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Technology adoption in South African call centres

  • Authors: Jonker, Yvette
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Call centers -- Technological innovations , Telecommunication , Technology -- Research
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72779 , vital:79262
  • Description: Technology adoption is important in the evolution of call centres, where the focus is on automation with minimal human intervention. This study explores the key drivers influencing the adoption of technology in South African call centres. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, the research analyses the constructs of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions. It also looks at specifically the call centre environment, concentrating on the challenges and opportunities available due to technological integration. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to call centre employees, yielding a sample of 141 for statistical analysis. Exploratory factor analysis and multivariate techniques were used to identify relationships between the independent factors and the behavioural intention to adopt new technologies. The findings show that performance expectancy and perceived usefulness are the most significant drivers of technology adoption, followed by effort expectancy and facilitating conditions. Social influence appeared as an important mediator, specifically in environments where management plays a dominant role in driving technology adoption. The study's results contribute to theoretical and practical fields. Theoretically, it extends the application of UTAUT by incorporating insights into the unique behavioural and infrastructural challenges of developing economies. Practically, the research gives recommendations for call centre managers, including specific training, increased technical support and strategies to address resistance to change. These insights are relevant for call centres wanting to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction and customer service through effective technological integration. This study supplements existing literature on technology adoption, focusing on the call centre industry. It provides a foundation for future studies and offers a guideline for companies seeking to optimise adopting and implementing new technologies in call centres. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

Technology and employment in the alternative banking sector of South Africa

  • Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Labor supply -- South Africa -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72821 , vital:79266
  • Description: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

Temas en tendense in die poësie van Clinton v. du Plessis

  • Authors: Milborrow, Selwyn
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 20th century , Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century , Afrikaans literature
  • Language: Afrikaans
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72377 , vital:79217
  • Description: The aim of this study is to explore themes and trends in the poetry of Clinton V. du Plessis, with specific focus on selected texts. Du Plessis, a coloured Afrikaans poet, is known for his disapproval of the Afrikaans mainstream publishing industry, and his critical attitude towards the Afrikaans literary canon. This positioning serves as an essential starting point for understanding his work. His debut collection, Geloofsbelydenis van ’n kluisenaar, was published by Perskor in 1984. His self-publications include Flitse (2012), Rangeer (2013), Woorde roes in die water (2014), Verslag (2019), 60 op 60 (2022) and Kaartjies, asseblief (2024). Du Plessis states that a sense of estrangement set in after his debut with Perskor. He reveals to Pearce (2012) that he decided to publish his own work due to the maintenance of a “master narrative” by the Afrikaans literary establishment. He began to self-publish. Nowadays, he posts his poems on Facebook, a social media platform. This shift has gradually led to a movement away from his marginal status. In an interview with Janse Van Rensburg (2018), he confesses that an outsider status holds its own appeal for him, but that it will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Despite his status as a marginal figure, he has crossed the threshold of the canon four times. These paradoxes in Du Plessis’ career cannot be overlooked. While he deliberately adopted the role of a marginal figure, he has received increasing recognition for his poetry over the past decade, including awards, exposure to a broader readership on social media, as well as publications with mainstream publishers. This context creates a canvas on which the themes and trends in Du Plessis’ poetry will be explored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The 4IR influence on business performance and customer satisfaction in the South African retail industry

