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 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
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
The synthesis, empirical and theoretical studies of various (N→B) diarylborinate esters
- Authors: Manana, Pholani Sakhile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53869 , vital:46027
- Description: A series of core-functionalized borinic acids was synthesized from Grignard reagents and tributylborate and reacted with ethanolamine, amino acids, 2-pyridylmethanol as well as 2-(ethyl amino ethanol). Among the borinic acids synthesized were the ones bearing: para-(2, 15, 16, 22, 27)-methyl, (3, 20, 25)-chloro, (4, 23, 26)-fluoro, (5)-methoxy; meta-(7, 17)-methyl, (9)-fluoro; ortho-(6)-methyl, (8)-chloro, (10, 18, 19)-methoxy substituents on their respective aromatic systems. All compounds obtained by condensation of the borinic acids with the aforementioned nitrogen-containing substrates were characterized structurally by means of diffraction studies based on single crystals and found to constitute chelate esters/amides featuring covalent B-O and dative N→B bonds. The chelate compounds researched in this study could be classified into four families and represent the compounds: ethanol amine: (1) 2,2-diphenyl-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (2) 2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (3) 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (4) 2,2-bis(p-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (5) 2,2-bis(p-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (6) 2,2-bis(o-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (7) 2,2-bis(m-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (8) 2,2-bis(o-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (9) 2,2-bis(m-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (10) 2,2-bis(o-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines. α-amino acids : (14) 4-methyl-2,2-diphenyl-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (15) 2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (16) 4-methyl-2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (17) 4-isopropyl-2,2-bis(m-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (18) 4-methyl-2,2-bis(o-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2- oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (19) 4-acetamidyl-2,2-bis(o-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2- oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (20) 4-phenylethane-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2 oxazaborolidin-5-ones. 2-pyridylmethanol: (21) 1,3-hydroxypyridyl-2,2-diphenyl 1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (22) 1,3-hydroxypyridyl-2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (23) 1,3-hydroxypyridyl-2,2-bis(p-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines 2-(ethyl amino ethanol): (24) 3-ethyl-2,2-diphenyl-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (25) 3-ethyl-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (26) 3-ethyl-2,2-bis(p-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (27) 3-ethyl-2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines. Apart from structural studies in the solid state, the compounds were also characterized by means of multinuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H, 11B, 13C) as well as UV/vis and FTIR. The typical 11B resonances were found in the range of (4-10 ppm). A series of characteristic metrical parameters for the compounds in the solid state as well as typical NMR shifts for the chelate target molecules was established that allowed for the determination of the coordination induced shift. The carbon atom bonded to the oxygen atom shifted upfield, while the carbon atom bonded to the nitrogen atom shifted downfield. Factors mentioned in the literature that has an influence on the hydrolytic stability on the heterocyclic borinate motif have been taken into consideration and verified for the systems researched in this study. The substitution at the nitrogen atom with one ethyl group caused the greatest increases in the N→B bond length (27) 1.714 Å, due to the increase in the nitrogen Lewis basicity, making it the least hydrolytically stable, these include compounds (24-26). Furthermore, DFT calculations were performed by employing Becke’s three parameter hybrid exchange functional with Lee–Yang–Parr functional (B3LYP) method using the Gaussian 16 program package (Rev. B01) employing the basis set 6-311++G(d,p), to corroborate and correlate the experimental findings, which gave a general R-squared value of 0.9978 for calculated vs experimental 13C chemical shifts. Thermal properties are recorded for select compounds, indicating the ΔH and the melting points. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Manana, Pholani Sakhile
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53869 , vital:46027
- Description: A series of core-functionalized borinic acids was synthesized from Grignard reagents and tributylborate and reacted with ethanolamine, amino acids, 2-pyridylmethanol as well as 2-(ethyl amino ethanol). Among the borinic acids synthesized were the ones bearing: para-(2, 15, 16, 22, 27)-methyl, (3, 20, 25)-chloro, (4, 23, 26)-fluoro, (5)-methoxy; meta-(7, 17)-methyl, (9)-fluoro; ortho-(6)-methyl, (8)-chloro, (10, 18, 19)-methoxy substituents on their respective aromatic systems. All compounds obtained by condensation of the borinic acids with the aforementioned nitrogen-containing substrates were characterized structurally by means of diffraction studies based on single crystals and found to constitute chelate esters/amides featuring covalent B-O and dative N→B bonds. The chelate compounds researched in this study could be classified into four families and represent the compounds: ethanol amine: (1) 2,2-diphenyl-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (2) 2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (3) 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (4) 2,2-bis(p-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (5) 2,2-bis(p-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (6) 2,2-bis(o-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (7) 2,2-bis(m-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (8) 2,2-bis(o-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (9) 2,2-bis(m-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (10) 2,2-bis(o-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines. α-amino acids : (14) 4-methyl-2,2-diphenyl-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (15) 2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (16) 4-methyl-2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (17) 4-isopropyl-2,2-bis(m-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (18) 4-methyl-2,2-bis(o-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2- oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (19) 4-acetamidyl-2,2-bis(o-methoxyphenyl)-1,3,2- oxazaborolidin-5-ones, (20) 4-phenylethane-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2 oxazaborolidin-5-ones. 2-pyridylmethanol: (21) 1,3-hydroxypyridyl-2,2-diphenyl 1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (22) 1,3-hydroxypyridyl-2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (23) 1,3-hydroxypyridyl-2,2-bis(p-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines 2-(ethyl amino ethanol): (24) 3-ethyl-2,2-diphenyl-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (25) 3-ethyl-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (26) 3-ethyl-2,2-bis(p-fluorophenyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines, (27) 3-ethyl-2,2-bis(p-tolyl)-1,3,2-oxazaborolidines. Apart from structural studies in the solid state, the compounds were also characterized by means of multinuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H, 11B, 13C) as well as UV/vis and FTIR. The typical 11B resonances were found in the range of (4-10 ppm). A series of characteristic metrical parameters for the compounds in the solid state as well as typical NMR shifts for the chelate target molecules was established that allowed for the determination of the coordination induced shift. The carbon atom bonded to the oxygen atom shifted upfield, while the carbon atom bonded to the nitrogen atom shifted downfield. Factors mentioned in the literature that has an influence on the hydrolytic stability on the heterocyclic borinate motif have been taken into consideration and verified for the systems researched in this study. The substitution at the nitrogen atom with one ethyl group caused the greatest increases in the N→B bond length (27) 1.714 Å, due to the increase in the nitrogen Lewis basicity, making it the least hydrolytically stable, these include compounds (24-26). Furthermore, DFT calculations were performed by employing Becke’s three parameter hybrid exchange functional with Lee–Yang–Parr functional (B3LYP) method using the Gaussian 16 program package (Rev. B01) employing the basis set 6-311++G(d,p), to corroborate and correlate the experimental findings, which gave a general R-squared value of 0.9978 for calculated vs experimental 13C chemical shifts. Thermal properties are recorded for select compounds, indicating the ΔH and the melting points. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Preventive diplomacy and conflict prevention in Africa: an examination of South Africa’s role in conflict resolution in the Democratic Republic of The Congo
- Authors: Mandela, Siyabulela
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54471 , vital:46584
- Description: The Agenda 2063 tabled a blueprint of seven aspirations, for the Africa we want and one which was critical to this study being a peaceful and secure Africa. As postulated in this aspiration, by Agenda 2063, “Africa shall be free from armed conflict, terrorism, extremism, intolerance, and gender-based violence, which are major threats to human security, peace and development”. The Assembly of the AU committed in the agenda to fast-track actions to silence the guns by 2020, through enhanced dialogue-centred conflict prevention and resolution. The deadline for silencing guns and ending all wars in Africa was 2020, which has passed and Africa remains characterised by violent conflict and underdevelopment. Violent conflict of different magnitudes continues unabated across different states in Africa and remain insolent to any means towards resolution. The African continent is also a host to the most fragile states in the world, and the governments of these countries are unable to cultivate or facilitate the necessary conditions needed for sustainable peace and development. The conditions of poverty, frustration of basic human needs, maladministration, corruption, mismanagement of diversity and ethnic divisions so prevalent in Africa increase the likelihood of violent conflict. Conflict provention, preventive diplomacy, problem-solving workshops, peacebuilding and peacekeeping are all variants of peace operations deemed crucial in this study for Africa’s stability, peace and development. The advancement of preventive diplomacy and conflict provention as a hybrid framework for the prevention and resolution of violent conflict and promotion of sustainable peace and development in Africa was at the centre of this study. The study adopted John Burton’s basic human needs theory as a theoretical framework to further highlight an urgency by African states to prioritise policies and conflict resolution efforts directed at addressing the underlying issues giving rise to violent conflicts, if sustainable peace and development was to be realised in the continent. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Mandela, Siyabulela
