Parental involvement in homework of rural combined schools in the King William's Town Education District
- Authors: Mbembeni, Malixole Ivan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9940 , vital:35152
- Description: While parental involvement in homework is significant, few parents are able to assist in rural communities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the way parents and/or caregivers in rural communities are involved in the homework of their children. The main question was to find how parents in rural communities get involved in homework. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm, a qualitative approach, and a case study design to guide data collection and interpretation. Data was collected in two public combined schools in the King William’s Town District of the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). One-on-one semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from parents, educators and principals whilst focus group interviews were used with learners. Documents were collected for background context of the schools. Documents collected include the school journals, learner portfolios, staff establishment, and school timetable. Schools were chosen purposefully because of their rural context and convenience to the researcher. Purposive sampling was also used in the selection of participants. To enhance the trustworthiness of the study, data sources were triangulated, participants were allowed to use their own language, data was mechanically recorded and transcribed and verbatim quotes were used in analysing data. The study found that all participants in both schools supported the need for parents to be involved in homework. Educators, largely, had a pessimistic view about parents; they felt that the parents do not meet their expectations in terms of assisting learners with homework. The study found that although parents see the need for their involvement in homework, in reality they are not always involved. Those parents who are able to assist with homework use a variety of strategies like assisting with the actual homework, referring their children to those who can assist, monitoring and supervising, assisting financially, and organising infrastructure. The study also found that there are several challenges facing parents in rural communities that hinder them from assisting optimally. These include negative attitude towards homework, lack of subject knowledge, irresponsibility, lack of finances and material resources, community commitments, not having enough time, family responsibilities, lack of commitment by learners, and homework overload. These challenges suggest that many parents in rural communities may not be able to provide the necessary leadership for modelling purposes to learners. This can be attributed to several exogenous and exogenous factors that have an impact on homework completion by learners. This study, in addition, found that participants have a good sense of what can be done to improve parental involvement in homework. These include the revival of Adult Basic Education (ABET), the need for integrated efforts by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOS), government departments, schools, and community organizations to improve infrastructure in rural communities, have awareness campaigns on the significance of parental involvement, provision of access to Information Communication Technology (ICT), establishment of homework support groups and quiz clubs, provision of incentives for parental assistance, and reduction of child labour.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mbembeni, Malixole Ivan
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Education
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9940 , vital:35152
- Description: While parental involvement in homework is significant, few parents are able to assist in rural communities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the way parents and/or caregivers in rural communities are involved in the homework of their children. The main question was to find how parents in rural communities get involved in homework. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm, a qualitative approach, and a case study design to guide data collection and interpretation. Data was collected in two public combined schools in the King William’s Town District of the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). One-on-one semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from parents, educators and principals whilst focus group interviews were used with learners. Documents were collected for background context of the schools. Documents collected include the school journals, learner portfolios, staff establishment, and school timetable. Schools were chosen purposefully because of their rural context and convenience to the researcher. Purposive sampling was also used in the selection of participants. To enhance the trustworthiness of the study, data sources were triangulated, participants were allowed to use their own language, data was mechanically recorded and transcribed and verbatim quotes were used in analysing data. The study found that all participants in both schools supported the need for parents to be involved in homework. Educators, largely, had a pessimistic view about parents; they felt that the parents do not meet their expectations in terms of assisting learners with homework. The study found that although parents see the need for their involvement in homework, in reality they are not always involved. Those parents who are able to assist with homework use a variety of strategies like assisting with the actual homework, referring their children to those who can assist, monitoring and supervising, assisting financially, and organising infrastructure. The study also found that there are several challenges facing parents in rural communities that hinder them from assisting optimally. These include negative attitude towards homework, lack of subject knowledge, irresponsibility, lack of finances and material resources, community commitments, not having enough time, family responsibilities, lack of commitment by learners, and homework overload. These challenges suggest that many parents in rural communities may not be able to provide the necessary leadership for modelling purposes to learners. This can be attributed to several exogenous and exogenous factors that have an impact on homework completion by learners. This study, in addition, found that participants have a good sense of what can be done to improve parental involvement in homework. These include the revival of Adult Basic Education (ABET), the need for integrated efforts by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOS), government departments, schools, and community organizations to improve infrastructure in rural communities, have awareness campaigns on the significance of parental involvement, provision of access to Information Communication Technology (ICT), establishment of homework support groups and quiz clubs, provision of incentives for parental assistance, and reduction of child labour.
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Parents’ perceptions about male teachers’ underpresentation in the foundation phase : a study in the East London Education District
- Authors: Kewuti, Nomfihlakalo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Male preschool teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15914 , vital:40563
- Description: Foundation Phase in many schools is dominated by females and there are no or few male teachers in these grades. Foundation Phase comprises both boys and girls and if girls need female teachers to teach them, so the boys also need male teachers. One of the reasons why males do not want to teach in the Foundation Phase is the gender stereotype that Foundation Phase is a woman’s job, which deprive young learners the benefits that they could enjoy by having male teachers in their early years. The objectives of this study were to establish the parents’ perceptions about male teachers’ underrepresentation in the Foundation Phase; to determine how parents and their children can benefit from being taught by male teachers in the FP; to ascertain what challenges parents perceive are experienced by male teachers in the FP and to ascertain how SGB parent component can attract male teachers for FP teaching in their schools. The study was conducted in the East London Education District from three primary schools in urban, semi-urban and rural school settings. The schools selected were those that have male teachers in the FP in Grade R, 1, 2 and 3. A purposeful sample of nine parents who have children in male teacher classes in the Foundation Phase were used; three parents from each school. Qualitative data were generated through semi-structured interviews and observations, using phenomenology design. Thematic analysis was conducted on the basis of the themes that emerged from the participants’ responses to the research questions. This study adopted an interpretive paradigm to get an understanding of parents’ perceptions about male teachers’ underrepresentation in the FP from parents who have children in the male teacher classes in the FP. The findings indicated that parents feel a need for male teachers in the FP to act as disciplinarians. They also noted that their children who are taught by male teachers have good behaviours. Benefits like gender equality, improvement in sports, confidence of learners in doing their work and grooming and balancing for higher levels. It has appeared that parents also understand that male teachers experience challenges of being unaccepted by the parents of learners and also by their female colleagues. These challenges stem from the fact that teaching in FP is associated with being nannies which is a female duty; males are associated with child abuse and are thought to be paedophiles and there a great lack of trust due to these associations pointed at them. Parents in their responses have shown that they are for the view that the SGB parent component should ensure that male teachers are employed in the FP by recommending them (male teachers) in the posts at Foundation Phase level and that it should be adopted in their schools.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kewuti, Nomfihlakalo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Male preschool teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15914 , vital:40563
- Description: Foundation Phase in many schools is dominated by females and there are no or few male teachers in these grades. Foundation Phase comprises both boys and girls and if girls need female teachers to teach them, so the boys also need male teachers. One of the reasons why males do not want to teach in the Foundation Phase is the gender stereotype that Foundation Phase is a woman’s job, which deprive young learners the benefits that they could enjoy by having male teachers in their early years. The objectives of this study were to establish the parents’ perceptions about male teachers’ underrepresentation in the Foundation Phase; to determine how parents and their children can benefit from being taught by male teachers in the FP; to ascertain what challenges parents perceive are experienced by male teachers in the FP and to ascertain how SGB parent component can attract male teachers for FP teaching in their schools. The study was conducted in the East London Education District from three primary schools in urban, semi-urban and rural school settings. The schools selected were those that have male teachers in the FP in Grade R, 1, 2 and 3. A purposeful sample of nine parents who have children in male teacher classes in the Foundation Phase were used; three parents from each school. Qualitative data were generated through semi-structured interviews and observations, using phenomenology design. Thematic analysis was conducted on the basis of the themes that emerged from the participants’ responses to the research questions. This study adopted an interpretive paradigm to get an understanding of parents’ perceptions about male teachers’ underrepresentation in the FP from parents who have children in the male teacher classes in the FP. The findings indicated that parents feel a need for male teachers in the FP to act as disciplinarians. They also noted that their children who are taught by male teachers have good behaviours. Benefits like gender equality, improvement in sports, confidence of learners in doing their work and grooming and balancing for higher levels. It has appeared that parents also understand that male teachers experience challenges of being unaccepted by the parents of learners and also by their female colleagues. These challenges stem from the fact that teaching in FP is associated with being nannies which is a female duty; males are associated with child abuse and are thought to be paedophiles and there a great lack of trust due to these associations pointed at them. Parents in their responses have shown that they are for the view that the SGB parent component should ensure that male teachers are employed in the FP by recommending them (male teachers) in the posts at Foundation Phase level and that it should be adopted in their schools.
