Sustainable solid waste management in municipalities: experiences of selected settlements in Engcobo Local Municipality
- Nqwitha, Musa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1143-4149
- Authors: Nqwitha, Musa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1143-4149
- Date: 2024-10
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29521 , vital:77974
- Description: South Africa has a variety of regulations on the provision of solid waste management services in municipalities as a result of the apartheid legacy. Nonetheless, discrepancies in waste management services persist despite new laws, legislative reforms and strategies. Those who live in marginalised and impoverished communities are the most susceptible and severely affected by improper waste management. This demonstrates a lack of integrated and sustainable waste management systems. This study aims to recommend a sustainable solid waste management system in Engcobo Local Municipality. More specifically, this study provides a sustainable and long-term waste management system for municipal solid waste (MSW) management in South African municipalities. Improving municipal solid waste management is essential for integrated and long-term management efficiency. Effective MSW management is critical, given the high generation rate and the capacity to decrease environmental consequences, depletion and contamination. To address the research issues, the study used a qualitative case study research design and an inductive research technique based on naturalistic interpretive research philosophy. Data was gathered through focus group discussions, documents, and semi-structured interviews. Considering this study is based on the interpretivism paradigm and qualitative research technique, the researcher employed nonprobability sampling. The sample size was n=35 participants who participated in semistructured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic data analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings revealed that there have been gains in the management of sustainable waste. The municipality is experimenting with novel approaches to deal with the problem of solid waste, particularly in remote locations where people's trash is difficult to pick up and collect. Residents' views toward waste management have changed since few individuals attend the ‘General Mbizo’ on waste where the municipality speaks with citizens about waste and the economic rewards associated with effective waste management. Though it was shown that some participants in focus groups still need more information on waste management, there is a need for thorough educational initiatives on sanitation management, not particularly waste but water, waste and sanitation. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2024
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nqwitha, Musa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1143-4149
- Date: 2024-10
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa , Municipal government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29521 , vital:77974
- Description: South Africa has a variety of regulations on the provision of solid waste management services in municipalities as a result of the apartheid legacy. Nonetheless, discrepancies in waste management services persist despite new laws, legislative reforms and strategies. Those who live in marginalised and impoverished communities are the most susceptible and severely affected by improper waste management. This demonstrates a lack of integrated and sustainable waste management systems. This study aims to recommend a sustainable solid waste management system in Engcobo Local Municipality. More specifically, this study provides a sustainable and long-term waste management system for municipal solid waste (MSW) management in South African municipalities. Improving municipal solid waste management is essential for integrated and long-term management efficiency. Effective MSW management is critical, given the high generation rate and the capacity to decrease environmental consequences, depletion and contamination. To address the research issues, the study used a qualitative case study research design and an inductive research technique based on naturalistic interpretive research philosophy. Data was gathered through focus group discussions, documents, and semi-structured interviews. Considering this study is based on the interpretivism paradigm and qualitative research technique, the researcher employed nonprobability sampling. The sample size was n=35 participants who participated in semistructured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic data analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings revealed that there have been gains in the management of sustainable waste. The municipality is experimenting with novel approaches to deal with the problem of solid waste, particularly in remote locations where people's trash is difficult to pick up and collect. Residents' views toward waste management have changed since few individuals attend the ‘General Mbizo’ on waste where the municipality speaks with citizens about waste and the economic rewards associated with effective waste management. Though it was shown that some participants in focus groups still need more information on waste management, there is a need for thorough educational initiatives on sanitation management, not particularly waste but water, waste and sanitation. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2024
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The effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of small micro and medium enterprises in or Tambo District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Senzeni, Phumlani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28960 , vital:75577
- Description: The Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) remain the key competitor in the development of the economy growth of the country. The SMME sector is the key driver to the national economy of countries, as it creates job opportunities, reduce poverty, supports household income, and improve the people’s standard of living. However, the rate at which SMMEs fail to succeed results in non-performance and business closure, and this is alarming and require attention. The reasons for this failure can emanate from a number of reasons, such as lack of entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, lack of intellectual personnel, low entrepreneurial culture and obstacles that hinder access to resources and market. Therefore, in this study the researcher examined the effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of SMMEs in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The researcher adopted quantitative research approach. The research data was collected using Google Forms survey method. The emails containing the link to access the instrument were sent to a sample of 399 SMMEs in the OR Tambo District. The response rate of 74%, which is 294 was attained. Thus, the findings of the study discovered that entrepreneurial competencies have significant effect on the performance of SMMEs. The study further found that entrepreneurial competencies “opportunity recognition, creative-problem solving, resource leveraging, and business networking” had a low degree of association with business performance although they are statistically significant to business performance. The self-efficacy was found with a high degree of association with business performance and statistically significant with the achievement of positive beta and low p-value which indicated a strong association to performance. The study made conclusions that entrepreneurial competencies have positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. Therefore, it was concluded that performing and successful SMMEs in the regions means employment opportunities in the country because they require human resources to do operational services and render services. The government and policymakers are encouraged to work together to form and strengthen development programs to assist SMMEs to grow the production capacity, operations and become productive. The SMMEs owners/managers and practitioners on skills development are encouraged to relook and strengthen entrepreneurial competencies that contribute to productivity and performance. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Senzeni, Phumlani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28960 , vital:75577
- Description: The Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) remain the key competitor in the development of the economy growth of the country. The SMME sector is the key driver to the national economy of countries, as it creates job opportunities, reduce poverty, supports household income, and improve the people’s standard of living. However, the rate at which SMMEs fail to succeed results in non-performance and business closure, and this is alarming and require attention. The reasons for this failure can emanate from a number of reasons, such as lack of entrepreneurial competencies, managerial skills, lack of intellectual personnel, low entrepreneurial culture and obstacles that hinder access to resources and market. Therefore, in this study the researcher examined the effect of entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of SMMEs in OR Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The researcher adopted quantitative research approach. The research data was collected using Google Forms survey method. The emails containing the link to access the instrument were sent to a sample of 399 SMMEs in the OR Tambo District. The response rate of 74%, which is 294 was attained. Thus, the findings of the study discovered that entrepreneurial competencies have significant effect on the performance of SMMEs. The study further found that entrepreneurial competencies “opportunity recognition, creative-problem solving, resource leveraging, and business networking” had a low degree of association with business performance although they are statistically significant to business performance. The self-efficacy was found with a high degree of association with business performance and statistically significant with the achievement of positive beta and low p-value which indicated a strong association to performance. The study made conclusions that entrepreneurial competencies have positive effect on the performance of SMMEs. Therefore, it was concluded that performing and successful SMMEs in the regions means employment opportunities in the country because they require human resources to do operational services and render services. The government and policymakers are encouraged to work together to form and strengthen development programs to assist SMMEs to grow the production capacity, operations and become productive. The SMMEs owners/managers and practitioners on skills development are encouraged to relook and strengthen entrepreneurial competencies that contribute to productivity and performance. , Thesis (DBA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Determinants of individual-organisational adoption-continued use of high-performance computing systems: testing an end-user model in historically disadvantaged institutions
- Matungwana, Norest Tinashe https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0373-6913
- Authors: Matungwana, Norest Tinashe https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0373-6913
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: High performance computing -- Evaluation , High performance computing -- Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29472 , vital:77970
- Description: High-Performance Computing Systems (HPCS) are a game-changing technology that significantly improves research and innovations. Its adoption and use in skills development institutions have interested researchers and policymakers. The adoption and use of HPCS allow end users to take advantage of its extraordinary capabilities, such as making accurate simulations, processing enormous sums of data quickly, and having a larger storage capacity than ordinary computers. As South Africa (SA) grapples with increasing inequality and other challenges, it pins hope on Universities to proffer adequate solutions. However, there are different realities between Historically Disadvantage Institutions (HDIs) and Historically Advantaged Institutions (HAIs) regarding enabling resources for skills development. This study focuses on the determinants of adoption and continued use of HPCS in HDIs. The study aimed to investigate the determinants of individual-organisational adoptioncontinued use of HPCS amongst end-users in HDIs. The South African government, through the Council for Science and Industrial Research (CSIR), continues to invest in HPCS to benefit the industry and high-learning institutions; attention is drawn to their adoption and use by intended users (Sithole & Ubbink, 2017). Despite the government's efforts to address the inequalities within the educational sector by equipping HDIs with the latest technological innovations, there is little or no research that has been conducted to determine the individual-organisational levels of adoptioncontinued use of HPCS by users from HDIs and measure return on investment from an end-user perspective, hence this study. A quantitative research approach and descriptive design were adopted for the study. Data was collected from a sample of 384 students and 370 staff members. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was also applied to establish the determinants of HPCS adoption and continued use by end users in HDIs. The findings of the study show that there is no statistically significant relationship between intention to use HPCS, trust, attitudes towards HPCS, perceived effort, and the actual use of HPCS by end-users in HDIs while social influence, perceived career benefit, and perceived career risk were found to have a significant relationship with adoption and continued use of HPCS by end-users in HDIs The study's findings indicate the factors that should be emphasised when promoting the adoption and continued use of HPCS in HDIs. The findings also allow researchers to investigate why other determinants do not significantly influence the adoption and continued use of HPCS. , Thesis (MCom in BM) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Matungwana, Norest Tinashe https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0373-6913
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: High performance computing -- Evaluation , High performance computing -- Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29472 , vital:77970
