Community development through the ward committee structures in the Northern areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Ah Shene, Walter T
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , City council members -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Citizens' advisory committees -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8274 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016058
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate community development through the ward committee structures in the Northern Areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Community development through the ward committees is the key principle in the democratisation process, as well as the promotion of good governance. Community development is an opportunity for both local government and the community to strengthen the democracy that is being enjoyed; and simultaneously to promote accountability. In terms of the Local Government: Municipal Systems, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000), the role of local communities in the particular interests of their municipality must take place, among other things, by the ward councillor – as well as all other suitable procedures, mechanisms and processes set up by the municipality. Ward committees have the power to advise the ward councillor; and as municipal structures, they must ensure that there is always community participation in the sphere of local government. Community participation gives communities the opportunities to express their views, as well as giving them a sense of ownership. The objectives of the study were: - To determine the roles and responsibilities of the ward councillors in terms of the new developmental mandate (the need to encourage the involvement of communities and organisations in local government matters). - To investigate the relations between ward councillors and their ward committees, and between the offices of ward councillors and the general public. - To examine the extent to which ward councillors in the northern areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality understand the policy and administrative procedures and processes in the municipality, when addressing issues that affect the community. In order to achieve these objectives, it was necessary to review literature on community participation. An empirical search was conducted in wards 10 and 11 in the Northern Areas of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Recommendations were provided which could assist the municipality to effectively make use of the ward committees and the ward councillors. If implemented, these recommendations could also enhance community development through the ward committee structures. Thus, the relationship between the ward committees and the ward councillor should be harmonious; and subsequently, they should also strengthen trust between them. Then the flow of communication will improve.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ah Shene, Walter T
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , City council members -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Citizens' advisory committees -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8274 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016058
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate community development through the ward committee structures in the Northern Areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Community development through the ward committees is the key principle in the democratisation process, as well as the promotion of good governance. Community development is an opportunity for both local government and the community to strengthen the democracy that is being enjoyed; and simultaneously to promote accountability. In terms of the Local Government: Municipal Systems, 2000 (Act 32 of 2000), the role of local communities in the particular interests of their municipality must take place, among other things, by the ward councillor – as well as all other suitable procedures, mechanisms and processes set up by the municipality. Ward committees have the power to advise the ward councillor; and as municipal structures, they must ensure that there is always community participation in the sphere of local government. Community participation gives communities the opportunities to express their views, as well as giving them a sense of ownership. The objectives of the study were: - To determine the roles and responsibilities of the ward councillors in terms of the new developmental mandate (the need to encourage the involvement of communities and organisations in local government matters). - To investigate the relations between ward councillors and their ward committees, and between the offices of ward councillors and the general public. - To examine the extent to which ward councillors in the northern areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality understand the policy and administrative procedures and processes in the municipality, when addressing issues that affect the community. In order to achieve these objectives, it was necessary to review literature on community participation. An empirical search was conducted in wards 10 and 11 in the Northern Areas of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Recommendations were provided which could assist the municipality to effectively make use of the ward committees and the ward councillors. If implemented, these recommendations could also enhance community development through the ward committee structures. Thus, the relationship between the ward committees and the ward councillor should be harmonious; and subsequently, they should also strengthen trust between them. Then the flow of communication will improve.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Interaction of terpenes and oxygenated terpenes with some drugs
- Authors: Ajayi, Emmanuel Olusegun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Terpenes -- Essences and essential oils , Lavenders -- Monoterpenes -- Drug interactions , Drugs -- Camphor -- Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11332 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/418 , Terpenes -- Essences and essential oils , Lavenders -- Monoterpenes -- Drug interactions , Drugs -- Camphor -- Medicinal plants
- Description: SFME and HD for the extraction of essential oil in Lavandula officinalis in Alice have been reported. A total of 59 compounds were identified with the major compound being 1,8-cineole, an oxygenated monoterpene, with 46.89% and 44.84% yield obtained for HD and SFME respectively. Charge transfer (CT) complexes formed between α-pinene, 1,8-cineole and camphor as electron donors with iodine as the electron acceptor have been studied spectrophotometrically in methylene chloride solution. The Benesi- Hildebrand equation has been applied to estimate the formation constant (Kf) and molecular extinction coefficient (εCT). The value of Kf is the highest in camphor-I2 complex compared to the other two complexes. Antibacterial assessment was carried out on the various reagents, determining the MIC of individual reagents and in combination. The results show an improvement, on combination of the various reagents than when tested alone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ajayi, Emmanuel Olusegun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Terpenes -- Essences and essential oils , Lavenders -- Monoterpenes -- Drug interactions , Drugs -- Camphor -- Medicinal plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11332 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/418 , Terpenes -- Essences and essential oils , Lavenders -- Monoterpenes -- Drug interactions , Drugs -- Camphor -- Medicinal plants
- Description: SFME and HD for the extraction of essential oil in Lavandula officinalis in Alice have been reported. A total of 59 compounds were identified with the major compound being 1,8-cineole, an oxygenated monoterpene, with 46.89% and 44.84% yield obtained for HD and SFME respectively. Charge transfer (CT) complexes formed between α-pinene, 1,8-cineole and camphor as electron donors with iodine as the electron acceptor have been studied spectrophotometrically in methylene chloride solution. The Benesi- Hildebrand equation has been applied to estimate the formation constant (Kf) and molecular extinction coefficient (εCT). The value of Kf is the highest in camphor-I2 complex compared to the other two complexes. Antibacterial assessment was carried out on the various reagents, determining the MIC of individual reagents and in combination. The results show an improvement, on combination of the various reagents than when tested alone.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The NINJA-2 catalog of hybrid post-Newtonian/numerical-relativity waveforms for non-precessing black-hole binaries
- Ajith, P, Boyle, M, Brown, Dane A, Buchman, L T, Pollney, D
- Authors: Ajith, P , Boyle, M , Brown, Dane A , Buchman, L T , Pollney, D
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6788 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006940
- Description: The Numerical INJection Analysis (NINJA) project is a collaborative effort between members of the numerical relativity and gravitational wave data analysis communities. The purpose of NINJA is to study the sensitivity of existing gravitational-wave search and parameter-estimation algorithms using numerically generated waveforms, and to foster closer collaboration between the numerical relativity and data analysis communities. The first NINJA project used only a small number of injections of short numerical-relativity waveforms, which limited its ability to draw quantitative conclusions. The goal of the NINJA-2 project is to overcome these limitations with long post-Newtonian - numerical relativity hybrid waveforms, large numbers of injections, and the use of real detector data. We report on the submission requirements for the NINJA-2 project and the construction of the waveform catalog. Eight numerical relativity groups have contributed 63 hybrid waveforms consisting of a numerical portion modelling the late inspiral, merger, and ringdown stitched to a post-Newtonian portion modelling the early inspiral. We summarize the techniques used by each group in constructing their submissions. We also report on the procedures used to validate these submissions, including examination in the time and frequency domains and comparisons of waveforms from different groups against each other. These procedures have so far considered only the $(ell,m)=(2,2)$ mode. Based on these studies we judge that the hybrid waveforms are suitable for NINJA-2 studies. We note some of the plans for these investigations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ajith, P , Boyle, M , Brown, Dane A , Buchman, L T , Pollney, D
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6788 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006940
- Description: The Numerical INJection Analysis (NINJA) project is a collaborative effort between members of the numerical relativity and gravitational wave data analysis communities. The purpose of NINJA is to study the sensitivity of existing gravitational-wave search and parameter-estimation algorithms using numerically generated waveforms, and to foster closer collaboration between the numerical relativity and data analysis communities. The first NINJA project used only a small number of injections of short numerical-relativity waveforms, which limited its ability to draw quantitative conclusions. The goal of the NINJA-2 project is to overcome these limitations with long post-Newtonian - numerical relativity hybrid waveforms, large numbers of injections, and the use of real detector data. We report on the submission requirements for the NINJA-2 project and the construction of the waveform catalog. Eight numerical relativity groups have contributed 63 hybrid waveforms consisting of a numerical portion modelling the late inspiral, merger, and ringdown stitched to a post-Newtonian portion modelling the early inspiral. We summarize the techniques used by each group in constructing their submissions. We also report on the procedures used to validate these submissions, including examination in the time and frequency domains and comparisons of waveforms from different groups against each other. These procedures have so far considered only the $(ell,m)=(2,2)$ mode. Based on these studies we judge that the hybrid waveforms are suitable for NINJA-2 studies. We note some of the plans for these investigations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Quantification of the cross-sectoral impacts of waterweeds and their control in Ghana
- Authors: Akpabey, Felix Jerry
