The enemy release hypothesis and beyond: Lagarosiphon major invasion dynamics and management options for New Zealand using native natural enemies from South Africa
- Authors: Baso, Nompumelelo Catherine
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435627 , vital:73174 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435627
- Description: Numerous scientific investigations have demonstrated the destructive impact that exotic species can have on ecosystem services beyond a specific threshold. There are many explanations for why introduced plants are likely to be more successful outside their native range. One such explanation is offered by the Enemy Release Hypothesis (ERH), which states that plants automatically become superior competitors outside of their natural range due to release from top-down stressors (herbivory, parasites, and diseases) that is evident in the absence of their natural enemies. The underlying assumption of the ERH is that natural enemies are important regulators of plant species populations, and that the pressures from these natural enemies are felt more readily by native species compared to alien plants. Consequently, in the absence of such pressures, the ERH assumes that exotic plants can allocate more resources towards growth and reproduction, while effectively maintaining accumulated biomass. Classical biological control has previously been cited as evidence for the enemy release hypothesis. Therefore, the overarching aim and theme of this thesis was to investigate the role of ERH on the invasiveness of Lagarosiphon major (Ridl.) Moss ex Wager (Hydrocharitaceae) in New Zealand. Firstly, a literature search and a meta-analysis was used to synthesize existing studies in order to test for general applicability of this hypothesis to aquatic plant invasions. Furthermore, an empirical investigation was conducted in order to directly quantify enemy release in L. major populations invaded areas of New Zealand. To achieve this, various plant parameters of this plant, overall macrophyte and invertebrate diversity were measured and compared between sites in the native range in South Africa and the invaded areas in New Zealand. Although the meta-analysis showed variable evidence for this hypothesis depending on various modulating factors such as study type, plant growth form and measured parameters, for L. major, there was strong evidence of enemy release. The biogeographical comparisons showed that L. major exhibited increased fitness in most of the invaded sites, marked by elevated biomass accumulation, significantly higher shoot production, and the displacement of native plant species. The observed fitness advantages were directly correlated to a decrease in herbivory diversity and pressure upon the plant's introduction to New Zealand. Unlike the native populations, which contend with the presence of at least four co-occurring herbivores, including specialist herbivores, the invaded range had a substantially lower herbivore diversity, with only Hygraula nitens Butler (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) syn. Nymphula nitens, significantly damaging L. major. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding invasion ecology and theories such as ERH in order to advance aquatic plant management and also present valuable insights for developing effective strategies to mitigate the impact of invasive alien species on aquatic ecosystems. Specifically, results from the empirical investigation provide evidence in support of the ERH and highlight the suitability of implementing biological control strategies to manage the L. major invasion in New Zealand. Previous studies have shown the suitability of two specialist herbivores, Hydrellia lagarosiphon Deeming (Diptera: Ephydridae), and Polypedilum tuburcinatum Andersen (Diptera: Chironomidae), as potential biological control agents. This control strategy presents a sustainable and ecologically responsible approach, promoting coexistence between exotic plants and native species rather than displacement through competitive exclusion. With the apparent dominance of L. major at various New Zealand localities, the subsequent objective of this thesis was to investigate the competitive interactions between L. major and another invasive Hydrocharitaceae, Egeria densa Planchon, as driven by herbivory. Combinations of two host specific Ephydrid flies, H. lagarosiphon and H. egeriae, were used at eight different factorial combination of planting densities. The analysis of plant parameters and the application of inverse linear models revealed that L. major often exhibits relatively higher fitness, especially in low monoculture treatments when the two insects were isolated. However, multiple inverse linear models revealed that actual competitive outcomes are dependent on factors such as initial plant density and herbivory regime, with competitive interactions generally being mild. Nevertheless, the presence of H. lagarosiphon resulted in facilitation of E. densa growth. Thus, even at lower densities, these insects still had an impact on the observed interactions, further emphasizing suitability as damaging biological control agents. Lastly, focusing on the abiotic component of L. major invasion, Species Distribution Models (SDMs) were employed to map potential suitable habitat for this species, as well as predict the consequences of climate change on this. Correlative and mechanistic modelling was also