A pastoral-theological approach to teenage pregnancy of the church of Central Africa Presbyterian, Blantyre Synod in Malawi
- Authors: Stephens, Chaplain N
- Date: 2014-01
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26403 , vital:65302
- Description: Unwanted teenage pregnancy is one of the ongoing challenges affecting society. This issue affects the unborn child, the teenage mother, the family and the wider society. It is a problem of both the developed and developing countries. Thirty six per cent of girls in Malawi become mothers before twenty years. Among other factors that contribute to teenage pregnancy are curiosity, pressure from peers, economic survival, coercion and cultural practices. The aim of the study was to establish a pastoral-theological approach to teenage pregnancy in the C.C.A.P Blantyre Synod, in Malawi.- The study revealed that teenage mothers are faced with many challenges such as lack of financial, social and spiritual support. They also curtail their education and although some do return to school, many do not. Teenage mothers are regarded as outcasts by society and the church and as such they feel stigmatized. The stigma has in some cases ensued in unsafe abortion. Although the church disciplines the teenage mothers for falling pregnant out-of-wedlock the responsible man is left free. The following five major themes emerged from the data: Social factors, social problems, economic problems and social and spiritual support. Nine focus groups with parents of teenage mothers were conducted. Twenty (Official church elders and counsellors) were interviewed in the three Presbyteries of Thyolo Highlands, Blantyre North and Blantyre City. , Thesis (MTh) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-01
- Authors: Stephens, Chaplain N
- Date: 2014-01
- Subjects: Teenage pregnancy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26403 , vital:65302
- Description: Unwanted teenage pregnancy is one of the ongoing challenges affecting society. This issue affects the unborn child, the teenage mother, the family and the wider society. It is a problem of both the developed and developing countries. Thirty six per cent of girls in Malawi become mothers before twenty years. Among other factors that contribute to teenage pregnancy are curiosity, pressure from peers, economic survival, coercion and cultural practices. The aim of the study was to establish a pastoral-theological approach to teenage pregnancy in the C.C.A.P Blantyre Synod, in Malawi.- The study revealed that teenage mothers are faced with many challenges such as lack of financial, social and spiritual support. They also curtail their education and although some do return to school, many do not. Teenage mothers are regarded as outcasts by society and the church and as such they feel stigmatized. The stigma has in some cases ensued in unsafe abortion. Although the church disciplines the teenage mothers for falling pregnant out-of-wedlock the responsible man is left free. The following five major themes emerged from the data: Social factors, social problems, economic problems and social and spiritual support. Nine focus groups with parents of teenage mothers were conducted. Twenty (Official church elders and counsellors) were interviewed in the three Presbyteries of Thyolo Highlands, Blantyre North and Blantyre City. , Thesis (MTh) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-01
Synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of xanthate metal complexes
- Authors: Casa, Sandisiwe
- Date: 2014-01
- Subjects: Metal complexes , Ligands
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24250 , vital:62594
- Description: Ni(II), Ag(I), Cu(II), Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes of xanthate were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV‒Vis, FTIR, conductivity measurements, decomposition temperatures, and Pd(II), Pt(II) complexes and the xanthate ligands were further characterized by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Conductivity measurements displayed that the complexes are non‒electrolytes in solution with conductivity values in the range 0.05 ‒ 18.30 μS. Generally all the xanthate ligands are soluble in water and the complexes are insoluble both in non-polar solvents except polar coordinating solvents such as DMSO and DMF. The xanthate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar), and six coordinate (octahedral) compounds. However, in each of the complexes xanthate acted as bidentate ligand through the two sulfur atoms. The geometries around the metal ions are completed by triphenylphosphine. The ligands and complexes were screened against two bacterial isolates to determine their antibacterial activities. Antibacterial activity of the synthesized metal complexes shows a generally increased activity in comparison with that of their respective free ligands. At a lower concentration some of the complexes did not show any activity, a good number of complexes however showed activity at a higher concentration of 40 mg/ml. The degree of activity varies with metals. Silver complex have been observed to show the highest activity of MIC value of 1.25 mg/mL with regards to antibacterial strength, although it varies with different ligands. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-01
- Authors: Casa, Sandisiwe
- Date: 2014-01
- Subjects: Metal complexes , Ligands
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24250 , vital:62594
- Description: Ni(II), Ag(I), Cu(II), Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes of xanthate were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV‒Vis, FTIR, conductivity measurements, decomposition temperatures, and Pd(II), Pt(II) complexes and the xanthate ligands were further characterized by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Conductivity measurements displayed that the complexes are non‒electrolytes in solution with conductivity values in the range 0.05 ‒ 18.30 μS. Generally all the xanthate ligands are soluble in water and the complexes are insoluble both in non-polar solvents except polar coordinating solvents such as DMSO and DMF. The xanthate complexes are formulated as four coordinate (tetrahedral or square planar), and six coordinate (octahedral) compounds. However, in each of the complexes xanthate acted as bidentate ligand through the two sulfur atoms. The geometries around the metal ions are completed by triphenylphosphine. The ligands and complexes were screened against two bacterial isolates to determine their antibacterial activities. Antibacterial activity of the synthesized metal complexes shows a generally increased activity in comparison with that of their respective free ligands. At a lower concentration some of the complexes did not show any activity, a good number of complexes however showed activity at a higher concentration of 40 mg/ml. The degree of activity varies with metals. Silver complex have been observed to show the highest activity of MIC value of 1.25 mg/mL with regards to antibacterial strength, although it varies with different ligands. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-01
School feeding programmes in Chimutu, Malawi: opportunities, benefits and challenges
- Authors: Yasin, Janerose
- Date: 2013-12
- Subjects: School children , Children -- Nutrition , Food relief
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27462 , vital:67330
- Description: Developing countries have the highest dropout as well as non enrollment rates among primary school pupils. However there are efforts to reverse the situation through interventions like school feeding programme to improve schooling outcomes. The aim of this study was specifically to find out the details of why school participation is still a problem among primary school children despite provision of food in primary school. This was achieved through discussions on community members’ participation, benefits and challenges of the school feeding programme. Data collected from key informants and community members using in-depth interviews revealed the benefits and challenges as well as perceptions on community participation. Data was collected from 46 respondents of whom 14 were key informants from government and NGO implementers and 32 community members who are benefiting from the intervention in the area of Traditional Authority Chimutu in Lilongwe District, Malawi. The study found out that although school feeding programme is beneficial through provision of at least a meal a day, it is not meeting some of its objectives. In summary the findings revealed community members acknowledgement that the school feeding programme encourages school attendance and high pupil enrolment. However, the findings revealed that meal provision in school can neither prevent school dropout nor malnutrition due to challenges like inconsistency in feeding frequency, porridge purchase expenses and monitoring and evaluation inadequacies. It was also found that community participation in the school feeding programme does not go beyond porridge preparation. Overall, the study revealed the need for community members involvement at all levels in the feeding programme to achieve sustainable development because the community members are key in identifying and addressing their livelihood challenges. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-12
- Authors: Yasin, Janerose
- Date: 2013-12
- Subjects: School children , Children -- Nutrition , Food relief
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27462 , vital:67330
- Description: Developing countries have the highest dropout as well as non enrollment rates among primary school pupils. However there are efforts to reverse the situation through interventions like school feeding programme to improve schooling outcomes. The aim of this study was specifically to find out the details of why school participation is still a problem among primary school children despite provision of food in primary school. This was achieved through discussions on community members’ participation, benefits and challenges of the school feeding programme. Data collected from key informants and community members using in-depth interviews revealed the benefits and challenges as well as perceptions on community participation. Data was collected from 46 respondents of whom 14 were key informants from government and NGO implementers and 32 community members who are benefiting from the intervention in the area of Traditional Authority Chimutu in Lilongwe District, Malawi. The study found out that although school feeding programme is beneficial through provision of at least a meal a day, it is not meeting some of its objectives. In summary the findings revealed community members acknowledgement that the school feeding programme encourages school attendance and high pupil enrolment. However, the findings revealed that meal provision in school can neither prevent school dropout nor malnutrition due to challenges like inconsistency in feeding frequency, porridge purchase expenses and monitoring and evaluation inadequacies. It was also found that community participation in the school feeding programme does not go beyond porridge preparation. Overall, the study revealed the need for community members involvement at all levels in the feeding programme to achieve sustainable development because the community members are key in identifying and addressing their livelihood challenges. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-12
The power dynamics between traditional leaders and councillors: implications for development at Tyolomnqa- Ncera in the Eastern cape
- Khowa, Thandeka https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4561-2994
- Authors: Khowa, Thandeka https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4561-2994
- Date: 2013-12
- Subjects: Tribal government , Political leadership -- Africa , Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26775 , vital:66000