  • Authors: Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Performance , Business -- Evaluation , Industrial revolution
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71970 , vital:79162
  • Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping global business landscapes by introducing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics. In the context of the South African retail industry, understanding how 4IR influences business performance and customer satisfaction (CS) is essential for maintaining competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth. This study investigates the impact of 4IR on business performance, and customer satisfaction, using digital marketing strategies (DMS), and customer experience (CX) as intervening variables. A mixed-method approach was employed to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to customers, enabling the measurement of relationships among 4IR, DMS, and CX. Qualitative data, derived from semi-structured interviews with industry experts, provided a deeper contextual understanding of how 4IR and DMS influence business performance and CS in real-world retail environments. The findings reveal that 4IR technologies significantly contribute to operational efficiency, supply chain management, and the generation of data-driven insights, thereby enhancing both business performance and customer satisfaction. A strong positive relationship emerged between 4IR and DMS, indicating that the integration of advanced tools, such as AI-driven personalisation, substantially improves DMS efficiency. However, 4IR’s direct influence on CX was not found to be significant, suggesting that while technologies like tap-to-pay and IoT improve convenience, they do not alone elevate the overall CX. Furthermore, DMS demonstrated no significant direct effect on CX, implying that its benefits must be combined with service quality for meaningful improvements. In contrast, DMS had a pronounced positive impact on business performance by boosting customer acquisition, retention, and revenue. Finally, the study showed that enhanced CX, marked by seamless navigation and personalisation, significantly drives CS and brand loyalty. Building on these insights, the study developed a strategic framework for retail digital transformation, providing a structured approach for retailers to integrate 4IR technologies effectively. This framework emphasises the need for a balanced combination of technology adoption and integration, human capital development, process optimisation, ethical and strategic governance, evaluation and continous improvement and collaborative ecosystem development to maximise business performance and long-term customer engagement. This research highlights the crucial role of 4IR in shaping modern retail practices in South Africa as the adoption of advanced 4IR technologies and effective DMS can substantially improve operational processes and financial outcomes. However, to translate these advancements into memorable CXs, retailers must align technological innovations with high service quality and personalisation efforts. These findings bear significant implications for retail managers, policymakers, and marketers, as they highlight the necessity of strategic investments in both technology and customer-centric practices. Future studies could explore cross-cultural contexts and longitudinal assessments to further validate the influence of 4IR-driven retail strategies on business performance and customer satisfaction. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The application of section 197 of the labour relations act 66 of 1995 on termination of service-level agreements

  • Authors: Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72168 , vital:79194
  • Description: Striking a balance between the rights of employees to fair labour practices, the primary objective of the Labour Relations Act1 to advance economic development which essentially entails ensuring job security versus employers’ rights to fair labour practices has caused a significant hurdle in the employment and industrial law arena. In an endeavour to bridge this gap, section 197 of the LRA was legislated to ensure the job security of the employees during the transfer of businesses by one employer to another, whilst also ensuring smooth transfer and stability of businesses during such transfers. Section 197 of the LRA suggests that employees are automatically transferred to a new employer in the event of a business being transferred as a going concern in accordance with section 197 of the LRA.2 1 66 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The contribution of gender bonds towards women’s economic empowerment in South Africa

  • Authors: Klaas, Avuyonke
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Women -- Economic conditions , Women -- Employment , Economic development -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72857 , vital:79272
  • Description: Gender inequalities in developing countries continue to hinder the potential of women globally. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated gender inequalities in developing countries. The United Nations emphasises the need to empower women and girls by providing economic resources to achieve sustainable development. Because gender bonds are still in their early stages of development, there is no primary data on them in South Africa, hence a secondary data approach was used. The primary goal of this research was to explore the impact of gender bonds on women's economic empowerment in South Africa. Data were acquired from two impact reports, eight International Capital Markets Association frameworks, two country reports, seven YouTube success stories, two second-party opinion reports, two disbursement reports, three issuance toolkits, two external reviewers' reports, and academic articles which were utilised to analyse the outcomes, outputs and impacts of the gender bonds. The analysis revealed that gender bonds contribute towards women’s economic empowerment. Furthermore, South Africa should consider issuing a gender bond that prioritises rural women, working in productive sectors, coupled with technical skills development, and should consider the South African context when considering borrowers by business size and borrowers by age, and bond issuers should collaborate on social impact investing. This study showed that gender bonds contribute not just to SDG 5 (gender equality), but to many other SDGs such as SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality basic education), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption). The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on gender bonds and women’s economic empowerment in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The contribution of the expanded public works programme infrastructure sector to alleviate conditions of poverty

  • Authors: Jacobs, Andrew
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: South Africa -- Expanded Public Works Programme , Public works -- South Africa , Poverty -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:79254
  • Description: Almost 30 years after the end of apartheid South Africa continues to experience the highest rates of unemployment, poverty and inequality in the world. This has the potential to result in massive socio-economic instability. Renewed interest has been identified in public works programmes, which has the potential to contribute towards reducing the triple burden of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The protection and creation of jobs through public employment programmes, including the creation of jobs through the traditional Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), has become an important part of South Africa’s strategy for economic growth and stability. The aim of this study was to contribute to a deeper insight into the capacity of the EPWP to contribute towards reducing unemployment and poverty to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities and set out to: - Explore how employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP has contributed to the household income of the beneficiaries. Explore how the income received from employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP is used within the households. Identify and explore the skills the beneficiaries have developed by participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. Explore the perceived experiences of the beneficiaries’ participation in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. A qualitative case study design was employed to explore the insights and experiences of the beneficiaries participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM). Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the current and former EPWP beneficiaries in BCM to understand the experiential lens of the participants. The findings indicated that income received from EPWP employment is a valuable supplement to household income, enabling households to manage under conditions of increasing costs of living. Key shortcomings of the EPWP include the temporary nature of benefits, low income levels, inadequate training and inability to improve future employability. The study revealed the importance of income relief provided through short-term employment under EPWP for those unemployed beneficiaries living in conditions of poverty. Despite its shortcomings, the potential of EPWP as a policy tool to assist low-skilled unemployed workers to cope with economic shocks in the short term cannot be ignored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The economic empowerment of women in rural arts and crafts making: the case of Cegcuwana village

  • Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and craft movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72519 , vital:79234
  • Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Science, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The effect of language policy on language experiences of students in higher education micro spaces

  • Authors: Dani, Zizipho Paillis
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Language and education -- South Africa , Language planning -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72240 , vital:79201
  • Description: This study explored how the implementation of language policies or lack thereof within micro spaces in educational institutions can affect the language experience of the students in these spaces. The micro spaces that this study refers to are classrooms, social spaces, and residences in institutions of higher education and learning. Institutions of higher education and training have developed language policies that are in place, but these policies concentrate more on the corporate and pedagogical side of the institutions, excluding the micro spaces, although they still exist in the institution. In addition, the study explored matters about language policy in the academic spaces of Basic and Higher Education Institutions. It investigated the effect of the implementation of the institutional language policies of South African higher education institutions on the micro spaces that form part of the institution and how it has affected students living in these spaces who have experienced it. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide evidence of the growing need for research focused on language in these spaces. The participants of the study were aged from 18–65, because the age range covered both the lecturers who teach using English as the main mode of instruction, as per their institutional language policies, and the students who are taught using English as a Second or First Additional Language. The questionnaire was disseminated via social media outlets, garnering responses from 70 participants, while those interviewed consisted of 18 participants comprising nine lecturers and nine students. The study uses belonging as a lens through which the language experiences are analysed of South African students in educational spaces. The findings of this study indicate that the National Language Policy, which was formulated to promote multilingualism, advocates for equality of all the official languages and upholds the redress measures that are set out in the Constitution of South Africa, has not been implemented, monitored and evaluated effectively within Higher Education. This lack of implementation can be attributed to the lack of monitoring and evaluation, resources and knowledge surrounding the policies. The concept of multilingualism under the guidelines taken from the policies of different higher education institutions and the DHET language policy is discussed as a possible solution or gateway to bridging what many may refer to as an identified gap. Multilingual tools such as translanguaging, code-switching and code-meshing are already being utilised in some classrooms and spaces but cannot be utilised as the only solution in the long run. The study has also identified the need for language policies that are specific to domestic and social spaces in the institutions as means to mitigate confusion, bullying, esteem issues and the risks that may arise from having one dominant language in such spaces. Some learners are of the belief that their academic journey would have had a more positive impact if they had been able to express themselves better in English or if they had been taught in their native language. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communications, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The effect of regional integration on socio-economic development in countries of the Southern African customs union: the case of South Africa and Botswana 2000-2020

  • Authors: Liwela, Ncumisa
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Customs unions -- South Africa , Customs unions -- Botswana , Economic development -- Africa -- 21st century
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72298 , vital:79208
  • Description: Globally, regional integration is becoming extensively important and significant, particularly in developing economies like those in Africa. The primary reason for its broad and wide adoption is its capacity to uphold and promote long-term improvements in economic productivity and living standards, boost economic growth, facilitate trade and enhance access to crucial and significant resources. Regional integration is an intrinsic aspect of developing economies and is considered a feasible policy alternative in modern literature for addressing various political, economic and sociological concerns. This study looks into the effect of regional integration in the context of socio- economic development in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), focusing on South Africa and Botswana from the year 2000 to 2020. Socio- economic development in this context refers to economic growth, employment levels, income distribution, poverty reduction and overall improvements in living standards. The research investigates how SACU’s regional integration framework- through trade policies, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and economic cooperation- has influenced these socio-economic indicators in the two countries. A quantitative research design is employed, utilising secondary data analysis to measure the impact of SACU’s policies on key socio-economic variables. Economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, trade flows and income disparities are analysed to assess the extent to which regional integration has contributed to sustainable development and economic convergence. The findings reveal that while SACU has facilitated trade and economic collaboration, persistent structural inequalities, policy misalignments and external economic challenges have and still constrains its effectiveness in fostering equitable socio-economic development. The study concludes with policy recommendations to enhance regional integration’s role in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth within SACU. This research contributes to the understanding of regional integration’s potential to drive socio-economic development in Southern Africa and offers insights for future policy directions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences,2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies towards addressing output gaps in South Africa

