Holding a mirror up to Academic Development through the HELTASA (un) conferencing methodology
- Williams, Sandra, Adams, Anthea, Geduld-van Wyk, Charlene, Muhuro, Patricia
- Authors: Williams, Sandra , Adams, Anthea , Geduld-van Wyk, Charlene , Muhuro, Patricia
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425705 , vital:72277 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.14426/cristal.v12iSI1.2117"
- Description: We, Academic Development (AD) practitioners, question whether AD's objective in South Africa (SA) as a'liberatory educational and social movement'to enhance educational quality for all students, is effectively pursued. AD practitioners often work on the fringes of the academy, fighting for relevance and legitimacy within an increasingly performative and managerialist academic culture. Despite innovative AD initiatives AD work is criticised for being unresponsive, unreflexive, conformist, and lacking theoretical, scholarly, and critical engagement. We use critical pedagogical praxis, particularly the constructs of critique, reflexivity, power, and self-reflection, to interrogate the continuous tension between AD intention and practice. Through (un) conference methodology, this auto-ethnographic account of individual and collective engagements, using the" holding the mirror up" metaphor, critically questioned the tension and misalignments between the AD mandate and practices. Although in a SA higher education context, this research could be beneficial to HE contexts globally, given the ubiquity of AD work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Williams, Sandra , Adams, Anthea , Geduld-van Wyk, Charlene , Muhuro, Patricia
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425705 , vital:72277 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.14426/cristal.v12iSI1.2117"
- Description: We, Academic Development (AD) practitioners, question whether AD's objective in South Africa (SA) as a'liberatory educational and social movement'to enhance educational quality for all students, is effectively pursued. AD practitioners often work on the fringes of the academy, fighting for relevance and legitimacy within an increasingly performative and managerialist academic culture. Despite innovative AD initiatives AD work is criticised for being unresponsive, unreflexive, conformist, and lacking theoretical, scholarly, and critical engagement. We use critical pedagogical praxis, particularly the constructs of critique, reflexivity, power, and self-reflection, to interrogate the continuous tension between AD intention and practice. Through (un) conference methodology, this auto-ethnographic account of individual and collective engagements, using the" holding the mirror up" metaphor, critically questioned the tension and misalignments between the AD mandate and practices. Although in a SA higher education context, this research could be beneficial to HE contexts globally, given the ubiquity of AD work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Best practices in the use and exchange of microorganism biological control genetic resources
- Mason, Peter G, Hill, Martin P, Smith, David, Silvestri, Luciano C, Weyl, Philip S R, Brodeur, Jacques, Vitorino, Marcello Diniz
- Authors: Mason, Peter G , Hill, Martin P , Smith, David , Silvestri, Luciano C , Weyl, Philip S R , Brodeur, Jacques , Vitorino, Marcello Diniz
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/417927 , vital:71495 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-023-10197-3"
- Description: The Nagoya Protocol actions the third objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity and provides a framework to effectively implement the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources. This includes microorganisms used as biological control agents. Thus biological control practitioners must comply with access and benefit-sharing regulations that are implemented by countries providing microbial biological control agents. A review of best practices and guidance for the use and exchange of microorganisms used for biological control has been prepared by the IOBC Global Commission on Biological Control and Access and Benefit-Sharing to demonstrate commitment to comply with access and benefit-sharing requirements, and to reassure the international community that biological control is a very successful and environmentally safe pest management strategy that uses biological resources responsibly and sustainably. We propose that best practices include the following elements: collaboration to facilitate information exchange about the availability of microbial biological control agents and where they may be sourced; freely sharing available knowledge in databases about successes and failures; collaborative research with provider countries to develop capacity; and production technology transfer to provide economic opportunities. We recommend the use of model concept agreements for accessing microorganisms for scientific research and non-commercial release into nature where access and benefit-sharing regulations exist and where regulations are not restrictive or do not exist. We also recommend a model agreement for deposition of microbial biological control agents into culture collections.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
- Authors: Mason, Peter G , Hill, Martin P , Smith, David , Silvestri, Luciano C , Weyl, Philip S R , Brodeur, Jacques , Vitorino, Marcello Diniz
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/417927 , vital:71495 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-023-10197-3"
- Description: The Nagoya Protocol actions the third objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity and provides a framework to effectively implement the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources. This includes microorganisms used as biological control agents. Thus biological control practitioners must comply with access and benefit-sharing regulations that are implemented by countries providing microbial biological control agents. A review of best practices and guidance for the use and exchange of microorganisms used for biological control has been prepared by the IOBC Global Commission on Biological Control and Access and Benefit-Sharing to demonstrate commitment to comply with access and benefit-sharing requirements, and to reassure the international community that biological control is a very successful and environmentally safe pest management strategy that uses biological resources responsibly and sustainably. We propose that best practices include the following elements: collaboration to facilitate information exchange about the availability of microbial biological control agents and where they may be sourced; freely sharing available knowledge in databases about successes and failures; collaborative research with provider countries to develop capacity; and production technology transfer to provide economic opportunities. We recommend the use of model concept agreements for accessing microorganisms for scientific research and non-commercial release into nature where access and benefit-sharing regulations exist and where regulations are not restrictive or do not exist. We also recommend a model agreement for deposition of microbial biological control agents into culture collections.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
History matters: Societal acceptance of deep-sea mining and incipient conflicts in Papua New Guinea
- van Putten, Ingrid, Aswani, Shankar, Boonstra, W.J, De la Cruz-Modino, R, Das, Jewel, Glaser, Marion, Heck, Nadine, Narayan, Siddharth, Paytan, Adina, Selim, Samiya, Vave, Ron
- Authors: van Putten, Ingrid , Aswani, Shankar , Boonstra, W.J , De la Cruz-Modino, R , Das, Jewel , Glaser, Marion , Heck, Nadine , Narayan, Siddharth , Paytan, Adina , Selim, Samiya , Vave, Ron
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/391453 , vital:68653 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s40152-023-00318-0"