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Participatory development communication and the sustainability of poverty alleviation projects in Lesotho : a case of Lifajaneng
- Authors: Ntobo-Letsie, Hlompho
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Communication in economic development Communication in rural development Economic assistance, Domestic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10244 , vital:35384
- Description: This study aimed at assessing the impact of communication on the sustainability of poverty alleviation programmes established for selected beneficiaries in the rural community of Lifajaneng. This is conducted with the purpose of understanding how the Mafeteng community engages in the poverty alleviation projects carried out within their area of residence, so as to encourage more commitment in participation. The conceptual framework for this study is the empowerment approach and the study is informed by two theories; the participatory communication theory and the diffusion of innovation theory. The study employed the mixed method approach to gather and analyze the data; that is using questionnaires, focus group discussions and face to face interviews to solicit for information from project participants and project managers. The quantitative data was presented and analyzed through charts and graphs buttressed with themes that emerged in the qualitative data. The study revealed that the sustainability of the poverty alleviation projects remains questionable due to a number of challenges. The results reflect that communities are more comfortable when the mother language (Sesotho) is used predominantly as the medium of communication. The results also reflected that meetings had a higher attendance rate if called for by local leaders through word of mouth followed by communications done telephonically. Mainstream media such as radio and newspapers were the least effective when mobilizing the communities for meetings related to the poverty alleviation projects in the poor community. The study also unfolded the following issues; lack of full participation and commitment of the beneficiaries, inadequate funding to allow sufficient training of the beneficiaries. This is because the funds had some strings attached and the beneficiaries had their own expectations of the funds, therefore the objectives and the limits of the funder did not match the objectives and the limitations of the beneficiaries. Hence, the end results are lack of motivation for the beneficiaries.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ntobo-Letsie, Hlompho
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Communication in economic development Communication in rural development Economic assistance, Domestic
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10244 , vital:35384
- Description: This study aimed at assessing the impact of communication on the sustainability of poverty alleviation programmes established for selected beneficiaries in the rural community of Lifajaneng. This is conducted with the purpose of understanding how the Mafeteng community engages in the poverty alleviation projects carried out within their area of residence, so as to encourage more commitment in participation. The conceptual framework for this study is the empowerment approach and the study is informed by two theories; the participatory communication theory and the diffusion of innovation theory. The study employed the mixed method approach to gather and analyze the data; that is using questionnaires, focus group discussions and face to face interviews to solicit for information from project participants and project managers. The quantitative data was presented and analyzed through charts and graphs buttressed with themes that emerged in the qualitative data. The study revealed that the sustainability of the poverty alleviation projects remains questionable due to a number of challenges. The results reflect that communities are more comfortable when the mother language (Sesotho) is used predominantly as the medium of communication. The results also reflected that meetings had a higher attendance rate if called for by local leaders through word of mouth followed by communications done telephonically. Mainstream media such as radio and newspapers were the least effective when mobilizing the communities for meetings related to the poverty alleviation projects in the poor community. The study also unfolded the following issues; lack of full participation and commitment of the beneficiaries, inadequate funding to allow sufficient training of the beneficiaries. This is because the funds had some strings attached and the beneficiaries had their own expectations of the funds, therefore the objectives and the limits of the funder did not match the objectives and the limitations of the beneficiaries. Hence, the end results are lack of motivation for the beneficiaries.
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Partnerships and silos in municipal development : a study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)
- Authors: Siqoko, Kolisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public-private sector cooperation Local government Municipal services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Rural Development
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16124 , vital:40668
- Description: Infrastructural deficit-non-existent or derelict- especially at municipal level is a major challenge in post 1994 South Africa. The inability of municipalities to develop new infrastructure or maintain existing ones, such as roads, portable water facilities, drainage and refuse collection facilities, has often resulted to social unrest and associated economic hardship for citizens. While the municipal governments have usually blamed budgetary constraints for their infrastructural dilemma, there is yet no clear sustainable plan towards a multi-actor approach as a way of leveraging stakeholder resources to solve this nagging problem. In Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), the local government seems to maintain a ‘hierachist’ and exclusivist role in infrastructural provisioning even though the Metro boasts of a pool of vibrant stakeholders – private sector, universities and non-governmental organisations. This study, therefore, examines the development model adopted by BCMM in its infrastructural development program, and also explores the extent to which this model has included or excluded other stakeholders in the city. The main aim of the study is to explore the resource capacity of different actors in the manucipality, and how these resources intersect with the infrastructural development program of the Metro Municipality. An insight into the findings reveals a ‘dis-configured relationship’ among the stakeholders which manifests in lack of stakeholder engagement among actors in project implementation, while at the same time maintaining a level of engagement in policy design for the purposes of validation. The study adopts a qualitative research design. It also draws on cultural theory of plural rationality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Siqoko, Kolisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public-private sector cooperation Local government Municipal services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Rural Development
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16124 , vital:40668
- Description: Infrastructural deficit-non-existent or derelict- especially at municipal level is a major challenge in post 1994 South Africa. The inability of municipalities to develop new infrastructure or maintain existing ones, such as roads, portable water facilities, drainage and refuse collection facilities, has often resulted to social unrest and associated economic hardship for citizens. While the municipal governments have usually blamed budgetary constraints for their infrastructural dilemma, there is yet no clear sustainable plan towards a multi-actor approach as a way of leveraging stakeholder resources to solve this nagging problem. In Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), the local government seems to maintain a ‘hierachist’ and exclusivist role in infrastructural provisioning even though the Metro boasts of a pool of vibrant stakeholders – private sector, universities and non-governmental organisations. This study, therefore, examines the development model adopted by BCMM in its infrastructural development program, and also explores the extent to which this model has included or excluded other stakeholders in the city. The main aim of the study is to explore the resource capacity of different actors in the manucipality, and how these resources intersect with the infrastructural development program of the Metro Municipality. An insight into the findings reveals a ‘dis-configured relationship’ among the stakeholders which manifests in lack of stakeholder engagement among actors in project implementation, while at the same time maintaining a level of engagement in policy design for the purposes of validation. The study adopts a qualitative research design. It also draws on cultural theory of plural rationality.
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Perceptions and experiences of ward based outreach teams in implementation of primary health care reengineering at Mhlontlo and Nyandeni Sub District in OR Tambo Health District in the Eastern Cape Province- South Africa
- Authors: Jack, Nomfanelo Mirriam
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Primary health care Nurses--South Africa--Eastern Cape Primary health care--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11085 , vital:37127
- Description: This study focused on perceptions and experiences of Ward-Based Outreach Teams in implementing Primary Health Care Re-engineering at Nyandeni and Mhlontlo Sub-Districts in OR Tambo District. Primary Health Care (PHC) is defined as essential health care, devised to be universally accessible to the community through means acceptable to them, with their full involvement and at costs that the community can afford. The National Department of Health (NDoH) introduced the new strategy of Ward-Based Outreach Teams (WBOTs) that are regarded as the key stakeholders in this effort, as they render health services at households. WBOTs are allocated in different municipal wards and are supposed to visit the population, irrespective of race, socio-economic status and geographical setting. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions and experiences of Ward-Based Outreach Teams in implementing the RPHC at Mhlontlo and Nyandeni sub-districts. The qualitative research design was employed to reach the objectives of the study. The sample used was all WBOTs who had been working for more than one year and had undergone WBOTs training for ten days. Self- structured questionnaires, one-on-one interviews and a focus group were used to collect data from different categories of WBOTs. The researcher adhered to the ethical standards of nursing research as explained by the Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa, such as anonymity, confidentiality, privacy and quality research. Participant’s names were not written on the questionnaires. The data was analyzed using themes, categories and sub categories, the statistical package for social sciences. Bar graphs and tables were used to communicate data. The results of the study showed that WBOTs are essential to needy households and individuals. The study revealed that the job of Community Health Workers (CHWs) involved community mapping, giving health education talks, household registration, tracing of defaulters, referring needy clients to health facilities depending on severity of illnesses and building relations with other government organizations, namely the Department of Home Affairs, to help clients obtain birth certificates and identity documents, the Department of Social Development, for social problems within households, and the Department of Education, acting as partner for the overall welfare of students. The results of the study revealed that shortage of outreach teams, limited resources, inconsistence in recruitment of Health Promoters and Community Health Workers causes psychological distress, frustration, absenteeism, less concentration when serving communities and impacts on the service delivery system. Therefore,it is recommended that the Department of health should provide outreach teams with medical equipment, dedicated transport, trainings and improve recruitment and retention strategy. In conclusion, the findings of this study indicated that the department of Health has taken the right direction with this programme and that some cooperation does exist between health and other departments.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jack, Nomfanelo Mirriam
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Primary health care Nurses--South Africa--Eastern Cape Primary health care--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11085 , vital:37127
- Description: This study focused on perceptions and experiences of Ward-Based Outreach Teams in implementing Primary Health Care Re-engineering at Nyandeni and Mhlontlo Sub-Districts in OR Tambo District. Primary Health Care (PHC) is defined as essential health care, devised to be universally accessible to the community through means acceptable to them, with their full involvement and at costs that the community can afford. The National Department of Health (NDoH) introduced the new strategy of Ward-Based Outreach Teams (WBOTs) that are regarded as the key stakeholders in this effort, as they render health services at households. WBOTs are allocated in different municipal wards and are supposed to visit the population, irrespective of race, socio-economic status and geographical setting. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions and experiences of Ward-Based Outreach Teams in implementing the RPHC at Mhlontlo and Nyandeni sub-districts. The qualitative research design was employed to reach the objectives of the study. The sample used was all WBOTs who had been working for more than one year and had undergone WBOTs training for ten days. Self- structured questionnaires, one-on-one interviews and a focus group were used to collect data from different categories of WBOTs. The researcher adhered to the ethical standards of nursing research as explained by the Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa, such as anonymity, confidentiality, privacy and quality research. Participant’s names were not written on the questionnaires. The data was analyzed using themes, categories and sub categories, the statistical package for social sciences. Bar graphs and tables were used to communicate data. The results of the study showed that WBOTs are essential to needy households and individuals. The study revealed that the job of Community Health Workers (CHWs) involved community mapping, giving health education talks, household registration, tracing of defaulters, referring needy clients to health facilities depending on severity of illnesses and building relations with other government organizations, namely the Department of Home Affairs, to help clients obtain birth certificates and identity documents, the Department of Social Development, for social problems within households, and the Department of Education, acting as partner for the overall welfare of students. The results of the study revealed that shortage of outreach teams, limited resources, inconsistence in recruitment of Health Promoters and Community Health Workers causes psychological distress, frustration, absenteeism, less concentration when serving communities and impacts on the service delivery system. Therefore,it is recommended that the Department of health should provide outreach teams with medical equipment, dedicated transport, trainings and improve recruitment and retention strategy. In conclusion, the findings of this study indicated that the department of Health has taken the right direction with this programme and that some cooperation does exist between health and other departments.
