The relationship between employee engagement and performance in a South African bottling company
- Authors: Sauls, Lucretia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Management -- Employee participation , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9420 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021171
- Description: Employee engagement is emerging as a critical organisational issue especially as organisations are recovering from the trauma of the global recession and constant change. Employee engagement has been an area of interest among many researchers and it has received even greater recognition among consulting firms. Therefore, there is a need for academic research on this theory to ascertain the claims of the human resource consulting firms as well as to add to the existing knowledge of employee engagement in the literature. The main aim of the research was to establish whether there is a relationship between employee engagement and performance. The methodology was based on secondary research by means of statistics for employee engagement and performance scores obtained of permanent employees from the organisation under study. A structured survey for employee engagement was used and compared over a two year period as well as performance scores over a two year period. The empirical findings of this study in terms of the relationship between employee engagement and job performance were evident in that a relationship between the variables was proved; however findings from the qualitative research suggest direct and strong relationship between employee engagement and job performance, whereas the current study has not highlighted a very strong relationship based on the empirical findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Sauls, Lucretia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Management -- Employee participation , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9420 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021171
- Description: Employee engagement is emerging as a critical organisational issue especially as organisations are recovering from the trauma of the global recession and constant change. Employee engagement has been an area of interest among many researchers and it has received even greater recognition among consulting firms. Therefore, there is a need for academic research on this theory to ascertain the claims of the human resource consulting firms as well as to add to the existing knowledge of employee engagement in the literature. The main aim of the research was to establish whether there is a relationship between employee engagement and performance. The methodology was based on secondary research by means of statistics for employee engagement and performance scores obtained of permanent employees from the organisation under study. A structured survey for employee engagement was used and compared over a two year period as well as performance scores over a two year period. The empirical findings of this study in terms of the relationship between employee engagement and job performance were evident in that a relationship between the variables was proved; however findings from the qualitative research suggest direct and strong relationship between employee engagement and job performance, whereas the current study has not highlighted a very strong relationship based on the empirical findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The relationship between service quality, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the retail supermarket industry
- Authors: Ndhlovu, Thinkwell
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction , Customer loyalty , Customer services -- Rating of , Customer services -- Quality control , Relationship marketing , Supermarkets -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1202 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013221
- Description: The increasingly competitive business environment has influenced contemporary organisations to build mutual beneficial relationships with their customers indicating a paradigm shift from transactional marketing. In order to compete in this intense competitive environment, organisations are creating competitive advantage over their rivals through service quality that will influence customer satisfaction which subsequently leads to customer loyalty. Service quality has been found to be the key strategy of success and survival for most organisations like retail supermarkets who want to win the loyalty of their customers because of its positive effect on customer satisfaction. The purpose of this research was to determine the relationship between service quality, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the retail supermarket industry. An empirical study was conducted in Grahamstown between two main supermarkets through a survey that determined customers’ perceptions on service quality, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty respectively. The empirical findings of this research study revealed that moderate to strong positive linear relationships exists between the dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving and policy) and customer satisfaction at the 5% level of significance. Furthermore, this study showed that dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction and problem solving) have weak negative linear relationships with price sensitivity dimension of customer loyalty. The study further showed that the dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving and policy) have weak to moderate positive linear relationships with the purchase intentions dimension of customer loyalty. In addition, all the dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving and policy) showed moderate positive linear relationships with word of mouth communication dimension of customer loyalty. A weak negative linear relationship between price sensitivity dimension of customer loyalty and customer satisfaction was revealed in this study. Purchase intentions dimension of customer loyalty was also found to have a moderate positive linear relationship with customer satisfaction. In addition, word of mouth communication dimension of customer loyalty showed a strong positive linear relationship with customer satisfaction. There is sufficient evidence that the customers of the two supermarkets in this study have different perceptions on problem solving dimension of service quality. This study further provides sufficient evidence of the significant difference between gender on the levels of customer satisfaction. In addition, this study showed that customers of various levels of education and occupations differ in price sensitivity dimension of customer loyalty. The average scores for word of mouth communication, purchase intentions and price sensitivity dimensions of customer loyalty were found to be significantly different between the two supermarkets investigated in this study. Therefore, for supermarkets to compete effectively in the intense retail supermarket industry in South Africa they have to manage their service quality dimensions so as to influence customer satisfaction and customer loyalty respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Ndhlovu, Thinkwell
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction , Customer loyalty , Customer services -- Rating of , Customer services -- Quality control , Relationship marketing , Supermarkets -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:1202 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013221
- Description: The increasingly competitive business environment has influenced contemporary organisations to build mutual beneficial relationships with their customers indicating a paradigm shift from transactional marketing. In order to compete in this intense competitive environment, organisations are creating competitive advantage over their rivals through service quality that will influence customer satisfaction which subsequently leads to customer loyalty. Service quality has been found to be the key strategy of success and survival for most organisations like retail supermarkets who want to win the loyalty of their customers because of its positive effect on customer satisfaction. The purpose of this research was to determine the relationship between service quality, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the retail supermarket industry. An empirical study was conducted in Grahamstown between two main supermarkets through a survey that determined customers’ perceptions on service quality, customer satisfaction and customer loyalty respectively. The empirical findings of this research study revealed that moderate to strong positive linear relationships exists between the dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving and policy) and customer satisfaction at the 5% level of significance. Furthermore, this study showed that dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction and problem solving) have weak negative linear relationships with price sensitivity dimension of customer loyalty. The study further showed that the dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving and policy) have weak to moderate positive linear relationships with the purchase intentions dimension of customer loyalty. In addition, all the dimensions of service quality (namely physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving and policy) showed moderate positive linear relationships with word of mouth communication dimension of customer loyalty. A weak negative linear relationship between price sensitivity dimension of customer loyalty and customer satisfaction was revealed in this study. Purchase intentions dimension of customer loyalty was also found to have a moderate positive linear relationship with customer satisfaction. In addition, word of mouth communication dimension of customer loyalty showed a strong positive linear relationship with customer satisfaction. There is sufficient evidence that the customers of the two supermarkets in this study have different perceptions on problem solving dimension of service quality. This study further provides sufficient evidence of the significant difference between gender on the levels of customer satisfaction. In addition, this study showed that customers of various levels of education and occupations differ in price sensitivity dimension of customer loyalty. The average scores for word of mouth communication, purchase intentions and price sensitivity dimensions of customer loyalty were found to be significantly different between the two supermarkets investigated in this study. Therefore, for supermarkets to compete effectively in the intense retail supermarket industry in South Africa they have to manage their service quality dimensions so as to influence customer satisfaction and customer loyalty respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The relationship between work-family conflict and job stress on organisational commitment: a study of selected hospitals within the health department in the Kkonkobe municipality of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ruzungunde, Vongai Sarah
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/955 , vital:26512
- Description: The aim of this research was to assess whether and to what extent does work-family conflict (WFC) and job stress affect organisational commitment of the employees within the health department. The quantitative design was used for the purposes of this study and the sample consisted of 141 respondents from selected hospitals within the Nkonkobe Municipality. The cluster sampling method was used to select the hospitals and then the simple random sampling was used to select the sample from the cluster. Data was analysed using both inferential and descriptive statistical analysis such as SAS 9.1, T-test scale and The Pearson Correlation Analysis. The results of the study showed significant positive relationships between WFC and job stress. Also, both WFC and job stress showed negative relationships with organisational commitment showing that they affect the commitment of workers. These findings are helpful and useful to the health department in implementing policies and procedures that will reduce WFC and job stress in employees in order to ensure that high levels of commitment towards the organisation are maintained for optimal success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Ruzungunde, Vongai Sarah
