Exploring e-governance effectiveness in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Sithole-Somfula, Busiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Corporate governance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Metropolitan government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021178
- Description: E-governance is a comprehensive and well-thought out notion as it brings forth a change in the way governments communicate to citizens and to each other. Since the RSA government relies on regular consultations with the citizens in order to improve service delivery, e-governance approaches inspires citizens to be active agent of local democracy by means of providing information and participation on issues that matters the most to the society. The effectiveness of e-governance takes into account four systemic intentions which are as follows: Increased government accountability; Increased government transparency; Increased government efficiency and; Increased citizen’s trust In order for the RSA government, more particularly at the local level, to ensure quality of life to the citizens, the modernisation of government services and operations is very important. E-governance can now be considered as a source or tool for sharing ideas and initiatives that deliver a mutual enrichment. In other words, the citizens are the determining factor and actors for the rules and the role of the local bureaucrats as well as for the corresponding ICT tools persist to be developed. This treatise undertakes a strategic view and an evaluation of e- governance in local municipalities as the means of improving and transforming the delivery of services and access to information for citizens. Consequently this paper affords an exploratory analysis between e-governance and the six core elements of technology (i.e. e-strategy, e-skills development, e-services, IT governance and ICT infrastructure and e-leadership) believed to contribute positively in the effectiveness of e-governance. Finally, recommendations are made as a result of analysing the literature study and empirical study to ensure the implementation of the key initiatives of e-governance that can add value to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sithole-Somfula, Busiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Corporate governance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Metropolitan government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8929 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021178
- Description: E-governance is a comprehensive and well-thought out notion as it brings forth a change in the way governments communicate to citizens and to each other. Since the RSA government relies on regular consultations with the citizens in order to improve service delivery, e-governance approaches inspires citizens to be active agent of local democracy by means of providing information and participation on issues that matters the most to the society. The effectiveness of e-governance takes into account four systemic intentions which are as follows: Increased government accountability; Increased government transparency; Increased government efficiency and; Increased citizen’s trust In order for the RSA government, more particularly at the local level, to ensure quality of life to the citizens, the modernisation of government services and operations is very important. E-governance can now be considered as a source or tool for sharing ideas and initiatives that deliver a mutual enrichment. In other words, the citizens are the determining factor and actors for the rules and the role of the local bureaucrats as well as for the corresponding ICT tools persist to be developed. This treatise undertakes a strategic view and an evaluation of e- governance in local municipalities as the means of improving and transforming the delivery of services and access to information for citizens. Consequently this paper affords an exploratory analysis between e-governance and the six core elements of technology (i.e. e-strategy, e-skills development, e-services, IT governance and ICT infrastructure and e-leadership) believed to contribute positively in the effectiveness of e-governance. Finally, recommendations are made as a result of analysing the literature study and empirical study to ensure the implementation of the key initiatives of e-governance that can add value to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploring the fertiliser potential of biosolids from algae integrated wastewater treatment systems
- Authors: Mlambo, Patricia Zanele
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sewage disposal plants , Sewage sludge as fertilizer , Algae -- Biotechnology , Sewage -- Purification -- Anaerobic treatment , Plant regulators , Biofertilizers , Microalgae -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5957 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013342
- Description: High rate algae oxidation ponds (HRAOP) for domestic wastewater treatment generate biosolids that are predominantly microalgae. Consequently, HRAOP biosolids are enriched with minerals, amino acids, nutrients and possibly contain plant growth regulator (PGR)-like substances, which makes HRAOP biosolids attractive as fertiliser or PGR. This study investigated HRAOP biosolids as a starting material for a natural, cost-effective and readily-available eco-friendly organic fertiliser and/or PGRs. Various HRAOP extract formulations were prepared and their effect on plant growth and development was evaluated using selected bioassays. Initial screening included assessing the effect on change in specific leaf area, radish cotyledon expansion as an indicator of PGR-like activity, and seed germination index (GI). More detailed studies on fertiliser efficacy and PGR-like activity utilised bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants. Combined effects of sonicated (S) and 40% v/v methanol (M) extract (5:1 SM) had impressive plant responses, comparable to Hoagland solution (HS). Other potentially fertiliser formulations included 0.5% M, 1% M, 2.5% S and 5% S formulations. The 5:1 SM and 5% S showed greater PGR-like activity, promoting cotyledon expansion by 459 ± 0.02% and 362 ± 0.01%, respectively. GI data showed that none of the formulations negatively impacted germination. Further investigation showed that the 5% S formulation increased leaf length, width and area by 6.69 ± 0.24, 6.21 ± 0.2 mm and 41.55 ± 0.2 mm². All formulated fertiliser extracts had no adverse effect on chlorophyll content and plant nutrient balance as indicated by C:N (8-10:1) ratio. In addition, plants appeared to actively mobilise nutrients to regions where needed as evidenced by a shift in shoot: root ratio depending on C, N and water availability. Furthermore, 5% S caused a 75% increase in tomato productivity and had no effect on bean productivity. Whereas, 5:1 SM and 1% M formulation improved bean pod production by 33.3% and 11%, respectively but did not affect tomato production. Harvest index (HI) however indicated a 3% reduction in tomato productivity with 5:1 SM and little or no enhancement in bean productivity with both 5:1 SM and 5% S treatments. Bean plants treated with 5:1 SM and 5% S produced larger fruits, which could be an indication of the presence of a PGR effect. Overall, HRAOP biosolids extracts prepared and investigated in this study demonstrated both fertiliser characteristics and PGR-like activity with performances comparable and in some cases exceeding that of commercial products. However additional research is needed to confirm presence of PGR-like activities and fertiliser efficacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mlambo, Patricia Zanele
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sewage disposal plants , Sewage sludge as fertilizer , Algae -- Biotechnology , Sewage -- Purification -- Anaerobic treatment , Plant regulators , Biofertilizers , Microalgae -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5957 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013342
- Description: High rate algae oxidation ponds (HRAOP) for domestic wastewater treatment generate biosolids that are predominantly microalgae. Consequently, HRAOP biosolids are enriched with minerals, amino acids, nutrients and possibly contain plant growth regulator (PGR)-like substances, which makes HRAOP biosolids attractive as fertiliser or PGR. This study investigated HRAOP biosolids as a starting material for a natural, cost-effective and readily-available eco-friendly organic fertiliser and/or PGRs. Various HRAOP extract formulations were prepared and their effect on plant growth and development was evaluated using selected bioassays. Initial screening included assessing the effect on change in specific leaf area, radish cotyledon expansion as an indicator of PGR-like activity, and seed germination index (GI). More detailed studies on fertiliser efficacy and PGR-like activity utilised bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants. Combined effects of sonicated (S) and 40% v/v methanol (M) extract (5:1 SM) had impressive plant responses, comparable to Hoagland solution (HS). Other potentially fertiliser formulations included 0.5% M, 1% M, 2.5% S and 5% S formulations. The 5:1 SM and 5% S showed greater PGR-like activity, promoting cotyledon expansion by 459 ± 0.02% and 362 ± 0.01%, respectively. GI data showed that none of the formulations negatively impacted germination. Further investigation showed that the 5% S formulation increased leaf length, width and area by 6.69 ± 0.24, 6.21 ± 0.2 mm and 41.55 ± 0.2 mm². All formulated fertiliser extracts had no adverse effect on chlorophyll content and plant nutrient balance as indicated by C:N (8-10:1) ratio. In addition, plants appeared to actively mobilise nutrients to regions where needed as evidenced by a shift in shoot: root ratio depending on C, N and water availability. Furthermore, 5% S caused a 75% increase in tomato productivity and had no effect on bean productivity. Whereas, 5:1 SM and 1% M formulation improved bean pod production by 33.3% and 11%, respectively but did not affect tomato production. Harvest index (HI) however indicated a 3% reduction in tomato productivity with 5:1 SM and little or no enhancement in bean productivity with both 5:1 SM and 5% S treatments. Bean plants treated with 5:1 SM and 5% S produced larger fruits, which could be an indication of the presence of a PGR effect. Overall, HRAOP biosolids extracts prepared and investigated in this study demonstrated both fertiliser characteristics and PGR-like activity with performances comparable and in some cases exceeding that of commercial products. However additional research is needed to confirm presence of PGR-like activities and fertiliser efficacy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploring the impact of agricultural project and income generation in Uitenhage
- Authors: Kwesaba, Xolelwa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Community development -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Economic assistance, Domestic -- South Africa -- Uitenhage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021076
- Description: An income generating project signifies an unemployment strategy and an attempt at upliftment of living standards This study tries to explore the impact of agricultural and income generating projects on poverty alleviation in the Uitenhage area .The research topic tries to establish whether these poverty alleviation projectshave impacted sufficiently and contributed to socio-economic development and eradication of poverty . A sample of 15 respondents involved in an income generating project funded by the Department of Social Development was drawn from 1 Tinarha Agricultural Tourism Initiative. A purposive samplingmethod was used for thisstudy. Data was gathered through semi-structured questionnaires. Related literature that focuses on income generating projects for poverty alleviation has been reviewed. Various recommendations based on the findings of the study have also been made. The findings of the study indicate that the income generation project, has not impacted and contributed significantly to the process of eradicating poverty for the project members. It also indicates that project members were not empowered sufficiently with financial management skills needed to equip them to make substantial profits from their small business enterprises. It also emerged that the members were not able to secure markets for their products. This remains a key challenge for attainingsustainability. The research findings indicated clearly that the strategies that were used by the Departments were not effective enough to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Kwesaba, Xolelwa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Community development -- South Africa -- Uitenhage , Economic assistance, Domestic -- South Africa -- Uitenhage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021076