  • Authors: Gcadana, Nqabisa Mary
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Fiscal policy -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72702 , vital:79249
  • Description: The study examined fiscal and monetary policies' effectiveness in addressing the output gap in South Africa. The study used the HP filter formula on EViews to calculate the output gap values. Fiscal policy was measured by two proxies, government expenditure and government revenue, while monetary policy was also proxied by two variables: prime lending rate and money supply. The study employed two research techniques, NLADRL and SVAR, using data from the period 1980 to 2021. The theories that underpinned the study are Keynesian, monetarist, and business cycles. The NLARDL results show the countercyclical nature of fiscal policy via government expenditure and the positive cycle of government expenditure that exhibited a negative relationship and is statistically significant. However, in the short term, the positive cycle of government expenditure exhibited a negative relationship and are statistically significant association with the output gap, while the monetary policy, via the prime lending rate, exhibits a procyclical relationship. There is a positive relationship between the prime lending rate and the output gap, while the negative cycle of the prime lending rate that is significant statistically at 1 percent, thus, the positive cycle of the prime lending rate p-value 0.85 is statistically insignificant. The variance decomposition of the output gap variables in the SVAR analysis reveals significant differences in how the explanatory variables respond to shocks. Overall, the prime lending rate emerges as the most impactful shock affecting the South African economy during recessionary periods. Given the outcomes of the study showing that both the fiscal and monetary policies are not effective as opt to be, the study then suggest that structural reforms should be considered in South Africa and the matter of structural adjustment are discussed under the chapter of literature review. The study concludes that whilst both fiscal and monetary policies are essential tools to address output gaps in South Africa, structural constraints must be addressed. The study suggests that there is an urgent need for the implementation of structural reforms to sustain economic growth in South Africa. It is recommended that South African policymakers pay special attention to the structural constraints that continue to neutralise the effect of both fiscal and monetary policies in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The impact of COVID-19 sentimental index on African stock market returns

  • Authors: Mpayipeli, Nonophela
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Efficient market theory , Covid-19 -- Economic aspects , Stock exchanges
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73081 , vital:79330
  • Description: This study investigates how the Covid-19 Sentimental index affects stock market returns for South African, Nigerian, Morocco and Namibia. Stock market activity heavily relies on investor sentiment especially when investors demonstrate fear and uncertainty like during the Covid-19 pandemic period. This study creates a Sentimental index from Google search trends and Covid-19 specific search terms to measure investor feelings which subsequently determines changes in stock market returns. The research analyses stock market and investor sentiment relationships through short and long-term analyses using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) in combination with Nonlinear ARDL (NARDL) methods. The research includes macroeconomic control variables that consist of interest rate data and exchange rate information while utilizing the ADS Index to represent U.S. business conditions. The study results demonstrate how emotional market volatility strongly influences stock market behaviour within emerging economies because of investors' psychological influences on these financial systems. The study enhances knowledge about sentiment effects on market efficiency in African stock exchanges while delivering practical recommendations to policymakers along with investors and financial regulators for stabilizing sentiment-driven market shaking. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The impact of financial sector development on unemployment: a study for South Africa from 1960 - 2021

  • Authors: Mama, Nkosinathi
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72948 , vital:79290
  • Description: This study investigated the impact of financial sector development on unemployment in South Africa for the period 1960 to 2021. The study was inspired by historical events such as the great depression and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis which demonstrated a link between financial turmoil and elevated global unemployment rates. Employing an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study explored the impact of financial sector development on unemployment rate in South Africa. This technique was most suitable to this study due to its flexibility on integration order of variables and data requirements to produce robust results. Contrary to conventional economic expectations, the data suggests that an increase in domestic credit to the private sector (DCP) could worsen unemployment in the short run. In the long run, the study suggests that access to credit will have no impact on unemployment. On the other hand, results revealed that an increase in the efficiency of investments facilitated by the financial sector measured by gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) may have a negative impact on unemployment. The results demonstrated a significant and positive relationship between GFCF and unemployment in the long run. These findings suggested that the rigidities in the South African labour market and imperfection within the financial sector could be contributing to the country’s higher unemployment levels. Based on these findings, the study offers several policy recommendations. Policymakers can re-evaluate their priorities in attempts to curb unemployment. This can be achieved through promoting efficiency of investment allocation over depth. Thereby, promoting economic diversification and implementing labour market reform strategies that could address the complex interplay between financial sector development and unemployment. Continuous monitoring, research collaboration with public-private partnerships, and targeted education training programs are the proposed key instruments for refining and implementing effective policies. The study concluded by emphasising the importance of ongoing research to understand the evolving dynamics of financial sector development and unemployment, while also acknowledging the limitations of the study. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The implications of electric vehicle implementation for employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector

  • Authors: Coetzee, Marius George
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Electric vehicles -- South Africa , Automotive Industry -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72022 , vital:79178
  • Description: The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is steadily gaining momentum, with over one million EV sales recorded in 2022, which accounts for 1.3% of total vehicle sales. This shift, largely driven by climate change initiatives and the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has led many countries to announce plans to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape province which is a hub for the country’s automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), is significantly impacted by these technological advancements. The automotive industry in the province, which contributes 13% to the provincial GDP and employs approximately 55,000 people, is vital to the Eastern Cape’s economy. However, the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs may bring about socio-economic challenges, particularly in terms of employment within this critical sector. This study investigated the potential impact of EV adoption on employment in the Eastern Cape's automotive industry, with a focus on three core areas: EV charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development. The shift towards EVs is expected to disrupt ICE vehicle production, which raises concerns regarding job losses due to the reduced complexity of EVs, which contain significantly fewer moving parts than do ICE vehicles (that is, 20 versus 2,000, respectively). This could lead to a decline in demand for automotive components, which would likely result in factory closures and job reductions across the province. The study sought to answer the central question: "What effect does EV implementation have on employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector?" To explore this, the study examined the roles of charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development, with the aim of providing insights into the broader socio-economic consequences of South Africa’s transition to EVs. An online survey was conducted to collect data for this study; this survey targeted 60 respondents, with 35% of these respondents having completed the questionnaire, thus resulting in a research sample of 21 participants. The hypotheses testing, which was , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The influence of online marketing strategies on student preference of university: The case of Nelson Mandela University

  • Authors: Luhanga, Grace
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Internet marketing , Word-of-mouth advertising
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72894 , vital:79275
  • Description: The growing reliance on digital platforms has transformed marketing in higher education, compelling institutions to adapt and innovate their approaches to student engagement. This study investigates the influence of online marketing strategies—specifically social media marketing, electronic word-of-mouth, email marketing, search engine optimisation, and search engine marketing—on students’ university preferences. The research is framed by theoretical models and literature on digital marketing in higher education, integrating concepts such as trust, engagement, and visibility. A positivist paradigm and quantitative methodology guided the research, employing a cross-sectional survey distributed to a sample of university-bound students. The survey instrument, validated through exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha testing, yielded reliable data from 448 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression and t-tests, were employed to analyse the data. Empirical results revealed statistically significant positive relationships between all five online marketing strategies and students' preferences for higher education institutions. Social media marketing and search engine optimisation emerged as the most influential variables, with social media platforms fostering engagement and brand awareness, and search engine optimisation enhancing discoverability. The study also highlighted gender- based differences in perceptions, particularly in search engine marketing and search engine optimisation, where male respondents rated these strategies higher than females. The findings underscored the critical role of data-driven and personalised marketing in shaping student decisions. They emphasise the need for higher education institutions to refine their digital strategies, integrating tools such as targeted email campaigns, optimised websites, and interactive content on social media platforms. Recommendations include leveraging eWOM through testimonials, utilising analytics for strategy refinement, and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance student interactions. This research provides actionable insights for academia and practitioners, highlighting the dynamic interplay between digital marketing strategies and student decision-making processes. It contributes to the broader discourse on technology's role in modern v education marketing, offering a roadmap for institutions aiming to remain competitive in a digitally saturated landscape. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The influence of psychological capital on the work engagement of employees selling insurance in South Africa

