The delivery of the clothing and textiles curriculum in Zimbabwean universities: towards an integrated approach to vertical and horizontal discourses
- Authors: Muzenda, Verity
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Clothing and dress -- Study and teaching --Zimbabwe , Education -- Curricula -- Zimbabwe , Textile industry -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe , Universities and colleges -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019748 , Clothing and dress -- Study and teaching --Zimbabwe , Education -- Curricula -- Zimbabwe , Textile industry -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe , Universities and colleges -- Zimbabwe
- Description: The introduction of Technical Vocational Education (TVE) has been marred by a myriad of challenges, and this has not spared universities. The incompetency of lecturers, the perceptions of both lecturers and students, the relationship between universities and the world of work as well as support strategies have been the most contested issues in TVE. The researcher used the mixed method design which is rooted in the post-positivist research paradigm that integrates concurrent procedures in the collection, analysis and interpretation of the data. Post-positivist research paradigm attempts to enhance one’s understanding of the way certain phenomena are and that objectivity is an ideal that can never be achieved. The sample of the study comprised two Heads of Department (HODs) from the universities under study, 18 lecturers for the interviews, 18 lecturers who responded to the questionnaire, 24 students formed the 4 focus groups for both universities with 6 students each. Two industrial personnel were also interviewed. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data while qualitative data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observations and document analysis. The researcher employed the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) to summarise, compile tables and graphs on quantitative data and qualitative data was analysed using content analysis through emerging themes. The study established that lecturers were not competent enough to deliver CT curriculum in universities and this was as a result of the type of training lecturers received which was no longer congruent with the technological advancement which have taken place in the textile industry. It was also instituted that universities were producing students who lacked the hands-on skills necessary for them to be acceptable in the world of work. There was a stern shortage of equipment and machinery in CT departments in universities. The machinery and equipment in the departments were too old and broken. Furthermore, the study established that there was no collaboration between universities and industries. Industrial personnel lamented that universities were not willing to put into consideration all the suggestions they gave them and that time for Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) or placement was too short for them to impart all the requisite skills to students. It was also established that students were discontented by the teaching methods that lecturers were using and the way they were being assessed. Students conveyed their desire for the industry to be involved in assessing them whilst they were in universities. Based on the above findings, the study concluded that lecturers were incapacitated to deliver CT due to the training they received in colleges and universities which was no longer congruent with the dynamics of technology. The study also concluded that the shortage of machinery and equipment also demotivated lecturers and incapacitated them. It was also concluded that the lack of collaboration between universities and industries posed serious challenges to both lecturers and students. The study recommends that the quality of the existing lecturing force must be improved mainly through extensive staff development training programmes.There is need for lecturers to be staff developed through training workshops in order to improve on competence. There should be collaboration among University management, lecturers and the industry during curriculum design, implementation and monitoring to improve their attachment and sense of ownership of CT programmes. To improve on students’ acquisition of skills, the study recommends that time for Work-Integrated Learning should be lengthened so that students leave the industry well equipped with relevant skills and knowledge.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The demography, spatial ecology and reproductive success of the black rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis, in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Nhleko, Zoliswa Nombulelo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (South Africa) , Black rhinoceros -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Animal populations -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Spatial ecology -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Black rhinoceros -- Reproduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5849 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011825 , Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (South Africa) , Black rhinoceros -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Animal populations -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Spatial ecology -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Black rhinoceros -- Reproduction
- Description: Black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) are endangered; there are only ~5000 individuals remaining worldwide. Consequently, black rhinos are managed as a metapopulation in southern Africa. This means that even though several sub-populations of black rhinos are geographically separated, they are managed as a single population. This is achieved by interchanging genetic material between the sub-populations. The main aim of the metapopulation management approach is to increase black rhino numbers in the sub-region. The Rhino Management Group (RMG), formed in 1989, was tasked with setting scientifically defensible demographic targets for the remaining black rhino sub-populations in southern Africa. In the same year, the RMG set fecundity rate at 25% and stated that each black rhino sub-population should achieve a minimum growth rate of 5% per year. The black rhino population in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is of international importance as it has historically been a significant donor population for the translocation of black rhinos