The decision to stay or go: study of generation y chartered accountants in South Africa
- Authors: Hluyo, Fungai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53031 , vital:44878
- Description: Having deduced from literature that millennials have a very high employee turnover, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of what factors would make millennial Chartered Accountants in South Africa, or (CA)s, stay with or leave organisations. This is a case study within a qualitative research paradigm and followed an interpretivistic approach. A purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of seven millennial CAs for data collection. The sample constituted millennials who had changed jobs at least once in the past five years as these fell within the scope of this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted virtually using an interview guide as a data collecting instrument. Data saturation was reached after the interview of the sixth participant. The interview process provided a good blance of subjective views, opinions, emotions, and values of all participants. Having transcribed the interview transcripts, a manually detailed coding process was completed. Eight main emerging themes were identified which ultimately provided responses to the research questions. The data analysis revealed that millennial CA(SA)s prioritise, and in fact, demand flexibility coupled with a work-life balance. They expect their employers to understand and be supportive of these expectations. Other important retaining factors for this cohort of employees include, amongst others; training and development opportunities, growth, diversity, obtaining performance feedback, and coaching. An important issue that participants highlighted is the importance of ethics at work and or ethical leadership. The researcher could not probe more into this due to time constraints. This is recommended for further research. Having interviewed only six participants, this relatively small number poses a limitation to this study as these findings cannot be generalised to apply to all millennial CAs in South Africa. The data collected however, provided useful recommendations to employers looking for ways to retain millennial Chartered Accountants. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hluyo, Fungai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53031 , vital:44878
- Description: Having deduced from literature that millennials have a very high employee turnover, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of what factors would make millennial Chartered Accountants in South Africa, or (CA)s, stay with or leave organisations. This is a case study within a qualitative research paradigm and followed an interpretivistic approach. A purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of seven millennial CAs for data collection. The sample constituted millennials who had changed jobs at least once in the past five years as these fell within the scope of this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted virtually using an interview guide as a data collecting instrument. Data saturation was reached after the interview of the sixth participant. The interview process provided a good blance of subjective views, opinions, emotions, and values of all participants. Having transcribed the interview transcripts, a manually detailed coding process was completed. Eight main emerging themes were identified which ultimately provided responses to the research questions. The data analysis revealed that millennial CA(SA)s prioritise, and in fact, demand flexibility coupled with a work-life balance. They expect their employers to understand and be supportive of these expectations. Other important retaining factors for this cohort of employees include, amongst others; training and development opportunities, growth, diversity, obtaining performance feedback, and coaching. An important issue that participants highlighted is the importance of ethics at work and or ethical leadership. The researcher could not probe more into this due to time constraints. This is recommended for further research. Having interviewed only six participants, this relatively small number poses a limitation to this study as these findings cannot be generalised to apply to all millennial CAs in South Africa. The data collected however, provided useful recommendations to employers looking for ways to retain millennial Chartered Accountants. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Mangrove response to water level changes at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi and St Lucia Estuaries
- Authors: Julie, Corianna Lauren
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53644 , vital:45689
- Description: Water level variability within an estuary can vary as a function of tides (inundation frequency and duration) and rainfall, acting as one of the main determinants of mangrove growth, diversity, productivity, and distribution. Understanding how mangroves respond in estuaries to water level variability provides baseline information which can be used to predict future changes in mangrove growth and distribution in response to this driver This study measured mangrove characteristics (growth, structure, and areal extent) in two estuaries that differed in tidal setting, and thus water variability; the Nxaxo-Ngqusi and St Lucia estuaries, South Africa. These estuaries are part of a long-term monitoring programme (2010 - 2020) that has recorded mangrove responses to environmental changes. At the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary, long-tem sea-level data (2003 – 2018) collected from the nearest tide gauge, and mangrove growth and areal extent were used to assess mangrove characteristics in a permanently open, micro tidal setting.Additionally, short-term water level data (August 2019 – September 2020), measured with in situ loggers, and sediment input at different sites within the mangrove forest, were also measured. Data was collected along the main channel sites, and at previously set up cattle exclusion plots ( browsed and non-browsed sites set to establish the effect of cattle browsing on mangroves). Similarly, at the St Lucia Estuary, long term water level data (2004 – 2020) collected at the bridge in the lower reaches of the estuary by Ezemvelo KZN-Wildlife, and annual mangrove growth, structure and areal extent data were used to assess mangrove characteristics in an estuarine lake that undergoes cycles between hypersaline and freshwater-dominated states. The results showed that mangrove responses to water level changes are complex and depend on several factors such as estuary mouth dynamics, anthropogenic activities, and site-level environmental conditions. The first objective was to compare water level changes and mangrove structure (mangrove height, and pneumatophore characteristics such as height, density and % aerenchyma) and sediment input between different sites at each estuary. Mangrove growth was higher at sites where longer inundation and higher inundation frequency were recorded at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary. However,longer inundation periods under closed mouth conditions resulted in stunted growth and mangrove dieback at St Lucia Estuary. At the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary, mangroves at the main channel sites, closer to the water’s edge, had an overall higher growth rate (2.8 – 45.9 cm yr-1) than the mangroves found at the browsed (0 – 25 cm yr-1) and non-browsed sites (0 – 25.3 cm yr-1) on the landward edge of the forest. The effect of cattle browsing at these sites forms part of a long-term monitoring programme and this disturbance could have also influenced the results. Mangrove growth rate was higher in years with more rainfall at all sites within the estuary. At the St Lucia Estuary, mangrove growth rate was highest (0.81 cm yr-1) at a lower mean water level range (0.13 – 1.72 m) between 2010 - 2015, and growth rate was lowest (1.3 cm yr-1) in higher mean water level range conditions (0.34 m – 2.18 m) between 2015 – 2020. When water levels increased by up to 1.1 m due to closed mouth conditions, this led to extensive mangrove dieback further upstream by 2015. The maximum tidal flooding depth and inundation period influenced pneumatophore structure (height, density, and % aerenchyma) at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary. Sediment accumulation was highest at sites with increased pneumatophore density, but accumulation rates at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary (0.4 – 0.7 g over a high tide lasting 4-5 hours) were low and did not lead to smothering of the pneumatophores. Total sediment accumulation was highest at sites that experienced greater flooding depths. Increased inundation at the St Lucia Estuary caused inundation stress which led to mangrove mortality. This is because these mangroves are found in a closed estuary where increased water levels lead to prolonged submergence of the pneumatophores. A decrease in mangrove area was recorded at both sites. Low rainfall coupled with cattle browsing caused a decrease in mangrove area of 22% between 2009 and 2019, particularly along the mangrove fringe area at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary. The mangroves at the St Lucia Estuary, however, experienced mangrove dieback at all sites, with Site 1 recording the greatest percentage decrease in area of 71.7 % (loss of 44.76 ha) between 2010 and 2020. This was related to the progressive increase of freshwater input and water level at St Lucia Estuary under closed mouth conditions. The years leading up to 2019 had peaks in water levels at the St Lucia Estuary, with the highest water level of 2.12 m in 2019 since 2002. As a consequence, there was increased reed growth, where reeds expanded by 58% (177 ha) due to the high influx of freshwater, and no tidal exchange, which occurred in conjunction with a loss of 60.% (42 ha) of the original mangrove extent at the St Lucia Estuary. This study shows that increased water level changes (inundation frequency and duration) at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary maintain healthy mangrove stands. This is in contrast to the St Lucia Estuary, where there was a loss of mangroves as a result of high water levels under closed mouth conditions. Mangrove growth and extent at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary fluctuated in response to drought, and trampling and browsing by livestock. Extensive inundation and lack of tidal exchange reduced mangrove growth and extent at the St Lucia Estuary, with mangrove dieback occurring at all sites. These two systems are representative of the dynamic conditions found in South African estuaries. These research findings suggest that the continuous effects of climate change on estuarine habitats could result in changes in estuary mouth dynamics, which could impact mangrove growth, structure, and extent. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Julie, Corianna Lauren
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53644 , vital:45689
