Model for IT governance to improve information technology alignment of multi-campuses in South African institutions of higher learning
- Authors: Ngqondi, Tembisa Grace
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: IT Governance , Institution of higher learning , Strategic alignment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11143 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015277 , IT Governance , Institution of higher learning , Strategic alignment
- Description: Information Technology (IT) has emerged as an important issue for the public and private sectors. It has been initially identified as a vehicle in supporting business processes by speeding up the process of decision making and easy access of information as required for the competitive advantage of businesses. Organisations regarded IT as an enabler of their business processes. As IT has grown, its shape and definition have drastically changed from being an enabler of the business processes to become a central and strategic concern within the organisation that drives the business processes. The new IT landscape has made organisations completely dependant on IT for their decision making and effective functioning. The dependence on IT has created a need for unified and effective structures, standards and best practices that ensure the effective execution of business processes using IT. The establishment of IT Governance for institutions of higher learning has created the dual challenges of how IT Governance can work within the culture of inclusiveness and shared decision making while better aligning existing IT structures. These dual challenges vary from one university to another based on the culture of the specific university. This study therefore suggests possible ways that IT Governance can shape an institution of higher learning by strategically aligning the institution’s IT strategy with the overall university strategy through the development of an IT Governance Model. To come up with the said proposed model, qualitative research techniques such as document analysis, observations, interviews, a questionnaire and briefing sessions were used during the research process. The comparative analysis of the case studied was used to identify different IT Governance models adopted by other universities. Literature was reviewed to establish the emerging IT Governance practices established and implemented by different authors. The result from this study is that an IT Governance model specific to WSU has been developed. This model can be used as guiding tool in establishing new IT Governance structures and also modify and improve the existing IT Governance structure of different institutions of higher learning. This model can further be used to guide the development of the institution IT Governance implementation architecture framework.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ngqondi, Tembisa Grace
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: IT Governance , Institution of higher learning , Strategic alignment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Information Systems)
- Identifier: vital:11143 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015277 , IT Governance , Institution of higher learning , Strategic alignment
- Description: Information Technology (IT) has emerged as an important issue for the public and private sectors. It has been initially identified as a vehicle in supporting business processes by speeding up the process of decision making and easy access of information as required for the competitive advantage of businesses. Organisations regarded IT as an enabler of their business processes. As IT has grown, its shape and definition have drastically changed from being an enabler of the business processes to become a central and strategic concern within the organisation that drives the business processes. The new IT landscape has made organisations completely dependant on IT for their decision making and effective functioning. The dependence on IT has created a need for unified and effective structures, standards and best practices that ensure the effective execution of business processes using IT. The establishment of IT Governance for institutions of higher learning has created the dual challenges of how IT Governance can work within the culture of inclusiveness and shared decision making while better aligning existing IT structures. These dual challenges vary from one university to another based on the culture of the specific university. This study therefore suggests possible ways that IT Governance can shape an institution of higher learning by strategically aligning the institution’s IT strategy with the overall university strategy through the development of an IT Governance Model. To come up with the said proposed model, qualitative research techniques such as document analysis, observations, interviews, a questionnaire and briefing sessions were used during the research process. The comparative analysis of the case studied was used to identify different IT Governance models adopted by other universities. Literature was reviewed to establish the emerging IT Governance practices established and implemented by different authors. The result from this study is that an IT Governance model specific to WSU has been developed. This model can be used as guiding tool in establishing new IT Governance structures and also modify and improve the existing IT Governance structure of different institutions of higher learning. This model can further be used to guide the development of the institution IT Governance implementation architecture framework.
- Full Text:
Modelling payment systems for environmental services in the Mt Elgon ecosystem of Kenya
- Authors: Kisaka, Lily
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013123 , Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Description: Unsustainable patterns of consumption by humankind have increased the rate of change in the natural ecosystems and consequently the levels of stress experienced within the environment. Access to sufficient good quality water is essential and a requirement to meet a number of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, poor land management and untenable agricultural practices have become the main drivers of the declining watershed services. Upstream farmers often have little or no incentives to take these impacts into account in their decision-making process. Therefore, without investment in ensuring proper land management, the trend in watersheds degradation will continue. Payment for Environmental Services (PES) has emerged as an incentive–based tool that is expected to motivate farmers to improve their agricultural practices. PES is set up to facilitate the process whereby the beneficiaries of environmental services pay compensation to providers of environmental services for conserving the ecosystem. This tool has received increasing attention as a means of creating incentive measures for managing the ecosystem, addressing livelihood issues for the rural poor, and providing sustainable financing for protected areas. The Government of Kenya, as part of its efforts to improve water resource management, is considering use of economic incentive. However, there is insufficient information to guide policy making in that direction. Little is known about the farmers’ preferences for management schemes that will affect land use patterns, their willingness to accept compensation and the willingness of potential buyers to pay for the services. This study evaluates the willingness to accept and the willingness to pay for environmental services with a view to assessing the viability of a PES scheme for the Kuywa Watershed in particular, as well as the Mt. Elgon Ecosystem and other areas with similar conditions. The objectives of the study are threefold (i) to examine respondents preferences for management options for the provision of environmental services in the watershed of River Kuywa of Mt. Elgon Ecosystem; (ii) to evaluate households’ willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) payment for improved environmental services from the River Kuywa watershed; and (iii) to propose viable PES approaches for the management of the natural resource of the Kuywa watershed and the Mt. Elgon ecosystem in general. Using six land management attributes relevant to the local situation, the study applied the conjoint method to evaluate farmers’ preferences for management options for the provision of environmental service and assess farmers’ willingness to pay and willingness to accept payment for environmental services. To enable assessment of viability, an analysis was done of the institutional and legal framework within which the PES scheme would operate. Data were collected using literature review and document analysis, questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Results indicate that poor water quality was the most acute problem, followed by deforestation. Results from the conjoint models show that the length of commitment period and land size that is 40% or more of the total land holding influence the farmers’ rating of the management scenarios. The study found that a management contract that requires use of 20% of land holding for a period of 5 years, combined with a cash incentive, harvesting partially permitted, administered by a local NGO and requiring contribution of free labour for two days had the highest likelihood of being selected. The conjoint valuation exercise also came up with a WTA by farmers upstream of KSh. 7,080/= per year. The corresponding value downstream was KSh. 43/= per month over and above their regular water bill. In terms of the institutional and regulatory framework, Kenya has a wide range of policies, laws and regulation on water and other natural resources which provide an enabling environment for PES. With the decentralized institutional setup implemented in both the water sector and the agricultural sector, the institutional setting also provides an enabling environment for PES. With a positive WTA and WTP coupled with an enabling legal and institutional environment, the study concludes that PES is a viable environmental management tool for the Kuywa water shed and similar watersheds.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Kisaka, Lily
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013123 , Ecological disturbances -- Kenya , Freshwater ecology -- Kenya , Water quality biological assessment -- Kenya , Land degradation -- Kenya , Ecosystem health -- Kenya
- Description: Unsustainable patterns of consumption by humankind have increased the rate of change in the natural ecosystems and consequently the levels of stress experienced within the environment. Access to sufficient good quality water is essential and a requirement to meet a number of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, poor land management and untenable agricultural practices have become the main drivers of the declining watershed services. Upstream farmers often have little or no incentives to take these impacts into account in their decision-making process. Therefore, without investment in ensuring proper land management, the trend in watersheds degradation will continue. Payment for Environmental Services (PES) has emerged as an incentive–based tool that is expected to motivate farmers to improve their agricultural practices. PES is set up to facilitate the process whereby the beneficiaries of environmental services pay compensation to providers of environmental services for conserving the ecosystem. This tool has received increasing attention as a means of creating incentive measures for managing the ecosystem, addressing livelihood issues for the rural poor, and providing sustainable financing for protected areas. The Government of Kenya, as part of its efforts to improve water resource management, is considering use of economic incentive. However, there is insufficient information to guide policy making in that direction. Little is known about the farmers’ preferences for management schemes that will affect land use patterns, their willingness to accept compensation and the willingness of potential buyers to pay for the services. This study evaluates the willingness to accept and the willingness to pay for environmental services with a view to assessing the viability of a PES scheme for the Kuywa Watershed in particular, as well as the Mt. Elgon Ecosystem and other areas with similar conditions. The objectives of the study are threefold (i) to examine respondents preferences for management options for the provision of environmental services in the watershed of River Kuywa of Mt. Elgon Ecosystem; (ii) to evaluate households’ willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) payment for improved environmental services from the River Kuywa watershed; and (iii) to propose viable PES approaches for the management of the natural resource of the Kuywa watershed and the Mt. Elgon ecosystem in general. Using six land management attributes relevant to the local situation, the study applied the conjoint method to evaluate farmers’ preferences for management options for the provision of environmental service and assess farmers’ willingness to pay and willingness to accept payment for environmental services. To enable assessment of viability, an analysis was done of the institutional and legal framework within which the PES scheme would operate. Data were collected using literature review and document analysis, questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Results indicate that poor water quality was the most acute problem, followed by deforestation. Results from the conjoint models show that the length of commitment period and land size that is 40% or more of the total land holding influence the farmers’ rating of the management scenarios. The study found that a management contract that requires use of 20% of land holding for a period of 5 years, combined with a cash incentive, harvesting partially permitted, administered by a local NGO and requiring contribution of free labour for two days had the highest likelihood of being selected. The conjoint valuation exercise also came up with a WTA by farmers upstream of KSh. 7,080/= per year. The corresponding value downstream was KSh. 43/= per month over and above their regular water bill. In terms of the institutional and regulatory framework, Kenya has a wide range of policies, laws and regulation on water and other natural resources which provide an enabling environment for PES. With the decentralized institutional setup implemented in both the water sector and the agricultural sector, the institutional setting also provides an enabling environment for PES. With a positive WTA and WTP coupled with an enabling legal and institutional environment, the study concludes that PES is a viable environmental management tool for the Kuywa water shed and similar watersheds.