  • Authors: Lufundo, Siyamthanda
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Human capital -- Psychological aspects , Employee motivation , Psychology, Industrial
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72883 , vital:79274
  • Description: Employees who sell insurance work in a challenging work environment. Job demands include having to recruit and convince potential clients to buy insurance products so that the employees are able to achieve sales targets. Employees who sell insurance face diverse people and are often subjected to rejection and criticism. These demanding work-related conditions can result in stress, burnout, a lack of job satisfaction, and a decrease in productivity; with these issues impacting both the employee and the organisation. The concepts of psychological capital (PsyCap) and work engagement offer valuable insight into how employees can not only cope with a stressful work environment but also thrive in a high-pressure environment. Both constructs have been applied in research in various work settings in South Africa, but not in the insurance industry. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate PsyCap among employees who sell insurance in South Africa and to determine how it influences their work engagement. A non-experimental research design, specifically a correlational and descriptive design, was used for this study. Convenience sampling and snowball sampling were employed in the study, with 113 respondents completing an online questionnaire as the data-collecting tool. The Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ-24) was used to measure PsyCap and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17) was used to measure work engagement among the sample of employees who sell insurance in South Africa. The study found that the respondents had high levels of PsyCap and experienced work engagement. Furthermore, the study found a positive relationship between PsyCap and work engagement, with PsyCap being a predictor of work engagement. It was evident that the respondents used their personal resources to cope with job demands and that this led to work engagement. Future research can consider personal resources other than PsyCap that employees can use to deal with high job demands. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The post-covid-19 socio-economic effects on small businesses in the city of Tshwane, Gauteng

  • Authors: Ajayi,Johnson Olumayowa
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Small business -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71937 , vital:79159
  • Description: The study is a descriptive, narrative-exploratory research study investigating the post- COVID-19 effects on small businesses in the City of Tshwane. The COVID-19 pandemic was an abrupt disruption to global order. This study used both the exploratory and narrative approach of the qualitative methodology to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the trade and manufacturing sectors in the post-COVID-19 era. The open-ended interview guide was used to collect primary data; the study used a hybrid method of qualitative data analysis, i.e., both content and thematic methods for the qualitative data analysis. To achieve trustworthiness, the following were considered: data credibility, dependability, confirmability, validity and reliability. The empirical data analysis was completed deductively, deriving themes after coding captured data. Descriptive statistics were also evaluated to provide demographic information about the participants. The results from both data analysis methods were compared and verified to establish the data's trustworthiness. The findings show the impact of COVID-19 on small business activities, which have been devastating and caused a significant disruption in global economic activity; many small businesses closed down, sources of income were impoverished, and many jobs were lost. There were also adverse effects on the government revenue generation capacity and capability to respond to pandemics. In conclusion, it is recommended that governments proactively respond to future outbreaks by providing tactful COVID-19 awareness training and intervention skills through public engagement. it's imperative to provide adequate support to all small businesses. It recommended that the government and stakeholders articulate further investigations into the COVID-19 pandemic disruption, providing overarching insight into the phenomenon experienced. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The relationship between job satisfaction and motivating climate: the mediation of decent work

  • Authors: Hufkie, Christopher
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Employee motivation -- South Africa , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72717 , vital:79250
  • Description: The ability of an organisation to utilise, cultivate, maintain, and keep skilled workers is a significant factor in determining its level of success. Keeping a workforce that is deeply dedicated to the organisation has emerged as a top goal for the majority of businesses. The process of identifying and treating the factors that contribute to job insecurity is beneficial to employee retention. This is essential to improve employee performance at work. In order to research the moderating effects of decent work on the link between motivating climate and job satisfaction, the study utilised a sample of private sector employees working for an automotive distributor. The goal of the study was to investigate the impacts of decent work. By concentrating on the moderating effect that decent work has in the relationship between employee job satisfaction and motivating climate, the purpose of the study was to determine the significance of individual-level performance when it comes to the diagnosis of performance difficulties at the automotive distributor. The outcomes of this study would be of use to the administration of the automobile distributor in determining areas in which there is room for improvement on the methods of motivating staff. In addition, the findings of the study will offer insights to the commercial sector and other organisations regarding the concept of a decent work environment, as well as its influence on the level of job satisfaction and motivating climate experienced by employees. These findings will be of great assistance to these organisations and will help them to modify their management practices. A quantitative survey was employed using self-administered questionnaires. A total of 160 surveys were distributed. After data cleaning, a total of 127 surveys were deemed usable. The general findings that were highlighted in this study are that there is a favourable association between job performance and decent work done by employees as well as employee motivation. Additionally, they have a considerable and favourable influence on the performance of the job. According to the findings of the study, the three components of decent work—free time and rest, access to healthcare, and safe working conditions—have a strong moderating effect on the relationship between employee motivation and job performance. This is the conclusion reached by the researcher. In light of this, it is imperative that methods be discovered to maintain the motivation of workers in order to enhance the level of job satisfaction they experience. Policymakers should develop policies that are effective in the workplace. These policies should ensure that conditions that are conducive to employee motivation are maintained at the workplace, in addition to providing decent working conditions. The achievement of higher levels of productivity and performance by employees is a significant consequence of this outcome. This study's findings offer preliminary insights that contribute to the existing body of research concerning decent work in relation to employee job satisfaction and the motivating climate in the field of human resource management in the setting of South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The role of microfinance in small, medium, and micro-enterprises in Gqeberha