to establish new subpopulations elsewhere in the sub-region. However, the black rhino population at HiP is performing poorly in terms of reproductive success. My study was initiated to assess the reproductive life-histories of the black rhino population at HiP and to determine whether the population was meeting the demographic targets set by the RMG. I also wished to assess the use of space by black rhinos in HiP as a potential explanation for the observed reproductive output. Detailed life-history information for known black rhinos (n = 120) was used to investigate reproductive success between 1998 and 2012. The mean age at sexual maturity (ASM) was determined as 12 years, which is higher than the ASM found in black rhino populations that are considered to be performing poorly (ASM = ~ 7 years). The intercalving interval (ICI) was three years, nine months; this was also longer than the ICI of most black rhino populations. Further, the 2012 black rhino population at HiP had a growth rate of 6.4%, and the population comprised 60% adults, 23% sub-adults and 13% juveniles. Such demographics are usually observed in stable populations and it is possible that poor habitat quality could be resulting in the delayed ASM and longer ICI’s at HiP. In addition, 5% of the population is removed annually as part of the Black Rhino Range Expansion Program (BRREP) to establish new sub-populations. This could also be negatively influencing the reproductive performance of the HiP population. To determine the home range and habitat use of black rhinos at HiP, field data from 13 individual adult black rhinos (n = 9 females and 4 males) over a two-year period (2011-2012) were analyzed. Black rhino female home ranges were slightly smaller (15.4 ± 12.9 km²) than the home ranges of males (23.3 ±14.0 km²) and both sexes utilized similar habitats in the centre of the park. In addition, both the male and female black rhinos were found closer to rivers and drainage lines than expected. However, the assessment of black rhino space use in HiP was limited by a small sample size, making inferences of the impact of space use on reproductive success difficult. Nevertheless, my study suggests that food availability likely influences the location and sizes of black rhino home ranges at HiP. I believe that my study forms the first step in understanding the factors that influence the reproductive success and habitat use patterns of the current black rhino population at HiP. The information produced by my study should enable park management to identify future research to be conducted at HiP, which will yield more robust data for making informed black rhino management decisions at HiP and elsewhere.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The design of a church complex in Port Elizabeth: a sacred place for community
- Authors: Wright, Matthew Stewart
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Church buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Church buildings -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39054 , vital:35027
- Description: This treatise is concerned with the design of a church complex in Port Elizabeth. Its departure point stems from the author’s interest in contemporary church architecture and the concerns for its typology in the context of Port Elizabeth. The research begins with an investigation into the nature of church architecture, where the underlying principles relating to its diagram and expression are identified. These principles are then explored with the aim of understanding their nature and deriving some initial conclusions for the design. Following this, the principles are used to discuss and scrutinize identified precedents, which lead to further design conclusions. During this investigation, some preliminary spaces are pinpointed from these precedents. These are used, in conjunction with additional spaces found in a further study, to develop the programme for the building. Here, the components, the users, the spaces and the final accommodation schedule for the design are discussed. Following the research, the physical context for which the design is positioned is examined. Here, the criteria for the site are set up from the research findings, which lead to the selection of the site, and both the precinct and the actual site are analysed. From this, the various resultant constraints and informants are used to provide an urban framework, within which the design is to be positioned. To conclude, the final design can be described as a multifunctional church complex that expresses itself humbly within a natural forested setting in the heart of the community of Walmer.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The design of an aquaculture facility on the Keiskamma River at Hamburg, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Scholtz, Jeanne
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Aquaculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MArch
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5280 , vital:20836
- Description: This dissertation addresses the nature and potential of an intrusive architectural typology in a sensitive river estuary environment through an understanding of the functional design principles of an Aquaculture plant. Furthermore the research engages with cultural, historical and sociological objectives to celebrate the historical landscape. Hamburg is caught between its value as a historic wilderness and it's need to establish and maintain an economy to alleviate poverty. The project is conceived as a provocation and speculation on how these two demands may be hybridized as an alternative to the typical conservationist practices applied. Proposing a type of hybrid ecology where industry and endemic wildlife can not only co-exist but also be mutually beneficial.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The design of quantum dots and their conjugates as luminescent probes for analyte sensing
- Authors: Adegoke, Oluwasesan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Quantum dots Anolytes Luminescent probes Luminescence spectroscopy Phthalocyanines Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4457 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1010866
