The concurrent jurisdiction of the high court and labour court
- Authors: Beyleveld, Dominique
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Labor laws and legislation--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51191 , vital:43218
- Description: The words “concurrent jurisdiction” essentially means that there is more than one court which has the power to hear a matter and therefore, a party may choose which forum to approach.1 The High Court (hereinafter referred to as “HC”) may exercise jurisdiction, together with the Labour Court (hereinafter referred to as “LC”), in enforcing purely contractual and other common law claims as well as for breach of fundamental rights to which the Labour Relations Act (LRA)2 (or other labour statutes) do not give effect to.3 However, this is not without limitations. The HC and the LC have concurrent jurisdiction over claims relating to the lawfulness of dismissal or other conduct by the parties, whereas all claims based on fairness falls within the exclusive jurisdiction of the LC.4 The practical implication of the approach taken by the Constitutional Court (hereinafter referred to as “CC”)5 is that jurisdiction may, to a certain extent,6 be based on the pleadings, and a litigant may in fact have simultaneous claims arising from the same circumstances.7 However, where the basis of the action and the relief sought is clearly identifiable as being part of the machinery of the Labour Relations Act (hereinafter referred to as the “LRA”) or other labour legislation, then the HC will not have jurisdiction and it is up to the LC to remedy the wrong and give effect to the primary objects of the LRA , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Beyleveld, Dominique
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Labor laws and legislation--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51191 , vital:43218
- Description: The words “concurrent jurisdiction” essentially means that there is more than one court which has the power to hear a matter and therefore, a party may choose which forum to approach.1 The High Court (hereinafter referred to as “HC”) may exercise jurisdiction, together with the Labour Court (hereinafter referred to as “LC”), in enforcing purely contractual and other common law claims as well as for breach of fundamental rights to which the Labour Relations Act (LRA)2 (or other labour statutes) do not give effect to.3 However, this is not without limitations. The HC and the LC have concurrent jurisdiction over claims relating to the lawfulness of dismissal or other conduct by the parties, whereas all claims based on fairness falls within the exclusive jurisdiction of the LC.4 The practical implication of the approach taken by the Constitutional Court (hereinafter referred to as “CC”)5 is that jurisdiction may, to a certain extent,6 be based on the pleadings, and a litigant may in fact have simultaneous claims arising from the same circumstances.7 However, where the basis of the action and the relief sought is clearly identifiable as being part of the machinery of the Labour Relations Act (hereinafter referred to as the “LRA”) or other labour legislation, then the HC will not have jurisdiction and it is up to the LC to remedy the wrong and give effect to the primary objects of the LRA , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The contribution of export support programmes for small and medium enterprises in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Fihlani, Asisipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51400 , vital:43271
- Description: Globally, government export support programmes have been created to assist SMEs with exports. In South Africa, there has been an introduction of government export support programme. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) for SMEs in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape, with specific focus on East London and Port Elizabeth. A qualitative methodology meant to acquire in-depth knowledge was employed in the study. A case study was developed, in which EMIA’s contribution to SMEs’ export was the case in study. A group of seventeen participants, which included government officials and SMEs were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the contribution of EMIA to agro-processing SME exports. The study found that EMIA was useful towards SME exports but lacked on addressing key barriers to exports faced by SMEs. The study recommends that government should place more emphasis on linking SMEs with proper contacts of buyers in international markets and that SMEs should be incentivised for costs relating to logistics for initial export orders. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Fihlani, Asisipho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51400 , vital:43271
- Description: Globally, government export support programmes have been created to assist SMEs with exports. In South Africa, there has been an introduction of government export support programme. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) for SMEs in the agro-processing sector in the Eastern Cape, with specific focus on East London and Port Elizabeth. A qualitative methodology meant to acquire in-depth knowledge was employed in the study. A case study was developed, in which EMIA’s contribution to SMEs’ export was the case in study. A group of seventeen participants, which included government officials and SMEs were interviewed and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the contribution of EMIA to agro-processing SME exports. The study found that EMIA was useful towards SME exports but lacked on addressing key barriers to exports faced by SMEs. The study recommends that government should place more emphasis on linking SMEs with proper contacts of buyers in international markets and that SMEs should be incentivised for costs relating to logistics for initial export orders. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The correlation between Instagram usage and relationship satisfaction amongst University students
- Authors: Widan, Rio Justine
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Online social networks
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52385 , vital:43621
- Description: At the turn of the twenty-first century, advancements in technology evolved at an exponential rate. This surge was mirrored by the rise in popularity and uptake of social networking sites (SNSs), and more recently, by Instagram, especially among emerging adults. SNSs have become an indispensable part of our daily lives and are influencing the ways individuals communicate, and develop and maintain romantic relationships. The Couple and Family Technology (CFT) Framework describes how the ecological elements of technology influence the structures and processes of romantic relationships, and is the lens through which this study was interpreted. The aim of this study was to determine if there was a relationship between Instagram use behaviours and relationship satisfaction amongst university students. This study employed a quantitative research approach and utilised a correlational research design. Participants included a sample of Nelson Mandela University students (N = 231) who were recruited through the nonprobability sampling methods of convenience and purposive sampling. Data were captured online through two measures. The biographical and Instagram use survey measured three variables, namely, frequency of Instagram usage, frequency of monitoring one’s partner’s Instagram activity, and frequency of posting behaviour. The Relationship Assessment Scale measured relationship satisfaction. Significant negative relationships were found between relationship satisfaction and frequency of Instagram usage and frequency of monitoring one’s partner’s Instagram activity. This research study contributed towards the existing body of knowledge, theoretical model, as well as insights for future lines of study within the realm of cyberpsychology. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Widan, Rio Justine
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Online social networks
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52385 , vital:43621
- Description: At the turn of the twenty-first century, advancements in technology evolved at an exponential rate. This surge was mirrored by the rise in popularity and uptake of social networking sites (SNSs), and more recently, by Instagram, especially among emerging adults. SNSs have become an indispensable part of our daily lives and are influencing the ways individuals communicate, and develop and maintain romantic relationships. The Couple and Family Technology (CFT) Framework describes how the ecological elements of technology influence the structures and processes of romantic relationships, and is the lens through which this study was interpreted. The aim of this study was to determine if there was a relationship between Instagram use behaviours and relationship satisfaction amongst university students. This study employed a quantitative research approach and utilised a correlational research design. Participants included a sample of Nelson Mandela University students (N = 231) who were recruited through the nonprobability sampling methods of convenience and purposive sampling. Data were captured online through two measures. The biographical and Instagram use survey measured three variables, namely, frequency of Instagram usage, frequency of monitoring one’s partner’s Instagram activity, and frequency of posting behaviour. The Relationship Assessment Scale measured relationship satisfaction. Significant negative relationships were found between relationship satisfaction and frequency of Instagram usage and frequency of monitoring one’s partner’s Instagram activity. This research study contributed towards the existing body of knowledge, theoretical model, as well as insights for future lines of study within the realm of cyberpsychology. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The decision to stay or go: study of generation y chartered accountants in South Africa
- Authors: Hluyo, Fungai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53031 , vital:44878
- Description: Having deduced from literature that millennials have a very high employee turnover, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of what factors would make millennial Chartered Accountants in South Africa, or (CA)s, stay with or leave organisations. This is a case study within a qualitative research paradigm and followed an interpretivistic approach. A purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of seven millennial CAs for data collection. The sample constituted millennials who had changed jobs at least once in the past five years as these fell within the scope of this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted virtually using an interview guide as a data collecting instrument. Data saturation was reached after the interview of the sixth participant. The interview process provided a good blance of subjective views, opinions, emotions, and values of all participants. Having transcribed the interview transcripts, a manually detailed coding process was completed. Eight main emerging themes were identified which ultimately provided responses to the research questions. The data analysis revealed that millennial CA(SA)s prioritise, and in fact, demand flexibility coupled with a work-life balance. They expect their employers to understand and be supportive of these expectations. Other important retaining factors for this cohort of employees include, amongst others; training and development opportunities, growth, diversity, obtaining performance feedback, and coaching. An important issue that participants highlighted is the importance of ethics at work and or ethical leadership. The researcher could not probe more into this due to time constraints. This is recommended for further research. Having interviewed only six participants, this relatively small number poses a limitation to this study as these findings cannot be generalised to apply to all millennial CAs in South Africa. The data collected however, provided useful recommendations to employers looking for ways to retain millennial Chartered Accountants. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hluyo, Fungai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53031 , vital:44878