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54471 , vital:46584
- Description: The Agenda 2063 tabled a blueprint of seven aspirations, for the Africa we want and one which was critical to this study being a peaceful and secure Africa. As postulated in this aspiration, by Agenda 2063, “Africa shall be free from armed conflict, terrorism, extremism, intolerance, and gender-based violence, which are major threats to human security, peace and development”. The Assembly of the AU committed in the agenda to fast-track actions to silence the guns by 2020, through enhanced dialogue-centred conflict prevention and resolution. The deadline for silencing guns and ending all wars in Africa was 2020, which has passed and Africa remains characterised by violent conflict and underdevelopment. Violent conflict of different magnitudes continues unabated across different states in Africa and remain insolent to any means towards resolution. The African continent is also a host to the most fragile states in the world, and the governments of these countries are unable to cultivate or facilitate the necessary conditions needed for sustainable peace and development. The conditions of poverty, frustration of basic human needs, maladministration, corruption, mismanagement of diversity and ethnic divisions so prevalent in Africa increase the likelihood of violent conflict. Conflict provention, preventive diplomacy, problem-solving workshops, peacebuilding and peacekeeping are all variants of peace operations deemed crucial in this study for Africa’s stability, peace and development. The advancement of preventive diplomacy and conflict provention as a hybrid framework for the prevention and resolution of violent conflict and promotion of sustainable peace and development in Africa was at the centre of this study. The study adopted John Burton’s basic human needs theory as a theoretical framework to further highlight an urgency by African states to prioritise policies and conflict resolution efforts directed at addressing the underlying issues giving rise to violent conflicts, if sustainable peace and development was to be realised in the continent. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Perceptions of Nelson Mandela University social sciences post-graduate students on the decolonization of the social sciences modules
- Authors: Manduluka, Lubabalo
- 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/10948/54481 , vital:46603
- Description: This research project is motivated by the students 2015-2016 higher education student protest that called for the decolonization of higher education institutions. It is widely accepted that for university module to serve students properly, it should be relevant to students it should be and must be localised. The research study considered the perceptions of post-graduate students on the decolonization of social sciences modules from the Nelson Mandela University. The objectives of the study are as follows: to investigate the perception of post-graduate students based within the School of Social Sciences on the decolonization of the social sciences modules at the Nelson Mandela University at South campus. To come up with recommendations with the view of addressing some to the challenges faced by tertiary institutions on decolonization of the social sciences modules at the Nelson Mandela University. The geographical area of the university is Eastern Cape, Port Elizabeth, Summerstrand, and the study was done on the south campus of the Nelson Mandela University. This study attempts to shed some light on the decolonization and Africanization of the modules through the lenses of post-graduate students. Literature is utilized to get a broader understanding of the concept of decolonization. The study also suggests how the university curriculum can be Africanized so that it can be more inclusive to African students and more relevant to African students. Interviews with post-graduate students are used as guideline to get a better understanding of how the modules affect them and the solutions to their concerns emerging from colonized modules. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Manduluka, Lubabalo
- 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/10948/54481 , vital:46603
- Description: This research project is motivated by the students 2015-2016 higher education student protest that called for the decolonization of higher education institutions. It is widely accepted that for university module to serve students properly, it should be relevant to students it should be and must be localised. The research study considered the perceptions of post-graduate students on the decolonization of social sciences modules from the Nelson Mandela University. The objectives of the study are as follows: to investigate the perception of post-graduate students based within the School of Social Sciences on the decolonization of the social sciences modules at the Nelson Mandela University at South campus. To come up with recommendations with the view of addressing some to the challenges faced by tertiary institutions on decolonization of the social sciences modules at the Nelson Mandela University. The geographical area of the university is Eastern Cape, Port Elizabeth, Summerstrand, and the study was done on the south campus of the Nelson Mandela University. This study attempts to shed some light on the decolonization and Africanization of the modules through the lenses of post-graduate students. Literature is utilized to get a broader understanding of the concept of decolonization. The study also suggests how the university curriculum can be Africanized so that it can be more inclusive to African students and more relevant to African students. Interviews with post-graduate students are used as guideline to get a better understanding of how the modules affect them and the solutions to their concerns emerging from colonized modules. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
A Functional Data Analysis approach to understand patterns imbedded within various data types
- Authors: Mangisa, Siphumlile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Data mining
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52091 , vital:43426
- Description: The thesis investigates the use of the novel Functional Data Analysis (FDA) methods in tackling various data types. Strong motivation is provided for the use of interesting opportunities offered by FDA to analyse not only economic data, but generally, data from any domain. The use of these methods is illustrated using three unique self-contained case-studies from econometrics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mangisa, Siphumlile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Data mining
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52091 , vital:43426
- Description: The thesis investigates the use of the novel Functional Data Analysis (FDA) methods in tackling various data types. Strong motivation is provided for the use of interesting opportunities offered by FDA to analyse not only economic data, but generally, data from any domain. The use of these methods is illustrated using three unique self-contained case-studies from econometrics. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Factors influencing rentention of academic staff at South African higher education institutions
- Authors: Maphiri, Thabiso
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54739 , vital:47653
- Description: The study investigated the factors influencing retention of academic staff at South African Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The Job Embeddedness theory and Herzberg’s theory on retention were used to explore the retention of employees with special focus on the challenges and strategies of enhancing retention. The study adopted desktop research to explore the retention of academic staff in HEIs. This study discussed the challenges and factors influencing staff retention in universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges (TVETs) in South Africa. The findings of the study revealed that the challenges that impede staff retention include a lack of capacity; massification of tertiary education; transformation of higher education; redressing historical imbalances; staff turnover; a lack of mentoring and coaching; and the impossibility to satisfy everyone’s needs. The study identified strategies that can be adopted to enhance staff retention that focus on remuneration and compensation; professional development; workplace climate; appointments and promotions; institutional governance; institutional infrastructure and adaptation to change. Factors that contribute to effective staff retention were also identified as organisational culture; the rewards system; mentoring and development programmes; retention tracking, recruitment; selection; the life cycle of an employee; onboarding; performance management systems, career management, bureaucratic organisational structures; and effective support from Deans and Vice-Chancellors. Lastly, the study recommended the following on how HEIs can retain their academic staff: career advancement opportunities to boost morale and loyalty of the staff; mentoring and coaching provided to the junior staff by the senior staff; job satisfaction through the provision of remuneration and rewarding performance; and implementing sound performance management and appraisal systems. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
- Authors: Maphiri, Thabiso
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54739 , vital:47653