- Description: The design and applications of quantum dots (QDs) as fluorescent probes for analyte sensing is presented. Cadmium based thiol-capped QDs were employed as probe for the detection of analytes. Comparative studies between core CdTe and core-shell CdTe@ZnS QDs showed that the overall sensitivity and selectivity of the sensor was dependent on the nature of the capping agent and the QDs employed, hence making CdTe@ZnS QDs a more superior sensor than the core. To explore the luminescent sensing of QDs based on the fluorescence “turn ON” mode, L-glutathione-capped CdTe QDs was conjugated to 4-amino-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-N-oxide (4AT) to form a QDs-4AT conjugate system. The QDs-4AT nanoprobe was highly selective and sensitive to the detection of bromide ion with a very low limit of detection. Subsequently, metallo-phthalocyanines (MPcs) were employed as host molecules on the surface of QDs based on the covalent linking of the QDs to the MPc. Elucidation of the reaction mechanism showed that the fluorescence “turn ON” effect of the QDs-MPc probe in the presence of the analyte was due to axial ligation of the analytes to the Pc ring. Studies showed that the type of substituent attached to the MPc ring influenced the overall sensitivity of the probe. Additionally, a comparative investigation using newly synthesized phthalocyanine and triaza-benzcorrole complexes was conducted when these complexes were conjugated to CdSe@ZnS QDs for analyte sensing. Results showed that the triaza-benzcorrole complex can be employed as a host-molecule sensor but displayed a lower sensitivity for analyte sensing in comparison to the phthalocyanine complex.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The determination of compensation in unfair dismissal cases
- Authors: Dayimani, Vuyisile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Unfair labor practices -- South Africa , Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Workers' compensation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10275 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020775
- Description: The LRA 66 of 1995 was established to give effect to section 23(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, which guarantees that everyone has a right to fair labour practices. Amongst others, the purpose of the LRA is to advance economic development, labour peace and the effective resolution of labour disputes. At common law termination of employment was occasioned by the conduct of the employer or employee, in terms of which either party may terminate an employment contract by giving agreed notice or reasonable notice. The LRA broadened the common law concept of “repudiation” of a contract of employment in terms of which section 186 of the LRA now defines the term “dismissal” to mean various possible instances that can be caused by the employer or employee. Furthermore, section 185 of the same Act clearly states that a dismissal can be found to be unfair and makes provision for redress to an employee who would be aggrieved by a dismissal. Compensation is one of the remedies that can be awarded to an employee who is found to have been unfairly dismissed. Unlike the LRA of 1956 which gave the courts an unfettered discretion regarding the compensation that could be awarded, section 194 of the current LRA places a limit on the compensation amount that can be awarded. A decision hereon is determined with reference to whether the dismissal is found to have been procedurally, substantively unfair or both. The Act further requires that the compensation must be just and equitable. A challenge in applying section 194 of the Act in this regard is that there would be vast inconsistencies in terms of the amount of compensation to be awarded and that certain presiding officers could consider different approaches in considering factors to be determined when deciding on compensation. In many other instances compensation for unfair dismissal would be decided around the idea of solely punishing the employer. This research document is mainly concerned with identifying the said challenges through case law by considering the decisions of the commissioners and judges in interpreting the old and current provisions of section 194 of the Act. The old section 194 of the Act created a formula to be followed by presiding officers when making a determination on the compensation awarded. The interpretation of the section and its formula brought with it its own complications. The amended section 194 on the other hand, conferred a discretion on presiding officers to award compensation within the caps of 12 months and 24 months for procedurally and substantively unfair dismissal respectively, for as long as the compensation would be just and equitable in all circumstances. Relevant case law and the opinions of labour law experts have been of great assistance in interpreting the current section 194. The factors do not constitute an exhaustive list. They are a mere guideline to presiding officers so as to eliminate or minimize inconsistencies in awarding compensation.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The development and implementation of a mental toughness training programme for cricketers
- Authors: McInerney, Michael
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sports -- Psychological aspects , Athletes -- Conduct of life , Mental discipline , Achievement motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3234 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013155
- Description: The professional turn in sports has prompted the search for explanations beyond the physical when discussing quality of performance. Mental Toughness has been recognised as one of the most important psychological attributes in achieving performance excellence across multiple sport settings. Yet, despite this, little research has been conducted into mental toughness development. This research seeks to answer the question: What insights can the development and implementation of a mental toughness programme for a semi-professional South African cricket team provide regarding Mental Toughness development? Based on a theoretical framework of mental toughness in cricket, a programme was developed in collaboration with the Border Cricket Team and Coaches. Incorporating elements that focussed on education, environment, awareness and mental skills, the programme was implemented in both individual and group settings during the off- and pre-seasons. An analysis of the participants’ experiences identified the need for a theoretical understanding of mental toughness within teams, facilitating the design of interventions that integrate the team and the individual. Future programmes should include measures of mastery, and individually customised approaches to mental toughness enhancement that acknowledge the potential contextual and individual variation in mental toughness.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The development of a financing model for agricultural production in South Africa