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/955 , vital:26512
- Description: The aim of this research was to assess whether and to what extent does work-family conflict (WFC) and job stress affect organisational commitment of the employees within the health department. The quantitative design was used for the purposes of this study and the sample consisted of 141 respondents from selected hospitals within the Nkonkobe Municipality. The cluster sampling method was used to select the hospitals and then the simple random sampling was used to select the sample from the cluster. Data was analysed using both inferential and descriptive statistical analysis such as SAS 9.1, T-test scale and The Pearson Correlation Analysis. The results of the study showed significant positive relationships between WFC and job stress. Also, both WFC and job stress showed negative relationships with organisational commitment showing that they affect the commitment of workers. These findings are helpful and useful to the health department in implementing policies and procedures that will reduce WFC and job stress in employees in order to ensure that high levels of commitment towards the organisation are maintained for optimal success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The relationship between work-family conflict, stress and burnout among South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) employees
- Authors: Connie, Silingile Yanga
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Work family conflict -- Stress , Burn out (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/966 , vital:26513 , Work family conflict -- Stress , Burn out (Psychology)
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between work-family conflict, stress and burnout among South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) employees. For this purpose data was collected from the SASSA agency offices in Alice, King Williams Town and East London. A sample of 72 agency employees was drawn from the population. Results of the study indicated that the study variables are significantly positively correlated with one another. Work family conflict was found to be significantly positively correlated with stress. Stress was also found to be significantly positively correlated with burnout. A significant positive relationship was also found to exist between work family conflict and burnout. The findings of this study are helpful in the social security agency industry in order to design human resources policies which will reduce turnover of agency employees by reducing stress, work family conflict and burnout among the agency employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Connie, Silingile Yanga
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Work family conflict -- Stress , Burn out (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/966 , vital:26513 , Work family conflict -- Stress , Burn out (Psychology)
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between work-family conflict, stress and burnout among South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) employees. For this purpose data was collected from the SASSA agency offices in Alice, King Williams Town and East London. A sample of 72 agency employees was drawn from the population. Results of the study indicated that the study variables are significantly positively correlated with one another. Work family conflict was found to be significantly positively correlated with stress. Stress was also found to be significantly positively correlated with burnout. A significant positive relationship was also found to exist between work family conflict and burnout. The findings of this study are helpful in the social security agency industry in order to design human resources policies which will reduce turnover of agency employees by reducing stress, work family conflict and burnout among the agency employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The rising popularity of Pidgin English radio stations in Nigeria: an audience study of Wazobia FM, Lagos
- Durodola, Olufunke Treasure Anike
- Authors: Durodola, Olufunke Treasure Anike
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Wazobia FM (Nigeria) , Radio audiences -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Pidgin English -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Radio stations -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Mass media and culture -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Language and languages -- Variation , Popular culture -- Nigeria , Postcolonialism -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3550 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020886
- Description: This research is located within media studies and draws on the Cultural Studies approach. It is an audience study, which uses the mixed methods of focus group discussions and an online survey to examine the importance of the use of Nigerian Pidgin as a broadcast language in investigating the rising popularity of Pidgin English radio in a multi-ethnic and multi-lingual Nigeria. The study focuses on Wazobia FM, a radio station in Lagos, and the first pidgin station in Nigeria. It seeks to determine whether the station’s audience engaged with the station’s programming based on its prioritisation of NigP and the linguistic identity it offers them. The study foregrounds the marginalised status of NigP within the politics of language in Nigeria. It traces the language’s evolution through popular and oppositional expressions in broadcasting and in music. It also seeks to establish the place of Pidgin English within the role that language plays in the formation of the Nigerian identity. This study thus adopts the ‘emic’ perspective, which underpins qualitative methodology, and views social life in terms of processes as opposed to static terms. The theoretical framework of this research revolves around culture, language and identity. Pertinent concepts in post-colonial studies, together with conceptual frameworks in Cultural Studies, such as popular culture, representation, hegemony and counter-culture have been used to make sense of the popularity of NigP radio stations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Durodola, Olufunke Treasure Anike
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Wazobia FM (Nigeria) , Radio audiences -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Pidgin English -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Radio stations -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Mass media and culture -- Nigeria -- Lagos , Language and languages -- Variation , Popular culture -- Nigeria , Postcolonialism -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3550 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020886
- Description: This research is located within media studies and draws on the Cultural Studies approach. It is an audience study, which uses the mixed methods of focus group discussions and an online survey to examine the importance of the use of Nigerian Pidgin as a broadcast language in investigating the rising popularity of Pidgin English radio in a multi-ethnic and multi-lingual Nigeria. The study focuses on Wazobia FM, a radio station in Lagos, and the first pidgin station in Nigeria. It seeks to determine whether the station’s audience engaged with the station’s programming based on its prioritisation of NigP and the linguistic identity it offers them. The study foregrounds the marginalised status of NigP within the politics of language in Nigeria. It traces the language’s evolution through popular and oppositional expressions in broadcasting and in music. It also seeks to establish the place of Pidgin English within the role that language plays in the formation of the Nigerian identity. This study thus adopts the ‘emic’ perspective, which underpins qualitative methodology, and views social life in terms of processes as opposed to static terms. The theoretical framework of this research revolves around culture, language and identity. Pertinent concepts in post-colonial studies, together with conceptual frameworks in Cultural Studies, such as popular culture, representation, hegemony and counter-culture have been used to make sense of the popularity of NigP radio stations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of computational thinking in introductory computer science
- Authors: Gouws, Lindsey Ann
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Computer science , Computational complexity , Problem solving -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4690 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011152 , Computer science , Computational complexity , Problem solving -- Study and teaching
- Description: Computational thinking (CT) is gaining recognition as an important skill for students, both in computer science and other disciplines. Although there has been much focus on this field in recent years, it is rarely taught as a formal course, and there is little consensus on what exactly CT entails and how to teach and evaluate it. This research addresses the lack of resources for integrating CT into the introductory computer science curriculum. The question that we aim to answer is whether CT can be evaluated in a meaningful way. A CT framework that outlines the skills and techniques comprising CT and describes the nature of student engagement was developed; this is used as the basis for this research. An assessment (CT test) was then created to gauge the ability of incoming students, and a CT-specfic computer game was developed based on the analysis of an existing game. A set of problem solving strategies and practice activities were then recommended based on criteria defined in the framework. The results revealed that the CT abilities of first year university students are relatively poor, but that the students' scores for the CT test could be used as a predictor for their future success in computer science courses. The framework developed for this research proved successful when applied to the test, computer game evaluation, and classification of strategies and activities. Through this research, we established that CT is a skill that first year computer science students are lacking, and that using CT exercises alongside traditional programming instruction can improve students' learning experiences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Gouws, Lindsey Ann
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Computer science , Computational complexity , Problem solving -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4690 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011152 , Computer science , Computational complexity , Problem solving -- Study and teaching