- Description: New marine industries that develop and grow in response to the changing demand for their products have the potential to exert pressure on fragile marine environments. These emerging industries can benefit local communities but equally can have negative environmental and socio-cultural impacts. The development of new and emerging industries, like deep seabed mining (DSM), requires the acceptance and involvement of local communities. Yet, the history of marine exploitation is imbued with conflicts between industries and local communities. This paper presents a DSM case study in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to stimulate debate around the potential for conflict in the pursuit of resource extraction from the deep sea and the social and environmental harm that these extractions can cause. We do so by first presenting a timeline of local and extra-local events and enabling conditions that form the development background for the DSM Solwara 1 project in PNG. We then undertake a media narrative analysis to consider the contribution of aspects of social acceptability to this highly complex and multi-scale conflict. We find that the lack of (or a decrease in) social acceptability contributed to the conflict situation and ultimately the demise of the Solwara 1 project. Extra-locally, the initial development was positively framed around solutions for decarbonisation using new technology. Over time, actions by international NGOs, financial issues related to foreign companies, and asymmetry in the power balance between the Pacific Island nation and global businesses played a role in growing negative perceptions of acceptability. Historical experiences with prior environmental mining disasters, together with sea tenure governance challenges, and a lack of community and stakeholder acceptance also contributed to the demise of the project. Untangling and debating these complex interactions provides context and reasons for the tension between the lack of societal acceptance at a local scale and the perceived need for DSM products in the global North for innovative technologies and decarbonising societies. Better understanding these interactions and tensions can help emerging industries navigate a future blue economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
- Authors: van Putten, Ingrid , Aswani, Shankar , Boonstra, W.J , De la Cruz-Modino, R , Das, Jewel , Glaser, Marion , Heck, Nadine , Narayan, Siddharth , Paytan, Adina , Selim, Samiya , Vave, Ron
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/391453 , vital:68653 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s40152-023-00318-0"
- Description: New marine industries that develop and grow in response to the changing demand for their products have the potential to exert pressure on fragile marine environments. These emerging industries can benefit local communities but equally can have negative environmental and socio-cultural impacts. The development of new and emerging industries, like deep seabed mining (DSM), requires the acceptance and involvement of local communities. Yet, the history of marine exploitation is imbued with conflicts between industries and local communities. This paper presents a DSM case study in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to stimulate debate around the potential for conflict in the pursuit of resource extraction from the deep sea and the social and environmental harm that these extractions can cause. We do so by first presenting a timeline of local and extra-local events and enabling conditions that form the development background for the DSM Solwara 1 project in PNG. We then undertake a media narrative analysis to consider the contribution of aspects of social acceptability to this highly complex and multi-scale conflict. We find that the lack of (or a decrease in) social acceptability contributed to the conflict situation and ultimately the demise of the Solwara 1 project. Extra-locally, the initial development was positively framed around solutions for decarbonisation using new technology. Over time, actions by international NGOs, financial issues related to foreign companies, and asymmetry in the power balance between the Pacific Island nation and global businesses played a role in growing negative perceptions of acceptability. Historical experiences with prior environmental mining disasters, together with sea tenure governance challenges, and a lack of community and stakeholder acceptance also contributed to the demise of the project. Untangling and debating these complex interactions provides context and reasons for the tension between the lack of societal acceptance at a local scale and the perceived need for DSM products in the global North for innovative technologies and decarbonising societies. Better understanding these interactions and tensions can help emerging industries navigate a future blue economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
Impact of Access and Benefit Sharing implementation on biological control genetic resources
- Mason, Peter G, Barratt, Barbara I P, Mc Kay, Fernando, Klapwijk, Johannette N, Silvestri, Luciano C, Hill, Martin P, Hinz, Hariet L, Sheppard, Andy, Brodeur, Jacques, Vitorino, Marcello Diniz, Weyl, Philip S R, Hoelmer, Kim A
- Authors: Mason, Peter G , Barratt, Barbara I P , Mc Kay, Fernando , Klapwijk, Johannette N , Silvestri, Luciano C , Hill, Martin P , Hinz, Hariet L , Sheppard, Andy , Brodeur, Jacques , Vitorino, Marcello Diniz , Weyl, Philip S R , Hoelmer, Kim A
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/418013 , vital:71501 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-023-10176-8"
- Description: The third objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources was further developed when the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing came into effect in 2014. Interpretation of how this agreement is being implemented is wide-ranging and there are implications for biological control. A survey of biological control workers indicated that while some countries have facilitated access to biological control genetic resources, requirements in other countries have impeded biological control implementation. There was consensus that benefits to provider countries should be in the form of supporting local research communities. There was also agreement that the free use and exchange of biological control genetic resources has provided benefits to the global community, including to both providers and recipients of the agents. It is recommended that consideration of the free use and exchange principal should be a key element of Access and Benefit Sharing measures for the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
- Authors: Mason, Peter G , Barratt, Barbara I P , Mc Kay, Fernando , Klapwijk, Johannette N , Silvestri, Luciano C , Hill, Martin P , Hinz, Hariet L , Sheppard, Andy , Brodeur, Jacques , Vitorino, Marcello Diniz , Weyl, Philip S R , Hoelmer, Kim A
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/418013 , vital:71501 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-023-10176-8"
- Description: The third objective of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources was further developed when the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing came into effect in 2014. Interpretation of how this agreement is being implemented is wide-ranging and there are implications for biological control. A survey of biological control workers indicated that while some countries have facilitated access to biological control genetic resources, requirements in other countries have impeded biological control implementation. There was consensus that benefits to provider countries should be in the form of supporting local research communities. There was also agreement that the free use and exchange of biological control genetic resources has provided benefits to the global community, including to both providers and recipients of the agents. It is recommended that consideration of the free use and exchange principal should be a key element of Access and Benefit Sharing measures for the future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
Transboundary Fisheries Management in Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA): Prospects and Dilemmas
- Imbwae, Imikendu, Aswani, Shankar, Sauer, Warwick H H, Hay, Clinton
- Authors: Imbwae, Imikendu , Aswani, Shankar , Sauer, Warwick H H , Hay, Clinton
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/391433 , vital:68651 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054406"