- Description: An income generating project signifies an unemployment strategy and an attempt at upliftment of living standards This study tries to explore the impact of agricultural and income generating projects on poverty alleviation in the Uitenhage area .The research topic tries to establish whether these poverty alleviation projectshave impacted sufficiently and contributed to socio-economic development and eradication of poverty . A sample of 15 respondents involved in an income generating project funded by the Department of Social Development was drawn from 1 Tinarha Agricultural Tourism Initiative. A purposive samplingmethod was used for thisstudy. Data was gathered through semi-structured questionnaires. Related literature that focuses on income generating projects for poverty alleviation has been reviewed. Various recommendations based on the findings of the study have also been made. The findings of the study indicate that the income generation project, has not impacted and contributed significantly to the process of eradicating poverty for the project members. It also indicates that project members were not empowered sufficiently with financial management skills needed to equip them to make substantial profits from their small business enterprises. It also emerged that the members were not able to secure markets for their products. This remains a key challenge for attainingsustainability. The research findings indicated clearly that the strategies that were used by the Departments were not effective enough to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploring the leadership capacity development needs of middle management within a selected higher education institution
- Authors: Moodley, Kumaree
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: LCSHDevelopment leadership Educational leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11309 , vital:26909
- Description: The twenty first century society is characterised by a lack of certainty and an unstable economic, social, political, and technological environment. Many South African higher education institutions are facing many challenges in understanding and responding to organisational change and development and this has implications for leadership. Ensuring an adequate leadership skills base is one of the key priorities for the transforming South African higher education landscape, especially as this pertains to developing the type of leaders who can meaningfully engage staff in change and transformation processes (Herbst, 2007). Effective leadership is vital for a productive, functional organisation and it is important to cultivate leadership development initiatives that are in alignment with and contribute to the achievement of the desired strategic outcomes. There is increasing emphasis on developing executive and middle management staff to be highly competent in achieving the strategic goals and priorities of the institution. The focus of this study is to explore the leadership capacity development needs of middle managers employed by a specific higher education institution in the Eastern Cape. The study will use the well-documented scholarship from Bernard Bass‟s interpretation of transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership styles to frame the understanding of the leadership styles of middle managers as well as their developmental needs with regard to leadership (Bass, 1997). This will be used as an interpretive lens to assess the leadership development needs, including leadership skills needs, and the effectiveness of leadership development programmes in addressing the needs of middle managers within the higher education institution that is the focus of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Moodley, Kumaree
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: LCSHDevelopment leadership Educational leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11309 , vital:26909
- Description: The twenty first century society is characterised by a lack of certainty and an unstable economic, social, political, and technological environment. Many South African higher education institutions are facing many challenges in understanding and responding to organisational change and development and this has implications for leadership. Ensuring an adequate leadership skills base is one of the key priorities for the transforming South African higher education landscape, especially as this pertains to developing the type of leaders who can meaningfully engage staff in change and transformation processes (Herbst, 2007). Effective leadership is vital for a productive, functional organisation and it is important to cultivate leadership development initiatives that are in alignment with and contribute to the achievement of the desired strategic outcomes. There is increasing emphasis on developing executive and middle management staff to be highly competent in achieving the strategic goals and priorities of the institution. The focus of this study is to explore the leadership capacity development needs of middle managers employed by a specific higher education institution in the Eastern Cape. The study will use the well-documented scholarship from Bernard Bass‟s interpretation of transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership styles to frame the understanding of the leadership styles of middle managers as well as their developmental needs with regard to leadership (Bass, 1997). This will be used as an interpretive lens to assess the leadership development needs, including leadership skills needs, and the effectiveness of leadership development programmes in addressing the needs of middle managers within the higher education institution that is the focus of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exploring the role of job satisfaction and organizational justice in determining employee motivation among nurses at Frontier Hospital, Queenstown
- Authors: Soga, Thabile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- Organizational justice , Employee motivation -- Distributive justice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11562 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015062 , Job satisfaction -- Organizational justice , Employee motivation -- Distributive justice
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore the role of job satisfaction and organizational justice in determining employee motivation among nurses at Frontier Hospital, Queenstown. For this purpose data was collected from the nurses at Frontier Hospital in Queenstown, in the Eastern Cape. A sample of 75 nurses was drawn from the population. Results of the study indicated that the study variables are significantly and positively correlated with one another. Job satisfaction was found to be significantly and positively correlated with employee motivation. Organizational justice was also found to be significantly positively correlated with employee motivation. Moreover, a positive and significant relationship between job satisfaction and organizational justice was found. The findings of this study are helpful in the health industry in order to design human resources policies, which will reduce the turnover of nurses by increasing their motivation through increasing job satisfaction and organizational justice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Soga, Thabile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- Organizational justice , Employee motivation -- Distributive justice
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11562 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015062 , Job satisfaction -- Organizational justice , Employee motivation -- Distributive justice
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore the role of job satisfaction and organizational justice in determining employee motivation among nurses at Frontier Hospital, Queenstown. For this purpose data was collected from the nurses at Frontier Hospital in Queenstown, in the Eastern Cape. A sample of 75 nurses was drawn from the population. Results of the study indicated that the study variables are significantly and positively correlated with one another. Job satisfaction was found to be significantly and positively correlated with employee motivation. Organizational justice was also found to be significantly positively correlated with employee motivation. Moreover, a positive and significant relationship between job satisfaction and organizational justice was found. The findings of this study are helpful in the health industry in order to design human resources policies, which will reduce the turnover of nurses by increasing their motivation through increasing job satisfaction and organizational justice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Exports and economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Feddersen, Maura
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Exports -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa Unemployment -- South Africa Poverty -- South Africa Income distribution -- South Africa Investments -- South Africa Saving and investment -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1087 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012029
- Description: Various studies conclude that accelerated economic growth and development are necessary in South Africa to make a significant contribution towards reducing high levels of unemployment, inequality and poverty. Moreover, in theories of economic growth the export sector is frequently accorded a special role in encouraging faster economic growth, which is often supported by empirical evidence. Nonetheless, a question that remains unresolved is whether higher export growth leads to higher economic growth in South Africa and what particular role exports may play within the overall economic growth process of the country. This study applies Johansen’s cointegration procedure, impulse response functions, variance decomposition analysis and Granger causality tests to shed light on the channels through which export growth may impact South Africa’s economic growth rate. Quarterly time series data ranging from 1975q1 to 2012q4 is employed in the study’s empirical tests. The empirical results lend support to the idea that the role of exports in the economic growth process fundamentally lies in their ability to encourage investment and capital formation. While export growth supports higher economic growth in the short-run, it does not have the same effect in the long-run. Nonetheless, with export growth supporting faster capital formation in South Africa, and capital formation, in turn, significantly increasing economic growth in the long-run, the impetus to growth stemming from exports has been found to lie in the channel to capital formation. On the basis of the empirical results, not only are exports a critical requirement of higher investment, but they are also anticipated to play a prominent role in lifting the balance of payments constraint that would make investment-led growth possible in the first place. Overall, a strategy of export-led growth that does not explicitly emphasise the export-capital-growth connection is likely to fall short of reflecting the dynamics contained within the exports-growth relationship in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Feddersen, Maura
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Exports -- South Africa Economic development -- South Africa Unemployment -- South Africa Poverty -- South Africa Income distribution -- South Africa Investments -- South Africa Saving and investment -- South Africa South Africa -- Economic conditions South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1087 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012029