- Description: Having deduced from literature that millennials have a very high employee turnover, the purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of what factors would make millennial Chartered Accountants in South Africa, or (CA)s, stay with or leave organisations. This is a case study within a qualitative research paradigm and followed an interpretivistic approach. A purposeful sampling technique was used in selecting a sample of seven millennial CAs for data collection. The sample constituted millennials who had changed jobs at least once in the past five years as these fell within the scope of this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted virtually using an interview guide as a data collecting instrument. Data saturation was reached after the interview of the sixth participant. The interview process provided a good blance of subjective views, opinions, emotions, and values of all participants. Having transcribed the interview transcripts, a manually detailed coding process was completed. Eight main emerging themes were identified which ultimately provided responses to the research questions. The data analysis revealed that millennial CA(SA)s prioritise, and in fact, demand flexibility coupled with a work-life balance. They expect their employers to understand and be supportive of these expectations. Other important retaining factors for this cohort of employees include, amongst others; training and development opportunities, growth, diversity, obtaining performance feedback, and coaching. An important issue that participants highlighted is the importance of ethics at work and or ethical leadership. The researcher could not probe more into this due to time constraints. This is recommended for further research. Having interviewed only six participants, this relatively small number poses a limitation to this study as these findings cannot be generalised to apply to all millennial CAs in South Africa. The data collected however, provided useful recommendations to employers looking for ways to retain millennial Chartered Accountants. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The design of a resource centre for Pellsrus, Jeffreys Bay
- Authors: Bosch, Rickus
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Community centers --South Africa --Jeffrey's Bay -- Designs and plans , Jeffrey's Bay (South Africa) --History
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57454 , vital:57872
- Description: The South African city faces an ongoing struggle with adequate social and spatial justice. Citizens have become separated and cultures have been divided owing to the historical formation of the city and the post legislative laws. Because of the growth of cities, certain resources are difficult to access and people need to trav el vast distances and cross dangerous barriers in order to access these resources. This thesis involves the research of social and spatial justice within the South Afri can city, which has resulted in a poor quality of life and a lack of resources. More specifically this thesis aimed at creating an environment that will aid in a better quality of life through spatial and social equity by creating an active and positive space to access certain resources. The particular focus area is the rural community of Pellsrus in Jeffreys Bay. The context has been analysed to enable a sound understanding of the formation of the town, the behaviour of the town and its people, the urban conditions and the spatial structures. Research lead to a site being selected that would form an transition space connecting separated communities and resources. The design is aimed at creating a space for people to gather, gain access to the needed resourc es and act as a linkage or transition zone between certain areas of the town. The objective was to enrich the current movement systems and enhance the existing resources, ultimately resulting in the design of a trade-resource centre in Pellsrus. The architectural design is formulated as a mean of locality and community. A qualitative methodology has been implemented which incorporates various research methods such as surveys, literature reviews, primary and secondary data collection, site sketches, topographic mapping and drone footage. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bosch, Rickus
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Community centers --South Africa --Jeffrey's Bay -- Designs and plans , Jeffrey's Bay (South Africa) --History
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57454 , vital:57872
- Description: The South African city faces an ongoing struggle with adequate social and spatial justice. Citizens have become separated and cultures have been divided owing to the historical formation of the city and the post legislative laws. Because of the growth of cities, certain resources are difficult to access and people need to trav el vast distances and cross dangerous barriers in order to access these resources. This thesis involves the research of social and spatial justice within the South Afri can city, which has resulted in a poor quality of life and a lack of resources. More specifically this thesis aimed at creating an environment that will aid in a better quality of life through spatial and social equity by creating an active and positive space to access certain resources. The particular focus area is the rural community of Pellsrus in Jeffreys Bay. The context has been analysed to enable a sound understanding of the formation of the town, the behaviour of the town and its people, the urban conditions and the spatial structures. Research lead to a site being selected that would form an transition space connecting separated communities and resources. The design is aimed at creating a space for people to gather, gain access to the needed resourc es and act as a linkage or transition zone between certain areas of the town. The objective was to enrich the current movement systems and enhance the existing resources, ultimately resulting in the design of a trade-resource centre in Pellsrus. The architectural design is formulated as a mean of locality and community. A qualitative methodology has been implemented which incorporates various research methods such as surveys, literature reviews, primary and secondary data collection, site sketches, topographic mapping and drone footage. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The design of a youth activity Centre for Parkside, East London
- Authors: De Lange, Natasha
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Youth centers -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Community centers -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57479 , vital:57880
- Description: The identity of youth is an important developmental pro - cess in young people’s lives. Youth Centres in South Africa mainly focus on reproductive health services and as a result thereof, are experiencing low visitor num - bers and failing to captivate the youth whom they aim to serve. The very nature in which this takes place today, opens the door for an architectural intervention that has the potential to facilitate and improve this process. This thesis aims to address the issues that today’s youth faces by looking at the metaphorical representa - tion of the ‘street’ as the current place where the youth of today spend their time testing and developing their identity. It aims to rethink the youth centre as a place that combines youth culture and architecture to create a space which provides adequate recreational opportu - nities, and through which youths can reconnect to their surroundings - giving them a much-needed sense of place and identity within the ever-changing city. The idea is ultimately to design a Youth Activity Centre for the Parkside neighbourhood in East London - a de - sign which can express how youth identity can impact architecture in a way that can benefit the development of youth’s identity, and which can re-animate the nature of the ‘street’ through architecture. , Thesis (MArch) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology, School of Architecture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: De Lange, Natasha
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Youth centers -- South Africa -- East London -- Designs and plans , Community centers -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57479 , vital:57880
- Description: The identity of youth is an important developmental pro - cess in young people’s lives. Youth Centres in South Africa mainly focus on reproductive health services and as a result thereof, are experiencing low visitor num - bers and failing to captivate the youth whom they aim to serve. The very nature in which this takes place today, opens the door for an architectural intervention that has the potential to facilitate and improve this process. This thesis aims to address the issues that today’s youth faces by looking at the metaphorical representa - tion of the ‘street’ as the current place where the youth of today spend their time testing and developing their identity. It aims to rethink the youth centre as a place that combines youth culture and architecture to create a space which provides adequate recreational opportu - nities, and through which youths can reconnect to their surroundings - giving them a much-needed sense of place and identity within the ever-changing city. The idea is ultimately to design a Youth Activity Centre for the Parkside neighbourhood in East London - a de - sign which can express how youth identity can impact architecture in a way that can benefit the development of youth’s identity, and which can re-animate the nature of the ‘street’ through architecture. , Thesis (MArch) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology, School of Architecture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The development of a framework to assess the effectiveness of the existing viability based lending format of development funding institutions to facilitate increased financial inclusion; recent evidence from the SME sector in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Mkhize, Bukhosi Walter
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52999 , vital:44867
- Description: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) internationally have a significant involvement in global economies, as they often are key drivers of economic growth through job creation, increasing production volumes, increased exports and imports. SMEs’ access to development finance and other financing products in the market remains one of the most significant constraints to the establishment, survival, growth, and productivity of SMEs. The South African Government has enacted policies to support SME development and enhance financial inclusion; however, the financing gap has proven to be persistent. Most SMEs cannot access various development and commercial credit funding due to a number of reasons, such as: the detailed complex financial documentation, own contribution and collateral required by finance institutions to grant loan finance; high cost involved in raising loan funding and high punitive interest rates due to the perceived high risk nature of the SMEs; and long time frames for the economic viability and business sustainability assessment processes for credit approval. In this study, a broad analysis of a viability based lending format of a development funding institution was conducted with the intention to develop a framework to assess its effectiveness to facilitate increased financial inclusion in the SMEs sector in KwaZulu-Natal. The study used the literature review to identify key factors that have an impact on economic viability and business sustainability/feasibility in terms of how these factors influence perceived financial inclusion of SMEs. The empirical section of the study tested SMEs’ perceptions and understanding of the concepts that influence the economic viability and business sustainability/feasibility of the SME sector. Strong evidence emerged from the empirical study that SMEs lack crucial resources such as own contribution to achieve an optimal equity structure in the business, lack of grant funding information available to support SMEs, lack of collateral required for funding security, lack of business support available to SMEs to compile comprehensive business plans and lack of own resources to manage various aspects of the business. Without appropriate coordination of the SMEs’ ecosystem, financial inclusion for SMEs will remain a challenge. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mkhize, Bukhosi Walter