- Full Text:
Modern slavery and worst forms of child labour in South Africa: case of the former homeland areas
- Obi, A
- Authors: Obi, A
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Human rights , Child labour , Slavery
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (Human Rights)
- Identifier: vital:11104 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016119 , Human rights , Child labour , Slavery
- Description: Despite a progressive constitution lauded as one of the best and most forward-looking in the world, with an advanced Bill of Rights, instances of human rights violations have been detected at all levels of the South African society. The most disturbing revelations have been associated with situations in many farming communities in South Africa. On the basis of a comprehensive nationwide study initiated in June 2001 and documented in 2003, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) confirmed widespread human rights violations on South African farms. Through the efforts of the South African Human Rights Commission, many of these violations have been brought to the attention of the authorities and there are already numerous actions being taken to contain and possibly eliminate them. Among these is the Child Labour Programme of Action which was adopted in 2003 by the large number of government departments that constitute the stakeholders, particularly those that have responsibility for labour, education, provincial and local government, water services, justice, policing, prosecution, and social development. However, the SAHRC study had limited coverage due to constraints of time and funding and did not pay adequate attention to the former independent homelands. In addition to this significant shortcoming, recent international experience reveals other forms of violations that may not be immediately obvious and therefore go undetected for a very long time. Among these, the International Labour Organization (ILO), together with various non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other bodies have drawn attention to existence of what are termed “worst forms of child labour”. The latter involves a wide range of abuses to which under-age individuals are subjected against their will and often exposed to hazards that may leave them permanently excluded from formal educational and economic opportunities. The fact that national definitions differ complicates the situation. As a result, systematic investigation is needed to see to what extent local practices compare with international norms and standards. Similarly, the fact that the former independent homelands were not adequately covered in such an important study that aimed to inform policy on the optimal direction of the transformation process also raises serious questions that must be addressed. This mini-dissertation documents evidence based on a rapid appraisal of farm and non-farm environments in two polar regions of the province, namely the Port St John’s Municipality in the Oliver Tambo District Municipality of the former Transkei homeland and Alice in the Nkonkobe Municipality of the former Ciskei homeland. Descriptive and content analysis methodologies were employed to analyze the data obtained from interviews of employers of labour, the labourers themselves, as well as community members and “bystanders” who had opinions about the insertion of children into the labour market. Correlational analysis and logistic regression were performed to draw inferences about the determinants of child labour in the farming system. The indication is that child labour is an established phenomenon whose discussion is however quite sensitive and elicits a wide range of emotions. The role of socioeconomic factors in influencing the decision to engage child labour seems to be quite extensive. For instance, monthly income of household has important practical implications for national and global policy on the use of child labour are foreseen and form the basis for the recommendations put forward to address the associated concerns.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Obi, A
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Human rights , Child labour , Slavery
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (Human Rights)
- Identifier: vital:11104 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016119 , Human rights , Child labour , Slavery
- Description: Despite a progressive constitution lauded as one of the best and most forward-looking in the world, with an advanced Bill of Rights, instances of human rights violations have been detected at all levels of the South African society. The most disturbing revelations have been associated with situations in many farming communities in South Africa. On the basis of a comprehensive nationwide study initiated in June 2001 and documented in 2003, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) confirmed widespread human rights violations on South African farms. Through the efforts of the South African Human Rights Commission, many of these violations have been brought to the attention of the authorities and there are already numerous actions being taken to contain and possibly eliminate them. Among these is the Child Labour Programme of Action which was adopted in 2003 by the large number of government departments that constitute the stakeholders, particularly those that have responsibility for labour, education, provincial and local government, water services, justice, policing, prosecution, and social development. However, the SAHRC study had limited coverage due to constraints of time and funding and did not pay adequate attention to the former independent homelands. In addition to this significant shortcoming, recent international experience reveals other forms of violations that may not be immediately obvious and therefore go undetected for a very long time. Among these, the International Labour Organization (ILO), together with various non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other bodies have drawn attention to existence of what are termed “worst forms of child labour”. The latter involves a wide range of abuses to which under-age individuals are subjected against their will and often exposed to hazards that may leave them permanently excluded from formal educational and economic opportunities. The fact that national definitions differ complicates the situation. As a result, systematic investigation is needed to see to what extent local practices compare with international norms and standards. Similarly, the fact that the former independent homelands were not adequately covered in such an important study that aimed to inform policy on the optimal direction of the transformation process also raises serious questions that must be addressed. This mini-dissertation documents evidence based on a rapid appraisal of farm and non-farm environments in two polar regions of the province, namely the Port St John’s Municipality in the Oliver Tambo District Municipality of the former Transkei homeland and Alice in the Nkonkobe Municipality of the former Ciskei homeland. Descriptive and content analysis methodologies were employed to analyze the data obtained from interviews of employers of labour, the labourers themselves, as well as community members and “bystanders” who had opinions about the insertion of children into the labour market. Correlational analysis and logistic regression were performed to draw inferences about the determinants of child labour in the farming system. The indication is that child labour is an established phenomenon whose discussion is however quite sensitive and elicits a wide range of emotions. The role of socioeconomic factors in influencing the decision to engage child labour seems to be quite extensive. For instance, monthly income of household has important practical implications for national and global policy on the use of child labour are foreseen and form the basis for the recommendations put forward to address the associated concerns.
- Full Text:
Molecular study of mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA from Port Elizabeth
- Authors: Londiwe, Bhembe Nolwazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11281 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016163 , Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a causative agent of tuberculosis (TB) in humans and animals. The burden of tuberculosis in South Africa is worsened by the concurrent epidemic of HIV. The dynamic of TB epidemics has been investigated and yet little data has been given about the Eastern Cape, particularly Port Elizabeth. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of drug resistant MTBC and to determine the mutations causing resistance in Port Elizabeth. One hundred and ninety (190) DNA samples isolated from sputum specimen in humans suspected of having TB were amplified using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE detection assay. To differentiate Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members for surveillance purposes a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was done based on genomic regions of differences such as RD1, RD1mic, RD2seal, RD4, RD9 and RD12. Target genes known to confer resistance to first and second-line drugs were amplified and the amplicons sequenced using Big Dye Terminator DNA sequencing kit v3.1 (Applied Biosystems, UK). The patient’s demographic profiles were obtained from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). All hundred and ninety DNA samples tested positive for MTBC using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE assay. Results show a high prevalence of extensive drug resistant TB in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province. One hundred and eighty four (184) DNA isolates were used in the identification of different MTBC species. We ended up working with 184 DNA isolates because we ran out of DNA, and we could not go back to isolate DNA from the affected individuals due to the fact that some patients died, while some have been released to go to their homes. From the 184 DNA isolates 45 (24.5%) isolates were identified to be M. tuberculosis, 94 isolates (51.1%) to be M. bovis BCG and 3 isolates (1.6%) to be M. cannetti. Sequencing results show the position of mutation in each DNA isolate; however in the study we got resistance to MDR to be 100% and 42% pre-XDR while 58% was XDR. These results raise an alarm for the prevalence MDR in MTBC from Port Elizabeth. This is a serious health concern which calls for a need to strategise on the identification of extensive drug resistant TB patients from multi-drug resistant TB patients and ensure monitoring of their treatment.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Londiwe, Bhembe Nolwazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11281 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016163 , Mycobacterium tuberculosis
- Description: Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a causative agent of tuberculosis (TB) in humans and animals. The burden of tuberculosis in South Africa is worsened by the concurrent epidemic of HIV. The dynamic of TB epidemics has been investigated and yet little data has been given about the Eastern Cape, particularly Port Elizabeth. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of drug resistant MTBC and to determine the mutations causing resistance in Port Elizabeth. One hundred and ninety (190) DNA samples isolated from sputum specimen in humans suspected of having TB were amplified using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE detection assay. To differentiate Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) members for surveillance purposes a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was done based on genomic regions of differences such as RD1, RD1mic, RD2seal, RD4, RD9 and RD12. Target genes known to confer resistance to first and second-line drugs were amplified and the amplicons sequenced using Big Dye Terminator DNA sequencing kit v3.1 (Applied Biosystems, UK). The patient’s demographic profiles were obtained from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). All hundred and ninety DNA samples tested positive for MTBC using the Seeplex® MTB Nested ACE assay. Results show a high prevalence of extensive drug resistant TB in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province. One hundred and eighty four (184) DNA isolates were used in the identification of different MTBC species. We ended up working with 184 DNA isolates because we ran out of DNA, and we could not go back to isolate DNA from the affected individuals due to the fact that some patients died, while some have been released to go to their homes. From the 184 DNA isolates 45 (24.5%) isolates were identified to be M. tuberculosis, 94 isolates (51.1%) to be M. bovis BCG and 3 isolates (1.6%) to be M. cannetti. Sequencing results show the position of mutation in each DNA isolate; however in the study we got resistance to MDR to be 100% and 42% pre-XDR while 58% was XDR. These results raise an alarm for the prevalence MDR in MTBC from Port Elizabeth. This is a serious health concern which calls for a need to strategise on the identification of extensive drug resistant TB patients from multi-drug resistant TB patients and ensure monitoring of their treatment.
