situation faced by beneficiaries for the better. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to study the iterature of “Black Economic Empowerment” which is part of the Local Economic Development initiatives. In order to attain the main objective of the study and also to address the research problem face to face interviews were conducted with previously disadvantaged beneficiaries, Local Economic Development officials and councillors from five different wards of Mnquma Local Municipality. The literature review and the interviews helped one to come up with the recommendations to be adopted in order to remedy the situation of the beneficiaries. These recommendations will, hopefully, be of assistance to Mnquma Local Municipality. Findings of this study indicate that challenges faced by previously disadvantaged beneficiaries include: fronting, lack of finance, skills shortage like technical, management, budgeting and saving skills, absence of training workshops, and lack of support on SMMEs development as well as poor implementation of BEE policy by Local Economic Development Unit. The aforesaid challenges have negative effects on the implementation of BEE strategies which adversely affect the beneficiaries. Here are some of the recommendations made in this regard: support and assistance for previously disadvantaged beneficiaries like financial assistance, Khula financial schemes, bank loans, training and workshops, establishment of agricultural projects as well as assistance on coordination of co-operatives initiatives. Other recommendations provide possible solutions to these problems: corruption, nepotism and cadreship deployment. In order to act against these transgressions the following suggestions have been made in the study: containment of fronting, development of heritage and historical sites for tourists’ purposes, recommendation on BEE management strategies and also recommendation on business registration and licensing. The study concludes that if the Mnquma Local Municipality can execute all the proposed recommendations, all the factors raised as the stumbling block towards the success and beneficiary of the previously disadvantaged beneficiaries would be resolved.
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  • Date Issued: 2013
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