- Description: High-Performance Computing Systems (HPCS) are a game-changing technology that significantly improves research and innovations. Its adoption and use in skills development institutions have interested researchers and policymakers. The adoption and use of HPCS allow end users to take advantage of its extraordinary capabilities, such as making accurate simulations, processing enormous sums of data quickly, and having a larger storage capacity than ordinary computers. As South Africa (SA) grapples with increasing inequality and other challenges, it pins hope on Universities to proffer adequate solutions. However, there are different realities between Historically Disadvantage Institutions (HDIs) and Historically Advantaged Institutions (HAIs) regarding enabling resources for skills development. This study focuses on the determinants of adoption and continued use of HPCS in HDIs. The study aimed to investigate the determinants of individual-organisational adoptioncontinued use of HPCS amongst end-users in HDIs. The South African government, through the Council for Science and Industrial Research (CSIR), continues to invest in HPCS to benefit the industry and high-learning institutions; attention is drawn to their adoption and use by intended users (Sithole & Ubbink, 2017). Despite the government's efforts to address the inequalities within the educational sector by equipping HDIs with the latest technological innovations, there is little or no research that has been conducted to determine the individual-organisational levels of adoptioncontinued use of HPCS by users from HDIs and measure return on investment from an end-user perspective, hence this study. A quantitative research approach and descriptive design were adopted for the study. Data was collected from a sample of 384 students and 370 staff members. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was also applied to establish the determinants of HPCS adoption and continued use by end users in HDIs. The findings of the study show that there is no statistically significant relationship between intention to use HPCS, trust, attitudes towards HPCS, perceived effort, and the actual use of HPCS by end-users in HDIs while social influence, perceived career benefit, and perceived career risk were found to have a significant relationship with adoption and continued use of HPCS by end-users in HDIs The study's findings indicate the factors that should be emphasised when promoting the adoption and continued use of HPCS in HDIs. The findings also allow researchers to investigate why other determinants do not significantly influence the adoption and continued use of HPCS. , Thesis (MCom in BM) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Determinants of psychological well-being amongst employed mothers of children with special needs in Buffalo City Municipality
- Mabokela, Thandiswa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4531-3281
- Authors: Mabokela, Thandiswa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4531-3281
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Mothers of children with disabilities -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Well-being -- Psychological aspects , Children of working mothers -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29451 , vital:77968
- Description: Mothers of children with special needs face unique social-emotional difficulties in carrying out their caregiving roles. The pressure related to these roles influences mothers' psychological well-being and the nature of their child-rearing. One cause of mothers’ psychological distress is their inability to accept their child’s illness. It can result in the mother’s struggle with negative feelings, leading them to focus on their children’s problems, with little recognition of unique qualities that characterize the strengths of their children. This study aimed to provide insight into the determinants of psychological well-being amongst employed mothers of children with special needs in Buffalo City Municipality. The research adopted Ryff's (1989) Six-factor model on psychological well-being and Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs theory. A quantitative, descriptive research approach was applied to the study. The positivism paradigm was adopted in this research. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 301 respondents in Buffalo City Municipality East London. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29 software package was utilized for analysis—the confirmatory factor analysis is used to interpret demographics and study variables. The study found significant relationships between the independent and dependent variables: Psychological well-being, workplace, household, factor, household and educational factors. The study recommends further studies to expand to fathers/parents with special needs children, as this study mainly looked at the psychological well-being of working mothers only. , Thesis (MIP) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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- Authors: Mabokela, Thandiswa https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4531-3281
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Mothers of children with disabilities -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Well-being -- Psychological aspects , Children of working mothers -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29451 , vital:77968
- Description: Mothers of children with special needs face unique social-emotional difficulties in carrying out their caregiving roles. The pressure related to these roles influences mothers' psychological well-being and the nature of their child-rearing. One cause of mothers’ psychological distress is their inability to accept their child’s illness. It can result in the mother’s struggle with negative feelings, leading them to focus on their children’s problems, with little recognition of unique qualities that characterize the strengths of their children. This study aimed to provide insight into the determinants of psychological well-being amongst employed mothers of children with special needs in Buffalo City Municipality. The research adopted Ryff's (1989) Six-factor model on psychological well-being and Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs theory. A quantitative, descriptive research approach was applied to the study. The positivism paradigm was adopted in this research. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 301 respondents in Buffalo City Municipality East London. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29 software package was utilized for analysis—the confirmatory factor analysis is used to interpret demographics and study variables. The study found significant relationships between the independent and dependent variables: Psychological well-being, workplace, household, factor, household and educational factors. The study recommends further studies to expand to fathers/parents with special needs children, as this study mainly looked at the psychological well-being of working mothers only. , Thesis (MIP) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Human capital investment, productivity and economic growth in selected Sub Saharan African countries
- Mutambirwa, Edward https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9010-1950
- Authors: Mutambirwa, Edward https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9010-1950
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Human capital -- Africa, Sub-Saharan , Economic development -- Africa, Sub-Saharan , Capital investments -- Africa, Sub-Saharan
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28639 , vital:74481
- Description: Many Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries experience low economic growth rate levels which is worrisome given the demographic window of opportunities in the region. The governments of SSA countries have been putting emphasis on increasing investments in human capital development as it is vital in unlocking potential economic growth through enhancing regional productivity. With this in mind, this study examined the effect of human capital investment on economic growth through productivity in 12 selected SSA countries during the period 2000 to 2017. The selection of these countries and the study period were based on the data availability as well as differences in income growth. The sample represents all the countries in the income growth groups which are low income, lower middle income and upper middle income. In order to examine the overall effect of human capital investment on economic growth the study utilizes two models which are: 1. Human capital investment and productivity in selected SSA countries. 2. Human capital investment and economic growth in selected SSA countries. Model 1 objective of the study was to investigate the effect of human capital investment on productivity in the selected SSA countries. Productivity proxied by labour productivity measured by real output per person employed was the dependent regressed against a host of independent variables which includes human capital investment, foreign direct investment (FDI), total factor productivity (TFP) and labour quantity growth (LQ).The human capital investment components used in the model included: fiscal expenditure on primary education (PEI), secondary education(SEI), tertiary education (TEI) all as a percentage of government expenditure on education; public health(PHI) as a percentage of GDP and domestic private health (DPHI) as a percentage of current health expenditure. Several estimation techniques which include the Pooled Mean Group (PMG), Panel Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square (PFMOLS) and Panel Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (PDOLS) were employed to analyse the relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical findings indicated that all human capital investment components contribute positively to labour productivity except tertiary education investment which had a negative effect. Moreover, the empirical findings also revealed that foreign direct investment and total factor productivity had positive effects on labour productivity while labour quantity growth had a negative effect. Model 2 objective examined the effect of productivity enhanced human capital on economic growth in the sample of countries. It also incorporated the direct channel of the effect of human capital on economic growth in the stated countries. Economic growth (EG) proxied by real GDP growth as the dependent variable and, on the other hand, explanatory variables being productivity enhanced human capital investment (PEHC), human capital (HC), gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), population growth (POP), institutional quality proxied by government effectiveness (GE) and political stability (PS). The same estimation techniques were also employed so as to obtain robust results. The empirical findings revealed that both productivity enhanced human capital investment and human capital contributes positively to economic growth in the selected SSA countries. In addition, the empirical results also proved that gross fixed capital formation, government effectiveness and political stability have positive effects on economic growth whilst population growth has a negative effect. Overall, the results of the study evidenced the existence of a transfer mechanism from human capital investment to economic growth through productivity in the selected SSA countries. The empirical results imply that increasing investment on human capital is of importance in trying to enhance productivity and through this economic growth in the SSA region. The study concludes that there is a potential on enhancing economic growth in the long run in the SSA region if countries invest more on human capital. Therefore, the study recommends that SSA countries must devote more budget to human capital so that free basic education can be offered in both primary and secondary as well as free health care services. With this, the objectives of quality education and health, sustainable and inclusive growth targets of the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 as well as United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Human capital investment, productivity and economic growth in selected Sub Saharan African countries
- Authors: Mutambirwa, Edward https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9010-1950
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Human capital -- Africa, Sub-Saharan , Economic development -- Africa, Sub-Saharan , Capital investments -- Africa, Sub-Saharan
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28639 , vital:74481
- Description: Many Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries experience low economic growth rate levels which is worrisome given the demographic window of opportunities in the region. The governments of SSA countries have been putting emphasis on increasing investments in human capital development as it is vital in unlocking potential economic growth through enhancing regional productivity. With this in mind, this study examined the effect of human capital investment on economic growth through productivity in 12 selected SSA countries during the period 2000 to 2017. The selection of these countries and the study period were based on the data availability as well as differences in income growth. The sample represents all the countries in the income growth groups which are low income, lower middle income and upper middle income. In order to examine the overall effect of human capital investment on economic growth the study utilizes two models which are: 1. Human capital investment and productivity in selected SSA countries. 2. Human capital investment and economic growth in selected SSA countries. Model 1 objective of the study was to investigate the effect of human capital investment on productivity in the selected SSA countries. Productivity proxied by labour productivity measured by real output per person employed was the dependent regressed against a host of independent variables which includes human capital investment, foreign direct investment (FDI), total factor productivity (TFP) and labour quantity growth (LQ).The human capital investment components used in the model included: fiscal expenditure on primary education (PEI), secondary education(SEI), tertiary education (TEI) all as a percentage of government expenditure on education; public health(PHI) as a percentage of GDP and domestic private health (DPHI) as a percentage of current health expenditure. Several estimation techniques which include the Pooled Mean Group (PMG), Panel Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square (PFMOLS) and Panel Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (PDOLS) were employed to analyse the relationship between the variables of interest. The empirical findings indicated that all human capital investment components contribute positively to labour productivity except tertiary education investment which had a negative effect. Moreover, the empirical findings also revealed that foreign direct investment and total factor productivity had positive effects on labour productivity while labour quantity growth had a negative effect. Model 2 objective examined the effect of productivity enhanced human capital on economic growth in the sample of countries. It also incorporated the direct channel of the effect of human capital on economic growth in the stated countries. Economic growth (EG) proxied by real GDP growth as the dependent variable and, on the other hand, explanatory variables being productivity enhanced human capital investment (PEHC), human capital (HC), gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), population growth (POP), institutional quality proxied by government effectiveness (GE) and political stability (PS). The same estimation techniques were also employed so as to obtain robust results. The empirical findings revealed that both productivity enhanced human capital investment and human capital contributes positively to economic growth in the selected SSA countries. In addition, the empirical results also proved that gross fixed capital formation, government effectiveness and political stability have positive effects on economic growth whilst population growth has a negative effect. Overall, the results of the study evidenced the existence of a transfer mechanism from human capital investment to economic growth through productivity in the selected SSA countries. The empirical results imply that increasing investment on human capital is of importance in trying to enhance productivity and through this economic growth in the SSA region. The study concludes that there is a potential on enhancing economic growth in the long run in the SSA region if countries invest more on human capital. Therefore, the study recommends that SSA countries must devote more budget to human capital so that free basic education can be offered in both primary and secondary as well as free health care services. With this, the objectives of quality education and health, sustainable and inclusive growth targets of the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 as well as United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Social support and self-esteem as predictors of career decision-making among high school students in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mpofu, Pamella