  • Authors: Dolo, Anita
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Microfinance -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Small business -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Economic development -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72668 , vital:79246
  • Description: This treatise examined the role of microfinance to support the growth, sustainability, and socio-economic development of small, medium, and micro-enterprises (SMMEs) in Gqeberha, South Africa. SMMEs are vital for local economic development, yet they face barriers to formal financial access, including limited credit histories, lack of collateral, and a risk-averse banking sector. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) have emerged as essential sources of accessible financial products tailored to SMMEs' unique needs. This research assessed the effectiveness of microfinance in facilitating capital access, fostering entrepreneurship, and alleviating poverty in Gqeberha, ultimately contributing to community well-being. By analysing current microfinance initiatives and identifying operational gaps, this study provided insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to optimise MFI support for SMMEs. The results show that microfinance has the potential to help local economies become more stable by building a foundation for long-term SMME growth and showing how to make economies more resilient in similar situations. This study explored the role of microfinance in supporting SMMEs in Gqeberha, focusing on financial accessibility, resilience, and growth. A qualitative approach was employed, using a case study design to provide in-depth insights. The research relied on purposive sampling to select 30 relevant documents from reputable sources, such as government reports and research organisations. Data analysis was conducted through content analysis and thematic coding, enabling the identification of key themes related to financial support, operational challenges, and potential strategies for SMME sustainability in Gqeberha. The findings revealed that while SMMEs are pivotal to local economic development, they face substantial challenges, including limited financial accessibility, infrastructure deficits, and stringent regulatory demands. Data collected indicated that 74 percent of SMME owners report difficulties in securing affordable financing, while 68 percent identified inadequate support services as a major barrier. The research recommends specific changes: establishing government-supported funding programmes with subsidised interest rates and reduced collateral requirements, launching targeted capacity-building initiatives to enhance financial and operational skills, and forming public-private partnerships for risk-sharing. This work contributed to the field by highlighting MFIs' role in addressing systemic barriers for SMMEs and underscoring the need for sustainable support frameworks. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers and development agencies to foster a more inclusive and resilient economy in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
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  • Date Issued: 2025-04

The setting of South Africa’s national minimum wage: an investigation into representative and participatory social dialogue