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Water hyacinth -- Control -- Environmental aspects -- Ghana Alien plants -- Research -- Ghana Introduced organisms Economic development -- Social aspects -- Research -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5748 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005435
- Description: The Akosombo Dam on the Volta River in Ghana was built in 1963 to provide cheap energy to fuel industry and to accelerate the economic growth of the country. It provides hydroelectric power, enhanced fishing and water transportation upstream, and improved opportunities for irrigated farming, especially in the lower reaches, and their attendant economic multiplier effects. A few years after the construction of this major dam, a rapid expansion of industrialization took place in Ghana. This brought about an exponential increase in demand for more electrical power. This led to the construction of a smaller dam at Akuse, downstream of the Akosomho Dam in 1981 and the formation of a headpond at Kpong. The impoundment of the river at the two sites (Akosombo and Kpong) caused an alteration in the existing ecological and biophysical processes in the river basin, including a slowing of the flow of the river, upstream and downstream. Changes in the natural processes, such as a reduction in the flow of the river and an increase in nutrient status of the water, resulted in an invasion of aquatic weeds, increasing the density of aquatic snails (intermediate hosts of schistosomiasis), silting and closure of the estuary, as well as other more subtle effects. The invasion of the river's main course and the dams by aquatic plants led to a corresponding reduction of navigable water both upstream and downstream. The aim of this thesis was to quantify the impact and control of waterweeds, especially water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae), in Ghana. A floral survey on the Kpong Headpond recorded 49 emergent, 12 free floating and I submerged aquatic plant species, many of which were indigenous, but the exotic or introduced water hyacinth was recorded at most of the sampling sites, and was the most abundant and had the biggest impact on the utilization of the water resource. Mats of water hyacinth served as substrates for other, indigenous species to grow out into the main channel of the headpond, including the intake point of the Kpong head works of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) and landing sites for boats. These mats resulted in a reduction of the fish (fin and shell) harvest, reducing the annual production to far below demand. Water hyacinth was also shown to have severe health implications. A survey of the Ministry of Health records showed that the prevalence of both urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis had risen significantly over time as the abundance of waterweeds, most notably water hyacinth, increased, and ranged between 70% and 75% but up to 100% in some lakeside communities. Based on the work done by an NGO on board the medical boat ("Onipa Nua "), losses in terms of money due to the effect on health of the aquatic weed infestations on the Volta River in 2006 amounted to US$ 620,000. Economic losses due to invasive alien aquatic weeds were also calculated on the Oti River Arm of Lake Volta. It was estimated that about US$2.3 million per annum would be lost to the Volta Lake Transport Company and individual boat transport operators if this section of the river were 100% covered by aquatic weeds (water hyacinth and Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitchell (Salviniaceae)). It was also estimated that US$327,038 was spent annually in monitoring and managing the weeds in the Oti River. Control interventions for aquatic weeds have been implemented in river systems in Ghana. The biological control agents Neochetina bruchi Hustache (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) and Neochetina eichhorniae Warner (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) have been used on water hyacinth infestations in the Oti River Arm of Lake Volta, the Tano River and the Lagoon complex in the south-western part of the country. Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) has been used to control salvinia, and Neohydronomous affinis Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) to control water lettuce, Pistia stratiotes Lilmaeus (Araceae) in the Tano River and Lagoon complex. Although these projects have been regarded as successful, they have relied on research from elsewhere in the world and no postrelease quantification has been conducted. In evaluating the impact of the biological control agents Neochetina bruchi and Neochetina eichhorniae weevils on water hyacinth infestations in the Tano River, fresh adult feeding scars were recorded as well as the numbers of adult weevils on each water hyacinth plant sampled at six sites. Despite being released in 1994, weevil numbers and resultant damage to plants in the Tano Lagoon was low in comparison to other regions of the world where these agents have been used. The main reason for this is that this lagoon floods seasonally, washing weevil-infested plants out to sea. Water hyacinth then re-infests the lagoon from seed and the weevil populations are low. To resolve this situation, two courses of action are proposed. The first is to mass rear the weevils along the shore of the lagoon and release them when the first seedlings recruit. The second proposal is that additional agents that have shorter lifecycies and are more mobile than the weevils should be released. To this end, the water hyacinth mirid, Eccritotarsus catarinensis (Carvalho) (Hemiptera: Miridae) was imported from South Africa and released onto the Tano Lagoon in 2009. Retrospective laboratory host specificity trials were conducted on Neachetina eichharniae and Neachetina bruchi weevils 15 years after their release into Ghana to see if any variation in their host ranges had occurred. Considerable damage was inflicted on the E. crassipes leaves by the Neachetina weevils, while little feeding damage was recorded on both Heteranthera callifalia Kunth. (Pontederiaceae) and Eichharnia natans (P.Beauv.) Solms (Pontederiaceae). All the weevils introduced on H callifalia and E. natans died after the first week. This study served to confirm the host specificity and thereby the safety of these agents. Invasive alien aquatic macrophytes have negative impacts on the environment and economy of Ghana. The control of these weeds is essential to socioeconomic development and improved human health standards in riparian communities. Biological control offers a safe and sustainable control option, but requires diligent implementation. However, aquatic weed invasion is more typically a result of the anthropogenically induced eutrophication of water bodies, and this is the main issue that has to be addressed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Akpabey, Felix Jerry
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Water hyacinth -- Control -- Environmental aspects -- Ghana Alien plants -- Research -- Ghana Introduced organisms Economic development -- Social aspects -- Research -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5748 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005435
- Description: The Akosombo Dam on the Volta River in Ghana was built in 1963 to provide cheap energy to fuel industry and to accelerate the economic growth of the country. It provides hydroelectric power, enhanced fishing and water transportation upstream, and improved opportunities for irrigated farming, especially in the lower reaches, and their attendant economic multiplier effects. A few years after the construction of this major dam, a rapid expansion of industrialization took place in Ghana. This brought about an exponential increase in demand for more electrical power. This led to the construction of a smaller dam at Akuse, downstream of the Akosomho Dam in 1981 and the formation of a headpond at Kpong. The impoundment of the river at the two sites (Akosombo and Kpong) caused an alteration in the existing ecological and biophysical processes in the river basin, including a slowing of the flow of the river, upstream and downstream. Changes in the natural processes, such as a reduction in the flow of the river and an increase in nutrient status of the water, resulted in an invasion of aquatic weeds, increasing the density of aquatic snails (intermediate hosts of schistosomiasis), silting and closure of the estuary, as well as other more subtle effects. The invasion of the river's main course and the dams by aquatic plants led to a corresponding reduction of navigable water both upstream and downstream. The aim of this thesis was to quantify the impact and control of waterweeds, especially water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae), in Ghana. A floral survey on the Kpong Headpond recorded 49 emergent, 12 free floating and I submerged aquatic plant species, many of which were indigenous, but the exotic or introduced water hyacinth was recorded at most of the sampling sites, and was the most abundant and had the biggest impact on the utilization of the water resource. Mats of water hyacinth served as substrates for other, indigenous species to grow out into the main channel of the headpond, including the intake point of the Kpong head works of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) and landing sites for boats. These mats resulted in a reduction of the fish (fin and shell) harvest, reducing the annual production to far below demand. Water hyacinth was also shown to have severe health implications. A survey of the Ministry of Health records showed that the prevalence of both urinary and intestinal schistosomiasis had risen significantly over time as the abundance of waterweeds, most notably water hyacinth, increased, and ranged between 70% and 75% but up to 100% in some lakeside communities. Based on the work done by an NGO on board the medical boat ("Onipa Nua "), losses in terms of money due to the effect on health of the aquatic weed infestations on the Volta River in 2006 amounted to US$ 620,000. Economic losses due to invasive alien aquatic weeds were also calculated on the Oti River Arm of Lake Volta. It was estimated that about US$2.3 million per annum would be lost to the Volta Lake Transport Company and individual boat transport operators if this section of the river were 100% covered by aquatic weeds (water hyacinth and Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitchell (Salviniaceae)). It was also estimated that US$327,038 was spent annually in monitoring and managing the weeds in the Oti River. Control interventions for aquatic weeds have been implemented in river systems in Ghana. The biological control agents Neochetina bruchi Hustache (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) and Neochetina eichhorniae Warner (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) have been used on water hyacinth infestations in the Oti River Arm of Lake Volta, the Tano River and the Lagoon complex in the south-western part of the country. Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) has been used to control salvinia, and Neohydronomous affinis Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) to control water lettuce, Pistia stratiotes Lilmaeus (Araceae) in the Tano River and Lagoon complex. Although these projects have been regarded as successful, they have relied on research from elsewhere in the world and no postrelease quantification has been conducted. In evaluating the impact of the biological control agents Neochetina bruchi and Neochetina eichhorniae weevils on water hyacinth infestations in the Tano River, fresh adult feeding scars were recorded as well as the numbers of adult weevils on each water hyacinth plant sampled at six sites. Despite being released in 1994, weevil numbers and resultant damage to plants in the Tano Lagoon was low in comparison to other regions of the world where these agents have been used. The main reason for this is that this lagoon floods seasonally, washing weevil-infested plants out to sea. Water hyacinth then re-infests the lagoon from seed and the weevil populations are low. To resolve this situation, two courses of action are proposed. The first is to mass rear the weevils along the shore of the lagoon and release them when the first seedlings recruit. The second proposal is that additional agents that have shorter lifecycies and are more mobile than the weevils should be released. To this end, the water hyacinth mirid, Eccritotarsus catarinensis (Carvalho) (Hemiptera: Miridae) was imported from South Africa and released onto the Tano Lagoon in 2009. Retrospective laboratory host specificity trials were conducted on Neachetina eichharniae and Neachetina bruchi weevils 15 years after their release into Ghana to see if any variation in their host ranges had occurred. Considerable damage was inflicted on the E. crassipes leaves by the Neachetina weevils, while little feeding damage was recorded on both Heteranthera callifalia Kunth. (Pontederiaceae) and Eichharnia natans (P.Beauv.) Solms (Pontederiaceae). All the weevils introduced on H callifalia and E. natans died after the first week. This study served to confirm the host specificity and thereby the safety of these agents. Invasive alien aquatic macrophytes have negative impacts on the environment and economy of Ghana. The control of these weeds is essential to socioeconomic development and improved human health standards in riparian communities. Biological control offers a safe and sustainable control option, but requires diligent implementation. However, aquatic weed invasion is more typically a result of the anthropogenically induced eutrophication of water bodies, and this is the main issue that has to be addressed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Creation of clay flameless burner for vaporizing an insect repellent containing pmd as an active ingredient
