Showing items 1 - 20 of 23

Your selections:

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

Characterisation of human pathogenic vibrios and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from wild and tank cultured dusky kob (agyrosomus japonicus) in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

  • Authors: Justine, Fri
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Marine microbiology Marine microbiology--South Africa--Eastern Cape Staphylococcus aureus infections--South Africa--Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Microbiology
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16047 , vital:40607
  • Description: Introduction: Marine finfish including dusky kob (Agyrosomus japonicus), in addition to its high protein value, is bestowed with numerous health benefits including being heart friendly due to high proportion of omega 3 fatty acids. They are therefore used as powerful preventive measures against cardiovaslcular diseases. They are also important in neurological development during gestation and infancy, thus a regular recommendation by nutritionists. However, fish and its environment may be contaminated by bacteria pathogens. Human infections caused by members of the genus Vibrio, and Staphylococcus especially Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) are of increased concern worldwide especially with increased Vibrio disease outbreaks and rapid spread of MRSA in the community. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is regarded as an emerging zoonotic agent, therefore marine fish may be considered as a reservoir for infection. The emergence of multi-drug resistant organisms in both farm animals and humans has also been a challenge that hurdles chemotherapy worldwide. Methods: We enumerated the bacteria flora of skin, gill and gut of marine dusky kob (Agyrosomus japonicus) raised in a recirculatory aquaculture system using metagenomic sequencing of the 16S rRNA. We further screened 120 dusky kob fishes (skin, gill and gut) and 80 water samples from two fish farms and Kariega estuary collected over a 10 month period for human pathogenic vibrios, and MRSA using standard procedures. Vibrio species were further subjected to species specific PCRs delineating them into V. cholerae, V. parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus, and V. fluvialis. This was followed by elucidation of the genotypic virulence determinants. The Reverse Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) of the cytotoxin hemolysin (vvhA) gene of V. vulnificus strains was carried out to determine the associated biotypes. A total of 277 Vibrio strains consisting of 126 V. fluvialis, 45 Vibrio vulnificus, 30 V. parahaemolyticus and 76 vibrios belonging to other species were subjected to susceptibility testing to 15 antibiotics by the disc diffusion method and resistant strains were further evaluated for their genotypic antimicrobial resistant determinants by polymerase chain reaction followed by plasmid profiling. For MRSA screening, we evaluated the reliability of cefoxitin disc diffusion, oxacillin screen agar and BrillianceTM MRSA 2 agar tests, in detecting methicillin resistance from fish (environmental) samples using PCR detection of the mecA as the gold standard. A total of 33 mecA positive S. aureus strains (MRSA) were subjected to PCR detection of enterotoxins (Staphylococcal enterotoxin A-E) and Panton Valentine Leucocidin (PVL) encoding genes. The SCCmec types were also investigated by multiplex PCR targeting genes encoding type I-V. The antibiogram profiles of MRSA strains to 12 antibiotics by the disc diffusion method and to vancomycin by broth micro dilution method were elucidated. Polymerase chain reaction was employed to evaluate the presence of antibiotic resistant genes. The nucleotide sequences of the rpoB gene were analysed to determine mutations that could lead to rifampicin resistance. Results: A broad diversity of pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacterial species of different taxonomic groups was observed with Proteobacteria revealed as the most common bacteria phyla. Fifty one families were identified with Enterobacteriaceae the most frequently detected in all the anatomical sites and the gut showing the highest species diversity. A total of 606 (60.23 percent ) presumptive Vibrio isolates were confirmed by PCR of which V. fluvialis was the most predominant, 193 (31.85 percent ). This was followed by Vibrio vulnificus 74 (12.21 percent ), and V. parahaemolyticus 33 (5.45 percent ). No V. cholerae strain was detected. Only one of the V. parahaemolyticus strains possessed the trh virulent gene with no tdh detected. Virulence factors of V. fluvialis detected were stn (13.5 percent ), hupO (10.4 percent ), and vfpA (1.0 percent ). V. vulnificus biotype 3, formerly restricted to Isreal was identified. Generally, resistance among Vibrio isolates varied considerably with highest resistances recorded to amoxicillin (76.2 percent ), ampicillin (67.5 percent ), erythromycin (38.3 percent ), and doxycycline (35.0 percent ) while higher susceptibilities were revealed by gentamicin (100 percent ), norfloxacin (97.8 percent ), florfenicol (90.3 percent ), tetracycline (87.7 percent ), and chloramphenicol (87.4 percent ). Multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) (resistance to ≥ 2 classes of antibiotics) was 58.5 percent . The MAR index did not vary significantly between sites (P>0.05) and values of >0.20 were recorded in 40 percent (108/277) of all the isolates. The resistant genes ampC, blaOXA, tetA, tetM, dfr1, sul1, sul2, ermB, nptII and strA were detected in two or more Vibrio isolates while the SXT intergrase was detected only in one isolate. Seven of the 18 extreme drug resistant isolates possessed 1–3 plasmids of 1.5–10 kb range. A total of 321 presumptive Staphylococcus aureus isolates were recovered by culture out of which 202 (62.9 percent ) were identified as S. aureus by PCR. Of these, 33 (16.3 percent ) strains were mecA positive while the rest, 169 (83.7 percent ) were mecA negative. The sensitivity and specificity of MRSA detection by use of cefoxitin disc (30 μg) test was 93.9 percent and 91.7 percent , that for oxacillin screen agar test (6 μg/mL) was 81.8 percent and 92.3 percent while that of BrillianceTM MRSATM 2 agar was 87.9 percent and 94.1 percent respectively. Staphylococcal enterotoxin SEE was detected in 12.1 percent (4/33) of total strains followed by SEA 3.0 percent (1/33), and SEC 3.0 percent (1/33). SEB and SED were absent. Six of the isolates had the PVL gene, giving a prevalence of 18.2 percent . The most frequently detected SCCmec type was SCCmec type III (17/33; 51.5 percent ), closely followed by SCCmec subtype IVc (10/33; 30.3 percent ) and the least were SCCmec types I and II with only 3.0 percent (1/33) each. The rest four (4/33; 12.1 percent ) did not belong to any of the above types and were therefore considered to belong to other subtypes of SCCmec type IV not tested in the study. For antibiogram patterns, 12 (36.4 percent ) strains were resistant to doxycyline, 10 (30.3 percent ) to trimethroprim-sulfamethoxazole, 9 (27.3 percent ) to tetracycline and only 1 (3.0 percent ) strain was resistant to ciprofloxacin. Nineteen (57.6 percent ) of the MRSA strains had vancomycin MIC of ≤ 2 μg/mL, 4 (12.1 percent ) with MIC range of 4-8 μg/mL, and 10 (30.3 percent ) with values ≥ 16 μg/mL. Overall, 27 (91.percent) isolates showed simultaneous resistance to 3 or more antibiotics. The resistant genes tetM, tetA, ermB, BlaZ femA were detected in two or more strains resistant to various antimicrobials. Resistance to rifampicin was not caused by mutations in the rpoB gene. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first study reporting a broad, and diverse bacteria flora of skin, gill, and gut of the South African dusky kob as well as the first study on human pathogenic vibrios, and MRSA from marine finfish especially those from recirculatory aquaculture systems. Also, our study revealed that Vibrio species with pathogenic potential are present in marine dusky kob and its environs. Dusky kob is contaminated with CA- MRSA and HA- MRSA that may cause difficult to treat infections with regular antibiotics. Some of the MRSA strains contained toxins that can cause food-borne gastroeneteritis. The present study revealed that MRSA and Vibrio species are potential reservoirs for antibiotic resistant genes, which could be disseminated to other bacterial species probably through plasmids, a public health risk.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2017