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52999 , vital:44867
- Description: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) internationally have a significant involvement in global economies, as they often are key drivers of economic growth through job creation, increasing production volumes, increased exports and imports. SMEs’ access to development finance and other financing products in the market remains one of the most significant constraints to the establishment, survival, growth, and productivity of SMEs. The South African Government has enacted policies to support SME development and enhance financial inclusion; however, the financing gap has proven to be persistent. Most SMEs cannot access various development and commercial credit funding due to a number of reasons, such as: the detailed complex financial documentation, own contribution and collateral required by finance institutions to grant loan finance; high cost involved in raising loan funding and high punitive interest rates due to the perceived high risk nature of the SMEs; and long time frames for the economic viability and business sustainability assessment processes for credit approval. In this study, a broad analysis of a viability based lending format of a development funding institution was conducted with the intention to develop a framework to assess its effectiveness to facilitate increased financial inclusion in the SMEs sector in KwaZulu-Natal. The study used the literature review to identify key factors that have an impact on economic viability and business sustainability/feasibility in terms of how these factors influence perceived financial inclusion of SMEs. The empirical section of the study tested SMEs’ perceptions and understanding of the concepts that influence the economic viability and business sustainability/feasibility of the SME sector. Strong evidence emerged from the empirical study that SMEs lack crucial resources such as own contribution to achieve an optimal equity structure in the business, lack of grant funding information available to support SMEs, lack of collateral required for funding security, lack of business support available to SMEs to compile comprehensive business plans and lack of own resources to manage various aspects of the business. Without appropriate coordination of the SMEs’ ecosystem, financial inclusion for SMEs will remain a challenge. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The development of a guiding framework to maximise the potential benefits of stokvels: Recent evidence from South Africa
- Authors: Dikwayo, Mziwamadoda
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Rotating credit associations -- South Africa , Savings and loan associations -- South Africa , Africans -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51131 , vital:43211
- Description: The financial exclusion of the poor from the formal financial sector has contributed to the never ending cycle of inequality and poverty in South Africa. It is however evident from the R50 billion (Nasasa, 2020) generated each year in the stokvel market, that those previously excluded have been able to create their own informal market with immense potential. The full potential of the stokvel market has however not been adequately explored which has resulted in members not fully utilising this informal sector to improve their standards of living and the formal sector not providing adequate product solutions to benefit members. Majority of stokvels are still focused on traditional rotationally disbursement mechanisms designed for short-term goals (Zondi, 2016) and regardless of the market that has growth to be worth R50 billion, members are yet utilise funds accumulated on instruments and mechanisms to improve standards of livings for themselves, families and general communities. The formal sector provides stokvel savings products that offer stokvels with simple savings mechanism often generating little interests which may not necessarily provide the full potential benefit to the members. This was also shown in a study by African Response (2019) indicating that 40% of stokvels had their money invested in low to no interest accounts. Stokvels have also evolved and are now used for far more than just a simple savings mechanism, with some stokvels focusing on continuous rotationally mechanisms, while others focus on fixed periods. Stokvels can exist for different reasons including for groceries, burial, school fees and longer term purposes such as building houses or buying cars or a combination of these. Solutions available ought to therefore take into consideration the key needs of stokvels while considering short term and medium to long term solutions which current simple savings solutions offered by the formal sector may not completely offer. In keeping up with the market, banks may try to enhance their products but Moliea (2017) concluded that banks were being flexible on things that members did not require. Against the stated research problem, the primary objective of this research is to investigate how the traditional mechanisms of stokvels can be amended and improved to ensure maximum benefits/returns for its members; which benefits are not only long-term in nature, but also taking account of the short-term needs and realities of poor communities within the context of the South African economy. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Dikwayo, Mziwamadoda
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Rotating credit associations -- South Africa , Savings and loan associations -- South Africa , Africans -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51131 , vital:43211
- Description: The financial exclusion of the poor from the formal financial sector has contributed to the never ending cycle of inequality and poverty in South Africa. It is however evident from the R50 billion (Nasasa, 2020) generated each year in the stokvel market, that those previously excluded have been able to create their own informal market with immense potential. The full potential of the stokvel market has however not been adequately explored which has resulted in members not fully utilising this informal sector to improve their standards of living and the formal sector not providing adequate product solutions to benefit members. Majority of stokvels are still focused on traditional rotationally disbursement mechanisms designed for short-term goals (Zondi, 2016) and regardless of the market that has growth to be worth R50 billion, members are yet utilise funds accumulated on instruments and mechanisms to improve standards of livings for themselves, families and general communities. The formal sector provides stokvel savings products that offer stokvels with simple savings mechanism often generating little interests which may not necessarily provide the full potential benefit to the members. This was also shown in a study by African Response (2019) indicating that 40% of stokvels had their money invested in low to no interest accounts. Stokvels have also evolved and are now used for far more than just a simple savings mechanism, with some stokvels focusing on continuous rotationally mechanisms, while others focus on fixed periods. Stokvels can exist for different reasons including for groceries, burial, school fees and longer term purposes such as building houses or buying cars or a combination of these. Solutions available ought to therefore take into consideration the key needs of stokvels while considering short term and medium to long term solutions which current simple savings solutions offered by the formal sector may not completely offer. In keeping up with the market, banks may try to enhance their products but Moliea (2017) concluded that banks were being flexible on things that members did not require. Against the stated research problem, the primary objective of this research is to investigate how the traditional mechanisms of stokvels can be amended and improved to ensure maximum benefits/returns for its members; which benefits are not only long-term in nature, but also taking account of the short-term needs and realities of poor communities within the context of the South African economy. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The development of an ionospheric storm-time index for the South African region
- Authors: Tshisaphungo, Mpho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Ionospheric storms -- South Africa , Global Positioning System , Neural networks (Computer science) , Regression analysis , Ionosondes , Auroral electrojet , Geomagnetic indexes , Magnetic storms -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178409 , vital:42937 , 10.21504/10962/178409
- Description: This thesis presents the development of a regional ionospheric storm-time model which forms the foundation of an index to provide a quick view of the ionospheric storm effects over South African mid-latitude region. The model is based on the foF2 measurements from four South African ionosonde stations. The data coverage for the model development over Grahamstown (33.3◦S, 26.5◦E), Hermanus (34.42◦S, 19.22◦E), Louisvale (28.50◦S, 21.20◦E), and Madimbo (22.39◦S, 30.88◦E) is 1996-2016, 2009-2016, 2000-2016, and 2000-2016 respectively. Data from the Global Positioning System (GPS) and radio occultation (RO) technique were used during validation. As the measure of either positive or negative storm effect, the variation of the critical frequency of the F2 layer (foF2) from the monthly median values (denoted as _foF2) is modeled. The modeling of _foF2 is based on only storm time data with the criteria of Dst 6 -50 nT and Kp > 4. The modeling methods used in the study were artificial neural network (ANN), linear regression (LR) and polynomial functions. The approach taken was to first test the modeling techniques on a single station before expanding the study to cover the regional aspect. The single station modeling was developed based on ionosonde data over Grahamstown. The inputs for the model which related to seasonal variation, diurnal variation, geomagnetic activity and solar activity were considered. For the geomagnetic activity, three indices namely; the symmetric disturbance in the horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field (SYM − H), the Auroral Electrojet (AE) index and local geomagnetic index A, were included as inputs. The performance of a single station model revealed that, of the three geomagnetic indices, SYM − H index has the largest contribution of 41% and 54% based on ANN and LR techniques respectively. The average correlation coefficients (R) for both ANN and LR models was 0.8, when validated during the selected storms falling within the period of model development. When validated using storms that fall outside the period of model development, the model gave R values of 0.6 and 0.5 for ANN and LR respectively. In addition, the GPS total electron content (TEC) derived measurements were used to estimate foF2 data. This is because there are more GPS receivers than ionosonde locations and the utilisation of this data increases the spatial coverage of the regional model. The estimation of foF2 from GPS TEC was done at GPS-ionosonde co-locations using polynomial functions. The average R values of 0.69 and 0.65 were obtained between actual and derived _foF2 over the co-locations and other GPS stations respectively. Validation of GPS TEC derived foF2 with RO data over regions out of ionospheric pierce points coverage with respect to ionosonde locations gave R greater than 0.9 for the selected storm period of 4-8 August 2011. The regional storm-time model was then developed based on the ANN technique using the four South African ionosonde stations. The maximum and minimum R values of 0.6 and 0.5 were obtained over ionosonde and GPS locations respectively. This model forms the basis towards the regional ionospheric storm-time index. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Tshisaphungo, Mpho
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Ionospheric storms -- South Africa , Global Positioning System , Neural networks (Computer science) , Regression analysis , Ionosondes , Auroral electrojet , Geomagnetic indexes , Magnetic storms -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178409 , vital:42937 , 10.21504/10962/178409