- Authors: Akwi, Faith Mary
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Insect baits and repellents , Montmorillonite
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10383 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008406 , Insect baits and repellents , Montmorillonite
- Description: Insecticide treated mosquito bed nets, insecticide aerosol sprays, repellent lotions and creams, repellent candles, vaporizable repellent essential oils, mosquito mats and coils are some of the many malaria personal protection tools that are in use. The latter of these measures are the most accessible and affordable options for the rural population in sub-Saharan Africa. It is therefore important to determine how effective these personal protection measures are by determining their ability to efficiently disperse an active ingredient when the protection measure is in use. In this study, a copper II oxide montmorillonite clay burner (CuOMontmorillonite clay burner) was created to vaporize repellent formulations containing various concentrations of p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) as the active ingredient with the aim of determining the percentage of the active ingredient that is released into the air and the rate of release. The performance of the CuO-Montmorillonite clay burner was also compared to that of the Lampe Berger fragrance burner (LBFB). In addition to this, the percentage of PMD released from 6 percentage wt PMD candles of diameters 40mm, 69mm and 83mm was determined and compared to that released when the CuO-Montmorillonite clay burner and Lampe Berger Fragrance burner where used to vaporize PMD repellent formulations. It was found that the rate of vaporization of the various PMD repellent formulations vaporized using the Lampe Berger fragrance burner is affected by the mass of PMD present in the repellent formulations. The 6 percentage wt PMD repellent candles released the least percentage of PMD as compared to that released when the CuO-Montmorillonite clay burner and the Lampe Berger fragrance burner were used to vaporize the PMD repellent formulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Akwi, Faith Mary
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Insect baits and repellents , Montmorillonite
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10383 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008406 , Insect baits and repellents , Montmorillonite
- Description: Insecticide treated mosquito bed nets, insecticide aerosol sprays, repellent lotions and creams, repellent candles, vaporizable repellent essential oils, mosquito mats and coils are some of the many malaria personal protection tools that are in use. The latter of these measures are the most accessible and affordable options for the rural population in sub-Saharan Africa. It is therefore important to determine how effective these personal protection measures are by determining their ability to efficiently disperse an active ingredient when the protection measure is in use. In this study, a copper II oxide montmorillonite clay burner (CuOMontmorillonite clay burner) was created to vaporize repellent formulations containing various concentrations of p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) as the active ingredient with the aim of determining the percentage of the active ingredient that is released into the air and the rate of release. The performance of the CuO-Montmorillonite clay burner was also compared to that of the Lampe Berger fragrance burner (LBFB). In addition to this, the percentage of PMD released from 6 percentage wt PMD candles of diameters 40mm, 69mm and 83mm was determined and compared to that released when the CuO-Montmorillonite clay burner and Lampe Berger Fragrance burner where used to vaporize PMD repellent formulations. It was found that the rate of vaporization of the various PMD repellent formulations vaporized using the Lampe Berger fragrance burner is affected by the mass of PMD present in the repellent formulations. The 6 percentage wt PMD repellent candles released the least percentage of PMD as compared to that released when the CuO-Montmorillonite clay burner and the Lampe Berger fragrance burner were used to vaporize the PMD repellent formulations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The evaluation of an instructional framework using the Van Hiele levels for learning and teaching geometry: a study in five rural senior secondary schools
- Alex, Jogymol Kalariparampil
- Authors: Alex, Jogymol Kalariparampil
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Teaching and learning -- Geometry -- Education (Secondary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D Ed
- Identifier: vital:18470 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1011278
- Description: The Constitution (1996) of the Republic of South Africa forms the basis for social transformation in our new society. The Constitution (Act 108 of 1996) and the amendments that followed provided a basis for curriculum transformation and development in South Africa. The Department of Education introduced the present curriculum known as the National Curriculum Statement, which is modern and internationally benchmarked, in grade 10 in 2006. It required the learners to do seven subjects in grades 10 to 12 of which mathematics or mathematical literacy was prescribed as compulsory subjects. To attain social transformation, the South African Government attached a great deal of importance to the learning and teaching of mathematics and sciences in the South African schools. This study was undertaken in an effort to improve the understanding of geometry and, consequently, the performance and achievement of senior secondary school learners in geometry. The study was inspired by the van Hiele theory. The study made use of the different levels of the van Hiele theory for the development of an instructional framework for geometry in senior secondary schools. The research was conducted in a previously disadvantaged area in South Africa. Given the setting of this study and the wider application of it, the use of ‘hands-on’ and practical approach to use manipulatives and worksheets to improve the geometric understanding was tried and tested in this study. The assumption was that such experiences would make the learning of geometry more relevant and enjoyable for learners from limited financial and underprivileged circumstances. A quasi-experimental design was chosen. A total of 359 learners from five purposively selected schools in Mthatha district in the Eastern Cape Province participated in this study. Qualitative data through interviews were gathered. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS Version 19 and Microsoft Excel. Findings indicated that there was a notable improvement in the performance of learners who were taught by the application of the van Hiele theory. The results revealed that most of the learners were not ready for the application of deductive principles of geometry in terms of formal proof in senior secondary school geometry. Based on the results, some recommendations are made to enhance the teaching and learning of geometry in senior secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Alex, Jogymol Kalariparampil
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Teaching and learning -- Geometry -- Education (Secondary)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D Ed
- Identifier: vital:18470 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1011278
- Description: The Constitution (1996) of the Republic of South Africa forms the basis for social transformation in our new society. The Constitution (Act 108 of 1996) and the amendments that followed provided a basis for curriculum transformation and development in South Africa. The Department of Education introduced the present curriculum known as the National Curriculum Statement, which is modern and internationally benchmarked, in grade 10 in 2006. It required the learners to do seven subjects in grades 10 to 12 of which mathematics or mathematical literacy was prescribed as compulsory subjects. To attain social transformation, the South African Government attached a great deal of importance to the learning and teaching of mathematics and sciences in the South African schools. This study was undertaken in an effort to improve the understanding of geometry and, consequently, the performance and achievement of senior secondary school learners in geometry. The study was inspired by the van Hiele theory. The study made use of the different levels of the van Hiele theory for the development of an instructional framework for geometry in senior secondary schools. The research was conducted in a previously disadvantaged area in South Africa. Given the setting of this study and the wider application of it, the use of ‘hands-on’ and practical approach to use manipulatives and worksheets to improve the geometric understanding was tried and tested in this study. The assumption was that such experiences would make the learning of geometry more relevant and enjoyable for learners from limited financial and underprivileged circumstances. A quasi-experimental design was chosen. A total of 359 learners from five purposively selected schools in Mthatha district in the Eastern Cape Province participated in this study. Qualitative data through interviews were gathered. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS Version 19 and Microsoft Excel. Findings indicated that there was a notable improvement in the performance of learners who were taught by the application of the van Hiele theory. The results revealed that most of the learners were not ready for the application of deductive principles of geometry in terms of formal proof in senior secondary school geometry. Based on the results, some recommendations are made to enhance the teaching and learning of geometry in senior secondary schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Smashing the crystal ball: post-structural insights associated with contemporary anarchism and the revision of blueprint utopianism
- Authors: Alexander, Tarryn Linda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Social change , Utopian socialism -- Philosophy , Utopias -- Philosophy , Anarchism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3311 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003099 , Social change , Utopian socialism -- Philosophy , Utopias -- Philosophy , Anarchism
- Description: This thesis is an exploration of the images which define revolution's meaning. It suggests a possible shifting of emphasis from the scientific imaginary which centres on identifying the correct way to totalising revolution, towards a post-structuralist-anarchistic imaginary which privileges prefigurative radicalisations of social relations in the here and now. It looks specifically at how the field of post-structuralism intertwines with historically anarchist concepts to generate an horizon of social change animated by experimental and open-ended transformations. While the thesis offers positive characterisations of the types of contemporary movements, tactics and principles which embody the change from closed to open utopianism, it is chiefly a commentary on the role of theory in depicting the complexity of relations on the ground and the danger of proposing one totalising pathway from one state of society to another. It asks the reader to consider, given the achievements of movements and given the insights of post-structuralism, whether it is still worthwhile to proclaim certainty when sketching the possibilities for transcendence toward emancipation, an aim, which in itself, is always under construction. I engage this by firstly establishing a practical foundation for the critique of endpoints in theory by exploring the horizontal and prefigurative nature of a few autonomous movements today. Secondly I propose the contemporary theory of post-structuralist anarchism as concomitant with conclusions about transformation made in the first chapter. Finally I recommend a few initial concepts to start debate about the way forward from old objectivist models of transformation. The uncertainties of daily life, crumbling of economic powers and rapid pace of change in the twenty-first century have opened up fantastic spaces for innovative thought. Reconsidering old consensus around what constitutes a desirable image of revolution is of considerable importance given today's burgeoning bottom-up political energy and the global debate surrounding the possibilities for bottom-up revolutionisation of society. I submit that theories which portray stories of permanent, pure and natural end-points to revolution are deficient justifications for radical action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Alexander, Tarryn Linda
