An Investigation into learner drop-out and sustainable community development in Kwazakhele Township, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Lupondwana, Masiza Howard
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: High school dropouts -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Community education -- Development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Democracy and education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Community development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18310 , vital:28617
- Description: The objective of the study was to investigate learner drop-out and sustainable community development. The study was conducted in Kwazakhele Township in Nelson Mandela Bay. This study used qualitative research approach- interviews and structured questionnaires were used to collect data from the participants. The sample consisted of 40 respondents both Females and Males between the age 15 and 35 years. In Kwazakhele Township most of the youth are learner drop-outs who exited educational system before attaining National Certificate (Matric). This had an effect on the acquisition of skills for sustainable development. United Nations report on Sustainable Development requires members of the community to be able to handle matters concerning their own development. This means community members should possess skills that would enable them to cope with constant demands of development. In the same Kwazakhele Township the consequences of the learner drop-out phenomenon is that lot of girls get pregnant at an adolescence stage. In most cases the boys who impregnate these girls are not working, they themselves depend on their parents for living. Because of the poor socio-economic status and high rate of unemployment of households in the area, this result in a situation where both girl child and their babies depends on the old age social grant for basic needs such as food etc. These dropouts are political risks in a sense that they are sometimes being used in community protesting marches which are unnecessarily hindering community development projects aimed at enhancing and promoting general welfare including better life for all. So the study will investigate and examine effect of learner drop-out in the community and recommends on what to be done in order to address shortfalls and challenges faced by the Kwazakhele community members. This will enable local authorities to be proactive in establishing programs that brings directive and solutions to the existing problems.
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- Date Issued: 2017
An investigation into social exclusion in the implementation of social grants: the case study of the child support grant in the Nkonkobe local municipality (Eastern Cape)
- Authors: Boniswa, Mashibini
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: National Congress -- Child Support Grant -- Eastern Cape Province , Means-testing -- Nkonkobe municipality -- Poverty , Social exclusion -- Social Security -- South African Social Security Agency
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11737 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018220 , National Congress -- Child Support Grant -- Eastern Cape Province , Means-testing -- Nkonkobe municipality -- Poverty , Social exclusion -- Social Security -- South African Social Security Agency
- Description: South Africa is faced by a huge problem of inequality, twenty years after the dawn of independence. Such inequalities have been addressed by policy intervention such as the social security and assistance of citizens through various classes of grants. One of the grants targeting children under the age of 18 years is the child support grant. However there are deserving children who have been left-out of mainstream social security through social exclusion. The study sought to investigate the problem of the social exclusion of children from the child support grant in the Nkonkobe municipality. Through the use of the Basic Needs Approach (BNA) to understand the need for any state/government to promote the social welfare of its citizens, the study took a triangulated research paradigm which used both quantitative and qualitative research approaches to collect data from forty respondents by way of a questionnaire survey. The study found out that, inter alia, poverty remains high in the Nkonkobe municipal area, there is rampant social exclusion in the area, the amount paid for the child support grant is little and that the effects of the withdrawal of the grant when the child reaches the age of 18 are unbearable to the child. Some of the recommendations which the study made in line with improved mainstream social security in relation to the child support grant are that, the government needs to improve information dissemination about grants to the populace, there should be mandatory policies to make sure all citizens have identification particulars, the government should be mobile and take services to the people and there should a consideration to review the amount paid for the child support grant upwards. The researcher is quite optimistic that the study will play a part in improving policy implementation.