  • Authors: Andrews, Adriaan
  • Date: 2025-04
  • Subjects: Minimum wage -- South Africa , Wages -- South Africa , Labour relations -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71959 , vital:79161
  • Description: In 1994, South Africa entered a new democratic era, culminating in the adoption of a new constitution in 1996. This constitution promotes representative and participatory democracy for all citizens. Through representative democracy, the electorate chooses political representatives to serve at local, provincial, and national levels. Participatory democracy, on the other hand, aims to involve citizens directly in decision-making processes that affect their lives, particularly in socio-economic matters (Finnemore & Koekemoer, 2018; Republic of South Africa, Public Participation Framework for the South African Legislative Sector, 2013). This research investigated representative and participatory democracy, social dialogue, and their application in developing the National Minimum Wage. The study explored the four institutions involved in the National Minimum Wage’s progression: the initiation at the National Economic Development and Labour Council where the actors went into negotiation; bargaining councils information sharing via roadshows conducted by the Department of Employment and Labour, discussions in both houses of Parliament, and the National Minimum Wage Commission, which oversees the maintenance and annual review of the wage rate. The primary objective of the study was to assess the extent to which the social dialogue principle of representation for all interested parties was upheld across these institutions. To achieve this, the research employed a qualitative approach, with exploratory and descriptive methods. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with ten respondents, eight of whom were interviewed, while two provided written responses, and through secondary data, namely the parliamentary committee minutes from the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces. The findings revealed significant shortcomings in representation at National Economic Development and Labour Council. Labour representation was dominated by three federations, Congress of South African Tade Unions, Federation of Unions of South Africa, and National Council of Trade Unions, leaving out trade unions unaffiliated with these federations and unorganised workers, including those in informal employment. Similarly, business representation was confined to a single confederation, Business Unity of South Africa, representing primarily large, organised businesses, with little to no input from small and medium-sized enterprises or informal employers. Government representation was limited to the national level, excluding local and provincial representatives and affected departments such as Tourism, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Small Business Development, and Women, Youth, and People with Disabilities. Community representation, which should have represented the voices of the unrepresented, only reflected a small fraction of the population. According to Treasury (2016) the negotiation process at National Economic Development and Labour Council was central to developing the Bill but excluded many affected and interested groups. During a deadlock in negotiations, then-Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa introduced an advisory panel of external experts to facilitate progress. Meanwhile, the Department of Employment and Labour conducted roadshows, ostensibly to share information with bargaining councils. However, limited data makes it unclear whether these roadshows effectively reached unrepresented groups. In Parliament, the Bill underwent deliberation in both houses, where political representatives engaged in committee discussions. Public participation was facilitated through written and verbal submissions, with a total of 92 submissions received. However, these submissions predominantly came from well-resourced organisations, and organisations already represented at National Economic Development and Labour Council. Vulnerable, unorganised, and underrepresented groups remained largely excluded from the public participation process, which some political representatives noted as disproportionately favouring the elite. The Bill was finally debated in the National Assembly by political representatives and became an Act on the 29th of May 2018 (Parliamentary Monitoring Group, 2017). The National Minimum Wage Commission comprises members from labour, business, and the community, reflecting the representation structure of National Economic Development and Labour Council as outlined in its founding Act. However, the one key representation present at National Economic Development and Labour Council but absent from the Commission is government representation. Additionally, the Commission includes external experts appointed at the discretion of the Minister of Employment and Labour (Department of Employment and Labour, 2021; National Minimum Wage Act, 2023).Given the majority of the Commission's composition mirrors National Economic Development and Labour Council, it implies that the representation challenges identified at National Economic Development and Labour Council have also been carried over to the Commission. Furthermore, the Minister of Employment and Labour holds significant authority, as the Commission’s role is limited to providing recommendations, with the final decision-making power resting with the Minister. What remains unclear is whether the Minister consults with other ministers from affected departments before making decisions based on the Commission’s recommendations regarding the minimum wage (National Minimum Wage Act, 2023). Furthermore, the research also explored satisfaction levels among National Economic Development and Labour Council respondents regarding the Bill that proceeded to Parliament. While respondents expressed general satisfaction, it is notable that labour representatives at National Economic Development and Labour Council made additional submissions in Parliament, suggesting that they were not entirely satisfied with the Bill in its original form that left National Economic Development and Labour Council. Given the representation and participation challenges identified throughout the process, the findings of this study reveal significant gaps in opportunities for all parties affected by the introduction of a national minimum wage to contribute meaningfully to the negotiation processes at National Economic Development and Labour Council, consultations within parliamentary portfolio committees, roadshows by the Department of Employment and Labour, and the annual review conducted by the National Minimum Wage Commission. To address these gaps, the researcher recommends that the National Economic Development and Labour Council implement a standardized scoping mechanism to ensure the inclusion of all affected stakeholders before new legislation is discussed. Additionally, Parliament should consider adopting an integrated, cross-portfolio approach to legislative development, while the National Minimum Wage Commission should expand the scope of its annual research on minimum wages. For the National Economic Development and Labour Council, the effective implementation of a more inclusive approach requires a robust and standardised mechanism for identifying and engaging all relevant stakeholders. In Parliament,portfolio committees could enhance accessibility by establishing more inclusive platforms for public participation. To strengthen the National Minimum Wage Commission’s annual review process, researchers could employ diverse methodologies to ensure a broader and more comprehensive assessment. Furthermore, all institutions involved should explore the role of digital and hybrid engagement platforms in enhancing participatory democracy. For future research, the study recommends establishing focus groups comprising individuals directly affected by the National Minimum Wage Bill. Additionally, further research should include case studies on the passage of other pieces of South African legislation to assess the extent and effectiveness of participatory democracy in legislative processes. Finally, the development of a more inclusive model for the National Economic Development and Labour Council, tailored to South Africa’s unique socio-economic structure, should be explored. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2025
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2025-04
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