A study on the role of the media in identity formation among isiXhosa speaking youth in Grahamstown with focus on SABC’s Yo TV

  • Authors: Mabusela, Pumeza
  • Date: 2016
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:3661 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021302
  • Description: This study explores the use of African languages, more specifically isiXhosa, in the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). It does this by investigating the YO TV programme and its impact on identity formation amongst isiXhosa speaking youth. The research was conducted in Grahamstown which is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Young isiXhosa speakers were used as participants for questionnaires and focus group interviews. The location of the study within the Eastern Cape was driven by the fact that Grahamstown consists of mainly isiXhosa speakers, and young people are a big part of the population. Secondly, the participants were chosen in order to look at how isiXhosa and the Xhosa culture are represented in the YO TV programme through the lenses of young people who speak the language, and whether the representation of these two aspects plays a role in the formation of their identity. The goals of the research were to explore the relationship between language and youth identity, and the role of television in the construction of this identity. The research looked at the SABC’s YO TV which is a youth programme targeting South African youth who speak different languages and the role it plays in constructing the identity of isiXhosa speaking youth in relation to language and culture. It also examined for what purpose isiXhosa was used in the YO TV programme. The study further identified and critically analysed the already existing strategies used by the SABC to promote African languages in youth programs. The study made several findings, one of these being that there is a relationship that exists between language, culture and identity. As a result of this relationship, this study found that when one of these aspects is less represented on television, it affects the other(s). Thus, little representation of isiXhosa on YO TV has an impact on the identity formation of young isiXhosa speakers as they believe that language and culture are a part of who they are, their identity. This study also discovered that institutions of power such as the media play a key role in affirming the identity of young people. They play a role in influencing the way young people reason and do things. This study argues that television programmes such as the YO TV programme must use African languages, as well as English because the use of African languages adds value to how young people perceive them. The use of African languages on television will contribute to their growth and development. Moreover, the use of these languages in the media contributes in identity construction of young African language speakers.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2016

Gender equality in the provision and utilisation of women administrative personnel : a comparative study of the Camdeboo Local Municipality and Inxuba Yethemba Local Municipality

  • Authors: Dywili, Mhlobo Douglas
  • Date: 2016
  • Subjects: Women -- Government policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Women's rights -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Equality -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2414 , vital:27817
  • Description: In 2000, cabinet adopted the South African Policy framework for women’s empowerment and gender equality, 2000 (Policy framework) which provided for the establishment of the National Gender Machinery (NGM). The NGM is a network of coordinated structures within and outside government which operate cooperatively in facilitating political, social, economic and other forms of transformation to dismantle systemic gender inequality and promote equality between women and men. The implementation of gender equality policy as a function area has constitutionally been given to the national and provincial legislatures in South Africa. The constitution allocated this function to the local sphere of government. Camdeboo and Inxuba Yethemba local municipal authorities are the facilitators of sustainable gender equality policies to citizens on behalf of the national and provincial spheres of government. The study was thus conducted within the Camdeboo local municipality and Inxuba Yethemba local municipality. Camdeboo locoal municipality is one of nine local municipalities in Sarah Baartman district municipality. Inxuba Yethemba local municipality is in Chris Hani district municipality. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the implementation of gender equality in the Provision and Utilisation of Women administration Personnel a comparative study of the Camdeboo local municipality and the Inxuba Yethemba local municipality and to determine the impact of the existing policy on the gender equality policy on the needs of women of both municipalities. For this purpose the fundamental and overall study problem was found to be that the gender equality at the Camdeboo and Inxuba Yethemba is hampered by the implementation of an inadequate municipality gender equality policy and by incompetent municipal personnel in particular and in general by the municipality itself. These action do not satisfy the main purpose of the Employment Equity Act no 55 of 1998 to achieve in the workplace by promoting equal opportunity and fair treatment in all forms of employment through elimination of unfair discrimination as well as the implementation of affirmative action measures. The hypothesis was furthermore based on the fact that the existing gender policy of Camdeboo local municipality and Inxuba Yethemba local municipality gender equality policy are inadequate to satisfy women and impacts negatively if not harmfully on human being of women. The study revealed that besides the implementation of gender equality policy by these incompetent municipal personnel, there are economic, social, political and physical effects on women. In case of applications for senior management position, preference is always given to their male counterparts at the expense of equally qualified female applications. Secondly, Gender equality in human resource determination forms part of the processing phase in the system theory. These two municipalities should be made to commit themselves by appending their signatures to all control measures put in place to evaluate the level and the extent of gender equality across all the departments/ sections in the municipality. Any section/ department that implements gender equality more effectively should be identified applauded and given recognition. This would motivate and eliminate gender inequality. Personnel provision and utilization is of paramount importance to every organization. It then becomes extremely necessary to examine the gender equality on human resource determination.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2016

