The effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Libode District
- Authors: Jali, Thabisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water-supply, Agricultural , Water efficiency -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , arms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51661 , vital:43347
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom. The aim of the research was to assess how small-scale farmers are affected by water scarcity and the coping strategies used to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. The study is located within the interpretive paradigm, where realities are viewed and develops subjective meanings. Qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study as it investigates the subjective opinions of the respondents about the effects of water scarcity and their coping practices. The respondents offered their own opinions about their realities of the effects of water scarcity and coping practices. Both Marhewini and Megacom communities’ experiences water scarcity and they all have developed coping practices. The researcher used semi-structured interviews with small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom as a tool to collect data. The findings from the study shows that Marhewini and Megacom locations have different garden sizes, that is Marhewini has larger gardens. It was found out that both areas (Marhewini and Megacom) experience challenges such as lack of fence and livestock that destroys crops. It was also found out that the effects of water scarcity included loss of interest in farming and delays in crop growth. There were various coping strategies that were used by small-scale farmers such as the idea of creating a water pump system and watering the garden before the crops are planted. It was indicated that most of the respondents did not have knowledge of sustainable development. Water scarcity is a problem facing both communities (Marhewini and Megacom) and the small-scale farmers have developed means to cope with the problem. Based on the findings, valuable recommendations were offered. These includes the farmers forming an association where they can share experience and knowledge. Also, the community could continue working together to ensure the idea of a water system is implemented and businesses (water suppliers) could work with the community to find an arrangement of providing affordable water. The department of water and sanitation could fund the idea of a water system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Jali, Thabisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water-supply, Agricultural , Water efficiency -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , arms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51661 , vital:43347
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom. The aim of the research was to assess how small-scale farmers are affected by water scarcity and the coping strategies used to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. The study is located within the interpretive paradigm, where realities are viewed and develops subjective meanings. Qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study as it investigates the subjective opinions of the respondents about the effects of water scarcity and their coping practices. The respondents offered their own opinions about their realities of the effects of water scarcity and coping practices. Both Marhewini and Megacom communities’ experiences water scarcity and they all have developed coping practices. The researcher used semi-structured interviews with small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom as a tool to collect data. The findings from the study shows that Marhewini and Megacom locations have different garden sizes, that is Marhewini has larger gardens. It was found out that both areas (Marhewini and Megacom) experience challenges such as lack of fence and livestock that destroys crops. It was also found out that the effects of water scarcity included loss of interest in farming and delays in crop growth. There were various coping strategies that were used by small-scale farmers such as the idea of creating a water pump system and watering the garden before the crops are planted. It was indicated that most of the respondents did not have knowledge of sustainable development. Water scarcity is a problem facing both communities (Marhewini and Megacom) and the small-scale farmers have developed means to cope with the problem. Based on the findings, valuable recommendations were offered. These includes the farmers forming an association where they can share experience and knowledge. Also, the community could continue working together to ensure the idea of a water system is implemented and businesses (water suppliers) could work with the community to find an arrangement of providing affordable water. The department of water and sanitation could fund the idea of a water system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effectiveness of Bhisho child and youth care Centre youth in conflict with the law rehabilitation programs
- Authors: Mzili, Hlumela
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Juvenile delinquency
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23731 , vital:58619
- Description: Youth in conflict with the law is seemingly becoming a significant problem in South Africa, especially in the Eastern Cape where youth engage in risk-taking activities, such as anti-social behaviour and criminal acts. This study builds on factors contributing to youth delinquency such as negative behaviours of parents, dysfunctional families, high crime rate in communities, poor self-concept, low literacy level, poor socio-economic status and no sense of belonging. Against this backdrop there are programmes put in place as a form of rehabilitation for the youth in an effort to eliminate from amongst them, recidivism that conflicts with the law. However, little importance has been given to the challenges faced when implementing such programmes, such as illiteracy, rebellion, deviance and lack of resilience among youth. This context informed the study’s aim to explore the effectiveness of the rehabilitation programmes at the Bhisho Child and Youth Care Centre. To achieve this aim, the study employed the qualitative research approach to explore the rehabilitation programmes. Data was collected through 20 semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled participants (children/youth and personnel from the centre) ranging from those who perpetrated the heavier crimes to those who perpetrated the least crimes. Collected data was analysed through thematic analysis whereby tape recordings were transcribed, sorted and interpreted under themes that show common cause or commonalities among the research participants. The main findings show that the programmes offered to the youth are effective and play an important role in curbing their criminal behaviour. The acts of the study recommend that the personnel at the Bhisho Child and Youth Care Centre be equipped with more developmental services which can enable them to produce more effectiveness to the programmes offered by the centre. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mzili, Hlumela
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Juvenile delinquency
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23731 , vital:58619
- Description: Youth in conflict with the law is seemingly becoming a significant problem in South Africa, especially in the Eastern Cape where youth engage in risk-taking activities, such as anti-social behaviour and criminal acts. This study builds on factors contributing to youth delinquency such as negative behaviours of parents, dysfunctional families, high crime rate in communities, poor self-concept, low literacy level, poor socio-economic status and no sense of belonging. Against this backdrop there are programmes put in place as a form of rehabilitation for the youth in an effort to eliminate from amongst them, recidivism that conflicts with the law. However, little importance has been given to the challenges faced when implementing such programmes, such as illiteracy, rebellion, deviance and lack of resilience among youth. This context informed the study’s aim to explore the effectiveness of the rehabilitation programmes at the Bhisho Child and Youth Care Centre. To achieve this aim, the study employed the qualitative research approach to explore the rehabilitation programmes. Data was collected through 20 semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled participants (children/youth and personnel from the centre) ranging from those who perpetrated the heavier crimes to those who perpetrated the least crimes. Collected data was analysed through thematic analysis whereby tape recordings were transcribed, sorted and interpreted under themes that show common cause or commonalities among the research participants. The main findings show that the programmes offered to the youth are effective and play an important role in curbing their criminal behaviour. The acts of the study recommend that the personnel at the Bhisho Child and Youth Care Centre be equipped with more developmental services which can enable them to produce more effectiveness to the programmes offered by the centre. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effects of aspect, directional heating and depth on bedrock temperatures and the potential relationship with thermal fatigue weathering
- Authors: Breytenbach, Izak Johannes
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Weathering -- South Africa -- Karoo , Shields (Geology) -- South Africa -- Karoo , Shields (Geology) -- Thermal properties , Tillite -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177688 , vital:42847 , 10.21504/10962/177688
- Description: Geomorphological weathering processes and their relationship with temperature fluctuations are frequently researched. These research efforts are mostly restricted to surface conditions where soils, loose-lying rocks or rock outcrops are assessed. However, there is a shortcoming in the understanding of the thermal properties in a rock mass, particularly in the upper metres below the surface, as this has not been investigated or researched in any great detail. The research reported here is unique in this regard as it exploited the use of rotary core boreholes in tillite bedrock in the Karoo (Western Cape, South Africa) which were drilled as part of an invasive materials investigation for a proposed new hard rock quarry to supply road stone. Temperature data were captured on a bedrock ridge hosting tillite outcrop with a strong east to west orientation. The site work was done in two separate phases. The initial phase of research saw data being captured for one year on two aspects (i.e. north and south) at a depth of 0.3 m. This was followed by the second (more detailed) phase, where three aspects were assessed (i.e. north, south and a flat crest), but at depths of 0.3 m, 2.0 m and 6.0 m, totalling nine data acquisition points. The second investigation phase gathered data for seven months. Supplementary weather data were also captured for the site. Subsequent data analyses revealed that there is much to learn about the thermal behaviour of bedrock in the upper metres below the surface, and that the temperature properties or thermal regimes are not as simple as often assumed. Temperature differences related to aspect are not only surficial, but are transmitted to underlying bedrock, and notable temperature differences were measurable to a depth of at least 6.0 m. Seasonal temperature fluctuations also have a pronounced effect on the rock mass temperatures and it was proven that deeper parts of the bedrock accumulate and dissipate heat at different (i.e. retarded) rates compared with shallower parts of the rock mass, creating suitable thermal conditions to induce thermal fatigue. Thermal properties were also proven to be non-linear. During analyses, the concept of temperature inversions was proven, whereby one part of the bedrock becomes hotter or cooler relative to another/adjacent part of the bedrock, compared with its earlier temperature state. It was argued that these temperature inversions may exacerbate thermal fatigue. This research proved that aspect (i.e. directional heating) and depth need to be considered when analysing thermal regimes in a rock mass, as these have a distinct influence. The effects which manifest themselves create suitable conditions for thermal fatigue, not only near the surface but also at depth in the bedrock. Lastly, the effects of meteorological conditions on shallow bedrock temperatures were assessed. Preliminary findings suggest that boundary conditions and meteorological processes may indeed affect shallow bedrock temperatures, but only under certain circumstances and not to the same extent as reported in the literature for conditions researched at the surface. Wind temperature relative to the rock temperature, as well as a combination of wind and rain were found to be the most significant factors. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Geography, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Breytenbach, Izak Johannes
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Weathering -- South Africa -- Karoo , Shields (Geology) -- South Africa -- Karoo , Shields (Geology) -- Thermal properties , Tillite -- South Africa -- Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177688 , vital:42847 , 10.21504/10962/177688