- Full Text:
National development plan (NDP) and youth employment in South Africa. The case of Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Chivanga, Shylet Yvonne
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/855 , vital:26503
- Description: This research study explored the inadequacies of the National Development Plan on addressing the problem of youth unemployment in Eastern Cape in South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to evaluate the employment needs of youth in relation to the identified measures of employment creation outlined in the NDP. ii) to identify the gaps in the NDP policy interventions in relation to the prospects and problems embedded in addressing the problem of youth unemployment. The literature reviewed in the study was drawn from several researchers and the study was underpinned by the human capital theory, the capability approach and the public and the private sector partnership theory. Though many theories were used, the human capital theory was the major theory adopted in this study. Since the study was qualitative in nature, an interview guide which consisted of open ended questions was used on face to face interviews and focus groups to collect data from twenty one youth and five youth representatives in the Eastern Cape. The data of this study was thematically analysed. The analysis of the study made the following conclusions about the NDP and youth employment in the Eastern Cape. Firstly, there is a problem of high youth unemployment which is above 50% in the Eastern Cape. Secondly, the NDP’s economic measures have a potential of excluding the youth and as a result, the NDP will inadequately address the employment needs of the youth. Thirdly, the youth appreciated that the NDP is realising the problem of youth unemployment but they are not happy with the NDP’s proposed employment measures of wage subsidies, low wages, labour deregulation and SMMEs because they do not solve the root causes of youth unemployment. Rather, they provide unsustainable and low quality jobs in the long run if not properly monitored. In response to the findings, the study therefore made the following recommendations: The NDP’s economic growth policy to be labour intensive compliant, human capital to match the work place skills requirements, promoting entrepreneurship skills, addressing the root causes rather than focusing on symptoms of unemployment , rethinking on SMMEs, development policies to match the local employment needs, succinct youth employment policy implementation, productivity to match the wages, complementing the private and the public sector in creating youth employment, the NDP to promote adequate link of education to self-employment from the primary level, the NDP to promote higher levels of investment for the employment benefits of the youth and the NDP to fight corruption on the misuse of youth employment grants. The study concluded that NDP’s proposed economic measures will inadequately address the youth employment needs hence there is need for relooking at the NDP to be sustainable employment responsive in nature so as to reduce poverty and inequality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chivanga, Shylet Yvonne
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Dev)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/855 , vital:26503
- Description: This research study explored the inadequacies of the National Development Plan on addressing the problem of youth unemployment in Eastern Cape in South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to evaluate the employment needs of youth in relation to the identified measures of employment creation outlined in the NDP. ii) to identify the gaps in the NDP policy interventions in relation to the prospects and problems embedded in addressing the problem of youth unemployment. The literature reviewed in the study was drawn from several researchers and the study was underpinned by the human capital theory, the capability approach and the public and the private sector partnership theory. Though many theories were used, the human capital theory was the major theory adopted in this study. Since the study was qualitative in nature, an interview guide which consisted of open ended questions was used on face to face interviews and focus groups to collect data from twenty one youth and five youth representatives in the Eastern Cape. The data of this study was thematically analysed. The analysis of the study made the following conclusions about the NDP and youth employment in the Eastern Cape. Firstly, there is a problem of high youth unemployment which is above 50% in the Eastern Cape. Secondly, the NDP’s economic measures have a potential of excluding the youth and as a result, the NDP will inadequately address the employment needs of the youth. Thirdly, the youth appreciated that the NDP is realising the problem of youth unemployment but they are not happy with the NDP’s proposed employment measures of wage subsidies, low wages, labour deregulation and SMMEs because they do not solve the root causes of youth unemployment. Rather, they provide unsustainable and low quality jobs in the long run if not properly monitored. In response to the findings, the study therefore made the following recommendations: The NDP’s economic growth policy to be labour intensive compliant, human capital to match the work place skills requirements, promoting entrepreneurship skills, addressing the root causes rather than focusing on symptoms of unemployment , rethinking on SMMEs, development policies to match the local employment needs, succinct youth employment policy implementation, productivity to match the wages, complementing the private and the public sector in creating youth employment, the NDP to promote adequate link of education to self-employment from the primary level, the NDP to promote higher levels of investment for the employment benefits of the youth and the NDP to fight corruption on the misuse of youth employment grants. The study concluded that NDP’s proposed economic measures will inadequately address the youth employment needs hence there is need for relooking at the NDP to be sustainable employment responsive in nature so as to reduce poverty and inequality.
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Nature of occurrence and economic potential of granitic pegmatites of Mzimba district in Northern Malawi
- Authors: Salima, Jalf William Joseph
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11527 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016192
- Description: A swarm of granitic pegmatites occurs in Mzimba district from northern Kasungu to Kafukure near the western international border with Zambia. The granitic pegmatites are hosted by a mobile belt, within the Mozambiquan orogenic belt (c. 900 - 1800 Ma). They have been dated as 485 Ma. They intruded metasediments of high to medium grade metamorphic rocks of a Precambrian Basement Complex. The dominant trend of the pegmatites is NW - SE, exhibiting a cross-cutting relationship with the country rocks and their contacts with the latter are usually sharp. The six pegmatites investigated in this study are inhomogeneous, composed of a massive quartz core, an intermediate zone composed of a blocky pink K-feldspar rich sub-zone and muscovite rich sub-zone and a wall zone composed of quartz - pink K-feldspar - muscovite mineral assemblage. The Mzimba pegmatites are classified as lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) family of rare element granitic pegmatites as described by Černý and Ercit (2005). They belong to the beryl-columbite subtype and beryl-columbite-phosphate subtype of the rare element pegmatites. It is suggested that the pegmatites are the product of magmatic differentiation and that they form roofs of granite plutons lying deep below the current level of erosion. The six pegmatites were sampled and minerals analysed using standard analytical methods such as petrographic microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. Mineralogy of the granitic pegmatites indicates that they are predominantly composed of perthitic K-feldspar (perthite), Na-plagioclase (albite), quartz and muscovite as main mineral phases and accessory minerals including beryl, tantalite-columbite (ferrotantalite), iron-titanium oxides (ilmeno-rutile and ilmenite), tourmaline (schorl), garnet (almandine-spessartine) and triplite. Triplite is a very rare mineral found in a few pegmatites around the world, and this is the first reported account of this mineral in the Mzimba pegmatites and probably in Malawi. These minerals are being exploited by artisanal and small scale miners. Trace elements in K-feldspar and muscovite are significant indicators for the evaluation of economic potential of pegmatites as well as for the differentiation degree and origin of the magma. The K/Rb ratio for K-feldspars ranges between 12.72 and 109.38, while for muscovites it is between 16.66 and 82.36 indicating that the pegmatites are moderately evolved. The Ta versus Cs and the Ta versus K/Cs discrimination diagram indicates that all the investigated pegmatites plot above the 20 ppm threshold suggesting that the pegmatites have potential for Ta and Nb mineralization.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Salima, Jalf William Joseph
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geology)
- Identifier: vital:11527 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016192
- Description: A swarm of granitic pegmatites occurs in Mzimba district from northern Kasungu to Kafukure near the western international border with Zambia. The granitic pegmatites are hosted by a mobile belt, within the Mozambiquan orogenic belt (c. 900 - 1800 Ma). They have been dated as 485 Ma. They intruded metasediments of high to medium grade metamorphic rocks of a Precambrian Basement Complex. The dominant trend of the pegmatites is NW - SE, exhibiting a cross-cutting relationship with the country rocks and their contacts with the latter are usually sharp. The six pegmatites investigated in this study are inhomogeneous, composed of a massive quartz core, an intermediate zone composed of a blocky pink K-feldspar rich sub-zone and muscovite rich sub-zone and a wall zone composed of quartz - pink K-feldspar - muscovite mineral assemblage. The Mzimba pegmatites are classified as lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) family of rare element granitic pegmatites as described by Černý and Ercit (2005). They belong to the beryl-columbite subtype and beryl-columbite-phosphate subtype of the rare element pegmatites. It is suggested that the pegmatites are the product of magmatic differentiation and that they form roofs of granite plutons lying deep below the current level of erosion. The six pegmatites were sampled and minerals analysed using standard analytical methods such as petrographic microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. Mineralogy of the granitic pegmatites indicates that they are predominantly composed of perthitic K-feldspar (perthite), Na-plagioclase (albite), quartz and muscovite as main mineral phases and accessory minerals including beryl, tantalite-columbite (ferrotantalite), iron-titanium oxides (ilmeno-rutile and ilmenite), tourmaline (schorl), garnet (almandine-spessartine) and triplite. Triplite is a very rare mineral found in a few pegmatites around the world, and this is the first reported account of this mineral in the Mzimba pegmatites and probably in Malawi. These minerals are being exploited by artisanal and small scale miners. Trace elements in K-feldspar and muscovite are significant indicators for the evaluation of economic potential of pegmatites as well as for the differentiation degree and origin of the magma. The K/Rb ratio for K-feldspars ranges between 12.72 and 109.38, while for muscovites it is between 16.66 and 82.36 indicating that the pegmatites are moderately evolved. The Ta versus Cs and the Ta versus K/Cs discrimination diagram indicates that all the investigated pegmatites plot above the 20 ppm threshold suggesting that the pegmatites have potential for Ta and Nb mineralization.
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New Economic Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and Africa's quest for regional economic integration: the case of Southern African Development Community (SADC)
- Authors: Chigombe, Courage
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: New Partnership for Africa's Development , Southern African Development Community , Sustainable development -- Africa, Southern , Africa, Southern -- Economic conditions , Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2072 , vital:27604
- Description: Despite according high priority to regional economic integration and being clustered by regional economic schemes, Africa’s regional economic integration record is not inspiring. With the transformation of the OAU to the African Union (AU), the New Partnership for Africa`s Development (NEPAD) was adopted as the development program of the continent to drive the impetus of economic integration through trade. At the time NEPAD was adopted, regional integration schemes in Africa were facing problems of low intra-regional trade levels despite trade being identified as the engine of activity and economic growth for regional economic integration. The study was centered on Southern Africa with precise attention on SADC. Even though trade is accepted as a vital engine of economic growth and development, this is not the case with SADC. The study was looking at the contribution of NEPAD in intra-regional trade in Africa with special focus on SADC. This was prompted by the fact that regional integration is business as usual within the sub region while problems that have been confronting regional schemes are continuing unabated after the adoption of NEPAD. The study used the historical approach because it provides the study with an advantage of accessing existing literature with regards to what is really stalling intra-regional trade in SADC. The study findings noted that NEPAD has not fully addressed the problems of intra-regional trade within SADC and the continent at large. The study lastly concludes by giving a way forward for NEPAD to respond to the specific needs of SADC for the promotion of intra-regional and equitable trade.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chigombe, Courage
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: New Partnership for Africa's Development , Southern African Development Community , Sustainable development -- Africa, Southern , Africa, Southern -- Economic conditions , Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2072 , vital:27604
- Description: Despite according high priority to regional economic integration and being clustered by regional economic schemes, Africa’s regional economic integration record is not inspiring. With the transformation of the OAU to the African Union (AU), the New Partnership for Africa`s Development (NEPAD) was adopted as the development program of the continent to drive the impetus of economic integration through trade. At the time NEPAD was adopted, regional integration schemes in Africa were facing problems of low intra-regional trade levels despite trade being identified as the engine of activity and economic growth for regional economic integration. The study was centered on Southern Africa with precise attention on SADC. Even though trade is accepted as a vital engine of economic growth and development, this is not the case with SADC. The study was looking at the contribution of NEPAD in intra-regional trade in Africa with special focus on SADC. This was prompted by the fact that regional integration is business as usual within the sub region while problems that have been confronting regional schemes are continuing unabated after the adoption of NEPAD. The study used the historical approach because it provides the study with an advantage of accessing existing literature with regards to what is really stalling intra-regional trade in SADC. The study findings noted that NEPAD has not fully addressed the problems of intra-regional trade within SADC and the continent at large. The study lastly concludes by giving a way forward for NEPAD to respond to the specific needs of SADC for the promotion of intra-regional and equitable trade.