- Description: Various studies conclude that accelerated economic growth and development are necessary in South Africa to make a significant contribution towards reducing high levels of unemployment, inequality and poverty. Moreover, in theories of economic growth the export sector is frequently accorded a special role in encouraging faster economic growth, which is often supported by empirical evidence. Nonetheless, a question that remains unresolved is whether higher export growth leads to higher economic growth in South Africa and what particular role exports may play within the overall economic growth process of the country. This study applies Johansen’s cointegration procedure, impulse response functions, variance decomposition analysis and Granger causality tests to shed light on the channels through which export growth may impact South Africa’s economic growth rate. Quarterly time series data ranging from 1975q1 to 2012q4 is employed in the study’s empirical tests. The empirical results lend support to the idea that the role of exports in the economic growth process fundamentally lies in their ability to encourage investment and capital formation. While export growth supports higher economic growth in the short-run, it does not have the same effect in the long-run. Nonetheless, with export growth supporting faster capital formation in South Africa, and capital formation, in turn, significantly increasing economic growth in the long-run, the impetus to growth stemming from exports has been found to lie in the channel to capital formation. On the basis of the empirical results, not only are exports a critical requirement of higher investment, but they are also anticipated to play a prominent role in lifting the balance of payments constraint that would make investment-led growth possible in the first place. Overall, a strategy of export-led growth that does not explicitly emphasise the export-capital-growth connection is likely to fall short of reflecting the dynamics contained within the exports-growth relationship in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Fabrication, characterization and application of phthalocyanine-magnetite hybrid nanofibers
- Authors: Modisha, Phillimon Mokanne
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nanofibers , Nanoparticles , Magnetite
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4500 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013223
- Description: Magnetic nanoparticles comprising magnetite (Fe3O4) were functionalized with 3-aminopropyl-triethoxysilane forming amino functionalized magnetite nanoparticles (AMNPs). The amino group allows for conjugation with zinc octacarboxyphthalocyanine (ZnOCPc) or zinc tetracarboxyphthalocyanine (ZnTCPc) via the carboxyl group to form an amide bond. A reduced aggregation of ZnTCPc is observed after conjugation with AMNPs. The thermal stability, conjugation, morphology and the sizes of the nanoparticles and their conjugates were confirmed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), respectively. The covalent linkage of AMNPs to ZnOCPc or ZnTCPc resulted in improvement in the photophysical behavior of the phthalocyanines. Improvement in the triplet quantum yield (ΦT), singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ), triplet lifetime (τT) and singlet oxygen lifetime (τΔ) of the ZnOCPc or ZnTCPc were observed, hence improving the photosensitizers efficiency. The conjugates comprising of zinc octacarboxyphthalocyanine (ZnOCPc) and AMNPs were electrospun into fibers using polyamide-6 (PA-6). This was used for the photodegradation of Orange-G and compared with ZnOCPc-AMNPs in suspension. For ZnOCPc-AMNPs in suspension, it is noteworthy that the catalyst can be easily recovered using an external magnetic field. The singlet oxygen generation increases as we increase the fiber diameter by increasing the ZnOCPc concentration. The singlet oxygen quantum yield is higher for PA-6/ZnOCPc-AMNPs nanofibers when compared to PA-6/ZnOCPc. The rate of degradation of Orange-G increased with an increase in the singlet oxygen quantum yield. Moreover, the kinetic analysis showed that the photodecomposition of Orange-G is a first-order reaction according to the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Modisha, Phillimon Mokanne
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nanofibers , Nanoparticles , Magnetite
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4500 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013223
- Description: Magnetic nanoparticles comprising magnetite (Fe3O4) were functionalized with 3-aminopropyl-triethoxysilane forming amino functionalized magnetite nanoparticles (AMNPs). The amino group allows for conjugation with zinc octacarboxyphthalocyanine (ZnOCPc) or zinc tetracarboxyphthalocyanine (ZnTCPc) via the carboxyl group to form an amide bond. A reduced aggregation of ZnTCPc is observed after conjugation with AMNPs. The thermal stability, conjugation, morphology and the sizes of the nanoparticles and their conjugates were confirmed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), respectively. The covalent linkage of AMNPs to ZnOCPc or ZnTCPc resulted in improvement in the photophysical behavior of the phthalocyanines. Improvement in the triplet quantum yield (ΦT), singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ), triplet lifetime (τT) and singlet oxygen lifetime (τΔ) of the ZnOCPc or ZnTCPc were observed, hence improving the photosensitizers efficiency. The conjugates comprising of zinc octacarboxyphthalocyanine (ZnOCPc) and AMNPs were electrospun into fibers using polyamide-6 (PA-6). This was used for the photodegradation of Orange-G and compared with ZnOCPc-AMNPs in suspension. For ZnOCPc-AMNPs in suspension, it is noteworthy that the catalyst can be easily recovered using an external magnetic field. The singlet oxygen generation increases as we increase the fiber diameter by increasing the ZnOCPc concentration. The singlet oxygen quantum yield is higher for PA-6/ZnOCPc-AMNPs nanofibers when compared to PA-6/ZnOCPc. The rate of degradation of Orange-G increased with an increase in the singlet oxygen quantum yield. Moreover, the kinetic analysis showed that the photodecomposition of Orange-G is a first-order reaction according to the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Facilitating and renegotiating Afrikaans youth identities: Die Antwoord phenomenon
- Authors: Meintjes, Stephané Ruth
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Die Antwoord , Die Antwoord -- I Fink U Freeky , Identity (Psychology) -- Social aspects , Afrikaner nationalism , Afrikaners -- Ethnic identity , Afrikaners -- Psychology , South Africa -- Race relations , Music, Influence of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015655
- Description: This thesis reports on a project which investigated how young native, Afrikaans-speaking Rhodes University students responded to the musical outfit Die Antwoord and to their music video “I Fink U Freeky”. The study attempted to establish how a selected group of Afrikaans-speaking students consisting of Whites, Coloureds and Blacks interpret the work of Die Antwoord as well as their own Afrikaans identity. The purpose of the study was to interrogate the relationship between artistic media, citizenship and belonging to a particular group. The thesis reports on the ways in which interviewees in the group discussions responded to notions of identity, whiteness, class, race, hybridity and creolization registered in the music video which was used to prompt the discussions. Finally the thesis reports on findings regarding the relationship between citizenship and the artistic media. The enormous change in the socio-political position of Afrikaans-speakers in the post -1994 dispensation provides the social context of the study. The project utilised qualitative research and a reception study of the music was undertaken by means of focus group discussions in order to arrive at thick descriptions in an attempt to understand the contextual behaviour of the participants. It was postulated that Die Antwoord provides a discursive site within which audiences could generate their own innovative meanings regarding being Afrikaans. While there was no clear indication that the identities of the participants was constructed by the media, the video prompted discussions regarding identity and provided evidence that media texts are capable of stimulating an interrogation of identities. It emerged that all participants, while abandoning some aspects of Afrikaans culture, strongly embraced and highly valued the language. Participants did not regard race as an important aspect of citizenship. Vociferous discussions regarding class demonstrated how media texts can influence citizenship. Discussions about hybridization and creolization demonstrated how the media can challenge received conceptions regarding citizenship. Responses provided evidence that the media could stimulate new forms of citizenship and contribute to the inclusion of previously excluded subjects. The research findings clearly demonstrate links between artistic media, citizenship and belonging to a group of Afrikaanses rather than Afrikaners. Post- 1994 young Afrikaans-speakers in this study provided clear evidence that they are exploring new and alternative ways of being Afrikaans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Meintjes, Stephané Ruth
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Die Antwoord , Die Antwoord -- I Fink U Freeky , Identity (Psychology) -- Social aspects , Afrikaner nationalism , Afrikaners -- Ethnic identity , Afrikaners -- Psychology , South Africa -- Race relations , Music, Influence of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015655
- Description: This thesis reports on a project which investigated how young native, Afrikaans-speaking Rhodes University students responded to the musical outfit Die Antwoord and to their music video “I Fink U Freeky”. The study attempted to establish how a selected group of Afrikaans-speaking students consisting of Whites, Coloureds and Blacks interpret the work of Die Antwoord as well as their own Afrikaans identity. The purpose of the study was to interrogate the relationship between artistic media, citizenship and belonging to a particular group. The thesis reports on the ways in which interviewees in the group discussions responded to notions of identity, whiteness, class, race, hybridity and creolization registered in the music video which was used to prompt the discussions. Finally the thesis reports on findings regarding the relationship between citizenship and the artistic media. The enormous change in the socio-political position of Afrikaans-speakers in the post -1994 dispensation provides the social context of the study. The project utilised qualitative research and a reception study of the music was undertaken by means of focus group discussions in order to arrive at thick descriptions in an attempt to understand the contextual behaviour of the participants. It was postulated that Die Antwoord provides a discursive site within which audiences could generate their own innovative meanings regarding being Afrikaans. While there was no clear indication that the identities of the participants was constructed by the media, the video prompted discussions regarding identity and provided evidence that media texts are capable of stimulating an interrogation of identities. It emerged that all participants, while abandoning some aspects of Afrikaans culture, strongly embraced and highly valued the language. Participants did not regard race as an important aspect of citizenship. Vociferous discussions regarding class demonstrated how media texts can influence citizenship. Discussions about hybridization and creolization demonstrated how the media can challenge received conceptions regarding citizenship. Responses provided evidence that the media could stimulate new forms of citizenship and contribute to the inclusion of previously excluded subjects. The research findings clearly demonstrate links between artistic media, citizenship and belonging to a group of Afrikaanses rather than Afrikaners. Post- 1994 young Afrikaans-speakers in this study provided clear evidence that they are exploring new and alternative ways of being Afrikaans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors affecting blended learning acceptance and utilisation amongst academic staff at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- Authors: Van Heerden, Andale
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Blended learning , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5098 , vital:20802