- Description: The study investigated the factors influencing retention of academic staff at South African Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The Job Embeddedness theory and Herzberg’s theory on retention were used to explore the retention of employees with special focus on the challenges and strategies of enhancing retention. The study adopted desktop research to explore the retention of academic staff in HEIs. This study discussed the challenges and factors influencing staff retention in universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges (TVETs) in South Africa. The findings of the study revealed that the challenges that impede staff retention include a lack of capacity; massification of tertiary education; transformation of higher education; redressing historical imbalances; staff turnover; a lack of mentoring and coaching; and the impossibility to satisfy everyone’s needs. The study identified strategies that can be adopted to enhance staff retention that focus on remuneration and compensation; professional development; workplace climate; appointments and promotions; institutional governance; institutional infrastructure and adaptation to change. Factors that contribute to effective staff retention were also identified as organisational culture; the rewards system; mentoring and development programmes; retention tracking, recruitment; selection; the life cycle of an employee; onboarding; performance management systems, career management, bureaucratic organisational structures; and effective support from Deans and Vice-Chancellors. Lastly, the study recommended the following on how HEIs can retain their academic staff: career advancement opportunities to boost morale and loyalty of the staff; mentoring and coaching provided to the junior staff by the senior staff; job satisfaction through the provision of remuneration and rewarding performance; and implementing sound performance management and appraisal systems. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
The role of the national development plan in reducing unemployment
- Authors: Mase, Akhona
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54755 , vital:47657
- Description: South Africa has one of the most disturbing joblessness rates in the world, especially among young people and black women. In 2018 the country’s narrow unemployment rate was at 26.7%, while by broader definition was anticipated to be at 35.1% (www.statssa.gov.za, 2018). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the role of the National Development Plan (NDP) in reducing unemployment in South Africa. The NDP was selected because it is the latest employment growth strategy the country has adopted. The National Development Plan targets economic growth, as the main factor for generating employment. To achieve the goal of this study, the researcher adopted the qualitative research methodology. Secondary data was gathered, analysed and interpreted to establish facts about the issue of high unemployment in South Africa and to determine if the National Development Plan is achieving its goal of reducing unemployment. This research established that the high unemployment rate in South Africa continues to be a major challenge, despite the introduction of the National Development Plan. The Plan projected that the rate of unemployment in South Africa will decline from 25% in 2013 to 14% by 2020. However, the unemployment rate in the country has increased from 25% in 2013 to 27% in 2018. In addition, this study established that unemployment in South Africa is structural, and it is caused by these four factors: Firstly, poor education, secondly, skills mismatch, the third factor which contributed immensely to unemployment in the country was the forceful removal of black people from places close to economic activities. This happened during the apartheid era. The fourth and last factor that led to increase in unemployment in South Africa was the 2008/2009 global recession. Structural unemployment is the type of unemployment that persists even when the economy is on the rise, as it is not caused by slow growth in the economy but by factors such as skill mismatch or complete unavailability of skills required in the economy. Therefore, targeting economic growth as a key mechanism for job creation will not yield any positive outcomes for South Africa. The study made a number of recommendations that the government can employ to adequately tackle unemployment in South Africa. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
- Authors: Mase, Akhona
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54755 , vital:47657
- Description: South Africa has one of the most disturbing joblessness rates in the world, especially among young people and black women. In 2018 the country’s narrow unemployment rate was at 26.7%, while by broader definition was anticipated to be at 35.1% (www.statssa.gov.za, 2018). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the role of the National Development Plan (NDP) in reducing unemployment in South Africa. The NDP was selected because it is the latest employment growth strategy the country has adopted. The National Development Plan targets economic growth, as the main factor for generating employment. To achieve the goal of this study, the researcher adopted the qualitative research methodology. Secondary data was gathered, analysed and interpreted to establish facts about the issue of high unemployment in South Africa and to determine if the National Development Plan is achieving its goal of reducing unemployment. This research established that the high unemployment rate in South Africa continues to be a major challenge, despite the introduction of the National Development Plan. The Plan projected that the rate of unemployment in South Africa will decline from 25% in 2013 to 14% by 2020. However, the unemployment rate in the country has increased from 25% in 2013 to 27% in 2018. In addition, this study established that unemployment in South Africa is structural, and it is caused by these four factors: Firstly, poor education, secondly, skills mismatch, the third factor which contributed immensely to unemployment in the country was the forceful removal of black people from places close to economic activities. This happened during the apartheid era. The fourth and last factor that led to increase in unemployment in South Africa was the 2008/2009 global recession. Structural unemployment is the type of unemployment that persists even when the economy is on the rise, as it is not caused by slow growth in the economy but by factors such as skill mismatch or complete unavailability of skills required in the economy. Therefore, targeting economic growth as a key mechanism for job creation will not yield any positive outcomes for South Africa. The study made a number of recommendations that the government can employ to adequately tackle unemployment in South Africa. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
Main thesis title 2021: subtitle if needed. If no subtitle follow instructions in manual
- Authors: Mashinini, Peter Madindwa
- Date: 2015-03
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53340 , vital:45138
- Description: Ti6Al4V alloy usage is increasing due to high demand from the aerospace and automotive industries as well as the field of medical implants. Therefore, identifying the most effective joining technique is critically important to ensure that optimum life can be achieved by welded components. This is especially important for the aerospace industry where fatigue life of the welded joints is vital. This research identified two relatively new joining technologies for Titanium sheet, namely, Friction Stir Welding (FSW),a solid-state process, and Laser Beam Welding (LBW),a fusion joining process. It was therefore vitalto conduct a systematic study of these two processes and compare results to illustrate which process attributes to static and dynamic properties. This investigation was accomplished by varying the process heat input for both FSW and LBW. The main parameters used to control process heat input were rotational-and traverse speed for FSW and laser power and traverse speed for LBW. In FSW, a reaction torque was used to describe the process energy in order to achieve the plasticised material condition. Preliminary work was done to establish the influencing factors for a successful weld which included tool optimisation but process optimisation was not discussed in elaborative detail. In LBW, traverse speed was identified as the critical control parameter to ensure good weld penetration. Weld width was recorded as it showed strong correlation to heat input rates. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Mechanical Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-03
- Authors: Mashinini, Peter Madindwa
- Date: 2015-03
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53340 , vital:45138
- Description: Ti6Al4V alloy usage is increasing due to high demand from the aerospace and automotive industries as well as the field of medical implants. Therefore, identifying the most effective joining technique is critically important to ensure that optimum life can be achieved by welded components. This is especially important for the aerospace industry where fatigue life of the welded joints is vital. This research identified two relatively new joining technologies for Titanium sheet, namely, Friction Stir Welding (FSW),a solid-state process, and Laser Beam Welding (LBW),a fusion joining process. It was therefore vitalto conduct a systematic study of these two processes and compare results to illustrate which process attributes to static and dynamic properties. This investigation was accomplished by varying the process heat input for both FSW and LBW. The main parameters used to control process heat input were rotational-and traverse speed for FSW and laser power and traverse speed for LBW. In FSW, a reaction torque was used to describe the process energy in order to achieve the plasticised material condition. Preliminary work was done to establish the influencing factors for a successful weld which included tool optimisation but process optimisation was not discussed in elaborative detail. In LBW, traverse speed was identified as the critical control parameter to ensure good weld penetration. Weld width was recorded as it showed strong correlation to heat input rates. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Mechanical Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-03
The perceptions of employees and employer on the ever increasing use of technology: the case of the acoustex in Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Matamela, Wanga
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54783 , vital:47664