- Description: This thesis presents the development of a regional ionospheric storm-time model which forms the foundation of an index to provide a quick view of the ionospheric storm effects over South African mid-latitude region. The model is based on the foF2 measurements from four South African ionosonde stations. The data coverage for the model development over Grahamstown (33.3◦S, 26.5◦E), Hermanus (34.42◦S, 19.22◦E), Louisvale (28.50◦S, 21.20◦E), and Madimbo (22.39◦S, 30.88◦E) is 1996-2016, 2009-2016, 2000-2016, and 2000-2016 respectively. Data from the Global Positioning System (GPS) and radio occultation (RO) technique were used during validation. As the measure of either positive or negative storm effect, the variation of the critical frequency of the F2 layer (foF2) from the monthly median values (denoted as _foF2) is modeled. The modeling of _foF2 is based on only storm time data with the criteria of Dst 6 -50 nT and Kp > 4. The modeling methods used in the study were artificial neural network (ANN), linear regression (LR) and polynomial functions. The approach taken was to first test the modeling techniques on a single station before expanding the study to cover the regional aspect. The single station modeling was developed based on ionosonde data over Grahamstown. The inputs for the model which related to seasonal variation, diurnal variation, geomagnetic activity and solar activity were considered. For the geomagnetic activity, three indices namely; the symmetric disturbance in the horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field (SYM − H), the Auroral Electrojet (AE) index and local geomagnetic index A, were included as inputs. The performance of a single station model revealed that, of the three geomagnetic indices, SYM − H index has the largest contribution of 41% and 54% based on ANN and LR techniques respectively. The average correlation coefficients (R) for both ANN and LR models was 0.8, when validated during the selected storms falling within the period of model development. When validated using storms that fall outside the period of model development, the model gave R values of 0.6 and 0.5 for ANN and LR respectively. In addition, the GPS total electron content (TEC) derived measurements were used to estimate foF2 data. This is because there are more GPS receivers than ionosonde locations and the utilisation of this data increases the spatial coverage of the regional model. The estimation of foF2 from GPS TEC was done at GPS-ionosonde co-locations using polynomial functions. The average R values of 0.69 and 0.65 were obtained between actual and derived _foF2 over the co-locations and other GPS stations respectively. Validation of GPS TEC derived foF2 with RO data over regions out of ionospheric pierce points coverage with respect to ionosonde locations gave R greater than 0.9 for the selected storm period of 4-8 August 2011. The regional storm-time model was then developed based on the ANN technique using the four South African ionosonde stations. The maximum and minimum R values of 0.6 and 0.5 were obtained over ionosonde and GPS locations respectively. This model forms the basis towards the regional ionospheric storm-time index. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Physics and Electronics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The development of grade one teachers’ mathematics and pedagogical content knowledge through participation in a collaborative intervention
- Authors: Mutlane, Kedisaletse Stella
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Pedagogical content knowledge , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Lesson planning -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Teaching teams -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177370 , vital:42815
- Description: The “South African education system is grossly inefficient, severely underperforming and egregiously unfair” (Spaull, 2013, p.3). In particular, grave concerns with learner performance in mathematics in South Africa are well documented (e.g., Taylor, 2008; Spaull, 2013; Venkat & Spaull, 2015). There are various explanations for the poor state of learner performance in mathematics in South Africa. Two of the explanations that relate closely to my research interest are teachers’ insufficient mathematics content and pedagogical knowledge, and inappropriate professional development. This study aims to ascertain how a collaborative intervention can develop teachers’ mathematics and pedagogical content knowledge as they focus on developing learners’ foundational number sense. Cultural Historical Activity Theory, together with Mathematics Knowledge for Teaching (Ball et al., 2008) and the Knowledge Quartet (Rowlands & Turner, 2007) frameworks, provide the explanatory and analytic tools for the research. The research is a qualitative case study underpinned by an interpretivist orientation. The study was conducted at a township public primary school in the Northern Cape. Three Grade One teachers participated in the research. Data was collected through interviews, classroom observations, and videos of collaborative lesson planning and reflection sessions. A key finding emerging from this research is that the teachers had the necessary mathematics content knowledge to teach Grade One mathematics. Despite this and in contrast to it, they lacked adequate pedagogical content knowledge required to develop learners’ number sense. To develop their pedagogical content knowledge, they required the intervention of a ‘more knowledgable other’ (Vygotsky, 2008). Several contradictions and tensions emerged from the research. For example, the teachers expressed that the opportunity to work collaboratively was beneficial, but it was evident that they were familiar with and accomplished in planning and working together. The contradictions emerging from this research provide an opportunity and basis for expansive learning for future collaborative teacher endeavours. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mutlane, Kedisaletse Stella
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching (Elementary) -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Pedagogical content knowledge , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Lesson planning -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Teaching teams -- South Africa -- Northern Cape , Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT)
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177370 , vital:42815
- Description: The “South African education system is grossly inefficient, severely underperforming and egregiously unfair” (Spaull, 2013, p.3). In particular, grave concerns with learner performance in mathematics in South Africa are well documented (e.g., Taylor, 2008; Spaull, 2013; Venkat & Spaull, 2015). There are various explanations for the poor state of learner performance in mathematics in South Africa. Two of the explanations that relate closely to my research interest are teachers’ insufficient mathematics content and pedagogical knowledge, and inappropriate professional development. This study aims to ascertain how a collaborative intervention can develop teachers’ mathematics and pedagogical content knowledge as they focus on developing learners’ foundational number sense. Cultural Historical Activity Theory, together with Mathematics Knowledge for Teaching (Ball et al., 2008) and the Knowledge Quartet (Rowlands & Turner, 2007) frameworks, provide the explanatory and analytic tools for the research. The research is a qualitative case study underpinned by an interpretivist orientation. The study was conducted at a township public primary school in the Northern Cape. Three Grade One teachers participated in the research. Data was collected through interviews, classroom observations, and videos of collaborative lesson planning and reflection sessions. A key finding emerging from this research is that the teachers had the necessary mathematics content knowledge to teach Grade One mathematics. Despite this and in contrast to it, they lacked adequate pedagogical content knowledge required to develop learners’ number sense. To develop their pedagogical content knowledge, they required the intervention of a ‘more knowledgable other’ (Vygotsky, 2008). Several contradictions and tensions emerged from the research. For example, the teachers expressed that the opportunity to work collaboratively was beneficial, but it was evident that they were familiar with and accomplished in planning and working together. The contradictions emerging from this research provide an opportunity and basis for expansive learning for future collaborative teacher endeavours. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Education, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The dismissal of employees for a group or team misconduct
- Authors: Mnisi, Daphney Sibongile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Unfair labor practices
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51184 , vital:43226
- Description: South African labour law is founded on the fundamental constitutional right of fair “labour practices”. This fundamental right is afforded to both the employer and workers. This means that in the employment relationship, there are two competing rights involved which necessitate the need to strike a balance when each party’s rights are exercised. Therefore, this right is not absolute, and it is subject to limitations as per the provisions of section 36 of the Constitution. The Labour Relations Act, amongst other labour law resources considered in this research, give effect to those competing rights and seek to strike the necessary balance by establishing guidelines to protect the individual employee against unfair dismissals, amongst other things. It requires that the dismissal of an employee be fair. This requirement is met where two elements are fulfilled: (1) substantive fairness and (2) procedural fairness. The purpose of this study is to focus on “misconduct” as a valid reason for dismissal, as well as “group or team misconduct” which is included in the notion and ambit of “misconduct”. This type of misconduct involves a group or team who the employer has identified as having committed a misconduct, but the employer, due to different reasons explored in this research, is unable to identify the specific individual employees directly involved in the primary misconduct it wishes to prosecute. Therefore, the employer formulates a disciplinary charge of “group or team misconduct” to discipline the entire group or team. This group or team may form part of the entire workforce or a team within a department of the employer’s business. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mnisi, Daphney Sibongile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Unfair labor practices
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51184 , vital:43226
- Description: South African labour law is founded on the fundamental constitutional right of fair “labour practices”. This fundamental right is afforded to both the employer and workers. This means that in the employment relationship, there are two competing rights involved which necessitate the need to strike a balance when each party’s rights are exercised. Therefore, this right is not absolute, and it is subject to limitations as per the provisions of section 36 of the Constitution. The Labour Relations Act, amongst other labour law resources considered in this research, give effect to those competing rights and seek to strike the necessary balance by establishing guidelines to protect the individual employee against unfair dismissals, amongst other things. It requires that the dismissal of an employee be fair. This requirement is met where two elements are fulfilled: (1) substantive fairness and (2) procedural fairness. The purpose of this study is to focus on “misconduct” as a valid reason for dismissal, as well as “group or team misconduct” which is included in the notion and ambit of “misconduct”. This type of misconduct involves a group or team who the employer has identified as having committed a misconduct, but the employer, due to different reasons explored in this research, is unable to identify the specific individual employees directly involved in the primary misconduct it wishes to prosecute. Therefore, the employer formulates a disciplinary charge of “group or team misconduct” to discipline the entire group or team. This group or team may form part of the entire workforce or a team within a department of the employer’s business. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The Dragon in the News : how Malawian journalists perceive the political influence of China on news reporting in Malawi
