Girl-child education in marginalised rural communities : a critical study of threats and opportunities to access quality secondary education in Binga District, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Nyamanhare, Eurita
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Gender identity in education -- Zimbabwe Sex discrimination in education -- Zimbabwe Girls -- Education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9213 , vital:34306
- Description: Despite the high ratings of the Zimbabwe’s education system in Africa, the state of secondary education in Binga District epitomises ‘a neglected backyard’ serving to perpetuate secondary education attainment inequalities, with the girl-child fixed at the bottom of the ladder at secondary school level. The prevailing deplorable learning conditions that characterise marginalised rural communities, mainly dominated by minority ethnic groups in Zimbabwe, depict similar conditions under which a girl-child strives to attain quality secondary education in some underdeveloped and developing African countries. Girl-Child Education in Marginalised Rural Communities: A Critical Study of Threats and Opportunities to Access Quality Secondary Education in Binga district, Zimbabwe, adopted a qualitative approach underpinned by a transformative paradigm. Pierre Bourdieu’s cultural capital and Kimberle Crenshaw’s intersectionality theoretical concepts complemented each other providing the theoretical lens that assisted in the unpacking of the whole study. Thus, the adopted theoretical framework helped the researcher to critique the seemingly ‘legitimised’ intergenerational multiple inequalities perpetuated through the education system and the intersecting systems of power (ethnicity, gender, social class) that consequently led to the unpacking of issues that surrounded the girl-child’s access to quality secondary education in Binga District. Intensive literature discussion covered the main themes derived from the study’s research questions, providing the ground from which new knowledge was nourished. With a sufficiently complex phenomenological-emergent research design embedded within critical studies, thick descriptions of lived experiences were gathered from 18 in-depth individual interviews and 6 Focus Group Discussions that involved the girls themselves; all considered to be ‘leaders of opinion’ in this study because of the various social positions and roles they played. Observations, visual materials in the form of photographs, as well as documents and records completed the list of data gathering tools that led to robust trustworthy credible findings from which the main themes of the study emerged. For the girl-child in Binga District, access to quality secondary education was found to be marginalised due to questionable gender responsiveness emanating from the social and infrastructure environments, the girl-child’s negative notions of secondary education underpinned by intersecting barriers, opportunities that are overshadowed by unmatched commitment by the girl-child seemingly underpinned by intersecting unresolved threats exacerbated by distant transitional prospects beyond secondary education. As put by one of the participants, thus, an analogy of ‘an incubator that ceases to work before the eggs hatch’ could be used to describe the state of secondary educational environment under which a girl-child strived to access quality secondary education in Binga District. Thus, using Binga District in Zimbabwe to mirror the state of secondary education in the ‘backyards’ of most of the sub-Saharan African countries, this study urges all African governments to take responsibility as they revise and enforce existing policies in line with the 2015 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for girl-child secondary education is endowed with unlimited socio-economic benefits to all individual nations, and globally.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nyamanhare, Eurita
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Gender identity in education -- Zimbabwe Sex discrimination in education -- Zimbabwe Girls -- Education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9213 , vital:34306
- Description: Despite the high ratings of the Zimbabwe’s education system in Africa, the state of secondary education in Binga District epitomises ‘a neglected backyard’ serving to perpetuate secondary education attainment inequalities, with the girl-child fixed at the bottom of the ladder at secondary school level. The prevailing deplorable learning conditions that characterise marginalised rural communities, mainly dominated by minority ethnic groups in Zimbabwe, depict similar conditions under which a girl-child strives to attain quality secondary education in some underdeveloped and developing African countries. Girl-Child Education in Marginalised Rural Communities: A Critical Study of Threats and Opportunities to Access Quality Secondary Education in Binga district, Zimbabwe, adopted a qualitative approach underpinned by a transformative paradigm. Pierre Bourdieu’s cultural capital and Kimberle Crenshaw’s intersectionality theoretical concepts complemented each other providing the theoretical lens that assisted in the unpacking of the whole study. Thus, the adopted theoretical framework helped the researcher to critique the seemingly ‘legitimised’ intergenerational multiple inequalities perpetuated through the education system and the intersecting systems of power (ethnicity, gender, social class) that consequently led to the unpacking of issues that surrounded the girl-child’s access to quality secondary education in Binga District. Intensive literature discussion covered the main themes derived from the study’s research questions, providing the ground from which new knowledge was nourished. With a sufficiently complex phenomenological-emergent research design embedded within critical studies, thick descriptions of lived experiences were gathered from 18 in-depth individual interviews and 6 Focus Group Discussions that involved the girls themselves; all considered to be ‘leaders of opinion’ in this study because of the various social positions and roles they played. Observations, visual materials in the form of photographs, as well as documents and records completed the list of data gathering tools that led to robust trustworthy credible findings from which the main themes of the study emerged. For the girl-child in Binga District, access to quality secondary education was found to be marginalised due to questionable gender responsiveness emanating from the social and infrastructure environments, the girl-child’s negative notions of secondary education underpinned by intersecting barriers, opportunities that are overshadowed by unmatched commitment by the girl-child seemingly underpinned by intersecting unresolved threats exacerbated by distant transitional prospects beyond secondary education. As put by one of the participants, thus, an analogy of ‘an incubator that ceases to work before the eggs hatch’ could be used to describe the state of secondary educational environment under which a girl-child strived to access quality secondary education in Binga District. Thus, using Binga District in Zimbabwe to mirror the state of secondary education in the ‘backyards’ of most of the sub-Saharan African countries, this study urges all African governments to take responsibility as they revise and enforce existing policies in line with the 2015 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for girl-child secondary education is endowed with unlimited socio-economic benefits to all individual nations, and globally.
- Full Text:
Group membership and collective action among small-scale farmers in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Arwari, Margaret Kwamboka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farmers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8144 , vital:31535
- Description: In South Africa, the organisation of farmers into groups has been a basic tenet for numerous, small and dispersed small-scale farmers to make their voices heard, address challenges and access support services from the government and other development agencies. However, the literature shows that the South African government promotes inappropriate forms of farmer collective action, i.e. collective production. The government seems to lack knowledge on what forms of collective action to implement and support. It is also noted in the literature that in South Africa, the majority of farmers do not participate in farmer organisations. There is limited research on the determinants of membership in farmer organisations, especially in terms of the role of ‘human agency’. Human agency is a concept which is interrelated with the concept of ‘empowerme nt’, whereby a person with strong agency is someone who is an agent of positive change. Therefore, the study sought to address these gaps. The broad objective of this study was to explore the phenomenon of group membership and collective action among small-scale farmers in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study used the mixed method approach where an exploratory design was employed. A mult istage sampling technique was used which employed random, purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 245 farmers using semistructured questionnaires and detailed qualitative data were elicited from 16 farmer organisat ions using interview guides. For the quantitative research, a cross-sectional survey design was employed. After discarded unusable observations, data from 228 farmers were analysed using a combination of descriptive statistics, simple inferential statistics, and econometric analysis. For the qualitative data obtained, thematic analysis was used in line with the study objectives. The study findings show that farmers undertake collective action through farmer organisations. These farmer organisations were categorised into two types, i.e. farmer cooperatives and farmer associations. However, low membership in these farmer organisations is noted and this was attributed to the following: (1) low farmer awareness of the existence of farmer organisations, (2) challenges faced by the organisations that contribute to their ineffectiveness and thus low membership, (3) the prevalence of negative perceptions of farmer organisations due to confusion as to their role, (4) the government’s farmer support approach which compels or encourages farmers to form groups. The results also showed that the following are determinants of participation in farmer organisations: farmer’s age, level of education, human agency, whether a farmer has off-farm income sources, whether a farmer is involved in government supported projects, whether a farmer accesses extension information, the number of visits from extension officers received by a farmer, and the number of adults in a household contributing family labour. The study findings also show that the farmers in farmer organisations have higher human agency compared to those not in farmer organisations. According to the study results, farmer groups offer a number of benefits. For one, farmer organisations are avenues for farmers’ voices to be heard, they lobby government for better access to support services such as credit, input supply, information, and training. In addition, farmers who belong to organisations experience the benefits of collective marketing. Despite the aforementioned benefits of farmer organisations, group challenges are observed. For example, farmer organisations face declining membership, the free rider problem and conflicts between members, have a problem of ineffective, old members and lack of commitment of some group members. It was therefore recommended that there is a need for concerted effort by the government, development agencies, non-governmental organisations, farmers, and farmer organisations to ensure the success of farmer organisations in promoting small-scale agriculture.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Arwari, Margaret Kwamboka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Farmers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8144 , vital:31535
- Description: In South Africa, the organisation of farmers into groups has been a basic tenet for numerous, small and dispersed small-scale farmers to make their voices heard, address challenges and access support services from the government and other development agencies. However, the literature shows that the South African government promotes inappropriate forms of farmer collective action, i.e. collective production. The government seems to lack knowledge on what forms of collective action to implement and support. It is also noted in the literature that in South Africa, the majority of farmers do not participate in farmer organisations. There is limited research on the determinants of membership in farmer organisations, especially in terms of the role of ‘human agency’. Human agency is a concept which is interrelated with the concept of ‘empowerme nt’, whereby a person with strong agency is someone who is an agent of positive change. Therefore, the study sought to address these gaps. The broad objective of this study was to explore the phenomenon of group membership and collective action among small-scale farmers in Nkonkobe Local Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study used the mixed method approach where an exploratory design was employed. A mult istage sampling technique was used which employed random, purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 245 farmers using semistructured questionnaires and detailed qualitative data were elicited from 16 farmer organisat ions using interview guides. For the quantitative research, a cross-sectional survey design was employed. After discarded unusable observations, data from 228 farmers were analysed using a combination of descriptive statistics, simple inferential statistics, and econometric analysis. For the qualitative data obtained, thematic analysis was used in line with the study objectives. The study findings show that farmers undertake collective action through farmer organisations. These farmer organisations were categorised into two types, i.e. farmer cooperatives and farmer associations. However, low membership in these farmer organisations is noted and this was attributed to the following: (1) low farmer awareness of the existence of farmer organisations, (2) challenges faced by the organisations that contribute to their ineffectiveness and thus low membership, (3) the prevalence of negative perceptions of farmer organisations due to confusion as to their role, (4) the government’s farmer support approach which compels or encourages farmers to form groups. The results also showed that the following are determinants of participation in farmer organisations: farmer’s age, level of education, human agency, whether a farmer has off-farm income sources, whether a farmer is involved in government supported projects, whether a farmer accesses extension information, the number of visits from extension officers received by a farmer, and the number of adults in a household contributing family labour. The study findings also show that the farmers in farmer organisations have higher human agency compared to those not in farmer organisations. According to the study results, farmer groups offer a number of benefits. For one, farmer organisations are avenues for farmers’ voices to be heard, they lobby government for better access to support services such as credit, input supply, information, and training. In addition, farmers who belong to organisations experience the benefits of collective marketing. Despite the aforementioned benefits of farmer organisations, group challenges are observed. For example, farmer organisations face declining membership, the free rider problem and conflicts between members, have a problem of ineffective, old members and lack of commitment of some group members. It was therefore recommended that there is a need for concerted effort by the government, development agencies, non-governmental organisations, farmers, and farmer organisations to ensure the success of farmer organisations in promoting small-scale agriculture.
