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A netnographic analysis of complaints and service responses on selected South African banks' Twitter handles

  • Authors: Poswa, Ziyanda
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Digital ethnology
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23438 , vital:57731
  • Description: This study is a Netnographic investigation of numerous customer complaints and service responses on selected South African (SA) banks’ Twitter handles. The fulcrum of the study is significantly linked to the Justice theories which thus form the underpinning theories of the study. The study is based on qualitative data derived from selected SA banks’ Twitter handles for duration of at least three months. The study has its philosophy or paradigm deeply rooted in the Interpretivism paradigm. The qualitative research approach is then employed in the study along with the exploratory research design which allows the extrapolation of meaningful conclusions on the findings of the investigation based on the secondary data extracted from 1286 complaints on selected SA banks’ Twitter handles. The researcher makes use of thematic analysis to categorise, investigate, consolidate, define, and create reports on the themes identified in the data set thus enabling the drawing of meaningful inferences. The researcher’s findings point out that customer complaints generally spring from outcome service failure. Outcome service failure defines occurrences where clients are disappointed with banking services or the banking experience regardless of the service or product purchased. Complaints also emanated from process service failures which mostly describe incomplete service delivery. It is thus critically recommended that banks must make sure that process failures are curtailed through an effective improvement of the value chain system. This will also take into account a proper training of banking services personnel and staff. Furthermore, it is also suggested that increased mentoring, and improving or standardising training methods might help to improve bank employee service performance hence reducing incidents of failure. A closer look at the justice theories, it is identified in the study that, banks must try to uphold by all means through effective use of distributive justice service recovery. This is through the application of fairness and courtesy when addressing customer complaints especially on public social platforms such as Twitter. Eventually, this results in increased customer satisfaction and repeated patronage for the respective banks. Through interactional justice service recovery, banks are compelled to try in every way possible not to automate their responses to client complaints in their various or different manner. Procedural justice recovery suggests that banks should take into 3 cognizance better and more effective avenues of promptly responding to their clients hence improving the effectiveness of their service recovery processes. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
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A review of the performance management system in municipalities: a case Study of Mnquma Local Municipality

  • Authors: Yalezo, Yanga https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1663-6559
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Performance -- Management , Performance standards , Job evaluation
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26885 , vital:66039
  • Description: Mnquma Local Municipality is a category B municipality situated in Butterworth in the Eastern Cape with the population of 250 000. Mnquma Local Municipality has a mandate of ensuring that quality services are delivered to its counterparts. Mnquma Local Municipality has a performance management system in place used as a tool to fulfil the mandate. Performance management system is a system that is meant to ensure that the goals and objectives of organisations are achieved. PMS is used worldwide by both the private and public sectors. PMS was first used by the private sector to maximise profits and to minimise poor performance. The public sector also decided to introduce PMS in order to improve the quality-of-service delivery to the public. As such, PMS is a tool that is used to monitor, review, evaluate and assess performance of individual employees. PMS in the public sector especially in the local sphere of government is very important because municipalities are closest to the citizens and are at the core of service delivery. This study sought to investigate how PMS at Mnquma Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province was utilised. The study utilised qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. Fourteen respondents were interviewed in order to get a better understanding of PMS at Mnquma Local Municipality. Data was analysed using thematic content analysis. The theoretical framework used in this study is goal-setting theory and control theory of performance management system The key findings of the study were: the respondents regarded PMS as “tool” utilised to carry-out work in the municipality. Respondents believe that somehow all the employees are subjected to PMS one way or another whether knowingly or not. Municipality should offer employees performance bonuses to motivate them to achieve goals and objectives of the municipality. The recommendations are: the municipality should cascade the PMS to the lower-level employee of the municipality. The municipality should offer bonuses to the employees to elevate the performance of individual employees and to ensure that the goals and objects are achieved. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
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Challenges experienced by Economics teachers without specialization in the subject in Amathole West Education District

  • Authors: Williams, Thandile https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4143-4248
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Economics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) , Economics -- Study and teaching
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26007 , vital:64780
  • Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges experienced by senior secondary school teachers teaching Economics without specialization in the subject. The study was done in three senior secondary schools in the Amathole West Education District in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The intention of the study was to ascertain the challenges these teachers faced in teaching the subject and come up with strategies that can be used to support them. The study adopted a qualitative research approach that used face-to-face interviews and document reviews to collect the required data. Purposive sampling was used to select those who participated in the study. The participants were four educators who teach Economics without specialization, one School Management Team (SMT) member, one principal, and one subject advisor. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect required data from all the participants. Systems Theory and Pedagogical Content Knowledge are the Theoretical Frameworks that this study aligned itself with and relevant literature was also reviewed in the study. The study revealed reasons for teachers to teach Economics without specialization, challenges faced by these teachers, how these teachers cope with the challenges they face, and the support provided to these teachers. Based on the findings revealed by the study, some recommendations have been made. The major ones are: teachers teaching subjects without specialization in the subject should be reallocated to teach the subjects they specialized in, and/or the teachers should enrol for a study course(s) specially designed for them to capacitate themselves, and the Department of Education must fund these courses for these teachers. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
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Exploring the role of the Department of Social Development on the integrated school health programme in the Buffalo City Municipality .