- Description: Computational thinking (CT) is gaining recognition as an important skill for students, both in computer science and other disciplines. Although there has been much focus on this field in recent years, it is rarely taught as a formal course, and there is little consensus on what exactly CT entails and how to teach and evaluate it. This research addresses the lack of resources for integrating CT into the introductory computer science curriculum. The question that we aim to answer is whether CT can be evaluated in a meaningful way. A CT framework that outlines the skills and techniques comprising CT and describes the nature of student engagement was developed; this is used as the basis for this research. An assessment (CT test) was then created to gauge the ability of incoming students, and a CT-specfic computer game was developed based on the analysis of an existing game. A set of problem solving strategies and practice activities were then recommended based on criteria defined in the framework. The results revealed that the CT abilities of first year university students are relatively poor, but that the students' scores for the CT test could be used as a predictor for their future success in computer science courses. The framework developed for this research proved successful when applied to the test, computer game evaluation, and classification of strategies and activities. Through this research, we established that CT is a skill that first year computer science students are lacking, and that using CT exercises alongside traditional programming instruction can improve students' learning experiences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of Councillors in good governance: the case of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Lawack, Jonathan
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1126 , vital:26528
- Description: The transition of local government from the previous model that existed under apartheid to an inclusive democratic and developmental model, ushered in huge challenges. The transformational agenda for local government that was conceived by the new democratic government, introduced new key performance areas which included infrastructural development of previously neglected residential areas, service delivery to all, accountability and transparency in local government financial management, good governance and capacitation of those assigned to champion these issues. Councillors, being one of the most important stakeholders in local government, had to allow for additional responsibilities in the advancement of the transformational agenda of local government. As provocateurs of good governance which is indispensable for the successful developmental transformation of society, they are required to meet certain standards. This research investigates the factors that may negatively impact on good governance in the NMBM. Firstly, it examines conditions that undermine the development of a culture of good governance within its geographical confines. Secondly, it investigates the suitability and preparedness of councilors on a number of terrains. The research was conducted in the light of the public debate concerning the caliber of councilors in the NMBM while adding value to the academic discourse on this emotive issue. This is achieved by employing a qualitative research approach using a questionnaire and interviews with a specific target population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lawack, Jonathan
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1126 , vital:26528
- Description: The transition of local government from the previous model that existed under apartheid to an inclusive democratic and developmental model, ushered in huge challenges. The transformational agenda for local government that was conceived by the new democratic government, introduced new key performance areas which included infrastructural development of previously neglected residential areas, service delivery to all, accountability and transparency in local government financial management, good governance and capacitation of those assigned to champion these issues. Councillors, being one of the most important stakeholders in local government, had to allow for additional responsibilities in the advancement of the transformational agenda of local government. As provocateurs of good governance which is indispensable for the successful developmental transformation of society, they are required to meet certain standards. This research investigates the factors that may negatively impact on good governance in the NMBM. Firstly, it examines conditions that undermine the development of a culture of good governance within its geographical confines. Secondly, it investigates the suitability and preparedness of councilors on a number of terrains. The research was conducted in the light of the public debate concerning the caliber of councilors in the NMBM while adding value to the academic discourse on this emotive issue. This is achieved by employing a qualitative research approach using a questionnaire and interviews with a specific target population.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of decent rural employment in counteracting food insecurity in Bindura rural district, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chimberengwa, Patronella
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- Prevention , Food security , Food relief
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26324 , vital:65238
- Description: Despite many initiatives that are being implemented by the governments of different nations and the international community to minimize hunger and poverty in rural areas, several households continue to suffer from food insecurity. The World Food Programme (WFP) and the government in Zimbabwe are providing food aid to approximately 1.6 million people across the 37 districts in the country. Measures have been undertaken to counter food insecurity in Zimbabwe but to no avail. Food related public policies such as donor aid and government subsidies have also been unworkable for such a long time. In this study a comprehensive analysis of the role of decent rural employment in counteracting food insecurity will be provided. The study also seeks to assess how humanitarian work psychologists can work together with various stakeholders in society so as to curb household food insecurity. The Study population included all the households in Bindura rural district in Zimbabwe. Both quantitative and qualitative research designs were used. The researcher used cluster sampling procedure in which households were divided into groups (clusters) and a sample of the groups was selected. A random sample was then drawn from the elements within each selected group. The results confirmed that those that are not decently employed face a broad range of decent work deficits, exploitation at work and are food insecure, a finding that is similar to other countries. Thus, the researcher concluded that Decent Rural employment do have an impact on food security. Taking a look at the basic tenets of decent employment such as full time employment, a decent income, reasonable working hours and employee benefits among others, the results showed that they all impact on food security. The information obtained will be fundamental for communities at risk and dealing with the issue may help improve food insecurity situation in the country. This information will also help in formulating special measures in the form of tailor made strategies specifically made for the district and helps in doing away with what is called a one size fits all approach to food security as it pays particular attention to the households in that particular district. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Chimberengwa, Patronella
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- Prevention , Food security , Food relief
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26324 , vital:65238
- Description: Despite many initiatives that are being implemented by the governments of different nations and the international community to minimize hunger and poverty in rural areas, several households continue to suffer from food insecurity. The World Food Programme (WFP) and the government in Zimbabwe are providing food aid to approximately 1.6 million people across the 37 districts in the country. Measures have been undertaken to counter food insecurity in Zimbabwe but to no avail. Food related public policies such as donor aid and government subsidies have also been unworkable for such a long time. In this study a comprehensive analysis of the role of decent rural employment in counteracting food insecurity will be provided. The study also seeks to assess how humanitarian work psychologists can work together with various stakeholders in society so as to curb household food insecurity. The Study population included all the households in Bindura rural district in Zimbabwe. Both quantitative and qualitative research designs were used. The researcher used cluster sampling procedure in which households were divided into groups (clusters) and a sample of the groups was selected. A random sample was then drawn from the elements within each selected group. The results confirmed that those that are not decently employed face a broad range of decent work deficits, exploitation at work and are food insecure, a finding that is similar to other countries. Thus, the researcher concluded that Decent Rural employment do have an impact on food security. Taking a look at the basic tenets of decent employment such as full time employment, a decent income, reasonable working hours and employee benefits among others, the results showed that they all impact on food security. The information obtained will be fundamental for communities at risk and dealing with the issue may help improve food insecurity situation in the country. This information will also help in formulating special measures in the form of tailor made strategies specifically made for the district and helps in doing away with what is called a one size fits all approach to food security as it pays particular attention to the households in that particular district. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of donors in promoting professionalism in non-profit organisations
- Authors: Mphule, Tlakale Suzan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Professional ethics Nonprofit organizations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11298 , vital:26908
- Description: The debate of Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) transformation has by far occupied the welfare sector with the urge to evolve and employ business-like attributes in their operations. Professionalism is pointed out as an attribute NPO should move towards to improve their services and be accountable to donors (Reinhardt, 2009). This report investigated the role of National Lotteries Board (NLB) as a donor in promoting professionalism in NPOs. Case-studies were conducted on two selected NPOs who received grants from the NLB through the National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund. Data was collected using interviews, documentation and observation. The analysis of the data showed that donors use funding and reporting requirements to drive professionalism within the NPO sector. The recommendations in the report are for both NPOs and donors indicating the need for collaboration between the two parties in ensuring that professionalism benefits them collectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mphule, Tlakale Suzan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Professional ethics Nonprofit organizations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11298 , vital:26908
- Description: The debate of Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) transformation has by far occupied the welfare sector with the urge to evolve and employ business-like attributes in their operations. Professionalism is pointed out as an attribute NPO should move towards to improve their services and be accountable to donors (Reinhardt, 2009). This report investigated the role of National Lotteries Board (NLB) as a donor in promoting professionalism in NPOs. Case-studies were conducted on two selected NPOs who received grants from the NLB through the National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund. Data was collected using interviews, documentation and observation. The analysis of the data showed that donors use funding and reporting requirements to drive professionalism within the NPO sector. The recommendations in the report are for both NPOs and donors indicating the need for collaboration between the two parties in ensuring that professionalism benefits them collectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of FDI in economic growth in Namibia
