Analysis of early-phase contact tracing during the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak in Mangaung Metro, Free State
- Monyobo, Priscilla Kesaletseng
- Authors: Monyobo, Priscilla Kesaletseng
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Contact tracing (Epidemiology) , Public health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23533 , vital:58105
- Description: Background and Aim Contact tracing is a critical public health measure for controlling and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Although the principles underlying this strategy are not novel, understanding the changes in infectiousness of COVID-19 is indeed novel. As are the capacity and operating procedures required to support disease investigation in Mangang Metro during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. On 16 March 2020, the first coronavirus disease case in the area, which led to a larger outbreak, occurred in Mangaung Metro, Free State province, South Africa. To date, Mangaung Metro remains the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic and the primary driver of the caseload in the Free State province. The aim of this study was to analyse contact tracing data in Mangaung Metro during the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak (16 March 2020 – 30 June 2020) in order to measure the viral transmissibility of COVID-19 in the early stages of the outbreak, specifically in the context of Mangaung Metro. Methods A descriptive systematic analysis of index COVID-19 cases and their contacts in Mangaung Metro was conducted. The review period ran from 16 March to 30 June 2020, during which there was a total of 1 001 cases in Mangaung Metro. Data was captured on an Excel spreadsheet using the contact line list variables from the established National Institute of Communicable Disease contact line list framework. The inferential statistics were based on a time series analysis to compare the impact of contact tracing stratified by symptomatology and the root cause of the cases to the overall cases in Mangaung Metro. The study determined whether isolation, quarantine, and contact tracing were able to control outbreaks in the early phase using characteristics of disease transmission and parameters particularised to the COVID- 19 pathogen. Results As of 30 June 2020, the Free State province had a total of 2 072 COVID-19 cases. Mangaung Metro contributed 1 001 cases (48percent) of the total number of cases in the study period. Between March and June 2020, 3 553 contacts were traced in Mangaung Metro. This number translates to at least three investigated and traced contacts per index or laboratory confirmed positive case. From the traced contacts, 1 080 samples were collected and sent for laboratory testing. In April 2020, the greatest number of samples were collected. This high rate in sample collection is posited to be the result of the high rate of contacts traced, as well as the initial clinical guidelines followed for contact tracing. Most positive contacts were discovered in March 2020. One of the possible reasons for the high detection of COVID-19 confirmed positive contacts during the early stages of the outbreak was the focus and importance of contact tracing while the caseload remained relatively low. However, as the outbreak progressed in the Mangaung Metro context, the number and relative percentage of positive cases detected through contact tracing decreased. In total, the positive contacts recorded in March 2020 amounted to 92 (51.3percent), 18 in April (10.5percent), 41 in May (22.9percent), and 28 in June (15.6percent). The March 2020 tracking rate was the highest at 73.2percent, with an average contact tracing rate of 15.5percentby the end of June 2020. Of all the contacts traced, 7.9percent involved healthcare workers in the Free State. Conclusion The study’s findings show that contact tracing was an effective control measure during the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in Mangung Metro district. Furthermore, the impact was greatest when the caseload was low and the burden on the healthcare system less severe. Mangaung Metro demonstrated the capability of tracing more contacts in the early-early phase of the outbreak; however, as the outbreak progressed to the latent early phase, the caseload increased and fewer contacts were traced. The consequence of contact tracing not being as effective during the latent early phase relates to the increase in both exposed and untraceable contacts, which in turn fueled the increase of new cases. This further impacted the at-risk and vulnerable population, especially the elderly, who were at an increased risk if not traced in a timely manner, possibly resulting in mortality. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
- Authors: Monyobo, Priscilla Kesaletseng
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Contact tracing (Epidemiology) , Public health
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23533 , vital:58105
- Description: Background and Aim Contact tracing is a critical public health measure for controlling and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Although the principles underlying this strategy are not novel, understanding the changes in infectiousness of COVID-19 is indeed novel. As are the capacity and operating procedures required to support disease investigation in Mangang Metro during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. On 16 March 2020, the first coronavirus disease case in the area, which led to a larger outbreak, occurred in Mangaung Metro, Free State province, South Africa. To date, Mangaung Metro remains the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic and the primary driver of the caseload in the Free State province. The aim of this study was to analyse contact tracing data in Mangaung Metro during the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak (16 March 2020 – 30 June 2020) in order to measure the viral transmissibility of COVID-19 in the early stages of the outbreak, specifically in the context of Mangaung Metro. Methods A descriptive systematic analysis of index COVID-19 cases and their contacts in Mangaung Metro was conducted. The review period ran from 16 March to 30 June 2020, during which there was a total of 1 001 cases in Mangaung Metro. Data was captured on an Excel spreadsheet using the contact line list variables from the established National Institute of Communicable Disease contact line list framework. The inferential statistics were based on a time series analysis to compare the impact of contact tracing stratified by symptomatology and the root cause of the cases to the overall cases in Mangaung Metro. The study determined whether isolation, quarantine, and contact tracing were able to control outbreaks in the early phase using characteristics of disease transmission and parameters particularised to the COVID- 19 pathogen. Results As of 30 June 2020, the Free State province had a total of 2 072 COVID-19 cases. Mangaung Metro contributed 1 001 cases (48percent) of the total number of cases in the study period. Between March and June 2020, 3 553 contacts were traced in Mangaung Metro. This number translates to at least three investigated and traced contacts per index or laboratory confirmed positive case. From the traced contacts, 1 080 samples were collected and sent for laboratory testing. In April 2020, the greatest number of samples were collected. This high rate in sample collection is posited to be the result of the high rate of contacts traced, as well as the initial clinical guidelines followed for contact tracing. Most positive contacts were discovered in March 2020. One of the possible reasons for the high detection of COVID-19 confirmed positive contacts during the early stages of the outbreak was the focus and importance of contact tracing while the caseload remained relatively low. However, as the outbreak progressed in the Mangaung Metro context, the number and relative percentage of positive cases detected through contact tracing decreased. In total, the positive contacts recorded in March 2020 amounted to 92 (51.3percent), 18 in April (10.5percent), 41 in May (22.9percent), and 28 in June (15.6percent). The March 2020 tracking rate was the highest at 73.2percent, with an average contact tracing rate of 15.5percentby the end of June 2020. Of all the contacts traced, 7.9percent involved healthcare workers in the Free State. Conclusion The study’s findings show that contact tracing was an effective control measure during the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in Mangung Metro district. Furthermore, the impact was greatest when the caseload was low and the burden on the healthcare system less severe. Mangaung Metro demonstrated the capability of tracing more contacts in the early-early phase of the outbreak; however, as the outbreak progressed to the latent early phase, the caseload increased and fewer contacts were traced. The consequence of contact tracing not being as effective during the latent early phase relates to the increase in both exposed and untraceable contacts, which in turn fueled the increase of new cases. This further impacted the at-risk and vulnerable population, especially the elderly, who were at an increased risk if not traced in a timely manner, possibly resulting in mortality. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
Clinical governance implementation challenges in the Department of Health, Mpumalanga, South Africa
- Maduna, Patrick Hawkins https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4926-1661
- Authors: Maduna, Patrick Hawkins https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4926-1661
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Clinical competence , Evidence-based medicine , Health services administration
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23600 , vital:58194
- Description: Clinical governance (CG) is the system through which health authorities are accountable for continuously improving the quality of their services and safeguarding high standards of care by creating an environment in which clinical excellence flourishes. South Africa is one of the countries where CG has not been successfully implemented. This study sought to explore the CG implementation challenges in the Mpumalanga province, South Africa. The study objectives included the seven pillars of CG. The study was a qualitative and exploratory, using purposive sampling technique to select study participants. A total of twenty-two (22) individuals were selected for the study. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Each interview was transcribed verbatim by the researcher. Confidentiality was ensured through the coding of interviewee names. The content analysis technique was used for data analysis, using the study objectives as themes. The study found general lack of understanding of the concept of CG, poor performance of clinical audits, sub-standard clinical performance and effectiveness, poor clinical risk management, poor patient and public involvement in patient care, lack of evidence-based practice and research, inadequate training and development of healthcare workers, and sub-standard health information management across the department. The researcher recommends that the CG policy be prioritised by the Mpumalanga DOH, that systems be put in place to facilitate policy implementation, and that the departmental staff establishments at all levels, prioritise healthcare professionals in key leadership positions. In conclusion, there are numerous challenges that confront the Mpumalanga Department of Health regarding the implementation of clinical governance, requiring urgent attention. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
- Authors: Maduna, Patrick Hawkins https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4926-1661
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Clinical competence , Evidence-based medicine , Health services administration
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23600 , vital:58194
- Description: Clinical governance (CG) is the system through which health authorities are accountable for continuously improving the quality of their services and safeguarding high standards of care by creating an environment in which clinical excellence flourishes. South Africa is one of the countries where CG has not been successfully implemented. This study sought to explore the CG implementation challenges in the Mpumalanga province, South Africa. The study objectives included the seven pillars of CG. The study was a qualitative and exploratory, using purposive sampling technique to select study participants. A total of twenty-two (22) individuals were selected for the study. Semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Each interview was transcribed verbatim by the researcher. Confidentiality was ensured through the coding of interviewee names. The content analysis technique was used for data analysis, using the study objectives as themes. The study found general lack of understanding of the concept of CG, poor performance of clinical audits, sub-standard clinical performance and effectiveness, poor clinical risk management, poor patient and public involvement in patient care, lack of evidence-based practice and research, inadequate training and development of healthcare workers, and sub-standard health information management across the department. The researcher recommends that the CG policy be prioritised by the Mpumalanga DOH, that systems be put in place to facilitate policy implementation, and that the departmental staff establishments at all levels, prioritise healthcare professionals in key leadership positions. In conclusion, there are numerous challenges that confront the Mpumalanga Department of Health regarding the implementation of clinical governance, requiring urgent attention. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
Consumerism, authenticity and African communalism
- Smook, E https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4226-6029
- Authors: Smook, E https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4226-6029
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Consumption (Economics) , Authenticity (Philosophy) , Philosophy, African
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23958 , vital:62022
- Description: Let me state, from the outset, that the issues raised below may be considered from various vantage points – Capitalism, Marxism, etc. However, this thesis is an endeavour to account for the loss of authenticity due to the most salient features of the consumer paradigm, which is the manufactured object, the production line and the proliferation of said objects. True relationships, or shall we say authentic dialogue, is based upon a difference of viewpoints – or epistemic distance – between the interlocutors. This difference of opinion, it may be argued, allows for a cognitive jostling between the subjects involved and represents, as it were, the reciprocal back and forth movement of ideas that betokens actively engaged dialogue. Crucial, then, to true, and by extension authentic, relationships is an epistemic distance steeped in variegated, heterogeneous points of view. For it is in sharing the differences in our points of view or interpretations of the world that we may start a dialogue far removed from each other and then sustain said dialogue in an attempt to reconcile our differences. The continuation of the dialogue, then, depends upon difference. Without the latter difference, the conditions of true dialogue, which is also a marker of authentic relationships, the need for sustained debate is forfeited and the dialogue ceases to serve a purpose – for the subjects involved in the intellectual jostling and exchange of ideas may already anticipate the thoughts of the other. In so anticipating the thoughts of the other, what is brought to the fore is not the ideas of the other, and by extension the other’s existence distinct from mine, but rather my own existence and thoughts. Were I and the other to share a constellation of beliefs, I am left with only that which I already believe in and so only with my own thoughts. The other’s differing opinion is crucial to their appearing to me as an element discreet and distinct from me. For if the other’s being is in essence of the same ilk as mine – and with that I mean if the other’s points of view and adopted systems of praxis mirror mine – we are like trees in a forest. The existence of collective nouns attests to this latter remark; we are prone to see the forest, not the similar trees that constitute it. Now the question arises as to the constitution of the self; what is it that makes up the character and nature of a person and how, if at all, may subjects be said to differ epistemically? According to Sartre, the ego is a transcendent object for consciousness, meaning that it exists out there in the world just like other objects. This is the case because consciousness is essentially empty. Recall Sartre’s famous claim that existence precedes essence, which in turn means that consciousness, or the ego, is filled up inchmeal with contents outside itself. In other words, that with which we are engaged constitutes the contents of consciousness. Repeated exposure to certain objects, or phenomena, brings about the cultivation of states and