- Description: This research study examined the extent to which the Eastern Cape local government has succeeded in integrating the institutions of traditional leadership into the existing structures of local government and the nature of relations between the traditional leaders and ward councillors and its impact on the delivery of development services. The study further examined the allocation of roles and responsibilities between the two categories of authority. The was conducted in the East London village of Tyolomnqa-Ncera in the Eastern Cape Province.The data for study was collected through focus group discussions with community members; in-depth interviews with the two Traditional leaders and the ward Councillor of the studied area; and key informant interviews with the Speaker of the Council and the Deputy Director of (South African Local Government Association (SALGA).The main findings of the study are that there is still a great deal of confusion regarding the different roles and functions of traditional leaders versus those of ward councillors particularly with regard to co-operation in the delivery of development services. The study further reveals that persistent power struggles among the officials of the two institutions are the order of the day as both sides clamor for recognition, relevance and operational space. The underlying factor behind these power struggles tends to be a lack of policy that clearly defines the roles and functions of each institution with the result that development services and processes are hindered. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations are made that concern among others, the development of a policy framework that will clearly outline the roles and functions of each of the two institutions and hopefully bring an end to the destructive competition and hostile relations between the two interest groups. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-12
- Authors: Khowa, Thandeka https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4561-2994
- Date: 2013-12
- Subjects: Tribal government , Political leadership -- Africa , Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26775 , vital:66000
- Description: This research study examined the extent to which the Eastern Cape local government has succeeded in integrating the institutions of traditional leadership into the existing structures of local government and the nature of relations between the traditional leaders and ward councillors and its impact on the delivery of development services. The study further examined the allocation of roles and responsibilities between the two categories of authority. The was conducted in the East London village of Tyolomnqa-Ncera in the Eastern Cape Province.The data for study was collected through focus group discussions with community members; in-depth interviews with the two Traditional leaders and the ward Councillor of the studied area; and key informant interviews with the Speaker of the Council and the Deputy Director of (South African Local Government Association (SALGA).The main findings of the study are that there is still a great deal of confusion regarding the different roles and functions of traditional leaders versus those of ward councillors particularly with regard to co-operation in the delivery of development services. The study further reveals that persistent power struggles among the officials of the two institutions are the order of the day as both sides clamor for recognition, relevance and operational space. The underlying factor behind these power struggles tends to be a lack of policy that clearly defines the roles and functions of each institution with the result that development services and processes are hindered. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations are made that concern among others, the development of a policy framework that will clearly outline the roles and functions of each of the two institutions and hopefully bring an end to the destructive competition and hostile relations between the two interest groups. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-12
The role of marriage preparation programs in preventing divorce: narratives of recently married individuals in Baffalo city municipality
- Mujoko, Rumbidzai https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8505-9890
- Authors: Mujoko, Rumbidzai https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8505-9890
- Date: 2013-12
- Subjects: Marriage counseling , Communication in marriage , Divorce
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26186 , vital:64952
- Description: The study explores the perceptions of recently married individuals on the role of marriage preparation programs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study’s concern is that despite the fact that marriage preparation programs have been conducted in most parts of the world, some South African marriages are still affected by divorce. In 2009, 34.2 percent of the divorces came from the African population group and 5, 2 percent from the Indian/Asian population group. (StatsSA, 2009). Consequently, many marriages are affected by marital distress and divorce which has detrimental effects on the individual, family, communities and the nation as a whole. Marriage preparation programs are set up with the main aim of preventing divorce. It is in this frame of reference that this study saw it imperative to focus on the role of these programs. The study aims to examine what recently married individuals perceive as the role of marriage preparation programs and in turn recommend practical preventative and treatment strategies that can be employed by service providers of marriage preparation programs. The research drew its theoretical framework from the adult attachment theory, which developed from John Bowlby’s attachment theory in children. Guilford (2005) states that the application of attachment theory to adult relationships is a revolutionary event for the modality of couple therapy which gives the therapist a coherent, relevant, widely applicable and well researched framework for understanding the complex phenomenon of the adult love relationships. The study also drew from Jonathan Smith’s Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, a qualitative research approach which is committed to the examination of how people make sense of their major life experiences. Semi-structured interviews were utilized during data collection. A purposive sampling method was used to select fifteen recently married (3-5 years) individuals who attended a marriage preparation course before their marriage. The results of this study revealed that marriage preparation plays a major role in divorce prevention through improving good communication skills, helping in managing finances, addressing some cultural beliefs that might affect the marriage negatively, alerting individuals about potential marital challenges, encouraging seeking for help from professional counsellors, providing ways to deal with marital problems, improves marital commitment and increasing the level of marriage readiness. However, the study also found out that some marriage preparation programs in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality exclude some topics that are perceived as important by participants. In addition, some participants who attended a marriage preparation programs still have difficulties in implementing some of the topics. Recommendations and implications for social work practice are documented in the research. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-12
- Authors: Mujoko, Rumbidzai https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8505-9890
- Date: 2013-12
- Subjects: Marriage counseling , Communication in marriage , Divorce
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26186 , vital:64952
- Description: The study explores the perceptions of recently married individuals on the role of marriage preparation programs in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study’s concern is that despite the fact that marriage preparation programs have been conducted in most parts of the world, some South African marriages are still affected by divorce. In 2009, 34.2 percent of the divorces came from the African population group and 5, 2 percent from the Indian/Asian population group. (StatsSA, 2009). Consequently, many marriages are affected by marital distress and divorce which has detrimental effects on the individual, family, communities and the nation as a whole. Marriage preparation programs are set up with the main aim of preventing divorce. It is in this frame of reference that this study saw it imperative to focus on the role of these programs. The study aims to examine what recently married individuals perceive as the role of marriage preparation programs and in turn recommend practical preventative and treatment strategies that can be employed by service providers of marriage preparation programs. The research drew its theoretical framework from the adult attachment theory, which developed from John Bowlby’s attachment theory in children. Guilford (2005) states that the application of attachment theory to adult relationships is a revolutionary event for the modality of couple therapy which gives the therapist a coherent, relevant, widely applicable and well researched framework for understanding the complex phenomenon of the adult love relationships. The study also drew from Jonathan Smith’s Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, a qualitative research approach which is committed to the examination of how people make sense of their major life experiences. Semi-structured interviews were utilized during data collection. A purposive sampling method was used to select fifteen recently married (3-5 years) individuals who attended a marriage preparation course before their marriage. The results of this study revealed that marriage preparation plays a major role in divorce prevention through improving good communication skills, helping in managing finances, addressing some cultural beliefs that might affect the marriage negatively, alerting individuals about potential marital challenges, encouraging seeking for help from professional counsellors, providing ways to deal with marital problems, improves marital commitment and increasing the level of marriage readiness. However, the study also found out that some marriage preparation programs in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality exclude some topics that are perceived as important by participants. In addition, some participants who attended a marriage preparation programs still have difficulties in implementing some of the topics. Recommendations and implications for social work practice are documented in the research. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-12
Caregivers’ experiences with HIV infected orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) at a Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO) in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Majokweni, Oscarina
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons--Care--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Orphans--Services for--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25140 , vital:63981
- Description: HIV and AIDS epidemic has caused much devastation and has left many children destitute and in need of care and supervision. The present study investigated the psychological experiences of caregivers caring for HIV infected orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The context of working and living in orphanages is accepted as challenging for all concerned, yet the number of studies examining the challenging experiences of caregivers The study was informed by a qualitative research method and semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The theoretical framework that informed this study is the Stress, Burnout and Coping Models. The study made use of a Interpretative Phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of ten caregivers who participated in the study. From the themes that were abstracted it was evident that caring for HIV infected OVC is emotionally, physically and mentally strenuous for the caregivers. It was better recommended that caregivers be given recognition for their challenging work and be included in the planning and development of programmes that affect their caregiving role. Furthermore, emotional, psycho-social, and income-generating skills support programmes including training and educational programmes should be implemented. This will alleviate the distress inherent to the caregiving role and to equip them with the necessary skills for handling the demands of their work. , Thesis (MSoc (Psy)) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