- Nashidengo, Victoria Ndinoshisho Peneyambeko
- Authors: Nashidengo, Victoria Ndinoshisho Peneyambeko
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Namibia , Economic development -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8878 , vital:26438
- Description: This report examines the role of FDI in economic growth in Namibia using annual time series data from 1980 to 2012. The relationship was explored using the VAR framework, in particular, the Granger causality. Impulse response functions and forecast error variance techniques were used for analysis. The results show that there is a positive relationship between FDI and economic growth in Namibia. The study then concluded that Namibia need more investment in other sectors such as education taking into consideration that most foreign capital is directed into the mining and manufacturing sectors. However, Namibia does not have all the necessary skill to be able to sustain the growth in GDP as a result of FDI. The study further suggested that Namibia can take advantage of export-led growth because of the positive relationship that exists between growth and export. However, there is great need to improve and diversify by focusing on exporting semi-finished and finished manufactured products instead of solid minerals and primary products that are of low value. This will enhance competitive advantage on foreign markets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nashidengo, Victoria Ndinoshisho Peneyambeko
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Namibia , Economic development -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8878 , vital:26438
- Description: This report examines the role of FDI in economic growth in Namibia using annual time series data from 1980 to 2012. The relationship was explored using the VAR framework, in particular, the Granger causality. Impulse response functions and forecast error variance techniques were used for analysis. The results show that there is a positive relationship between FDI and economic growth in Namibia. The study then concluded that Namibia need more investment in other sectors such as education taking into consideration that most foreign capital is directed into the mining and manufacturing sectors. However, Namibia does not have all the necessary skill to be able to sustain the growth in GDP as a result of FDI. The study further suggested that Namibia can take advantage of export-led growth because of the positive relationship that exists between growth and export. However, there is great need to improve and diversify by focusing on exporting semi-finished and finished manufactured products instead of solid minerals and primary products that are of low value. This will enhance competitive advantage on foreign markets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of intergovernmental relations in municipal integrated development planning: case of Buffalo City Metropolitan municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Vongwe, Pumla Patricia
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1213 , vital:26536
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to assess the role of intergovernmental relations structures in municipal integrated development planning in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. There are three spheres of government in South Africa, which include the national, provincial and local governments. These spheres are modelled to co-operate and support each other through the structures of intergovernmental relations (hereafter referred to as “IGR”). The IGR structures were given an institutional and statutory expression through the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act 13 of 2005. The IGR structures are a set of formal and informal processes through which bilateral and multi-lateral co-operation can be achieved, thereby ensuring the existence of the three spheres of government. The study asserts that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality lacks the co-ordination of integrated development planning (IDP) activities to promote proper and efficient service delivery. Section 41 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) (as amended), states that co-operation must establish or provide structures and institutions to promote and facilitate intergovernmental relations, and to provide for appropriate mechanisms and procedures to facilitate the settlement of intergovernmental disputes. The study adopted a mixed-method of research paradigms, in which both qualitative and quantitative research paradigms were utilized to assess the challenges facing the IGR structures at Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (hereafter referred to as “the municipality and BCMM”). The data were collected from a sample of 30 respondents – by carefully using judgmental and snowball sampling. Questionnaires, interviews, and documentary analysis were used as the sources of the data collection. The findings were analyzed, according to the same data collection techniques. The study found that there is legislation and structures to assist the municipality in directing integrated development planning (IDP) activities within the BCMM. The IDP involves a wide range of role players – from both inside and outside the municipality. The IGR structures are in existence; but they are non-performing, according to Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act 13 (2005) (hereafter referred to as “IGRFA”). There is a lack of political commitment in establishing the IGR structures, and a lack of information-sharing, and so forth. The study thus recommends that the BCMM should establish permanent and contractual positions; improve communication and information flow; establish a hierarchy of monitoring and evaluation systems and processes; and forge a strong partnership with the community-based organizations (hereafter referred to as “CBOs”) and the non-governmental organizations (hereafter referred to as “NGOs”). This would ensure that the IDP processes are linked to the councillors’ wards, and that the actions of programmes are known by the role players; thus this would focus on the participation and the co-ordination of the IGR structures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Vongwe, Pumla Patricia
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1213 , vital:26536
- Description: The primary aim of this study was to assess the role of intergovernmental relations structures in municipal integrated development planning in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. There are three spheres of government in South Africa, which include the national, provincial and local governments. These spheres are modelled to co-operate and support each other through the structures of intergovernmental relations (hereafter referred to as “IGR”). The IGR structures were given an institutional and statutory expression through the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act 13 of 2005. The IGR structures are a set of formal and informal processes through which bilateral and multi-lateral co-operation can be achieved, thereby ensuring the existence of the three spheres of government. The study asserts that the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality lacks the co-ordination of integrated development planning (IDP) activities to promote proper and efficient service delivery. Section 41 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) (as amended), states that co-operation must establish or provide structures and institutions to promote and facilitate intergovernmental relations, and to provide for appropriate mechanisms and procedures to facilitate the settlement of intergovernmental disputes. The study adopted a mixed-method of research paradigms, in which both qualitative and quantitative research paradigms were utilized to assess the challenges facing the IGR structures at Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (hereafter referred to as “the municipality and BCMM”). The data were collected from a sample of 30 respondents – by carefully using judgmental and snowball sampling. Questionnaires, interviews, and documentary analysis were used as the sources of the data collection. The findings were analyzed, according to the same data collection techniques. The study found that there is legislation and structures to assist the municipality in directing integrated development planning (IDP) activities within the BCMM. The IDP involves a wide range of role players – from both inside and outside the municipality. The IGR structures are in existence; but they are non-performing, according to Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act 13 (2005) (hereafter referred to as “IGRFA”). There is a lack of political commitment in establishing the IGR structures, and a lack of information-sharing, and so forth. The study thus recommends that the BCMM should establish permanent and contractual positions; improve communication and information flow; establish a hierarchy of monitoring and evaluation systems and processes; and forge a strong partnership with the community-based organizations (hereafter referred to as “CBOs”) and the non-governmental organizations (hereafter referred to as “NGOs”). This would ensure that the IDP processes are linked to the councillors’ wards, and that the actions of programmes are known by the role players; thus this would focus on the participation and the co-ordination of the IGR structures.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of knowledge in a democratic society: investigations into mediation and change-oriented learning in water management practices
- Burt, Jane C, Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, Rivers, Nina, Berold, Robert, Ntshudu, Monde, Wigley, Tim, Stanford, Mindy, Jenkin, Treve, Buzani, Mangalisa, Kruger, Ewald
- Authors: Burt, Jane C , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Rivers, Nina , Berold, Robert , Ntshudu, Monde , Wigley, Tim , Stanford, Mindy , Jenkin, Treve , Buzani, Mangalisa , Kruger, Ewald
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , report
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/436770 , vital:73300 , ISBN 978-1-4312-0519-6 , https://wrcwebsite.azurewebsites.net/wp-content/uploads/mdocs/2074-1-13.pdf
- Description: This project emerged from two previous Water Research Commission (WRC) research projects. In 2006 Heila Lotz-Sisitka and Jane Burt (Lotz-Sisitka, 2006) undertook research on participation in the establishment of integrated water resources management (IWRM) structures. They found that while much emphasis had gone into the establishment of water re-sources management structures, very little attention was being given to building people’s capacity to participate effectively in these structures. Access to and the ability to make use of knowledge resources about wa-ter resources management is a key aspect of such capacity building.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Burt, Jane C , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Rivers, Nina , Berold, Robert , Ntshudu, Monde , Wigley, Tim , Stanford, Mindy , Jenkin, Treve , Buzani, Mangalisa , Kruger, Ewald
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , report
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/436770 , vital:73300 , ISBN 978-1-4312-0519-6 , https://wrcwebsite.azurewebsites.net/wp-content/uploads/mdocs/2074-1-13.pdf