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Perceptions of ex-offenders regarding re-integration into their communities : case study of Engcobo Local Municipality (Eastern Cape Province)
- Authors: Jobela, Zizo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Criminals -- Rehabilitation Ex-convicts -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social work with criminals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Criminology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10486 , vital:35493
- Description: This research study is based on exploring perception of ex-offenders regarding reintegration back to their communities. This was accomplished by means of collecting data from Engcobo Local Municipality ex-offenders. The aim was to find out whether do ex-offenders welcomed in their communities or not, and what might be the challenges they encounter if they are not welcomed. The research considered the fundamental understanding of ex-offender discrimination and labeling including the role of Department of Correctional Services in supporting the reintegration of ex-offenders. The issue of criminal record as a barrier to employment for ex-offenders was also taken into consideration as the base to recidivism. Labeling theory is used in the study as to support the notion to why people engage themselves fully into criminal behavior and how it leads to one obtaining a criminal record. The finding about the study stipulated that ex-offenders are faced with enormous challenges during re-entry into their communities hence they bounce back to correctional centers time and again. Recommendation for the study to different stakeholders has been also discussed.This research study is based on exploring perception of ex-offenders regarding reintegration back to their communities. This was accomplished by means of collecting data from Engcobo Local Municipality ex-offenders. The aim was to find out whether do ex-offenders welcomed in their communities or not, and what might be the challenges they encounter if they are not welcomed. The research considered the fundamental understanding of ex-offender discrimination and labeling including the role of Department of Correctional Services in supporting the reintegration of ex-offenders. The issue of criminal record as a barrier to employment for ex-offenders was also taken into consideration as the base to recidivism. Labeling theory is used in the study as to support the notion to why people engage themselves fully into criminal behavior and how it leads to one obtaining a criminal record. The finding about the study stipulated that ex-offenders are faced with enormous challenges during re-entry into their communities hence they bounce back to correctional centers time and again. Recommendation for the study to different stakeholders has been also discussed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jobela, Zizo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Criminals -- Rehabilitation Ex-convicts -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social work with criminals -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Criminology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10486 , vital:35493
- Description: This research study is based on exploring perception of ex-offenders regarding reintegration back to their communities. This was accomplished by means of collecting data from Engcobo Local Municipality ex-offenders. The aim was to find out whether do ex-offenders welcomed in their communities or not, and what might be the challenges they encounter if they are not welcomed. The research considered the fundamental understanding of ex-offender discrimination and labeling including the role of Department of Correctional Services in supporting the reintegration of ex-offenders. The issue of criminal record as a barrier to employment for ex-offenders was also taken into consideration as the base to recidivism. Labeling theory is used in the study as to support the notion to why people engage themselves fully into criminal behavior and how it leads to one obtaining a criminal record. The finding about the study stipulated that ex-offenders are faced with enormous challenges during re-entry into their communities hence they bounce back to correctional centers time and again. Recommendation for the study to different stakeholders has been also discussed.This research study is based on exploring perception of ex-offenders regarding reintegration back to their communities. This was accomplished by means of collecting data from Engcobo Local Municipality ex-offenders. The aim was to find out whether do ex-offenders welcomed in their communities or not, and what might be the challenges they encounter if they are not welcomed. The research considered the fundamental understanding of ex-offender discrimination and labeling including the role of Department of Correctional Services in supporting the reintegration of ex-offenders. The issue of criminal record as a barrier to employment for ex-offenders was also taken into consideration as the base to recidivism. Labeling theory is used in the study as to support the notion to why people engage themselves fully into criminal behavior and how it leads to one obtaining a criminal record. The finding about the study stipulated that ex-offenders are faced with enormous challenges during re-entry into their communities hence they bounce back to correctional centers time and again. Recommendation for the study to different stakeholders has been also discussed.
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Perceptions, determinants and consumption patterns of indigenous fruits and vegetables in rural areas : evidence from Mutale Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nengovhela, Rudzani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Vegetables in human nutrition Indigenous crops Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10123 , vital:35356
- Description: Rural households across South Africa experience food and nutrition insecurity. Given the fact that indigenous fruits and vegetables (IF&Vs) have numerous health benefits including their wide availability and accessibility in rural areas, these indigenous varieties can significantly contribute to food and nutrition security in rural household. However, the consumption of IF&Vs in recent years has generally remained low and has been declining. The present study investigated the perceptions of IF&Vs, consumption patterns and determinants of IF&V consumption among 200 rural households (n = 200) from 10 villages within the Mutale Local Municipality of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The results revealed that, respondents held overwhelmingly positive perceptions of IF&Vs. The majority of the respondents believed that IF&Vs were healthier, less expensive and more visually attractive than exotic varieties. Consumption of the selected IF&Vs was generally high among the sample size. There were more households that consumed each of the selected IF&Vs than those that did not consume. Most of the selected IF&Vs were consumed only in summer and consumed on a weekly basis rather than daily or monthly basis. Age, marital status, occupation, education level and household size, as well as, perceptions of indigenous fruits’ longevity promotion, health beneficiation and relative visual attractiveness were found to be significant determinants of indigenous fruit consumption. On the other hand, the education level, in addition to perceptions of indigenous vegetables’ comparative healthiness, longevity promotion, health beneficiation and preparative ease were significant determinants of respondents’ indigenous vegetable consumption.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nengovhela, Rudzani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Vegetables in human nutrition Indigenous crops Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10123 , vital:35356
- Description: Rural households across South Africa experience food and nutrition insecurity. Given the fact that indigenous fruits and vegetables (IF&Vs) have numerous health benefits including their wide availability and accessibility in rural areas, these indigenous varieties can significantly contribute to food and nutrition security in rural household. However, the consumption of IF&Vs in recent years has generally remained low and has been declining. The present study investigated the perceptions of IF&Vs, consumption patterns and determinants of IF&V consumption among 200 rural households (n = 200) from 10 villages within the Mutale Local Municipality of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The results revealed that, respondents held overwhelmingly positive perceptions of IF&Vs. The majority of the respondents believed that IF&Vs were healthier, less expensive and more visually attractive than exotic varieties. Consumption of the selected IF&Vs was generally high among the sample size. There were more households that consumed each of the selected IF&Vs than those that did not consume. Most of the selected IF&Vs were consumed only in summer and consumed on a weekly basis rather than daily or monthly basis. Age, marital status, occupation, education level and household size, as well as, perceptions of indigenous fruits’ longevity promotion, health beneficiation and relative visual attractiveness were found to be significant determinants of indigenous fruit consumption. On the other hand, the education level, in addition to perceptions of indigenous vegetables’ comparative healthiness, longevity promotion, health beneficiation and preparative ease were significant determinants of respondents’ indigenous vegetable consumption.
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Perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of women towards maternal deaths at Qaukeni Sub-district in OR Tambo Health District in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mayekiso, Nomahlubi Dorcas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Maternal health services--South Africa--Eastern Cape Mothers--Mortality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11194 , vital:37203
- Description: BACKGROUND AND AIM: Maternal mortality is a global problem, with the risk of deathever present during pregnancy, labour and postnatal, particularly in developing countries. The purpose of the study was to explore the perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of women of child-bearing age concerning maternal deaths in Qaukeni Sub-District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. METHODS: A descriptive, contextual, exploratory research design was used to explore the perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of child-bearing-age women. Interviews were conducted with 21 purposively selected multiparous pregnant women. FINDINGS: Some of the participants knew signs and symptoms of pregnancy as well as danger signs during pregnancy such as haemorrhage, sepsis, high blood pressure and complications of unsupervised home deliveries; while others had little knowledge about these signs and symptoms. Some participants knew about the causes of maternal deaths and a number of them had beliefs that can be construed as myths. The use of herbal medications in pregnancy, such as gwarugwaru and mbelekisane, were highlighted as a problem in maternal health, with serious complications that can lead to maternal deaths. The participants have negative attitudes towards the clinics and hospitals due to the ill treatment they received from health professionals in labour wards, which may have led to the loss of lives of women and children. Lack of resources, unskilled traditional birth attendants, lack of accountability and responsibility by health professionals were contributory factors towards maternal deaths. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of resources, unskilled traditional birth attendants, lack of accountability and the irresponsibility of professional nurses and doctors were all pointed out by participants as either direct or indirect causes of maternal deaths. The recommendations include frequent in-service training for unskilled birth attendants, and the provisions of more professional nurses and doctors. Campaigns also need to be held to highlight the risks that women are exposed to during pregnancy, and the importance of early interventions.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mayekiso, Nomahlubi Dorcas
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Maternal health services--South Africa--Eastern Cape Mothers--Mortality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11194 , vital:37203
- Description: BACKGROUND AND AIM: Maternal mortality is a global problem, with the risk of deathever present during pregnancy, labour and postnatal, particularly in developing countries. The purpose of the study was to explore the perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of women of child-bearing age concerning maternal deaths in Qaukeni Sub-District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. METHODS: A descriptive, contextual, exploratory research design was used to explore the perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of child-bearing-age women. Interviews were conducted with 21 purposively selected multiparous pregnant women. FINDINGS: Some of the participants knew signs and symptoms of pregnancy as well as danger signs during pregnancy such as haemorrhage, sepsis, high blood pressure and complications of unsupervised home deliveries; while others had little knowledge about these signs and symptoms. Some participants knew about the causes of maternal deaths and a number of them had beliefs that can be construed as myths. The use of herbal medications in pregnancy, such as gwarugwaru and mbelekisane, were highlighted as a problem in maternal health, with serious complications that can lead to maternal deaths. The participants have negative attitudes towards the clinics and hospitals due to the ill treatment they received from health professionals in labour wards, which may have led to the loss of lives of women and children. Lack of resources, unskilled traditional birth attendants, lack of accountability and responsibility by health professionals were contributory factors towards maternal deaths. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of resources, unskilled traditional birth attendants, lack of accountability and the irresponsibility of professional nurses and doctors were all pointed out by participants as either direct or indirect causes of maternal deaths. The recommendations include frequent in-service training for unskilled birth attendants, and the provisions of more professional nurses and doctors. Campaigns also need to be held to highlight the risks that women are exposed to during pregnancy, and the importance of early interventions.
