An assessment of amount, distribution and use of urban green spaces in small towns of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Radebe, Denis Siphosihle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Urban ecology (Sociology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small cities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , City planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Recreation areas -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Open spaces -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76447 , vital:30563
- Description: Most regions of the developing world are experiencing large-scale urbanisation, with urban population growth outstripping rural growth. This is most marked in small and medium-sized towns as opposed to megacities. Urbanisation is associated with numerous changes in social, economic and ecological states and dynamics. A key one, of interest in this study, is the sustainability and liveability of the growing towns and cities. The retention, provision and maintenance of multifunctional urban green infrastructure are a core strategy in this regard. This study therefore sought to assess the amount, distribution and use of urban green spaces within South Africa using small towns of the Eastern Cape. The primary research included sixteen aerial images of which eight were historical aerial photographs and another eight were the latest aerial images of the selected study towns. Historical and latest aerial images were digitised to classify the types and calculate the amount of urban green space. GIS mapping, interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with urban residents to understand how these green spaces are used. The analytical tools in this study derived from social science included household surveys of 180 randomly selected respondents in small towns. Fifteen types of green spaces were identified in the sample towns. The study further revealed that green spaces are not distributed equally in different suburbs of small towns, generally being less green spaces, especially formal parks and recreation areas, in poorer areas. The results indicated a decline of green spaces with urbanisation, and most marked in fast growing towns. The results suggested that urban residents frequently visited urban green spaces, with most respondents favouring the use of green spaces for social and cultural benefits. How use of different spaces was strongly gender related, with males favouring less developed green space types (such as commonages and woodlands) and females for formal areas such domestic and institutional gardens and churchyards. Respondents also identified various challenges associated with using and accessing urban green spaces, with pollution, crime and lack of maintenance in particular. The study shows the importance of GIS as a mapping tool that can be used to provide information for ecological planning in rapidly changing urban environment. The research process generated several lessons that need to be taken into consideration when designing urban landscapes, most importantly relating to the diversity, quantity, quality and maintenance of urban green spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Radebe, Denis Siphosihle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Urban ecology (Sociology) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small cities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , City planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Recreation areas -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Open spaces -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76447 , vital:30563
- Description: Most regions of the developing world are experiencing large-scale urbanisation, with urban population growth outstripping rural growth. This is most marked in small and medium-sized towns as opposed to megacities. Urbanisation is associated with numerous changes in social, economic and ecological states and dynamics. A key one, of interest in this study, is the sustainability and liveability of the growing towns and cities. The retention, provision and maintenance of multifunctional urban green infrastructure are a core strategy in this regard. This study therefore sought to assess the amount, distribution and use of urban green spaces within South Africa using small towns of the Eastern Cape. The primary research included sixteen aerial images of which eight were historical aerial photographs and another eight were the latest aerial images of the selected study towns. Historical and latest aerial images were digitised to classify the types and calculate the amount of urban green space. GIS mapping, interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with urban residents to understand how these green spaces are used. The analytical tools in this study derived from social science included household surveys of 180 randomly selected respondents in small towns. Fifteen types of green spaces were identified in the sample towns. The study further revealed that green spaces are not distributed equally in different suburbs of small towns, generally being less green spaces, especially formal parks and recreation areas, in poorer areas. The results indicated a decline of green spaces with urbanisation, and most marked in fast growing towns. The results suggested that urban residents frequently visited urban green spaces, with most respondents favouring the use of green spaces for social and cultural benefits. How use of different spaces was strongly gender related, with males favouring less developed green space types (such as commonages and woodlands) and females for formal areas such domestic and institutional gardens and churchyards. Respondents also identified various challenges associated with using and accessing urban green spaces, with pollution, crime and lack of maintenance in particular. The study shows the importance of GIS as a mapping tool that can be used to provide information for ecological planning in rapidly changing urban environment. The research process generated several lessons that need to be taken into consideration when designing urban landscapes, most importantly relating to the diversity, quantity, quality and maintenance of urban green spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of community partnerships with Amadlelo Agri in the Keiskammahoek dairy: A case of Amahlathi Local Municipality
- Authors: Hlobongwana, Vukile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- Economic aspects , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40150 , vital:35821
- Description: The study is based on partnerships between a rural agricultural community of South Africa and a private dairy company based in the Eastern Cape Province. The Department of Rural Development took an initiative to revitalise all the schemes inherited from the former homelands. Although profits earned from agriculture tend not to be immediate but rather gradual, the advancement of agriculture stimulates economic activity in other sectors. Amadlelo Agri in partnership with the communities and Government have turned this into a multi- million-rand profitable business. The challenge is how to replicate the model to operate on a large scale. The current setup has its pitfalls, and these include cutting of fences and allowing village animals to graze in the pastures belonging to the Dairy. To ensure that the study was well articulated and to assess and address those challenges, the project utilised a case study inquiry of the Amahlathi local municipality in the specific partnership of Amadlelo Agri and the Keiskammahoek community in shared milk ownership initiative. Primary data was collected using simple mixed methods research approach to 8 community members as the instrument was more aligned to the qualitative nature of the inquiry. Gathered data was organised and cleaned manually for analysis. Following the review and discussion of the findings the main findings that the study observed in the assessment of the benefits of community partnerships or sharedownerships are as follows: female and youths are not participating in such types of programmes; contradiction exists between participants regarding the objectives of the initiative; there is a lack of clarity from the developer side with regards to the type of shared ownership initiative; farmers lack the know-how of appropriately handling funds, strategic planning and marketing skills; partnerships are very influential in the creation of work culture and coordination in the community; resource endowment is a crucial factor hindering small scale farmers; and farmers’ training, development and update is lacking consistency. Recommendations put emphasis on ensuring that training is consistent and rigorous to ensure that the community will gain experience of the value of the project which can motivate and ensure that protection is improved by the same community members due to sense of ownership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hlobongwana, Vukile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture -- Economic aspects , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40150 , vital:35821
- Description: The study is based on partnerships between a rural agricultural community of South Africa and a private dairy company based in the Eastern Cape Province. The Department of Rural Development took an initiative to revitalise all the schemes inherited from the former homelands. Although profits earned from agriculture tend not to be immediate but rather gradual, the advancement of agriculture stimulates economic activity in other sectors. Amadlelo Agri in partnership with the communities and Government have turned this into a multi- million-rand profitable business. The challenge is how to replicate the model to operate on a large scale. The current setup has its pitfalls, and these include cutting of fences and allowing village animals to graze in the pastures belonging to the Dairy. To ensure that the study was well articulated and to assess and address those challenges, the project utilised a case study inquiry of the Amahlathi local municipality in the specific partnership of Amadlelo Agri and the Keiskammahoek community in shared milk ownership initiative. Primary data was collected using simple mixed methods research approach to 8 community members as the instrument was more aligned to the qualitative nature of the inquiry. Gathered data was organised and cleaned manually for analysis. Following the review and discussion of the findings the main findings that the study observed in the assessment of the benefits of community partnerships or sharedownerships are as follows: female and youths are not participating in such types of programmes; contradiction exists between participants regarding the objectives of the initiative; there is a lack of clarity from the developer side with regards to the type of shared ownership initiative; farmers lack the know-how of appropriately handling funds, strategic planning and marketing skills; partnerships are very influential in the creation of work culture and coordination in the community; resource endowment is a crucial factor hindering small scale farmers; and farmers’ training, development and update is lacking consistency. Recommendations put emphasis on ensuring that training is consistent and rigorous to ensure that the community will gain experience of the value of the project which can motivate and ensure that protection is improved by the same community members due to sense of ownership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An Assessment of Control Systems in Asset Management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Dobela,Yola Colleen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Asset management accounts
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13337 , vital:39635
- Description: The aim of this study is to assess control systems in asset management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services. It seeks to establish how control systems are used as asset management tools for financial reporting and for compliance with financial management prescripts as prescribed by the Auditor-General. The specific objectives of the study are to assess the nature of control systems used in asset management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services; to establish the extent to which financial reporting control systems comply with financial management regulations prescribed by the Auditor-General; and to establish the mechanisms, processes, and procedures that are in place at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services for compliance with financial management regulations in asset management This study is motivated by the repetition of qualified audit reports on asset management the Middledrift Department of Correctional services keeps on receiving over the years. The study is therefore, significant in that it seeks to address how the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services can best address issues of complying fully with financial management regulations in asset management, so as to ensure that issues highlighted in the Auditor-General’s report do not recur. This study adopted a qualitative research methodology. Data was collected by means of interviews, focus-group discussions, observations and official documents. In-depth interviews were conducted with the head of the correctional centre, head of supply chain management and four employees within the supply chain management section. Focus group interviews were conducted in three groups. The first and second group consisted of 5 asset controllers each and the third group consisted of 5 sub-asset controllers. The researcher observed how assets are verified in the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services, and observed the process of asset reconciliation between Basic Accounting System and Logistical Information System. The sample for this study consisted of 21 respondents (n=21)comprising of the following respondents: the head of correctional centre, head of supply chain management, four employees within the supply chain management section, 10 asset controllers and five sub-asset controllers. The respondents were selected using purposive/judgemental sampling. Data obtained through transcribed in-depth interviews, focus group discussions was transcribed verbatim. The transcribed data as well as data from observations were analysed using opencoding. Emerging codes and patterns were clustered into themes the data was compared within the categories to establish connections in the meanings as well as variations. The results of the ii study suggests that control systems used in asset management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services are far from satisfactory. Results reveal lack of adequate training on asset management for officials. The results further indicate that there is a communication barrier between asset controllers and supply chain management officials, which is a challenge for the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services. The researcher recommends that inhouse trainings and workshops on asset management should be provided to ensure that officials in all sections of the department are capacitated on what asset management is all about and that they acquire more knowledge, skills and capacity on how to effectively manage assets of the department. The study also recommends, the need for a directorate for asset management, so that there is a unit dedicated to managing the assets of the department. The study further recommends that communication between officials in the supply chain management unit and asset controllers in the department has to be consistent and strengthened since many processes surrounding asset management rely on the cooperation of multiple officials. This study contributes public administration practise in that it adds to knowledge that can assist public officials to adopt effective and appropriate control systems and procedures in managing public sector assets, to ensure that assets are managed and utilised in the most effective and economical way. The study also identifies gaps in control systems in asset management, thereby providing a basis for further research by other researchers. The study is therefore a significant contribution to theory and practice, it provides guidelines to the public sector and specifically public officials at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services on ways to improve control systems in asset management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Dobela,Yola Colleen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Asset management accounts