- Description: This project emerged from two previous Water Research Commission (WRC) research projects. In 2006 Heila Lotz-Sisitka and Jane Burt (Lotz-Sisitka, 2006) undertook research on participation in the establishment of integrated water resources management (IWRM) structures. They found that while much emphasis had gone into the establishment of water re-sources management structures, very little attention was being given to building people’s capacity to participate effectively in these structures. Access to and the ability to make use of knowledge resources about wa-ter resources management is a key aspect of such capacity building.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of local economic development on poverty alleviation in Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Zazaza-Msengana, Andisiwe Andriesa
- Authors: Zazaza-Msengana, Andisiwe Andriesa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5922 , vital:21014
- Description: Local economic development in South Africa has been a term used to define interventions to promote economic development in a specific area ranging from small neighborhood through to a region or district. Approaches to LED have developed and changed as local economies have had to respond to changing impacts in the global economy. Local economic development projects range from simple and small to larger and more complex actions and programmes. They are aimed at changing local socio-economic relationships fundamentally over time. At the core of LED is the need to involve local people and institutions in the development of their local economies by focusing on opportunities for economic growth, employment creation through empowerment as well as social and economic transformation. Local economic development is most importantly about people working together to achieve sustainable economic growth that brings economic benefits and quality of life improvements for all in the local community. In an attempt to assess the role of LED on poverty alleviation in NMBM three LED projects were identified. Participants were members of the projects. The study found that, indeed LED projects do have a positive impact in changing socio- economic conditions of the local people. LED initiatives play a role towards poverty alleviation and economic development since they contribute towards job creation, skills transfer, infrastructure development and improving livelihoods of the people community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Zazaza-Msengana, Andisiwe Andriesa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Poverty -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5922 , vital:21014
- Description: Local economic development in South Africa has been a term used to define interventions to promote economic development in a specific area ranging from small neighborhood through to a region or district. Approaches to LED have developed and changed as local economies have had to respond to changing impacts in the global economy. Local economic development projects range from simple and small to larger and more complex actions and programmes. They are aimed at changing local socio-economic relationships fundamentally over time. At the core of LED is the need to involve local people and institutions in the development of their local economies by focusing on opportunities for economic growth, employment creation through empowerment as well as social and economic transformation. Local economic development is most importantly about people working together to achieve sustainable economic growth that brings economic benefits and quality of life improvements for all in the local community. In an attempt to assess the role of LED on poverty alleviation in NMBM three LED projects were identified. Participants were members of the projects. The study found that, indeed LED projects do have a positive impact in changing socio- economic conditions of the local people. LED initiatives play a role towards poverty alleviation and economic development since they contribute towards job creation, skills transfer, infrastructure development and improving livelihoods of the people community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of local government in the basic education system: the case of the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Kivedo, Desmond
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1037 , vital:26521
- Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the role Local Government can play in the Department of Basic Education with the aim of addressing the enormous challenges faced by the Department of Basic Education with specific reference to the Province of the Eastern Cape. Currently the Department of Education in the Eastern Cape gets regular media coverage for the wrong reasons. Problems highlighted by the media normally include the following; over-crowded classrooms; mud schools; lack of ablution facilities at schools; delays in delivery of text books and stationary; shortage of teachers; unpaid teachers and the bungles with school transport and school nutrition programmes. Currently the National Government and Provincial Government have jurisdiction over basic education. An in-depth literature study was conducted in order to get insight in the Department of Basic Education in the Eastern Cape with its numerous problems and challenges that are crippling education in the province. The researcher also deemed it necessary to conduct an in-depth literature study on Local Government’s role in the education system in other countries e.g. USA, Wales, Great Britain and Nigeria where education is managed and financed by Local Government. Empirical studies were done through face-to-face interviews with the sample population from school principals, teachers, education specialists, administration officials and parents serving on School Governing Bodies in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. The findings of the study suggested that Local Government is not yet in a favourable position to control the entire Department of Basic Education, although certain functions can be shifted to Local Government e.g. school transport, school nutrition programme; teachers’ salaries. The general feeling is that councilors at Local Government level are more likely to be aware of and sympathetic to the needs of their communities than Ministers and MEC’s. Through the relevant data the researcher has drawn certain conclusions and recommendations were made to alleviate the plight of education in the Province of the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Kivedo, Desmond
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1037 , vital:26521
- Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the role Local Government can play in the Department of Basic Education with the aim of addressing the enormous challenges faced by the Department of Basic Education with specific reference to the Province of the Eastern Cape. Currently the Department of Education in the Eastern Cape gets regular media coverage for the wrong reasons. Problems highlighted by the media normally include the following; over-crowded classrooms; mud schools; lack of ablution facilities at schools; delays in delivery of text books and stationary; shortage of teachers; unpaid teachers and the bungles with school transport and school nutrition programmes. Currently the National Government and Provincial Government have jurisdiction over basic education. An in-depth literature study was conducted in order to get insight in the Department of Basic Education in the Eastern Cape with its numerous problems and challenges that are crippling education in the province. The researcher also deemed it necessary to conduct an in-depth literature study on Local Government’s role in the education system in other countries e.g. USA, Wales, Great Britain and Nigeria where education is managed and financed by Local Government. Empirical studies were done through face-to-face interviews with the sample population from school principals, teachers, education specialists, administration officials and parents serving on School Governing Bodies in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. The findings of the study suggested that Local Government is not yet in a favourable position to control the entire Department of Basic Education, although certain functions can be shifted to Local Government e.g. school transport, school nutrition programme; teachers’ salaries. The general feeling is that councilors at Local Government level are more likely to be aware of and sympathetic to the needs of their communities than Ministers and MEC’s. Through the relevant data the researcher has drawn certain conclusions and recommendations were made to alleviate the plight of education in the Province of the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of records management in the sustainability of small micro medium enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa: a study of Alice and Fort Beaufort
- Ajibade, Patrick https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8608-8378
- Authors: Ajibade, Patrick https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8608-8378
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25259 , vital:64122
- Description: The study sought to investigate the role of records management in the sustainability of the Small Micro, Medium enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa with focus on Alice and Fort Beaufort towns. The objectives of the study were to identify the types of records that are kept by SMMEs; evaluate the infrastructure for the SMMEs records management; determine the compliance of SMMEs with the existing RM legal and regulatory requirements; and identify the challenges related to SMMEs records practices. Twenty three (23) respondents from SMMEs were interviewed. Findings revealed all the respondents could not confirm adoption of any systemic way of records management to support business functions and operations. Majority of the SMMEs due to their inability to maintain records could not identify potential benefit of business RM with an exception of three SMMEs. The respondents were not aware of any compliance and regulatory framework most especially on business records management. The challenges facing SMMEs include; inability to capture/create maintain, preserve business records systematically in its lifecycle. The SMMEs lack needed training especially in records management to allow them the benefit of maintaining business records. It is recommended that SMMEs should acquire skill that would enable them manage their business records that may help improved decision making. There should be legislative and regulatory framework that ensures compliance. And assistance should be rendered to train SMMEs on basic RM skills that could improve their business operations. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Ajibade, Patrick https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8608-8378
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25259 , vital:64122
- Description: The study sought to investigate the role of records management in the sustainability of the Small Micro, Medium enterprises (SMMEs) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa with focus on Alice and Fort Beaufort towns. The objectives of the study were to identify the types of records that are kept by SMMEs; evaluate the infrastructure for the SMMEs records management; determine the compliance of SMMEs with the existing RM legal and regulatory requirements; and identify the challenges related to SMMEs records practices. Twenty three (23) respondents from SMMEs were interviewed. Findings revealed all the respondents could not confirm adoption of any systemic way of records management to support business functions and operations. Majority of the SMMEs due to their inability to maintain records could not identify potential benefit of business RM with an exception of three SMMEs. The respondents were not aware of any compliance and regulatory framework most especially on business records management. The challenges facing SMMEs include; inability to capture/create maintain, preserve business records systematically in its lifecycle. The SMMEs lack needed training especially in records management to allow them the benefit of maintaining business records. It is recommended that SMMEs should acquire skill that would enable them manage their business records that may help improved decision making. There should be legislative and regulatory framework that ensures compliance. And assistance should be rendered to train SMMEs on basic RM skills that could improve their business operations. , Thesis (MLIS) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of rural agriculture in improving household food security : the case of Nkwalini-Bafazi in Elliotdale