- Authors: Majokweni, Oscarina
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons--Care--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Orphans--Services for--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25140 , vital:63981
- Description: HIV and AIDS epidemic has caused much devastation and has left many children destitute and in need of care and supervision. The present study investigated the psychological experiences of caregivers caring for HIV infected orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The context of working and living in orphanages is accepted as challenging for all concerned, yet the number of studies examining the challenging experiences of caregivers The study was informed by a qualitative research method and semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The theoretical framework that informed this study is the Stress, Burnout and Coping Models. The study made use of a Interpretative Phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of ten caregivers who participated in the study. From the themes that were abstracted it was evident that caring for HIV infected OVC is emotionally, physically and mentally strenuous for the caregivers. It was better recommended that caregivers be given recognition for their challenging work and be included in the planning and development of programmes that affect their caregiving role. Furthermore, emotional, psycho-social, and income-generating skills support programmes including training and educational programmes should be implemented. This will alleviate the distress inherent to the caregiving role and to equip them with the necessary skills for handling the demands of their work. , Thesis (MSoc (Psy)) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
Sources of advertisement messages and their impacts on purchasing behaviour: a case study of Walter Sisulu University students
- Oladimeji, Olawumi Kate https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6577-0140
- Authors: Oladimeji, Olawumi Kate https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6577-0140
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Mass media -- Social aspects , Advertising -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24824 , vital:63599
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the sources of advertisement messages and the impacts they have on the buying behaviour of students of Walter Sisulu University (WSU), and examine whether traditional mass media advertising still influences the students’ decision to buy and whether advancement in communication technology affects how the students receive information. This study also investigated the impact of traditional mass media advertising in comparison to new media advertising. Questionnaires were administered to students of WSU, Mthatha campus. The survey was conducted within the period of February 2013 – March 2013. The desired sample size was 270 students. A final sample of 220 valid responses was analysed, representing 81percent of the desired sample. The study revealed that majority are aware of television while billboards and direct mails have the least awareness. The results also revealed that 78percent of the respondents felt that traditional mass media still influences their buying behaviour, (90percent) of the respondents prefer the traditional mass media advertising. This study demonstrated that the students of WSU are aware and exposed to the various sources of advertisement messages. In addition, existing literature and this research report have shown that the various mediums have distinctive characteristics which make them unique. In spite of the advent of modern technology, the traditional mass media still influences buying behaviour with television being the most influential media. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
- Authors: Oladimeji, Olawumi Kate https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6577-0140
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Mass media -- Social aspects , Advertising -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24824 , vital:63599
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the sources of advertisement messages and the impacts they have on the buying behaviour of students of Walter Sisulu University (WSU), and examine whether traditional mass media advertising still influences the students’ decision to buy and whether advancement in communication technology affects how the students receive information. This study also investigated the impact of traditional mass media advertising in comparison to new media advertising. Questionnaires were administered to students of WSU, Mthatha campus. The survey was conducted within the period of February 2013 – March 2013. The desired sample size was 270 students. A final sample of 220 valid responses was analysed, representing 81percent of the desired sample. The study revealed that majority are aware of television while billboards and direct mails have the least awareness. The results also revealed that 78percent of the respondents felt that traditional mass media still influences their buying behaviour, (90percent) of the respondents prefer the traditional mass media advertising. This study demonstrated that the students of WSU are aware and exposed to the various sources of advertisement messages. In addition, existing literature and this research report have shown that the various mediums have distinctive characteristics which make them unique. In spite of the advent of modern technology, the traditional mass media still influences buying behaviour with television being the most influential media. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
Sources of advertisement messages and their impacts on purchasing behaviour:A case study of Walter Sisulu University students
- Oladimeji, Olawumi Kate https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6577-0140
- Authors: Oladimeji, Olawumi Kate https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6577-0140
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Mass Media -- Social aspect , Advertising -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23203 , vital:55898
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the sources of advertisement messages and the impacts they have on the buying behaviour of students of Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and examine whether traditional mass media advertising still influences the students’ decision to buy and whether advancement in communication technology affects how the students receive information. This study also investigated the impact of traditional mass media advertising in comparison to new media advertising. Questionnaires were administered to students of WSU, Mthatha campus. The survey was conducted within the period of February 2013 – March 2013. The desired sample size was 270 students. A final sample of 220 valid responses was analysed, representing 81 percent of the desired sample. The study revealed that majority are aware of television while billboards and direct mails have the least awareness. The results also revealed that 78 percent of the respondents felt that traditional mass media still influences their buying behaviour, (90 percent) of the respondents prefer the traditional mass media advertising. This study demonstrated that the students of WSU are aware and exposed to the various sources of advertisement messages. In addition, existing literature and this research report have shown that the various mediums have distinctive characteristics which make them unique. In spite of the advent of modern technology, the traditional mass media still influences buying behaviour with television being the most influential media. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
- Authors: Oladimeji, Olawumi Kate https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6577-0140
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Mass Media -- Social aspect , Advertising -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23203 , vital:55898
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the sources of advertisement messages and the impacts they have on the buying behaviour of students of Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and examine whether traditional mass media advertising still influences the students’ decision to buy and whether advancement in communication technology affects how the students receive information. This study also investigated the impact of traditional mass media advertising in comparison to new media advertising. Questionnaires were administered to students of WSU, Mthatha campus. The survey was conducted within the period of February 2013 – March 2013. The desired sample size was 270 students. A final sample of 220 valid responses was analysed, representing 81 percent of the desired sample. The study revealed that majority are aware of television while billboards and direct mails have the least awareness. The results also revealed that 78 percent of the respondents felt that traditional mass media still influences their buying behaviour, (90 percent) of the respondents prefer the traditional mass media advertising. This study demonstrated that the students of WSU are aware and exposed to the various sources of advertisement messages. In addition, existing literature and this research report have shown that the various mediums have distinctive characteristics which make them unique. In spite of the advent of modern technology, the traditional mass media still influences buying behaviour with television being the most influential media. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
The impact of talent management on profitability at Business Connexion
- Authors: Mbulawa, Xolani
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53337 , vital:45139
- Description: Human resource is seen as one of the key organisational factors for business success. The latest focus in the business arena has been how talent can be optimised to improve business success. When one reflects and looks back from the 1940s to the 1980s, it is clear that HR was not seen as a business unit that could impact profitability. It is clear in the literature that from the 1900s HR has evolved to being a business partner and a catalyst to improving financial performance within organisations. This has predominately been driven by HR ensuring the attraction and retention of high potential employees who can contribute to profits. The study’s focal point is whether talent management components impact profitability. The selected talent management components for this study are namely talent strategy, talent recruitment, talent development, performance management, talent retention, and succession planning. A strong belief exist that poor implementation of talent management components impedes on companies reaching optimum profit levels. It is for this reason that this study will argue the importance of talent management components as a strategic obligation in the current competitive war for talent. Business reality demands that companies should ensure having current and future talent needs addressed if they want to stay competitive. The war for talent has led to companies fighting for high potential talent, not only through remuneration packages ,but taking into account other talent management components that encompasses aspects such as work-life balance, better performance management linked to rewards and incentives , challenging work, succession planning etc. The researcher took a view to have this study done within BCX who is an employer of the researcher. The hypothesis utilised is the application of talent management components as an approach and process to facilitate profitability within BCX. Research shows that most companies are taking talent management very serious and are fully aware of its impact to productivity and profitability. Businesses in the service industry identified that implementing talent management processes and approaches is vital to competitive edge and profitability. However many companies are still struggling to reach the real understanding of what it meant by talent management. The research data indicates that most respondents are fully aware of the importance of these components. However at BCX, either they are unaware, uncertain on some of the talent components within the company and are unsure of the existence of these components and their impact to profitability. The literature reviewed in chapter two deliberates talent management components assessed in the questionnaire as imperative in contributing to profitability. Business Connexion does not implement these components to the extent of success. However some of the components are well implemented and managed such as performance management. Managers at Business Connexion to some extent have conflicting views of how the company is implementing these components and on their impact to profitability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