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Home activities promoting mathematical skills in foundation phase : a case study of grandmother-headed households
- Authors: Hlungulu, Nolukholo Faith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Home and school -- South Africa -- Case studies Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa -- Case studies Education, Elementary -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4926 , vital:28796
- Description: Recent factors identified as contributory to poor mathematics performance in South Africa include lack of parental involvement coupled by the divorce of mathematics education to children’s everyday lives. This exploratory study, therefore focused on home activities grandmothers engage their Grade 2 grandchildren that may promote mathematical skills of Foundation Phase learners. This study followed a qualitative, interpretive and case study research design, to explore home activities grandmothers engage their Grade 2 grandchildren that may promote mathematical skills of Foundation Phase learners. A small scale study of six grandmothers and three Grade 2 teachers were sampled through purposive and snowball sampling. In line with the protocol of the case study, semi-structured individual face to face interviews and shadowing were used to collect data. One striking feature of the main findings was the diversity mathematics applications home activities contained. These include physical, financial and fun playful home activities. Data also revealed that these home activities could reinforce numbers and what numbers mean; reinforce shape recognition and spatial relationships; complement matching, classification and sorting and reinforce measuring and time. This implies that curriculum must incorporate children’s social capital. Both teachers and grandmothers acknowledged that children’s mathematics education is complex and an effective partnership between grandmothers and teachers is needed if children are to be competent in mathematics.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Hlungulu, Nolukholo Faith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Home and school -- South Africa -- Case studies Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa -- Case studies Education, Elementary -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4926 , vital:28796
- Description: Recent factors identified as contributory to poor mathematics performance in South Africa include lack of parental involvement coupled by the divorce of mathematics education to children’s everyday lives. This exploratory study, therefore focused on home activities grandmothers engage their Grade 2 grandchildren that may promote mathematical skills of Foundation Phase learners. This study followed a qualitative, interpretive and case study research design, to explore home activities grandmothers engage their Grade 2 grandchildren that may promote mathematical skills of Foundation Phase learners. A small scale study of six grandmothers and three Grade 2 teachers were sampled through purposive and snowball sampling. In line with the protocol of the case study, semi-structured individual face to face interviews and shadowing were used to collect data. One striking feature of the main findings was the diversity mathematics applications home activities contained. These include physical, financial and fun playful home activities. Data also revealed that these home activities could reinforce numbers and what numbers mean; reinforce shape recognition and spatial relationships; complement matching, classification and sorting and reinforce measuring and time. This implies that curriculum must incorporate children’s social capital. Both teachers and grandmothers acknowledged that children’s mathematics education is complex and an effective partnership between grandmothers and teachers is needed if children are to be competent in mathematics.
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Homeless men in East London : an exploration of significant life experiences to self-concepts
- Authors: Lobi, Thembelihle
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Homeless persons Homelessness Homeless men
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Counselling Psychology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16069 , vital:40661
- Description: This dissertation investigated the life experiences of homeless persons and how they come to view their self-concepts as homeless men. The theoretical framework that underpinned this study was the self-concept theory and social identity theory. In this contextual descriptive study, four homeless men between ages of 28-50 participated in the study. Data was collected by means of disposable cameras and recorded interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse data. The study found that when the participants first became homeless, they encountered stigmatisation and were not ready to accept the homeless identity as it conflicted with their past identity. However, with prolonged homelessness, they took on the new identity and the roles that come with it. The study found that homeless men view themselves as worthless due to their experiences on the street which include living under inhumane conditions, victimisation, and stigma associated with being homeless. The participants have internalised the negative utterances from housed people, which has negatively affected their self-image to a point where they view themselves as worthless,useless and forgetable. The study also found that homeless men use various methods to survive on the streets, which were both self-enhancing such as participating in the informal economy such as car guarding, car washing and collecting tins in exchange for money; and self-destructive such as using substances, risky sexual behaviour. The participants were found to have low self-concepts because of the tough experiences they encounter on the street.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lobi, Thembelihle
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Homeless persons Homelessness Homeless men
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Counselling Psychology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16069 , vital:40661
- Description: This dissertation investigated the life experiences of homeless persons and how they come to view their self-concepts as homeless men. The theoretical framework that underpinned this study was the self-concept theory and social identity theory. In this contextual descriptive study, four homeless men between ages of 28-50 participated in the study. Data was collected by means of disposable cameras and recorded interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse data. The study found that when the participants first became homeless, they encountered stigmatisation and were not ready to accept the homeless identity as it conflicted with their past identity. However, with prolonged homelessness, they took on the new identity and the roles that come with it. The study found that homeless men view themselves as worthless due to their experiences on the street which include living under inhumane conditions, victimisation, and stigma associated with being homeless. The participants have internalised the negative utterances from housed people, which has negatively affected their self-image to a point where they view themselves as worthless,useless and forgetable. The study also found that homeless men use various methods to survive on the streets, which were both self-enhancing such as participating in the informal economy such as car guarding, car washing and collecting tins in exchange for money; and self-destructive such as using substances, risky sexual behaviour. The participants were found to have low self-concepts because of the tough experiences they encounter on the street.
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Household socio-economic characteristics and their effect on livelihood strategy preferences in Shawbury, Qumbu
- Authors: Nongalo, Mwezi Bongile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12065 , vital:39132
- Description: At the centre of rural development are household livelihood strategies. The livelihoods of South Africa’s rural African poor have long been characterized by diverse activities, and intertwined with urban opportunities. This study describes the livelihood strategies of rural households, identifies the determinants of these livelihood strategies and seeks to identify the role of preferences and household characteristics in changing livelihood strategies in Shawbury in the small town in Qumbu. It also identifies the relationships between household and individual characteristics and livelihood strategies. A random sampling technique was used to select 100 households in Shawbury. Descriptive analysis techniques were used to describe the characteristics of the households and livelihood strategies and to identify the relationships between household characteristics and livelihood strategy preferences, a multinomial logit regression model was used. The livelihood strategies used for the multinomial logit regression were commercial agricultural production/ production for selling; subsistence agricultural production/ production for consumption; non-farm employment; social grants and remittances. For much of the research available for livelihood strategies, tools such as the sustainable livelihoods framework have been the focus for studying the determinants of livelihood strategies; however, these tools have little to no consideration for the aspirations and preferences of the individuals in question. This study highlights some possible tools that could be used to examine the influence of aspirations and preferences on changing livelihood strategies including the consumer choice framework, the domestic development cycle, the social network framework for decision-making, the social systems approach and conjoint analysis. For this study, the actual preferences of livelihood strategies among the households are presented using conjoint analysis. This study finds that households in the same area have different characteristics and that livelihood strategies of Shawbury’s households are primarily non- farm, that include dependency on remittances, social grants and formal employment. It finds that households that generate income from wage employment (non-farm) and farm activities are better off than other households. Analysis of the characteristics of rural households also revealed that age, labour endowment, education, and land size holding are some of the barriers that poor households in rural areas face when attempting to enter into high-return livelihood strategies. The multinomial logit regression model has helped to identify some of the factors that influence the preference of certain livelihood strategies by households, are gender of the household head, age of the household head, size of the land owned, and educational level of the household head, household size, and livestock value. This analysis presents evidence about the relationship between household characteristics contributing to the adoption of certain livelihood strategies by people of Shawbury. The conjoint analysis has helped to identify that the most preferred to the least preferred livelihood activities are non-farm labour activities, crop production, animal production, contact with family/leisure and other natural resource based activities respectively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nongalo, Mwezi Bongile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12065 , vital:39132
- Description: At the centre of rural development are household livelihood strategies. The livelihoods of South Africa’s rural African poor have long been characterized by diverse activities, and intertwined with urban opportunities. This study describes the livelihood strategies of rural households, identifies the determinants of these livelihood strategies and seeks to identify the role of preferences and household characteristics in changing livelihood strategies in Shawbury in the small town in Qumbu. It also identifies the relationships between household and individual characteristics and livelihood strategies. A random sampling technique was used to select 100 households in Shawbury. Descriptive analysis techniques were used to describe the characteristics of the households and livelihood strategies and to identify the relationships between household characteristics and livelihood strategy preferences, a multinomial logit regression model was used. The livelihood strategies used for the multinomial logit regression were commercial agricultural production/ production for selling; subsistence agricultural production/ production for consumption; non-farm employment; social grants and remittances. For much of the research available for livelihood strategies, tools such as the sustainable livelihoods framework have been the focus for studying the determinants of livelihood strategies; however, these tools have little to no consideration for the aspirations and preferences of the individuals in question. This study highlights some possible tools that could be used to examine the influence of aspirations and preferences on changing livelihood strategies including the consumer choice framework, the domestic development cycle, the social network framework for decision-making, the social systems approach and conjoint analysis. For this study, the actual preferences of livelihood strategies among the households are presented using conjoint analysis. This study finds that households in the same area have different characteristics and that livelihood strategies of Shawbury’s households are primarily non- farm, that include dependency on remittances, social grants and formal employment. It finds that households that generate income from wage employment (non-farm) and farm activities are better off than other households. Analysis of the characteristics of rural households also revealed that age, labour endowment, education, and land size holding are some of the barriers that poor households in rural areas face when attempting to enter into high-return livelihood strategies. The multinomial logit regression model has helped to identify some of the factors that influence the preference of certain livelihood strategies by households, are gender of the household head, age of the household head, size of the land owned, and educational level of the household head, household size, and livestock value. This analysis presents evidence about the relationship between household characteristics contributing to the adoption of certain livelihood strategies by people of Shawbury. The conjoint analysis has helped to identify that the most preferred to the least preferred livelihood activities are non-farm labour activities, crop production, animal production, contact with family/leisure and other natural resource based activities respectively.