- Authors: Solani, Noncedo Reinnet
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9250 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021179
- Description: The problem that is researched relates to the tendency of rural people to abandon agriculture in favour of wage employment and non-agricultural informal activities, and the existence of large areas of underutilized arable land in rural communities. This study explored the specific role of agriculture in the rural communities. The need to improve the quality of life of rural households through the promotion of agriculture and industry gave rise to the implementation of the Siyazondla Homestead Food Production Programme. In this strategy it is envisaged that vibrant, equitable and sustainable rural communities and food security for all will be achieved. The main research question underpinning this study relates to the role of rural agriculture in Nkwalini-Bafazi in meeting the set objectives of the project; such as improving household food security; equipping farmers with necessary skills in order to promote agricultural productivity. The research question can further be captured in these two queries: i) other than the reasons already known for the decline of agriculture in rural areas of South Africa (e.g poor extension services, poor soils, lack of market and so forth); what other fundamental reasons may be there for the poor performance of agricultural production in the communal areas? ii) What role, positive or negative has the government and its agencies played in respect to agricultural development in communal areas. The study, through qualitative methodology, sampled households in Nkwalini-Bafazi who are part of the Siyazondla Food Production Programme. The study investigated the role of agriculture in improving the livelihoods of rural people; and what strategies are required to promote agriculture so as to make contributions for future policy directions. Although this programme has been successfully initiated, from the findings of the study it is evident that beneficiaries are facing many challenges. It is crucial for the South African government to implement mechanisms to ensure that farmers will obtain incentives for farming activities, promotion of food security and rural local economic development, in order to redress the imbalances of the former apartheid regime.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Solani, Noncedo Reinnet
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9250 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021179
- Description: The problem that is researched relates to the tendency of rural people to abandon agriculture in favour of wage employment and non-agricultural informal activities, and the existence of large areas of underutilized arable land in rural communities. This study explored the specific role of agriculture in the rural communities. The need to improve the quality of life of rural households through the promotion of agriculture and industry gave rise to the implementation of the Siyazondla Homestead Food Production Programme. In this strategy it is envisaged that vibrant, equitable and sustainable rural communities and food security for all will be achieved. The main research question underpinning this study relates to the role of rural agriculture in Nkwalini-Bafazi in meeting the set objectives of the project; such as improving household food security; equipping farmers with necessary skills in order to promote agricultural productivity. The research question can further be captured in these two queries: i) other than the reasons already known for the decline of agriculture in rural areas of South Africa (e.g poor extension services, poor soils, lack of market and so forth); what other fundamental reasons may be there for the poor performance of agricultural production in the communal areas? ii) What role, positive or negative has the government and its agencies played in respect to agricultural development in communal areas. The study, through qualitative methodology, sampled households in Nkwalini-Bafazi who are part of the Siyazondla Food Production Programme. The study investigated the role of agriculture in improving the livelihoods of rural people; and what strategies are required to promote agriculture so as to make contributions for future policy directions. Although this programme has been successfully initiated, from the findings of the study it is evident that beneficiaries are facing many challenges. It is crucial for the South African government to implement mechanisms to ensure that farmers will obtain incentives for farming activities, promotion of food security and rural local economic development, in order to redress the imbalances of the former apartheid regime.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of secondary education in operator employability in the automotive industry
- Authors: Puchert, Juliet
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Operators -- Selection -- Secondary education , Aptitude -- Automotive industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/933 , vital:26510 , Operators -- Selection -- Secondary education , Aptitude -- Automotive industry
- Description: This study was designed to assess the role of secondary education in the employability of operators in the South African automotive industry. Five types of secondary education are referred to, namely, a secondary education including Mathematics and Science as subjects; a matriculation with Mathematics as a subject; a secondary education inclusive of Science as a subject; a technical type Grade 12 qualification and a general form of secondary education. A two-phase aptitude testing selection process, employing three sub-tests from the Differential Aptitude Test (DAT-K) and five from the Trade Aptitude Test (TRAT) batteries, was utilised to assess whether there were significant differences in aptitude test scores of applicants with different types of secondary education. These aptitude measures were administered to 2 463 preselected respondents. Descriptive statistics such as median, mode and frequency distribution graphs were used. Statistical analysis was also carried out, using the Chi-square test of independence, to determine the differences in aptitude test results obtained by the groups in the study. The study‟s findings revealed that the type of Grade 12 qualification held by applicants is an important criterion to be considered in the selection of automotive operators. The findings specifically indicated that a secondary education that included Mathematics and/or Science as subjects resulted in notable performance in the aptitude instruments employed in this study. The findings are broadly relevant to the South African automotive industry and are of value to human resource practitioners, educators, social scientists and other researchers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Puchert, Juliet
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Operators -- Selection -- Secondary education , Aptitude -- Automotive industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/933 , vital:26510 , Operators -- Selection -- Secondary education , Aptitude -- Automotive industry
- Description: This study was designed to assess the role of secondary education in the employability of operators in the South African automotive industry. Five types of secondary education are referred to, namely, a secondary education including Mathematics and Science as subjects; a matriculation with Mathematics as a subject; a secondary education inclusive of Science as a subject; a technical type Grade 12 qualification and a general form of secondary education. A two-phase aptitude testing selection process, employing three sub-tests from the Differential Aptitude Test (DAT-K) and five from the Trade Aptitude Test (TRAT) batteries, was utilised to assess whether there were significant differences in aptitude test scores of applicants with different types of secondary education. These aptitude measures were administered to 2 463 preselected respondents. Descriptive statistics such as median, mode and frequency distribution graphs were used. Statistical analysis was also carried out, using the Chi-square test of independence, to determine the differences in aptitude test results obtained by the groups in the study. The study‟s findings revealed that the type of Grade 12 qualification held by applicants is an important criterion to be considered in the selection of automotive operators. The findings specifically indicated that a secondary education that included Mathematics and/or Science as subjects resulted in notable performance in the aptitude instruments employed in this study. The findings are broadly relevant to the South African automotive industry and are of value to human resource practitioners, educators, social scientists and other researchers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of sense-of-place in climate-change adaptation: the case of Soweto-on Sea and Veeplaas
- Authors: Lupindo, Yamkela
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Human geography -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3318 , vital:20423
- Description: The study has investigated the relationship between climate-change adaptation and the role of sense-of-place on people’s decisions regarding relocation, using Soweto-On-Sea and Veeplaas as case studies. The adoption of social science methods in the investigation led to the development of indicators, which themselves were derived from theories, which explained the building blocks of sense-of-place. These indicators: place attachment, place identity and place dependence, helped explain the connection people have with home, and how these connections are influenced and affected by interactions that take place in Soweto-on-Sea and Veeplaas. The fixed-mixed methodology, along with purposive-quota sampling, provided the means of investigating climate-change adaptation and sense-of-place in Soweto-on-Sea and Veeplaas. The three indicators were used in conjunction with a six-point ranking system, which was used to analyse the findings. The ranking system measured the degree of connection people have with home. A noticeable pattern between length-of-stay, and a very strong connection, could be recognised. A gradual increase in the degree of connection to home was recognised; as younger members of the two communities scored more moderately; and the oldest members (willing to sacrifice for a place, ranking five) scored highly. A strong interplay between the indicators could be observed; and thus, a single indicator on its own could not properly explain sense-of-place; but interactions between the two theories allowed for greater understanding. The youngest members of the two communities scored lower; because their connection was based on practical issues, access to schools, police stations, cheaper public transport and a sense-of-safety; as the members in the communities knew one another. Those residents who scored high on the ranking system had a much stronger bond, which went beyond practicality; as various interactions contributed to their sense-of-place. Sense-of-place contributes significantly to people’s decisions regarding relocation; and thus, fundamental benefits in incorporating a study of sense-of-place in climate-change adaptation would allow for greater understanding, and lead to improved ways of protecting people in areas at risk.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lupindo, Yamkela