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Social change , Utopian socialism -- Philosophy , Utopias -- Philosophy , Anarchism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: vital:3311 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003099 , Social change , Utopian socialism -- Philosophy , Utopias -- Philosophy , Anarchism
- Description: This thesis is an exploration of the images which define revolution's meaning. It suggests a possible shifting of emphasis from the scientific imaginary which centres on identifying the correct way to totalising revolution, towards a post-structuralist-anarchistic imaginary which privileges prefigurative radicalisations of social relations in the here and now. It looks specifically at how the field of post-structuralism intertwines with historically anarchist concepts to generate an horizon of social change animated by experimental and open-ended transformations. While the thesis offers positive characterisations of the types of contemporary movements, tactics and principles which embody the change from closed to open utopianism, it is chiefly a commentary on the role of theory in depicting the complexity of relations on the ground and the danger of proposing one totalising pathway from one state of society to another. It asks the reader to consider, given the achievements of movements and given the insights of post-structuralism, whether it is still worthwhile to proclaim certainty when sketching the possibilities for transcendence toward emancipation, an aim, which in itself, is always under construction. I engage this by firstly establishing a practical foundation for the critique of endpoints in theory by exploring the horizontal and prefigurative nature of a few autonomous movements today. Secondly I propose the contemporary theory of post-structuralist anarchism as concomitant with conclusions about transformation made in the first chapter. Finally I recommend a few initial concepts to start debate about the way forward from old objectivist models of transformation. The uncertainties of daily life, crumbling of economic powers and rapid pace of change in the twenty-first century have opened up fantastic spaces for innovative thought. Reconsidering old consensus around what constitutes a desirable image of revolution is of considerable importance given today's burgeoning bottom-up political energy and the global debate surrounding the possibilities for bottom-up revolutionisation of society. I submit that theories which portray stories of permanent, pure and natural end-points to revolution are deficient justifications for radical action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Participatory mapping, learning and change in the context of biocultural diversity and resilience
- Authors: Ali, Million Belay
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Biodiversity conservation -- Research -- Ethiopia Cultural pluralism -- Research -- Ethiopia Ethnopsychology -- Research -- Ethiopia Adult education -- Research -- Ethiopia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003572
- Description: This study set out to investigate the learning and change that emerged in and through participatory mapping in the context of biocultural diversity and resilience in rural Ethiopia. It did this through examining the learning and agency emerging from three participatory mapping practices (Participatory 3 Dimensional Modelling, sketch mapping and eco-cultural calendars) using two case study sites, located in the Bale Mountains and the Foata Mountains in Ethiopia, and honing in on in-depth reflective processes in two community contexts located within the broader case study sites, namely Horo Soba, Dinsho wereda in Bale; and Telecho, in Wolmera wereda, in the Foata Mountain complex. This study tried to answer three research questions related to participatory mapping: its role in mobilizing knowledge related to biocultural landscape, its role in learning and change, and its value in building resilience. The study used qualitative case study research methodology underpinned by critical realist philosophy, and used photographic ‘cues’ to structure the reporting on the cases. It used four categories of analysis: biocultural diversity, educational processes, learning and agency, in the first instance to report on the interactions associated with the participatory mapping practices as they emerged in the two case study sites. This was followed by in-depth analysis and interpretation of participatory mapping and biocultural diversity, as well as participatory mapping and learning, with an emphasis on acquisition, meaning making and identity formation processes. The in-depth analysis drew on social and learning theory, and theory of biocultural diversity and social-ecological resilience. The study also included analysis of broader change processes that were related to and emerged from the social interactions in the mapping activities, and the resultant morphogenesis (change), showing that morphogenesis, while broadly temporal, is not linear, and involves ‘little iterative morphogenic cycles’. These insights were then used to interpret how participatory mapping may contribute to resilience building in a context where social-ecological resilience is increasingly required, such as the two case study sites, where socialecological degradation is highly visible and is occurring rapidly. The study’s contribution to new knowledge lies in relation to the role of participatory mapping in facilitating learning, agency and change which, to date, appears to be under-theorised and under-developed in the participatory mapping and environmental education literature. As such, the study findings provide in-depth insight into how participatory mapping methodologies may ‘work in the world’, in contexts such as those presented in the two cases under study. It has tried to demonstrate how participatory mapping has managed to mobilize knowledge related to biocultural diversity, facilitated the acquisition of knowledge and helped members of the community to engage in meaning making activities relevant to their biocultural landscape and renegotiate their identity within the wider community context. It has also shown that dissonance is an important dynamic in the learning process; and that morphogenesis (or change) occurs over time, but also in smaller cycles that interact at different levels; and that participatory mapping cannot, by itself mobilise significant structural change, at least in the short term. It has also shown, however, that learning and the desire for change can emerge from participatory mapping processes, and that this can be utilized to adapt to the changing socio-ecological environments, potentially contributing to longer term resilience of social-ecological systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Ali, Million Belay
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Biodiversity conservation -- Research -- Ethiopia Cultural pluralism -- Research -- Ethiopia Ethnopsychology -- Research -- Ethiopia Adult education -- Research -- Ethiopia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1689 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003572
- Description: This study set out to investigate the learning and change that emerged in and through participatory mapping in the context of biocultural diversity and resilience in rural Ethiopia. It did this through examining the learning and agency emerging from three participatory mapping practices (Participatory 3 Dimensional Modelling, sketch mapping and eco-cultural calendars) using two case study sites, located in the Bale Mountains and the Foata Mountains in Ethiopia, and honing in on in-depth reflective processes in two community contexts located within the broader case study sites, namely Horo Soba, Dinsho wereda in Bale; and Telecho, in Wolmera wereda, in the Foata Mountain complex. This study tried to answer three research questions related to participatory mapping: its role in mobilizing knowledge related to biocultural landscape, its role in learning and change, and its value in building resilience. The study used qualitative case study research methodology underpinned by critical realist philosophy, and used photographic ‘cues’ to structure the reporting on the cases. It used four categories of analysis: biocultural diversity, educational processes, learning and agency, in the first instance to report on the interactions associated with the participatory mapping practices as they emerged in the two case study sites. This was followed by in-depth analysis and interpretation of participatory mapping and biocultural diversity, as well as participatory mapping and learning, with an emphasis on acquisition, meaning making and identity formation processes. The in-depth analysis drew on social and learning theory, and theory of biocultural diversity and social-ecological resilience. The study also included analysis of broader change processes that were related to and emerged from the social interactions in the mapping activities, and the resultant morphogenesis (change), showing that morphogenesis, while broadly temporal, is not linear, and involves ‘little iterative morphogenic cycles’. These insights were then used to interpret how participatory mapping may contribute to resilience building in a context where social-ecological resilience is increasingly required, such as the two case study sites, where socialecological degradation is highly visible and is occurring rapidly. The study’s contribution to new knowledge lies in relation to the role of participatory mapping in facilitating learning, agency and change which, to date, appears to be under-theorised and under-developed in the participatory mapping and environmental education literature. As such, the study findings provide in-depth insight into how participatory mapping methodologies may ‘work in the world’, in contexts such as those presented in the two cases under study. It has tried to demonstrate how participatory mapping has managed to mobilize knowledge related to biocultural diversity, facilitated the acquisition of knowledge and helped members of the community to engage in meaning making activities relevant to their biocultural landscape and renegotiate their identity within the wider community context. It has also shown that dissonance is an important dynamic in the learning process; and that morphogenesis (or change) occurs over time, but also in smaller cycles that interact at different levels; and that participatory mapping cannot, by itself mobilise significant structural change, at least in the short term. It has also shown, however, that learning and the desire for change can emerge from participatory mapping processes, and that this can be utilized to adapt to the changing socio-ecological environments, potentially contributing to longer term resilience of social-ecological systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Investigation of the performance of photovoltaic systems
- Authors: Alistoun, Warren James
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Photovoltaic power systems -- South Africa , Photovoltaic power generation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10517 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008396 , Photovoltaic power systems -- South Africa , Photovoltaic power generation -- South Africa