- Description: Geomorphological weathering processes and their relationship with temperature fluctuations are frequently researched. These research efforts are mostly restricted to surface conditions where soils, loose-lying rocks or rock outcrops are assessed. However, there is a shortcoming in the understanding of the thermal properties in a rock mass, particularly in the upper metres below the surface, as this has not been investigated or researched in any great detail. The research reported here is unique in this regard as it exploited the use of rotary core boreholes in tillite bedrock in the Karoo (Western Cape, South Africa) which were drilled as part of an invasive materials investigation for a proposed new hard rock quarry to supply road stone. Temperature data were captured on a bedrock ridge hosting tillite outcrop with a strong east to west orientation. The site work was done in two separate phases. The initial phase of research saw data being captured for one year on two aspects (i.e. north and south) at a depth of 0.3 m. This was followed by the second (more detailed) phase, where three aspects were assessed (i.e. north, south and a flat crest), but at depths of 0.3 m, 2.0 m and 6.0 m, totalling nine data acquisition points. The second investigation phase gathered data for seven months. Supplementary weather data were also captured for the site. Subsequent data analyses revealed that there is much to learn about the thermal behaviour of bedrock in the upper metres below the surface, and that the temperature properties or thermal regimes are not as simple as often assumed. Temperature differences related to aspect are not only surficial, but are transmitted to underlying bedrock, and notable temperature differences were measurable to a depth of at least 6.0 m. Seasonal temperature fluctuations also have a pronounced effect on the rock mass temperatures and it was proven that deeper parts of the bedrock accumulate and dissipate heat at different (i.e. retarded) rates compared with shallower parts of the rock mass, creating suitable thermal conditions to induce thermal fatigue. Thermal properties were also proven to be non-linear. During analyses, the concept of temperature inversions was proven, whereby one part of the bedrock becomes hotter or cooler relative to another/adjacent part of the bedrock, compared with its earlier temperature state. It was argued that these temperature inversions may exacerbate thermal fatigue. This research proved that aspect (i.e. directional heating) and depth need to be considered when analysing thermal regimes in a rock mass, as these have a distinct influence. The effects which manifest themselves create suitable conditions for thermal fatigue, not only near the surface but also at depth in the bedrock. Lastly, the effects of meteorological conditions on shallow bedrock temperatures were assessed. Preliminary findings suggest that boundary conditions and meteorological processes may indeed affect shallow bedrock temperatures, but only under certain circumstances and not to the same extent as reported in the literature for conditions researched at the surface. Wind temperature relative to the rock temperature, as well as a combination of wind and rain were found to be the most significant factors. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Geography, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effects of case study teaching on learners’ critical thinking and language literacy skills in Physical Sciences classrooms
- Authors: Mogofe, Romulus Asaph
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Physics--Study and teaching -(Secondary) , Critical thinking--Study and teaching --South africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54669 , vital:47213
- Description: This study investigated the effects of case study teaching on learners’ critical thinking and language literacy skills in Physical Sciences classrooms at secondary school level and whether it could be integrated into the secondary school Physical Sciences lessons without hampering the teaching program. This study is a step in the right direction as it pragmatically attempts to find a constructivism-driven pedagogical strategy that would optimise the attainment of the learning goals of Physical Sciences learners in their various academic settings. To accomplish the research aim, a mixed methods design, in which a non-equivalent (pre-test and post-tests) control-group quasi-experimental design was adopted for quantitative data collection and analysis, and an exploratory case study was adopted for qualitative data collection and analysis. The intervention in the experimental group was case study teaching, whereas in the control group it was the traditional lecture method of teaching science. The topic from the syllabus on which case study teaching was tested was Electricity and Magnetism. The population of the study was all Grade 10 learners studying Physical Sciences in the secondary schools of Sekhukhune East District. The sample consisted of 122 learners from four schools (70 learners from two rural (29 for experimental group and 41 for control group) and 52 from two urban schools (30 experimental group and 22 control group)). Two schools were treated as the experimental groups and the other two as control groups. A multistep sampling process was implemented in selecting the participating schools. Quantitative data was collected using a reading comprehension test, Critical Thinking in Electricity and Magnetism (CTEM) test and a summary writing task that was marked using a Holistic Critical Thinking Scoring Rubric (HCTSR) that was developed by Facione and Facione (1994) and analysed through both descriptive (means) and inferential (two-tailed t-test, Mann Whitney U test and effect size) statistics computed through PSPP statistical pack. Qualitative data was collected through classroom observation (participant observer) in which field notes were kept and face-to-face interviews were conducted, tape recorded and transcribed for analysis. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mogofe, Romulus Asaph
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Physics--Study and teaching -(Secondary) , Critical thinking--Study and teaching --South africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54669 , vital:47213
- Description: This study investigated the effects of case study teaching on learners’ critical thinking and language literacy skills in Physical Sciences classrooms at secondary school level and whether it could be integrated into the secondary school Physical Sciences lessons without hampering the teaching program. This study is a step in the right direction as it pragmatically attempts to find a constructivism-driven pedagogical strategy that would optimise the attainment of the learning goals of Physical Sciences learners in their various academic settings. To accomplish the research aim, a mixed methods design, in which a non-equivalent (pre-test and post-tests) control-group quasi-experimental design was adopted for quantitative data collection and analysis, and an exploratory case study was adopted for qualitative data collection and analysis. The intervention in the experimental group was case study teaching, whereas in the control group it was the traditional lecture method of teaching science. The topic from the syllabus on which case study teaching was tested was Electricity and Magnetism. The population of the study was all Grade 10 learners studying Physical Sciences in the secondary schools of Sekhukhune East District. The sample consisted of 122 learners from four schools (70 learners from two rural (29 for experimental group and 41 for control group) and 52 from two urban schools (30 experimental group and 22 control group)). Two schools were treated as the experimental groups and the other two as control groups. A multistep sampling process was implemented in selecting the participating schools. Quantitative data was collected using a reading comprehension test, Critical Thinking in Electricity and Magnetism (CTEM) test and a summary writing task that was marked using a Holistic Critical Thinking Scoring Rubric (HCTSR) that was developed by Facione and Facione (1994) and analysed through both descriptive (means) and inferential (two-tailed t-test, Mann Whitney U test and effect size) statistics computed through PSPP statistical pack. Qualitative data was collected through classroom observation (participant observer) in which field notes were kept and face-to-face interviews were conducted, tape recorded and transcribed for analysis. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effects of foreign direct investment on economic growth and human capital in vista countries
- Authors: Matitiba, Sandisiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign , Economic development , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51989 , vital:43410
- Description: The study examines the effects of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on economic growth and human capital in VISTA countries using time series and panel data analysis for the period 1990 to 2017. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bound approach was applied in this study to examine the long-term relationships. The findings posited that there is a long-run relationship between economic growth, FDI, trade openness, capital formation, primary school enrolment, inflation over the period 1990 to 2017. The investigation of the long run and short run estimates results between FDI and economic growth indicated that FDI exhibited a positive effect on economic growth in Indonesia, while in Vietnam, South Africa, Turkey, and Argentina a negative relationship was established. Moreover, the findings of the panel data analysis showed that VISTA countries have been actively promoting policies and strategies that attract FDI to enhance economic growth. The study further incorporated the human capital results which indicated that FDI has a positive long-run relationship on human capital except for South Africa and Turkey. In the long run the results suggest that FDI has a negative effect on human capital only in Vietnam and Indonesia. Whereas, in the short run the results suggest that FDI has a negative effect on human capital only in Vietnam. The findings of the panel regression model carried out demonstrated that FDI exerts a positive and significant effect on human capital. It is evident that VISTA countries have made efforts to reform over the years, however, the spill over benefits of FDI are different from one country to another. Based on the empirical results acquired, even though it is advised that policy makers should intensify policies aimed at attracting FDI, policy makers must also give attention to other growth-enhancing factors such as human capital. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Matitiba, Sandisiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign , Economic development , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51989 , vital:43410
- Description: The study examines the effects of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on economic growth and human capital in VISTA countries using time series and panel data analysis for the period 1990 to 2017. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bound approach was applied in this study to examine the long-term relationships. The findings posited that there is a long-run relationship between economic growth, FDI, trade openness, capital formation, primary school enrolment, inflation over the period 1990 to 2017. The investigation of the long run and short run estimates results between FDI and economic growth indicated that FDI exhibited a positive effect on economic growth in Indonesia, while in Vietnam, South Africa, Turkey, and Argentina a negative relationship was established. Moreover, the findings of the panel data analysis showed that VISTA countries have been actively promoting policies and strategies that attract FDI to enhance economic growth. The study further incorporated the human capital results which indicated that FDI has a positive long-run relationship on human capital except for South Africa and Turkey. In the long run the results suggest that FDI has a negative effect on human capital only in Vietnam and Indonesia. Whereas, in the short run the results suggest that FDI has a negative effect on human capital only in Vietnam. The findings of the panel regression model carried out demonstrated that FDI exerts a positive and significant effect on human capital. It is evident that VISTA countries have made efforts to reform over the years, however, the spill over benefits of FDI are different from one country to another. Based on the empirical results acquired, even though it is advised that policy makers should intensify policies aimed at attracting FDI, policy makers must also give attention to other growth-enhancing factors such as human capital. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The factors that contribute to students’ positive perceptions towards service quality in selected off-campus residences in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Adeleke, Thobile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Student housing -- Resident satisfaction -- South Africa , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50922 , vital:43172
- Description: Post 1994 in South Africa there has been a notable increase in the number of students enrolled at different universities which offer student accommodation. Unfortunately, only 20% of the students can be accommodated in on-campus university accommodation, which results in most students seeking accommodation in off-campus student residences many of whom do not meet the quality requirements stipulated by the Department of Higher Education. This is what prompted this research study, whose aim was to investigate the perceptions of NMU students residing in off-campus residence, towards service quality. A literature review was conducted and focused on the service quality construct, delved into the definitions of services and quality and their benefits in all industries as well as within the student housing context. The different theoretical models used in the evaluation of service quality i.e., SERVQUAL, SERVPERF, the Gaps Model and Gronroos Model were discussed. A questionnaire based on the modified SERVQUAL tool was utilized in the evaluation of service quality levels in accredited NMU off-campus residences in Nelson Mandela Bay. Statistical evaluations were conducted on the five dimensions of SERVQUAL, namely, reliability; responsiveness; assurance; empathy and tangibles/physical attributes. The primary objective of this research was achieved, as the perceptions of students towards service quality in off-campus student accommodation were successfully measured using the SERVQUAL tool. Three service quality dimensions, namely, assurance, empathy and tangibles received positive assessments. On the other hand, the empirical research results clearly demonstrated two factors that scored low i.e., reliability and responsiveness, which reflects the respondents’ negative perceptions towards these two factors. Practical steps must be taken by off-campus residence management to ensure that the expectations versus perception service gap highlighted by the empirical findings of this study are addressed in order to keep their customers satisfied and remain competitive. Cronbach alpha coefficients above 0.80 were obtained for all the five variables, proving the SERVQUAL instrument’s internal consistency and reliability to be very good. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Adeleke, Thobile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Student housing -- Resident satisfaction -- South Africa , Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50922 , vital:43172