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Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and poverty reduction strategies in Zimbabwe: The case of the Catholic Development Commission (CADEC) in the Binga district
- Authors: Mhaka, Walter M
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Sociology)
- Identifier: vital:11958 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015409
- Description: The main objective of this study was to explore non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and poverty reduction strategies in Zimbabwe through an assessment of the activities of the Catholic Development Commission (CADEC) in the Binga district in the Matabeleland North province. The research method used was triangulation and the theoretical framework combined insights of both the Basic Needs Approach and the Capability Theory. The core argument which has emerged is that despite criticisms levelled against NGOs that they cater for immediate relief and basic needs, the operation of CADEC in Binga shows in contrast that NGOs can operate in such a way that the capabilities of the participants can be enhanced or expanded such that the Binga district can be capable of independently engaging in sustainable livelihoods and development. This study argued that participation in projects has enabled CADEC to realise and expand people’s capabilities and participation was identified as a means of gaining a sustainable livelihood. To achieve the objectives of the study the researcher collected data using a survey questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The study was framed within the concept of Fundamental Human Needs by Manfred Max-Neef and the Capabilities Approach of Amartya Sen. The concept of Fundamental Human Needs argues that human needs do not change but the ways of satisfying the needs do change and unsatisfied needs results in poverty. The Capabilities approach on the other hand, sees poverty as caused by the deprivation of human capabilities. These theories were utilized for this study because they complement each other. Max-Neef believed that development should focus on promoting community agency where beneficiaries are the primary actors for development. Development for him is people-centred, participatory and environmentally sound whilst the Capability Approach of Sen is of the view that development is about developing or expanding human potentials. Being anchored on these two theories this study found out that CADEC use supplementary feeding, sustainable projects such as gardens and livestock production, educational initiatives, the provision of shelter and participatory development as strategies to alleviate poverty in the Binga district. CADEC’s long term projects that focus on farming practices and sustainable livelihoods have enabled Binga people to respond to their poverty. Thus, the results of this study substantiated the views on Max-Neef and Sen since CADEC does not only provide for basic needs but also enhances the capabilities of the people in Binga. However, even if the majority of the respondents believed that CADEC has managed to reduce poverty in Binga, a lot still needs to be done since poverty is still the main problem in the district.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mhaka, Walter M
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sc (Sociology)
- Identifier: vital:11958 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1015409
- Description: The main objective of this study was to explore non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and poverty reduction strategies in Zimbabwe through an assessment of the activities of the Catholic Development Commission (CADEC) in the Binga district in the Matabeleland North province. The research method used was triangulation and the theoretical framework combined insights of both the Basic Needs Approach and the Capability Theory. The core argument which has emerged is that despite criticisms levelled against NGOs that they cater for immediate relief and basic needs, the operation of CADEC in Binga shows in contrast that NGOs can operate in such a way that the capabilities of the participants can be enhanced or expanded such that the Binga district can be capable of independently engaging in sustainable livelihoods and development. This study argued that participation in projects has enabled CADEC to realise and expand people’s capabilities and participation was identified as a means of gaining a sustainable livelihood. To achieve the objectives of the study the researcher collected data using a survey questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The study was framed within the concept of Fundamental Human Needs by Manfred Max-Neef and the Capabilities Approach of Amartya Sen. The concept of Fundamental Human Needs argues that human needs do not change but the ways of satisfying the needs do change and unsatisfied needs results in poverty. The Capabilities approach on the other hand, sees poverty as caused by the deprivation of human capabilities. These theories were utilized for this study because they complement each other. Max-Neef believed that development should focus on promoting community agency where beneficiaries are the primary actors for development. Development for him is people-centred, participatory and environmentally sound whilst the Capability Approach of Sen is of the view that development is about developing or expanding human potentials. Being anchored on these two theories this study found out that CADEC use supplementary feeding, sustainable projects such as gardens and livestock production, educational initiatives, the provision of shelter and participatory development as strategies to alleviate poverty in the Binga district. CADEC’s long term projects that focus on farming practices and sustainable livelihoods have enabled Binga people to respond to their poverty. Thus, the results of this study substantiated the views on Max-Neef and Sen since CADEC does not only provide for basic needs but also enhances the capabilities of the people in Binga. However, even if the majority of the respondents believed that CADEC has managed to reduce poverty in Binga, a lot still needs to be done since poverty is still the main problem in the district.
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Numerical error analysis in foundation phase (Grade 3) mathematics
- Ndamase- Nzuzo, Pumla Patricia
- Authors: Ndamase- Nzuzo, Pumla Patricia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Error analysis (Mathematics) Numerical analysis Mathematics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5893 , vital:29415
- Description: The focus of the research was on numerical errors committed in foundation phase mathematics. It therefore explored: (1) numerical errors learners in foundation phase mathematics encounter (2) relationships underlying numerical errors and (3) the implementable strategies suitable for understanding numerical error analysis in foundation phase mathematics (Grade 3). From 375 learners who formed the population of the study in the primary schools (16 in total), the researcher selected by means of a simple random sample technique 80 learners as the sample size, which constituted 10% of the population as response rate. On the basis of the research questions and informed by positivist paradigm, a quantitative approach was used by means of tables, graphs and percentages to address the research questions. A Likert scale was used with four categories of responses ranging from (A) Agree, (S A) Strongly Agree, (D) Disagree and (S D) Strongly Disagree. The results revealed that: (1) the underlying numerical errors that learners encounter, include the inability to count backwards and forwards, number sequencing, mathematical signs, problem solving and word sums (2) there was a relationship between committing errors and a) copying numbers b) confusion of mathematical signs or operational signs c) reading numbers which contained more than one digit (3) It was also revealed that teachers needed frequent professional training for development; topics need to change and lastly government needs to involve teachers at ground roots level prior to policy changes on how to implement strategies with regards to numerical errors in the foundational phase. It is recommended that attention be paid to the use of language and word sums in order to improve cognition processes in foundation phase mathematics. Moreover, it recommends that learners are to be assisted time and again when reading or copying their work, so that they could have fewer errors in foundation phase mathematics. Additionally it recommends that teachers be trained on how to implement strategies of numerical error analysis in foundation phase mathematics. Furthermore, teachers can use tests to identify learners who could be at risk of developing mathematical difficulties in the foundation phase.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndamase- Nzuzo, Pumla Patricia
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Error analysis (Mathematics) Numerical analysis Mathematics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5893 , vital:29415
- Description: The focus of the research was on numerical errors committed in foundation phase mathematics. It therefore explored: (1) numerical errors learners in foundation phase mathematics encounter (2) relationships underlying numerical errors and (3) the implementable strategies suitable for understanding numerical error analysis in foundation phase mathematics (Grade 3). From 375 learners who formed the population of the study in the primary schools (16 in total), the researcher selected by means of a simple random sample technique 80 learners as the sample size, which constituted 10% of the population as response rate. On the basis of the research questions and informed by positivist paradigm, a quantitative approach was used by means of tables, graphs and percentages to address the research questions. A Likert scale was used with four categories of responses ranging from (A) Agree, (S A) Strongly Agree, (D) Disagree and (S D) Strongly Disagree. The results revealed that: (1) the underlying numerical errors that learners encounter, include the inability to count backwards and forwards, number sequencing, mathematical signs, problem solving and word sums (2) there was a relationship between committing errors and a) copying numbers b) confusion of mathematical signs or operational signs c) reading numbers which contained more than one digit (3) It was also revealed that teachers needed frequent professional training for development; topics need to change and lastly government needs to involve teachers at ground roots level prior to policy changes on how to implement strategies with regards to numerical errors in the foundational phase. It is recommended that attention be paid to the use of language and word sums in order to improve cognition processes in foundation phase mathematics. Moreover, it recommends that learners are to be assisted time and again when reading or copying their work, so that they could have fewer errors in foundation phase mathematics. Additionally it recommends that teachers be trained on how to implement strategies of numerical error analysis in foundation phase mathematics. Furthermore, teachers can use tests to identify learners who could be at risk of developing mathematical difficulties in the foundation phase.