Petrogenetic implications for the Merensky Reef: a platinum-group element distribution study from wide-reef facies in the western Bushveld Complex, RSA

  • Authors: Largatzis, Savvas Anthony
  • Date: 2016
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/3167 , vital:20380
  • Description: Despite decades of research and its economic importance, the formation of the Merensky Reef still remains controversial. This study reports on the distribution of platinum-group elements within widereef facies in an attempt to identify petrogenetic controls in the formation of the Merensky Reef. Widereef Merensky was sampled from Eland Platinum Mines in the western Bushveld. Macroscopic investigation of the drillcore identified a basal chromitite stringer overlying an anorthositic footwall. The reef comprised a pyroxenite unit while the hangingwall comprised noritic, leuconoritic and anorthositic units (upwards the stratigraphy). Furthermore, an anorthositic seam was identified within the pyroxenite reef, near the top of the unit. Ophitic textures of orthopyroxene oikocrysts comprising inclusions of plagioclase chadacrysts suggest that the crystallization of plagioclase preceded the crystallization of orthopyroxene. Furthermore, plagioclase and orthopyroxene were shown to be in mineral disequilibrium with one another. Pervasive hydrous alteration features throughout the Merensky Reef suggest late stage deuteric alteration. Mineral chemistry of plagioclase cores recorded ranges for An content in the Merensky Reef as follows: An72-79 in the anorthositic footwall, An71-77 in the chromitite stringer, An45-78 in the pyroxenite reef unit, An47-73 in the anorthosite reef unit, An72-76 in the norite hangingwall, An75-77 in the leuconorite hangingwall and An72-77 in the anorthosite hangingwall. This suggest that the reef units were more evolved than the footwall and hangingwall units. Furthermore, plagioclase showed reverse zoning in the anorthosite footwall unit while normal zoning was identified in the anorthosite reef unit. This suggested that the footwall unit underwent reheating and re-equilibration with a hotter, more primitive magma (also evident in recrystallization textures) while the anorthositic reef unit cooled relatively slowly and interstitial plagioclase present within this unit equilibrated with a trapped, more evolved liquid. The pyroxenite reef unit shows enrichment in incompatible elements and corresponding negative Eu anomalies, indicating the presence of trapped liquids. Cu, Ni and S concentrations remained low throughout the reef with the exception of a peak underlying the anorthositic seam and further enrichment underlying this peak. Platinum-group element geochemistry identified two major peaks: an upper peak which coincided with the peaks for Cu, Ni and S, and showed preferential enrichment in Pd and Au relative to other PGE, and a lower peak which coincided with the presence of chromitite and showed the preferential enrichment of Os, Ir, Ru, Rh and Pt relative to Pd, Au, Cu and Ni. The formation of the lower peak was consistent with a model involving the co-precipitation of chromite and PGE clusters (as PGM) while the upper peak was attributed to a model involving the collection of PGE by an immiscible sulphide liquid. Moreover, high Cu/Pd and Pt/Pd ratios in the lower pyroxenite unit indicated a process involving sulphide fractional segregation and scavenging while the inverse, present within the upper pyroxenite unit, suggested a more dynamic system involving the introduction of PGE-undepleted magma and S during simultaneous sulphide precipitation. Furthermore, a separation of PPGE peaks from IPGE peaks was observed within the pyroxenite unit, indicating a different partitioning behavior between PPGE and IPGE. The separation of these peaks is attributed to a sulphide liquid fractionation model while depletion haloes occurring in the proximity of the main PGE peaks was suggested to form through an Ostwald-ripening type mechanism. The results of this study are consistent with a model for the formation of the Merensky Reef involving a combination of geochemical processes, including sulphide segregation and fractionation, as well as multiple replenishments of magma.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2016

The use of treated brewery effluent as a water and nutrient source in crop irrigation

  • Authors: Taylor, Richard Peter
  • Date: 2016
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: vital:5390 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021265
  • Description: Brewery effluent (BE) needs to be treated before it can be released into the environment, reused or used in down-stream activities. Current technologies used to address this concern at the experimental wastewater treatment plant at Ibahyi Brewery (SAB Ltd) include anaerobic digestion (AD), primary facultative ponds (PFP), high rate algal ponds (HRAP) and constructed wetlands (CW). The aim of this work was to determine if BE treated in these systems might be suitable for crop irrigation. A test crop, cabbage (Brassica oleracea cv. Star 3301), grew best on post-AD and post-PFP BE compared to those irrigated with post-HRAP or post-CW effluent. However, the yield was 13% lower than cabbage plants irrigated with a commercial nutrient solution and fresh water. The relatively high conductivity (3019.05 ± 48.72 μs/cm2) of BE may be the main factor reducing the cabbage yields. Post-HRAP and post-CW BE were the least suitable for irrigated crop production due to the higher conductivity and lower nutrient content of these treated effluents. After three months, soils irrigated with post-AD and post-PFP BE had a significantly higher sodium content and sodium adsorption ratio (3919 ± 94.77 mg/kg & 8.18 ± 0.17) than soil irrigated with a commercial nutrient solution (920.58 ± 27.46 mg/kg & 2.20 ± 0.05; p<0.05). However, this was not accompanied by a deterioration in the soil’s hydro-physical properties, nor a change in the metabolic community structure of the soil (p>0.05). After prolonged irrigation with treated BE, sodium is likely to build up in the soil and this can be expected to be accompanied by a deterioration in the soil physical structure. However, crops species such as millet (Echinochloa esculenta), lucerne (Medicago sativa) and saltbush (Atriplex nummularia) reduced the build-up of sodium in the soil. The results suggest that sodium was mainly removed from the soil through plant-assisted leaching. Of the crops grown, lucerne showed the most promise because it improved the soil physical properties, is able to grow well in alkaline environments, is a popular fodder crop and can be harvested multiple times from a single stand. Brewery effluent is more suitable for soil production systems than hydroponic production systems because the soil was able to act as a buffer against the high pH of post-AD BE, whereas in a hydroponics systems the high pH reduced the availability of key minerals to plants. In conclusion brewery effluent contains sufficient plants nutrients to support the growth of cabbages, saltbush, lucerne and millet. However the sodium content of BE is a concern as it accumulates in the soil, and in the long-term it may lead to soil degradation. It is suggested that the brewery change the pH neutralising treatment of BE from sodium hydroxide to potassium hydroxide, or dolomitic lime (calcium and magnesium carbonate) because this would reduce the introduction of sodium into the system, and would increase the suitability of BE for crop production, given potassium and calcium are plant nutrients. The benefits of developing this nutrient and water resource could contribute to cost-reductions at the brewery, more efficient water, nutrient and energy management, create job opportunities with the potential of improving food security in the local community.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2016

