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The experiences of being trans-racially adopted: the voice of the adoptee

  • Authors: Bowen, Carrie
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Interracial adoption -- South Africa Interethnic adoption -- South Africa , Adoption -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14719 , vital:27831
  • Description: rans-racial adoption was first legalised in South Africa in 1991, and remains a contentious issue within a society in which the ramifications of apartheid are still felt. The study was borne of recognition of the need for clear understanding of the phenomenon of trans-racial adoption in the unique South African context, from the perspective of the adoptees themselves. The phenomenological approach was employed in this qualitative study, in order to gain an understanding of the meaning and sense that trans-racial adoptees ascribe to their lived experiences. The population for the study was trans-racially adopted individuals within South Africa, aged 18 years or older, who have been legally adopted during infancy or early childhood, after 1991. Snowball sampling was determined to be the most appropriate sampling method for the study. Individual, in-depth interviews were conducted with six trans-racial adoptees. These interviews were led by the question "Tell me the story of your experience of growing up as a trans-racially adopted child, and the meaning that this has for you?" The data collected through the interview process was analysed using thematic data analysis. The trustworthiness of the research process and findings was achieved through employing theoretically prescribed data verification strategies. The rich accounts offered by the participants provided insight into their experiences. The most significant study findings revealed that the participants experienced emotional security within their adoptive families, but encountered racism and discrimination within society. The findings further indicated that ambivalence developed during the process of identity formation. In making sense of their experiences, the participants reflected on their uniqueness and individuality, and highlighted gains related to their upbringing. It was evident that quality parental care and the participants’ own resilience contributed to their success in navigating these challenges. Based on the research findings, the study concluded with recommendations for enhancing outcomes in trans-racial adoption.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The experiences of young adults raised in single-parent families in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Makoni, Mavis
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Single-parent families , Children of single parents Young adults
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5292 , vital:29184
  • Description: Although the single-parent family is becoming an increasingly common family structure, it is associated with a great many hardships. Owing to the heavy responsibilities which fall on single parents, most fail to meet all of the needs of their children, particularly with respect to the financial needs which are entailed by providing educational necessities, safe, stable and permanent accommodation, adequate food and nutrition and healthcare. This study adopted the parental loss perspective, the economic hardship perspective and the interparental conflict perspective in investigating the experiences of young adults who were raised in single-parent families. A qualitative approach was adopted to conduct the research and data was collected from 26 male and female participants between the ages of 22 and 39 years who resided within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The researcher sought permission to conduct this study from all the community leaders including the councillors and chiefs, thereby acquiring the first referrals. The study made use of purposive sampling and snowballing to select the research sample. The data was collected by using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions and analysed through the use of thematic analysis. The principal findings of the study indicate that although children who are raised in single-parent homes can attain high levels of education and have solid functional relationships in later life, a lack of finance and active parental involvement in their educational activities and social lives can serve to limit their development. As single-mother households face more economic hardships than any other family structures, financial assistance from both the government and their communities would undoubtedly increase the likelihood of children in single-mother families attaining their true academic potential. In addition, free counselling services would also help children who are forced to live under these circumstances overcome the emotional burden which inevitably accompanies either losing or being separated from one parent.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The experiences of young adults raised in single-parent families in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Authors: Makoni, Mavis
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Single-parent families Children of single parents Young adults
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , M Soc Sci
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2083 , vital:27607
  • Description: Although the single-parent family is becoming an increasingly common family structure, it is associated with a great many hardships. Owing to the heavy responsibilities which fall on single parents, most fail to meet all of the needs of their children, particularly with respect to the financial needs which are entailed by providing educational necessities, safe, stable and permanent accommodation, adequate food and nutrition and healthcare. This study adopted the parental loss perspective, the economic hardship perspective and the interparental conflict perspective in investigating the experiences of young adults who were raised in single-parent families. A qualitative approach was adopted to conduct the research and data was collected from 26 male and female participants between the ages of 22 and 39 years who resided within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The researcher sought permission to conduct this study from all the community leaders including the councillors and chiefs, thereby acquiring the first referrals. The study made use of purposive sampling and snowballing to select the research sample. The data was collected by using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions and analysed through the use of thematic analysis. The principal findings of the study indicate that although children who are raised in single-parent homes can attain high levels of education and have solid functional relationships in later life, a lack of finance and active parental involvement in their educational activities and social lives can serve to limit their development. As single-mother households face more economic hardships than any other family structures, financial assistance from both the government and their communities would undoubtedly increase the likelihood of children in single-mother families attaining their true academic potential. In addition, free counselling services would also help children who are forced to live under these circumstances overcome the emotional burden which inevitably accompanies either losing or being separated from one parent.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The fairness of sanctions for misconduct dismissals