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- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation into the challenges affecting the effective implementation of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act 1 of 1999 as amended by Act 29 of 1999) int the Eastern Cape Province with specific reference to the Provincial Department of Public Works
- Authors: Buso, Luthando Gilbert
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Financial management , Public administration -- Africa, Southern , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8252 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/483 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011903 , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Financial management , Public administration -- Africa, Southern , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of the study was to investigate challenges affecting the effective implementation of the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act No. 1 of 1999 as amended by Act No. 29 of 1999) in the Eastern Cape Province with specific reference to the Provincial Department of Public Works. The research study has been conducted in such a manner that the reason to send a team of experts by the DPSA on approval by the President to come to the Eastern Cape and assist the ailing administrations of four departments is determined. The four departments that had a problem were: 1. Department of Roads and Public Works 2. Department of Health 3. Department of Education and 4. Department of Social Development The roads function of the Department of Roads and Public Works was later transferred to the Department of Transport and the Department of Roads and Public Works changed the name to Department of Public Works in September 2004. The team that was sent to the Eastern Cape together with the Director-General of the Province and the Superintendent-General of the Provincial Treasury formed up the IMT. The objective was to introduce turnaround strategies that would enable the four departments to effectively and efficiently implement the PFMA to the best interest of the South African Government. The PFMA is part of the broader strategy on improving public financial management in the public sector in the Republic of South Africa. It prescribes measures to ensure responsibility, accountability and transparency in national and provincial departments. Qualified Auditor-General’s reports for the previous financial years compelled the President in 2002 to establish Interim Management Team (IMT) in the Eastern Cape, comprising of experts from national government, to assist the ailing administration in four provincial departments, including the Department of Roads and Public Works. Questionnaires to employees, Auditor-General, Provincial Director-General, Superintendent-General of Provincial Treasury and as well as to the Accounting Officer of the Department of Public Works, were designed and issued out for completion. Interviews were also conducted to some of the employees. The assumption is that the majority of employees do not understand policies and procedures of the department and they displayed this by remaining neutral in questions asked and disagreed with some of the statements. During the interview process, the majority emphasised their protest against over usage of consultants by the department. Preference given to candidates from outside the department when senior posts are advertised instead of looking for excellently performing candidates from the internal ranks of serving employees, has been outlined as one of the elements contributing to low moral and low productivity in the workplace. Over usage of consultants and a big number of employees who disagreed with statements and remained neutral signify incapacity of the management to perfectly implement the PFMA for sound public financial management in the department. It has been established that regular risk assessments are not conducted, poor organisational structure with many posts that are not filled, no Anti-Corruption Unit to implement Public Service Anti-Corruption Strategy and, no clear managerial lines of accountability due to poor planning, ineffective internal controls and procedures, all render the department incapable of becoming one of the best provincial departments that get unqualified audit report from the Auditor-General. The findings provide clear indication that drastic transformation of the department into an institution that can perfectly implement the PFMA is necessary. The implication is that mismanagement of financial resources and fraud and corruption defeat service delivery objectives. Strategic objectives of the department are not achieved. The Eastern Cape Provincial Departments are obliged to align their strategic plans to the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (2004 – 2014). Therefore the implication is that, poor performance by the Department of Public Works impacts negatively to this provincial objective. Lack of effective control systems has negative implications on the administration of the department and renders it vulnerable to fraud and corruption.
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- Date Issued: 2007
An investigation into the contribution of human resource development to job creation in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Nketiah, Francis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42030 , vital:36619
- Description: This study aimed at determining the contribution of Human Resource Development to job creation in the Eastern Cape Province. This investigation was done on how development in human resources in the Municipality (King William’s Town/Bhisho specifically) and the Province would help reduce the rate of unemployment in the Province of Eastern Cape in general. This research was necessitated by the fact that Eastern Cape is one of the Province with the highest level of unemployment in the country and Bhisho is the administrative capital of the Province. The study investigated the relationship between HRD and job creation in the Province. The statement of the problem, therefore, provided a foundation within which the aims of the study were explained. The significance of this research cannot be overemphasized especially against the backdrop of the intertwined society crisis of unemployment and poverty facing the Province. Although an extensive amount of research on HRD has been conducted, there is still no specific solution to how the human resource development contribute to job creation to reduce poverty and its associated social vices in the Eastern Cape Province. The objective of the study examine how human resource development can help reduce unemployment, discuss how stakeholders can help train and develop the youth especially the unemployed and to examine the relevance of human resource development to government department in King William’s Town/Bhisho. The nature of the study necessitated the use of questionnaires to elicit information from households. The researcher then presented, analyzed and discussed research findings. The nature of the study enabled the use of tables and frequency distribution to present data. In drawing conclusions, it became clear that there were problems hindering job creation and employment in the Municipality. The main problem was the lack of employable skills on the part of the job seeker and inadequate entrepreneurial skills to create new jobs or expand already existing jobs. To address the problems identified, recommendations were made to the Municipal officials, institutions of learning (FET colleges and universities) and to job seekers/students as well.
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- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation into the factors affecting the pass rate of Grade Twelve learners with specific reference to the English subject : a case study of selected schools in Libode district
- Authors: Mzokwana, Nomnikelo Nondwe
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School failure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , English ability -- Testing , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8215 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1022 , Language and education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School failure -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , English ability -- Testing , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Case studies
- Description: Libode district is a rural district within the Eastern Cape Province. It has forty-two senior secondary schools. All schools in Libode district offer the English subject as the first additional language (second language). Schools in Libode district use English as the medium of instruction. English as the medium of instruction was seen by the National Department of Education as an important aspect of teaching and learning and as an effective tool through which teachers and learners can express their knowledge. The pass rate of grade twelve learners had declined from 2004 showing very low success rates. The quality of grade twelve results in English had deprived learners of their future career prospects. This treatise investigated the factors that might have affected the pass rate of grade twelve learners with specific reference to the English subject: a case study of selected schools in Libode district. A sample of 165 grade 12 learners and six English teachers from randomly selected senior secondary schools participated in the study. The study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Some factors affecting the pass rate of grade twelve learners with specific reference to the English subject were identified which included the non-implementation of English as medium of instruction, the non-availability of teaching facilities, and the influence of the mother tongue on the English subject. The treatise offers some recommendations such as improved in-service training on language teaching, assessment techniques and learner-centredness, involvement of all education stakeholders in the implementation of English as a language of teaching and learning, and the provision of teaching facilities in schools.