- Authors: Nyirongo, Mwaona
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Journalists -- Malawi , Journalism -- Malawi , Journalism -- Political aspects -- Malawi , Journalism -- Objectivity -- Malawi , China -- Foreign economic relations -- Malawi , Malawi -- Economic conditions , Malawi -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177907 , vital:42889
- Description: The arrival of China in Malawi has been characterised by a growing sense of uncertainty where academics and social commentators at large have expressed concern over the intentions of the super power in the country. There are fears that China would like to extend its influence to Malawi as part of a broader push, to have greater influence in global politics and economics. That push is in part exercised through the media. The thesis examined the perception of Malawian journalists on how news media reports on Chinese activities in Malawi. It used content analysis to understand how the mediascape had changed from 2001 – 2007 when China had not established diplomatic relations with Malawi, and January 2008 – 2020 when China had established diplomatic relations. The thesis examined these shifts in journalistic representations of China in Malawi and developed prompts and probes from which journalist interviews were conducted. From the content analysis, it appears there is a remarkable change in the way China has been covered from 2001 – 2020. From 2001 – 2007, Malawian media, especially The Daily Times, was very harsh on China, uncritically reproducing Western representations of China as an aggressive country with no respect for human rights and dignity. This changed after January 2008 when the media leaned towards tolerance and acknowledgement of Chinese activities. Through interviews, journalists have indicated that the Chinese government offers opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and exchange visits to journalists, making it difficult for them to bite the finger that is feeding them. This ‘soft power’ is backed up by the repressive power of the Malawi government, which uses intimidation to force journalists to report in their favour, thereby helping create a positive picture for China in Malawi. Journalists report that the significant shifts in journalistic representations of China have been mirrored by changes in the conceptualisation of journalistic roles in Malawi’s mediascape. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Journalsim and Media Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Nyirongo, Mwaona
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Journalists -- Malawi , Journalism -- Malawi , Journalism -- Political aspects -- Malawi , Journalism -- Objectivity -- Malawi , China -- Foreign economic relations -- Malawi , Malawi -- Economic conditions , Malawi -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177907 , vital:42889
- Description: The arrival of China in Malawi has been characterised by a growing sense of uncertainty where academics and social commentators at large have expressed concern over the intentions of the super power in the country. There are fears that China would like to extend its influence to Malawi as part of a broader push, to have greater influence in global politics and economics. That push is in part exercised through the media. The thesis examined the perception of Malawian journalists on how news media reports on Chinese activities in Malawi. It used content analysis to understand how the mediascape had changed from 2001 – 2007 when China had not established diplomatic relations with Malawi, and January 2008 – 2020 when China had established diplomatic relations. The thesis examined these shifts in journalistic representations of China in Malawi and developed prompts and probes from which journalist interviews were conducted. From the content analysis, it appears there is a remarkable change in the way China has been covered from 2001 – 2020. From 2001 – 2007, Malawian media, especially The Daily Times, was very harsh on China, uncritically reproducing Western representations of China as an aggressive country with no respect for human rights and dignity. This changed after January 2008 when the media leaned towards tolerance and acknowledgement of Chinese activities. Through interviews, journalists have indicated that the Chinese government offers opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and exchange visits to journalists, making it difficult for them to bite the finger that is feeding them. This ‘soft power’ is backed up by the repressive power of the Malawi government, which uses intimidation to force journalists to report in their favour, thereby helping create a positive picture for China in Malawi. Journalists report that the significant shifts in journalistic representations of China have been mirrored by changes in the conceptualisation of journalistic roles in Malawi’s mediascape. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Journalsim and Media Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of electronic human resources management on employee engagement levels across generational cohorts
- Grobbelaar, Angelique Louise
- Authors: Grobbelaar, Angelique Louise
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Personnel management , Information technology -- Management , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51450 , vital:43278
- Description: The infrastructure and use of the Internet have developed rapidly in recent years, which propelled traditional human resources systems into a new electronic human resources (E-HRM) approach. This cannot, however, be regarded as a one-size-fits-all solution as employees across different generational cohorts are not all at the same comfort level with regard to operating such web-based applications. It is the researcher’s opinion that the latter may affect employee engagement as this appears to be the case within the researcher’s own organisation. Employee engagement is important in providing organisations with the competitive advantage required to operate in a highly competitive market. Employee engagement levels are far from ideal across many organisations, which require these organisations to identify solutions to raise overall engagement levels. With age rapidly becoming a more important diversity factor, it is imperative for managers to understand the effect of E-HRM on employee engagement across the generational cohorts to design the most beneficial HRM strategy for their organisation. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding on how generational cohorts are affected by the application of E-HRM programmes and to identify whether there are substantial variances between the engagement levels of the different generational cohorts in this context. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Grobbelaar, Angelique Louise
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Personnel management , Information technology -- Management , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51450 , vital:43278
- Description: The infrastructure and use of the Internet have developed rapidly in recent years, which propelled traditional human resources systems into a new electronic human resources (E-HRM) approach. This cannot, however, be regarded as a one-size-fits-all solution as employees across different generational cohorts are not all at the same comfort level with regard to operating such web-based applications. It is the researcher’s opinion that the latter may affect employee engagement as this appears to be the case within the researcher’s own organisation. Employee engagement is important in providing organisations with the competitive advantage required to operate in a highly competitive market. Employee engagement levels are far from ideal across many organisations, which require these organisations to identify solutions to raise overall engagement levels. With age rapidly becoming a more important diversity factor, it is imperative for managers to understand the effect of E-HRM on employee engagement across the generational cohorts to design the most beneficial HRM strategy for their organisation. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding on how generational cohorts are affected by the application of E-HRM programmes and to identify whether there are substantial variances between the engagement levels of the different generational cohorts in this context. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of laundering on the physical and thermal properties of phase change textile materials
- Authors: Scheepers, Ricardo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Textile chemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52038 , vital:43443
- Description: Phase change materials (PCMs) have been incorporated into clothing and textiles to provide added value in terms of thermoregulation and thus added comfort to the wearer in extreme weather conditions and sporting activities. Since clothing is laundered many times during the service life of the textile, the effects of simulated domestic laundering on the physical and thermal properties of a non-woven textile which contains PCMs were investigated. The thermal properties, such as the thermal degradation, melting, evaporation and crystallisation were measured by the TGA and DSC analytical techniques. The physical properties, such as the microcapsule size distribution, and the microcapsule morphologies of the PCM microcapsules, were measured by the SEM and Raman analytical techniques. The main objectives of this study were to determine the effect of repeated laundering at different wash temperatures on the mass loss, enthalpy, and physical changes in PCM. Thermal degradation as determined by TGA thermograms was found to be higher at a wash temperature of 60°C relative to that of a wash temperature at 30°C, the mass loss being 4.6% more at 60°C than at 30°C. This was asserted to physical changes such as size and shape of the PCM microcapsules as evident in SEM images. The SEM images showed broken and collapsed PCM microcapsules in the web and around the fibre, indicating evaporation of the thermoregulating content of the PCM. It was found that the heat capacity of the sample washed at 60°C was much lower than that of the unwashed sample, the difference being approximately 50% in terms of the latent heat capacity as determined by DSC thermograms. This implies that the latent heat effectiveness of the PCM has decreased significantly. The physical properties of the PCM such as the intermolecular interaction, the intensity and width of peaks, polarisation, degree of crystallinity and the orientation changed as illustrated in the Raman analysis. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Scheepers, Ricardo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Textile chemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52038 , vital:43443
- Description: Phase change materials (PCMs) have been incorporated into clothing and textiles to provide added value in terms of thermoregulation and thus added comfort to the wearer in extreme weather conditions and sporting activities. Since clothing is laundered many times during the service life of the textile, the effects of simulated domestic laundering on the physical and thermal properties of a non-woven textile which contains PCMs were investigated. The thermal properties, such as the thermal degradation, melting, evaporation and crystallisation were measured by the TGA and DSC analytical techniques. The physical properties, such as the microcapsule size distribution, and the microcapsule morphologies of the PCM microcapsules, were measured by the SEM and Raman analytical techniques. The main objectives of this study were to determine the effect of repeated laundering at different wash temperatures on the mass loss, enthalpy, and physical changes in PCM. Thermal degradation as determined by TGA thermograms was found to be higher at a wash temperature of 60°C relative to that of a wash temperature at 30°C, the mass loss being 4.6% more at 60°C than at 30°C. This was asserted to physical changes such as size and shape of the PCM microcapsules as evident in SEM images. The SEM images showed broken and collapsed PCM microcapsules in the web and around the fibre, indicating evaporation of the thermoregulating content of the PCM. It was found that the heat capacity of the sample washed at 60°C was much lower than that of the unwashed sample, the difference being approximately 50% in terms of the latent heat capacity as determined by DSC thermograms. This implies that the latent heat effectiveness of the PCM has decreased significantly. The physical properties of the PCM such as the intermolecular interaction, the intensity and width of peaks, polarisation, degree of crystallinity and the orientation changed as illustrated in the Raman analysis. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of plant-derived dietary protein sources on cultured abalone Haliotis midae (L. 1758) digestive physiology