- Description: Inland fisheries in the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA) offer food security to the riverine communities across the region. They also contribute towards the attainment of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 15, which aim to alleviate poverty and maintain biodiversity conservation. Despite this significant role, the fisheries have suffered severe declines in the previous decades due to multiple factors, such as overfishing and poor legislation. Furthermore, climate change is exerting pressure by altering the ecology and productivity of the river systems. The unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic have further constrained management efforts. Attempts to address these challenges have pointed towards transboundary fisheries management as a silver bullet in moving towards sustainable fisheries management. However, the implementation of this strategy in the region has encountered numerous roadblocks, thereby subjecting the river ecosystem to a wider environmental threat, with dire consequences on livelihoods. This paper reviews existing management and governance structures together with key informant interviews to elicit primary and secondary data essential for management at the regional level. The study identifies conflicting regulations, and inadequate policies and institutions across the region as major bottlenecks affecting the successful implementation of transboundary fisheries management. Finally, the paper offers some suggestions for the improvement of fisheries management in the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
- Authors: Imbwae, Imikendu , Aswani, Shankar , Sauer, Warwick H H , Hay, Clinton
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/391433 , vital:68651 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054406"
- Description: Inland fisheries in the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA) offer food security to the riverine communities across the region. They also contribute towards the attainment of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 15, which aim to alleviate poverty and maintain biodiversity conservation. Despite this significant role, the fisheries have suffered severe declines in the previous decades due to multiple factors, such as overfishing and poor legislation. Furthermore, climate change is exerting pressure by altering the ecology and productivity of the river systems. The unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic have further constrained management efforts. Attempts to address these challenges have pointed towards transboundary fisheries management as a silver bullet in moving towards sustainable fisheries management. However, the implementation of this strategy in the region has encountered numerous roadblocks, thereby subjecting the river ecosystem to a wider environmental threat, with dire consequences on livelihoods. This paper reviews existing management and governance structures together with key informant interviews to elicit primary and secondary data essential for management at the regional level. The study identifies conflicting regulations, and inadequate policies and institutions across the region as major bottlenecks affecting the successful implementation of transboundary fisheries management. Finally, the paper offers some suggestions for the improvement of fisheries management in the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
Women farmers leading and co-learning in an agroecology movement at the intersections of gender and climate
- Chanyau, Ludwig, Rosenberg, Eureta
- Authors: Chanyau, Ludwig , Rosenberg, Eureta
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/373873 , vital:66730 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/10130950.2023.2239313"
- Description: This study, carried out in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, was particularly interested in women farmers’ access to social learning spaces for expanding their knowledge about farming in the context of climate change. Small-scale women and peasant farmers face historical intersectional inequalities as a result of the colonial and apartheid past which has continued to disadvantage women in the present through exclusion, limited or no access to finance, insecure or no land tenure, little bargaining power and unequal access to water. The gender prejudices and unequal access to resources experienced by women is brought into sharp relief by climate change. The article provides a case study of an agroecology movement led by women farmers that promotes climate-appropriate, low-cost farming practices using community and home gardens. The practices are tried out and further developed by women farmers themselves, relying on agroecology-informed extension services, open dialogue and the support of communities of practice. Unlike traditional top-down approaches to farmer learning common in public extension services, extension officers in the movement participate in creating conditions for co-learning and co-construction of new knowledge − that is, social learning − thus responding directly to their needs as farmers. The lead researcher joined in and observed farming and learning activities following an ethnographic approach. Farmers and other movement members were engaged in semi-structured interviews which explored the value derived from social learning (Wenger-Trayner and Wenger-Trayner Citation2020). The article concludes that the movement is responding to many of the intersectional challenges that women farmers in the Eastern Cape face. Further, its social learning approach holds potential for expanding women farmers’ ability to provide for themselves and their communities and inform their climate change adaptation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
- Authors: Chanyau, Ludwig , Rosenberg, Eureta
- Date: 2023
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/373873 , vital:66730 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/10130950.2023.2239313"
- Description: This study, carried out in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, was particularly interested in women farmers’ access to social learning spaces for expanding their knowledge about farming in the context of climate change. Small-scale women and peasant farmers face historical intersectional inequalities as a result of the colonial and apartheid past which has continued to disadvantage women in the present through exclusion, limited or no access to finance, insecure or no land tenure, little bargaining power and unequal access to water. The gender prejudices and unequal access to resources experienced by women is brought into sharp relief by climate change. The article provides a case study of an agroecology movement led by women farmers that promotes climate-appropriate, low-cost farming practices using community and home gardens. The practices are tried out and further developed by women farmers themselves, relying on agroecology-informed extension services, open dialogue and the support of communities of practice. Unlike traditional top-down approaches to farmer learning common in public extension services, extension officers in the movement participate in creating conditions for co-learning and co-construction of new knowledge − that is, social learning − thus responding directly to their needs as farmers. The lead researcher joined in and observed farming and learning activities following an ethnographic approach. Farmers and other movement members were engaged in semi-structured interviews which explored the value derived from social learning (Wenger-Trayner and Wenger-Trayner Citation2020). The article concludes that the movement is responding to many of the intersectional challenges that women farmers in the Eastern Cape face. Further, its social learning approach holds potential for expanding women farmers’ ability to provide for themselves and their communities and inform their climate change adaptation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023
Constellations, technicality, iconisation and Eskom: A case from South Africa’s Business Day
- Siebörger, Ian, Adendorff, Ralph D
- Authors: Siebörger, Ian , Adendorff, Ralph D
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/385350 , vital:68010 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.2989/16073614.2022.2040369"
- Description: This article uses Legitimation Code Theory (LCT) and systemic functional linguistics (SFL) to explore interactions between various resources for building economic and political knowledge in a 2015 article from Business Day, a South African newspaper, concerning the country’s energy crisis. We use LCT to observe how three constellations are built in the article: a ‘developmental state’ constellation; a ‘neo-liberal’ constellation; and another underarticulated constellation that selectively draws ideas from both the preceding constellations. These constellations are built through the unfolding of the text using various linguistic resources, which we describe using SFL, including technicality and iconisation. We identify instances where words are charged with both ideational and axiological meaning concurrently, challenging existing understandings of the process of iconisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Siebörger, Ian , Adendorff, Ralph D