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- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation into the IGR practices in local government planning in the Eastern Cape: A case study of Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Omoruyi, Uchenna Diamond
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Intergovernmental cooperation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape City planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7720 , vital:30712
- Description: The governance system in post-apartheid South Africa brought about the working together of the three spheres of government, namely, the National, Provincial and Local spheres in a principle of intergovernmental relations underpinned by a system of cooperative government. Cooperative governance is about intergovernmental integration and coordination which sees the three spheres of government working together and functioning in harmony to provide public services and meet the needs of communities effectively and comes together in the integrated development plan (IDP), the key strategic planning instrument at local government level. In developing the IDP’s, the Municipal systems Act requires cooperation between the different spheres of government with the IDP providing the basis for the alignment of policy, planning and budgeting processes across all spheres. The IDP is, therefore, very important to IGR as it is meant to coordinate the programs, plans and projects of national and provincial departments that are to be implemented at local government level. This research, therefore, investigates the IGR practices in local government planning in the Eastern Cape, focusing on the Amathole District Municipality. A qualitative research method was utilized in this study and data was acquired through secondary sources to achieve the aims and objectives of this study. Data that was gathered was analyzed using an analytical framework. The study revealed that although the Amathole District Municipality has IGR structures to coordinate the IDP development process and the involvement of these structures have brought some positive changes to the IDP process; however, there are challenges that are still crippling the process, thereby, leaving much to be desired. Consequently, recommendations based on the findings were offered.
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- Date Issued: 2016
An investigation into the impact of citizen’s protests on the performance of municipalities: a case of Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Ncipha, Bukiwe
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11692 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1014677
- Description: The aim of this paper is to establish the impact of citizen’s protests on the performance of municipalities with particular reference to Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. The basis for this study is the wave of strikes that are directed towards municipalities bearing demands for the delivery of basic services. The protests give an indication that municipalities throughout the country are faced with challenges in carrying out their constitutional mandate of delivering basic services and developing the socio-economic status of their constituencies. It thus becomes crucial to get a grasp of the causal factors and to understand the impact of such protest on the performance of municipalities, in order to develop relevant intervention strategies. The research aims to identify the trends and define the nature of these service delivery protests. In order to preserve democracy government ought to take note of the demonstrations because they are a re-occurrence of the past. During the apartheid regime, non-voting civilians used violent protests to raise their dissatisfaction with the government of the day; primarily the protests were aimed at disorganizing and bringing pressure to the government. The situation is different because nowadays citizens have various platforms to raise their concerns hence it becomes crucial to analyse the protests because they may be an indication that the various platforms are not functional and that people want to raise a vote of no confidence to the reigning party. The research entails an overview of local government, the constitutional mandate and developmental role of local government. The paper will also provide a brief synopsis on the state of affairs with regards to the delivery of basic services in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. In conclusion there is going to be a list of recommendation based on the findings of this investigation. The recommendations will assist Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and other municipalities in developing their strategies of delivering services in an effective and efficient manner thus giving meaning to the objectives of the constitution.