- Authors: Wright, Jason Geoffrey
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa , Haliotis midae -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Haliotis midae -- Physiology -- South Africa , Haliotis midae -- South Africa -- Growth , Haliotis midae -- Digestive organs , Abalone culture -- South Africa , Plant proteins as feed
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/176803 , vital:42760
- Description: The growth and feed conversion ratio of farmed abalone Haliotis midae (L. 1758) fed a formulated diet varies in feeds with different protein sources. To better understand this, the effect that various combinations of dietary soybean meal (SBM), sunflower meal (SFM) and fishmeal (FM) had on the digestive efficiency of farmed H. midae when included in a formulated feed, were assessed. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect that plant-based proteins had on abalone digestion and gut-bacterial profile of cultured adult abalone when combined with fishmeal. This was done by analysing the chymotrypsin (protease) and cellulase (carbohydrase) digestive enzyme activities from whole-gut sections of farmed abalone that were fed one of four diets for 12 months: FM-only, SBM-only, fishmeal and soybean meal (FM-SBM), and fishmeal and sunflower meal (FM-SFM). There were significant interactions between the diets, sampling date, and sex of the abalone, which had an influence on the cellulase activities in the digestive tracts of the animals. Those fed the SBM diet had the highest cellulase activity by the end of the sampling period (ANOVA; df = 9; F = 2.9; P = 0.005). The significant interactions between diet and sampling date influenced the chymotrypsin activities of abalone. Animals fed the FM diet had the highest activity of chymotrypsin for most of the sampling period (ANOVA; df = 9; F = 2.5; P = 0.01). Therefore, diet did have an impact on the cellulase and chymotrypsin activities of abalone fed either combination diets (FM-SBM; FM-SFM) or single protein diets (FM; SBM). The presence of plant material such as cellulose fibres in the diets containing plant proteins may have influenced the cellulase activity levels of each treatment as it would have stimulated endogenous and exogenous cellulase production. However, treatments with the highest crude fibre content, SBM and FM-SFM, resulted in differing activities. The activity levels of chymotrypsin may have been impacted by the protein type, presence of protein inhibitors and temporal changes in utilisation. Abalone fed the FM diet exhibited the highest chymotrypsin activities on sampling day 182, which was in summer. Animals fed the treatment diets containing fishmeal also developed their reproductive tissues, and may explain the low chymotrypsin activities in abalone fed SBM-only. Additionally, the presence of allergenic compounds would have influenced enzyme activity, as they would have negatively affected the nutrient utilisation and absorptive capacity. Fluctuations in water temperature may have had an effect on enzyme activity, as activities were highest during summer, when seawater temperatures are most variable. A change to lowered water temperatures are known to trigger the growth of digestive epithelial tissue in abalone to allow for increased enzyme secretions and nutrient absorption (Schaeffer et al. 2013). The effect that plant protein inclusion in abalone diets had on the gut-microbiota was revealed by analysing the differences in gut-bacterial community profiles, through the use of metagenomic sequencing. The relative abundance of the phylum Verrucomicrobia, class Verrcomicrobiae and the genus Rubritalea were highest in the SBM diet. These bacterial groups were also influenced by the plant material from soybean meal, as hydrolysed cellulose is broken down by cellulases, and allowed for the proliferation of Rubritalea bacteria due to them using cellobiose as an energy source. The presence of Bacteroidetes was due to the phyla having bacterial species that can breakdown proteins and species that can break down carbohydrates. The animal protein present in the composition of the FM diet had a positive influence on proteolytic Bacteroidetes growth. The high levels of cellulose from the plant fibres in the soybean meal-only diet (SBM) promoted growth of saccharolytic Bacteroidetes. Tenericutes bacteria’s prominence was due to the higher plant fibres from the soybean meal as some Mycoplasma are known to degrade polysaccharides. Therefore, exposure to formulated feeds with high levels of these plant materials would allow for high proliferation. The thesis established that plant-derived dietary proteins in formulated feeds result in an effect on digestive enzyme activity and a difference in the community structure of gut bacteria in H. midae abalone. The results from the current research highlight the importance of studying abalone gut physiology when investigating the impacts of formulated feed composition, and can be used as an additional factor when determining the efficacy of a dietary component. Further research on the gut-bacterial groups and different digestive enzymes of H. midae abalone is encouraged, in order to create a holistic view on their response to dietary plant proteins inclusion in formulated feeds, thus reducing the need for fishmeal protein. , Thesis (MSc)-- Rhodes University, Faculty of Science, Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Wright, Jason Geoffrey
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa , Haliotis midae -- Nutrition -- South Africa , Haliotis midae -- Physiology -- South Africa , Haliotis midae -- South Africa -- Growth , Haliotis midae -- Digestive organs , Abalone culture -- South Africa , Plant proteins as feed
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/176803 , vital:42760
- Description: The growth and feed conversion ratio of farmed abalone Haliotis midae (L. 1758) fed a formulated diet varies in feeds with different protein sources. To better understand this, the effect that various combinations of dietary soybean meal (SBM), sunflower meal (SFM) and fishmeal (FM) had on the digestive efficiency of farmed H. midae when included in a formulated feed, were assessed. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect that plant-based proteins had on abalone digestion and gut-bacterial profile of cultured adult abalone when combined with fishmeal. This was done by analysing the chymotrypsin (protease) and cellulase (carbohydrase) digestive enzyme activities from whole-gut sections of farmed abalone that were fed one of four diets for 12 months: FM-only, SBM-only, fishmeal and soybean meal (FM-SBM), and fishmeal and sunflower meal (FM-SFM). There were significant interactions between the diets, sampling date, and sex of the abalone, which had an influence on the cellulase activities in the digestive tracts of the animals. Those fed the SBM diet had the highest cellulase activity by the end of the sampling period (ANOVA; df = 9; F = 2.9; P = 0.005). The significant interactions between diet and sampling date influenced the chymotrypsin activities of abalone. Animals fed the FM diet had the highest activity of chymotrypsin for most of the sampling period (ANOVA; df = 9; F = 2.5; P = 0.01). Therefore, diet did have an impact on the cellulase and chymotrypsin activities of abalone fed either combination diets (FM-SBM; FM-SFM) or single protein diets (FM; SBM). The presence of plant material such as cellulose fibres in the diets containing plant proteins may have influenced the cellulase activity levels of each treatment as it would have stimulated endogenous and exogenous cellulase production. However, treatments with the highest crude fibre content, SBM and FM-SFM, resulted in differing activities. The activity levels of chymotrypsin may have been impacted by the protein type, presence of protein inhibitors and temporal changes in utilisation. Abalone fed the FM diet exhibited the highest chymotrypsin activities on sampling day 182, which was in summer. Animals fed the treatment diets containing fishmeal also developed their reproductive tissues, and may explain the low chymotrypsin activities in abalone fed SBM-only. Additionally, the presence of allergenic compounds would have influenced enzyme activity, as they would have negatively affected the nutrient utilisation and absorptive capacity. Fluctuations in water temperature may have had an effect on enzyme activity, as activities were highest during summer, when seawater temperatures are most variable. A change to lowered water temperatures are known to trigger the growth of digestive epithelial tissue in abalone to allow for increased enzyme secretions and nutrient absorption (Schaeffer et al. 2013). The effect that plant protein inclusion in abalone diets had on the gut-microbiota was revealed by analysing the differences in gut-bacterial community profiles, through the use of metagenomic sequencing. The relative abundance of the phylum Verrucomicrobia, class Verrcomicrobiae and the genus Rubritalea were highest in the SBM diet. These bacterial groups were also influenced by the plant material from soybean meal, as hydrolysed cellulose is broken down by cellulases, and allowed for the proliferation of Rubritalea bacteria due to them using cellobiose as an energy source. The presence of Bacteroidetes was due to the phyla having bacterial species that can breakdown proteins and species that can break down carbohydrates. The animal protein present in the composition of the FM diet had a positive influence on proteolytic Bacteroidetes growth. The high levels of cellulose from the plant fibres in the soybean meal-only diet (SBM) promoted growth of saccharolytic Bacteroidetes. Tenericutes bacteria’s prominence was due to the higher plant fibres from the soybean meal as some Mycoplasma are known to degrade polysaccharides. Therefore, exposure to formulated feeds with high levels of these plant materials would allow for high proliferation. The thesis established that plant-derived dietary proteins in formulated feeds result in an effect on digestive enzyme activity and a difference in the community structure of gut bacteria in H. midae abalone. The results from the current research highlight the importance of studying abalone gut physiology when investigating the impacts of formulated feed composition, and can be used as an additional factor when determining the efficacy of a dietary component. Further research on the gut-bacterial groups and different digestive enzymes of H. midae abalone is encouraged, in order to create a holistic view on their response to dietary plant proteins inclusion in formulated feeds, thus reducing the need for fishmeal protein. , Thesis (MSc)-- Rhodes University, Faculty of Science, Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of sectoral foreign direct investment on sectoral growth and sectoral employment in South Africa
- Authors: Paul, Bernice Nicole
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- , South Africa -- Economic policy , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , UNCTAD-ICTSD Project on IPRs and Sustainable Development , Unemployment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Master , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177964 , vital:42894