- Description: Water level variability within an estuary can vary as a function of tides (inundation frequency and duration) and rainfall, acting as one of the main determinants of mangrove growth, diversity, productivity, and distribution. Understanding how mangroves respond in estuaries to water level variability provides baseline information which can be used to predict future changes in mangrove growth and distribution in response to this driver This study measured mangrove characteristics (growth, structure, and areal extent) in two estuaries that differed in tidal setting, and thus water variability; the Nxaxo-Ngqusi and St Lucia estuaries, South Africa. These estuaries are part of a long-term monitoring programme (2010 - 2020) that has recorded mangrove responses to environmental changes. At the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary, long-tem sea-level data (2003 – 2018) collected from the nearest tide gauge, and mangrove growth and areal extent were used to assess mangrove characteristics in a permanently open, micro tidal setting.Additionally, short-term water level data (August 2019 – September 2020), measured with in situ loggers, and sediment input at different sites within the mangrove forest, were also measured. Data was collected along the main channel sites, and at previously set up cattle exclusion plots ( browsed and non-browsed sites set to establish the effect of cattle browsing on mangroves). Similarly, at the St Lucia Estuary, long term water level data (2004 – 2020) collected at the bridge in the lower reaches of the estuary by Ezemvelo KZN-Wildlife, and annual mangrove growth, structure and areal extent data were used to assess mangrove characteristics in an estuarine lake that undergoes cycles between hypersaline and freshwater-dominated states. The results showed that mangrove responses to water level changes are complex and depend on several factors such as estuary mouth dynamics, anthropogenic activities, and site-level environmental conditions. The first objective was to compare water level changes and mangrove structure (mangrove height, and pneumatophore characteristics such as height, density and % aerenchyma) and sediment input between different sites at each estuary. Mangrove growth was higher at sites where longer inundation and higher inundation frequency were recorded at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary. However,longer inundation periods under closed mouth conditions resulted in stunted growth and mangrove dieback at St Lucia Estuary. At the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary, mangroves at the main channel sites, closer to the water’s edge, had an overall higher growth rate (2.8 – 45.9 cm yr-1) than the mangroves found at the browsed (0 – 25 cm yr-1) and non-browsed sites (0 – 25.3 cm yr-1) on the landward edge of the forest. The effect of cattle browsing at these sites forms part of a long-term monitoring programme and this disturbance could have also influenced the results. Mangrove growth rate was higher in years with more rainfall at all sites within the estuary. At the St Lucia Estuary, mangrove growth rate was highest (0.81 cm yr-1) at a lower mean water level range (0.13 – 1.72 m) between 2010 - 2015, and growth rate was lowest (1.3 cm yr-1) in higher mean water level range conditions (0.34 m – 2.18 m) between 2015 – 2020. When water levels increased by up to 1.1 m due to closed mouth conditions, this led to extensive mangrove dieback further upstream by 2015. The maximum tidal flooding depth and inundation period influenced pneumatophore structure (height, density, and % aerenchyma) at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary. Sediment accumulation was highest at sites with increased pneumatophore density, but accumulation rates at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary (0.4 – 0.7 g over a high tide lasting 4-5 hours) were low and did not lead to smothering of the pneumatophores. Total sediment accumulation was highest at sites that experienced greater flooding depths. Increased inundation at the St Lucia Estuary caused inundation stress which led to mangrove mortality. This is because these mangroves are found in a closed estuary where increased water levels lead to prolonged submergence of the pneumatophores. A decrease in mangrove area was recorded at both sites. Low rainfall coupled with cattle browsing caused a decrease in mangrove area of 22% between 2009 and 2019, particularly along the mangrove fringe area at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary. The mangroves at the St Lucia Estuary, however, experienced mangrove dieback at all sites, with Site 1 recording the greatest percentage decrease in area of 71.7 % (loss of 44.76 ha) between 2010 and 2020. This was related to the progressive increase of freshwater input and water level at St Lucia Estuary under closed mouth conditions. The years leading up to 2019 had peaks in water levels at the St Lucia Estuary, with the highest water level of 2.12 m in 2019 since 2002. As a consequence, there was increased reed growth, where reeds expanded by 58% (177 ha) due to the high influx of freshwater, and no tidal exchange, which occurred in conjunction with a loss of 60.% (42 ha) of the original mangrove extent at the St Lucia Estuary. This study shows that increased water level changes (inundation frequency and duration) at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary maintain healthy mangrove stands. This is in contrast to the St Lucia Estuary, where there was a loss of mangroves as a result of high water levels under closed mouth conditions. Mangrove growth and extent at the Nxaxo-Ngqusi Estuary fluctuated in response to drought, and trampling and browsing by livestock. Extensive inundation and lack of tidal exchange reduced mangrove growth and extent at the St Lucia Estuary, with mangrove dieback occurring at all sites. These two systems are representative of the dynamic conditions found in South African estuaries. These research findings suggest that the continuous effects of climate change on estuarine habitats could result in changes in estuary mouth dynamics, which could impact mangrove growth, structure, and extent. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Real-time feedback model for supporting individualised learning of programming students
- Authors: Keen, Charne
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53624 , vital:45691
- Description: Feedback is crucial to the enhancement of the learning and teaching environment, especially in those environments that suffer from a number of extrinsic challenges. The growing demands for educators to provide academic interventions throughout the lecture session and the need for continuous improvement of the quality of university education make it necessary to find and apply more effective and efficient educational technologies and practices based on the correlation of teaching with a student’s conceptual understanding and individual learning preference. Following a combination of Design Science Research (DSR) and Case Study Methodology, this research addresses this problem by designing a technology based real-time feedback (TBRTF) model that can easily be implemented in a South African University. The model designed followed a layered architecture pattern. The architecture describes the data, technology and user support layers of the model. The data support layer incorporates the collection of student academic data and learning preferences. The technology incorporates a machine learning component. The machine learning component covers two technological aspects: the prediction component and the clustering component. This TBRTF model provides the guidelines needed to develop a system that supports individualised real-time feedback in the learning and teaching environment of programming students. The aim of the model is that as the students partake in learning activities where the student data is updated, the monitoring component will fire, updating the probability of failure prediction and in turn the student clusters are regenerated. This will notify the educator of a change and provide decision making support. The student will be allocated individualised feedback in the form of learning materials based on the cluster that the student is allocated to. Through a demonstration and evaluation, this study showed that by following the proposed architecture of the TBRTF model, a model that supports individualised realtime feedback in the learning and teaching environment of programming students can be developed. The validation used an artificial neural network as the prediction component and a k-means clustering algorithm as the clustering component. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Keen, Charne
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53624 , vital:45691
- Description: Feedback is crucial to the enhancement of the learning and teaching environment, especially in those environments that suffer from a number of extrinsic challenges. The growing demands for educators to provide academic interventions throughout the lecture session and the need for continuous improvement of the quality of university education make it necessary to find and apply more effective and efficient educational technologies and practices based on the correlation of teaching with a student’s conceptual understanding and individual learning preference. Following a combination of Design Science Research (DSR) and Case Study Methodology, this research addresses this problem by designing a technology based real-time feedback (TBRTF) model that can easily be implemented in a South African University. The model designed followed a layered architecture pattern. The architecture describes the data, technology and user support layers of the model. The data support layer incorporates the collection of student academic data and learning preferences. The technology incorporates a machine learning component. The machine learning component covers two technological aspects: the prediction component and the clustering component. This TBRTF model provides the guidelines needed to develop a system that supports individualised real-time feedback in the learning and teaching environment of programming students. The aim of the model is that as the students partake in learning activities where the student data is updated, the monitoring component will fire, updating the probability of failure prediction and in turn the student clusters are regenerated. This will notify the educator of a change and provide decision making support. The student will be allocated individualised feedback in the form of learning materials based on the cluster that the student is allocated to. Through a demonstration and evaluation, this study showed that by following the proposed architecture of the TBRTF model, a model that supports individualised realtime feedback in the learning and teaching environment of programming students can be developed. The validation used an artificial neural network as the prediction component and a k-means clustering algorithm as the clustering component. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Normative Indicators for the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration on clinically unimpaired isiXhosa speaking adults with disadvantaged education
- Authors: Kili, Ziphozakhe
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27569 , vital:69316
- Description: This study aimed to develop normative indicators for the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (Beery VMI) for Xhosa speaking adults in the Eastern Cape with a grade 11 or 12 qualification from a previously disadvantaged educational background. Method: the sample size was 40 participants between the ages of 19 to 40 years old. The study used participants that had no cognitive impairments. This study used independent t-test analysis to compare test performance between the following categories: urban versus rural, males versus females, age group 19-29 versus 30-40. The Kruskall Wallis test was used to establish whether classroom size would have an impact on test performance. Results: This study revealed that there was a no statistical difference in performance between urban and rural participants, males and females, and classroom size. There was no statistical significance between the age categories 19-29 versus 30-40 on the visual perception and motor coordination supplementary tests. However, there was a statistical significance noted, between the age categories on the visual-motor integration test performance. Conclusions: it was concluded that the Beery VMI can be used with more confidence when assessing the Xhosa speaking population from disadvantaged educational backgrounds. The norms in this study cannot be generalized to other ethnic groups or populations. It was further recommended that more studies like this take place, and more norms are created for the South Africans using the Beery VMI. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
- Authors: Kili, Ziphozakhe
- Date: 2022-07
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27569 , vital:69316
- Description: This study aimed to develop normative indicators for the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (Beery VMI) for Xhosa speaking adults in the Eastern Cape with a grade 11 or 12 qualification from a previously disadvantaged educational background. Method: the sample size was 40 participants between the ages of 19 to 40 years old. The study used participants that had no cognitive impairments. This study used independent t-test analysis to compare test performance between the following categories: urban versus rural, males versus females, age group 19-29 versus 30-40. The Kruskall Wallis test was used to establish whether classroom size would have an impact on test performance. Results: This study revealed that there was a no statistical difference in performance between urban and rural participants, males and females, and classroom size. There was no statistical significance between the age categories 19-29 versus 30-40 on the visual perception and motor coordination supplementary tests. However, there was a statistical significance noted, between the age categories on the visual-motor integration test performance. Conclusions: it was concluded that the Beery VMI can be used with more confidence when assessing the Xhosa speaking population from disadvantaged educational backgrounds. The norms in this study cannot be generalized to other ethnic groups or populations. It was further recommended that more studies like this take place, and more norms are created for the South Africans using the Beery VMI. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-07