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Career development -- Decision making -- South Africa , High school students -- Social networks -- South Africa , Self-esteem in adolescence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29495 , vital:77972
- Description: In an ideal scenario, high school students should receive extensive support to aid them in making effective decisions, however, this is not the case with students coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. This study investigated the relationship among social support, self-esteem, and career decision making in a sample of secondary school students from diverse backgrounds in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, to understand the most significant factors influencing career choice among high school students. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This study sought to understand factors that affect career decision making amongst high school students from diverse background in the Eastern Cape. The factors that were considered for their influence in career decision making of the leaners included social support, matric results and self-esteem. To gain this insight, a quantitative research approach was employed where a questionnaire was administered to sample size of 172 respondents from a population size of 700 learners from 10 high schools who attended the career expo. To analyse the data, SPSS version 27.0 was used, where cross-tabulation and standard deviation comparison of the percentage ratings was utilised. MAIN FINDINGS: The primary findings revealed that social support and self-esteem are positively correlated towards students making informed career choices, but validation on the scale and subscale was not established. The study also showed that matric results were not a significant factor in students making their career choice. Parents were found to be less influential in students' career choices with friends being more influential in leaners’ career choices. A majority of students also shown to choose a career out of passion and interest, however, some students ended up settling on a different path due to circumstances such as their matric results being inadequate for the preferred career paths. IMPLICATIONS: The findings suggest that students should receive adequate support and exposure to their career of interest through attendance career guidance sessions well before matriculation for them to make good judgements in career decision making. , Thesis (MCom in IP) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mpofu, Pamella
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Career development -- Decision making -- South Africa , High school students -- Social networks -- South Africa , Self-esteem in adolescence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29495 , vital:77972
- Description: In an ideal scenario, high school students should receive extensive support to aid them in making effective decisions, however, this is not the case with students coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. This study investigated the relationship among social support, self-esteem, and career decision making in a sample of secondary school students from diverse backgrounds in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, to understand the most significant factors influencing career choice among high school students. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This study sought to understand factors that affect career decision making amongst high school students from diverse background in the Eastern Cape. The factors that were considered for their influence in career decision making of the leaners included social support, matric results and self-esteem. To gain this insight, a quantitative research approach was employed where a questionnaire was administered to sample size of 172 respondents from a population size of 700 learners from 10 high schools who attended the career expo. To analyse the data, SPSS version 27.0 was used, where cross-tabulation and standard deviation comparison of the percentage ratings was utilised. MAIN FINDINGS: The primary findings revealed that social support and self-esteem are positively correlated towards students making informed career choices, but validation on the scale and subscale was not established. The study also showed that matric results were not a significant factor in students making their career choice. Parents were found to be less influential in students' career choices with friends being more influential in leaners’ career choices. A majority of students also shown to choose a career out of passion and interest, however, some students ended up settling on a different path due to circumstances such as their matric results being inadequate for the preferred career paths. IMPLICATIONS: The findings suggest that students should receive adequate support and exposure to their career of interest through attendance career guidance sessions well before matriculation for them to make good judgements in career decision making. , Thesis (MCom in IP) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The analysis of the impact of financial integration on financial development and economic growth in the Southern African development community
- Ndlovu, Nomusa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7777-2939
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nomusa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7777-2939
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Economic development -- Finance -- Africa, Southern , Financial services industry -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28650 , vital:74491
- Description: The study investigated the impact of financial integration on financial development and economic growth in the Southern African Development Community using annual data for the period 2000 to 2018. Literature shows that there is no universally accepted measure of financial integration hence the study utilized the Lane and Milesi-Ferretti measure, foreign direct investment as a percentage of GDP and Chinn-Ito (KAOPEN) index in achieving the objectives of the study. One of the main objectives of the study was to examine the impact of financial integration on financial development in the SADC community. The study utilized first difference GMM to achieve this objective and the results showed that Lane and Milesi-Ferretti measure and foreign direct investment as a percentage of GDP significantly affect financial development whilst Chinn-Ito (KAOPEN) index displayed an insignificant effect. The next step was to investigate the impact of financial integration on economic growth in the SADC region. To accomplish this objective, the study investigated both the direct channel as well as the possibility of financial integration indirectly influencing economic growth through financial development, trade openness, and institutional quality. The Three Stage Least Squares (3SLS) technique was utilized on a system of five simultaneous equations in examining the effect of financial integration on economic growth. The results revealed that financial integration affects economic growth both directly and indirectly. Regarding the indirect channels, only the financial development and institutional quality channel proved to be significant. To ensure the robustness of the results the study checked if the impact of financial integration was sensitive to the measure of financial integration and financial development used. The study employed KAOPEN to proxy financial integration while broad money supply (% of GDP) measured financial development. Robustness results confirmed that financial integration affects economic growth both directly and indirectly. This time, the trade openness channel was significant at 10% which shows the benefits through this channel are significant. This shows that the results of the trade openness channel are inconclusive. When the Lane and Milesi-Ferretti measure of financial integration was employed the impact of the trade openness channel was insignificant whilst a significant impact was found based on KAOPEN. The inconclusive findings for the trade openness channel may indicate the impact of financial integration on economic growth depends on the proxy of financial integration utilized. In addition, the study also gathered some interesting results where financial development, institutional quality, trade openness, and government size (government spending) are significant drivers of financial integration. The study makes some fundamental contributions to literature on financial integration, financial development, and economic growth. Initially, the study provides empirical evidence on the nature of the impact of financial integration on financial development in the SADC. In particular, this study contributes to the body of knowledge by showing that the impact of financial integration on financial development is linear. Secondly, this study makes an original contribution to the literature on the channels through which financial integration affect economic growth in the SADC, providing a more subtlety understanding of the mechanisms at play. Finally, the study provides important policy implications for policymakers and financial regulators in the SADC who seek to promote economic growth through financial integration. The findings of the study imply that deeper financial integration is crucial in the SADC region as it can potentially increase the rate of economic growth in the region. Not only economic growth will be boosted but also the institutional quality and the development of the financial sector of the countries in the region. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the governments of the member countries in the region continue to come up with policies that boost regional and international financial integration. The study suggests that to ensure that they continuously reap positive benefits from financial integration, member countries of the SADC should appoint a board that deals with implementation and accountability. This board must be responsible for ensuring that member countries implement the formulated policies and should also hold member countries accountable in case of failure to implement the formulated policies. Since the region is pursuing financial integration, the region must come up with policies that prioritize domestic developments in the form of financial development, improving domestic institutional quality and reducing trade restrictions in advance in order to ensure that preconditions for financial integration are met. Developing these will attract different forms of financial flows or increase financial openness which will ultimately boost economic growth. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndlovu, Nomusa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7777-2939
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Economic development -- Finance -- Africa, Southern , Financial services industry -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28650 , vital:74491
- Description: The study investigated the impact of financial integration on financial development and economic growth in the Southern African Development Community using annual data for the period 2000 to 2018. Literature shows that there is no universally accepted measure of financial integration hence the study utilized the Lane and Milesi-Ferretti measure, foreign direct investment as a percentage of GDP and Chinn-Ito (KAOPEN) index in achieving the objectives of the study. One of the main objectives of the study was to examine the impact of financial integration on financial development in the SADC community. The study utilized first difference GMM to achieve this objective and the results showed that Lane and Milesi-Ferretti measure and foreign direct investment as a percentage of GDP significantly affect financial development whilst Chinn-Ito (KAOPEN) index displayed an insignificant effect. The next step was to investigate the impact of financial integration on economic growth in the SADC region. To accomplish this objective, the study investigated both the direct channel as well as the possibility of financial integration indirectly influencing economic growth through financial development, trade openness, and institutional quality. The Three Stage Least Squares (3SLS) technique was utilized on a system of five simultaneous equations in examining the effect of financial integration on economic growth. The results revealed that financial integration affects economic growth both directly and indirectly. Regarding the indirect channels, only the financial development and institutional quality channel proved to be significant. To ensure the robustness of the results the study checked if the impact of financial integration was sensitive to the measure of financial integration and financial development used. The study employed KAOPEN to proxy financial integration while broad money supply (% of GDP) measured financial development. Robustness results confirmed that financial integration affects economic growth both directly and indirectly. This time, the trade openness channel was significant at 10% which shows the benefits through this channel are significant. This shows that the results of the trade openness channel are inconclusive. When the Lane and Milesi-Ferretti measure of financial integration was employed the impact of the trade openness channel was insignificant whilst a significant impact was found based on KAOPEN. The inconclusive findings for the trade openness channel may indicate the impact of financial integration on economic growth depends on the proxy of financial integration utilized. In addition, the study also gathered some interesting results where financial development, institutional quality, trade openness, and government size (government spending) are significant drivers of financial integration. The study makes some fundamental contributions to literature on financial integration, financial development, and economic growth. Initially, the study provides empirical evidence on the nature of the impact of financial integration on financial development in the SADC. In particular, this study contributes to the body of knowledge by showing that the impact of financial integration on financial development is linear. Secondly, this study makes an original contribution to the literature on the channels through which financial integration affect economic growth in the SADC, providing a more subtlety understanding of the mechanisms at play. Finally, the study provides important policy implications for policymakers and financial regulators in the SADC who seek to promote economic growth through financial integration. The findings of the study imply that deeper financial integration is crucial in the SADC region as it can potentially increase the rate of economic growth in the region. Not only economic growth will be boosted but also the institutional quality and the development of the financial sector of the countries in the region. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the governments of the member countries in the region continue to come up with policies that boost regional and international financial integration. The study suggests that to ensure that they continuously reap positive benefits from financial integration, member countries of the SADC should appoint a board that deals with implementation and accountability. This board must be responsible for ensuring that member countries implement the formulated policies and should also hold member countries accountable in case of failure to implement the formulated policies. Since the region is pursuing financial integration, the region must come up with policies that prioritize domestic developments in the form of financial development, improving domestic institutional quality and reducing trade restrictions in advance in order to ensure that preconditions for financial integration are met. Developing these will attract different forms of financial flows or increase financial openness which will ultimately boost economic growth. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