- Authors: Mbulawa, Xolani
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53337 , vital:45139
- Description: Human resource is seen as one of the key organisational factors for business success. The latest focus in the business arena has been how talent can be optimised to improve business success. When one reflects and looks back from the 1940s to the 1980s, it is clear that HR was not seen as a business unit that could impact profitability. It is clear in the literature that from the 1900s HR has evolved to being a business partner and a catalyst to improving financial performance within organisations. This has predominately been driven by HR ensuring the attraction and retention of high potential employees who can contribute to profits. The study’s focal point is whether talent management components impact profitability. The selected talent management components for this study are namely talent strategy, talent recruitment, talent development, performance management, talent retention, and succession planning. A strong belief exist that poor implementation of talent management components impedes on companies reaching optimum profit levels. It is for this reason that this study will argue the importance of talent management components as a strategic obligation in the current competitive war for talent. Business reality demands that companies should ensure having current and future talent needs addressed if they want to stay competitive. The war for talent has led to companies fighting for high potential talent, not only through remuneration packages ,but taking into account other talent management components that encompasses aspects such as work-life balance, better performance management linked to rewards and incentives , challenging work, succession planning etc. The researcher took a view to have this study done within BCX who is an employer of the researcher. The hypothesis utilised is the application of talent management components as an approach and process to facilitate profitability within BCX. Research shows that most companies are taking talent management very serious and are fully aware of its impact to productivity and profitability. Businesses in the service industry identified that implementing talent management processes and approaches is vital to competitive edge and profitability. However many companies are still struggling to reach the real understanding of what it meant by talent management. The research data indicates that most respondents are fully aware of the importance of these components. However at BCX, either they are unaware, uncertain on some of the talent components within the company and are unsure of the existence of these components and their impact to profitability. The literature reviewed in chapter two deliberates talent management components assessed in the questionnaire as imperative in contributing to profitability. Business Connexion does not implement these components to the extent of success. However some of the components are well implemented and managed such as performance management. Managers at Business Connexion to some extent have conflicting views of how the company is implementing these components and on their impact to profitability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
The economic contribution of the tourism accommodation sector in the Karoo
- Authors: Chandler, Biddy Lee
- Date: 2013-04-06
- Subjects: Hospitality industry South Africa Karoo , Karoo (South Africa) Economic conditions , Small cities South Africa Karoo , Tourism South Africa Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/366169 , vital:65838
- Description: Tourism is not only the world’s largest traded commodity in which many countries have gained economic advantage and stability, it is also a phenomenon of great economic and social significance. Tourism’s contribution, especially within developing countries and within emerging markets like South Africa, has become increasingly significant as it has created major economic growth and has highlighted areas of potential new sustainable development. The ultimate goal of achieving an increase in GDP and the creation of new employment opportunities is enhanced through the development of tourism. Considering the importance of the above and because the impact of tourism development in small towns is of significant economic benefit, research into this field is of value. This is the core of this study. As a result of tourism demand continually changing in small towns, mostly due to globalisation, demographic changes and agricultural changes, the need to continually update tourism data to ensure that tourism products remain highly rated is vital. This requires identifying tourists’ needs and supplying exactly what tourists demand. More specifically, evaluating tourist satisfaction and dissatisfaction will give accurate indications of a destination’s ability to satisfy its tourists, which is what will encourage repeat visits. The first objective of this dissertation was to qualitatively evaluate, through determining 27 product owners’ and 206 tourists’, opinions/perceptions of the tourism product offering in the Karoo. This study examined the accommodation sector of the tourism industry within 13 small towns in the Karoo. This is a fast growing and maturing industry. The study revealed that product owners and tourists expressed a positive attitude towards the growth of tourism in the Karoo, which they said was due to its heritage and authenticity, climate, desert tourism, natural beauty, ecotourism, remoteness, peace and quiet and acting as a refuge in an unspoilt natural environment. Amongst other recommendations, this result highlighted the importance of keeping closed the ‘gap’ between the expected product/level of service and the customer’s perception of the actual product/service received, by paying special attention to each of the identified tourist benefits. Most importantly, product owners, local tourism organisations (LTOs), municipalities, the government and all tourism stakeholders need to ensure that they work efficiently and effectively through transparent and collaborative relationships to ensure that they generate the highest possible returns from tourism investment through strategies that take cognizance of the above. The second objective of this dissertation was to quantitatively evaluate the economic impact of tourism through gathering and calculating 107 tourists’ spending data and 15 product owners’ expenditure data over a six month period between December 2010 and May 2011 in Graaff-Reinet. It was found that there was an increase over time in tourist spending, which led to an increase in direct income (net injection of visitor spending) and thus there was an increase in indirect income(affecting the level of product owners’ income)in the Graaff-Reinet economy. The key calculations in this study reflected a high multiplier of 1.2and a small amount of leakage (21%);and the final tourism economic impact of the accommodation sector in Graaff-Reinet wasR8940 982.00. This implies a positive economic contribution to this town. A focus on growing the tourist market is therefore a goal worth pursuing. This study provides up-to-date, statistically valid numerical/quantitative data as well as current qualitative data. However, gathering data for a longitudinal study would be highly beneficial to determine trends of how the tourism market in small towns is developing. This field has been given minimal attention, specifically within small towns. This dissertation was thus an attempt to initiate and motivate further ongoing efforts with regards to gathering, specifically economic, tourism data. Showing the positive economic contribution, and the multiple ripple effects that attracting tourists to an area can have, and the ultimate measurable economic benefit created through having a strong multiplier effect, will hopefully encourage all stakeholders to be confident and take the tourism industry more seriously. This highlights the need to recognise the economic impact potential of the tourism sector and to use the positive results identified in this study as a tool to lobby for tourism investment, which is unfortunately not reflected currently in many governmental programmes. Developing greater co-operation and co-ordination between the private and public sectors is needed: the most appropriate development model for the tourism industry being government led, private sector driven, community based and labour conscious in order for it to reap the benefits reflected in this tourism study. , Thesis (MEcon) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04-06
- Authors: Chandler, Biddy Lee
- Date: 2013-04-06
- Subjects: Hospitality industry South Africa Karoo , Karoo (South Africa) Economic conditions , Small cities South Africa Karoo , Tourism South Africa Karoo
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/366169 , vital:65838
- Description: Tourism is not only the world’s largest traded commodity in which many countries have gained economic advantage and stability, it is also a phenomenon of great economic and social significance. Tourism’s contribution, especially within developing countries and within emerging markets like South Africa, has become increasingly significant as it has created major economic growth and has highlighted areas of potential new sustainable development. The ultimate goal of achieving an increase in GDP and the creation of new employment opportunities is enhanced through the development of tourism. Considering the importance of the above and because the impact of tourism development in small towns is of significant economic benefit, research into this field is of value. This is the core of this study. As a result of tourism demand continually changing in small towns, mostly due to globalisation, demographic changes and agricultural changes, the need to continually update tourism data to ensure that tourism products remain highly rated is vital. This requires identifying tourists’ needs and supplying exactly what tourists demand. More specifically, evaluating tourist satisfaction and dissatisfaction will give accurate indications of a destination’s ability to satisfy its tourists, which is what will encourage repeat visits. The first objective of this dissertation was to qualitatively evaluate, through determining 27 product owners’ and 206 tourists’, opinions/perceptions of the tourism product offering in the Karoo. This study examined the accommodation sector of the tourism industry within 13 small towns in the Karoo. This is a fast growing and maturing industry. The study revealed that product owners and tourists expressed a positive attitude towards the growth of tourism in the Karoo, which they said was due to its heritage and authenticity, climate, desert tourism, natural beauty, ecotourism, remoteness, peace and quiet and acting as a refuge in an unspoilt natural environment. Amongst other recommendations, this result highlighted the importance of keeping closed the ‘gap’ between the expected product/level of service and the customer’s perception of the actual product/service received, by paying special attention to each of the identified tourist benefits. Most importantly, product owners, local tourism organisations (LTOs), municipalities, the government and all tourism stakeholders need to ensure that they work efficiently and effectively through transparent and collaborative relationships to ensure that they generate the highest possible returns from tourism investment through strategies that take cognizance of the