  • Authors: Nokama, Busisa Antoinette
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Children--Health and hygiene. , School nursing. , Employee health promotion.
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22198 , vital:51997
  • Description: If one’s health is a state of wellbeing then the role of social development is key in the implementation of the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP) as it includes treatment and prevention of psychosocial dysfunction. The purpose of the study was to explore the role of the Department of Social Development (DSD) within the ISHP in Buffalo City Municipality. DSD services are complex hence the need active collaboration to ensure delivery of multi-sectoral services. Covid-19 evidently shows the link between physical, emotional and academic success (OECD, 2020). The trauma and challenges faced by learners’ manifests through behavioral problems that social workers and counsellors can address more effectively. Social work practice aims to treat and prevent psychosocial dysfunction, thus social workers remain integral in addressing social determinants of health. The challenges in the implementation of ISHP began at policy development, moreover they were exacerbated by poor coordination and management of the ISHP. The legislative framework however affords learners the right to protective care and support. The role of social development is not limited to transportation but has been captured through psychosocial support. The study suitably employed a qualitative research design to examine how the participants make sense of the Integrated School Health Programme and to provide a comprehensive description of the complex role of the DSD in the provision of psychosocial support. 15 participants from DOH, DoE and DSD were interviewed to capture the perspective of all three (3) departments. The findings indicated how the development of the policy impacts implementation. The DSD is participating in the implementation of ISHP, however the failure of the policy to capture the role of the DSD, hinders the DSD from full participation. The study also found a lack of resourcesto support implementation and often struggle to get learners but implementation varies. Conclusively, the study recommends the need for the departments to develop a Memorandum of Understanding, Terms of reference as well as Integrated Implementation plans in an effort to support and close the gaps identified in the policy. Collaboration was found to be an effective strategy to enhance resource mobilization. Coordination and Management still need to be strengthened, including accountability. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
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Investigating the impact of psychological capital on job burnout amongst the nurses at Victoria hospital Alice, Eastern Cape province

  • Authors: Malinge, Ziyanda https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4504-7964
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Burn out (Psychology) , Human capital--Psychological aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23405 , vital:57728
  • Description: The study investigates the impact of psychological capital on job burnout among the nurses at Victoria hospital at Alice, Eastern Cape. Explanatory survey research design was used in this study. Sampling techniques such as convenience method and also adopted purposive sampling were used in this study, and the data collected used a validated survey questionnaire. Out of 150 questionnaires distributed to the nurses at Victoria hospital, only 92 were answered. However, the researcher analysed data using descriptive and inferential statistics through Pearson Correlation Analysis and Multiple Regression Analysis. The statistical descriptions of respondents’ biographic and occupational data were all from Victoria hospital nurses. In terms of the participant’s age, between the age of 23-27, it is 18.5%, between 28-32, it is 15.2%, between 29-33, it is 18.4%, between 34-38, it is 14.3%, between 39-43, it is 15.3%, between 44-48, it is 12%, between 49-53, it is 8.8%, and lastly between 54-58, it is 13%. In terms of gender, 31.5% were male participants and 68.5% were female participants. In terms of occupational categories, nurses who are working at senior management positions are at 8.9%, professional nurses at 48.9% and non-professional nurses at 42.2%. In terms of marital status, married participants were at 35.2%, single, 56.0% and widows at 8.8%. In terms of working experience, the years range from one to above 16 years. 48.9% were participants who had 1-5 years working experience, 27.2% were participants with 6-10 experience, 8.7%, who had 11-15 years, and lastly 15.2% were the participants who had 16 years and above working experience. In terms of educational qualifications, participants with grade 12 were at 24.4%, diploma 40.0%, degree 33.3% and lastly were postgraduates participants at 2.2%. The final findings indicated that there is a significant negative relationship between self-efficacy and job burnout, r=-0.437, p<0.01, that there is a significant negative relationship between hope and job burnout, r= -0.457, p<0.01, that there is a significant negative relationship between resilience and job burnout, r= - 0.312 p<0.1 and that there is a significant negative relationship between optimism and job burnout, r= -0.287 p<0.01. Other findings showed that there is a significant independent impact of self-efficacy on job burnout, B= -0.760, t= -1.394, p>0.05, there is no significant independent impact of hope on job burnout, that B= -1.282 t= -2.280, p<0.05, there is no significant impact of resilience on job burnout, B= 0.009, t= 0.22 p>0.05, and lastly, there is no significant independent impact of optimism on job burnout, B= 0.919 t=1.594, p>0.05. Last findings showed that there is a significant joint impact of psychological capital dimensions, F=6.671, R2= 0.243, p<0.01. In conclusion, it is confirmed that there is no significant relationship between psychological capital dimensions and job burnout, secondly, there is a significant independent impact of psychological capital dimensions and job burnout. Lastly, there is a significant positive jointly impact of psychological capital dimensions on job burnout. , Thesis (MCom: IPS) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
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Organisational justice as a moderator in the relationship between turnover intention and organisational citizenship behaviour among nurses in Eastern Cape Province

  • Authors: Majali, Thobela Goodman https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9673-4380
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Organizational justice -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master'stheses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26830 , vital:66034
  • Description: Orientation: Out of 121 professional nurses who worked in the public sector between 2002 and 2005, 104 of them left to work for private facilities in South Africa. In an era distinguished by turbulent changes in business industry due to factors such as globalisation, organisations are trying by all means to achieve competitive advantage. Many researchers have pointed organisational justice as a survival aspect for several companies. Nevertheless, internal organisational feature like organisational citizenship behaviour and turnover intention need a carefully consideration as they influence the degree of organisational justice within the organisation. Research purpose: The objective of this study was to empirically investigate the inter-relationship between turnover intention and the organisational citizenship behaviour of nurses in selected hospitals within the Chris Hani District, using organisational justice as the moderator. Motivation for the study: Most organisations struggle to retain workers, increase job satisfaction, commitment of employees, and obtain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Poor working conditions such as poor leadership and governance, increased workload, lack of promotion, inadequate resources and limited opportunities for career development have negatively affected employee retention and increased turnover intention in the public healthcare sector. Research design, approach, and method: A questionnaire was used as a method for data collection, and it was administered to a sample of 298 respondents at selected hospitals in Chris Hani District. Random sampling was used to select respondents. Main findings: Multiple linear regression analysis was applied in testing the statistical significance of the relationship among variables of the study. The findings showed a significant moderating impact of organisational justice on the correlation between turnover intention and organisational citizenship behaviour. Practical implication: The findings demonstrated that managers need to design HR strategies to enhance and warrant employee perception of organisational justice and fairness to elevate the level of organisational citizenship behaviour and decrease turnover intention in the organisation and leading to higher productivity. Contribution: The findings of this study showed that organisational justice and organisational citizenship behaviour have a negative significant effect on employee turnover intention. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
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The contribution of cultural and creative industries towards sustainable livelihoods in the Eastern Cape (2009-2019)