An aesthetic exploration of skin as the abject other
- Knickelbein, Jonel, Wentzel, Andrieta
- Authors: Knickelbein, Jonel , Wentzel, Andrieta
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55341 , vital:51913
- Description: The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the notion of skin, its functions, and dysfunctions as the basis for the conceptual as well as theoretical output of this work. The problem statement aims to establish whether cathartic relief can be achieved through the process of visualizing skin as the abject other. Every human and animal is born with skin. The epidermis is the outermost of three layers that make up the skin. This layer provides a barrier to infection from environmental pathogens and regulates the amount of water released from the body into the atmosphere through trans epidermal water loss (Bouwstra, 2003:34). Although the human skin serves as a protective barrier, the skin itself can be a source of physical as well as emotional pain. I was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and genetic skin condition that results in extensive blistering and wounding of the skin caused by mechanical trauma. The process of friction, wounding and healing has been a part of my physical being and daily affairs since I can remember. According to Cervero, ―Pain is our most powerful emotion, an essential learning tool, a major factor in our relationship with the world, and the source of much of our social behavior‖ (2012:34).I believe that my personal experience with EB has affected how I view the functions and importance of skin. In this study I explore the purposes and functions of skin through both a physical and psychological lense I also investigate the role skin plays in forming identity. The works of artists such as Frida Kahlo, Eva Hesse and Alina Szapocznikow are carefully considered in understanding different approaches and mediums used in engaging with the experience of catharsis. Investigations are made into theories on Abjection, the Skin-Ego, Materiality and Catharsis in order to sufficiently inform and shape the outcomes of the creative process. The creative and research processes have resulted in the body of artwork, entitled Skin- deep: transforming dysfunction into function, which is presented as a narrative installation and exhibition of abstract sculptural work. Ultimately, the body of work and research attempts to validate that the notion of skin (as the abject other skin) can be artistically explored to achieve cathartic relief. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Knickelbein, Jonel , Wentzel, Andrieta
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55341 , vital:51913
- Description: The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the notion of skin, its functions, and dysfunctions as the basis for the conceptual as well as theoretical output of this work. The problem statement aims to establish whether cathartic relief can be achieved through the process of visualizing skin as the abject other. Every human and animal is born with skin. The epidermis is the outermost of three layers that make up the skin. This layer provides a barrier to infection from environmental pathogens and regulates the amount of water released from the body into the atmosphere through trans epidermal water loss (Bouwstra, 2003:34). Although the human skin serves as a protective barrier, the skin itself can be a source of physical as well as emotional pain. I was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and genetic skin condition that results in extensive blistering and wounding of the skin caused by mechanical trauma. The process of friction, wounding and healing has been a part of my physical being and daily affairs since I can remember. According to Cervero, ―Pain is our most powerful emotion, an essential learning tool, a major factor in our relationship with the world, and the source of much of our social behavior‖ (2012:34).I believe that my personal experience with EB has affected how I view the functions and importance of skin. In this study I explore the purposes and functions of skin through both a physical and psychological lense I also investigate the role skin plays in forming identity. The works of artists such as Frida Kahlo, Eva Hesse and Alina Szapocznikow are carefully considered in understanding different approaches and mediums used in engaging with the experience of catharsis. Investigations are made into theories on Abjection, the Skin-Ego, Materiality and Catharsis in order to sufficiently inform and shape the outcomes of the creative process. The creative and research processes have resulted in the body of artwork, entitled Skin- deep: transforming dysfunction into function, which is presented as a narrative installation and exhibition of abstract sculptural work. Ultimately, the body of work and research attempts to validate that the notion of skin (as the abject other skin) can be artistically explored to achieve cathartic relief. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
Rheology behaviour of slurries as a function of particle size and ion concentration
- Authors: Kondlo, Princess Kholiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53333 , vital:45141
- Description: In this work, the rheological properties of alumina slurries milled to different particle sizes were investigated. Viscosity increases as the particle size decreases. When increasing amounts of calcium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide or barium hydroxide are added, the viscosity first goes down and then goes up. This can be explained in terms of changes in pH and changes in ionic strength impacting on the surface potential of the particles in suspension. Adding the same concentration of different cations results in different viscosities, with the order being (from high to low viscosity) Ba>Sr>Ca. Effects of partial dissolution of and structural changes to the alumina particles at high pH cannot be excluded. In order to better understanding the different effects, it was attempted to measure the zeta potential of the slurries at different pH values. This resulted in highly positive zeta potential values over the complete pH range, without the observationof an iso-electric point. This does not fit to the observed changes in rheology and contrasts withliterature data. One explanation would be that the measurement system used is unsuitable to yield correct zeta potential values for the materials under investigation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kondlo, Princess Kholiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53333 , vital:45141
- Description: In this work, the rheological properties of alumina slurries milled to different particle sizes were investigated. Viscosity increases as the particle size decreases. When increasing amounts of calcium hydroxide, strontium hydroxide or barium hydroxide are added, the viscosity first goes down and then goes up. This can be explained in terms of changes in pH and changes in ionic strength impacting on the surface potential of the particles in suspension. Adding the same concentration of different cations results in different viscosities, with the order being (from high to low viscosity) Ba>Sr>Ca. Effects of partial dissolution of and structural changes to the alumina particles at high pH cannot be excluded. In order to better understanding the different effects, it was attempted to measure the zeta potential of the slurries at different pH values. This resulted in highly positive zeta potential values over the complete pH range, without the observationof an iso-electric point. This does not fit to the observed changes in rheology and contrasts withliterature data. One explanation would be that the measurement system used is unsuitable to yield correct zeta potential values for the materials under investigation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Exploring the nature and scope of food insecurity among postgraduate students: a case of Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Kuguyo, Yeukai T
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55348 , vital:51916
- Description: This study explores the nature and scope of food insecurity among postgraduate students at Nelson Mandela University, South Africa. The study employed a mixed method approach to access postgraduate students and university officials to investigate the prevalence of food insecurity. The approach also assesses the demographic factors; academic and mental implications along with the coping mechanisms associated with the experiences of food insecurity in higher education South Africa. The study incorporates an adapted conceptual framework from Alaimo’s food insecurity socio-economic risk models (2005) to understand the higher education context. Alaimo’s model seeks to connect the household conditions and broader systematic socio-economic mechanisms that households adopt to secure food. This model was adapted and employed in understanding the data collected while using a mixed-method approach between June and August 2021. The study employed an online survey for only postgraduate students enrolled at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) during the time of the study. This was supplemented by semi-structured interviews with student affairs officials that are directly involved in the formulation of strategies used to alleviate food insecurity at NMU. With 78 postgraduate students responding to the online survey, the study seems to confirm some of the studies done in this field on the inadequacy of food banks and food gardens in addressing food challenges effectively on campus. Similarly, the study found that the experiences of food insecurity were prevalent amongst postgraduate students that identified as black, low-income, and making access of the campus clinic for food relief. The study concluded by recommending a collaborative and a multi-level systematic approach in alleviating food insecurity in higher education. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Kuguyo, Yeukai T
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55348 , vital:51916
- Description: This study explores the nature and scope of food insecurity among postgraduate students at Nelson Mandela University, South Africa. The study employed a mixed method approach to access postgraduate students and university officials to investigate the prevalence of food insecurity. The approach also assesses the demographic factors; academic and mental implications along with the coping mechanisms associated with the experiences of food insecurity in higher education South Africa. The study incorporates an adapted conceptual framework from Alaimo’s food insecurity socio-economic risk models (2005) to understand the higher education context. Alaimo’s model seeks to connect the household conditions and broader systematic socio-economic mechanisms that households adopt to secure food. This model was adapted and employed in understanding the data collected while using a mixed-method approach between June and August 2021. The study employed an online survey for only postgraduate students enrolled at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) during the time of the study. This was supplemented by semi-structured interviews with student affairs officials that are directly involved in the formulation of strategies used to alleviate food insecurity at NMU. With 78 postgraduate students responding to the online survey, the study seems to confirm some of the studies done in this field on the inadequacy of food banks and food gardens in addressing food challenges effectively on campus. Similarly, the study found that the experiences of food insecurity were prevalent amongst postgraduate students that identified as black, low-income, and making access of the campus clinic for food relief. The study concluded by recommending a collaborative and a multi-level systematic approach in alleviating food insecurity in higher education. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
The use of ambient seismic noise to investigate internal changes in a tailings storage facility and to image the subsurface geology in the Cradock area of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Kunjwa, Thulisile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53642 , vital:45690