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- Date Issued: 2014
An investigation into the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles in the Department of Labour: Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Ralane, Nombulelo
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Local officials and employees -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8197 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1318 , Local officials and employees -- South Africa , Local government -- South Africa
- Description: After 1994, the democratic South Africa passed a number of legislations in order to address the imbalances of the previous apartheid regime. The new South African government had a special mandate to provide appropriate services to all the citizens of the country. In 1995 the government formulated the White Paper on the Transformation of the Public Service. The aim was to transform the South African public service, which is the indication of the importance of service delivery, as the key machinery of the government to equalize service delivery to all citizens. In 1996 the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa anchored the Bill of Rights as the cornerstone of democracy that enshrines the rights of all people and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom. In chapter ten of the Constitution stipulates the basic values and principles governing public administration. The White Paper on Transformation of Public Service was followed by White Paper on Transforming Service Delivery in 1997 (Batho Pele White Paper) which provided a policy framework and practical implementation strategy for the more efficient , effective and equitable provision of public service. The Batho Pele White Paper signalled the adoption of a citizen oriented approach on service delivery informed by eight principles: consultation, service standard, access, courtesy, information, openness and transparency, redress and value for money. This study focuses on the investigation on the implementation of Batho Pele Principles in the Department of Labour: Port Elizabeth. The main objectives of the study are: To provide an overview of the Batho-Pele principles in relation to service delivery. To investigate the importance of implementing the Batho-Pele principles in the department of Labour, Port Elizabeth. To identify challenges affecting the implementation of the Batho-Pele principles in the Department of Labour, Port Elizabeth. To investigate the importance of implementing the Batho Pele principles in the Department of Labour: Port Elizabeth and to identify challenges affecting the implementation. In this study a sample of three units was selected to conduct research in the Department of Labour, Port Elizabeth. The units were frontline Services, Beneficiary Services and Enforcement Inspection Services. The reason for choosing these sections is because they are directly involved in serving clients. A sample of 20 officials was drawn from these units. A quantitative method of data collection and analysis was followed. The main findings of the study were firstly, that the Department of Labour officials are aware of the Batho Pele principles. Based on the findings, they are not sure of the compliance of the policies. This means that the implementation of the Batho Pele principles has gaps that need to be addressed. Officials indicate that they need attention because they are the tools of operation. They register a low morale that needs to be addressed by the Department. The dissemination of information needs to be improved and communication with the clients of the Department should be done oin all languages so that clients can clearly understand the services offered by the Department of Labour.
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- Date Issued: 2011
An investigation into the management of allocated funds in schools: a case study of two selected schools in Fort Beaufort District in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Cakwebe, Pindiwe Theodora
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Allocated Funds , Constitution , Education , Financial Management -- Government , Paper Budget -- Quintile , School Governing Body -- Section 21 school
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11706 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015204 , Allocated Funds , Constitution , Education , Financial Management -- Government , Paper Budget -- Quintile , School Governing Body -- Section 21 school
- Description: The South African Schools Act (No. 84 of 1996) mandates the government to make financial allocations to needy schools. Section 21 of the Act read together with the National Norms and Standards for School Funding, stipulates that schools falling into certain categories (quintiles) receive given amount of funds per each and every learner. The funds are meant to help promote the equal and unparalleled access to education for all citizens as set-out in Section 29 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996). The study focused on investigating the manner in which two selected Section 21 primary schools are managing their allocated funds. The empirical study made use of a qualitative paradigm through which data was collected using interviews and focus group discussions to collect data from a sample comprising of thirty-five respondents. In terms of data analysis, the study used a qualitative analysis approach to interpret data into readable information for the various categories of audiences in the study. The findings of the study were, inter alia, that financial management skills are low in the schools, the amounts appropriated to schools needs to be revised upwards because schools need more funding for renovations and property development in schools, sanctions for those guilty of school financial misconduct are too soft and auditing of financial record is not being constantly done. The study recommends that the following be considered in order to help improve school financial management; the training of financial officers in school on how to best manage funds, imposition of stiffer penalties for offenders of financial misconduct and increase in allocation aimed at school property development.
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- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation into the provision of government social grants to people with disabilities in Amathole Distrcit municipality
- Authors: Aplom, Thobeka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African Social Security Agency , Public welfare -- South Africa , Grants-in-aid -- South Africa , Welfare fraud -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social service -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5754 , vital:20998
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the efficiency and effectiveness of the process for providing government social grants to people with disabilities in the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Amathole District Municipality in order to determine the need for any improvement measures. Taylor’s scientific management theory and the Total Quality Management (TQM) concept were used to interpret efficiency in the functional activities of the officials working in the Disability Grant Unit in Amathole District. The study also sought to answer the question of whether exit programmes existed that were designed to assist the beneficiaries to support them and cater for their needs related to their disabilities. The study followed a qualitative method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted and the sample of this study consisted of ten participants who are working at Grant Administration. These participants included one General Manager; one District Manager; one SASSA doctor; one Head of Grants Administration in the district and six officials who are at lower levels of the hierarchy at Amathole District Municipality in East London service office. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes from the interviews. The findings of this study revealed that the majority of the respondents experienced challenges such as lack of assessment doctors, turn around-time, corruption, poor consultation, lack of managerial commitment and doctors regarding the assessment of applications. In this regards, the study made a set of recommendations on the measures and strategies that could improve efficiency in the provision of this service.