- Description: It is evident that many companies and organization are currently using high powered technology to be at par with the trends throughout the globe. This research focuses on the perception of workers and management on the Fourth Industrial Revolution at Acoustex in Port Elizabeth. The research objectives of this study is firstly, to investigate the perceptions of workers and management at Acoustex in Port Elizabeth. Secondly, to contribute within economic and industrial anthropology with reference to Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape and raise awareness. Thirdly, to propose recommendations that can be used by industries and the government to save jobs. The research methodology employed in this study include among others, individual interviews using an interview guide containing questions that is relevant to the study. To supplement the above, secondary sources ranging from relevant scholarly journals and books were consulted. Ethical compliance was adhered to by the researcher in terms of applying for permission to conduct interviews and it was granted. The concept unemployment was used as a conceptual framework to understand the impact of Fourth Industrial Revolution at Acoustex in particular and workplace in general. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
- Authors: Matamela, Wanga
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54783 , vital:47664
- Description: It is evident that many companies and organization are currently using high powered technology to be at par with the trends throughout the globe. This research focuses on the perception of workers and management on the Fourth Industrial Revolution at Acoustex in Port Elizabeth. The research objectives of this study is firstly, to investigate the perceptions of workers and management at Acoustex in Port Elizabeth. Secondly, to contribute within economic and industrial anthropology with reference to Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape and raise awareness. Thirdly, to propose recommendations that can be used by industries and the government to save jobs. The research methodology employed in this study include among others, individual interviews using an interview guide containing questions that is relevant to the study. To supplement the above, secondary sources ranging from relevant scholarly journals and books were consulted. Ethical compliance was adhered to by the researcher in terms of applying for permission to conduct interviews and it was granted. The concept unemployment was used as a conceptual framework to understand the impact of Fourth Industrial Revolution at Acoustex in particular and workplace in general. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
Optimizing herbicide-use for the killing of eucalypt stumps
- Authors: Mavhungu, Tshilidzi
- 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/10948/53857 , vital:46023
- Description: The South Africa (SA) forest industry relies on plantations of exotic forestry trees (Pinus, Acacia and Eucalyptus) to fulfil its timber requirements. With 52.0% of the afforested land in South Africa planted to various eucalypts and their hybrid combinations. Of the total area planted to eucalypts in SA, 75 000 ha is re-established annually by means of silvicultural regimes and operations matched to site productivity, desired end-product and method of regeneration. Unlike other commercially grown tree species, eucalypt species have the ability to coppice after felling. Coppicing is a common form of regeneration in South African forestry as it allows the plantation owner the option of a second timber rotation without replanting. However, if any factors affecting coppicing are compromised, and the site is to be replanted, then it is important to kill the stumps before replanting as rapid initial growth of the coppice shoots will require earlier control than that associated with normal weeding operations. Over time, various methods of woody plant control have been proposed and tested, with most of these making use of herbicides as opposed to the repeated manual removal of coppice regrowth. Globally, most industries subscribe to standards associated with sustainable production (economic, environmental and social) against which they are measured. Within SA, 80% of the forests are certified though either the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or International Standards Organisation (ISO) which recommend the identification and avoidance of ‘highly hazardous’ chemicals; the promotion of ‘non-chemical’ methods for pest management as an element of an integrated pest and vegetation management strategy; and the appropriate use of chemicals that are used. To test the current recommendations for killing eucalypt stumps to include other species, the potential of reducing herbicides used, and the influence of time after application on the survival of eucalypt stumps, two trials were initiated at Entabeni plantation (Venda, Limpopo) and one at Wilgeboom plantation (Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga) between 2018 and 2020. Extending eucalypt cut-stump control practices: Most of the trial work on killing of eucalypts in SA has been conducted on Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus camaldulensis or Eucalyptus macarthurii, with all grown on shorter pulpwood rotations. To extend current recommendation to include Eucalyptus cloeziana (grown on a longer rotation for poles), a trial was established in 2018 at Entabeni plantation (Limpopo Province) to quantify the interaction between Application method (basal-frill; cut-surface; foliar) and Herbicide (no herbicide applied; Roundup; Garlon; Roundup + Garlon) for the killing of 12 year-old stumps following harvesting. Assessments were carried out at 1, 3 and 6 months following application and included Stump survival, Stump quarter with coppice and Coppice heath. Relative to the control plots (100% survival), all herbicides tested were equally effective, 70–90% of the stumps killed. This study confirms previous research regarding the killing of eucalypt stumps. Roundup, Garlon or a combination of two, when applied according to label recommendations to a stump as a basal-frill or cut-surface application (within 30 minutes of felling) resulted in 70-90% of the stumps killed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Mavhungu, Tshilidzi
- 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/10948/53857 , vital:46023
- Description: The South Africa (SA) forest industry relies on plantations of exotic forestry trees (Pinus, Acacia and Eucalyptus) to fulfil its timber requirements. With 52.0% of the afforested land in South Africa planted to various eucalypts and their hybrid combinations. Of the total area planted to eucalypts in SA, 75 000 ha is re-established annually by means of silvicultural regimes and operations matched to site productivity, desired end-product and method of regeneration. Unlike other commercially grown tree species, eucalypt species have the ability to coppice after felling. Coppicing is a common form of regeneration in South African forestry as it allows the plantation owner the option of a second timber rotation without replanting. However, if any factors affecting coppicing are compromised, and the site is to be replanted, then it is important to kill the stumps before replanting as rapid initial growth of the coppice shoots will require earlier control than that associated with normal weeding operations. Over time, various methods of woody plant control have been proposed and tested, with most of these making use of herbicides as opposed to the repeated manual removal of coppice regrowth. Globally, most industries subscribe to standards associated with sustainable production (economic, environmental and social) against which they are measured. Within SA, 80% of the forests are certified though either the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or International Standards Organisation (ISO) which recommend the identification and avoidance of ‘highly hazardous’ chemicals; the promotion of ‘non-chemical’ methods for pest management as an element of an integrated pest and vegetation management strategy; and the appropriate use of chemicals that are used. To test the current recommendations for killing eucalypt stumps to include other species, the potential of reducing herbicides used, and the influence of time after application on the survival of eucalypt stumps, two trials were initiated at Entabeni plantation (Venda, Limpopo) and one at Wilgeboom plantation (Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga) between 2018 and 2020. Extending eucalypt cut-stump control practices: Most of the trial work on killing of eucalypts in SA has been conducted on Eucalyptus grandis, Eucalyptus camaldulensis or Eucalyptus macarthurii, with all grown on shorter pulpwood rotations. To extend current recommendation to include Eucalyptus cloeziana (grown on a longer rotation for poles), a trial was established in 2018 at Entabeni plantation (Limpopo Province) to quantify the interaction between Application method (basal-frill; cut-surface; foliar) and Herbicide (no herbicide applied; Roundup; Garlon; Roundup + Garlon) for the killing of 12 year-old stumps following harvesting. Assessments were carried out at 1, 3 and 6 months following application and included Stump survival, Stump quarter with coppice and Coppice heath. Relative to the control plots (100% survival), all herbicides tested were equally effective, 70–90% of the stumps killed. This study confirms previous research regarding the killing of eucalypt stumps. Roundup, Garlon or a combination of two, when applied according to label recommendations to a stump as a basal-frill or cut-surface application (within 30 minutes of felling) resulted in 70-90% of the stumps killed. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Flash floods prediction in South African urban areas: Jukskei river catchment as case study
- Authors: Mawasha, Tshepo Sylvester
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Geographic information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52059 , vital:43429
- Description: This study explored the change relation of multi-temporal land-use/land-cover (LULC) conditions in order to determine how they contribute to change in surface runoff volumes and peak discharge, in an effort to predict flash flooding within the Jukskei River catchment. The research is divided into three main parts: (1) LULC change modeling, (2) rainfall-runoff modeling, and (3) flash floods prediction. Three multi-temporal satellite images of Landsat-5 MMS (1987), Landsat-5 TM (2001) and Landsat-8 OLI (2015) were used for LULC modeling. The analysis of the LULC model revealed that there is a continuous increment in built-up area, from 37.7% to 56.2%, in the expense of other LULC classes for the 28-years preceding this study (i.e., 1987 to 2015). Rainfall-runoff model output results revealed that, for these 28 years, there has been an increase in surface runoff due to change in LULC by 21.5%, 32.9% and 45.5% for 1987, 2001 and 2015, respectively. Due to an increase in surface runoff volume and impervious surface over time, the analysis of HEC-RAS/GeoRAS showed that floodplain extent, flood depth, flood velocity, depth-velocity and the level of damage increases especially in low elevation areas and areas at closed proximity to the Jukskei River. Thus, the building structures and infrastructures are at risk of being affected by flash floods during the rainy season. The findings of this study are expected to be used as basic data for the identification of causative factors of flash floods, areas that generate high surface runoff volume, and the prediction of flash floods within the catchment in future. The flood damage maps developed in this study will be useful to policy-makers and the relevant authorities, as well as to local residents, in finding suitable measures for residential development along the floodplain while reducing flood risk in the study area. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mawasha, Tshepo Sylvester