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13337 , vital:39635
- Description: The aim of this study is to assess control systems in asset management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services. It seeks to establish how control systems are used as asset management tools for financial reporting and for compliance with financial management prescripts as prescribed by the Auditor-General. The specific objectives of the study are to assess the nature of control systems used in asset management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services; to establish the extent to which financial reporting control systems comply with financial management regulations prescribed by the Auditor-General; and to establish the mechanisms, processes, and procedures that are in place at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services for compliance with financial management regulations in asset management This study is motivated by the repetition of qualified audit reports on asset management the Middledrift Department of Correctional services keeps on receiving over the years. The study is therefore, significant in that it seeks to address how the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services can best address issues of complying fully with financial management regulations in asset management, so as to ensure that issues highlighted in the Auditor-General’s report do not recur. This study adopted a qualitative research methodology. Data was collected by means of interviews, focus-group discussions, observations and official documents. In-depth interviews were conducted with the head of the correctional centre, head of supply chain management and four employees within the supply chain management section. Focus group interviews were conducted in three groups. The first and second group consisted of 5 asset controllers each and the third group consisted of 5 sub-asset controllers. The researcher observed how assets are verified in the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services, and observed the process of asset reconciliation between Basic Accounting System and Logistical Information System. The sample for this study consisted of 21 respondents (n=21)comprising of the following respondents: the head of correctional centre, head of supply chain management, four employees within the supply chain management section, 10 asset controllers and five sub-asset controllers. The respondents were selected using purposive/judgemental sampling. Data obtained through transcribed in-depth interviews, focus group discussions was transcribed verbatim. The transcribed data as well as data from observations were analysed using opencoding. Emerging codes and patterns were clustered into themes the data was compared within the categories to establish connections in the meanings as well as variations. The results of the ii study suggests that control systems used in asset management at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services are far from satisfactory. Results reveal lack of adequate training on asset management for officials. The results further indicate that there is a communication barrier between asset controllers and supply chain management officials, which is a challenge for the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services. The researcher recommends that inhouse trainings and workshops on asset management should be provided to ensure that officials in all sections of the department are capacitated on what asset management is all about and that they acquire more knowledge, skills and capacity on how to effectively manage assets of the department. The study also recommends, the need for a directorate for asset management, so that there is a unit dedicated to managing the assets of the department. The study further recommends that communication between officials in the supply chain management unit and asset controllers in the department has to be consistent and strengthened since many processes surrounding asset management rely on the cooperation of multiple officials. This study contributes public administration practise in that it adds to knowledge that can assist public officials to adopt effective and appropriate control systems and procedures in managing public sector assets, to ensure that assets are managed and utilised in the most effective and economical way. The study also identifies gaps in control systems in asset management, thereby providing a basis for further research by other researchers. The study is therefore a significant contribution to theory and practice, it provides guidelines to the public sector and specifically public officials at the Middledrift Department of Correctional Services on ways to improve control systems in asset management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of implementation of performance and development systems: Amathole District Municipality, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ganyaza, Yolanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39785 , vital:35456
- Description: The study focuses on the assessment of the Implementation of Performance Management System at Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Local government is the closest sphere of government to service users, therefore it is expected to be a forefront of efficient service delivery. Local government needs to demonstrate that performance is managed, measured and improved on a continuous basis. For this purpose it must develop a comprehensive performance management system. The development of such a system is, however, not without challenges and local government should identify crucial elements which should be incorporated in such a system (van de Waldt, 2006:128). The aim of this study is to explore the challenges faced by Amathole District Municipality to see how service delivery can be improved through the effective implementation of performance management systems. The researcher has used a quantitative methodology in this study and has prepared questionnaires for the employee participants based at Amathole District Municipality. The total population of the employees is 1700 but the researcher uses a sample of between 20 and 30 employees within the Municipality. The findings of the study reveals that Amathole District Municipality does comply with performance management system policy in order to have an efficient and effective service delivery more operational policies will help the municipality to overcome its financial challenges need to be developed, so that they can be a change in terms of the municipality’s spending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ganyaza, Yolanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39785 , vital:35456
- Description: The study focuses on the assessment of the Implementation of Performance Management System at Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Local government is the closest sphere of government to service users, therefore it is expected to be a forefront of efficient service delivery. Local government needs to demonstrate that performance is managed, measured and improved on a continuous basis. For this purpose it must develop a comprehensive performance management system. The development of such a system is, however, not without challenges and local government should identify crucial elements which should be incorporated in such a system (van de Waldt, 2006:128). The aim of this study is to explore the challenges faced by Amathole District Municipality to see how service delivery can be improved through the effective implementation of performance management systems. The researcher has used a quantitative methodology in this study and has prepared questionnaires for the employee participants based at Amathole District Municipality. The total population of the employees is 1700 but the researcher uses a sample of between 20 and 30 employees within the Municipality. The findings of the study reveals that Amathole District Municipality does comply with performance management system policy in order to have an efficient and effective service delivery more operational policies will help the municipality to overcome its financial challenges need to be developed, so that they can be a change in terms of the municipality’s spending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of marine food security in the Western Indian Ocean and the likely impacts of climate change
- Taylor, Sarah Frances Wedgwood
- Authors: Taylor, Sarah Frances Wedgwood
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44528 , vital:38140
- Description: The Western Indian Ocean hosts the second largest coastal population on the planet and supports 4 million tons of fish catches annually yielding $943 million in revenues and employment. However, it has been warming at a rate faster than any other region of the tropical oceans over the last century thereby placing the challenges of fluctuating fish supply and changes in ocean productivity on coastal communities. With the global food system under mounting pressure, governments need to understand the relationship between fish supply and food security to avoid overseeing the important role fish and fisheries play in ensuring food security. This study provides an alternative view and measurement of food security at a national level by assessing the impact that macroeconomic variables and climate change have on fish supply in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania as case study countries of the Western Indian Ocean. Vector Error Correction Models were run to analyse the impact of economic growth, fishing effort, lending interest rates, and climate change on marine food security for the period of 1980-2016. Agricultural employment was used as a proxy for fishing effort. In general, the relationship between fish supply and fishing effort is negative in the short run and positive in the long run for Kenyan marine fisheries, South African total capture and marine fisheries, and Tanzanian capture fisheries. These results therefore oppose the theoretical expectations. Sea surface temperature, as a proxy of climate change, was found to have a negative impact overall on fish supply and therefore exerts a negative impact on marine food security in all three countries. The results emphasise the need to use disaggregated fisheries statistics to better understand the complex relationship between macroeconomic variables and fish supply. By doing so, more effective food security policies can be created in attempt to mitigate the potential negative impacts of climate change on marine food security in the Western Indian Ocean.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Taylor, Sarah Frances Wedgwood
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44528 , vital:38140
- Description: The Western Indian Ocean hosts the second largest coastal population on the planet and supports 4 million tons of fish catches annually yielding $943 million in revenues and employment. However, it has been warming at a rate faster than any other region of the tropical oceans over the last century thereby placing the challenges of fluctuating fish supply and changes in ocean productivity on coastal communities. With the global food system under mounting pressure, governments need to understand the relationship between fish supply and food security to avoid overseeing the important role fish and fisheries play in ensuring food security. This study provides an alternative view and measurement of food security at a national level by assessing the impact that macroeconomic variables and climate change have on fish supply in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania as case study countries of the Western Indian Ocean. Vector Error Correction Models were run to analyse the impact of economic growth, fishing effort, lending interest rates, and climate change on marine food security for the period of 1980-2016. Agricultural employment was used as a proxy for fishing effort. In general, the relationship between fish supply and fishing effort is negative in the short run and positive in the long run for Kenyan marine fisheries, South African total capture and marine fisheries, and Tanzanian capture fisheries. These results therefore oppose the theoretical expectations. Sea surface temperature, as a proxy of climate change, was found to have a negative impact overall on fish supply and therefore exerts a negative impact on marine food security in all three countries. The results emphasise the need to use disaggregated fisheries statistics to better understand the complex relationship between macroeconomic variables and fish supply. By doing so, more effective food security policies can be created in attempt to mitigate the potential negative impacts of climate change on marine food security in the Western Indian Ocean.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of performance management and development system at Department of Labour East London