  • Authors: Matoti, Kenneth Augustus Linda
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- Law and legislation -- South Africa Economic sanctions -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45503 , vital:38622
  • Description: The determination of the fairness of the sanction of dismissal depends on a number of factors and is also influenced by various court decisions. One of the factors which play a key role in the determination of the fairness of the sanction is substantive fairness. Substantive fairness can be described as the valid and fair reason for the sanction of dismissal. The employer can only dismiss an employee if the employer has valid and fair reason to do so. Valid refers to lawful reason and fairness involves the consideration of all factors. After this exercise the sanction of dismissal becomes the only appropriate sanction, no alternative sanction can be considered. In evaluating the substantive fairness of the sanction of dismissal, Item 7 of the Code requires the employer to consider whether a rule was in place, the employee was aware of the rule, the rule has been consistently applied and whether the employee contravened a rule or not. If this has not happened the sanction imposed by the employer will be substantively unfair.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The FOXP2 forkhead domain binds to a variety of DNA sequences with different rates and affinities

  • Authors: Webb, Helen , Steeb, Olga , Blane, Ashleigh , Rotherham, Lia , Aron, Shaun , Machanick, Philip , Dirr, Heinrich W , Fanucchi, Sylvia
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: To be catalogued
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/439326 , vital:73567 , https://doi.org/10.1093/jb/mvx003
  • Description: FOXP2 is a member of the P subfamily of FOX transcription factors, the DNA-binding domain of which is the winged helix forkhead domain (FHD). In this work we show that the FOXP2 FHD is able to bind to various DNA sequences, including a novel sequence identified in this work, with different affinities and rates as detected using surface plasmon resonance. Combining the experimental work with molecular docking, we show that high-affinity sequences remain bound to the protein for longer, form a greater number of interactions with the protein and induce a greater structural change in the protein than low-affinity sequences. We propose a binding model for the FOXP2 FHD that involves three types of binding sequence: low affinity sites which allow for rapid scanning of the genome by the protein in a partially unstructured state; moderate affinity sites which serve to locate the protein near target sites and high-affinity sites which secure the protein to the DNA and induce a conformational change necessary for functional binding and the possible initiation of downstream transcriptional events.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The global distribution and diversity of protein vaccine candidate antigens in the highly virulent Streptococcus pnuemoniae serotype:

The Grootfontein aquifer at Mahikeng, South Africa as hydro-social system

  • Authors: Cobbing, Jude Edmund
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Groundwater -- South Africa -- Mahikeng Hydrogeology -- South Africa -- Mahikeng
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21351 , vital:29484
  • Description: The Grootfontein aquifer is located about 20 km south east of Mahikeng, North West Province, South Africa, and currently supplies about 20% of Mahikeng’s water. Formed in weathered Malmani Subgroup dolomites, the aquifer contains good quality groundwater that could potentially supply more of Mahikeng’s water, as well as provide a strategic reserve of water for use during droughts. Over-abstraction of groundwater from the aquifer, mainly by irrigating farmers but also by the boreholes supplying Mahikeng, has caused the natural groundwater level to drop at a rate of about 0.4 m per year since the 1970s, leading to water level declines of as much as 28 m in parts of the aquifer. Although the Grootfontein aquifer is one of the best studied aquifers in South Africa hydrogeologically, efforts to address these declines since the 1970s have largely failed. This research combines hydrogeological evidence with social research (interviews and participant-observation) and the principles of Earth Stewardship Science to argue that the aquifer functions as a hydro-social system, and that institutional characteristics are the root cause of a collective inability to restore the aquifer to its full potential as a water resource. A sub-optimal and undesirable Nash equilibrium prevails, in which major groundwater users are unable or unwilling to reduce abstraction. The situation has significant cost and risk implications for the environmental, economic and social sectors, and contributes to insecurity, pessimism, inequality and mistrust. An effective local forum with appropriate powers, supported and mandated by the Department of Water and Sanitation, is needed to begin the work of dismantling the sub-optimal equilibrium to realise the potential of the Grootfontein aquifer. Such a forum would require a shared understanding of the hydrogeological mechanisms of the aquifer as well as its social and institutional functioning, since these influence each other in complex ways.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The growth and recovery of mangroves at three South African study sites

