The effectiveness of South African development finance institutions in providing financial and non-financial support to small businesses: the case of Gauteng Enterprise Propeller
- Authors: Blose, Zingisa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Small business -- South Africa -- Management , Economic development -- Finance , Success in business -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65556 , vital:74187
- Description: Many small business owners struggle to keep their businesses operational due to a lack of financial support. It is unclear whether South African development finance institutions (DFIs) are effective in providing such support to small businesses. The primary objective of this study is to investigate how effective South African DFIs are in fostering sustainable growth in small business enterprises through their financial and non-financial support services. The Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP) is used as a case study. This study is located in the positivistic research tradition and therefore followed a quantitative research approach. Closed-ended questionnaires were distributed to 150 small businesses who were funded by the GEP. Self-constructed instruments were used to measure the independent variables and the dependent variable of the study. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to investigate the hypothesised relationships. Empirical results were that the participants largely disagreed (average mean score of less than two on a five-point scale) that the GEP frequently provides financial and non-financial support to small businesses. The results also demonstrate that the GEP’s marketing material, planning support, financial management and asset acquisition interventions were significantly related to the perceived business success of the sampled small businesses, while operational support interventions were not significantly related. On both a theoretical and practical level, the study adds to the knowledge of which financial and non-financial support interventions play a significant role in the success of small businesses. With the contribution of this study, South African DFIs can improve their financial and non-financial support strategies to assist small businesses in growing their operations. The study also provides a practical assessment of how GEP support recipients experience such support. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Blose, Zingisa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Small business -- South Africa -- Management , Economic development -- Finance , Success in business -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65556 , vital:74187
- Description: Many small business owners struggle to keep their businesses operational due to a lack of financial support. It is unclear whether South African development finance institutions (DFIs) are effective in providing such support to small businesses. The primary objective of this study is to investigate how effective South African DFIs are in fostering sustainable growth in small business enterprises through their financial and non-financial support services. The Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP) is used as a case study. This study is located in the positivistic research tradition and therefore followed a quantitative research approach. Closed-ended questionnaires were distributed to 150 small businesses who were funded by the GEP. Self-constructed instruments were used to measure the independent variables and the dependent variable of the study. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to investigate the hypothesised relationships. Empirical results were that the participants largely disagreed (average mean score of less than two on a five-point scale) that the GEP frequently provides financial and non-financial support to small businesses. The results also demonstrate that the GEP’s marketing material, planning support, financial management and asset acquisition interventions were significantly related to the perceived business success of the sampled small businesses, while operational support interventions were not significantly related. On both a theoretical and practical level, the study adds to the knowledge of which financial and non-financial support interventions play a significant role in the success of small businesses. With the contribution of this study, South African DFIs can improve their financial and non-financial support strategies to assist small businesses in growing their operations. The study also provides a practical assessment of how GEP support recipients experience such support. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The environmental impacts associated with offshore oil and gas exploration in Namibia's emerging blue economy policy
- Shaanika, Titus Mwiitantandje
- Authors: Shaanika, Titus Mwiitantandje
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Marine resources -- Economic aspects -- Namibia , Marine resources development -- Namibia , Coastal zone management -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65946 , vital:74289
- Description: Oil and gas exploration must have firm and clear environmental protection legislation as a blue economy industry. The Ministry of Mines and Energy regulates offshore oil and gas explorations in Namibia, and this is complemented by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, the Ministry of Environment Forestry and Tourism, and the Ministry of Works and Transport to ensure that associated environmental impacts are minimised or mitigated. They govern the environmental protection of offshore oil and gas exploration with one regulation, seven policies, and ten legislations. While these regulations are individually good as they show consideration for most environmental impacts associated with oil and gas explorations, implementation remains challenging due to fragmentation in mandates among the key ministries. A qualitative research approach was used to meet the project objectives. Legislation documents, policy documents, the blue economy, and oil and gas literature were reviewed and interpreted, and they thus provided the content that was analysed to answer the research questions. Which aimed at examining the environmental protection regulations addressing environmental impacts associated with offshore oil and gas exploration in Namibia. Two main environmental impacts were identified, oil spills and underwater noise pollution. While there is adequate consideration for oil spills in the Namibian legislation, there is no specific consideration for underwater noise pollution, a significant environmental impact from offshore upstream activities. Recommendations were made to improve the implementation of environmental protection measures and develop national legislation for mitigating underwater noise pollution. Involving locals (Namibians) in emerging industries, whether marine or not, is critical in identifying environmental threats and socio-economic opportunities, thereby making for an inclusive sector as the blue economy concept intended. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Shaanika, Titus Mwiitantandje
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Marine resources -- Economic aspects -- Namibia , Marine resources development -- Namibia , Coastal zone management -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65946 , vital:74289
- Description: Oil and gas exploration must have firm and clear environmental protection legislation as a blue economy industry. The Ministry of Mines and Energy regulates offshore oil and gas explorations in Namibia, and this is complemented by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, the Ministry of Environment Forestry and Tourism, and the Ministry of Works and Transport to ensure that associated environmental impacts are minimised or mitigated. They govern the environmental protection of offshore oil and gas exploration with one regulation, seven policies, and ten legislations. While these regulations are individually good as they show consideration for most environmental impacts associated with oil and gas explorations, implementation remains challenging due to fragmentation in mandates among the key ministries. A qualitative research approach was used to meet the project objectives. Legislation documents, policy documents, the blue economy, and oil and gas literature were reviewed and interpreted, and they thus provided the content that was analysed to answer the research questions. Which aimed at examining the environmental protection regulations addressing environmental impacts associated with offshore oil and gas exploration in Namibia. Two main environmental impacts were identified, oil spills and underwater noise pollution. While there is adequate consideration for oil spills in the Namibian legislation, there is no specific consideration for underwater noise pollution, a significant environmental impact from offshore upstream activities. Recommendations were made to improve the implementation of environmental protection measures and develop national legislation for mitigating underwater noise pollution. Involving locals (Namibians) in emerging industries, whether marine or not, is critical in identifying environmental threats and socio-economic opportunities, thereby making for an inclusive sector as the blue economy concept intended. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The factors affecting the effectiveness of asset management in the COCT municipality's urban waste management directorate
- Authors: Mganu, Thobeka
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Asset management accounts -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65729 , vital:74232
- Description: This study aims to investigate how Internal control system (ICS), Information system (IFS), Employee competence (ECT) and Leadership commitment (LDC) influence the effectiveness of asset management in the City of Cape Town municipality’s Urban Waste Management directorate. A quantitative research approach was employed to investigate these four factors. Primary data was collected from 114 respondents, using online questionnaires that were administered through QuestionPro; the completed questionnaires were then analyzed using Statistica Data Science Workbench, version 14. Results showed that all four factors – Employee Competence, Internal Control System, Information System and Leadership Commitment – have a positive and significant impact on the effectiveness of asset management. The findings and recommendations of this study are expected to provide practical information as well as a reference for municipalities, so as to help them improve their fixed asset management. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mganu, Thobeka
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Asset management accounts -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65729 , vital:74232
- Description: This study aims to investigate how Internal control system (ICS), Information system (IFS), Employee competence (ECT) and Leadership commitment (LDC) influence the effectiveness of asset management in the City of Cape Town municipality’s Urban Waste Management directorate. A quantitative research approach was employed to investigate these four factors. Primary data was collected from 114 respondents, using online questionnaires that were administered through QuestionPro; the completed questionnaires were then analyzed using Statistica Data Science Workbench, version 14. Results showed that all four factors – Employee Competence, Internal Control System, Information System and Leadership Commitment – have a positive and significant impact on the effectiveness of asset management. The findings and recommendations of this study are expected to provide practical information as well as a reference for municipalities, so as to help them improve their fixed asset management. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The impact of collaborative writing and scaffolding practices on student writing performance in second language contexts: action research at Midlands State University (MSU)
- Authors: Hlatshwayo, Primrose
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: English language -- Context , Writing -- Midlands State University
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63309 , vital:73248