- Authors: Getyeza, Ntomboxolo Alicia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- East London Local officials and employees -- South Africa -- East London South Africa -- Department of Labour
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39741 , vital:35353
- Description: The performance management system was introduced in the South African public service with the intention to continuously manage performance by setting performance objectives, reviewing past performance, assessing current performance, improving poor performance, determining recognition and reward for good performance, and assisting with career planning. This study was undertaken as an attempt to investigate the assessment of the existing implementation processes of performance management systems to determine level of policy compliance and staff satisfaction in the department of Labour East London. This research adopted a descriptive research design where the 75 selected staff of the DOL participated in the research from the total staff component of 744 employees. To achieve this, self administered questionnaires were distributed to employees at different levels as well as union representatives who form part of employees and are members of Local Performance management Review Board to ensure fairness and non discriminatory practices in the process. Research has revealed that although the performance management system has been implemented in the department of Labour, it has not achieved all its expected results. The research findings indicate that although there is an understanding of performance management in the Department, implementation remains a challenge. The analysis of the responses indicated a great dissatisfaction with the current system. It has failed to link performance outcomes to rewards in a meaningful manner; there is not much emphasis placed on personal and career development; and there are no measures put in place by supervisors to address employees who do not achieve the set performance targets. The findings of the study and the conclusions by the researcher is that although certain elements of the PMS within the DOL can be perceived as being effective, however there are issues which still need to be addressed such as to communicate performance outcomes with employees and clearly defining the purpose of the PMS, commitment by supervisors and managers and addressing the staff attitudes and perceptions, as staff attitude and negative perception by employees can have detrimental consequences to the organization and positive perception can improve the organization and commitment of employees towards organizational performance. The findings from this study are consistent with the general proposition that effective performance management systems should be supported by practices and organizational contexts with certain characteristics. Indeed, as reported in this study, the institution needs to provide more performance management training, engage employees and emphasize employee recognition. In this way the performance management system will be effective, deliver more value and meet the desired outcomes. The conclusions by the researcher is that although certain elements of the PMS within the DOL can be perceived as being effective, however there are issues which still need to be addressed such as to communicate with employees on a continuous bases and clearly defining the purpose of the PMS, commitment of managers, supervisors and addressing the staff attitudes and perceptions, as staff attitude and negative perception by employees can have detrimental consequences to the department and positive perception can improve the organization and commitment of employees towards organizational performance. It is concluded that there is an urgent need for DOL to address the challenges experienced with the system, as at the moment, it is not meeting the objectives it was intended to meet.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Getyeza, Ntomboxolo Alicia
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- East London Local officials and employees -- South Africa -- East London South Africa -- Department of Labour
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39741 , vital:35353
- Description: The performance management system was introduced in the South African public service with the intention to continuously manage performance by setting performance objectives, reviewing past performance, assessing current performance, improving poor performance, determining recognition and reward for good performance, and assisting with career planning. This study was undertaken as an attempt to investigate the assessment of the existing implementation processes of performance management systems to determine level of policy compliance and staff satisfaction in the department of Labour East London. This research adopted a descriptive research design where the 75 selected staff of the DOL participated in the research from the total staff component of 744 employees. To achieve this, self administered questionnaires were distributed to employees at different levels as well as union representatives who form part of employees and are members of Local Performance management Review Board to ensure fairness and non discriminatory practices in the process. Research has revealed that although the performance management system has been implemented in the department of Labour, it has not achieved all its expected results. The research findings indicate that although there is an understanding of performance management in the Department, implementation remains a challenge. The analysis of the responses indicated a great dissatisfaction with the current system. It has failed to link performance outcomes to rewards in a meaningful manner; there is not much emphasis placed on personal and career development; and there are no measures put in place by supervisors to address employees who do not achieve the set performance targets. The findings of the study and the conclusions by the researcher is that although certain elements of the PMS within the DOL can be perceived as being effective, however there are issues which still need to be addressed such as to communicate performance outcomes with employees and clearly defining the purpose of the PMS, commitment by supervisors and managers and addressing the staff attitudes and perceptions, as staff attitude and negative perception by employees can have detrimental consequences to the organization and positive perception can improve the organization and commitment of employees towards organizational performance. The findings from this study are consistent with the general proposition that effective performance management systems should be supported by practices and organizational contexts with certain characteristics. Indeed, as reported in this study, the institution needs to provide more performance management training, engage employees and emphasize employee recognition. In this way the performance management system will be effective, deliver more value and meet the desired outcomes. The conclusions by the researcher is that although certain elements of the PMS within the DOL can be perceived as being effective, however there are issues which still need to be addressed such as to communicate with employees on a continuous bases and clearly defining the purpose of the PMS, commitment of managers, supervisors and addressing the staff attitudes and perceptions, as staff attitude and negative perception by employees can have detrimental consequences to the department and positive perception can improve the organization and commitment of employees towards organizational performance. It is concluded that there is an urgent need for DOL to address the challenges experienced with the system, as at the moment, it is not meeting the objectives it was intended to meet.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of records management practices in support of service delivery (in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa): the case of Engcobo local municipality
- Authors: Mfula, Vuyelwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Records -- Management Filing systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16331 , vital:40710
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess records management practices in support of service delivery in Engcobo Local Municipality. This study sought to determine the type of records received, created and maintained by Engcobo Local Municipality, how records are processed for use in Engcobo Local Municipality, to what extend does the Records Management Practices in Engcobo Local Municipality comply with the legal and Regulatory requirements, and lastly what are the challenges faced by Engcobo Local Municipality and lastly to find out the impact of records management on service delivery The population of the study was 168 municipality workers and the sample of the study was 50 selected municipality workers who was representative of the whole population. This study employed a triangulated approach whereby the qualitative and the quantitative approaches were used. 35 survey questionnaires were distributed to the respondents and only 30 (thirty) were retained back for data analysis process and 15 indepth interviews were administered with the participants. The study employed purposive sampling in selecting the sample for the study based on the knowledge of the population. The study employed thematic analysis in analyzing the qualitative data. Thematic analysis allowed the researcher to discuss the common themes from the thick descriptions obtained from the municipality workers. Quantitative data from the semi structured questionnaires administered were analyzed using statistical methods 6 | P a g e (SPSS). The presentation of the findings was in the form of tables, graphs and piechats. The results revealed the Municipality does not have enough space for their records, due to continuous increase in technology, there is need for the municipality to upgrade its infrastructure to suit the standards of 21st century, shortages of skills within the municipality staff pose a big challenge to the development in the municipality and the system is bureaucratic in nature, long channels of communication. The study recommends that research should be extended to other Municipalities in the Eastern Cape to ensure that the management of records is harmonized to enhance service delivery, accountability and transparency in the Municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mfula, Vuyelwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Records -- Management Filing systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16331 , vital:40710
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess records management practices in support of service delivery in Engcobo Local Municipality. This study sought to determine the type of records received, created and maintained by Engcobo Local Municipality, how records are processed for use in Engcobo Local Municipality, to what extend does the Records Management Practices in Engcobo Local Municipality comply with the legal and Regulatory requirements, and lastly what are the challenges faced by Engcobo Local Municipality and lastly to find out the impact of records management on service delivery The population of the study was 168 municipality workers and the sample of the study was 50 selected municipality workers who was representative of the whole population. This study employed a triangulated approach whereby the qualitative and the quantitative approaches were used. 35 survey questionnaires were distributed to the respondents and only 30 (thirty) were retained back for data analysis process and 15 indepth interviews were administered with the participants. The study employed purposive sampling in selecting the sample for the study based on the knowledge of the population. The study employed thematic analysis in analyzing the qualitative data. Thematic analysis allowed the researcher to discuss the common themes from the thick descriptions obtained from the municipality workers. Quantitative data from the semi structured questionnaires administered were analyzed using statistical methods 6 | P a g e (SPSS). The presentation of the findings was in the form of tables, graphs and piechats. The results revealed the Municipality does not have enough space for their records, due to continuous increase in technology, there is need for the municipality to upgrade its infrastructure to suit the standards of 21st century, shortages of skills within the municipality staff pose a big challenge to the development in the municipality and the system is bureaucratic in nature, long channels of communication. The study recommends that research should be extended to other Municipalities in the Eastern Cape to ensure that the management of records is harmonized to enhance service delivery, accountability and transparency in the Municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of school food and nutrition environments for strengthening the integrated school health policy in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Okeyo, Alice Phelgona
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Nutrition policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School health services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17039 , vital:40836