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Optimization of the vermidegradation of cow dung – waste paper mixtures
- Authors: Unuofin, Frank Oshioname
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Soil Science)
- Identifier: vital:11966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021276 , Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Description: Vermicomposting is an eco-friendly waste management strategy. Its successful performance necessitate that key functioning parameters like earthworm stocking density, nutrient enrichment be established for each target waste/waste mixture. One main target waste mixture in South Africa, and in the University of Fort Hare in particular is waste paper mixed with cow dung and rock phosphate (RP) for phosphorus (P) enrichment. This study was carried out to address the following specific objectives, to determine (i) the effect of Eisenia fetida stocking density on the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with rock phosphate, (ii) an optimum application rate of low grade South African Rock Phosphate and time required for efficient vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures, and (iii) to determine if the phosphorus in RP is responsible for improved biodegradation during the vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures. Results of this study revealed that bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with RP was highly dependent on E. fetida stocking density and time. The stocking density of 12.5 g-worms kg-1 feedstock of the mixtures resulted in highest earthworm growth rate and humification of the waste mixture as reflected by a C: N ratio of < 12, polymerization index (PI) or humic acid/fulvic acid ratio of > 1.9, and a humification index of >13 for the cow dung waste paper mixtures. A germination test carried out also revealed that the resultant vermicompost had no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish. Extractable P increased with stocking density up to 22.5 g-worm kg-1 feedstock, suggesting that for maximum P release from RP enriched wastes, a high stocking density should be considered. Informed by an earlier study which demonstrated that RP improved vermidegration, a follow up study was done to determine the optimum amount of rock phosphate necessary for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures while ensuring a phosphorus rich vermicompost. The results showed that addition of RP at rates ≤ 1% P as RP efficiently enhanced the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures as reflected by low C: N ratio, high polymerization index (PI), HI and HR used as maturity indicators for matured compost. Final vermicompost products obtained at minimum amounts of RP application rates resulted highly humified vermicompost with finer morphological structure, with no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish similar to the ones obtained at higher RP rates. The findings suggest that 1%P as RP application rate is optimum for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Since P or Ca happen to be the most prevalent elements in most rock phosphate used for compost enrichment, a study was carried out to determine if P or Ca in RP is predominantly responsible for the improved biodegradation of cow-dung waste paper mixture observed during vermicomposting. Phosphorus sources in form of triple superphosphate (TSP), phosphoric acid (PHA) and Ca in form of calcium chloride (CaCl2) salt were compared with rock phosphate. The results from the study indicated that TSP, a water soluble P source, resulted in greater and faster degradation of the waste mixtures than RP while the Ca source had the least effect. With TSP incorporation the compost maturity C: N ratio of 12 was reached within 28 days while RP, PHA and CaCl2 needed 42, 56 and more than 56 days, respectively. The results indicated that P was largely responsible for the enhanced bioconversion of the waste mixtures. This appeared linked to the effect of P to stimulate microbial growth as reflected by higher microbial biomass carbon levels where water soluble P sources were applied. The C: N ratios of the final vermicomposts at day 56 were 10, 11.5, 13, 14, and 23 for TSP, RP,PHA, Control (No P added) and CaCl2 treatments, respectively. Although TSP gave superior superior performance, RP may still be the preferred additive in the vermicomposting of cow dung waste paper mixtures as it is cheaper and produces mature compost in a shorter period of 8 weeks. Generally, the results of this study have shown that the vemidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures can be optimized through adoption of an E. fetida stocking density of 12.5g- worm kg-1 and an RP incorporation rate of 1% P as RP. However, higher rates of RPincorporation may be adopted where final vermicomposts with higher P fertilizer value are desired. Phosphorus appears to be the RP constituent responsible for its ability to enhance the vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Future studies should explore the effectiveness of other P-bearing minerals for their effectiveness in enhancing vemidegradation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Unuofin, Frank Oshioname
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Soil Science)
- Identifier: vital:11966 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021276 , Biodegradation , Vermicomposting , Waste paper , Earthworm culture , Phosphatic fertilizers
- Description: Vermicomposting is an eco-friendly waste management strategy. Its successful performance necessitate that key functioning parameters like earthworm stocking density, nutrient enrichment be established for each target waste/waste mixture. One main target waste mixture in South Africa, and in the University of Fort Hare in particular is waste paper mixed with cow dung and rock phosphate (RP) for phosphorus (P) enrichment. This study was carried out to address the following specific objectives, to determine (i) the effect of Eisenia fetida stocking density on the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with rock phosphate, (ii) an optimum application rate of low grade South African Rock Phosphate and time required for efficient vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures, and (iii) to determine if the phosphorus in RP is responsible for improved biodegradation during the vermicomposting of cow dung-waste paper mixtures. Results of this study revealed that bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures enriched with RP was highly dependent on E. fetida stocking density and time. The stocking density of 12.5 g-worms kg-1 feedstock of the mixtures resulted in highest earthworm growth rate and humification of the waste mixture as reflected by a C: N ratio of < 12, polymerization index (PI) or humic acid/fulvic acid ratio of > 1.9, and a humification index of >13 for the cow dung waste paper mixtures. A germination test carried out also revealed that the resultant vermicompost had no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish. Extractable P increased with stocking density up to 22.5 g-worm kg-1 feedstock, suggesting that for maximum P release from RP enriched wastes, a high stocking density should be considered. Informed by an earlier study which demonstrated that RP improved vermidegration, a follow up study was done to determine the optimum amount of rock phosphate necessary for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures while ensuring a phosphorus rich vermicompost. The results showed that addition of RP at rates ≤ 1% P as RP efficiently enhanced the bioconversion of cow dung waste paper mixtures as reflected by low C: N ratio, high polymerization index (PI), HI and HR used as maturity indicators for matured compost. Final vermicompost products obtained at minimum amounts of RP application rates resulted highly humified vermicompost with finer morphological structure, with no inhibitory effect on the germination of tomato, carrot, and radish similar to the ones obtained at higher RP rates. The findings suggest that 1%P as RP application rate is optimum for efficient vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Since P or Ca happen to be the most prevalent elements in most rock phosphate used for compost enrichment, a study was carried out to determine if P or Ca in RP is predominantly responsible for the improved biodegradation of cow-dung waste paper mixture observed during vermicomposting. Phosphorus sources in form of triple superphosphate (TSP), phosphoric acid (PHA) and Ca in form of calcium chloride (CaCl2) salt were compared with rock phosphate. The results from the study indicated that TSP, a water soluble P source, resulted in greater and faster degradation of the waste mixtures than RP while the Ca source had the least effect. With TSP incorporation the compost maturity C: N ratio of 12 was reached within 28 days while RP, PHA and CaCl2 needed 42, 56 and more than 56 days, respectively. The results indicated that P was largely responsible for the enhanced bioconversion of the waste mixtures. This appeared linked to the effect of P to stimulate microbial growth as reflected by higher microbial biomass carbon levels where water soluble P sources were applied. The C: N ratios of the final vermicomposts at day 56 were 10, 11.5, 13, 14, and 23 for TSP, RP,PHA, Control (No P added) and CaCl2 treatments, respectively. Although TSP gave superior superior performance, RP may still be the preferred additive in the vermicomposting of cow dung waste paper mixtures as it is cheaper and produces mature compost in a shorter period of 8 weeks. Generally, the results of this study have shown that the vemidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures can be optimized through adoption of an E. fetida stocking density of 12.5g- worm kg-1 and an RP incorporation rate of 1% P as RP. However, higher rates of RPincorporation may be adopted where final vermicomposts with higher P fertilizer value are desired. Phosphorus appears to be the RP constituent responsible for its ability to enhance the vermidegradation of cow dung waste paper mixtures. Future studies should explore the effectiveness of other P-bearing minerals for their effectiveness in enhancing vemidegradation.
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Perceived academic support of student nurses at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Sineke, Nqatyiswa
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11917 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016158
- Description: Academic support is critical in promoting success among student nurses. Support for student learning is a key element in optimizing student learning experiences, in any learning environment, and its importance has been widely discussed. Student academic support is closely related to motivation for learning, and helping students achieve their learning goals and objectives. Student nurses continue to struggle during their training, to the point of failing a year or being excluded from the course, in spite of the academic support provided through classroom facilitation, and remedial teaching provided by academic staff. They frequently complain that the course is difficult, the workload is heavy, and they are unable to integrate theory with practice. As a result they are too stressed, throughout their training. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the perceptions of student nurses about the academic support provided to them at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape Province. This study was guided by the Caring Curriculum Model, based on Watson‟s Theory of Caring. The core of this theory is the implementation of ten carative factors to promote health and equilibrium. Caring was endorsed as a core value in nursing education and practice, by the National League of Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, while the centrality of a caring-healing relationship was recognized as a basis for all health professional education by the Pew Health Professions Commission. A quantitative approach, using a descriptive and explanatory design, was used to determine the perceptions of student nurses on the academic support they received from the public nursing college. Participants were selected by a simple random sampling method. A total of 189 student nurses, who registered for the 4-year diploma programme at the East London Campus of the Lilitha College of Nursing, participated in the study. Self-report data was collected by means of the Academic Support questionnaire, using a Likert scale which addressed both the performance and importance of academic support. Data were analysed using Statistical Analysis Systems version 9.3, using mean tables and graphical data analysis. The findings revealed high performance ratings for aspects relating to academic advising and teaching-learning process, indicating that there is satisfaction among students on these service attributes. Poor performance ratings were identified, relative to campus support services, indicating that student nurses were not happy with the availability and accessibility of library resources, and computer and internet services. Student nurses, at the college under study, were also not happy with aspects of service excellence relating to campus-based health care facilities, and personal student counselling services. The study identified a gap between the perceived performance and the importance of academic support at the nursing college, as the general performance was rated lower than the importance of academic support. The findings suggest the necessity for improved library facilities and resources, healthcare and counselling services and the establishment of student support programmes, to build the capacity of students and to enhance their chances of success.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sineke, Nqatyiswa
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11917 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016158
- Description: Academic support is critical in promoting success among student nurses. Support for student learning is a key element in optimizing student learning experiences, in any learning environment, and its importance has been widely discussed. Student academic support is closely related to motivation for learning, and helping students achieve their learning goals and objectives. Student nurses continue to struggle during their training, to the point of failing a year or being excluded from the course, in spite of the academic support provided through classroom facilitation, and remedial teaching provided by academic staff. They frequently complain that the course is difficult, the workload is heavy, and they are unable to integrate theory with practice. As a result they are too stressed, throughout their training. The purpose of this study is to explore and describe the perceptions of student nurses about the academic support provided to them at a public nursing college in the Eastern Cape Province. This study was guided by the Caring Curriculum Model, based on Watson‟s Theory of Caring. The core of this theory is the implementation of ten carative factors to promote health and equilibrium. Caring was endorsed as a core value in nursing education and practice, by the National League of Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, while the centrality of a caring-healing relationship was recognized as a basis for all health professional education by the Pew Health Professions Commission. A quantitative approach, using a descriptive and explanatory design, was used to determine the perceptions of student nurses on the academic support they received from the public nursing college. Participants were selected by a simple random sampling method. A total of 189 student nurses, who registered for the 4-year diploma programme at the East London Campus of the Lilitha College of Nursing, participated in the study. Self-report data was collected by means of the Academic Support questionnaire, using a Likert scale which addressed both the performance and importance of academic support. Data were analysed using Statistical Analysis Systems version 9.3, using mean tables and graphical data analysis. The findings revealed high performance ratings for aspects relating to academic advising and teaching-learning process, indicating that there is satisfaction among students on these service attributes. Poor performance ratings were identified, relative to campus support services, indicating that student nurses were not happy with the availability and accessibility of library resources, and computer and internet services. Student nurses, at the college under study, were also not happy with aspects of service excellence relating to campus-based health care facilities, and personal student counselling services. The study identified a gap between the perceived performance and the importance of academic support at the nursing college, as the general performance was rated lower than the importance of academic support. The findings suggest the necessity for improved library facilities and resources, healthcare and counselling services and the establishment of student support programmes, to build the capacity of students and to enhance their chances of success.