  • Authors: Mbense, Sinegugu
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Mangrove forests -- South Africa Mangrove ecology -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11931 , vital:27008
  • Description: Mangroves in South Africa are prone to anthropogenic pressures such as browsing and trampling by livestock and by natural disturbances such as drought and floods. These mangroves exist at one of the most southerly limits in the world providing a unique opportunity to study recovery and resilience to change. This study used long term data at three South African study sites located in the subtropical (St Lucia Estuary) and warm temperate regions (Nxaxo and Kobonqaba estuaries) to compare mangrove growth rate, population structure and responses to disturbance. The first objective was investigated at St Lucia Estuary where site specific or microhabitat differences were measured to assess the influence of these on mangrove growth and population structure. It was suggested that site - specific variability would ensure mangrove survival and analysis showed that seedlings were present at different sites in different years. There was always some recruitment but often little survival to the next size class. Over time seedling numbers were quite variable and self – thinning of adults was evident. The second objective was to identify the environmental factors influencing population density and growth. Results showed that sediment moisture and salinity influenced seedling and adult density due to fluctuations in estuary water level. Mangrove growth rates for Avicennia marina in terms of height was faster (40 – 75 cm yr-1 ) at Site 1 where conditions were waterlogged and moderately saline and slower (5 – 25 cm yr1 ) in dry and hypersaline conditions at Site 4. Overall mangroves at St Lucia have shown persistence through drought and fluctuations in environmental conditions however resilience may be hindered at sites that are subjected to partially flooding and prolonged waterlogging. The second site was Nxaxo Estuary in the Eastern Cape where cattle exclusion plots (nonbrowsed) and control plots (browsed) were used to assess the recovery of A. marina trees from cattle browsing. Trees in the browsed plots showed no vertical growth while trees in the non-browsed plots grew significantly faster (5.4 ± 0.5 cm yr-1). When cattle were prevented from entering the mangrove area, the trees recovered fairly quickly and within 3 years growth was similar in both the non – browsed (17.9 ± 3.2 cm yr -1) and browsed plots (18 ± 1.6 cm yr -1). Lastly, mangrove recovery was investigated at Kobonqaba Estuary where long-term closure of the mouth to the sea resulted in high water levels, inundation of pneumatophores and die-back of the majority of the mangroves. This study measured the recovery of the mangroves by assessing changes in vegetation cover and sediment characteristics along transects. High initial porewater nutrient concentrations promoted salt marsh growth and plants increased average cover from 0% in 2011 to 18.9% (2013) and 50% in 2015. The total number of A. marina individuals increased from only seven to 27 individuals over four years. Salt marsh competition and facilitation will likely influence mangrove recovery in the future. Overall it was concluded that when a short term pressure (cattle browsing) is alleviated, mangrove forests even at warm temperate sites are able to recovery rapidly by increasing growth and seedling establishment. However, mangroves in the subtropical sites show more resilience and recovery potential to long term pressures such as fluctuating environmental conditions because of faster growth rates.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The identification of key vulnerability components within Solomon Islands coastal communities

  • Authors: Malherbe, Willem Stefanus
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Solomon Islands -- Environmental conditions , Coastal ecology -- Solomon Islands , Island ecology -- Solomon Islands , Climatic changes -- Solomon Islands , Sociology, Urban -- Solomon Islands , Sociology, Rural -- Solomon Islands
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: vital:21184 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6827
  • Description: The impacts of climate change are disproportionally felt across the planet, with small island developing states some of the countries most at risk. Furthermore, climate change may compound existing problems such as over harvested resources, leading to knock-on effects on national economies. Both direct and indirect stressors may impact communities differently based on their level of exposure to stressors, their intrinsic sensitivity to these stressors, and their ability to adapt to stressors. This study aims to answer the primary research question: Why are some communities more vulnerable than others? A vulnerability assessment is used to identify both vulnerable and non-vulnerable attributes of Solomon Islands’ communities. Surveys comprised a comprehensive questionnaire to draw inference on each vulnerability category; sensitivity, exposure and adaptive capacity, along with their various components and subcomponents. An analysis of household and community livelihood strategies was conducted to compliment vulnerability scores and provide a deeper understanding of livelihood practises. As is expected of small island states, exposure presents the biggest threat to coastal communities. Within this category, environmental changes and personal exposure from shoreline erosion and safety at sea provide evidence of high vulnerability. Within the sensitivity category, the cultural importance of fishing, as well as attachment to place and fishing, renders communities more vulnerable. Simultaneously, local ecological knowledge and economic dependence on resources other than fishing proved to be resilient attributes by decreasing vulnerability. Low vulnerability scores for the adaptive capacity category were achieved by communities where physical capital, such as community infrastructure, was evident. A lack of both institutional support and bridging of social capital were attributes which contributed to community vulnerability. This study has identified key attributes that have both positive and negative effects on the vulnerability of Solomon Islands communities. Having done this, I have also attempted to determine the drivers that render some attributes more vulnerable than others. It is acknowledged that the drivers of all key attributes of vulnerability is required to determine areas where adaptation plans will be most effective. Importantly, drivers of high vulnerability should not be considered as the primary focus of adaptation planning, but also the drivers of low vulnerability, such as community cohesion, which provide resilience within communities.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The identity alignment of Christian beliefs and homosexual orientation in adult women