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Geographic information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52059 , vital:43429
- Description: This study explored the change relation of multi-temporal land-use/land-cover (LULC) conditions in order to determine how they contribute to change in surface runoff volumes and peak discharge, in an effort to predict flash flooding within the Jukskei River catchment. The research is divided into three main parts: (1) LULC change modeling, (2) rainfall-runoff modeling, and (3) flash floods prediction. Three multi-temporal satellite images of Landsat-5 MMS (1987), Landsat-5 TM (2001) and Landsat-8 OLI (2015) were used for LULC modeling. The analysis of the LULC model revealed that there is a continuous increment in built-up area, from 37.7% to 56.2%, in the expense of other LULC classes for the 28-years preceding this study (i.e., 1987 to 2015). Rainfall-runoff model output results revealed that, for these 28 years, there has been an increase in surface runoff due to change in LULC by 21.5%, 32.9% and 45.5% for 1987, 2001 and 2015, respectively. Due to an increase in surface runoff volume and impervious surface over time, the analysis of HEC-RAS/GeoRAS showed that floodplain extent, flood depth, flood velocity, depth-velocity and the level of damage increases especially in low elevation areas and areas at closed proximity to the Jukskei River. Thus, the building structures and infrastructures are at risk of being affected by flash floods during the rainy season. The findings of this study are expected to be used as basic data for the identification of causative factors of flash floods, areas that generate high surface runoff volume, and the prediction of flash floods within the catchment in future. The flood damage maps developed in this study will be useful to policy-makers and the relevant authorities, as well as to local residents, in finding suitable measures for residential development along the floodplain while reducing flood risk in the study area. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A spatial assessment of riparian vegetation density and implications for streambank erosion in relation to land tenure in the Mgwalana Catchment, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Maxama, Asakhile
- 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/10948/53864 , vital:46026
- Description: Riparian vegetation provides an array of various ecosystem functions and has significantly shaped the conditions of catchments. It has strong controls on fluvial geomorphology and erosion processes. The Mgwalana catchment has been intensively studied over the years and the current environmental condition of the study has been linked to land use history. The catchment has been subjected to land use/cover changes (LUCC) over the years. However, spatial variations in riparian vegetation, their implications for stream bank stability and the contribution of land tenure systems to stream channel degradation are poorly understood. The study sought to assess the implications of the spatial variations in riparian vegetation density for stream bank erosion in relation to land tenure on a catchment scale. Land tenure units comprising the catchment of study are traditional and betterment villages (communal lands), and former white commercial farms. A three-pronged approach using GIS and remote sensing, field investigations and laboratory procedures for soil analysis was employed in this study. Variations of riparian vegetation density in the catchment were mapped using ArcGIS for the two land tenure units to assess the spatial variations of riparian density along stream reaches and to determine the spatial relationship between land tenure units and riparian vegetation diminution. Other mapped shape files include sediment accumulation zones to analyse the spatial relationship between riparian vegetation density and sediment sinks. LUCC classification and analysis of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were carried out in IDRISI Selva, using Landsat 8 TM imagery of 2018 to represent the current spatial riparian vegetation variations in the catchment. Field investigations were conducted to determine the coupling among hillslope gully erosion, riparian vegetation density and sink areas; and to assess physical characteristics of soil. This would permit an assessment of the implications of riparian vegetation for stream bank erosion and sediment accumulation within the tenure units. Soil samples were taken from scantily and densely vegetated stream reaches, as well as measurements of channel widths and depths. Analyses of soil physical properties viz; grain size distribution, bulk density, soil texture and aggregate stability were done. Results demonstrated that a sparse riparian vegetation distribution was consistent with the communal villages, confined to the upper catchment area. Dense riparian vegetation distribution was consistent with former commercial farms in the lower catchment area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Maxama, Asakhile
- 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/10948/53864 , vital:46026
- Description: Riparian vegetation provides an array of various ecosystem functions and has significantly shaped the conditions of catchments. It has strong controls on fluvial geomorphology and erosion processes. The Mgwalana catchment has been intensively studied over the years and the current environmental condition of the study has been linked to land use history. The catchment has been subjected to land use/cover changes (LUCC) over the years. However, spatial variations in riparian vegetation, their implications for stream bank stability and the contribution of land tenure systems to stream channel degradation are poorly understood. The study sought to assess the implications of the spatial variations in riparian vegetation density for stream bank erosion in relation to land tenure on a catchment scale. Land tenure units comprising the catchment of study are traditional and betterment villages (communal lands), and former white commercial farms. A three-pronged approach using GIS and remote sensing, field investigations and laboratory procedures for soil analysis was employed in this study. Variations of riparian vegetation density in the catchment were mapped using ArcGIS for the two land tenure units to assess the spatial variations of riparian density along stream reaches and to determine the spatial relationship between land tenure units and riparian vegetation diminution. Other mapped shape files include sediment accumulation zones to analyse the spatial relationship between riparian vegetation density and sediment sinks. LUCC classification and analysis of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were carried out in IDRISI Selva, using Landsat 8 TM imagery of 2018 to represent the current spatial riparian vegetation variations in the catchment. Field investigations were conducted to determine the coupling among hillslope gully erosion, riparian vegetation density and sink areas; and to assess physical characteristics of soil. This would permit an assessment of the implications of riparian vegetation for stream bank erosion and sediment accumulation within the tenure units. Soil samples were taken from scantily and densely vegetated stream reaches, as well as measurements of channel widths and depths. Analyses of soil physical properties viz; grain size distribution, bulk density, soil texture and aggregate stability were done. Results demonstrated that a sparse riparian vegetation distribution was consistent with the communal villages, confined to the upper catchment area. Dense riparian vegetation distribution was consistent with former commercial farms in the lower catchment area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
An investigation of the challenges experienced in South Sudan (2004-2011): a military component perspective
- Authors: Mbaakanyi, Christopher
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54794 , vital:47692
- Description: This study deals with the conceptual analysis of the challenges experienced by military peacekeepers in the United Nations (UN) operations. The research focused on the problems that military personnel encountered during the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) between 2005 and 2011. Many findings summarised from the respondents and through documents reviewed elucidated various challenges peacekeepers in UN missions experience. This study’s specific objectives were to assess the necessary preparations that made military peacekeepers operationally ready for the UNMIS Peace Support Operations (PSO); to determine whether there was any pre-deployment training conducted for military peacekeepers during the UNMIS; to investigate whether there were command and control issues in the mission; and finally, to examine whether military peacekeepers were acquainted with the fundamental UN principles and core values. The study used the purposive sampling technique to identify relevant subjects best suited to provide informed feedback through interviews and a questionnaire. Most of the respondents were from Botswana and Malawi, with additional valuable subjects from the different countries who participated in the UNMIS as staff officers, formed units, and observers. The level of operational readiness of individual military personnel was found inconsistent among participants from different countries due to the varying level of attention given to pre-deployment training and planning. Some individuals did not know about the UN core values, principles and critical resolution documents such as the Status of Mission Agreement (SOMA), Status of Force Agreement (SOFA), Rules of Engagement (ROE), and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that were critical towards operationalising the UNMIS mandate to achieve the operational objectives. The concepts of command and control and reporting procedure continue to cause severe rifts between uniformed personnel and their civilian counterparts. Some of the areas that require further study include the challenges in command and control, vagueness in the rules of engagement, lack of clarity of the chain of leadership in the field area, lack of interoperability of equipment, the necessary operational readiness training, and the development of joint doctrine. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