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Perceptions of learners and teachers on the alternatives to the alternatives to corporal punishment: a case study of two high schools in King William’s Town Education District in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Kepe Mzukisi Howard
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Corporal punishment of children -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , School discipline -- South Africa , Teacher-student relationships -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16226 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019741 , Corporal punishment of children -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , School discipline -- South Africa , Teacher-student relationships -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the study was to examine the perceptions of learners and teachers on the alternatives to ‘Alternatives to Corporal Punishment’ (ATPC) in particular and discipline generally in the King William’s Town Education District in two high schools. The study ascended as a result of the decline of learner’s discipline in high schools. This study is located in the interpretive paradigm and adopted a qualitative research approach using questionnaires, interviews focus groups and field notes in the collection of data. The Data revealed that schools were using different strategies to maintain learner’s discipline such as Code of Conduct, Disciplinary hearing, Safety and Security Committee, Educators, Corporal Punishment, Alternative methods to Corporal Punishment and the role of parents. It further revealed that the Department of Education is not supportive in the maintenance of discipline in the schools under study in King William’s Town District. The conclusion that was arrived at was that all the stakeholders should agree upon and be acquainted with the Code of Conduct and rules that are guiding the schools. The study came up with the proposal that learners should know the consequences of transgressing the Code of Conduct. To address disciplinary problems, the study came up with the key recommendation that all stakeholders must have ownership and to work as a team in the implementation of those policies.
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- Authors: Kepe Mzukisi Howard
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Corporal punishment of children -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , School discipline -- South Africa , Teacher-student relationships -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16226 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019741 , Corporal punishment of children -- South Africa , Children's rights -- South Africa , School discipline -- South Africa , Teacher-student relationships -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the study was to examine the perceptions of learners and teachers on the alternatives to ‘Alternatives to Corporal Punishment’ (ATPC) in particular and discipline generally in the King William’s Town Education District in two high schools. The study ascended as a result of the decline of learner’s discipline in high schools. This study is located in the interpretive paradigm and adopted a qualitative research approach using questionnaires, interviews focus groups and field notes in the collection of data. The Data revealed that schools were using different strategies to maintain learner’s discipline such as Code of Conduct, Disciplinary hearing, Safety and Security Committee, Educators, Corporal Punishment, Alternative methods to Corporal Punishment and the role of parents. It further revealed that the Department of Education is not supportive in the maintenance of discipline in the schools under study in King William’s Town District. The conclusion that was arrived at was that all the stakeholders should agree upon and be acquainted with the Code of Conduct and rules that are guiding the schools. The study came up with the proposal that learners should know the consequences of transgressing the Code of Conduct. To address disciplinary problems, the study came up with the key recommendation that all stakeholders must have ownership and to work as a team in the implementation of those policies.
- Full Text:
Perceptions of rural consumers on behaviour and beef quality of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
- Authors: Soga, Sizwe William
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019812 , Meat -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine perceptions of the consumers on how they judged behaviour and beef quality of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A survey was conducted where a sample of 200 consumers were randomly selected and interviewed. Fifty non-descript cattle were slaughtered during traditional ceremonies and two hundred and twenty four (224) cattle were slaughtered at 3 through-put abattoirs (high, medium and low). Meat quality attributes were determined from the cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies and from cattle slaughtered at the abattoirs. Data for questionnaires was summarized as frequencies for each ceremony and statistical differences were analysed using chi square test (X2). The effect of Age, breed and sex on beef pH, colour, meat tenderness, temperature and cooking loss of cattle slaughtered during traditional ceremonies, at low, medium and high throughput abattoirs were analyzed using General Linear Model (PROG GLM) of SAS (2003). There was a significant age effect (P < 0.05) on beef tenderness and cooking loss of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies. Age of cattle that have milk teeth to 1 year and age of 6 years to 8 years had an effect on the beef tenderness (25.55 ± 8.05) and cooking loss (48.00 ± 4.26) of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies in Table 4.1. There was no significant sex effect on beef tenderness and cooking loss of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies. Non-descript and Angus cattle slaughtered at low throughput abattoir had an effect on the colour of the beef in Table 4.2. The lightness (27.49 ± 2.53) and yellowness (21.16 ± 0.79) of the beef shows that there was a significant breed effect on cattle that are slaughtered at Low throughput abattoir, however redness of the meat was not affected by breed after slaughter. Cattle that are slaughtered at high throughput abattoir between ages of 6 to 8 years and also cattle that are more than 8 years in Table 4.4 had an effect on cooking loss (p < 0.05). Age between 6 to 8 years had an effect on the beef tenderness from cattle that are slaughtered at medium throughput abattoir. It was concluded that the meat tenderness of the young cattle with milk teeth slaughtered for traditional ceremonies was affected. On the other hand the meat tenderness and cooking loss of beef from the cattle slaughtered from low, medium and high throughput abattoir were affected by sex and breed mostly.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Soga, Sizwe William
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Meat -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11833 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019812 , Meat -- Quality , Consumers' preferences , Consumers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The objective of the study was to determine perceptions of the consumers on how they judged behaviour and beef quality of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A survey was conducted where a sample of 200 consumers were randomly selected and interviewed. Fifty non-descript cattle were slaughtered during traditional ceremonies and two hundred and twenty four (224) cattle were slaughtered at 3 through-put abattoirs (high, medium and low). Meat quality attributes were determined from the cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies and from cattle slaughtered at the abattoirs. Data for questionnaires was summarized as frequencies for each ceremony and statistical differences were analysed using chi square test (X2). The effect of Age, breed and sex on beef pH, colour, meat tenderness, temperature and cooking loss of cattle slaughtered during traditional ceremonies, at low, medium and high throughput abattoirs were analyzed using General Linear Model (PROG GLM) of SAS (2003). There was a significant age effect (P < 0.05) on beef tenderness and cooking loss of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies. Age of cattle that have milk teeth to 1 year and age of 6 years to 8 years had an effect on the beef tenderness (25.55 ± 8.05) and cooking loss (48.00 ± 4.26) of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies in Table 4.1. There was no significant sex effect on beef tenderness and cooking loss of cattle slaughtered for traditional ceremonies. Non-descript and Angus cattle slaughtered at low throughput abattoir had an effect on the colour of the beef in Table 4.2. The lightness (27.49 ± 2.53) and yellowness (21.16 ± 0.79) of the beef shows that there was a significant breed effect on cattle that are slaughtered at Low throughput abattoir, however redness of the meat was not affected by breed after slaughter. Cattle that are slaughtered at high throughput abattoir between ages of 6 to 8 years and also cattle that are more than 8 years in Table 4.4 had an effect on cooking loss (p < 0.05). Age between 6 to 8 years had an effect on the beef tenderness from cattle that are slaughtered at medium throughput abattoir. It was concluded that the meat tenderness of the young cattle with milk teeth slaughtered for traditional ceremonies was affected. On the other hand the meat tenderness and cooking loss of beef from the cattle slaughtered from low, medium and high throughput abattoir were affected by sex and breed mostly.
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Perinatal experiences of pregnant undergraduate students of a higher education institution in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Simandla, Linda
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016125
- Description: Unplanned pregnancies among students are increasing annually. There are cases of students giving birth by themselves in the rooms within higher education institution residences unsupervised. Unsupervised births put the students at health risk as birth can complicate or even lead to death. The purpose of this study was to explore the perinatal experiences of undergraduate students whilst a pregnant student. In this study the researcher used a qualitative phenomenological approach within interpretive realism. The study was exploratory focusing on the need to understand how students experience perinatal care. Population for this study comprised of undergraduate students that had been pregnant within their undergraduate program which normally takes three to four years and were staying in the higher education institution residence at the time of pregnancy. A snowball sample was used. Data was collected from participants using unstructured in-depth interviews. For the study a total of 9 students were interviewed. Data was collected in English and Xhosa depending on preference. During pilot interviews the researcher established that the participants had difficulty in expressing themselves in English and used slang in spite of being registered for a degree. The interviews were conducted by the researcher and the data tape recorded. Permission to conduct a study at the higher education institution was sought from the Vice- chancellor, the Dean of Students and Research Ethics Committee To ensure trustworthiness of the study credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability were adhered to. Four themes with several sub-themes emerged which were: Dynamics on awareness about existence of pregnancy. Support system for female students pertaining to reproductive health. Encountered psychosocial experiences. Coping strategies used by pregnant students. Excerpts were used to support the interpretation of perinatal experiences of the undergraduate students. Recommendations to the management of the higher education institution are to develop guidelines that ensure implementation of the pregnancy policy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Simandla, Linda
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016125
- Description: Unplanned pregnancies among students are increasing annually. There are cases of students giving birth by themselves in the rooms within higher education institution residences unsupervised. Unsupervised births put the students at health risk as birth can complicate or even lead to death. The purpose of this study was to explore the perinatal experiences of undergraduate students whilst a pregnant student. In this study the researcher used a qualitative phenomenological approach within interpretive realism. The study was exploratory focusing on the need to understand how students experience perinatal care. Population for this study comprised of undergraduate students that had been pregnant within their undergraduate program which normally takes three to four years and were staying in the higher education institution residence at the time of pregnancy. A snowball sample was used. Data was collected from participants using unstructured in-depth interviews. For the study a total of 9 students were interviewed. Data was collected in English and Xhosa depending on preference. During pilot interviews the researcher established that the participants had difficulty in expressing themselves in English and used slang in spite of being registered for a degree. The interviews were conducted by the researcher and the data tape recorded. Permission to conduct a study at the higher education institution was sought from the Vice- chancellor, the Dean of Students and Research Ethics Committee To ensure trustworthiness of the study credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability were adhered to. Four themes with several sub-themes emerged which were: Dynamics on awareness about existence of pregnancy. Support system for female students pertaining to reproductive health. Encountered psychosocial experiences. Coping strategies used by pregnant students. Excerpts were used to support the interpretation of perinatal experiences of the undergraduate students. Recommendations to the management of the higher education institution are to develop guidelines that ensure implementation of the pregnancy policy.