- Full Text:
Performance comparison of the residential types of air source heat pump water heaters in South Africa due to the refrigerant thermo-physical properties
- Authors: Sikhonza, Mandlenkosi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Heat pumps Water heaters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9275 , vital:34317
- Description: Globally hot water heating contributes enormously to the increase in energy consumption in the residential sector. Coal being a fossil fuel and non-renewable source of energy remains the major source used for electricity generation. The burning of coal is the primary cause of CO2 emission into the environment which causes climate change and global warming. Energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies were employed as one of the alternative ways of reducing global warming. In most residential areas in South Africa, the water heating generates 30 -50percent of the monthly electricity bill (Zhang and Huan, 2013). In this light, residential load management (RLM) is a significant part of the load management programme of Eskom’s overall demand side management strategy. Through RLM, the electricity load is being transferred from peak times to off times by switching the geysers during peak hours because geysers consume more electricity and contribute significantly to the national grid constraint problem (Eskom, 2012).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sikhonza, Mandlenkosi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Heat pumps Water heaters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9275 , vital:34317
- Description: Globally hot water heating contributes enormously to the increase in energy consumption in the residential sector. Coal being a fossil fuel and non-renewable source of energy remains the major source used for electricity generation. The burning of coal is the primary cause of CO2 emission into the environment which causes climate change and global warming. Energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies were employed as one of the alternative ways of reducing global warming. In most residential areas in South Africa, the water heating generates 30 -50percent of the monthly electricity bill (Zhang and Huan, 2013). In this light, residential load management (RLM) is a significant part of the load management programme of Eskom’s overall demand side management strategy. Through RLM, the electricity load is being transferred from peak times to off times by switching the geysers during peak hours because geysers consume more electricity and contribute significantly to the national grid constraint problem (Eskom, 2012).
- Full Text:
Performance evaluation of an off-grid building integrated photovoltaic system in Alice, Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Buma, Carine Lethem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Building-integrated photovoltaic systems Buildings -- Energy conservation Performance -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13227 , vital:39623
- Description: The constant increase in the global demand for energy and the current crisis on global warming and climate change has prompted a dying quest for clean, sustainable and reliable sources of energy. Amongst numerous renewable energy technologies, harnessing energy from the sun is the most viable way of guaranteeing a clean and sustainable supply of energy. Also, photovoltaic energy is one of the ways of using energy from the sun, where sunlight is converted to electricity using photovoltaic panels. Furthermore, the integration of photovoltaic modules into buildings is one of the most elegant innovations of this technology, as it plays the dual role of supplying energy to the building as well as protecting the building from outdoor weather conditions. Moreover, operating off the grid offers the possibility of energy access to locations far off from the grid and individuals willing to gain some degree of energy independence. Evaluating the performance of existing off grid and/or building integrated photovoltaic systems is the key to guaranteeing sustainable development and advancement in the technology. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of an off-grid building integrated photovoltaic system that was installed at the Fort Hare Institute of Technology. This entailed performing an in-depth characterisation of the solar resource at this location, evaluating the performance of the modules under outdoor weather conditions and also evaluating the performance of the balance of system (BOS) components. The system was monitored for a period of nine months (between February and October 2017). A data acquisition system was designed for measuring and recording both electrical system parameters and meteorological parameters affecting the performance of the system. These meteorological parameters include; solar irradiance, ambient temperature, cell temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction. A detailed characterisation of the solar resource at this location was carried out. It was observed that the solar declination angle varied from -23.5o on the summer solstice to 23.5o on the winter solstice. Also, the solar altitude angle (at solar noon) which is a complementary angle to the zenith angle varied from 33.7o in June to 80.65o in December. During the summer months, longer day lengths were experienced because the sun traversed the sky over a longer time, rising south of east and setting south of west. Whereas, in the winter months, the path length of the sun was shorter, with the sun rising north of east and setting north of west, hence, shorter day lengths. The solar radiation incident on a 25o north facing solar collector was found to be in three components; beam, diffuse and reflected. The beam component was higher in summer whereas the diffuse component was higher in winter due to an increase in the air mass ratio. However, the total daily average radiation was highest in January (7.12 peak sun hours) and least in June (3.04 peak sun hours). Finally, a comparison between the calculated and measured values of solar radiation showed just a 1.1percent difference over the year with disparities being in the individual months.m The influence of outdoor weather conditions on the performance of the system was also evaluated. Operating temperatures were noticed to have a great impact on the output voltage and power of the PV array. Significant correlations existed between various meteorological parameters. Also, a multiple linear regression model was developed to ascertain the dependence of module temperature on solar irradiance, ambient temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and wind direction. The coefficient of determination for the model was 0.928, showing a strong relationship between cell temperature and the chosen predictors. Also, the six thermocouples installed at various locations of the PV array revealed variations in the operating temperatures of the modules. The modules on the east side of the array recorded relatively lower temperatures because of the ceiling that had been removed beneath one of the modules on this side of the array, which permitted the free flow of air. Furthermore, I-V measurements conducted on various strings of the array revealed so many steps (hotspots), indicative of module (or cell) mismatch on almost all the cell strings.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Buma, Carine Lethem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Building-integrated photovoltaic systems Buildings -- Energy conservation Performance -- Evaluation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13227 , vital:39623
- Description: The constant increase in the global demand for energy and the current crisis on global warming and climate change has prompted a dying quest for clean, sustainable and reliable sources of energy. Amongst numerous renewable energy technologies, harnessing energy from the sun is the most viable way of guaranteeing a clean and sustainable supply of energy. Also, photovoltaic energy is one of the ways of using energy from the sun, where sunlight is converted to electricity using photovoltaic panels. Furthermore, the integration of photovoltaic modules into buildings is one of the most elegant innovations of this technology, as it plays the dual role of supplying energy to the building as well as protecting the building from outdoor weather conditions. Moreover, operating off the grid offers the possibility of energy access to locations far off from the grid and individuals willing to gain some degree of energy independence. Evaluating the performance of existing off grid and/or building integrated photovoltaic systems is the key to guaranteeing sustainable development and advancement in the technology. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of an off-grid building integrated photovoltaic system that was installed at the Fort Hare Institute of Technology. This entailed performing an in-depth characterisation of the solar resource at this location, evaluating the performance of the modules under outdoor weather conditions and also evaluating the performance of the balance of system (BOS) components. The system was monitored for a period of nine months (between February and October 2017). A data acquisition system was designed for measuring and recording both electrical system parameters and meteorological parameters affecting the performance of the system. These meteorological parameters include; solar irradiance, ambient temperature, cell temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction. A detailed characterisation of the solar resource at this location was carried out. It was observed that the solar declination angle varied from -23.5o on the summer solstice to 23.5o on the winter solstice. Also, the solar altitude angle (at solar noon) which is a complementary angle to the zenith angle varied from 33.7o in June to 80.65o in December. During the summer months, longer day lengths were experienced because the sun traversed the sky over a longer time, rising south of east and setting south of west. Whereas, in the winter months, the path length of the sun was shorter, with the sun rising north of east and setting north of west, hence, shorter day lengths. The solar radiation incident on a 25o north facing solar collector was found to be in three components; beam, diffuse and reflected. The beam component was higher in summer whereas the diffuse component was higher in winter due to an increase in the air mass ratio. However, the total daily average radiation was highest in January (7.12 peak sun hours) and least in June (3.04 peak sun hours). Finally, a comparison between the calculated and measured values of solar radiation showed just a 1.1percent difference over the year with disparities being in the individual months.m The influence of outdoor weather conditions on the performance of the system was also evaluated. Operating temperatures were noticed to have a great impact on the output voltage and power of the PV array. Significant correlations existed between various meteorological parameters. Also, a multiple linear regression model was developed to ascertain the dependence of module temperature on solar irradiance, ambient temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and wind direction. The coefficient of determination for the model was 0.928, showing a strong relationship between cell temperature and the chosen predictors. Also, the six thermocouples installed at various locations of the PV array revealed variations in the operating temperatures of the modules. The modules on the east side of the array recorded relatively lower temperatures because of the ceiling that had been removed beneath one of the modules on this side of the array, which permitted the free flow of air. Furthermore, I-V measurements conducted on various strings of the array revealed so many steps (hotspots), indicative of module (or cell) mismatch on almost all the cell strings.
- Full Text:
PhD graduates' perceptions of supervision contact sessions at the University of Fort Hare, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Muleya, Ekem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare Graduate students Doctoral students
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12914 , vital:39401
- Description: PhD supervision is mostly studied from the supervisor and education institutions’ point of view in South Africa. The role and what exactly transpires during supervision contact sessions, how it influences or contributes to the successful completion of a PhD degree has been under researched. The government of South Africa through the NDP has clear targets in terms of raising the annual number of people who graduate with PhDs, however the processes and the actual ingredients contributing to the increase are not being adequately examined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of supervision contact sessions in enabling a doctoral candidate to successfully complete a doctoral degree. Specifically this study sought to find out how supervision meetings enable a PhD candidate to finish the PhD degree successfully. This exploratory study sought to address the question through pin-pointing the specific benefits PhD candidates derive from supervision contact sessions and at the same time documenting the challenges faced in these meetings. Findings from this study point to the fact that supervision contact sessions are crucial in empowering a PhD candidate to finish his or her studies. Candidates benefit from both technical (professional) and social (emotional) support through supervision meetings with their supervisors and most importantly supervisors also assist and advise their candidates with regard to funding for their studies. In the main, PhD candidates prefer to meet frequently with their supervisors to discuss their PhD work however they in some instances encounter challenges in trying to set up meetings with their supervisors. Challenges also come during the actual supervision sessions due to the unequal relationship between supervisor and candidate. Given the role of supervision meetings in PhD completion, it is important to note some measures which can assist in terms of making supervision meetings more beneficial to a PhD candidate.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Muleya, Ekem
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare Graduate students Doctoral students
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12914 , vital:39401
- Description: PhD supervision is mostly studied from the supervisor and education institutions’ point of view in South Africa. The role and what exactly transpires during supervision contact sessions, how it influences or contributes to the successful completion of a PhD degree has been under researched. The government of South Africa through the NDP has clear targets in terms of raising the annual number of people who graduate with PhDs, however the processes and the actual ingredients contributing to the increase are not being adequately examined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of supervision contact sessions in enabling a doctoral candidate to successfully complete a doctoral degree. Specifically this study sought to find out how supervision meetings enable a PhD candidate to finish the PhD degree successfully. This exploratory study sought to address the question through pin-pointing the specific benefits PhD candidates derive from supervision contact sessions and at the same time documenting the challenges faced in these meetings. Findings from this study point to the fact that supervision contact sessions are crucial in empowering a PhD candidate to finish his or her studies. Candidates benefit from both technical (professional) and social (emotional) support through supervision meetings with their supervisors and most importantly supervisors also assist and advise their candidates with regard to funding for their studies. In the main, PhD candidates prefer to meet frequently with their supervisors to discuss their PhD work however they in some instances encounter challenges in trying to set up meetings with their supervisors. Challenges also come during the actual supervision sessions due to the unequal relationship between supervisor and candidate. Given the role of supervision meetings in PhD completion, it is important to note some measures which can assist in terms of making supervision meetings more beneficial to a PhD candidate.