- Description: Passive seismic interferometry is a process by which ambient noise data recorded at different seismic stations can be cross-correlated to estimate Green's functions. In the past, both surface waves and body waves have successfully been extracted by cross-correlation of ambient noise data on both regional and global scales. Recent advancements in ambient seismic noise techniques have the potential to provide new methods for subsurface imaging and monitoring. The ambient noise data processing procedure divides into four principal phases: (1) single station data preparation, (2) cross-correlation and temporal stacking, (3) measurement of dispersion curves and (4) inversion of dispersion curves to obtain 1-D shear wave profiles and computation of 2-D shear wave velocity cross-section. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether ambient seismic noise can be used to image and detect internal changes within a mine tailings dam wall and to image the subsurface geology of part of the Eastern Cape Karoo near Cradock. In the first experiment, the investigation consisted of continuous ambient noise data recordings over a period of 3 days with 20 three-component short period geophones. The geophones were deployed over a survey wall of roughly 100 m in length at the Harmony Gold mine tailings dam in Welkom. In the second experiment, the investigation consisted of data recordings over a period of 35 days. The geophones were deployed in Cradock. The first phase of the data processing procedure included de-trending, de-meaning and band-pass filtering the data. This was done to ensure that any long period trends associated with instrument glitches are removed from the data. A spectrogram was then computed to view the spectrum of frequencies in the signal and to check if the filter that was designed was able to cut off the unwanted frequencies. The horizontal and vertical components of the ambient noise data were cross-correlated and picked between sensor pairs to create surface wave dispersion curves. Subsequently, the dispersion curves were inverted to estimate the shear wave velocity of the dam wall and subsurface as a function of depth. The computed cross sections of shear wave velocity indicated a low-velocity zone between 2 and 10 m below the surface on the dam wall, this suggested that the phreatic surface is much closer to surface in this area. In the second experiment, the interpolated shear wave velocity profiles indicated that there is a layer of low velocity zone between depths 250 to 300 m below the surface. The cross-correlations were also used to compute group velocity maps from periods 1.5 seconds to 30 seconds. The group velocity maps showed various high and low velocity anomalies. The high velocity zones observed on the eastern section of the map were interpreted as evidence of dolerite intrusions. The low velocity zones observed in the western and southern sections of the map interpreted as Karoo sediments that belong to the Adelaide Subgroup which is dominated by mudstones. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences (Geology and Geography), 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Kunjwa, Thulisile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53642 , vital:45690
- Description: Passive seismic interferometry is a process by which ambient noise data recorded at different seismic stations can be cross-correlated to estimate Green's functions. In the past, both surface waves and body waves have successfully been extracted by cross-correlation of ambient noise data on both regional and global scales. Recent advancements in ambient seismic noise techniques have the potential to provide new methods for subsurface imaging and monitoring. The ambient noise data processing procedure divides into four principal phases: (1) single station data preparation, (2) cross-correlation and temporal stacking, (3) measurement of dispersion curves and (4) inversion of dispersion curves to obtain 1-D shear wave profiles and computation of 2-D shear wave velocity cross-section. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether ambient seismic noise can be used to image and detect internal changes within a mine tailings dam wall and to image the subsurface geology of part of the Eastern Cape Karoo near Cradock. In the first experiment, the investigation consisted of continuous ambient noise data recordings over a period of 3 days with 20 three-component short period geophones. The geophones were deployed over a survey wall of roughly 100 m in length at the Harmony Gold mine tailings dam in Welkom. In the second experiment, the investigation consisted of data recordings over a period of 35 days. The geophones were deployed in Cradock. The first phase of the data processing procedure included de-trending, de-meaning and band-pass filtering the data. This was done to ensure that any long period trends associated with instrument glitches are removed from the data. A spectrogram was then computed to view the spectrum of frequencies in the signal and to check if the filter that was designed was able to cut off the unwanted frequencies. The horizontal and vertical components of the ambient noise data were cross-correlated and picked between sensor pairs to create surface wave dispersion curves. Subsequently, the dispersion curves were inverted to estimate the shear wave velocity of the dam wall and subsurface as a function of depth. The computed cross sections of shear wave velocity indicated a low-velocity zone between 2 and 10 m below the surface on the dam wall, this suggested that the phreatic surface is much closer to surface in this area. In the second experiment, the interpolated shear wave velocity profiles indicated that there is a layer of low velocity zone between depths 250 to 300 m below the surface. The cross-correlations were also used to compute group velocity maps from periods 1.5 seconds to 30 seconds. The group velocity maps showed various high and low velocity anomalies. The high velocity zones observed on the eastern section of the map were interpreted as evidence of dolerite intrusions. The low velocity zones observed in the western and southern sections of the map interpreted as Karoo sediments that belong to the Adelaide Subgroup which is dominated by mudstones. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences (Geology and Geography), 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
The analysis of social networking sites usage by the public relations management students from Walter Sisulu University: Buffalo city campus (Chiselhurst site)
- Authors: Kwinana, Zingisa. N
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27589 , vital:69318
- Description: This study analysed the use of social networking sites by undergraduate Public Relations Management students from Walter Sisulu University, Chiselhurst site. The reason for this study was to seek student’s opinions on what drove them to open SNs accounts, use social networking sites and examine these motivations in relationship to the building blocks of the uses and gratification theory, which are information search or education, selfactualization, socializing and entertainment. A qualitative online questionnaire was employed in this study. 218 questionnaires were sent through to the participants WhatsApp class groups, 168 questionnaires were answered and returned back to the researcher. The discovery of the study was that the participants are diverse in many different ways and made use of social networking sites for many various reasons. Furthermore, this study indicated that the participants were motivated to use social networking sites because they wanted to interact and stay connected with their family, peers and loved ones, and to meet people or create connections. The study argued that the participants’ reasons for use of social networking sites was not only for socialising but also for entertainment, self-actualization get academic and general information. This study concluded that SNs have a meaningful role in the life of a student’s life doing public relations management from Walter Sisulu University, Chiselhurst site. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kwinana, Zingisa. N
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27589 , vital:69318
- Description: This study analysed the use of social networking sites by undergraduate Public Relations Management students from Walter Sisulu University, Chiselhurst site. The reason for this study was to seek student’s opinions on what drove them to open SNs accounts, use social networking sites and examine these motivations in relationship to the building blocks of the uses and gratification theory, which are information search or education, selfactualization, socializing and entertainment. A qualitative online questionnaire was employed in this study. 218 questionnaires were sent through to the participants WhatsApp class groups, 168 questionnaires were answered and returned back to the researcher. The discovery of the study was that the participants are diverse in many different ways and made use of social networking sites for many various reasons. Furthermore, this study indicated that the participants were motivated to use social networking sites because they wanted to interact and stay connected with their family, peers and loved ones, and to meet people or create connections. The study argued that the participants’ reasons for use of social networking sites was not only for socialising but also for entertainment, self-actualization get academic and general information. This study concluded that SNs have a meaningful role in the life of a student’s life doing public relations management from Walter Sisulu University, Chiselhurst site. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
The biggest boy on the planet: a case study describing the Therapeutic Journey of a boy with severe anxiety
- Authors: Laing, Caroline
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25184 , vital:63985
- Description: The following paper describes the therapeutic journey of David (not his real name), an eight year old boy who was referred for therapy as a result of severe anxiety. David is a pupil at a remedial school, having moved from his previous school due to his being unable to cope academically and socially in a mainstream school environment. David had ten sessions of play therapy and the following paper provides a narrative account of the therapy process using a case study design. In the narratives, some of the themes which emerge during the course of therapy are described. The therapist’s theoretic orientation is explained as well as how this approach seemed to enable David, in the context of the therapeutic relationship, to express and make sense of his anxieties. , Thesis (M.Counselling Psychology) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010-12
- Authors: Laing, Caroline
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25184 , vital:63985
- Description: The following paper describes the therapeutic journey of David (not his real name), an eight year old boy who was referred for therapy as a result of severe anxiety. David is a pupil at a remedial school, having moved from his previous school due to his being unable to cope academically and socially in a mainstream school environment. David had ten sessions of play therapy and the following paper provides a narrative account of the therapy process using a case study design. In the narratives, some of the themes which emerge during the course of therapy are described. The therapist’s theoretic orientation is explained as well as how this approach seemed to enable David, in the context of the therapeutic relationship, to express and make sense of his anxieties. , Thesis (M.Counselling Psychology) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2010
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010-12
Youth sub-cultures: the case of izikhothane amongst youth in Port Elizabeth townships
- Authors: Laqwela, Bayanda B
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54694 , vital:47442
- Description: The studies on youth subcultures have always attracted scholars and media, both locally and internationally. Specifically, in South Africa, we have witnessed subcultural youth formations, such as amapantsula1 , umswenko2 , the smarteez, zef, emmos and so forth. In the past few years, we saw the rise of a certain subcultural youth formation, popularly known as izikhothane3 , in South African townships. Owing to an escalation in izikhothane, this study was undertaken among the youth in Port Elizabeth townships. The study sought to explore and describe the significance of izikhothane membership and the rituals that are performed during their meetings. The qualitative approach was used for the study and semi-structured interviews, focus groups and observations were employed as data collection tools. The study used the explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The population for the study was the youth who are involved in the youth subculture of izikhothane in Port Elizabeth townships. The themes, which answered the questions, were identified as follows: the definition of isikhothane according to izikhothane, pulling or attraction factors, izikhothane rituals, the significance of isikhothane membership, the stopping age and the perceptions of community members about izikhothane. One of the main findings of this study is the age at which the youth join izikhothane. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Laqwela, Bayanda B