- Description: Blended learning constitutes a key element of the NMMU’s Vision 2020; therefore, creating the expectation that academics from the NMMU will implement and utilise blended learning as part of their teaching pedagogy. Implementation reports drawn from Moodle (the learning management system utilised by NMMU) indicates that there are still numerous departments that are not fully utilising blended learning. The aim of this study was thus to determine the factors that impact on the acceptance and implementation of blended learning by academics at the NMMU. A modified version of the Technology Acceptance Questionnaire was electronically distributed to academics from the various NMMU campuses in order to collect the empirical data, with purposeful non-probability sampling being employed. The results indicated that factors, such as perceived usefulness, the student-centered nature of blended learning, the appeal of such environments to students, accessibility, as well as administrative- and communication benefits, had a positive influence on blended learning adoption. Lack of time and lack of knowledge with regard to blended learning use and implementation, concerns regarding accessibility, and lack of capacity and technical support were cited as issues that hampered blended learning implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Van Heerden, Andale
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Blended learning , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5098 , vital:20802
- Description: Blended learning constitutes a key element of the NMMU’s Vision 2020; therefore, creating the expectation that academics from the NMMU will implement and utilise blended learning as part of their teaching pedagogy. Implementation reports drawn from Moodle (the learning management system utilised by NMMU) indicates that there are still numerous departments that are not fully utilising blended learning. The aim of this study was thus to determine the factors that impact on the acceptance and implementation of blended learning by academics at the NMMU. A modified version of the Technology Acceptance Questionnaire was electronically distributed to academics from the various NMMU campuses in order to collect the empirical data, with purposeful non-probability sampling being employed. The results indicated that factors, such as perceived usefulness, the student-centered nature of blended learning, the appeal of such environments to students, accessibility, as well as administrative- and communication benefits, had a positive influence on blended learning adoption. Lack of time and lack of knowledge with regard to blended learning use and implementation, concerns regarding accessibility, and lack of capacity and technical support were cited as issues that hampered blended learning implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors affecting employee satisfaction in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality
- Authors: Maqoko, Sidwell Lizo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Job satisfaction , Employee motivation , Municipal officials and employees -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020581
- Description: There is a perception that municipal employees are not committed to their jobs of delivering essential services to the residents.This perception is often exacerbated by media opinion that tend to project an unacceptable image about the work ethics and behaviour of public sector officials. Local government is at the coalface of services delivery in South Africa.Almost all complaints and service delivery protests are directed by communities to municipalities. This necessitates that local government employees should always be ready to serve the people with passion and vigour. From the advent of democratic dispensation in South Africa in 1994 the transformation of the public sector has become one of the central priorities of government.The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) sets the agenda of a developmental state and outlines objects of local government in Sections 152 and 153 of the supreme law of the land. Flowing from this Constitutional mandate a legislative and policy framework is enacted to guide the municipalities to ensure effective and efficient delivery of services to communities .In this respect the study argues that central to the delivery of services is the human capital. The researcher asserts that it is not the building or any other municipal asset that will ensure delivery of quality services to citizens, but the employees. Employees have a responsibility to ensure that goals and objectives of the OR Tambo District Municipality are realised. The researcher contends that there is a perception that there could be low levels of job satisfaction within the workforce of ORTDM .This could have a negative effect to the provision of basic services to the public .Thus this study is aimed to investigate factors that may affect employee satisfaction in the ORTDM. High level of job satisfaction amongst employees may cause ahighly dedicated and committed workforce. The consequence of that could be a positive impact on municipal performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Maqoko, Sidwell Lizo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Job satisfaction , Employee motivation , Municipal officials and employees -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020581
- Description: There is a perception that municipal employees are not committed to their jobs of delivering essential services to the residents.This perception is often exacerbated by media opinion that tend to project an unacceptable image about the work ethics and behaviour of public sector officials. Local government is at the coalface of services delivery in South Africa.Almost all complaints and service delivery protests are directed by communities to municipalities. This necessitates that local government employees should always be ready to serve the people with passion and vigour. From the advent of democratic dispensation in South Africa in 1994 the transformation of the public sector has become one of the central priorities of government.The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) sets the agenda of a developmental state and outlines objects of local government in Sections 152 and 153 of the supreme law of the land. Flowing from this Constitutional mandate a legislative and policy framework is enacted to guide the municipalities to ensure effective and efficient delivery of services to communities .In this respect the study argues that central to the delivery of services is the human capital. The researcher asserts that it is not the building or any other municipal asset that will ensure delivery of quality services to citizens, but the employees. Employees have a responsibility to ensure that goals and objectives of the OR Tambo District Municipality are realised. The researcher contends that there is a perception that there could be low levels of job satisfaction within the workforce of ORTDM .This could have a negative effect to the provision of basic services to the public .Thus this study is aimed to investigate factors that may affect employee satisfaction in the ORTDM. High level of job satisfaction amongst employees may cause ahighly dedicated and committed workforce. The consequence of that could be a positive impact on municipal performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors contributing to national and provincial government debt accumulation in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Dilika, Zanele Victress
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Debts, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6095 , vital:21038
- Description: The research took the form of a qualitative interpretative case study focusing on the study sample of 9 municipal officials responsible for monitoring the payment of government debt as the consumer type. Data was collected through face to face interviews by means of completing the questionnaire based on the responses from the respondent. The study examined the underlying and related causes of non-payment of government debt. The study revealed that municipalities in the Eastern Cape lack support from the other spheres of government in ensuring timeous payments of outstanding debt. Growth in debtors indicated the failure by the municipalities to implement proper debt management processes and the lack of political will to collect debts. The study recommended that municipalities need to waive interest on disputed debt and the debt in that regard be reported on the suspense account to avoid over estimation or debt that might not be recovered in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Dilika, Zanele Victress
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Debts, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6095 , vital:21038
- Description: The research took the form of a qualitative interpretative case study focusing on the study sample of 9 municipal officials responsible for monitoring the payment of government debt as the consumer type. Data was collected through face to face interviews by means of completing the questionnaire based on the responses from the respondent. The study examined the underlying and related causes of non-payment of government debt. The study revealed that municipalities in the Eastern Cape lack support from the other spheres of government in ensuring timeous payments of outstanding debt. Growth in debtors indicated the failure by the municipalities to implement proper debt management processes and the lack of political will to collect debts. The study recommended that municipalities need to waive interest on disputed debt and the debt in that regard be reported on the suspense account to avoid over estimation or debt that might not be recovered in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors contributing to non adherence among pregnant women on antiretroviral treatment at Amathole District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Dekeda, Kolelwa Felicia
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019773
- Description: During the beginning of the HIV epidemic in 1981 25 million people have died. The introduction of ART therefore has promising developments to reduce mortality rates and new infections. Nevertheless there is still a challenge with adherence to ART worldwide and in South Africa. The purpose of the study was to determine the factors contributing to non-adherence to ART among HIV positive pregnant women. The study involved a non- probability sample of 70 HIV pregnant women on ART attending antenatal care clinics at the tertiary hospital and two community health centres,in Buffalo City, Amathole District, Eastern Cape. A coded questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Ethical procedure was followed and a consent form was signed by each participant. Data was collected for a period of two months The demographic data reveals that the majority of the participants were knowledgeable about ART and employed. That is evident in the adherence to ART in all age groups except age 40 and above. The majority of HIV positive pregnant women on ART who participated in the study were single 50% (n=35) which suggests that they may lack emotional support from partners and may have difficulty in disclosing their status. Level of adherence revealed that 27% (n=19) of participants missed ART because of forgetfulness, and 16% (n=12) and others were feeling healthy due to frequent follow ups and complying with the ART. Poor follow up, too sick, side effects pill burden, fear of stigma, lack of finances and taking alcohol hinders the proper management of HIV positive pregnant women and is risky to the unborn baby. HIV positive pregnant women on ART exhibited a good knowledge and use of ART. This is encouraging and should be sustained by continuous community awareness campaigns to empower the communities about HIV/AIDS, PMTCT programme and ART and extensive training of health care providers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Dekeda, Kolelwa Felicia
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11921 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019773