An assessment of public accountability mechanisms towards eradicating corruption in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Rulashe, Tando
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Political corruption -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Misconduct in office -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1960 , vital:27588
  • Description: The study critically examined the implementation of Public Accountability strategies and mechanisms: A case of Buffalo City Municipality. The problem statement gave emphases on the multiple cases drawn from stats reflected in domestic surveys that shows how corruption and maladministration have impacted the province negatively as well as the extreme poverty lines that dominate the communities in the republic and also the province. The New Public Management Theory was used to interpret the manner in which the participants were expected to give their views on leadership and accountability among others key issues. The objectives of the study were to; To assess the mechanisms implemented by Buffalo City Municipality., To explore the challenges affecting public accountability enforcement mechanisms in Buffalo City Municipality towards eradicating corruption, Determine the manner through which the Buffalo City Municipality can adopt tried and tested mechanism from Regional, national & international case studies on how to effective enforce public accountability for the sustainable management and curbing of corruption for effective and efficient service delivery and to recommend new mechanisms which Buffalo City Municipality can utilise in enforcing public accountability towards eradicating corruption in its institutions in order to encourage sustainable community development through service delivery. The study adopted a case study approach based on a mixed method paradigm where data was collected through a questionnaire, interviews and document analysis. Case studies are normally associated with qualitative research, but can also be used as a method of inquiry employing a positivist epistemology and ontology. A total sample of 50 participants was chosen through a non-probability sampling technique. The major findings of the study reflected that there is a huge break in communication between government and the citizens in the locality while also establishing that the mechanisms currently being used were only as good as the factors influencing their implementation among other issues. Major recommendations included community engagement, capacity building and skills development, retention and expansion, lack of resources, promote individual independence of the community and the enhancement the Public Participation Unit.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2015

An investigation into the promotion of productive learning dispositions in government policies and teacher assessment in Grade R and Grade 1

  • Authors: Long, Roxanne
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Learning, Psychology of , Early childhood education -- Evaluation , Learning -- Evaluation , Educational psychology
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:2018 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017182
  • Description: The impetus for this study came from the increasing acknowledgement of learning dispositions as a central, yet largely under explored area of numeracy learning, in both international education literature and in the current work conducted by the South African Numeracy Chair, based at Rhodes University. This coupled with my own personal interest in the crucial transitional phase between Grade R (the year before formal schooling) and Grade 1 and the role of developing progressively strengthened learning dispositions, particularly in relation to numeracy learning, to enable this transition. This, together with the lack of research around what constitutes a quality Grade R programme, especially in South Africa, inspired an investigation into the promotion of key productive learning dispositions within current government policy and in teacher assessment practices across Grade R and Grade 1 in six local schools. I designed a qualitative research study underpinned by a socio-cultural theoretical perspective that foregrounds learning. Within this broad theoretical perspective I drew on two key analytic frameworks that cohere with this socio cultural view that prioritises learning dispositions (ways of being, habits of mind). In particular the work of Kilpatrick et al. (2001) and Carr & Claxton (2010), in defining essential elements of key productive learning dispositions, were combined to enable the development of an indicator matrix used for the analysis of current government policy and teacher assessment practices in the Grade R and Grade 1. Additionally empirical data from the study enabled extension and adaptation of the indicator matrix derived from key literature. The research contributes an analysis of various curriculum and policy documents across Grade R and 1 in terms of the inclusion and promotion of learning dispositions. The presences of certain promoted dispositions are compared with international literature and frameworks and certain absences or under represented dispositions are noted. The empirical data derived from Gr R and Gr 1 teacher questionnaires and exemplar reports across 6 schools are analysed and related back to policy. Similarities and differences across teachers in different grades and teachers in different schools are discussed. The findings point towards several avenues of research and also provide an emergent dispositional discourse from empirical data, policy analysis and literature that could enable engagement between various stakeholders around the notion of learning dispositions as a central feature of schooling in the Grade R to Grade 1 transition. It is argued from the data that the inclusion of exemplar reports, in teacher assessment policy guides, which indicate possible ways to communicate dispositional priorities to both parents and learners, would assist teachers in achieving greater coherence between dispositions promoted in the classroom and those assessed and reported on.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2015

Towards the modeling of indigenous poultry production in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: characterization and extension evaluation for poverty reduction