above. The second objective of this dissertation was to quantitatively evaluate the economic impact of tourism through gathering and calculating 107 tourists’ spending data and 15 product owners’ expenditure data over a six month period between December 2010 and May 2011 in Graaff-Reinet. It was found that there was an increase over time in tourist spending, which led to an increase in direct income (net injection of visitor spending) and thus there was an increase in indirect income(affecting the level of product owners’ income)in the Graaff-Reinet economy. The key calculations in this study reflected a high multiplier of 1.2and a small amount of leakage (21%);and the final tourism economic impact of the accommodation sector in Graaff-Reinet wasR8940 982.00. This implies a positive economic contribution to this town. A focus on growing the tourist market is therefore a goal worth pursuing. This study provides up-to-date, statistically valid numerical/quantitative data as well as current qualitative data. However, gathering data for a longitudinal study would be highly beneficial to determine trends of how the tourism market in small towns is developing. This field has been given minimal attention, specifically within small towns. This dissertation was thus an attempt to initiate and motivate further ongoing efforts with regards to gathering, specifically economic, tourism data. Showing the positive economic contribution, and the multiple ripple effects that attracting tourists to an area can have, and the ultimate measurable economic benefit created through having a strong multiplier effect, will hopefully encourage all stakeholders to be confident and take the tourism industry more seriously. This highlights the need to recognise the economic impact potential of the tourism sector and to use the positive results identified in this study as a tool to lobby for tourism investment, which is unfortunately not reflected currently in many governmental programmes. Developing greater co-operation and co-ordination between the private and public sectors is needed: the most appropriate development model for the tourism industry being government led, private sector driven, community based and labour conscious in order for it to reap the benefits reflected in this tourism study. , Thesis (MEcon) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04-06
Management of HIV/AIDS programmes at the workplace : A study of selected organisations in Chris Hani DISTRICT, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Shava, Gertrude
- Date: 2013-04
- Subjects: Social Responsibility of Business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial Hygiene -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23181 , vital:55712
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the management of HIV /AIDS programmes at the workplace in four selected organisations in Chris Hani District, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Four organisations were studied, two public organisations and two private organisations. With the use of triangulation method, two hundred employees were administered a semi- structured questionnaire while for (four) managers, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted. The major findings of this study outline that all the four organisations studied have HIV/AIDS programmes and policies for their employees. However, there were no budget allocations for these programmes to be fully implemented for effectiveness. From the data, it can be concluded that HIV/AIDS has a negative impact on organisations‟ production like high training costs, high labour turnover and high absenteeism from work. This has been as a result of managers who did not put their total commitment towards HIV/AIDS management at their workplaces in the same way they have done to other core areas of businesses of their organisations. The study therefore recommends the management of these organisations to demonstrate a clear commitment to the HIV/AIDS management strategies by fully implementing the HIV/AIDS management programmes in their workplaces. It is very crucial for employees to see this commitment in a concrete form through non-discrimination and support for the people living with HIV/AIDS. Clear unambiguous commitment will go far in developing mutual trust between employers and employees and facilitate an atmosphere where people are willing to undergo VCT and to possibly disclose their status. Furthermore, managers are recommended to hire quality service providers to carry out intensive de-stigmatisation processes. This will create a supportive environment and adequately address the fears of employees about HIV/AIDS issues at the workplace. All these recommendations will go a long way in assisting organisations achieve their strategic business objectives and reduce the negative impact of HIV/AIDS at their workplaces. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04
- Authors: Shava, Gertrude
- Date: 2013-04
- Subjects: Social Responsibility of Business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Industrial Hygiene -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23181 , vital:55712
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the management of HIV /AIDS programmes at the workplace in four selected organisations in Chris Hani District, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Four organisations were studied, two public organisations and two private organisations. With the use of triangulation method, two hundred employees were administered a semi- structured questionnaire while for (four) managers, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted. The major findings of this study outline that all the four organisations studied have HIV/AIDS programmes and policies for their employees. However, there were no budget allocations for these programmes to be fully implemented for effectiveness. From the data, it can be concluded that HIV/AIDS has a negative impact on organisations‟ production like high training costs, high labour turnover and high absenteeism from work. This has been as a result of managers who did not put their total commitment towards HIV/AIDS management at their workplaces in the same way they have done to other core areas of businesses of their organisations. The study therefore recommends the management of these organisations to demonstrate a clear commitment to the HIV/AIDS management strategies by fully implementing the HIV/AIDS management programmes in their workplaces. It is very crucial for employees to see this commitment in a concrete form through non-discrimination and support for the people living with HIV/AIDS. Clear unambiguous commitment will go far in developing mutual trust between employers and employees and facilitate an atmosphere where people are willing to undergo VCT and to possibly disclose their status. Furthermore, managers are recommended to hire quality service providers to carry out intensive de-stigmatisation processes. This will create a supportive environment and adequately address the fears of employees about HIV/AIDS issues at the workplace. All these recommendations will go a long way in assisting organisations achieve their strategic business objectives and reduce the negative impact of HIV/AIDS at their workplaces. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04
Management of HIV/AIDS programmes at the workplace: a study of selected organisations in Chris Hani District, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Shava, Getrude
- Date: 2013-04
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24834 , vital:63601
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the management of HIV /AIDS programmes at the workplace in four selected organisations in Chris Hani District, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Four organisations were studied, two public organisations and two private organisations. With the use of triangulation method, two hundred employees were administered a semi- structured questionnaire while for (four) managers, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted. The major findings of this study outline that all the four organisations studied have HIV/AIDS programmes and policies for their employees. However, there were no budget allocations for these programmes to be fully implemented for effectiveness. From the data, it can be concluded that HIV/AIDS has a negative impact on organisations‟ production like high training costs, high labour turnover and high absenteeism from work. This has been as a result of managers who did not put their total commitment towards HIV/AIDS management at their workplaces in the same way they have done to other core areas of businesses of their organisations. The study therefore recommends the management of these organisations to demonstrate a clear commitment to the HIV/AIDS management strategies by fully implementing the HIV/AIDS management programmes in their workplaces. It is very crucial for employees to see this commitment in a concrete form through non-discrimination and support for the people living with HIV/AIDS. Clear unambiguous commitment will go far in developing mutual trust between employers and employees and facilitate an atmosphere where people are willing to undergo VCT and to possibly disclose their status. Furthermore, managers are recommended to hire quality service providers to carry out intensive de-stigmatisation processes. This will create a supportive environment and adequately address the fears of employees about HIV/AIDS issues at the workplace. All these recommendations will go a long way in assisting organisations achieve their strategic business objectives and reduce the negative impact of HIV/AIDS at their workplaces. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04
- Authors: Shava, Getrude
- Date: 2013-04
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24834 , vital:63601
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the management of HIV /AIDS programmes at the workplace in four selected organisations in Chris Hani District, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Four organisations were studied, two public organisations and two private organisations. With the use of triangulation method, two hundred employees were administered a semi- structured questionnaire while for (four) managers, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted. The major findings of this study outline that all the four organisations studied have HIV/AIDS programmes and policies for their employees. However, there were no budget allocations for these programmes to be fully implemented for effectiveness. From the data, it can be concluded that HIV/AIDS has a negative impact on organisations‟ production like high training costs, high labour turnover and high absenteeism from work. This has been as a result of managers who did not put their total commitment towards HIV/AIDS management at their workplaces in the same way they have done to other core areas of businesses of their organisations. The study therefore recommends the management of these organisations to demonstrate a clear commitment to the HIV/AIDS management strategies by fully implementing the HIV/AIDS management programmes in their workplaces. It is very crucial for employees to see this commitment in a concrete form through non-discrimination and support for the people living with HIV/AIDS. Clear unambiguous commitment will go far in developing mutual trust between employers and employees and facilitate an atmosphere where people are willing to undergo VCT and to possibly disclose their status. Furthermore, managers are recommended to hire quality service providers to carry out intensive de-stigmatisation processes. This will create a supportive environment and adequately address the fears of employees about HIV/AIDS issues at the workplace. All these recommendations will go a long way in assisting organisations achieve their strategic business objectives and reduce the negative impact of HIV/AIDS at their workplaces. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04
The perceptions of the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) Housing beneficiaries in South Africa on the extent to which the project meet their Housing needs. : The case of Golf Course Estate in Alice Town, Eastern Cape Province.