- Description: The 2012 Integrated School Health Policy (ISHP) offers a framework for adequate school food environment. It aims to contribute to the improvement of the general health of school-going children and to address health barriers to learning in order to improve education outcomes. This study assessed the school food and nutrition environment and critically appraised the position of nutrition within ISHP in order to make recommendations for best practice and promotion of healthy-eating in quintiles 1 – 3 secondary school learners of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Areas evaluated included the school food environment (National School Food Nutrition Programme, NSNP, tuck-shop, vendor, lunch box, and school vegetable garden); eating practice; nutrition knowledge; and nutrition status. A quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional design was applied in data collection. Data was collected from 1,357 learners at 18 secondary schools in three districts: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Chris Hani and OR Tambo, using semi-structured questionnaires. Five major food items provided in the school food and nutrition environment included: beans, pap, sour-milk, rice, and samp (maize) (NSNP); chips, sandwich, pap, biscuits, and cake (tuck-shop); chips, sandwich, pap, cake, and pop-corn (vendor); and samp (maize), noodles, fat-cake, chips, and Russian/Viennas (lunch boxes). Only three of the 16 schools had school vegetable gardens which produced vegetables and no fruits. Five most frequently eaten foods for breakfast were porridge, rusks, stiff-pap, bread-with-spread, eggs, and polony. Learners from quintile 3 (60.8percent) significantly ate more cooked porridge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (51.9percent) (p = 0.015). Leaners from quintile 3 (59.4percent) significantly ate more brown bread-with-spread than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (50.4) (p = 0.022). The majority of learners (72.7percent) ate breakfast; more male learners (24.4percent) than female learners (29.1percent) skipped breakfast. The majority (62.2percent) of learners had poor nutritional knowledge; significantly, more male (35percent) than female (27percent) learners had poor nutritional knowledge (p = 0.003). Nutritional knowledge increased with age; significantly more grade 8 learners had poor (42.6percent) nutritional knowledge than grade 12 learners (14.1percent) (p < 0.001). Leaners from quintile 3 had good (23.5percent) nutritional knowledge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (15.7percent) (p < 0.001). School lessons, books and television were the most important source for nutritional information to learners. The most significant source was lessons (72.0percent; p < 0.001); followed by television (69.4percent; p < 0.001) and books (67.8percent; p = 0.014), in that ranking order. The majority of learners (64percent) had normal body weight. The prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity was 13.0percent, 15.0percent and 8.0percent, respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in females than males (21.3percent vs 5.3percent; overweight; p < 0.001)) and (11.6percent vs 1.2percent; obesity; p < 0.001), respectively; while the prevalence in terms of underweight was significantly higher in male (21.3percent) learners than in female learners (8.1percent); p < 0.001. The study indicated that the school food environment was not supported by ISHP. The Integrated School Health Policy did not include on-site package for nutritional assessment, thus, there is need to offer nutritional interventions in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Okeyo, Alice Phelgona
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Nutrition policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School health services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17039 , vital:40836
- Description: The 2012 Integrated School Health Policy (ISHP) offers a framework for adequate school food environment. It aims to contribute to the improvement of the general health of school-going children and to address health barriers to learning in order to improve education outcomes. This study assessed the school food and nutrition environment and critically appraised the position of nutrition within ISHP in order to make recommendations for best practice and promotion of healthy-eating in quintiles 1 – 3 secondary school learners of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Areas evaluated included the school food environment (National School Food Nutrition Programme, NSNP, tuck-shop, vendor, lunch box, and school vegetable garden); eating practice; nutrition knowledge; and nutrition status. A quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional design was applied in data collection. Data was collected from 1,357 learners at 18 secondary schools in three districts: Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Chris Hani and OR Tambo, using semi-structured questionnaires. Five major food items provided in the school food and nutrition environment included: beans, pap, sour-milk, rice, and samp (maize) (NSNP); chips, sandwich, pap, biscuits, and cake (tuck-shop); chips, sandwich, pap, cake, and pop-corn (vendor); and samp (maize), noodles, fat-cake, chips, and Russian/Viennas (lunch boxes). Only three of the 16 schools had school vegetable gardens which produced vegetables and no fruits. Five most frequently eaten foods for breakfast were porridge, rusks, stiff-pap, bread-with-spread, eggs, and polony. Learners from quintile 3 (60.8percent) significantly ate more cooked porridge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (51.9percent) (p = 0.015). Leaners from quintile 3 (59.4percent) significantly ate more brown bread-with-spread than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (50.4) (p = 0.022). The majority of learners (72.7percent) ate breakfast; more male learners (24.4percent) than female learners (29.1percent) skipped breakfast. The majority (62.2percent) of learners had poor nutritional knowledge; significantly, more male (35percent) than female (27percent) learners had poor nutritional knowledge (p = 0.003). Nutritional knowledge increased with age; significantly more grade 8 learners had poor (42.6percent) nutritional knowledge than grade 12 learners (14.1percent) (p < 0.001). Leaners from quintile 3 had good (23.5percent) nutritional knowledge than learners from quintiles 1 and 2 (15.7percent) (p < 0.001). School lessons, books and television were the most important source for nutritional information to learners. The most significant source was lessons (72.0percent; p < 0.001); followed by television (69.4percent; p < 0.001) and books (67.8percent; p = 0.014), in that ranking order. The majority of learners (64percent) had normal body weight. The prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity was 13.0percent, 15.0percent and 8.0percent, respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher in females than males (21.3percent vs 5.3percent; overweight; p < 0.001)) and (11.6percent vs 1.2percent; obesity; p < 0.001), respectively; while the prevalence in terms of underweight was significantly higher in male (21.3percent) learners than in female learners (8.1percent); p < 0.001. The study indicated that the school food environment was not supported by ISHP. The Integrated School Health Policy did not include on-site package for nutritional assessment, thus, there is need to offer nutritional interventions in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of some community development projects and their challenges as they affect rural women socio-economic empowerment: The case of Amahlathi Local Municipality, South Africa
- Authors: Odularu, Olufunmilayo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women in development Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16996 , vital:40808
- Description: The study aimed at ascertaining the effect of socio-economic empowerment as a poverty alleviation tool for rural women in Amahlathi Local Municipality. A further aspect of the study was to explore how (CDPs) have made lives better for the rural female beneficiaries of Amahlathi Local Municipality (ALM) to determine how the current community development projects (CDPs) are meeting the objectives of alleviating poverty; and to present appropriate framework to achieve the objectives of economic empowerment and poverty alleviation through sustainable livelihoods, community development/asset-based community development/approach towards the rural women of ALM. The study sought to examine the interaction between aspects of the involvements of women from rural areas with respect to CDPs. The study was carried out in the form of a small-scale case study. The data-collection research techniques comprised a selfadministered questionnaire with participants of selected CDPs; in-depth semi-structured interviews with the development stakeholders; and the analysis of key documents that the groups were willing to share with the researcher. The analysis involved both quantitative and qualitative. Conceptual frameworks were drawn from Sustainable Livelihood and Community Development theories. The study also examined the inter-relationship between women empowerment and economic development. Findings of the study revealed that the participation of women in CDPs led to the empowerment and advancement of women in sustainable ways. This was evident from 20 the improvements that the women gave responses to in their lives. Also, the findings showed that the family economic status of rural women beneficiaries on each of the CDPs observed in the study are better than before they join the development projects. Lastly, the findings showed that the various projects are effective and has contributed to the lives of the project beneficiaries. The officials, as well as, the managers supervising the projects also confirmed that the projects have achieved the purposes for its establishment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Odularu, Olufunmilayo
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women in development Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Development Studies)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16996 , vital:40808
- Description: The study aimed at ascertaining the effect of socio-economic empowerment as a poverty alleviation tool for rural women in Amahlathi Local Municipality. A further aspect of the study was to explore how (CDPs) have made lives better for the rural female beneficiaries of Amahlathi Local Municipality (ALM) to determine how the current community development projects (CDPs) are meeting the objectives of alleviating poverty; and to present appropriate framework to achieve the objectives of economic empowerment and poverty alleviation through sustainable livelihoods, community development/asset-based community development/approach towards the rural women of ALM. The study sought to examine the interaction between aspects of the involvements of women from rural areas with respect to CDPs. The study was carried out in the form of a small-scale case study. The data-collection research techniques comprised a selfadministered questionnaire with participants of selected CDPs; in-depth semi-structured interviews with the development stakeholders; and the analysis of key documents that the groups were willing to share with the researcher. The analysis involved both quantitative and qualitative. Conceptual frameworks were drawn from Sustainable Livelihood and Community Development theories. The study also examined the inter-relationship between women empowerment and economic development. Findings of the study revealed that the participation of women in CDPs led to the empowerment and advancement of women in sustainable ways. This was evident from 20 the improvements that the women gave responses to in their lives. Also, the findings showed that the family economic status of rural women beneficiaries on each of the CDPs observed in the study are better than before they join the development projects. Lastly, the findings showed that the various projects are effective and has contributed to the lives of the project beneficiaries. The officials, as well as, the managers supervising the projects also confirmed that the projects have achieved the purposes for its establishment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An Assessment of Teaching and Learning Strategy in Eastern Selected School, Butterworth District
- Mantanga- Mgoduka, Ntombomzi Beauty
- Authors: Mantanga- Mgoduka, Ntombomzi Beauty
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape High school teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12447 , vital:39264
- Description: This is a study that was conducted at Nomaheya Senior Secondary School in the Butterworth in East of the Eastern Cape Province. The main purpose of this study was to assesses teaching and learning strategies in improving Grade 12 results. Teaching and Learning Strategies are defined as activities and methods used to move the learner towards achievement of the learning outcome. Crawford, Alan; 2005:16 views teaching and learning strategy, as an effective instruction, as an interactive process - students learn best when they are engaged, not only with their teacher, but also with one another. The researcher will provide the background and motivation of the study. The problem statement, research questions, research objectives, significance of the study, delimitations of the study, literature review, research methodology, and the conclusion of the study. Poor performance that is displayed by Grade 12 learners in the Eastern Cape has been a trend for the past three years. Well known contributory factor for poor performance is poverty, unemployment, high levels of illiteracy, low levels of management and leadership in schools, constant shortage of teachers with specific reference to critical subjects, learner teacher support material (LTSM) that is not delivered on time school safety, infrastructure, discipline amongst learners, absenteeism of learners, SMT with no well-defined roles, Annual Teaching plans, circulars are available but are not implemented. In other words, lack of support by the stakeholders, management and leadership in schools. This was observed by Solo, 1997: 37 who argues that, the atmosphere at home helps to foster or break school functionality, effects of parental interest in learner academic achievement. The background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, questions and also the objectives of research were fully discussed in chapter one. In chapter two, a research on recent publications in the subject was done. Keywords were: outcomebased education, educator, change, assessment and evaluation. The literature study was done to attain objectives in chapter one and also to provide the theoretical background to evaluate the findings in chapter four. vii Chapter three dealt presents the research methodology, research design, area of study, population, sampling method, purposive sampling method, research sample, data collection procedures, data collection instruments, interviews, observations, ethical considerations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mantanga- Mgoduka, Ntombomzi Beauty
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape High school teaching -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12447 , vital:39264