- Description: During the beginning of the HIV epidemic in 1981 25 million people have died. The introduction of ART therefore has promising developments to reduce mortality rates and new infections. Nevertheless there is still a challenge with adherence to ART worldwide and in South Africa. The purpose of the study was to determine the factors contributing to non-adherence to ART among HIV positive pregnant women. The study involved a non- probability sample of 70 HIV pregnant women on ART attending antenatal care clinics at the tertiary hospital and two community health centres,in Buffalo City, Amathole District, Eastern Cape. A coded questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. Ethical procedure was followed and a consent form was signed by each participant. Data was collected for a period of two months The demographic data reveals that the majority of the participants were knowledgeable about ART and employed. That is evident in the adherence to ART in all age groups except age 40 and above. The majority of HIV positive pregnant women on ART who participated in the study were single 50% (n=35) which suggests that they may lack emotional support from partners and may have difficulty in disclosing their status. Level of adherence revealed that 27% (n=19) of participants missed ART because of forgetfulness, and 16% (n=12) and others were feeling healthy due to frequent follow ups and complying with the ART. Poor follow up, too sick, side effects pill burden, fear of stigma, lack of finances and taking alcohol hinders the proper management of HIV positive pregnant women and is risky to the unborn baby. HIV positive pregnant women on ART exhibited a good knowledge and use of ART. This is encouraging and should be sustained by continuous community awareness campaigns to empower the communities about HIV/AIDS, PMTCT programme and ART and extensive training of health care providers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors impacting Tablet PC usage in low-income communities
- Authors: Meiring, Natalie
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information technology -- Economic aspects , Information technology -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4642 , vital:20625
- Description: The purpose of this research was to identify factors that impact on tablet PC usage in low-income communities. In order to determine and identify these factors a main research question and sub-research questions were formulated. The primary research question of this study was "What factors impact on tablet PC usage in low-income communities?" This main research question was answered by creating three sub-research questions followed by triangulating the results from these questions. The first sub-research question was aimed at determining whether prior exposure to touch screen technology impacts the user experience. In order to reach this objective an extensive literature review was conducted on the tablet PC landscape in South Africa. This literature review, coupled with the case study helped answer this first research question. The second sub-research question was concerned with determining whether existing user experience guidelines are relevant to South African users. A thorough literature review was conducted on user experience guidelines and related studies. This literature review, together with the results from the case study helped answer this second research question. The third sub-research question involved identifying specific factors which help improve the user experience of tablet PC users in a specific context. This research question was addressed in the case study. Each sub-research question provided results which were analysed in order to answer the main research question. The factors which impact on tablet PC usage were thus identified and recommendations were proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Meiring, Natalie
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information technology -- Economic aspects , Information technology -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4642 , vital:20625
- Description: The purpose of this research was to identify factors that impact on tablet PC usage in low-income communities. In order to determine and identify these factors a main research question and sub-research questions were formulated. The primary research question of this study was "What factors impact on tablet PC usage in low-income communities?" This main research question was answered by creating three sub-research questions followed by triangulating the results from these questions. The first sub-research question was aimed at determining whether prior exposure to touch screen technology impacts the user experience. In order to reach this objective an extensive literature review was conducted on the tablet PC landscape in South Africa. This literature review, coupled with the case study helped answer this first research question. The second sub-research question was concerned with determining whether existing user experience guidelines are relevant to South African users. A thorough literature review was conducted on user experience guidelines and related studies. This literature review, together with the results from the case study helped answer this second research question. The third sub-research question involved identifying specific factors which help improve the user experience of tablet PC users in a specific context. This research question was addressed in the case study. Each sub-research question provided results which were analysed in order to answer the main research question. The factors which impact on tablet PC usage were thus identified and recommendations were proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors influencing cultural diversity at a multinational company
- Authors: Swart, Victor
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Multiculturalism , International business enterprises -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8790 , vital:26430
- Description: Cultural diversity in the workplace is the presence of multiple cultures or groups within the work environment. This diversity in culture can be as a result of a difference in origin or nationality, difference in society, difference in religion or a difference in tradition. A multinational company (MNC), also referred to as a transnational company is an organisation that is registered and operates in multiple countries but is managed from the home country. Today’s ever increasing rate of globalization and the expansion of organisations into countries other than their own has created workplaces where cultural diversity is the norm and where workplaces are no longer characterized by a single or monoculture. This study explores the cultural diversity of an Argentinian multinational company, My Multinational Company (MMC), operating in Argentina and South Africa. MMC is a market leader in the production, procurement and export of citrus products. There is a plethora of information on cultural diversity which identifies various factors which influence cultural diversity. The purpose of this study is therefore to enhance the current understanding of cultural diversity within a multinational company by identifying the factors which influence cultural diversity in a multinational company. The approach to this study is quantitative in nature and the paradigm to be followed is positivistic, based on an empirical study and questionnaire. The empirical study assesses previous work relating to cultural diversity and identifies the factors which influence cultural diversity. The questionnaire was developed from the literature and distributed to MMC employees in Argentina and South Africa in order to determine their similarities and differences. The results of the empirical study identified areas of improvement for MMC. Recommendations were then made based on the literature review and the analysis of the empirical results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Swart, Victor
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Diversity in the workplace , Multiculturalism , International business enterprises -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8790 , vital:26430
- Description: Cultural diversity in the workplace is the presence of multiple cultures or groups within the work environment. This diversity in culture can be as a result of a difference in origin or nationality, difference in society, difference in religion or a difference in tradition. A multinational company (MNC), also referred to as a transnational company is an organisation that is registered and operates in multiple countries but is managed from the home country. Today’s ever increasing rate of globalization and the expansion of organisations into countries other than their own has created workplaces where cultural diversity is the norm and where workplaces are no longer characterized by a single or monoculture. This study explores the cultural diversity of an Argentinian multinational company, My Multinational Company (MMC), operating in Argentina and South Africa. MMC is a market leader in the production, procurement and export of citrus products. There is a plethora of information on cultural diversity which identifies various factors which influence cultural diversity. The purpose of this study is therefore to enhance the current understanding of cultural diversity within a multinational company by identifying the factors which influence cultural diversity in a multinational company. The approach to this study is quantitative in nature and the paradigm to be followed is positivistic, based on an empirical study and questionnaire. The empirical study assesses previous work relating to cultural diversity and identifies the factors which influence cultural diversity. The questionnaire was developed from the literature and distributed to MMC employees in Argentina and South Africa in order to determine their similarities and differences. The results of the empirical study identified areas of improvement for MMC. Recommendations were then made based on the literature review and the analysis of the empirical results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors influencing ecological sustainability in the ostrich industry in the Little Karoo, South Africa
- Authors: Wheeler, Anita
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ostrich farms -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land use -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Little Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4259 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011741 , Ostrich farms -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land use -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Little Karoo
- Description: The Little Karoo, situated in the Succulent Karoo biome of South Africa, has been heavily transformed by land use, and only 8.6% of the remaining natural vegetation is considered to be intact. There is ample evidence that the main cause of degradation is the overstocking of ostriches, an industry that has been the major economic driver of the area for more than 150 years. The ostrich stocking rate currently recommended is 22 ha.ostrich⁻¹. A literature review was used to examine the evidence, assumptions and rationale on which recommended and actually implemented stocking rates for ostriches are based. No experimental evidence using ostriches was found that supported the recommended stocking rate as either ecologically or economically sustainable. From the literature, there appears to be a wide gap between what are considered to be economically and ecologically sustainable stocking rates, with the implication that these two aims may be impossible to reconcile when practicing ostrich farming on natural veld. A comparison of recommended with actual stocking rates among land managers in the Little Karoo showed that all land managers far exceeded the recommended agricultural stocking rate of 22.8 ha.ostrich⁻¹. However, the stocking rates reported by land managers to the South African Ostrich Business Chamber were found to accurately reflect actual numbers determined when whole flocks had to be slaughtered after an outbreak of avian influenza. The recommended stocking rate appeared to be irrelevant to ostrich flock breeders and there appeared to be a trade-off between profitable ostrich farming and sustainable land-use practices. This study also investigated the attitudes and behaviour of ostrich farmers. It was found that environmental attitude is most likely the most important characteristic of a land manager to ensure positive conservation behaviour. This characteristic was most prominent in younger land managers with larger farms. The last component of the study integrated the context and complexity of the long term social, economic and ecological sustainability of this industry through the development of a logic model. The results showed a general lack of linkages between industry elements which impact on achieving sustainability targets. Greater collaboration between industry role-players, organized agriculture and conservation organizations is required to find a balance between utilization and conservation in the ostrich industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Wheeler, Anita