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Household socio-economic characteristics and their effect on livelihood strategy preferences in Shawbury, Qumbu
- Authors: Nongalo, Mwezi Bongile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12150 , vital:39175
- Description: At the centre of rural development are household livelihood strategies. The livelihoods of South Africa’s rural African poor have long been characterized by diverse activities, and intertwined with urban opportunities. This study describes the livelihood strategies of rural households, identifies the determinants of these livelihood strategies and seeks to identify the role of preferences and household characteristics in changing livelihood strategies in Shawbury in the small town in Qumbu. It also identifies the relationships between household and individual characteristics and livelihood strategies. A random sampling technique was used to select 100 households in Shawbury. Descriptive analysis techniques were used to describe the characteristics of the households and livelihood strategies and to identify the relationships between household characteristics and livelihood strategy preferences, a multinomial logit regression model was used. The livelihood strategies used for the multinomial logit regression were commercial agricultural production/ production for selling; subsistence agricultural production/ production for consumption; non-farm employment; social grants and remittances. For much of the research available for livelihood strategies, tools such as the sustainable livelihoods framework have been the focus for studying the determinants of livelihood strategies; however these tools have little to no consideration for the aspirations and preferences of the individuals in question. This study highlights some possible tools that could be used to examine the influence of aspirations and preferences on changing livelihood strategies including the consumer choice framework, the domestic development cycle, the social network framework for decision making, the social systems approach and conjoint analysis. For this study, the actual preferences of livelihood strategies among the households are presented using conjoint analysis. This study finds that households in the same area have different characteristics and that livelihood strategies of Shawbury’s households are primarily non- farm, that include dependency on remittances, social grants and formal employment. It finds that households that generate income from wage employment (non-farm) and farm activities are better off than other households. Analysis of the characteristics of rural households also revealed that age, labour endowment, education, and land size holding are some of the barriers that poor households in rural areas face when attempting to enter into high-return livelihood strategies. The multinomial logit regression model has helped to identify some of the factors that influence the preference of certain livelihood strategies by households, are gender of the household head, age of the household head, size of the land owned, and educational level of the household head, household size, and livestock value. This analysis presents evidence about the relationship between household characteristics contributing to the adoption of certain livelihood strategies by people of Shawbury. The conjoint analysis has helped to identify that the most preferred to the least preferred livelihood activities are non-farm labour activities, crop production, animal production, contact with family/leisure and other natural resource based activities respectively.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nongalo, Mwezi Bongile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Household surveys -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12150 , vital:39175
- Description: At the centre of rural development are household livelihood strategies. The livelihoods of South Africa’s rural African poor have long been characterized by diverse activities, and intertwined with urban opportunities. This study describes the livelihood strategies of rural households, identifies the determinants of these livelihood strategies and seeks to identify the role of preferences and household characteristics in changing livelihood strategies in Shawbury in the small town in Qumbu. It also identifies the relationships between household and individual characteristics and livelihood strategies. A random sampling technique was used to select 100 households in Shawbury. Descriptive analysis techniques were used to describe the characteristics of the households and livelihood strategies and to identify the relationships between household characteristics and livelihood strategy preferences, a multinomial logit regression model was used. The livelihood strategies used for the multinomial logit regression were commercial agricultural production/ production for selling; subsistence agricultural production/ production for consumption; non-farm employment; social grants and remittances. For much of the research available for livelihood strategies, tools such as the sustainable livelihoods framework have been the focus for studying the determinants of livelihood strategies; however these tools have little to no consideration for the aspirations and preferences of the individuals in question. This study highlights some possible tools that could be used to examine the influence of aspirations and preferences on changing livelihood strategies including the consumer choice framework, the domestic development cycle, the social network framework for decision making, the social systems approach and conjoint analysis. For this study, the actual preferences of livelihood strategies among the households are presented using conjoint analysis. This study finds that households in the same area have different characteristics and that livelihood strategies of Shawbury’s households are primarily non- farm, that include dependency on remittances, social grants and formal employment. It finds that households that generate income from wage employment (non-farm) and farm activities are better off than other households. Analysis of the characteristics of rural households also revealed that age, labour endowment, education, and land size holding are some of the barriers that poor households in rural areas face when attempting to enter into high-return livelihood strategies. The multinomial logit regression model has helped to identify some of the factors that influence the preference of certain livelihood strategies by households, are gender of the household head, age of the household head, size of the land owned, and educational level of the household head, household size, and livestock value. This analysis presents evidence about the relationship between household characteristics contributing to the adoption of certain livelihood strategies by people of Shawbury. The conjoint analysis has helped to identify that the most preferred to the least preferred livelihood activities are non-farm labour activities, crop production, animal production, contact with family/leisure and other natural resource based activities respectively.
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How phase feeding manipulation affects growth, performance, feed cost, carcass characteristics and the quality of meat from broilers
- Authors: Sokanyile, Sanda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Animal nutrition , Feeds , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5565 , vital:29334
- Description: The main objective of the study was to determine how phase feeding manipulation affects growth performance, feed cost, carcass characteristics and quality of meat from broiler chickens. A total of 180 day old un-sexed broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were separated into 3 dietary treatments of 60 birds per treatment and each treatment was replicated 3 times with 20 birds per replicate. The dietary treatments were as follows: T1 (starter 1-7 days; grower 8-21 days; finisher 22-35 days), T2 (starter 1-14 days; grower 15-21 days, finisher 22-35 days) and T3 (starter 1-14 days; grower 15-28 days; finisher 29-35 days). Feed intake and body weight gains were recorded weekly in kilograms. Average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were computed weekly. At day 35, the chickens were slaughtered and 12 representative breast muscles from each treatment were used for the determination of muscle pH (pH1, pH24 and pH48) and colour coordinates (Lightness – L*, redness – a* and yellowness – b*) in triplicate at 1 hour, 24 hours and 48 hours post-mortem.Feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), average daily gain (ADG) and average body weight at slaughter (ABW) were not significant (P>0.05) amongst the treatments. The most cost efficient feed (which accumulated the cheapest cost feed per kg were) T1 (R11.32) and T3 (R11.32) although there was a slight difference in the gross profit of these treatments T1 (R45.71) and T3 (R44.48). Carcass characteristics were the same (P > 0.05) across the treatments except for the wing, thigh, drumstick and the breast (P < 0.05). T2 had the highest wing weight (166.63±8.60), T1 (113.03±8.60) and the lowest in T3 (74.46±8.60). The thigh weight were greater (P<0.05) in T2 (185.69±4.34); T1 (185.54±4.34) compared to T3 (166.97±4.34) which was lower. Treatments 1 (204.17±6.57), T2 (197±6.57) had heavier (P<0.05) breast weights than T3 (186.06±6.57). Dietary treatments had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on pH of the breast meat. No differences were observed in colour during the 1 hour period after slaughter. At 24 hours after slaughter, the L* values were different (P < 0.05) in T1 and T2 (44.3 ± 0.37; 43.7 ± 0.37), respectively, T1 and T3 were the same. The a*-values were different (P < 0.05) at 48 hours after slaughter for T1 and T3 (4.5 ± 0.27; 3.4 ± 0.27), T2 was the same as T1. It was therefore, concluded that since manipulation of starter phase did not have adverse effects on growth performance, gross profit, slight statistical difference in meat quality attributes and carcass characteristics. Therefore, the manipulation of starter diet has the potential to be used in broiler production.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sokanyile, Sanda
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Animal nutrition , Feeds , Broilers (Chickens)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5565 , vital:29334
- Description: The main objective of the study was to determine how phase feeding manipulation affects growth performance, feed cost, carcass characteristics and quality of meat from broiler chickens. A total of 180 day old un-sexed broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were separated into 3 dietary treatments of 60 birds per treatment and each treatment was replicated 3 times with 20 birds per replicate. The dietary treatments were as follows: T1 (starter 1-7 days; grower 8-21 days; finisher 22-35 days), T2 (starter 1-14 days; grower 15-21 days, finisher 22-35 days) and T3 (starter 1-14 days; grower 15-28 days; finisher 29-35 days). Feed intake and body weight gains were recorded weekly in kilograms. Average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were computed weekly. At day 35, the chickens were slaughtered and 12 representative breast muscles from each treatment were used for the determination of muscle pH (pH1, pH24 and pH48) and colour coordinates (Lightness – L*, redness – a* and yellowness – b*) in triplicate at 1 hour, 24 hours and 48 hours post-mortem.Feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), average daily gain (ADG) and average body weight at slaughter (ABW) were not significant (P>0.05) amongst the treatments. The most cost efficient feed (which accumulated the cheapest cost feed per kg were) T1 (R11.32) and T3 (R11.32) although there was a slight difference in the gross profit of these treatments T1 (R45.71) and T3 (R44.48). Carcass characteristics were the same (P > 0.05) across the treatments except for the wing, thigh, drumstick and the breast (P < 0.05). T2 had the highest wing weight (166.63±8.60), T1 (113.03±8.60) and the lowest in T3 (74.46±8.60). The thigh weight were greater (P<0.05) in T2 (185.69±4.34); T1 (185.54±4.34) compared to T3 (166.97±4.34) which was lower. Treatments 1 (204.17±6.57), T2 (197±6.57) had heavier (P<0.05) breast weights than T3 (186.06±6.57). Dietary treatments had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on pH of the breast meat. No differences were observed in colour during the 1 hour period after slaughter. At 24 hours after slaughter, the L* values were different (P < 0.05) in T1 and T2 (44.3 ± 0.37; 43.7 ± 0.37), respectively, T1 and T3 were the same. The a*-values were different (P < 0.05) at 48 hours after slaughter for T1 and T3 (4.5 ± 0.27; 3.4 ± 0.27), T2 was the same as T1. It was therefore, concluded that since manipulation of starter phase did not have adverse effects on growth performance, gross profit, slight statistical difference in meat quality attributes and carcass characteristics. Therefore, the manipulation of starter diet has the potential to be used in broiler production.