- Description: This is a study that was conducted at Nomaheya Senior Secondary School in the Butterworth in East of the Eastern Cape Province. The main purpose of this study was to assesses teaching and learning strategies in improving Grade 12 results. Teaching and Learning Strategies are defined as activities and methods used to move the learner towards achievement of the learning outcome. Crawford, Alan; 2005:16 views teaching and learning strategy, as an effective instruction, as an interactive process - students learn best when they are engaged, not only with their teacher, but also with one another. The researcher will provide the background and motivation of the study. The problem statement, research questions, research objectives, significance of the study, delimitations of the study, literature review, research methodology, and the conclusion of the study. Poor performance that is displayed by Grade 12 learners in the Eastern Cape has been a trend for the past three years. Well known contributory factor for poor performance is poverty, unemployment, high levels of illiteracy, low levels of management and leadership in schools, constant shortage of teachers with specific reference to critical subjects, learner teacher support material (LTSM) that is not delivered on time school safety, infrastructure, discipline amongst learners, absenteeism of learners, SMT with no well-defined roles, Annual Teaching plans, circulars are available but are not implemented. In other words, lack of support by the stakeholders, management and leadership in schools. This was observed by Solo, 1997: 37 who argues that, the atmosphere at home helps to foster or break school functionality, effects of parental interest in learner academic achievement. The background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, questions and also the objectives of research were fully discussed in chapter one. In chapter two, a research on recent publications in the subject was done. Keywords were: outcomebased education, educator, change, assessment and evaluation. The literature study was done to attain objectives in chapter one and also to provide the theoretical background to evaluate the findings in chapter four. vii Chapter three dealt presents the research methodology, research design, area of study, population, sampling method, purposive sampling method, research sample, data collection procedures, data collection instruments, interviews, observations, ethical considerations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of teaching and learning strategy in improving grade 12 results in Eastern Cape selected school Butterworth District
- Authors: Mantanga-Mgoduka, N B
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Educational tests and measurements Effective teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18554 , vital:42608
- Description: This is a study that was conducted at Nomaheya Senior Secondary School in the Butterworth in East of the Eastern Cape Province. The main purpose of this study was to assesses teaching and learning strategies in improving Grade 12 results. Teaching and Learning Strategies are defined as activities and methods used to move the learner towards achievement of the learning outcome. Crawford, Alan; 2005:16 views teaching and learning strategy, as an effective instruction, as an interactive process - students learn best when they are engaged, not only with their teacher, but also with one another. The researcher will provide the background and motivation of the study. The problem statement, research questions, research objectives, significance of the study, delimitations of the study, literature review, research methodology, and the conclusion of the study. Poor performance that is displayed by Grade 12 learners in the Eastern Cape has been a trend for the past three years. Well known contributory factor for poor performance is poverty, unemployment, high levels of illiteracy, low levels of management and leadership in schools, constant shortage of teachers with specific reference to critical subjects, learner teacher support material (LTSM) that is not delivered on time school safety, infrastructure, discipline amongst learners, absenteeism of learners, SMT with no well-defined roles, Annual Teaching plans, circulars are available but are not implemented. In other words, lack of support by the stakeholders, management and leadership in schools. This was observed by Solo, 1997: 37 who argues that, the atmosphere at home helps to foster or break school functionality, effects of parental interest in learner academic achievement. The background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, questions and also the objectives of research were fully discussed in chapter one. In chapter two, a research on recent publications in the subject was done. Keywords were: outcome-based education, educator, change, assessment and evaluation. The literature study was done to attain objectives in chapter one and also to provide the theoretical background to evaluate the findings in chapter four. Chapter three dealt presents the research methodology, research design, area of study, population, sampling method, purposive sampling method, research sample, data collection procedures, data collection instruments, interviews, observations, ethical considerations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mantanga-Mgoduka, N B
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Educational tests and measurements Effective teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/18554 , vital:42608
- Description: This is a study that was conducted at Nomaheya Senior Secondary School in the Butterworth in East of the Eastern Cape Province. The main purpose of this study was to assesses teaching and learning strategies in improving Grade 12 results. Teaching and Learning Strategies are defined as activities and methods used to move the learner towards achievement of the learning outcome. Crawford, Alan; 2005:16 views teaching and learning strategy, as an effective instruction, as an interactive process - students learn best when they are engaged, not only with their teacher, but also with one another. The researcher will provide the background and motivation of the study. The problem statement, research questions, research objectives, significance of the study, delimitations of the study, literature review, research methodology, and the conclusion of the study. Poor performance that is displayed by Grade 12 learners in the Eastern Cape has been a trend for the past three years. Well known contributory factor for poor performance is poverty, unemployment, high levels of illiteracy, low levels of management and leadership in schools, constant shortage of teachers with specific reference to critical subjects, learner teacher support material (LTSM) that is not delivered on time school safety, infrastructure, discipline amongst learners, absenteeism of learners, SMT with no well-defined roles, Annual Teaching plans, circulars are available but are not implemented. In other words, lack of support by the stakeholders, management and leadership in schools. This was observed by Solo, 1997: 37 who argues that, the atmosphere at home helps to foster or break school functionality, effects of parental interest in learner academic achievement. The background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, questions and also the objectives of research were fully discussed in chapter one. In chapter two, a research on recent publications in the subject was done. Keywords were: outcome-based education, educator, change, assessment and evaluation. The literature study was done to attain objectives in chapter one and also to provide the theoretical background to evaluate the findings in chapter four. Chapter three dealt presents the research methodology, research design, area of study, population, sampling method, purposive sampling method, research sample, data collection procedures, data collection instruments, interviews, observations, ethical considerations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the application of the internal dispute resolution in resolving disputes relating to unfair labour practice in the workplace
- Rasivhetshele, Aswindine Modystar
- Authors: Rasivhetshele, Aswindine Modystar
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Labor disputes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43036 , vital:36726
- Description: When grievances do not get resolved in the workplace, they can turn into disputes of unfair labour practices. The use of an internal dispute resolution mechanism, the grievance procedure, is not a new method for resolving disputes of unfair labour practices within the jurisdiction of the workplace. While some organisations benefit from effectively using the internal dispute resolution mechanism, other organisations seem not to yield positive results when applying the very same internal mechanism. This, therefore, raises the question whether the internal grievance procedures effectively used to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices. The main aim of this research study, therefore, is to assess the application of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in order to determine whether the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in Pretoria, Gauteng Province of the Republic of South Africa, is effectively applying the internal dispute resolution mechanism to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices in the workplace. To answer the research questions, a literature study was conducted. A literature study was done to find out what other studies have discovered regarding the internal dispute resolution mechanism and unfair labour practices. Deficiencies found in the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (hereinafter referred to as the LRA), the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; and the intertwine between the application of the common law and labour law further complicate resolutions of disputes of unfair labour practices. As a result, organisations may not be certain which specific law should mainly be taken into account when dealing with labour matters concerning unfair labour practices. As such, the internal dispute resolution mechanism may not be effectively applied in the workplace to minimise or prevent disputes of unfair labour practices from having a negative impact on the organisation. Once an organisation fails to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices inside the workplace, the efficiency of the organisation is compromised. The organisation is at risk of spending more time and possibly more money when disputes of unfair labour practices are referred to external dispute resolution institutions. An empirical research study using a quantitative research method was used to collect data. A structured online questionnaire was used to collect data from research respondents. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain data from the personnel who are tasked with the duties and responsibilities of dealing and managing labour relations in the organisation. Respondents consisted of labour relations and human resources practitioners and labour relations and human resources managers. Data was obtained from 16 out of 23 respondents, which resulted in a 69% response rate. Findings of the study indicated that the internal dispute resolution mechanism of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality was perceived to be ineffective in resolving disputes hence disputes were referred to external dispute institutions. In the process, the organisation incurred costs in terms of time and money. Furthermore, the time it took to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices negatively affected the morale of employees and productivity in the workplace. Although the majority of respondents had the competencies and skills, some individuals felt that the competencies and skills they had were not sufficient to enable them to deal with dispute resolution effectively. As a result, the lack of required competencies and skills affected the process of the dispute resolution of the organisation by causing delays in resolving unfair labour practices in the workplace. The research indicated that there were inconsistencies in the application of procedures regarding resolving disputes relating to unfair labour practices. As such, respondents perceived the grievance procedure as not being effectively used to reduce the number of disputes from escalating to external dispute resolution institutions. Respondents perceived that human resources and labour relations personnel did not apply fairness consistently when dealing with disputes of unfair labour practices. The research study concluded by revealing that the success of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in resolving disputes of unfair labour practices is achieved, and handicapped, by persons who are tasked with the responsibility of dealing and managing labour relations in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Rasivhetshele, Aswindine Modystar
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Labor disputes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43036 , vital:36726