- Authors: Mbaakanyi, Christopher
- Date: 2020-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54794 , vital:47692
- Description: This study deals with the conceptual analysis of the challenges experienced by military peacekeepers in the United Nations (UN) operations. The research focused on the problems that military personnel encountered during the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) between 2005 and 2011. Many findings summarised from the respondents and through documents reviewed elucidated various challenges peacekeepers in UN missions experience. This study’s specific objectives were to assess the necessary preparations that made military peacekeepers operationally ready for the UNMIS Peace Support Operations (PSO); to determine whether there was any pre-deployment training conducted for military peacekeepers during the UNMIS; to investigate whether there were command and control issues in the mission; and finally, to examine whether military peacekeepers were acquainted with the fundamental UN principles and core values. The study used the purposive sampling technique to identify relevant subjects best suited to provide informed feedback through interviews and a questionnaire. Most of the respondents were from Botswana and Malawi, with additional valuable subjects from the different countries who participated in the UNMIS as staff officers, formed units, and observers. The level of operational readiness of individual military personnel was found inconsistent among participants from different countries due to the varying level of attention given to pre-deployment training and planning. Some individuals did not know about the UN core values, principles and critical resolution documents such as the Status of Mission Agreement (SOMA), Status of Force Agreement (SOFA), Rules of Engagement (ROE), and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that were critical towards operationalising the UNMIS mandate to achieve the operational objectives. The concepts of command and control and reporting procedure continue to cause severe rifts between uniformed personnel and their civilian counterparts. Some of the areas that require further study include the challenges in command and control, vagueness in the rules of engagement, lack of clarity of the chain of leadership in the field area, lack of interoperability of equipment, the necessary operational readiness training, and the development of joint doctrine. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-04
A Psychobiography of the late Milase Jumartha Majola (néé Moyake)- 1932 - 2021
- Authors: Mbambo-Tom, Thembeka Esther
- Date: 2022-10
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27640 , vital:69379
- Description: This study is a psychobiography of a Black South African Woman, Milase Jumartha Majola (néé Moyake), herein fondly referred to as ‘Mrs Majola’. Mrs Majola is not an icon in the general sense, but yet a definite unsung hero for many in her community. In her 89 years, she has touched many people’s lives and left a vast imprint in the community. Mrs Majola has been identified as a psychobiographical subject for this study based on her exemplary and extraordinary endeavours, which contributed significantly to the psycho-social well-being of the youth and the elderly within Port Elizabeth townships (now known as Gqeberha). The main objective of this study was to explore and describe Mrs Majola’s psychosocial development. Her psycho-social development was studied through the PERMA Theory of well-being lens and transformed into a narrative to understand better what made her a remarkable individual. Data was gathered from primary and secondary sources to enrich the psychobiography and qualitatively analysed. The findings show that Mrs Majola could balance her life in a way supported by the PERMA Theory of well-being. Results demonstrate her ability to understand and manage her Positive (negative) emotions, Engagements, Relationships, Meaningfulness, and Accomplishments as a mother, co-worker and community leader, which created numerous success stories during her tenure. Even though Mrs Majola experienced many hardships in life, such as losing her husband at the young age of 39, she always stayed positive and successfully used her inner strength to motivate her to keep living her purpose in life. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10
- Authors: Mbambo-Tom, Thembeka Esther
- Date: 2022-10
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27640 , vital:69379
- Description: This study is a psychobiography of a Black South African Woman, Milase Jumartha Majola (néé Moyake), herein fondly referred to as ‘Mrs Majola’. Mrs Majola is not an icon in the general sense, but yet a definite unsung hero for many in her community. In her 89 years, she has touched many people’s lives and left a vast imprint in the community. Mrs Majola has been identified as a psychobiographical subject for this study based on her exemplary and extraordinary endeavours, which contributed significantly to the psycho-social well-being of the youth and the elderly within Port Elizabeth townships (now known as Gqeberha). The main objective of this study was to explore and describe Mrs Majola’s psychosocial development. Her psycho-social development was studied through the PERMA Theory of well-being lens and transformed into a narrative to understand better what made her a remarkable individual. Data was gathered from primary and secondary sources to enrich the psychobiography and qualitatively analysed. The findings show that Mrs Majola could balance her life in a way supported by the PERMA Theory of well-being. Results demonstrate her ability to understand and manage her Positive (negative) emotions, Engagements, Relationships, Meaningfulness, and Accomplishments as a mother, co-worker and community leader, which created numerous success stories during her tenure. Even though Mrs Majola experienced many hardships in life, such as losing her husband at the young age of 39, she always stayed positive and successfully used her inner strength to motivate her to keep living her purpose in life. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10
An anthropological enquiry on the perceptions of adults on female sterilisation: a case of Gunguluza township
- Authors: Mbanjwa, Mpho
- 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/10948/54859 , vital:48085
- Description: The purpose of the study was to make an enquiry on the perceptions on female sterilisation adult participants, residing in Gunguluza Township, Uitenhage had. A qualitative research approach was used to collect the responses of 10 participants. These included eight women, one man and one traditional healer registered within the Traditional Healers Association of South Africa. The interviews had been semistructured with open-ended questions pre-set to help the researcher guide the conversation. Conversation analysis was the technique used to transform the information into research data that would attempt to answer the research question. The question this research attempted to answer was to form an understanding of how information and education resources provided by both Western and Traditional sources, including their availability and accessibility with regards to female sterilisation, as a form of contraception, have been understood, received and interpreted by adults residing in the research area of Gunguluza township. Gunguluza forms part of the area formally known as the Kwanobuhle 10 and Kwanobuhle 11 respectively. Some limitations, including limiting resources that resulted in only 10 participants being interviewed. The results had shown that participants had shown interest in acquiring more knowledge about female sterilisation and other reproductive health issues, in order to make informed decisions about their bodies, with contraceptive choice and use in particular. Most felt the need to engage with their partners about the choice of sterilisation largely due to the support they would need. With regard to traditional health as an alternative or interchangeable method of contraception, participants had very little knowledge of, with some expressing some importance and relevance in acquiring such knowledge, in a modern context. These findings came with sets of recommendations which placed an emphasis on the building of indigenous knowledge and its inclusion in formal spaces for open engagement and discussion. Traditional knowledge needed to be transferred from an oral to being documented into literature for future preservation and to eliminate any distortion. There was a gap for formal western medicine to collaborate or accommodate traditional medicine. The study made use of female sterilisation as a conceptual framework, with time and more future research could build and produce new theoretical understandings of the concept, from an Afrocentric context in particular. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mbanjwa, Mpho
- 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/10948/54859 , vital:48085