used to simulate suitable habitat for potential biological control agents, thus addressing the potential for mismatches between host plant distribution and insect suitable range. The Maximum Entropy Species Distribution Modelling (MaxEnt) algorithm revealed that more than 90% of all freshwater ecosystems in New Zealand are susceptible to L. major invasion, with suitability projected to expand further under future climate scenarios. Moreover, correlative modelling using this method suggests limited suitable habitat for both herbivores. However, degree-day modelling, which also takes into account the physiological requirements, showed that H. lagarosiphon has the potential to produce viable populations in several parts of New Zealand. Overall, this thesis explored the intricate web of biotic and abiotic factors influencing the success of L. major outside its native range. The results emphasize the potential impacts of climate change on the invasion potential and management strategies for L. major. The findings also advocate for the implementation of sustainable and ecologically sound management solutions, such as biological control, to manage this species. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Botany, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
- Authors: Baso, Nompumelelo Catherine
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435627 , vital:73174 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435627
- Description: Numerous scientific investigations have demonstrated the destructive impact that exotic species can have on ecosystem services beyond a specific threshold. There are many explanations for why introduced plants are likely to be more successful outside their native range. One such explanation is offered by the Enemy Release Hypothesis (ERH), which states that plants automatically become superior competitors outside of their natural range due to release from top-down stressors (herbivory, parasites, and diseases) that is evident in the absence of their natural enemies. The underlying assumption of the ERH is that natural enemies are important regulators of plant species populations, and that the pressures from these natural enemies are felt more readily by native species compared to alien plants. Consequently, in the absence of such pressures, the ERH assumes that exotic plants can allocate more resources towards growth and reproduction, while effectively maintaining accumulated biomass. Classical biological control has previously been cited as evidence for the enemy release hypothesis. Therefore, the overarching aim and theme of this thesis was to investigate the role of ERH on the invasiveness of Lagarosiphon major (Ridl.) Moss ex Wager (Hydrocharitaceae) in New Zealand. Firstly, a literature search and a meta-analysis was used to synthesize existing studies in order to test for general applicability of this hypothesis to aquatic plant invasions. Furthermore, an empirical investigation was conducted in order to directly quantify enemy release in L. major populations invaded areas of New Zealand. To achieve this, various plant parameters of this plant, overall macrophyte and invertebrate diversity were measured and compared between sites in the native range in South Africa and the invaded areas in New Zealand. Although the meta-analysis showed variable evidence for this hypothesis depending on various modulating factors such as study type, plant growth form and measured parameters, for L. major, there was strong evidence of enemy release. The biogeographical comparisons showed that L. major exhibited increased fitness in most of the invaded sites, marked by elevated biomass accumulation, significantly higher shoot production, and the displacement of native plant species. The observed fitness advantages were directly correlated to a decrease in herbivory diversity and pressure upon the plant's introduction to New Zealand. Unlike the native populations, which contend with the presence of at least four co-occurring herbivores, including specialist herbivores, the invaded range had a substantially lower herbivore diversity, with only Hygraula nitens Butler (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) syn. Nymphula nitens, significantly damaging L. major. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding invasion ecology and theories such as ERH in order to advance aquatic plant management and also present valuable insights for developing effective strategies to mitigate the impact of invasive alien species on aquatic ecosystems. Specifically, results from the empirical investigation provide evidence in support of the ERH and highlight the suitability of implementing biological control strategies to manage the L. major invasion in New Zealand. Previous studies have shown the suitability of two specialist herbivores, Hydrellia lagarosiphon Deeming (Diptera: Ephydridae), and Polypedilum tuburcinatum Andersen (Diptera: Chironomidae), as potential biological control agents. This control strategy presents a sustainable and ecologically responsible approach, promoting coexistence between exotic plants and native species rather than displacement through competitive exclusion. With the apparent dominance of L. major at various New Zealand localities, the subsequent objective of this thesis was to investigate the competitive interactions between L. major and another invasive Hydrocharitaceae, Egeria densa Planchon, as driven by herbivory. Combinations