The nexus between technology penetration, financial service regulation and financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Countries
- Ndlovu Sopho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4958-5719
- Authors: Ndlovu Sopho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4958-5719
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Developing countries , Finance -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29506 , vital:77973
- Description: Over the past two decades there has been a significant increase in technological advancement, with development and usage at high levels. One sector that has embraced the advancement in technology is financial services, with regulations revision following suit- albeit with criticism on some contradictions. On the other hand, technology penetration has been viewed as panacea to slow and almost reduced financial inclusion in emerging and developing economies. The study utilised a unique data for selected 24 Sub-Saharan Countries to interrogate the nexus between technology penetration, financial services regulation, and financial inclusion. The purpose of this study is to examine the nexus between technology penetration, financial regulation, and financial inclusion within the Sub-Saharan region. We look at the regulatory frameworks within these countries and the resultant financial inclusion levels. Using robust empirical estimation techniques controlling for the country differences, the results have important regulatory and financial sector transformation lessons. The author employed the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) technique from 2011 to 2021. The study revealed that technology penetration has a positive effect on financial inclusion, while financial service regulation has a negative relationship with financial inclusion. In addition, the study revealed financial technology as the major drive to financial inclusion due to its ability to meet the unbanked section of the community. On the other hand, financial service regulation hinders the ability of the financial sector to provide finance due to its capital adequacy stringent rules. The empirical results imply that policy makers should centre their focus on policies that promote technology penetration so as to enhance financial inclusion. Moreover, policies on financial regulation may strike a balance between financial inclusion and bank stability. , Thesis (MCom in Economics) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ndlovu Sopho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4958-5719
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Developing countries , Finance -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29506 , vital:77973
- Description: Over the past two decades there has been a significant increase in technological advancement, with development and usage at high levels. One sector that has embraced the advancement in technology is financial services, with regulations revision following suit- albeit with criticism on some contradictions. On the other hand, technology penetration has been viewed as panacea to slow and almost reduced financial inclusion in emerging and developing economies. The study utilised a unique data for selected 24 Sub-Saharan Countries to interrogate the nexus between technology penetration, financial services regulation, and financial inclusion. The purpose of this study is to examine the nexus between technology penetration, financial regulation, and financial inclusion within the Sub-Saharan region. We look at the regulatory frameworks within these countries and the resultant financial inclusion levels. Using robust empirical estimation techniques controlling for the country differences, the results have important regulatory and financial sector transformation lessons. The author employed the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) technique from 2011 to 2021. The study revealed that technology penetration has a positive effect on financial inclusion, while financial service regulation has a negative relationship with financial inclusion. In addition, the study revealed financial technology as the major drive to financial inclusion due to its ability to meet the unbanked section of the community. On the other hand, financial service regulation hinders the ability of the financial sector to provide finance due to its capital adequacy stringent rules. The empirical results imply that policy makers should centre their focus on policies that promote technology penetration so as to enhance financial inclusion. Moreover, policies on financial regulation may strike a balance between financial inclusion and bank stability. , Thesis (MCom in Economics) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The role of traditional leadership in community development: the Mbhashe Local Municipality Case Study, Eastern Cape in South Africa
- Fojisa, Azukile https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8705-0021
- Authors: Fojisa, Azukile https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8705-0021
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa , Tribal government -- South Africa , Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29398 , vital:77963
- Description: Following South Africa's democratic elections, the challenges that traditional leaders faced during apartheid rule were investigated in 1994 in an attempt to repair the damage done to traditional leadership by multiple administrations throughout the colonial and apartheid regimes. The introduction of a democratic system brought about significant changes in political ties and geographical demarcations thus affecting traditional leaders' influence and their impact in their districts. New legislation was introduced following democratic elections. According to the revised limits of local governments, communities were placed in the hands of municipal councilors rather than traditional leaders for community development. This study investigated how traditional leadership contributes to community development in Mbhashe Municipality in South Africa's Eastern Cape province. A qualitative research approach was used in collecting and analyzing the data. The findings revealed tensions between the traditional authorities of the Mbhashe local government and the government, which are attributed to the poor relations. Consequently, this negatively affects the development of the local residents. Traditional leaders feel they have legitimacy based on cultural history and religion, while government officials believe they are responsible for all community development programs in their area of operation. The findings also indicate that traditional leaders face challenges in developing their communities, and the residents of Mbhashe municipality have poor access to social services. The study concludes that competent traditional leadership may significantly contribute to the growth and developmet of communities. By considering some of the proposals made, local, municipal and national governments can work together to improve the service delivery. , Thesis (MCom (DevStud)) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Fojisa, Azukile https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8705-0021
- Date: 2023-11
- Subjects: Community development -- South Africa , Tribal government -- South Africa , Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29398 , vital:77963
- Description: Following South Africa's democratic elections, the challenges that traditional leaders faced during apartheid rule were investigated in 1994 in an attempt to repair the damage done to traditional leadership by multiple administrations throughout the colonial and apartheid regimes. The introduction of a democratic system brought about significant changes in political ties and geographical demarcations thus affecting traditional leaders' influence and their impact in their districts. New legislation was introduced following democratic elections. According to the revised limits of local governments, communities were placed in the hands of municipal councilors rather than traditional leaders for community development. This study investigated how traditional leadership contributes to community development in Mbhashe Municipality in South Africa's Eastern Cape province. A qualitative research approach was used in collecting and analyzing the data. The findings revealed tensions between the traditional authorities of the Mbhashe local government and the government, which are attributed to the poor relations. Consequently, this negatively affects the development of the local residents. Traditional leaders feel they have legitimacy based on cultural history and religion, while government officials believe they are responsible for all community development programs in their area of operation. The findings also indicate that traditional leaders face challenges in developing their communities, and the residents of Mbhashe municipality have poor access to social services. The study concludes that competent traditional leadership may significantly contribute to the growth and developmet of communities. By considering some of the proposals made, local, municipal and national governments can work together to improve the service delivery. , Thesis (MCom (DevStud)) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Determinants of FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) inflow in lowincome Sub-Saharan African countries
- Moyo, Patience https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3024-085X
- Authors: Moyo, Patience https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3024-085X
- Date: 2023-10
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29484 , vital:77971
- Description: A panel data analysis from 1980 to 2019 on determinants that lure Foreign Direct Investment in 48 low-income countries in SSA was carried out. The fixed effects random effects and Haussmann test were used. This study also contributed to the existing literature by applying all these techniques and embracing the Institutional and eclectic paradigm theoretical framework to assess the significance of factors that influence FDI inflow. A trend analysis of developed, transitional, and developing countries as compared to low-income countries, on factors that attract investors to finance their country's economic activities was discussed. Previous studies show that high- and middle-income countries attract higher FDI as compared to low-income countries. Results from the study show that political stability, investment in infrastructure, political stability and control of corruption enhance FDI. The study fills the gap in the existing literature that location factors in coastal regions attract more FDI as compared to inland economies. High income economies attract more FDI as compared to low income economies in SSA. , Thesis (MCom in Economics) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Moyo, Patience https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3024-085X
- Date: 2023-10
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29484 , vital:77971
- Description: A panel data analysis from 1980 to 2019 on determinants that lure Foreign Direct Investment in 48 low-income countries in SSA was carried out. The fixed effects random effects and Haussmann test were used. This study also contributed to the existing literature by applying all these techniques and embracing the Institutional and eclectic paradigm theoretical framework to assess the significance of factors that influence FDI inflow. A trend analysis of developed, transitional, and developing countries as compared to low-income countries, on factors that attract investors to finance their country's economic activities was discussed. Previous studies show that high- and middle-income countries attract higher FDI as compared to low-income countries. Results from the study show that political stability, investment in infrastructure, political stability and control of corruption enhance FDI. The study fills the gap in the existing literature that location factors in coastal regions attract more FDI as compared to inland economies. High income economies attract more FDI as compared to low income economies in SSA. , Thesis (MCom in Economics) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Housing market dynamics and economic growth in South Africa (1994 – 2019)
- Authors: Muchaonyerwa, Forward
- Date: 2023-09
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Housing -- Prices -- South Africa , Housing forecasting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28628 , vital:74477