- Full Text:
Impact of business confidence on private investments in South Africa
- Authors: Madzivire, Venna Wadzanayi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Success in business Confidence Investments
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8910 , vital:33955
- Description: A wide range of theoretical and empirical studies have been carried out on various determinants of private investments in different economies. This dissertation specifically focuses on the impact business confidence on private investments with regards to the South African economy for the period between 1990 and 2014. The private investment sector in South Africa has, to a greater extent contributed to the overall GDP of the economy. Even though business confidence has a considerable impact on private investments, this study also took into consideration other variables that affect the private investment sector such as interest rates, exchange range and GDP To determine short-run and long-run relationships of business confidence on private Investments in South Africa, a vector error correction model was employed. In order to avoid spurious regression, the ADF test and the PP test were used to test for stationarity. Results of the study indicate that private investments are subject to permanent changes because of changes in business confidence. In addition to that, not all variables have a long-term relationship with private investments but business confidence has a significant long run relationship with private investment. After conducting an econometric analysis, results revealed that Business Confidence and Gross Domestic Product have a positive impact on private investments. On the other hand, interest rates and exchange rates have a negative impact on private investments in South Africa. Various policy recommendations were established on both Private Investments and Business Confidence.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Madzivire, Venna Wadzanayi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Success in business Confidence Investments
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8910 , vital:33955
- Description: A wide range of theoretical and empirical studies have been carried out on various determinants of private investments in different economies. This dissertation specifically focuses on the impact business confidence on private investments with regards to the South African economy for the period between 1990 and 2014. The private investment sector in South Africa has, to a greater extent contributed to the overall GDP of the economy. Even though business confidence has a considerable impact on private investments, this study also took into consideration other variables that affect the private investment sector such as interest rates, exchange range and GDP To determine short-run and long-run relationships of business confidence on private Investments in South Africa, a vector error correction model was employed. In order to avoid spurious regression, the ADF test and the PP test were used to test for stationarity. Results of the study indicate that private investments are subject to permanent changes because of changes in business confidence. In addition to that, not all variables have a long-term relationship with private investments but business confidence has a significant long run relationship with private investment. After conducting an econometric analysis, results revealed that Business Confidence and Gross Domestic Product have a positive impact on private investments. On the other hand, interest rates and exchange rates have a negative impact on private investments in South Africa. Various policy recommendations were established on both Private Investments and Business Confidence.
- Full Text:
Impact of formulated soil types on growth performance, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological properties of solanum nigurm L. : a wild vegetable in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ogundola, Adijat Funke
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Solanum Materia medica, Vegetable Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8758 , vital:33519
- Description: Solanum nigrum L. is a wild vegetable that is highly recognised for its high nutiritional and therapeutical purposes. However, proper identification of the plant is essential not only to plant scientists but to a wide range of users. Therefore, the plant’s roots, stems and leaves cultivated on different soil types were viewed under the Scanning Electron Microscope while the leaves were further viewed under the Light Microscope. significant increase was observed in densities of stomata, guard and subsidiary cells of leaves of S. nigrum grown on silty clay loam soil. The SEM analysis revealed abundant glandular and non-glandular trichromes on both surfaces of the leaves. The glandular trichome is known to be responsible for the storage of bioactive compounds for which this plant is well known. Cultivation was embarked upon, for the availability of the plant at all times. However, propagation was by seed alone, therefore, quality seed is necessary for cultivation. Study was carried out on seeds extracted from plants growing in the wild in Alice for the seed viability, germination and seedling emergence when subjected to different soil texture types and sowing depths. The seeds were 98.3 percent viable. Highest germination (94.66 percent) was recorded in sand paper scarification, 15, 20 and 25ºC. Continuous darkness and temperatures lower than 5ºC and higher than 35ºCwere detrimental to the seeds. Silty clay loam soil and a depth of 2 cm had the highest seedling emergence 90 percent and recommended as the ideal condition for seedlings emergence. The growth, yield and physiological response of S. nigrum to sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, clay loam, loam soils and control soil (sandy loam) were investigated in the glasshouse in two separate trials. The ANOVA analysed data results indicated that plant samples on silty clay loam significantly increased in height, stem girth, plant root, leaf area, number of leaves, number of branches, number of flowers, number of fruit bunch per plant dry weight, as well as weight of fruit bunch. However, plant samples grown on clay loam and loam soils recorded increased chlorophyll and produced dark green leaves. It is conceivable that silty clay loam soils have a strong ability to support the physiological growth and the yield of S. nigrum. These soils are therefore recommended for the cultivation of this plant. S. nigrum cultivated on these soils was evaluated for proximate compositions, anti-nutrients, vitamins A, C and E and mineral compositions using standard analytical methods. Using the translocation factor, the minerals’ toxicity accumulation levels in the plant were also determined. Accumulation of proximate parameters in the first and second trials are: ash (11.25-12.25 percent and 11.14- 11.54 percent), crude fibre (19.24-19.95 percent and 18.71-19.35 percent), protein (36.72-38.98 percent and 34.47-37.00 percent), phytate (0.84-1.17 and 0.88-1.15 mg/ml), saponnin (94.10-97.00 and 94.17-97.00 percent) and alkaloids (43.03-45.76 and 42.08- 44.10 percent) respectively. Vitamin A ranged between 117 and 137 mg/kg and betweens 108 and 128 mg/kg, vitamin C between 100 and 118 mg/kg and between 96 and 108 mg/kg and vitamin E between 250 and 269 mg/kg and between 227 and 261 mg/kg in the first and second trials respectively. The quantities of macro and micro-nutrients recorded in S. nigrum showed that this plant is a reservoir of nutrients. Plants cultivated on clay loam, silty clay loam and loam soils accumulated elevated nutritients compositions. Investigation was made on the ability of S. nigrum cultivated on different soil texture types to synthesise phytochemicals such as phenol, flavonoid, alkaloid proanthocyanidins, tannins, saponins and antioxidant. Highest concentrations of phenolics (73.87 mg/g), flavonoids (58.41 mg/g), proanthocyanidins (875.74 mg/g), tannins (49.32 mg/g), saponins (875.74 mg/g) and alkaloid (47.50 mg/g) contents were recorded in plant sample cultivated on silty clay loam soil. Also, highest radical scavenging power using DPPH (0.0102 mg/g), ABTS (0.1062 mg/g) and FRAP (0.8395 mg/g) were recorded in plant samples grown on silty clay loam and the next high values were recorded in plant samples grown on clay loam soil. It is showed in this study that silty clay loam soil and clay loam soils are the best soil types for cultivation of S. nigrum for increased antioxidant properties/ oxygen radical scavenging activities. Investigation was made on chemical compositions and antioxidant properties of essential oil extracts of S. nigrum shoot and root cultivated on different soil textures. The Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling revealed variations in the quality index (QI) and number of chemical constituents of the oil of S. nigrum cultivated on different soil texture types. Geraniol and citronellol were two principal components of high quality common to oil from shoots and roots fromplants cultivated on all soil types. Results of DPPH and ABTS assays of the shoot oil showed that S. nigrum cultivated on clay loam soil had the highest antioxidant power. The presence of citronellol and geraniol among the major compounds is an indicaton of the plant’s role in defensive mechanisms. The work indicated that soil texture has effect on the quality, quantity and chemical compounds synthesised in the shoots and roots of S. nigrum. Antibacterial activities and the efficacy of S. nigrum cultivated on different soil types were carried out on reference strains of 4 gram-positive and 4 gram-negative bacteria. Toxicity evaluation of the plant’s acetone extract and water extract were also assessed on lethality of brine shrimp eggs. Plant water and acetone extracts exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Pseudomona aeruginosa, acetone extracts against Bacillus cereus, Listeria and Escherichia coli. Significantly (p< 0.05) low concentration (0.25 mg/mL) of acetone extracts from plant shoot cultivated on silty clay loam and clay loam soils inhibited B. cereus and P. aeruginosa. Antimicrobial activities of extracts of plant cultivated on clay loam appeared to be more superior to extracs from plants grown on other soil types. Toxicity of the plant extracts (water and acetone) was concentration and time dependent. The LD50 values for all plant extracts were greater than 1000 mg/mL which showed they are non-toxic.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ogundola, Adijat Funke
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Solanum Materia medica, Vegetable Medicinal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8758 , vital:33519
- Description: Solanum nigrum L. is a wild vegetable that is highly recognised for its high nutiritional and therapeutical purposes. However, proper identification of the plant is essential not only to plant scientists but to a wide range of users. Therefore, the plant’s roots, stems and leaves cultivated on different soil types were viewed under the Scanning Electron Microscope while the leaves were further viewed under the Light Microscope. significant increase was observed in densities of stomata, guard and subsidiary cells of leaves of S. nigrum grown on silty clay loam soil. The SEM analysis revealed abundant glandular and non-glandular trichromes on both surfaces of the leaves. The glandular trichome is known to be responsible for the storage of bioactive compounds for which this plant is well known. Cultivation was embarked upon, for the availability of the plant at all times. However, propagation was by seed alone, therefore, quality seed is necessary for cultivation. Study was carried out on seeds extracted from plants growing in the wild in Alice for the seed viability, germination and seedling emergence when subjected to different soil texture types and sowing depths. The seeds were 98.3 percent viable. Highest germination (94.66 percent) was recorded in sand paper scarification, 15, 20 and 25ºC. Continuous darkness and temperatures lower than 5ºC and higher than 35ºCwere detrimental to the seeds. Silty clay loam soil and a depth of 2 cm had the highest seedling emergence 90 percent and recommended as the ideal condition for seedlings emergence. The growth, yield and physiological response of S. nigrum to sandy clay loam, silty clay loam, clay loam, loam soils and control soil (sandy loam) were investigated in the glasshouse in two separate trials. The ANOVA analysed data results indicated that plant samples on silty clay loam significantly increased in height, stem girth, plant root, leaf area, number of leaves, number of branches, number of flowers, number of fruit bunch per plant dry weight, as well as weight of fruit bunch. However, plant samples grown on clay loam and loam soils recorded increased chlorophyll and produced dark green leaves. It is conceivable that silty clay loam soils have a strong ability to support the physiological growth and the yield of S. nigrum. These soils are therefore recommended for the cultivation of this plant. S. nigrum cultivated on these soils was evaluated for proximate compositions, anti-nutrients, vitamins A, C and E and mineral compositions using standard analytical methods. Using the translocation factor, the minerals’ toxicity accumulation levels in the plant were also determined. Accumulation of proximate parameters in the first and second trials are: ash (11.25-12.25 percent and 11.14- 11.54 percent), crude fibre (19.24-19.95 percent and 18.71-19.35 percent), protein (36.72-38.98 percent and 34.47-37.00 percent), phytate (0.84-1.17 and 0.88-1.15 mg/ml), saponnin (94.10-97.00 and 94.17-97.00 percent) and alkaloids (43.03-45.76 and 42.08- 44.10 percent) respectively. Vitamin A ranged between 117 and 137 mg/kg and betweens 108 and 128 mg/kg, vitamin C between 100 and 118 mg/kg and between 96 and 108 mg/kg and vitamin E between 250 and 269 mg/kg and between 227 and 261 mg/kg in the first and second trials respectively. The quantities of macro and micro-nutrients recorded in S. nigrum showed that this plant is a reservoir of nutrients. Plants cultivated on clay loam, silty clay loam and loam soils accumulated elevated nutritients compositions. Investigation was made on the ability of S. nigrum cultivated on different soil texture types to synthesise phytochemicals such as phenol, flavonoid, alkaloid proanthocyanidins, tannins, saponins and antioxidant. Highest concentrations of phenolics (73.87 mg/g), flavonoids (58.41 mg/g), proanthocyanidins (875.74 mg/g), tannins (49.32 mg/g), saponins (875.74 mg/g) and alkaloid (47.50 mg/g) contents were recorded in plant sample cultivated on silty clay loam soil. Also, highest radical scavenging power using DPPH (0.0102 mg/g), ABTS (0.1062 mg/g) and FRAP (0.8395 mg/g) were recorded in plant samples grown on silty clay loam and the next high values were recorded in plant samples grown on clay loam soil. It is showed in this study that silty clay loam soil and clay loam soils are the best soil types for cultivation of S. nigrum for increased antioxidant properties/ oxygen radical scavenging activities. Investigation was made on chemical compositions and antioxidant properties of essential oil extracts of S. nigrum shoot and root cultivated on different soil textures. The Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling revealed variations in the quality index (QI) and number of chemical constituents of the oil of S. nigrum cultivated on different soil texture types. Geraniol and citronellol were two principal components of high quality common to oil from shoots and roots fromplants cultivated on all soil types. Results of DPPH and ABTS assays of the shoot oil showed that S. nigrum cultivated on clay loam soil had the highest antioxidant power. The presence of citronellol and geraniol among the major compounds is an indicaton of the plant’s role in defensive mechanisms. The work indicated that soil texture has effect on the quality, quantity and chemical compounds synthesised in the shoots and roots of S. nigrum. Antibacterial activities and the efficacy of S. nigrum cultivated on different soil types were carried out on reference strains of 4 gram-positive and 4 gram-negative bacteria. Toxicity evaluation of the plant’s acetone extract and water extract were also assessed on lethality of brine shrimp eggs. Plant water and acetone extracts exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Pseudomona aeruginosa, acetone extracts against Bacillus cereus, Listeria and Escherichia coli. Significantly (p< 0.05) low concentration (0.25 mg/mL) of acetone extracts from plant shoot cultivated on silty clay loam and clay loam soils inhibited B. cereus and P. aeruginosa. Antimicrobial activities of extracts of plant cultivated on clay loam appeared to be more superior to extracs from plants grown on other soil types. Toxicity of the plant extracts (water and acetone) was concentration and time dependent. The LD50 values for all plant extracts were greater than 1000 mg/mL which showed they are non-toxic.