of two host specific Ephydrid flies, H. lagarosiphon and H. egeriae, were used at eight different factorial combination of planting densities. The analysis of plant parameters and the application of inverse linear models revealed that L. major often exhibits relatively higher fitness, especially in low monoculture treatments when the two insects were isolated. However, multiple inverse linear models revealed that actual competitive outcomes are dependent on factors such as initial plant density and herbivory regime, with competitive interactions generally being mild. Nevertheless, the presence of H. lagarosiphon resulted in facilitation of E. densa growth. Thus, even at lower densities, these insects still had an impact on the observed interactions, further emphasizing suitability as damaging biological control agents. Lastly, focusing on the abiotic component of L. major invasion, Species Distribution Models (SDMs) were employed to map potential suitable habitat for this species, as well as predict the consequences of climate change on this. Correlative and mechanistic modelling was also used to simulate suitable habitat for potential biological control agents, thus addressing the potential for mismatches between host plant distribution and insect suitable range. The Maximum Entropy Species Distribution Modelling (MaxEnt) algorithm revealed that more than 90% of all freshwater ecosystems in New Zealand are susceptible to L. major invasion, with suitability projected to expand further under future climate scenarios. Moreover, correlative modelling using this method suggests limited suitable habitat for both herbivores. However, degree-day modelling, which also takes into account the physiological requirements, showed that H. lagarosiphon has the potential to produce viable populations in several parts of New Zealand. Overall, this thesis explored the intricate web of biotic and abiotic factors influencing the success of L. major outside its native range. The results emphasize the potential impacts of climate change on the invasion potential and management strategies for L. major. The findings also advocate for the implementation of sustainable and ecologically sound management solutions, such as biological control, to manage this species. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Botany, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
The impacts of bottom-up and top-down drivers in shaping the herbivore community in Pafuri, Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Authors: Walker, Gareth Alexander
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435703 , vital:73180 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435703
- Description: Globally, terrestrial mammal populations are facing critical population declines and range contractions owing to habitat fragmentation and destruction, wildlife overexploitation, and climate change driven by expansion of the human population. Mammalian herbivores are integral for maintaining ecosystem structure and functionality. They do this this through herbivory, by acting as prey and cycling soil nutrients. The impacts of herbivores on ecosystems, however, vary with their spatial occupancy which is influenced by interacting bottom-up and top-down factors. Modelling the drivers of herbivore communities is no trivial task given the myriad of potential bottom-up and top-down factors, and the interactions between the two, as well as the species-specific variations in intrinsic functional traits (e.g., foraging strategy, body size, metabolic rate, etc.) influencing herbivore responses (e.g., social structure, space-use, activity patterns, etc.) to these drivers. Consequently, few studies have attempted to model both bottom-up and top-down drivers in structuring herbivore communities, particularly in an African context where predator-prey guilds include multiple species, exposed to high levels of human activity. Therefore, the overarching aim of my research was to quantify the relative effects of both bottom-up and top-down factors driving the herbivore community in the northern Pafuri region of Kruger National Park, South Africa. I utilized a combination of field (i.e., camera trap and vegetation surveys) and analytical (i.e., stable carbon isotopes from faeces and plants) techniques in conjunction with geospatial data to evaluate the impacts of bottom-up (i.e., forage quantity, quality, and water availability) and top-down (i.e., predation and anthropogenic risks) factors on herbivore spatial occupancy and activity patterns. Herbivore responses to bottom-up and top-down factors were species-specific, even among members of the same feeding guild. Specifically, I found that herbivores (varying in body size and foraging strategy) displayed temporal, spatial and in some instances, dietary shifts that reflect species-specific, ecological trade-offs between resource acquisition, and predator and human avoidance. For example, kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) displayed temporal and spatial avoidance of predators and humans, and exhibited previously undocumented levels of seasonal dietary shifts which suggests that the species traded forage acquisition for reduced predation and anthropogenic risks. Further, high levels of human activity appeared to eclipse the risks associated with natural predators resulting in human induced landscapes of fear. For example, warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus) and zebra (Equus quagga) occupied habitats with higher predation risks, but displayed spatial avoidance of nature reserve boundaries which were synonymous with high levels of bushmeat poaching. Most studies focussing on the impacts of bottom-up and top-down drivers neglect to consider the roles that humans play in structuring ecological communities. The results of my thesis, however, emphasize the importance of including anthropogenic drivers when investigating the roles that various bottom-up and top-down factors play in shaping ecological communities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