  • Authors: Ngwane, Ayanda
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Poor--Services for. , Poverty--South Africa.
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22185 , vital:51995
  • Description: This research is focused on the premise that Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) can be a precondition for the attainment of sustainable livelihoods. It follows, logically, that the efficient and effective implementation of CCIs has potential in transforming the well-being of those involved in the industries as evidence points to the notion that the CCIs can help deal with the persistent challenges of unemployment and poverty. Without effective and efficient implementation, and the political will to support such industries in the South African context, the potential of CCIs in improving the livelihoods of citizens will not be realised. Given the limitations levelled against the policy implementation and the processes involved in support for creative industries in South Africa, the qualitative method was used as an investigative strategy to gain a deeper understanding of CCIs and its general contribution on sustainable livelihoods in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings indicate that there is a basis for a creative economy in the Eastern Cape Province that can be improved by properly concerted action by all actors. There is a foundation for the development of innovative goods and services that could promote the integration of the Province into the global economy. So far, the outcome of this research points to the direction of offering knowledge of the way to realize the potential of Eastern Cape Province`s creative industries. More so, the study also highlights the importance of the creative economy in fostering growth guided by trade and attaining sustainable livelihoods in the process. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
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The influence of ethical leadership in the municipal administration: a case of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

  • Authors: Singanto, Nkosiyabo King
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Municipal government--South Africa--Leadership , Leadership
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23392 , vital:57633
  • Description: The South Africa local government is confronted by ethical leadership challenges due to unethical practices by public functionaries and elected representatives in municipalities. The elected representatives are entrusted by legislation to take decisions and municipal officials are expected to implement the decisions taken by the municipal councilin an ethical manner, without fear, favour or prejudice on behalf of their communities. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach to gain a deeper understanding of the phenomenon being studied. Data was collected using a structured Likert Scale interview questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions. The theories of virtue, deontology and utilitarianism were selected in this study to try to understand the concept of ethics and its relevance to answering the research questions developed for this research.. Among the key findings were that the research has shown that unethical behaviour in municipalities has a direct influence on service delivery and the functioning of municipal administration. It also showed that, despite the plethora of legislation that governs the behaviour of municipal leaders, the municipalities continue to face unethical challenges of corruption, fraud and maladministration. The findings also pointed to a failure by those who are supposed to implement the code of conduct and hold the perpetrators of unethical deeds accountable. Poor consequence management has been seen, inter alia, to be at the heart of the problem. The research reveals a need for the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality to explore the ways to enforce ethical leadership in the municipality. While the study is limited to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, the following are recommended to mitigate the scourge: provide ethics training for municipal officials and councillors; set minimum qualifications for councillors; and cautiously, extend the application of the findings and recommendations of this research to other municipalities in South Africa as the problem, whilst researched in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality, is spread across all municipalities in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2022
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Xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa: A case study in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Duma, Vusumzi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8115-3399
  • Date: 2022-05
  • Subjects: Xenophobia
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23873 , vital:61089
  • Description: The central thesis pursued in this study is that xenophobia and its violent manifestation thrive in post-apartheid South Africa owing to contextual dynamics chiefly characterized by normlessness and weak law enforcement. The scourge of xenophobia and its attendant violent reaction to the presence of foreign citizens in immigrant receiving countries, such as post-apartheid South Africa, is not only a threat to global peace and security, but also an impediment to achieving our full humanity and a common future. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the contexts and manifestations of xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa. The study endeavoured to achieve the following objectives: to explore the underpinnings of xenophobia in contemporary post-apartheid South Africa; to expound the manifestations of xenophobia in post-apartheid South Africa; to investigate the effectiveness of agents of social control in dealing with xenophobia; to suggest interventions to address xenophobia in contemporary post-apartheid South Africa, and to discuss, if any, integration deficits experienced by foreign nationals. The overarching theoretical framework that was utilised in this study was constituted by the following frames: labelling theory of deviance; social control theory of deviance; learning theory of deviance; and social construction theory – these are theoretical frames situated in the theoretical field of sociology of deviance. The multi-faceted and complex nature of the phenomenon under investigation evidently necessitated a methodological approach and design strategy involving the utilisation of a qualitative research approach and methodology. Qualitatively, the data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, key informants’ interviews, and secondary data sources. The study revealed, amongst other things, that: the expression of the xenophobic sentiment and associated violence in contemporaneous post-apartheid South Africa was underpinned and driven by a potpourri of factors, amongst which are negative attitudes, perceived competition, perceived fear and illusions, inflammatory xenophobic rhetoric from government representatives, national identity, and afrophobia; and that xenophobia manifested itself through violent behaviour, prejudice and discriminatory behaviour, hatred, labelling, and impunity. Another revelation of this study was that immigrants (particularly black African immigrants) were socially constructed as deviants by society and official agents for social control purposes. Once labeled, the label sticks with disastrous and violent consequences. This situation is exacerbated by the liminal status that immigrants, particularly Black African immigrants, occupy in the post-apartheid South African context. Additionally, the study revealed that law enforcement agents were perceived to be ineffective in dealing with xenophobia, and violence. In response to the findings the following recommendations are made: training and capacitating agents of social control; conscientising society about migration policies vis-à-vis the rights of foreign nationals; coming out with novel strategies to job creation; inculcating the spirit of Ubuntu in young children; embracing the pan-African spirit ; making immigration policies more humanising; mainstreaming xenophobia in social and learning institutions’ curricula; and engaging in perennial research on xenophobia. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
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An analysis of performance management and organisational success in local government administration in South Africa: A case study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)