- Description: Over several decades past, developing countries have received increased amounts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This form of investment has been welcomed because of the perceived benefits attached to it. FDI is seen as an important driver of economic development for many nations. For South Africa specifically, GDP growth rates have remained less than required, unemployment rates have reached staggering levels, poverty and inequality levels are increasing and the list goes on. Considering the perceived benefits of FDI, one may argue that FDI can play a crucial role in reducing the mentioned challenges facing the nation, however, only if directed to initiatives contributing to growth and employment. The 2015 Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development includes an action menu promoting investment in sectors relating to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth in addition to investigating the effect of sector FDI on sector employment over the period 2000Q1 to 2016Q4 for six of South Africa’s economic sectors. The reason for such a study is based on the premise that developing nations such as South Africa lack sound trade and industrial policies favorable to foreign investors. This then leads to the nation failing to attract higher volumes of FDI which could be used to address structural challenges facing the country. It is therefore important to identify sectors in which FDI has resulted in growth and employment so that when policies are considered, the right FDI is targeted. A comprehensive review of existing theoretical and empirical literature showed that FDI does result in economic growth for developed and developing countries, although FDI crowds out domestic investment in the short run. Literature on the effect of FDI on employment showed diverse effects. Some studies found FDI to increase employment overall, other studies found FDI to increase employment only during periods of restructuring and some studies found FDI to result in job losses. For South African sectors, the present study finds that the financial services sector receives the highest volume of South African FDI, followed by the mining and quarrying sector and the manufacturing, however, FDI in all six sectors under study is associated with increased growth and employment. This finding suggests that the financial services sector has received increased volumes of FDI as a result of financialization of the South African economy. It is this increased FDI in the financial services sector that is directed to income redistribution from the real sector to the finance sector. This study employed econometric techniques and methods of analysis to investigate the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth, and the effect of sector FDI on sector employment. Panel cointegration tests were conducted for all six sectors included in the study to establish if long run equilibrium relationships exist among integrated variables. The Johansen-Fisher panel cointegration test revealed that there is evidence of cointegration in four of the six sectors. Since cointegration was established, the study proceeded to perform the Dumitrescu-Hurlin panel causality analysis and estimate a Panel Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). Results from the causality analysis found a unidirectional causality relationship between FDI and GDP growth, while the panel VECM found FDI to have a significant effect on growth in all sectors. The Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model employed to investigate the effect of FDI on employment found FDI to have an insignificant effect on employment in all sectors included, although the signs of the coefficients suggest that FDI is associated with increased employment and rising wages is associated with increased productivity growth. Since this study finds that FDI is associated with increased GDP growth in all six sectors under study, policy makers should devise strategies to attract FDI in sectors such as the transportation, storage and communication sector and the electricity, gas and water sector as FDI in these sectors are associated with increased growth however, they receive very low levels of FDI. There are a number of reasons for this, therefore, government institutions and policy makers should investigate the reasons for these low levels of FDI inflows into these sectors so that they can devise further strategies to address these reasons and perhaps attract higher levels of FDI into these sectors. Spillover benefits play a major role in host nations participating in FDI therefore, prior to entering into bilateral treaty agreements, policy makers should ensure that foreign investors are compelled to create jobs, offer training and qualifications etc. through their investments so that some of the SDGs can be achieved. Additionally, this study finds a positive, statistically insignificant relationship between FDI and employment. FDI may not have a significant relationship on employment due to jobless growth and capital-intensive growth rather than labor-intensive growth. Such a situation calls for government intervention. Skills shortage is a rising problem in South Africa; therefore, investors choose to employ advanced technologies rather than people. Under such circumstances, governments are encouraged to invest resources into skills development so that human capital are not completely replaced by technology. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Paul, Bernice Nicole
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 1991- , South Africa -- Economic policy , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , UNCTAD-ICTSD Project on IPRs and Sustainable Development , Unemployment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Master , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177964 , vital:42894
- Description: Over several decades past, developing countries have received increased amounts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This form of investment has been welcomed because of the perceived benefits attached to it. FDI is seen as an important driver of economic development for many nations. For South Africa specifically, GDP growth rates have remained less than required, unemployment rates have reached staggering levels, poverty and inequality levels are increasing and the list goes on. Considering the perceived benefits of FDI, one may argue that FDI can play a crucial role in reducing the mentioned challenges facing the nation, however, only if directed to initiatives contributing to growth and employment. The 2015 Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development includes an action menu promoting investment in sectors relating to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this study is aimed at investigating the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth in addition to investigating the effect of sector FDI on sector employment over the period 2000Q1 to 2016Q4 for six of South Africa’s economic sectors. The reason for such a study is based on the premise that developing nations such as South Africa lack sound trade and industrial policies favorable to foreign investors. This then leads to the nation failing to attract higher volumes of FDI which could be used to address structural challenges facing the country. It is therefore important to identify sectors in which FDI has resulted in growth and employment so that when policies are considered, the right FDI is targeted. A comprehensive review of existing theoretical and empirical literature showed that FDI does result in economic growth for developed and developing countries, although FDI crowds out domestic investment in the short run. Literature on the effect of FDI on employment showed diverse effects. Some studies found FDI to increase employment overall, other studies found FDI to increase employment only during periods of restructuring and some studies found FDI to result in job losses. For South African sectors, the present study finds that the financial services sector receives the highest volume of South African FDI, followed by the mining and quarrying sector and the manufacturing, however, FDI in all six sectors under study is associated with increased growth and employment. This finding suggests that the financial services sector has received increased volumes of FDI as a result of financialization of the South African economy. It is this increased FDI in the financial services sector that is directed to income redistribution from the real sector to the finance sector. This study employed econometric techniques and methods of analysis to investigate the relationship between sector FDI and sector growth, and the effect of sector FDI on sector employment. Panel cointegration tests were conducted for all six sectors included in the study to establish if long run equilibrium relationships exist among integrated variables. The Johansen-Fisher panel cointegration test revealed that there is evidence of cointegration in four of the six sectors. Since cointegration was established, the study proceeded to perform the Dumitrescu-Hurlin panel causality analysis and estimate a Panel Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). Results from the causality analysis found a unidirectional causality relationship between FDI and GDP growth, while the panel VECM found FDI to have a significant effect on growth in all sectors. The Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model employed to investigate the effect of FDI on employment found FDI to have an insignificant effect on employment in all sectors included, although the signs of the coefficients suggest that FDI is associated with increased employment and rising wages is associated with increased productivity growth. Since this study finds that FDI is associated with increased GDP growth in all six sectors under study, policy makers should devise strategies to attract FDI in sectors such as the transportation, storage and communication sector and the electricity, gas and water sector as FDI in these sectors are associated with increased growth however, they receive very low levels of FDI. There are a number of reasons for this, therefore, government institutions and policy makers should investigate the reasons for these low levels of FDI inflows into these sectors so that they can devise further strategies to address these reasons and perhaps attract higher levels of FDI into these sectors. Spillover benefits play a major role in host nations participating in FDI therefore, prior to entering into bilateral treaty agreements, policy makers should ensure that foreign investors are compelled to create jobs, offer training and qualifications etc. through their investments so that some of the SDGs can be achieved. Additionally, this study finds a positive, statistically insignificant relationship between FDI and employment. FDI may not have a significant relationship on employment due to jobless growth and capital-intensive growth rather than labor-intensive growth. Such a situation calls for government intervention. Skills shortage is a rising problem in South Africa; therefore, investors choose to employ advanced technologies rather than people. Under such circumstances, governments are encouraged to invest resources into skills development so that human capital are not completely replaced by technology. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of transport infrastructure investment on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Matsolo, Khanya
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51699 , vital:43364
- Description: The objective of the study was to examine the effect of transport infrastructure investment on economic growth of South Africa. The time series data that covered the period from 2001-2019 using converted quarterly data was used. The study applied autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) to analyse the relationship between transport infrastructure investment and economic growth in South Africa. The empirical results shows that there is positive relationship between these two variables both in the short run and long run. Thus, it is recommended that policy makers should develop strategies that are aligned with effective and efficient transport infrastructure investment to enhance economic growth in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Matsolo, Khanya
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51699 , vital:43364