qualities – these, as it were, constituting the ego in the end. Moreover, these states and qualities, as arisen from repeated exposure to like phenomena, will instil in the subject a certain proclivity for a certain manner of action under specific conditions. As such, having been presented with something disagreeable many times over, a state of repulsion might gain a foothold in my ego regarding the phenomenon in question. This in turn will dictate how I act in the presence of said phenomenon or any other phenomena that include, adumbrationally, some of the qualities of the original phenomenon. As such, then, my actions are reflections of the states that I experience in the presence of certain objects or phenomena and, it may be argued, reflexively represent the world around me as that which constitutes my ego. The facticity of the world, then, has a great bearing upon the manner in which I perceive and engage the world. However, claims Sartre, facticity is but one side of the coin. The world and its meaning are constituted by what Sartre calls brute meaning. This refers to the fact that meaning is a matter of public opinion and does not precede the phenomenon or object itself – the latter being, in essence, but a bare, pliable, monstrous mass of being-in-itself. Due to this occurrence of meaning being man made, we are in a unique position of freedom. We are, he further claims, capable of transcending these brute meanings, enabling us to avail ourselves of the objects or phenomena in question in a bespoke manner. Freedom to choose how we interact with and interpret the world is thus the ontological ground of choice. We have, on the one side, the world in its undifferentiated state – being-in-itself – and on the other the possibility to give this world a specific meaning in accordance with our intentions – being-for-itself. Freedom to choose, so construed, thus ontologically underlies the very fabric of our existence, hence the claim that we are condemned to be free. Choosing whether to continue along the path set out by our original factual condition or to transcend it and make of it something different altogether is thus not a choice at all, but the obligatory condition of the human condition. Once again, this is the case because consciousness, as per Sartre, is empty to start with and can only be filled with the contents of phenomena or objects in accordance with our intentional engagement of them. However, Sartre continues, this freedom of meaning and the fact that brute existents represent nothing more than the convergence of publicly ascribed meaning awaken in the subject a certain nausea – a nausea born of the fact that we, the people, are at every junction in a position where we have to choose the meaning of life. Determinism, thusly, does not exist and we are not only free to choose the meanings of our own lives, but are responsible for what our lives become. This realisation proves to be too much for most to stomach and leads them along a specific path of choice: over-identification with either their factual realities or with the possibility to transcend the latter. Either way, what they aim to achieve with this overidentification is the suppression of the nauseating reality that reality is nought but what we make it to be and we are thus responsible for what it becomes. Sartre calls this bad faith. Pandering to this proclivity towards bad faith, or alternatively, the propensity for overidentification with either side on the facticity/transcendence dichotomy, we find consumerism. The consumer paradigm delineates happiness as an objective ideal, attainable through the acquisition of specific markers of demonstrable happiness. At the same time, it also provides an answer to the nauseating reality that we, humans, are never fully determined beings, but find ourselves vacillating between our factual constraints and our transcendences thereof. It offers us the crystalised means of becoming this or that individual by way of populating our immediate and personal surroundings with signifiers of happiness. Considering, moreover, that a liberalist conception of human being clearly indicates that individuation of each subject is an important aspect of existence, authenticity in terms of rights emerge as a corollary of said individuation. Each individual, so construed, is given the opportunity, the right, to acquire said markers of happiness and individuation. Obtaining these, it may be argued, allows the individual two things: firstly, to quell the nausea that haunts our dualistic lives by concretising it altogether and so doing highlighting the factual side of things; and secondly, to become discreet and individuated subjects, authentic in their beings. However, the authenticity so begotten provides nought but a thin veneer of idiosyncrasy, as the markers of said authenticity are publicly available and so the same for everyone. The problem, thus, of self-individuation is resolved by providing the subject the means of over-identification with their factual realities whilst convincing them, the consumers, that the objects on offer will afford them a degree of happiness and set them apart from their fellow subjects. The unfortunate upshot of this is that subjects all avail themselves of the same set of objects in an attempt to quell the nausea that besets the individual plunged into an undifferentiated existence. We are here at the heart of the matter. Due to the proliferation of like objects throughout the life-world, a specific system of praxis is implied. So as to navigate the life-world and utilise the similar objects that populate it, consumers are driven towards shared ideologies and courses of action. Moreover, their intentions also converge, as they all seek to establish a web of objects around them that would bespeak their individuation and happiness. Where the life-world has become such a homogeneous landscape, it may be argued, in line with Sartrean thought, that the contents of consciousness would also be similar for all. And where the contents of consciousness is similar for all, we may argue that reasoning would be similar for all. It is at this point that dialogue breaks down, for there is nothing epistemically to separate interlocutors and therefore no differences of opinion to sustain true dialogue. If, as it was reasoned some pages prior, it is the case that sustained dialogue provides the predicate upon which authentic relationships are to be based, the collapse of this epistemic distance between consumers must then also lead to a collapse of authentic relationships. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
- Authors: Smook, E https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4226-6029
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Consumption (Economics) , Authenticity (Philosophy) , Philosophy, African
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23958 , vital:62022
- Description: Let me state, from the outset, that the issues raised below may be considered from various vantage points – Capitalism, Marxism, etc. However, this thesis is an endeavour to account for the loss of authenticity due to the most salient features of the consumer paradigm, which is the manufactured object, the production line and the proliferation of said objects. True relationships, or shall we say authentic dialogue, is based upon a difference of viewpoints – or epistemic distance – between the interlocutors. This difference of opinion, it may be argued, allows for a cognitive jostling between the subjects involved and represents, as it were, the reciprocal back and forth movement of ideas that betokens actively engaged dialogue. Crucial, then, to true, and by extension authentic, relationships is an epistemic distance steeped in variegated, heterogeneous points of view. For it is in sharing the differences in our points of view or interpretations of the world that we may start a dialogue far removed from each other and then sustain said dialogue in an attempt to reconcile our differences. The continuation of the dialogue, then, depends upon difference. Without the latter difference, the conditions of true dialogue, which is also a marker of authentic relationships, the need for sustained debate is forfeited and the dialogue ceases to serve a purpose – for the subjects involved in the intellectual jostling and exchange of ideas may already anticipate the thoughts of the other. In so anticipating the thoughts of the other, what is brought to the fore is not the ideas of the other, and by extension the other’s existence distinct from mine, but rather my own existence and thoughts. Were I and the other to share a constellation of beliefs, I am left with only that which I already believe in and so only with my own thoughts. The other’s differing opinion is crucial to their appearing to me as an element discreet and distinct from me. For if the other’s being is in essence of the same ilk as mine – and with that I mean if the other’s points of view and adopted systems of praxis mirror mine – we are like trees in a forest. The existence of collective nouns attests to this latter remark; we are prone to see the forest, not the similar trees that constitute it. Now the question arises as to the constitution of the self; what is it that makes up the character and nature of a person and how, if at all, may subjects be said to differ epistemically? According to Sartre, the ego is a transcendent object for consciousness, meaning that it exists out there in the world just like other objects. This is the case because consciousness is essentially empty. Recall Sartre’s famous claim that existence precedes essence, which in turn means that consciousness, or the ego, is filled up inchmeal with contents outside itself. In other words, that with which we are engaged constitutes the contents of consciousness. Repeated exposure to certain objects, or phenomena, brings about the cultivation of states and qualities – these, as it were, constituting the ego in the end. Moreover, these states and qualities, as arisen from repeated exposure to like phenomena, will instil in the subject a certain proclivity for a certain manner of action under specific conditions. As such, having been presented with something disagreeable many times over, a state of repulsion might gain a foothold in my ego regarding the phenomenon in question. This in turn will dictate how I act in the presence of said phenomenon or any other phenomena that include, adumbrationally, some of the qualities of the original phenomenon. As such, then, my actions are reflections of the states that I experience in the presence of certain objects or phenomena and, it may be argued, reflexively represent the world around me as that which constitutes my ego. The facticity of the world, then, has a great bearing upon the manner in which I perceive and engage the world. However, claims Sartre, facticity is but one side of the coin. The world and its meaning are constituted by what Sartre calls brute meaning. This refers to the fact that meaning is a matter of public opinion and does not precede the phenomenon or object itself – the latter being, in essence, but a bare, pliable, monstrous mass of being-in-itself. Due to this occurrence of meaning being man made, we are in a unique position of freedom. We are, he further claims, capable of transcending these brute meanings, enabling us to avail ourselves of the objects or phenomena in question in a bespoke manner. Freedom to choose how we interact with and interpret the world is thus the ontological ground of choice. We have, on the one side, the world in its undifferentiated state – being-in-itself – and on the other the possibility to give this world a specific meaning in accordance with our intentions – being-for-itself. Freedom to choose, so construed, thus ontologically underlies the very fabric of our existence, hence the claim that we are condemned to be free. Choosing whether to continue along the path set out by our original factual condition or to transcend it and make of it something different altogether is thus not a choice at all, but the obligatory condition of the human condition. Once again, this is the case because consciousness, as per Sartre, is empty to start with and can only be filled with the contents of phenomena or objects in accordance with our intentional engagement of them. However, Sartre continues, this freedom of meaning and the fact that brute existents represent nothing more than the convergence of publicly ascribed meaning awaken in the subject a certain nausea – a nausea born of the fact that we, the people, are at every junction in a position where we have to choose the meaning of life. Determinism, thusly, does not exist and we are not only free to choose the meanings of our own lives, but are responsible for what our lives become. This realisation proves to be too much for most to stomach and leads them along a specific path of choice: over-identification with either their factual realities or with the possibility to transcend the latter. Either way, what they aim to achieve with this overidentification is the suppression of the nauseating reality that reality is nought but what we make it to be and we are thus responsible for what it becomes. Sartre calls this bad faith. Pandering to this proclivity towards bad faith, or alternatively, the propensity for overidentification with either side on the facticity/transcendence dichotomy, we find consumerism. The consumer paradigm delineates happiness as an objective ideal, attainable through the acquisition of specific markers of demonstrable happiness. At the same time, it also provides an answer to the nauseating reality that we, humans, are never fully determined beings, but find ourselves vacillating between our factual constraints and our transcendences thereof. It offers us the crystalised means of becoming this or that individual by way of populating our immediate and personal surroundings with signifiers of happiness. Considering, moreover, that a liberalist conception of human being clearly indicates that individuation of each subject is an important aspect of existence, authenticity in terms of rights emerge as a corollary of said individuation. Each individual, so construed, is given the opportunity, the right, to acquire said markers of happiness and individuation. Obtaining these, it may be argued, allows the individual two things: firstly, to quell the nausea that haunts our dualistic lives by concretising it altogether and so doing highlighting the factual side of things; and secondly, to become discreet and individuated subjects, authentic in their beings. However, the authenticity so begotten provides nought but a thin veneer of idiosyncrasy, as the markers of said authenticity are publicly available and so the same for everyone. The problem, thus, of self-individuation is resolved by providing the subject the means of over-identification with their factual realities whilst convincing them, the consumers, that the objects on offer will afford them a degree of happiness and set them apart from their fellow subjects. The unfortunate upshot of this is that subjects all avail themselves of the same set of objects in an attempt to quell the nausea that besets the individual plunged into an undifferentiated existence. We are here at the heart of the matter. Due to the proliferation of like objects throughout the life-world, a specific system of praxis is implied. So as to navigate the life-world and utilise the similar objects that populate it, consumers are driven towards shared ideologies and courses of action. Moreover, their intentions also converge, as they all seek to establish a web of objects around them that would bespeak their individuation and happiness. Where the life-world has become such a homogeneous landscape, it may be argued, in line with Sartrean thought, that the contents of consciousness would also be similar for all. And where the contents of consciousness is similar for all, we may argue that reasoning would be similar for all. It is at this point that dialogue breaks down, for there is nothing epistemically to separate interlocutors and therefore no differences of opinion to sustain true dialogue. If, as it was reasoned some pages prior, it is the case that sustained dialogue provides the predicate upon which authentic relationships are to be based, the collapse of this epistemic distance between consumers must then also lead to a collapse of authentic relationships. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
Exploring the perceptions and attitudes of University of Fort Hare students towards seeking psychological counselling services
- Authors: Pantshwa, Siziphiwe
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Counseling , Helping behavior , Psychology, Applied
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23809 , vital:60807