- Authors: Oberholster, Jacobus Hoon
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agriculture -- South Africa -- Finance , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa , Agricultural industries -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3041 , vital:20389
- Description: The world agricultural industry, despite numerous supply and demand challenges, has to significantly increase its production capacity to satisfy the increased demand for food and successfully address the issues surrounding food security. Access to credit is however a key enabler in this regard, while a lack of it limits the adaptive capacity of agricultural producers. The financing needs of agricultural producers however vary and are influenced by the different production systems which have different investment, revenue and risk patterns. The sector is unique in that the risk and uncertainty in agriculture are increased by the nature of agricultural production systems, which is in many cases driven by unpredictable external factors such as adverse weather conditions. In addition agricultural production systems also function within the total food system which consists of a number of interrelated subsystems, each presenting agricultural producers with a unique set of risk factors that need to be taken into account. The development of new and innovative financing solutions for the sector therefore requires a thorough understanding of the multidimensional nature of agriculture and the unique characteristics of the sector. The purpose of this study was to contribute to the development of new and innovative financing solutions for the agricultural sector in South Africa.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The development of a personal philosophy and practice of servant leadership : a grounded theory study
- Authors: Taylor, Simon Michael
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Hilton College (Pietermaritzburg, South Africa) , Servant leadership , Grounded theory , Community and school -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Student volunteers in social service -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1199 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012986
- Description: The purpose of this study is to develop a substantive grounded theory explaining the development of a philosophy and the practice of leadership amongst young adults who had attended Hilton College and whom were exposed to their servant leadership development programme. The grounded theory method in this study was developed using conventions identified by Strauss and Corbin (1990) and relying upon a collection of incidents noted during interviews with former students, teachers, housemasters, headmaster and Hiltonian Society board members. In total thirty-six interviews were conducted over a period of four years in South Africa, the United Kingdom and Kenya. Using the grounded theory methodology, an understanding of the theoretical model emerged through the development of a personal philosophy and the practice of servant leadership. Related to the central phenomenon of individual leadership philosophy and practice, the causal condition of opportunity to lead, influenced how the individual philosophy and practice emerged. Strategies used by the participants to nurture their philosophy and practice of leadership were the leadership development programme, community service, feedback and reflection. The data identified the intervening conditions and conditions relating to the context of the leadership philosophy and practice. The consequences of developing a leadership philosophy and practice were related to leadership behaviour; self-esteem; growth; follower relations; empowering of others; and relationship to institutions. The theoretical model illustrated the holistic nature of an individual’s leadership philosophy and practice. In this instance, the nature of the data revealed that the individual's leadership philosophy and practice that developed amongst the participants was predominately servant leadership. The different approaches to leadership development were scrutinised with the intention of locating the grounded theory that developed in this study, within the available literature. The literature did provide some useful insights, in particular the social field theory of Bourdieu (1998), which offered a more encompassing explanation and showed much promise in providing an understanding of leadership development. Wheatley's (1999) interpretation of field theory further explained the influence of servant leadership in leadership development. Finally, the researcher developed a set of propositions and recommendations for practice and future research and discussed the value of this research.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The development of functionalized electrospun nanofibers for the control of pathogenic microorganisms in water.
- Authors: Kleyi, Phumelele Eldridge
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Electrospinning , Nanofibers , Pathogenic microorganisms , Pathogenic microorganisms -- Detection , Drinking water -- Microbiology , Water quality -- Measurement , Imidazoles , Spectrum analysis , Anti-infective agents , Polymerization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4497 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013134
- Description: The thesis presents the development of functionalized electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers for the eradication of pathogenic microorganisms in drinking water. Imidazole derivatives were synthesized as the antimicrobial agents and were characterized by means of NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and X-ray crystallography. The first set of compounds (2-substituted N-alkylimidazoles) consisted of imidazole derivatives substituted with different alkyl groups (methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, heptyl, octyl, decyl and benzyl) at the 1-position and various functional groups [carboxaldehyde (CHO), alcohol (CH2OH) and carboxylic acid (COOH)] at the 2-position. It was observed that the antimicrobial activity of the compounds increased with increasing alkyl chain length and decreasing pKa of the 2-substituent. It was also observed that the antimicrobial activity was predominantly against a Gram-positive bacterial strains [Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 5-160 μg/mL) and Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii (MIC = 5-20 μg/mL)], with