  • Authors: Yusuf, Shehu Folaranmi Gbolahan Shehu
  • Date: 2014
  • Subjects: Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
  • Identifier: vital:11223 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019833 , Poultry -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Chickens -- Breeding -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Description: Poverty remains a critical issue mostly in the rural South Africa. Various initiatives, policies and programs have been enacted by the government with attempting to reduce poverty at the national and provincial levels; poverty is yet to be abated. The target of the Millennium Development Goal 1 (MDG1) of halving poverty by the year 2015 notwithstanding, poverty remains a threat to quality livelihoods. Agriculture has continued to be one of the pillars of government efforts to address poverty. However, in livestock production interventions, efforts of government had largely been on cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and exotic poultry with little attention being given to indigenous poultry production (IPP). This study explores the option of using IPP to address rural poverty by capitalizing on its minimal inputs while recognizing its prevalence in a variety of households. The study addresses the characterization of the IPP from the perspectives of housing, feeding, healthcare management, breeding and marketing options.Skill competencies of the indigenous poultry farmers (IPFs) and the Agricultural Development Technicians (ADTs) were examined. This study reviewed poultry models in different parts of the world with special attention to Africa. The human resource development program of the department of rural development and agrarian reform was discussed. The study employed the use of multi-methods approach, the quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Descriptive statistical analysis, frequent count, percentage, means, standard deviation, chisquare, and principal component analysis was used in the quantitative data analysis while the “open social system” was used for the qualitative methodology. Findings revealed that IPFs face some challenges among which are, the poor housing that exposed the birds to inclement weather, predator attacks and stock theft, high mortality of chicks after hatching and expensive feed for the flock. The IPFs showed competencies in nine skill items that included ability to identify chicken predators (x=3.92) and high yielding chickens (x=3.79); control of predators(x=3.77); methods of using ethno veterinary drugs to treat chicken diseases and pests (x=3.72), and identify signs of diseases (x=3.69), among others. However, the ADTs did not show any competency in any of the 32 skills items. The principal component analysis with Varimax rotation was performed to ascertain the dimensionality of the measures. Six factors with eigen value of >1, which accounted for 77.317% were extracted, with each factor loading ranging from 0.523 to 0.93. Factor loading after rotation that emerged on the same component was described; as brooding, shelter and care of the chicks; predators and healthcare; hygiene and litter management; feeds and feeding stuff; and record keeping and marketing. The findings on the human resource development revealed that staff meetings were the most common method of capacity development. This was followed by in-service-training, formal study, workshop, and on the job training. The farmers’ field school and study tours were sparingly used. However, respondents were in favor of on-site training, staff meetings, formal study and in-service training. The findings on the appropriate model suggest a theoretical indigenous poultry production model (IPPM) for the Eastern Cape Province (ECP). The “open social system” was used to develop a framework for an indigenous poultry cooperative society (to be known as Abafuyi Benkukhu Zemveli [ABZ]). This was meant to create a binding force for capacity development, a strong economic foundation through equity contributions, creation of marketing channels, and the development of a concept of ‘‘our own'' product in the market. Lastly, the study offers options for a training program that would accommodate the new initiatives, with a strong capacity development training approach. In this context, the study advocates for institutional support for the IPFs and the incorporation of indigenous poultry in the curriculum of the agricultural training programs at higher education institutions in South Africa.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2014

Afro-communitarianism and the nature of reconciliation

  • Authors: Oelofsen, Rianna
  • Date: 2013
  • Subjects: Ubuntu (Philosophy) Reconciliation -- South Africa Communitarianism -- Africa Philosophy, African
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: vital:2736 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006809
  • Description: In this dissertation I sketch a conception of personhood as understood from within an Afrocommunitarian worldview, and argue that this understanding of personhood has implications for understanding the concept of reconciliation. Understanding ‘being human’ as a collective, communal enterprise has implications for how responsibility, justice, forgiveness and humanization (all cognate concepts of reconciliation) are conceptualized. In line with this understanding of reconciliation and its cognate concepts, I argue that the humanization of self and other (according to the Afrocommunitarian understanding of personhood) is required for addressing the ‘inferiority’ and concurrent ‘superiority’ racial complexes as diagnosed by Franz Fanon and Steve Biko. These complexes reach deeply within individual and collective psyches and political identities, and I argue that political solutions to protracted conflict (in South Africa and other racially charged contexts) which do not address these deeply entrenched pathologies will be inadequate according to an Afrocommunitarian framework.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2013

Investigating the dual influences of theory and practice on the design and implementation of a learning programme

  • Authors: Jackelman, Susan Iona
  • Date: 2012
  • Subjects: Education -- Research Education -- Philosophy Teaching -- Methodology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Teaching -- Aids and devices -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:1591 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003473
  • Description: It is widely recognized that educational research and theory should be motivated by the desire to continually improve the practice of teaching. However, bridging the divide between theoretical research outcomes and the practical constraints of classroom-based teaching has proved somewhat challenging. The involvement of teachers as the 'bridge-builders' between theory and practice could provide an effective mechanism for achieving this integration. The purpose of this study is thus to investigate whether the involvement of teachers in developing and implementing a theory-based teaching module would improve teaching practice in the classroom. A teaching module was collaboratively developed by a group of teachers for Grade 9 linear functions using: the principles of mathematical proficiency postulated by Kilpatrick, Swafford and Findell, (2001); the teaching phases formulated by van Hiele (1986); and the cognitive classification of classroom activities developed by Stein and Smith (1998). This module was then taught to six Grade 9 classes by four teachers in one school in the Eastern Cape, South Africa over a period of 5 weeks. The effectiveness of the module, and its application in the classroom, was assessed in terms of: (i) the extent to which theory could be used to inform the design and development of teaching materials; (ii) the efficacy of this teaching material in promoting teaching for mathematical proficiency; and (iii) the effects of extraneous influences on the usefulness of the module in teaching for mathematical proficiency. While the theoretical framework provided a sound basis for developing the teaching module, it was found that collaboratively transforming this theory into a teaching module for practical use in the classroom is certainly possible, but it requires considerable time and effort that practising teachers do not have. Developing the depth of understanding required for mathematical proficiency also takes time - a commodity often in short supply as teachers grapple with the demands of the curriculum. Teaching for mathematical proficiency is a layered process. It starts with thinking about an idea (like a graph) that is developed out of a related concept that then has a set of characteristic algorithms and actions which are learnt and performed in sequence. Building understanding in this way ends with a student being able to visualize and conceive the graph as a structure that can be described as if it were an object (encapsulating all the previous concepts belonging to similar graphs in one idea). This development of understanding is important for mathematical proficiency but is not necessarily easy. When teaching with the module, it was necessary to create an extra opportunity for students to use procedural knowledge and repetition in order to provide enough examples to help them see the link: between linear number patterns and linear graphs. Extraneous influences on teaching for mathematical proficiency were grouped into two categories - endogenous and exogenous influences. Endogenous influences were teacher related and included the attitudes, decisions and disposition of the teacher. Exogenous influences were more contextual (and in effect out of the control of the teacher) and included teaching time available, curriculum, external assessments etc. Both of these influences were seen to affect teaching for mathematical proficiency, either promoting or inhibiting it. This research affirmed the central role that teachers play in teaching for mathematical proficiency. It is considered critical that research actively involve teachers in the evolution of mathematical theory. The development of an enabling environment (including institutional support, time, capacity, resources, skills and tools) for teachers will further enhance their capacity to teach for mathematical proficiency.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2012