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54694 , vital:47442
- Description: The studies on youth subcultures have always attracted scholars and media, both locally and internationally. Specifically, in South Africa, we have witnessed subcultural youth formations, such as amapantsula1 , umswenko2 , the smarteez, zef, emmos and so forth. In the past few years, we saw the rise of a certain subcultural youth formation, popularly known as izikhothane3 , in South African townships. Owing to an escalation in izikhothane, this study was undertaken among the youth in Port Elizabeth townships. The study sought to explore and describe the significance of izikhothane membership and the rituals that are performed during their meetings. The qualitative approach was used for the study and semi-structured interviews, focus groups and observations were employed as data collection tools. The study used the explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The population for the study was the youth who are involved in the youth subculture of izikhothane in Port Elizabeth townships. The themes, which answered the questions, were identified as follows: the definition of isikhothane according to izikhothane, pulling or attraction factors, izikhothane rituals, the significance of isikhothane membership, the stopping age and the perceptions of community members about izikhothane. One of the main findings of this study is the age at which the youth join izikhothane. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
The impact of institutional cultures on student’s wellbeing among postgraduate students: the case of Nelson Mandela University in South Africa
- Authors: Lebelo, Mpho
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54450 , vital:46549
- Description: Increasingly, students across the world in various tertiary institutions are faced with many challenges ranging from financial difficulties, accommodation, academic exclusion and many other challenges. Subsequently, the students’ academic performance suffers due to these challenges. This thesis therefore aims to focus on the perspectives of the post-graduate students at the Nelson Mandela University regarding the notion of wellbeing. This thesis attempts to uses a sociological indigenous perspective of wellbeing of “impilo” in describing well-being. Therefore, the thesis uses wellness as a conceptual framework to understand the challenges faced by postgraduate students at Nelson Mandela University. The thesis was conducted in Port Elizabeth, at Nelson Mandela University campus of Summerstrand focusing on post-graduate students in faculty of humanities. A qualitative research design and qualitative digital ethnographic research methodology was chosen as suitable for answering the research question. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis included identifying consistent themes around notions of well-being and experiences of changing university culture in the responses. The thesis main findings reveal the impact of how the changing university institutional culture impacts post-graduate student’s wellbeing. The research found that students are affected by institutional cultures and this is narrated through their experience of university life and their reflections on #MustFall movements. The participants have detailed how the cultures in the university have a greater impact on the well-being on student because the university is more than just a place of learning but their home. The participants also detailed new colloquial ways of describing well-being using the term “inerves” and “umgowo” are general ways of describing their well-being. The dissertation has contributed to the limited body of knowledge in the context of post-graduate students experience and conception of well-being in the South African higher education. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Lebelo, Mpho
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54450 , vital:46549
- Description: Increasingly, students across the world in various tertiary institutions are faced with many challenges ranging from financial difficulties, accommodation, academic exclusion and many other challenges. Subsequently, the students’ academic performance suffers due to these challenges. This thesis therefore aims to focus on the perspectives of the post-graduate students at the Nelson Mandela University regarding the notion of wellbeing. This thesis attempts to uses a sociological indigenous perspective of wellbeing of “impilo” in describing well-being. Therefore, the thesis uses wellness as a conceptual framework to understand the challenges faced by postgraduate students at Nelson Mandela University. The thesis was conducted in Port Elizabeth, at Nelson Mandela University campus of Summerstrand focusing on post-graduate students in faculty of humanities. A qualitative research design and qualitative digital ethnographic research methodology was chosen as suitable for answering the research question. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis included identifying consistent themes around notions of well-being and experiences of changing university culture in the responses. The thesis main findings reveal the impact of how the changing university institutional culture impacts post-graduate student’s wellbeing. The research found that students are affected by institutional cultures and this is narrated through their experience of university life and their reflections on #MustFall movements. The participants have detailed how the cultures in the university have a greater impact on the well-being on student because the university is more than just a place of learning but their home. The participants also detailed new colloquial ways of describing well-being using the term “inerves” and “umgowo” are general ways of describing their well-being. The dissertation has contributed to the limited body of knowledge in the context of post-graduate students experience and conception of well-being in the South African higher education. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
The impact of institutional cultures on student’s wellbeing among postgraduate students: the case of Nelson Mandela University in South Africa
- Authors: Lebelo, Mpho Tiny
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55402 , vital:51990
- Description: Increasingly, students across the world in various tertiary institutions are faced with many challenges ranging from financial difficulties, accommodation, academic exclusion and many other challenges. Subsequently, the students’ academic performance suffers due to these challenges. This thesis therefore aims to focus on the perspectives of the post-graduate students at the Nelson Mandela University regarding the notion of wellbeing. This thesis attempts to uses a sociological indigenous perspective of wellbeing of “impilo” in describing well-being. Therefore, the thesis uses wellness as a conceptual framework to understand the challenges faced by postgraduate students at Nelson Mandela University. The thesis was conducted in Port Elizabeth, at Nelson Mandela University campus of Summerstrand focusing on post-graduate students in faculty of humanities. A qualitative research design and qualitative digital ethnographic research methodology was chosen as suitable for answering the research question. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis included identifying consistent themes around notions of well-being and experiences of changing university culture in the responses. The thesis main findings reveal the impact of how the changing university institutional culture impacts post-graduate student’s wellbeing.The research found that students are affected by institutional cultures and this is narrated through their experience of university life and their reflections on #MustFall movements. The participants have detailed how the cultures in the university have a greater impact on the well-being on student because the university is more than just a place of learning but their home. The participants also detailed new colloquial ways of describing well-being using the term “inerves” and “umgowo” are general ways of describing their well-being. The dissertation has contributed to the limited body of knowledge in the context of post-graduate students experience and conception of well-being in the South African higher education. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Lebelo, Mpho Tiny
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55402 , vital:51990
- Description: Increasingly, students across the world in various tertiary institutions are faced with many challenges ranging from financial difficulties, accommodation, academic exclusion and many other challenges. Subsequently, the students’ academic performance suffers due to these challenges. This thesis therefore aims to focus on the perspectives of the post-graduate students at the Nelson Mandela University regarding the notion of wellbeing. This thesis attempts to uses a sociological indigenous perspective of wellbeing of “impilo” in describing well-being. Therefore, the thesis uses wellness as a conceptual framework to understand the challenges faced by postgraduate students at Nelson Mandela University. The thesis was conducted in Port Elizabeth, at Nelson Mandela University campus of Summerstrand focusing on post-graduate students in faculty of humanities. A qualitative research design and qualitative digital ethnographic research methodology was chosen as suitable for answering the research question. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis included identifying consistent themes around notions of well-being and experiences of changing university culture in the responses. The thesis main findings reveal the impact of how the changing university institutional culture impacts post-graduate student’s wellbeing.The research found that students are affected by institutional cultures and this is narrated through their experience of university life and their reflections on #MustFall movements. The participants have detailed how the cultures in the university have a greater impact on the well-being on student because the university is more than just a place of learning but their home. The participants also detailed new colloquial ways of describing well-being using the term “inerves” and “umgowo” are general ways of describing their well-being. The dissertation has contributed to the limited body of knowledge in the context of post-graduate students experience and conception of well-being in the South African higher education. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
The posttraumatic growth of Natalie Du Toit: A psychobiography
- Authors: Madotyeni-Ngcongca, Thozama
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Posttraumatic growth , Psychobiography , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61522 , vital:70969
- Description: This study sought to gain insight into the phenomenon of posttraumatic growth by performing a psychobiography of Natalie du Toit, who underwent a traumatic experience and acquired a disability. This study employed a psychobiographical methodology in order to interpret the life of Paralympic gold medallist, Natalie du Toit, from a psychosocial development perspective. The study used a qualitative research paradigm and a purposive sampling technique was employed to select Natalie du Toit. This was done to determine the extent to which Natalie du Toit underwent developmental growth as a result of posttraumatic growth after recuperating from her trauma. Tedeschi and Calhoun’s Posttraumatic Growth Model was used to inform the research. This model was used to describe the life experiences and events that characterised the posttraumatic adjustment of Natalie du Toit and interpret these through Tedeschi and Calhoun’s Posttraumatic Growth Model. The findings revealed a significant extend the existence of all five variables of Tedeschi and Calhoun’s Posttraumatic Growth Model, in the life of Natalie du Toit. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Madotyeni-Ngcongca, Thozama