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ostrich farms -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land use -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Little Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4259 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011741 , Ostrich farms -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land use -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Land degradation -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Conservation of natural resources -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Little Karoo , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Little Karoo
- Description: The Little Karoo, situated in the Succulent Karoo biome of South Africa, has been heavily transformed by land use, and only 8.6% of the remaining natural vegetation is considered to be intact. There is ample evidence that the main cause of degradation is the overstocking of ostriches, an industry that has been the major economic driver of the area for more than 150 years. The ostrich stocking rate currently recommended is 22 ha.ostrich⁻¹. A literature review was used to examine the evidence, assumptions and rationale on which recommended and actually implemented stocking rates for ostriches are based. No experimental evidence using ostriches was found that supported the recommended stocking rate as either ecologically or economically sustainable. From the literature, there appears to be a wide gap between what are considered to be economically and ecologically sustainable stocking rates, with the implication that these two aims may be impossible to reconcile when practicing ostrich farming on natural veld. A comparison of recommended with actual stocking rates among land managers in the Little Karoo showed that all land managers far exceeded the recommended agricultural stocking rate of 22.8 ha.ostrich⁻¹. However, the stocking rates reported by land managers to the South African Ostrich Business Chamber were found to accurately reflect actual numbers determined when whole flocks had to be slaughtered after an outbreak of avian influenza. The recommended stocking rate appeared to be irrelevant to ostrich flock breeders and there appeared to be a trade-off between profitable ostrich farming and sustainable land-use practices. This study also investigated the attitudes and behaviour of ostrich farmers. It was found that environmental attitude is most likely the most important characteristic of a land manager to ensure positive conservation behaviour. This characteristic was most prominent in younger land managers with larger farms. The last component of the study integrated the context and complexity of the long term social, economic and ecological sustainability of this industry through the development of a logic model. The results showed a general lack of linkages between industry elements which impact on achieving sustainability targets. Greater collaboration between industry role-players, organized agriculture and conservation organizations is required to find a balance between utilization and conservation in the ostrich industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors influencing pay systems in the manufacturing industry of Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Boyce, Ncedile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Wage payment systems , Incentives in industry , Employee motivation , Compensation management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8926 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021168
- Description: Collective bargaining was impacted by the confrontation at Marakina and the role players, employers and unions were left looking for new creative alternatives to reward operational employees (blue collar workers).Then, finding a well-designed pay system is crucial for the success of the organisation, since collective bargaining is under pressure. The following determinants, job based pay, performance based pay, skills based pay, education and training, and tenure based pay were constructed from literature to formulate the conceptual model for the pay of operators in the manufacturing sector of Port Elizabeth. There are a number of factors that are at play in the determination and design of pay systems, which need to be considered. Two major pay systems are at the centre of this study and they are those based on the worth of the job and those that are based on employees’ skills, productivity, education and training, and tenure. Pay equity is at the heart of employment relationship and is the reference point with regard to the distribution of resources when economic productivity and profitability are achieved. The findings presented indicated that all the determinants, job based pay, performance based pay, skills based pay and education and training, with the exception of tenure based pay, were significant to the pay of operational employees. However, the multivariable regression model found that job based pay is more significant and should be modelled as the foundation of the pay system for operational employees. Other pay determinants, such as performance and skills based pay are best modelled as additional increments that accelerate employees’ pay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Boyce, Ncedile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Wage payment systems , Incentives in industry , Employee motivation , Compensation management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8926 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021168
- Description: Collective bargaining was impacted by the confrontation at Marakina and the role players, employers and unions were left looking for new creative alternatives to reward operational employees (blue collar workers).Then, finding a well-designed pay system is crucial for the success of the organisation, since collective bargaining is under pressure. The following determinants, job based pay, performance based pay, skills based pay, education and training, and tenure based pay were constructed from literature to formulate the conceptual model for the pay of operators in the manufacturing sector of Port Elizabeth. There are a number of factors that are at play in the determination and design of pay systems, which need to be considered. Two major pay systems are at the centre of this study and they are those based on the worth of the job and those that are based on employees’ skills, productivity, education and training, and tenure. Pay equity is at the heart of employment relationship and is the reference point with regard to the distribution of resources when economic productivity and profitability are achieved. The findings presented indicated that all the determinants, job based pay, performance based pay, skills based pay and education and training, with the exception of tenure based pay, were significant to the pay of operational employees. However, the multivariable regression model found that job based pay is more significant and should be modelled as the foundation of the pay system for operational employees. Other pay determinants, such as performance and skills based pay are best modelled as additional increments that accelerate employees’ pay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors influencing reports on anti-retroviral therapy sites at Amathole health district
- Authors: Roboji, Zukiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Health services administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Medical records -- Access control , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Data processing , Medical care -- South Africa -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8501 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020607
- Description: The study sought to investigate the factors influencing the contents of antiretroviral therapy (ART) reports in the Amathole Health District of the Eastern Cape Province. A qualitative and quantitative study was conducted to assess the challenges that inhibit this phenomenon. Structurally, the population consists of Amahlati and Nkonkobe sub-districts. Operational managers, information officers, professional nurses, data capturers, and administration clerks were randomly selected from sixteen facilities. Data collection was done on semi-structured interviews, questionnaires; observations were done using the probability sampling method, and the findings were analysed according to the same technique. The study revealed that the District Health Information System (DHIS) is the universal data management and reporting system which all healthcare and ART facilities are using to manage ART. However, regardless of all these universal arrangements such as the use of the DHIS to aid in reporting, the contents of ART reports from various facilities have not been uniform due to various factors. There is a lack of a reliable network to link DHIS computers across facilities. The shift from paper-based to electronic data management has caused the difficulties in the collating and management of ART data since some facilities are manual paper- based while others are automated using the modern DHIS. Lack of daily capturing and validation is a major challenge across the ART facilities. Further, there are Non-Governmental Organisations(NGOs) such as AFRICARE and the IYDSA that have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the district to provide a budgetary support for staff training in data management of ART reports in the district. While the NGOs keep on assisting the ART facilities with data management, there is a lack of skills transfer. The district could not account on follow-up of ART patients from one facility to another. This is increasing the number of defaulting in ART patients, thus there is no accurate figures on retention of patients in ART Programme. The officials from ART sites tend to use their own transport to carry data from facilities to the district offices and this resulted in late submission of reports. The study thus recommends that, inter alia, data management and trainings should be done to improve data quality in reporting, a reliable computer network be installed, backed-up and maintained for data and report management in the all healthcare facilities. All the ART sites should adopt and use the automated data management system for universality and eliminating the faults of manual paper data management and reporting. This would ensure that the contents of ART reports are uniform and a true reflection of the situation on the ground towards universal access to ART and healthcare in the Amathole Health District, and South Africa at large.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Roboji, Zukiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Hospitals , Health services administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Medical records -- Access control , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Data processing , Medical care -- South Africa -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8501 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020607