- Description: The mixed methods action research study explored how collaborative writing and scaffolding practices impacted on the writing performance of students writing in groups. It sought to establish whether using the collaborative writing (CW) method would enhance the writing performance of 55 social work Midlands State University first-year students. Socio-cultural theory (SCT) was employed as the theoretical basis for the study as it emphasises learning in socially constructed environments in which interaction among peers and teachers leads to learning and construction of knowledge. Through the examination of student interactions in two collaborative writing activities, an analysis of student perceptions of CW, and an assessment of student collaboratively produced texts, the study found that the different peer and teacher scaffolding practices that were employed in the collaborative writing sessions significantly enhanced the students’ writing performance. Regardless of the challenges identified in CW, for example, misunderstandings and meaningless contributions from some group members, the research findings revealed that the student interactions offered scaffolding to support their writing activities. For example, validation feedback, link to previous knowledge and the use of correctional feedback were the scaffolding practices used. In addition, the students were able to collaboratively produce better texts with improved cohesive linking, mechanics, organisation, development, structure and vocabulary. The study contributed to L2 collaborative writing literature as it identifies the different student scaffolding approaches and offers an insight into the collaborative writing process and how it could support ESL writing development. However, the methodology posed some limitations, for example, the use of a questionnaire instead of interviews and recording student interactions in a journal instead of audio recording and, lastly, the researcher struggled to balance research demands and her normal teaching load. The study recommends the monitoring of students in CW groups, facilitation of peer/teacher motivation, establishment of group norms and formation of small groups with a maximum number of six members. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Hlatshwayo, Primrose
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: English language -- Context , Writing -- Midlands State University
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63309 , vital:73248
- Description: The mixed methods action research study explored how collaborative writing and scaffolding practices impacted on the writing performance of students writing in groups. It sought to establish whether using the collaborative writing (CW) method would enhance the writing performance of 55 social work Midlands State University first-year students. Socio-cultural theory (SCT) was employed as the theoretical basis for the study as it emphasises learning in socially constructed environments in which interaction among peers and teachers leads to learning and construction of knowledge. Through the examination of student interactions in two collaborative writing activities, an analysis of student perceptions of CW, and an assessment of student collaboratively produced texts, the study found that the different peer and teacher scaffolding practices that were employed in the collaborative writing sessions significantly enhanced the students’ writing performance. Regardless of the challenges identified in CW, for example, misunderstandings and meaningless contributions from some group members, the research findings revealed that the student interactions offered scaffolding to support their writing activities. For example, validation feedback, link to previous knowledge and the use of correctional feedback were the scaffolding practices used. In addition, the students were able to collaboratively produce better texts with improved cohesive linking, mechanics, organisation, development, structure and vocabulary. The study contributed to L2 collaborative writing literature as it identifies the different student scaffolding approaches and offers an insight into the collaborative writing process and how it could support ESL writing development. However, the methodology posed some limitations, for example, the use of a questionnaire instead of interviews and recording student interactions in a journal instead of audio recording and, lastly, the researcher struggled to balance research demands and her normal teaching load. The study recommends the monitoring of students in CW groups, facilitation of peer/teacher motivation, establishment of group norms and formation of small groups with a maximum number of six members. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The impact of knowledge economy on economic complexity in Africa
- Authors: Velamva, Siphosethu
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Knowledge management -- Economic aspects -- Africa , Information technology -- Economic aspects -- Africa , Economic development -- Africa , Gross domestic product Economic history Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66091 , vital:74349
- Description: The paper’s primary goal is to investigate the impact of the Knowledge Economy on the Economic Complexity in Africa. The paper presents the concept of the knowledge economy, an economy where knowledge is the main engine of economic growth and a measure of the knowledge in a country as expressed in the diversification of its products (Economic Complexity). It highlights the knowledge economy framework by the World Bank, which asserts that sustained investments in education, innovation, information and communication technologies, and a conducive economic and institutional environment will lead to increases in the use and creation of knowledge in economic production. Summary findings on machine learning estimates proved method LASSO has the minimum SE, which shows that the method LASSO forecasts the model with much precision than the other methods. The panel quantile regression results designate that the education component, ICT, economic incentives tend to affect ECI significantly and positively, while government indicators and innovation play a partial role. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Velamva, Siphosethu
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Knowledge management -- Economic aspects -- Africa , Information technology -- Economic aspects -- Africa , Economic development -- Africa , Gross domestic product Economic history Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66091 , vital:74349
- Description: The paper’s primary goal is to investigate the impact of the Knowledge Economy on the Economic Complexity in Africa. The paper presents the concept of the knowledge economy, an economy where knowledge is the main engine of economic growth and a measure of the knowledge in a country as expressed in the diversification of its products (Economic Complexity). It highlights the knowledge economy framework by the World Bank, which asserts that sustained investments in education, innovation, information and communication technologies, and a conducive economic and institutional environment will lead to increases in the use and creation of knowledge in economic production. Summary findings on machine learning estimates proved method LASSO has the minimum SE, which shows that the method LASSO forecasts the model with much precision than the other methods. The panel quantile regression results designate that the education component, ICT, economic incentives tend to affect ECI significantly and positively, while government indicators and innovation play a partial role. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The intimate relationships of Xhosa men from the East London area: perceptions of the role and responsibilities
- Authors: Ntsaka, Ayanda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Intimate relationship , Indigenous Knowledge
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62958 , vital:73076
- Description: Exploring gender identity and ideology can broaden our comprehension of how gender roles and responsibilities are carried out, and how disparities may be experienced. It is critical to explore them, within research, to generate new insight into the views and positioning of individuals, within their intimate relationships. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of isiXhosa men about their roles and responsibilities in intimate relationships. The study was broken down into three objectives which were: to explore perceptions of their role within their relationship, to explore their perceptions of their responsibilities within their relationship; and to explore factors supporting change within the roles and responsibilities. The study took the format of an exploratory descriptive research design. Ten Xhosa men were selected as participants using snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were used to gather data. Data was analysed using Braune and Clarke’s (2006) reflexive thematic analysis. The study came to the conclusion that there are two main roles of Xhosa men in intimate relationship, namely: head of the house; and the provider. Three dominant responsibilities were found to be common among the participants, namely, making all main decisions, providing financial support, and responsibility to safeguard. The study also found factors causing Xhosa men to change their roles and responsibilities in intimate relationsh were unemployment, disrespectful partner, extended family needs, demanding job and inadequate income from work. Lastly, the study concluded that the extent to which the changes of the roles and responsibilities among Xhosa men may affect their intimate relationships include break-ups/divorce, domestic violence, dysfunctional families – fragmentation of families and mental and emotional health issues. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Ntsaka, Ayanda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Intimate relationship , Indigenous Knowledge
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62958 , vital:73076
- Description: Exploring gender identity and ideology can broaden our comprehension of how gender roles and responsibilities are carried out, and how disparities may be experienced. It is critical to explore them, within research, to generate new insight into the views and positioning of individuals, within their intimate relationships. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of isiXhosa men about their roles and responsibilities in intimate relationships. The study was broken down into three objectives which were: to explore perceptions of their role within their relationship, to explore their perceptions of their responsibilities within their relationship; and to explore factors supporting change within the roles and responsibilities. The study took the format of an exploratory descriptive research design. Ten Xhosa men were selected as participants using snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were used to gather data. Data was analysed using Braune and Clarke’s (2006) reflexive thematic analysis. The study came to the conclusion that there are two main roles of Xhosa men in intimate relationship, namely: head of the house; and the provider. Three dominant responsibilities were found to be common among the participants, namely, making all main decisions, providing financial support, and responsibility to safeguard. The study also found factors causing Xhosa men to change their roles and responsibilities in intimate relationsh were unemployment, disrespectful partner, extended family needs, demanding job and inadequate income from work. Lastly, the study concluded that the extent to which the changes of the roles and responsibilities among Xhosa men may affect their intimate relationships include break-ups/divorce, domestic violence, dysfunctional families – fragmentation of families and mental and emotional health issues. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The role of dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management on SMMEs business continuity in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Sishuba, Hlumela
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Risk management , Crisis management -- South Africa , Small business -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65979 , vital:74293
- Description: Business continuity does not happen by chance, it is rather enabled or propelled by various activities in business operations. This study examines the role of dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management and their role in the continuity of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. Fixated in the positivist paradigm, this study adopted a quantitative research approach to collect data from 105 SMMEs registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, who were sampled using stratified and convenience sampling. Data was collected via an online survey on Google Forms and analysed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics and statistical analysis methods were applied using SPSS version 23. The analysis was done in three phases. Firstly, the researcher conducted a reliability analysis of the questionnaire, and secondly, a descriptive statistical analysis to examine the research questions. The third phase was a statistical analysis to test the hypothesis. A Pearson‟s correlation test was performed to test the relationship between dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management. The findings showed that, as enterprise risk is managed, dynamic capabilities increase, and thus there is a significant relationship between dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management. The correlation between the variables which measured the dynamic capabilities and those which measured enterprise risk management seemed to be significant as they were all above 0.05. Therefore, it can be concluded that dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management contribute to business continuity. This means that dynamic capabilities enhance business continuity, dynamic capabilities enhance enterprise risk management and enterprise risk management enhances business continuity. To leverage these positive relations, SMMEs ought to employ ERM experts or engage ERM consultants who will design Enterprise Risk management (ERM) strategies that are compatible with their enterprises. It is also recommended for SMMEs to have quarterly evaluations of the Enterprise Risk Management strategies and Dynamic Capabilities that enhance their business continuity planning , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sishuba, Hlumela