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and examine the perceptions and attitudes of Fort Hare students towards seeking psychological help. It provided an understanding of factors that influence the help-seeking behaviours of university students. The study used an explorative qualitative approach in collecting data to find problems frequently encountered by students, their preferred sources of help for those problems, and their attitudes towards seeking psychological help. The sample was selected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Six participants, undergraduate and post-graduate students from the University of Fort Hare, East London campus, participated in the study. The data was collected in face-to-face semi-structured individual interviews in which participants were questioned orally. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data collected from the semi-structured interviews were thematically analysed by employing Braun and Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis. Social constructionism as a meta-theory and Ecosystems theory provided the theoretical underpinning for the interpretation of the study. The study results revealed that close friends and family members were the preferred sources of help chosen by students. Five significant problems were experienced by students. Financial issues, difficulty adjusting to the university environment, academic stress, being away from home and managing time were at the top list of the challenges experienced by students. The factors that inhibited -seeking for psychological help were social stigma, access to a psychologist, financial constraints, and viewing a psychologist as a stranger. However the study further found that students had a positive attitude toward professional psychological help. This indicates a slight shift from previous studies, which reported negative attitudes among university students. Participants also reported on the influence of their socio-cultural background, the opinions held by their family and community members towards seeking psychological help. This study recommends specific interventions in which seeking psychological help can be reinforced, such as holding workshops to psycho-educate students about the benefits of using counselling services and the negative implications of not seeking professional help when experiencing psychological distress. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
- Authors: Pantshwa, Siziphiwe
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Counseling , Helping behavior , Psychology, Applied
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23809 , vital:60807
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and examine the perceptions and attitudes of Fort Hare students towards seeking psychological help. It provided an understanding of factors that influence the help-seeking behaviours of university students. The study used an explorative qualitative approach in collecting data to find problems frequently encountered by students, their preferred sources of help for those problems, and their attitudes towards seeking psychological help. The sample was selected through a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Six participants, undergraduate and post-graduate students from the University of Fort Hare, East London campus, participated in the study. The data was collected in face-to-face semi-structured individual interviews in which participants were questioned orally. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data collected from the semi-structured interviews were thematically analysed by employing Braun and Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis. Social constructionism as a meta-theory and Ecosystems theory provided the theoretical underpinning for the interpretation of the study. The study results revealed that close friends and family members were the preferred sources of help chosen by students. Five significant problems were experienced by students. Financial issues, difficulty adjusting to the university environment, academic stress, being away from home and managing time were at the top list of the challenges experienced by students. The factors that inhibited -seeking for psychological help were social stigma, access to a psychologist, financial constraints, and viewing a psychologist as a stranger. However the study further found that students had a positive attitude toward professional psychological help. This indicates a slight shift from previous studies, which reported negative attitudes among university students. Participants also reported on the influence of their socio-cultural background, the opinions held by their family and community members towards seeking psychological help. This study recommends specific interventions in which seeking psychological help can be reinforced, such as holding workshops to psycho-educate students about the benefits of using counselling services and the negative implications of not seeking professional help when experiencing psychological distress. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
Sustainability challenges of community newspapers: The case study of iDike-Lethu Community Newspaper
- Authors: Ndarane, Luvuyo Gladstone
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Community newspapers , Journalism, Regional
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23754 , vital:60485
- Description: Community newspapers are an important source of information and play a vital role in the development of communities. They are, therefore, an important stakeholder in community development. IDike-Lethu community newspaper`s presence in the community of Alice and in the areas where it is distributed is facilitating communication and development in these areas. Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality is benefiting in the presence of iDike-Lethu because this newspaper is the conduit through which communication to its citizens is submitted. This study assessed the challenges iDike- Lethu is having that impact on its maximum contribution in this society. Participants in this study are residents of Alice and are readers of iDike-Lethu Community Newspaper. This study adopted a mixed method design in which questionnaires and interviews were used to collect primary data. Data collected was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Major findings that impede smooth operations in this newspaper were discovered. These include inadequate funding, lack of technical backing and lack of community support. The study findings show that with all the challenges iDike-Lethu is having it continues to play a meaningful role by disseminating information, promoting local culture, equipping communities with skills and providing a platform on which these communities including local businesses send information across. Recommendations include the need for this newspaper to find a commercial, profitable and sustainable financial model which will support and reinforce its operations. This study will contribute in further research of methods to link communities and community newspapers to work harmoniously. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
Sustainability challenges of community newspapers: The case study of iDike-Lethu Community Newspaper
- Authors: Ndarane, Luvuyo Gladstone
- Date: 2022-09
- Subjects: Community newspapers , Journalism, Regional
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23754 , vital:60485
- Description: Community newspapers are an important source of information and play a vital role in the development of communities. They are, therefore, an important stakeholder in community development. IDike-Lethu community newspaper`s presence in the community of Alice and in the areas where it is distributed is facilitating communication and development in these areas. Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality is benefiting in the presence of iDike-Lethu because this newspaper is the conduit through which communication to its citizens is submitted. This study assessed the challenges iDike- Lethu is having that impact on its maximum contribution in this society. Participants in this study are residents of Alice and are readers of iDike-Lethu Community Newspaper. This study adopted a mixed method design in which questionnaires and interviews were used to collect primary data. Data collected was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Major findings that impede smooth operations in this newspaper were discovered. These include inadequate funding, lack of technical backing and lack of community support. The study findings show that with all the challenges iDike-Lethu is having it continues to play a meaningful role by disseminating information, promoting local culture, equipping communities with skills and providing a platform on which these communities including local businesses send information across. Recommendations include the need for this newspaper to find a commercial, profitable and sustainable financial model which will support and reinforce its operations. This study will contribute in further research of methods to link communities and community newspapers to work harmoniously. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-09
Public goods and social resistance: A study of the perceptions of risk and vulnerability in the n2 toll road project in the wild coast of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Mambiravana, Tafadzwa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7543-2989
- Authors: Mambiravana, Tafadzwa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7543-2989
- Date: 2022-08
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) , Roads -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23910 , vital:61293
- Description: The construction of the N2 Toll Road in the Wild Coast has been lauded for its ‘developmental agenda’, as the government envisages, this 550 km road project linking Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces will act as a game changer to the socio-economic status of the region in a manner beneficial to local people and the nation in general. However, the road project has equally been criticised by several local communities and environmental advocacy groups who suspect the road is associated with controversial titanium mining and its anticipated socio-ecological disasters in the region. Drawing from this conundrum, this study explores intersections of the diverse perceptions of stakeholders on infrastructural provisioning for development purposes in a historically deprived area in South Africa. Using a qualitative research approach in the form of face-to-face interviews with the participants, focus group discussions, secondary data review and observations, the study found that the diverse perceptions of risk and vulnerability have divided the stakeholders into those who support and those who oppose the road project. Most importantly, the study has also found that although there is deep-seated resentment towards the road project among certain grassroots groups, the general view shared among the study communities is nuanced. In other words, there is no ‘hardline collective opposition’ against the road project among local communities. Drawing from these findings, the study recommends that land audit need to be conducted prior to the commencement of infrastructure projects in order to highlight possible tenure blockages. In addition, the study recommends that it is critical for developers and policy makers to recognize the significance of cultural spaces and sacred places for community cultural health. These factors are critical to weigh against the proposed infrastructure developments as they sometimes outweigh the benefits. The study was anchored on the cultural theory of risk perception, which helped to explore the complex interactions between different actors on infrastructural development and environmental policy discourse. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-08
- Authors: Mambiravana, Tafadzwa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7543-2989
- Date: 2022-08
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) , Roads -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23910 , vital:61293
- Description: The construction of the N2 Toll Road in the Wild Coast has been lauded for its ‘developmental agenda’, as the government envisages, this 550 km road project linking Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces will act as a game changer to the socio-economic status of the region in a manner beneficial to local people and the nation in general. However, the road project has equally been criticised by several local communities and environmental advocacy groups who suspect the road is associated with controversial titanium mining and its anticipated socio-ecological disasters in the region. Drawing from this conundrum, this study explores intersections of the diverse perceptions of stakeholders on infrastructural provisioning for development purposes in a historically deprived area in South Africa. Using a qualitative research approach in the form of face-to-face interviews with the participants, focus group discussions, secondary data review and observations, the study found that the diverse perceptions of risk and vulnerability have divided the stakeholders into those who support and those who oppose the road project. Most importantly, the study has also found that although there is deep-seated resentment towards the road project among certain grassroots groups, the general view shared among the study communities is nuanced. In other words, there is no ‘hardline collective opposition’ against the road project among local communities. Drawing from these findings, the study recommends that land audit need to be conducted prior to the commencement of infrastructure projects in order to highlight possible tenure blockages. In addition, the study recommends that it is critical for developers and policy makers to recognize the significance of cultural spaces and sacred places for community cultural health. These factors are critical to weigh against the proposed infrastructure developments as they sometimes outweigh the benefits. The study was anchored on the cultural theory of risk perception, which helped to explore the complex interactions between different actors on infrastructural development and environmental policy discourse. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-08
The impact of public libraries as a transformative factor in human development in the Buffalo City Municipalities
- Ndlovu, Sheron https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sheron https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
- Date: 2022-08
- Subjects: Public libraries , Libraries and society
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23947 , vital:61993
- Description: This study investigated the impact of public libraries as a transformative factor in human development in the Buffalo City Municipalities. Literature revealed that although libraries play a significant role to their clientele, there seems to be challenges of service delivery in public libraries and these are largely due to funding issues. This has led to a general public negative perception that public libraries underperform which may not be necessarily a true reflection of public libraries. The role of the libraries in as far as the transformative factor in human development may be unclear, therefore, the researcher wants to determine the extent of the transformation factor in human development. The study was guided by the following objectives to: examine the impact of public library to its community or patrons in the Buffalo city libraries, find determine whether the library personnel understand their role in transforming the human development, determine the strategies used by public libraries that are transforming the human factor and to establish how the library patrons perceive the role of the public libraries in transforming their lives. A mixed methods approach was used as the research method. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were combined while simple random sampling was adopted to have a wide range of perspectives from library users. Library staff were purposively selected for interviews. A total of 31 people were interviewed, with 6 librarians and 25 library patrons. Out of 250 questionnaires administered, 220 were returned. The study was informed by the Service quality theory (SERVQUAL), Human Capital Theory and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOIT). The DOIT theory was deemed suitable in this kind of research that deals with transformation and development as patrons adopted and adapted to new ideas and practices. The Service Quality theory was useful in this study because it included variables that the researcher felt were most significant for transformation and development to take place in a public library setting. The HCT theory denotes that education and training leads to greater productivity, and it translates into economic returns like high wages and increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This theory was relevant in this study because public libraries have an informative role to play as part of its roles as well as an educational role to play to the lives of the people who use the library. When people read at libraries, they are educated. They also improve their literacy levels through reading. Public libraries provide community members with services that are free of charge or cheaper and this helps the library patrons to save economically and transform as well. This process of servicing the needs of patrons is beneficial and continuous. In addition, the findings of this study revealed that library personnel understand their roles and those roles in turn transform the human development, although this is not really conclusive that they understand their roles in the transformation process. They ensure that the library patrons get the services they require and in some instances the library personnel even go beyond their normal duties. However, it must be noted that from the findings the main obstacles hindering libraries to effectively transforming the human development is the issue of funding and insufficient resources, Libraries have assisted in educational investment to the community members through many programmes offered in the public libraries and this assists in educational improvement and productivity in many spheres of life. The study also revealed that the public libraries provide spaces where patrons can hold meetings, discuss study related topics as well as individual studying spaces although, more space is required to avoid overcrowding. Through a number of strategies employed which are also attractive to the library patrons, public libraries transform the human development. Patrons perceive public libraries as extremely useful in transforming their lives as they indicated that the public library transform their lives in many aspects such as providing them with the information they require, learning opportunities, access to gateways of information like the internet and manual books, bridging that poverty gap and provision of literacy skills to the library patrons. It was concluded that public libraries transform the lives of the people in the communities that they serve in different aspects with the different roles and services that they offer to their patronage. In addition, a number of strategies are employed by public libraries so as to attract people into public libraries as well as to fulfil their primary mandate. In their pursuit to employ these strategies, public libraries transform the human development. Librarians with their duties assist the public yet it is unclear if they are fully aware of the role they play in transforming people’s lives. Despite some of the bad attitude exhibited by the librarians, a larger percentage of the librarians display a good attitude when carrying out their duties and assisting the library patrons. Librarians go beyond the call of duty in assisting the patrons and this in turn transform the human development. The researcher made some recommendations as per the findings of the study and these recommendations entail continuous training of the library personnel post their formal qualifications, strengthened collaboration and communication by the three spheres of Government so that the libraries may be better governed, constant awareness drives about public libraries and stable internet connectivity so that access maybe improved. The researcher also recommended the use of social media platforms for communication purposes and announcements as people are now attracted to social media platforms and they can be accessed by most of the library community. A proposed model was developed, and the proposed model is the RPPPP hierarchical model for transformative public libraries. This model was proposed also based on the findings of the research. For a public library to be transformative it must have resources, personnel, patrons, physical space and policies in place hence, the name RPPPP model. RPPPP denotes Resources, patrons, personnel, policy and physical space. Resources are primary to the functioning of any public library, highly skilled personnel as well as patrons as they are the recipients of the public library services, policy is also important so as to give guidance and direction on the issues of governance. In order to adequately serve the needs of the patrons, enough space is needed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-08
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sheron https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4601-9789
- Date: 2022-08
- Subjects: Public libraries , Libraries and society
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23947 , vital:61993
- Description: This study investigated the impact of public libraries as a transformative factor in human development in the Buffalo City Municipalities. Literature revealed that although libraries play a significant role to their clientele, there seems to be challenges of service delivery in public libraries and these are largely due to funding issues. This has led to a general public negative perception that public libraries underperform which may not be necessarily a true reflection of public libraries. The role of the libraries in as far as the transformative factor in human development may be unclear, therefore, the researcher wants to determine the extent of the transformation factor in human development. The study was guided by the following objectives to: examine the impact of public library to its community or patrons in the Buffalo city libraries, find determine whether the library personnel understand their role in transforming the human development, determine the strategies used by public libraries that are transforming the human factor and to establish how the library patrons perceive the role of the public libraries in transforming their lives. A mixed methods approach was used as the research method. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were combined while simple random sampling was adopted to have a wide range of perspectives from library users. Library staff were purposively selected for interviews. A total of 31 people were interviewed, with 6 librarians and 25 library patrons. Out of 250 questionnaires administered, 220 were returned. The study was informed by the Service quality theory (SERVQUAL), Human Capital Theory and the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (DOIT). The DOIT theory was deemed suitable in this kind of research that deals with transformation and development as patrons adopted and adapted to new ideas and practices. The Service Quality theory was useful in this study because it included variables that the researcher felt were most significant for transformation and development to take place in a public library setting. The HCT theory denotes that education and training leads to greater productivity, and it translates into economic returns like high wages and increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This theory was relevant in this study because public libraries have an informative role to play as part of its roles as well as an educational role to play to the lives of the people who use the library. When people read at libraries, they are educated. They also improve their literacy levels through reading. Public libraries provide community members with services that are free of charge or cheaper and this helps the library patrons to save economically and transform as well. This process of servicing the needs of patrons is beneficial and continuous. In addition, the findings of this study revealed that library personnel understand their roles and those roles in turn transform the human development, although this is not really conclusive that they understand their roles in the transformation process. They ensure that the library patrons get the services they require and in some instances the library personnel even go beyond their normal duties. However, it must be noted that from the findings the main obstacles hindering libraries to effectively transforming the human development is the issue of funding and insufficient resources, Libraries have assisted in educational investment to the community members through many programmes offered in the public libraries and this assists in educational improvement and productivity in many spheres of life. The study also revealed that the public libraries provide spaces where patrons can hold meetings, discuss study related topics as well as individual studying spaces although, more space is required to avoid overcrowding. Through a number of strategies employed which are also attractive to the library patrons, public libraries transform the human development. Patrons perceive public libraries as extremely useful in transforming their lives as they indicated that the public library transform their lives in many aspects such as providing them with the information they require, learning opportunities, access to gateways of information like the internet and manual books, bridging that poverty gap and provision of literacy skills to the library patrons. It was concluded that public libraries transform the lives of the people in the communities that they serve in different aspects with the different roles and services that they offer to their patronage. In addition, a number of strategies are employed by public libraries so as to attract people into public libraries as well as to fulfil their primary mandate. In their pursuit to employ these strategies, public libraries transform the human development. Librarians with their duties assist the public yet it is unclear if they are fully aware of the role they play in transforming people’s lives. Despite some of the bad attitude exhibited by the librarians, a larger percentage of the librarians display a good attitude when carrying out their duties and assisting the library patrons. Librarians go beyond the call of duty in assisting the patrons and this in turn transform the human development. The researcher made some recommendations as per the findings of the study and these recommendations entail continuous training of the library personnel post their formal qualifications, strengthened collaboration and communication by the three spheres of Government so that the libraries may be better governed, constant awareness drives about public libraries and stable internet connectivity so that access maybe improved. The researcher also recommended the use of social media platforms for communication purposes and announcements as people are now attracted to social media platforms and they can be accessed by most of the library community. A proposed model was developed, and the proposed model is the RPPPP hierarchical model for transformative public libraries. This model was proposed also based on the findings of the research. For a public library to be transformative it must have resources, personnel, patrons, physical space and policies in place hence, the name RPPPP model. RPPPP denotes Resources, patrons, personnel, policy and physical space. Resources are primary to the functioning of any public library, highly skilled personnel as well as patrons as they are the recipients of the public library services, policy is also important so as to give guidance and direction on the issues of governance. In order to adequately serve the needs of the patrons, enough space is needed. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-08
Implementation of constitutional values and principles in Cecelia Makiwane Hospital in the Eastern Cape Province
- Sigcau, Aviwe https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7409-8544
- Authors: Sigcau, Aviwe https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7409-8544
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Hospitals--Administration , Health services administration--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master'stheses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23460 , vital:57736
- Description: This study aims to assess the implementation of the constitutional values and principles at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital: promoting professional ethics, efficient, effective, and economical use of resources, fairness, transparency, response to the people’s needs, and good human resources. The Constitutional values and principles champion democratic service in South Africa. It also encourages good governance through hospital employees implementing the Constitutional values and principles. The literature review reveals that there is a gap in the Implementation of the Constitutional values and principles in the hospitals due to the following challenges: many patients are still experiencing violations of their constitutional rights, shortages of drugs in hospitals, lack of equipment, poor infrastructure, corruption, freezing of posts, understaffing. The objectives of the study were: to assess the leadership values at Cecilia Makiwane hospital and determine their alignment with section 195 of the Constitution, to determine the implementation of the constitutional values and principles enshrined in chapter 10 of the Constitution, to examine the working conditions of the hospital, to evaluate the service quality at Cecilia Makiwane hospital., and to recommend measures and strategies that can be implemented to promote efficiency, effectiveness and economical use of resources at Cecilia Makiwane hospital. The study found that the implementation of the constitutional values and principles at Cecilia Makiwane hospital is not satisfactory. The findings show unethical leadership practices, and they put their interests first above the public needs. Regarding good human resources practices, the staff lacks career growth development programs, while promotion opportunities are influenced by nepotism and favouritism. The study recommends that for the hospital to be aligned to the constitutional values and principles, they need to provide training and workshops on the Public Service Code of Conduct, employ social theory for both management and staff, adopt communication strategies and teamwork, improve service impartiality, equity, effective time management performances, collaborative teamwork, accountability, and transparency. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
- Authors: Sigcau, Aviwe https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7409-8544
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Hospitals--Administration , Health services administration--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master'stheses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23460 , vital:57736
- Description: This study aims to assess the implementation of the constitutional values and principles at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital: promoting professional ethics, efficient, effective, and economical use of resources, fairness, transparency, response to the people’s needs, and good human resources. The Constitutional values and principles champion democratic service in South Africa. It also encourages good governance through hospital employees implementing the Constitutional values and principles. The literature review reveals that there is a gap in the Implementation of the Constitutional values and principles in the hospitals due to the following challenges: many patients are still experiencing violations of their constitutional rights, shortages of drugs in hospitals, lack of equipment, poor infrastructure, corruption, freezing of posts, understaffing. The objectives of the study were: to assess the leadership values at Cecilia Makiwane hospital and determine their alignment with section 195 of the Constitution, to determine the implementation of the constitutional values and principles enshrined in chapter 10 of the Constitution, to examine the working conditions of the hospital, to evaluate the service quality at Cecilia Makiwane hospital., and to recommend measures and strategies that can be implemented to promote efficiency, effectiveness and economical use of resources at Cecilia Makiwane hospital. The study found that the implementation of the constitutional values and principles at Cecilia Makiwane hospital is not satisfactory. The findings show unethical leadership practices, and they put their interests first above the public needs. Regarding good human resources practices, the staff lacks career growth development programs, while promotion opportunities are influenced by nepotism and favouritism. The study recommends that for the hospital to be aligned to the constitutional values and principles, they need to provide training and workshops on the Public Service Code of Conduct, employ social theory for both management and staff, adopt communication strategies and teamwork, improve service impartiality, equity, effective time management performances, collaborative teamwork, accountability, and transparency. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
Infant feeding knowledge, attitudes and practices of mothers in private health facilities in Alice town, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Oyeniran, Aderonke Adepeju
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23556 , vital:58132