  • Authors: Kasmed, Fa-eeza
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Homosexuality -- Religious aspects Women -- Religious aspects -- Christianity , Women -- Identity
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17658 , vital:28425
  • Description: The homosexual orientation has been controversial in many countries around the world, with religion often used as the foundation for critique against this orientation. The prevalence of discrimination, and the expectation of rejection, often results in homosexual individuals concealing their sexual identity. In the process homosexual individuals may deny, hide, or even discarded their authentic selves. However, some individuals reach a point of comfort with both these constructs of their identity, a position that supports the authentic self. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the process of how individuals who identify as both Christian and homosexual align these parts into their identity, to reach a place of comfort. The study further seeks to generate insight that can be used to assist individuals in similar positions of identity conflict. The study uses qualitative methodology, more specifically an exploratory- descriptive design. The sample is identified through non-probability purposive sampling, and data collected through semi- structured interviews. The data is analysed using an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) framework. Thematic analysis identified major themes of denial, conflict, anger, bargaining, deconstruction, and self- acceptance. These themes followed a non- linear and interactive process, and present participants reaching a place of comfort with their Christian beliefs and homosexual orientation; which is discussed through the interpretative lens of social constructionism and queer theory.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The illegal diamond trade in South Africa and its tax consequences

  • Authors: Kumm-Schmidt, Megan
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Diamond industry and trade -- South Africa , Diamond industry and trade -- Corrupt practices -- South Africa , Diamond industry and trade -- South Africa -- Taxation , Conflict diamonds -- South Africa , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Tax evasion -- South Africa , South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , South Africa. Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, 2004 , South Africa. Tax Administration Act, 2011 , South Africa. ǂt Value-Added Tax Act, 1991 , Kimberley Process Certification Scheme
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/4389 , vital:20656
  • Description: The object of the research was to discuss the taxability of the illegal diamond trade in South Africa and to identify the consequences of not declaring income obtained from the illegal diamond trade to the South African Revenue Services. The research was conducted by means of a critical analysis of documentary data with specific reference to the Income Tax Act, the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Act, the Tax Administration Act and relevant case law. The Income Tax Act and the Value-Added Tax Act were referred to in relation to the tax consequences of the illegal diamond trade and the Tax Administration Act was used to determine the consequences of not declaring income to the South African Revenue Services. It was established that amounts received from the sale of illegal diamonds are to be included in the taxpayer's gross income, whilst in relation to income received from diamond theft it was not as clear. The MP Finance Group case held that the nature of the receipt and the way in which the transaction occurred in each individual situation will be the deciding factor as to whether or not the stolen diamonds will be taxable in the hands of the thief. The buying and selling of "blood" or stolen diamonds can amount to a trade. As there have been no definitive case decisions in South Africa, it remains unclear whether expenses relating to an illegal trade are deductible. Assuming that expenses relating to an illegal trade are deductible, the provisions of section 11(a) will apply to expenses incurred as a result of dealing in illegal diamonds and it was concluded that qualifying expenses will be deductible. A taxpayer buying and selling "blood" or stolen diamonds is required to register for VAT if sales exceed the threshold and would be required to account for VAT on these transactions. If the taxpayer does not declare the income for income tax purposes or register for and pay VAT to the South African Revenue Services from either the sale of illegal diamonds or the theft of diamonds, this will amount to tax evasion and the dealer will be subject to penalties and even imprisonment
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact climate change on rural households in Binfield village