- Authors: Walker, Gareth Alexander
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435703 , vital:73180 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435703
- Description: Globally, terrestrial mammal populations are facing critical population declines and range contractions owing to habitat fragmentation and destruction, wildlife overexploitation, and climate change driven by expansion of the human population. Mammalian herbivores are integral for maintaining ecosystem structure and functionality. They do this this through herbivory, by acting as prey and cycling soil nutrients. The impacts of herbivores on ecosystems, however, vary with their spatial occupancy which is influenced by interacting bottom-up and top-down factors. Modelling the drivers of herbivore communities is no trivial task given the myriad of potential bottom-up and top-down factors, and the interactions between the two, as well as the species-specific variations in intrinsic functional traits (e.g., foraging strategy, body size, metabolic rate, etc.) influencing herbivore responses (e.g., social structure, space-use, activity patterns, etc.) to these drivers. Consequently, few studies have attempted to model both bottom-up and top-down drivers in structuring herbivore communities, particularly in an African context where predator-prey guilds include multiple species, exposed to high levels of human activity. Therefore, the overarching aim of my research was to quantify the relative effects of both bottom-up and top-down factors driving the herbivore community in the northern Pafuri region of Kruger National Park, South Africa. I utilized a combination of field (i.e., camera trap and vegetation surveys) and analytical (i.e., stable carbon isotopes from faeces and plants) techniques in conjunction with geospatial data to evaluate the impacts of bottom-up (i.e., forage quantity, quality, and water availability) and top-down (i.e., predation and anthropogenic risks) factors on herbivore spatial occupancy and activity patterns. Herbivore responses to bottom-up and top-down factors were species-specific, even among members of the same feeding guild. Specifically, I found that herbivores (varying in body size and foraging strategy) displayed temporal, spatial and in some instances, dietary shifts that reflect species-specific, ecological trade-offs between resource acquisition, and predator and human avoidance. For example, kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) displayed temporal and spatial avoidance of predators and humans, and exhibited previously undocumented levels of seasonal dietary shifts which suggests that the species traded forage acquisition for reduced predation and anthropogenic risks. Further, high levels of human activity appeared to eclipse the risks associated with natural predators resulting in human induced landscapes of fear. For example, warthogs (Phacochoerus africanus) and zebra (Equus quagga) occupied habitats with higher predation risks, but displayed spatial avoidance of nature reserve boundaries which were synonymous with high levels of bushmeat poaching. Most studies focussing on the impacts of bottom-up and top-down drivers neglect to consider the roles that humans play in structuring ecological communities. The results of my thesis, however, emphasize the importance of including anthropogenic drivers when investigating the roles that various bottom-up and top-down factors play in shaping ecological communities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
The influence of the physical environment on invertebrate larval transport, settlement and recruitment with insights on early-stage physiological performance
- Authors: Duna, Oliver Olwethu
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435663 , vital:73177 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435663
- Description: Most marine benthic organisms have a biphasic life cycle whereby the larvae are pelagic, and their distribution, transport and settlement are largely controlled by environmental factors. Among these factors, hydrodynamics have key direct effects. Nearshore water hydrodynamics are strongly influenced by wind. This study investigated whether wind indirectly affects the distribution, settlement and recruitment of invertebrate marine larvae. Additionally, larvae are exposed to a more constant, benign environment than they will experience after settlement, and therefore the possible effects of larval thermal history on the physiological plasticity of settled organisms was also estimated for possible long-term insights into population dynamics. Four sites, two on the western and two on the eastern side of Algoa Bay in Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth), South Africa, were chosen for larval collection. Sites at opposite ends of the bay