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Risk management , Crisis management -- South Africa , Small business -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65979 , vital:74293
- Description: Business continuity does not happen by chance, it is rather enabled or propelled by various activities in business operations. This study examines the role of dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management and their role in the continuity of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. Fixated in the positivist paradigm, this study adopted a quantitative research approach to collect data from 105 SMMEs registered with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, who were sampled using stratified and convenience sampling. Data was collected via an online survey on Google Forms and analysed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics and statistical analysis methods were applied using SPSS version 23. The analysis was done in three phases. Firstly, the researcher conducted a reliability analysis of the questionnaire, and secondly, a descriptive statistical analysis to examine the research questions. The third phase was a statistical analysis to test the hypothesis. A Pearson‟s correlation test was performed to test the relationship between dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management. The findings showed that, as enterprise risk is managed, dynamic capabilities increase, and thus there is a significant relationship between dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management. The correlation between the variables which measured the dynamic capabilities and those which measured enterprise risk management seemed to be significant as they were all above 0.05. Therefore, it can be concluded that dynamic capabilities and enterprise risk management contribute to business continuity. This means that dynamic capabilities enhance business continuity, dynamic capabilities enhance enterprise risk management and enterprise risk management enhances business continuity. To leverage these positive relations, SMMEs ought to employ ERM experts or engage ERM consultants who will design Enterprise Risk management (ERM) strategies that are compatible with their enterprises. It is also recommended for SMMEs to have quarterly evaluations of the Enterprise Risk Management strategies and Dynamic Capabilities that enhance their business continuity planning , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The role of mentoring in the advancement of female leadership in corporate organisations
- Authors: Mhlanga, Siyavuya Marcia
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Leadership in women -- South Africa , Women executives , Mentoring in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65762 , vital:74235
- Description: Richard Branson reportedly said that “if you ask any successful business person, at some point along the road, they will always have had a great mentor”. The lack of representation of females at senior and executive levels is slowly transforming, yet not at the required rate. The study was conducted to evaluate the role of mentoring in the advancement of female leadership in corporate organisations. The research method that was followed was a qualitative and explanatory inductive approach to interview participants and observe their experiences and opinions with regard to the role of mentoring in the advancement of women through the following themes: job satisfaction, organisational culture, organisational development mentoring and the barriers and challenges that affect women. The focus area includes women in current senior level positions who have aspirations to advance into more senior or executive levels. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants and due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has affected the globe, a small group of well-respected individuals was selected according to their credibility. The key observations reflected within the study that the themes which were dominant included the following: 1)inequality, 2) lack of support and the importance of a sponsor/coach and 3) barriersand challenges (the “glass ceiling” and “boys club”) that still exist. The findings of the study will equip the role players within corporate organisations and associated bodies to ensure mentoring is used and encouraged for adoption among all organisations, implement mentorship strategies and apply the ADAPT mentoring model. Furthermore, the findings will serve to bring relevant insights and recommendations to promote more women in senior, executive and board-level positions. The implications of the findings suggest that mentoring is an enabler of advancement leverage for female leadership into senior and executive levels. The limitations of the study were the effects of COVID-19 and the subsequent countrywide lockdown, where constraints of meeting in person, availability of time, network and data constraints availed themselves. The researcher was unbale to ascertain long-term effects of the role of mentoring in advancing female leadership, but rather encourages its main benefits and is positive of the influence it may hold to set a precedent. The study established that the ability to create spaces of empowering women in corporates builds strong, economically viable corporates that promote mentoring to advance female representation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mhlanga, Siyavuya Marcia
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Leadership in women -- South Africa , Women executives , Mentoring in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65762 , vital:74235
- Description: Richard Branson reportedly said that “if you ask any successful business person, at some point along the road, they will always have had a great mentor”. The lack of representation of females at senior and executive levels is slowly transforming, yet not at the required rate. The study was conducted to evaluate the role of mentoring in the advancement of female leadership in corporate organisations. The research method that was followed was a qualitative and explanatory inductive approach to interview participants and observe their experiences and opinions with regard to the role of mentoring in the advancement of women through the following themes: job satisfaction, organisational culture, organisational development mentoring and the barriers and challenges that affect women. The focus area includes women in current senior level positions who have aspirations to advance into more senior or executive levels. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants and due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has affected the globe, a small group of well-respected individuals was selected according to their credibility. The key observations reflected within the study that the themes which were dominant included the following: 1)inequality, 2) lack of support and the importance of a sponsor/coach and 3) barriersand challenges (the “glass ceiling” and “boys club”) that still exist. The findings of the study will equip the role players within corporate organisations and associated bodies to ensure mentoring is used and encouraged for adoption among all organisations, implement mentorship strategies and apply the ADAPT mentoring model. Furthermore, the findings will serve to bring relevant insights and recommendations to promote more women in senior, executive and board-level positions. The implications of the findings suggest that mentoring is an enabler of advancement leverage for female leadership into senior and executive levels. The limitations of the study were the effects of COVID-19 and the subsequent countrywide lockdown, where constraints of meeting in person, availability of time, network and data constraints availed themselves. The researcher was unbale to ascertain long-term effects of the role of mentoring in advancing female leadership, but rather encourages its main benefits and is positive of the influence it may hold to set a precedent. The study established that the ability to create spaces of empowering women in corporates builds strong, economically viable corporates that promote mentoring to advance female representation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The state of professional compliance during project implementation in a selected construction industry in Gauteng
- Authors: Mailula, Manyaku Jerida
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Project management -- South Africa , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Management , Construction industry -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65677 , vital:74227
- Description: Public sector construction projects in South Africa are not always implemented successfully as a result of professional non-compliance in the construction industry by professionals entrusted with the responsibility to deliver construction projects. Professionals in the construction industry registered with the built environment regulatory bodies must demonstrate professionalism in terms of competency and conduct when carrying out their professional duties as prescribed by the relevant regulatory bodies they belong to. This study utilised a qualitative case study to investigate the state of professional compliance during project implementation in a selected construction industry in Gauteng. A purposive sampling method was adopted to select participants with at least two years’ experience in managing public sector construction project implementation in Gauteng, resulting in 11 participants in the study. Semi-structured interview questions were designed and put to the participants during telephonic interviews. The research findings suggest that professional competency and conduct compliance requirements which contribute to effective project implementation include a relevant qualification as an initial step to become professional in the construction industry, followed by work experience, knowledge and registration with relevant regulatory and professional bodies which also require registered professionals to abide by their ethics and code of conduct. The findings suggest that the forms of non-compliance in terms of professional competency and conduct affecting effective project implementation were the result of a lack of experience or knowledge of construction professionals in relation to the project, poor quality of work and professionals’ neglect of duties. The perceived types of professional non-compliance affecting effective project implementation in the construction industry revealed by the findings included amongst others, breach of obligations, corruption, bribery and fraud, conflict of interest and carelessness; and factors of professional non-compliance such as high discounts, community disruptions, junior staff not been monitored, political relations and competition. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mailula, Manyaku Jerida
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Project management -- South Africa , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Management , Construction industry -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65677 , vital:74227