- Description: The study sought to investigate the factors influencing the contents of antiretroviral therapy (ART) reports in the Amathole Health District of the Eastern Cape Province. A qualitative and quantitative study was conducted to assess the challenges that inhibit this phenomenon. Structurally, the population consists of Amahlati and Nkonkobe sub-districts. Operational managers, information officers, professional nurses, data capturers, and administration clerks were randomly selected from sixteen facilities. Data collection was done on semi-structured interviews, questionnaires; observations were done using the probability sampling method, and the findings were analysed according to the same technique. The study revealed that the District Health Information System (DHIS) is the universal data management and reporting system which all healthcare and ART facilities are using to manage ART. However, regardless of all these universal arrangements such as the use of the DHIS to aid in reporting, the contents of ART reports from various facilities have not been uniform due to various factors. There is a lack of a reliable network to link DHIS computers across facilities. The shift from paper-based to electronic data management has caused the difficulties in the collating and management of ART data since some facilities are manual paper- based while others are automated using the modern DHIS. Lack of daily capturing and validation is a major challenge across the ART facilities. Further, there are Non-Governmental Organisations(NGOs) such as AFRICARE and the IYDSA that have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the district to provide a budgetary support for staff training in data management of ART reports in the district. While the NGOs keep on assisting the ART facilities with data management, there is a lack of skills transfer. The district could not account on follow-up of ART patients from one facility to another. This is increasing the number of defaulting in ART patients, thus there is no accurate figures on retention of patients in ART Programme. The officials from ART sites tend to use their own transport to carry data from facilities to the district offices and this resulted in late submission of reports. The study thus recommends that, inter alia, data management and trainings should be done to improve data quality in reporting, a reliable computer network be installed, backed-up and maintained for data and report management in the all healthcare facilities. All the ART sites should adopt and use the automated data management system for universality and eliminating the faults of manual paper data management and reporting. This would ensure that the contents of ART reports are uniform and a true reflection of the situation on the ground towards universal access to ART and healthcare in the Amathole Health District, and South Africa at large.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Factors influencing the choice of religion studies as a subject in the further education and training band: a case study of two schools within the Uitenhage District of the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Chetty, P K
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Religion -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16205 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016087 , Religion -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In 2006, a new subject, Religion Studies (RS), was introduced in Grade 10 as an optional subject. It represents a major paradigm shift in education of religion at the public school level. Minimal research has been conducted on the factors influencing the choice of RS in Grade 10 by the learners, subject advisors, principal and educators. This subject might constitute an “easy option” to boost the learner’s performance. Former or “recycled Biblical Studies” educators may be available or even volunteer to teach this subject or they may have to be absorbed within the system. Ethics, morals, cross cultural respect and non-discrimination are critical for the development of the South African democracy. While RS is optional, it could play a critical role towards achieving these outcomes. This study restricted its focus to the Uitenhage District of the Province of the Eastern Cape. After careful consideration, the interpretive approach seemed to offer the best access to the kind of knowledge the researcher desired. A theoretical framework, that narrowly links rational choice with cultural reproduction theory, can prove to be inadequate. This study would be deficient if it was restricted to the family or home factors. Peer influence, self-efficacy or ability, utility value, motivation and teacher or school factors have to be included. The case study approach was used for this research.Semi-structured interviews were used to obtain qualitative responses from learners, from principals and educators whose schools are offering Religion Studies, and from subject advisors with oversight of this subject. This study discovered, inter alia, that learners did not have a real choice but were led to believe that RS was compulsory. The school has an influential role on a learner’s subject choice. Parental participation fluctuated from active to passive guidance. Learners saw RS as an easy subject and an aggregate booster. The school community both informs and influences the subject choice of learners. The peer influence of friends and fellow learners also featured in subject choice. RS teaches about religion and culture, respect, catalyses moral development, is enjoyable and easy to study but requires extensive reading. The limited diversity in RS classes did not allow for this respect to be tested. RS can catalyse the development of moral values. Despite this subject being an aggregate booster, learners enjoyed RS and therefore do well. After balancing the “costs and benefits,” according to rational choice theory, learners choose subjects with a utility value for their future career. RS opens the possibilities directly and indirectly. The majority of learners said that RS will assist them in their career path, not only narrowly in religious and pedagogical vocations but also more widely. RS could assist in careers with constituencies of religious diversity, in the medical field, human resources and journalism. RS fosters citizenship, non-discrimination and the rounded development of the learner and these objectives have attracted educators to teach RS. Learners enjoy RS, have self-efficacy, their performance ranges from good to well. Educators have a positive view of RS and contend that RS fosters respect, analytical, critical, constructive and lateral thinking. Principals were introduced to RS when it replaced Biblical Studies and much confusion between the two has ensued. RS is inclusive and also catalyses the development of morals. Principals emphasised the ongoing need for retraining of teachers through refresher courses, workshops and seminars and an involved role of the Department. Retraining would prevent the RS educator from being an “ad hoc teacher.” The Department has failed to act proactively in the introduction of RS as a new subject. Challenges lie in the integration of learning, essay writing skills and developing good model assessment tasks. Understanding RS terminology, confusion of RS with Biblical Studies, a shortage of resources, the vast content and the subject related methodology of RS are other concerns. All the stakeholder groups confirm this misperception. Researchers also concur with this finding. Biblical Studies educators have no advantage in RS but rather also necessitate retraining. RS, as a new subject with low intake, was not afforded all the requisite support. The number of schools offering RS is static. Provincial officials also reflect confusion of RS and Biblical Studies. The lack of staffing of the subject specialist at the National or Provincial level office is perturbing. Based on this study of the factors influencing the choice of Religious Studies in the FET Band, the following recommendations were made: Steps should be taken to ensure that learners be given a real choice Sharing of detailed information about the unique nature and outcomes of RS including its critical engagement Informed stakeholder groupings e.g. parents, educators, principal, SGB, community, Provincial and National Department of Education should not abuse their influential role of support by overt or covert compulsion Clarity between spiritual formation and catalysing moral development Educators should continue to foster enjoyment of RS Steps to be taken to facilitate integration of learning, developing essay writing skills and encourage good assessment tasks Increase diversity in class so that respect can be tested More information be given about direct and indirect career pathing Need for continual re-training through refresher courses, workshops and seminars Steps to be taken to address inadequate resources of RS Despite the “flattering” results for RS, efforts need to be taken by all the stakeholder groupings to ensure that learner’s competencies become a means in which RS markets itself Concerted on-going effort be made to clarify the confusion between RS and Biblical Studies That the Department assumes a more engaged role in RS Steps be taken by all the stakeholder groupings to encourage religious diversity in the RS class The National Department of Education has to staff both the National and Provincial Offices with well-equipped and highly motivated leaders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Chetty, P K
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Religion -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16205 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016087 , Religion -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education -- Curricula -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Curriculum evaluation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In 2006, a new subject, Religion Studies (RS), was introduced in Grade 10 as an optional subject. It represents a major paradigm shift in education of religion at the public school level. Minimal research has been conducted on the factors influencing the choice of RS in Grade 10 by the learners, subject advisors, principal and educators. This subject might constitute an “easy option” to boost the learner’s performance. Former or “recycled Biblical Studies” educators may be available or even volunteer to teach this subject or they may have to be absorbed within the system. Ethics, morals, cross cultural respect and non-discrimination are critical for the development of the South African democracy. While RS is optional, it could play a critical role towards achieving these outcomes. This study restricted its focus to the Uitenhage District of the Province of the Eastern Cape. After careful consideration, the interpretive approach seemed to offer the best access to the kind of knowledge the researcher desired. A theoretical framework, that narrowly links rational choice with cultural reproduction theory, can prove to be inadequate. This study would be deficient if it was restricted to the family or home factors. Peer influence, self-efficacy or ability, utility value, motivation and teacher or school factors have to be included. The case study approach was used for this research.Semi-structured interviews were used to obtain qualitative responses from learners, from principals and educators whose schools are offering Religion Studies, and from subject advisors with oversight of this subject. This study discovered, inter alia, that learners did not have a real choice but were led to believe that RS was compulsory. The school has an influential role on a learner’s subject choice. Parental participation fluctuated from active to passive guidance. Learners saw RS as an easy subject and an aggregate booster. The school community both informs and influences the subject choice of learners. The peer influence of friends and fellow learners also featured in subject choice. RS teaches about religion and culture, respect, catalyses moral development, is enjoyable and easy to study but requires extensive reading. The limited diversity in RS classes did not allow for this respect to be tested. RS can catalyse the development of moral values. Despite this subject being an aggregate booster, learners enjoyed RS and therefore do well. After balancing the “costs and benefits,” according to rational choice theory, learners choose subjects with a utility value for their future career. RS opens the possibilities directly and indirectly. The majority of learners said that RS will assist them in their career path, not only narrowly in religious and pedagogical vocations but also more widely. RS could assist in careers with constituencies of religious diversity, in the medical field, human resources and journalism. RS fosters citizenship, non-discrimination and the rounded development of the learner and these objectives have attracted educators to teach RS. Learners enjoy RS, have self-efficacy, their performance ranges from good to well. Educators have a positive view of RS and contend that RS fosters respect, analytical, critical, constructive and lateral thinking. Principals were introduced to RS when it replaced Biblical Studies and much confusion between the two has ensued. RS is inclusive and also catalyses the development of morals. Principals emphasised the ongoing need for retraining of teachers through refresher courses, workshops and seminars and an involved role of the Department. Retraining would prevent the RS educator from being an “ad hoc teacher.” The Department has failed to act proactively in the introduction of RS as a new subject. Challenges lie in the