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Phemba Mfundi Journal 2014
- Nelson Mandela Institute for Education and Rural Development
- Authors: Nelson Mandela Institute for Education and Rural Development
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poetry -- Imibongo , English Short Stories -- Amabali Amafutshane , Teacher's Section -- Icandelo Lootitshala
- Language: English
- Identifier: vital:12215 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013022 , Poetry -- Imibongo , English Short Stories -- Amabali Amafutshane , Teacher's Section -- Icandelo Lootitshala
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nelson Mandela Institute for Education and Rural Development
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poetry -- Imibongo , English Short Stories -- Amabali Amafutshane , Teacher's Section -- Icandelo Lootitshala
- Language: English
- Identifier: vital:12215 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013022 , Poetry -- Imibongo , English Short Stories -- Amabali Amafutshane , Teacher's Section -- Icandelo Lootitshala
- Full Text:
Practices of early childhood development (ECD) practitioners for children from three to five years: a case of three early childhood development centres in the Buffalo City Municipality
- Authors: Keir, Charlene (Ying-Ling)
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Education, Preschool -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Preschool teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16208 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016269 , Education, Preschool -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Preschool teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigates practices of early childhood development (ECD) practitioners for children from three to five years in three ECD centres situated within the municipal boundaries of Buffalo City, East London. It does so by posing the following questions: What are the practices of ECD practitioners for children from three to five years in developing learners’ oral language and physical intelligence. This study, using a qualitative approach and Qualitative methods for data collection were used, that is semi-structured interviews and classroom observations. The findings reveal that for oral language development, storytelling and children sharing news seemed to be the most used practices. However, the practitioners in this study seemed to severely lack understanding of their selected practices. Practices for developing children’s physical intelligence included free play, which was unsupervised. Practitioners seemed not to have an understanding of constructive play which is very important for the development of learners’ physical intelligence. One of the factors reported to be the cause of the poor quality of their practices was the critical shortage of funding for practitioners’ professional training. Moreover, shortage of funds also contributed to poor and inappropriate infrastructure and a lack of resources and teaching aids. This study, therefore, recommends that the quality of ECD programmes could be one of the prime contributors to the quality and effectiveness of ECD provisioning.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Keir, Charlene (Ying-Ling)
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Education, Preschool -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Preschool teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16208 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016269 , Education, Preschool -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Preschool teachers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: This study investigates practices of early childhood development (ECD) practitioners for children from three to five years in three ECD centres situated within the municipal boundaries of Buffalo City, East London. It does so by posing the following questions: What are the practices of ECD practitioners for children from three to five years in developing learners’ oral language and physical intelligence. This study, using a qualitative approach and Qualitative methods for data collection were used, that is semi-structured interviews and classroom observations. The findings reveal that for oral language development, storytelling and children sharing news seemed to be the most used practices. However, the practitioners in this study seemed to severely lack understanding of their selected practices. Practices for developing children’s physical intelligence included free play, which was unsupervised. Practitioners seemed not to have an understanding of constructive play which is very important for the development of learners’ physical intelligence. One of the factors reported to be the cause of the poor quality of their practices was the critical shortage of funding for practitioners’ professional training. Moreover, shortage of funds also contributed to poor and inappropriate infrastructure and a lack of resources and teaching aids. This study, therefore, recommends that the quality of ECD programmes could be one of the prime contributors to the quality and effectiveness of ECD provisioning.
- Full Text:
Preparation and characterisation of nanocomposites of biomass and montmorillonite clay for use as biofuels
- Authors: Nyamutswa, Lavern Tendayi
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11345 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019779
- Description: The aim of the study was to prepare composites of clay and biomass which burn longer than unmodified biomass. Montmorillonite clay was converted to mono-ionic clay by ion exchange with sodium using sodium chloride solution. The mono-ionic clay was organically modified with an organic surfactant, methyl triphenyl phosphonium bromide. Nanocomposites were then prepared by combining the modified forms of the clay with sawdust. The three forms of clay used for the formation of composites were unmodified montmorillonite, mono-ionic montmorillonite and organically modified montmorillonite. The solution blending method was used to make the nanocomposites. FT-IR and XRD analysis showed that organic surfactant increases the interlayer space of the clay since it is bulkier than the inorganic cations that are naturally present in the interlayer space of montmorillonite. The combination of clay and sawdust resulted in the formation of exfoliated nanocomposites as shown by the absence of peaks in the low 2 theta angle in the x-ray diffraction data of the nanocomposite. The nanocomposite which was made from sawdust and 1% organically modified clay showed the best results in terms of burning time and thermal stability, as well as giving a calorific value closest to unmodified sawdust and the least amount of residue.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nyamutswa, Lavern Tendayi
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11345 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019779
- Description: The aim of the study was to prepare composites of clay and biomass which burn longer than unmodified biomass. Montmorillonite clay was converted to mono-ionic clay by ion exchange with sodium using sodium chloride solution. The mono-ionic clay was organically modified with an organic surfactant, methyl triphenyl phosphonium bromide. Nanocomposites were then prepared by combining the modified forms of the clay with sawdust. The three forms of clay used for the formation of composites were unmodified montmorillonite, mono-ionic montmorillonite and organically modified montmorillonite. The solution blending method was used to make the nanocomposites. FT-IR and XRD analysis showed that organic surfactant increases the interlayer space of the clay since it is bulkier than the inorganic cations that are naturally present in the interlayer space of montmorillonite. The combination of clay and sawdust resulted in the formation of exfoliated nanocomposites as shown by the absence of peaks in the low 2 theta angle in the x-ray diffraction data of the nanocomposite. The nanocomposite which was made from sawdust and 1% organically modified clay showed the best results in terms of burning time and thermal stability, as well as giving a calorific value closest to unmodified sawdust and the least amount of residue.
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Prevalence and pathogenicity of vibrios in treated final effluents of selected wastewater treatment plants in the Amathole District Municipality of Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Badela, Andiswa Unathi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11284 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019774 , Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis
- Description: Waterborne diarrhoeal infections continue to be a major health setback in developing countries, especially in rural areas which lack adequate supply of portable water and sanitation facilities. Globally, waterborne diarrhoeal infections occur with an estimated mortality rate of 10–25 million deaths per year, 95% of which are children under the age of 5 years. The Vibrio species is one of the major groups of enteric pathogens that are responsible for diarrhoeal infections. Many strains of these bacterial species continue to cause epidemics of diarrhoea throughout the world. In this study, the prevalence of Vibrio pathogens in wastewater final effluents was assessed. Wastewater final effluent and discharge point samples were collected monthly between September 2012 and August 2013. All samples were collected aseptically using sterile 1 L Nalgene bottles containing 0.5 ml of sterile sodium thiosulphate solution and transported on ice to the laboratory for analyses within 6 h of collection. The membrane filtration method was used for enumeration of presumptive Vibrio densities on thiosulfate citrate bile salt (TCBS) agar plates. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was then used to confirm the identities of the presumptive Vibrio species using the species-specific primers. The confirmed isolates were further subjected to molecular characterization to confirm their respective pathotypes. Presumptive Vibrio densities varied from 0 to 2.11 × 102 cfu/100 ml. Out of 300 confirmed Vibrio isolates; 13.3% (40/300) were Vibrio fluvialis, 22% (66/300) were confirmed to be Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and 24.7% (74/300) proved to be Vibrio vulnificus, and 40% (120/300) were other Vibrio species which were not assessed for in this study. The strains of Vibrio fluvialis were found to exhibit 100% resistance to Polymixin and Tetracycline. However, Gentamicin was active against all the three Vibrio species selected for the purpose of this research. The recovery of Vibrio species in the discharged effluents throughout the sampling period even in adequately disinfected effluents is not acceptable considering the fact that Vibrio is a pathogenic bacterium. The findings of this study underline the need for constant monitoring of the microbiological qualities of discharged effluents and might also be suggestive for a review of the disinfection methods used at the treatment works.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Badela, Andiswa Unathi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11284 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019774 , Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis
- Description: Waterborne diarrhoeal infections continue to be a major health setback in developing countries, especially in rural areas which lack adequate supply of portable water and sanitation facilities. Globally, waterborne diarrhoeal infections occur with an estimated mortality rate of 10–25 million deaths per year, 95% of which are children under the age of 5 years. The Vibrio species is one of the major groups of enteric pathogens that are responsible for diarrhoeal infections. Many strains of these bacterial species continue to cause epidemics of diarrhoea throughout the world. In this study, the prevalence of Vibrio pathogens in wastewater final effluents was assessed. Wastewater final effluent and discharge point samples were collected monthly between September 2012 and August 2013. All samples were collected aseptically using sterile 1 L Nalgene bottles containing 0.5 ml of sterile sodium thiosulphate solution and transported on ice to the laboratory for analyses within 6 h of collection. The membrane filtration method was used for enumeration of presumptive Vibrio densities on thiosulfate citrate bile salt (TCBS) agar plates. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was then used to confirm the identities of the presumptive Vibrio species using the species-specific primers. The confirmed isolates were further subjected to molecular characterization to confirm their respective pathotypes. Presumptive Vibrio densities varied from 0 to 2.11 × 102 cfu/100 ml. Out of 300 confirmed Vibrio isolates; 13.3% (40/300) were Vibrio fluvialis, 22% (66/300) were confirmed to be Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and 24.7% (74/300) proved to be Vibrio vulnificus, and 40% (120/300) were other Vibrio species which were not assessed for in this study. The strains of Vibrio fluvialis were found to exhibit 100% resistance to Polymixin and Tetracycline. However, Gentamicin was active against all the three Vibrio species selected for the purpose of this research. The recovery of Vibrio species in the discharged effluents throughout the sampling period even in adequately disinfected effluents is not acceptable considering the fact that Vibrio is a pathogenic bacterium. The findings of this study underline the need for constant monitoring of the microbiological qualities of discharged effluents and might also be suggestive for a review of the disinfection methods used at the treatment works.