  • Authors: Ndasana, Mvuyisi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1615-7785
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Local government--South Africa , Managing local government
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23765 , vital:60504
  • Description: The study examined performance management and organizational success in local government administration in South Africa with a focus on Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), Eastern Cape Province. It adopted the mixed method approach, namely, qualitative, and quantitative research methods. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with a sample of 20 participants from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) who were selected using the purposive sampling technique. The study also distributed 100 questionnaires to BCMM employees who were selected using random sampling technique. The target population of the study was the employees of BCMM. Based on the analysis of data, the study found that the municipality did not have an electronic system; they were using a manual system in their performance management. Further to this, the respondents also highlighted that there was no approved Performance Management System (PMS) policy framework that had been endorsed by the council of the municipality. From this conclusion, the study recommended that the municipality must have an approved PMS policy framework and it should be implemented at all levels of employment within the organization. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
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Effect of pomegranate (Punica granatum L) peel powder meal on growth performance, gut integrity, haemato-biochemical indices, meat, and bone quality of broiler chickens

  • Authors: Akuru, Eunice Amaka https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3093-0247
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Broilers (Chickens) , Meat -- Quality
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23611 , vital:58218
  • Description: The objective of the current study was to investigate the overall response of broiler birds to varying dietary levels of pomegranate (Punica granatum L) peel powder meal (PPPM). A total of 432-day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly divided into six experimental groups of four replications with 18 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design (CRD). The birds were fed isonitrogenous and isocaloric experimental diets designated as: T1-control diet with 0percent additives (negative control; NEGCON); T2- control diet supplemented with α-tocopherol acetate at 200g per ton (positive control; POSCON): T3, T4, T5 and T6-control diet supplemented with 2, 4, 6 and 8g/kg PPPM (PPPM2, PPPM4, PPPM6, PPPM8). The phytochemical, nutritional and antioxidant properties of the pomegranate peel powder were determined. Results showed that the South African-grown pomegranate peel (“Wonderful” variety) had rich protein and trace mineral contents. Higher (p < 0.05) antioxidant and hepatic anti-lipid peroxidative activities were recorded in the ethanol and acetone extracts than the water extract, whereas the three extracts had no toxic effects on liver and kidney cells (p > 0.05). The dietary effects of PPPM supplementation on growth performance, digestibility, carcass, and organ weight indices of Cobb 500 birds were determined. The POSCON diet enhanced (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) at week 3. The average final body weight and average daily weight gain were highest (p < 0.05) in birds fed PPPM2 and PPPM4 diets, whereas birds fed PPPM2 diet had enhanced (p < 0.05) FCR and protein efficiency ratio when compared with birds on POSCON. Thigh and breast weights were highest (p < 0.05) in birds on PPPM4 and PPPM8 diets, whereas birds fed PPPM4 diet had enhanced (p < 0.05) nutrient digestibility compared with those on POSCON. The antioxidant status and breast meat quality of Cobb 500 broiler birds fed diets supplemented with PPPM were determined. Meat from birds fed PPPM8 diet had the highest (p < 0.05) thawing loss, while cooking loss was lowest (p < 0.05) in the PPPM2 group. The highest (p < 0.05) ability to scavenge ABTS [(2, 2-azinobis (3ethylbenzothiazoline-6 sulfonic acid))] radical cation (ABTS+) was recorded in the PPPM2 and PPPM4 meat while PPPM8 meat had increased (p < 0.05) catalase activity. The fatty acid composition, oxidative status, and drip loss in breast meat of Cobb 500 broiler birds fed graded levels of PPPM was determined. Meat from birds fed PPPM4 diet had the lowest (p < 0.05) margaric (C17:0) and arachidic (C20:0) acids, while meat from birds fed PPPM8 diet had higher (p < 0.05) levels of eicosadenoic (C20:2, n-6) and arachidonic (AA, 20:4) acids. The POSCON had higher (p < 0.05) ability to reduce TBARS levels in meat on day-1 and day-16 of storage than the NEGCON and PPPM diets, whereas TBARS levels were lowest (p < 0.05) in PPPM6 meat on day-16. The gut pH, histology, haematology, serum-biochemical indices, and bone quality parameters of Cobb 500 broiler birds fed diets supplemented with PPPM was determined. Birds fed POSCON, PPM2 and PPPM4 diets had the lowest (p < 0.05) pH in the duodenum, jejunum, and caecum, whereas duodenal pH values were lowest (p < 0.05) in birds fed PPPM2 and PPPM4 diets compared with birds on NEGCON. Birds fed PPPM4 diet had the highest (p < 0.01) duodenal, jejunal and ileal villi height (VH), and the highest (p < 0.01) VH to crypt depth (CD) ratio in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The lowest (p < 0.05) CD in the duodenum, jejunum and ileum was also recorded in birds fed PPPM4 diet. Birds fed PPPM8 diet had higher (p < 0.05) values for white blood cell count, red blood cell count, haemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume, whereas the lowest (p < 0.05) concentration of serum aspartate transaminase was recorded in birds fed PPPM4 diet. Birds on PPM4 diet had longer (p < 0.05) bones. Bone weight and bone breaking strength were highest (p < 0.05) in birds fed PPPM8 diet. Tibia zinc and iron concentrations increased as the inclusion levels of pomegranate peel powder meal increased. It was concluded that broiler birds require 4 g/kg pomegranate peel powder for enhanced growth performance, nutrient digestibility, gut histology, quality, and antioxidant enzyme activity of meat, whereas 8 g/kg pomegranate peel powder meal supplementation is required for enhanced heamato-biochemical indices, bone quality, fatty acid composition and lipid peroxidative parameters in broiler birds. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
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Evaluation of antimicrobial combination therapy options for the management of integron-mediated multidrug resistance in enterococcus species and acinetobacter baumannii from aquatic environment in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