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/385350 , vital:68010 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.2989/16073614.2022.2040369"
- Description: This article uses Legitimation Code Theory (LCT) and systemic functional linguistics (SFL) to explore interactions between various resources for building economic and political knowledge in a 2015 article from Business Day, a South African newspaper, concerning the country’s energy crisis. We use LCT to observe how three constellations are built in the article: a ‘developmental state’ constellation; a ‘neo-liberal’ constellation; and another underarticulated constellation that selectively draws ideas from both the preceding constellations. These constellations are built through the unfolding of the text using various linguistic resources, which we describe using SFL, including technicality and iconisation. We identify instances where words are charged with both ideational and axiological meaning concurrently, challenging existing understandings of the process of iconisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
How the Teaching Development Grant was used (and the problem of common-sense understandings of teaching and learning)
- Moyo, Temwa, McKenna, Sioux, Ndebele, Clever
- Authors: Moyo, Temwa , McKenna, Sioux , Ndebele, Clever
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/426917 , vital:72400 , xlink:href="http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2520-9868/i86a07"
- Description: Teachers at primary and secondary education levels are required to hold a professional qualification but, at the higher education level, all that is required is content expertise. This may well contribute to South Africa's low university throughput and retention rates, in response to which, since 2004, the state has provided ZAR5.5 billion in the form of the Teaching Development Grant (now the University Capacity Development Grant) to address poor completion rates. We present an analysis of the use of the grant across the sector using a social realist framework. Every academic and student has themselves been taught and so have developed untheorised assumptions about curriculum and pedagogy. Such common-sense assumptions about teaching and learning often serve to reinforce the status quo, which is particularly problematic in a sector with poor and racially differentiated throughput and success rates. Many initiatives funded through the grant evidenced a reliance on common-sense assumptions rather than on theorised accounts. In particular, student development often took the form of remedial, add-on initiatives that left the mainstream curriculum untouched-and staff development was often generic and short term. We also found that expertise in academic development, which could potentially challenge common-sense assumptions, was unevenly distributed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Moyo, Temwa , McKenna, Sioux , Ndebele, Clever
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/426917 , vital:72400 , xlink:href="http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2520-9868/i86a07"
- Description: Teachers at primary and secondary education levels are required to hold a professional qualification but, at the higher education level, all that is required is content expertise. This may well contribute to South Africa's low university throughput and retention rates, in response to which, since 2004, the state has provided ZAR5.5 billion in the form of the Teaching Development Grant (now the University Capacity Development Grant) to address poor completion rates. We present an analysis of the use of the grant across the sector using a social realist framework. Every academic and student has themselves been taught and so have developed untheorised assumptions about curriculum and pedagogy. Such common-sense assumptions about teaching and learning often serve to reinforce the status quo, which is particularly problematic in a sector with poor and racially differentiated throughput and success rates. Many initiatives funded through the grant evidenced a reliance on common-sense assumptions rather than on theorised accounts. In particular, student development often took the form of remedial, add-on initiatives that left the mainstream curriculum untouched-and staff development was often generic and short term. We also found that expertise in academic development, which could potentially challenge common-sense assumptions, was unevenly distributed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
Low-Symmetry Phthalocyanines Bearing Carboxy-Groups
- Bunin, Dmitry A, Ndebele, Nobuhle, Martynov, Alexander G, Mack, John, Gorbunova, Yulia G, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Bunin, Dmitry A , Ndebele, Nobuhle , Martynov, Alexander G , Mack, John , Gorbunova, Yulia G , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/231262 , vital:49870 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27020524" "
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of A3B-type phthalocyanines, ZnPc1–4, bearing bulky 2,6-diisopropylphenoxy-groups or chlorine atoms on isoindoline units “A” and either one or two carboxylic anchors on isoindoline unit “B” are reported. A comparison of molecular modelling with the conventional time dependent—density functional theory (TD-DFT) approach and its simplified sTD-DFT approximation provides further evidence that the latter method accurately reproduces the key trends in the spectral properties, providing colossal savings in computer time for quite large molecules. This demonstrates that it is a valuable tool for guiding the rational design of new phthalocyanines for practical applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Bunin, Dmitry A , Ndebele, Nobuhle , Martynov, Alexander G , Mack, John , Gorbunova, Yulia G , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/231262 , vital:49870 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27020524" "
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of A3B-type phthalocyanines, ZnPc1–4, bearing bulky 2,6-diisopropylphenoxy-groups or chlorine atoms on isoindoline units “A” and either one or two carboxylic anchors on isoindoline unit “B” are reported. A comparison of molecular modelling with the conventional time dependent—density functional theory (TD-DFT) approach and its simplified sTD-DFT approximation provides further evidence that the latter method accurately reproduces the key trends in the spectral properties, providing colossal savings in computer time for quite large molecules. This demonstrates that it is a valuable tool for guiding the rational design of new phthalocyanines for practical applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
Male Peer Talk About Menstruation: Discursively Bolstering Hegemonic Masculinities Among Young Men in South Africa
- Macleod, Catriona I, Glover, Jonothan M, Makusem, Manase, Kelland, Lindsay, Paphitis, Sharli A
- Authors: Macleod, Catriona I , Glover, Jonothan M , Makusem, Manase , Kelland, Lindsay , Paphitis, Sharli A
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/426502 , vital:72358 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/23293691.2022.2057830"
- Description: In this paper, we show how male peer talk about menstruating women may be used to discursively bolster hegemonic masculinities and denigrate women. Focus group discussions among 37 young isiXhosa-speaking men from two South African schools were facilitated by two young men; statements garnered from a sexuality education class about menstruation conducted in the same schools were used as cues. Data were analyzed using discourse analysis. The interactive talk constructed a bifurcation: “disgusting” menstruating women versus “reasonable” non-menstruating women who abide by idealized feminine behavior and are available sexually. We argue that as the non-menstruating woman cyclically become the other (menstruating woman) in women of particular ages, the trace of disgust inhabits the signifier “woman” for these men. Menstruation also disrupted a core identity strategy of local hegemonic masculinities: virile (hetero)sexuality. Given this, discursive distancing of the self from the very topic of menstruation is necessary. Small moments of resistance to these constructions were quickly closed down, and caring masculinity emerged only in the context of negotiating sex during menstruation. Involving men in menstrual hygiene management programs may provide spaces for resistance to denigrating discourses about menstruation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Macleod, Catriona I , Glover, Jonothan M , Makusem, Manase , Kelland, Lindsay , Paphitis, Sharli A