- Description: Background and aim of the study: Within the global field of health education, it is generally accepted that the topic of breast-feeding is a crucial discussion due to its maternal, infant, and communal benefits. However, certain African countries, such as South Africa, experience certain challenges related to both predictive factors and maternal attitudes to breast-feeding. To improve public awareness and promote the implementation of breast-feeding, these factors should be investigated to highlight the importance of this practice among young mothers. Method: The study utilised a cross-sectional survey by means of a self-administered questionnaire, which was completed by the carefully chosen participants. The collected data were then analysed using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) (frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (logistic regression). The level of significance for the inferential statistics was set at 0.05. Results: A total of 377 infant mothers participated in the study with median age of 30. Most infant mothers that participated in the study were well educated with infant mother 189 having a bachelor’s degree. The findings revealed that mothers of 40 years above are 1.51 times more likely not to breastfeed exclusively compared to mothers of less than 40 years of age (95percent CI, 0.75-2.25). The odds ratio of the incidence of decision in breastfeeding for participants with breastfeeding and formula milk was 1.66 (95percent CI, 0.87-2.53). In term of family support, mothers who don’t receive family support were 3.43 times more likely no to breastfeed. The result also revealed that mothers with breast pain were 0.98 more likely not to breastfeed. Conclusion: This study concludes that infant mothers are well informed about breastfeeding. This study also revealed that factors such as infant mothers’ knowledge about breastfeeding, medical health of both mother and infant and cultural norms can go a long way in influencing the decision of mothers to breastfeeding their infant or not. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
- Authors: Oyeniran, Aderonke Adepeju
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23556 , vital:58132
- Description: Background and aim of the study: Within the global field of health education, it is generally accepted that the topic of breast-feeding is a crucial discussion due to its maternal, infant, and communal benefits. However, certain African countries, such as South Africa, experience certain challenges related to both predictive factors and maternal attitudes to breast-feeding. To improve public awareness and promote the implementation of breast-feeding, these factors should be investigated to highlight the importance of this practice among young mothers. Method: The study utilised a cross-sectional survey by means of a self-administered questionnaire, which was completed by the carefully chosen participants. The collected data were then analysed using a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) (frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (logistic regression). The level of significance for the inferential statistics was set at 0.05. Results: A total of 377 infant mothers participated in the study with median age of 30. Most infant mothers that participated in the study were well educated with infant mother 189 having a bachelor’s degree. The findings revealed that mothers of 40 years above are 1.51 times more likely not to breastfeed exclusively compared to mothers of less than 40 years of age (95percent CI, 0.75-2.25). The odds ratio of the incidence of decision in breastfeeding for participants with breastfeeding and formula milk was 1.66 (95percent CI, 0.87-2.53). In term of family support, mothers who don’t receive family support were 3.43 times more likely no to breastfeed. The result also revealed that mothers with breast pain were 0.98 more likely not to breastfeed. Conclusion: This study concludes that infant mothers are well informed about breastfeeding. This study also revealed that factors such as infant mothers’ knowledge about breastfeeding, medical health of both mother and infant and cultural norms can go a long way in influencing the decision of mothers to breastfeeding their infant or not. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
Investigation of risky sexual behaviour amongst HIV/AIDS positive individuals on antiretroviral treatment in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Pere, Mzukisi Ernest
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Sexual behaviour -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth Sexual behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23578 , vital:58190
- Description: Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is one of the major public health concerns. Antiretroviral treatments (ART) is available immediately for HIV-positive individuals but sexually transmitted infections are on the rise. The majority of HIV positive patients on ART are engaging in unsafe sexual practices. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate risky sexual behaviour of people on antiretroviral treatment regarding prevention. The study was conducted on adult clients in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Methods: A quantitative and descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted whereby 304 patients who visited Nontyatyambo Health Centre were randomly selected. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 24. Simple descriptive statistics such as numbers, percentages and tables were used to characterise variables. A chi-square test was used to explore associations between dependent and independent variables. Test significance, confidence intervals and p-values of all the causes and contributory factors were set at 0.05. Results: Thirty two percent reported having sex with multiple sexual partners while 19percent reported never using a condom. Forty eight percent reported having had sexually transmitted infections since starting on ART. The median age (36 years (IQR: 31, 45) vs. 35 years (IQR: 26, 40)) of those who reported STIs was higher than the median age of those who did not report STI (p=0.012). Males (57percent, p=0.049), those who were employed (55percent, p=0.048), and those who were cohabitating (68percent, 0.030) were more likely to report STI. Similarly, those who had unprotected sex with a casual partner (62percent, p<0.001), and those who did not use a condom because a partner did not like it (71percent, p=0.001) were more likely to report STIs. A significant number of 32percent of the participants reported engaging in risky sexual practices while 48percent had reported an STI. Recommendations include educational outreach programmes and capacitation of health care workers with appropriate skills and tools. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
- Authors: Pere, Mzukisi Ernest
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Sexual behaviour -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth Sexual behaviour
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23578 , vital:58190
- Description: Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is one of the major public health concerns. Antiretroviral treatments (ART) is available immediately for HIV-positive individuals but sexually transmitted infections are on the rise. The majority of HIV positive patients on ART are engaging in unsafe sexual practices. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate risky sexual behaviour of people on antiretroviral treatment regarding prevention. The study was conducted on adult clients in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Methods: A quantitative and descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted whereby 304 patients who visited Nontyatyambo Health Centre were randomly selected. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 24. Simple descriptive statistics such as numbers, percentages and tables were used to characterise variables. A chi-square test was used to explore associations between dependent and independent variables. Test significance, confidence intervals and p-values of all the causes and contributory factors were set at 0.05. Results: Thirty two percent reported having sex with multiple sexual partners while 19percent reported never using a condom. Forty eight percent reported having had sexually transmitted infections since starting on ART. The median age (36 years (IQR: 31, 45) vs. 35 years (IQR: 26, 40)) of those who reported STIs was higher than the median age of those who did not report STI (p=0.012). Males (57percent, p=0.049), those who were employed (55percent, p=0.048), and those who were cohabitating (68percent, 0.030) were more likely to report STI. Similarly, those who had unprotected sex with a casual partner (62percent, p<0.001), and those who did not use a condom because a partner did not like it (71percent, p=0.001) were more likely to report STIs. A significant number of 32percent of the participants reported engaging in risky sexual practices while 48percent had reported an STI. Recommendations include educational outreach programmes and capacitation of health care workers with appropriate skills and tools. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
Outcomes-based participatory gender planning and budgeting in South African local government context: a case of selected municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Sikhosana, Nqobile
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Municipal budgets
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23381 , vital:57620
- Description: This research is focused on the premise that engaging women and men in municipal budget preparation can be a precondition for achieving gender-sensitive service delivery outcomes. It follows, logically, that empowering citizens and granting them authority to control budget allocations has the potential to play a mediating role in transforming the financial management environment within the framework of local government in South Africa. Without representation of heterogeneous social classes, budget allocations in South Africa will continue to reflect the needs of those who hold the top echelons of municipal administrative machinery. Given the complexity of the flawed participatory structures and persistent gender inequality, the mixed methods approach was used as an investigative method to gain a deeper understanding of the participatory genderresponsive budgeting trend and its subsequent impact on service delivery outcomes in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings showed that men's participation and resource re-allocation elements had a significant effect on gender-responsive budgeting but women's participation and transparency had no significant impact. More so, findings also revealed that there is no difference in the manner in which the two municipalities have adopted the two concepts. The long-term results of male domination and the ignorance of transparency and women participation in budget formulation is the establishment of gender-blind budgets that fail to deliver gender-sensitive service delivery outcomes. Based on secondary data analysis, evidence showed that there is a lack of gender dimension in the municipal outcomes and this has contributed towards gender inequalities in terms of access to services. However, results indicated that the full involvement of women and giving then authority to have a voice in budgetary decisions, coupled with the transparent incorporation of gender priorities in the stages of the budget cycle can lead to the formulation to gender sensitive budgets. This knowledge allows the adoption of a participatory gender responsive model for local government. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
- Authors: Sikhosana, Nqobile
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Municipal budgets
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23381 , vital:57620
- Description: This research is focused on the premise that engaging women and men in municipal budget preparation can be a precondition for achieving gender-sensitive service delivery outcomes. It follows, logically, that empowering citizens and granting them authority to control budget allocations has the potential to play a mediating role in transforming the financial management environment within the framework of local government in South Africa. Without representation of heterogeneous social classes, budget allocations in South Africa will continue to reflect the needs of those who hold the top echelons of municipal administrative machinery. Given the complexity of the flawed participatory structures and persistent gender inequality, the mixed methods approach was used as an investigative method to gain a deeper understanding of the participatory genderresponsive budgeting trend and its subsequent impact on service delivery outcomes in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings showed that men's participation and resource re-allocation elements had a significant effect on gender-responsive budgeting but women's participation and transparency had no significant impact. More so, findings also revealed that there is no difference in the manner in which the two municipalities have adopted the two concepts. The long-term results of male domination and the ignorance of transparency and women participation in budget formulation is the establishment of gender-blind budgets that fail to deliver gender-sensitive service delivery outcomes. Based on secondary data analysis, evidence showed that there is a lack of gender dimension in the municipal outcomes and this has contributed towards gender inequalities in terms of access to services. However, results indicated that the full involvement of women and giving then authority to have a voice in budgetary decisions, coupled with the transparent incorporation of gender priorities in the stages of the budget cycle can lead to the formulation to gender sensitive budgets. This knowledge allows the adoption of a participatory gender responsive model for local government. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
Developing metacognition through the use of Technology in self-organised learning environments in grade 11 Physical Sciences
- Authors: Tsamago, Hodi Elias
- Date: 2022-06
- Subjects: Metacognition , Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59910 , vital:62687
- Description: The study was carried out to investigate the effect of the use of technology in self-organised learning environments (SOLEs) (in Physical Sciences classrooms) on learners’ metacognitive skills. The study contributes by identifying a technology-enhanced pedagogy that can effectively equip learners with metacognitive skills, which many studies have reported as having an effect on Physical Sciences learners’ conceptual understanding. The study followed an experimental (control group quasi-experimental) methods design, in which both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed. A multistep stratified sampling method (which caters for both quantitative and qualitative facets) was employed to choose four schools (two rural and two urban) to participate in the study. These schools were randomly chosen from the population of all schools offering Physical Sciences in Grade 11 in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa were assigned to urban experimental group and rural experimental group (UEG and REG) and urban control group and rural control group (UCG and RCG) using geographical demographics. The participants were selected using both simple random sampling (for quantitative methods) and purposive sampling (for qualitative methods). The experimental groups were taught by the researcher using self-organised learning environments (SOLEs) pedagogy, while control groups were taught (also by the researcher of the study) using a traditional chalk-and-talk approach. A Physical Sciences concepts pre-/post-test and the Metacognitive Self-Assessment Scale (MSAS) questionnaire were used to glean the quantitative data, while focus group interviews (FGIs) were used to obtain the qualitative data. The analysis of the quantitative data employed both descriptive (mean, standard deviation and graphs) and inferential (both parametric t-test and non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests) statistics computed using the SPSS package version 22, while qualitative data were analysed thematically using coding techniques (applied on a sentence-by-sentence basis) after the transcription of the recorded FGIs. The study found that SOLEs pedagogy improves learners’ metacognitive skills, leading to better Physical Sciences conceptual understanding. In addition, the results indicate that all v aspects of metacognitive skills improved in experimental groups; however, certain aspects exhibited outstanding improvement such as “Respect shown to myself”; “Respect shown to others”; “Respect shown for empathy towards others” and “Respect shown towards problem solving”. Furthermore, the results of the FGIs revealed that a plausible explanation for the ability of SOLEs pedagogy to enhance metacognitive skills lies in its effortlessness to enable learners to link their classroom experiences to real-life experiences; simulate practical work; adapt to collaborative learning; use multiple channels for receiving information; and reducing learners’ reliance on the teacher. Hence, this study recommends the implementation of SOLEs pedagogy in the Physical Sciences classroom to improve learners’ metacognitive skills and conceptual understanding. However, the study had limitations, some of which included the sample size (which has an effect on the degree of generalisability of the research findings) and the period during which SOLEs pedagogy was implemented which might not have been long enough to exhaust its effect on metacognitive skills. Accordingly, further studies employing a longitudinal study design with a sample size bigger than 350 participants would be useful in understanding the effects of SOLEs pedagogy on metacognitive skills and improving the generalisability of research findings. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-06