- Description: The main objective of this study was to investigate the performance of grid integrated PV systems. A data acquisition (DAQ) system was developed to monitor the performance of an existing grid integrated PV system with battery storage. This system is referred to as a grid assisted PV system. A data logger was used together with the inverters built in data logger to monitor environmental and electrical data on a grid tie PV system which was deployed during this study. To investigate the performance of these grid integrated PV systems PV and BOS device characterization was performed. This was achieved by using current voltage curve tracers and the DAQ system developed. Energy yield estimations were calculated referring to the literature review and a meteorological reference for comparison with measured energy yields from the grid tie PV system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Alistoun, Warren James
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Photovoltaic power systems -- South Africa , Photovoltaic power generation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10517 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008396 , Photovoltaic power systems -- South Africa , Photovoltaic power generation -- South Africa
- Description: The main objective of this study was to investigate the performance of grid integrated PV systems. A data acquisition (DAQ) system was developed to monitor the performance of an existing grid integrated PV system with battery storage. This system is referred to as a grid assisted PV system. A data logger was used together with the inverters built in data logger to monitor environmental and electrical data on a grid tie PV system which was deployed during this study. To investigate the performance of these grid integrated PV systems PV and BOS device characterization was performed. This was achieved by using current voltage curve tracers and the DAQ system developed. Energy yield estimations were calculated referring to the literature review and a meteorological reference for comparison with measured energy yields from the grid tie PV system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Suicide - a global overview and focus on the South African situation
- Authors: Alonso-Betancourt, O
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Suicide and Epilepsy Suicide -- South Africa Suicide -- Assessment -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1067 , vital:30560
- Description: As a medical doctor you learn how to deal with death and you feel that your duty is to encourage people to fight against illness for their lives but, when you face suicide, you feel defenseless because it is the person him or herself who chooses to die. Another reason for choosing this topic is that I’m advocating the development and implementation of a Suicide Prevention Program in South Africa and this could be a good forum to talk about this important issue.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Alonso-Betancourt, O
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Suicide and Epilepsy Suicide -- South Africa Suicide -- Assessment -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1067 , vital:30560
- Description: As a medical doctor you learn how to deal with death and you feel that your duty is to encourage people to fight against illness for their lives but, when you face suicide, you feel defenseless because it is the person him or herself who chooses to die. Another reason for choosing this topic is that I’m advocating the development and implementation of a Suicide Prevention Program in South Africa and this could be a good forum to talk about this important issue.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Appraisal of community-based childcare practices in rural Malawi: the case of Malili traditional authority area, Lilongwe District
- Authors: Alufandika, Dina
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Tribal government -- Malawi , Child welfare -- Malawi , Child development -- Malawi , Child care services -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Rural development -- Malawi , Malawi -- Social policy , Lilongwe (Malawi)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005968 , Tribal government -- Malawi , Child welfare -- Malawi , Child development -- Malawi , Child care services -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Rural development -- Malawi , Malawi -- Social policy , Lilongwe (Malawi)
- Description: The government of Malawi established the community based childcare (CBCC) programme with the aim of addressing early childhood problems and achieve national development in the long run. The CBCC programme, as one of the approaches to early childhood development (ECD), is guided by the national early childhood development policy. It promotes some practices that somehow deviate from the traditional childcare ways that communities have always known. Experience has shown that programmes that have elements of conflict with commonly held beliefs are bound to meet with resistance in society. The study employed a mini survey, focus group discussion, observation and document review to understand how the CBCC childcare practices in Malili intersect with commonly held beliefs about childcare as well as how they reflect on the national ECD policy. The study also focused on understanding the perceptions of community members on the CBCC programme. The study revealed that while some aspects of CBCC delivery conform to commonly held beliefs about childcare in the area under study, others diverge from such beliefs. Such convergence and divergence appear to be in line with the propositions of transformalist globalisation theory- one of the perspectives adopted for the study. The study also found that care practices at CBCC are not a true reflection of the national ECD policy as community members’ perceptions, poor community participation, poverty and lack of caregiver training in ECD contribute towards poor quality of care in CBCC, contrary to what is defined in the national ECD policy. The study also found that while both CBCC caregivers and sampled community members perceived the quality of care at the centers as poor, caregivers had a more positive perception towards the CBCC than community members. The study indicated that CBCC are centres of desperation for low economic status communities. Findings from the research have revealed that cultural values and commonly held beliefs, and exposure to new knowledge through globalisation play a role in determining childcare practices as well as perceptions towards them. In this sense the study has indicated that meanings that communities attach to development interventions influence their actions and perceptions towards it.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Alufandika, Dina
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Tribal government -- Malawi , Child welfare -- Malawi , Child development -- Malawi , Child care services -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Rural development -- Malawi , Malawi -- Social policy , Lilongwe (Malawi)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: vital:11945 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005968 , Tribal government -- Malawi , Child welfare -- Malawi , Child development -- Malawi , Child care services -- Malawi , Community development -- Malawi , Rural development -- Malawi , Malawi -- Social policy , Lilongwe (Malawi)
- Description: The government of Malawi established the community based childcare (CBCC) programme with the aim of addressing early childhood problems and achieve national development in the long run. The CBCC programme, as one of the approaches to early childhood development (ECD), is guided by the national early childhood development policy. It promotes some practices that somehow deviate from the traditional childcare ways that communities have always known. Experience has shown that programmes that have elements of conflict with commonly held beliefs are bound to meet with resistance in society. The study employed a mini survey, focus group discussion, observation and document review to understand how the CBCC childcare practices in Malili intersect with commonly held beliefs about childcare as well as how they reflect on the national ECD policy. The study also focused on understanding the perceptions of community members on the CBCC programme. The study revealed that while some aspects of CBCC delivery conform to commonly held beliefs about childcare in the area under study, others diverge from such beliefs. Such convergence and divergence appear to be in line with the propositions of transformalist globalisation theory- one of the perspectives adopted for the study. The study also found that care practices at CBCC are not a true reflection of the national ECD policy as community members’ perceptions, poor community participation, poverty and lack of caregiver training in ECD contribute towards poor quality of care in CBCC, contrary to what is defined in the national ECD policy. The study also found that while both CBCC caregivers and sampled community members perceived the quality of care at the centers as poor, caregivers had a more positive perception towards the CBCC than community members. The study indicated that CBCC are centres of desperation for low economic status communities. Findings from the research have revealed that cultural values and commonly held beliefs, and exposure to new knowledge through globalisation play a role in determining childcare practices as well as perceptions towards them. In this sense the study has indicated that meanings that communities attach to development interventions influence their actions and perceptions towards it.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Multi-instrument observations of ionospheric irregularities over South Africa
- Authors: Amabayo, Emirant Bertillas
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Ionosphere -- Research , Sudden ionospheric disturbances , Ionospheric storms , Solar activity , Sunspots
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5476 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005261 , Ionosphere -- Research , Sudden ionospheric disturbances , Ionospheric storms , Solar activity , Sunspots
- Description: The occurrence of mid-latitude spread F (SF) over South Africa has not been extensively studied since the installation of the DPS-4 digisondes at Madimbo (30.88◦E, 22.38◦S), Grahamstown (33.32◦S, 26.50◦E) and Louisvale (28.51◦S, 21.24◦E). This study is intended to quantify the probability of the occurrence of F region disturbances associated with ionospheric spread F (SF) and L-band scintillation over South Africa. This study used available ionosonde data for 8 years (2000-2008) from the three South African stations. The SF events were identified manually on ionograms and grouped for further statistical analysis into frequency SF (FSF), range SF (RSF) and mixed SF (MSF). The results show that the diurnal pattern of SF occurrence peaks strongly between 23:00 and 00:00 UT. This pattern is true for all seasons and types of SF at Madimbo and Grahamstown during 2001 and 2005, except for RSF which had peaks during autumn and spring during 2001 at Madimbo. The probability of both MSF and FSF tends to increase with decreasing sunspot number (SSN), with a peak in 2005 (a moderate solar activity period). The seasonal peaks of MSF and FSF are more frequent during winter months at both Madimbo and Grahamstown. In this study SF was evident in ∼ 0.03% and ∼ 0.06% of the available ionograms at Madimbo and Grahamstown respectively during the eight year period. The presence of ionospheric irregularities associated with SF and scintillation was investigated using data from selected Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver stations distributed across South Africa. The results, based on GPS total electron content (TEC) and ionosonde measurements, show that SF over this region can most likely be attributed to travelling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs), caused by gravity waves (GWs) and neutral wind composition changes. The GWs were mostly associated with geomagnetic storms and sub-storms that occurred during periods of high and moderate solar activity (2001-2005). SF occurrence during the low solar activity period (2006-2008)can probably be attributed to neutral wind composition changes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Amabayo, Emirant Bertillas
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Ionosphere -- Research , Sudden ionospheric disturbances , Ionospheric storms , Solar activity , Sunspots
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5476 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005261 , Ionosphere -- Research , Sudden ionospheric disturbances , Ionospheric storms , Solar activity , Sunspots