- Description: Post 1994 in South Africa there has been a notable increase in the number of students enrolled at different universities which offer student accommodation. Unfortunately, only 20% of the students can be accommodated in on-campus university accommodation, which results in most students seeking accommodation in off-campus student residences many of whom do not meet the quality requirements stipulated by the Department of Higher Education. This is what prompted this research study, whose aim was to investigate the perceptions of NMU students residing in off-campus residence, towards service quality. A literature review was conducted and focused on the service quality construct, delved into the definitions of services and quality and their benefits in all industries as well as within the student housing context. The different theoretical models used in the evaluation of service quality i.e., SERVQUAL, SERVPERF, the Gaps Model and Gronroos Model were discussed. A questionnaire based on the modified SERVQUAL tool was utilized in the evaluation of service quality levels in accredited NMU off-campus residences in Nelson Mandela Bay. Statistical evaluations were conducted on the five dimensions of SERVQUAL, namely, reliability; responsiveness; assurance; empathy and tangibles/physical attributes. The primary objective of this research was achieved, as the perceptions of students towards service quality in off-campus student accommodation were successfully measured using the SERVQUAL tool. Three service quality dimensions, namely, assurance, empathy and tangibles received positive assessments. On the other hand, the empirical research results clearly demonstrated two factors that scored low i.e., reliability and responsiveness, which reflects the respondents’ negative perceptions towards these two factors. Practical steps must be taken by off-campus residence management to ensure that the expectations versus perception service gap highlighted by the empirical findings of this study are addressed in order to keep their customers satisfied and remain competitive. Cronbach alpha coefficients above 0.80 were obtained for all the five variables, proving the SERVQUAL instrument’s internal consistency and reliability to be very good. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The feeding ecology and habitat selection of small antelopes in the Overberg Renosterveld, Western Cape
- Authors: Jansen van Vuuren, Amauréé
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Fynbos ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52014 , vital:43436
- Description: Human impacts have altered natural ecosystems which required species to become resilient in order to survive the anthropogenic landscape. The study area is located in the highly fragmented Overberg area in the Western Cape of South Africa. The high degree of fragmentation of the area is as a result of the nutrient rich soils and favourable topography which makes the area highly suitable for agricultural practices. The agriculture practiced in the area is mainly grain crops and livestock farming and the remaining patches of natural vegetation consist of Fynbos and Renosterveld vegetation. The patches of Fynbos and Renosterveld vegetation acts as movement corridors to allow species movement through the anthropogenic landscape. The anthropogenic landscape requires species to be resilient and to adapt to a novel habitat which poses new threats as well as new resources. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of landscape transformation, resulting from agricultural practices, on the feeding and behavioural dynamics of five small specialist browser species in a fragmented lowland Fynbos and Renosterveld system. The objectives were to determine the forage preferences of each of the five specialist browser species and to determine which site-specific characteristics, drive the seasonal habitat use of the five specialist browser species. The five specialist browser species were bushbuck (Tragelaphus sylvaticus), Cape grysbok (Rhaphicerus melanotis), common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), grey rhebok (Pelea capreolus) and steenbok (Rhaphicerus campestris). To determine the dietary selection of the five specialist browser species we collected dung samples and performed a histological analysis on the dung samples. To determine the habitat use of the five specialist browser species we used an occupancy analysis framework on camera trap data collected on each of the species. Some species appeared more dependent on the food resources from the anthropogenic landscape and spent more time in the crops but required close by cover of natural vegetation. Others appeared more dependent on the remaining pockets of natural vegetation for food resources and spent more time in the natural vegetation. These species would occasionally move into the crops to utilise the food resources. Both the anthropogenic as well as the natural landscape contributed to the diets of all of the species. These species have been resilient to changes in the landscape and appear to be benefiting from the resources presented in the novel landscape. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Jansen van Vuuren, Amauréé
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Fynbos ecology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52014 , vital:43436
- Description: Human impacts have altered natural ecosystems which required species to become resilient in order to survive the anthropogenic landscape. The study area is located in the highly fragmented Overberg area in the Western Cape of South Africa. The high degree of fragmentation of the area is as a result of the nutrient rich soils and favourable topography which makes the area highly suitable for agricultural practices. The agriculture practiced in the area is mainly grain crops and livestock farming and the remaining patches of natural vegetation consist of Fynbos and Renosterveld vegetation. The patches of Fynbos and Renosterveld vegetation acts as movement corridors to allow species movement through the anthropogenic landscape. The anthropogenic landscape requires species to be resilient and to adapt to a novel habitat which poses new threats as well as new resources. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of landscape transformation, resulting from agricultural practices, on the feeding and behavioural dynamics of five small specialist browser species in a fragmented lowland Fynbos and Renosterveld system. The objectives were to determine the forage preferences of each of the five specialist browser species and to determine which site-specific characteristics, drive the seasonal habitat use of the five specialist browser species. The five specialist browser species were bushbuck (Tragelaphus sylvaticus), Cape grysbok (Rhaphicerus melanotis), common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), grey rhebok (Pelea capreolus) and steenbok (Rhaphicerus campestris). To determine the dietary selection of the five specialist browser species we collected dung samples and performed a histological analysis on the dung samples. To determine the habitat use of the five specialist browser species we used an occupancy analysis framework on camera trap data collected on each of the species. Some species appeared more dependent on the food resources from the anthropogenic landscape and spent more time in the crops but required close by cover of natural vegetation. Others appeared more dependent on the remaining pockets of natural vegetation for food resources and spent more time in the natural vegetation. These species would occasionally move into the crops to utilise the food resources. Both the anthropogenic as well as the natural landscape contributed to the diets of all of the species. These species have been resilient to changes in the landscape and appear to be benefiting from the resources presented in the novel landscape. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The further development, application and evaluation of a sediment yield model (WQSED) for catchment management in African catchments
- Authors: Gwapedza, David
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sedimentation and deposition -- South Africa , Sedimentation and deposition -- Zimbabwe , Watersheds -- South Africa , Watersheds -- Zimbabwe , Watershed management -- Africa , Water quality -- South Africa , Water quality -- Zimbabwe , Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) , Water Quality and Sediment Model (WQSED) , Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178376 , vital:42934 , 10.21504/10962/178376
- Description: Erosion and sediment transport are natural catchment processes that play an essential role in ecosystem functioning by providing habitat for aquatic organisms and contributing to the health of wetlands. However, excessive erosion and sedimentation, mostly driven by anthropogenic activity, lead to ecosystem degradation, loss of agricultural land, water quality problems, reduced reservoir storage capacity and damage to physical infrastructure. It is reported that up to 25% of dams in South Africa have lost approximately 30% of their initial storage capacity to sedimentation. Therefore, excessive sedimentation transcends from an ecological problem to a health, livelihood and water security issue. Erosion and sedimentation occur at variable temporal and spatial scales; therefore, monitoring of these processes can be difficult and expensive. Regardless of all these prohibiting factors, information on erosion and sediment remains an urgent requirement for the sustainable management of catchments. Models have evolved as tools to replicate and simulate complex natural processes to understand and manage these systems. Several models have been developed globally to simulate erosion and sediment transport. However, these models are not always applicable in Africa because 1) the conditions under which they were developed are not as relevant for African catchments 2) they have high data requirements and cannot be applied with ease in our data-scarce African catchments 3) they are sometimes complicated, and there are little training available or potential users simply have no time to dedicate towards learning these models. To respond to the problems of erosion, sedimentation, water quality and unavailability of applicable models, the current research further develops, applies and evaluates an erosion and sediment transport model, the Water Quality and Sediment Model (WQSED), for integration within the existing water resources framework in South Africa and application for practical catchment management. The WQSED was developed to simulate daily suspended sediment loads that are vital for water quality and quantity assessments. The WQSED was developed based on the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE), and the Pitman model is a primary hydrological model providing forcing data, although flow data from independent sources may be used to drive the WQSED model. The MUSLE was developed in the United States of America, and this research attempts to improve the applicability of the MUSLE by identifying key issues that may impede its performance. Assessments conducted within the current research can be divided into scale assessment and application and evaluation assessment. The scale assessment involved evaluating spatial and temporal scale issues associated with the MUSLE. Spatial scale assessments were conducted using analytical and mathematical assessments on a hypothetical catchment. Temporal scale issues were assessed in terms of the vegetation cover (C) factor within the Tsitsa River catchment in South Africa. Model application and evaluation involved applying and calibrating the model to simulate daily time-series sediment yield. The model was applied to calibrated and validated (split-sample validation) in two catchments in South Africa, two catchments in Zimbabwe and three catchments were selected from the USA and associated territories for further testing as continuous daily time-series observed sediment data could not be readily accessed for catchments in the Southern African region. The catchments where the model was calibrated and validated range in size from 50 km2 to 20 000 km2. Additionally, the model was applied to thirteen ‘ungauged’ catchments selected from across South Africa, where only long-term reservoir sedimentation rates were available to compare with long term model simulations converted to sediment yield rates. The additional thirteen catchments were selected from areas of different climatic, vegetation and soils conditions characterising South Africa and range in size from 30 km2 to 2 500 km2. The current research results are split into a) MUSLE scale dependency and b) WQSED testing and evaluation. Scale dependency testing showed that the MUSLE could be spatially scale-dependent, particularly when a lumped approach is used, resulting in simulations of up to 30% more sediment. Spatial scale dependence in the MUSLE was found to be related to the runoff and topographic factors used and how they are calculated. The current study resorted to adopting a reference grid in applying the MUSLE, followed by scaling up the outputs to the total catchment area. Using a reference grid resulted in a general avoidance of the problem of spatial scale. The adoption of a seasonal vegetation cover factor was shown to significantly account for temporal changes of vegetation cover within a year and reduce over-estimations in sediment output. The temporal scale evaluation demonstrated the uncertainties associated with using a fixed vegetation cover factor in a catchment with variable rainfall and runoff pattern. The WQSED model evaluation showed that the model could be calibrated and validated to provide consistent results. Satisfactory model evaluation statistics were obtained for most catchments to which the model was applied, based on general model evaluation guidelines (Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency and R2 > 0.5). The model also performed generally well compared to established models that had been previously applied in some of the study catchments. The highest sediment yields recorded per country were 153 t km-2 year-1 (Tsitsa River; South Africa), 90 t km-2 year-1 (Odzi River; Zimbabwe) and 340 t km-2 year-1 (Rio Tanama; Puerto Rico). The results also displayed consistent underestimations of peak sediment yield events, partly attributed to sediment emanating from gullies that are not explicitly accounted for in the WQSED model structure. Furthermore, the calibration process revealed that the WQSED storage model is generally challenging to calibrate. An alternative simpler version of the storage model was easier to calibrate, but the model may still be challenging to apply to catchments where calibration data are not available. The additional evaluation of the WQSED simulated sediment yield rates against observed reservoir sediment rates showed a broad range of differences between the simulated and observed sediment yield rates. Differences between WQSED simulated sediment and observed reservoir sediment ranges from a low of 30% to a high of > 40 times. The large differences were partly attributed to WQSED being limited to simulating suspended sediment from sheet and rill processes, whereas reservoir sediment is generated from more sources that include bedload, channel and gully processes. Nevertheless, the model simulations replicated some of the regional sediment yield patterns and are assumed to represent sheet and rill contributions to reservoir sediment in selected catchments. The outcome of this study is an improved WQSED model that has successfully undergone preliminary testing and evaluation. Therefore, the model is sufficiently complete to be used by independent researchers and water resources managers to simulate erosion and sediment transport. However, the model is best applicable to areas where some observed data or regional information are available to calibrate the storage components and constrain model outputs. The report on potential MUSLE scale dependencies is relevant globally to all studies applying the MUSLE model and, therefore, can improve MUSLE application in future studies. The WQSED model offers a relatively simple, effective and applicable tool that is set to provide information to enhance catchment, land and water resources management in catchments of Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Institute for Water Research, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Gwapedza, David