- Description: Public sector construction projects in South Africa are not always implemented successfully as a result of professional non-compliance in the construction industry by professionals entrusted with the responsibility to deliver construction projects. Professionals in the construction industry registered with the built environment regulatory bodies must demonstrate professionalism in terms of competency and conduct when carrying out their professional duties as prescribed by the relevant regulatory bodies they belong to. This study utilised a qualitative case study to investigate the state of professional compliance during project implementation in a selected construction industry in Gauteng. A purposive sampling method was adopted to select participants with at least two years’ experience in managing public sector construction project implementation in Gauteng, resulting in 11 participants in the study. Semi-structured interview questions were designed and put to the participants during telephonic interviews. The research findings suggest that professional competency and conduct compliance requirements which contribute to effective project implementation include a relevant qualification as an initial step to become professional in the construction industry, followed by work experience, knowledge and registration with relevant regulatory and professional bodies which also require registered professionals to abide by their ethics and code of conduct. The findings suggest that the forms of non-compliance in terms of professional competency and conduct affecting effective project implementation were the result of a lack of experience or knowledge of construction professionals in relation to the project, poor quality of work and professionals’ neglect of duties. The perceived types of professional non-compliance affecting effective project implementation in the construction industry revealed by the findings included amongst others, breach of obligations, corruption, bribery and fraud, conflict of interest and carelessness; and factors of professional non-compliance such as high discounts, community disruptions, junior staff not been monitored, political relations and competition. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
The use of a feminist political economy framework to implement the African Union’s development plan
- Authors: Ngunjiri, Michelle Wangari
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Feminist economics , Women -- Government policy , African Union , Sustainable development -- Africa Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65891 , vital:74281
- Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if the African Union can achieve sustainable and inclusive growth through the adoption of a feminist political economy framework. This was done by investigating the potential gendered impact of the recently operationalised African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on African women. The specific indicator of sustainable and inclusive growth utilised was the “income poverty and equity parameter”. Owing to the contemporary nature of the trade agreement, a historical analysis of gender mainstreaming efforts within African Regional Economic Communities was undertaken. This aided in determining the arbitrary treatment of gender provisions in regional trade initiatives. Additionally, a nexus was drawn between the role of African hegemonies and the disregard for gender sensitivity in trade policies. It was found that despite the existence of gender mainstreaming tools, the achievement of sustainable and inclusive growth by the African Union will be unattainable. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Ngunjiri, Michelle Wangari
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Feminist economics , Women -- Government policy , African Union , Sustainable development -- Africa Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65891 , vital:74281
- Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if the African Union can achieve sustainable and inclusive growth through the adoption of a feminist political economy framework. This was done by investigating the potential gendered impact of the recently operationalised African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on African women. The specific indicator of sustainable and inclusive growth utilised was the “income poverty and equity parameter”. Owing to the contemporary nature of the trade agreement, a historical analysis of gender mainstreaming efforts within African Regional Economic Communities was undertaken. This aided in determining the arbitrary treatment of gender provisions in regional trade initiatives. Additionally, a nexus was drawn between the role of African hegemonies and the disregard for gender sensitivity in trade policies. It was found that despite the existence of gender mainstreaming tools, the achievement of sustainable and inclusive growth by the African Union will be unattainable. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Traditional birth attendants’ perceptions of their role in caring for women during childbirth in the Nyandeni sub-district
- Authors: Sinxi, Sisanda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Traditional Birth , Midwives--Nyandeni sub district
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63012 , vital:73082
- Description: The role of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) has been within remote communities for a long time. TBAs remain a major health resource in rural communities in developing countries as well as in some parts of urban areas. South Africa is a long way from effectively utilising TBAs as a community resource to enhance access to maternity services. This qualitative study, with an explorative, contextual, and descriptive design, included ten (n=12) TBAs aged between 38 and 56 years who met the inclusion criteria and were interviewed for the study. The objective of the study was to explore and describe TBAs’ perceptions of their role in caring for women during childbirth in the Nyandeni Sub-district. Data for this study was collected using face-to- face and individual semi-structured interviews, and field notes. Recorded data was transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged, namely: TBAs perceive their role in caring for women as an essential service to women in the community; they believe that they possess the knowledge to conduct deliveries safely; and acknowledge that collaboration with the Department of Health could strengthen rural midwifery services. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sinxi, Sisanda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Traditional Birth , Midwives--Nyandeni sub district
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63012 , vital:73082
- Description: The role of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) has been within remote communities for a long time. TBAs remain a major health resource in rural communities in developing countries as well as in some parts of urban areas. South Africa is a long way from effectively utilising TBAs as a community resource to enhance access to maternity services. This qualitative study, with an explorative, contextual, and descriptive design, included ten (n=12) TBAs aged between 38 and 56 years who met the inclusion criteria and were interviewed for the study. The objective of the study was to explore and describe TBAs’ perceptions of their role in caring for women during childbirth in the Nyandeni Sub-district. Data for this study was collected using face-to- face and individual semi-structured interviews, and field notes. Recorded data was transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged, namely: TBAs perceive their role in caring for women as an essential service to women in the community; they believe that they possess the knowledge to conduct deliveries safely; and acknowledge that collaboration with the Department of Health could strengthen rural midwifery services. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
A qualitative systematic review exploring online learning experiences among university students during Covid-19: An African Context
- Thoka, Tebogo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6763-6367
- Authors: Thoka, Tebogo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6763-6367
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Internet in higher education , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Communicable diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28606 , vital:74472
- Description: The sudden and immediate transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic brought forth unprecedented challenges, particularly within the education sector. In Africa, this shift was necessitated by the need to safeguard lives and preserve the academic year. However, the absence of adequate contextual consideration introduced additional complexities, influencing how students in the African context navigated their learning experiences during this unique time.This study aimed to comprehensively synthesize the online learning experiences of university students in Africa amid the COVID-19 pandemic and evaluate the influence of these experiences on academic performance. Drawing from the systematic review protocol proposed by Hemingway and Brereton, seven (7) qualitative research articles were rigorously selected based on predefined inclusion criteria and meticulously examined.Thematic analysis of the chosen articles revealed two overarching themes. The first, "Emotional Distress," encapsulated students' experiences of anxiety, depressive emotions, and anger. Contributing factors included limited interaction opportunities, a sense of isolation, insufficient online learning resources, inflexible course structures, and non-conducive learning environments. The second overarching theme, "Growth," encompassed improvements in grades and enhanced self-directed learning abilities.These findings hold significant implications for the enhancement of online learning experiences in Africa. To address the challenges associated with emotional distress and foster growth, we propose the following recommendations: increased focus on social interaction and support mechanisms, equitable access to online resources, flexible course structures, and fostering conducive learning environments. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-11
- Authors: Thoka, Tebogo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6763-6367
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Internet in higher education , Education, Higher -- Computer-assisted instruction , Communicable diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28606 , vital:74472
- Description: The sudden and immediate transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic brought forth unprecedented challenges, particularly within the education sector. In Africa, this shift was necessitated by the need to safeguard lives and preserve the academic year. However, the absence of adequate contextual consideration introduced additional complexities, influencing how students in the African context navigated their learning experiences during this unique time.This study aimed to comprehensively synthesize the online learning experiences of university students in Africa amid the COVID-19 pandemic and evaluate the influence of these experiences on academic performance. Drawing from the systematic review protocol proposed by Hemingway and Brereton, seven (7) qualitative research articles were rigorously selected based on predefined inclusion criteria and meticulously examined.Thematic analysis of the chosen articles revealed two overarching themes. The first, "Emotional Distress," encapsulated students' experiences of anxiety, depressive emotions, and anger. Contributing factors included limited interaction opportunities, a sense of isolation, insufficient online learning resources, inflexible course structures, and non-conducive learning environments. The second overarching theme, "Growth," encompassed improvements in grades and enhanced self-directed learning abilities.These findings hold significant implications for the enhancement of online learning experiences in Africa. To address the challenges associated with emotional distress and foster growth, we propose the following recommendations: increased focus on social interaction and support mechanisms, equitable access to online resources, flexible course structures, and fostering conducive learning environments. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-11
Assessing the impact of access to climate services on smallholder farmers’ cropping decisions and household food security in Elundini Municipality, Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Yanga-Inkosi, Nocezo
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Food security -- Climatic factors , Crops and climate
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28222 , vital:73913