- Full Text:
Impediments to the implementation of employee health and wellness policy : a study of Social Development - Eastern Cape, Amathole District
- Authors: Lutuli, Nondwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Health education|xGovernment policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5473 , vital:29269
- Description: The White paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery no 1459 of 1997 stipulates that the wellbeing of employees needs to be accounted for. A directive to have employee health and wellness programmes established in all government departments was given by the director-general of the Department Public Service Administration in 2008. The Employee health and wellness programme is aimed at promoting and improving employee wellbeing, which is also linked to organizational wellness. The primary aim of the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is to make a positive contribution towards maximum employee productivity and effectiveness in the workplace. Employee health assessment conducted by the Department of Social Development in 2006 and 2009 confirmed that South African organizations, including the Department of Social Development, experience high levels of employee poor health. Studies suggest that both employees and the employers need to pay attention to the improvement of employee health and wellness. In 2012, an integrated employee health and wellness policy was developed to improve the Department of Social Development employee wellness. The interest to conduct the study emanates from the researcher‟s own supposition that the policy has not been fully implemented, this deduction is based on the fact that, although the policy has four critical focus areas, some of these areas, such as counselling, are not rendered. Literature reviewed includes the process of policy implementation and description of employee health and wellness, benefits of employee health and wellness programme for both employees and employer. A mixed method study was conducted to explore the implementation of the employee health and wellness policy as a strategy to improve both employee and organizational wellness within the Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape - Amathole District. The population of the study included both DSD management and non-managerial employees from Amathole District; the study also includes the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Amathole District Municipality and South African Police Service (Mdantsane). Themes that were identified from qualitative data through semi- structured interviews by means of audio-recorder were triangulated through questionnaires and document analysis. Since the policy came into effect in 2012, results show that the implementation has been confronted with a number of challenges which include lack of support from the top management. Lack of buy in by DSD management has serious implications on the policy objectives; these include the inadequate distribution of capital, human and physical resources necessary to implement the policy. In order for the DSD to improve the implementation of employee health and wellness policy, the management needs to ensure that there is adequate provision of human and capital resources. Employees should be well-informed on policy guidelines and procedures and benefits to stimulate maximum utilisation. A decentralisation of implementation to Area offices is necessary to promote accessibility of services and prevent unnecessary delays in service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lutuli, Nondwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee health promotion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Health education|xGovernment policy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5473 , vital:29269
- Description: The White paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery no 1459 of 1997 stipulates that the wellbeing of employees needs to be accounted for. A directive to have employee health and wellness programmes established in all government departments was given by the director-general of the Department Public Service Administration in 2008. The Employee health and wellness programme is aimed at promoting and improving employee wellbeing, which is also linked to organizational wellness. The primary aim of the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is to make a positive contribution towards maximum employee productivity and effectiveness in the workplace. Employee health assessment conducted by the Department of Social Development in 2006 and 2009 confirmed that South African organizations, including the Department of Social Development, experience high levels of employee poor health. Studies suggest that both employees and the employers need to pay attention to the improvement of employee health and wellness. In 2012, an integrated employee health and wellness policy was developed to improve the Department of Social Development employee wellness. The interest to conduct the study emanates from the researcher‟s own supposition that the policy has not been fully implemented, this deduction is based on the fact that, although the policy has four critical focus areas, some of these areas, such as counselling, are not rendered. Literature reviewed includes the process of policy implementation and description of employee health and wellness, benefits of employee health and wellness programme for both employees and employer. A mixed method study was conducted to explore the implementation of the employee health and wellness policy as a strategy to improve both employee and organizational wellness within the Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape - Amathole District. The population of the study included both DSD management and non-managerial employees from Amathole District; the study also includes the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Amathole District Municipality and South African Police Service (Mdantsane). Themes that were identified from qualitative data through semi- structured interviews by means of audio-recorder were triangulated through questionnaires and document analysis. Since the policy came into effect in 2012, results show that the implementation has been confronted with a number of challenges which include lack of support from the top management. Lack of buy in by DSD management has serious implications on the policy objectives; these include the inadequate distribution of capital, human and physical resources necessary to implement the policy. In order for the DSD to improve the implementation of employee health and wellness policy, the management needs to ensure that there is adequate provision of human and capital resources. Employees should be well-informed on policy guidelines and procedures and benefits to stimulate maximum utilisation. A decentralisation of implementation to Area offices is necessary to promote accessibility of services and prevent unnecessary delays in service delivery.
- Full Text:
Implementation of gender policies to promote gender parity in leadership in academia : a case study of two universities in Bindura Urban Mashonaland Central Province Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mandoga, Edward
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women in higher education -- Zimbabwe Education, Higher -- Zimbabwe Sex discrimination in higher education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5260 , vital:29178
- Description: The study is premised on the assumptions that the under-representation of women in leadership in academia is aggravated by weak implementation of gender policies. In light of this, the aim of the current study was to assess the nature and extent of the implementation of gender policy frameworks as a way of engendering gender parity in leadership in academia. The study was informed by the socialist-feminist theory and John Rawls’ and David Millers’ theory of social justice. The theories were chosen on the basis of their socialist-scientific approach to gender issues and also because of their resonance with the situation in Zimbabwe’s tertiary institutions. The theories were analysed within the context of Agenda 2063. The relevance of the agenda’s vision for this study is its recognition of gender equality, particularly in leadership in academia, as a critical cog for Africa’s development agenda. The researcher opted to use the qualitative approach which is embedded within the interpretivist research paradigm. The interpretivist approach makes use of qualitative methods of data collection, presentation and analysis. Data were generated from a sample of twenty four lecturers, two vice-chancellors, two pro-vice-chancellors and two registrars from two universities, a private church-run institution and a state university, mainly through interviews. Data were also generated through focus group discussions and document analysis. Data from documents were used to buttress data from the interviews and focus group discussions. The findings of this study showed that the male-management norm dominated in almost every strategic section of the structures of the two institutions. This was attributable to weak implementation of gender policies. The failure of the gender policies to bring a visible change to the institutional landscape in terms of gender equality was a result of an interplay of personal, cultural and organisational factors. Some of the factors that thwarted women’s career progression to leadership positions included, lack of inspiration from role models, lack of support from colleagues, lack of training in leadership, and the Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education’s (ZIMCHE) indiscriminate policy on recruitment of staff members. All the factors however, were encapsulated within the patriarchal stereotypical conception of a women as fit for domesticity. Within the same conception, men were considered to be imbued with the clout and traits consistent with leadership demands. Studies carried out elsewhere in Zimbabwe and outside the boarders of Zimbabwe have yielded similar results. This explains the continuing and relentless nature of gender inequality in academic institutions. In order to increase the participation of women in leadership positions, the study recommends the following: establishment of a monitoring and evaluation exercise designed to audit the effectiveness of the gender policies; establishment of a review of the university programmes with the aim of establishing or intensifying training programmes in academic leadership and management; establishment of a scholarship and research fund to encourage women to undertake higher degrees studies, and the intense application of affirmative action policies and gender mainstreaming in the universities.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mandoga, Edward
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women in higher education -- Zimbabwe Education, Higher -- Zimbabwe Sex discrimination in higher education -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5260 , vital:29178
- Description: The study is premised on the assumptions that the under-representation of women in leadership in academia is aggravated by weak implementation of gender policies. In light of this, the aim of the current study was to assess the nature and extent of the implementation of gender policy frameworks as a way of engendering gender parity in leadership in academia. The study was informed by the socialist-feminist theory and John Rawls’ and David Millers’ theory of social justice. The theories were chosen on the basis of their socialist-scientific approach to gender issues and also because of their resonance with the situation in Zimbabwe’s tertiary institutions. The theories were analysed within the context of Agenda 2063. The relevance of the agenda’s vision for this study is its recognition of gender equality, particularly in leadership in academia, as a critical cog for Africa’s development agenda. The researcher opted to use the qualitative approach which is embedded within the interpretivist research paradigm. The interpretivist approach makes use of qualitative methods of data collection, presentation and analysis. Data were generated from a sample of twenty four lecturers, two vice-chancellors, two pro-vice-chancellors and two registrars from two universities, a private church-run institution and a state university, mainly through interviews. Data were also generated through focus group discussions and document analysis. Data from documents were used to buttress data from the interviews and focus group discussions. The findings of this study showed that the male-management norm dominated in almost every strategic section of the structures of the two institutions. This was attributable to weak implementation of gender policies. The failure of the gender policies to bring a visible change to the institutional landscape in terms of gender equality was a result of an interplay of personal, cultural and organisational factors. Some of the factors that thwarted women’s career progression to leadership positions included, lack of inspiration from role models, lack of support from colleagues, lack of training in leadership, and the Zimbabwe Council of Higher Education’s (ZIMCHE) indiscriminate policy on recruitment of staff members. All the factors however, were encapsulated within the patriarchal stereotypical conception of a women as fit for domesticity. Within the same conception, men were considered to be imbued with the clout and traits consistent with leadership demands. Studies carried out elsewhere in Zimbabwe and outside the boarders of Zimbabwe have yielded similar results. This explains the continuing and relentless nature of gender inequality in academic institutions. In order to increase the participation of women in leadership positions, the study recommends the following: establishment of a monitoring and evaluation exercise designed to audit the effectiveness of the gender policies; establishment of a review of the university programmes with the aim of establishing or intensifying training programmes in academic leadership and management; establishment of a scholarship and research fund to encourage women to undertake higher degrees studies, and the intense application of affirmative action policies and gender mainstreaming in the universities.