- Mamomano, Tatenda (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8245-4537)
- Authors: Mamomano, Tatenda (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8245-4537)
- Date: 2013-04
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government Policy -- Eastern Cape , Economic Development Projects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26241 , vital:65002
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of RDP beneficiaries on the extent to which the RDP housing project meets their housing needs in South Africa through a case study of Golf Course Estate in Alice Town with the following specific objectives; to assess the extent to which the Alice Golf Course housing project has achieved the RDP programme objectives; to establish beneficiaries‟ perceptions on the extent the RDP Alice Golf Course houses meet their needs; and to explore the level of satisfaction on the RDP houses by beneficiaries. This study utilized triangulation of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies with qualitative as the dominant approach while quantitative was less dominant. The qualitative design took the form of a case study while the quantitative took the form of mini survey. The study sampled 72 participants from the study population. The study utilized an interview guide and a questionnaire as instruments of data collection. The findings indicated that the gender representation of the beneficiaries was skewed. This is because there were more females heading the houses than males; unemployment was also high; most participants were unmarried and most were adults. This study also discovered that most people residing in these houses are not the real owners who were allocated the houses. There were qualitative problems associated with the components of these houses such as poor roofing, doors, windows, floors and walls. Service delivery complaints were based on inadequate access to clean water, small size and spacing of the RDP house. Security was also a challenge because all the houses did not have street lights and the roads were very bad. Though it is commendable that drainage and sewer facilities are available, but they are not serving their purpose since there is no water in these houses. The findings also indicated that there were discrepancies in allocation of the houses; pervasiveness of social ills; inadequate consultative meetings between the RDP Administrator or social worker and the beneficiaries; as well as the pervasiveness of HIV/AIDS among other issues. This researcher recommended that the government needs to promote economic empowerment to deal with unemployment; to improve the quality of the material building the houses; improvement on service delivery gaps; to beef up infrastructure; renovation and revamping of current houses; to establish commissions of inquiry to deal with corruption; to honour and monitor waiting lists. Partnership with other stakeholders was also critical, in addressing access to social services and helps deal with social ills and run behaviour modification campaigns. This researcher also recommended that there is a need to carry out further research on the role played by the municipalities in the RDP housing project as well as conducting a purely qualitative research to further explore the perceptions of other stakeholders, NGOs, traditional leaders, church leaders, and police on the implementation of the housing project. This researcher advises that such a research could be carried out through focus group discussions and also since this study was bound by a case study it is also necessary for similar research to be carried out in different places in South Africa. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04
- Authors: Mamomano, Tatenda (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8245-4537)
- Date: 2013-04
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Poverty -- Government Policy -- Eastern Cape , Economic Development Projects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26241 , vital:65002
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of RDP beneficiaries on the extent to which the RDP housing project meets their housing needs in South Africa through a case study of Golf Course Estate in Alice Town with the following specific objectives; to assess the extent to which the Alice Golf Course housing project has achieved the RDP programme objectives; to establish beneficiaries‟ perceptions on the extent the RDP Alice Golf Course houses meet their needs; and to explore the level of satisfaction on the RDP houses by beneficiaries. This study utilized triangulation of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies with qualitative as the dominant approach while quantitative was less dominant. The qualitative design took the form of a case study while the quantitative took the form of mini survey. The study sampled 72 participants from the study population. The study utilized an interview guide and a questionnaire as instruments of data collection. The findings indicated that the gender representation of the beneficiaries was skewed. This is because there were more females heading the houses than males; unemployment was also high; most participants were unmarried and most were adults. This study also discovered that most people residing in these houses are not the real owners who were allocated the houses. There were qualitative problems associated with the components of these houses such as poor roofing, doors, windows, floors and walls. Service delivery complaints were based on inadequate access to clean water, small size and spacing of the RDP house. Security was also a challenge because all the houses did not have street lights and the roads were very bad. Though it is commendable that drainage and sewer facilities are available, but they are not serving their purpose since there is no water in these houses. The findings also indicated that there were discrepancies in allocation of the houses; pervasiveness of social ills; inadequate consultative meetings between the RDP Administrator or social worker and the beneficiaries; as well as the pervasiveness of HIV/AIDS among other issues. This researcher recommended that the government needs to promote economic empowerment to deal with unemployment; to improve the quality of the material building the houses; improvement on service delivery gaps; to beef up infrastructure; renovation and revamping of current houses; to establish commissions of inquiry to deal with corruption; to honour and monitor waiting lists. Partnership with other stakeholders was also critical, in addressing access to social services and helps deal with social ills and run behaviour modification campaigns. This researcher also recommended that there is a need to carry out further research on the role played by the municipalities in the RDP housing project as well as conducting a purely qualitative research to further explore the perceptions of other stakeholders, NGOs, traditional leaders, church leaders, and police on the implementation of the housing project. This researcher advises that such a research could be carried out through focus group discussions and also since this study was bound by a case study it is also necessary for similar research to be carried out in different places in South Africa. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-04
An exploratory study of the impacts of climate variability on food production availability and access in Chivi district 6, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Gwindi, Raphael
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Food security , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26696 , vital:65852
- Description: The impacts of climate variability have been of global concern for many years. These impacts are affecting economic, social, cultural, agricultural, health and political structures in different countries. Although the impacts of climate variability on agricultural production are being experienced globally, it is generally accepted that developing countries are the worst affected due to a variety of reasons. Given the high susceptibility of developing countries to climate variability, this study maps and analyses the impacts of climate variability on agricultural production, food production, availability and access in Chivi District, Zimbabwe. The study aimed at finding out experiences, so it used a qualitative approach. The study uses in-depth and focus group discussions to collect data. Chivi district is experiencing erratic weather patterns which are impacting agricultural production in general and food production in particular. Consequently, food availability and access is on the decline in the district. Even though smallholder farmers have devised coping and adaptation strategies, this is not sufficient to help them fully deal with the impacts of climate variability. This is due to their limited assets, inadequate technology and climate information among other things. In an attempt to assist these smallholder farmers cope and adapt to the impacts of climate variability, NGOs and Government Departments have instituted a number of community interventions. This assistance includes agricultural extension services, farming input support and provision of climate change information and a lot of other things. In view of these findings, the study recommends the universal adoption and growing of small grain drought resistant crops in climate variability affected Chivi. It further recommends that farmers adopt conservation agriculture, get into partnerships and co-operatives to practice irrigation gardening where those without water sources provide equipment, labour and knowledge. The study also recommends that more climate science research be conducted in Zimbabwe by both NGOs and Government Departments. Furthermore, government and NGOs should provide more support for farmers in the form of climate change related training, knowledge and technology transfer among other things. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gwindi, Raphael
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Food security , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26696 , vital:65852
- Description: The impacts of climate variability have been of global concern for many years. These impacts are affecting economic, social, cultural, agricultural, health and political structures in different countries. Although the impacts of climate variability on agricultural production are being experienced globally, it is generally accepted that developing countries are the worst affected due to a variety of reasons. Given the high susceptibility of developing countries to climate variability, this study maps and analyses the impacts of climate variability on agricultural production, food production, availability and access in Chivi District, Zimbabwe. The study aimed at finding out experiences, so it used a qualitative approach. The study uses in-depth and focus group discussions to collect data. Chivi district is experiencing erratic weather patterns which are impacting agricultural production in general and food production in particular. Consequently, food availability and access is on the decline in the district. Even though smallholder farmers have devised coping and adaptation strategies, this is not sufficient to help them fully deal with the impacts of climate variability. This is due to their limited assets, inadequate technology and climate information among other things. In an attempt to assist these smallholder farmers cope and adapt to the impacts of climate variability, NGOs and Government Departments have instituted a number of community interventions. This assistance includes agricultural extension services, farming input support and provision of climate change information and a lot of other things. In view of these findings, the study recommends the universal adoption and growing of small grain drought resistant crops in climate variability affected Chivi. It further recommends that farmers adopt conservation agriculture, get into partnerships and co-operatives to practice irrigation gardening where those without water sources provide equipment, labour and knowledge. The study also recommends that more climate science research be conducted in Zimbabwe by both NGOs and Government Departments. Furthermore, government and NGOs should provide more support for farmers in the form of climate change related training, knowledge and technology transfer among other things. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Investigation of institutions for the implementation of the Dutywa Agripark Project in Mbashe Local Municipality in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ndita, Bongani Herschel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects , Rangelands
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24587 , vital:63210
- Description: The study investigated local institutions amongst Agri-park project beneficiaries: A case of Dutywa Agri-park in Mbashe Local Municipality. Specifically, the dissertation sought to: investigate formal and informal institutions pertaining to land, rangeland management and support services, extension services amongst Agri-park beneficiaries, and explore options with communities to strengthen these institutions for the application of the Agri-park projects. The role of local institutions in economic development has received steadily increasing attention from researchers, policy makers and development practitioners. , institutions can be defined as the formal and informal rules of the game that have been formulated to rule people‟s behaviour and transactions. Informal rules may include among others, customs, norms and standards, religion, indigenous law while formal rules may include laws, constitutions, policies, markets and firms. This study used a survey design, quantitative and qualitative research methodologies involving the use of questionnaire. The data for this study was collected from 114 households which are Agri-park project beneficiaries, the extension officer, project site manager and local economic development officer. The data were collected through face to face and telephonic interviews. Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20.0) were used for descriptive analysis in order to identify the existing local institutions and how they should be strengthen. The results showed that a number of local institutions do exist. The main findings of this study were as follows: (1) Project beneficiaries were aware of their stakeholders and that they knew the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder in the project. (2) Traditional leaders were aware about the project and that they have a major role to play. (3) Project beneficiaries have organized themselves into groups of co-operatives and their co-operatives are registered with the Department of Agriculture. (4) Project initiators are going to transfer the ownership of the project to these communities after it becomes well established. (5) There was a mutual agreement of youth employment rotation in the project between these four communities. (6) The condition of lease agreement for a land where the project currently running is 9 months renewable contract with the rental payment of R 6300.00 per annum. (7) The lease agreement gives the church a property right to reclaim the land should payments not be made. (8) Project beneficiaries possess some agricultural skills and that they have received various training. The study recommended that there is a need to strengthen these rules and regulation for the project to become more efficient and productive in the long-run. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ndita, Bongani Herschel