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Posttraumatic growth , Psychobiography , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61522 , vital:70969
- Description: This study sought to gain insight into the phenomenon of posttraumatic growth by performing a psychobiography of Natalie du Toit, who underwent a traumatic experience and acquired a disability. This study employed a psychobiographical methodology in order to interpret the life of Paralympic gold medallist, Natalie du Toit, from a psychosocial development perspective. The study used a qualitative research paradigm and a purposive sampling technique was employed to select Natalie du Toit. This was done to determine the extent to which Natalie du Toit underwent developmental growth as a result of posttraumatic growth after recuperating from her trauma. Tedeschi and Calhoun’s Posttraumatic Growth Model was used to inform the research. This model was used to describe the life experiences and events that characterised the posttraumatic adjustment of Natalie du Toit and interpret these through Tedeschi and Calhoun’s Posttraumatic Growth Model. The findings revealed a significant extend the existence of all five variables of Tedeschi and Calhoun’s Posttraumatic Growth Model, in the life of Natalie du Toit. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Effect of coal and microalgae biomass co-firing on CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions: An experimental evaluation
- Authors: Magida, Nokuthula Ethel
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53817 , vital:45984
- Description: There is increasingly stringent legislation on the environmental impact of energy production from coal combustion, and this has led to growing pressure to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Thus, there is a significant need to develop and implement clean coal combustion technologies that would reduce the environmental gas pollutants. For power generation, the co-firing of biomass fuels at conventional coal-fired power stations is recognised as one of the low-cost, low-risk options to achieve significant reductions in GHG emissions. When coal is co-utilized with biomass there is added attractiveness because the biomass is CO2 neutral, and there is interest in using waste biomass and microalgae. Thus, the co-combustion of coal and biomass for energy production results in pollutant reduction, especially in the emissions of NOx, SOx, volatile organic compounds and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. The synergistic activity observed for toxic organic emissions is not well understood and is thought to involve chemical interaction between the volatiles from each fuel coupled with possible catalytic activity from the inorganic constituents of the fuels. The characterization of co-firing products and gases emitted from coal and microalgae (particularly the Scenedesmus strain) co-combustion has received limited attention. Therefore, this study seeks to understand possible interactions occurring during co-combustion of coal and Scenedesmus microalgae (Coalgae®). Additionally, the study aims to determine the effect of co-firing coal and Scenedesmus microalgae on CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions. The term “Coalgae®” refers to the mixture of coal and microalgae biomass. The study looks at physico-thermal characteristics as well as CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions of various coal-microalgae blending ratios by mass; 100:0 (coal), 95:5 (Coalgae® 5%), 90:10 (Coalgae® 10%), 85:15 (Coalgae® 15%) and 80:20 (Coalgae® 20%). Characterization techniques carried out included proximate and ultimate analyses, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). For combustion studies two techniques were applied. Low heating rate was obtained through a Thermogravimetric-Mass spectrometer analysis (TG-MS). Other combustion experiments were performed on the five lumpy fuels (coal and Coalgae® 5% - 20%) exposed to the flame in a fixed-bed combustion reactor. The emission concentrations of CO2 (%), NOx (ppm) and SO2 (ppm) of coal and Coalgae® blends were measured during the combustion of the five materials using a Lancom 4 portable flue gas analyser. The mass reduction (g) and temperature (°C) at the reactor exit were recorded during the combustion tests to compare the combustion behaviour of the four mixtures to that of raw coal. TG-DTG curves of coal and microalgae confirmed that the combustion behaviour of these materials was different. Coal showed one reaction during the combustion process, while microalgae and the Coalgae® blends showed three reactions. A significant reduction in activation energies of 160.4 kJ/mol, 159.6 kJ/mol, 151.3 kJ/mol, and 134.2 kJ/mol for Coalgae® 5% - Coalgae® 20%, respectively, compared to coal (161.3 kJ/mol) was achieved. The lowering of activation energy could be attributed to the relative fixed carbon content. SEM morphology images of ash obtained from the combustion of coal and Coalgae® 5% - 20% confirmed changes in devolatilization and combustion behaviour of solid raw fuel. The ash of Coalgae® blends had higher fluxing elements (Fe, Ca, K and Mg) than coal and this shows possibility of slagging and fouling in combustion systems. The Coalgae® blends showed a synergistic effect due to different combustion characteristics of coal and Scenedesmus microalgae. The combustion results obtained from the fixed-bed reactor showed significant reductions in concentrations of CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions for Coalgae® blends compared to baseline coal. Microalgae reduced CO2 emissions from baseline coal by 14.9%, 19.5%, 23.5% and 31.4% for Coalgae® 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%, respectively. SO2 reductions of 1.9%, 10.6%, 15.8% and 18.2%, and NOx reductions of 22.4%, 26.1%, 24.4% and 16.9% were achieved with Coalgae® 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%, respectively. Moreover, the combustion efficiency of Coalgae® blends increased significantly by up to 14.5% from baseline coal (86.4%) to Coalgae® 20% (98.9%). Based on the above findings, the co-firing of coal and Scenedesmus microalgae biomass was necessary for the reduction of CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions. As such, Coalgae® blends can be considered as alternative fuels in any coal driven process for energy generation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Magida, Nokuthula Ethel
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53817 , vital:45984
- Description: There is increasingly stringent legislation on the environmental impact of energy production from coal combustion, and this has led to growing pressure to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Thus, there is a significant need to develop and implement clean coal combustion technologies that would reduce the environmental gas pollutants. For power generation, the co-firing of biomass fuels at conventional coal-fired power stations is recognised as one of the low-cost, low-risk options to achieve significant reductions in GHG emissions. When coal is co-utilized with biomass there is added attractiveness because the biomass is CO2 neutral, and there is interest in using waste biomass and microalgae. Thus, the co-combustion of coal and biomass for energy production results in pollutant reduction, especially in the emissions of NOx, SOx, volatile organic compounds and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. The synergistic activity observed for toxic organic emissions is not well understood and is thought to involve chemical interaction between the volatiles from each fuel coupled with possible catalytic activity from the inorganic constituents of the fuels. The characterization of co-firing products and gases emitted from coal and microalgae (particularly the Scenedesmus strain) co-combustion has received limited attention. Therefore, this study seeks to understand possible interactions occurring during co-combustion of coal and Scenedesmus microalgae (Coalgae®). Additionally, the study aims to determine the effect of co-firing coal and Scenedesmus microalgae on CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions. The term “Coalgae®” refers to the mixture of coal and microalgae biomass. The study looks at physico-thermal characteristics as well as CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions of various coal-microalgae blending ratios by mass; 100:0 (coal), 95:5 (Coalgae® 5%), 90:10 (Coalgae® 10%), 85:15 (Coalgae® 15%) and 80:20 (Coalgae® 20%). Characterization techniques carried out included proximate and ultimate analyses, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). For combustion studies two techniques were applied. Low heating rate was obtained through a Thermogravimetric-Mass spectrometer analysis (TG-MS). Other combustion experiments were performed on the five lumpy fuels (coal and Coalgae® 5% - 20%) exposed to the flame in a fixed-bed combustion reactor. The emission concentrations of CO2 (%), NOx (ppm) and SO2 (ppm) of coal and Coalgae® blends were measured during the combustion of the five materials using a Lancom 4 portable flue gas analyser. The mass reduction (g) and temperature (°C) at the reactor exit were recorded during the combustion tests to compare the combustion behaviour of the four mixtures to that of raw coal. TG-DTG curves of coal and microalgae confirmed that the combustion behaviour of these materials was different. Coal showed one reaction during the combustion process, while microalgae and the Coalgae® blends showed three reactions. A significant reduction in activation energies of 160.4 kJ/mol, 159.6 kJ/mol, 151.3 kJ/mol, and 134.2 kJ/mol for Coalgae® 5% - Coalgae® 20%, respectively, compared to coal (161.3 kJ/mol) was achieved. The lowering of activation energy could be attributed to the relative fixed carbon content. SEM morphology images of ash obtained from the combustion of coal and Coalgae® 5% - 20% confirmed changes in devolatilization and combustion behaviour of solid raw fuel. The ash of Coalgae® blends had higher fluxing elements (Fe, Ca, K and Mg) than coal and this shows possibility of slagging and fouling in combustion systems. The Coalgae® blends showed a synergistic effect due to different combustion characteristics of coal and Scenedesmus microalgae. The combustion results obtained from the fixed-bed reactor showed significant reductions in concentrations of CO2, SO2 and NOx emissions for Coalgae® blends compared to baseline coal. Microalgae reduced CO2 emissions from baseline coal by 14.9%, 19.5%, 23.5% and 31.4% for Coalgae® 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%, respectively. SO2 reductions of 1.9%, 10.6%, 15.8% and 18.2%, and NOx reductions of 22.4%, 26.1%, 24.4% and 16.9% were achieved with Coalgae® 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%, respectively. Moreover, the combustion efficiency of Coalgae® blends increased significantly by up to 14.5% from baseline coal (86.4%) to Coalgae® 20% (98.9%). Based on the above findings, the co-firing of coal and Scenedesmus microalgae biomass was necessary for the reduction of CO2, SO2, and NOx emissions. As such, Coalgae® blends can be considered as alternative fuels in any coal driven process for energy generation. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
A framework to measure employee engagement at Stefanutti Stocks RPM Business Unit
- Authors: Maher, Theresa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53315 , vital:45142
- Description: Work gratification and expectancies are of the utmost importance to the skilled workforce in the South African construction industry. The price paid for a demotivated workforce in this industry is very high and it leads to friction in the workplace, displeasing work outcomes and time delays. Furthermore it leads to increased incidences of theft,absenteeism and outputs that arebelow standard in terms of productivityand thequality of the work.In order to motivate the workforce in the construction industry,a day-by-day, step-by-step,hands-on approachmust be used. The aforesaid aids site managers to manage effectively and this in turn leads to an increase in production by way of enhanced productivity. Research shows that a correlationbetweenmotivation, excelling at work, improved productivity and fulfilment and expectancyexist. The reason why individuals act in a specific manner and choose not to act in a certain way can be directly linked totheirmotivation and engagement.As a member ofthe construction industry in South Africa, Stefanutti Stocks isseen as one of the leading construction groups. Employing more than 12 000 workers it has the ability to provide a wide variety of different scale projects for a host of clients in varied markets. The division concentrated on in this study is the Roads, Pipelines and Mining Services (RPM)Business Unit. The MD of the RPM Business Unit when starting at the company a few years ago came to the conclusion that in order for the RPM Business Unit to function optimally certain business inconsistencies regarding employee engagement needed to be addressed. Based on this he decided to use a consulting firm, AIM,to establish what the exact concernswere and what interventions wererequired to deal with them. ivInterventions facilitatedby AIM includedManagement Training Programmes and Workshops as well as one-on-one coaching sessions with selected individuals.The methodology used in this study was to measurethe current level of employee engagement subsequent toengagement interventionsconcludedby AIM.The approach used was the use of surveys distributed through AIM in conjunction with the RPM Business Unit’sHR Department. The surveys were distributed via Survey Monkey Software owned by the RPM Business Unit of Stefanutti Stocks. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Maher, Theresa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53315 , vital:45142