  • Authors: Ola, Adeniji Oluwaseun
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Enterococcus , Aquatic biodiversity , Acinetobacter
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27776 , vital:69467
  • Description: Infectious diseases caused by multidrug-resistant MDR pathogens, such as Acinetobacter baumannii and Enterococcus spp., is an increasing worldwide problem. For treating these diseases, antibiotics are usually the first choice. But organisms develop resistance as a result of drug abuse, continuous use of antibiotics and release of antibiotics into the environment. These have prompted MDR's development, making even the most active drugs ineffective. Transposons, plasmids and integrons are the most effective mobile genetic elements that promote acquisition and spread of resistance determinants. Integrons carrying various arrays of resistance gene cassettes are principally helpful for epidemiological studies of these disease-causing organisms. Alternative treatments, such as using drugs in combination or with adjuvants and nanoparticles therapy, have been documented. Nanoparticles have the potential requirements for qualifying as antibacterial agents. In addition to their antimicrobial activities, nanoparticles can be used together with antibiotics for more enhanced antimicrobial activity In this study, Acinetobacter baumanni, Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis were recovered from the aquatic environment in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa with a standard microbiological method. Their antibiotic sensitivity testing was carried out using Kirby Bauer disk diffusion and microdilution methods. A high occurrence of class-1 integrons was discovered in MDR A. baumanni, with the internal variable containing aadA1, aadA5 and aadA2 genes, which confer resistance for streptomycin and spectinomycin, aac 6Ib for amikacin/ tobramycin and dfrA17 genes for trimethoprim. Similarly, class1 integron was detected in Enterococcus, without the presence of gene cassette. The checkerboard assay and time-kill assay were used to test for the effect of the combination of the antibiotic. The impact of colistin combined with quinolones (ciprofloxacin) with the Fractional inhibitory concentration index FICs 0.31 indicated synergistic effects against MDR A baumanni. However, when colistin was combined with meropenem and ceftazidime, additive effects with FIC, ranging from 0.52 to 1 were observed. In addition, a combination of gentamicin MIC 4 μgml with vancomycin MIC 256 μgml antibiotics against vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis showed antibacterial activity. In contrast, the combination of ciprofloxacin 1 μgml with Ampicillin 16 μgml antibiotics against Enterococcus faecalis showed a bacteriostatic effect. The initial inoculum declined by 100 percentage when gentamicin was combined with vancomycin at a concentration of 4 and 128 μgml MIC respectively, for about 2 h following the treatment for MDR E. faecium. Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus Polymerase Chain Reaction ERIC PCR analyses of the studied pathogens revealed great genetic diversity, suggesting the various sources of environmental contamination. Silver nanoparticles AgNPs and zinc oxide nanoparticles ZnO NPs were chemically synthesized using a precipitation method and characterized using energy dispersive Xray analysis EDX, scanning electron microscopy SEM, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopic analysis FTIR and transmission electron microscopy TEM. The characterization results showed the synthesis of 43.37 nm and 21.03 nm nanoparticles of zinc oxide and silver origins, correspondingly, with distinct morphology, as revealed in TEM. The size, stability and functional groups of the nanoparticles produced were revealed using EDX and FTIR. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were cytotoxic against Vero cell lines at the tested concentrations, whereas AgNPs had no cytotoxic effect at lower concentrations. Acinetobacter baumanni, Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis were with MIC in the range of 0.0390.078mgml for silver nanoparticles. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were explicitly active against Enterococcus species gram-positive with MIC of 1.25 5 mgml. Both studied nanoparticles exhibited profound synergistic and additive activities against all the investigated MDR pathogens. These findings demonstrate good antibacterial potential of the nanoparticles against drug-resistant strains and open a new arena of antimicrobials for medical treatment. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
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Evaluation of groundwater potential using geological and geophysical methods in the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