were selected as they were towards either side of the dominant wind directions in this region. At each site, two sampling stations were identified at 300 and 900 metres offshore, with station replicates 300 metres apart. Sampling of marine invertebrate larvae was conducted after two days of westerly or easterly winds at either of the two western or eastern sites. The number of hours of unidirectional wind determined the prevalent wind on the two days prior to sampling. Samples were collected with a plankton pump at three depths; surface, mid-depth and bottom. Simultaneously with plankton sampling, water properties (fluorescence, temperature, zonal and meridional flow, salinity and oxygen) were measured. Settlement/recruitment samples of mussels and barnacles were collected at six sites, two at either edge of the bay and two within the center of the bay. Plastic scouring pads and PVC plastic plates covered with safety-walk, placed at least 30 cm from each other, were used to collect settlers/recruits of mussels and barnacles, respectively. The pads and plates were replaced on a monthly basis for 14 months to quantify monthly settlement/recruitment. At four of the six sites used for quantifying settlement/recruitment, settlers and recruits were collected to measure the physiological responses of these two ontogenetic stages (settlers and recruits) to acute temperature variations which they might experience in the intertidal zone. Three temperature loggers were used to record real time temperature variation at each site over the period (one month) in which the artificial collectors were in position. Factorial ANOVA was used to investigate the effects of wind, depth, site, and distance from the shore on the abundance of larvae in the water column, as well as the effects of month and site on settlement/recruitment. Additionally, multiple regression analyses were used to investigate the effects of physical parameters, including upwelling and dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy, on the abundance of both larvae, settlers and recruits. Distance-based linear models and redundancy analyses were also carried out on the abundances of invertebrate larvae. Correlation analyses were performed to investigate the effect of the number of hours of directional wind on settlement. Lastly, correlation analyses between wind and currents were carried out. The results revealed a link between winds and currents, with wind speed directly proportional to surface current speed, which, as expected, decreased with depth. Current direction was, however, not perfectly aligned with wind direction. Larval distribution, settlement and recruitment were largely associated with the nearshore dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy and upwelling. Thus, overall larval, settler and recruit abundances were indirectly affected by wind. Physiologically, there was no significant difference in oxygen consumption between the juvenile ontogenetic stages (settlers and recruits) of mussels. Recruits exposed to average and maximum temperatures, however, consumed more oxygen than those exposed to low temperatures. Wind and wind-mediated currents as well as temperature have been shown to shape the distribution and shore supply of larvae, and this study contributes to the broad knowledge of population dynamics and replenishment, and the tight relation of abiotic factors affecting biological processes on the shore. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
- Authors: Duna, Oliver Olwethu
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435663 , vital:73177 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435663
- Description: Most marine benthic organisms have a biphasic life cycle whereby the larvae are pelagic, and their distribution, transport and settlement are largely controlled by environmental factors. Among these factors, hydrodynamics have key direct effects. Nearshore water hydrodynamics are strongly influenced by wind. This study investigated whether wind indirectly affects the distribution, settlement and recruitment of invertebrate marine larvae. Additionally, larvae are exposed to a more constant, benign environment than they will experience after settlement, and therefore the possible effects of larval thermal history on the physiological plasticity of settled organisms was also estimated for possible long-term insights into population dynamics. Four sites, two on the western and two on the eastern side of Algoa Bay in Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth), South Africa, were chosen for larval collection. Sites at opposite ends of the bay were selected as they were towards either side of the dominant wind directions in this region. At each site, two sampling stations were identified at 300 and 900 metres offshore, with station replicates 300 metres apart. Sampling of marine invertebrate larvae was conducted after two days of westerly or easterly winds at either of the two western or eastern sites. The number of hours of unidirectional wind determined the prevalent wind on the two days prior to sampling. Samples were collected with a plankton pump at three depths; surface, mid-depth and bottom. Simultaneously with plankton sampling, water properties (fluorescence, temperature, zonal and meridional flow, salinity and oxygen) were measured. Settlement/recruitment samples of mussels and barnacles were collected at six sites, two at either edge of the bay and