- Description: Climate variability has significant implications for crop production and overall food security. Climate services, which provide tailored and localised climate information, have the potential to enhance farmers' understanding of climate patterns and support informed decision-making. The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of climate services on smallholder farmers’ cropping decisions and household food security. The study adopted a cross-sectional household survey on 217 smallholder crop farming households from Elundini Municipality. Structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were used to collect the required data from the farmers. Descriptive analysis was used to identify the types of climate service accessed by smallholder crop farmers in the study area. The probit model was used to examine factors influencing smallholder crop farmers’ access to specific climate services. The household dietary diversity score was used to measure household food security among smallholder crop farmers. The propensity score matching model was used to assess the impact of accessing specific climate services on cropping decisions and household food security. The results indicated that most farmers 77 percent in the study area had access to climate services. The results further showed that many farmers had access to short-term weather forecast 79 percent with very few accessing seasonal forecast 22 percent. The results also revealed that access to both short-term weather and seasonal forecasts is positively influenced by ownership of mobile phones and access to extension services. Similarly, access to short-term weather forecasts is positively influenced by age, monthly income, ownership of radio, timely climate information, and perceiving that climate change has negative effects on crop production. Land size, knowledge of climate change, and climate services accuracy are positive and significant factors influencing access to seasonal forecasts. Most of the smallholder farming households in the study area had higher dietary diversity scores 66 percent. Moreover, access to short-term weather and seasonal forecasts has a positive and significant impact on cropping decisions and household dietary diversity scores. The study concludes that climate services improve cropping decisions and household food security among smallholder crop farmers in Elundini Municipality. The study recommends that there should be investments in awareness programmes that will educate farmers about the importance of climate services and how to acquire and interpret both weather and seasonal forecasts. Stakeholders interested in improving smallholder farmers’ access to climate services should consider whether farmers own smart phones and have access to extension services, arable land, knowledge of climate change, and if the climate services are accurate for smallholder farmers. In addition, to improve crop production and household food security in the face of climate change, access to climate services by smallholder farmers should be considered. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-11
- Authors: Yanga-Inkosi, Nocezo
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Food security -- Climatic factors , Crops and climate
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28222 , vital:73913
- Description: Climate variability has significant implications for crop production and overall food security. Climate services, which provide tailored and localised climate information, have the potential to enhance farmers' understanding of climate patterns and support informed decision-making. The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of climate services on smallholder farmers’ cropping decisions and household food security. The study adopted a cross-sectional household survey on 217 smallholder crop farming households from Elundini Municipality. Structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were used to collect the required data from the farmers. Descriptive analysis was used to identify the types of climate service accessed by smallholder crop farmers in the study area. The probit model was used to examine factors influencing smallholder crop farmers’ access to specific climate services. The household dietary diversity score was used to measure household food security among smallholder crop farmers. The propensity score matching model was used to assess the impact of accessing specific climate services on cropping decisions and household food security. The results indicated that most farmers 77 percent in the study area had access to climate services. The results further showed that many farmers had access to short-term weather forecast 79 percent with very few accessing seasonal forecast 22 percent. The results also revealed that access to both short-term weather and seasonal forecasts is positively influenced by ownership of mobile phones and access to extension services. Similarly, access to short-term weather forecasts is positively influenced by age, monthly income, ownership of radio, timely climate information, and perceiving that climate change has negative effects on crop production. Land size, knowledge of climate change, and climate services accuracy are positive and significant factors influencing access to seasonal forecasts. Most of the smallholder farming households in the study area had higher dietary diversity scores 66 percent. Moreover, access to short-term weather and seasonal forecasts has a positive and significant impact on cropping decisions and household dietary diversity scores. The study concludes that climate services improve cropping decisions and household food security among smallholder crop farmers in Elundini Municipality. The study recommends that there should be investments in awareness programmes that will educate farmers about the importance of climate services and how to acquire and interpret both weather and seasonal forecasts. Stakeholders interested in improving smallholder farmers’ access to climate services should consider whether farmers own smart phones and have access to extension services, arable land, knowledge of climate change, and if the climate services are accurate for smallholder farmers. In addition, to improve crop production and household food security in the face of climate change, access to climate services by smallholder farmers should be considered. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-11
Medication adherence: a review of policy and education in South Africa
- Authors: Nyoni, Cynthia Nomagugu
- Date: 2023-10-31
- Subjects: Patient compliance South Africa , Drugs Administration Study and teaching (Higher) , Pharmacist and patient South Africa , Pharmaceutical policy South Africa , Patient education South Africa , Medication adherence
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419548 , vital:71653
- Description: Medication adherence is a patient's active and voluntary participation in following all the recommendations and instructions agreed upon with a health care provider such as a pharmacist. Adherence is a multidimensional phenomenon determined by the interplay of five factors: patient-related factors, socioeconomic factors, condition-related factors, health system-related factors, and therapy-related factors. Medication non-adherence is a problem in many countries, especially low to middle-income countries, including South Africa (SA). In low to middle-income countries, non-adherence is often worse due to insufficient health resources and inequities in access to health care. Medication adherence is a global problem and has raised the need for research and review. Many healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, have an essential role in promoting medication adherence. This study described, explained and evaluated the policies in SA relating to the pharmacist's role in promoting medication adherence. Furthermore, it described medication adherence-related education at four universities in South Africa. The study was qualitative, and a two-phased approach was employed. In the first phase, a document analysis of the pharmacist’s role in supporting medication adherence was conducted as described in national policies and guidelines in SA. A total of 38 documents were analysed, including critical documents such as the South African Pharmacy Council Good Pharmacy Practice Manual and Associated SAPC rules (GPP) manual, National Drug Policy (NDP), Standard treatment guidelines (STGS) and Integrated Adherence Guidelines. The READ approach was used in conducting the document analysis and involved (1) preparing materials, (2) extracting data, (3) analysing data, and (4) distilling findings. The critical roles of pharmacists in medication adherence that were identified were in drug use, supply and management, dispensing, therapeutic drug monitoring, pharmacovigilance, pharmaceutical care, and special programmes like antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) care and antiretroviral treatment (ARV) and chronic conditions. In the second phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with lecturers to investigate and report on the inclusion of medication adherence and the teaching thereof in the curriculum of the Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree (BPharm) in pharmacy institutions in SA. Purposive sampling was used, and seven lecturers from four different institutions participated in the interviews. The interviews were conducted via Zoom® and were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The teaching of medication adherence in the BPharm curriculum of the respective interviewed pharmacy institutions was explored. It was found that the topic of medication adherence was integrated into all subjects throughout the curriculum and not taught as a formal course. Although medication adherence is taught in many disciplines, it is predominantly in pharmacy practice in all institutions. The teaching methods identified included lectures, case studies, workshops, tutorials, practicals, readings, tasks, assignments and videos. The perceived effectiveness of the teaching methods was explored; also the time spent teaching medication adherence and the time efficiency. Student understanding, interest and engagement with the topic were explored and determined through their assessment performance and class attendance. In conclusion, from policies, the pharmacist's role concerning adherence is indirectly integrated into many other roles. It is often not distinguishable from that of other healthcare professionals and is often implied as part of a more generic role. Pharmacy students are educated on medication adherence and the skills and knowledge required to identify, monitor and support patient adherence to therapy. However, there is scope to increase the course content on medication adherence. There is a need to identify effective strategies for preparing pharmacists to assist patients in medication adherence. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-31
- Authors: Nyoni, Cynthia Nomagugu
- Date: 2023-10-31
- Subjects: Patient compliance South Africa , Drugs Administration Study and teaching (Higher) , Pharmacist and patient South Africa , Pharmaceutical policy South Africa , Patient education South Africa , Medication adherence
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419548 , vital:71653
- Description: Medication adherence is a patient's active and voluntary participation in following all the recommendations and instructions agreed upon with a health care provider such as a pharmacist. Adherence is a multidimensional phenomenon determined by the interplay of five factors: patient-related factors, socioeconomic factors, condition-related factors, health system-related factors, and therapy-related factors. Medication non-adherence is a problem in many countries, especially low to middle-income countries, including South Africa (SA). In low to middle-income countries, non-adherence is often worse due to insufficient health resources and inequities in access to health care. Medication adherence is a global problem and has raised the need for research and review. Many healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, have an essential role in promoting medication adherence. This study described, explained and evaluated the policies in SA relating to the pharmacist's role in promoting medication adherence. Furthermore, it described medication adherence-related education at four universities in South Africa. The study was qualitative, and a two-phased approach was employed. In the first phase, a document analysis of the pharmacist’s role in supporting medication adherence was conducted as described in national policies and guidelines in SA. A total of 38 documents were analysed, including critical documents such as the South African Pharmacy Council Good Pharmacy Practice Manual and Associated SAPC rules (GPP) manual, National Drug Policy (NDP), Standard treatment guidelines (STGS) and Integrated Adherence Guidelines. The READ approach was used in conducting the document analysis and involved (1) preparing materials, (2) extracting data, (3) analysing data, and (4) distilling findings. The critical roles of pharmacists in medication adherence that were identified were in drug use, supply and management, dispensing, therapeutic drug monitoring, pharmacovigilance, pharmaceutical care, and special programmes like antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) care and antiretroviral treatment (ARV) and chronic conditions. In the second phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with lecturers to investigate and report on the inclusion of medication adherence and the teaching thereof in the curriculum of the Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree (BPharm) in pharmacy institutions in SA. Purposive sampling was used, and seven lecturers from four different institutions participated in the interviews. The interviews were conducted via Zoom® and were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The teaching of medication adherence in the BPharm curriculum of the respective interviewed pharmacy institutions was explored. It was found that the topic of medication adherence was integrated into all subjects throughout the curriculum and not taught as a formal course. Although medication adherence is taught in many disciplines, it is predominantly in pharmacy practice in all institutions. The teaching methods identified included lectures, case studies, workshops, tutorials, practicals, readings, tasks, assignments and videos. The perceived effectiveness of the teaching methods was explored; also the time spent teaching medication adherence and the time efficiency. Student understanding, interest and engagement with the topic were explored and determined through their assessment performance and class attendance. In conclusion, from policies, the pharmacist's role concerning adherence is indirectly integrated into many other roles. It is often not distinguishable from that of other healthcare professionals and is often implied as part of a more generic role. Pharmacy students are educated on medication adherence and the skills and knowledge required to identify, monitor and support patient adherence to therapy. However, there is scope to increase the course content on medication adherence. There is a need to identify effective strategies for preparing pharmacists to assist patients in medication adherence. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-31