- Authors: Tsamago, Hodi Elias
- Date: 2022-06
- Subjects: Metacognition , Technology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59910 , vital:62687
- Description: The study was carried out to investigate the effect of the use of technology in self-organised learning environments (SOLEs) (in Physical Sciences classrooms) on learners’ metacognitive skills. The study contributes by identifying a technology-enhanced pedagogy that can effectively equip learners with metacognitive skills, which many studies have reported as having an effect on Physical Sciences learners’ conceptual understanding. The study followed an experimental (control group quasi-experimental) methods design, in which both qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed. A multistep stratified sampling method (which caters for both quantitative and qualitative facets) was employed to choose four schools (two rural and two urban) to participate in the study. These schools were randomly chosen from the population of all schools offering Physical Sciences in Grade 11 in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa were assigned to urban experimental group and rural experimental group (UEG and REG) and urban control group and rural control group (UCG and RCG) using geographical demographics. The participants were selected using both simple random sampling (for quantitative methods) and purposive sampling (for qualitative methods). The experimental groups were taught by the researcher using self-organised learning environments (SOLEs) pedagogy, while control groups were taught (also by the researcher of the study) using a traditional chalk-and-talk approach. A Physical Sciences concepts pre-/post-test and the Metacognitive Self-Assessment Scale (MSAS) questionnaire were used to glean the quantitative data, while focus group interviews (FGIs) were used to obtain the qualitative data. The analysis of the quantitative data employed both descriptive (mean, standard deviation and graphs) and inferential (both parametric t-test and non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests) statistics computed using the SPSS package version 22, while qualitative data were analysed thematically using coding techniques (applied on a sentence-by-sentence basis) after the transcription of the recorded FGIs. The study found that SOLEs pedagogy improves learners’ metacognitive skills, leading to better Physical Sciences conceptual understanding. In addition, the results indicate that all v aspects of metacognitive skills improved in experimental groups; however, certain aspects exhibited outstanding improvement such as “Respect shown to myself”; “Respect shown to others”; “Respect shown for empathy towards others” and “Respect shown towards problem solving”. Furthermore, the results of the FGIs revealed that a plausible explanation for the ability of SOLEs pedagogy to enhance metacognitive skills lies in its effortlessness to enable learners to link their classroom experiences to real-life experiences; simulate practical work; adapt to collaborative learning; use multiple channels for receiving information; and reducing learners’ reliance on the teacher. Hence, this study recommends the implementation of SOLEs pedagogy in the Physical Sciences classroom to improve learners’ metacognitive skills and conceptual understanding. However, the study had limitations, some of which included the sample size (which has an effect on the degree of generalisability of the research findings) and the period during which SOLEs pedagogy was implemented which might not have been long enough to exhaust its effect on metacognitive skills. Accordingly, further studies employing a longitudinal study design with a sample size bigger than 350 participants would be useful in understanding the effects of SOLEs pedagogy on metacognitive skills and improving the generalisability of research findings. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-06
Experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care in Breidbach community in King Williams, Buffalo City, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Nkumbi, Sinazo
- Date: 2022-06
- Subjects: Foster children--Care , Children's rights , Participation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23776 , vital:60520
- Description: The study explored the experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care, looking in depth at their level of participation in matters concerning their lives. The researcher was predominantly inspired to conduct this research by children in communities who found themselves falling unintentionally into a system of foster care. There are overt hardships in communities that result in children needing care and protection. Children find themselves faced with abusive circumstances, experiencing loss and being abandoned. There is little research on experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care, on child participation in matters that involve their lives, and research that documents the perspectives of children. Children’s ability to exercise their constitutional right to participate, and making their voices heard regarding their life experiences through their own milieu, have also not received attention. There are several intervention systems put in place by the South African government to aid children in need of care and protection, and systems to place children in conducive environments. These systems are largely focused on placement of the child in need, application for foster care grants, foster parents, and the extension of the foster placement. However, there is very little information regarding the child’s right to participate in matters that involve their lives. The goal of the study was to investigate children’s participation in matters that affect their lives. It was interested in children’s perspectives. The aim was to explore the experiences of children who had transitioned into the foster care system in Breidbach Community in King Williams Town it Buffalo City Municipality. The purpose was to identify gaps, as there is minimal information concerning experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care and on children’s participation as stipulated within section 10 of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005. To be able to achieve the objectives of the study, interviews were conducted with purposefully sampled participants. Data obtained was analysed according to qualitative data analysis procedures. The researcher utilised exploratory, descriptive and contextual research designs. The domain where participants were interviewed was Breidbach, King Williams Town, and Buffalo City under the jurisdiction of the Department of Social Development (DSD) and Child Protection Organisations (CPO). Findings indicate the children lacked education on their right to participate in matters that affect their lives. Furthermore, some professionals did not involve the children in matters that affected them, leading to interventions on matters concerning the children that did not benefit from input by the children. Taking into cognisance of all the relevant information stated above, children’s right to participate in matters involving their lives is as paramount as the involvement of the social workers and the foster parents when determining their placement. A holistic approach has to be used, hence it is primary and recommended that, the investigation, intervention strategies and framework used by social workers in making sure that children in need of care and protection include the perspectives of children who are to be placed into foster care. This will be possible through the participation of a child. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-06
- Authors: Nkumbi, Sinazo
- Date: 2022-06
- Subjects: Foster children--Care , Children's rights , Participation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23776 , vital:60520
- Description: The study explored the experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care, looking in depth at their level of participation in matters concerning their lives. The researcher was predominantly inspired to conduct this research by children in communities who found themselves falling unintentionally into a system of foster care. There are overt hardships in communities that result in children needing care and protection. Children find themselves faced with abusive circumstances, experiencing loss and being abandoned. There is little research on experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care, on child participation in matters that involve their lives, and research that documents the perspectives of children. Children’s ability to exercise their constitutional right to participate, and making their voices heard regarding their life experiences through their own milieu, have also not received attention. There are several intervention systems put in place by the South African government to aid children in need of care and protection, and systems to place children in conducive environments. These systems are largely focused on placement of the child in need, application for foster care grants, foster parents, and the extension of the foster placement. However, there is very little information regarding the child’s right to participate in matters that involve their lives. The goal of the study was to investigate children’s participation in matters that affect their lives. It was interested in children’s perspectives. The aim was to explore the experiences of children who had transitioned into the foster care system in Breidbach Community in King Williams Town it Buffalo City Municipality. The purpose was to identify gaps, as there is minimal information concerning experiences of children who have transitioned into foster care and on children’s participation as stipulated within section 10 of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005. To be able to achieve the objectives of the study, interviews were conducted with purposefully sampled participants. Data obtained was analysed according to qualitative data analysis procedures. The researcher utilised exploratory, descriptive and contextual research designs. The domain where participants were interviewed was Breidbach, King Williams Town, and Buffalo City under the jurisdiction of the Department of Social Development (DSD) and Child Protection Organisations (CPO). Findings indicate the children lacked education on their right to participate in matters that affect their lives. Furthermore, some professionals did not involve the children in matters that affected them, leading to interventions on matters concerning the children that did not benefit from input by the children. Taking into cognisance of all the relevant information stated above, children’s right to participate in matters involving their lives is as paramount as the involvement of the social workers and the foster parents when determining their placement. A holistic approach has to be used, hence it is primary and recommended that, the investigation, intervention strategies and framework used by social workers in making sure that children in need of care and protection include the perspectives of children who are to be placed into foster care. This will be possible through the participation of a child. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-06
A netnographic analysis of complaints and service responses on selected South African banks' Twitter handles
- Authors: Poswa, Ziyanda
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Digital ethnology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23438 , vital:57731
- Description: This study is a Netnographic investigation of numerous customer complaints and service responses on selected South African (SA) banks’ Twitter handles. The fulcrum of the study is significantly linked to the Justice theories which thus form the underpinning theories of the study. The study is based on qualitative data derived from selected SA banks’ Twitter handles for duration of at least three months. The study has its philosophy or paradigm deeply rooted in the Interpretivism paradigm. The qualitative research approach is then employed in the study along with the exploratory research design which allows the extrapolation of meaningful conclusions on the findings of the investigation based on the secondary data extracted from 1286 complaints on selected SA banks’ Twitter handles. The researcher makes use of thematic analysis to categorise, investigate, consolidate, define, and create reports on the themes identified in the data set thus enabling the drawing of meaningful inferences. The researcher’s findings point out that customer complaints generally spring from outcome service failure. Outcome service failure defines occurrences where clients are disappointed with banking services or the banking experience regardless of the service or product purchased. Complaints also emanated from process service failures which mostly describe incomplete service delivery. It is thus critically recommended that banks must make sure that process failures are curtailed through an effective improvement of the value chain system. This will also take into account a proper training of banking services personnel and staff. Furthermore, it is also suggested that increased mentoring, and improving or standardising training methods might help to improve bank employee service performance hence reducing incidents of failure. A closer look at the justice theories, it is identified in the study that, banks must try to uphold by all means through effective use of distributive justice service recovery. This is through the application of fairness and courtesy when addressing customer complaints especially on public social platforms such as Twitter. Eventually, this results in increased customer satisfaction and repeated patronage for the respective banks. Through interactional justice service recovery, banks are compelled to try in every way possible not to automate their responses to client complaints in their various or different manner. Procedural justice recovery suggests that banks should take into 3 cognizance better and more effective avenues of promptly responding to their clients hence improving the effectiveness of their service recovery processes. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
- Authors: Poswa, Ziyanda
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Digital ethnology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23438 , vital:57731
- Description: This study is a Netnographic investigation of numerous customer complaints and service responses on selected South African (SA) banks’ Twitter handles. The fulcrum of the study is significantly linked to the Justice theories which thus form the underpinning theories of the study. The study is based on qualitative data derived from selected SA banks’ Twitter handles for duration of at least three months. The study has its philosophy or paradigm deeply rooted in the Interpretivism paradigm. The qualitative research approach is then employed in the study along with the exploratory research design which allows the extrapolation of meaningful conclusions on the findings of the investigation based on the secondary data extracted from 1286 complaints on selected SA banks’ Twitter handles. The researcher makes use of thematic analysis to categorise, investigate, consolidate, define, and create reports on the themes identified in the data set thus enabling the drawing of meaningful inferences. The researcher’s findings point out that customer complaints generally spring from outcome service failure. Outcome service failure defines occurrences where clients are disappointed with banking services or the banking experience regardless of the service or product purchased. Complaints also emanated from process service failures which mostly describe incomplete service delivery. It is thus critically recommended that banks must make sure that process failures are curtailed through an effective improvement of the value chain system. This will also take into account a proper training of banking services personnel and staff. Furthermore, it is also suggested that increased mentoring, and improving or standardising training methods might help to improve bank employee service performance hence reducing incidents of failure. A closer look at the justice theories, it is identified in the study that, banks must try to uphold by all means through effective use of distributive justice service recovery. This is through the application of fairness and courtesy when addressing customer complaints especially on public social platforms such as Twitter. Eventually, this results in increased customer satisfaction and repeated patronage for the respective banks. Through interactional justice service recovery, banks are compelled to try in every way possible not to automate their responses to client complaints in their various or different manner. Procedural justice recovery suggests that banks should take into 3 cognizance better and more effective avenues of promptly responding to their clients hence improving the effectiveness of their service recovery processes. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
Exploring the role of the Department of Social Development on the integrated school health programme in the Buffalo City Municipality .