- Description: The objective of the study was to examine the effect of transport infrastructure investment on economic growth of South Africa. The time series data that covered the period from 2001-2019 using converted quarterly data was used. The study applied autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) to analyse the relationship between transport infrastructure investment and economic growth in South Africa. The empirical results shows that there is positive relationship between these two variables both in the short run and long run. Thus, it is recommended that policy makers should develop strategies that are aligned with effective and efficient transport infrastructure investment to enhance economic growth in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The Effect of Using English as A Language of Learning and Teaching on Learner Academic Performance in Senior Phase of Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Seabela, Marcia Motlatso
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: teaching strategies
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6782 , vital:49059
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of using English as a language of learning and teaching on learner academic performance in the senior phase of Mthatha District, Eastern Cape Province. This study employed a mixed-method approach. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data. The study was conducted in 3 semi-rural senior secondary schools that were conveniently selected. The quantitative part employed Likert-type scale questionnaires that were administered to 10 Mathematics (Math), 10 Natural Sciences (NS) and 10 Social Sciences (SS) teachers making a total of 30 teachers and a total of 30 learners from grades 8 and 9. For the qualitative part, nine (9) teachers and eighteen (18) learners from the selected schools were interviewed. The 18 teachers in three schools were observed as they taught Grade 8 and 9 learners in their respective classes. Qualitative data were, thus, gathered through interviews and observations. Quantitative data was collected using Likert-type scale questionnaires and was analysed using descriptive statistics and Microsoft Excel. The voice recorded qualitative data from the participant’s responses were transcribed and analysed manually through coding, forming categories and themes that were used for data presentation. These are some of the findings: The majority of learners do not understand English, therefore, it was difficult for them to understand the teaching and learning of the selected subjects in Senior Phase (SP) using English as the language of learning and teaching (LoLT); Although the majority of learners reported that they usually use English as a LoLT and their home language when learning the selected subjects, they still struggled to ask and answer questions in English in a classroom and during examinations; Learners who experience difficulties in learning the selected subjects through the use of English as a LoLT in SP, were taught in their home language (isiXhosa) by their teachers; English and isiXhosa, in the form of code-switching, were used when teaching the selected subjects; Inadequate teacher training and preparation made it more difficult for the learners to perform well in the selected subjects. The study recommends that: The Department of Education should conduct enough workshops to help HOD’s and teachers who teach the selected subjects to keep abreast of new developments in these subjects. These should be integrated with appropriate teaching strategies and learning and teaching support materials. Keywords: English as the language of learning and teaching, teaching strategies, learning, teaching support materials. , Thesis (D.Ed) -- Faculty of Education Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Seabela, Marcia Motlatso
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: teaching strategies
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/6782 , vital:49059
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of using English as a language of learning and teaching on learner academic performance in the senior phase of Mthatha District, Eastern Cape Province. This study employed a mixed-method approach. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data. The study was conducted in 3 semi-rural senior secondary schools that were conveniently selected. The quantitative part employed Likert-type scale questionnaires that were administered to 10 Mathematics (Math), 10 Natural Sciences (NS) and 10 Social Sciences (SS) teachers making a total of 30 teachers and a total of 30 learners from grades 8 and 9. For the qualitative part, nine (9) teachers and eighteen (18) learners from the selected schools were interviewed. The 18 teachers in three schools were observed as they taught Grade 8 and 9 learners in their respective classes. Qualitative data were, thus, gathered through interviews and observations. Quantitative data was collected using Likert-type scale questionnaires and was analysed using descriptive statistics and Microsoft Excel. The voice recorded qualitative data from the participant’s responses were transcribed and analysed manually through coding, forming categories and themes that were used for data presentation. These are some of the findings: The majority of learners do not understand English, therefore, it was difficult for them to understand the teaching and learning of the selected subjects in Senior Phase (SP) using English as the language of learning and teaching (LoLT); Although the majority of learners reported that they usually use English as a LoLT and their home language when learning the selected subjects, they still struggled to ask and answer questions in English in a classroom and during examinations; Learners who experience difficulties in learning the selected subjects through the use of English as a LoLT in SP, were taught in their home language (isiXhosa) by their teachers; English and isiXhosa, in the form of code-switching, were used when teaching the selected subjects; Inadequate teacher training and preparation made it more difficult for the learners to perform well in the selected subjects. The study recommends that: The Department of Education should conduct enough workshops to help HOD’s and teachers who teach the selected subjects to keep abreast of new developments in these subjects. These should be integrated with appropriate teaching strategies and learning and teaching support materials. Keywords: English as the language of learning and teaching, teaching strategies, learning, teaching support materials. , Thesis (D.Ed) -- Faculty of Education Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of various substrate pretreatment methods on the enzymatic degradability of a Eucalyptus sp. – a potential feedstock for producing fermentable sugars
- Authors: Thoresen, Mariska
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178580 , vital:42952
- Description: Access restricted until April 2022. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Thoresen, Mariska
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: To be added
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178580 , vital:42952
- Description: Access restricted until April 2022. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
The effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Libode District
- Authors: Jali, Thabisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water-supply, Agricultural , Water efficiency -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , arms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51661 , vital:43347
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom. The aim of the research was to assess how small-scale farmers are affected by water scarcity and the coping strategies used to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. The study is located within the interpretive paradigm, where realities are viewed and develops subjective meanings. Qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study as it investigates the subjective opinions of the respondents about the effects of water scarcity and their coping practices. The respondents offered their own opinions about their realities of the effects of water scarcity and coping practices. Both Marhewini and Megacom communities’ experiences water scarcity and they all have developed coping practices. The researcher used semi-structured interviews with small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom as a tool to collect data. The findings from the study shows that Marhewini and Megacom locations have different garden sizes, that is Marhewini has larger gardens. It was found out that both areas (Marhewini and Megacom) experience challenges such as lack of fence and livestock that destroys crops. It was also found out that the effects of water scarcity included loss of interest in farming and delays in crop growth. There were various coping strategies that were used by small-scale farmers such as the idea of creating a water pump system and watering the garden before the crops are planted. It was indicated that most of the respondents did not have knowledge of sustainable development. Water scarcity is a problem facing both communities (Marhewini and Megacom) and the small-scale farmers have developed means to cope with the problem. Based on the findings, valuable recommendations were offered. These includes the farmers forming an association where they can share experience and knowledge. Also, the community could continue working together to ensure the idea of a water system is implemented and businesses (water suppliers) could work with the community to find an arrangement of providing affordable water. The department of water and sanitation could fund the idea of a water system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Jali, Thabisa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water-supply, Agricultural , Water efficiency -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , arms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51661 , vital:43347
- Description: The study sought to investigate the effect of water scarcity and coping practices of small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom. The aim of the research was to assess how small-scale farmers are affected by water scarcity and the coping strategies used to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. The study is located within the interpretive paradigm, where realities are viewed and develops subjective meanings. Qualitative research methodology was adopted for the study as it investigates the subjective opinions of the respondents about the effects of water scarcity and their coping practices. The respondents offered their own opinions about their realities of the effects of water scarcity and coping practices. Both Marhewini and Megacom communities’ experiences water scarcity and they all have developed coping practices. The researcher used semi-structured interviews with small-scale farmers in Marhewini and Megacom as a tool to collect data. The findings from the study shows that Marhewini and Megacom locations have different garden sizes, that is Marhewini has larger gardens. It was found out that both areas (Marhewini and Megacom) experience challenges such as lack of fence and livestock that destroys crops. It was also found out that the effects of water scarcity included loss of interest in farming and delays in crop growth. There were various coping strategies that were used by small-scale farmers such as the idea of creating a water pump system and watering the garden before the crops are planted. It was indicated that most of the respondents did not have knowledge of sustainable development. Water scarcity is a problem facing both communities (Marhewini and Megacom) and the small-scale farmers have developed means to cope with the problem. Based on the findings, valuable recommendations were offered. These includes the farmers forming an association where they can share experience and knowledge. Also, the community could continue working together to ensure the idea of a water system is implemented and businesses (water suppliers) could work with the community to find an arrangement of providing affordable water. The department of water and sanitation could fund the idea of a water system. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04