- Description: The housing market contributes significantly to economic growth. On this background, the study examined South Africa’s housing market dynamics, particularly determinants of demand, supply, and formal housing prices. Furthermore, the study looked at the impact of housing prices on economic growth from 1994:Q1 to 2019:Q2. The study period is important as it covers the new political dispensation in South Africa where the country entered a new democracy in 1994. The first three objectives of the study were to identify the determinants of housing demand, supply, and prices. The theory of demand and supply provided the theoretical framework for these models. Estimation of the housing demand, supply and price models was done by the employing Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) technique. The Three Stage Least Squares (3SLS) model was estimated for robustness. Findings from SUR and 3SLS confirmed that Housing Demand (HD) is negatively and significantly influenced by residential Building Costs per Square Meter (BCSM), Housing Supply (HS) and Financial Costs (FC); and positively influenced by House Prices (HP). In addition, HS is negatively affected by BCSM, HD, Production Costs (PC) and Urban Population (UP); and positively influenced by HP and Residential Construction Confidence (RC). Lastly, HP are negatively affected by Prime Overdraft Rate (POR) and RC; and positively influenced by BCSM, HS, HD, Coincident Business Cycle Indicator (CBC) and residential Valuation (VAL). The fourth objective was to examine the impact of house prices on economic growth. An economic model was specified with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as its dependent variable. The new growth theory provided the theoretical framework for this model. The Johansen co-integration technique confirmed a long run-term relationship between economic growth and house prices. The Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) was estimated to analyze the long and short run relationship among the variables. Empirical results confirmed that house prices have a positive impact on economic growth. Results further confirmed that CBC and Unemployment Rate (UR) are also positively related to GDP. POR and Leading Business Cycle indicator (LEBC) are negatively related to GDP. Granger Causality test was performed to analyze the causality between house prices and economic growth. The results indicated that there is a long run unidirectional causality from house prices to economic growth. With these results, the study recommends policy formation emanating from continuous research by establishing a human settlement agency or task team. The team can establish procedures for data collection and maintain a database for all kinds of housing market data. Their mandate includes research on commissioning of new towns and/or cities to boost housing supply. The government should avail more land and relax restrictive regulations and minimize red tape to ensure that houses are supplied to meet the growing demand as well as to stabilize prices. Policies to promote confidence and stabilize building costs are needed. These variables indicated significant influence on housing dynamics. It is also recommended to incentivize households to participate on the mortgage market. This assist both households through the wealth effect which positively influence increase in economic activity in South Africa. , Thesis (DCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Muchaonyerwa, Forward
- Date: 2023-09
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Housing -- Prices -- South Africa , Housing forecasting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28628 , vital:74477
- Description: The housing market contributes significantly to economic growth. On this background, the study examined South Africa’s housing market dynamics, particularly determinants of demand, supply, and formal housing prices. Furthermore, the study looked at the impact of housing prices on economic growth from 1994:Q1 to 2019:Q2. The study period is important as it covers the new political dispensation in South Africa where the country entered a new democracy in 1994. The first three objectives of the study were to identify the determinants of housing demand, supply, and prices. The theory of demand and supply provided the theoretical framework for these models. Estimation of the housing demand, supply and price models was done by the employing Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) technique. The Three Stage Least Squares (3SLS) model was estimated for robustness. Findings from SUR and 3SLS confirmed that Housing Demand (HD) is negatively and significantly influenced by residential Building Costs per Square Meter (BCSM), Housing Supply (HS) and Financial Costs (FC); and positively influenced by House Prices (HP). In addition, HS is negatively affected by BCSM, HD, Production Costs (PC) and Urban Population (UP); and positively influenced by HP and Residential Construction Confidence (RC). Lastly, HP are negatively affected by Prime Overdraft Rate (POR) and RC; and positively influenced by BCSM, HS, HD, Coincident Business Cycle Indicator (CBC) and residential Valuation (VAL). The fourth objective was to examine the impact of house prices on economic growth. An economic model was specified with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as its dependent variable. The new growth theory provided the theoretical framework for this model. The Johansen co-integration technique confirmed a long run-term relationship between economic growth and house prices. The Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) was estimated to analyze the long and short run relationship among the variables. Empirical results confirmed that house prices have a positive impact on economic growth. Results further confirmed that CBC and Unemployment Rate (UR) are also positively related to GDP. POR and Leading Business Cycle indicator (LEBC) are negatively related to GDP. Granger Causality test was performed to analyze the causality between house prices and economic growth. The results indicated that there is a long run unidirectional causality from house prices to economic growth. With these results, the study recommends policy formation emanating from continuous research by establishing a human settlement agency or task team. The team can establish procedures for data collection and maintain a database for all kinds of housing market data. Their mandate includes research on commissioning of new towns and/or cities to boost housing supply. The government should avail more land and relax restrictive regulations and minimize red tape to ensure that houses are supplied to meet the growing demand as well as to stabilize prices. Policies to promote confidence and stabilize building costs are needed. These variables indicated significant influence on housing dynamics. It is also recommended to incentivize households to participate on the mortgage market. This assist both households through the wealth effect which positively influence increase in economic activity in South Africa. , Thesis (DCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Human capital development and strategic plan alignment: a case of the Eastern Cape Department of Education
- Zindi, Beauty https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4790-5379
- Authors: Zindi, Beauty https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4790-5379
- Date: 2023-09
- Subjects: Human capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28694 , vital:74500
- Description: Human capital development as an interactive process enhances and facilitates the development of skills, capabilities and potential of human capital through organisational development. Thus, to achieve goals and strategic plans effectively and efficiently, the public sector must continuously upskill the knowledge and capacity of its human capital. The dearth in skills and capacity, often result in sub-optimal performance in the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). To achieve key objectives in its strategic plan, the ECDoE must align its hhuman capital development needs with its strategic plan. The main objective of this study is to explore the nature and extent of alignment between human capital development and the strategic plan of the ECDoE. The sub-objectives of the study are to: (i) establish a conceptual framework for informing human capital development and strategic plan alignment in theECDoE ; (ii) determine how continuous teacher development as a human capital development approach can be more closely aligned with the strategic priorities of the ECDoE’s strategic plan; (iii) explore how human capital development aligns with the strategic plan and Performance Development Management System (PDMS) of the ECDoE and (iv) recommend how the ECDoE can align its strategic human capital development to its strategic plan and performance management system. The study adopts a pragmatic research philosophy and a mixed- methods approach. The quantitative strategy and positivist paradigm were adopted to collect data, from purposefully two hundred and sixty-seven (n=267) educators using a survey questionnaire. The interpretivist research philosophy informed the qualitative strategy. In-depth interview data was collected from five (n=5) purposefully sampled information-rich participants to a point of data saturation. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. Statistical results from survey data rejected hypothesis H10 and confirmed H11 which hypothesised that there was a relationship between eemployee performance and sstrategic plan alignment. Results further confirmed the relationship between employee performance and effectiveness of training alignment. Furthermore, results confirmed an association between employee performance and trainee evaluation. Results from qualitative data suggest that the ECDoE lacked competitive and effective skills human capital development training programmes, effective human resource development strategy as well as developmental capacity building training opportunities for educators. Such capacity dearth affected both educator and learner performance, leading to sub-optimal performance learner outcomes and academic achievement results. The ECDoE must therefore closely monitor and evaluate training programmes and assess their impact on educator performance. Training must be closely aligned with skills and capacity training needs of employees and must contribute to skills acquisition and job performance indicators, envisaged in the department’s strategic plan, mission and vision. Given the findings, the study recommends a framework for human capital development and strategic plan alignment in the public sector, particularly in the ECDoE. It concludes that continuous professional development must be a key performance driver for improving effectiveness and efficiency in strategic goal, vision and mission attainment. , Thesis (DPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zindi, Beauty https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4790-5379
- Date: 2023-09
- Subjects: Human capital -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28694 , vital:74500
- Description: Human capital development as an interactive process enhances and facilitates the development of skills, capabilities and potential of human capital through organisational development. Thus, to achieve goals and strategic plans effectively and efficiently, the public sector must continuously upskill the knowledge and capacity of its human capital. The dearth in skills and capacity, often result in sub-optimal performance in the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). To achieve key objectives in its strategic plan, the ECDoE must align its hhuman capital development needs with its strategic plan. The main objective of this study is to explore the nature and extent of alignment between human capital development and the strategic plan of the ECDoE. The sub-objectives of the study are to: (i) establish a conceptual framework for informing human capital development and strategic plan alignment in theECDoE ; (ii) determine how continuous teacher development as a human capital development approach can be more closely aligned with the strategic priorities of the ECDoE’s strategic plan; (iii) explore how human capital development aligns with the strategic plan and Performance Development Management System (PDMS) of the ECDoE and (iv) recommend how the ECDoE can align its strategic human capital development to its strategic plan and performance management system. The study adopts a pragmatic research philosophy and a mixed- methods approach. The quantitative strategy and positivist paradigm were adopted to collect data, from purposefully two hundred and sixty-seven (n=267) educators using a survey questionnaire. The interpretivist research philosophy informed the qualitative strategy. In-depth interview data was collected from five (n=5) purposefully sampled information-rich participants to a point of data saturation. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. Statistical results from survey data rejected hypothesis H10 and confirmed H11 which hypothesised that there was a relationship between eemployee performance and sstrategic plan alignment. Results further confirmed the relationship between employee performance and effectiveness of training alignment. Furthermore, results confirmed an association between employee performance and trainee evaluation. Results from qualitative data suggest that the ECDoE lacked competitive and effective skills human capital development training programmes, effective human resource development strategy as well as developmental capacity building training opportunities for educators. Such capacity dearth affected both educator and learner performance, leading to sub-optimal performance learner outcomes and academic achievement results. The ECDoE must therefore closely monitor and evaluate training programmes and assess their impact on educator performance. Training must be closely aligned with skills and capacity training needs of employees and must contribute to skills acquisition and job performance indicators, envisaged in the department’s strategic plan, mission and vision. Given the findings, the study recommends a framework for human capital development and strategic plan alignment in the public sector, particularly in the ECDoE. It concludes that continuous professional development must be a key performance driver for improving effectiveness and efficiency in strategic goal, vision and mission attainment. , Thesis (DPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The mediating effects of human resource management practices on the relationship between organisational learning and the performance of small businesses
- Jongilanga, Nandi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2360-6753
- Authors: Jongilanga, Nandi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2360-6753
- Date: 2023-09
- Subjects: Small business -- Personnel management , Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29424 , vital:77965
- Description: SMEs are the productive drivers of economic growth and create jobs in many economies around the globe and in South Africa. Moreover, these businesses operate in a highly competitive environment and as they grow, there is a need to develop and implement HRM practices to achieve sustainability. However, there is still limited research about SMEs in the HRM context. The purpose of this study was to establish the role of HRM in the performance and sustainability of SMEs in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the purpose of this study the study adopted the positivist paradigm motivated by the quantitative approach that used a descriptive research design. A survey in the form of questionnaires was employed in which 265 questionnaires were randomly distributed across small businesses in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. Findings/results: The findings of the study showed that there is a positive significant impact of a) organisational learning and performance of small businesses, b) organisational learning and HRM practices, c) HRM practices and performance of small businesses, d) HRM practices significantly mediates the relationship between organisational learning and sustainable development. The study showed that HRM practices does not mediates the relationship between organisational learning and financial performance. Practical implications: Based on the findings of the study, scholars must conduct more research on the HRM in SMEs because of the significant role that HRM plays in the sustainability of these businesses. Moreover, small businesses must implement the HR function or policy in the businesses to remain sustainable and maximise their resources. Originality/value: The results of this study could guide small business owners and managers must implement HRM practices in their businesses to achieve a competitive sustainable advantage int the highly competitive environment in which they operate. , Thesis (MBM) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Jongilanga, Nandi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2360-6753