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/426502 , vital:72358 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/23293691.2022.2057830"
- Description: In this paper, we show how male peer talk about menstruating women may be used to discursively bolster hegemonic masculinities and denigrate women. Focus group discussions among 37 young isiXhosa-speaking men from two South African schools were facilitated by two young men; statements garnered from a sexuality education class about menstruation conducted in the same schools were used as cues. Data were analyzed using discourse analysis. The interactive talk constructed a bifurcation: “disgusting” menstruating women versus “reasonable” non-menstruating women who abide by idealized feminine behavior and are available sexually. We argue that as the non-menstruating woman cyclically become the other (menstruating woman) in women of particular ages, the trace of disgust inhabits the signifier “woman” for these men. Menstruation also disrupted a core identity strategy of local hegemonic masculinities: virile (hetero)sexuality. Given this, discursive distancing of the self from the very topic of menstruation is necessary. Small moments of resistance to these constructions were quickly closed down, and caring masculinity emerged only in the context of negotiating sex during menstruation. Involving men in menstrual hygiene management programs may provide spaces for resistance to denigrating discourses about menstruation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
Photodynamic therapy activity of 5, 10, 15-tris (5-bromo-2-thienyl), 20 (phenylcarboxy) porphyrin conjugated to graphene quantum dot against MCF-7 breast cancer cells
- Makola, Lekgowa Collen, Nwahahra, Nnamdi, Managa, Muthumuni, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Makola, Lekgowa Collen , Nwahahra, Nnamdi , Managa, Muthumuni , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/300244 , vital:57909 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/00958972.2022.2087515"
- Description: A novel 5,10,15-tris(5-bromo-2-thienyl),20(phenylcarboxy)porphyrin and its gallium derivative have been synthesized and fully characterized by various spectroscopic techniques and their respective photophysical and photochemical properties, such as the singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ), fluorescence quantum yield (ΦF) and triplet lifetime (τT) were determined. The complexes were conjugated to PEI_GQDs resulting is stable conjugates, owing to strong π–π stacking interaction between the PEI_GQDs and the porphyrins. PDT studies were carried out on these nanoconjugates and results obtained indicated they are suitable candidates for further in-depth PDT studies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: Makola, Lekgowa Collen , Nwahahra, Nnamdi , Managa, Muthumuni , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/300244 , vital:57909 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/00958972.2022.2087515"
- Description: A novel 5,10,15-tris(5-bromo-2-thienyl),20(phenylcarboxy)porphyrin and its gallium derivative have been synthesized and fully characterized by various spectroscopic techniques and their respective photophysical and photochemical properties, such as the singlet oxygen quantum yield (ΦΔ), fluorescence quantum yield (ΦF) and triplet lifetime (τT) were determined. The complexes were conjugated to PEI_GQDs resulting is stable conjugates, owing to strong π–π stacking interaction between the PEI_GQDs and the porphyrins. PDT studies were carried out on these nanoconjugates and results obtained indicated they are suitable candidates for further in-depth PDT studies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
Small but strong: Socioeconomic and ecological resilience of a small European fishing community affected by a submarine volcanic eruption
- De la Cruz-Modino, Raquel, Piñeiro-Corbeira, Cristina, Gutiérrez-Barroso, Josué, González-Cruz, Carla, Barreiro, Rodolfo, Batista-Medina, José A, Pascual-Fernández, José, González, José A, Santana-Talavera, Agustín, Aswani, Shankar
- Authors: De la Cruz-Modino, Raquel , Piñeiro-Corbeira, Cristina , Gutiérrez-Barroso, Josué , González-Cruz, Carla , Barreiro, Rodolfo , Batista-Medina, José A , Pascual-Fernández, José , González, José A , Santana-Talavera, Agustín , Aswani, Shankar
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/391397 , vital:68648 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2022.106124"
- Description: Small-scale coastal fishing communities are facing many new challenges, such as rapid ecological changes created by anthropogenic and natural events like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. This paper explores how a coastal population has responded to such an event and highlights the diverse coping strategies used to tackle it. This research was conducted on the island of El Hierro (Spain), where a submarine volcanic eruption occurred in 2011, affecting a multiple-use Marine Protected Area (MPA) and the nearby fishing community of La Restinga. Our study illustrates how the local population coped with this situation by combining multiple monetary and non-monetary activities (e.g., informal exchanges) as well as the role of institutions in increasing local resilience by supporting fishers' demands and allowing their participation in the decision-making process in the immediate wake of a catastrophic event. Local families also exploited various natural resources in and near the MPA, thus ensuring access to crucial marine resources and continued recreational/cultural services. The results suggest that collective action played a key role in the recovery process after the eruption, creating some advantages for different local groups despite the hazardous nature of the event.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
- Authors: De la Cruz-Modino, Raquel , Piñeiro-Corbeira, Cristina , Gutiérrez-Barroso, Josué , González-Cruz, Carla , Barreiro, Rodolfo , Batista-Medina, José A , Pascual-Fernández, José , González, José A , Santana-Talavera, Agustín , Aswani, Shankar
- Date: 2022
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/391397 , vital:68648 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2022.106124"
- Description: Small-scale coastal fishing communities are facing many new challenges, such as rapid ecological changes created by anthropogenic and natural events like earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. This paper explores how a coastal population has responded to such an event and highlights the diverse coping strategies used to tackle it. This research was conducted on the island of El Hierro (Spain), where a submarine volcanic eruption occurred in 2011, affecting a multiple-use Marine Protected Area (MPA) and the nearby fishing community of La Restinga. Our study illustrates how the local population coped with this situation by combining multiple monetary and non-monetary activities (e.g., informal exchanges) as well as the role of institutions in increasing local resilience by supporting fishers' demands and allowing their participation in the decision-making process in the immediate wake of a catastrophic event. Local families also exploited various natural resources in and near the MPA, thus ensuring access to crucial marine resources and continued recreational/cultural services. The results suggest that collective action played a key role in the recovery process after the eruption, creating some advantages for different local groups despite the hazardous nature of the event.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022
Advances in the regulation of weed biological control in South Africa
- Ivey, Philip, Hill, Martin P, Zachariades, Costas
- Authors: Ivey, Philip , Hill, Martin P , Zachariades, Costas
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416819 , vital:71388 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a24"