- Description: The occurrence of mid-latitude spread F (SF) over South Africa has not been extensively studied since the installation of the DPS-4 digisondes at Madimbo (30.88◦E, 22.38◦S), Grahamstown (33.32◦S, 26.50◦E) and Louisvale (28.51◦S, 21.24◦E). This study is intended to quantify the probability of the occurrence of F region disturbances associated with ionospheric spread F (SF) and L-band scintillation over South Africa. This study used available ionosonde data for 8 years (2000-2008) from the three South African stations. The SF events were identified manually on ionograms and grouped for further statistical analysis into frequency SF (FSF), range SF (RSF) and mixed SF (MSF). The results show that the diurnal pattern of SF occurrence peaks strongly between 23:00 and 00:00 UT. This pattern is true for all seasons and types of SF at Madimbo and Grahamstown during 2001 and 2005, except for RSF which had peaks during autumn and spring during 2001 at Madimbo. The probability of both MSF and FSF tends to increase with decreasing sunspot number (SSN), with a peak in 2005 (a moderate solar activity period). The seasonal peaks of MSF and FSF are more frequent during winter months at both Madimbo and Grahamstown. In this study SF was evident in ∼ 0.03% and ∼ 0.06% of the available ionograms at Madimbo and Grahamstown respectively during the eight year period. The presence of ionospheric irregularities associated with SF and scintillation was investigated using data from selected Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver stations distributed across South Africa. The results, based on GPS total electron content (TEC) and ionosonde measurements, show that SF over this region can most likely be attributed to travelling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs), caused by gravity waves (GWs) and neutral wind composition changes. The GWs were mostly associated with geomagnetic storms and sub-storms that occurred during periods of high and moderate solar activity (2001-2005). SF occurrence during the low solar activity period (2006-2008)can probably be attributed to neutral wind composition changes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Perspectives on China's rise in Namibia: the effects on foreign policy and domestic politics
- Amadhila, Nelago Ndapandula Ndanyanyukwa
- Authors: Amadhila, Nelago Ndapandula Ndanyanyukwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Namibia -- Relations -- China China -- Relations -- Namibia Namibia -- Politics and government -- Chinese influences Namibia -- Economic conditions -- Chinese influences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2758 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002968
- Description: This thesis analyses the different levels at which China’s presence in Namibia affects Namibia’s domestic politics and foreign policy from a constructivist viewpoint. Constructivist theory is used to examine the different perceptions of the Chinese in Namibia and how these inform Namibian politics and Sino-Namibian relations. These perceptions are formed at different levels of society in formal and informal relations, state-to-state, state-to-business,business-to-business and individual-to-group relations. The way in which perceptions of Chinese involvement in Namibia at the grassroots level of society differ from those at the top increasingly has an effect on domestic Namibian politics and, as such, Sino-Namibian relations. This identifies official and non-official perceptions of China’s political, economic and social presence to determine the effects of grassroots on China vis-à-vis official perceptions in Namibian politics and the effects of grassroots views on Namibian politics and on official views and state behaviour towards China and China’s presence in the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Amadhila, Nelago Ndapandula Ndanyanyukwa
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Namibia -- Relations -- China China -- Relations -- Namibia Namibia -- Politics and government -- Chinese influences Namibia -- Economic conditions -- Chinese influences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2758 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002968
- Description: This thesis analyses the different levels at which China’s presence in Namibia affects Namibia’s domestic politics and foreign policy from a constructivist viewpoint. Constructivist theory is used to examine the different perceptions of the Chinese in Namibia and how these inform Namibian politics and Sino-Namibian relations. These perceptions are formed at different levels of society in formal and informal relations, state-to-state, state-to-business,business-to-business and individual-to-group relations. The way in which perceptions of Chinese involvement in Namibia at the grassroots level of society differ from those at the top increasingly has an effect on domestic Namibian politics and, as such, Sino-Namibian relations. This identifies official and non-official perceptions of China’s political, economic and social presence to determine the effects of grassroots on China vis-à-vis official perceptions in Namibian politics and the effects of grassroots views on Namibian politics and on official views and state behaviour towards China and China’s presence in the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Trends and volatility in residential property prices in South Africa
- Authors: Anyikwa, Izunna Chima
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9012 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018221
- Description: This study sought to empirically investigate trends and volatility in residential property prices in South Africa using quarterly data over the period 1980Q1 to 2011Q4. The empirical analysis uses a range of unit root and stationarity tests as well as a number of ARCH-family of models. The results from the trend analysis suggest that the behaviour of house prices in South Africa follows a random walk process. The randomness in the behaviour of house prices could be attributed to permanent effect of shock. Investigation into the dynamic behaviour of the house prices supports the existence of conditional volatility that is time-varying and highly persistent. Moreover, volatility is found to be asymmetric in news suggesting evidence of anti-leverage effects. These findings have important portfolio implications especially, considering the fact that large-scale losses are possible if house prices exhibit the type of persistent in behaviour as captured in this study. Also, the existence of asymmetric effects in volatility suggests that more caution needs to be placed on news arrival as they may have significant impacts on the house price behaviour. Accordingly, this study suggests the need for residential property market to be treated like other asset markets with regards to risk.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Anyikwa, Izunna Chima
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:9012 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018221
- Description: This study sought to empirically investigate trends and volatility in residential property prices in South Africa using quarterly data over the period 1980Q1 to 2011Q4. The empirical analysis uses a range of unit root and stationarity tests as well as a number of ARCH-family of models. The results from the trend analysis suggest that the behaviour of house prices in South Africa follows a random walk process. The randomness in the behaviour of house prices could be attributed to permanent effect of shock. Investigation into the dynamic behaviour of the house prices supports the existence of conditional volatility that is time-varying and highly persistent. Moreover, volatility is found to be asymmetric in news suggesting evidence of anti-leverage effects. These findings have important portfolio implications especially, considering the fact that large-scale losses are possible if house prices exhibit the type of persistent in behaviour as captured in this study. Also, the existence of asymmetric effects in volatility suggests that more caution needs to be placed on news arrival as they may have significant impacts on the house price behaviour. Accordingly, this study suggests the need for residential property market to be treated like other asset markets with regards to risk.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Investigating the incorporation of education about, in/through and for the environment in the Geography junior phase curriculum: a case study of three Namibian schools
- Authors: Anyolo, Eveline Omagano
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Namibia -- Case studies Education, Primary -- Curricula -- Namibia Geography teachers -- Namibia -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1594 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003476
- Description: This study was carried out to investigate how education about, in/through and for the environment is incorporated in the Namibian Geography Junior Phase curriculum in three schools in Oshana Education Region. Education about, in/through and for the environment are three forms of environmental education identified by Fien (1998). This study is a qualitative, interpretive case study. It reviews the activities, content knowledge, methods, competencies and resources and describes how they were used by teachers in fostering education about, in/through and for the environment in the curriculum. Data was generated through document analysis, observations and semi-structured interviews. The results were interpreted and discussed in relation to the research question which is: How is education about, in/through and for the environment incorporated in the Geography Junior Phase curriculum? Key findings of the study suggested that teachers incorporated education about, in/through and for the environment in their teaching. Teachers used the prescribed syllabus to structure their environmental learning lessons. Most methods, resources and activities used by the teachers promoted education about the environment. The study also found that most types of knowledge about the environment were covered by the teachers. This enabled learners to examine the complexity and interrelatedness of natural systems. The study found that the way the resources were used exclusively supported education about the environment. Linking learning to local context in this study encouraged education in/through the environment and enhanced the learning process through real life experience. The study also found that, although teachers taught their learners for the environment, they did not empower them in taking actions towards environmental problems. Based on the insights offered by this research, the study identified further support required by teachers and made recommendations for effective incorporation of about, in/through andfor the environment in the curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Anyolo, Eveline Omagano
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Namibia -- Case studies Education, Primary -- Curricula -- Namibia Geography teachers -- Namibia -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1594 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003476
- Description: This study was carried out to investigate how education about, in/through and for the environment is incorporated in the Namibian Geography Junior Phase curriculum in three schools in Oshana Education Region. Education about, in/through and for the environment are three forms of environmental education identified by Fien (1998). This study is a qualitative, interpretive case study. It reviews the activities, content knowledge, methods, competencies and resources and describes how they were used by teachers in fostering education about, in/through and for the environment in the curriculum. Data was generated through document analysis, observations and semi-structured interviews. The results were interpreted and discussed in relation to the research question which is: How is education about, in/through and for the environment incorporated in the Geography Junior Phase curriculum? Key findings of the study suggested that teachers incorporated education about, in/through and for the environment in their teaching. Teachers used the prescribed syllabus to structure their environmental learning lessons. Most methods, resources and activities used by the teachers promoted education about the environment. The study also found that most types of knowledge about the environment were covered by the teachers. This enabled learners to examine the complexity and interrelatedness of natural systems. The study found that the way the resources were used exclusively supported education about the environment. Linking learning to local context in this study encouraged education in/through the environment and enhanced the learning process through real life experience. The study also found that, although teachers taught their learners for the environment, they did not empower them in taking actions towards environmental problems. Based on the insights offered by this research, the study identified further support required by teachers and made recommendations for effective incorporation of about, in/through andfor the environment in the curriculum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Women leadership: a case study in the Otjozondjupa Region, Namibia