- Description: When grievances do not get resolved in the workplace, they can turn into disputes of unfair labour practices. The use of an internal dispute resolution mechanism, the grievance procedure, is not a new method for resolving disputes of unfair labour practices within the jurisdiction of the workplace. While some organisations benefit from effectively using the internal dispute resolution mechanism, other organisations seem not to yield positive results when applying the very same internal mechanism. This, therefore, raises the question whether the internal grievance procedures effectively used to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices. The main aim of this research study, therefore, is to assess the application of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in order to determine whether the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in Pretoria, Gauteng Province of the Republic of South Africa, is effectively applying the internal dispute resolution mechanism to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices in the workplace. To answer the research questions, a literature study was conducted. A literature study was done to find out what other studies have discovered regarding the internal dispute resolution mechanism and unfair labour practices. Deficiencies found in the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (hereinafter referred to as the LRA), the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; and the intertwine between the application of the common law and labour law further complicate resolutions of disputes of unfair labour practices. As a result, organisations may not be certain which specific law should mainly be taken into account when dealing with labour matters concerning unfair labour practices. As such, the internal dispute resolution mechanism may not be effectively applied in the workplace to minimise or prevent disputes of unfair labour practices from having a negative impact on the organisation. Once an organisation fails to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices inside the workplace, the efficiency of the organisation is compromised. The organisation is at risk of spending more time and possibly more money when disputes of unfair labour practices are referred to external dispute resolution institutions. An empirical research study using a quantitative research method was used to collect data. A structured online questionnaire was used to collect data from research respondents. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain data from the personnel who are tasked with the duties and responsibilities of dealing and managing labour relations in the organisation. Respondents consisted of labour relations and human resources practitioners and labour relations and human resources managers. Data was obtained from 16 out of 23 respondents, which resulted in a 69% response rate. Findings of the study indicated that the internal dispute resolution mechanism of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality was perceived to be ineffective in resolving disputes hence disputes were referred to external dispute institutions. In the process, the organisation incurred costs in terms of time and money. Furthermore, the time it took to resolve disputes of unfair labour practices negatively affected the morale of employees and productivity in the workplace. Although the majority of respondents had the competencies and skills, some individuals felt that the competencies and skills they had were not sufficient to enable them to deal with dispute resolution effectively. As a result, the lack of required competencies and skills affected the process of the dispute resolution of the organisation by causing delays in resolving unfair labour practices in the workplace. The research indicated that there were inconsistencies in the application of procedures regarding resolving disputes relating to unfair labour practices. As such, respondents perceived the grievance procedure as not being effectively used to reduce the number of disputes from escalating to external dispute resolution institutions. Respondents perceived that human resources and labour relations personnel did not apply fairness consistently when dealing with disputes of unfair labour practices. The research study concluded by revealing that the success of the internal dispute resolution mechanism in resolving disputes of unfair labour practices is achieved, and handicapped, by persons who are tasked with the responsibility of dealing and managing labour relations in the workplace.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An Assessment of the Environmental Impacts of Urban Sprawl in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Matiza, Collins
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cities and towns -- Growth -- Environmental aspects City planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17260 , vital:40870
- Description: Large industrial and residential developments near towns and along highways associated with public policies have transformed the pattern of development over the recent years, creating a new urbanisation phenomenon; urban sprawl. Indiscriminate population densities, discontinuous and fragmented settlements, largely define urban sprawl. The progression of urban sprawl can be described by transformation in pattern over time, like proportional increase in built-up surface to population leading to rapid urban spatial expansion. Stemming an understanding from the processes, causes and patterns of urban sprawl, the consequences of sprawl on land and vegetation can be analysed. Environmental impacts to both the rural and urban population emanate from such instances, creating an excessive liability to the government. With attention to this and recognising the lack of discussion on the matter, the research deliberates some of the impacts observed in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study makes use of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing with the assistance of landscape metrics. The influence of urban sprawl in this municipality has revealed impacts on vegetation, green areas and land in general. The results disclose that urban sprawl is a multidimensional phenomenon that is better explained using various methods (indices). Buffalo City Metropolitan municipality is located in Eastern Cape amidst the thicket ecosystem, the municipality has grown and expanded over the recent past. The study spread over an 18-year period from 1994- 2012. Based on field surveys and SPOT imagery, built-up areas of BCMM was extracted for different periods. Data used for the study are census data for BCMM, 1994, 2000, 2006 and 2012 SPOT images, images of BCMM acquired from Google earth 2018. The rate of transformation of the area was calculated and it was higher compared to that of population growth. Based on this data urban growth are analysed with the assistance of landscape metrics that include Shannon entropy. The outcomes confirm that this metropolitan municipality has experienced sprawl and sprawl has done so at cumulative rate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Matiza, Collins
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cities and towns -- Growth -- Environmental aspects City planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17260 , vital:40870
- Description: Large industrial and residential developments near towns and along highways associated with public policies have transformed the pattern of development over the recent years, creating a new urbanisation phenomenon; urban sprawl. Indiscriminate population densities, discontinuous and fragmented settlements, largely define urban sprawl. The progression of urban sprawl can be described by transformation in pattern over time, like proportional increase in built-up surface to population leading to rapid urban spatial expansion. Stemming an understanding from the processes, causes and patterns of urban sprawl, the consequences of sprawl on land and vegetation can be analysed. Environmental impacts to both the rural and urban population emanate from such instances, creating an excessive liability to the government. With attention to this and recognising the lack of discussion on the matter, the research deliberates some of the impacts observed in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study makes use of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing with the assistance of landscape metrics. The influence of urban sprawl in this municipality has revealed impacts on vegetation, green areas and land in general. The results disclose that urban sprawl is a multidimensional phenomenon that is better explained using various methods (indices). Buffalo City Metropolitan municipality is located in Eastern Cape amidst the thicket ecosystem, the municipality has grown and expanded over the recent past. The study spread over an 18-year period from 1994- 2012. Based on field surveys and SPOT imagery, built-up areas of BCMM was extracted for different periods. Data used for the study are census data for BCMM, 1994, 2000, 2006 and 2012 SPOT images, images of BCMM acquired from Google earth 2018. The rate of transformation of the area was calculated and it was higher compared to that of population growth. Based on this data urban growth are analysed with the assistance of landscape metrics that include Shannon entropy. The outcomes confirm that this metropolitan municipality has experienced sprawl and sprawl has done so at cumulative rate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the expanded public works programme in Eldorado Park
- Authors: Lewis, Elaine Elizabeth
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public works -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Job creation -- South Africa -- Gauteng South Africa Department of Public Works Community development -- South Africa -- Gauteng Gauteng (South Africa)--Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40566 , vital:36183
- Description: South Africa is faced with the realities of a high unemployment and poverty rate. This remains a challenge in the country because it continues to impact the lives of many living in previously disadvantaged communities that have limited access to quality education, lack of skills and limited to no access to income opportunities. The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a government steered programme that is targeted at unemployed individuals. The government has adopted this programme in an effort to address the challenge of unemployment in marginalized communities. The EPWP is a nationwide initiative with the objective of reducing unemployment by ensuring that the unskilled gain skills so that they are able to access the labour market and consequently earn an income. The five year report on the programme states that the EPWP was set to create 1 million temporary jobs for unemployed South Africans of which 40% are females, 30% youth and 2% people with disabilities. The programme mitigates some of the social exclusions within society and contributes to the alleviation of poverty through the creation of short term to medium term employment for the unskilled and unemployed (EPWP five-year report 2004/5 – 2008/9). The report identified four sectors that are critical and have the potential to create employment within the context of the EPWP. These sectors are the: Infrastructure sector; which focuses on increasing labour intensity for government funded infrastructure projects, Environment sector; which relates to public environmental improvement programmes, Social sector; which relates to public social programmes such as community based care programmes and non-state sector; which provides and creates work opportunities through collaboration with non-state organisations, as well as strengthening community participation through small enterprise leadership and incubation programmes (SA Department of public works, 2004/ 2008). The EPWP has empowered the beneficiaries/ EPWPs to gain skills, work experience and receive a monthly income in the form of a stipend. One of the main goals of the EPWP is to help these individuals to become self-sustained and to reduce the level of dependence on government social grants. The researcher noticed that there are some challenges such as the limited inclusion of disabled individuals in the community that remains a challenge. The aim of this research was to assess the contributions that were made by the EPWP towards alleviating the challenges of unemployment, lack of skills and substance abuse. These challenges continue to affect the previously disadvantaged community of Eldorado Park to date. Samples were collected at three NGOs and the municipal offices from the beneficiaries. The data was collected through the distribution of a questionnaire. The study was an attempt to evaluate the performance of EPWP, the impact on the lives of the beneficiaries and identify areas of improvement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Lewis, Elaine Elizabeth
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Public works -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Job creation -- South Africa -- Gauteng South Africa Department of Public Works Community development -- South Africa -- Gauteng Gauteng (South Africa)--Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40566 , vital:36183
- Description: South Africa is faced with the realities of a high unemployment and poverty rate. This remains a challenge in the country because it continues to impact the lives of many living in previously disadvantaged communities that have limited access to quality education, lack of skills and limited to no access to income opportunities. The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a government steered programme that is targeted at unemployed individuals. The government has adopted this programme in an effort to address the challenge of unemployment in marginalized communities. The EPWP is a nationwide initiative with the objective of reducing unemployment by ensuring that the unskilled gain skills so that they are able to access the labour market and consequently earn an income. The five year report on the programme states that the EPWP was set to create 1 million temporary jobs for unemployed South Africans of which 40% are females, 30% youth and 2% people with disabilities. The programme mitigates some of the social exclusions within society and contributes to the alleviation of poverty through the creation of short term to medium term employment for the unskilled and unemployed (EPWP five-year report 2004/5 – 2008/9). The report identified four sectors that are critical and have the potential to create employment within the context of the EPWP. These sectors are the: Infrastructure sector; which focuses on increasing labour intensity for government funded infrastructure projects, Environment sector; which relates to public environmental improvement programmes, Social sector; which relates to public social programmes such as community based care programmes and non-state sector; which provides and creates work opportunities through collaboration with non-state organisations, as well as strengthening community participation through small enterprise leadership and incubation programmes (SA Department of public works, 2004/ 2008). The EPWP has empowered the beneficiaries/ EPWPs to gain skills, work experience and receive a monthly income in the form of a stipend. One of the main goals of the EPWP is to help these individuals to become self-sustained and to reduce the level of dependence on government social grants. The researcher noticed that there are some challenges such as the limited inclusion of disabled individuals in the community that remains a challenge. The aim of this research was to assess the contributions that were made by the EPWP towards alleviating the challenges of unemployment, lack of skills and substance abuse. These challenges continue to affect the previously disadvantaged community of Eldorado Park to date. Samples were collected at three NGOs and the municipal offices from the beneficiaries. The data was collected through the distribution of a questionnaire. The study was an attempt to evaluate the performance of EPWP, the impact on the lives of the beneficiaries and identify areas of improvement.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An Assessment of the Human Resource in Recruitment and Selection Processes at King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality
- Authors: Nkosiyane, Thembakazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting -- South Africa Employee selection Human capital|
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12480 , vital:39267