the latter being the more susceptible. However, the compounds displayed poor antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacterial strain, E. coli (MIC = 150- >2500 μg/mL) and did not show any activity against the yeast, C. albicans. The second set of compounds consisted of the silver(I) complexes containing 2-hydroxymethyl-N-alkylimidazoles. The complexes displayed a broad spectrum antimicrobial activity towards the microorganisms that were tested and their activity [E. coli (MIC = 5-40 μg/mL), S. aureus (MIC = 20-80 μg/mL), Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii (MIC = 5-40 μg/mL) and C. albicans (MIC = 40-80 μg/mL)] increased with the alkyl chain length of the 2-hydroxymethyl-N-alkylimidazole. The third set of compounds consisted of the vinylimidazoles containing the vinyl group either at the 1-position or at the 4- or 5- position. The imidazoles with the vinyl group at the 4- or 5-position contained the alkyl group (decyl) at the 1-position. For the fabrication of the antimicrobial nanofibers, the first two sets of imidazole derivatives (2-substituted N-alkylimidazoles and silver(I) complexes) were incorporated into electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers while the third set (2-substituted vinylimidazoles) was immobilized onto electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers employing the graft polymerization method. The antimicrobial nylon nanofibers were characterized by IR spectroscopy and SEM-EDAX (EDS). The electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers incorporated with 2-substituted N-alkylimidazoles displayed moderate to excellent levels of growth reduction against S. aureus (73.2-99.8 percent). For the electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers incorporated with silver(I) complexes, the levels of growth reduction were >99.99 percent, after the antimicrobial activity evaluation using the shake flask method. Furthermore, the grafted electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers showed excellent levels of growth reduction for E. coli (99.94-99.99 percent) and S. aureus (99.93-99.99 percent). The reusability results indicated that the grafted electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers maintained the antibacterial activity until the third cycle of useage. The cytotoxicity studies showed that grafted electrospun nylon 6 nanofibers possess lower cytotoxic effects on Chang liver cells with IC50 values in the range 23.48-26.81 μg/mL. The thesis demonstrated that the development of antimicrobial electrospun nanofibers, with potential for the eradication of pathogenic microoganisms in water, could be accomplished by incorporation as well as immobilization strategies.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The developmental state, social policy and social compacts: a comparative policy analysis of the South African case
- Authors: Gwaindepi, Abel
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development -- Political aspects -- South Africa , Income distribution -- South Africa , Democracy -- South Africa , Industrial policy -- Developing countries , South Africa -- Economic conditions , South Africa -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1101 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013278
- Description: The history of economic thought is ‘flooded’ with neo-classical accounts despite the fact that neoclassical economics did not occupy history alone. This has caused the discourses on ‘lost alternatives’ to be relegated as the deterministic ‘straight line’ neo-classical historical discourses are elevated. Globally hegemonic neo-classical discourse aided this phenomenon as it served to subordinate any counterhegemonic local discursive processes towards alternatives. This study is premised on the theme of non-neoclassical ‘lost alternatives’ using the post-apartheid South Africa as a case study. Emerging from the apartheid regime, the impetus towards non-neoclassical redistributive policies was strong in South Africa but this did not gain traction as the ANC’s ‘growth through redistribution’ was replaced by globally hegemonic discourse which favoured ‘redistribution through growth’. This thesis postulates the idea of two waves of ‘internal’ discursive formations; capturing the transition to democracy up to 1996 as the first wave and the period from 2005 to about 2009 as the second wave. The developmental state paradigm (DSP) emerged as the central heterodox paradigm with ideas such as industrial policy, welfare, and social dialogue/compacts being main elements. The DSP was expressly chosen in the early 1990s, the first period of strong internal discursive formation, but faded as neo-classical policies, epitomised through GEAR, dominated the policy space. The DSP discourse gained vitality in the second wave of internal discursive formation (2005-2009) and it was associated with the subsequent Zuma’s administration. The study illustrates that the DSP has failed to be fully developed into a practical framework but remained only at rhetorical level with the phrase ‘developmental state’ inserted into government policy documents and documents of ANC as a ruling party. The thesis further illustrates that the DSP fared well ideologically because of its inclination to the ideology of ‘developmentalism’ tended to trump any socialist inclined policies such as a generous welfare regime. The thesis rebuts the notion of the DSP in South Africa which has only been amorphously developed with the phrase ‘developmental state’ becoming a mere buzzword. The thesis argues that the DSP in the 21st century is much more complex and the growing ‘tertiarisation’ of the economy makes the Social Democratic Paradigm SDP’s capability centric approach much more relevant for South Africa. The study goes further to argue that a (SDP) is much more suitable alternative for addressing South African colonial/apartheid legacies and consolidation of democracy.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The diet of the calanoid copepod, Pseudodiaptomus hessei, in a permanently open southern African estuary inferred from fatty acid analyses
- Authors: Noyon, Margaux , Froneman, P William
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/70901 , vital:29758 , https://doi.org/10.1093/plankt/fbu037