- Description: The purpose of the study was to make an enquiry on the perceptions on female sterilisation adult participants, residing in Gunguluza Township, Uitenhage had. A qualitative research approach was used to collect the responses of 10 participants. These included eight women, one man and one traditional healer registered within the Traditional Healers Association of South Africa. The interviews had been semistructured with open-ended questions pre-set to help the researcher guide the conversation. Conversation analysis was the technique used to transform the information into research data that would attempt to answer the research question. The question this research attempted to answer was to form an understanding of how information and education resources provided by both Western and Traditional sources, including their availability and accessibility with regards to female sterilisation, as a form of contraception, have been understood, received and interpreted by adults residing in the research area of Gunguluza township. Gunguluza forms part of the area formally known as the Kwanobuhle 10 and Kwanobuhle 11 respectively. Some limitations, including limiting resources that resulted in only 10 participants being interviewed. The results had shown that participants had shown interest in acquiring more knowledge about female sterilisation and other reproductive health issues, in order to make informed decisions about their bodies, with contraceptive choice and use in particular. Most felt the need to engage with their partners about the choice of sterilisation largely due to the support they would need. With regard to traditional health as an alternative or interchangeable method of contraception, participants had very little knowledge of, with some expressing some importance and relevance in acquiring such knowledge, in a modern context. These findings came with sets of recommendations which placed an emphasis on the building of indigenous knowledge and its inclusion in formal spaces for open engagement and discussion. Traditional knowledge needed to be transferred from an oral to being documented into literature for future preservation and to eliminate any distortion. There was a gap for formal western medicine to collaborate or accommodate traditional medicine. The study made use of female sterilisation as a conceptual framework, with time and more future research could build and produce new theoretical understandings of the concept, from an Afrocentric context in particular. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Fisher’s hypothesis from a disaggregated perspective for South Africa: an asymmetric approach
- Authors: Mbekeni, Lutho
- 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/10948/52978 , vital:44863
- Description: In this study, we re-examine Fisher’s hypothesis for the South African economy during the post-inflation targeting era of 2002:Q1 to 2019:Q4, and in doing so, we present four noteworthy empirical contributions. Firstly, we employ two nonlinear frameworks to carry out our empirical analysis, i.e. i) Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) unit root tests, and ii) Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag model (NARDL). Secondly, we take the disaggregated approach in examining Fisher’s hypothesis by making use of survey-based inflation expectations data for financial analysts, the business sector, trade unions representatives, and household participants. Thirdly, we capture our inflation expectations using three different forecast horizons (i.e. current, 12-month ahead, and 24-month ahead). Lastly, we conduct a sensitivity analysis. After employing our FFF based tests, the empirical results highlighted the Reserve Bank’s success of stabilizing real interest rates for periods subsequent to the 2008 Subprime crisis, as compared to periods before the crisis. Furthermore, after employing the NARDL model, we observed that nominal interest rates are more responsive to the falling inflation expectations across all economic agents except for trade unions during the pre-crisis period. On the other hand, nominal interest rates were found to be more responsive to rising expectations of all economic agents in the post-crisis period. Essentially, our findings have important policy implications for monetary policy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mbekeni, Lutho
- 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/10948/52978 , vital:44863
- Description: In this study, we re-examine Fisher’s hypothesis for the South African economy during the post-inflation targeting era of 2002:Q1 to 2019:Q4, and in doing so, we present four noteworthy empirical contributions. Firstly, we employ two nonlinear frameworks to carry out our empirical analysis, i.e. i) Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) unit root tests, and ii) Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag model (NARDL). Secondly, we take the disaggregated approach in examining Fisher’s hypothesis by making use of survey-based inflation expectations data for financial analysts, the business sector, trade unions representatives, and household participants. Thirdly, we capture our inflation expectations using three different forecast horizons (i.e. current, 12-month ahead, and 24-month ahead). Lastly, we conduct a sensitivity analysis. After employing our FFF based tests, the empirical results highlighted the Reserve Bank’s success of stabilizing real interest rates for periods subsequent to the 2008 Subprime crisis, as compared to periods before the crisis. Furthermore, after employing the NARDL model, we observed that nominal interest rates are more responsive to the falling inflation expectations across all economic agents except for trade unions during the pre-crisis period. On the other hand, nominal interest rates were found to be more responsive to rising expectations of all economic agents in the post-crisis period. Essentially, our findings have important policy implications for monetary policy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The readiness of embracing the fourth industrial revolution disruptive innovations: a case for an automotive assembler in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Mbolekwa, Luvuyo
- 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/10948/52988 , vital:44866
- Description: Organisations and people find themselves in the era of what is known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Unlike the preceding revolutions, this revolution is characterised by technological advancements that lead to disruptive phenomena. These advancements are growing at an exponential rate. They have brought disruptive innovations that have either reshaped many industries, causing them to lose market share or exit altogether. Some organisations are keen to embrace disruptive innovation to ensure that they are sustainable into the future, while others are only inclined to use known technologies to leverage economies of scale. The 4IR has already been around for a while and is moving at a fast pace. The level of readiness for the automotive assembler, Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf), to take advantage of such technological changes brought by the 4IR, has not yet been measured. The primary objective of this study is to investigate IMSAf’s perceptions and readiness to embrace technological changes brought by the 4IR. The perceptions and readiness are assessed based on the technology embracing organisational framework of efficiencies, innovation, skills and re-training. This study is grounded in the philosophy of positivism and the related method used is a quantitative study to test the research questions in an objective manner. A questionnaire was the sole method of collecting first-hand data from the selected sample. The population size consisted of 139 respondents working in various business units within IMSAf. These individuals are occupying various roles and they have in depth, tacit, and multi-disciplinary knowledge of processes and would be the first to experience technological changes brought by the 4IR. A quantitative analysis technique is applied, such as descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyse data. A literature review on the topic was conducted as well as an empirical study. The results from both the literature review and the empirical study found that with the implementation of 4IR emerging technologies within an organisation, there is a significant improvement on efficiencies, innovation and skills and re-training. Furthermore, the level of awareness and understanding about the benefits of embracing 4IR emerging technologies within IMSAf is significant. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mbolekwa, Luvuyo
- 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/10948/52988 , vital:44866
- Description: Organisations and people find themselves in the era of what is known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Unlike the preceding revolutions, this revolution is characterised by technological advancements that lead to disruptive phenomena. These advancements are growing at an exponential rate. They have brought disruptive innovations that have either reshaped many industries, causing them to lose market share or exit altogether. Some organisations are keen to embrace disruptive innovation to ensure that they are sustainable into the future, while others are only inclined to use known technologies to leverage economies of scale. The 4IR has already been around for a while and is moving at a fast pace. The level of readiness for the automotive assembler, Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf), to take advantage of such technological changes brought by the 4IR, has not yet been measured. The primary objective of this study is to investigate IMSAf’s perceptions and readiness to embrace technological changes brought by the 4IR. The perceptions and readiness are assessed based on the technology embracing organisational framework of efficiencies, innovation, skills and re-training. This study is grounded in the philosophy of positivism and the related method used is a quantitative study to test the research questions in an objective manner. A questionnaire was the sole method of collecting first-hand data from the selected sample. The population size consisted of 139 respondents working in various business units within IMSAf. These individuals are occupying various roles and they have in depth, tacit, and multi-disciplinary knowledge of processes and would be the first to experience technological changes brought by the 4IR. A quantitative analysis technique is applied, such as descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyse data. A literature review on the topic was conducted as well as an empirical study. The results from both the literature review and the empirical study found that with the implementation of 4IR emerging technologies within an organisation, there is a significant improvement on efficiencies, innovation and skills and re-training. Furthermore, the level of awareness and understanding about the benefits of embracing 4IR emerging technologies within IMSAf is significant. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The value of incubation to SMME in the financial services industry : the case of the infinitum initiative
- Authors: Mboniswa, Unathi Sindisiwe
- 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/10948/53027 , vital:44862