  • Authors: Adesola, Gbenga Olamide https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4151-5305
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Groundwater , Geology, Structural -- South Africa , Geographical Information Systems
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22490 , vital:52344
  • Description: Geological and geophysical methods were used to evaluate the groundwater potential in University of Fort Hare (Alice campus), Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Methodologies adopted for obtaining these results included a comprehensive literature review, thin section analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing and geophysical investigations (magnetic survey and vertical electrical sounding). The geology of the study area belongs to the Balfour Formation, which forms part of the Beaufort Group in the Karoo Supergroup. The rocks within the study area are composed majorly of sandstone and mudstone. Lineaments were automatically extracted using the PCI Geomatica 2018 software. Fifteen samples were collected at various locations within the study area and were analyzed using the petrographic microscope while others were analyzed with the Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) combined with an Energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry. The results show that the rocks are fractured, porous and contained minerals such as quartz, feldspar, calcite, mica and clay minerals. The occurrence of these fractures helps to improve the groundwater storage capacity in the study area. Out of the twenty seven (27) rock samples collected in the field, ten (10) rock samples were selected for densities (dry, wet and grain densities) and porosity measurements in the laboratory. The rocks density values range from 2.5763 – 2.6978 g/cm3. The average porosities of the rocks range from 0.85 – 2.56 percent. The density of the sandstone ranges from 2.5908 – 2.6820 g/cm3 whilst the porosity range from 0.85 – 2.02 percent. The density of the mudstone ranges from 2.5763 – 2.6978 g/cm3 whilst the porosity ranges from 1.84 – 2.56 percent. About 8458 magnetic measurements were taken at about 20 m spacing along linear and non-linear paths and road. A variety of magnetic maps were generated. Several magnetic highs were observed and the linear highs were interpreted to be due to dolerite dykes whilst the broader high zones were inferred to be due to dolerite sills. These Karoo dolerites intruded the sediments at various depths and must have fractured the sediments causing them to be more porous and permeable. The depth slices of magnetic data reveal that near surface magnetic bodies occur within the depth of approximately 19 m from the surface while deep seated ones occur as deep as 31 m and maybe deeper. The knowledge of the dolerite intrusions enabled the location of drilling targets for groundwater. Electrical resistivity data were collected at 28 sites using the Schlumberger array and a maximum cable length (250 m) from the centre point which achieved a maximum depth penetration of about 70 m to 162 m. The results from 1D modelling using WINRESIST software showed that the vertical electric sounding curves are composed of HA and HK curve-types, which show four geoelectric layers. The resistivity of the first layer which is the topmost layer has values ranging from 20 - 5752 Ωm and the thickness is between 0.4 – 1.8 m. The second layer which consists of clay, mudstone and sandstone has resistivity values varying from 3 - 51 Ωm and thickness varying from 0.8 – 17.5 m. The third layer which is interpreted to be the aquiferous layer of the study area is made up majorly of sandstone with resistivity that varies from 136 – 352 Ωm and thickness range from 9.9 – 143.9 m. The fourth layer of resistivity varying from 44 to 60428 Ωm is made up of mudstone and sandstone, which are in some places intruded by dolerites. Groundwater potential is favourably high in some of the areas investigated. Furthermore, the results of the research indicated that secondary porosity is the main porosity for the reservoir rocks in the study area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
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Grappling with food and livelihood practices in the context of socio-ecological displacement: The case of 2014 Tokwe-Mukorsi flood victims in Chingwizi, Zimbabwe

  • Authors: Mudefi, Elmon https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3448-5432
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Food security , Households , Natural disasters -- Zimbabwe
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22056 , vital:51979
  • Description: This study sought to examine how the socio-ecologically displaced Tokwe-Mukorsi community in southern Zimbabwe grappled with adverse circumstances that threatened to obliterate their age-old food and livelihood practices after five years of being resettled 150km away in Chingwizi. The investigation is done against the backdrop of the dominant narrative on resilience, which often overlooks resilience outcomes associated with specific contextual experiences of socio-ecological disadvantage. The study examined the nature and character of emergent food and livelihood practices in Chingwizi, with a view to establishing how they were impacted by socio-political dynamics encountered vis-à-vis displacement, resettlement and in processes of attempting to recover. The study also examined how local narratives about the new food and livelihood practices in Chingwizi intersect with dominant resilience discourses, especially those related to climate change adaptation, sustainability and food security. A triangulated research design was utilised. It consisted of survey, focus group discussion, in-depth interview, and key informant interview. Qualitative research participants were selected based on their knowledge and experience on food and livelihood practices before and after displacement. This included the displaced flood victims that met this criterion, local leaders, government officials and local opinion leaders. The findings revealed that food and livelihood practices in Chingwizi had deteriorated over the five-year period under investigation. This was reflected in a diminution in livestock herds, crop production, income streams and average household monthly incomes. As a result, food insecurity was very high, and households were forced to rely more on donations. The displaced flood victims, however, adapted to the harsh conditions by engaging in a variety of livelihood alternatives, including food vending, buying and selling, craftwork, small livestock rearing, and migrating to neighbouring South Africa to seek employment opportunities. Nevertheless, efforts to rebuild food and livelihood practices were hampered by socio-political dynamics. This resulted in the loss of key livelihood assets, a situation aggravated by compensational injustice, contestations over land and resources by the host communities, dysfunctional social networks, and victims’ cultural ‘fixations’. The study concludes from these and other findings that achieving transformation in the form of adaptation, food security and sustainability following involuntary displacement and resettlement is more than just a question of resilience, and that displacement and resettlement are complex processes that create invidious dynamism for the stakeholders concerned. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
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Linkage to care of HIV clients following diagnosis in Engcobo Sub-district, Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Mthini, Sandiso
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Primary care (Medicine) , HIV infections AIDS (Disease) -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27017 , vital:66223
  • Description: Background: “Linkage to care” is an essential strategy in place for the retention of HIV diagnosed clients on treatment. It is vital throughout the management and care of an HIV client. Aim of the study was to explore the effectiveness of “linkage to care” of HIV clients following the diagnosis in the Engcobo sub-district, Eastern cape. Methodology: Qualitative, explorative, descriptive study design was used to explore and describe the effectiveness of “linkage to care” of HIV clients following diagnosis in the Engcobo sub-district. The population for the study were all healthcare workers, who are involved in the program of “linkage to care” of HIV positive clients. Purposive Sampling was used to select professional nurses, Community healthcare workers, Lay counsellors, linkage officers who are involved in the linkage of HIV positive patients and the facility managers whom their facilities provide HIV care services. Interview guide was used to collect data and Tesch’s method was used to analyse data. Findings: Themes that emerged from the study were flexible time to “linkage to care”; use of different policies; administration; team activities and “linkage to care” benefits. Recommendations: Training on “linkage to care”; case management model; TIER.NET system upgrade/ linkage App development, patient information packs; standardised extended hours; transport assistance/outreach mobile services. Conclusion “Linkage to care” is a team effort, it needs collaboration and knowledge. Despite the implementation of a linkage program, there are challenges that the department of health needs to act on as addressed on researcher’s recommendations. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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Pharmacological, toxicological and phytochemical evaluation of helichrysum petiolare hilliard & b.l. burtt - an indigenous plant traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes in the eastern cape province of South Africa