- Description: The fatty acid (FA) composition of Pseudodiaptomus hessei, one of the most abundant copepod species in southern African estuaries and lakes, reveals potential food selectivity and the importance of flagellate prey in their diets. Differences in FA profiles between males and females were recorded; however, none of these patterns matched the reproductive activities of the copepod. Our findings stress the importance of improving our knowledge of FA biosynthesis pathways to employ fatty acids as trophic markers in feeding studies of zooplankton in temperate environments.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The educational interventions of the NGO Ikamva Youth
- Authors: Nomsenge, Sinazo Onela
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Community development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9317 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020602
- Description: NGOs continue to play a central role in the delivery of services in South Africa. Many of the gaps left by government in small and vulnerable communities are filled by community and nation-based organisations aimed at providing specific needs for communities. Education-based NGOs, more specifically, play the role of satisfying education and skills-related needs. This treatise is founded on the theoretical assumption that society functions just like a human body with all its different parts, or elements, interdependent: the one cannot function without the other. Central to this study is the understanding that when analysing and evaluating one area or element of society, it is vital to consider the impact of that area or element on other areas or elements of society. Such is the case with IKamva Youth, an NGO situated in Khayelitsha, a township on the outskirts of Cape Town. Although the organisation is independent and exists on its own terms, it is affected and influenced by the community and context within which it exists. Khayelitsha is considered a previously disadvantaged area, characterised by socio-economic challenges such as high levels of crime, poor quality of education, lack of sanitation, illness and disease and unemployment. IKamva Youth, situated in such a community, was founded with the purpose of addressing such issues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which the organisation has been effective in doing so. Paying specific attention to the community of Khayelitsha and the challenges it faces, the effectiveness of the organisation was evaluated according the overall purpose of NGOs and this organisation’s own vision, mission, purpose and objectives. This evaluation was done using the organisation’s different programs which are tasked with the responsibility of carrying out the purpose of the organisation. These programs were outlined and explained and used as the units of measuring the extent to which the organisation has been effective. In order to obtain an in-depth knowledge of these programs, the organisation was first located within its broader context after which these various programs were evaluated for effectiveness using responses from sampled participants. A questionnaire and in-depth interviews were compiled as measuring instruments for this evaluation. Data collected by means of the instruments formed the central point of reference that crafted the conclusion that in the midst of a number of socio-economic challenges, IKamva Youth has been effective in carrying out its purpose as an NGO and fulfilling its own vision and mission.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effect of foster care placement on children and foster families
- Authors: Time, Lumka
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Foster home care , Foster children , Foster parents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9246 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021151
- Description: Clearly very little is known about the dynamics within foster families and the effects of fostering on children. The intention of this study was to understand what happens in the lives of children during their period of placement in foster homes and it affected them and to explore and describe the experiences of the foster parent. It was learned that there is often a breakdown in the relationship between foster parents and the children they foster, particularly with regards to the gaining of trust, the socio economic status of the foster parents also played a part in the success of the placement. This research has found that substance abuse on the part of the children was prevalent leading to great tension within the households.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effect of outsourcing a South African automotive company's material handling activities on its operational performance
- Authors: Dolley-Ryneveld, Mieshkah
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Contracting out -- South Africa , Industrial management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8936 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021202
- Description: Outsourcing has become a popular trend in the last two decades and has been applied in both non-essential and critical business functions. It has been viewed as a vital source of competitive advantage and is expected to remain an important component in future business strategies. Over the past few years, the outsourcing of logistics functions in particular has shown strong growth. Thus, an abundance of research on the outsourcing of logistics is available. However, there has been little research on the outsourcing of material handling activities as a sub-component of logistics, nor its effect on a company’s operational performance. The purpose of this treatise is to determine the effects of outsourcing a South African automotive company’s material handling activities on its operational performance. It further aims to compare the company’s expected outcomes for outsourcing with actual outcomes. In addition, the factors which contributed positively and negatively to the operation of the outsourced material handling activities at the company, are established. The automotive company in this study is situated in Port Elizabeth, but due to confidentiality reasons the name of the company is not mentioned in the study. The study consists of a literature review on the background of outsourcing, outsourcing theories, outsourcing trends, important outsourcing considerations and gaps in outsourcing research. Primary data, collected through the use of a questionnaire to determine the effects outsourcing has on the company’s operational performance, is collected, reported and analysed in the study. The performance criteria used to determine these effects are: cost; delivery speed and reliability; flexibility; quality; the outsourcing relationship and the management of the outsourcing relationship. The study results reveal that the operational performance of the company remained the same after outsourcing.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effect of phytocannabinoid treatment on adipogenesis and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells
- Authors: Ramlugon, Sonaal
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cannabinoids , Adipose tissues , Cannabis -- Therapeutic use
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10361 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021072
- Description: During the 1800’s cannabis use was described as a treatment for a variety of metabolic disorders but its recreational use in the twentieth century resulted in laws which made the usage of cannabis illegal despite its medicinal properties. Cannabis usage has been reported to be useful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes but unfortunately conflicting results are often published and its mechanism of action is still unknown. The aim of this project was to investigate the effect of phytocannabinoid treatment on adipogenesis and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells, to unravel their mechanism of action and also to test for potential anti-diabetic properties. The studies showed that phytocannabinoid treatment promoted higher glucose uptake and significantly less fat accumulation when compared to Rosiglitazone. Rosiglitazone is an anti-diabetic drug that has recently been withdrawn from the market since its usage has been associated with severe side effects. It was also found that during the 1800’s cannabis use was described as a treatment for a variety of metabolic disorders but its recreational use in the twentieth century resulted in laws which made the usage of cannabis illegal despite its medicinal properties. Cannabis usage has been reported to be useful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes but unfortunately conflicting results are often published and its mechanism of action is still unknown. The aim of this project was to investigate the effect of phytocannabinoid treatment on adipogenesis and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells, to unravel their mechanism of action and also to test for potential anti-diabetic properties. The studies showed that phytocannabinoid treatment promoted higher glucose uptake and significantly less fat accumulation when compared to Rosiglitazone. Rosiglitazone is an anti-diabetic drug that has recently been withdrawn from the market since its usage has been associated with severe side effects. It was also found that phytocannabinoid treatment was able to reverse the insulin-resistant state of 3T3-L1 cells. The study indicates that the mechanism of action occurs at the mitochondrial level where enzymes such as succinate dehydrogenase and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase are modulated thereby affecting oxidative phosphorylation involved in the respiratory chain. In addition the effect observed with phytocannabinoid treatment is time dependent and affects the cells differently at different developmental stages. Therefore it can be concluded that phytocannabinoid treatment not only helps to maintain the balance between adipogenesis and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells but its use may also be helpful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and/or obesity-related insulin resistance.phytocannabinoid treatment was able to reverse the insulin-resistant state of 3T3-L1 cells. The study indicates that the mechanism of action occurs at the mitochondrial level where enzymes such as succinate dehydrogenase and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase are modulated thereby affecting oxidative phosphorylation involved in the respiratory chain. In addition the effect observed with phytocannabinoid treatment is time dependent and affects the cells differently at different developmental stages. Therefore it can be concluded that phytocannabinoid treatment not only helps to maintain the balance between adipogenesis and lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells but its use may also be helpful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and/or obesity-related insulin resistance.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effect of real exchange rate volatility on export performance: evidence from South Africa (2000-2011)
- Authors: Chamunorwa, Wilson
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11499 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018600 , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa
- Description: The effect of real exchange rate volatility on export performance: evidence from South Africa (2000-2011) This study sought to investigate the relationship between exchange rate volatility and export performance in South Africa. The main objective of the study was to examine the impact of exchange rate volatility on export performance in South Africa. This relationship was examined using GARCH methods. Exports were regressed against real effective exchange rate, trade openness and capacity utilisation. The research aimed to establish whether exchange rate volatility impacts negatively on export performance in the manner suggested by the econometric model. The result obtained showed that exchange rate volatility had a significantly negative effect on South African exports in the period 2000-2011.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effect of sap-sucking by Falconia intermedia (Hemiptera: Miridae) on the emission of volatile organic compounds from the leaves of Lantana camara varieties
- Authors: Heshula, Lelethu U P , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406141 , vital:70242 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC150957"
- Description: Evidence from more than 100 plant species has confirmed that plants emit volatile organic chemicals (VOC) in response to herbivory (Karban and Baldwin 1997; Dicke et al. 2003; Arimura et al. 2005). Feeding-induced plant responses may result in higher levels of volatiles, and different bouquets of compounds being emitted by plants following herbivore damage (Wei et al. 2006). The emission of volatile chemicals may be beneficial to plants in two ways; undamaged plants may interpret the chemical signals from damaged plants and in turn prime themselves for defence (Arimura et al. 2000; Dicke et al. 2003; Agrawal 2005), or volatiles emitted by damaged plants may attract natural enemies of the herbivores, which may reduce further damage to the plants (Tumlinson et al. 1993; De Moraes et al. 1998; Dicke and Vet 1999).