- Description: Work gratification and expectancies are of the utmost importance to the skilled workforce in the South African construction industry. The price paid for a demotivated workforce in this industry is very high and it leads to friction in the workplace, displeasing work outcomes and time delays. Furthermore it leads to increased incidences of theft,absenteeism and outputs that arebelow standard in terms of productivityand thequality of the work.In order to motivate the workforce in the construction industry,a day-by-day, step-by-step,hands-on approachmust be used. The aforesaid aids site managers to manage effectively and this in turn leads to an increase in production by way of enhanced productivity. Research shows that a correlationbetweenmotivation, excelling at work, improved productivity and fulfilment and expectancyexist. The reason why individuals act in a specific manner and choose not to act in a certain way can be directly linked totheirmotivation and engagement.As a member ofthe construction industry in South Africa, Stefanutti Stocks isseen as one of the leading construction groups. Employing more than 12 000 workers it has the ability to provide a wide variety of different scale projects for a host of clients in varied markets. The division concentrated on in this study is the Roads, Pipelines and Mining Services (RPM)Business Unit. The MD of the RPM Business Unit when starting at the company a few years ago came to the conclusion that in order for the RPM Business Unit to function optimally certain business inconsistencies regarding employee engagement needed to be addressed. Based on this he decided to use a consulting firm, AIM,to establish what the exact concernswere and what interventions wererequired to deal with them. ivInterventions facilitatedby AIM includedManagement Training Programmes and Workshops as well as one-on-one coaching sessions with selected individuals.The methodology used in this study was to measurethe current level of employee engagement subsequent toengagement interventionsconcludedby AIM.The approach used was the use of surveys distributed through AIM in conjunction with the RPM Business Unit’sHR Department. The surveys were distributed via Survey Monkey Software owned by the RPM Business Unit of Stefanutti Stocks. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Engineering nanocatalysts using mixed metals for hydrodesulfurization of fuel oil
- Authors: Majodina, Siphumelele
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53861 , vital:46021
- Description: Crude oil is a complex blend containing thousands of hydrocarbons, non-hydrocarbon compounds and heavy metals. These hydrocarbons are mixed with variable quantities of sulfur-, nitrogen-, and oxygen-containing compounds. The combustion of fuel containing organosulfur compounds results in the emission of sulfur oxides (SOx) into the atmosphere. These toxic gases escape into the atmosphere resulting in air pollution, which is a large contributor to global warming. Air pollution also causes pulmonary diseases, allergies and may even lead to human death. It can also cause harm to other living organisms such as animals and food crops. Thus, mandating the reduction of sulfur in organosulfur compounds in fuel to <10 ppmS by the environmental protection agency. Several studies have been conducted to remove sulfur from fuels, most of which have focused on removing refractory sulfur compounds due to the difficulty in removing sulfur in these compounds. However, the currently employed hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts suffer in producing fuels complying with the future standards of fuels quality. Generally, HDS catalysts are made up of metallic components, Co (Ni) and Mo (W), on porous supports, the catalytic activity of these catalysts strongly depends on the amount of NiWS (CoMoS) phases in it and to the extent in which these phases are exposed on the catalyst support surfaces and this is engineered using chelating agents and size of catalysts. To this end, nanosized materials (nanocatalysts) are considered most suitable, as reported active phases of HDS catalysts are exposed, hence improving the hydrodesulfurization of sulfur-containing compounds in fuels. Nanocatalysts results in nanoparticles and when impregnated on a support will results in high surface area, and enhances electronic property, which increases the activity of the catalyst allowing the most refractory sulfur to be removed. The addition of chelating agents such as EDTA, acetic acid, and citric acid further improves the activity of the catalysts by producing more active phases on the catalyst. In this research project, nanocatalysts will be synthesised using mixed metals with and without chelating agents and tested for HDS activity and selectivity towards sulfur using refractory organosulfur compounds in fuels under industrial HDS conditions. This work was divided into two sections, and this dissertation summarizes the research outcomes of each phase. The first section examines the effect of chelating ligands, namely, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid (CA), and acetic acid (AA), on CoMo HDS activity and the sulfidation mechanism. In this study, chelating ligands seem to have a beneficial effect on HDS activity. Detailed mechanistic aspects of interactions between chelating ligands and metallic species (Co-chelating ligands) were also studied. Characterization by SC-XRD revealed that the presence of the chelating ligand result in the formation of complex with cobalt, and the effect of this complex was shown by TG-DSC analysis. This showed that the presence of chelating ligand leads a to delay of cobalt sulfidation as the complex decomposes at higher temperatures, which was the main cause of improving HDS activity. It was also shown that chelating ligands play a role in dispersion of metal oxides and sulfided metal oxides (TEM and XPS). XPS results showed low MoS2 phase for CoMo/Al2O3 (45%), while CoMo-EDTA/Al2O3 (63%) catalyst resulted in high MoS2 phases. From all the catalysts, CoMo-CA/Al2O3 (98%) gave the highest catalytic activity, and the increase in activity could be attributed to the formation of octahedral molybdenum oxides as they are easily reducible during sulfidation and result in more dispersed active phases and weak metal-support interaction. The second section examines the effect of a promoter (Rh) and different chelating ligands (EDTA, AA, and CA) on the catalyst RhMo supported with alumina. In this phase, rhodium was used as promoter, the following trend for catalytic activity was observed: RhMo/Al2O3 (88%) > RhMo-AA/Al2O3 (73%) > RhMo-CA/Al2O3 (72%) > RhMo-EDTA/Al2O3 (68%). This could be that the addition of chelating ligand complexed both metallic species retarding sulfidation of both metals, hence lowering the HDS activity. Studies show that it is possible for the citric acid to complex with both promoter and an active metal (Mo), and this might result in the formation of molybdenum dimers, trimers and tetramers which are difficult to sulfide. XPS analysis showed that unchelated catalyst have more MoS2 phases of 63%, hence higher dispersion than the chelated catalyst, this could be the reason for high activity in RhMo/Al2O3 (88%) catalyst. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Majodina, Siphumelele
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53861 , vital:46021
- Description: Crude oil is a complex blend containing thousands of hydrocarbons, non-hydrocarbon compounds and heavy metals. These hydrocarbons are mixed with variable quantities of sulfur-, nitrogen-, and oxygen-containing compounds. The combustion of fuel containing organosulfur compounds results in the emission of sulfur oxides (SOx) into the atmosphere. These toxic gases escape into the atmosphere resulting in air pollution, which is a large contributor to global warming. Air pollution also causes pulmonary diseases, allergies and may even lead to human death. It can also cause harm to other living organisms such as animals and food crops. Thus, mandating the reduction of sulfur in organosulfur compounds in fuel to <10 ppmS by the environmental protection agency. Several studies have been conducted to remove sulfur from fuels, most of which have focused on removing refractory sulfur compounds due to the difficulty in removing sulfur in these compounds. However, the currently employed hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts suffer in producing fuels complying with the future standards of fuels quality. Generally, HDS catalysts are made up of metallic components, Co (Ni) and Mo (W), on porous supports, the catalytic activity of these catalysts strongly depends on the amount of NiWS (CoMoS) phases in it and to the extent in which these phases are exposed on the catalyst support surfaces and this is engineered using chelating agents and size of catalysts. To this end, nanosized materials (nanocatalysts) are considered most suitable, as reported active phases of HDS catalysts are exposed, hence improving the hydrodesulfurization of sulfur-containing compounds in fuels. Nanocatalysts results in nanoparticles and when impregnated on a support will results in high surface area, and enhances electronic property, which increases the activity of the catalyst allowing the most refractory sulfur to be removed. The addition of chelating agents such as EDTA, acetic acid, and citric acid further improves the activity of the catalysts by producing more active phases on the catalyst. In this research project, nanocatalysts will be synthesised using mixed metals with and without chelating agents and tested for HDS activity and selectivity towards sulfur using refractory organosulfur compounds in fuels under industrial HDS conditions. This work was divided into two sections, and this dissertation summarizes the research outcomes of each phase. The first section examines the effect of chelating ligands, namely, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid (CA), and acetic acid (AA), on CoMo HDS activity and the sulfidation mechanism. In this study, chelating ligands seem to have a beneficial effect on HDS activity. Detailed mechanistic aspects of interactions between chelating ligands and metallic species (Co-chelating ligands) were also studied. Characterization by SC-XRD revealed that the presence of the chelating ligand result in the formation of complex with cobalt, and the effect of this complex was shown by TG-DSC analysis. This showed that the presence of chelating ligand leads a to delay of cobalt sulfidation as the complex decomposes at higher temperatures, which was the main cause of improving HDS activity. It was also shown that chelating ligands play a role in dispersion of metal oxides and sulfided metal oxides (TEM and XPS). XPS results showed low MoS2 phase for CoMo/Al2O3 (45%), while CoMo-EDTA/Al2O3 (63%) catalyst resulted in high MoS2 phases. From all the catalysts, CoMo-CA/Al2O3 (98%) gave the highest catalytic activity, and the increase in activity could be attributed to the formation of octahedral molybdenum oxides as they are easily reducible during sulfidation and result in more dispersed active phases and weak metal-support interaction. The second section examines the effect of a promoter (Rh) and different chelating ligands (EDTA, AA, and CA) on the catalyst RhMo supported with alumina. In this phase, rhodium was used as promoter, the following trend for catalytic activity was observed: RhMo/Al2O3 (88%) > RhMo-AA/Al2O3 (73%) > RhMo-CA/Al2O3 (72%) > RhMo-EDTA/Al2O3 (68%). This could be that the addition of chelating ligand complexed both metallic species retarding sulfidation of both metals, hence lowering the HDS activity. Studies show that it is possible for the citric acid to complex with both promoter and an active metal (Mo), and this might result in the formation of molybdenum dimers, trimers and tetramers which are difficult to sulfide. XPS analysis showed that unchelated catalyst have more MoS2 phases of 63%, hence higher dispersion than the chelated catalyst, this could be the reason for high activity in RhMo/Al2O3 (88%) catalyst. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Administrative justice and the implementation of the reconstruction and development program in Berlin Town, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Makie, Fundiswa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54460 , vital:46577