  • Authors: Aladejana, Adebowale Emmanuel https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1871-926X
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Diabetes -- Alternative treatment , Traditional medicine , Medicinal plants
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22787 , vital:52755
  • Description: Diabetes mellitus is one of the leading causes of death in South Africa, and it has already placed significant stress on the country’s health sector and economy. The orthodox hypoglycaemic drugs are not only ineffective in the management of the disease and its complications, but they also possess unwanted side effects. The need for alternative non-toxic drugs is therefore imperative. Various studies have listed several medicinal plants that can be successfully used in the herbal treatment of diabetes and have investigated them for their anti-diabetic potentials in vivo and/or in vitro. Out of the different potential herbal species, plants belonging to the Asteraceae family possess highly potent hypoglycaemic properties with negligible toxicities. Five Asteraceae plants widely used in different parts of South Africa for the treatment of diabetes were reviewed. The review provided an update of scientific evidence on the hypoglycaemic properties of the plants. However, Helichrysum petiolare was studied extensively in this study for its antidiabetic activity H. petiolare has been listed in many ethnobotanical surveys as a plant with potent hypoglycaemic potential, this, however, has not been properly verified in scientific literature and there has hardly been any study on the essential oil and nutritional composition, and antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cytotoxicity potentials of the plant. The effects of hydro-distillation (HD) and solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME) methods on the chemical constituents of H. petiolare-derived essential oils were evaluated. The SFME method had a higher yield of essential oil than the HD. There were substantial amounts of monoterpenes, monoterpene alcohols, sesquiterpenes, and sesquiterpene alcohols in both essential oils obtained, but these compounds were more profound in the SFME derived essential oil which has 62 compounds compared to the 52 derived through HD. The SFME derived essential oil can therefore be said to be of better quality than the HD method. The compounds obtained in the essential oils have high pharmaceutical and cosmetic value, and as observed in this study, their quantity is dependent on the method of extraction (Ibáñez and Blázquez, 2021; Kaur et al., 2021). The proximate analysis of the whole plant of H. petiolare showed high levels of Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF), vitamins (A, C and E), Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF), and minerals. The high ADF level is believed to be responsible for the low energy, fat and carbohydrate levels observed in the study. The result showed a high level of oxalate and therefore suggests cooking of the plant before human consumption. Overall nutrition and mineral compositions of the plant showed that H. petiolare is immensely rich in vital nutrients that are of great importance to health and metabolism; these nutrients are suggested to be partly responsible for the plant’s useful medicinal properties. The phytochemical contents of the acetone (ACQ), ethanol (ETQ), and boiled (BAQ) and cold (CAQ) aqueous whole-plant extracts of Helichrysum petiolare were determined using standard phytochemical reaction methods. ABTS, DPPH, NO and TAC assays were used to evaluate their antioxidant properties. The highest total phenolic content (212,963 mg/g) was reported in the BAQ extract, while the ETQ had the highest flavonoid (172.393 mg/g) and proanthocyanidin contents (65.855 mg/g). Alkaloids, flavonols, and saponin were highest in the ACQ extract, while the CAQ had the lowest phytochemical content. Among the extracts, the BAQ had the highest DPPH•+ (IC50 0.02 mg/mL) and ABTS•+ (IC50 0.07) inhibition capacities, while the ETQ exhibited the highest NO• Inhibition (IC50 0.41 mg/mL) and TAC (IC50 0.19 mg/mL). These findings justify the use of H. petiolare in traditional medicine and further recommend the ETQ and BAQ extracts of the plant as more effective extracts for medicinal treatment. The hepatotoxicity (cytotoxicity, mitotoxicity and lipotoxicity) potential of the BAQ, CAQ and ETQ extracts of Helichrysum petiolare was evaluated using standard procedures. The results showed negligible BAQ and CAQ cytotoxicities, which were further, corroborated by stability in the mitochondrial membrane potentials and were congruent with the CAQ and BAQ results for steatosis and phospholipidosis. The data suggested favourable CAQ and BAQ toxicity profiles with limited risks for hepatotoxicity. The ETQ extract, however, showed significantly high levels of cytotoxicity and lipotoxicity, and a low level of mitotoxicity. Our result suggested a potential risk of the ETQ extract for hepatotoxicity but appears partly independent of direct mitochondrial involvement. Glucose uptake assay showed significantly increased glucose uptake in the BAQ and CAQ treated L6 and C3A cell lines. The CAQ extract enhanced glucose uptake more in the L6 myocytes than in the C3A cell-lines hepatocytes. The BAQ extract showed higher levels of inhibition on α–amylase and α-glucosidase activities as compared to CAQ. The BAQ and CAQ extracts of H. petiolare may, therefore, contain pharmacologically active and relatively non-toxic hypoglycaemic chemicals, which may be effective substitutes in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. This study provides up to date scientific information on the use of H. petiolare in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It justifies the use of this plant in herbal medicine and sheds more light on its previously vaguely understood nutritional and medicinal potentials. More studies, however, need to be done to isolate, identify and purify the constituent bioactive compound(s). Their dosage of application and mode of action also needs to be understood. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2022
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Safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines at selected primary health care facilities in Buffalo City Metropolitan, Eastern Cape Province