- Authors: Araes, Cornelia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Women -- Education (Primary) -- Namibia Leadership in women -- Education (Primary) -- Namibia Management -- Education (Primary) -- Namibia Educational leadership -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1825 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003711
- Description: Empowerment of women in leadership and in particular, school leadership has been the focus of the Namibian government and the country since independence in 1990. Different policies and laws, post‐independence, make provision for women empowerment and leadership in a range of organisations and institutions throughout the country. However, reports on gender equity in leadership positions suggest that Namibia is not really moving towards these policy goals at a sufficiently quick pace. A lot still needs to be achieved in terms of transforming the gender stereotyping in Namibia, which still suffers from the legacy of gender discrimination of the apartheid era. Modern‐day academic authors and journalists portray an increasing interest in an awareness of the advantages of women leadership. Women are increasingly perceived to have leadership styles more suitable for contemporary conditions than men. It is against this backdrop that this study sought to investigate women leadership in the Otjiwarongo circuit in the Otjozondjupa educational region in Namibia. The study used a qualitative, interpretive research paradigm. It adopted a case study approach. The primary participants consisted of four women principals in the Otjiwarongo circuit and the secondary participants included four women education officers from the same circuit. Semi‐structured interviews, a focus group interview and observation were applied as methods for collecting data and the data collection period was just over six weeks. Data analysis was done through coding and identification of categories. The findings revealed that women principals possessed the qualities of commitment, good communication and are passionate about their work, which are qualities normally associated with effective leadership. In terms of their role in their schools, they emerged as democratic leaders who involved all stakeholders in the decision making process through consensus. In addition, they demonstrated distributive and servant leadership in their interactions with stakeholders. The main challenge to the leadership position of these women principals seemed to be the stereotypical view held, that as women, they had to work twice as hard as men at leading schools. The study recommended that people oriented leadership styles, such as the ones enacted by the women principals in this study, are highly recommended for effective leadership in the 21st century.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Araes, Cornelia
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Women -- Education (Primary) -- Namibia Leadership in women -- Education (Primary) -- Namibia Management -- Education (Primary) -- Namibia Educational leadership -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1825 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003711
- Description: Empowerment of women in leadership and in particular, school leadership has been the focus of the Namibian government and the country since independence in 1990. Different policies and laws, post‐independence, make provision for women empowerment and leadership in a range of organisations and institutions throughout the country. However, reports on gender equity in leadership positions suggest that Namibia is not really moving towards these policy goals at a sufficiently quick pace. A lot still needs to be achieved in terms of transforming the gender stereotyping in Namibia, which still suffers from the legacy of gender discrimination of the apartheid era. Modern‐day academic authors and journalists portray an increasing interest in an awareness of the advantages of women leadership. Women are increasingly perceived to have leadership styles more suitable for contemporary conditions than men. It is against this backdrop that this study sought to investigate women leadership in the Otjiwarongo circuit in the Otjozondjupa educational region in Namibia. The study used a qualitative, interpretive research paradigm. It adopted a case study approach. The primary participants consisted of four women principals in the Otjiwarongo circuit and the secondary participants included four women education officers from the same circuit. Semi‐structured interviews, a focus group interview and observation were applied as methods for collecting data and the data collection period was just over six weeks. Data analysis was done through coding and identification of categories. The findings revealed that women principals possessed the qualities of commitment, good communication and are passionate about their work, which are qualities normally associated with effective leadership. In terms of their role in their schools, they emerged as democratic leaders who involved all stakeholders in the decision making process through consensus. In addition, they demonstrated distributive and servant leadership in their interactions with stakeholders. The main challenge to the leadership position of these women principals seemed to be the stereotypical view held, that as women, they had to work twice as hard as men at leading schools. The study recommended that people oriented leadership styles, such as the ones enacted by the women principals in this study, are highly recommended for effective leadership in the 21st century.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Performance of defensive shares on the JSE during financial crisis: evidence from analysis of returns and volatility
- Authors: Arguile, Wayne Peter
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Industries -- South Africa -- Finance Industries -- South Africa -- Statistics Johannesburg Stock Exchange Rational expectations (Economic theory)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1001 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002736
- Description: This study analyses whether historically defensive sectors on the JSE have – with respect to the market – proven to be defensive during the recent global financial crisis. By withstanding the shocks of market volatility, defensive industries (such as pharmaceuticals and consumer staples) are renowned for their consistent performance throughout the business cycle. Using daily data for the period 2000–2009, the study compares the descriptive statistics of sector returns before and during the crisis. The volatility of each sector relative to the market index is calculated using the CAPM beta and a simplified volatility ratio. The same comparison is extended to the conditional volatilities of each of the sectors, which is estimated using the GARCH model and two of its extensions: the EGARCH and GJR GARCH models. While no sector experienced a positive mean return during the financial crisis, Healthcare, Consumer Goods, Consumer Services and Industrials all proved less volatile than the market. Surprisingly, Telecommunications proved more volatile than the market and experienced leverage effects during the financial crisis. Since the timing of a recession is difficult to predict, defensive securities were found to be a useful investment tool for protection against adverse movements in the stock market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Arguile, Wayne Peter
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Industries -- South Africa -- Finance Industries -- South Africa -- Statistics Johannesburg Stock Exchange Rational expectations (Economic theory)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1001 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002736
- Description: This study analyses whether historically defensive sectors on the JSE have – with respect to the market – proven to be defensive during the recent global financial crisis. By withstanding the shocks of market volatility, defensive industries (such as pharmaceuticals and consumer staples) are renowned for their consistent performance throughout the business cycle. Using daily data for the period 2000–2009, the study compares the descriptive statistics of sector returns before and during the crisis. The volatility of each sector relative to the market index is calculated using the CAPM beta and a simplified volatility ratio. The same comparison is extended to the conditional volatilities of each of the sectors, which is estimated using the GARCH model and two of its extensions: the EGARCH and GJR GARCH models. While no sector experienced a positive mean return during the financial crisis, Healthcare, Consumer Goods, Consumer Services and Industrials all proved less volatile than the market. Surprisingly, Telecommunications proved more volatile than the market and experienced leverage effects during the financial crisis. Since the timing of a recession is difficult to predict, defensive securities were found to be a useful investment tool for protection against adverse movements in the stock market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A comparative study of the language, mathematics and science literacy knowledge and skills of grade 9 learners in secondary schools in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Arnolds, Keith Victor
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Comparative education , Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016062
- Description: In South Africa, on-going concerns surrounding the development of learners’ literacy, mathematics and science skills are evident and drive various research studies in this field. International studies and assessments, such as the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) show major differences in the proficiency levels of learners in South Africa in comparison with their international counter parts. To date, however, the more comprehensive international standardised assessment called the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), has not been administered in South Africa. The main aim of this research study was to investigate and scientifically explore the real situation in terms of language, mathematics and science literacy knowledge and skills of Grade 9 learners in South Africa and to draw a comparison between Grade 9 learners from secondary schools in the Port Elizabeth district in South Africa and their international counterparts, using the PISA standardised international assessment. In addition, the aim of the study was to determine the actual language, mathematics and science literacy skills and knowledge acquired by participants in this study. Quantitative data collection was done by administering a modified version of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) to learners from eight schools in Port Elizabeth, supplemented with questionnaires completed by participating learners and school principals. Findings revealed that the South African learners sampled, ranked in the bottom percentile of participating countries in reading, mathematics and science. The study also exposed the glaring inequalities still prevalent in South African education today, 17 years into democracy. The implications point to a serious investigation into the societal and political factors responsible for the discrepancies in the South African educational system at present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Arnolds, Keith Victor
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Educational tests and measurements -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Comparative education , Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Science -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DEd
- Identifier: vital:9566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016062