Psychofortology of adults recovering from substance-use disorders

  • Authors: Bubb, Tanielle Carmen
  • Date: 2011
  • Subjects: Substance-related disorders -- Therapy , Substance abuse -- Treatment , Substance abuse
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: vital:9870 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008117 , Substance-related disorders -- Therapy , Substance abuse -- Treatment , Substance abuse
  • Description: Evaluating the psychofortology of adults recovering from a substance-use disorder has been identified as a research priority in South Africa. This is in line with calls from researchers in diverse fields of psychology for more attention to the resilience, strengths, resources and capacities of people. This study therefore aimed to explore and describe the coping resources, sense of coherence, happiness and satisfaction with life of adults recovering from a substance-use disorder within the Nelson Mandela Metropole. The sample consisted of 99 voluntary participants from various managed recovery centres within the Nelson Mandela Metropole. Participants were given a package of questionnaires to complete under the supervision of the researcher. The assessment consisted of a biographical questionnaire and four standardized paper and pencil measures namely; the Coping Resources Inventory (CRI), the Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-29), the Affectometer 2 (AFM-2) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). A quantitative, non-experimental exploratory-descriptive research method was used. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. Key findings include the following: Results on the CRI revealed low average mean scores on both the Coping Resources Inventory and within all the five subscales. Results of the SOC-29 revealed a high average mean score for sense of coherence. Results of the AFM-2 revealed that more positive affect than negative affect is present, resulting in happiness. Results of the SWLS revealed an average level of satisfaction with life, with most participants’ reporting neutral levels of satisfaction with life. There were significant positive correlations between the coping resources, sense of coherence, happiness and satisfaction with life of the sample. This implies that these constructs can be categorized under the subdiscipline of psychofortology. Overall, these findings emphasized the need for more research into adults recovering from a substance-use disorder.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2011

The druggable antimalarial target 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate reductoisomerase: purfication, kinetic characterization and inhibition studies

  • Authors: Goble, Jessica Leigh
  • Date: 2011
  • Subjects: Antimalarials -- Development Plasmodium falciparum Drug development Plasmodium falciparum -- Purification Plasmodium falciparum -- Inhibitors Enzyme kinetics Malaria -- Chemotherapy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: vital:3949 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004008
  • Description: Plasmodium falciparum 1–deoxy–D–xylulose–5 phosphatereductoisomerase (PfDXR) plays a role in isoprenoid biosynthesis in the malaria parasite and is absent in the human host, making this parasite enzyme an attractive target for antimalarial drug design. To characterize PfDXR, it is necessary to produce large quantities of the enzyme in a soluble and functional form. However, the over–production of malarial proteins in prokaryotic host systems often results in the formation of truncated proteins or insoluble protein aggregates. A heterologous expression system was developed for the production of active PfDXR using codon harmonization and tight control of expression in the presence of lac repressor. Yields of up to 2 mg/l of enzyme were reported using the optimised expression system, which is 8 to 10– fold greater than previously reported yields. The kinetic parameters Km, Vmax and kcat were determined for PfDXR; values reported in this study were consistent with those reported in the literature for other DXR enzymes. A three–dimensional model of the malarial drug target protein PfDXR was generated, and validated using structure–checking programs and protein docking studies. Structural and functional features unique to PfDXR were identified using the model and comparative sequence analyses with apicomplexan and non–apicomplexan DXR proteins. Residues Val44 and Asn45, essential for NADPH binding; and catalytic hatch residues Lys224 and Lys226, which are unique to the species of Plasmodium, were mutated to resemble those of E. coli DXR. Interestingly,these mutations resulted in significant reductions in substrate affinity, when compared to the unmutated PfDXR. Mutant enzymes PfDXR(VN43,44AG) and PfDXR(KK224,226NS) also demonstrated a decreased ability to turnover substrate by 4–fold and 2–fold respectively. This study indicates a difference in the role of the catalytic hatch of PfDXR with regards to the way in which it captures substrates. The study also highlights subtle differences in cofactor binding to PfDXR, compared with the well characterized EcDXR enzyme. The validated PfDXR model was also used to develop a novel efficient in silico screening method for potential tool compounds for use in the rational design of novel DXR inhibitors. Following in silico screening of 46 potential DXR inhibitors, a two–tiered in vitro screening approach was undertaken. DXR inhibition was assessed for the 46 novel compounds using an NADPH– ependant DXP enzyme inhibition assay and antimalarial potential was assessed using P.falciparum–infected erythrocyte growth assays. Select compounds were tested in human cells in order to determine whether they were toxic to the host. From the parallel in silico and in vitro drug screening, it was evident that only a single compound demonstrated reasonable potential binding to DXR (determined using in silico docking), inhibited DXR in vitro and inhibited P. falciparum growth, without being toxic to human cells. Its potential as a lead compound in antimalarial drug development is therefore feasible. Two outcomes were evident from this work. Firstly, analogues of known antimalarial natural products can be screened against malaria, which may then lead towards the rational design of novel compounds that are effective against a specific antimalarial drug target enzyme, such as PfDXR. Secondly, the rational design of novel compounds against a specific antimalarial drug target enzyme can be untaken by adopting a coupled in silico and in vitro approach to drug discovery.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2011

Viability study of an ethnic cosmetic retailer in Port Elizabeth

  • Authors: Rose, Grant
  • Date: 2010
  • Subjects: Cosmetics industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Ethnic groups -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Market surveys -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: vital:8603 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1625 , Cosmetics industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Ethnic groups -- Health and hygiene -- South Africa , Market surveys -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
  • Description: The primary objective of this study is to determine the viability of opening a speciality top end, Ethnic cosmetic and toiletry retailer in the Greenacres Mall of Port Elizabeth, in order to meet the cosmetic and toiletry needs of Ethnic consumers, having moved from rural places of work and dwelling, to urban areas of work and dwelling. In order to achieve the above mentioned primary objective, the following secondary objectives will be pursued: • To investigate the current and forecast Ethnic cosmetic and toiletry trends in the United States of America, in order to serve as a benchmark in the development of a top end, speciality Ethnic cosmetic and toiletry retail store model, for the Greenacres Shopping Mall in Port Elizabeth, South Africa; • to identify whether a top end, speciality Ethnic cosmetic and toiletry store model for the Greenacres Shopping Mall in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, would be a viable business venture; • to investigate current and forecast Ethnic cosmetic and toiletry trends in South Africa, in order to reveal the shortfalls of retailers targeting this market segment; and • to identify the best business model for an organisation or individual wanting to grow their business through targeting the Ethnic cosmetic and toiletry consumer
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2010