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sedimentation and deposition -- South Africa , Sedimentation and deposition -- Zimbabwe , Watersheds -- South Africa , Watersheds -- Zimbabwe , Watershed management -- Africa , Water quality -- South Africa , Water quality -- Zimbabwe , Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) , Water Quality and Sediment Model (WQSED) , Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178376 , vital:42934 , 10.21504/10962/178376
- Description: Erosion and sediment transport are natural catchment processes that play an essential role in ecosystem functioning by providing habitat for aquatic organisms and contributing to the health of wetlands. However, excessive erosion and sedimentation, mostly driven by anthropogenic activity, lead to ecosystem degradation, loss of agricultural land, water quality problems, reduced reservoir storage capacity and damage to physical infrastructure. It is reported that up to 25% of dams in South Africa have lost approximately 30% of their initial storage capacity to sedimentation. Therefore, excessive sedimentation transcends from an ecological problem to a health, livelihood and water security issue. Erosion and sedimentation occur at variable temporal and spatial scales; therefore, monitoring of these processes can be difficult and expensive. Regardless of all these prohibiting factors, information on erosion and sediment remains an urgent requirement for the sustainable management of catchments. Models have evolved as tools to replicate and simulate complex natural processes to understand and manage these systems. Several models have been developed globally to simulate erosion and sediment transport. However, these models are not always applicable in Africa because 1) the conditions under which they were developed are not as relevant for African catchments 2) they have high data requirements and cannot be applied with ease in our data-scarce African catchments 3) they are sometimes complicated, and there are little training available or potential users simply have no time to dedicate towards learning these models. To respond to the problems of erosion, sedimentation, water quality and unavailability of applicable models, the current research further develops, applies and evaluates an erosion and sediment transport model, the Water Quality and Sediment Model (WQSED), for integration within the existing water resources framework in South Africa and application for practical catchment management. The WQSED was developed to simulate daily suspended sediment loads that are vital for water quality and quantity assessments. The WQSED was developed based on the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE), and the Pitman model is a primary hydrological model providing forcing data, although flow data from independent sources may be used to drive the WQSED model. The MUSLE was developed in the United States of America, and this research attempts to improve the applicability of the MUSLE by identifying key issues that may impede its performance. Assessments conducted within the current research can be divided into scale assessment and application and evaluation assessment. The scale assessment involved evaluating spatial and temporal scale issues associated with the MUSLE. Spatial scale assessments were conducted using analytical and mathematical assessments on a hypothetical catchment. Temporal scale issues were assessed in terms of the vegetation cover (C) factor within the Tsitsa River catchment in South Africa. Model application and evaluation involved applying and calibrating the model to simulate daily time-series sediment yield. The model was applied to calibrated and validated (split-sample validation) in two catchments in South Africa, two catchments in Zimbabwe and three catchments were selected from the USA and associated territories for further testing as continuous daily time-series observed sediment data could not be readily accessed for catchments in the Southern African region. The catchments where the model was calibrated and validated range in size from 50 km2 to 20 000 km2. Additionally, the model was applied to thirteen ‘ungauged’ catchments selected from across South Africa, where only long-term reservoir sedimentation rates were available to compare with long term model simulations converted to sediment yield rates. The additional thirteen catchments were selected from areas of different climatic, vegetation and soils conditions characterising South Africa and range in size from 30 km2 to 2 500 km2. The current research results are split into a) MUSLE scale dependency and b) WQSED testing and evaluation. Scale dependency testing showed that the MUSLE could be spatially scale-dependent, particularly when a lumped approach is used, resulting in simulations of up to 30% more sediment. Spatial scale dependence in the MUSLE was found to be related to the runoff and topographic factors used and how they are calculated. The current study resorted to adopting a reference grid in applying the MUSLE, followed by scaling up the outputs to the total catchment area. Using a reference grid resulted in a general avoidance of the problem of spatial scale. The adoption of a seasonal vegetation cover factor was shown to significantly account for temporal changes of vegetation cover within a year and reduce over-estimations in sediment output. The temporal scale evaluation demonstrated the uncertainties associated with using a fixed vegetation cover factor in a catchment with variable rainfall and runoff pattern. The WQSED model evaluation showed that the model could be calibrated and validated to provide consistent results. Satisfactory model evaluation statistics were obtained for most catchments to which the model was applied, based on general model evaluation guidelines (Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency and R2 > 0.5). The model also performed generally well compared to established models that had been previously applied in some of the study catchments. The highest sediment yields recorded per country were 153 t km-2 year-1 (Tsitsa River; South Africa), 90 t km-2 year-1 (Odzi River; Zimbabwe) and 340 t km-2 year-1 (Rio Tanama; Puerto Rico). The results also displayed consistent underestimations of peak sediment yield events, partly attributed to sediment emanating from gullies that are not explicitly accounted for in the WQSED model structure. Furthermore, the calibration process revealed that the WQSED storage model is generally challenging to calibrate. An alternative simpler version of the storage model was easier to calibrate, but the model may still be challenging to apply to catchments where calibration data are not available. The additional evaluation of the WQSED simulated sediment yield rates against observed reservoir sediment rates showed a broad range of differences between the simulated and observed sediment yield rates. Differences between WQSED simulated sediment and observed reservoir sediment ranges from a low of 30% to a high of > 40 times. The large differences were partly attributed to WQSED being limited to simulating suspended sediment from sheet and rill processes, whereas reservoir sediment is generated from more sources that include bedload, channel and gully processes. Nevertheless, the model simulations replicated some of the regional sediment yield patterns and are assumed to represent sheet and rill contributions to reservoir sediment in selected catchments. The outcome of this study is an improved WQSED model that has successfully undergone preliminary testing and evaluation. Therefore, the model is sufficiently complete to be used by independent researchers and water resources managers to simulate erosion and sediment transport. However, the model is best applicable to areas where some observed data or regional information are available to calibrate the storage components and constrain model outputs. The report on potential MUSLE scale dependencies is relevant globally to all studies applying the MUSLE model and, therefore, can improve MUSLE application in future studies. The WQSED model offers a relatively simple, effective and applicable tool that is set to provide information to enhance catchment, land and water resources management in catchments of Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Institute for Water Research, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The impact of financial inclusion and institutional quality on economic growth in the BRICS and MINT countries
- Authors: Matiso, Sibahle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: BRIC countries , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations. , Economic development -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51873 , vital:43380
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between Financial Inclusion, institutional quality, and economic growth in the Brics and Mint emerging economies. Taking six different indicators of financial availability, accessibility and usability, this paper constructed a single financial inclusion index using an approach developed by Sarma (2008). Similarly, taking six governance indicators and five economic freedom indicators we constructed a single Institutional quality index using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. Thus, using data that spans from 2004 to 2018 we tested the relationship between these two indexes and Economic growth using the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) econometric model. The empirical results showed that there is indeed a positive and significant simultaneous effect of financial Inclusion and Institutional quality on Economic growth in the Brics and Mint emerging economies. This positive relationship between these variables suggests that government agents and policymakers in the Brics and Mint countries need to come up with strategies that will help build efficient state institutions and enhance financial inclusion as these are suitable instruments for the promotion of sustainable future growth and the upliftment of the welfare of their citizens. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Matiso, Sibahle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: BRIC countries , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations. , Economic development -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51873 , vital:43380
- Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between Financial Inclusion, institutional quality, and economic growth in the Brics and Mint emerging economies. Taking six different indicators of financial availability, accessibility and usability, this paper constructed a single financial inclusion index using an approach developed by Sarma (2008). Similarly, taking six governance indicators and five economic freedom indicators we constructed a single Institutional quality index using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. Thus, using data that spans from 2004 to 2018 we tested the relationship between these two indexes and Economic growth using the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) econometric model. The empirical results showed that there is indeed a positive and significant simultaneous effect of financial Inclusion and Institutional quality on Economic growth in the Brics and Mint emerging economies. This positive relationship between these variables suggests that government agents and policymakers in the Brics and Mint countries need to come up with strategies that will help build efficient state institutions and enhance financial inclusion as these are suitable instruments for the promotion of sustainable future growth and the upliftment of the welfare of their citizens. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The impact of the minimum wage in South Africa
- Authors: Brown, Kenrick
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Minimum wage--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51202 , vital:43224
- Description: On the 20th anniversary of freedom and democracy in South Africa, the government announced its intention to introduce a national minimum wage. The announcement made it clear that the intention was not to introduce a residual wage floor, but to rather completely transform the country’s inordinately unequal wage structure. “Change will not come about without some far-reaching interventions. … As government, we will, during this term, investigate the possibility of a national minimum wage as one of the key mechanisms to reduce income inequality.”1 Minimum wages are geared towards establishing wage floors, which are the bare minimum that employees are allowed to pay employees. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) describes minimum wages as remuneration that covers the basic needs of workers and their families, taking into account relevant economic factors.2 National minimum wages of course set these minimum wage floors at a national, economy-wide level. In South Africa, the stated purpose of a national minimum wage has the multi-purpose function of setting a national wage floor in order to reduce poverty and inequality in order to transform the inherently unequal wage structure radically that still exists in South Africa post-apartheid. Before 1st of January 2019 when the national minimum wage became effective, South Africa had minimum wages, but this was prescribed per sector of the economy. Particularly in unorganised sectors a nationally set minimum wage increased the scope and ease of enforcement for minimum wages in comparison to sectoral wage determinations. In short, it covers all employees in all industries, whereas sectoral determinations did not. Furthermore, a national minimum wage would be far more easily set to take into consideration broader governmental policy considerations in comparison to diverse, multisector wage determinations that only target the employees and economic considerations of their sector. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Brown, Kenrick