- Full Text:
Physiological traits, anthropometric characteristics and motor development of rural children in Nkonkobe Municipality, South Africa
- Authors: Idamokoro, Mere
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Motor learning Children -- Physiology Children -- Anthropometry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Human Movement Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10061 , vital:35314
- Description: Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological, anthropometric and motor development characteristics of rural children between the ages of 5 – 7 years old. Methods: The study involved 305 school children (159 boys and 146 girls) randomly selected from primary schools in Alice sub-district, Nkonkobe Municipality. Body weight, height, skinfold thickness and girth measurements were measured using standard procedures. Overweight and obesity were defined using body mass index (BMI) for age and gender. Derived variables were: fat mass, fat-free mass, fat mass index, fat-free mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio and subscapular-to-triceps ratio. Motor development levels were measured and assessed using Test of Gross Motor Development –Second Edition (TGMD-2). Blood pressure was measured using aneroid sphygmomanometer. Results: Boys had higher mean values of blood pressure (69.19 ± 7.30 and 38.15 ± 5.91) compared to girls (68.39 ± 7.97 and 37.11 ± 7.53). The proportion of overweight among girls (15.75 percent) was higher compared to boys (10.69 percent). Likewise, the percentage of obesity among boys (16.35 percent) was higher compared to girls (10.27 percent). The motor development results showed that girls (40.9 ± 6.54) performed better than boys (39.7 ± 6.64) in locomotor skills test. Conversely, boys (39.8 ± 7.62) performed better than girls (38.6 ± 7.29) in object control. Conclusion: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among the children is alarmingly high and concerning for the health. At all ages, girls had higher body fat percentage and fat mass than the boys. However, FFMI and WHR were higher in boys compared to the girls. There is no gender difference in the waist-to-height ratio and STR of both boys and girls. The locomotor raw score is higher in girls than in boys; however, the object control raw score is higher in boys compared to girls. The non-correlation of BMI with TGMD-2 tests suggests an equal potential of motor development among the children, regardless of their body fatness. There is need for obesity prevention programme in schools, which should involve all the stakeholders (teachers, parents/guardians, government, NGOs). The programme should focus on creating awareness concerning child body weight, healthy dietary intake and regular BMI screening in schools.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Idamokoro, Mere
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Motor learning Children -- Physiology Children -- Anthropometry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Human Movement Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10061 , vital:35314
- Description: Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological, anthropometric and motor development characteristics of rural children between the ages of 5 – 7 years old. Methods: The study involved 305 school children (159 boys and 146 girls) randomly selected from primary schools in Alice sub-district, Nkonkobe Municipality. Body weight, height, skinfold thickness and girth measurements were measured using standard procedures. Overweight and obesity were defined using body mass index (BMI) for age and gender. Derived variables were: fat mass, fat-free mass, fat mass index, fat-free mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio and subscapular-to-triceps ratio. Motor development levels were measured and assessed using Test of Gross Motor Development –Second Edition (TGMD-2). Blood pressure was measured using aneroid sphygmomanometer. Results: Boys had higher mean values of blood pressure (69.19 ± 7.30 and 38.15 ± 5.91) compared to girls (68.39 ± 7.97 and 37.11 ± 7.53). The proportion of overweight among girls (15.75 percent) was higher compared to boys (10.69 percent). Likewise, the percentage of obesity among boys (16.35 percent) was higher compared to girls (10.27 percent). The motor development results showed that girls (40.9 ± 6.54) performed better than boys (39.7 ± 6.64) in locomotor skills test. Conversely, boys (39.8 ± 7.62) performed better than girls (38.6 ± 7.29) in object control. Conclusion: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among the children is alarmingly high and concerning for the health. At all ages, girls had higher body fat percentage and fat mass than the boys. However, FFMI and WHR were higher in boys compared to the girls. There is no gender difference in the waist-to-height ratio and STR of both boys and girls. The locomotor raw score is higher in girls than in boys; however, the object control raw score is higher in boys compared to girls. The non-correlation of BMI with TGMD-2 tests suggests an equal potential of motor development among the children, regardless of their body fatness. There is need for obesity prevention programme in schools, which should involve all the stakeholders (teachers, parents/guardians, government, NGOs). The programme should focus on creating awareness concerning child body weight, healthy dietary intake and regular BMI screening in schools.
- Full Text:
Pollution potential of on-site dry sanitation systems associated with the Mzimvubu Water Project, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mamera, Matthew
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Water resources development Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6038 , vital:29485
- Description: Protecting the environment requires tools that can be used to monitor environmental conditions for proper sustainable management of water resources. The Mzimvubu River is the largest undeveloped river, in the poorest region of South Africa. The South African government announced plans to construct two large storage dams (Ntabelanga and Laleni) in the Tsitsa River, one of the largest tributaries to the Mzimvubu River. The dams and associated infrastructure is termed the Mzimvubu Water Project (MWP). In developing countries like South Africa, several households use pit latrines. Moreover, many people also rely upon untreated groundwater supplies for their drinking water. The shared utilization of both pit latrines and groundwater resources, can lead to human and ecological health risks from microbial and chemical pollutants. These threats can be accelerated due to a permanent rise in the water table associated with dam constructions. Four hillslope sites with pit latrines (MT1, MT2, MT3 and MT4) above 1st order tributaries to the Tsitsa River, in the vicinity of the proposed MWP were chosen for this study. The soils were described and classified at selected locations below the pit latrine and above the tributary. Undisturbed core samples were from representative soil horizons on which hydraulic properties were determined in the laboratory. Samples were also collected to determine the feacal coliform and other bacterial concentrations during a winter and summer period. Mechanistic modelling with Hydrus 2D for a 121 day period was conducted to determine the risk of pollution to surface and groundwater from the various sites. Apedal soils of the Clovelly form dominated upper slopes of MT1 and the lower slopes of MT2. A Clovelly form is hydropedologically termed a recharge soil, as morphological indicators of saturation are absent. Hydromorphic soil properties were observed in the sub-surface B horizons of a Tukulu form in MT1-3 and MT4. High clay contents and strong structure soils of the Sepane form were dominant in MT3. The soils of MT1 and MT2 are relatively sandy with slightly higher hydraulic conductivities compared to MT3 and MT4. In general higher measured faecal coliform concentrations were higher in winter as compared to summer seasons but in most sites both winter and summer seasons had counts < 1 CFU/g. The highest concentrations of total bacteria (9 x 106 CFU/ g soil) was observed in MT3-1. Other sites with potential pollution include MT3-3, with a count above 4 x 104 CFU /g soil in winter and MT1-1 with a count above 2.2 X 104 CFU /g soil in summer. In most of the sites, the E. coli bacteria detections were low (< 1 CFU/g) during both seasons. The highest value in summer of 1.8 x 102 CFU/g was observed in MT3-3 which increased from 1.2 x102 CFU/g in winter. As the soil water flow rate increase the mobility of bacteria increase as well. Hydrus simulations showed that surface water resources are threatened by pollution from MT3 and MT4 due to the prominence of lateral flow. Groundwater pollution is more likely to occur on MT1 and MT2 as the soils are freely drained. Future work should focus on the more direct measurements and modelling of the migration of bacterial pollutants from pit latrines to various water resources.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mamera, Matthew
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Water resources development Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6038 , vital:29485
- Description: Protecting the environment requires tools that can be used to monitor environmental conditions for proper sustainable management of water resources. The Mzimvubu River is the largest undeveloped river, in the poorest region of South Africa. The South African government announced plans to construct two large storage dams (Ntabelanga and Laleni) in the Tsitsa River, one of the largest tributaries to the Mzimvubu River. The dams and associated infrastructure is termed the Mzimvubu Water Project (MWP). In developing countries like South Africa, several households use pit latrines. Moreover, many people also rely upon untreated groundwater supplies for their drinking water. The shared utilization of both pit latrines and groundwater resources, can lead to human and ecological health risks from microbial and chemical pollutants. These threats can be accelerated due to a permanent rise in the water table associated with dam constructions. Four hillslope sites with pit latrines (MT1, MT2, MT3 and MT4) above 1st order tributaries to the Tsitsa River, in the vicinity of the proposed MWP were chosen for this study. The soils were described and classified at selected locations below the pit latrine and above the tributary. Undisturbed core samples were from representative soil horizons on which hydraulic properties were determined in the laboratory. Samples were also collected to determine the feacal coliform and other bacterial concentrations during a winter and summer period. Mechanistic modelling with Hydrus 2D for a 121 day period was conducted to determine the risk of pollution to surface and groundwater from the various sites. Apedal soils of the Clovelly form dominated upper slopes of MT1 and the lower slopes of MT2. A Clovelly form is hydropedologically termed a recharge soil, as morphological indicators of saturation are absent. Hydromorphic soil properties were observed in the sub-surface B horizons of a Tukulu form in MT1-3 and MT4. High clay contents and strong structure soils of the Sepane form were dominant in MT3. The soils of MT1 and MT2 are relatively sandy with slightly higher hydraulic conductivities compared to MT3 and MT4. In general higher measured faecal coliform concentrations were higher in winter as compared to summer seasons but in most sites both winter and summer seasons had counts < 1 CFU/g. The highest concentrations of total bacteria (9 x 106 CFU/ g soil) was observed in MT3-1. Other sites with potential pollution include MT3-3, with a count above 4 x 104 CFU /g soil in winter and MT1-1 with a count above 2.2 X 104 CFU /g soil in summer. In most of the sites, the E. coli bacteria detections were low (< 1 CFU/g) during both seasons. The highest value in summer of 1.8 x 102 CFU/g was observed in MT3-3 which increased from 1.2 x102 CFU/g in winter. As the soil water flow rate increase the mobility of bacteria increase as well. Hydrus simulations showed that surface water resources are threatened by pollution from MT3 and MT4 due to the prominence of lateral flow. Groundwater pollution is more likely to occur on MT1 and MT2 as the soils are freely drained. Future work should focus on the more direct measurements and modelling of the migration of bacterial pollutants from pit latrines to various water resources.