- Description: The aim of the study was to carry out an assessment of the recruiting and selection processes at KSD Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. The study, also aimed to give recommendations on how organisations can improve their human resource recruitment and selection processes in order to employ and retain quality or highly talented and committed employees, and to offer good service delivery to the people. The recruitment and selection practices at KSD Local Municipality seem to be degenerating. Lack of transparent procedures in the hiring of workers can result in the municipality experiencing a decline in performance and an increase in service delivery protests. Cases of nepotism and corruption in the hiring process has negatively affected the operations of the municipality The study used the quantitative research methods for data collection and analysis. Thus, the questionnaire was used to collect data and the probability sampling method was used to get the respondents. The stratified sampling method was employed in selecting respondents. This study concluded that the hiring procedures at KSD Local Municipality were not good. Good hiring processes improve employee engagement, retain quality workers, reduce employee turnover and service delivery protests, and save time and money. Poor recruitment and selection procedures increase employee turnover, lower employee morale and level of performance, reduce employee confidence in the management and may result in extra costs being incurred. Recommendations have been prepared on how organisations can employ good recruitment and selection practices that promote the employment and retention of quality employees. The municipality should design and implement good and up-to date hiring procedures which are devoid of corruption and nepotism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nkosiyane, Thembakazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting -- South Africa Employee selection Human capital|
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12480 , vital:39267
- Description: The aim of the study was to carry out an assessment of the recruiting and selection processes at KSD Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. The study, also aimed to give recommendations on how organisations can improve their human resource recruitment and selection processes in order to employ and retain quality or highly talented and committed employees, and to offer good service delivery to the people. The recruitment and selection practices at KSD Local Municipality seem to be degenerating. Lack of transparent procedures in the hiring of workers can result in the municipality experiencing a decline in performance and an increase in service delivery protests. Cases of nepotism and corruption in the hiring process has negatively affected the operations of the municipality The study used the quantitative research methods for data collection and analysis. Thus, the questionnaire was used to collect data and the probability sampling method was used to get the respondents. The stratified sampling method was employed in selecting respondents. This study concluded that the hiring procedures at KSD Local Municipality were not good. Good hiring processes improve employee engagement, retain quality workers, reduce employee turnover and service delivery protests, and save time and money. Poor recruitment and selection procedures increase employee turnover, lower employee morale and level of performance, reduce employee confidence in the management and may result in extra costs being incurred. Recommendations have been prepared on how organisations can employ good recruitment and selection practices that promote the employment and retention of quality employees. The municipality should design and implement good and up-to date hiring procedures which are devoid of corruption and nepotism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the hydrologic response of the Keiskamma catchment to land use/cover changes
- Authors: Sive, Mlamla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Hydrological response
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44732 , vital:38165
- Description: The Keiskamma catchment has undergone significant land use/cover changes (LUCC) underpinned by land use policy reforms and climate change. However, the hydrological responses of the catchment to LUCC are not fully understood. This study sought to assess the hydrological response of the Keiskamma catchment to LUCC at catchment and hillslope scale using remote sensing, GIS, hydrological modelling and field experiments. Catchment scale assessments first involved LUCC mapping in IDRISI TerrSet software, using supervised image classification for two sets of multispectral imagery; namely Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) of 1994 and Landsat 08 Operational Land Imager (OLI) of 2016. The LUCC maps provided an indication of LUCC over time and were prerequisite land use inputs for modelling the hydrologic response of the catchment. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) hydrologic model was used to model the hydrologic response of the catchment to LUCC. The Sequential Uncertainty Fitting (SUFI-2) in SWAT-CUP was used to assess model performance and uncertainty analysis. The influence of rainfall on the hydrologic response of the catchment was also assessed using linear regression. One of the prominent forms of LUCC in the Keiskamma catchment, particularly central Keiskamma is P. incana shrub encroachment. Field experiments were set up to investigate the hydrologic impacts of P. incana shrub invasion at hillslope scale, as well as to validate the results obtained by the SWAT hydrologic model. Field experiments included an assessment of the Landscape Organisation Index (LOI) of the invasion, as well as assessing of surface conditions, surface runoff (L), volumetric soil water content (cm³/cm³) and sediment loss (grams) under P. incana, grass and bare-eroded areas. High image classification accuracy assessment values of 87.2 % and 87.4 % for 1994 and 2016 respectively were obtained, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.84 for both sets of imagery. Results of the study revealed a significant increase in woody vegetation encroachment, specifically shrub invasion, forest expansion in the upper parts of the catchment, as well as an increase in exotic and invasive vegetation species within the riparian zone. The SWAT model showed a good (NSE=0.69, R²=0.69 and RSR =0.56) and unsatisfactory (NSE=0.4, R²=0.4 and RSR 0.79) model performance for calibration and validation respectively. However, for both the calibration (p-factor =0.77; r-factor 1.03) and validation (p-factor =0.92; r-factor 1.38) periods there was acceptable uncertainty as indicated by the p- and r-factor statistics. The mean annual streamflow (-71.4 %), surface runoff (-98.8 %), soil water content (-4.5 %), evapotranspiration (-5.3 %), groundwater (-79.5 %) and sediment loss (-99.9 %) decreased from 1994 to 2016. The impoundments in the catchment viz Cata, Mnyameni, Binfield, Sandile, Debe and Dimbaza dams, also contributed significantly to the streamflow reduction. A strong correlation (r= 0.61) between the declining streamflow (m3/s) and rainfall (mm) was observed. At hillslope scale, P. incana invasion was characterised by a low LOI, owing to large inter-shrub bare patches and poor soil surface conditions characterised by soil surface crusting, conducive to high runoff generation and connectivity. High surface runoff and soil losses were evident under P. incana and bare-eroded areas. Volumetric soil water content was high under grass and P. incana tussocks, intermediate in P. incana inter-patches and low in bare-eroded areas. The findings and analysis of this study conclude that the hydrologic response of the Keiskamma catchment was influenced significantly by LUCC in the form of extensive invader shrub encroachment, expansion of forestry using exotic tree species, impoundments, as well as the infestation of riparian zones by invasive vegetation. Management of woody shrub encroachment and alien invasive plants as well as indigenous forest species utilisation should be considered as amongst the key efforts towards restoring the ecohydrological integrity of the Keiskamma catchment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sive, Mlamla
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Hydrological response
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44732 , vital:38165
- Description: The Keiskamma catchment has undergone significant land use/cover changes (LUCC) underpinned by land use policy reforms and climate change. However, the hydrological responses of the catchment to LUCC are not fully understood. This study sought to assess the hydrological response of the Keiskamma catchment to LUCC at catchment and hillslope scale using remote sensing, GIS, hydrological modelling and field experiments. Catchment scale assessments first involved LUCC mapping in IDRISI TerrSet software, using supervised image classification for two sets of multispectral imagery; namely Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) of 1994 and Landsat 08 Operational Land Imager (OLI) of 2016. The LUCC maps provided an indication of LUCC over time and were prerequisite land use inputs for modelling the hydrologic response of the catchment. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) hydrologic model was used to model the hydrologic response of the catchment to LUCC. The Sequential Uncertainty Fitting (SUFI-2) in SWAT-CUP was used to assess model performance and uncertainty analysis. The influence of rainfall on the hydrologic response of the catchment was also assessed using linear regression. One of the prominent forms of LUCC in the Keiskamma catchment, particularly central Keiskamma is P. incana shrub encroachment. Field experiments were set up to investigate the hydrologic impacts of P. incana shrub invasion at hillslope scale, as well as to validate the results obtained by the SWAT hydrologic model. Field experiments included an assessment of the Landscape Organisation Index (LOI) of the invasion, as well as assessing of surface conditions, surface runoff (L), volumetric soil water content (cm³/cm³) and sediment loss (grams) under P. incana, grass and bare-eroded areas. High image classification accuracy assessment values of 87.2 % and 87.4 % for 1994 and 2016 respectively were obtained, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.84 for both sets of imagery. Results of the study revealed a significant increase in woody vegetation encroachment, specifically shrub invasion, forest expansion in the upper parts of the catchment, as well as an increase in exotic and invasive vegetation species within the riparian zone. The SWAT model showed a good (NSE=0.69, R²=0.69 and RSR =0.56) and unsatisfactory (NSE=0.4, R²=0.4 and RSR 0.79) model performance for calibration and validation respectively. However, for both the calibration (p-factor =0.77; r-factor 1.03) and validation (p-factor =0.92; r-factor 1.38) periods there was acceptable uncertainty as indicated by the p- and r-factor statistics. The mean annual streamflow (-71.4 %), surface runoff (-98.8 %), soil water content (-4.5 %), evapotranspiration (-5.3 %), groundwater (-79.5 %) and sediment loss (-99.9 %) decreased from 1994 to 2016. The impoundments in the catchment viz Cata, Mnyameni, Binfield, Sandile, Debe and Dimbaza dams, also contributed significantly to the streamflow reduction. A strong correlation (r= 0.61) between the declining streamflow (m3/s) and rainfall (mm) was observed. At hillslope scale, P. incana invasion was characterised by a low LOI, owing to large inter-shrub bare patches and poor soil surface conditions characterised by soil surface crusting, conducive to high runoff generation and connectivity. High surface runoff and soil losses were evident under P. incana and bare-eroded areas. Volumetric soil water content was high under grass and P. incana tussocks, intermediate in P. incana inter-patches and low in bare-eroded areas. The findings and analysis of this study conclude that the hydrologic response of the Keiskamma catchment was influenced significantly by LUCC in the form of extensive invader shrub encroachment, expansion of forestry using exotic tree species, impoundments, as well as the infestation of riparian zones by invasive vegetation. Management of woody shrub encroachment and alien invasive plants as well as indigenous forest species utilisation should be considered as amongst the key efforts towards restoring the ecohydrological integrity of the Keiskamma catchment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the implementation of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 by the Eastern Cape Department of Education: the case of the provincial office in Zwelitsha
- Authors: Sikhotha, Mvumelwano
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employment equity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44743 , vital:38162
- Description: Before 1994, South Africa was under colonialism and apartheid government. The South African work environment was characterised by many cases of injustices, unfair treatment, unfair discrimination in employment, which led to continuous industrial actions. With the advent of democracy in South Africa in the early 1990s, many labour laws were passed to address labour disputesand to make the labour environment governable and conducive for maximum performance.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sikhotha, Mvumelwano
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Employment equity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44743 , vital:38162
- Description: Before 1994, South Africa was under colonialism and apartheid government. The South African work environment was characterised by many cases of injustices, unfair treatment, unfair discrimination in employment, which led to continuous industrial actions. With the advent of democracy in South Africa in the early 1990s, many labour laws were passed to address labour disputesand to make the labour environment governable and conducive for maximum performance.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the implementation of the performance management and development system: the office of the premier in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Douglas, Bukelwa Maureen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Office of the Premier Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Evaluation Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39545 , vital:35289