- Full Text:
Implementation of the policy on religious equity in public schools in the East London Education District : towards a framework for religious diversity
- Makasi, Cordelia Noma-Abysinia
- Authors: Makasi, Cordelia Noma-Abysinia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Religious education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Religion and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Christianity and politics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5014 , vital:28935
- Description: The study sought to establish the implementation of the policy on religious equity in public schools in the East London Education district in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Underpinned by Van Meter and Van Horn (2015) with implementation and conceptual theory and also a theory on opportunity to learn and school performance by Van Der Grift and Houtveen(2006), the study was located in the pragmatist research paradigm and followed a mixed methods approach and concurrent triangulation design. The research sampling technique was random for high school learners in selected schools and purposeful for principals, heads of departments, teachers and provincial education officials. Three methods were employed to collect data from selected public schools and from the provincial office namely; semi-structured interviews, individual interviews and observation. Quantitative data were analysed statistically and presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using the thematic content analysis technique. Major findings of the study are that teachers and principals understood the concept religious equity and had a fair understanding of the policy on religious equity. Schools were predominantly Christian-oriented in terms of religious practices and there were no recorded cases of religious conflict. Learners of minority religions were not compelled to attend Christian religious functions in schools and were allowed to attend their own religious functions outside school. This was established from the fact that participants cited freedom of religion as being exercised in schools. However, it was further established that there was no strategic monitoring and support for teachers in the implementation of religious equity. There were also no deliberate measures and strategies for the implementation of religious equity suggesting challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy. While there were notable challenges in the implementation of the policy, due to resistance of stakeholders to change, schools had great opportunities which could be utilized to enhance the implementation of the policy on religious equity. The study concludes by noting that, while key policy implementers had an understanding of religious equity, the situation on the ground revealed challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy which resulted in a Christian-dominated school environment at the expense of minority religions The study recommends, among other things, that that religious equity be adhered to as enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa of 1996 and the South African Schools Act of 1996. The teaching and learning environment should include Religion Education as per prescription by National Policy on Religion Education of 2003, that monitoring and support of teachers be done, and that community involvement with policy development be considered crucial as well as moral education teaching in schools. A framework for enhancing implementation of the policy on religious equity is also proposed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Makasi, Cordelia Noma-Abysinia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Religious education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Religion and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Christianity and politics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5014 , vital:28935
- Description: The study sought to establish the implementation of the policy on religious equity in public schools in the East London Education district in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Underpinned by Van Meter and Van Horn (2015) with implementation and conceptual theory and also a theory on opportunity to learn and school performance by Van Der Grift and Houtveen(2006), the study was located in the pragmatist research paradigm and followed a mixed methods approach and concurrent triangulation design. The research sampling technique was random for high school learners in selected schools and purposeful for principals, heads of departments, teachers and provincial education officials. Three methods were employed to collect data from selected public schools and from the provincial office namely; semi-structured interviews, individual interviews and observation. Quantitative data were analysed statistically and presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using the thematic content analysis technique. Major findings of the study are that teachers and principals understood the concept religious equity and had a fair understanding of the policy on religious equity. Schools were predominantly Christian-oriented in terms of religious practices and there were no recorded cases of religious conflict. Learners of minority religions were not compelled to attend Christian religious functions in schools and were allowed to attend their own religious functions outside school. This was established from the fact that participants cited freedom of religion as being exercised in schools. However, it was further established that there was no strategic monitoring and support for teachers in the implementation of religious equity. There were also no deliberate measures and strategies for the implementation of religious equity suggesting challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy. While there were notable challenges in the implementation of the policy, due to resistance of stakeholders to change, schools had great opportunities which could be utilized to enhance the implementation of the policy on religious equity. The study concludes by noting that, while key policy implementers had an understanding of religious equity, the situation on the ground revealed challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy which resulted in a Christian-dominated school environment at the expense of minority religions The study recommends, among other things, that that religious equity be adhered to as enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa of 1996 and the South African Schools Act of 1996. The teaching and learning environment should include Religion Education as per prescription by National Policy on Religion Education of 2003, that monitoring and support of teachers be done, and that community involvement with policy development be considered crucial as well as moral education teaching in schools. A framework for enhancing implementation of the policy on religious equity is also proposed.
- Full Text:
Implementation of visual arts education in one technical and vocational education and training college in the Eastern Cape : the voices of lecturers and students
- Authors: Dayimani, Mbulelo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Curriculum planning Vocational education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12744 , vital:39318
- Description: It can be observed that students actively participate in the learning process of education in our country, and the curriculum gives expression to the knowledge, skills and values worth learning in South African schools and institutions. However, Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Colleges still continue using traditional learning methods, in which the teacher is in the centre, devoid of artistic culture, and practical work. These implementation methods and techniques have been identified as less motivating for students especially for those with no background in Visual Arts (VA) in high school. The aim of this study therefore was to investigate the views of students and lecturers on the implementation of Visual Arts Education (VAE) in the TVET Colleges in the Eastern Cape. This study was premised from a qualitative research approach and therefore interpretivist paradigm was relevant in assisting the researcher making sense of the data gathered. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect the data from five lecturers and fifteen students in N4 level. The interviews were tape-recorded. The research showed that Visual Arts Education can be an engine that drives creativity and innovation in schools, higher Education institution and all tertiary level settings. It is also reasoned that the visual arts, as with other creative arts disciplines, will not become important and necessary engines for change in education without a determination to critically review its implementation starting with how VAE policies are used in the TVET Colleges. It also emerged from the study that the policies that are available for VAE in the College relate to syllabus as well as assessment and enrolment procedures. The syllabus was found by the lecturers to be inappropriate and less motivating for the students. Also the assessment procedure was revealed to be done according to both practical and theoretical components based on task, test, and practical moderation. However, the practical component was based on seventy five percent and the theory on twenty five percent thereby disadvantaging learners who do not have the theoretical background of the VAE. The study therefore recommends that policies that are used in TVET Colleges for VAE need to be revised, re-applied and implemented so as to cater for the needs of lecturers and students pursuing a career in Visual Arts or VAE.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dayimani, Mbulelo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Curriculum planning Vocational education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12744 , vital:39318
- Description: It can be observed that students actively participate in the learning process of education in our country, and the curriculum gives expression to the knowledge, skills and values worth learning in South African schools and institutions. However, Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Colleges still continue using traditional learning methods, in which the teacher is in the centre, devoid of artistic culture, and practical work. These implementation methods and techniques have been identified as less motivating for students especially for those with no background in Visual Arts (VA) in high school. The aim of this study therefore was to investigate the views of students and lecturers on the implementation of Visual Arts Education (VAE) in the TVET Colleges in the Eastern Cape. This study was premised from a qualitative research approach and therefore interpretivist paradigm was relevant in assisting the researcher making sense of the data gathered. Face-to-face interviews were used to collect the data from five lecturers and fifteen students in N4 level. The interviews were tape-recorded. The research showed that Visual Arts Education can be an engine that drives creativity and innovation in schools, higher Education institution and all tertiary level settings. It is also reasoned that the visual arts, as with other creative arts disciplines, will not become important and necessary engines for change in education without a determination to critically review its implementation starting with how VAE policies are used in the TVET Colleges. It also emerged from the study that the policies that are available for VAE in the College relate to syllabus as well as assessment and enrolment procedures. The syllabus was found by the lecturers to be inappropriate and less motivating for the students. Also the assessment procedure was revealed to be done according to both practical and theoretical components based on task, test, and practical moderation. However, the practical component was based on seventy five percent and the theory on twenty five percent thereby disadvantaging learners who do not have the theoretical background of the VAE. The study therefore recommends that policies that are used in TVET Colleges for VAE need to be revised, re-applied and implemented so as to cater for the needs of lecturers and students pursuing a career in Visual Arts or VAE.