- Description: Small, micro and medium businesses are regarded as the engine for achieving economic growth and reducing unemployment through unlocking the potential of young entrepreneurs. However, 80% of such young entrepreneurs operating SMMEs fail in their first years of existence. To respond to this challenge, Business Incubators (BI’s) have been established to nurture SMMEs to succeed. Numerous BI’s, such as Godisa, have been established in South Africa with many supported by the Department of Trade and Industry. However, there are still many potential entrepreneurs in need of such help. In this regard, Old Mutual initiated a programme similar to Godisa, called the Infinitum Incubation Programme (IIP). The IIP seeks to groom young, willing and educated entrepreneurs from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, with business skills to help them establish sustainable businesses. Their focus is on Financial Advisors and the programme has been running for two years offering all the support needed by young businesses. Against this background, this study endeavoured to assess whether the initiative has had the intended impact on the Incubatees. Using a qualitative and Interpretivism research approach and a sample of six incubatees, this study addressed its objectives. Questionnaires were sent out to all incubators and incubatees involved in the IIP and a response rate 60% was achieved. These responses were analysed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The results show that the IIP has been successful in identifying suitable incubatees and stakeholders. It also found that the IIP has been successful in equipping incubatees with theoretical business management skills. However, in terms of skills transfer, the programme was not successful. Both incubatees and stakeholders rated the programme poorly. Further, both stakeholders and incubatees perceive the programme to be a very good idea and see potential for success; however, they feel that would be achieved only after significant improvement. The study recommends that the programme improve on the following: gender balance, management and coordination of the programme, improved skills transfer, balance between practice, theory, and providing post-programme mentorship. The study ends by describing limitations and areas for further research. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mboniswa, Unathi Sindisiwe
- 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/10948/53027 , vital:44862
- Description: Small, micro and medium businesses are regarded as the engine for achieving economic growth and reducing unemployment through unlocking the potential of young entrepreneurs. However, 80% of such young entrepreneurs operating SMMEs fail in their first years of existence. To respond to this challenge, Business Incubators (BI’s) have been established to nurture SMMEs to succeed. Numerous BI’s, such as Godisa, have been established in South Africa with many supported by the Department of Trade and Industry. However, there are still many potential entrepreneurs in need of such help. In this regard, Old Mutual initiated a programme similar to Godisa, called the Infinitum Incubation Programme (IIP). The IIP seeks to groom young, willing and educated entrepreneurs from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, with business skills to help them establish sustainable businesses. Their focus is on Financial Advisors and the programme has been running for two years offering all the support needed by young businesses. Against this background, this study endeavoured to assess whether the initiative has had the intended impact on the Incubatees. Using a qualitative and Interpretivism research approach and a sample of six incubatees, this study addressed its objectives. Questionnaires were sent out to all incubators and incubatees involved in the IIP and a response rate 60% was achieved. These responses were analysed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The results show that the IIP has been successful in identifying suitable incubatees and stakeholders. It also found that the IIP has been successful in equipping incubatees with theoretical business management skills. However, in terms of skills transfer, the programme was not successful. Both incubatees and stakeholders rated the programme poorly. Further, both stakeholders and incubatees perceive the programme to be a very good idea and see potential for success; however, they feel that would be achieved only after significant improvement. The study recommends that the programme improve on the following: gender balance, management and coordination of the programme, improved skills transfer, balance between practice, theory, and providing post-programme mentorship. The study ends by describing limitations and areas for further research. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The impact of talent management on profitability at Business Connexion
- Authors: Mbulawa, Xolani
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53337 , vital:45139
- Description: Human resource is seen as one of the key organisational factors for business success. The latest focus in the business arena has been how talent can be optimised to improve business success. When one reflects and looks back from the 1940s to the 1980s, it is clear that HR was not seen as a business unit that could impact profitability. It is clear in the literature that from the 1900s HR has evolved to being a business partner and a catalyst to improving financial performance within organisations. This has predominately been driven by HR ensuring the attraction and retention of high potential employees who can contribute to profits. The study’s focal point is whether talent management components impact profitability. The selected talent management components for this study are namely talent strategy, talent recruitment, talent development, performance management, talent retention, and succession planning. A strong belief exist that poor implementation of talent management components impedes on companies reaching optimum profit levels. It is for this reason that this study will argue the importance of talent management components as a strategic obligation in the current competitive war for talent. Business reality demands that companies should ensure having current and future talent needs addressed if they want to stay competitive. The war for talent has led to companies fighting for high potential talent, not only through remuneration packages ,but taking into account other talent management components that encompasses aspects such as work-life balance, better performance management linked to rewards and incentives , challenging work, succession planning etc. The researcher took a view to have this study done within BCX who is an employer of the researcher. The hypothesis utilised is the application of talent management components as an approach and process to facilitate profitability within BCX. Research shows that most companies are taking talent management very serious and are fully aware of its impact to productivity and profitability. Businesses in the service industry identified that implementing talent management processes and approaches is vital to competitive edge and profitability. However many companies are still struggling to reach the real understanding of what it meant by talent management. The research data indicates that most respondents are fully aware of the importance of these components. However at BCX, either they are unaware, uncertain on some of the talent components within the company and are unsure of the existence of these components and their impact to profitability. The literature reviewed in chapter two deliberates talent management components assessed in the questionnaire as imperative in contributing to profitability. Business Connexion does not implement these components to the extent of success. However some of the components are well implemented and managed such as performance management. Managers at Business Connexion to some extent have conflicting views of how the company is implementing these components and on their impact to profitability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11
- Authors: Mbulawa, Xolani
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53337 , vital:45139
- Description: Human resource is seen as one of the key organisational factors for business success. The latest focus in the business arena has been how talent can be optimised to improve business success. When one reflects and looks back from the 1940s to the 1980s, it is clear that HR was not seen as a business unit that could impact profitability. It is clear in the literature that from the 1900s HR has evolved to being a business partner and a catalyst to improving financial performance within organisations. This has predominately been driven by HR ensuring the attraction and retention of high potential employees who can contribute to profits. The study’s focal point is whether talent management components impact profitability. The selected talent management components for this study are namely talent strategy, talent recruitment, talent development, performance management, talent retention, and succession planning. A strong belief exist that poor implementation of talent management components impedes on companies reaching optimum profit levels. It is for this reason that this study will argue the importance of talent management components as a strategic obligation in the current competitive war for talent. Business reality demands that companies should ensure having current and future talent needs addressed if they want to stay competitive. The war for talent has led to companies fighting for high potential talent, not only through remuneration packages ,but taking into account other talent management components that encompasses aspects such as work-life balance, better performance management linked to rewards and incentives , challenging work, succession planning etc. The researcher took a view to have this study done within BCX who is an employer of the researcher. The hypothesis utilised is the application of talent management components as an approach and process to facilitate profitability within BCX. Research shows that most companies are taking talent management very serious and are fully aware of its impact to productivity and profitability. Businesses in the service industry identified that implementing talent management processes and approaches is vital to competitive edge and profitability. However many companies are still struggling to reach the real understanding of what it meant by talent management. The research data indicates that most respondents are fully aware of the importance of these components. However at BCX, either they are unaware, uncertain on some of the talent components within the company and are unsure of the existence of these components and their impact to profitability. The literature reviewed in chapter two deliberates talent management components assessed in the questionnaire as imperative in contributing to profitability. Business Connexion does not implement these components to the extent of success. However some of the components are well implemented and managed such as performance management. Managers at Business Connexion to some extent have conflicting views of how the company is implementing these components and on their impact to profitability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013-11