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Minimum wage--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51202 , vital:43224
- Description: On the 20th anniversary of freedom and democracy in South Africa, the government announced its intention to introduce a national minimum wage. The announcement made it clear that the intention was not to introduce a residual wage floor, but to rather completely transform the country’s inordinately unequal wage structure. “Change will not come about without some far-reaching interventions. … As government, we will, during this term, investigate the possibility of a national minimum wage as one of the key mechanisms to reduce income inequality.”1 Minimum wages are geared towards establishing wage floors, which are the bare minimum that employees are allowed to pay employees. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) describes minimum wages as remuneration that covers the basic needs of workers and their families, taking into account relevant economic factors.2 National minimum wages of course set these minimum wage floors at a national, economy-wide level. In South Africa, the stated purpose of a national minimum wage has the multi-purpose function of setting a national wage floor in order to reduce poverty and inequality in order to transform the inherently unequal wage structure radically that still exists in South Africa post-apartheid. Before 1st of January 2019 when the national minimum wage became effective, South Africa had minimum wages, but this was prescribed per sector of the economy. Particularly in unorganised sectors a nationally set minimum wage increased the scope and ease of enforcement for minimum wages in comparison to sectoral wage determinations. In short, it covers all employees in all industries, whereas sectoral determinations did not. Furthermore, a national minimum wage would be far more easily set to take into consideration broader governmental policy considerations in comparison to diverse, multisector wage determinations that only target the employees and economic considerations of their sector. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The impact of translanguaging and acculturation towards implementation of the Incremental Indigenous African Languages programme in former Model-C schools (Alfred Nzo West District, Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Lepheana, Jeremia
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Translanguaging (Linguistics) , Acculturation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Model C schools (South Africa) , Multilingual education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Multicultural education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Incremental Indigenous African Languages Programme
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177236 , vital:42802 , 10.21504/10962/177236
- Description: This thesis explores the possibilities of multilingual language instruction within multi-ethnic classrooms in former Model-C schools shaped by multiple discursive practices. The researcher reviews current research on multilingualism and teaching and proposes strategies for overcoming the English prescriptivism, and monolingual mind-set in education. The research reported in this dissertation is both a qualitative and quantitative study, which sought to investigate the patterns of translanguaging in classrooms in five primary schools in Alfred Nzo West district (Maluti sub-district). In quantitative research, questionnaires were used to gather data from teachers and learners. In the qualitative research methodology, document analysis method of collecting data was employed. Purposive sampling was the major sampling method to ensure that relevant data was collected. Language in Education Policy formed the major analytical framework for this study. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of translanguaging as it is used by teachers and learners in the class in selected primary schools in Alfred Nzo West district. The research focuses on how primary school learners and their teachers engage with teaching and learning, and the strategies that teachers use to promote the use of two or three languages in classrooms to help learners to understand content and concepts in English, Sesotho and isiXhosa as there are multi-ethnic classrooms in the district. The dissertation concludes with some reflections on the findings, implications of the findings for future research and training, and recommendations to use the languages of school children as rich resources for teaching and learning. The Socio-cultural theory formed the theoretical framework that guided this study. According to Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development, children learn through social interaction that includes collaborative and cooperative dialogue with someone who is more skilled in tasks they are trying to learn. The findings of this study show the misunderstandings of the LiEP, translanguaging and multilingual education. The study also shows the lack of confidence in the ability of African languages to provide quality education. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Lepheana, Jeremia
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Translanguaging (Linguistics) , Acculturation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Model C schools (South Africa) , Multilingual education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Multicultural education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Incremental Indigenous African Languages Programme
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177236 , vital:42802 , 10.21504/10962/177236
- Description: This thesis explores the possibilities of multilingual language instruction within multi-ethnic classrooms in former Model-C schools shaped by multiple discursive practices. The researcher reviews current research on multilingualism and teaching and proposes strategies for overcoming the English prescriptivism, and monolingual mind-set in education. The research reported in this dissertation is both a qualitative and quantitative study, which sought to investigate the patterns of translanguaging in classrooms in five primary schools in Alfred Nzo West district (Maluti sub-district). In quantitative research, questionnaires were used to gather data from teachers and learners. In the qualitative research methodology, document analysis method of collecting data was employed. Purposive sampling was the major sampling method to ensure that relevant data was collected. Language in Education Policy formed the major analytical framework for this study. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of translanguaging as it is used by teachers and learners in the class in selected primary schools in Alfred Nzo West district. The research focuses on how primary school learners and their teachers engage with teaching and learning, and the strategies that teachers use to promote the use of two or three languages in classrooms to help learners to understand content and concepts in English, Sesotho and isiXhosa as there are multi-ethnic classrooms in the district. The dissertation concludes with some reflections on the findings, implications of the findings for future research and training, and recommendations to use the languages of school children as rich resources for teaching and learning. The Socio-cultural theory formed the theoretical framework that guided this study. According to Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development, children learn through social interaction that includes collaborative and cooperative dialogue with someone who is more skilled in tasks they are trying to learn. The findings of this study show the misunderstandings of the LiEP, translanguaging and multilingual education. The study also shows the lack of confidence in the ability of African languages to provide quality education. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The implementation of strategies which could develop multiplicative reasoning of learners in grade 5 mathematics classrooms
- Authors: Pansegrouw, Michelle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Mathematics--Study and teaching (Elementary) , Interaction analysis in education -- South Africa , English language--Study and teaching (Elementary)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54684 , vital:47215
- Description: This research study explored whether the use of strategies such as the development of exploratory talk; the practice of number talks, and the possible development of growth mindsets during a four-week multiplicative reasoning intervention could improve the multiplicative reasoning skills of grade 5 learners in one urban school in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This study is located within the social constructivist paradigm. The theory of social constructivism and communities of practice were applied when implementing the intervention lessons. The strategies implemented assisted the learners to create their own knowledge in a social constructivist setting, where the knowledge was created through social interaction and discussions. The data collected and analysed from the pre-tests and post-tests has indicated that the learners’ multiplicative reasoning skills have improved. This is evident when looking at the gains from the pre-test to the post-test. Based on the analysis of episodes of interaction among the students, it is evident that a progression of using exploratory talk has occurred from lesson 1 through to lesson 4 of the intervention. During the number talk interventions, the learners engaged in exploratory talk and indications of the development of growth mindsets were evident. At the end of the intervention the learners had not only shared their ideas, but also engaged in questioning one another’s ideas until they could mutually agree upon an answer for the problem at hand. Unfortunately, due to the time constraints caused by the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, the effect of the development of growth mindsets could not be fully implemented and tested during the multiplicative reasoning intervention. Further research will have to be conducted in order to determine definitively the effects of these strategies on multiplicative reasoning ability of grade 5 mathematics learners. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Pansegrouw, Michelle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Mathematics--Study and teaching (Elementary) , Interaction analysis in education -- South Africa , English language--Study and teaching (Elementary)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54684 , vital:47215
- Description: This research study explored whether the use of strategies such as the development of exploratory talk; the practice of number talks, and the possible development of growth mindsets during a four-week multiplicative reasoning intervention could improve the multiplicative reasoning skills of grade 5 learners in one urban school in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This study is located within the social constructivist paradigm. The theory of social constructivism and communities of practice were applied when implementing the intervention lessons. The strategies implemented assisted the learners to create their own knowledge in a social constructivist setting, where the knowledge was created through social interaction and discussions. The data collected and analysed from the pre-tests and post-tests has indicated that the learners’ multiplicative reasoning skills have improved. This is evident when looking at the gains from the pre-test to the post-test. Based on the analysis of episodes of interaction among the students, it is evident that a progression of using exploratory talk has occurred from lesson 1 through to lesson 4 of the intervention. During the number talk interventions, the learners engaged in exploratory talk and indications of the development of growth mindsets were evident. At the end of the intervention the learners had not only shared their ideas, but also engaged in questioning one another’s ideas until they could mutually agree upon an answer for the problem at hand. Unfortunately, due to the time constraints caused by the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, the effect of the development of growth mindsets could not be fully implemented and tested during the multiplicative reasoning intervention. Further research will have to be conducted in order to determine definitively the effects of these strategies on multiplicative reasoning ability of grade 5 mathematics learners. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The implementation of tourism curriculum in secondary schools in Fort Beaufort Education District, Eastern Cape Province: implications for sustainable tourism
- Mbilini-Kuze, Bukiwe Nomonde Constance
- Authors: Mbilini-Kuze, Bukiwe Nomonde Constance
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Education, Secondary -- Curricula , Curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24728 , vital:63536