- Authors: Nokama, Busisa Antoinette
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Children--Health and hygiene. , School nursing. , Employee health promotion.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22198 , vital:51997
- Description: If one’s health is a state of wellbeing then the role of social development is key in the implementation of the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP) as it includes treatment and prevention of psychosocial dysfunction. The purpose of the study was to explore the role of the Department of Social Development (DSD) within the ISHP in Buffalo City Municipality. DSD services are complex hence the need active collaboration to ensure delivery of multi-sectoral services. Covid-19 evidently shows the link between physical, emotional and academic success (OECD, 2020). The trauma and challenges faced by learners’ manifests through behavioral problems that social workers and counsellors can address more effectively. Social work practice aims to treat and prevent psychosocial dysfunction, thus social workers remain integral in addressing social determinants of health. The challenges in the implementation of ISHP began at policy development, moreover they were exacerbated by poor coordination and management of the ISHP. The legislative framework however affords learners the right to protective care and support. The role of social development is not limited to transportation but has been captured through psychosocial support. The study suitably employed a qualitative research design to examine how the participants make sense of the Integrated School Health Programme and to provide a comprehensive description of the complex role of the DSD in the provision of psychosocial support. 15 participants from DOH, DoE and DSD were interviewed to capture the perspective of all three (3) departments. The findings indicated how the development of the policy impacts implementation. The DSD is participating in the implementation of ISHP, however the failure of the policy to capture the role of the DSD, hinders the DSD from full participation. The study also found a lack of resourcesto support implementation and often struggle to get learners but implementation varies. Conclusively, the study recommends the need for the departments to develop a Memorandum of Understanding, Terms of reference as well as Integrated Implementation plans in an effort to support and close the gaps identified in the policy. Collaboration was found to be an effective strategy to enhance resource mobilization. Coordination and Management still need to be strengthened, including accountability. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
- Authors: Nokama, Busisa Antoinette
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Children--Health and hygiene. , School nursing. , Employee health promotion.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22198 , vital:51997
- Description: If one’s health is a state of wellbeing then the role of social development is key in the implementation of the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP) as it includes treatment and prevention of psychosocial dysfunction. The purpose of the study was to explore the role of the Department of Social Development (DSD) within the ISHP in Buffalo City Municipality. DSD services are complex hence the need active collaboration to ensure delivery of multi-sectoral services. Covid-19 evidently shows the link between physical, emotional and academic success (OECD, 2020). The trauma and challenges faced by learners’ manifests through behavioral problems that social workers and counsellors can address more effectively. Social work practice aims to treat and prevent psychosocial dysfunction, thus social workers remain integral in addressing social determinants of health. The challenges in the implementation of ISHP began at policy development, moreover they were exacerbated by poor coordination and management of the ISHP. The legislative framework however affords learners the right to protective care and support. The role of social development is not limited to transportation but has been captured through psychosocial support. The study suitably employed a qualitative research design to examine how the participants make sense of the Integrated School Health Programme and to provide a comprehensive description of the complex role of the DSD in the provision of psychosocial support. 15 participants from DOH, DoE and DSD were interviewed to capture the perspective of all three (3) departments. The findings indicated how the development of the policy impacts implementation. The DSD is participating in the implementation of ISHP, however the failure of the policy to capture the role of the DSD, hinders the DSD from full participation. The study also found a lack of resourcesto support implementation and often struggle to get learners but implementation varies. Conclusively, the study recommends the need for the departments to develop a Memorandum of Understanding, Terms of reference as well as Integrated Implementation plans in an effort to support and close the gaps identified in the policy. Collaboration was found to be an effective strategy to enhance resource mobilization. Coordination and Management still need to be strengthened, including accountability. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
Investigating the impact of psychological capital on job burnout amongst the nurses at Victoria hospital Alice, Eastern Cape province
- Malinge, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4504-7964
- Authors: Malinge, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4504-7964
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Burn out (Psychology) , Human capital--Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23405 , vital:57728
- Description: The study investigates the impact of psychological capital on job burnout among the nurses at Victoria hospital at Alice, Eastern Cape. Explanatory survey research design was used in this study. Sampling techniques such as convenience method and also adopted purposive sampling were used in this study, and the data collected used a validated survey questionnaire. Out of 150 questionnaires distributed to the nurses at Victoria hospital, only 92 were answered. However, the researcher analysed data using descriptive and inferential statistics through Pearson Correlation Analysis and Multiple Regression Analysis. The statistical descriptions of respondents’ biographic and occupational data were all from Victoria hospital nurses. In terms of the participant’s age, between the age of 23-27, it is 18.5%, between 28-32, it is 15.2%, between 29-33, it is 18.4%, between 34-38, it is 14.3%, between 39-43, it is 15.3%, between 44-48, it is 12%, between 49-53, it is 8.8%, and lastly between 54-58, it is 13%. In terms of gender, 31.5% were male participants and 68.5% were female participants. In terms of occupational categories, nurses who are working at senior management positions are at 8.9%, professional nurses at 48.9% and non-professional nurses at 42.2%. In terms of marital status, married participants were at 35.2%, single, 56.0% and widows at 8.8%. In terms of working experience, the years range from one to above 16 years. 48.9% were participants who had 1-5 years working experience, 27.2% were participants with 6-10 experience, 8.7%, who had 11-15 years, and lastly 15.2% were the participants who had 16 years and above working experience. In terms of educational qualifications, participants with grade 12 were at 24.4%, diploma 40.0%, degree 33.3% and lastly were postgraduates participants at 2.2%. The final findings indicated that there is a significant negative relationship between self-efficacy and job burnout, r=-0.437, p<0.01, that there is a significant negative relationship between hope and job burnout, r= -0.457, p<0.01, that there is a significant negative relationship between resilience and job burnout, r= - 0.312 p<0.1 and that there is a significant negative relationship between optimism and job burnout, r= -0.287 p<0.01. Other findings showed that there is a significant independent impact of self-efficacy on job burnout, B= -0.760, t= -1.394, p>0.05, there is no significant independent impact of hope on job burnout, that B= -1.282 t= -2.280, p<0.05, there is no significant impact of resilience on job burnout, B= 0.009, t= 0.22 p>0.05, and lastly, there is no significant independent impact of optimism on job burnout, B= 0.919 t=1.594, p>0.05. Last findings showed that there is a significant joint impact of psychological capital dimensions, F=6.671, R2= 0.243, p<0.01. In conclusion, it is confirmed that there is no significant relationship between psychological capital dimensions and job burnout, secondly, there is a significant independent impact of psychological capital dimensions and job burnout. Lastly, there is a significant positive jointly impact of psychological capital dimensions on job burnout. , Thesis (MCom: IPS) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
- Authors: Malinge, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4504-7964
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Burn out (Psychology) , Human capital--Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23405 , vital:57728
- Description: The study investigates the impact of psychological capital on job burnout among the nurses at Victoria hospital at Alice, Eastern Cape. Explanatory survey research design was used in this study. Sampling techniques such as convenience method and also adopted purposive sampling were used in this study, and the data collected used a validated survey questionnaire. Out of 150 questionnaires distributed to the nurses at Victoria hospital, only 92 were answered. However, the researcher analysed data using descriptive and inferential statistics through Pearson Correlation Analysis and Multiple Regression Analysis. The statistical descriptions of respondents’ biographic and occupational data were all from Victoria hospital nurses. In terms of the participant’s age, between the age of 23-27, it is 18.5%, between 28-32, it is 15.2%, between 29-33, it is 18.4%, between 34-38, it is 14.3%, between 39-43, it is 15.3%, between 44-48, it is 12%, between 49-53, it is 8.8%, and lastly between 54-58, it is 13%. In terms of gender, 31.5% were male participants and 68.5% were female participants. In terms of occupational categories, nurses who are working at senior management positions are at 8.9%, professional nurses at 48.9% and non-professional nurses at 42.2%. In terms of marital status, married participants were at 35.2%, single, 56.0% and widows at 8.8%. In terms of working experience, the years range from one to above 16 years. 48.9% were participants who had 1-5 years working experience, 27.2% were participants with 6-10 experience, 8.7%, who had 11-15 years, and lastly 15.2% were the participants who had 16 years and above working experience. In terms of educational qualifications, participants with grade 12 were at 24.4%, diploma 40.0%, degree 33.3% and lastly were postgraduates participants at 2.2%. The final findings indicated that there is a significant negative relationship between self-efficacy and job burnout, r=-0.437, p<0.01, that there is a significant negative relationship between hope and job burnout, r= -0.457, p<0.01, that there is a significant negative relationship between resilience and job burnout, r= - 0.312 p<0.1 and that there is a significant negative relationship between optimism and job burnout, r= -0.287 p<0.01. Other findings showed that there is a significant independent impact of self-efficacy on job burnout, B= -0.760, t= -1.394, p>0.05, there is no significant independent impact of hope on job burnout, that B= -1.282 t= -2.280, p<0.05, there is no significant impact of resilience on job burnout, B= 0.009, t= 0.22 p>0.05, and lastly, there is no significant independent impact of optimism on job burnout, B= 0.919 t=1.594, p>0.05. Last findings showed that there is a significant joint impact of psychological capital dimensions, F=6.671, R2= 0.243, p<0.01. In conclusion, it is confirmed that there is no significant relationship between psychological capital dimensions and job burnout, secondly, there is a significant independent impact of psychological capital dimensions and job burnout. Lastly, there is a significant positive jointly impact of psychological capital dimensions on job burnout. , Thesis (MCom: IPS) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
The contribution of cultural and creative industries towards sustainable livelihoods in the Eastern Cape (2009-2019)
- Authors: Ngwane, Ayanda
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Poor--Services for. , Poverty--South Africa.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22185 , vital:51995
- Description: This research is focused on the premise that Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) can be a precondition for the attainment of sustainable livelihoods. It follows, logically, that the efficient and effective implementation of CCIs has potential in transforming the well-being of those involved in the industries as evidence points to the notion that the CCIs can help deal with the persistent challenges of unemployment and poverty. Without effective and efficient implementation, and the political will to support such industries in the South African context, the potential of CCIs in improving the livelihoods of citizens will not be realised. Given the limitations levelled against the policy implementation and the processes involved in support for creative industries in South Africa, the qualitative method was used as an investigative strategy to gain a deeper understanding of CCIs and its general contribution on sustainable livelihoods in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings indicate that there is a basis for a creative economy in the Eastern Cape Province that can be improved by properly concerted action by all actors. There is a foundation for the development of innovative goods and services that could promote the integration of the Province into the global economy. So far, the outcome of this research points to the direction of offering knowledge of the way to realize the potential of Eastern Cape Province`s creative industries. More so, the study also highlights the importance of the creative economy in fostering growth guided by trade and attaining sustainable livelihoods in the process. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
- Authors: Ngwane, Ayanda
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Poor--Services for. , Poverty--South Africa.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22185 , vital:51995
- Description: This research is focused on the premise that Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) can be a precondition for the attainment of sustainable livelihoods. It follows, logically, that the efficient and effective implementation of CCIs has potential in transforming the well-being of those involved in the industries as evidence points to the notion that the CCIs can help deal with the persistent challenges of unemployment and poverty. Without effective and efficient implementation, and the political will to support such industries in the South African context, the potential of CCIs in improving the livelihoods of citizens will not be realised. Given the limitations levelled against the policy implementation and the processes involved in support for creative industries in South Africa, the qualitative method was used as an investigative strategy to gain a deeper understanding of CCIs and its general contribution on sustainable livelihoods in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings indicate that there is a basis for a creative economy in the Eastern Cape Province that can be improved by properly concerted action by all actors. There is a foundation for the development of innovative goods and services that could promote the integration of the Province into the global economy. So far, the outcome of this research points to the direction of offering knowledge of the way to realize the potential of Eastern Cape Province`s creative industries. More so, the study also highlights the importance of the creative economy in fostering growth guided by trade and attaining sustainable livelihoods in the process. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
The influence of ethical leadership in the municipal administration: a case of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Singanto, Nkosiyabo King
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Municipal government--South Africa--Leadership , Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23392 , vital:57633
- Description: The South Africa local government is confronted by ethical leadership challenges due to unethical practices by public functionaries and elected representatives in municipalities. The elected representatives are entrusted by legislation to take decisions and municipal officials are expected to implement the decisions taken by the municipal councilin an ethical manner, without fear, favour or prejudice on behalf of their communities. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach to gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon being studied. Data was collected using a structured Likert Scale interview questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions. The theories of virtue, deontology and utilitarianism were selected in this study to try to understand the concept of ethics and its relevance to answering the research questions developed for this research.. Among the key findings were that the research has shown that unethical behaviour in municipalities has a direct influence on service delivery and the functioning of municipal administration. It also showed that, despite the plethora of legislation that governs the behaviour of municipal leaders, the municipalities continue to face unethical challenges of corruption, fraud and maladministration. The findings also pointed to a failure by those who are supposed to implement the code of conduct and hold the perpetrators of unethical deeds accountable. Poor consequence management has been seen, inter alia, to be at the heart of the problem. The research reveals a need for the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality to explore the ways to enforce ethical leadership in the municipality. While the study is limited to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, the following are recommended to mitigate the scourge: provide ethics training for municipal officials and councillors; set minimum qualifications for councillors; and cautiously, extend the application of the findings and recommendations of this research to other municipalities in South Africa as the problem, whilst researched in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, is spread across all municipalities in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
- Authors: Singanto, Nkosiyabo King
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Municipal government--South Africa--Leadership , Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23392 , vital:57633