  • Authors: Tabalaza, Nomthetho
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa -- Alice Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Alice , Crops and climate -- South Africa -- Alice Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Alice
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20626 , vital:29361
  • Description: Climate change poses a major environmental challenge, due to its adverse effects on human settlement patterns and food security. The global phenomenon upsets seasonal shifts, leading to changes in planting dates and weather patterns. This unpredictability has severe and adverse effects on farmers and rural communities, as variable environmental factors govern activities related to daily sustenance and food availability. The kind of rapid and intense climate change that South African rural spaces are experiencing now, increase the likelihood of extreme weather events such as droughts, heat waves and floods. There are growing concerns that the rural poor will be unable to adapt. Rural livelihoods are therefore facing overwhelming and extensive environmental threats, while rural dwellers are finding it difficult to adapt and cope. As a result, climate change can thus be described as one of the most complex and dangerous environmental problems challenging rural livelihoods today. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of climate change on rural poverty at Binfield village in the Eastern Cape and to identify the livelihood activities practiced. Furthermore, the research was conducted to ascertain how rural livelihood activities are affected by climate change and identify and assess the effectiveness of adaption strategies employed by the households. The research also aimed to explore and establish further adaptation strategies. This study made use of a qualitative research method. Babooa (2008) argues that qualitative research is concerned with stories and accounts including subjective understandings, feelings, opinions and beliefs. The study used both primary and secondary data for data. The researcher adopted interviews and field observation for primary data whilst secondary data was sourced from journals, articles and internet sources. O‘ Leary (2004) describes the interview as a method of collecting data where the interviewer asks the Interviewee open-ended questions. The questions were based on the key areas of interest. Qualitative research methods are aimed at understanding the rich, complex characteristic nature of human phenomena. Qualitative methods are concerned with understanding human behaviour from the participant‘s own frame of reference.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of a shopping centre on adjacent property prices: a Nelson Mandela Bay case study

  • Authors: Kgari, Emolemo Nkomeng
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Housing -- Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Real property -- Prices -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Real estate investment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17636 , vital:28420
  • Description: A great deal of research has been carried out on residential property values and numerous factors have been identified as having an effect on residential property values. The physical characteristics of properties of properties are the primary factors that determine the market value of residential property. However, factors concerning location are also thought to influence the value of residential properties. These locational factors include, among others, accessibility to highways, airports, schools, parks and public transportation centres. This study examines the effect of another locational factor, namely proximity to a newly built shopping centre. Shopping centres have been increasing in numbers throughout South Africa over the past few decades. These shopping centres are usually situated in close proximity to residential properties. As such, shopping centres that are in close proximity to residential properties can influence property prices. This study makes use of the hedonic price model to assess the price impact of the newly constructed Baywest Mall on the residential properties in the western suburbs of Nelson Mandela, namely Sherwood, Rowallan Park and Kunune Park. On 21 March 2012, the construction of the Baywest Mall was officially announced. This announcement created an area of interest as to whether its construction and completion would have an impact on the prices of residential properties situated in close proximity to the mall. The study period for this study was from 2004 – 2015. This time period is thought to be sufficient to assess the effect of the Baywest Shopping Mall on the residential property prices before and after the announcement of the construction of the mall. As the study period ranged from 2004 – 2015 it was necessary to adjust the sales prices over the years to constant 2015 prices. As such, the ABSA house price index was used in order to eliminate any inflationary effects on the property values over the study period. The results of the study revealed that the newly built Baywest Mall has a statistically significant positive effect on properties in close proximity to the shopping mall. This result enhances the scientific understanding of the effect of commercial land uses, such as, shopping centres, on the value of adjacent residential properties.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of companies overlooking organisational culture when partnering with outsourced service providers

  • Authors: Ngece, Unathi
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Corporate culture Contracting out
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20031 , vital:29068
  • Description: An organisation‟s primary purpose is to be profitable as well as having the ability to sustain that profitability in a sometimes volatile environment. When businesses are able to achieve this they may have the ability to always be a step ahead of their competitors. It is therefore critical to structure an organisation in such a way that yields positive results. Outsourcing a part of a business is not new phenomenon and is practised by a number of organisations. Outsourcing is a strategy that business undertake in order to cost save, for better performance and quality as well as having a higher degree flexibility. However organisations fail to consider a critical factor when outsourcing which is organisational culture. A strong culture in the organisation is often intangible and this would keep competitors guessing why the organisation is so profitable. When highlighting culture as one of the most critical factors prior to embarking on outsourcing may ensure a smoother integration and transition between the parent organisation and the outsourced partner. The purpose of this study is to assist organisations to consider organisational culture as one of the most critical factors prior to embarking on outsourcing. This will enable the organisation to understand the compatibility of the two companies which will ultimately determine the success or failure of the business. The aim is to investigate the impact of organisational culture on organisational performance, leadership, employee performance and organisational culture as a source of competitive advantage. An empirical study conducted in the literature produced a sample size of 63 employees from a multinational firm in the Eastern Cape region. The data assists in understanding if there is a culture or not and how it has impacted on the performance of the organisation. The main findings and recommendations to management are presented in the study should companies embark on outsourcing initiatives they need to consider organisational culture as one of the critical factors in order to ensure that they are successful for decades to come.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of different exchange-rate policies on SADC economies