Application of dermal microdialysis and tape stripping methods to determine the bioavailability and/or bioequivalence of topical ketoprofen formulations

  • Authors: Tettey-Amlalo, Ralph Nii Okai
  • Date: 2008
  • Subjects: Drugs -- Therapeutic equivalency Transdermal medication High performance liquid chromatography Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents -- Bioavailability Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents -- Effectiveness Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents -- Testing Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents -- Side effects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: vital:3796 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003274
  • Description: The widespread acceptance of topical formulations intended for local and/or regional activity has prompted renewed interest in developing a model to determine the bioavailability of drugs in order to establish bioequivalence as a means of evaluating formulation performance of multisource products and also for use during formulation development. Current in vivo techniques such as blister suction and skin biopsy amongst others used to determine the bioavailability and/or bioequivalence of topical formulations are either too invasive to generate appropriate concentration-time profiles or require large numbers of study subjects thereby making the study expensive and time-consuming. Moreover, there are currently no sampling techniques that can demonstrate dermal bioavailability and/or bioequivalence of topical formulations intended for local and/or regional activity. Dermal microdialysis is a relatively new application of microdialysis that permits continuous monitoring of endogenous and/or exogenous solutes in the interstitial fluid. The technique is involves the implantation of semi-permeable membranes which are perfused with an isotonic medium at extremely slow flow rates and collection of microlitre sample volumes containing diffused drugs. Tape stripping, a relatively older technique, has been extensively used in comparative bioavailability studies of various topical formulations. However, due to shortcomings arising from reproducibility and inter-subject variation amongst others, the published FDA guidance outlining the initial protocol was subsequently withdrawn. The incorporation of transepidermal water loss with tape stripping has garnered renewed interest and has been used for the determination of drug bioavailability from a number of topical formulations. Hence the primary objective of this research is to develop and evaluate microdialysis sampling and tape stripping techniques, including the incorporation of the determination of transepidermal water loss, to assess the dermal bioavailability of ketoprofen from topical gel formulations and to develop models for bioequivalence assessment. A rapid UPLC-MS/MS method with requisite sensitivity for the analysis of samples generated from dermal microdialysis was developed and validated which accommodated the microlitre sample volumes collected. An HPLC-UV method was developed and validated for the analysis of samples generated from the in vitro microdialysis and in vivo tape stripping studies. The work presented herein contributes to a growing body of scientific knowledge seeking to develop a model for the determination of bioequivalence of pharmaceutically equivalent topical formulations intended for local and/or regional activity in human subjects.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2008

The cost of credit in the micro-finance industry in South Africa

  • Authors: Campbell, Jonathan
  • Date: 2007
  • Subjects: Contracts -- South Africa , Credit -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Microfinance -- South Africa , Usury laws -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: vital:3667 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003182 , Contracts -- South Africa , Credit -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Microfinance -- South Africa , Usury laws -- South Africa
  • Description: This thesis analyses the cost of credit in the micro-finance industry in South Africa. The study situates micro-lending agreements within the law of contract, beginning with an examination of contractual fairness in terms of the common law: the fundamental principle of freedom of contract that underpins the common law of contract; the principle that agreements contrary to public policy should not be enforced; and the impetus given by constitutional values that inform public policy. In regard to moneylending transactions, common law usury law will be explained. The study then goes on to trace the origins and rapid growth of the micro-finance industry which was made possible by its exemption in 1992 from the Usury Act 73 of 1968. The upshot of this development was that registered micro-lenders have for nearly 14 years charged excessive interest rates, and continue to do so. The dire socio-economic impact of these high interest rates on individual consumers and lowincome communities is then demonstrated: how borrowers of small loans soon become over-indebted; the loss of billions of rands every year to low-income communities in the form of interest on micro-loans. The study then shifts to the legislative response to the need for consumer protection in regard to consumer credit. The extensive credit law review process is explained, resulting ultimately in the National Credit Act 34 of 2005, which allows the Minister to prescribe limits on interest rates and fees in all sectors of the consumer credit market. The prescribed limits on the cost of credit in the micro-finance sector are thoroughly explained and analysed, with particular reference to the implications of each element of the credit costing structure, and the combined impact of the total cost of credit on different types and sizes of loans. The envisaged maximum interest and fees will markedly alter the positions of micro-lenders and consumers, and receive careful analysis. The study closes with a summary of findings in the thesis, which includes suggested amendments to the National Credit Regulations and a review of possible legal challenges to the high cost of credit on smaller loans.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2007

The application of the monthly time step Pitman rainfall-runoff model to the Kafue River basin of Zambia