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- Date Issued: 2016
An investigation into the recruitment procedures in the Public Service: a case study of the Ministry of Labour, Public Service and Human Resources Development- Republic of South Sudan-Juba
- Authors: Khamis, Emmanuel Abusingia
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employees -- Recruiting -- South Sudan , Public service employment -- South Sudan , Civil service -- South Sudan , Manpower policy -- South Sudan , Human capital -- South Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11650 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006965 , Employees -- Recruiting -- South Sudan , Public service employment -- South Sudan , Civil service -- South Sudan , Manpower policy -- South Sudan , Human capital -- South Sudan
- Description: This document is a research report (Thesis) on the topic an Investigation in to the Recruitment Procedures in the Public Service a case study of the Ministry of Labour Public Service and Human Resource Development Republic of South Sudan. In line with the objectives, the study established a significant number of policies and legislations that guide recruitment in the ministry and in the South Sudan Public Service. The findings of the study revealed that recruitment procedures exist in the public service of South Sudan amidst challenges. The researcher provided recommendations to the challenges in the last chapter of this thesis. However, there will be a need for further research on some of the issues that affect recruitment in the ministry as provided by the respondents of this study. These issues are discussed in chapter four. Thus recruitment is very important to research on further in the Public Service of South Sudan so as to ensure efficient and effective service delivery through recruiting competent staff.
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- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation of public participation in municipal planning and performance evaluation: a case study of Mnquma Local Municipality
- Authors: Mkentane, Benjamin Zolile
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Political leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Evaluation , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11671 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007119 , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Political leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal officials and employees -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Evaluation , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Political participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The participation of communities and community organizations in Municipal governance is set in terms of the law as a mechanism to deepen democracy. Municipalities are required to develop a culture of governance that complements representative democracy with community participation. However the participation of communities in local governance has not translated to the strengthening of governance and the deepening of democracy as municipalities have not done enough to involve communities in municipal affaires. Lack of human resources, and financial capacity have been cited as some of the reasons that beset municipalities and undermine citizen participation. Municipalities have taken steps to encourage community participation and these include establishment of structures to enable participation, however without the guidance and financial support of the municipalities these structures are not able to perform their functions. In spite of all the efforts made by municipalities to encourage participation, a culture of community participation has not yet taken root in local government. While the legislative framework provides for communities to participate, practice shows that the implementation of legislation is complex and requires dedicated capacities within the councils to be effective. This can be achieved when municipalities develop their own community participation policies which address their special circumstances, which must be reviewed on a regular basis. Unless communities are empowered with knowledge on the available participation mechanisms, the dream of a culture of participation will remain just that, a dream. Thus civic education coupled with capacity building of officials will assist in ensuring the development of a culture of participation. Council must also develop mechanisms to evaluate the effectiveness of community participation processes and procedures, to avoid a one size fits all approach. It is imperative that councils as the legislative arm of municipalities must lead the process and not leave everything to the executive arm.
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- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation of record-keeping as a catalyst in ensuring accountability and transparency : a case study of the Provincial Department of Basic Education in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ntontela, Majama
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Public records -- Management Government information -- South Africa -- Management Transparency in government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4415 , vital:28336
- Description: Not all documents are records. One of the central concerns of contemporary governance is the reduced or complete lack of accountability among public officials when rendering public services. In the absence of accountability and records, corruption thrives. This research examines the relationship that exists between transparency, accountability and record keeping in order to find the effect that records has; in terms of producing positive audit outcomes and in eliminating corrupt activities by public official/s. Since the transition to democracy in South Africa, the new constitution demands transparency and accountability on matters of governance supported with available information (records). Various pieces of legislation in South Africa are available in support of timely, accessible and accurate information in pursuit of official duties. The difficulty in ensuring an effective record keeping creates an opportunity for governance, transparency and accountability to fail. The essence of this research undertaking was motivated by the fact that, absence of records (which has a negative effect in achieving clean audits) renders governance chaotic and infringes on the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution such as accountability and transparency. The purpose of the study was to investigate the practice of record keeping in the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Basic Education (ECDoE) in ensuring accountability and transparency. This research undertaking was guided by the following three research questions: (1) what is the legal/normative framework that governs record keeping in South African public service? (2) How does ECDoE practice record-keeping in ensuring accountability and transparency? And (3) how does the practice of ECDoE’s record-keeping compare with the requirements of the legal/normative framework? After all the gathering of information from different sources, it is therefore recommended that the ECDoE send its employees for records management courses and there must be strict adherence to legislation and recommendations made by the Auditor General in his last audit report for the department. During the conduct of this research undertaking, these are the findings that emerged from the study: at the ECDoE (1) There is no adequate training provided to employees in record keeping. (2) There are ineffective internal control systems. (3) There is no risk management contingency plan. (4) There is no proper record keeping. (5) There is non-compliance with legislation by officials. (6) There is no strong or effective leadership. (7) There is shortage of staff and qualified personnel. (8) Lack of commitment to excel. (9) No significant corrective action undertaken to eliminate past inaccuracies. (10) There is absence of following up on recommendations made by the external audit. Lastly, the researcher accepts the arguments raised by the different authors about record keeping, transparency and accountability in that: there can be no accountable and transparent government without an effective record-keeping in place. Records are vital sources of evidence admissible to any institution be it a court of law or standing committees should clarity be required.