A case study of role conflict experienced by middle management during organizational change
- Authors: Sepeng, Mugabe
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Role conflict , Change management , Middle managers , Middle management , ISO 9001 Standard Implementation of
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419189 , vital:71624
- Description: This research investigation is based on continuous improvement changes arising from - and related to - ISO 9001 implementation at Sundays River Citrus Company (SRCC), which is one of the biggest packers, marketers, and exporters of citrus fruit in South Africa. The Board of SRCC adopted ISO 9001 to ensure organizational efficiency and sustainability while improving quality control, customer service, teamwork and leadership. However, research indicates not all organizations that have Implemented ISO 9001 realize the intended benefits. While no research was available on the citrus agriculture industry, research in the tourism industry indicates that not only did some companies not realize the expected benefits, but also incurred substantial investment costs. It is estimated that approximately thirty to ninety percent of change initiatives fail to meet their objectives, and research studies also indicate that middle managers play a critical role that can influence the outcomes of a change project. However, Balogun (2003) indicates that middle managers play a complex role and are exposed to role conflict, which can influence the outcomes of change initiatives. In this context, this research study aimed to investigate the role conflicts experienced by middle managers during the process of an ISO 9001 continuous improvement change. The study draws on role theory, applying it to their management of change. The following role conflict types were investigated: (1) intra-sender conflict, (2) inter-sender role conflict, (3) inter-role conflict, (4) role ambiguity and (5) role strain. The research approach is qualitative, and has adopted a post-positivist paradigm, utilizing a deductive qualitative method. The study adopted a case study approach. Data was gathered mainly from interviews and supported by organizational documents. Semi structured interviews were conducted with questions formulated through the use of the coding manual (See Appendix C) to ensure alignment of data collection with the research propositions derived from literature. A deductive thematic analysis method was used to analyze the interview data. The research findings confirmed that during continuous improvement change, as middle managers strived to satisfy the incompatible expectations of role senders (mainly senior and junior managers), they experienced the five role conflict types. The study findings also indicate that middle managers experience conflicts due to the incompatible expectations of other role senders such as quality and marketing departments. The findings suggest that middle managers are managing these conflicts, but notes that they do require some assistance and support from senior management. The study concludes with managerial and research recommendations. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Sepeng, Mugabe
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Role conflict , Change management , Middle managers , Middle management , ISO 9001 Standard Implementation of
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419189 , vital:71624
- Description: This research investigation is based on continuous improvement changes arising from - and related to - ISO 9001 implementation at Sundays River Citrus Company (SRCC), which is one of the biggest packers, marketers, and exporters of citrus fruit in South Africa. The Board of SRCC adopted ISO 9001 to ensure organizational efficiency and sustainability while improving quality control, customer service, teamwork and leadership. However, research indicates not all organizations that have Implemented ISO 9001 realize the intended benefits. While no research was available on the citrus agriculture industry, research in the tourism industry indicates that not only did some companies not realize the expected benefits, but also incurred substantial investment costs. It is estimated that approximately thirty to ninety percent of change initiatives fail to meet their objectives, and research studies also indicate that middle managers play a critical role that can influence the outcomes of a change project. However, Balogun (2003) indicates that middle managers play a complex role and are exposed to role conflict, which can influence the outcomes of change initiatives. In this context, this research study aimed to investigate the role conflicts experienced by middle managers during the process of an ISO 9001 continuous improvement change. The study draws on role theory, applying it to their management of change. The following role conflict types were investigated: (1) intra-sender conflict, (2) inter-sender role conflict, (3) inter-role conflict, (4) role ambiguity and (5) role strain. The research approach is qualitative, and has adopted a post-positivist paradigm, utilizing a deductive qualitative method. The study adopted a case study approach. Data was gathered mainly from interviews and supported by organizational documents. Semi structured interviews were conducted with questions formulated through the use of the coding manual (See Appendix C) to ensure alignment of data collection with the research propositions derived from literature. A deductive thematic analysis method was used to analyze the interview data. The research findings confirmed that during continuous improvement change, as middle managers strived to satisfy the incompatible expectations of role senders (mainly senior and junior managers), they experienced the five role conflict types. The study findings also indicate that middle managers experience conflicts due to the incompatible expectations of other role senders such as quality and marketing departments. The findings suggest that middle managers are managing these conflicts, but notes that they do require some assistance and support from senior management. The study concludes with managerial and research recommendations. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A council of women
- Authors: Sobekwa, Lelethu Anathi
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435988 , vital:73218
- Description: This thesis comprises extracts of life writing written in short prose forms. The work reads like a novella and I have been inspired by Margaret Patton Chapman’s approach to the novella, where she condenses “the telling of a long story time wise”, so that a story occurring over two years can be told over two pages. The thesis explores relationships between mother, daughter, grandmother and granddaughter, each with different life experiences and each teaching the next generation about how to navigate life as politically, socially and economically disadvantaged women. I have also drawn inspiration from authors such as NoViolet Bulawayo who explores the hypocrisies of the church and the government in We Need New Names. In Kate Bernheimer’s “Fairy Tale is Form, Form is Fairy Tale” she writes about fairy tales adopting “intuitive logic” or telling in the form of “this happens and then this happens” while the explanation behind the events is not spelt out but rather exists between the lines. My thesis adopts this style of writing by allowing the reader to understand what is being said without over-simplifying. To this end, I have used the concept of place modelled on Es’kia Mphahlele’s In Corner B, where characters are inscribed in relation to the spaces they inhabit. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Sobekwa, Lelethu Anathi
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435988 , vital:73218
- Description: This thesis comprises extracts of life writing written in short prose forms. The work reads like a novella and I have been inspired by Margaret Patton Chapman’s approach to the novella, where she condenses “the telling of a long story time wise”, so that a story occurring over two years can be told over two pages. The thesis explores relationships between mother, daughter, grandmother and granddaughter, each with different life experiences and each teaching the next generation about how to navigate life as politically, socially and economically disadvantaged women. I have also drawn inspiration from authors such as NoViolet Bulawayo who explores the hypocrisies of the church and the government in We Need New Names. In Kate Bernheimer’s “Fairy Tale is Form, Form is Fairy Tale” she writes about fairy tales adopting “intuitive logic” or telling in the form of “this happens and then this happens” while the explanation behind the events is not spelt out but rather exists between the lines. My thesis adopts this style of writing by allowing the reader to understand what is being said without over-simplifying. To this end, I have used the concept of place modelled on Es’kia Mphahlele’s In Corner B, where characters are inscribed in relation to the spaces they inhabit. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A distributed approach to leadership in an academic department in a South African university: an exploratory case study
- Authors: Haufiku, Kenneth David
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Universities and colleges Administration , Education, Higher South Africa , Distributed leadership , College department heads South Africa , School management and organization South Africa , Group decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419748 , vital:71672