  • Authors: Mwelwa, Elenestina Mutekenya
  • Date: 2005
  • Subjects: Kafue River (Zambia) , Kafue Flats (Zambia) , Floodplains -- Zambia , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: vital:6032 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006171 , Kafue River (Zambia) , Kafue Flats (Zambia) , Floodplains -- Zambia , Rain and rainfall -- Mathematical models , Runoff -- Mathematical models , Hydrology -- Mathematical models
  • Description: This thesis presents a discussion on the study undertaken in the application of the monthly time step Pitman rainfall-runoff model to the Kafue River basin. The study constituted one of the initial steps in the capacity building and expansion of the application of hydrologic models in the southern African region for water resources assessment, one of the core areas of the Southern African FRIEND project (Flow Regimes from International Experimental Network Data). The research process was undertaken in four major stages, each stage working towards achieving the research objectives. The first stage was the preparation of spatial data which included the selection and delineation of sub-catchments and inclusion of spatial features required to run the Pitman model and transferring the spatial data into SPATSIM. The second stage was the preparation of input data, mainly rainfall, streamflow, evaporation, and water abstraction data. This information was then imported into SPATSIM, which was able to assist in the further preparation of data by assessment of the input data quality, linking of observed flows and spatial interpolation of point rainfall data to average catchment rainfall in readiness for running and calibration of the model. The third stage was the running and calibration of the Pitman model. Use was made of both the automatic calibration facility, as well as manual calibration by means of the time series graph display and analysis facility of SPATSIM. Model calibration was used to obtain the best fit and an acceptable correlation between the simulated and the observed flows and to obtain simulation parameter sets for sub-catchments and regions within the Kafue catchment. The fourth stage was the analysis and evaluation of the model results. This included verification of results over different time periods and validation and testing of parameter transfers to other catchments. This stage also included the evaluation of SPATSIM as a tool for applying the model and as a database for the processing and storage of water resources data. The study’s output includes: A comprehensive database of hydrometeorological, physical catchment characteristics, landuse and water abstraction information for the Kafue basin; calibrated Pitman model parameters for the sub-catchments within the Kafue basin; recommendations for future work and data collection programmes for the application of the model. The study has also built capacity by facilitating training and exposure to rainfall-runoff models (specifically the Pitman model) and associated software, SPATSIM. In addition, the dissemination of the results of this study will serve as an effective way of raising awareness on the application of the Pitman model and the use of the SPATSIM software within Zambia and the region. The overall Pitman model results were found to be satisfactory and the calibrated model is able to reproduce the observed spatial and temporal variations in streamflow characteristics in the Kafue River basin.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2005

Development of a language policy in a rural school

  • Authors: Fumba, Zamumzi Norman
  • Date: 2003
  • Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa Language and education -- South Africa Education, Rural -- South Africa -- Peddie Black people -- Education -- South Africa Native language and education -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:1940 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007798
  • Description: The study was undertaken to observe and participate in the process and development of a language policy for a rural secondary school in Peddie in the Eastern Cape. This was done in collaboration with parents, learners, and teachers. The researcher acted as a researcher, facilitator and learner in the process that Iead to the final product. Twenty four learners were selected from Grade 8 to Grade 10. These learners formed three focus groups. A questionnaire and lesson observation were used to establish what was taking place in the school with regard to language practices and preferences by learners, teachers and parents. Lesson observations were recorded by a tape recorder. Outcomes are that Xhosa is the dominant language to which the learners are exposed. They only have the exposure to 'chunks' of English in class and when they read magazines, newspapers and listening to radio and TV. Teachers code switch. This is supported by both learners and their parents. Parents want their children to improve performance by being taught in the medium of a language they understand well enough. The study shows different perceptions about the language that should be used as LOLT. Parents in the study favour English as LOLT, while parents in general favour Xhosa. This view is also held by both teachers and learners. At a conscious level when teachers and learners talk about the language to be used as LOLT, they favour English, but when they are faced with the reality of the class they are ambivalent, hence they code switch. The study finally reports on the divergent views of the parents, on one hand, and those of the teachers and the learners on the other hand. The divergence will be resolved in a workshop, part of the broader process of school language policy research, which is beyond the scope of the research reported in the thesis. The final product, in the form of the school language policy, will then be drafted for presentation to the School Governing Body (SGB) for ratification and writing up process.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2003

Effects of substituents on the photosensitizing and electrocatalytic properties of phthalocyanines

  • Authors: Maree, Suzanne Elizabeth
  • Date: 2002
  • Subjects: Phthalocyanines
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: vital:4554 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018247
  • Description: In this work a selection of octasubstituted phthalocyaninato Zinc, Ge(IV) and Sn(IV) complexes were synthesized for possible use in photodynamic therapy and their photochemistry, photophysics and electrochemistry studied. Third-generation complexes containing steroids, e.g. cholesterol and estrone, were synthesized to improve tumour selectivity. The zinc phthalocyanine complexes (ZnPc) showed that complexes containing electron-donating groups have higher photostability. Germanium phthalocyanine complexes (GePc) undergo phototransformation rather than direct photobleaching and the tin phthalocyanine complexes (SnPc) undergo photobleaching mediated by photoreduction of the phthalocyanine ring. Singlet oxygen production showed increased in the following order: GePc>SnPc>ZnPc. Triplet lifetimes of the GePc (168-340μs) are very similar to that of the ZnPc (197 - 366μs), but the triplet lifetimes of the SnPc are ten fold shorter (10 - 32μs ). Triplet quantum yields are higher for the GePc (0.20 - 0.50) and SnPc (0.08 - 0.45) than for the ZnPc (0.02 - 0.25). Fluorescence lifetimes of GePc ( 4.0 - 5.1 ns) are significantly longer than that of ZnPc (1.9 - 3.0 ns) and SnPc (0.2 - 0.4 ns). Fluorescence quantum yields decrease in the following order: GePc(0.21-0.31)>ZnPc(0.02-0.21)>SnPc(0.02- 0.06). Ring-substituted cobalt phthalocyanine complexes of the form CoPc(R)4 (R= NH2, N02, C(CH3)3, S03H and COOH) are compared for their catalytic activities towards the oxidation of cysteine. The potential for the electrocatalytic oxidation of cysteine is closely related to the Com/Co11 couple of the CoPc(R)4 complexes in acidic media and to the Con/Co1 couple in basic media. The catalytic current and the oxidation potential for cysteine are dependent on the pH of the solution, the potential becoming less positive and the currents increasing with increase in pH.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2002

A case study of input and classroom interaction in a multilingual chemistry class at the Port Elizabeth Technikon

  • Authors: Potgieter, Sally
  • Date: 1996
  • Subjects: Interaction analysis in education Teacher-student relationships Language and languages -- Study and teaching Multicultural education -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: vital:1437 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003318
  • Description: This study examines input and interactional modifications in a multilingual chemistry class at the Port Elizabeth Technikon. The investigation constituted observing lectures presented in chemistry and analysing the data so obtained within a framework developed from a study of current theories on the relationship between language and cognition and the role of input. It was further informed by data gathered from interviews with the lecturer, questionnaires administered to the students and separate focus group discussions with first language and second language speakers of English. The conclusion is that the lecturer's interactional and input modifications make the subject content accessible to both first language and second language learners. I have made suggestions for future research in this area in the belief that the data gathered in this case study offers some useful pointers for the retraining of teachers of multilingual classes in a tertiary context.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 1996
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy
  • Copyright
  • Contact