- Full Text:
Preparation, characterization and in vitro analysis of polyamidoamine drug conjugates containing ferrocene and platinum analogues
- Authors: Mugogodi, Ansley
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Ferrocene
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10145 , vital:35360
- Description: Polyamidoamine drug conjugates were prepared from analogues of ferrocene and platinum. Standard reaction procedures were followed in the synthesis of platinum and ferrocene analogues. Michael addition reaction of amines to the activated double bonds of methylenebisacrylamide was applied for preparation of the water soluble polyamidoamine carriers onto which drug analogues were attached. The drug release studies of the conjugates were evaluated at different pH environments. The results obtained from drug release studies showed that rate of drug release was variable depending on the conjugate and pH environment. Mathematical drug release models by Korsmeyer-Peppas were used to determine the drug release characteristics of the ferrocene and platinum based drugs from polyamidoamine drug conjugates. Cytotoxicity potential of the analogues and polyamidoamine drug conjugates was tested on selected cell lines. Cisplatin was used as the standard for comparison of the IC50 values obtained for the compounds tested for cytotoxicity activity. The results from six polymer drug conjugates tested for cytotoxicity activity showed that conjugation of analogues to polyamidoamine carrier enhanced the activity of the analogues in some of the polyamidoamine drug conjugates. Various techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy were employed for the characterization of the ferrocene and platinum analogues, polyamidoamine carriers and drug conjugates.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mugogodi, Ansley
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Ferrocene
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10145 , vital:35360
- Description: Polyamidoamine drug conjugates were prepared from analogues of ferrocene and platinum. Standard reaction procedures were followed in the synthesis of platinum and ferrocene analogues. Michael addition reaction of amines to the activated double bonds of methylenebisacrylamide was applied for preparation of the water soluble polyamidoamine carriers onto which drug analogues were attached. The drug release studies of the conjugates were evaluated at different pH environments. The results obtained from drug release studies showed that rate of drug release was variable depending on the conjugate and pH environment. Mathematical drug release models by Korsmeyer-Peppas were used to determine the drug release characteristics of the ferrocene and platinum based drugs from polyamidoamine drug conjugates. Cytotoxicity potential of the analogues and polyamidoamine drug conjugates was tested on selected cell lines. Cisplatin was used as the standard for comparison of the IC50 values obtained for the compounds tested for cytotoxicity activity. The results from six polymer drug conjugates tested for cytotoxicity activity showed that conjugation of analogues to polyamidoamine carrier enhanced the activity of the analogues in some of the polyamidoamine drug conjugates. Various techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy were employed for the characterization of the ferrocene and platinum analogues, polyamidoamine carriers and drug conjugates.
- Full Text:
Productivity and profitability of different maize varieties and cropping systems used in the smallholder sector of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa : implication on food security
- Authors: Kambanje, Ardinesh
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Crop yields Crops and climate Cropping systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6237 , vital:29528
- Description: Low maize yields in the midst of abundant arable land, favourable climatic conditions, input and financial support programs, plagues smallholder maize farming in Eastern Cape Province. These scenarios have led the province to be a net importer of maize. In essence, low production may signify a mis-match between maize varieties being promoted amongst smallholder farmers and their farming system. Thus, the main objective of the study was to investigate the productivity and profitability of different maize varieties and cropping system under smallholder agriculture in selected villages of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa as well as, the implications posed on the household food security. The study sought to assess: (i) the productivity of different maize varieties and cropping systems, (ii) the effect of GM maize adoption on food security among smallholder farmers, (iii) the profitability of GM, conventional hybrids and OPV maize varieties produced by farmers under different agro-ecological conditions and (iv) the impact of different maize varieties and cropping systems on food security in the smallholder agriculture. A cross sectional quantitative-based survey study was carried out to obtain information from a total of 650 small holder farmers. The study was conducted in three local municipalities in Oliver Reginald (OR) Tambo District Municipality of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Descriptive statistics, partial factor productivity, gross margin analysis, household food insecurity access score (HFIAS), ordinal logistic and linear regression were the analytical techniques used in establishing correlations among variables. Results obtained from the survey indicated that under mono-cropping system, Genetically Modified (GM) maize variety was highly productive with an average yield of 1.9 t/ha whilst, improved OPV maize variety was productive (with an average yield of 1.6 t/ha) under mixed cropping system. Furthermore, GM maize (GM = -R418.10), and landrace (GM = -R1 140.29) maize varieties had negative gross margins whilst, conventional hybrids (GM = R5 181.21) and improved OPV (GM = R1 457.41) were profitable. There was a significant and negative correlation between use of GM maize variety and reduction of household food insecurity. GM maize varieties, improved OPV, white maize, white as well as yellow GM maize varieties had a significant impact in reducing household food insecurity; whilst using more than one variety of maize (landraces and GMO) positively influenced household food insecurity. In light of these research findings, it is recommended that, there is need to address household food security by growing improved OPVs under a mixed cropping system and GM maize under monocropping system.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kambanje, Ardinesh
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Crop yields Crops and climate Cropping systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6237 , vital:29528
- Description: Low maize yields in the midst of abundant arable land, favourable climatic conditions, input and financial support programs, plagues smallholder maize farming in Eastern Cape Province. These scenarios have led the province to be a net importer of maize. In essence, low production may signify a mis-match between maize varieties being promoted amongst smallholder farmers and their farming system. Thus, the main objective of the study was to investigate the productivity and profitability of different maize varieties and cropping system under smallholder agriculture in selected villages of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa as well as, the implications posed on the household food security. The study sought to assess: (i) the productivity of different maize varieties and cropping systems, (ii) the effect of GM maize adoption on food security among smallholder farmers, (iii) the profitability of GM, conventional hybrids and OPV maize varieties produced by farmers under different agro-ecological conditions and (iv) the impact of different maize varieties and cropping systems on food security in the smallholder agriculture. A cross sectional quantitative-based survey study was carried out to obtain information from a total of 650 small holder farmers. The study was conducted in three local municipalities in Oliver Reginald (OR) Tambo District Municipality of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Descriptive statistics, partial factor productivity, gross margin analysis, household food insecurity access score (HFIAS), ordinal logistic and linear regression were the analytical techniques used in establishing correlations among variables. Results obtained from the survey indicated that under mono-cropping system, Genetically Modified (GM) maize variety was highly productive with an average yield of 1.9 t/ha whilst, improved OPV maize variety was productive (with an average yield of 1.6 t/ha) under mixed cropping system. Furthermore, GM maize (GM = -R418.10), and landrace (GM = -R1 140.29) maize varieties had negative gross margins whilst, conventional hybrids (GM = R5 181.21) and improved OPV (GM = R1 457.41) were profitable. There was a significant and negative correlation between use of GM maize variety and reduction of household food insecurity. GM maize varieties, improved OPV, white maize, white as well as yellow GM maize varieties had a significant impact in reducing household food insecurity; whilst using more than one variety of maize (landraces and GMO) positively influenced household food insecurity. In light of these research findings, it is recommended that, there is need to address household food security by growing improved OPVs under a mixed cropping system and GM maize under monocropping system.