- Description: The Head of Department (HOD) position at a university has traditionally been viewed as an individual construct. However, due to the demanding nature of such a position, it is not sought-after, as it remains exclusive and unappealing to many academics. Moreover, it is a position that does not encourage inclusive leadership. Tension and role ambiguity are known to arise between the scholarly project on the one hand and management and administrative matters on the other. To address challenges associated with this singular leadership position, an academic department at a South African university adopted a distributed leadership approach in their department as a research experiment. My study was based on this research experiment. I designed this research as an exploratory case study, guided by a socio-cultural conceptualisation of distributed leadership that included a leader-plus and a practice aspect, defined as a product of the interactions of school leaders, followers and their situation. This qualitative case study aimed to describe and explain how a distributed leadership approach was understood and practised in an academic department. It also investigated the enablements and constraints of the approach. Data were generated through document analysis, observation, and individual and focus group interviews. The participants in this study included the departmental leadership team and the department’s academic and administrative staff. Unfortunately, my study took place during the global COVID-19 pandemic and national lockdowns. I had no choice but to adapt my data generation methods due to lockdown restrictions. As a result, most data generation was done via online communication. The study used inductive and abductive analysis to make the data meaningful to the reader. The findings revealed that different participants had different ideas about distributed leadership. Distributed leadership was understood as a socio-cultural practice rather than an individual practice with multiple leaders in relational practice. In addition, this approach was understood as a way of developing and sharing expertise by encouraging teamwork, collegiality and collective decision-making which aligns with the notion of democratic decision-making which creates a platform for the enablement of leadership in others. The study further explored how distributed leadership was practised. The findings were that the HOD position, usually a one-person role, was reconceptualised as a HOD team comprised of three academics and the departmental administrator. The HOD team divided the work among themselves, and this was done according to each individual’s expertise. In addition, leadership within the academic department was not limited to the HOD team but stretched across the department; thus, multiple leaders were evident. Therefore, based on the data, this study discovered that a distributed approach values leadership expertise in others. Consequently, it can be used to promote an inclusive environment in which any organisation member can lead. Inclusivity in the decision-making process was also regarded as a strong practice in the academic department. As a result, this study contends that those in formal positions can develop leadership in others through a distributed leadership approach. Through that, lecturer leadership was enacted through formal faculty and university structures and informally as and when the situation required it. The enablements of this departmental leadership approach included the structural innovation of the Friday check-in as well as the buddy system. These two innovations provided the space for collegiality and the development of voice and leadership. The consultative nature of the HOD team was also viewed as an enablement. Certain factors constrained the distributed leadership approach, one of which was the tension between the hierarchical structure of the university and the more horizontal, distributed leadership approach being piloted in the academic department. In addition to that, another constraint was also very real with the transition to Zoom as an online teaching, learning and supervision platform as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The final constraint was experienced concerning the department’s history, as it was within a historically White university in South Africa. The effects of this history impacted the departmental culture and, as we know from the literature, institutional culture is extremely difficult to change. Finally, the study concluded that conceptualising distributed leadership as a sociocultural practice with leader-plus and practice aspects provides descriptive language and a solid theoretical and analytical framework for a distributed leadership study. The study makes an important knowledge contribution in the African Higher Education context as limited research has been carried out in this area. Furthermore, in terms of practice, my study serves as a stimulus for leadership discussions that are beneficial to everyone involved in educational institutions as they promote a level of leadership reflexivity, currently absent in many institutions. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Haufiku, Kenneth David
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Universities and colleges Administration , Education, Higher South Africa , Distributed leadership , College department heads South Africa , School management and organization South Africa , Group decision making
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419748 , vital:71672
- Description: The Head of Department (HOD) position at a university has traditionally been viewed as an individual construct. However, due to the demanding nature of such a position, it is not sought-after, as it remains exclusive and unappealing to many academics. Moreover, it is a position that does not encourage inclusive leadership. Tension and role ambiguity are known to arise between the scholarly project on the one hand and management and administrative matters on the other. To address challenges associated with this singular leadership position, an academic department at a South African university adopted a distributed leadership approach in their department as a research experiment. My study was based on this research experiment. I designed this research as an exploratory case study, guided by a socio-cultural conceptualisation of distributed leadership that included a leader-plus and a practice aspect, defined as a product of the interactions of school leaders, followers and their situation. This qualitative case study aimed to describe and explain how a distributed leadership approach was understood and practised in an academic department. It also investigated the enablements and constraints of the approach. Data were generated through document analysis, observation, and individual and focus group interviews. The participants in this study included the departmental leadership team and the department’s academic and administrative staff. Unfortunately, my study took place during the global COVID-19 pandemic and national lockdowns. I had no choice but to adapt my data generation methods due to lockdown restrictions. As a result, most data generation was done via online communication. The study used inductive and abductive analysis to make the data meaningful to the reader. The findings revealed that different participants had different ideas about distributed leadership. Distributed leadership was understood as a socio-cultural practice rather than an individual practice with multiple leaders in relational practice. In addition, this approach was understood as a way of developing and sharing expertise by encouraging teamwork, collegiality and collective decision-making which aligns with the notion of democratic decision-making which creates a platform for the enablement of leadership in others. The study further explored how distributed leadership was practised. The findings were that the HOD position, usually a one-person role, was reconceptualised as a HOD team comprised of three academics and the departmental administrator. The HOD team divided the work among themselves, and this was done according to each individual’s expertise. In addition, leadership within the academic department was not limited to the HOD team but stretched across the department; thus, multiple leaders were evident. Therefore, based on the data, this study discovered that a distributed approach values leadership expertise in others. Consequently, it can be used to promote an inclusive environment in which any organisation member can lead. Inclusivity in the decision-making process was also regarded as a strong practice in the academic department. As a result, this study contends that those in formal positions can develop leadership in others through a distributed leadership approach. Through that, lecturer leadership was enacted through formal faculty and university structures and informally as and when the situation required it. The enablements of this departmental leadership approach included the structural innovation of the Friday check-in as well as the buddy system. These two innovations provided the space for collegiality and the development of voice and leadership. The consultative nature of the HOD team was also viewed as an enablement. Certain factors constrained the distributed leadership approach, one of which was the tension between the hierarchical structure of the university and the more horizontal, distributed leadership approach being piloted in the academic department. In addition to that, another constraint was also very real with the transition to Zoom as an online teaching, learning and supervision platform as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. The final constraint was experienced concerning the department’s history, as it was within a historically White university in South Africa. The effects of this history impacted the departmental culture and, as we know from the literature, institutional culture is extremely difficult to change. Finally, the study concluded that conceptualising distributed leadership as a sociocultural practice with leader-plus and practice aspects provides descriptive language and a solid theoretical and analytical framework for a distributed leadership study. The study makes an important knowledge contribution in the African Higher Education context as limited research has been carried out in this area. Furthermore, in terms of practice, my study serves as a stimulus for leadership discussions that are beneficial to everyone involved in educational institutions as they promote a level of leadership reflexivity, currently absent in many institutions. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post-School Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A second skin: investigating the role of dress in identity formation
- Featherstone, Juanito Romario
- Authors: Featherstone, Juanito Romario
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) in art , Clothing and dress in art , Clothing and dress Social aspects , Clothing and dress Psychological aspects , Self South Africa Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425322 , vital:72229
- Description: This thesis is a secondary component to an artistic practice-led process and as such, is guided by my own artistic practice in that way. In this body of work, I use myself as the main character or protagonist for the artworks that I have created. However, both the thesis and the exhibition also respond to social issues of identity beyond the personal and examines the construction of identity in a South African, and more specifically Makhanda context, as that is the larger context in which I am situated. The work itself is inspired by memories and experiences of feeling uncomfortable in my own (first) skin, and how I found that comfort in my second skin (dress). My professional art practice and my thesis are based on the concept of clothes as a second skin for human beings, specifically observing the ways in which we utilise dress to construct and express our identities. As such, this thesis is an attempt at understanding the relationship between clothes and the body through the lens of identity politics. Through the topics and artworks discussed in visual and textual analysis, this thesis intends to unpack the properties of dress as a complex medium individuals can utilise as a tool to construct their identity. This is partially achieved through the exploration of my own personal experiences of dress and of the spaces that shaped and mediated the construction of identity. Lastly, it is an attempt to understand the experiences of dress in parallel to the experience of the body/self, which consists of the world within and the one outside. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Featherstone, Juanito Romario
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Identity (Psychology) in art , Clothing and dress in art , Clothing and dress Social aspects , Clothing and dress Psychological aspects , Self South Africa Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425322 , vital:72229
- Description: This thesis is a secondary component to an artistic practice-led process and as such, is guided by my own artistic practice in that way. In this body of work, I use myself as the main character or protagonist for the artworks that I have created. However, both the thesis and the exhibition also respond to social issues of identity beyond the personal and examines the construction of identity in a South African, and more specifically Makhanda context, as that is the larger context in which I am situated. The work itself is inspired by memories and experiences of feeling uncomfortable in my own (first) skin, and how I found that comfort in my second skin (dress). My professional art practice and my thesis are based on the concept of clothes as a second skin for human beings, specifically observing the ways in which we utilise dress to construct and express our identities. As such, this thesis is an attempt at understanding the relationship between clothes and the body through the lens of identity politics. Through the topics and artworks discussed in visual and textual analysis, this thesis intends to unpack the properties of dress as a complex medium individuals can utilise as a tool to construct their identity. This is partially achieved through the exploration of my own personal experiences of dress and of the spaces that shaped and mediated the construction of identity. Lastly, it is an attempt to understand the experiences of dress in parallel to the experience of the body/self, which consists of the world within and the one outside. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A study on visual inspection of citrus sorters in a packhouse in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Maher, Christopher Richard