- Description: Housing delivery in South Africa is a crucial and topical issue affecting many citizens. The primary objective of the study was to determine the role of administrative justice in the implementation of the Reconstructive and Development Programme (RDP) in Berlin Town, in the province of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. In addition, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges of RDP housing in the study area, as a way of probing whether housing needs were being met. The study was conducted using a qualitative research methodology in gathering data from Berlin Town residents, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality staff and Berlin Town councillors. The data analysis revealed that respondents affirmed the importance of administrative justice and the effective implementation of the RDP with regard to housing. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality prioritise the full implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in dealing with the housing backlog and challenges in Berlin Town. Moreover, the findings of this study revealed that it is possible to highlight specific recommendations that can be used by various other local municipalities. Thus, the research study showed that efficient local municipal operations have a direct impact on the delivery of RDP houses. Relating to ethical considerations, the researcher ensured that all the requirements for credible research were met throughout the study. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Makie, Fundiswa
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54460 , vital:46577
- Description: Housing delivery in South Africa is a crucial and topical issue affecting many citizens. The primary objective of the study was to determine the role of administrative justice in the implementation of the Reconstructive and Development Programme (RDP) in Berlin Town, in the province of the Eastern Cape in South Africa. In addition, the aim of this study was to explore the challenges of RDP housing in the study area, as a way of probing whether housing needs were being met. The study was conducted using a qualitative research methodology in gathering data from Berlin Town residents, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality staff and Berlin Town councillors. The data analysis revealed that respondents affirmed the importance of administrative justice and the effective implementation of the RDP with regard to housing. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality prioritise the full implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in dealing with the housing backlog and challenges in Berlin Town. Moreover, the findings of this study revealed that it is possible to highlight specific recommendations that can be used by various other local municipalities. Thus, the research study showed that efficient local municipal operations have a direct impact on the delivery of RDP houses. Relating to ethical considerations, the researcher ensured that all the requirements for credible research were met throughout the study. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
The experiences of students with a physical disability at institutions of higher learning: a systematic review
- Makubalo, Siphokazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8596-7357
- Authors: Makubalo, Siphokazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8596-7357
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: People with disabilities -- Education (Higher) , People with disabilities in higher education , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27242 , vital:66484
- Description: This study aims to explore the experiences of physically disabled students at institutions of higher. The research methodology followed in conducting this study is a systematic review. Thus, published literature from the period of 2000-2020 on the experiences of physically disabled students in South African institutions of higher learning was reviewed. Five articles which met the inclusion criteria were assessed for eligibility using the CASP criteria. The social model of disability is applied as a theoretical framework in exploring these experiences. A synthesis of results and findings of South African studies relating to physically disabled students in institutions of higher learning is provided. Themes that emerged in the study indicate that physically disabled students experience social exclusion related to architectural access barriers, attitudinal barriers, lack of support and discrimination in South African Institutions of higher learning, which impacts their overall physical access in these institutions. The study found that addressing these challenges and access barriers would result in positive experiences for physically disabled students on campuses. The study concluded that to improve the experiences of physically disabled students, institutional effort is necessary that is extensive both in scope and systematic in nature. For future studies, it is recommended that a qualitative study explore not just disabled students‟ lived experiences but also be inclusive of academic and support staffs‟ perceptions. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-11
- Authors: Makubalo, Siphokazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8596-7357
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: People with disabilities -- Education (Higher) , People with disabilities in higher education , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27242 , vital:66484
- Description: This study aims to explore the experiences of physically disabled students at institutions of higher. The research methodology followed in conducting this study is a systematic review. Thus, published literature from the period of 2000-2020 on the experiences of physically disabled students in South African institutions of higher learning was reviewed. Five articles which met the inclusion criteria were assessed for eligibility using the CASP criteria. The social model of disability is applied as a theoretical framework in exploring these experiences. A synthesis of results and findings of South African studies relating to physically disabled students in institutions of higher learning is provided. Themes that emerged in the study indicate that physically disabled students experience social exclusion related to architectural access barriers, attitudinal barriers, lack of support and discrimination in South African Institutions of higher learning, which impacts their overall physical access in these institutions. The study found that addressing these challenges and access barriers would result in positive experiences for physically disabled students on campuses. The study concluded that to improve the experiences of physically disabled students, institutional effort is necessary that is extensive both in scope and systematic in nature. For future studies, it is recommended that a qualitative study explore not just disabled students‟ lived experiences but also be inclusive of academic and support staffs‟ perceptions. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-11
The co-evolution of Africa’s eastern margin and its primate fauna: implications for hominin evolution
- Authors: Mambalu, Philasande
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59755 , vital:62418
- Description: I investigated potential links between the diversification of African primate lineages and the physical evolution of the continent. I compared published phylogenetic trees based on mitochondrial and nuclear DNA for five clades: (a) Lorisoidea (galagos and pottos); (b) arboreal guenon monkeys (Cercopithecus and its allies); (c) living apes (including humans); (d) Papionini (baboons); and (e) savanna or “vervet” monkeys (Chlorocebus). I compared primate divergence dates with the ages of tectonic events, patterns of climatic change, and their palaeo-vegetational consequences. Based on present primate distributions, I estimated likely geographic locations of the divergence events. Finally, I compared the phylogenetic patterns of the primate clades with hominin evolutionary scenarios. Phylogenetic comparisons indicated three time periods when rates of speciation increased across the five primate clades: the Eocene – Oligocene transition (34 – 32 Ma); the mid-late Miocene (10 – 5 Ma); and the Pliocene – Pleistocene transition (2.7 – 2.3 Ma). Concentrated bursts of lineage splitting indicate a broadscale causal relationship between environmental change and lineage divergence. Human evolution followed similar biogeographic patterns to those of other primate clades. Tectonic events, climatic changes and palaeo-vegetational shifts are intimately connected, and have synergistic effects on biotic diversity. Tectonic events influence climatic change through their effects on oceanic circulation, planetary temperatures and rainfall patterns. Additionally, tectonic uplift and erosion may create geographic barriers to organismal dispersal across the continent, increasing the likelihood of geographic separation of populations and speciation. Recently evolved primate species show high levels of hybridisation for several generations after their initial divergence. Genus Homo generated ~10 species over 2.5 Ma. The emergence of these taxa likely involved substantial hybridisation, as demonstrated by the presence of Neanderthal genes within the H. sapiens genome. I suggest that this hybridisation contributed to the difficulties palaeoanthropologists often experience in distinguishing fossil hominin taxa. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mambalu, Philasande
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59755 , vital:62418
- Description: I investigated potential links between the diversification of African primate lineages and the physical evolution of the continent. I compared published phylogenetic trees based on mitochondrial and nuclear DNA for five clades: (a) Lorisoidea (galagos and pottos); (b) arboreal guenon monkeys (Cercopithecus and its allies); (c) living apes (including humans); (d) Papionini (baboons); and (e) savanna or “vervet” monkeys (Chlorocebus). I compared primate divergence dates with the ages of tectonic events, patterns of climatic change, and their palaeo-vegetational consequences. Based on present primate distributions, I estimated likely geographic locations of the divergence events. Finally, I compared the phylogenetic patterns of the primate clades with hominin evolutionary scenarios. Phylogenetic comparisons indicated three time periods when rates of speciation increased across the five primate clades: the Eocene – Oligocene transition (34 – 32 Ma); the mid-late Miocene (10 – 5 Ma); and the Pliocene – Pleistocene transition (2.7 – 2.3 Ma). Concentrated bursts of lineage splitting indicate a broadscale causal relationship between environmental change and lineage divergence. Human evolution followed similar biogeographic patterns to those of other primate clades. Tectonic events, climatic changes and palaeo-vegetational shifts are intimately connected, and have synergistic effects on biotic diversity. Tectonic events influence climatic change through their effects on oceanic circulation, planetary temperatures and rainfall patterns. Additionally, tectonic uplift and erosion may create geographic barriers to organismal dispersal across the continent, increasing the likelihood of geographic separation of populations and speciation. Recently evolved primate species show high levels of hybridisation for several generations after their initial divergence. Genus Homo generated ~10 species over 2.5 Ma. The emergence of these taxa likely involved substantial hybridisation, as demonstrated by the presence of Neanderthal genes within the H. sapiens genome. I suggest that this hybridisation contributed to the difficulties palaeoanthropologists often experience in distinguishing fossil hominin taxa. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-12