- Date: 2023-09
- Subjects: Small business -- Personnel management , Organizational learning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29424 , vital:77965
- Description: SMEs are the productive drivers of economic growth and create jobs in many economies around the globe and in South Africa. Moreover, these businesses operate in a highly competitive environment and as they grow, there is a need to develop and implement HRM practices to achieve sustainability. However, there is still limited research about SMEs in the HRM context. The purpose of this study was to establish the role of HRM in the performance and sustainability of SMEs in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the purpose of this study the study adopted the positivist paradigm motivated by the quantitative approach that used a descriptive research design. A survey in the form of questionnaires was employed in which 265 questionnaires were randomly distributed across small businesses in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. Findings/results: The findings of the study showed that there is a positive significant impact of a) organisational learning and performance of small businesses, b) organisational learning and HRM practices, c) HRM practices and performance of small businesses, d) HRM practices significantly mediates the relationship between organisational learning and sustainable development. The study showed that HRM practices does not mediates the relationship between organisational learning and financial performance. Practical implications: Based on the findings of the study, scholars must conduct more research on the HRM in SMEs because of the significant role that HRM plays in the sustainability of these businesses. Moreover, small businesses must implement the HR function or policy in the businesses to remain sustainable and maximise their resources. Originality/value: The results of this study could guide small business owners and managers must implement HRM practices in their businesses to achieve a competitive sustainable advantage int the highly competitive environment in which they operate. , Thesis (MBM) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The moderation and mediation influence of dynamic capabilities and decision-making dimensions on South African family business performance
- Pike-Bowles, Angela https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4811-0455
- Authors: Pike-Bowles, Angela https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4811-0455
- Date: 2023-07
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Decision making , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession -- South Africa , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28684 , vital:74499
- Description: Family businesses are fundamental for any world economy where they contribute significantly to economic prosperity. However, family firms are faced with new obstacles that are directly affecting their business performance due to the current economic uncertainties and the rapidly changing environments. The implementation of dynamic capabilities is a fundamental strategic tool family firms can exercise to improve their competitive advantage. Although family business research has proliferated over the last 10 years, there are few studies in South Africa investigating the extent to which dynamic capabilities influence family business performance. This study, therefore, had a primary objective to investigate the determinants of family business performance and the role that dynamic capabilities play as mediators and moderators. Studying such a research theme has not received sufficient attention within the family business field, which emphasises the need for such a topic to be investigated. The independent variables for the study entailed dynamic capabilities and decision-making constructs while the dependent variable comprised family business performance. Consequently, the mediating variables included strategic foresight, strategic flexibility, and strategic creativity while the moderating variables included strategic creativity and strategic flexibility. This investigation followed a quantitative methodological logic by employing the questionnaire as the research instrument. In total, 347 family business managers and owners from the eight districts of the Eastern Cape participated in the study. The family businesses were accessed through a convenience sampling technique to identify if their business suited the inclusion criteria of the study. Data analysis was executed through SPSS where the moderation-mediation analysis followed the Hayes process macro through multiple regression analysis. The research findings revealed that there is both a significant positive and mediation relationship between the dynamic capabilities constructs entailing environmental scanning, scenario planning, knowledge creation, culture, and formal organisation with the decision-making constructs of strategic foresight, flexibility, and creativity with family business performance. Interestingly, a moderation relationship does not exist between these constructs and the strategic foresight of the family firm. However, a moderation relationship does exist between the dynamic capabilities constructs of knowledge creation and culture and strategic foresight when moderated by strategic creativity. Thus, family business performance is positively influenced by the said dynamic capabilities and decision-making constructs. The results ultimately provided implications for family businesses with practical advice on the successful implementation and monitoring of dynamic capabilities and decisionmaking in the family business. Lastly, this study makes recommendations for family and non-family business owners, government, and academics. These recommendations entail family businesses implementing a lucrative dynamic capability model to improve family business performance in the context of South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Pike-Bowles, Angela https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4811-0455
- Date: 2023-07
- Subjects: Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Decision making , Family-owned business enterprises -- Succession -- South Africa , Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28684 , vital:74499
- Description: Family businesses are fundamental for any world economy where they contribute significantly to economic prosperity. However, family firms are faced with new obstacles that are directly affecting their business performance due to the current economic uncertainties and the rapidly changing environments. The implementation of dynamic capabilities is a fundamental strategic tool family firms can exercise to improve their competitive advantage. Although family business research has proliferated over the last 10 years, there are few studies in South Africa investigating the extent to which dynamic capabilities influence family business performance. This study, therefore, had a primary objective to investigate the determinants of family business performance and the role that dynamic capabilities play as mediators and moderators. Studying such a research theme has not received sufficient attention within the family business field, which emphasises the need for such a topic to be investigated. The independent variables for the study entailed dynamic capabilities and decision-making constructs while the dependent variable comprised family business performance. Consequently, the mediating variables included strategic foresight, strategic flexibility, and strategic creativity while the moderating variables included strategic creativity and strategic flexibility. This investigation followed a quantitative methodological logic by employing the questionnaire as the research instrument. In total, 347 family business managers and owners from the eight districts of the Eastern Cape participated in the study. The family businesses were accessed through a convenience sampling technique to identify if their business suited the inclusion criteria of the study. Data analysis was executed through SPSS where the moderation-mediation analysis followed the Hayes process macro through multiple regression analysis. The research findings revealed that there is both a significant positive and mediation relationship between the dynamic capabilities constructs entailing environmental scanning, scenario planning, knowledge creation, culture, and formal organisation with the decision-making constructs of strategic foresight, flexibility, and creativity with family business performance. Interestingly, a moderation relationship does not exist between these constructs and the strategic foresight of the family firm. However, a moderation relationship does exist between the dynamic capabilities constructs of knowledge creation and culture and strategic foresight when moderated by strategic creativity. Thus, family business performance is positively influenced by the said dynamic capabilities and decision-making constructs. The results ultimately provided implications for family businesses with practical advice on the successful implementation and monitoring of dynamic capabilities and decisionmaking in the family business. Lastly, this study makes recommendations for family and non-family business owners, government, and academics. These recommendations entail family businesses implementing a lucrative dynamic capability model to improve family business performance in the context of South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The role of leadership in enhancing organisational performance: the case of Eastern Cape department of education (ECDoE)
- Dlamkile, Phumlani https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0551-0846
- Authors: Dlamkile, Phumlani https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0551-0846
- Date: 2023-07
- Subjects: Leadership--Education , Performance--Management , Public Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29376 , vital:77958
- Description: This study seeks to establish that there are many problems facing the educational system in the Eastern Cape. This has resulted in many children learning in nonconducive environments, and dilapidated infrastructure among others. Noticeably, many teaching and learning are been undertaken under the tress The objectives of the study were: to ascertain the role of leadership on organisational performance in enhancing public services delivery in the ECDOE; to identify and evaluate the current leadership challenges of ECDOE; to identify and evaluate the leadership roles and styles used in ECDOE; to examine the factors affecting performance monitoring and evaluation within ECDOE; to assess the type of culture within ECDOE; and to come up with a model/framework that will enhance efficiency within ECDOE. Both quantitative and qualitative research techniques were utilised in this study, and 40 questionnaires were distributed to the participants. The data were analysed using SPSS. The result of the study shows that there is a huge gap between the DoBE, the school, the community, and other partners. The study also revealed the shortage of resources, and support from districts and the department, also schools in rural areas are neglected, outdated infrastructure, inadequate community participation and inadequate stakeholders’ involvement. The finding from the literature also confirmed that many principals do face various obstacles especially when making efforts to manage their school affairs in order to achieve brilliant, desired goals. The study noted that the government has not done enough in addressing most of the problems facing learners in the Eastern Cape and as a matter of urgency; there is a need for the government to intervene urgently before the educational systems collapsed in the Eastern Cape. The study recommended that the department, the districts, the school, the municipalities, and other government departments should come together to build a better future for South African young minds. The study also recommended the school must build international relationships with the help of universities close to the schools for better performance and success of the schools. , Thesis (DPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dlamkile, Phumlani https://orcid.org/0009-0002-0551-0846
- Date: 2023-07
- Subjects: Leadership--Education , Performance--Management , Public Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29376 , vital:77958
- Description: This study seeks to establish that there are many problems facing the educational system in the Eastern Cape. This has resulted in many children learning in nonconducive environments, and dilapidated infrastructure among others. Noticeably, many teaching and learning are been undertaken under the tress The objectives of the study were: to ascertain the role of leadership on organisational performance in enhancing public services delivery in the ECDOE; to identify and evaluate the current leadership challenges of ECDOE; to identify and evaluate the leadership roles and styles used in ECDOE; to examine the factors affecting performance monitoring and evaluation within ECDOE; to assess the type of culture within ECDOE; and to come up with a model/framework that will enhance efficiency within ECDOE. Both quantitative and qualitative research techniques were utilised in this study, and 40 questionnaires were distributed to the participants. The data were analysed using SPSS. The result of the study shows that there is a huge gap between the DoBE, the school, the community, and other partners. The study also revealed the shortage of resources, and support from districts and the department, also schools in rural areas are neglected, outdated infrastructure, inadequate community participation and inadequate stakeholders’ involvement. The finding from the literature also confirmed that many principals do face various obstacles especially when making efforts to manage their school affairs in order to achieve brilliant, desired goals. The study noted that the government has not done enough in addressing most of the problems facing learners in the Eastern Cape and as a matter of urgency; there is a need for the government to intervene urgently before the educational systems collapsed in the Eastern Cape. The study recommended that the department, the districts, the school, the municipalities, and other government departments should come together to build a better future for South African young minds. The study also recommended the school must build international relationships with the help of universities close to the schools for better performance and success of the schools. , Thesis (DPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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A framework for understanding the role of culture and the transmission of women entrepreneurship promotion in South Africa