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Human geography -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3318 , vital:20423
- Description: The study has investigated the relationship between climate-change adaptation and the role of sense-of-place on people’s decisions regarding relocation, using Soweto-On-Sea and Veeplaas as case studies. The adoption of social science methods in the investigation led to the development of indicators, which themselves were derived from theories, which explained the building blocks of sense-of-place. These indicators: place attachment, place identity and place dependence, helped explain the connection people have with home, and how these connections are influenced and affected by interactions that take place in Soweto-on-Sea and Veeplaas. The fixed-mixed methodology, along with purposive-quota sampling, provided the means of investigating climate-change adaptation and sense-of-place in Soweto-on-Sea and Veeplaas. The three indicators were used in conjunction with a six-point ranking system, which was used to analyse the findings. The ranking system measured the degree of connection people have with home. A noticeable pattern between length-of-stay, and a very strong connection, could be recognised. A gradual increase in the degree of connection to home was recognised; as younger members of the two communities scored more moderately; and the oldest members (willing to sacrifice for a place, ranking five) scored highly. A strong interplay between the indicators could be observed; and thus, a single indicator on its own could not properly explain sense-of-place; but interactions between the two theories allowed for greater understanding. The youngest members of the two communities scored lower; because their connection was based on practical issues, access to schools, police stations, cheaper public transport and a sense-of-safety; as the members in the communities knew one another. Those residents who scored high on the ranking system had a much stronger bond, which went beyond practicality; as various interactions contributed to their sense-of-place. Sense-of-place contributes significantly to people’s decisions regarding relocation; and thus, fundamental benefits in incorporating a study of sense-of-place in climate-change adaptation would allow for greater understanding, and lead to improved ways of protecting people in areas at risk.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of the deep spawning grounds in chokka squid (Loligo reynaudi d'orbigny, 1845) recruitment
- Authors: Downey, Nicola Jean
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Squids -- Spawning -- South Africa Squids -- Effect of temperature on -- South Africa Squids -- Embryos -- South Africa Squids -- South Africa -- Geographical distribution Loligo -- Research -- South Africa Loligo fisheries -- South Africa Recruitment (Population biology) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5359 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011867
- Description: It was previously thought that the South African chokka squid Loligo reynaudi is exclusively an inshore, shallow water spawner. Although spawning mostly within shallow bays (<60 m) the presence of squid eggs in trawls at depths up to 130 m indicates this species frequently makes use of deeper spawning areas on the mid-shelf. The extent of mid-shelf spawning (referred to as deep spawning) and the contribution to recruitment has yet to be assessed. Studies have shown mid-shelf bottom temperature to vary considerably from those inshore, suggesting chokka squid spawn in two very different oceanographic environments. Considering these apparent environmental differences, what leads to the mid-shelf environment becoming a suitable spawning habitat? Does a suitable benthic habitat, required for the attachment of egg pods, occur on the mid-shelf? These questions are not only important for determining the extent of deep spawning, but also to the understanding of factors “driving” deep spawning. The fate of deep spawned hatchlings is another unknown. It has been proposed that the main chokka squid inshore spawning grounds are positioned to exploit the net westward currents on the Eastern Agulhas Bank, i.e. paralarvae would be transported west from the hatching site to the cold ridge, an area of high primary and secondary productivity on the Central Agulhas Bank. This concept has come to be known as the Western Transport Hypothesis. Lagrangian ROMS-IBMs (regional ocean model system – individual-based model) predict the net westward transport of paralarvae from both the inshore and deep spawning grounds, to the cold ridge. These simulations were used to investigate the transport of hatchlings to the cold ridge feeding grounds before the exhaustion of yolk reserves. The fate of paralarvae on reaching the feeding grounds has not yet been investigated. This work has contributed new knowledge to our understanding of deep spawning and its role in recruitment. Specific aims of this study were to (1) determine the extent, range and importance of the deep spawning grounds relative to those inshore; (2) investigate the deep spawning ground habitat (Agulhas Bank mid-shelf) morphology and oceanographic environment; (3) determine the transport and survival of deep spawned hatchlings; and (4) investigate the origin and distribution of chokka squid paralarvae on the Agulhas Bank. The extent, depth range and importance of the deep spawning grounds, relative to those inshore was assessed using 23 years of demersal trawl survey data. Data for both the west and south coasts of South Africa were examined for egg capsules. No spawning was found on the west coast. Data showed that chokka squid preferred the Eastern Agulhas Bank for spawning. Spawning occurred not only inshore but also on the mid-shelf extending to depths of 270 m near the shelf edge. The majority of deep spawned eggs however, were found in the depth range 71-130 m. Squid egg density markedly decreased beyond 70 m, suggesting delineation between the inshore and deep spawning grounds. Total egg biomass calculations for depths shallower and deeper than 70 m indicated the coastal area to be strongly favoured, i.e. 82 vs. 18%. These results contest the commonly accepted notion that chokka squid is an inshore spawner and redefine the spawning grounds to extend across the shelf. Apart from an initial study investigating bottom temperature on the mid-shelf, very little is known about the deep spawning habitat. St Francis Bay, a commonly used spawning location, was chosen as a demonstration area for further study. The deep spawning grounds (71-130 m) were mapped and benthic habitat described from underwater video footage. A study investigating cross-shelf bottom conditions was undertaken off Thys Bay. CTD data were used to compare seasonal bottom temperature and oxygen on the St Francis Bay inshore and deep spawning grounds. Squid movement between the two spawning habitats was assessed using filament tagging. Predation and fishing pressure across the spawning grounds was reviewed. The mid-shelf benthic habitat was found to be similar to that inshore and available for spawning. Despite the generally colder bottom temperatures on the mid-shelf, this study showed that bottom temperature in deeper waters can at times be warmer than inshore. Although mid-shelf warming events lasted from a few hours to a number of days, they resulted in similar conditions to those on the inshore spawning grounds. It is likely these events act to expand or shift spawning habitat. The movement of squid between the two spawning habitats makes it possible for them to seek patches of warm bottom water with appropiate substrate. This suggests they are spawning habitat opportunists. Predation and fishing pressure appear to be higher on the inshore spawning grounds. It is feasible that this also forces spawners to seek out more favourable habitat offshore. An individual-based model was used to predict the fate of mid-shelf and inshore hatched paralarvae. Within the model, both the highly productive cold ridge and inshore spawning grounds were considered feeding or nursery areas. Paralarvae were released from six inshore and six deep spawning sites, spanning the coast between Port Alfred and Knysna. All paralarvae not reaching the feeding areas before the exhaustion of yolk-reserves (≤5 days), not retained within the feeding grounds (≥14 days), and not retained on the Agulhas Bank after exiting the feeding grounds were considered lost. This work illustrated the dependence of paralarval transport success on both spawning location and time of hatching, as established in earlier studies. The current IBM has expanded on initial work, emphasizing the importance of the cold ridge and inshore spawning grounds as nursery areas for deep and inshore spawned paralarvae, respectively. This work has highlighted the complex interactions between processes influencing recruitment variability for chokka squid. Possible relationships between periods of highest recruitment success and spawning peaks were identified for both spawning habitats. Based on the likely autumn increase in deep spawning off Tsitsikamma, and the beneficial currents during this period, it can be concluded deep spawning may at times contribute significantly to recruitment. This is particularly true for years where the cold ridge persists into winter. Data on chokka squid paralarval distribution are scarce. Paralarval distribution and abundance, in relation to Agulhas Bank oceanography, was investigated using bongo caught paralarvae and corresponding oceanographic data. Individual-based models (IBMs) were used to predict the origin or spawning site of the wild caught paralarvae, with reference to inshore versus deep spawning. Although failing to predict realistic points of origin, this study provided evidence to support a number of scenarios previously assumed to influence chokka squid recruitment. First is the possible influence of coastal upwelling on the retention, and hence spatial distribution, of paralarvae on the inshore spawning grounds. The second factor thought to impact recruitment is the loss of paralarvae from the Agulhas Bank ecosystem. This study confirmed the removal of paralarvae from the Eastern Agulhas Bank due to Agulhas Current boundary phenomena and resultant offshelf leakage. In addition, data suggested that the formation of the cold ridge could enhance retention on the Central Agulhas Bank, and so prevent offshelf leakage from the Central and Western Agulhas Bank. A synthesis of the main conclusions is presented. Implications of the findings and directions for future research are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Downey, Nicola Jean
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Squids -- Spawning -- South Africa Squids -- Effect of temperature on -- South Africa Squids -- Embryos -- South Africa Squids -- South Africa -- Geographical distribution Loligo -- Research -- South Africa Loligo fisheries -- South Africa Recruitment (Population biology) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:5359 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011867