- Description: Regulation of biological control (biocontrol) is essential to ensure its continued safety and to enhance its acceptability as a key contributor to the management of damaging invasive alien plants in South Africa. Local researchers were concerned that regulators may become risk averse and over-cautious, thus preventing introductions of safe biocontrol agents, as bureaucratic impediments have contributed to the decline in the number of biocontrol releases in several other countries. In South Africa, the introduction of a transparent and inclusive review process has averted these concerns. Legislation in South Africa enables departments concerned with protecting environmental and agricultural resources, to work together to regulate potential risks. An interdepartmental committee, advised by independent specialists, facilitate the review of research into the safety of potential biocontrol agents. Regulators have reviewed and timeously assessed 26 potential biocontrol agents between 2013 and 2020. This has ensured that the considerable benefits from safe biocontrol agents are available for management of some of South Africa’s worst invasive alien plants. We review the system in South Africa and suggest possible improvements to the regulatory framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Ivey, Philip , Hill, Martin P , Zachariades, Costas
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416819 , vital:71388 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a24"
- Description: Regulation of biological control (biocontrol) is essential to ensure its continued safety and to enhance its acceptability as a key contributor to the management of damaging invasive alien plants in South Africa. Local researchers were concerned that regulators may become risk averse and over-cautious, thus preventing introductions of safe biocontrol agents, as bureaucratic impediments have contributed to the decline in the number of biocontrol releases in several other countries. In South Africa, the introduction of a transparent and inclusive review process has averted these concerns. Legislation in South Africa enables departments concerned with protecting environmental and agricultural resources, to work together to regulate potential risks. An interdepartmental committee, advised by independent specialists, facilitate the review of research into the safety of potential biocontrol agents. Regulators have reviewed and timeously assessed 26 potential biocontrol agents between 2013 and 2020. This has ensured that the considerable benefits from safe biocontrol agents are available for management of some of South Africa’s worst invasive alien plants. We review the system in South Africa and suggest possible improvements to the regulatory framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Crossing the border from candidate to supervisor: The need for appropriate development
- Motshoane, Puleng, McKenna, Sioux
- Authors: Motshoane, Puleng , McKenna, Sioux
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/185876 , vital:44442 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/13562517.2021.1900814"
- Description: Postgraduate education has grown enormously worldwide, which has led to supervisors being expected to take on a supervisor's role immediately upon graduation. But crossing the border from being a doctoral candidate to becoming a doctoral supervisor entails significant shifts in identity and an understanding of postgraduate pedagogy and institutional expectations. This paper argues that supervision development opportunities are crucial, but they need to be contextualised and include critical key agents with some institutional authority if they are to be deemed worthwhile and effect change. An online survey completed by 186 participants from across institutional types and disciplines in South Africa is analysed using Archer's social realism to provide insights into how emerging supervisors are currently supported. The resultant recommendations on supervision development could contribute to more confident border crossing by emerging supervisors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Motshoane, Puleng , McKenna, Sioux
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/185876 , vital:44442 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/13562517.2021.1900814"
- Description: Postgraduate education has grown enormously worldwide, which has led to supervisors being expected to take on a supervisor's role immediately upon graduation. But crossing the border from being a doctoral candidate to becoming a doctoral supervisor entails significant shifts in identity and an understanding of postgraduate pedagogy and institutional expectations. This paper argues that supervision development opportunities are crucial, but they need to be contextualised and include critical key agents with some institutional authority if they are to be deemed worthwhile and effect change. An online survey completed by 186 participants from across institutional types and disciplines in South Africa is analysed using Archer's social realism to provide insights into how emerging supervisors are currently supported. The resultant recommendations on supervision development could contribute to more confident border crossing by emerging supervisors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Electrocatalytic Activity of Cobalt Phthalocyanines Revisited: Effect of the Number of Oxygen Atoms and Conjugation to Carbon Nanomaterials
- Ndebele, Nobuhle, Mgidlana, Sithi, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Ndebele, Nobuhle , Mgidlana, Sithi , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/185700 , vital:44416 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s12678-021-00670-x"
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of tetrakis[4(4-acetlyphenoxy)phthalocyanato] cobalt (II) (1) are presented. Complex 1 together with the reported tetrakis dimethyl 5-(phenoxy)-isophthalatephthalocyaninato] cobalt (II) (2) are conjugated to carbon-based nanomaterials: graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) via π-π stacking, taking advantage of the π electrons on the graphitic structure of the nanomaterial as well as on the aromatic rings of the Co phthalocyanines (CoPcs). The electrocatalytic behaviour of the CoPcs, GQDs, SWCNTs and their respective conjugates towards the electrochemical oxidation of catechol was studied. The electrocatalytic probes were drop-dried onto the electrode surface of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The electrochemical oxidation of catechol was studied using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry. Complex 2 when linked to GQDs gave the lowest oxidation peak potentials of 0.33 V. Low catechol detection limits (LOD) of 0.057 µM was obtained for complex 2 with SWCNT. Thus, complex 2 containing more oxygen atoms outperformed complex 1 with less oxygen atoms. The CoPcs on their own showed moderate electrocatalytic behaviour, hence showing the importance of conjugating them to the carbon nanomaterials. SWCNT-based electrodes performed better than GQDs, and an improvement in the LoDs, sensitivity and the catalytic rate was observed upon conjugation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Ndebele, Nobuhle , Mgidlana, Sithi , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/185700 , vital:44416 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s12678-021-00670-x"
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of tetrakis[4(4-acetlyphenoxy)phthalocyanato] cobalt (II) (1) are presented. Complex 1 together with the reported tetrakis dimethyl 5-(phenoxy)-isophthalatephthalocyaninato] cobalt (II) (2) are conjugated to carbon-based nanomaterials: graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) via π-π stacking, taking advantage of the π electrons on the graphitic structure of the nanomaterial as well as on the aromatic rings of the Co phthalocyanines (CoPcs). The electrocatalytic behaviour of the CoPcs, GQDs, SWCNTs and their respective conjugates towards the electrochemical oxidation of catechol was studied. The electrocatalytic probes were drop-dried onto the electrode surface of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The electrochemical oxidation of catechol was studied using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry. Complex 2 when linked to GQDs gave the lowest oxidation peak potentials of 0.33 V. Low catechol detection limits (LOD) of 0.057 µM was obtained for complex 2 with SWCNT. Thus, complex 2 containing more oxygen atoms outperformed complex 1 with less oxygen atoms. The CoPcs on their own showed moderate electrocatalytic behaviour, hence showing the importance of conjugating them to the carbon nanomaterials. SWCNT-based electrodes performed better than GQDs, and an improvement in the LoDs, sensitivity and the catalytic rate was observed upon conjugation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Photodynamic antimicrobial action of asymmetrical porphyrins functionalized silver-detonation nanodiamonds nanoplatforms for the suppression of Staphylococcus aureus planktonic cells and biofilms