- Description: The South Africa local government is confronted by ethical leadership challenges due to unethical practices by public functionaries and elected representatives in municipalities. The elected representatives are entrusted by legislation to take decisions and municipal officials are expected to implement the decisions taken by the municipal councilin an ethical manner, without fear, favour or prejudice on behalf of their communities. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach to gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon being studied. Data was collected using a structured Likert Scale interview questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions. The theories of virtue, deontology and utilitarianism were selected in this study to try to understand the concept of ethics and its relevance to answering the research questions developed for this research.. Among the key findings were that the research has shown that unethical behaviour in municipalities has a direct influence on service delivery and the functioning of municipal administration. It also showed that, despite the plethora of legislation that governs the behaviour of municipal leaders, the municipalities continue to face unethical challenges of corruption, fraud and maladministration. The findings also pointed to a failure by those who are supposed to implement the code of conduct and hold the perpetrators of unethical deeds accountable. Poor consequence management has been seen, inter alia, to be at the heart of the problem. The research reveals a need for the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality to explore the ways to enforce ethical leadership in the municipality. While the study is limited to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, the following are recommended to mitigate the scourge: provide ethics training for municipal officials and councillors; set minimum qualifications for councillors; and cautiously, extend the application of the findings and recommendations of this research to other municipalities in South Africa as the problem, whilst researched in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, is spread across all municipalities in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
Xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa: A case study in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Duma, Vusumzi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8115-3399
- Authors: Duma, Vusumzi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8115-3399
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Xenophobia
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23873 , vital:61089
- Description: The central thesis pursued in this study is that xenophobia and its violent manifestation thrive in post-apartheid South Africa owing to contextual dynamics chiefly characterized by normlessness and weak law enforcement. The scourge of xenophobia and its attendant violent reaction to the presence of foreign citizens in immigrant receiving countries, such as post-apartheid South Africa, is not only a threat to global peace and security, but also an impediment to achieving our full humanity and a common future. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the contexts and manifestations of xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. The study endeavoured to achieve the following objectives: to explore the underpinnings of xenophobia in contemporary post-apartheid South Africa; to expound the manifestations of xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa; to investigate the effectiveness of agents of social control in dealing with xenophobia; to suggest interventions to address xenophobia in contemporary post-apartheid South Africa, and to discuss, if any, integration deficits experienced by foreign nationals. The overarching theoretical framework that was utilised in this study was constituted by the following frames: labelling theory of deviance; social control theory of deviance; learning theory of deviance; and social construction theory – these are theoretical frames situated in the theoretical field of sociology of deviance. The multi-faceted and complex nature of the phenomenon under investigation evidently necessitated a methodological approach and design strategy involving the utilisation of a qualitative research approach and methodology. Qualitatively, the data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, key informants’ interviews, and secondary data sources. The study revealed, amongst other things, that: the expression of the xenophobic sentiment and associated violence in contemporaneous post-apartheid South Africa was underpinned and driven by a potpourri of factors, amongst which are negative attitudes, perceived competition, perceived fear and illusions, inflammatory xenophobic rhetoric from government representatives, national identity, and afrophobia; and that xenophobia manifested itself through violent behaviour, prejudice and discriminatory behaviour, hatred, labelling, and impunity. Another revelation of this study was that immigrants (particularly black African immigrants) were socially constructed as deviants by society and official agents for social control purposes. Once labeled, the label sticks with disastrous and violent consequences. This situation is exacerbated by the liminal status that immigrants, particularly Black African immigrants, occupy in the post-apartheid South African context. Additionally, the study revealed that law enforcement agents were perceived to be ineffective in dealing with xenophobia, and violence. In response to the findings the following recommendations are made: training and capacitating agents of social control; conscientising society about migration policies vis-à-vis the rights of foreign nationals; coming out with novel strategies to job creation; inculcating the spirit of Ubuntu in young children; embracing the pan-African spirit ; making immigration policies more humanising; mainstreaming xenophobia in social and learning institutions’ curricula; and engaging in perennial research on xenophobia. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
- Authors: Duma, Vusumzi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8115-3399
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Xenophobia
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23873 , vital:61089
- Description: The central thesis pursued in this study is that xenophobia and its violent manifestation thrive in post-apartheid South Africa owing to contextual dynamics chiefly characterized by normlessness and weak law enforcement. The scourge of xenophobia and its attendant violent reaction to the presence of foreign citizens in immigrant receiving countries, such as post-apartheid South Africa, is not only a threat to global peace and security, but also an impediment to achieving our full humanity and a common future. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the contexts and manifestations of xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. The study endeavoured to achieve the following objectives: to explore the underpinnings of xenophobia in contemporary post-apartheid South Africa; to expound the manifestations of xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa; to investigate the effectiveness of agents of social control in dealing with xenophobia; to suggest interventions to address xenophobia in contemporary post-apartheid South Africa, and to discuss, if any, integration deficits experienced by foreign nationals. The overarching theoretical framework that was utilised in this study was constituted by the following frames: labelling theory of deviance; social control theory of deviance; learning theory of deviance; and social construction theory – these are theoretical frames situated in the theoretical field of sociology of deviance. The multi-faceted and complex nature of the phenomenon under investigation evidently necessitated a methodological approach and design strategy involving the utilisation of a qualitative research approach and methodology. Qualitatively, the data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, key informants’ interviews, and secondary data sources. The study revealed, amongst other things, that: the expression of the xenophobic sentiment and associated violence in contemporaneous post-apartheid South Africa was underpinned and driven by a potpourri of factors, amongst which are negative attitudes, perceived competition, perceived fear and illusions, inflammatory xenophobic rhetoric from government representatives, national identity, and afrophobia; and that xenophobia manifested itself through violent behaviour, prejudice and discriminatory behaviour, hatred, labelling, and impunity. Another revelation of this study was that immigrants (particularly black African immigrants) were socially constructed as deviants by society and official agents for social control purposes. Once labeled, the label sticks with disastrous and violent consequences. This situation is exacerbated by the liminal status that immigrants, particularly Black African immigrants, occupy in the post-apartheid South African context. Additionally, the study revealed that law enforcement agents were perceived to be ineffective in dealing with xenophobia, and violence. In response to the findings the following recommendations are made: training and capacitating agents of social control; conscientising society about migration policies vis-à-vis the rights of foreign nationals; coming out with novel strategies to job creation; inculcating the spirit of Ubuntu in young children; embracing the pan-African spirit ; making immigration policies more humanising; mainstreaming xenophobia in social and learning institutions’ curricula; and engaging in perennial research on xenophobia. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-05
An eco-physiological investigation of fisheries-induced evolution: comparing the resilience of larvae from exploited and unexploited commercial reef fish populations to projected ocean acidification
- Authors: Muller, Cuen
- Date: 2022-04-08
- Subjects: Ocean acidification , Fishes Climatic factors , Fishes Physiology , Fishes Metabolism , Fishes Respiration , Fishes Larvae , Fishery management , Chrysoblephus laticeps (Red roman)
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232579 , vital:50004 , DOI 10.21504/10962/232579
- Description: It is now accepted that anthropogenic-induced climate change is resulting in unprecedented rates of change to marine environments. Marine organisms are being challenged by rapidly increasing temperatures, acidification, expansion of oxygen dead zones, and higher frequencies and magnitudes of extreme weather events. Exploited fish populations are also undergoing selective harvesting. Certain traits, such as large size, fast growth, and/or bold/active behaviours, are being actively targeted and removed from the population gene pool. This selective removal of individuals may compromise the capacity of fish populations to resist or recover from environmental disturbances and reduce their ability to adapt to a changing environment as many of these traits are heritable. As most marine fishes' embryonic and larval stages represent the period when individuals are most sensitive to environmental disturbances, they are a critical bottleneck to population persistence in the face of exploitation and climate change. This thesis aimed to quantify and compare the metabolic physiology, growth, and development of an exploited and endemic sparid, the roman seabream Chrysoblephus laticeps, during the early larval stages under 1) ocean acidification conditions expected by the year 2100 and 2) from populations experiencing dissimilar rates of exploitation. To quantify and compare the physiology of larvae, adult C. laticeps from an exploited population were captured and field-spawned. Fertilised eggs were placed into either control/present-day conditions (pH = 8.03, pCO2 ≈ 420 μatm) or high-pCO2/hypercapnic treatment conditions (pH = 7.63, pCO2 ≈ 1400 μatm). The metabolic physiology of individual larvae was determined using a novel rolling-regression technique on static respirometry data. Here, estimates of the minimum and maximum oxygen consumption rates (VO2) could be determined with high test-retest reliability. The very early developmental stages (yolk-sac stage) appeared resilient to high pCO2 conditions despite being exposed to treatment conditions throughout the embryonic stage. Preflexion larvae showed sensitivity to treatment conditions by exhibiting reduced metabolic and growth rates, consistent with metabolic depression, associated with environmental stress. However, by the onset of flexion, which coincides with gill development, acid-base regulation, and muscle differentiation, metabolic and growth rates of treatment larvae were significantly greater than that of controls. This suggests that acid-base regulation imposes a high cost to maintain internal pH homeostasis. Importantly, these elevated metabolic costs were likely mediated through increased feeding rates in experimental conditions where food was ad libitum. In natural conditions, where food availability may be varied, high pCO2 conditions could be associated with higher mortality rates. Based on evidence that protected/unexploited populations are more genetically diverse and are composed of individuals representing a greater range of metabolic phenotypes, offspring were collected from a protected population experiencing otherwise similar environmental conditions to the exploited population. Metabolic rates of control larvae were generally similar to those of the exploited population. However, minimum rates of VO2 were typically higher for larvae from the protected population at comparable life stages. Preflexion treatment larvae from the protected population did not appear to undergo a period of reduced metabolism or growth compared to their control counterparts. While metabolic rates at the onset of flexion were significantly higher for treatment larvae, this was not associated with growth differences. Growth over-compensation following periods of growth depression is often associated with deleterious effects, such as organ damage and body or developmental malformations. This suggests somewhat improved resilience to ocean acidification conditions. This thesis found evidence that larval C. laticeps are sensitive to ocean acidification conditions expected by 2100. When this stressor is combined with increasing thermal variability, changing current coastal regimes, and heterogeneous food availability, also expected to occur by 2100, ocean acidification may compromise the population persistence of this species. However, an energetics approach to stress-tolerance suggests that larvae from the protected population may inherently show greater resilience to climate change-related environmental stressors. Evidence that exploitation affects the resilience of fish larvae to climate change highlights the need for an evolutionary approach to fisheries management and the importance of spatial protection in maintaining larger and more resilient populations while providing the raw material essential for adaptation. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-08
- Authors: Muller, Cuen
- Date: 2022-04-08
- Subjects: Ocean acidification , Fishes Climatic factors , Fishes Physiology , Fishes Metabolism , Fishes Respiration , Fishes Larvae , Fishery management , Chrysoblephus laticeps (Red roman)
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/232579 , vital:50004 , DOI 10.21504/10962/232579
- Description: It is now accepted that anthropogenic-induced climate change is resulting in unprecedented rates of change to marine environments. Marine organisms are being challenged by rapidly increasing temperatures, acidification, expansion of oxygen dead zones, and higher frequencies and magnitudes of extreme weather events. Exploited fish populations are also undergoing selective harvesting. Certain traits, such as large size, fast growth, and/or bold/active behaviours, are being actively targeted and removed from the population gene pool. This selective removal of individuals may compromise the capacity of fish populations to resist or recover from environmental disturbances and reduce their ability to adapt to a changing environment as many of these traits are heritable. As most marine fishes' embryonic and larval stages represent the period when individuals are most sensitive to environmental disturbances, they are a critical bottleneck to population persistence in the face of exploitation and climate change. This thesis aimed to quantify and compare the metabolic physiology, growth, and development of an exploited and endemic sparid, the roman seabream Chrysoblephus laticeps, during the early larval stages under 1) ocean acidification conditions expected by the year 2100 and 2) from populations experiencing dissimilar rates of exploitation. To quantify and compare the physiology of larvae, adult C. laticeps from an exploited population were captured and field-spawned. Fertilised eggs were placed into either control/present-day conditions (pH = 8.03, pCO2 ≈ 420 μatm) or high-pCO2/hypercapnic treatment conditions (pH = 7.63, pCO2 ≈ 1400 μatm). The metabolic physiology of individual larvae was determined using a novel rolling-regression technique on static respirometry data. Here, estimates of the minimum and maximum oxygen consumption rates (VO2) could be determined with high test-retest reliability. The very early developmental stages (yolk-sac stage) appeared resilient to high pCO2 conditions despite being exposed to treatment conditions throughout the embryonic stage. Preflexion larvae showed sensitivity to treatment conditions by exhibiting reduced metabolic and growth rates, consistent with metabolic depression, associated with environmental stress. However, by the onset of flexion, which coincides with gill development, acid-base regulation, and muscle differentiation, metabolic and growth rates of treatment larvae were significantly greater than that of controls. This suggests that acid-base regulation imposes a high cost to maintain internal pH homeostasis. Importantly, these elevated metabolic costs were likely mediated through increased feeding rates in experimental conditions where food was ad libitum. In natural conditions, where food availability may be varied, high pCO2 conditions could be associated with higher mortality rates. Based on evidence that protected/unexploited populations are more genetically diverse and are composed of individuals representing a greater range of metabolic phenotypes, offspring were collected from a protected population experiencing otherwise similar environmental conditions to the exploited population. Metabolic rates of control larvae were generally similar to those of the exploited population. However, minimum rates of VO2 were typically higher for larvae from the protected population at comparable life stages. Preflexion treatment larvae from the protected population did not appear to undergo a period of reduced metabolism or growth compared to their control counterparts. While metabolic rates at the onset of flexion were significantly higher for treatment larvae, this was not associated with growth differences. Growth over-compensation following periods of growth depression is often associated with deleterious effects, such as organ damage and body or developmental malformations. This suggests somewhat improved resilience to ocean acidification conditions. This thesis found evidence that larval C. laticeps are sensitive to ocean acidification conditions expected by 2100. When this stressor is combined with increasing thermal variability, changing current coastal regimes, and heterogeneous food availability, also expected to occur by 2100, ocean acidification may compromise the population persistence of this species. However, an energetics approach to stress-tolerance suggests that larvae from the protected population may inherently show greater resilience to climate change-related environmental stressors. Evidence that exploitation affects the resilience of fish larvae to climate change highlights the need for an evolutionary approach to fisheries management and the importance of spatial protection in maintaining larger and more resilient populations while providing the raw material essential for adaptation. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-08