- Description: This study examined the implementation of Tourism curriculum in Secondary Schools in Fort Beaufort Education District in the Eastern Cape. The study arose from a concern that despite the Government of the Eastern Cape organizing workshops to facilitate the implementation of Tourism curriculum for secondary school teachers, research has shown that teachers have not improved their classroom practice. It discussed the concept of Tourism curriculum implementation and highlighted problems militating against curriculum implementation at secondary school level. The researcher adopted the mixed method methodology which is embedded in the post-positivist research paradigm. The post-positivist research paradigm explains the way things are and views objectivity as an ideal that can never be achieved, however research should be conducted with greater awareness of subjectivity. By combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies, it assisted the researcher to strike a balance and avoid being subjective on issues of teacher capacity, teaching strategies and assessment, availability and use of resources and support and monitoring. The research methods used in this study include questionnaires, interviews, document analysis and observations. The findings of the study showed that there are limitations in the implementation of Tourism curriculum because of lack of capacity of School management Teams and teachers who are implementing NCS Tourism. Although the teaching strategies and assessment are stipulated in the curriculum document teachers are not using appropriate methods and assessment. Moreover, there are crucial resources and facilities provided by SMTs and the Department of Education to implement Tourism curriculum, inadequate compared to those provided for other subjects. Moreover there are limitations in terms of support (including training) and monitoring systems which are in place to enable the implementation of NCS Tourism. Possible areas for future research were highlighted and recommendations were made, for example the researcher recommends teachers to be trained adequately in order to effectively implement the Tourism curriculum. Teachers should be encouraged to use new learner-centred teaching strategies and resources should be provided in all secondary schools through the combined effort of the government, Fort Beaufort Education district and the School Management Teams (SMTs). Support and monitoring systems should be in place for proper implementation of Tourism curriculum. Tourism industries should contribute through provision of instructional materials and teachers as implementers of the curriculum should be involved in decision-making and curriculum planning. The government should employ enough teachers qualified to teach Tourism. On the other hand subject advisors should be adequately trained to enable them to provide relevant support to teachers in Fort Beaufort secondary schools. All stakeholders should be involved in fostering skills and capacities at local level to develop sustainable Tourism and local development in an integrated way. The study identified a possible an alternative model for the implementation of Tourism curriculum. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mbilini-Kuze, Bukiwe Nomonde Constance
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Education, Secondary -- Curricula , Curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24728 , vital:63536
- Description: This study examined the implementation of Tourism curriculum in Secondary Schools in Fort Beaufort Education District in the Eastern Cape. The study arose from a concern that despite the Government of the Eastern Cape organizing workshops to facilitate the implementation of Tourism curriculum for secondary school teachers, research has shown that teachers have not improved their classroom practice. It discussed the concept of Tourism curriculum implementation and highlighted problems militating against curriculum implementation at secondary school level. The researcher adopted the mixed method methodology which is embedded in the post-positivist research paradigm. The post-positivist research paradigm explains the way things are and views objectivity as an ideal that can never be achieved, however research should be conducted with greater awareness of subjectivity. By combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies, it assisted the researcher to strike a balance and avoid being subjective on issues of teacher capacity, teaching strategies and assessment, availability and use of resources and support and monitoring. The research methods used in this study include questionnaires, interviews, document analysis and observations. The findings of the study showed that there are limitations in the implementation of Tourism curriculum because of lack of capacity of School management Teams and teachers who are implementing NCS Tourism. Although the teaching strategies and assessment are stipulated in the curriculum document teachers are not using appropriate methods and assessment. Moreover, there are crucial resources and facilities provided by SMTs and the Department of Education to implement Tourism curriculum, inadequate compared to those provided for other subjects. Moreover there are limitations in terms of support (including training) and monitoring systems which are in place to enable the implementation of NCS Tourism. Possible areas for future research were highlighted and recommendations were made, for example the researcher recommends teachers to be trained adequately in order to effectively implement the Tourism curriculum. Teachers should be encouraged to use new learner-centred teaching strategies and resources should be provided in all secondary schools through the combined effort of the government, Fort Beaufort Education district and the School Management Teams (SMTs). Support and monitoring systems should be in place for proper implementation of Tourism curriculum. Tourism industries should contribute through provision of instructional materials and teachers as implementers of the curriculum should be involved in decision-making and curriculum planning. The government should employ enough teachers qualified to teach Tourism. On the other hand subject advisors should be adequately trained to enable them to provide relevant support to teachers in Fort Beaufort secondary schools. All stakeholders should be involved in fostering skills and capacities at local level to develop sustainable Tourism and local development in an integrated way. The study identified a possible an alternative model for the implementation of Tourism curriculum. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2012
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The importance of learning agility as a component of sustained business success
- Authors: Hennig, Mark Robert
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Success in business -- South Africa , Management -- South Africa , Experiential learning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's/Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51523 , vital:43295
- Description: The purpose of this treatise is to determine if learning agility is an important component for business success. With the arrival of new technology, change and information explosion the rate of uncertainty is increasing. Leaders are challenged to present continuous change and need to be able to adapt and develop their competencies to remain relevant. The VUCA world increased the complexity of the environment and provide volatility, uncertainty, complexity and are ambiguous. A significant amount of research has been done to define learning agility. The three drivers of learning agility are change, information explosion and rapid response during a crisis. The concept of learning agility can be defined as the readiness and ability to learn from experience and to utilise the learning competency to perform successfully under new environments. The seven-model framework was developed to assess how leaders cope under change. The three leadership competencies are intellectual intelligence, managerial intelligence, and emotional intelligence. Studies shows that emotional intelligence will be an important competency a leader can have and together with learning agility, will provide success to any organisation. The researcher believes that an individual who is not learning agile will not succeed in the new fast-changing environment. The term learning agile is rather a new concept and the influence it has on the organisation is complex. For leaders to succeed, their mindset needs to be adaptable and willing to change. Training and learning from experience will assist the leader to move forward and be an agile leader. A key success factor for organisations is to identify and recruit learning agile individuals to drive competitiveness and enhance relevance in the market. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hennig, Mark Robert
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Success in business -- South Africa , Management -- South Africa , Experiential learning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's/Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51523 , vital:43295
- Description: The purpose of this treatise is to determine if learning agility is an important component for business success. With the arrival of new technology, change and information explosion the rate of uncertainty is increasing. Leaders are challenged to present continuous change and need to be able to adapt and develop their competencies to remain relevant. The VUCA world increased the complexity of the environment and provide volatility, uncertainty, complexity and are ambiguous. A significant amount of research has been done to define learning agility. The three drivers of learning agility are change, information explosion and rapid response during a crisis. The concept of learning agility can be defined as the readiness and ability to learn from experience and to utilise the learning competency to perform successfully under new environments. The seven-model framework was developed to assess how leaders cope under change. The three leadership competencies are intellectual intelligence, managerial intelligence, and emotional intelligence. Studies shows that emotional intelligence will be an important competency a leader can have and together with learning agility, will provide success to any organisation. The researcher believes that an individual who is not learning agile will not succeed in the new fast-changing environment. The term learning agile is rather a new concept and the influence it has on the organisation is complex. For leaders to succeed, their mindset needs to be adaptable and willing to change. Training and learning from experience will assist the leader to move forward and be an agile leader. A key success factor for organisations is to identify and recruit learning agile individuals to drive competitiveness and enhance relevance in the market. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The Influence of Clientelism on the Informal Sector in Zimbabwe : a Case Study of Glen View 8 Complex, Harare
- Authors: Tandire, Justin
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Patron and client -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Informal sector (Economics) -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Informal sector (Economics) -- Political aspects -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Patronage, Political -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , ZANU-PF (Organization : Zimbabwe) , Zimbabwe -- Social conditions , Glen View Complex 8 (Zimbabwe)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177986 , vital:42896 , 10.21504/10962/177986
- Description: This study focuses on the influence of clientelism in the informal sector of Zimbabwe in Glen View 8 (Complex). The study used the case of Glen view 8 (complex) in Harare Province. The study focused on political dynamics in the informal sector; livelihood strategies employed by informal sector operators; manifestation of “Big Men”, social networks in the informal sector; and different strategies employed by operators to overcome the problems of political manipulation, clientelism and patronage. It employs a qualitative research methodology to enable a nuanced comprehension of the clientelistic relationships that take place in the informal sector of Zimbabwe. Through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, narratives and in-depth interviews with key informants, the study explored the clientelistic nature of the informal sector. The major findings of the study are that the informal sector in Zimbabwe is influenced by political patronage. It was established that patronage influences the informal sector in Zimbabwe in general and at Glen View Complex 8 in particular. Some of the operators revealed that patronage negatively affects their business as they are sometimes forced to attend political party meetings either at the complex or at ZANU-PF star rallies in town. The operators experience a plethora of problems such as lack of security, poor sanitation, stiff competition, poor infrastructure, lack of insurance and fire outbreaks. It has been revealed that most of the problems experienced at the complex are a result of the politicisation of the informal sector particularly by the ZANU-PF party. Operators at the complex have described the politicisation of the informal sector as a major drawback to their efforts of realising maximum benefits from their work. Therefore, the thrust of this thesis is premised on the de-politicisation of the informal sector as the starting point in the transformation of the activities of the operators. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Tandire, Justin
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Patron and client -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Informal sector (Economics) -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Informal sector (Economics) -- Political aspects -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Patronage, Political -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , ZANU-PF (Organization : Zimbabwe) , Zimbabwe -- Social conditions , Glen View Complex 8 (Zimbabwe)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177986 , vital:42896 , 10.21504/10962/177986
- Description: This study focuses on the influence of clientelism in the informal sector of Zimbabwe in Glen View 8 (Complex). The study used the case of Glen view 8 (complex) in Harare Province. The study focused on political dynamics in the informal sector; livelihood strategies employed by informal sector operators; manifestation of “Big Men”, social networks in the informal sector; and different strategies employed by operators to overcome the problems of political manipulation, clientelism and patronage. It employs a qualitative research methodology to enable a nuanced comprehension of the clientelistic relationships that take place in the informal sector of Zimbabwe. Through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, narratives and in-depth interviews with key informants, the study explored the clientelistic nature of the informal sector. The major findings of the study are that the informal sector in Zimbabwe is influenced by political patronage. It was established that patronage influences the informal sector in Zimbabwe in general and at Glen View Complex 8 in particular. Some of the operators revealed that patronage negatively affects their business as they are sometimes forced to attend political party meetings either at the complex or at ZANU-PF star rallies in town. The operators experience a plethora of problems such as lack of security, poor sanitation, stiff competition, poor infrastructure, lack of insurance and fire outbreaks. It has been revealed that most of the problems experienced at the complex are a result of the politicisation of the informal sector particularly by the ZANU-PF party. Operators at the complex have described the politicisation of the informal sector as a major drawback to their efforts of realising maximum benefits from their work. Therefore, the thrust of this thesis is premised on the de-politicisation of the informal sector as the starting point in the transformation of the activities of the operators. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The influence of social conflict on social cohesion: black youth in Motherwell, Eastern Cape in South Africa