- Openda, Yolande I, Ngoy, Bokolombe P, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Openda, Yolande I , Ngoy, Bokolombe P , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190544 , vital:45004 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2021.628316"
- Description: New asymmetrical porphyrin derivatives containing a p-hydroxyphenyl moiety and p-acetylphenyl moieties along with their functionalized silver-detonation nanodiamonds nanohybrids were characterized and their photophysicochemical properties were established. The study provides evidence that the metalated porphyrin derivatives were red-shifted in absorption wavelength and possessed high singlet oxygen quantum yield comparative to the unmetalated core, thus making them suitable agents for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy. As a result of conjugation to detonation nanodiamonds and silver nanoparticles, these compounds proved to be more effective as they exhibited stronger antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities on the multi-drug resistant S. aureus strain due to synergetic effect, compared to Ps alone. This suggests that the newly prepared nanohybrids could be used as a potential antimicrobial agent in the treatment of biofilms caused by S. aureus strain.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Openda, Yolande I , Ngoy, Bokolombe P , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190544 , vital:45004 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2021.628316"
- Description: New asymmetrical porphyrin derivatives containing a p-hydroxyphenyl moiety and p-acetylphenyl moieties along with their functionalized silver-detonation nanodiamonds nanohybrids were characterized and their photophysicochemical properties were established. The study provides evidence that the metalated porphyrin derivatives were red-shifted in absorption wavelength and possessed high singlet oxygen quantum yield comparative to the unmetalated core, thus making them suitable agents for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy. As a result of conjugation to detonation nanodiamonds and silver nanoparticles, these compounds proved to be more effective as they exhibited stronger antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities on the multi-drug resistant S. aureus strain due to synergetic effect, compared to Ps alone. This suggests that the newly prepared nanohybrids could be used as a potential antimicrobial agent in the treatment of biofilms caused by S. aureus strain.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
The cultural significance of plant-fiber crafts in Southern Africa: a comparative study of Eswatini, Malawi, and Zimbabwe
- Pullanikkatil, Deepa, Thondhlana, Gladman, Shackleton, Charlie M
- Authors: Pullanikkatil, Deepa , Thondhlana, Gladman , Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/399860 , vital:69564 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14728028.2021.1998797"
- Description: Traditional handicrafts made from various plant materials are produced by most cultures around the world. Many originated through symbolic and utilitarian needs that became ritualized through time, thereby gradually attaining greater value as cultural items or symbols rather than solely functional ones. Here we report on a survey of 343 crafters across Eswatini, Malawi, and Zimbabwe in southern Africa regarding the cultural uses and significance of the items they make from wild plant fibers and sell to local communities or tourists. The plant materials used were largely dictated by tradition and local availability and were crafted into a diverse range of products including baskets, mats, brooms, storage containers, hats, fish traps, ornaments, and furniture. Many products had uses and cultural significance at major ceremonies or rituals, such as weddings, funerals, initiation, and divination. The preparation and design of the different crafts were influenced by tradition as well as market demand as indicated by tourist fashions and advice provided by government or non-government agencies to boost income generation from crafts. Although the crafting of cultural objects is increasingly commercialized and subject to the tastes and fashions of tourist markets in the region, the traditional and cultural significance of such artifacts remains widely recognized and valued.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Pullanikkatil, Deepa , Thondhlana, Gladman , Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/399860 , vital:69564 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14728028.2021.1998797"
- Description: Traditional handicrafts made from various plant materials are produced by most cultures around the world. Many originated through symbolic and utilitarian needs that became ritualized through time, thereby gradually attaining greater value as cultural items or symbols rather than solely functional ones. Here we report on a survey of 343 crafters across Eswatini, Malawi, and Zimbabwe in southern Africa regarding the cultural uses and significance of the items they make from wild plant fibers and sell to local communities or tourists. The plant materials used were largely dictated by tradition and local availability and were crafted into a diverse range of products including baskets, mats, brooms, storage containers, hats, fish traps, ornaments, and furniture. Many products had uses and cultural significance at major ceremonies or rituals, such as weddings, funerals, initiation, and divination. The preparation and design of the different crafts were influenced by tradition as well as market demand as indicated by tourist fashions and advice provided by government or non-government agencies to boost income generation from crafts. Although the crafting of cultural objects is increasingly commercialized and subject to the tastes and fashions of tourist markets in the region, the traditional and cultural significance of such artifacts remains widely recognized and valued.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
The influence of citrus orchard age on the ecology of entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes
- Albertyn, Sonnica, Moore, Sean D, Marsberg, Tamryn, Coombes, Candice A, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Albertyn, Sonnica , Moore, Sean D , Marsberg, Tamryn , Coombes, Candice A , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/417790 , vital:71486 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2020.1830949"
- Description: A three-year survey of the ecology of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) and entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) was undertaken on soils from citrus orchards of different ages to determine the influence of orchard age on the ecology of entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes. The influence of mulch and irrigation method on the occurrence of EPN and EPF was also determined. Most of the isolates recovered (n = 810) were Beauveria sp. (87.88% of all isolates), followed by Metarhizium sp. (11.87% of all isolates). Only 0.24% of soil samples collected during this study tested positive for EPN. All EPN isolates recovered were Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. No significant differences in EPF occurrence were recorded between orchards under drip and micro-sprinkler irrigation. EPF occurrence was significantly lower (P = 0.016) in orchards covered by mulch (31.85% ± 2.07% occurrence) than in orchards with no covering (38.57% ± 1.57% occurrence). EPF occurrence of 40.33 ± 2.13% was highest in non-bearing orchards, followed by mature orchards (nine years or older) (36.76 ± 2.05% of samples) with the lowest EPF occurrence of 25.30 ± 2.02% reported in juvenile orchards (four to eight years old). Juvenile orchards sustain significantly less EPF than mature and non-bearing orchards because of the combined negative impact of less favourable environmental conditions (lower shade density) and fungicide applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Albertyn, Sonnica , Moore, Sean D , Marsberg, Tamryn , Coombes, Candice A , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/417790 , vital:71486 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2020.1830949"