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects , Rangelands
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24587 , vital:63210
- Description: The study investigated local institutions amongst Agri-park project beneficiaries: A case of Dutywa Agri-park in Mbashe Local Municipality. Specifically, the dissertation sought to: investigate formal and informal institutions pertaining to land, rangeland management and support services, extension services amongst Agri-park beneficiaries, and explore options with communities to strengthen these institutions for the application of the Agri-park projects. The role of local institutions in economic development has received steadily increasing attention from researchers, policy makers and development practitioners. , institutions can be defined as the formal and informal rules of the game that have been formulated to rule people‟s behaviour and transactions. Informal rules may include among others, customs, norms and standards, religion, indigenous law while formal rules may include laws, constitutions, policies, markets and firms. This study used a survey design, quantitative and qualitative research methodologies involving the use of questionnaire. The data for this study was collected from 114 households which are Agri-park project beneficiaries, the extension officer, project site manager and local economic development officer. The data were collected through face to face and telephonic interviews. Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20.0) were used for descriptive analysis in order to identify the existing local institutions and how they should be strengthen. The results showed that a number of local institutions do exist. The main findings of this study were as follows: (1) Project beneficiaries were aware of their stakeholders and that they knew the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder in the project. (2) Traditional leaders were aware about the project and that they have a major role to play. (3) Project beneficiaries have organized themselves into groups of co-operatives and their co-operatives are registered with the Department of Agriculture. (4) Project initiators are going to transfer the ownership of the project to these communities after it becomes well established. (5) There was a mutual agreement of youth employment rotation in the project between these four communities. (6) The condition of lease agreement for a land where the project currently running is 9 months renewable contract with the rental payment of R 6300.00 per annum. (7) The lease agreement gives the church a property right to reclaim the land should payments not be made. (8) Project beneficiaries possess some agricultural skills and that they have received various training. The study recommended that there is a need to strengthen these rules and regulation for the project to become more efficient and productive in the long-run. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Negotiating identity and belonging: perspectives of children living in a disadvantaged community in the Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Ridley, Tamerin Amy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Group identity , Self-esteem
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24813 , vital:63598
- Description: Developing an identity with self-esteem and a sense of self-worth is a child’s fundamental right (Vandenbroek, 2001). To encourage identity formation children need to ask and answer questions such as: ‘Who am I?’, ‘Where do I belong?’ and ‘Is it ok to be who I am?’ A child’s identity is shaped largely by his/her experiences with regards to relationships and belonging within communities and familial structures. However, South Africa faces a host of problems, including poverty, violence, HIV/AIDS, all of which contribute to the breakdown of these familial and community structures. Utilising a participatory action framework, this research aims to provide insight into how children living in a disadvantaged community negotiate identity and belonging. This insight into children’s perceptions of identity and belonging is useful for identifying resources within the community which promote a positive sense of identity and belonging, and also to identify areas where support and intervention are required. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ridley, Tamerin Amy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Group identity , Self-esteem
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24813 , vital:63598
- Description: Developing an identity with self-esteem and a sense of self-worth is a child’s fundamental right (Vandenbroek, 2001). To encourage identity formation children need to ask and answer questions such as: ‘Who am I?’, ‘Where do I belong?’ and ‘Is it ok to be who I am?’ A child’s identity is shaped largely by his/her experiences with regards to relationships and belonging within communities and familial structures. However, South Africa faces a host of problems, including poverty, violence, HIV/AIDS, all of which contribute to the breakdown of these familial and community structures. Utilising a participatory action framework, this research aims to provide insight into how children living in a disadvantaged community negotiate identity and belonging. This insight into children’s perceptions of identity and belonging is useful for identifying resources within the community which promote a positive sense of identity and belonging, and also to identify areas where support and intervention are required. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Opening up global food trade to developing countries: an evaluation of the World Trade Organisation's agreement on sanitary and phytosanitary measure
- Authors: Nyatsanza, Sharon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: World Trade Organization , Food contamination , Food handling -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27413 , vital:67294
- Description: Food safety and consumer protection has been a major concern of regulators since the 12th century. Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures were therefore introduced to protect human, animal and plant safety. With the expansion of international trade came the increase in the use of SPS measures. However these increases in the use of SPS measures were accompanied with their misuse for protectionist purposes. SPS measures which had been created for legitimate purposes quickly became significant barriers to trade. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) adopted the WTO Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) as a mechanism to regulate the use of SPS measures and avoid their potential use as protectionist tools. Trade liberalization and market access has been a primary aim of the WTO, therefore in principle the SPS Agreement is supposed to open up global food trade for all countries.Apart from opening up global food trade, another purpose of the SPS Agreement was to protect the developing countries, accommodate their special needs and in turn promote their economic development. Developing countries are heavily dependent on global food trade for their economic development. However developing states can only benefit from global food trade if they comply with SPS standards set in the importing countries. Considering their reliance on the agro – food sector the economic development of developing states is heavily reliant on the successful implementation of the SPS Agreement. According the SPS Agreement must avoid the use of illegitimate SPS measures and promote market access. It is therefore crucial that the SPS Agreement be analysed to determine whether its text, application and or interpretation satisfies the objective of opening up global food trade especially for developing states. The objective is to show the significance of a regulatory framework that is as much as possible devoid of any loopholes or shortcomings, which could frustrate the developmental interests. Inappropriate accommodation of developmental interests in the SPS Agreement could have adverse impacts on the development prospectus of developing countries. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nyatsanza, Sharon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: World Trade Organization , Food contamination , Food handling -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27413 , vital:67294
- Description: Food safety and consumer protection has been a major concern of regulators since the 12th century. Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures were therefore introduced to protect human, animal and plant safety. With the expansion of international trade came the increase in the use of SPS measures. However these increases in the use of SPS measures were accompanied with their misuse for protectionist purposes. SPS measures which had been created for legitimate purposes quickly became significant barriers to trade. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) adopted the WTO Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS Agreement) as a mechanism to regulate the use of SPS measures and avoid their potential use as protectionist tools. Trade liberalization and market access has been a primary aim of the WTO, therefore in principle the SPS Agreement is supposed to open up global food trade for all countries.Apart from opening up global food trade, another purpose of the SPS Agreement was to protect the developing countries, accommodate their special needs and in turn promote their economic development. Developing countries are heavily dependent on global food trade for their economic development. However developing states can only benefit from global food trade if they comply with SPS standards set in the importing countries. Considering their reliance on the agro – food sector the economic development of developing states is heavily reliant on the successful implementation of the SPS Agreement. According the SPS Agreement must avoid the use of illegitimate SPS measures and promote market access. It is therefore crucial that the SPS Agreement be analysed to determine whether its text, application and or interpretation satisfies the objective of opening up global food trade especially for developing states. The objective is to show the significance of a regulatory framework that is as much as possible devoid of any loopholes or shortcomings, which could frustrate the developmental interests. Inappropriate accommodation of developmental interests in the SPS Agreement could have adverse impacts on the development prospectus of developing countries. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Production and characterization of a bioflocculant from a consortium of bacteria belonging to the halomonas and micrococcus genera
- Okaiyeto, Kunle (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7211-714X)
- Authors: Okaiyeto, Kunle (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7211-714X)
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Flocculents , Bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25822 , vital:64489
- Description: The physicochemical properties of two bioflocculant producing bacteria; Halomonas sp. Okoh and Micrococcus sp. Leo were investigated. The optimum culture conditions for the individual species were determined. All the growth conditions examined for the individual bacteria were similar. Glucose and ammonium sulphate as sole carbon and nitrogen sources respectively resulted in optimum production of bioflocculant. The flocculating activity of the bioflocculants was stimulated when Al3+ was used as the coagulating aid under acidic medium. The information obtained from individual strains was used to produce a bioflocculant from the consortium of the two bacteria. After purification, the bioflocculant yields from 1L fermentation broths were 1.213 g from Halomonas sp. Okoh, 0.738 g from Micrococcus sp. Leo and 3.51 g from the consortium. The chemical analyses of the purified bioflocculants showed that they were glycoproteins. The thermostability property of the bioflocculants was investigated between 50-100oC and the results revealed that they are heat-stable. Fourier transform infrared revealed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino groups in the bioflocculant molecules. Scaning electron microscope (SEM) images showed the structure of each bioflocculant(s) and kaolin clay before and after flocculation. From the results obtained, the idea of using the two strains in consortium for bioflocculant production resulted in an improvement in terms of flocculating activity and yield. The bioflocculants appears to have promise as an alternative to chemical flocculants used in various industrial processes such as wastewater treatment and drinking water purification. , Thesis (MA) -- Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Okaiyeto, Kunle (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7211-714X)
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Flocculents , Bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25822 , vital:64489
- Description: The physicochemical properties of two bioflocculant producing bacteria; Halomonas sp. Okoh and Micrococcus sp. Leo were investigated. The optimum culture conditions for the individual species were determined. All the growth conditions examined for the individual bacteria were similar. Glucose and ammonium sulphate as sole carbon and nitrogen sources respectively resulted in optimum production of bioflocculant. The flocculating activity of the bioflocculants was stimulated when Al3+ was used as the coagulating aid under acidic medium. The information obtained from individual strains was used to produce a bioflocculant from the consortium of the two bacteria. After purification, the bioflocculant yields from 1L fermentation broths were 1.213 g from Halomonas sp. Okoh, 0.738 g from Micrococcus sp. Leo and 3.51 g from the consortium. The chemical analyses of the purified bioflocculants showed that they were glycoproteins. The thermostability property of the bioflocculants was investigated between 50-100oC and the results revealed that they are heat-stable. Fourier transform infrared revealed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino groups in the bioflocculant molecules. Scaning electron microscope (SEM) images showed the structure of each bioflocculant(s) and kaolin clay before and after flocculation. From the results obtained, the idea of using the two strains in consortium for bioflocculant production resulted in an improvement in terms of flocculating activity and yield. The bioflocculants appears to have promise as an alternative to chemical flocculants used in various industrial processes such as wastewater treatment and drinking water purification. , Thesis (MA) -- Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Production and characterization of a bioflocculant from a consortium of bacteria belonging to the halomonas and micrococcus genera.