- Authors: Mnyaka, Buntu S
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Social conflict -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53489 , vital:45166
- Description: South Africa is celebrating 26 years of democracy and is still faced with various elements of social unrest such as protests and strikes; these include service delivery protests and community unrest. South Africa is known as the protest capital of the world and in the 2019 Global Peace Index, it was ranked 127 out of the 163 countries. There are high levels of inequality while race is still the main distinguishing feature of wealth in the country. This can be clearly seen through the continued triple socio-economic challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality experienced by black people in South Africa. As a result of the triple challenges, South Africa is prone to high numbers of protests; these mainly being in black townships. These challenges have contributed to the South African social cohesion project. A community that is prone to protest and strike action is the community of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Many black people within Motherwell are confronted by these triple challenges resulting in protest action within the community. These protests are due to the failure of the government to address the needs of the community. Social conflict in terms of protests and strikes affects and influences the social cohesion of a community. This research looks at the influence of social conflict on social cohesion amongst the black youth of contemporary South Africa. The youth is a central component in the development of a prosperous society and their views are crucial in building a united and diverse society. The research study used qualitative research methodology through an exploratory and explanatory research approach. The collection of data was through focus group discussions and individual telephone interviews, through using semi-structured interviews. The study used purposive sampling; a form of non-probability sampling for the study. Through the snowball sampling technique, a total of 50 research participants formed part of the study. There were 30 individual telephone interviews and two focus group discussions consisting of 10 participants in each focus group discussion. The research participants were from the Motherwell township, Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The data collected in the study was analysed through a thematic analysis. The findings of the study highlight that only through protests and strike action does the government respond to the plights of the community, and also that there is a lack of trust in the police, in dealing with gender-based violence and other related crimes. Furthermore, inequality and poverty affect race relations, contributing to racial tension. Lastly, greater economic transformation is needed within South Africa to address black inequality; to ensure equality and greater prosperity for black South Africans. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mnyaka, Buntu S
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Social conflict -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53489 , vital:45166
- Description: South Africa is celebrating 26 years of democracy and is still faced with various elements of social unrest such as protests and strikes; these include service delivery protests and community unrest. South Africa is known as the protest capital of the world and in the 2019 Global Peace Index, it was ranked 127 out of the 163 countries. There are high levels of inequality while race is still the main distinguishing feature of wealth in the country. This can be clearly seen through the continued triple socio-economic challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality experienced by black people in South Africa. As a result of the triple challenges, South Africa is prone to high numbers of protests; these mainly being in black townships. These challenges have contributed to the South African social cohesion project. A community that is prone to protest and strike action is the community of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Many black people within Motherwell are confronted by these triple challenges resulting in protest action within the community. These protests are due to the failure of the government to address the needs of the community. Social conflict in terms of protests and strikes affects and influences the social cohesion of a community. This research looks at the influence of social conflict on social cohesion amongst the black youth of contemporary South Africa. The youth is a central component in the development of a prosperous society and their views are crucial in building a united and diverse society. The research study used qualitative research methodology through an exploratory and explanatory research approach. The collection of data was through focus group discussions and individual telephone interviews, through using semi-structured interviews. The study used purposive sampling; a form of non-probability sampling for the study. Through the snowball sampling technique, a total of 50 research participants formed part of the study. There were 30 individual telephone interviews and two focus group discussions consisting of 10 participants in each focus group discussion. The research participants were from the Motherwell township, Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The data collected in the study was analysed through a thematic analysis. The findings of the study highlight that only through protests and strike action does the government respond to the plights of the community, and also that there is a lack of trust in the police, in dealing with gender-based violence and other related crimes. Furthermore, inequality and poverty affect race relations, contributing to racial tension. Lastly, greater economic transformation is needed within South Africa to address black inequality; to ensure equality and greater prosperity for black South Africans. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The perceptions of staff and management regarding social dialogue and codetermination at Goedgedacht Trust
- Authors: Hartley, Craig
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Management -- Employee participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52546 , vital:43685
- Description: The purpose of this study is to determine the perception of Management and Staff at Goedgedacht Trust regarding Social Dialogue and Codetermination. Goedgedacht Trust is a non-profit organisation that has been in existence for 27 (twenty-seven) years. The organisation pursues its mandate to alleviate poverty in the rural communities of the Swartland area in the Western Cape. Funders of Goedgedacht Trust have undertaken 2 (two) impact studies, the reports of which constitute the impetus for this study. The study utilised a qualitative research methodology and research explores the field of Organisational Behaviour, General and Human Resource Management in the context of a non-profit organisation. It is submitted that the findings emanating from this paper are equally applicable to organisations with a profit driven agenda. In terms of the findings, it is submitted that the overriding perception of both Staff and Management was that Social Dialogue and Codetermination were practiced to a certain degree, albeit on an ad hoc basis such that it did not result in any significant value to the organisation’s success at the time of writing. As set out more fully herein, a concerted effort is required to make Social Dialogue and Codetermination a strategic objective of an organisation, which objective should be pursued and the outcomes measured (with shortcomings appropriately addressed) for continuous improvement. Following this study, it is submitted that for there to be impactful Social Dialogue and Codetermination, the organisation in question must foster an environment that encourages vertical communication throughout, undertakes a cohesive and transformative approach to management and an overall collaborative culture at all levels. The study also found that the support factors to Social Dialogue and Codetermination is an engaging, collaborative culture with communication that is open throughout the organisation. Furthermore, in addition to inter alia an inclusive and engaging culture, Social Dialogue and Codetermination requires a well-defined Human Resource Management and a Conflict Management system, which should be transparent, trustworthy and consistent in its application. This study lays the foundation for further research on the effectiveness of the proposed conflict management system and whether conflict management has produced a saving on the real cost of conflict at Goedgedacht Trust. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hartley, Craig
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Management -- Employee participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52546 , vital:43685
- Description: The purpose of this study is to determine the perception of Management and Staff at Goedgedacht Trust regarding Social Dialogue and Codetermination. Goedgedacht Trust is a non-profit organisation that has been in existence for 27 (twenty-seven) years. The organisation pursues its mandate to alleviate poverty in the rural communities of the Swartland area in the Western Cape. Funders of Goedgedacht Trust have undertaken 2 (two) impact studies, the reports of which constitute the impetus for this study. The study utilised a qualitative research methodology and research explores the field of Organisational Behaviour, General and Human Resource Management in the context of a non-profit organisation. It is submitted that the findings emanating from this paper are equally applicable to organisations with a profit driven agenda. In terms of the findings, it is submitted that the overriding perception of both Staff and Management was that Social Dialogue and Codetermination were practiced to a certain degree, albeit on an ad hoc basis such that it did not result in any significant value to the organisation’s success at the time of writing. As set out more fully herein, a concerted effort is required to make Social Dialogue and Codetermination a strategic objective of an organisation, which objective should be pursued and the outcomes measured (with shortcomings appropriately addressed) for continuous improvement. Following this study, it is submitted that for there to be impactful Social Dialogue and Codetermination, the organisation in question must foster an environment that encourages vertical communication throughout, undertakes a cohesive and transformative approach to management and an overall collaborative culture at all levels. The study also found that the support factors to Social Dialogue and Codetermination is an engaging, collaborative culture with communication that is open throughout the organisation. Furthermore, in addition to inter alia an inclusive and engaging culture, Social Dialogue and Codetermination requires a well-defined Human Resource Management and a Conflict Management system, which should be transparent, trustworthy and consistent in its application. This study lays the foundation for further research on the effectiveness of the proposed conflict management system and whether conflict management has produced a saving on the real cost of conflict at Goedgedacht Trust. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The physical activity levels and preferences of South African breast cancer survivors : a pilot study
- Authors: Campbell, Belinda Claire
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Breast -- Cancer , Cancer -- Patients -- South Africa , Cancer -- Patients -- Rehabilitation , Exercise -- Health aspects , Godin leisure-time activity questionnaire (GLTPAQ) , International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177748 , vital:42855
- Description: Introduction: Breast cancer is currently the most commonly diagnosed cancer in South African women. Physical activity has proven to have preventative, treatment and management benefits for breast cancer and other cancers and exercise has been found as both viable and safe during cancer treatment and recovery. However, there is limited research on breast cancer and the levels and preferences of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in a South African context. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour of South African breast cancer survivors and to investigate the physical activity advice and participation preferences of these participants. Methods: A cross-sectional research design was implemented to identify the physical activity, sedentary behaviour levels and exercise preferences of 48 South African breast cancer survivors (age range 45 years). An online survey comprising demographic and anthropometric questions, the Godin leisure-time activity questionnaire (GLTPAQ), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and an exercise preference questionnaire was presented to participating breast cancer survivors in order to i) identify the levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour engaged in, ii) obtain demographic and anthropometric information and iii) identify exercise preferences. A linear mixed model regression was used to examine potential associations between demographic and anthropometric variables and physical activity levels. Chi-squared and Pearson’s Product-Moment correlation tests were used to identify relationships between categorical and numerical variables. A correlation matrix was generated to further explore any correlations. Statistical significance for all measures was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of the group was 49 ± 9.87 years. The most common time since diagnosis was <5 years ago and the most common stage of breast cancer was stage I. The mean BMI was 27.87 ± 5.53kg/m2. The most common treatment combination was surgery with either chemotherapy or radiation. According to the leisure score index (LSI) the majority of the group (56%) was active and according to IPAQ data 60% were meeting physical activity guidelines. The highest physical activity levels were seen in the average weekly minutes of moderate-intensity activity, and there was a strong, non-significant positive correlation (p>0.05, R2 = 0.95) between moderate-intensity physical activity and total physical activity levels. High levels of weekly sedentary behaviour and sitting time (302.60 ± 169.96 minutes) were reported. A weak, non-significant, positive correlation was found between total sedentary time and BMI (p>0.05, R2 = 0.1). A weak, non-significant, negative correlation was found between age and sedentary time (p>0.05, R2 = 0.002). More participants below 50 years were insufficiently active compared to above the age of 50 years. 1.7 to 2.6 years since diagnosis saw the greatest number of insufficiently active survivors and the category over 2.6 years since diagnosis saw the most active survivors. Most breast cancer survivors (71.10% & 82.05%) indicated being interested in and feeling capable of participating in an exercise programme (p>0.05, R2 = 0.72). The favoured preference for receiving physical activity advice was face-to-face with an exercise specialist at a cancer centre before treatment. Participation preferences included starting a programme immediately after treatment, in a home-based setting with one or two other people, where walking and a moderate exercise intensity were the preferred exercise type and level of intensity. Data collection occurred both immediately prior to (42% of participants) and during (56% of participants) the South African Covid-19 lockdown, so the results should be seen in light of this context. Conclusion: The current study is one of the first to explore physical activity rates and preferences of South African breast cancer survivors. As a group and individually these survivors were meeting public physical activity guidelines and engaging in the recommended weekly minutes. The high sitting time coupled with the high overweight and obesity levels highlight the need for positive behavioural changes including improved levels of physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviour. These changes need involvement from the numerous levels of society that affect health. Broad physical activity guidelines need to be developed not only to improve physical activity levels in breast cancer survivors but to work as a preventative measure by facilitating physical activity promotion in the general population. The findings of this study demonstrate that this group of South African breast cancer survivors is open to physical activity advice, to programmes and to improving physical activity levels. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Campbell, Belinda Claire