- Karasi, Yvonne https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8822-281X
- Authors: Karasi, Yvonne https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8822-281X
- Date: 2023-06
- Subjects: Women in economic development -- South Africa , Businesswomen -- South Africa , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28569 , vital:74421
- Description: Developing countries are increasingly recognising the need for promoting women entrepreneurship. Within Africa, women’s contribution tends to be ignored. Thus, gender discrimination, the lack of finance, limited education, limited technical skills, role conflicts, and culture are among the most cited barriers for women entrepreneurship. Recent literature challenges the notion that all aforementioned factors are barriers to entrepreneurial action. To contribute to knowledge, this study sensitises the culture element. Accordingly, there is a growing body of knowledge that is viewing culture as an enabler (and not a barrier) of women entrepreneurship. Two factors are at the core of this argument: (1) culture, as it is understood, in the contemporary literature is not appropriately conceptualised from an African perspective. (2) The definition of entrepreneurship as it relates to the developing countries is restrictive. These definitions ignore various economic activities undertaken mostly by women, which if carefully considered are indeed entrepreneurship. Therefore, it was appropriate for this thesis to explore the issues of both culture and entrepreneurship within the existing body of literature with the intention of gaining a knowledge of the dynamics of women's entrepreneurship in Africa. The scant research that has been done on the entrepreneurial dynamics of women and, in particular, how culture influences the latter, was recognized as a lacuna in the existing body of literature. Consequently, this study considered cultural determinants of entrepreneurship as well as the transmission of entrepreneurship across generations. The thesis was undertaken using a qualitative methodology. Using snowballing sampling technique, female entrepreneurs from 3 provinces (i.e., Gauteng, Limpopo, and Eastern Cape) in South Africa participated in the study. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews. The transcribed interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed, among others, that there is a misconception on what constitutes “true African culture.” Thus, results suggest that the conceptualisation of culture in the African context, contrasts the conceptualisation in previous (non-African) literature. Furthermore, some elements of culture are indeed barriers. Interestingly, personal factors such as characteristics of women entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial intentions have also contributed to the barriers to women entrepreneurship. Finally, the study proposes a framework for leveraging culture to be an entrepreneurial enabler for women entrepreneurship. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Karasi, Yvonne https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8822-281X
- Date: 2023-06
- Subjects: Women in economic development -- South Africa , Businesswomen -- South Africa , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28569 , vital:74421
- Description: Developing countries are increasingly recognising the need for promoting women entrepreneurship. Within Africa, women’s contribution tends to be ignored. Thus, gender discrimination, the lack of finance, limited education, limited technical skills, role conflicts, and culture are among the most cited barriers for women entrepreneurship. Recent literature challenges the notion that all aforementioned factors are barriers to entrepreneurial action. To contribute to knowledge, this study sensitises the culture element. Accordingly, there is a growing body of knowledge that is viewing culture as an enabler (and not a barrier) of women entrepreneurship. Two factors are at the core of this argument: (1) culture, as it is understood, in the contemporary literature is not appropriately conceptualised from an African perspective. (2) The definition of entrepreneurship as it relates to the developing countries is restrictive. These definitions ignore various economic activities undertaken mostly by women, which if carefully considered are indeed entrepreneurship. Therefore, it was appropriate for this thesis to explore the issues of both culture and entrepreneurship within the existing body of literature with the intention of gaining a knowledge of the dynamics of women's entrepreneurship in Africa. The scant research that has been done on the entrepreneurial dynamics of women and, in particular, how culture influences the latter, was recognized as a lacuna in the existing body of literature. Consequently, this study considered cultural determinants of entrepreneurship as well as the transmission of entrepreneurship across generations. The thesis was undertaken using a qualitative methodology. Using snowballing sampling technique, female entrepreneurs from 3 provinces (i.e., Gauteng, Limpopo, and Eastern Cape) in South Africa participated in the study. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews. The transcribed interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed, among others, that there is a misconception on what constitutes “true African culture.” Thus, results suggest that the conceptualisation of culture in the African context, contrasts the conceptualisation in previous (non-African) literature. Furthermore, some elements of culture are indeed barriers. Interestingly, personal factors such as characteristics of women entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial intentions have also contributed to the barriers to women entrepreneurship. Finally, the study proposes a framework for leveraging culture to be an entrepreneurial enabler for women entrepreneurship. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Foreign direct investment, institutions and economic growth in the selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries
- Authors: Onceya, Siyabulela
- Date: 2023-06
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Africa, Southern , Southern African Development Community -- Economic conditions , Economic development -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28672 , vital:74497
- Description: Examining the relationship between economic growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) has been a subject of discussion for many researchers, economists, and policy analysts mainly in developing regions. It is important to note that, recent literature highlights that there are other country-specific conditions such as state of institutions which are important in attracting FDI inflows into a country. Given this, the study analysed the relationship between FDI, institutions and economic growth in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for the period 1990- 2020. The analysis was carried out at both cross- country (2010 to 2018) and individual country level (1990 to 2018). The main objectives of the study were to review the trends of FDI inflow into the region, institutional framework, and trends economic growth in the region as well as member countries. Secondly, to analyse the impact of FDI inflow and institutions on economic growth in the selected SADC countries. Thirdly, to examine how institutions and other factors determine the amount of FDI inflow to the selected SADC countries an provide policy recommendations. Existing literature has documented the relationship between FDI and economic growth. However, the significance of this study is that it provides an analysis of the impact of FDI inflows on economic growth in the SADC region at both cross-country and country specific level. At cross- country level, the Generalized Methods of Moments (GMM) was utilized as the estimation technique. The empirical results revealed that there exists a positive relationship between FDI and economic growth both in the short run and long run. The results also revealed that institutions in combination with financial sector development have a positive effect on economic growth in the SADC region. This gives support to the complimentary view of the importance of institutions and financial sector development as important factors determining the extent to which FDI influences economic growth. Guided by economic theory which suggests that there is a two-way relationship between FDI and economic growth, granger causality tests were performed to check the direction of effect between the two variables. The empirical results revealed that there is a bi-directional relationship between FDI, institutions and economic growth. This in a way suggest that the past values of each of the variables, explains the current values of the other variables. On the other hand, at country level, utilising the Autoregressive Distributed Lag model, empirical results revealed that the effects of FDI and institutions on economic growth is positive and significant. However, this was not found to be the case for Mauritius and Namibia. Given the significant role played by FDI in promoting economic growth, the study also investigated the factors determining the inflow of FDI into the SADC region focusing on the role played by institutions and other factors utilising GMM technique. The empirical results revealed that, in addition to institutions, financial development, infrastructure, and education also play an important role in determining the inflow of FDI into these countries. To a greater extent the same findings were also established at country level. Of great importance the study recommends that at a country level, countries should develop and adopt policies that strengthen good governance and sound institutions. These policies must be implemented and monitored to attract more FDI both in the short-run and long-run. , Thesis (DCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Onceya, Siyabulela
- Date: 2023-06
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- Africa, Southern , Southern African Development Community -- Economic conditions , Economic development -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28672 , vital:74497
- Description: Examining the relationship between economic growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) has been a subject of discussion for many researchers, economists, and policy analysts mainly in developing regions. It is important to note that, recent literature highlights that there are other country-specific conditions such as state of institutions which are important in attracting FDI inflows into a country. Given this, the study analysed the relationship between FDI, institutions and economic growth in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for the period 1990- 2020. The analysis was carried out at both cross- country (2010 to 2018) and individual country level (1990 to 2018). The main objectives of the study were to review the trends of FDI inflow into the region, institutional framework, and trends economic growth in the region as well as member countries. Secondly, to analyse the impact of FDI inflow and institutions on economic growth in the selected SADC countries. Thirdly, to examine how institutions and other factors determine the amount of FDI inflow to the selected SADC countries an provide policy recommendations. Existing literature has documented the relationship between FDI and economic growth. However, the significance of this study is that it provides an analysis of the impact of FDI inflows on economic growth in the SADC region at both cross-country and country specific level. At cross- country level, the Generalized Methods of Moments (GMM) was utilized as the estimation technique. The empirical results revealed that there exists a positive relationship between FDI and economic growth both in the short run and long run. The results also revealed that institutions in combination with financial sector development have a positive effect on economic growth in the SADC region. This gives support to the complimentary view of the importance of institutions and financial sector development as important factors determining the extent to which FDI influences economic growth. Guided by economic theory which suggests that there is a two-way relationship between FDI and economic growth, granger causality tests were performed to check the direction of effect between the two variables. The empirical results revealed that there is a bi-directional relationship between FDI, institutions and economic growth. This in a way suggest that the past values of each of the variables, explains the current values of the other variables. On the other hand, at country level, utilising the Autoregressive Distributed Lag model, empirical results revealed that the effects of FDI and institutions on economic growth is positive and significant. However, this was not found to be the case for Mauritius and Namibia. Given the significant role played by FDI in promoting economic growth, the study also investigated the factors determining the inflow of FDI into the SADC region focusing on the role played by institutions and other factors utilising GMM technique. The empirical results revealed that, in addition to institutions, financial development, infrastructure, and education also play an important role in determining the inflow of FDI into these countries. To a greater extent the same findings were also established at country level. Of great importance the study recommends that at a country level, countries should develop and adopt policies that strengthen good governance and sound institutions. These policies must be implemented and monitored to attract more FDI both in the short-run and long-run. , Thesis (DCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Financial sector development, financial innovation and economic growth: case of a selected SADC countries
- Mpukumpa, Siphosethu https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7342-8751
- Authors: Mpukumpa, Siphosethu https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7342-8751
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial services industry -- Africa, Southern , Investments -- Africa, Southern , Economic development -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26852 , vital:66036