integration of learning, essay writing skills and developing good model assessment tasks. Understanding RS terminology, confusion of RS with Biblical Studies, a shortage of resources, the vast content and the subject related methodology of RS are other concerns. All the stakeholder groups confirm this misperception. Researchers also concur with this finding. Biblical Studies educators have no advantage in RS but rather also necessitate retraining. RS, as a new subject with low intake, was not afforded all the requisite support. The number of schools offering RS is static. Provincial officials also reflect confusion of RS and Biblical Studies. The lack of staffing of the subject specialist at the National or Provincial level office is perturbing. Based on this study of the factors influencing the choice of Religious Studies in the FET Band, the following recommendations were made: Steps should be taken to ensure that learners be given a real choice Sharing of detailed information about the unique nature and outcomes of RS including its critical engagement Informed stakeholder groupings e.g. parents, educators, principal, SGB, community, Provincial and National Department of Education should not abuse their influential role of support by overt or covert compulsion Clarity between spiritual formation and catalysing moral development Educators should continue to foster enjoyment of RS Steps to be taken to facilitate integration of learning, developing essay writing skills and encourage good assessment tasks Increase diversity in class so that respect can be tested More information be given about direct and indirect career pathing Need for continual re-training through refresher courses, workshops and seminars Steps to be taken to address inadequate resources of RS Despite the “flattering” results for RS, efforts need to be taken by all the stakeholder groupings to ensure that learner’s competencies become a means in which RS markets itself Concerted on-going effort be made to clarify the confusion between RS and Biblical Studies That the Department assumes a more engaged role in RS Steps be taken by all the stakeholder groupings to encourage religious diversity in the RS class The National Department of Education has to staff both the National and Provincial Offices with well-equipped and highly motivated leaders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and it’s effects on agricultural productivity: (the case of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipalty in Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Mdoda, Lelethu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021294 , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Climate is an important factor of agricultural productivity and many rural dwellers in developing countries depend on agriculture and are highly affected by climate change and variability. The world is currently experiencing climatic changes and variability conditions which results in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and drought persistence. Climate change and variability is affecting weather patterns and shifting seasons which results in serious repercussions on smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers are extremely vulnerable to climate change and variability because their farming and production systems are climate sensitive and are not rebound to climate stresses. These adverse effects in developing countries arise from different climate change and variability-related causes, notable extreme weather events, food security, increased health risks in agriculture from vector home diseases, and temperature-related morbidity in environments. The study was carried in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. This study examines farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and its effects on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality using a Descriptive Statistics, Binary and Ricardian Model fitted to data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 farmers in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. Both primary and secondary data was used. This research study estimates the effects of climate change and variability on King Sabata Dalindyebo agricultural productivity using a continental dimension of Ricardian analysis. Results revealed that local farmers were aware of climate change and variability and perceived changes in average temperatures and rainfall. The changes in average temperatures and rainfall had adverse effects on crop and livestock production. However, farmers’ awareness of climate change is not to an extent that they presume adaptation to climate change as a necessity and crucial. The results show that climate change and variability affects farm income and there is a non-linear relationship existing between climatic variables (temperature and precipitation) and farm income which depicts U-shaped. The study results indicated that climate change and variability affect agricultural productivity and have an effect on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In view of the research findings, several policy proposals are suggested. The study findings suggest that climate change and variability must be taken seriously and monitored. Policy makers and government officials must support farmers with information distribution,education, market access, well trained extension agents, credit and information about mitigation strategies to climate change and variability which includes institutional and technological methods, particularly smallholder farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mdoda, Lelethu
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021294 , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Crops and water -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Climate is an important factor of agricultural productivity and many rural dwellers in developing countries depend on agriculture and are highly affected by climate change and variability. The world is currently experiencing climatic changes and variability conditions which results in high temperatures, low rainfall patterns, shortage of water and drought persistence. Climate change and variability is affecting weather patterns and shifting seasons which results in serious repercussions on smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers are extremely vulnerable to climate change and variability because their farming and production systems are climate sensitive and are not rebound to climate stresses. These adverse effects in developing countries arise from different climate change and variability-related causes, notable extreme weather events, food security, increased health risks in agriculture from vector home diseases, and temperature-related morbidity in environments. The study was carried in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. This study examines farmers’ awareness of climate change and variability and its effects on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality using a Descriptive Statistics, Binary and Ricardian Model fitted to data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 farmers in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. Both primary and secondary data was used. This research study estimates the effects of climate change and variability on King Sabata Dalindyebo agricultural productivity using a continental dimension of Ricardian analysis. Results revealed that local farmers were aware of climate change and variability and perceived changes in average temperatures and rainfall. The changes in average temperatures and rainfall had adverse effects on crop and livestock production. However, farmers’ awareness of climate change is not to an extent that they presume adaptation to climate change as a necessity and crucial. The results show that climate change and variability affects farm income and there is a non-linear relationship existing between climatic variables (temperature and precipitation) and farm income which depicts U-shaped. The study results indicated that climate change and variability affect agricultural productivity and have an effect on agricultural productivity in King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. In view of the research findings, several policy proposals are suggested. The study findings suggest that climate change and variability must be taken seriously and monitored. Policy makers and government officials must support farmers with information distribution,education, market access, well trained extension agents, credit and information about mitigation strategies to climate change and variability which includes institutional and technological methods, particularly smallholder farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Fathers' coping with the day-to-day stressors of living with a child on the autistic spectrum
- Authors: Hitge, Marcel
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Autistic children , Parents of autistic children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8628 , vital:26414
- Description: In general there is very little research on the coping styles that the fathers of children suffering from Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) use in order to cope with the day-to-day demands and stressors that result from their child‘s unique condition. The research study focuses on the fathers of children on the autistic spectrum and how they cope with the stressors resulting from their children‘s condition on daily basis. The study made use of Bronfenbrenner‘s Ecosystemic Theory of Human Development as the guiding theoretical framework in exploring and describing this specific research domain. This was a qualitative study and it was phenomenological, descriptive and analytical in nature. The reason for this was to hear the voices of the fathers and explore in-depth how they deal with the daily stressors resulting from their children‘s condition. Semi-structured interviews were utilised where the fathers were asked to respond to an open-ended question. The data that was obtained from the fathers was analysed by means of content analysis. The sample size of the study was small (n=5) and other limitations included a small number of previous studies done on the fathers of children on the autistic spectrum. The literature that is available that focused on the fathers of ASD children are often old and might possibly be out dated. However, this study aimed to hear the voices of the fathers of children on the autistic spectrum and explore how they cope with the daily stressors. Therefore, this study will contribute to the literature on the fathers of ASD children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Hitge, Marcel
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Autistic children , Parents of autistic children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8628 , vital:26414
- Description: In general there is very little research on the coping styles that the fathers of children suffering from Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) use in order to cope with the day-to-day demands and stressors that result from their child‘s unique condition. The research study focuses on the fathers of children on the autistic spectrum and how they cope with the stressors resulting from their children‘s condition on daily basis. The study made use of Bronfenbrenner‘s Ecosystemic Theory of Human Development as the guiding theoretical framework in exploring and describing this specific research domain. This was a qualitative study and it was phenomenological, descriptive and analytical in nature. The reason for this was to hear the voices of the fathers and explore in-depth how they deal with the daily stressors resulting from their children‘s condition. Semi-structured interviews were utilised where the fathers were asked to respond to an open-ended question. The data that was obtained from the fathers was analysed by means of content analysis. The sample size of the study was small (n=5) and other limitations included a small number of previous studies done on the fathers of children on the autistic spectrum. The literature that is available that focused on the fathers of ASD children are often old and might possibly be out dated. However, this study aimed to hear the voices of the fathers of children on the autistic spectrum and explore how they cope with the daily stressors. Therefore, this study will contribute to the literature on the fathers of ASD children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014