- Description: It was previously thought that the South African chokka squid Loligo reynaudi is exclusively an inshore, shallow water spawner. Although spawning mostly within shallow bays (<60 m) the presence of squid eggs in trawls at depths up to 130 m indicates this species frequently makes use of deeper spawning areas on the mid-shelf. The extent of mid-shelf spawning (referred to as deep spawning) and the contribution to recruitment has yet to be assessed. Studies have shown mid-shelf bottom temperature to vary considerably from those inshore, suggesting chokka squid spawn in two very different oceanographic environments. Considering these apparent environmental differences, what leads to the mid-shelf environment becoming a suitable spawning habitat? Does a suitable benthic habitat, required for the attachment of egg pods, occur on the mid-shelf? These questions are not only important for determining the extent of deep spawning, but also to the understanding of factors “driving” deep spawning. The fate of deep spawned hatchlings is another unknown. It has been proposed that the main chokka squid inshore spawning grounds are positioned to exploit the net westward currents on the Eastern Agulhas Bank, i.e. paralarvae would be transported west from the hatching site to the cold ridge, an area of high primary and secondary productivity on the Central Agulhas Bank. This concept has come to be known as the Western Transport Hypothesis. Lagrangian ROMS-IBMs (regional ocean model system – individual-based model) predict the net westward transport of paralarvae from both the inshore and deep spawning grounds, to the cold ridge. These simulations were used to investigate the transport of hatchlings to the cold ridge feeding grounds before the exhaustion of yolk reserves. The fate of paralarvae on reaching the feeding grounds has not yet been investigated. This work has contributed new knowledge to our understanding of deep spawning and its role in recruitment. Specific aims of this study were to (1) determine the extent, range and importance of the deep spawning grounds relative to those inshore; (2) investigate the deep spawning ground habitat (Agulhas Bank mid-shelf) morphology and oceanographic environment; (3) determine the transport and survival of deep spawned hatchlings; and (4) investigate the origin and distribution of chokka squid paralarvae on the Agulhas Bank. The extent, depth range and importance of the deep spawning grounds, relative to those inshore was assessed using 23 years of demersal trawl survey data. Data for both the west and south coasts of South Africa were examined for egg capsules. No spawning was found on the west coast. Data showed that chokka squid preferred the Eastern Agulhas Bank for spawning. Spawning occurred not only inshore but also on the mid-shelf extending to depths of 270 m near the shelf edge. The majority of deep spawned eggs however, were found in the depth range 71-130 m. Squid egg density markedly decreased beyond 70 m, suggesting delineation between the inshore and deep spawning grounds. Total egg biomass calculations for depths shallower and deeper than 70 m indicated the coastal area to be strongly favoured, i.e. 82 vs. 18%. These results contest the commonly accepted notion that chokka squid is an inshore spawner and redefine the spawning grounds to extend across the shelf. Apart from an initial study investigating bottom temperature on the mid-shelf, very little is known about the deep spawning habitat. St Francis Bay, a commonly used spawning location, was chosen as a demonstration area for further study. The deep spawning grounds (71-130 m) were mapped and benthic habitat described from underwater video footage. A study investigating cross-shelf bottom conditions was undertaken off Thys Bay. CTD data were used to compare seasonal bottom temperature and oxygen on the St Francis Bay inshore and deep spawning grounds. Squid movement between the two spawning habitats was assessed using filament tagging. Predation and fishing pressure across the spawning grounds was reviewed. The mid-shelf benthic habitat was found to be similar to that inshore and available for spawning. Despite the generally colder bottom temperatures on the mid-shelf, this study showed that bottom temperature in deeper waters can at times be warmer than inshore. Although mid-shelf warming events lasted from a few hours to a number of days, they resulted in similar conditions to those on the inshore spawning grounds. It is likely these events act to expand or shift spawning habitat. The movement of squid between the two spawning habitats makes it possible for them to seek patches of warm bottom water with appropiate substrate. This suggests they are spawning habitat opportunists. Predation and fishing pressure appear to be higher on the inshore spawning grounds. It is feasible that this also forces spawners to seek out more favourable habitat offshore. An individual-based model was used to predict the fate of mid-shelf and inshore hatched paralarvae. Within the model, both the highly productive cold ridge and inshore spawning grounds were considered feeding or nursery areas. Paralarvae were released from six inshore and six deep spawning sites, spanning the coast between Port Alfred and Knysna. All paralarvae not reaching the feeding areas before the exhaustion of yolk-reserves (≤5 days), not retained within the feeding grounds (≥14 days), and not retained on the Agulhas Bank after exiting the feeding grounds were considered lost. This work illustrated the dependence of paralarval transport success on both spawning location and time of hatching, as established in earlier studies. The current IBM has expanded on initial work, emphasizing the importance of the cold ridge and inshore spawning grounds as nursery areas for deep and inshore spawned paralarvae, respectively. This work has highlighted the complex interactions between processes influencing recruitment variability for chokka squid. Possible relationships between periods of highest recruitment success and spawning peaks were identified for both spawning habitats. Based on the likely autumn increase in deep spawning off Tsitsikamma, and the beneficial currents during this period, it can be concluded deep spawning may at times contribute significantly to recruitment. This is particularly true for years where the cold ridge persists into winter. Data on chokka squid paralarval distribution are scarce. Paralarval distribution and abundance, in relation to Agulhas Bank oceanography, was investigated using bongo caught paralarvae and corresponding oceanographic data. Individual-based models (IBMs) were used to predict the origin or spawning site of the wild caught paralarvae, with reference to inshore versus deep spawning. Although failing to predict realistic points of origin, this study provided evidence to support a number of scenarios previously assumed to influence chokka squid recruitment. First is the possible influence of coastal upwelling on the retention, and hence spatial distribution, of paralarvae on the inshore spawning grounds. The second factor thought to impact recruitment is the loss of paralarvae from the Agulhas Bank ecosystem. This study confirmed the removal of paralarvae from the Eastern Agulhas Bank due to Agulhas Current boundary phenomena and resultant offshelf leakage. In addition, data suggested that the formation of the cold ridge could enhance retention on the Central Agulhas Bank, and so prevent offshelf leakage from the Central and Western Agulhas Bank. A synthesis of the main conclusions is presented. Implications of the findings and directions for future research are discussed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The role of the education labour relations council in collective bargaining
- Authors: Foca, Nolusindiso Octavia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Collective bargaining -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10298 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021054
- Description: The 1996 Constitution provides workers with the right to form and join trade unions and to participate in the activities and programmes of those trade unions. The organizational and associated rights contained in sections 23(2)-(4) of the Constitution of Republic of South Africa, form the bedrock of a labour-relations system characterized by voluntarist collective bargaining. The constitutional protection that the above section gives to these organisational rights shields the trade unions and employer organisations from legislative and executive interference in their affairs and in turn, inhibits victimisation of and interference in trade unions by employers. One of the expressly stated purposes of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 (hereinafter referred to as the “LRA”) is to promote collective bargaining and to provide a framework within which employers, employers’ organisations, trade unions and employees can bargain collectively to determine wages, terms and conditions of employment, other matters of mutual interest and to formulate industrial policy. Notwithstanding the above purpose, the Act does not compel collective bargaining, with the result that the courts have no role in determining, for example, whether an employer should bargain collectively with a trade, what they should bargain about, at what level they should bargain or how parties to a negotiation should conduct themselves. Despite this, by extending and bolstering the right to strike, the LRA has effectively empowered trade unions to have recourse to the strike as an integral aspect of the collective bargaining process. The LRA provides a framework that is conducive to collective bargaining and thus providing for the establishment of bargaining councils. The purpose of this treatise is to examine the role played by the Education Labour Relations Council (hereinafter referred to as the “ELRC”) as one of the sectoral bargaining councils in the Public Service, in collective bargaining. In order to place this discussion in context, it is valuable to know the history of industrial relations and collective bargaining in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Foca, Nolusindiso Octavia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Collective bargaining -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10298 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021054
- Description: The 1996 Constitution provides workers with the right to form and join trade unions and to participate in the activities and programmes of those trade unions. The organizational and associated rights contained in sections 23(2)-(4) of the Constitution of Republic of South Africa, form the bedrock of a labour-relations system characterized by voluntarist collective bargaining. The constitutional protection that the above section gives to these organisational rights shields the trade unions and employer organisations from legislative and executive interference in their affairs and in turn, inhibits victimisation of and interference in trade unions by employers. One of the expressly stated purposes of the Labour Relations Act of 1995 (hereinafter referred to as the “LRA”) is to promote collective bargaining and to provide a framework within which employers, employers’ organisations, trade unions and employees can bargain collectively to determine wages, terms and conditions of employment, other matters of mutual interest and to formulate industrial policy. Notwithstanding the above purpose, the Act does not compel collective bargaining, with the result that the courts have no role in determining, for example, whether an employer should bargain collectively with a trade, what they should bargain about, at what level they should bargain or how parties to a negotiation should conduct themselves. Despite this, by extending and bolstering the right to strike, the LRA has effectively empowered trade unions to have recourse to the strike as an integral aspect of the collective bargaining process. The LRA provides a framework that is conducive to collective bargaining and thus providing for the establishment of bargaining councils. The purpose of this treatise is to examine the role played by the Education Labour Relations Council (hereinafter referred to as the “ELRC”) as one of the sectoral bargaining councils in the Public Service, in collective bargaining. In order to place this discussion in context, it is valuable to know the history of industrial relations and collective bargaining in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014