  • Authors: Qabhobho, Thobekile
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Southern African Development Community -- Economic conditions , Foreign exchange rates International economic relations Developing countries -- Economic policy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19883 , vital:28996
  • Description: An exchange-rate regime is an essential element of a country’s regional and international trade, since it is the monetary link between its domestic and international economy. Appropriate exchange-rate regimes that would facilitate capital flows, trade, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and economic growth need to be identified and researched within the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC). This study investigated five underlying themes on exchange-rate regimes, behaviour and monetary policy-related issues in the SADC region: the different exchange-rate regimes’ performance and features – before, during and after the 2007/2008 financial crisis; the implication of the adopted exchange-rate regime on monetary-policy independence through examining the impact of the U.S. interest rate on domestic interest rates; the transmission of the South African exchange-rate volatility to other SADC currencies during and after the 2007/2008 financial crisis; the relationship between the exchange-market pressure and monetary policy, and the relationship between exchange rates and stock prices. The following models were used to address the identified themes: the Exchange-Flexibility Index; the Regression-Based Model; the General Methods of Moments (GMM) Model; the GARCH (p, q) Model; the Exponential GARCH Model; the VAR framework, and the Granger-Causality Tests in the VAR System, with their Impulse Response Functions (IRF) and Variance Decomposition. These models were applied to cover different aspects of the study before, during and after the 2007/ 2008 financial-crisis periods. They enabled critical evaluation of the exchange-rate policies, behaviours and performances. The results of the thesis indicate that, in general, both fixed and flexible exchange rates became more flexible after the crisis period and the influence of the United States (U.S.) Dollar, Chinese RMB and EURO was affirmed. There was no evidence of an increase in the co-ordination of SADC currency arrangements in the post-crisis period. Countries with a fixed exchange-rate regime responded more to international interest rates. The study further confirmed the presence of the Rand volatility-contagion effect during the crisis period, as well as its spill-over effect during tranquil periods, to most currency markets in the region. The evaluation of the relationship between the Exchange-Market Pressure (EMP) and monetary policy relationship revealed their close interdependence. This confirms traditional theories that a tighter monetary policy reduces the EMP. The portfolio theory was further affirmed in that stock prices Granger-cause the exchange rates. The recommendations emanating from this study include modernisation of the financial systems of SADC states to cope with foreign capital flows and external shocks, especially since global and regional economies are intensifying, as well as deepening of financial regulations and supervision of financial systems. Furthermore, there is a need for governments and central banks to synchronise their economic policies to minimise the negative effect of global financial crises. The fixed exchange rate regimes and intermediate regimes proved more suitable to countries with less exposure to global capital markets. However, they should prepare their financial institutions to cope with the transition from peg arrangements to more flexible exchange rate regimes. Countries are more appealing if they have more advanced financial markets, links to global capital markets and flexible exchange rate regimes. SADC countries will eventually engage in full global financial integration because of the intensification of global financial markets. This will require the countries to adopt exchange-rate stability and financial integration, but sacrifice monetary autonomy; alternatively, they could achieve monetary independence with financial integration, but sacrifice exchange-rate stability. The results clarify that currency exchange shocks in one country can cause a persistent rise in the volatility of other countries’ foreign exchange markets. These results show that the Central Banks in SADC countries will need to take policy actions following a large exchange rate shock. Therefore, the results on the exchange-rate volatility theme are useful for policy makers to formulate and implement appropriate policies in the event an adverse shock is observed in SADC exchange markets where contagion/spill over effect is empirically manifested. Even though a rise in short-term interest rates could reduce the EMP, it could also further raise the fluctuations of short-term interest rates. Stabilising the EMP through manipulating short-term interest rates will often heighten volatility of interest rates for an extended period. The assumption that changes in the exchange rate affect the competitiveness of a firm, thus influencing the firm’s earnings, net worth, and stock prices was not supported by the results of this study for the period under analysis. However, the results concur with the portfolio theory that stock prices Granger-cause the exchange rates. This might mean that there is high movement of investors’ money between the South African stock markets and that of other countries. This will have significant influence on the demand for and supply of the South African Rand, which often is in disequilibrium. The policy implication is that the Central Bank should pay more attention to stabilising exchange rates against the major currencies. The results of this study have critical implications for monetary authorities (Central Banks) and decision-makers in business.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of economic growth on the matric pass rate in South Africa

  • Authors: Thobakgale, Khutso Oupa
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa Business and education -- South Africa , Education -- Economic aspects -- South Africa High school graduates -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20790 , vital:29394
  • Description: The study provides an econometric analysis of the impact of economic growth on the matric pass rate in South Africa. The model used provincial pass rates from the year 2008 to 2013 as well as the economic growth rates of each province from the same period. A panel data random effects model was used to run the model and produce the results. An extensive literature review was conducted to analyse the pass rate in the Eastern Cape which has been the lowest in South Africa for some years. The results of the model suggest that economic growth in the different provinces has a positive effect on the matric pass rate except for the Eastern Cape, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. The model also produced a low R2 indicating that economic growth does not sufficiently explain the matric pass rate in the different provinces and other factors which were not included in the model are important.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of emotional intelligence on the work and carrer performance of early career academics at the University of Fort Hare

  • Authors: Marembo, Mathew
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Career development Emotional intelligence Personnel management -- Psychological aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8541 , vital:33091
  • Description: Orientation – Early Career Academics (ECAs) in their quest to make significant strides in their academic career are faced with a changing academic context, limited support from employers and circumstances emanating from globalization. All these may arouse emotions, fears, anxieties and uncertainties. Many authorities have exhibited emotional intelligence (EI) to be important in terms of self-management, coping and adaptation. In this regard EI may be influential in the career performance of ECAs. Research Purpose – The main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of EI on the career and work performance of ECAs at the University of Fort Hare. Motivation of the Study – EI is criticized for not being easily measurable and also for not being a sufficient predicting factor to individual performance. Little research exists on EI as a predictor to ECAs career progression. Research Approach, Design and Method – The study utilized quantitative data measurement scales. The Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale was used to measure EI whilst career performance was measured using the Perceived Career Success Scale. The principles of structural equation modelling were applied in formulating the research hypotheses and in data analysis. Main Findings - Exploratory factor analysis extracted four factors from the SEIS, which were named expression of emotion, perception of emotion, use of emotion and regulation of emotion. Expression, perception and regulation of emotions were found to significantly influence job success, interpersonal success, non-organisational success and hierarchical success. The overall EI was not significant to explain change in ECAs career performance. The researcher also found no significant differences in the EI scores on the basis of ECAs age, gender and work experience. Practical/Managerial Implications - The findings to this study may be useful for career counselling and personal development such that an individual may be able to maximize performance and achievement of career goals. The study recommends that EI may be incorporated in learning programs so that ECAs and other professionals may improve their EI. Future research is encouraged on both ECAs and their senior counterparts in the same context of EI. Contribution or value-add – The study contributes to the debate on the predictive power of EI which is criticised by some authorities in the field.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of external shocks on economic performance and policy responses in Zimbabwe

  • Authors: Manda, Smart
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Macroeconomics , Economic forecasting -- Zimbabwe Economic development -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Developing countries -- Economic conditions
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18354 , vital:28626
  • Description: This study analysed the impact of external shocks on macroeconomic performance and policy responses in Zimbabwe for the period spanning from 2009 to 2016. The study was motivated by the rising global economic vulnerabilities following the global economic and financial crisis experienced between 2007 and 2009. The study was also in response to the concern by the Zimbabwean government that external shocks had become increasingly important in influencing macroeconomic developments in Zimbabwe. In view of the intensifying debate on external shocks, the study, therefore, sought to understand the impact of external shocks on economic performance and policy responses in Zimbabwe. The study contributes to empirical literature by assessing the relative contribution of external shocks in explaining business cycles, the main transmission mechanisms of the macroeconomic shocks in Zimbabwe, the extent to which shocks in Zimbabwe were synchronised with shocks affecting other regional countries and how effective were government policies in mitigating the impact of shocks in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe is a fascinating case study given its unique exchange rate arrangements under the multiple currency system. The application of the micro-founded DSGE models in addition to the Structural Vector Autoregressive (SVAR) models is also a novel approach. The results of the DSGE model demonstrated that foreign output shocks and imported inflation were not important in accounting for developments in endogenous variables in Zimbabwe. In addition, the domestic output and inflation did not respond to a domestic monetary policy shock. However, the international commodity price was found to have some bearing on domestic output. Foreign interest rates had a positive effect on domestic interest rates. On the other hand, domestic variables did not respond to domestic interest rate movements. This effectively implies that whilst foreign interest rates influenced domestic interest rates, domestic interest rates did not influence real economic activity. In other words, the transmission mechanism was not from domestic monetary policy to real economic variables. The results of the SVAR model also confirmed the results obtained from the DSGE model. The results from the analysis of the synchronicity of shocks also provided very important information on the dynamics of external shocks and economic performance in Zimbabwe. These results pointed to the fact that although countries in the region experienced similar shocks, economic fluctuations were not synchronised implying that the shocks could be emanating from the domestic sources rather than external sources. The results from the analysis of the role of external shocks in explaining macroeconomic fluctuations in Zimbabwe revealed that domestic factors contribute more to macroeconomic fluctuations in Zimbabwe compared to external variables. The contribution of climatic factors to domestic output fluctuations was, however, found to have a limited or minimal impact on the economy. Regarding the monetary policy effectiveness, the study observed that there was a weak link between interest rates and output and inflation developments in Zimbabwe. The results also suggested a week link between interest rates and money supply in the economy. The results, however, suggested that international oil prices were very important in the domestic price formations, accounting for about 20 percent of the variation. The monetary policy conditional index on the other hand indicated that monetary conditions in the economy did not influence inflation and output developments, implying ineffectiveness of monetary policy. The results from the study demonstrated the fact that although external shocks do affect economic activity in Zimbabwe, domestic factors are more significant in influencing macroeconomic activity. The policy implication of the findings is that there is need to consider the domestic factors, which are more significant compared to the external factors. However, since monetary policy is not effective under the multiple currencies system, fiscal policy is important to deal with external shocks. This will also enable the economy to absorb the impact of external shocks into the economy. The policies should focus more on reducing the over-reliance on primary commodities for exports through diversification of the economy.
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of family preservation and family reunification services on families in South Africa: a case study of Amathole District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province

  • Authors: Zimba, Zibonele France
  • Date: 2017
  • Subjects: Family services Dysfunctional families -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Family social work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Degree
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/3088 , vital:28260
  • Description: Families in communities remain vulnerable and, apart from poverty, face a host of other crises and challenges on a daily basis. Amongst the challenges that families face, children are affected most. Services targeting families with very young children therefore are imperative. This study was aimed at exploring the impact of family preservation and family reunification services on families in South Africa, with a focus on the Eastern Cape Province. To answer the research questions of this study, the research adopted a mixed methods design known as methodological triangulation. The study incorporated two sets of participants, Social Workers and heads of families that benefit from family preservation and family reunification services. The total sample for the study included 260 participants; 220 of the participants were heads of families and 40 of the participants were Social Workers. Questionnaires were administered to 200 heads of families and 20 Social Workers selected by means of the random sampling technique. In addition, 20 heads of families and 20 Social Workers who participated in in-depth interviews were purposively selected. The quantitative data were analysed by means of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitative data were categorised with the use of themes and subthemes
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  • Date Issued: 2017

The impact of good news and bad news on South Africa’s sectoral stock return volatility: an asymmetric GARCH analysis

  • Authors: Muzinda, Edmond Toreva
  • Date: 2017
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6425 , vital:21108
  • Description: This study explores the impact of good news and bad news on South Africa’s sectoral stock return volatility using an asymmetric GARCH analysis. Understanding the different impact of news on stock return volatility in different economic sectors has important implications for investors’ risk management practices, portfolio allocation strategies and asset pricing. The study employs data of daily closing prices for nine sectors and three benchmark indices for the period 2nd January 1997 - 17th August 2016. The data was split into sub-samples of pre-, during and post-global financial crisis, as well as the overall sample period. The incorporation of sub-samples was to help explain the outcomes of the overall sample period. To capture the different impact of good news and bad news on stock return volatility for each sector, asymmetric GARCH models namely, TGARCH and EGARCH were employed. The findings from this study revealed that volatility asymmetry was present in all sectors and benchmark indices of South African equity market. Bad news had more impact on stock return volatility for all sectors except the Oil and Gas sector, than good news of the same magnitude. In the Oil and Gas sector, good news was found to have an amplified effect on return volatility compared with bad news of the same magnitude. High volatility persistence was also found to be present in the Consumer goods, Financials, Industrials, All-share index and Mid-cap index. High differential impact of good and bad news were found in the Industrials, Financials, Basic materials, Consumer goods and the All-share index. Since the main objective of this study was to provide explanations of volatility asymmetry found in the South African sectors, the following were proposed as possible explanations of the findings. Within sectors, volatility asymmetry was explained by financial leverage, the role of the media, loss-averse investors and the behaviour of traders (overconfidence and extrapolation bias). Volatility asymmetry across sectors was explained by information flow, the uneven distribution of information by the media, investor sentiments, investor expectations and trading volumes. Overall, the results indicate that the stock return volatility of individual sectors of the South African equity market is driven mainly by bad news (except for Oil and Gas) and that leverage effects exist in all the sectors and in the benchmark indices.
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  • Date Issued: 2017
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