- Full Text:
Prevalence of pathogenic Escherichia coli strains in the final effluents of four wastewater treatment plants in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Seti, Nozuko Zukiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis , Sewage -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11286 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019808 , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis , Sewage -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Water is an essential need that stimulates health and well being. Increase in population size and urbanization negatively affect water resources due to high demands of effluent outputs. Wastewater is an important reservoir for Escherichia coli and can present significant acute toxicity if released into receiving water sources without being adequately treated. E. coli is used as indicator organism for the detection of faecal contamination. These strains have been considered to be one of the primary causes of diarrhoeal infections worldwide. The present study was conducted between September 2012 and June 2013 to assess the prevalence of pathogenic E. coli strains in the final effluents of four wastewater treatment plants in Chris Hani and Buffalo City Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Standard membrane filtration technique was used for bacteriological analysis and molecular based technique was used for identification of E. coli pathotypes. The results were recorded in colony forming units/100 ml. Faecal coliforms ranged between 0-9.6×10³ CFU/100 ml for the wwtp-Q and E. coli densities ranged between 0-8.4×10³ CFU/100ml. Faecal coliforms ranged between 4×10²-9.7×10³ CFU/100 ml for wwtp-M and E. coli densities ranged between 1.2×10¹-8.4×10³ CFU/100 ml. The wwtp-E showed to have bacterial counts of faecal coliforms ranging between 4.0×10³-8.2×10³ CFU/100 ml and E. coli densities ranging between 3.5×10¹-7.1×10³ CFU/100 ml. The WWTP-K in this study was only assessed for the presence of E. coli. Faecal coliforms were assessed by the other members of the group. This plant showed to have E. coli densities ranging between 0-7.5×10²CFU/100 ml. A total of 200 presumptive E. coli isolates were subjected to screening by conventional PCR in which (29%) of the wwtp-M isolates were positively identified as E. coli, (16%) of the wwtp-K, (22%) of the wwtp-Q and (34%) of the wwtp-E isolates were positively confirmed as E. coli. A total of 100 randomly selected E. coli isolates were characterised into different pathotypes. (16%) of positive isolates were detected as EPEC and 11% were detected as UPEC strains. There was no detection for the ETEC strains. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of E. coli strains showed high levels of resistance to Penicillin G, Erythromycin, Tetracycline and Sulfamethoxazole. High levels of Susceptibility were observed in antibiotics such as Chloramphenicol, Amoxicillin and Tetracycline. The results of this study reveal that the plants were above the recommended Standard limit of zero CFU/100 ml for effluents meant to be discharge into receiving water sources. This study reveals inadequacy of the plants studied to produce effluents of acceptable quality.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Seti, Nozuko Zukiswa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis , Sewage -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Microbiology)
- Identifier: vital:11286 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019808 , Escherichia coli -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Bacterial diseases -- Pathogenesis , Sewage -- Purification -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sewage disposal plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Whole effluent toxicity testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Water is an essential need that stimulates health and well being. Increase in population size and urbanization negatively affect water resources due to high demands of effluent outputs. Wastewater is an important reservoir for Escherichia coli and can present significant acute toxicity if released into receiving water sources without being adequately treated. E. coli is used as indicator organism for the detection of faecal contamination. These strains have been considered to be one of the primary causes of diarrhoeal infections worldwide. The present study was conducted between September 2012 and June 2013 to assess the prevalence of pathogenic E. coli strains in the final effluents of four wastewater treatment plants in Chris Hani and Buffalo City Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Standard membrane filtration technique was used for bacteriological analysis and molecular based technique was used for identification of E. coli pathotypes. The results were recorded in colony forming units/100 ml. Faecal coliforms ranged between 0-9.6×10³ CFU/100 ml for the wwtp-Q and E. coli densities ranged between 0-8.4×10³ CFU/100ml. Faecal coliforms ranged between 4×10²-9.7×10³ CFU/100 ml for wwtp-M and E. coli densities ranged between 1.2×10¹-8.4×10³ CFU/100 ml. The wwtp-E showed to have bacterial counts of faecal coliforms ranging between 4.0×10³-8.2×10³ CFU/100 ml and E. coli densities ranging between 3.5×10¹-7.1×10³ CFU/100 ml. The WWTP-K in this study was only assessed for the presence of E. coli. Faecal coliforms were assessed by the other members of the group. This plant showed to have E. coli densities ranging between 0-7.5×10²CFU/100 ml. A total of 200 presumptive E. coli isolates were subjected to screening by conventional PCR in which (29%) of the wwtp-M isolates were positively identified as E. coli, (16%) of the wwtp-K, (22%) of the wwtp-Q and (34%) of the wwtp-E isolates were positively confirmed as E. coli. A total of 100 randomly selected E. coli isolates were characterised into different pathotypes. (16%) of positive isolates were detected as EPEC and 11% were detected as UPEC strains. There was no detection for the ETEC strains. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of E. coli strains showed high levels of resistance to Penicillin G, Erythromycin, Tetracycline and Sulfamethoxazole. High levels of Susceptibility were observed in antibiotics such as Chloramphenicol, Amoxicillin and Tetracycline. The results of this study reveal that the plants were above the recommended Standard limit of zero CFU/100 ml for effluents meant to be discharge into receiving water sources. This study reveals inadequacy of the plants studied to produce effluents of acceptable quality.
- Full Text:
Professional nurses’ perceptions on quality patient care in one of the Eastern Cape state hospitals
- Authors: Somahela, Khanyisa Judith
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11353 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021141
- Description: The focus of this study was to explore the perceptions of professional nurses in the quality of care rendered by nurses in the public hospitals. Nursing is a challenging, demanding, and yet fulfilling profession, whose goal is to provide quality care to individuals, families and communities. However, there are inconsistencies regarding the quality of care rendered by nurses in the public hospitals. The media and the public portray nurses as providing poor quality care in the health care facilities. Conversely, the nurses view that they are doing their best, considering the challenging circumstances under which they work in public institutions.The study followed a qualitative approach and an exploratory descriptive design. A purposive sample of 13 professional nurses participated in the study. The sample size was not pre-determined. Data were collected until data saturation, when the interviews yielded no new information. The study was conducted in a state hospital in the Eastern Cape, using an interview guide. Responses were recorded using a tape recorder. No incentives were given to participants. Data were collected and analysed following the Tesch’s method. Prior to conducting the study, the researcher obtained ethical clearance from the University of Fort Hare research ethics committee. The perceptions of the professional nurses who participated in this study were inconsistent. The majority pointed out that the quality of patient care was deteriorating which means the patient care is poor. whereas some participants indicated that the quality of patient care was still the same; it had not changed or deteriorated, The contributing factors to the poor quality patient care were indicated as; shortage of staff, shortage of resources such as equipment, inadequate empowerment of staff, insufficient training of students, staff arriving late for duties, lack of passion their work, skipping and missing of routines, support service that was not working hand in hand with the nursing staff, increased hospitalization of patients and the Eastern cape Department of Health failing to remunerate the nurses as promised.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Somahela, Khanyisa Judith
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11353 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021141
- Description: The focus of this study was to explore the perceptions of professional nurses in the quality of care rendered by nurses in the public hospitals. Nursing is a challenging, demanding, and yet fulfilling profession, whose goal is to provide quality care to individuals, families and communities. However, there are inconsistencies regarding the quality of care rendered by nurses in the public hospitals. The media and the public portray nurses as providing poor quality care in the health care facilities. Conversely, the nurses view that they are doing their best, considering the challenging circumstances under which they work in public institutions.The study followed a qualitative approach and an exploratory descriptive design. A purposive sample of 13 professional nurses participated in the study. The sample size was not pre-determined. Data were collected until data saturation, when the interviews yielded no new information. The study was conducted in a state hospital in the Eastern Cape, using an interview guide. Responses were recorded using a tape recorder. No incentives were given to participants. Data were collected and analysed following the Tesch’s method. Prior to conducting the study, the researcher obtained ethical clearance from the University of Fort Hare research ethics committee. The perceptions of the professional nurses who participated in this study were inconsistent. The majority pointed out that the quality of patient care was deteriorating which means the patient care is poor. whereas some participants indicated that the quality of patient care was still the same; it had not changed or deteriorated, The contributing factors to the poor quality patient care were indicated as; shortage of staff, shortage of resources such as equipment, inadequate empowerment of staff, insufficient training of students, staff arriving late for duties, lack of passion their work, skipping and missing of routines, support service that was not working hand in hand with the nursing staff, increased hospitalization of patients and the Eastern cape Department of Health failing to remunerate the nurses as promised.
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