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Psycho social challenges faced by children who are victims of rape in the victim support centre : a case study of Kwanobuhle area, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Kakaza, Vuyokazi Bellinda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rape victims Abused children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15298 , vital:40341
- Description: The motivation for this study originated from the problem of children who are victims of rape in the victim support centers. The researcher became aware that most of the children needs more support services for counseling and after care services. The goal of the research was to explore the psychosocial challenges faced by children who are victims of Rape in the victim support Centre. The aim of the study was to determine the psychosocial effects (effects. challenges, support services they receive from professionals) as victims of rape in a victim support center. It was a case study of KwaNobuhle Area, Eastern Cape. The purpose was to identify gaps as there are minimal services rendered to children as rape victims in the victim support Centre. In order to meet the objectives of the study, interviews were conducted to 20 victims of rape (both boys and girls) as well as 6 different professionals working with rape cases from the arrival of the child from the opening until the finalization of the case. Data were analyzed according to the qualitative data - analysis procedures. The researcher utilized the phenomenological research design. The research domain where the interviews took place was at the KwaNobuhle Area under the Department of Social Development jurisdiction. In this study, 20 Xhosa speaking children of different ages, gender, educational standards, and socio-economic backgrounds as well as those who suffered different types of rape, as defined by the Sexual Related Matters Act 32 of 2007; they were all interviewed through the use of a semi-structured interview schedule. The participants were purposively selected as they were all at the victim support center. It has been found that some services are not provided within and are other professionals lack knowledge on how to work effectively with children as victims of rape To add on, the theoretical framework that was used in this study is the victim empowerment theory. This was used as a way of empowering the children who are victims of rape in the Victim Support Centres. The study found out that children who are victims of rape in the Victim Support Centres face psychosocial challenges for instance emotional, educational and behavioural challenges. Furthermore, the study also found out that there are few pschologists in the Victim Support Centres. Therefore, the study recommend that more psychologists should be employed at the Department of health and be placed in Victim Support Centres. More, so, there should be constant supervision and guidance on the care givers within the institution on how to effectively deal with the children who are victims of rape in VSC to avoid psychosocial challenges.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kakaza, Vuyokazi Bellinda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rape victims Abused children
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15298 , vital:40341
- Description: The motivation for this study originated from the problem of children who are victims of rape in the victim support centers. The researcher became aware that most of the children needs more support services for counseling and after care services. The goal of the research was to explore the psychosocial challenges faced by children who are victims of Rape in the victim support Centre. The aim of the study was to determine the psychosocial effects (effects. challenges, support services they receive from professionals) as victims of rape in a victim support center. It was a case study of KwaNobuhle Area, Eastern Cape. The purpose was to identify gaps as there are minimal services rendered to children as rape victims in the victim support Centre. In order to meet the objectives of the study, interviews were conducted to 20 victims of rape (both boys and girls) as well as 6 different professionals working with rape cases from the arrival of the child from the opening until the finalization of the case. Data were analyzed according to the qualitative data - analysis procedures. The researcher utilized the phenomenological research design. The research domain where the interviews took place was at the KwaNobuhle Area under the Department of Social Development jurisdiction. In this study, 20 Xhosa speaking children of different ages, gender, educational standards, and socio-economic backgrounds as well as those who suffered different types of rape, as defined by the Sexual Related Matters Act 32 of 2007; they were all interviewed through the use of a semi-structured interview schedule. The participants were purposively selected as they were all at the victim support center. It has been found that some services are not provided within and are other professionals lack knowledge on how to work effectively with children as victims of rape To add on, the theoretical framework that was used in this study is the victim empowerment theory. This was used as a way of empowering the children who are victims of rape in the Victim Support Centres. The study found out that children who are victims of rape in the Victim Support Centres face psychosocial challenges for instance emotional, educational and behavioural challenges. Furthermore, the study also found out that there are few pschologists in the Victim Support Centres. Therefore, the study recommend that more psychologists should be employed at the Department of health and be placed in Victim Support Centres. More, so, there should be constant supervision and guidance on the care givers within the institution on how to effectively deal with the children who are victims of rape in VSC to avoid psychosocial challenges.
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Psychosocial challenges faced by guardians whose children are involved with substance abuse : a case study of Cofimvaba
- Authors: Mfengwana, Sibabalwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Children -- Substance use Social service
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10700 , vital:35701
- Description: Parents/ guardians are facing major problems in South Africa as their children are involved in substance abuse. Both genders are involved in substance abuse meaning therefore that guardians are facing huge challenges especially now that the girls are also involved in substance abuse. This research explored the psycho social challenges faced by guardians whose children are involved with substance abuse at Cofimvaba, in the Eastern Cape Province. The study was premised by four objectives, firstly the study was aimed to examine the challenges that guardians face since their children are involved with substance abuse. Secondly the study was aimed to assess the emotional consequences of the guardians since their children are involved with substance abuse. Thirdly to establish the community perceptions with regard to the involvement of the children with substance abuse. Lastly, to establish the support services the guardians get from professionals. The researchers used qualitative method because it provides a deep understanding of what is under investigation. The design used in the study was exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. The study was conducted through qualitative research instruments of in-depth interviews and focus group in collecting the data. The study utilized social learning theory and the systems theory. The population in this study was made up of 20 participants, as well as 5 members forming up a focus group. All the participants were originally from Cofimvaba. The data was analyzed using content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following findings that there are support services given to the guardians at all. The support service is solely meant for the children when reported to be affected by substance abuse. There is high rate of labelling and discrimination to guardians from community members when the child is involved with substance abuse. There is an element of isolation with regard to the guardians whose children are involved with substance abuse. Guardians are sometimes isolating themselves and are scared about the comments that are impose to them because of their children who are involved in substance abuse. All the guardians are not happy and are feeling helpless now that their children are involved in substance abuse. The following are the challenges faced by guardians with regards to their children’s involvement with substance abuse; (i) overspending money because they have to repay all the damages done by their children. When the children are not well, the guardians have to take the children to the doctors. (ii) Behavioural challenges, the guardians are (iii) School performance dropping from the children is affecting the health and welfare of the guardians. Not a single guardian is not ambitious about the future and education of the children. Some of the guardians are not having any income and are really struggling to meet the ends means. The study made the following recommendations: The guardians as well as community members need to be equipped with information with regard to substance abuse. More strategies should be put in place with regard to support services by professionals to render to guardians. Guardians should be involved in the development of the children. Guardians should be involved in the schoolwork of the children to monitor and evaluate the performance. All the community members should be involved and should come up with strategies that could bring preventative services to the community members including children.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mfengwana, Sibabalwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Children -- Substance use Social service
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10700 , vital:35701
- Description: Parents/ guardians are facing major problems in South Africa as their children are involved in substance abuse. Both genders are involved in substance abuse meaning therefore that guardians are facing huge challenges especially now that the girls are also involved in substance abuse. This research explored the psycho social challenges faced by guardians whose children are involved with substance abuse at Cofimvaba, in the Eastern Cape Province. The study was premised by four objectives, firstly the study was aimed to examine the challenges that guardians face since their children are involved with substance abuse. Secondly the study was aimed to assess the emotional consequences of the guardians since their children are involved with substance abuse. Thirdly to establish the community perceptions with regard to the involvement of the children with substance abuse. Lastly, to establish the support services the guardians get from professionals. The researchers used qualitative method because it provides a deep understanding of what is under investigation. The design used in the study was exploratory, descriptive and contextual in nature. The study was conducted through qualitative research instruments of in-depth interviews and focus group in collecting the data. The study utilized social learning theory and the systems theory. The population in this study was made up of 20 participants, as well as 5 members forming up a focus group. All the participants were originally from Cofimvaba. The data was analyzed using content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following findings that there are support services given to the guardians at all. The support service is solely meant for the children when reported to be affected by substance abuse. There is high rate of labelling and discrimination to guardians from community members when the child is involved with substance abuse. There is an element of isolation with regard to the guardians whose children are involved with substance abuse. Guardians are sometimes isolating themselves and are scared about the comments that are impose to them because of their children who are involved in substance abuse. All the guardians are not happy and are feeling helpless now that their children are involved in substance abuse. The following are the challenges faced by guardians with regards to their children’s involvement with substance abuse; (i) overspending money because they have to repay all the damages done by their children. When the children are not well, the guardians have to take the children to the doctors. (ii) Behavioural challenges, the guardians are (iii) School performance dropping from the children is affecting the health and welfare of the guardians. Not a single guardian is not ambitious about the future and education of the children. Some of the guardians are not having any income and are really struggling to meet the ends means. The study made the following recommendations: The guardians as well as community members need to be equipped with information with regard to substance abuse. More strategies should be put in place with regard to support services by professionals to render to guardians. Guardians should be involved in the development of the children. Guardians should be involved in the schoolwork of the children to monitor and evaluate the performance. All the community members should be involved and should come up with strategies that could bring preventative services to the community members including children.
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Ramifications of status non-disclosure by people living with HIV/AIDS in Alice, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mavhunga, Ayisha Dadiso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Self-disclosure Stigma (Social psychology) AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10963 , vital:35970
- Description: Non-disclosure of HIV/AIDS status is a topical issue in South Africa and across the globe. This study explored the ramifications of status non-disclosure by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Alice, Eastern Cape. The study aimed to explore the benefits and opportunities associated with HIV/AIDS disclosure; to examine the underlying factors discouraging Alice PLWHA from disclosing their status; to ascertain the ramifications of HIV/AIDS non-disclosure and to describe the coping strategies PLWHA and their families adopt in dealing with the ramifications of non-disclosure. The study employed the qualitative case study design, which was underpinned by the interpretive paradigm. The key informant’s method, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were the main data collection methods. The sample of 35 participants was selected through the purposive and snowballing sampling technique. This sample comprised of 10 PLWHA, 20 family members and 5 key informants. The data collected from this sample was analysed through thematic content analysis. Findings indicated that PLWHA who disclosed their status accessed benefits and opportunities such as medication, psychosocial support, employment and the helping hands needed to manage their illness. In addition, the findings revealed that stigma, discrimination and socio-cultural factors inhibited some PLWHA from disclosing their status. Consequently, non-disclosure resulted in PLWHA experiencing ramifications such ramifications such as internal stigma, conflict in relationships, diminished career and educational achievement.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mavhunga, Ayisha Dadiso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Self-disclosure Stigma (Social psychology) AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Family relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10963 , vital:35970
- Description: Non-disclosure of HIV/AIDS status is a topical issue in South Africa and across the globe. This study explored the ramifications of status non-disclosure by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Alice, Eastern Cape. The study aimed to explore the benefits and opportunities associated with HIV/AIDS disclosure; to examine the underlying factors discouraging Alice PLWHA from disclosing their status; to ascertain the ramifications of HIV/AIDS non-disclosure and to describe the coping strategies PLWHA and their families adopt in dealing with the ramifications of non-disclosure. The study employed the qualitative case study design, which was underpinned by the interpretive paradigm. The key informant’s method, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were the main data collection methods. The sample of 35 participants was selected through the purposive and snowballing sampling technique. This sample comprised of 10 PLWHA, 20 family members and 5 key informants. The data collected from this sample was analysed through thematic content analysis. Findings indicated that PLWHA who disclosed their status accessed benefits and opportunities such as medication, psychosocial support, employment and the helping hands needed to manage their illness. In addition, the findings revealed that stigma, discrimination and socio-cultural factors inhibited some PLWHA from disclosing their status. Consequently, non-disclosure resulted in PLWHA experiencing ramifications such ramifications such as internal stigma, conflict in relationships, diminished career and educational achievement.