- Full Text:
Incidence of norovirus from pig faecal samples in the Eastern Cape South Africa
- Authors: Taku, Ongeziwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Viral gastroenteritis Virus diseases Swine -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12374 , vital:39257
- Description: Norovirus is one of the causative agents of gastroenteritis in humans and belongs to the Caliciviridae family. Gastroenteritis is a common disease which has emerged as a worldwide health problem and it induces high number of diarrheal episodes in children and adults. Communal location such as schools, homes, day-care, cruise ships and hospitals have high risk of Norovirus infection. Besides humans, Norovirus have been found in farm animals including pigs; porcine Norovirus has been reported to be genetically related to human Norovirus which raise concerns about potential zoonotic spread and pigs may serve as reservoirs of human Norovirus strains. This current study assessed the occurrence of Norovirus infection amongst pigs in selected commercial pig farms in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. One hundred and twenty (120) RNA samples isolated from faecal samples of pigs were amplified using the RT-PCR and Nested PCR assay targeting the RdRp gene. Out of the one hundred and twenty RNA samples analysed, only five (4.2 percent) were positive for Norovirus. All positive isolates were sequenced (ABI 310 prism sequencer), edited and analysed phylogenetically using the Geneious version 9.1.5 software. Phylogenetic analysis of the generated sequences from the positive samples was performed with reference sequences obtained from the GenBank. Out of the five positive isolates analysed, four nucleotide sequences (FH14, FH20, FH13 and TS05) showed high similarity with Caliciviruses (non-human) and FHO5 showed high similarity to human Norovirus and clustered with human Norovirus GII. These findings revealed low prevalence of Norovirus in the Eastern Cape Province. Notwithstanding the low prevalence of Norovirus in the study communities, it is still of serious health concern.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Taku, Ongeziwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Viral gastroenteritis Virus diseases Swine -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12374 , vital:39257
- Description: Norovirus is one of the causative agents of gastroenteritis in humans and belongs to the Caliciviridae family. Gastroenteritis is a common disease which has emerged as a worldwide health problem and it induces high number of diarrheal episodes in children and adults. Communal location such as schools, homes, day-care, cruise ships and hospitals have high risk of Norovirus infection. Besides humans, Norovirus have been found in farm animals including pigs; porcine Norovirus has been reported to be genetically related to human Norovirus which raise concerns about potential zoonotic spread and pigs may serve as reservoirs of human Norovirus strains. This current study assessed the occurrence of Norovirus infection amongst pigs in selected commercial pig farms in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. One hundred and twenty (120) RNA samples isolated from faecal samples of pigs were amplified using the RT-PCR and Nested PCR assay targeting the RdRp gene. Out of the one hundred and twenty RNA samples analysed, only five (4.2 percent) were positive for Norovirus. All positive isolates were sequenced (ABI 310 prism sequencer), edited and analysed phylogenetically using the Geneious version 9.1.5 software. Phylogenetic analysis of the generated sequences from the positive samples was performed with reference sequences obtained from the GenBank. Out of the five positive isolates analysed, four nucleotide sequences (FH14, FH20, FH13 and TS05) showed high similarity with Caliciviruses (non-human) and FHO5 showed high similarity to human Norovirus and clustered with human Norovirus GII. These findings revealed low prevalence of Norovirus in the Eastern Cape Province. Notwithstanding the low prevalence of Norovirus in the study communities, it is still of serious health concern.
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Informal urbanism : an appraisal of socio-legal and economic dynamics in East London, South Africa
- Authors: Sibanda, Phaxenda Maxwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Street vendors -- Legal status, laws, etc Informal sector (Economics) -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5763 , vital:29381
- Description: Many cities and towns in the Global South continue to experience the growth of the informal sector. There are a number of reasons which explain the growth of the informal sector. These include formal sector retrenchments, shortage of jobs in the formal sector and lack of skills. Street vendors are the most visible traders in the informal sector as compared to other kind of traders. In many cities, the spaces in which vendors conduct their trading is not allocated to them legally as they are seen as a nuisance or obstruction to commerce and the free flow of traffic. Against this background, this study examines the contestation for vending in the East London Central Business District (CBD) Eastern Cape, South Africa. It specifically explores social processes and vendor decision making when it comes to choosing (or claiming) a particular vending space, the legal instruments (by-laws) that either promote or constrain informal trading activities. Furthermore, it investigates the extent to which street vending contributes to the traders‟ income generation and sustainable livelihoods. This study uses a qualitative research design. Purposive sampling was used to select thirty informal traders. In-depth semi structured interviews were conducted with all thirty respondents In addition to the thirty respondents, five key informants were interviewed. The study found that street vending plays a major role in providing BCMM people with livelihood opportunities. Trading space in the CBD is strictly competitive and the spaces they acquire are too small for their businesses to expand to another level. Vendors face a lot of challenges but at the epitome of their challenges is the vending by- laws which the vendors view as a major constraint when it comes to operating smoothly in the streets. The study suggested that vending polices and by- laws be reviewed in order to derive a better socio- economic and functional environment for vendors.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sibanda, Phaxenda Maxwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Street vendors -- Legal status, laws, etc Informal sector (Economics) -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5763 , vital:29381
- Description: Many cities and towns in the Global South continue to experience the growth of the informal sector. There are a number of reasons which explain the growth of the informal sector. These include formal sector retrenchments, shortage of jobs in the formal sector and lack of skills. Street vendors are the most visible traders in the informal sector as compared to other kind of traders. In many cities, the spaces in which vendors conduct their trading is not allocated to them legally as they are seen as a nuisance or obstruction to commerce and the free flow of traffic. Against this background, this study examines the contestation for vending in the East London Central Business District (CBD) Eastern Cape, South Africa. It specifically explores social processes and vendor decision making when it comes to choosing (or claiming) a particular vending space, the legal instruments (by-laws) that either promote or constrain informal trading activities. Furthermore, it investigates the extent to which street vending contributes to the traders‟ income generation and sustainable livelihoods. This study uses a qualitative research design. Purposive sampling was used to select thirty informal traders. In-depth semi structured interviews were conducted with all thirty respondents In addition to the thirty respondents, five key informants were interviewed. The study found that street vending plays a major role in providing BCMM people with livelihood opportunities. Trading space in the CBD is strictly competitive and the spaces they acquire are too small for their businesses to expand to another level. Vendors face a lot of challenges but at the epitome of their challenges is the vending by- laws which the vendors view as a major constraint when it comes to operating smoothly in the streets. The study suggested that vending polices and by- laws be reviewed in order to derive a better socio- economic and functional environment for vendors.
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Inter-generational dynamics of smallholder farming households : a case study of family farms at Bumbane and Emagaleni villages, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Sixoto, Wandisile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Agric
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7886 , vital:30791
- Description: This research investigates the inter-generational dynamics of smallholder farming households and their implications for the future of agriculture in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The study was conducted in two villages, of which one, Bumbane, is in Amahlathi Local Municipality, and the other, Emagaleni, is in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The study was mainly qualitative in nature, and involved semi structured, in-depth interviews with small-scale farming households. In particular, interviews were conducted with both youth and elders in the same households, so as to deeply understand the inter-relationships between the two. The study established that there is an age-based hierarchy in most farming families whereby the household head is ‘in charge’ and allows little input from or discretion of his/her adult children. For example, most household heads are not comfortable sharing decision-making authority with adult children, which alienates these adult children. This is the case even though household heads are keen to transfer their knowledge to their children, and hope that their children will one day take over the farming. The discord between household heads and their adult child is one of the reasons why the youth tend to dedicate little of their time to helping out with the farming. On the other hand, the youth are also discouraged from agriculture by other factors, such as production constraints and poor access to markets These intergenerational dynamics may pose a threat to the future of family farming in these and similar communities. The paper concludes that, in as much as household heads learnt agriculture through a participatory approach, there is a necessity to change the strategy and emphasise motivating young adults through farmers’ days and other gatherings that may serve as an inspiration. Alternatively, elders need to be coaxed to adopt a more thoughtful approach to engaging their adult children in agriculture that has a better possibility of encouraging their participation in agriculture rather than discouraging it. The participatory approach must not be the only option, since females do not get the opportunity to be motivated as most of the talks happen on the field.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sixoto, Wandisile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Family farms -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Agric
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7886 , vital:30791
- Description: This research investigates the inter-generational dynamics of smallholder farming households and their implications for the future of agriculture in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The study was conducted in two villages, of which one, Bumbane, is in Amahlathi Local Municipality, and the other, Emagaleni, is in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The study was mainly qualitative in nature, and involved semi structured, in-depth interviews with small-scale farming households. In particular, interviews were conducted with both youth and elders in the same households, so as to deeply understand the inter-relationships between the two. The study established that there is an age-based hierarchy in most farming families whereby the household head is ‘in charge’ and allows little input from or discretion of his/her adult children. For example, most household heads are not comfortable sharing decision-making authority with adult children, which alienates these adult children. This is the case even though household heads are keen to transfer their knowledge to their children, and hope that their children will one day take over the farming. The discord between household heads and their adult child is one of the reasons why the youth tend to dedicate little of their time to helping out with the farming. On the other hand, the youth are also discouraged from agriculture by other factors, such as production constraints and poor access to markets These intergenerational dynamics may pose a threat to the future of family farming in these and similar communities. The paper concludes that, in as much as household heads learnt agriculture through a participatory approach, there is a necessity to change the strategy and emphasise motivating young adults through farmers’ days and other gatherings that may serve as an inspiration. Alternatively, elders need to be coaxed to adopt a more thoughtful approach to engaging their adult children in agriculture that has a better possibility of encouraging their participation in agriculture rather than discouraging it. The participatory approach must not be the only option, since females do not get the opportunity to be motivated as most of the talks happen on the field.