- Okaiyeto, Kunle (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7211-714X)
- Authors: Okaiyeto, Kunle (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7211-714X)
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Flocculants , Bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26119 , vital:64917
- Description: The physicochemical properties of two bioflocculant producing bacteria; Halomonas sp. Okoh and Micrococcus sp. Leo were investigated. The optimum culture conditions for the individual species were determined. All the growth conditions examined for the individual bacteria were similar. Glucose and ammonium sulphate as sole carbon and nitrogen sources respectively resulted in optimum production of bioflocculant. The flocculating activity of the bioflocculants was stimulated when Al3+ was used as the coagulating aid under acidic medium. The information obtained from individual strains was used to produce a bioflocculant from the consortium of the two bacteria. After purification, the bioflocculant yields from 1L fermentation broths were 1.213 g from Halomonas sp. Okoh, 0.738 g from Micrococcus sp. Leo and 3.51 g from the consortium. The chemical analyses of the purified bioflocculants showed that they were glycoproteins. The thermostability property of the bioflocculants was investigated between 50-100oC and the results revealed that they are heat-stable. Fourier transform infrared revealed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino groups in the bioflocculant molecules. Scaning electron microscope (SEM) images showed the structure of each bioflocculant(s) and kaolin clay before and after flocculation. From the results obtained, the idea of using the two strains in consortium for bioflocculant production resulted in an improvement in terms of flocculating activity and yield. The bioflocculants appears to have promise as an alternative to chemical flocculants used in various industrial processes such as wastewater treatment and drinking water purification. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Okaiyeto, Kunle (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7211-714X)
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Flocculants , Bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26119 , vital:64917
- Description: The physicochemical properties of two bioflocculant producing bacteria; Halomonas sp. Okoh and Micrococcus sp. Leo were investigated. The optimum culture conditions for the individual species were determined. All the growth conditions examined for the individual bacteria were similar. Glucose and ammonium sulphate as sole carbon and nitrogen sources respectively resulted in optimum production of bioflocculant. The flocculating activity of the bioflocculants was stimulated when Al3+ was used as the coagulating aid under acidic medium. The information obtained from individual strains was used to produce a bioflocculant from the consortium of the two bacteria. After purification, the bioflocculant yields from 1L fermentation broths were 1.213 g from Halomonas sp. Okoh, 0.738 g from Micrococcus sp. Leo and 3.51 g from the consortium. The chemical analyses of the purified bioflocculants showed that they were glycoproteins. The thermostability property of the bioflocculants was investigated between 50-100oC and the results revealed that they are heat-stable. Fourier transform infrared revealed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino groups in the bioflocculant molecules. Scaning electron microscope (SEM) images showed the structure of each bioflocculant(s) and kaolin clay before and after flocculation. From the results obtained, the idea of using the two strains in consortium for bioflocculant production resulted in an improvement in terms of flocculating activity and yield. The bioflocculants appears to have promise as an alternative to chemical flocculants used in various industrial processes such as wastewater treatment and drinking water purification. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of the exchange rate volatility on unemployment in South Africa
- Nyahokwe, Olivia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2903-1014
- Authors: Nyahokwe, Olivia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2903-1014
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Unemployment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25580 , vital:64336
- Description: Real exchange rate volatility have important effects on production, employment and trade, so it is crucial to understand its impact on unemployment especially on a country like South Africa.This study analyses the impact of the real exchange rate volatility on unemployment and the dynamic adjustment of unemployment rate following shocks to its determinants using quarterly South African data covering the period 2000 to 2010. It begins with a review of literature on the impact of exchange rate volatility on unemployment and provides a brief updated background on the exchange rate and unemployment in South Africa. An empirical model linking the real exchange rate to unemployment is then specified. In contrast to previous analyses, this study augments the cointegration and vector autoregression (VAR) and the GARCH model including analysis with impulse response and variance decomposition analyses to provide robust long run effects and short run dynamic effects on the unemployment rate. The empirical analysis using a variety of specifications,estimation techniques, and robustness tests suggests that exchange rate volatility has a statistically and economically significant impact on employment. The variables that have been found to have a long run relationship with unemployment rate include the real exchange rate, exports ,real interest rate and the gross domestic product.The impulse response functions broadly corroborate the theoretical predictions, but only real interest rate and exports have a significant impact on unemployment in the short run. Results from the variance decompositions are largely similar to those from the impulse response analysis. The real exchange rate and exports are the only variables found to significantly explain the variation in the unemployment. The most interesting result that emerged from this analysis and is supported by previous research is that among other determinants, the real exchange rate explain the largest proportion of the variation in unemployment rate. On balance, the evidence therefore suggests that unemployment rate fluctuations are predominantly equilibrium responses to real exchange rate shocks in comparison with interest rates, economic growth and exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nyahokwe, Olivia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2903-1014
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Unemployment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25580 , vital:64336
- Description: Real exchange rate volatility have important effects on production, employment and trade, so it is crucial to understand its impact on unemployment especially on a country like South Africa.This study analyses the impact of the real exchange rate volatility on unemployment and the dynamic adjustment of unemployment rate following shocks to its determinants using quarterly South African data covering the period 2000 to 2010. It begins with a review of literature on the impact of exchange rate volatility on unemployment and provides a brief updated background on the exchange rate and unemployment in South Africa. An empirical model linking the real exchange rate to unemployment is then specified. In contrast to previous analyses, this study augments the cointegration and vector autoregression (VAR) and the GARCH model including analysis with impulse response and variance decomposition analyses to provide robust long run effects and short run dynamic effects on the unemployment rate. The empirical analysis using a variety of specifications,estimation techniques, and robustness tests suggests that exchange rate volatility has a statistically and economically significant impact on employment. The variables that have been found to have a long run relationship with unemployment rate include the real exchange rate, exports ,real interest rate and the gross domestic product.The impulse response functions broadly corroborate the theoretical predictions, but only real interest rate and exports have a significant impact on unemployment in the short run. Results from the variance decompositions are largely similar to those from the impulse response analysis. The real exchange rate and exports are the only variables found to significantly explain the variation in the unemployment. The most interesting result that emerged from this analysis and is supported by previous research is that among other determinants, the real exchange rate explain the largest proportion of the variation in unemployment rate. On balance, the evidence therefore suggests that unemployment rate fluctuations are predominantly equilibrium responses to real exchange rate shocks in comparison with interest rates, economic growth and exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013