- Description: The financial sector plays a pivotal role in an economy of a country; hence the importance of financial sector development cannot be underestimated. Financial sector development is widely regarded as another conduit through which financial innovation and economic growth can be alleviated. The study firstly empirically examines the effect of financial sector development on financial innovation and also the impact of financial sector development and financial innovation on economic growth in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, employing the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1990 to 2020. Empirical results revealed that financial sector development overall does have an impact on financial innovation in the selected SADC countries. And also, financial sector development together with financial innovation does have an impact on economic growth in the selected SADC countries. However, on the relationship between financial system stability, financial innovation and economic growth, results reveal that a stable financial system is beneficial to new technological advancement and improved economic growth. Therefore, the overall findings from the study indicate that financial access or financial inclusion and financial stability is what increases financial innovation and boosts economic growth instead of mere financial sector development at a broader level. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mpukumpa, Siphosethu https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7342-8751
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial services industry -- Africa, Southern , Investments -- Africa, Southern , Economic development -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26852 , vital:66036
- Description: The financial sector plays a pivotal role in an economy of a country; hence the importance of financial sector development cannot be underestimated. Financial sector development is widely regarded as another conduit through which financial innovation and economic growth can be alleviated. The study firstly empirically examines the effect of financial sector development on financial innovation and also the impact of financial sector development and financial innovation on economic growth in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, employing the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) technique for the period 1990 to 2020. Empirical results revealed that financial sector development overall does have an impact on financial innovation in the selected SADC countries. And also, financial sector development together with financial innovation does have an impact on economic growth in the selected SADC countries. However, on the relationship between financial system stability, financial innovation and economic growth, results reveal that a stable financial system is beneficial to new technological advancement and improved economic growth. Therefore, the overall findings from the study indicate that financial access or financial inclusion and financial stability is what increases financial innovation and boosts economic growth instead of mere financial sector development at a broader level. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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Effectiveness and efficiency of monitoring and evaluation system in municipal infrastructure grant projects: a case study O.R Tambo District Municipality
- Authors: Dlelaphantsi, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2023-03
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa , Municipal services -- Finance -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28534 , vital:74398
- Description: The Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) was established in order to alleviate poverty and provide the environment for local economic development by providing financial assistance to municipalities for the construction of infrastructure. Many municipalities, including the O.R. Tambo District Municipality, have failed to deliver infrastructure that is adequate and long-lasting, as seen by the numerous protests that have taken place around the metropolis. With this study, the effectiveness and efficiency of Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) projects supported by the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality was evaluated (ORTDM). The data for this study was gathered through the use of a mixed-method research strategy. 15 people of the community completed a structured questionnaire on a Likert scale, and 13 ORTDM experts completed a semi-structured questionnaire. For analysing quantitative data, descriptive and inferential statistics were utilised, and when analysing qualitative data, a theme analysis was used. The findings of this study revealed that: • There is a disparity between theory and practice regarding the achievement of the objectives of the MIG and the implementation of M&E Systems in ORTDM. Whilst the professionals at ORTDM are knowledgeable of the processes or frameworks to ensure that all work plans and budgets are being maintained, community members are adamant that the objectives of the MIG projects are not being achieved, and M&E Systems are poorly applied at ORTDM. • There is a great disparity between the views of the professionals who believed that many strengths or merits are associated with the Monitoring and Evaluation Systems for MIG Projects at the ORTDM and the community members who revealed many inefficiencies and weaknesses in current M&E systems in MIG projects in ORTDM. • It is possible that the ORTDM is falling behind in the provision of services to its communities. • Projects that are well managed and provide economic advantages as well as better quality of life to all dwellers within their poor communities, as is the case at ORTDM, elicit greater interest and satisfaction from community members. The supply of essential utilities including drinking water, sanitary facilities, roadways, and public lighting are all included in these projects. Professionals at ORTDM had divergent views regarding compliance by ORTDM with existing M&E policy and the condition attached to MIG Funding. The professionals at ORTDM believe that ORTDM can address issues of infrastructure backlog, and the project management structure, current projects, key players and their roles, policies and guidelines that guide the overall monitoring and evaluation work are well defined. On the other hand, feedback from the community members revealed a lack of compliance by ORTDM with existing M&E policies and the condition attached to MIG Funding. In general, inadequate governance coexists with an extensive and complex regulatory framework designed to enhance outcomes in MIG projects at ORTDM. As a result, it's possible to conclude that ORTDM's generally weak governance of MIG projects is due to a lack of compliance rather than any serious regulatory deficiencies. That is, rather than a lack of legislation, governance problems are the result of officials failing to implement legal regulations. Considering the myriads of service delivery challenges that have been identified in MIG projects at ORTDM, the proposed recommendations for enhancing transparency and accountability in MIG projects at ORTDM are very significant. Recommendations such as intervention by the national treasury, enhancing community participation, physical verification of projects, strengthening of political oversight committees, etc., are crucial and extremely relevant because they emanated from the actors (ORTDM professionals) who are conversant with the challenges of the MIG projects at ORTDM. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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- Authors: Dlelaphantsi, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2023-03
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa , Municipal services -- Finance -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28534 , vital:74398
- Description: The Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) was established in order to alleviate poverty and provide the environment for local economic development by providing financial assistance to municipalities for the construction of infrastructure. Many municipalities, including the O.R. Tambo District Municipality, have failed to deliver infrastructure that is adequate and long-lasting, as seen by the numerous protests that have taken place around the metropolis. With this study, the effectiveness and efficiency of Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) projects supported by the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality was evaluated (ORTDM). The data for this study was gathered through the use of a mixed-method research strategy. 15 people of the community completed a structured questionnaire on a Likert scale, and 13 ORTDM experts completed a semi-structured questionnaire. For analysing quantitative data, descriptive and inferential statistics were utilised, and when analysing qualitative data, a theme analysis was used. The findings of this study revealed that: • There is a disparity between theory and practice regarding the achievement of the objectives of the MIG and the implementation of M&E Systems in ORTDM. Whilst the professionals at ORTDM are knowledgeable of the processes or frameworks to ensure that all work plans and budgets are being maintained, community members are adamant that the objectives of the MIG projects are not being achieved, and M&E Systems are poorly applied at ORTDM. • There is a great disparity between the views of the professionals who believed that many strengths or merits are associated with the Monitoring and Evaluation Systems for MIG Projects at the ORTDM and the community members who revealed many inefficiencies and weaknesses in current M&E systems in MIG projects in ORTDM. • It is possible that the ORTDM is falling behind in the provision of services to its communities. • Projects that are well managed and provide economic advantages as well as better quality of life to all dwellers within their poor communities, as is the case at ORTDM, elicit greater interest and satisfaction from community members. The supply of essential utilities including drinking water, sanitary facilities, roadways, and public lighting are all included in these projects. Professionals at ORTDM had divergent views regarding compliance by ORTDM with existing M&E policy and the condition attached to MIG Funding. The professionals at ORTDM believe that ORTDM can address issues of infrastructure backlog, and the project management structure, current projects, key players and their roles, policies and guidelines that guide the overall monitoring and evaluation work are well defined. On the other hand, feedback from the community members revealed a lack of compliance by ORTDM with existing M&E policies and the condition attached to MIG Funding. In general, inadequate governance coexists with an extensive and complex regulatory framework designed to enhance outcomes in MIG projects at ORTDM. As a result, it's possible to conclude that ORTDM's generally weak governance of MIG projects is due to a lack of compliance rather than any serious regulatory deficiencies. That is, rather than a lack of legislation, governance problems are the result of officials failing to implement legal regulations. Considering the myriads of service delivery challenges that have been identified in MIG projects at ORTDM, the proposed recommendations for enhancing transparency and accountability in MIG projects at ORTDM are very significant. Recommendations such as intervention by the national treasury, enhancing community participation, physical verification of projects, strengthening of political oversight committees, etc., are crucial and extremely relevant because they emanated from the actors (ORTDM professionals) who are conversant with the challenges of the MIG projects at ORTDM. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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The nexus between capital inflows, financial sector development and domestic investment in selected southern African development community countries
- Zulani, Sihle https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7067-5793
- Authors: Zulani, Sihle https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7067-5793
- Date: 2023-03
- Subjects: Capital movements -- Africa, Southern , Saving and investment -- Africa, Southern , Financial services industry -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28872 , vital:75154
- Description: The study seeks to examine the nexus between foreign capital inflows as proxied by foreign direct investment and overseas development assistance, financial sector development as measured by domestic credit to private sector and broad money supply (M3) and domestic investment [gross fixed capital formation] in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. Panel data model, specifically the panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag technique given the order of integration of the variables utilised in the study was employed from 1980 to 2019. The results revealed that there is cointegration among the variables utilised. After confirming cointegration, the long-run and short run models were estimated to establish the relationship between the variables. The long-run results revealed that about 67% of domestic investment in the SADC region is generated through foreign direct investment. These results suggest that domestic investment is boosted by foreign direct investment in the SADC region. However, financial sector development was found to have a negative effect on domestic investment in the SADC region. The findings from this study suggest that countries should pursue policies aimed at attracting FDI into the SADC region given the positive effect it has on investment. On the part of financial sector development, this could be attributed to the sector not supporting most of the domestic investment given that most of them are small and do not access bank finance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Zulani, Sihle https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7067-5793
- Date: 2023-03
- Subjects: Capital movements -- Africa, Southern , Saving and investment -- Africa, Southern , Financial services industry -- Africa, Southern
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28872 , vital:75154
- Description: The study seeks to examine the nexus between foreign capital inflows as proxied by foreign direct investment and overseas development assistance, financial sector development as measured by domestic credit to private sector and broad money supply (M3) and domestic investment [gross fixed capital formation] in selected Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. Panel data model, specifically the panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag technique given the order of integration of the variables utilised in the study was employed from 1980 to 2019. The results revealed that there is cointegration among the variables utilised. After confirming cointegration, the long-run and short run models were estimated to establish the relationship between the variables. The long-run results revealed that about 67% of domestic investment in the SADC region is generated through foreign direct investment. These results suggest that domestic investment is boosted by foreign direct investment in the SADC region. However, financial sector development was found to have a negative effect on domestic investment in the SADC region. The findings from this study suggest that countries should pursue policies aimed at attracting FDI into the SADC region given the positive effect it has on investment. On the part of financial sector development, this could be attributed to the sector not supporting most of the domestic investment given that most of them are small and do not access bank finance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2023
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