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Inter-role conflict and coping strategies of employed mothers : a study of selected private schools in the Mthatha area of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Tegbe, Dzigbordi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Role conflict Working mothers Women -- Employment , Children of working mothers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7830 , vital:30768
- Description: Working women are finding it increasingly challenging to establish a balance between work and family life. This often results in work-family conflicts which affect women teachers’ well-being. The current study utilised role theory to investigate the effect of work-family conflicts on work related income, using the Mthatha community as case study. The study explored the impact of inter-role conflict on stress related illness and the coping strategies working women can adopt to create work-family balance. The motivation of the study is based on limited research regarding the impact of work-family on South African working mothers, where feminisation of labour force is compelling women to devote more time to their work roles thus neglecting their traditional roles as mothers. The research design used a cross section survey, and the sampling procedure applied a multi-stage concept of data collection, where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to delve into the issues of inter-role conflict and coping strategies of employed mother-teachers, to establish causal relationships geared towards explaining the phenomena. The population consisted of working mothers in Mthatha private schools, where data was collected using a work-family conflict questionnaire. The results of the study established a positive relationship between the multi-tasking of mother-teachers and inter-role conflicts, and also confirmed that work roles/tasks have become overwhelming. Consequently, working women families are neglected, while support from extended families is not coming or is insufficient to alleviate the burdens of role conflicts. The conflicts lead to stress-related illnesses and individually, women are not interested in consulting psychologists to manage their stress. The women suffer ailments such as headaches, general pains, sleep dysfunction, high or low blood pressure, heart diseases, and become moody and tearful, expressing low self-esteem. Women teachers in Mthatha were of the view that proper strategies are needed to mitigate their stress. Some of these coping strategies involve a good condition of service at school, refraining from applying medication to solve stress, taking part in exercise and rest, and having a relaxing time with family and friends. The findings of this study can help through suggesting useful strategies that can be utilised by working teachers who are mothers to mitigate their inter-role conflict. It will also lead to more insight into role theories.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tegbe, Dzigbordi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Role conflict Working mothers Women -- Employment , Children of working mothers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7830 , vital:30768
- Description: Working women are finding it increasingly challenging to establish a balance between work and family life. This often results in work-family conflicts which affect women teachers’ well-being. The current study utilised role theory to investigate the effect of work-family conflicts on work related income, using the Mthatha community as case study. The study explored the impact of inter-role conflict on stress related illness and the coping strategies working women can adopt to create work-family balance. The motivation of the study is based on limited research regarding the impact of work-family on South African working mothers, where feminisation of labour force is compelling women to devote more time to their work roles thus neglecting their traditional roles as mothers. The research design used a cross section survey, and the sampling procedure applied a multi-stage concept of data collection, where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to delve into the issues of inter-role conflict and coping strategies of employed mother-teachers, to establish causal relationships geared towards explaining the phenomena. The population consisted of working mothers in Mthatha private schools, where data was collected using a work-family conflict questionnaire. The results of the study established a positive relationship between the multi-tasking of mother-teachers and inter-role conflicts, and also confirmed that work roles/tasks have become overwhelming. Consequently, working women families are neglected, while support from extended families is not coming or is insufficient to alleviate the burdens of role conflicts. The conflicts lead to stress-related illnesses and individually, women are not interested in consulting psychologists to manage their stress. The women suffer ailments such as headaches, general pains, sleep dysfunction, high or low blood pressure, heart diseases, and become moody and tearful, expressing low self-esteem. Women teachers in Mthatha were of the view that proper strategies are needed to mitigate their stress. Some of these coping strategies involve a good condition of service at school, refraining from applying medication to solve stress, taking part in exercise and rest, and having a relaxing time with family and friends. The findings of this study can help through suggesting useful strategies that can be utilised by working teachers who are mothers to mitigate their inter-role conflict. It will also lead to more insight into role theories.
- Full Text:
Investigating adaptation strategies to climate change by smallholder farmers : evidence from, Lesotho
- Authors: Morahanye, Mokhantso Lilian
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa Farms, Small -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5807 , vital:29397
- Description: In Lesotho, agriculture is the dominant activity and involves crop and livestock production, range management and forestry activities. The current climatic variability in the country has caused decline in food production as result of increased dry spells, frequency of droughts and erratic rainfall. These climatic events are expected to have a significant impact on the livelihoods of the smallholder farmers. In combatting the harmful effects of climate change, smallholder farmers in Lesotho have employed various adaptation strategies based on their local knowledge and limited means. While these strategies may not be optimal they obviously constitute the basis for potentially effective improved technologies which can be developed and communicated through an efficient extension system, hence the need to precisely identify them and understand the factors that affect their choice. The main objective of this study was therefore, to identify the adaptation strategies and investigate the factors influencing smallholder farmers’ choice of those adaptation strategies. The study made use of multi-stage stratified sampling technique to select 160 respondents across four agro-ecological zones (lowlands, highlands, foothills and Senqu River Valley) in Leribe and Mohales’Hoek districts of Lesotho. Primary data for the study were collected using semi - structured questionnaire assisted with interview schedules administered on the respondents. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and the multinomial logistics regression model. The results show that there are more males than females, majority of the respondents’ attained primary education, and older people dominate the smallholder farming system. The adaptation strategies used in MNL model were soil and water management, crop management and livestock management. The results further revealed that soil and water management strategies were the most adopted climate change strategies amongst smallholder farmers. It is understood that marital status, age and gender, income, land tenure, crop grown, extension services, and agro-ecological zones are the determinant factors influencing the choice of the adaptation strategies. This study concludes by recommending that smallholder farmers should be sensitised about climate change and both government and non-government organisations working on climate change related issues should direct their attention to rural communities to ensure effective response to climate change.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Morahanye, Mokhantso Lilian
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa Farms, Small -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5807 , vital:29397
- Description: In Lesotho, agriculture is the dominant activity and involves crop and livestock production, range management and forestry activities. The current climatic variability in the country has caused decline in food production as result of increased dry spells, frequency of droughts and erratic rainfall. These climatic events are expected to have a significant impact on the livelihoods of the smallholder farmers. In combatting the harmful effects of climate change, smallholder farmers in Lesotho have employed various adaptation strategies based on their local knowledge and limited means. While these strategies may not be optimal they obviously constitute the basis for potentially effective improved technologies which can be developed and communicated through an efficient extension system, hence the need to precisely identify them and understand the factors that affect their choice. The main objective of this study was therefore, to identify the adaptation strategies and investigate the factors influencing smallholder farmers’ choice of those adaptation strategies. The study made use of multi-stage stratified sampling technique to select 160 respondents across four agro-ecological zones (lowlands, highlands, foothills and Senqu River Valley) in Leribe and Mohales’Hoek districts of Lesotho. Primary data for the study were collected using semi - structured questionnaire assisted with interview schedules administered on the respondents. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and the multinomial logistics regression model. The results show that there are more males than females, majority of the respondents’ attained primary education, and older people dominate the smallholder farming system. The adaptation strategies used in MNL model were soil and water management, crop management and livestock management. The results further revealed that soil and water management strategies were the most adopted climate change strategies amongst smallholder farmers. It is understood that marital status, age and gender, income, land tenure, crop grown, extension services, and agro-ecological zones are the determinant factors influencing the choice of the adaptation strategies. This study concludes by recommending that smallholder farmers should be sensitised about climate change and both government and non-government organisations working on climate change related issues should direct their attention to rural communities to ensure effective response to climate change.
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Investigation on the nature of records management in the office of the Premier Supply Chain management
- Authors: Vakalisa, Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27606 , vital:69319
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate on the nature of records management in the office of the Premier Supply Chain Management. This study focuses on the Supply Chain Unit in the office of the Premier in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study sought to investigate the classification systems in place that is records management policy, procedure manual and file plans. The legal framework that regulates archives. Data was collected using open-ended questionnaire. The target population of this study included all the officials within the Office of the Premier. The sample of 15 was derived from the supply chain management officials, records management managers and directors. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology, which is multimethod in its orientation, which involves an interpretative, naturalistic emphasis to its subject issue. Findings from the study revealed that the unit had its internal records management policy, an official framework document that outlined the processes involved in organising records within the department. Thus, there are policy frameworks within the department even though not clearly described to other employees, which might lead to risks in the management of records. The study also revealed that most records personnel were not trained to effectively manage records. It was also indicated that there is a lack of proper filing system and or electronic records management system. Hence, for effective and efficient records management, the study recommends the creation of a web-based integrated system for communication and where records can be accessed within one system. The study also recommends proper training of records personnel to mitigate risks. Hence, the study recommends that senior management create and implement a records management program that clearly outlines the procedures of records management, risks factors and how to minimize them. This will aide in good practice, uniformity, standardization, high levels of professionalism, accountability, and transparency. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2017
- Full Text:
- Authors: Vakalisa, Ndileka
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27606 , vital:69319
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate on the nature of records management in the office of the Premier Supply Chain Management. This study focuses on the Supply Chain Unit in the office of the Premier in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study sought to investigate the classification systems in place that is records management policy, procedure manual and file plans. The legal framework that regulates archives. Data was collected using open-ended questionnaire. The target population of this study included all the officials within the Office of the Premier. The sample of 15 was derived from the supply chain management officials, records management managers and directors. The study adopted a qualitative research methodology, which is multimethod in its orientation, which involves an interpretative, naturalistic emphasis to its subject issue. Findings from the study revealed that the unit had its internal records management policy, an official framework document that outlined the processes involved in organising records within the department. Thus, there are policy frameworks within the department even though not clearly described to other employees, which might lead to risks in the management of records. The study also revealed that most records personnel were not trained to effectively manage records. It was also indicated that there is a lack of proper filing system and or electronic records management system. Hence, for effective and efficient records management, the study recommends the creation of a web-based integrated system for communication and where records can be accessed within one system. The study also recommends proper training of records personnel to mitigate risks. Hence, the study recommends that senior management create and implement a records management program that clearly outlines the procedures of records management, risks factors and how to minimize them. This will aide in good practice, uniformity, standardization, high levels of professionalism, accountability, and transparency. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2017
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Job satisfaction, organisational justice in determining employee turnover among administrative staff at a university in South Africa
- Authors: Landu, Mzimkulu Christopher
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4784 , vital:28520
- Description: The aim of this study explore the role of job satisfaction , organizational justice in determining employee turnover among administrative staff at Walter Sisulu University at Ibika campus in Butterworth , in the Eastern Cape Province. A sample of 70 administrative staff was drawn for the population of 170. Results of the study indicated that the study variables are significantly and positively correlated with one another. Job satisfaction was found to be significantly and positively correlated with employee turnover. Organizational justice was also found to be significantly positively correlated with employee turnover. Likewise, a positive and significant relationship between job satisfaction and organizational justice was found. The findings of this study will assist Ibika campus management in reducing employee turnover and increase the retention of administrative staff at Ibika campus and the entire Walter Sisulu administrative staff at large.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Landu, Mzimkulu Christopher
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4784 , vital:28520
- Description: The aim of this study explore the role of job satisfaction , organizational justice in determining employee turnover among administrative staff at Walter Sisulu University at Ibika campus in Butterworth , in the Eastern Cape Province. A sample of 70 administrative staff was drawn for the population of 170. Results of the study indicated that the study variables are significantly and positively correlated with one another. Job satisfaction was found to be significantly and positively correlated with employee turnover. Organizational justice was also found to be significantly positively correlated with employee turnover. Likewise, a positive and significant relationship between job satisfaction and organizational justice was found. The findings of this study will assist Ibika campus management in reducing employee turnover and increase the retention of administrative staff at Ibika campus and the entire Walter Sisulu administrative staff at large.
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