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- Date Issued: 2015
An investigation of the causes of the housing backlog in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality: 2000 - 2014
- Authors: Soga, Ludwe Sydwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- 2000-2014 Public housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- 2000-2014 , Housing policy -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- 2000-2014 Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- 2000-2014 Housing development -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- 2000-2014 Municipal services -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20659 , vital:29369
- Description: The aim of this study was to investigate the causes of the housing backlog in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality from 2000 to 2014. Fifty participants which were two ward councilors and two PR councilors, four community development members, four ward committee members , twenty backyard dwellers from ward 17 and ward 18 and eighteen senior officials (project managers) from the Department of Human Settlement in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality were purposively sampled for the study. A qualitative design was used. In-depth interviews were conducted to collect data to enable the researcher to ask open ended questions and explore the participants’ perspectives about the causes of housing backlog. The study revealed that the factors which are playing a role in this regard include the role played by the Eastern Cape Province in housing, the large portion of land which is privately owned, beneficiary management by municipal officials and political interference on the waiting list Metropolitan subsequently, recommendations for further research were made.
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- Date Issued: 2017
An investigation of the efficacy of the Office of the Auditor-General in ensuring public financial accountability in the Gauteng Province
- Authors: Khumalo, Mildred Tariro
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- South Africa , Budget -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Liability (Law)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11645 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/283 , Finance, Public -- South Africa , Budget -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Liability (Law)
- Description: Increasing accountability is a key element in a wide variety of governance reforms, from national level, public sector restructuring, to anti corruption campaigns and to centralise service delivery at local levels. (Van Wyk, 2002:311). Financial accountability has a major effect on performance issues, and these two combined have implications on democratic accountability. It is obviously a fact that when public officials become accountable, this will have a positive effect on service delivery. The introduction of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) 1999 (Act 1 of 1999) as amended by Act 29 of 1999 adopts an approach to financial management, which emphasises the need for accountability of results by focusing on output and responsibility rather than the rule driven approach of the previous Exchequer Acts. One quickly realises that the PFMA aims to regulate financial management at both National and Provincial levels of government. It directs attention at revenue, expenditure, assets and liabilities and aims to see that these are managed efficiently and effectively. Public finance accountability is increasingly becoming important in the public sector. One means of effecting accountability is through auditing. For this reason the Office of the Auditor -General through the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 (Act 108 of 1996 section 216 (1)) was established to facilitate effective accountability through auditing. The Office of the Auditor -General’s role is by no means minor, for it plays a major role in curbing corruption and acts as a ‘watchdog’ of the nation over public funds. Amidst high mismanagement and misuse of public resources, as well as corruption, especially in developing countries, the major question one asks is how effective the Auditor -General can be in ensuring effective public financial management and accountability within state departments so as to improve service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
An investigation of the policy implementation measures for the advancement of women into leadership positions in the workplace in contemporary South Africa: a case of the department of education in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Mangisa, Tembela
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women executives -- South Africa , Leadership in women -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Women in development -- South Africa Leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40900 , vital:36265
- Description: Long gone are the times when a woman’s place was in the home. This research was therefore aimed at highlighting the evolving of times in that women and men are now exposed to equal opportunities, and most specifically in education as well as in the workplace. However, the level of equal opportunities that they are exposed to is seemingly not the same when it comes to the work environment, as men still enjoy most of the benefits of being in top positions and being paid more than the female counterparts for doing the same or similar work, with women still discriminated against in this regard in the workplace like they did in the past. South Africa has made significant progress in terms of the economic participation as well as empowerment of women in the labour market. The country has also made great strides in mobilising female leadership and political participation. This has been done through the introduction of labour regulations and affirmative legislation to correct the injustices of the past for previously disadvantaged individuals, and for the purpose of this research, women. These corrective legislative measures also protect women from present unfair discrimination and ensure that they enjoy equal opportunities to education, the workplace and society. Equality in all respects is very important and is the founding principle for the new democratic South Africa, and in this regard gender equality, as women and men are regarded equal before the law and must therefore be treated as such in order to be able to fully create and achieve the vision behind this blueprint. However, the accuracy and efficacy in the implementation of these legislative measures is questionable, because the policies are there in blueprint. However, when it comes to the actual realisation of these policies, it is a different tale as even the numbers prove that it is still very much a man’s world, especially in positions of authority in the workplace as women are still very much circulated in lower and middle level management echelons in both government and industry. This is a prevalent issue not just in South Africa, but worldwide. Even though there are more women than men in the country and apparently in the workplace, one would think that the situation for women would be better. The situation is slowly improving, but it could be better than it is still. Change does it indeed take time, and that is very much clear in terms of policy implemenation, the attitudes in society which still very much influence both men and womens careers, and the representation of women in positions of authority. One would therefore also think that as women are seemingly in majority in the workplace, they would also be in majority in executive and decision-making positions. However, that seems not to be the case as even so and to emphasise this point, women are most spread accross lower levels in organisations, and oftentimes in low-skilled and low-paid sectors in the economy. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to highlight the plight for women in terms of gaining access to the executive suite in government and industry. Indeed, there are legislative frameworks that have been put in place to assist women in this regard, to gain access to management roles, and thereby the senior management roles particularly. However, the research has proven that women are still very much congested in lower and middle management roles, and the senior management roles are still very much occupied by men. There are women who have risen to the occasion and are in executive positions in various spheres, thereby busting the myth that women are not fit to be in leadership positions or cannot handle the job, nor the responsibilities and pressures that come with the job. However, many women in leadership positions are faced with different kinds of pressures than men, such as balancing work and family life, including patriarchal attitudes in the work environment and society about the place and even work of a woman. Therefore, the research was aimed at evaluating the level at which society functions today in terms of growth on the aspects of a woman’s place and that of women in leadership, and finding out what are the attitudes and perceptions in terms of women empowerment in society. There is still the perception that women cannot reach the executive suite, and that it should be a man’s job both in the workplace and in society, and also there is a shock to see a woman advance into what is thought to be a man’s world. Indeed, there has been a somewhat positive shift in that women are getting an education and slowly penetrating these male dominated spaces. However, it is not enough. Legislation is there, but it might not be properly implemented and executed in the various spaces that men and women interact in both in society, the workplace and organisations in South Africa and abroad. It seems highly unlikely and unbelievable that not much has really changed over the years though. Indeed, one could argue that the situation for women is much better than before, as they were before barred from even entering the world of work, as it was believed that a women’s place is in the home in times of yesteryear. The situation is indeed better for women, especially in politics. The study therefore provides concrete evidence that women are still faced with barriers in organisations or the workplace, and hence their underrepresentation in positions of authority highlights some of these barriers, whether they are evenly visible or not.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
An investigation of the provision of the water and sanitation services after the devolution of powers and functions in 2003 to selected municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mama, Mandisa Wongiwe
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sanitation, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal water supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11646 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/215 , Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sanitation, Rural -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal water supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The Republic of South Africa embarked on devolution of specific powers to municipal authorities due to the fact that municipalities are a sphere of government which is at the door step of the citizens. Among the powers that were devolved was the authority to regulate on the rendering of water and services to communities. From now henceforth in this study, water and sanitation services will be referred to as water services. The rural villages that had no access to water services during the previous dispensation were rapidly rendered with these services when the transformed Department of Water Affairs and Forestry took a decision to provide the services on its own in order to give space for the transformation of the local sphere of government such that these municipal X authorities are able to manage the load of the allocation of such functions mainly and to close the vacuum so that there is no gap as to who should be responsible for water provision in rural villages whilst the restructuring of municipalities to include the rural villages as part of the transformation process takes place. A decline in the pace rendering water services to the previously disadvantaged rural communities was noticed after the devolution of water services to municipal authorities and by implication once hands were changed. This left those rural communities that had no access to water services still without the desired water services and those that had water services provided left midway with dry water schemes and dysfunctional infrastructure. This study therefore seeks to uproot the cause for the deceleration of water services once it was devolved to municipal authorities. This decline was noticed by the researcher hence the study seeks to attempt providing alternatives and lasting solutions primarily because water services are essential services and water is life. The main objective of the study is to investigate factors that cause the deceleration of water supply and the slow movement in the acceleration of sanitation services in order to provide alternatives that may yield results. Given the above broad objective this study further aims at examining the following factors: The correlation in funding made available by the central government and the financial resources available to municipalities to perform the function in order to render this service properly. Technical support available to municipalities. Relevant legislation, its policies and its impact on the implementation of the service XI. The correlation between accountability, democratization and community participation on standards and quality of the service to actual outputs. Improvement of service delivery and its relationship with transparency and efficiency. Relatedness of poverty to non provision of water services. The relatedness of poverty, lack of basic services to influx in the cities. Relatedness of the quality of the water services to the outbreak of diseases
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
An investigation of the role of community development workers: Bitou municipality
- Authors: Gogi, Andile
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Management , City council members -- South Africa , Community development -- Economic aspects , Community development -- Environmental aspects , Community development -- Social aspects , Economic development projects -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8270 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1015689