- Description: A three-year survey of the ecology of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) and entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) was undertaken on soils from citrus orchards of different ages to determine the influence of orchard age on the ecology of entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes. The influence of mulch and irrigation method on the occurrence of EPN and EPF was also determined. Most of the isolates recovered (n = 810) were Beauveria sp. (87.88% of all isolates), followed by Metarhizium sp. (11.87% of all isolates). Only 0.24% of soil samples collected during this study tested positive for EPN. All EPN isolates recovered were Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. No significant differences in EPF occurrence were recorded between orchards under drip and micro-sprinkler irrigation. EPF occurrence was significantly lower (P = 0.016) in orchards covered by mulch (31.85% ± 2.07% occurrence) than in orchards with no covering (38.57% ± 1.57% occurrence). EPF occurrence of 40.33 ± 2.13% was highest in non-bearing orchards, followed by mature orchards (nine years or older) (36.76 ± 2.05% of samples) with the lowest EPF occurrence of 25.30 ± 2.02% reported in juvenile orchards (four to eight years old). Juvenile orchards sustain significantly less EPF than mature and non-bearing orchards because of the combined negative impact of less favourable environmental conditions (lower shade density) and fungicide applications.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Thirty years of Male Daughters, Female Husbands
- Magadla, Siphokazi, Magoqwana, Babalwa, Motsemme, Nthabiseng
- Authors: Magadla, Siphokazi , Magoqwana, Babalwa , Motsemme, Nthabiseng
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/298685 , vital:57727 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/02589001.2021.1926442"
- Description: This paper examines the legacy of Ifi Amadiume's Male Daughters, Female Husbands: Gender and Sex in an African Society (1987) to African gender theorisation three decades after its publication. We argue that Amadiume's detailed ethnography of the Nnobi society provides an example of what can be achieved when African scholars centre local histories, languages, and kinship ties to provide contextualised understandings of sex and gender. In southern African societies, we assess the ways in which gender fluidity, drawing from local languages, age, seniority and lineage do not strictly fix sex to gender, thus providing possibilities for flexible gender structures that allow women to access institutions of power through the lineage as first daughters (umafungwashe) and wives, among others. We further examine the ways conservative patriarchal discourses continue distorting African cultures and traditions, thus undermining women's rights and access to social, cultural, economic and political power. We argue that current Eurocentric attempts that aim to delink sex and gender do not move us beyond the universalised binaries of gender and sex. Through revisiting local social and linguistic histories that practised gender fluidity and tolerance, we can also begin to challenge the conservative attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ communities. Given the continued sexual and gender diversities that are being challenged daily in the African continent, it is timely that we revisit the historical meanings along with their contemporary implications for sexual citizenship and gendered power relations today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Magadla, Siphokazi , Magoqwana, Babalwa , Motsemme, Nthabiseng
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/298685 , vital:57727 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/02589001.2021.1926442"
- Description: This paper examines the legacy of Ifi Amadiume's Male Daughters, Female Husbands: Gender and Sex in an African Society (1987) to African gender theorisation three decades after its publication. We argue that Amadiume's detailed ethnography of the Nnobi society provides an example of what can be achieved when African scholars centre local histories, languages, and kinship ties to provide contextualised understandings of sex and gender. In southern African societies, we assess the ways in which gender fluidity, drawing from local languages, age, seniority and lineage do not strictly fix sex to gender, thus providing possibilities for flexible gender structures that allow women to access institutions of power through the lineage as first daughters (umafungwashe) and wives, among others. We further examine the ways conservative patriarchal discourses continue distorting African cultures and traditions, thus undermining women's rights and access to social, cultural, economic and political power. We argue that current Eurocentric attempts that aim to delink sex and gender do not move us beyond the universalised binaries of gender and sex. Through revisiting local social and linguistic histories that practised gender fluidity and tolerance, we can also begin to challenge the conservative attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ communities. Given the continued sexual and gender diversities that are being challenged daily in the African continent, it is timely that we revisit the historical meanings along with their contemporary implications for sexual citizenship and gendered power relations today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Curriculating powerful knowledge for public managers and administrators
- McKenna, Sioux, Harran, Marcelle, Lück, Jacqueline
- Authors: McKenna, Sioux , Harran, Marcelle , Lück, Jacqueline
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/187160 , vital:44575 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/18146627.2019.1652103"
- Description: Public Management and Public Administration are important professions for an emerging democracy such as South Africa. They operate as the interface between state and public and are responsible for enacting many of the government's policies and social initiatives. Concerns about a lack of capacity in the sector suggest that those in these roles may be unable to meet the demands of the workplace. This article reports on a study that responded to calls for the curriculum to address such concerns by interrogating the knowledge structures of Public Management and Public Administration programmes in higher education. Interviews, textbooks and course guides were analysed to illuminate the forms of knowledge being legitimated in curricula. The study found that the focus on knowledge, skills and processes might be at the expense of a focus on the development of particular attributes or dispositions in the knowers. Furthermore, the knowledge level focus was limited in that it was highly contextualised and “light” on theory, raising questions about the acquisition of powerful knowledge needed for good governance and critical engagement in the public sector. The study recommends that both programmes include more conceptual knowledge; exposure to critical powerful forms of knowledge; and the development of particular attributes and dispositions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: McKenna, Sioux , Harran, Marcelle , Lück, Jacqueline
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/187160 , vital:44575 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/18146627.2019.1652103"
- Description: Public Management and Public Administration are important professions for an emerging democracy such as South Africa. They operate as the interface between state and public and are responsible for enacting many of the government's policies and social initiatives. Concerns about a lack of capacity in the sector suggest that those in these roles may be unable to meet the demands of the workplace. This article reports on a study that responded to calls for the curriculum to address such concerns by interrogating the knowledge structures of Public Management and Public Administration programmes in higher education. Interviews, textbooks and course guides were analysed to illuminate the forms of knowledge being legitimated in curricula. The study found that the focus on knowledge, skills and processes might be at the expense of a focus on the development of particular attributes or dispositions in the knowers. Furthermore, the knowledge level focus was limited in that it was highly contextualised and “light” on theory, raising questions about the acquisition of powerful knowledge needed for good governance and critical engagement in the public sector. The study recommends that both programmes include more conceptual knowledge; exposure to critical powerful forms of knowledge; and the development of particular attributes and dispositions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020