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effect of the youth credit scheme in the Omaheke region of Namibia
- Authors: Karuuombe, Elvisia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth -- Employment -- Namibia , Youth development -- Namibia , Youth -- Namibia -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11135 , vital:26888
- Description: The primary purpose of the research project was to explore the impact the Namibian Youth Credit Scheme (NYCS) modelled on the Commonwealth Youth Scheme (CYS) is impacting the programme beneficiaries in the Omaheke Region. Namibia as a whole as well as the research locale has a high percentage of youth unemployment where most of the youth experience chronic poverty with limited opportunities to change their fortunes around. Through a qualitative research strategy, the researcher set out to investigate the level and type of impact the programme has had on the beneficiaries of the programme, as well as to ascertain the challenges and sustainability thereof. The researcher utilized the opportunity provided by one of the post-training workshops by converting it into two focus groups of fifteen participants in each. Two implementing agents (IAs) were individually interviewed to gain some insight from employees into the inner working and outlook of the workers in the NYCS programme. Lastly, ten beneficiaries were interviewed as a form of internal triangulation in sourcing credible data. The research found the programme has made a tremendous difference economically in the lives and families of beneficiaries. The programme not only improved their livelihood but it also contributed educationally to their knowledge base and skills formation. Psychologically the programme improved their social outlook generally and their political stance specifically, the latter as it pertains to the NYCS programme in particular. The study concluded by making several recommendations on how the programme could improve. These recommendations are not definitive; they are suggestive. In order for the recommendations to be conclusive, several other factors in terms of the research process would have to be considered. Even so, within its research dimension the research proved the programme to be highly effective.
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- Date Issued: 2014
The effectiveness of centralised human resource management on service delivery: a case of Bedford Hospital, Department of Health, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ncebakazi, Frances Qalase
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11683 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013557
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health centralised Human Resource functions from the facilities to the provincial office. This according to the provincial office was to address the over expenditure on Compensation of employees that was highlighted by the Auditor General report of 2008/2009. The researcher was of the opinion that various issues of concern were over looked by the provincial office before or during the implementation of the centralisation of HRM. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the centralisation of HRM on service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital. The secondary objective was to find out what centralisation is and its implications. Lastly, to develop recommendations which address the outcomes of the study. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants from Bedford hospital and the provincial office. Interview questions were used to collect data from both respondents. The study examined both responses and grouped them into themes. The findings did not imply that centralisation does not improve service delivery but have indicated a lack of service delivery focus on the part of the provincial office. The Eastern Cape Department of Health centralised Human Resource functions from the facilities to the provincial office. This according to the provincial office was to address the over expenditure on Compensation of employees that was highlighted by the Auditor General report of 2008/2009. The researcher was of the opinion that various issues of concern were over looked by the provincial office before or during the implementation of the centralisation of HRM. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the centralisation of HRM on service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital. The secondary objective was to find out what centralisation is and its implications. Lastly, to develop recommendations which address the outcomes of the study. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants from Bedford hospital and the provincial office. Interview questions were used to collect data from both respondents. The study examined both responses and grouped them into themes. The findings did not imply that centralisation does not improve service delivery but have indicated a lack of service delivery focus on the part of the provincial office. The research has also revealed that amongst the challenges identified, there were those that were key challenges. The researcher was of the opinion that addressing those key generic challenges would minimise all other challenges and improve service delivery. Lack of communication on organisation strategies and lack of Monitoring and Evaluation systems were identified as key challenges that cut across the entire ECDoH. The study has recommended that the provincial office should improve on communication strategies with the facilities whenever decisions are taken. Secondly, to develop M&E systems in order to ensure that performance standards are monitored and evaluated. This according to the researcher would improve service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital.that were key challenges. The researcher was of the opinion that addressing those key generic challenges would minimise all other challenges and improve service delivery. Lack of communication on organisation strategies and lack of Monitoring and Evaluation systems were identified as key challenges that cut across the entire ECDoH. The study has recommended that the provincial office should improve on communication strategies with the facilities whenever decisions are taken. Secondly, to develop M&E systems in order to ensure that performance standards are monitored and evaluated. This according to the researcher would improve service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital.
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- Date Issued: 2014