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424256 , vital:72137
- Description: Background and Purpose. The South African citrus industry is a major global producer of citrus as well as the second largest exporter of citrus fruit in the world. This industry provides employment to an estimated 112 000 workers in South Africa and is vital in providing economic opportunities to communities such as those in the Sunday’s River Valley in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa due to the low employment and education levels within this province. Citrus sorting is a visual inspection task that requires workers to sustain attention and remain vigilant for the duration of a working shift. Their role in the packhouse is to ensure that no defective products are packed for export or the local market and that the fruit meets the customers’ expectations. Since the demands of sorting citrus are poorly understood, this study attempted to assess the effect that sorting citrus has on vigilance performance as well as attempt to quantify perceived workload while taking into account different contextual factors that affect perceptions of this working task. Methods. This study was conducted within a citrus packhouse in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The sample was comprised of individuals employed by the packhouse as citrus sorters. In addition to a recruitment and information session, testing was conducted at three intervals during a working shift on four consecutive days. Each time, indicators of vigilance, such as correct responses, sensitivity, reaction time, false alarms and misses, were collected during a 5-minute computerised version of the Mackworth Clock-test, while perceived workload was assessed with the NASA-TLX scale, and sleepiness was recording using the WITS Sleepiness Scale. Furthermore, an open-ended question was asked to further understand factors affecting the ability of participants to concentrate during their task of sorting. Results. 18 participants consented to participate in this study. 16 of these individuals identified as female with an average age of 30 years (± 7). 83% of participants were of Black African descent and were isiXhosa speakers, while 17% of participants were of Coloured descent and Afrikaans speakers. This study found that performance, as measured by the percentage of correct responses, sensitivity and reaction time on the 5-minute long Mackworth Clock Test was not significantly affected as time-on-task for sorting citrus increased during a working shift, neither did performance on the vigilance test change as days of the week proceeded. However, ‘misses’ during the vigilance test were found to significantly decrease over the course of a working shift, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of this study. Perceived workload of sorting citrus, as well as perceived sleepiness, significantly increased with time-on-task during the course of a working shift. The major contributions for this increase in perceived workload while sorting citrus were derived from the Mental Demand and Physical Demand sub-scale for the NASA-TLX. However, responses from the open-ended question indicated that participants generally enjoyed their work, although there were factors, such as the nature of fruit and social set-up of work, that negatively affected this perception. Discussion. The results from this study contradicted the researcher’s expectations. It was anticipated that measures of correct responses and sensitivity would decrease and misses, and reaction time would increase with time-on-task for sorting citrus, yet vigilance indicators from the Mackworth Clock Test generally indicated no change in vigilance, and, according to “misses” even improved with time-on-task. A likely explanation for this is that the use of a 5-minute Mackworth Clock-test was unsuitable in this context, or rather, the time of this test was not long enough to induce a ‘vigilance decrement’. Furthermore, in order to administer this vigilance test, participants were taken off the production line and led to a testing room which most likely increased their levels of arousal, thus affecting performance on the vigilance test. However, even though perceived sleepiness was found to significantly increase over the course of a working shift, these data correlated poorly with the vigilance results, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of the study. Mental demand significantly increased, possibly due to the demand of attentional informational processing required for sorting, as well as various environmental factors present within the packhouse. Physical demand, too, significantly increased as workers were required to remain standing throughout their working task as well as to make use of their upper extremities to remove defective fruit. Correlation analyses showed significantly weak correlation for Mackworth Clock Test variables and sleepiness ratings to all other variables. NASA-TLX variables, however, generally showed significantly moderate correlations with one another. Conclusion. It remains unclear how vigilance changes and sustained attention while sorting citrus, since the experiment did not show changes in performance. This is largely attributed to the methodological set-up which could have increased arousal and therefore affected vigilance. It is recommended that future studies research vigilance and sustained attention during the sorting itself, rather than attempting to infer vigilance results from a computerised vigilance test. Perceived workload of sorting, however, increased over the course of a working shift due to significant increases in perceptions of the physical and mental demands of sorting. Future studies should address concerns relating to the physical demand of sorting. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to compare responses of day and night shift sorters to further understand how the relationship between these variables may change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Maher, Christopher Richard
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/424256 , vital:72137
- Description: Background and Purpose. The South African citrus industry is a major global producer of citrus as well as the second largest exporter of citrus fruit in the world. This industry provides employment to an estimated 112 000 workers in South Africa and is vital in providing economic opportunities to communities such as those in the Sunday’s River Valley in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa due to the low employment and education levels within this province. Citrus sorting is a visual inspection task that requires workers to sustain attention and remain vigilant for the duration of a working shift. Their role in the packhouse is to ensure that no defective products are packed for export or the local market and that the fruit meets the customers’ expectations. Since the demands of sorting citrus are poorly understood, this study attempted to assess the effect that sorting citrus has on vigilance performance as well as attempt to quantify perceived workload while taking into account different contextual factors that affect perceptions of this working task. Methods. This study was conducted within a citrus packhouse in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The sample was comprised of individuals employed by the packhouse as citrus sorters. In addition to a recruitment and information session, testing was conducted at three intervals during a working shift on four consecutive days. Each time, indicators of vigilance, such as correct responses, sensitivity, reaction time, false alarms and misses, were collected during a 5-minute computerised version of the Mackworth Clock-test, while perceived workload was assessed with the NASA-TLX scale, and sleepiness was recording using the WITS Sleepiness Scale. Furthermore, an open-ended question was asked to further understand factors affecting the ability of participants to concentrate during their task of sorting. Results. 18 participants consented to participate in this study. 16 of these individuals identified as female with an average age of 30 years (± 7). 83% of participants were of Black African descent and were isiXhosa speakers, while 17% of participants were of Coloured descent and Afrikaans speakers. This study found that performance, as measured by the percentage of correct responses, sensitivity and reaction time on the 5-minute long Mackworth Clock Test was not significantly affected as time-on-task for sorting citrus increased during a working shift, neither did performance on the vigilance test change as days of the week proceeded. However, ‘misses’ during the vigilance test were found to significantly decrease over the course of a working shift, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of this study. Perceived workload of sorting citrus, as well as perceived sleepiness, significantly increased with time-on-task during the course of a working shift. The major contributions for this increase in perceived workload while sorting citrus were derived from the Mental Demand and Physical Demand sub-scale for the NASA-TLX. However, responses from the open-ended question indicated that participants generally enjoyed their work, although there were factors, such as the nature of fruit and social set-up of work, that negatively affected this perception. Discussion. The results from this study contradicted the researcher’s expectations. It was anticipated that measures of correct responses and sensitivity would decrease and misses, and reaction time would increase with time-on-task for sorting citrus, yet vigilance indicators from the Mackworth Clock Test generally indicated no change in vigilance, and, according to “misses” even improved with time-on-task. A likely explanation for this is that the use of a 5-minute Mackworth Clock-test was unsuitable in this context, or rather, the time of this test was not long enough to induce a ‘vigilance decrement’. Furthermore, in order to administer this vigilance test, participants were taken off the production line and led to a testing room which most likely increased their levels of arousal, thus affecting performance on the vigilance test. However, even though perceived sleepiness was found to significantly increase over the course of a working shift, these data correlated poorly with the vigilance results, thus contradicting the expected outcomes of the study. Mental demand significantly increased, possibly due to the demand of attentional informational processing required for sorting, as well as various environmental factors present within the packhouse. Physical demand, too, significantly increased as workers were required to remain standing throughout their working task as well as to make use of their upper extremities to remove defective fruit. Correlation analyses showed significantly weak correlation for Mackworth Clock Test variables and sleepiness ratings to all other variables. NASA-TLX variables, however, generally showed significantly moderate correlations with one another. Conclusion. It remains unclear how vigilance changes and sustained attention while sorting citrus, since the experiment did not show changes in performance. This is largely attributed to the methodological set-up which could have increased arousal and therefore affected vigilance. It is recommended that future studies research vigilance and sustained attention during the sorting itself, rather than attempting to infer vigilance results from a computerised vigilance test. Perceived workload of sorting, however, increased over the course of a working shift due to significant increases in perceptions of the physical and mental demands of sorting. Future studies should address concerns relating to the physical demand of sorting. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to compare responses of day and night shift sorters to further understand how the relationship between these variables may change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
African linguistic phenomenology as illustrated through the Setswana language
- Authors: Modisakeng, Lemogang
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425089 , vital:72208
- Description: Embargoed. Expected release date 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Philosophy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Modisakeng, Lemogang
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425089 , vital:72208
- Description: Embargoed. Expected release date 2025. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Philosophy, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13