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Reasons for late booking of pregnant women at antenatal care clinics in King Sabata Dalindyebo Sub-district in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Ntshanga, Nomvume Signoria
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Pregnant women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Prenatal Care Late antenatal care booking
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10520 , vital:35592
- Description: Background: The initiation of ante-natal care booking is universally recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy. While working in the Oliver Reginald Tambo district in the Eastern Cape Department of Health, the researcher noticed that late booking was the norm in all sub-districts, especially in the King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) sub-district, resulting in impaired antenatal care and an increased potential for adverse outcomes such as maternal mortalities. Purpose of the study: The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the reasons for late booking for antenatal care by pregnant women in the KSD sub-district. Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine reasons why women were booking late for antenatal in KSD sub district. Methods: Thirteen in-depth, unstructured interviews were conducted with late bookers (i.e., those who sought antenatal care (ANC) after twenty weeks of pregnancy) between July and August 2015. The interviews were recorded and, subsequently, transcribed by a reputable linguist from Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and analysed using Creswell’s thematic analysis model. Findings: The average gestational age of booking was 22 weeks (ranging from 22 to 28 weeks). Most women were teenagers and young unmarried women, most of whom were still attending school. All were unemployed. Most had experienced previous pregnancies. All these women delayed attending clinic early due to their ignorance of the exact gestational period for one to start the clinic. Although most of the women did not have direct reasons, the bulk of their reasons for delays were linked to long distances being travelled, leading to the payment of expensive taxi fees. This may also be attributed to cultural factors that seem to promote a veil of secrecy regarding pregnancy, the desire for visual evidence of pregnancy first and the practice of married women having to care for sick relatives. Conclusion: Poor access to clinics is a fundamental systemic failure and a major contributor and one of the reasons why women delayed in attending antenatal care clinics. Low socio economic status and cultural beliefs, coupled with long distance and expensive taxi fare, are other reasons for late booking.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ntshanga, Nomvume Signoria
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Pregnant women -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Prenatal Care Late antenatal care booking
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Health
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10520 , vital:35592
- Description: Background: The initiation of ante-natal care booking is universally recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy. While working in the Oliver Reginald Tambo district in the Eastern Cape Department of Health, the researcher noticed that late booking was the norm in all sub-districts, especially in the King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) sub-district, resulting in impaired antenatal care and an increased potential for adverse outcomes such as maternal mortalities. Purpose of the study: The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the reasons for late booking for antenatal care by pregnant women in the KSD sub-district. Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine reasons why women were booking late for antenatal in KSD sub district. Methods: Thirteen in-depth, unstructured interviews were conducted with late bookers (i.e., those who sought antenatal care (ANC) after twenty weeks of pregnancy) between July and August 2015. The interviews were recorded and, subsequently, transcribed by a reputable linguist from Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and analysed using Creswell’s thematic analysis model. Findings: The average gestational age of booking was 22 weeks (ranging from 22 to 28 weeks). Most women were teenagers and young unmarried women, most of whom were still attending school. All were unemployed. Most had experienced previous pregnancies. All these women delayed attending clinic early due to their ignorance of the exact gestational period for one to start the clinic. Although most of the women did not have direct reasons, the bulk of their reasons for delays were linked to long distances being travelled, leading to the payment of expensive taxi fees. This may also be attributed to cultural factors that seem to promote a veil of secrecy regarding pregnancy, the desire for visual evidence of pregnancy first and the practice of married women having to care for sick relatives. Conclusion: Poor access to clinics is a fundamental systemic failure and a major contributor and one of the reasons why women delayed in attending antenatal care clinics. Low socio economic status and cultural beliefs, coupled with long distance and expensive taxi fare, are other reasons for late booking.
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Records management practices for accountability in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province
- Authors: Khalankomo, Apiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Records--Management Information organization Public records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Library and Information Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15287 , vital:40335
- Description: Records Management is playing a crucial role in government institutions, municipalities. This study sought to explore records management practices in for accountability in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province in South Africa. The study sought to investigate whether the current records management practices upkeep or demoralize accountability and ultimate service delivery in the local municipalities. These are the objectives that were intended to be accomplished by the study: To find out the role of the provincial archives in the records management practices in Pixely ka Seme in the Northern Cape Province; To determine the extent to which records management practices in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province comply with the legal and regulatory requirements; and To assess the impact records management practices on service delivery in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province. Geographical Area; The district is comprised of eight local municipalities: Ubuntu, Umsobomvu, Emthanjeni, Kareeberg, Renosterberg, Thembelihle, Siyathemba and Siyancuma. Its main town is De Aar. Traffic flows through the region, linking the major industrial areas of the country. The area has a low rainfall, while the largest river in South Africa flows through it. Two of the major dams in South Africa, the Vanderkloof and Gariep Dams, are situated on the borders of the district municipality. Main Economic Sectors; Finance and business services (22.5percent), manufacturing (17.4percent), trade and accommodation (15.4percent), government services (12.9percent), transport and communication (11.3percent), mining (6.8percent), community and social services (5.6percent), construction (3.3percent), agriculture (2.7percent) Mixed methods were used for the investigation. Questionnaires and in depth interviews were used to collect data. Purposive sampling method was used to identify interview participants and adopted open ended questions to collect all necessary information by a questionnaire. The total population of the study was the Pixely ka Seme District employees in the Northern Cape Province. The Records Management Officials from eight local municipalities. The study sampled 18 participants but ended completing the investigation on 9 participants purposively. Total of Nine; 5 (56percent) of the participants were females while 4 (44percent) were males. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling to have the targeted respondents of the study. The study was enclosed within the theoretical frame of the “Life Cycle of a record” model and “Continuum model” to outline the whole process of record keeping discipline. The study discovered that records management negatively affected timely, effective and efficient accountability and in terms of audit results and service delivery. The results of the study revealed the dominance of the females in the records management practices in the Pixely ka Seme District. This finding was used was to analyze the impact of gender equality in the records management practices in the district. In this study, there is of a high number of females as compared to males and the study concluded that females led the records management structure in the Pixely Ka Seme District. Furthermore, the age range in this study proved to be one of the major factors that led to poor records management practice in the District. In addition, that qualification in relation to records management is the major hindrance in effective records management in the in the Pixely Ka Seme District in Northern Cape Province. Hereinafter, The Provincial Archives is not involved at all in the records management practices in the Northern Cape Province in the Pixely Ka Seme District. A large number of the municipalities do not have records management policies in place for the practice of proper records management. It is evident that records management compliance in compromised in this regard. A significant large number of the municipalities function without a legislative provision in terms of its record keeping. The study recommended that municipalities should now employ more and qualified records managers to rescue institutional records and the image of the organization. South African Local Government Association Records Management Forum (SALGA) as a municipal advocate must emphasize and command that municipalities must employ records managers at a managerial level to improve records section and professionalism in the field of records.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Khalankomo, Apiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Records--Management Information organization Public records--Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Library and Information Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15287 , vital:40335
- Description: Records Management is playing a crucial role in government institutions, municipalities. This study sought to explore records management practices in for accountability in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province in South Africa. The study sought to investigate whether the current records management practices upkeep or demoralize accountability and ultimate service delivery in the local municipalities. These are the objectives that were intended to be accomplished by the study: To find out the role of the provincial archives in the records management practices in Pixely ka Seme in the Northern Cape Province; To determine the extent to which records management practices in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province comply with the legal and regulatory requirements; and To assess the impact records management practices on service delivery in the Pixely ka Seme District in the Northern Cape Province. Geographical Area; The district is comprised of eight local municipalities: Ubuntu, Umsobomvu, Emthanjeni, Kareeberg, Renosterberg, Thembelihle, Siyathemba and Siyancuma. Its main town is De Aar. Traffic flows through the region, linking the major industrial areas of the country. The area has a low rainfall, while the largest river in South Africa flows through it. Two of the major dams in South Africa, the Vanderkloof and Gariep Dams, are situated on the borders of the district municipality. Main Economic Sectors; Finance and business services (22.5percent), manufacturing (17.4percent), trade and accommodation (15.4percent), government services (12.9percent), transport and communication (11.3percent), mining (6.8percent), community and social services (5.6percent), construction (3.3percent), agriculture (2.7percent) Mixed methods were used for the investigation. Questionnaires and in depth interviews were used to collect data. Purposive sampling method was used to identify interview participants and adopted open ended questions to collect all necessary information by a questionnaire. The total population of the study was the Pixely ka Seme District employees in the Northern Cape Province. The Records Management Officials from eight local municipalities. The study sampled 18 participants but ended completing the investigation on 9 participants purposively. Total of Nine; 5 (56percent) of the participants were females while 4 (44percent) were males. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling to have the targeted respondents of the study. The study was enclosed within the theoretical frame of the “Life Cycle of a record” model and “Continuum model” to outline the whole process of record keeping discipline. The study discovered that records management negatively affected timely, effective and efficient accountability and in terms of audit results and service delivery. The results of the study revealed the dominance of the females in the records management practices in the Pixely ka Seme District. This finding was used was to analyze the impact of gender equality in the records management practices in the district. In this study, there is of a high number of females as compared to males and the study concluded that females led the records management structure in the Pixely Ka Seme District. Furthermore, the age range in this study proved to be one of the major factors that led to poor records management practice in the District. In addition, that qualification in relation to records management is the major hindrance in effective records management in the in the Pixely Ka Seme District in Northern Cape Province. Hereinafter, The Provincial Archives is not involved at all in the records management practices in the Northern Cape Province in the Pixely Ka Seme District. A large number of the municipalities do not have records management policies in place for the practice of proper records management. It is evident that records management compliance in compromised in this regard. A significant large number of the municipalities function without a legislative provision in terms of its record keeping. The study recommended that municipalities should now employ more and qualified records managers to rescue institutional records and the image of the organization. South African Local Government Association Records Management Forum (SALGA) as a municipal advocate must emphasize and command that municipalities must employ records managers at a managerial level to improve records section and professionalism in the field of records.
- Full Text: