Social protection and secondary education in Zimbabwe: the case of Masvingo District in Masvingo Province
- Authors: Mago, David
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions , Elementary school dropouts , Zimbabwe -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24554 , vital:63170
- Description: The study sought to examine the role of social protection in reducing school dropouts in secondary education in Masvingo District of Zimbabwe. The study was motivated by the idea that despite the social assistance interventions that are in place, the school dropout phenomenon is still continuing among secondary school learners in the Masvingo District. This was achieved by discussing various programmes delivered by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the government in reducing the number of school dropouts. The thesis also outlined various economic, social and political depressions that affected secondary education since Zimbabwe’s gaining of independence. From 1962 until 1980 the colonial government catered for the European child, this meant that secondary education was difficult to be accessed by blacks. Education maintained a bottleneck structure that favoured whites more than black people. After gaining independence, the Zimbabwe African Union Patriotic Front (ZANU PF) party introduced laws that allowed the black majority an opportunity to proceed with their education. Over the years the number of school dropouts is still increasing. This was curtailed by the introduction of the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) in 1991 to 1995. The introduction of the SAPs led to the introduction of user fees in education and health. This raised poverty levels which were curtailed by the macroeconomic situation in Zimbabwe. This was beyond the reach of many and led to the increase of school dropouts in Zimbabwe. The major objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of social assistance in the reduction of school dropouts in Zimbabwe. The specific objectives are to analyse the role played by social assistance on the provision of secondary education and reduction of school dropouts and examining the impact of assistance on the education of the girl child. The last objective in the study was to identify a more comprehensive social assistance intervention for the support of secondary education. A more comprehensive social assistance intervention is intervention that provides support to secondary learners that includes among them uniforms, transport food and school fees. The study adopted the qualitative research methodology. The qualitative research methodology was used because it seeks to go deeper in what people experience on day to day activities. In-depth information helps to understand the successes and failures faced by NGOs and government in reducing the number of school dropouts. The study looked at how effective government and NGO assistance has been in reducing the number of school dropouts. Today there are a majority of NGOs, private organisations and government programmes that are working in secondary education assistance in Masvingo District. What matters most is that despite the growing rate of assistance by NGOs, individual help and government assistance the number of school dropouts is still increasing. The study’s theoretical framework is based on the Human rights based approach and the Transformative paradigm. The analysis relates to social assistance programmes focusing on the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) and NGOs and their contribution in reducing the number of school dropouts. From the research findings, the research established the way forward that can be used to reduce the rate of school dropouts in Masvingo District and Zimbabwe at large. Lack of school fees, school uniforms, food and transport are the major causes of school dropouts in Masvingo District. The findings of the study revealed that Zimbabwe’s social assistance programmes are not adequate in reducing the number of school dropouts. The way forward that was proposed in the study in that the assistance to children at secondary education should be holistic approach. NGOs and government should work together to educate parents and children on the importance of secondary education. , Thesis (MSoc Dev.) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2015
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Teachers' experiences of English as the language of teaching and learning: a case study of two primary schools in East London education district
- Authors: Mkohlwa, Tantaswa
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Language and languages , English language -- Study and teaching , Primary school teachers
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26515 , vital:65519
- Description: This study investigates teachers‘ experiences on English as the language of learning and teaching of isiXhosa learners. It critically examines the teachers‘ practices and experiences towards English as the sole language of learning and teaching LOLT at two different primary schools in Ncerha in the East London District in the Eastern Cape. The study is guided by the fact that most learners use their mother tongue isiXhosa in classroom as well as outside classroom contexts. Furthermore, some teachers use the translation method as they code-switch to their home language when teaching content subjects as well as English but learners are expected to answer the test and examination questions in English Maphalala 1988.Theoretically, this study is underpinned by the constructivist view of language learning Gaserfeld 2003 and English as an international language Sivasubramaniam, 2011. On the basis of the ecological and the constructivist approaches to language learning, Sivasubramaniam 2011 p53 views language as a creative instrument of meaning which has the power to create meaning anew and afresh‘ each time that someone uses it. The study makes use of the qualitative research method with a case study design. The data collected was analysed within the framework of discourse analysis.The findings of this study suggest some instrumental motivations for the use of English as LOLT. Some of these motivations are studying abroad, business with foreign investors Abongdia, 2009 and integrative motivations as the learner might be able to communicate with people from different countries Lambert and Gardner, 1972 Baker 2006 and Abongdia 2009. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2015
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The four flows model and organising: a case study of the grounding programme at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Dube, Nomzamo https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9873-6566
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Communication in organizations , Organizational behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24739 , vital:63538
- Description: The research focuses on McPhee and Zaug (2000)’s four flows model prevalent in the Communicative Constitution of Organisation (CCO) school of thought to explicate its applicability in the organisation of the Grounding Programme, a compulsory trans-disciplinary first year programme at Fort Hare University. This thesis diverts emphasis from studying organisation as a noun to Karl Weick (1979)’s view of seeing organisation as a verb, shifting emphasis to the term organising, thus looking at organisation as an on-going process not as an entity. The theoretical basis of the research is Giddens’ structuration theory which attempts to offer a conceptual stability to the friction of employees’ compelling needs for freedom and the organisational rules and policies. The structuration theory is foundational to the CCO perspective which gave birth to the four flows model, therefore perfectly ideal for the purpose of the study. Research methods used in this study are open ended interviews, participant observation and document examination. These complement each other and impeccable for this study. Upon intersecting the four flows model and the Grounding Programme, it came to light that the model was formed out of a series of models and theories, the weaknesses of each model or theory perpetuates to the next hence causing series of problems. Unsolved issues of the structuration theory perpetuates to the CCO which in the long-run extend to the four flows model. Findings also show that the inadequacies of one communicative flow of the four flows model affect the other flows hence it is sometimes difficult to track how the actual problem began. Again, not all flows are relevant for organisational purposes. In spite of McPhee and Zaug’s attempt to narrow the model into four distinct flows, the model still remains incomprehensive and has loopholes when linked to a particular organisation because organisations are different. However, McPhee and Zaug’s model ought to be credited for its successes too, which are outlined in the thesis. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2015
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The impact of portfolio investment on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Tenderere, Morris
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Portfolio management , Capital market
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25603 , vital:64338
- Description: The main objective of this study was to investigate the impact of foreign portfolio investmenton economic growth in South Africa. South Africa, just like other several developing countries has recorded large capital inflows in recent years, reversing a trend of outflows. Much of this new capital inflow has been in the form of portfolio investment. This has been attributed to large domestic capital markets in South Africa. This surge in portfolio flows has raised the question whether these flows will be sustained or will instead be reversed in the near future. Some observers argue that the recent flows are inherently unsustainable because in many cases they have short maturities. In light of this, this study, then, sought to establish the impact of portfolio investment on economic growth in South Africa. The study used annual data from 1990 to 2012. The data was tested for stationarity using the Phillips Perron and Augmented Dickey–Fuller tests. This was followed by cointegration, after which thevector error correction modelling was carried out. Diagnostic checks, impulse response and variable decomposition were also conducted. Estimation results revealed that there is a positive relationship between foreign portfolio investments and economic growth in South Africa. The study recommended that the SARB and the government should remove all impediments that make it hard for foreign investors to invest in South Africa. The SARB should also keep interest rates at a rate that is high enough to attract foreign portfolios into South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2015
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A process maturity framework of information security policy development life cycle
- Authors: Tuyikeze, Tite
- Date: 2014-12
- Subjects: Computer security , Information technology , Computer crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26797 , vital:66010
- Description: Information security policy development involves more than policy formulation and implementation. Unless organisations explicitly recognise the various steps required in the development of a security policy, they run the risk of developing policies that are poorly thought out, incomplete, redundant and, irrelevant and which will not be fully supported by the users. This study argues that an information security policy has an entire life cycle through which it must pass through during its useful lifetime. A content analysis on information security policy development methods was conducted using secondary sources in the relevant literature. The outcome of the content analysis resulted in the proposal of a framework of information security policy development and implementation. The proposed framework outlines the various steps required in the development, implementation and enforcement of an effective information security policy. A survey of 400 security professionals was conducted in order to evaluate the concepts contained in the framework.This study also emphasises the importance of integrating a security maturity assessment process into the information security policy development life cycle. A key finding of this study is the proposed maturity assessment framework which offers a structured methodology for evaluating the maturity level of an information security policy. The framework presents an integrated and holistic approach to ensure the incremental process maturity of the organisation’s information security policy development process. In addition, organisations using the proposed framework will be able both to determine the current maturity levels of their information security policy development process and also to plan enhancements in the correct sequence. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
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An assessment of the role played by social protection in addressing poverty and vulnerability in Zimbabwe: the case of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Daitai, Joseph
- Date: 2014-12
- Subjects: Poverty -- Zimbabwe , Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions , Zimbabwe -- Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25983 , vital:64639
- Description: The focus of this study was based on the role played by social protection programs to alleviate poverty. This was achieved through analyzing generally the various social assistance programs delivered by both the government and the non-governmental organizations in trying to alleviate the scourge of wide spread poverty in Zimbabwe. The study also clearly outlined the endless list of various factors that contributed to some economic depressions and recessions that affected the country ever since the dawn of new Zimbabwe at independence in April of 1980. This study places social protection within the wider context of social assistance and relates to both concepts to poverty alleviation and wellbeing of the Zimbabwean citizens. The research made use of one of the major approaches in social science which is the qualitative method. The use of qualitative technique reflects an attempt to ensure an in-depth understanding of the phenomena under study, that is, to understand the successes and challenges faced by the government and non-governmental organizations in alleviating poverty.The study adopted a qualitative research methodology and mainly desktop approach was used meaning that data used was obtained from secondary sources whereby already exciting data within the area of social protection is analyzed and a conclusion is reached. This paper analyses the field of social protection, viewed within the broader concept of social assistance programs. The analysis relates both social protection and social assistance programs focusing on the (WFP) programs of Vulnerable group Feeding (VGF) and the government of Zimbabwe’s Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), their contribution to poverty alleviation. This study widens the focus from conventional narrowly defined elements of social protection to a broader interpretation which emphasizes the interface between social protection and its contribution to poverty alleviation. The linkage to poverty alleviation is also thoroughly discussed; various government and nongovernmental interventions have been also discussed where appropriate. The study also argues that many forms of socio-economic vulnerability need to be addressed from the central level to the grassroots level and also that local institutional structures are very crucial in the successful design, implementation and monitoring of these interventions. The study also suggested a possible government social protection framework that can be implemented by the government in order to achieve remarkable change and achievement in the social protection field. Recommendations were also given as the way forward for the proper and positive existence of social protection in Zimbabwe. In the theoretical framework, the study used two theories as the back bone of the study; the Capability approach and the State Welfare theory. The findings of the study revealed that in Zimbabwe, there are quite a number of social assistance programs underway but the problems discovered are that the coverage of the programs is very much inadequate and unequal hence larger percentages of citizens in the country remain unattended to, the government does not have strong financial muscles to implement successful assistance programs, political interferences also hinder success of the programs implemented by non-state organizations and also a poor grass root involvement in these programs makes them fail to achieve their purpose. , Thesis (MSoc Dev) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
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An evaluation of the impact of social media on youth political participation in South Africa's 2014 general election: the case of Fort Hare students
- Authors: Mhlomi, Yolisa
- Date: 2014-12
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa , Elections -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26255 , vital:65225
- Description: The aim of this paper is to evaluate the impact that social media had on influencing youths to engage in political and civic participation in the campaigning for and national elections of 2014, South Africa. Different views may impact on the implementation and use of social networking sites for politics. Youths consist of a larger population in the country but young people are also considered to be apathetic in political activities. However, it is essential to understand the perceptions of youth as this strategy was implemented especially to reach out to them, as they are the beneficiaries of the democratic system as well as future leaders of the country. Using the quantitative method, 200 questionnaires were distributed to the respondents in the University of Fort Hare and analysed by the researcher. The results of the study show that, youth are not entirely apathetic to politics and the use of social media for campaigning was seen as having a positive impact on voters because it managed to shift some youth’s perspectives about voting and how important it is for them to participate in the electoral process. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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An evaluation of the impact of social media on youth political participation in South Africa's 2014 general election: the case of Fort Hare students
- Authors: Mhlomi, Yolisa
- Date: 2014-12
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa , Social media and college student , Elections -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29065 , vital:76585
- Description: The aim of this paper is to evaluate the impact that social media had on influencing youths to engage in political and civic participation in the campaigning for and national elections of 2014, South Africa. Different views may impact on the implementation and use of social networking sites for politics. Youths consist of a larger population in the country but young people are also considered to be apathetic in political activities. However, it is essential to understand the perceptions of youth as this strategy was implemented especially to reach out to them, as they are the beneficiaries of the democratic system as well as future leaders of the country. Using the quantitative method, 200 questionnaires were distributed to the respondents in the University of Fort Hare and analysed by the researcher. The results of the study show that, youth are not entirely apathetic to politics and the use of social media for campaigning was seen as having a positive impact on voters because it managed to shift some youth’s perspectives about voting and how important it is for them to participate in the electoral process. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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De-industrialisation and the economic crisis in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Dlamini, Trinity N
- Date: 2014-12
- Subjects: Community life , Land reform -- Zimbabwe , Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Master's thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25915 , vital:64563
- Description: Zimbabwe has faced massive de-industrialization in the past decade. Decline in manufacturing production has immensely contributed to the economic crisis that hit the country since 1997. Most scholars have regarded the land reform program as the main contributor to the economic crisis but this study reveals how industrial decline led to the same crisis. Sustainable economic growth should be consistent with high levels of employment. This can be achieved through a strong role by a developmental state with autonomy over industrial development and guiding the process of capital accumulation. During the Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) period, there were high levels of economic growth with the manufacturing sector emerging as the leading sector in the country`s economy. However, this growth failed to translate into economic development. The UDI regime had favoured capital-intensive production, controls on trade, foreign currency and the exchange rate system. With the attainment of independence, the post-independence government had to alter policies so as to expand productivity and create employment opportunities for the previously marginalized black people. This study notes that the state failed to invest accumulated capital and diversify production in the years it had achieved strong economic growth. The state did not address the issue of transformation of colonial production processes through policy. It failed to promote labour-intensive production and there was inadequate investment in expanding the manufacturing sector. The Zimbabwean economy has the potential to generate significant investible capital but it is never reinvested locally in a more balanced and integrated pattern of development. Even with the liberalization of the economy in 1991 through the Economic Structural Adjustment Program (ESAP), the country never achieved the targeted economic growth. Focus further shifted towards investing on capital-intensive production in the agricultural sector at the expense of labour-intensive industries. Therefore, the decline in manufacturing production in the early 1990s led to the economic crisis in Zimbabwe. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2014
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WAIS-IV test performance in the South African context: a comparison between existing grade 12 WAIS-III norms with grade 12 WAIS-IV for populations that were educated in former-DET schools
- Authors: Klopper, Coenraad Christoffel
- Date: 2014-12
- Subjects: Intelligence tests , Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale , Psychological tests
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25891 , vital:64561
- Description: Accurate IQ assessment in the field of psychology is a constant pursuit and an ethical requirement in the field of psychology. In the South African cross cultural context, the use of within group norms are very important in order to improve the accuracy and interpretive value of psychometric tests. This is due to differences between cultural groups in South Africa in terms of IQ test performance of which the biggest mediating factor is quality of education. Shuttleworth-Edwards et al. (2013), performed cross cultural normative research on the WAIS-III in which participants were stringently stratified for age, level of education, quality of education, race and language. The current study is a partial duplication of the WAIS-III normative study by Shuttleworth-Edwards et al. (2013). The sub-group in that study that indicated the most significant lowering relative to the US/UK standardisation of the WAIS-III was duplicated in this study and tested with the WAIS-IV. This group included participants stratified for race (Black South African), language (Xhosa speaking), level of education (Grade 12) and quality of education (previous Department of Education and Training (former-DET) schools). The WAIS-IV results of the current study were statistically compared with the WAIS-III results from Shuttleworth-Edwards et al. (2013). No statistically significant differences were found between the WAIS-III test performance and WAIS-IV test performance in terms of scaled score comparisons, index score comparisons and full scale index comparisons. Further comparisons were made between male and female and urban and rural participants. Significant differences were found between males and females on the verbal comprehension index. No significant differences were found between the urban and rural participants. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, 2021
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An assessment of electronic-governance as a support system for service delivery in the public sector
- Authors: Maramura, Tafadzwa Clementine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4419-1887
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Civil service -- South Africa , Electronic government information , Internet in public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26053 , vital:64786
- Description: This is an exploratory research that is aimed at assessing the role of e-governance tools and initiatives on how they can be support systems for service delivery in the public service sector. The rationale of this research came as a response to the ever increasing and recurring service delivery protests that are underpinning the Government of South Africa. Hence the inception of electronic-governance (e-governance) comes at the right time with the aim of mordernising and reforming the public sector for efficient and effective service delivery. E-governance is about transforming governance to be more citizens centered and thus technology is the tool in this effort which can enable change in how the government works and how public officials interact with the public at stake. Cloete (2012:128) asserts that e-governance is the future of public governance and public service delivery globally. Thus governments that do not make the transition from paper-based systems of public administration to electronic platforms of public service delivery may swiftly undermine their chances of developing their societies as 21st century information societies. This research however does not imply that e-governance will be a miraculous panacea to poor service provision in South Africa, but it implies that its role in the public service sector can be as a support system for efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery. This is coupled by the research findings which are espoused on through a secondary data approach and thematically analysed to assess the role of e-governance as a support system on service delivery in the public service sector. Thus from the literature it is remarkable to acknowledge that the South African public service sector has successfully established and implemented a significant number of e-governance initiatives from 1994 to present day. Simultaneously to reveal how e-governance can be a support system for the public service, it is not one-dimensional, it is however multidimensional and thereby cutting across the entire field of public administration inter alia the public service sector. The already initiated e-governance tools in South Africa also range from national, provincial and municipal level thereby clearly revealing how e-governance can also be a support system to cooperative governance and intergovernmental relations inter alia. This research does not imply that e-governance can be a panacea to the public service sector ills but however with the fast moving techno-global world the move to an ICT driven public service sector has more merits than demerits to the general public who are at the receiving end of public services. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
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An investigation of poverty as a contributory factor to sexual risk-taking behaviour among female adolescent scholars: a case study of Mbuzini Village Mpumalanga province
- Authors: Mahlalela, Vusi Zakhele
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Risk-taking (Psychology) in adolescence , Sexually transmitted diseases , College students -- Sexual behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26548 , vital:65584
- Description: The study investigated poverty as a contributory factor to risky sexual behaviour among female adolescent scholars. A qualitative approach was employed in this study, which was carried out among 27 participants, 21 of whom were females between the ages of 14 and 27 years. 6 of whom were drawn from the ranks of social workers, community development practitioners, community leaders and parents who formed the school governing body. Non- probability sampling methods and purposive sampling techniques were employed to select the sample. The data was collected by means of one-to-one in-depth interviews and a once-off focus group discussion. The findings of the study revealed that most of the participants were sexually active: only one was sexually inactive and some had children. The study also found that some of the participants received money from their sexual partners. These findings are discussed in the conclusion to the study and appropriate recommendations are made. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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Exploring the usefulness of learning management system (LMS) in higher education learning development at a historically disadvantaged Eastern Cape University
- Authors: Holmberg, Lorraine
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Instructional systems--Management , Education, Higher--Management , Universities and colleges--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24216 , vital:62443
- Description: This case study aims to explore how using a Learning Management System (LMS*) to mediate learning, impacts learning development (LD) at a historically disadvantaged university (HDU) in the Eastern Cape (EC). Massification and the technological revolution have together changed the way that teaching and learning takes place, more especially in higher education institutions (HEI). Due to the increased demand for higher education (HE), computers have been used to mediate the learning space, altering the skills teachers and learners are required to have. The LMS under exploration provides a multitude of tools for managing both administrative and academic tasks. This study has drawn extensively from the framework of Activity Theory (AT), and Vygotsky’s theory of learning development to develop understandings and guide data analysis in preparation for discussion and for conclusions to be drawn. The study mostly investigated student interaction patterns with the various tools of the LMS in an effort to determine how these activities impact learning development. A mixed methods approach was used to address data that was automatically generated by the LMS; quantitative analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics was applied to numeric data, while thematic analysis was applied to textual data obtained from the threaded discussion that transpired between members of the learning community. Findings show the impact which context has on learner development and how, unless all the tools of the LMS are formally integrated for learning purposes, learners can become distracted by the functions these tools offer. This in particular pertains to learners struggling to integrate and assimilate new information. Further to this, the discussion tools serve social purposes, and have the potential to benefit constructionist learning principles, on condition that activity on the tools is structured and has clear outcomes. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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Factors responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents: a case study of an Eastern Cape institute, South Africa
- Authors: Fagbamila, Tolulope Odunola
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape. , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abused teenagers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29021 , vital:76465
- Description: In spite of the number of studies that have been carried out on the factors responsible for sex practice and non-contraceptive use among the female adolescents, very little impact has been felt on female adolescents‟ sexual behaviour. This is seen from a very high record of unintended pregnancy rates, STIs and illegal abortion among them. An initial assumption that adolescents always try not to get pregnant since most of the pregnancies are unplanned but reverse is the case in this era. What are the responsible factors to this social challenge? The researcher wanted to know the underlying epidemiological factors that are responsible for the early sexual behaviour and non-contraceptive use among the female adolescents using descriptive statistics and two-way ANOVA. Descriptive statistics describe the basic features of the data in a study and provide simple summaries about the sample and the measures. They also form the basis of virtually every quantitative analysis of data together with simple graphic summaries. A Two-way ANOVA is used to compare the effect of multiple levels of two factors with multiple observations at each level. However, it is expected that the outcome of the research would help to generate information that will assist in identifying and introducing strategies to reduce adolescent pregnancy rates, sexually transmitted infections and to encourage greater levels of contraceptive measures usage among the female adolescents. Research findings were that more than half of the female adolescents were extremely poor. Majority of the young female adolescents were being taken care of by single parents, their mothers only. Nevertheless, the level of contraceptive measures unawareness among the female adolescents decreased as their academic performance increased. Hence, the highly contacted sexually transmitted infection among the middle aged female adolescents was HIV/AIDS 4,5 percent while the highly contacted sexually transmitted infection among the adult female adolescent was syphilis 7.2 percent. The main factor attributed to factor responsible for their sex practice was experimentation followed by family status. By “strongly agree” opinion rating, poverty was rated as the main factor responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents. Among the factors associated with sexually transmitted infections, poverty was also rated the main factor. Female adolescent income source had no effect on their academic performance, be it parents, guardian, grants, NGO or friends. Sex practice had an effect on female adolescents academic performance. Nevertheless, adolescent income source and contraceptive category/method never had effect on poverty opinion, as a factor responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents while contraceptive awareness had a significant effect on poverty opinion, as STIs risk factors. However, further studies will be carried out later in future using one way Analysis of Variance to study each of the factor effects on the dependent variables. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2014
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Job insecurity and work-family conflict in relation to job engagement in the energy industry in selected organisations in Amathole District
- Authors: Chamisa, Shingirayi Florence https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5804-583X
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Role conflict , Job security , Work and family
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25546 , vital:64332
- Description: Most employees are failing to meet the competing work related and household strains leading to burnout, absenteeism and loss of the few existing highly skilled employees. The current study utilised the Job Demand-Resources Model to examine the relationship between job insecurity and work-family conflict on the one hand and job engagement on the other hand among technical personnel within selected Eskom depots in the Amathole District Municipality of the Eastern Cape. There is limited research regarding the impact of job insecurity and work-family conflict on job engagement among technicians in the energy industry. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was used. The sample (N= 221) comprised of technicians from Eskom branches. Data was collected through the questionnaire method and SPSS was used for data analysis. The results of the Product Pearson Correlation method indicated that job insecurity negatively predicts job engagement, contrary to work-family conflict. Unexpectedly, results from multiple regression method and chi-square showed that job insecurity and work-family conflict together do not account for a significantly higher proportion of variance on job engagement than any of the two separately. This study argument existing knowledge on job insecurity, work-family conflict and job engagement among technicians in the energy industry that has largely been ignored by previous researchers and validates certain aspects of the Job Demands Resources Model. The energy industry should provide consideration to how the need for shifts and sometimes working long hours is justified. Strategies need to be implemented in improving managerial and co-worker support for technicians through socialization and team building activities. In addition, employers must invest in strategies used in stimulating employee well-being directly such as supportive leadership to reduce feelings of job insecurity and stress from the pressure of competing work and home demands. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
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Social intrepreneurship and millennium development goals in developing countries: case study of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe , Poverty -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26661 , vital:65847
- Description: The study set out to examine the contribution of social entrepreneurship to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly MDG 1, the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Poverty reduction occurred when social entrepreneurial activities resulted in the improvement of the socio-economic well-being of social entrepreneurs and their beneficiaries. The problem this study sought to research on was that, despite the impact of social entrepreneurship, there has been inadequate attention to and discussion of its contribution to attaining the MDGs in Zimbabwe. The population were social entrepreneurs in Harare, Zimbabwe. The random sampling method was used to determine the sample size. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data in Harare, Zimbabwe from 132 social entrepreneurs and 200 beneficiaries of social entrepreneurial activities. Secondary information was obtained from textbooks and various internet sources. The data collected was analyzed through SPSS Version 22 because of its appropriateness and wide use. The null hypothesis that social entrepreneurship does not contribute to the achievement of MDGs was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis that social entrepreneurship provides an alternative to the achievement of MDGs. Findings from the study suggest that social entrepreneurs contribute immensely to poverty reduction. They also contribute towards research and development, promoting gender equality and empowerment, education for all as well as access to health facilities. The segments of the population benefiting from social entrepreneurship include the poor, socially excluded, discriminated, the unemployed and disabled. The impact on poverty and hunger was achieved through microfinance initiatives, income generation activities, empowerment and capacity building. Results showed that social entrepreneurship activities solve social problems through providing food, shelter, water, education and collateral to access finance. The study concluded that social entrepreneurship is a plausible approach to promote implementation of policies to reduce extreme poverty and hunger by using readily available resources to bring sustainable solutions to problems. The strategies to make social entrepreneurship more effective included creating a conducive legal and policy environment, financial provision, political support, and government support, publicity of the contribution of social entrepreneurship, mentorship and collaboration among stakeholders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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The effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of small, medium and micro enterprises in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Sarakunze, Annie.
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Economic development -- South Africa , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26786 , vital:66005
- Description: In both developed and developing countries, the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise sector is considered an important factor in boosting the economic well-being of a country. The governments of many countries play a basic role in creating policies and programmes which support the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises. One of the initiatives used by the governments to nurture small businesses is business incubation.This study investigated the effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in selected areas of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of business incubation on the performance of SMMEs, determine the impact of business incubation on the growth of the SMME, to assess the impact of business incubation on the survival of the SMMEs and to investigate whether SMMEs are satisfied with the role of business incubators in their areas.This study employed a stratified simple random sampling technique. The population was first divided into six homogeneous strata and then simple random sampling was then employed. The self-administered questionnaires were then distributed into each and every stratum randomly. Simple random sampling was used because it enabled each and every member in the strata to have an equal chance of being selected. Owners, managers and employees were used as respondents in this study and a total sample of 200 SMMEs answered the questionnaire. The study followed a quantitative research design as it involved variables such as growth, firm performance and survival which have measures that involves the use of figures such as sales, number of employees and total value of assets. The data was analysed by Anova, Pearson Chi-Square and T-test statistical methods in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on the findings from this survey it was found that business incubators are effective in enhancing growth, survival and performance of SMMEs. Although other researchers found that there are no significant variations in growth, survival and performance of incubated and non-incubated businesses, this study however recognizes the importance of business incubation to SMMEs. This study concurs with most findings by many researchers of business incubation and thus recommends vigorous business incubation awareness to the SMMEs and networking. , Thesis (MBm) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2014
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The effects of social media on relationship patterns among adolescents: A study of students in three selected high schools of Alice in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Online social networks , Mass media and children
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25085 , vital:63966
- Description: Technology with the aid of the internet and social media has brought so much into the world, it has managed to reach and develop almost the entire world and this includes remote areas of Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa. These are the least developed and usually the last regions of the world to receive technology. It should be noted that most of the times, technology is bound to make an impact as people use it and this was the motive behind this study which aimed at assessing the effects of socialised media on adolescents who are the future of South Africa. In the study, the researcher aims at discovering whether the use of social media engines among adolescents affects the ways with which they relate with one another. The study which adopted a quantitative methodology was conducted on matriculating students from three randomly selected schools from within and surrounding town of Alice in Eastern Cape South Africa. Respondents were sampled conveniently and data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. From the results and conclusions, it showed that technology has reached South Africa’s remote areas and young people like adolescents have many uses for it. However, they proved that even though they now have technology in form of the internet and social media, it does not affect the ways with which they form and maintained social relations. This means that technology does not have a significant impact in the relationship patterns of adolescents in remote areas of South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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The experiences faced by lesbian, gays, bisexual, and transgender students at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Nyakwima, Esther Rutendo
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Gays , Homosexuality , Bisexuals
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25227 , vital:64070
- Description: Sexual orientation is one of the vital aspects that a person’s identity, persona, self-esteem, solidarity, equality and worthless are determined. Misconceptions and prejudices often lead to emotional, psychological and verbal discrimination or victimisation and even physical violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life. This study explored the experiences, challenges faced by LGBT students at the University Of Fort Hare and the strategies they employ to deal with these challenges and policies which are in place to protect them. The study utilized the psychodynamic theory and the social cognitive theoretical framework to illustrate the homosexuality nexus. The study employed a qualitative and quantitative research methodology which utilised questionnaires and interviews as a methods of data collection. The study revealed that the homosexual population at the University Of Fort Hare is experiencing homophobia, condemnation, homophobic attacks, prejudicial remarks, discrimination and abuse. It was noted that perceived discrimination is rampant from heterosexual students in every category related to discrimination. While the findings do not prove that discrimination causes mental health problems, data collected takes a step towards demonstrating that the social stigma felt by LGBT students has mental health consequences. Inequitable experiences may affect stress levels because discrimination is shadowed by prejudice remarks against homosexuals. The results of the study have further revealed that homosexual students are resilient to harsh circumstances like violence and discrimination. They are by no means secure within their own gendered and sexual lives. They have an idea as to what strategies and implementation tactics would work best for them, given their socio-cultural framework. Homosexual students successively adopt various strategies to protect themselves, such as boundary setting, avoiding certain circumstances, hiding identities, revenging and some openly admitting that they are gay students. Although there are policies in place to protect homosexual students at the University Of Fort Hare, gay and lesbian students have adopted their own strategies to protect themselves as they are unaware of these policies. However, in terms of policies safeguarding homosexuals, it can be noted that the University Of Fort Hare has generally adopted a top-down policy, one-size fits all approach to solving gender issues on campus. The policies are mainly centred on the distribution of resources and strict guidelines on the way people or inmates should conduct themselves towards each other. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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The implementation of the Child Justice Act: experiences of social workers working as probation officers
- Authors: Mkokeli, Babalwa
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Children -- Legal status, laws, etc , Probation officers , Juvenile justice, Administration of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25282 , vital:64138
- Description: The implementation of the Child Justice Act (Act No. 75 of 2008) started on 01 April 2010. The law regulates ways of handling children found to be in conflict with the law. Whilst this law was still a Bill, probation officers who are social workers employed by Social Development & Special Programmes were already bound to work with young offenders, employed under the Probation Services Act no.116 of 2002. Probation officers had clear regulations on their role and responsibility towards children found in conflict with the law, unlike other stakeholders working within the sphere of child justice. Absence of the law encompassing child justice caused a struggle for probation officer because stakeholders like South African Police Service (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Department of Justice services were not considering services of probation officers important. The situation was frustrating because there was lack of cooperation between probation officers and role players like police, prosecutors and magistrates which often led to gross irregularities on cases of young offenders. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of probation officers with the implementation of the Child Justice Act, particularly working relations with the above mentioned stakeholders. The researcher used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), a qualitative research approach which is committed to examining people’s daily experiences. In collecting data the researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire schedule comprising open rather than closed-ended questions. The researcher intended to interview fifteen probation officers working at OR Tambo District Municipality. A purposive sampling was used targeting officers who are aware of the child justice system before and after the implementation of the Act. Study findings revealed improvement on working relations between SAPS, NPA and Justice such as (i) increase in the rate of informing probation officers about arrested children, (ii) sitting of preliminary inquiries (PIs), (iii) drop in the number of detained children, (iv) practice of in camera proceedings for young offenders. However, despite the presence of the Child Justice Act (CJA) findings also revealed challenges which were the following: (i) drop in the number of arrested or diverted children, (ii) non-compliance by SAPS to inform POs about arrested children especially during weekends, which often results in parents not being aware that their children are in custody, (iii) areas where PIs are not held, areas where they are not regular as well as non-uniformity in how PIs are conducted, and (iv) cases of children held in public during court proceedings and cases of young offenders handled as adult cases. The following were made as recommendations arising from the study: (i) enforcement of Child Justice Forums at local levels, (ii) strengthening of responsibility and accountability by all stakeholders, and (iii) building capacity and effective monitoring from down up. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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