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Breast -- Cancer , Cancer -- Patients -- South Africa , Cancer -- Patients -- Rehabilitation , Exercise -- Health aspects , Godin leisure-time activity questionnaire (GLTPAQ) , International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177748 , vital:42855
- Description: Introduction: Breast cancer is currently the most commonly diagnosed cancer in South African women. Physical activity has proven to have preventative, treatment and management benefits for breast cancer and other cancers and exercise has been found as both viable and safe during cancer treatment and recovery. However, there is limited research on breast cancer and the levels and preferences of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in a South African context. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour of South African breast cancer survivors and to investigate the physical activity advice and participation preferences of these participants. Methods: A cross-sectional research design was implemented to identify the physical activity, sedentary behaviour levels and exercise preferences of 48 South African breast cancer survivors (age range 45 years). An online survey comprising demographic and anthropometric questions, the Godin leisure-time activity questionnaire (GLTPAQ), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and an exercise preference questionnaire was presented to participating breast cancer survivors in order to i) identify the levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour engaged in, ii) obtain demographic and anthropometric information and iii) identify exercise preferences. A linear mixed model regression was used to examine potential associations between demographic and anthropometric variables and physical activity levels. Chi-squared and Pearson’s Product-Moment correlation tests were used to identify relationships between categorical and numerical variables. A correlation matrix was generated to further explore any correlations. Statistical significance for all measures was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of the group was 49 ± 9.87 years. The most common time since diagnosis was <5 years ago and the most common stage of breast cancer was stage I. The mean BMI was 27.87 ± 5.53kg/m2. The most common treatment combination was surgery with either chemotherapy or radiation. According to the leisure score index (LSI) the majority of the group (56%) was active and according to IPAQ data 60% were meeting physical activity guidelines. The highest physical activity levels were seen in the average weekly minutes of moderate-intensity activity, and there was a strong, non-significant positive correlation (p>0.05, R2 = 0.95) between moderate-intensity physical activity and total physical activity levels. High levels of weekly sedentary behaviour and sitting time (302.60 ± 169.96 minutes) were reported. A weak, non-significant, positive correlation was found between total sedentary time and BMI (p>0.05, R2 = 0.1). A weak, non-significant, negative correlation was found between age and sedentary time (p>0.05, R2 = 0.002). More participants below 50 years were insufficiently active compared to above the age of 50 years. 1.7 to 2.6 years since diagnosis saw the greatest number of insufficiently active survivors and the category over 2.6 years since diagnosis saw the most active survivors. Most breast cancer survivors (71.10% & 82.05%) indicated being interested in and feeling capable of participating in an exercise programme (p>0.05, R2 = 0.72). The favoured preference for receiving physical activity advice was face-to-face with an exercise specialist at a cancer centre before treatment. Participation preferences included starting a programme immediately after treatment, in a home-based setting with one or two other people, where walking and a moderate exercise intensity were the preferred exercise type and level of intensity. Data collection occurred both immediately prior to (42% of participants) and during (56% of participants) the South African Covid-19 lockdown, so the results should be seen in light of this context. Conclusion: The current study is one of the first to explore physical activity rates and preferences of South African breast cancer survivors. As a group and individually these survivors were meeting public physical activity guidelines and engaging in the recommended weekly minutes. The high sitting time coupled with the high overweight and obesity levels highlight the need for positive behavioural changes including improved levels of physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviour. These changes need involvement from the numerous levels of society that affect health. Broad physical activity guidelines need to be developed not only to improve physical activity levels in breast cancer survivors but to work as a preventative measure by facilitating physical activity promotion in the general population. The findings of this study demonstrate that this group of South African breast cancer survivors is open to physical activity advice, to programmes and to improving physical activity levels. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The politics of news production within public service broadcasting: a critical analysis of Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC)
- Authors: Mkoko, Egbert Emmanuel
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Television broadcasting of news , Public broadcasting -- Tanzania , Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation
- Language: English
- Type: Doctorate's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60411 , vital:64839
- Description: This study examines the diversity of news items aired by Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) television and explores the focal points and decisive factors surrounding news bulletin production within this television station, which operates as a public service broadcaster. The thesis investigates not only the adherence to professionalism and newsroom policies that guide operations of TBC, but also inquires whether clear and open guidelines exist on how the broadcaster’s contents should be structured. It further examines how TBC faces political and external pressures (if any) that might influence the news bulletin production and, as a result, jeopardise the image of the public service broadcaster in the country. In this study, TBC is explored as a case study because it claims to be Tanzania’s public service broadcaster; as such, TBC is expected to serve the public interest and not to remain loyal only to the ruling party or the government of the day. The study employs news production and liberal pluralism as theoretical points of departure and uses interviews, document review, focus group discussion, and content analysis as methods of data collection sourced from professionals in the major cities of Tanzania. Meanwhile, the researcher employs ethnographic study within the TBC newsroom to trace the behaviour of journalists in their professional setting while producing news for the 8 pm news bulletins. The study revealed that TBC, from 2007-2011, passed through transformation, moving from a state-owned entity into public service broadcasting. This placed TBC among the leading stations with the largest share of audience in Tanzania. Due to a political shift in staffing in 2011, TBC has since been operating as a purely state-owned broadcaster, while ignoring the public interest mandate and the opposition parties. Thus, TBC news bulletins regularly lack objectivity, balance and impartiality, silencing people’s voices through various editorial practices. In response to this, audiences shifted from watching TBC to commercial channels offering news bulletins that serve the public interest and give space to public voices. This study proposes various remedial measures for TBC to regain the audience, which include the return to the principles of PSB proposed by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). New management appointment mechanisms and funding models are proposed, which would guarantee the autonomy of the broadcaster while keeping a distance from the state. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mkoko, Egbert Emmanuel
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Television broadcasting of news , Public broadcasting -- Tanzania , Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation
- Language: English
- Type: Doctorate's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60411 , vital:64839
- Description: This study examines the diversity of news items aired by Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) television and explores the focal points and decisive factors surrounding news bulletin production within this television station, which operates as a public service broadcaster. The thesis investigates not only the adherence to professionalism and newsroom policies that guide operations of TBC, but also inquires whether clear and open guidelines exist on how the broadcaster’s contents should be structured. It further examines how TBC faces political and external pressures (if any) that might influence the news bulletin production and, as a result, jeopardise the image of the public service broadcaster in the country. In this study, TBC is explored as a case study because it claims to be Tanzania’s public service broadcaster; as such, TBC is expected to serve the public interest and not to remain loyal only to the ruling party or the government of the day. The study employs news production and liberal pluralism as theoretical points of departure and uses interviews, document review, focus group discussion, and content analysis as methods of data collection sourced from professionals in the major cities of Tanzania. Meanwhile, the researcher employs ethnographic study within the TBC newsroom to trace the behaviour of journalists in their professional setting while producing news for the 8 pm news bulletins. The study revealed that TBC, from 2007-2011, passed through transformation, moving from a state-owned entity into public service broadcasting. This placed TBC among the leading stations with the largest share of audience in Tanzania. Due to a political shift in staffing in 2011, TBC has since been operating as a purely state-owned broadcaster, while ignoring the public interest mandate and the opposition parties. Thus, TBC news bulletins regularly lack objectivity, balance and impartiality, silencing people’s voices through various editorial practices. In response to this, audiences shifted from watching TBC to commercial channels offering news bulletins that serve the public interest and give space to public voices. This study proposes various remedial measures for TBC to regain the audience, which include the return to the principles of PSB proposed by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). New management appointment mechanisms and funding models are proposed, which would guarantee the autonomy of the broadcaster while keeping a distance from the state. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The protection of children during assert forfeiture procedure
- Authors: Khunou, Lesego
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Children's rights
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51207 , vital:43221
- Description: As South Africa was transitioning into a new democracy there was an upsurge of organised crimes in the country. In the pursuit of tackling the rise of organised crimes in South Africa which would destabilise the country's economy, the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act was introduced however the act was not only for organised crime, it was for crimes such as money laundering, racketeering and gang activities amongst other crimes. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Criminal and Procedural Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Khunou, Lesego
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Children's rights
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51207 , vital:43221
- Description: As South Africa was transitioning into a new democracy there was an upsurge of organised crimes in the country. In the pursuit of tackling the rise of organised crimes in South Africa which would destabilise the country's economy, the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act was introduced however the act was not only for organised crime, it was for crimes such as money laundering, racketeering and gang activities amongst other crimes. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Criminal and Procedural Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04