- Description: In South Africa, on-going concerns surrounding the development of learners’ literacy, mathematics and science skills are evident and drive various research studies in this field. International studies and assessments, such as the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) show major differences in the proficiency levels of learners in South Africa in comparison with their international counter parts. To date, however, the more comprehensive international standardised assessment called the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), has not been administered in South Africa. The main aim of this research study was to investigate and scientifically explore the real situation in terms of language, mathematics and science literacy knowledge and skills of Grade 9 learners in South Africa and to draw a comparison between Grade 9 learners from secondary schools in the Port Elizabeth district in South Africa and their international counterparts, using the PISA standardised international assessment. In addition, the aim of the study was to determine the actual language, mathematics and science literacy skills and knowledge acquired by participants in this study. Quantitative data collection was done by administering a modified version of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) to learners from eight schools in Port Elizabeth, supplemented with questionnaires completed by participating learners and school principals. Findings revealed that the South African learners sampled, ranked in the bottom percentile of participating countries in reading, mathematics and science. The study also exposed the glaring inequalities still prevalent in South African education today, 17 years into democracy. The implications point to a serious investigation into the societal and political factors responsible for the discrepancies in the South African educational system at present.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Implications of food value chain support structures for water resource management by smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Arowolo, Steven Alaba
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm produce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11181 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001027 , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm produce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Smallholder agriculture is faced with so many challenges despite all the policies and programmes that have been channelled towards ensuring improvement in this sector. Improving smallholder agricultural productivity requires that smallholder farmers gain access to reliable and adequate farmer support services such as physical infrastructures like good road network, functional irrigation facilities, extension services, finance and efficient marketing system. However, these support services are lacking in a vast majority of the rural communities in which the smallholder farmers live and work. This study is centred on governance within the food value chains, with specific focus on butternuts and chicken value chains;with a view to identifying those factors preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the mainstream market. Ciko and Mbozi villages in Mbashe local municipality were used as the research sites for the study. Data were collected across the two villages through sampling of 100 individual farming households based on random selection; questionnaires and checklist of questions were used as tools to access information from farmers through focus group discussions, personal interviews and key informants. In addition,Ciko Santrini project and foundation community project, which are the two agricultural community projects located within the study area were also investigated. Conceptual and analytical frameworks were employed in the research analysis. Williamson’s 4-level of social analysis and the sustainable livelihood frameworks were used to conceptualize the analysis. Inferential analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression and discriminant analysis with focus on butternuts and cSmallholder agriculture is faced with so many challenges despite all the policies and programmes that have been channelled towards ensuring improvement in this sector. Improving smallholder agricultural productivity requires that smallholder farmers gain access to reliable and adequate farmer support services such as physical infrastructures like good road network, functional irrigation facilities, extension services, finance and efficient marketing system. However, these support services are lacking in a vast majority of the rural communities in which the smallholder farmers live and work. This study is centred on governance within the food value chains, with specific focus on butternuts and chicken value chains;with a view to identifying those factors preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the mainstream market. Ciko and Mbozi villages in Mbashe local municipality were used as the research sites for the study. Data were collected across the two villages through sampling of 100 individual farming households based on random selection; questionnaires and checklist of questions were used as tools to access information from farmers through focus group discussions, personal interviews and key informants. In addition,Ciko Santrini project and foundation community project, which are the two agricultural community projects located within the study area were also investigated. Conceptual and analytical frameworks were employed in the research analysis. Williamson’s 4-level of social analysis and the sustainable livelihood frameworks were used to conceptualize the analysis. Inferential analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression and discriminant analysis with focus on butternuts and chicken production among the smallholder farmers in the study area to determine factors that could encourage farmers ‘access markets. The results showed that factors such as; assistance from government agency, partnerships with private and public institutions and farmers’ decision due to access to information were significant at 1% level for both butternuts and chicken production. On the other hand, factors such as provision of input subsidy and farmers’ membership of agricultural development projects are significant at 5% level. The findings suggest that adoption of any or combination of the significant factors could serve as good support structures for farmers and they could directly help them market their produce efficiently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Arowolo, Steven Alaba
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm produce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11181 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1001027 , Agricultural assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural productivity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Farm produce -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Marketing , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water resources development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Smallholder agriculture is faced with so many challenges despite all the policies and programmes that have been channelled towards ensuring improvement in this sector. Improving smallholder agricultural productivity requires that smallholder farmers gain access to reliable and adequate farmer support services such as physical infrastructures like good road network, functional irrigation facilities, extension services, finance and efficient marketing system. However, these support services are lacking in a vast majority of the rural communities in which the smallholder farmers live and work. This study is centred on governance within the food value chains, with specific focus on butternuts and chicken value chains;with a view to identifying those factors preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the mainstream market. Ciko and Mbozi villages in Mbashe local municipality were used as the research sites for the study. Data were collected across the two villages through sampling of 100 individual farming households based on random selection; questionnaires and checklist of questions were used as tools to access information from farmers through focus group discussions, personal interviews and key informants. In addition,Ciko Santrini project and foundation community project, which are the two agricultural community projects located within the study area were also investigated. Conceptual and analytical frameworks were employed in the research analysis. Williamson’s 4-level of social analysis and the sustainable livelihood frameworks were used to conceptualize the analysis. Inferential analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression and discriminant analysis with focus on butternuts and cSmallholder agriculture is faced with so many challenges despite all the policies and programmes that have been channelled towards ensuring improvement in this sector. Improving smallholder agricultural productivity requires that smallholder farmers gain access to reliable and adequate farmer support services such as physical infrastructures like good road network, functional irrigation facilities, extension services, finance and efficient marketing system. However, these support services are lacking in a vast majority of the rural communities in which the smallholder farmers live and work. This study is centred on governance within the food value chains, with specific focus on butternuts and chicken value chains;with a view to identifying those factors preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the mainstream market. Ciko and Mbozi villages in Mbashe local municipality were used as the research sites for the study. Data were collected across the two villages through sampling of 100 individual farming households based on random selection; questionnaires and checklist of questions were used as tools to access information from farmers through focus group discussions, personal interviews and key informants. In addition,Ciko Santrini project and foundation community project, which are the two agricultural community projects located within the study area were also investigated. Conceptual and analytical frameworks were employed in the research analysis. Williamson’s 4-level of social analysis and the sustainable livelihood frameworks were used to conceptualize the analysis. Inferential analysis was carried out using binary logistic regression and discriminant analysis with focus on butternuts and chicken production among the smallholder farmers in the study area to determine factors that could encourage farmers ‘access markets. The results showed that factors such as; assistance from government agency, partnerships with private and public institutions and farmers’ decision due to access to information were significant at 1% level for both butternuts and chicken production. On the other hand, factors such as provision of input subsidy and farmers’ membership of agricultural development projects are significant at 5% level. The findings suggest that adoption of any or combination of the significant factors could serve as good support structures for farmers and they could directly help them market their produce efficiently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Synthesis and photophysical properties of peripherally and non-peripherally mercaptopyridine substituted metal free, Mg (II) and Al (III) phthalocyanines
- Arslanoğlu, Yasin, Idowu, Mopelela, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Arslanoğlu, Yasin , Idowu, Mopelela , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/243248 , vital:51131 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2012.04.004"
- Description: The syntheses and photophysical properties of metallophthalocyanines containing Mg2+ and Al3+ as central metal ions and their unmetallated derivative (complexes 3–8) tetra- substituted at the non-peripheral (α) and peripheral (β) positions with 2-mercaptopyridine are reported. The trends in triplet and fluorescence quantum yields are described for these compounds. The complexes exhibited relatively high triplet quantum yields (ΦT) ranging from 0.33 to 0.54 and fluorescence quantum yields (ΦF) ranging from 0.02 to 0.29. Triplet state lifetimes of the complexes were long ranging from 120 to 460 μs, indicating a potential use of these complexes as photosensitizers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Arslanoğlu, Yasin , Idowu, Mopelela , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/243248 , vital:51131 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.saa.2012.04.004"
- Description: The syntheses and photophysical properties of metallophthalocyanines containing Mg2+ and Al3+ as central metal ions and their unmetallated derivative (complexes 3–8) tetra- substituted at the non-peripheral (α) and peripheral (β) positions with 2-mercaptopyridine are reported. The trends in triplet and fluorescence quantum yields are described for these compounds. The complexes exhibited relatively high triplet quantum yields (ΦT) ranging from 0.33 to 0.54 and fluorescence quantum yields (ΦF) ranging from 0.02 to 0.29. Triplet state lifetimes of the complexes were long ranging from 120 to 460 μs, indicating a potential use of these complexes as photosensitizers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012