- Description: The Performance management and development system has been introduced in the South African Public Service with the intention of monitoring, reviewing, assessing performance, developing under performers, recognising and rewarding good performance of the public officials. It is also there to develop the public officials who fail to attain required expectations. This study focuses on investigating whether employees do understand Performance Management and development system for the effectiveness of employee performance in the Eastern Cape Office of the Premier and that this has with the motivation of the public sector in the Eastern Cape, and the correlation that this has with the motivation of the public officials to improve performance. A qualitative research design was used for this study to investigate whether employees do understand effectiveness of PMDS on employees performance. The research design consisted of a case study where seven interview questions were conducted with the first employees from level four to level eight (operational staff), middle managers from level nine to level twelve and senior managers in the Office of the Premier Eastern Cape. Data analysis led to thematic analysis two themes were developed from the objectives of the study. This study has made the following recommendations: The employees in the Office of the Premier should be regularly monitored and evaluated on how to implement performance management and developed system. As a result, the study will give more understanding in aligning with the OTP strategy and drive individual performance, but will also assist all levels of employees within the OTP: EC in understanding the day to day operational activities of performance management. It will also help employee support and talent management professionals in knowing and understanding the best practices to adopt, in managing their individual performance levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Douglas, Bukelwa Maureen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance -- Management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Office of the Premier Eastern Cape (South Africa) -- Evaluation Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39545 , vital:35289
- Description: The Performance management and development system has been introduced in the South African Public Service with the intention of monitoring, reviewing, assessing performance, developing under performers, recognising and rewarding good performance of the public officials. It is also there to develop the public officials who fail to attain required expectations. This study focuses on investigating whether employees do understand Performance Management and development system for the effectiveness of employee performance in the Eastern Cape Office of the Premier and that this has with the motivation of the public sector in the Eastern Cape, and the correlation that this has with the motivation of the public officials to improve performance. A qualitative research design was used for this study to investigate whether employees do understand effectiveness of PMDS on employees performance. The research design consisted of a case study where seven interview questions were conducted with the first employees from level four to level eight (operational staff), middle managers from level nine to level twelve and senior managers in the Office of the Premier Eastern Cape. Data analysis led to thematic analysis two themes were developed from the objectives of the study. This study has made the following recommendations: The employees in the Office of the Premier should be regularly monitored and evaluated on how to implement performance management and developed system. As a result, the study will give more understanding in aligning with the OTP strategy and drive individual performance, but will also assist all levels of employees within the OTP: EC in understanding the day to day operational activities of performance management. It will also help employee support and talent management professionals in knowing and understanding the best practices to adopt, in managing their individual performance levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the performance management and development system with reference to Nkqubela TB Hospital
- Authors: Kune, Anele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44728 , vital:38156
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess the performance management and development system, its implementation, practices, values and its relevance to the performance of the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study explored how the institution implemented a performance management and development system and assessed the extent of policy compliance. An assessment was conducted into how the staff viewed, reacted and behaved with regard to the implementation through secondary data. This study also assessed whether or not the performance management and development system still was a viable tool to assess performance and/or if it was still relevant in attaining the objectives of the organisation. An assessment was also conducted into checking whether or not performance management motivated employees as its main purpose from a theoretical perspective versus current practices in the public sector, however, the focus of the study was the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study also assessed the challenges encountered or experienced during the implementation of the performance management and development system at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. It adopted a qualitative approach and a desktop analysis was conducted. The study also assessed whether or not staff were being or had been trained in order to improve their development and the performance of services at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. As public administration is based on theories, this study also examined performance management from a theoretical perspective in relation to current practices at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. This research study significantly highlighted or discovered that training, communication, feedback and the proper implementation of performance without favouritism were important aspects and that it had to be noted for good governance. The research also revealed that a performance management and development system enabled employees to better understand the relationship and correlation between the strategic goals and objectives of the department, employees’ key performance areas and alignment with the vision of the organisation. Lastly, managers and supervisors should apply the performance management and development system to identify good and poor performance, and act appropriately through development, as well as recognising and rewarding good performance
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kune, Anele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44728 , vital:38156
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess the performance management and development system, its implementation, practices, values and its relevance to the performance of the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study explored how the institution implemented a performance management and development system and assessed the extent of policy compliance. An assessment was conducted into how the staff viewed, reacted and behaved with regard to the implementation through secondary data. This study also assessed whether or not the performance management and development system still was a viable tool to assess performance and/or if it was still relevant in attaining the objectives of the organisation. An assessment was also conducted into checking whether or not performance management motivated employees as its main purpose from a theoretical perspective versus current practices in the public sector, however, the focus of the study was the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study also assessed the challenges encountered or experienced during the implementation of the performance management and development system at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. It adopted a qualitative approach and a desktop analysis was conducted. The study also assessed whether or not staff were being or had been trained in order to improve their development and the performance of services at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. As public administration is based on theories, this study also examined performance management from a theoretical perspective in relation to current practices at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. This research study significantly highlighted or discovered that training, communication, feedback and the proper implementation of performance without favouritism were important aspects and that it had to be noted for good governance. The research also revealed that a performance management and development system enabled employees to better understand the relationship and correlation between the strategic goals and objectives of the department, employees’ key performance areas and alignment with the vision of the organisation. Lastly, managers and supervisors should apply the performance management and development system to identify good and poor performance, and act appropriately through development, as well as recognising and rewarding good performance
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An assessment of the performance management and development system with reference to Nkqubela TB hospital
- Authors: Kune, Anele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance technology , Performance -- Management Performance -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45205 , vital:38332
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess the performance management and development system, its implementation, practices, values and its relevance to the performance of the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study explored how the institution implemented a performance management and development system and assessed the extent of policy compliance. An assessment was conducted into how the staff viewed, reacted and behaved with regard to the implementation through secondary data. This study also assessed whether or not the performance management and development system still was a viable tool to assess performance and/or if it was still relevant in attaining the objectives of the organisation. An assessment was also conducted into checking whether or not performance management motivated employees as its main purpose from a theoretical perspective versus current practices in the public sector, however, the focus of the study was the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study also assessed the challenges encountered or experienced during the implementation of the performance management and development system at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. It adopted a qualitative approach and a desktop analysis was conducted. The study also assessed whether or not staff were being or had been trained in order to improve their development and the performance of services at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. As public administration is based on theories, this study also examined performance management from a theoretical perspective in relation to current practices at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. This research study significantly highlighted or discovered that training, communication, feedback and the proper implementation of performance without favouritism were important aspects and that it had to be noted for good governance. The research also revealed that a performance management and development system enabled employees to better understand the relationship and correlation between the strategic goals and objectives of the department, employees’ key performance areas and alignment with the vision of the organisation. Lastly, managers and supervisors should apply the performance management and development system to identify good and poor performance, and act appropriately through development, as well as recognising and rewarding good performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kune, Anele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Performance technology , Performance -- Management Performance -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45205 , vital:38332
- Description: The aim of this study was to assess the performance management and development system, its implementation, practices, values and its relevance to the performance of the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study explored how the institution implemented a performance management and development system and assessed the extent of policy compliance. An assessment was conducted into how the staff viewed, reacted and behaved with regard to the implementation through secondary data. This study also assessed whether or not the performance management and development system still was a viable tool to assess performance and/or if it was still relevant in attaining the objectives of the organisation. An assessment was also conducted into checking whether or not performance management motivated employees as its main purpose from a theoretical perspective versus current practices in the public sector, however, the focus of the study was the Nkqubela TB Hospital. The study also assessed the challenges encountered or experienced during the implementation of the performance management and development system at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. It adopted a qualitative approach and a desktop analysis was conducted. The study also assessed whether or not staff were being or had been trained in order to improve their development and the performance of services at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. As public administration is based on theories, this study also examined performance management from a theoretical perspective in relation to current practices at the Nkqubela TB Hospital. This research study significantly highlighted or discovered that training, communication, feedback and the proper implementation of performance without favouritism were important aspects and that it had to be noted for good governance. The research also revealed that a performance management and development system enabled employees to better understand the relationship and correlation between the strategic goals and objectives of the department, employees’ key performance areas and alignment with the vision of the organisation. Lastly, managers and supervisors should apply the performance management and development system to identify good and poor performance, and act appropriately through development, as well as recognising and rewarding good performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019