- Description: This treatise investigates the role of Community DevelopmentWorkers, with reference to the Bitou Municipality. The treatise comprises five chapters. The concept of Community Development Programme is fairly new in South Africa; therefore, further research is needed on the subject. A literature review was done to establish the concept and the background of the CDWP. A questionnaire was developed in order to obtain primary data from a selected sample group. The data obtained from the questionnaire was statistically analysed and interpreted. The core findings from the analysed questionnaire indicated the following: (a) CDWs clearly understand their role and responsibility, but there is a need for roles and functions to be clearly defined, with detailed terms of reference, to ensure a common understanding with other stakeholders, e.g. Ward Committees, Councillors, Non-governmental organisations, Communitybased organisations, and members of the community. (b) living conditions in the wards improved following the introduction of the CDWP. (c) there is a good relationship between CDWs, Ward Committees and Ward Councillors, but there is also a perception that Ward Committees and Community Development Workers constantly clash or compete in the wards in which they serve. (d) CDWs should not be affiliated to the ruling or any political party. (e) CDWs are confused regarding who is responsible for their remuneration (the Municipality or the Provincial Department of Local Government).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
An investigation of the role of records management with specific reference to Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Kanzi, Noluvuyo
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Records -- Management -- Amathole District Municipality , Information resources management -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8205 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1169 , Records -- Management -- Amathole District Municipality , Information resources management -- Amathole District Municipality
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the role played by records management in an organisation. The primary question that was explored was whether the management of records receives the attention it deserves at the Amathole District Municipality. In order to achieve the research objectives, an in-depth literature study was undertaken. A survey was also conducted to examine the current records management practices at ADM and the data was collected by means of self-administered questionnaires. The literature study proved the hypothesis to be correct, which stated that effective records management plays a significant role in the effective administration of an organization. The empirical study revealed that the records management function is not receiving the attention it deserves at ADM. Even though participants acknowledged the importance of records management in the decision-making process, strategic planning process (Integrated Development Plan), the realisation of the Batho Pele Principles and the overall performance of ADM, it was evident that ignorance was displayed with regard to the management of records. It has been discovered that Amathole District Municipality has a good Records Management Policy, Procedure manual and File Plan, but adherence to these policies should be continuously monitored. Regular training has been identified as one of the areas on which ADM should apply its focus to ensure sound records management. Recommendations were made within the context of empirical survey findings and the regulatory framework for records management. To improve the current records management practices at ADM, it has been recommended that the records management function be incorporated into the organisation-wide strategic plans and that records management forms part of the key performance areas of senior managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
An investigation of the role of selected ward committees in enhancing basic service delivery: the case of Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Jakatyana, Xolile Christopher
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Buffalo City (South Africa) , Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City -- Citizen participation , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8201 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1256 , Buffalo City (South Africa) , Local government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City -- Citizen participation , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Buffalo City -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigated the role of selected ward committees 29 and 32 of Nompumelelo and Tsholomnqa respectively in the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM) in enhancing basic service delivery. In terms of the White Paper on Local Government (1998:4), developmental local government promotes a system that centres on working with local communities to find sustainable ways to meet their needs and improve the quality of their lives. The study on that basis examines the nature and extent to which wards 29 and 32 committees enhanced basic service delivery within BCM. The study is premised on the assumptions that: The involvement of party-elected Councillors in ward committees inhibits members of ward committees from playing an active role in their communities; Ward committees are not clearly communicating municipality programmes to their communities; BCM is biased in favour of urban wards in service delivery; If the committees of wards 29 and 32 were given more powers to play a much wider role in providing leadership and make decisions in their communities (being elevated from an advisory role to ward management structures), they would make an impact in enhancing basic service delivery; and, With additional decision-making powers ward committees could play a more effective role in local government matters. The perceived slow pace of service delivery by municipalities has resulted in growing impatience and dissatisfaction, in particular among poor communities. This has been demonstrated by the spontaneous protests and unrests directed at municipalities that have been taking place nationally since 2003. The uprisings explain two aspects, namely local government is considered by communities to be the delivery arm of government in South Africa and poor communities feel betrayed because their active participation in government-provided spaces for participation such as municipal elections, ward committees and IDPs did not yield the result of promised development (Theron, 2008:36). iv The study employed the qualitative research design using an interview survey as a method of data collection and the reviewing of existing study material and documents to test the validity of the afore-mentioned assumptions. Lastly, with the aim of assisting BCM in nurturing the potential of ward committees operating in its area of jurisdiction, the following recommendations based on the findings of the study are made: BCM considers subjecting ward committees to structured formal and accredited training; BCM delivers services in a legally compliant manner; BCM delegates sufficient powers to ward committees; Ward committees be trained together with officials that drive the CBP process when BCM starts implementing the process; and, BCM provides support to ward committees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010