  • Authors: Mazwembe-Hoho, Andiswa Zimkitha
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Vaccines , Pharmaceutical policy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27942 , vital:70902
  • Description: Background The World Health Organization has a standardized tool for assessing vaccine handling and management. South Africa has adopted WHO tools to suit its own conditions of supply and storage of vaccines, the WHO tool is a guideline for managing vaccines. Importantly, every person handling or supervising handling of vaccines should own this manual (s) and use it as a reference for the handling, storage, and management of vaccines and related items. Aim The aim of this study was to examine safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines by health care workers in PHC facilities of BCM Municipality. Methodology A quantitative research approach and descriptive design was used to assess the safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines in PHC facilities in BCM in EC. Results The results showed that safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines in PHC facilities in BCM does not comply fully on safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines. The overall compliance rate was 86%, and this indicated that healthcare workers have knowledge of what is required to be compliant with safe handling, storage, and management of vaccines. Conclusion Safe handling, storage, and management ovaccines in PHC facilities in BCM is conditionally compliant as the healthcare workers have moderate-to-satisfactory knowledge. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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The utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents at Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape Province

  • Authors: Ntengo-Kupula, Visisa
  • Date: 2022-04
  • Subjects: Contraception , Birth control , Teenage pregnancy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27082 , vital:66272
  • Description: Introduction Contraception has been identified as one way in which women can prevent unwanted pregnancies. Contraceptive utilization has been proved to minimize maternal mortality by lowering the risk of pregnancy and its associated life-threatening problems. Therefore, the researcher conducted a study at Stutterheim about the “utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents at Stutterheim in Eastern Cape Province” with the intentions to explore perceptions of adolescents on utilization of contraceptives and to determine the factors that influence that contraceptive utilization. Methods This study adopted a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional design which involved questionnaire tools completed by 436 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 19 years at Stutterheim health facilities and the surrounding schools, regardless of whether they were sexually active or not. After obtaining ethical clearance from the University ethics Committee and permission from the Department of Health the researcher visited the gatekeepers for obtaining informed consent and data collection procedures. The researcher administered the instruments herself to ensure validity and reliability of the instrument through a pilot study. The respondents of the pilot study did not participate in the major study. Any irregularities with the data instruments were corrected accordingly. Data collection took 3 weeks to complete all the sites. The raw data was captured onto an Excel spread sheet and analysed by the researcher with the assistance of a statistician. Results The data suggests that as much as the parents discuss about sex related issues and pregnancy, they are less likely to educate their adolescent girls about contraceptives probably due to the beliefs they have, lack of knowledge and the fear of introducing them into premarital sex. The 34.4percent of participants indicated that they were scared of contraceptive rumours spreading around the community as well as the stigmatization. Conclusion Due to the results of this study the Department of Health should work together with the department of education to put into effect the optimal utilization of contraceptives amongst adolescents by adding sexual, reproductive and contraceptives health education, as a subject in the school curriculum. Department of health must also make use of main media and social media since they are influential and can be the great sources of information for campaigns and more seminars on contraceptive utilization and its benefits to the adolescents, society and the State. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2022
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A framework to prepare an information security awareness and training programme for a provincial government department in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

  • Authors: Potelwa, Zandile
  • Date: 2022-03
  • Subjects: Information technology--Security measures. , Employees--Training of. , Data encryption (Computer science)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22289 , vital:52016
  • Description: Provincial government departments do not have good audit reports on the information security section. The underlying issues are human factors associated with employee interaction with Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The problem to be addressed is how a provincial government needs to focus on employees’ information security awareness so that there is a residual improvement in information security culture to realise unqualified government audits for information security. A case study approach that focused on the provincial government departments in the Eastern Cape Province was used. The primary data was collected using semi-structured interviews containing questions related to information security awareness. Microsoft Teams was used to conduct online semi-structured interviews with 12 provincial government IT staff from two identified provincial departments. The data was analysed using thematic analysis and MS Excel for coding. The findings then were used to determine the outcome of this study which is the framework for preparing an information security awareness programme. The outcome of the study was achieved by condensing the themes that emerged in both the primary and secondary data. The framework was then explained as a way of recommending the importance of preparing information security awareness and training programmes in changing information security behaviour. The derived artefact of this study is an information security awareness framework that can be utilised in a provincial government department to increase the awareness of information security amongst government employees. The contribution of this study is a framework based on the Protection Motivation Theory and the Organisational Culture, to ascertain employees’ actions in relation to information risks and threats; requirements for preparing an information security awareness program for public sector employees and to determine the requirements to be considered when building information security culture in provincial government departments. The proposed framework can then be used to establish an information security culture within the government departments, which will mitigate security risks and threats. The significance of this study as per the constructs of ISA and training show that it can challenge thinking of how ISA can be prepared for not only provincial government but also for state-owned entities or local government. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
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A mobile based control system for smart homes

  • Authors: Tshimanga, Danny Kazadi
  • Date: 2022-03
  • Subjects: Smart power grids , Home automation
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22632 , vital:52606
  • Description: A Smart Home Control System can provide a secure home, convenience, comfort, and interactivity of life in a particular home. The system can enable the automatic controlling of a house via a Smart Phone. These systems are becoming vital and widely used in homes to improve conditions of life. Most commercial home automation systems are expensive and their maintenance would require experts who understand the underlying implementation of the systems. This study developed a mobile-based home automation system prototype. The system was developed using the waterfall model methodology. To evaluate the developed system, the study used a simulation method. Ten trials were conducted to determine the performance of the implemented system. The mean time to failure was used to evaluate the system’ reliability. The system’s performance analysis revealed that the developed system performed better than the two other approaches; the Bluetooth and ZigBee. The developed system showed a 0 percent error, while the Bluetooth had 8 percent error and ZigBee 6 percent error. The reliability results showed the average lifespan of assets in the system before they could fail. Knowing the lifespan of an asset before it fails can help in reducing downtime of the system by planning or scheduling maintenance and develop an improved maintenance strategy. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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