two within the center of the bay. Plastic scouring pads and PVC plastic plates covered with safety-walk, placed at least 30 cm from each other, were used to collect settlers/recruits of mussels and barnacles, respectively. The pads and plates were replaced on a monthly basis for 14 months to quantify monthly settlement/recruitment. At four of the six sites used for quantifying settlement/recruitment, settlers and recruits were collected to measure the physiological responses of these two ontogenetic stages (settlers and recruits) to acute temperature variations which they might experience in the intertidal zone. Three temperature loggers were used to record real time temperature variation at each site over the period (one month) in which the artificial collectors were in position. Factorial ANOVA was used to investigate the effects of wind, depth, site, and distance from the shore on the abundance of larvae in the water column, as well as the effects of month and site on settlement/recruitment. Additionally, multiple regression analyses were used to investigate the effects of physical parameters, including upwelling and dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy, on the abundance of both larvae, settlers and recruits. Distance-based linear models and redundancy analyses were also carried out on the abundances of invertebrate larvae. Correlation analyses were performed to investigate the effect of the number of hours of directional wind on settlement. Lastly, correlation analyses between wind and currents were carried out. The results revealed a link between winds and currents, with wind speed directly proportional to surface current speed, which, as expected, decreased with depth. Current direction was, however, not perfectly aligned with wind direction. Larval distribution, settlement and recruitment were largely associated with the nearshore dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy and upwelling. Thus, overall larval, settler and recruit abundances were indirectly affected by wind. Physiologically, there was no significant difference in oxygen consumption between the juvenile ontogenetic stages (settlers and recruits) of mussels. Recruits exposed to average and maximum temperatures, however, consumed more oxygen than those exposed to low temperatures. Wind and wind-mediated currents as well as temperature have been shown to shape the distribution and shore supply of larvae, and this study contributes to the broad knowledge of population dynamics and replenishment, and the tight relation of abiotic factors affecting biological processes on the shore. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
Wild edible plants in rural home gardens: livelihoods, perceptions, economic value & traditional knowledge
- Authors: Mothupi, Frans Makwena
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Wild plants, Edible South Africa , Sustainable livelihood , Traditional knowledge , Economic value , Food security South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435885 , vital:73209 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435885
- Description: The prevalence of hunger and malnutrition has been steadily increasing in the world over the past decades. The rate of food insecurity was further exacerbated by the COVID 19 pandemic which plunged millions more into hunger as a result of a recovering economy and high food prices. These challenges are mostly experienced in Africa and are estimated to worsen in this region already affected by conflict, poor healthcare, and natural disasters such as floods and droughts. The green revolution in the 1960’s elevated agricultural production to play a pivotal role in the provision of food. However, production focused mainly on the cultivation of staple crops such as rice, wheat, and maize. The reliance on these crops has contributed to the lack of micronutrient intake and consumption of non-diverse diets. Wild edible plants (WEPs) which previously formed a significant part of indigenous people’s diet, have been regarded as an important food source crucial for the alleviation of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Despite their nutritional qualities, they are often ignored, overlooked, and undermined by agricultural programmes and food security interventions. Additionally, WEPs are largely absent in modern diets, they are often surrounded by negative perceptions, they are economically undervalued, and the indigenous knowledge of these species is under threat. As a result, this study regards WEPs as important resources that can significantly contribute to improved livelihood outcomes such as income, food security and good health. Using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, this study evaluated the contribution of WEPs to sustaining livelihoods, providing economic value, and examined how WEPs are perceived as well as the relationship between their knowledge and consumption in rural areas. This study was conducted in rural villages that are under the jurisdiction of the Moletjie and Matlala tribal authorities in the Polokwane and Aganang local municipalities, South Africa. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed for data collection. A total of 356 participants were interviewed for this study. Firstly, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 elderly participants (Chapter 2). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 120 participants stratified by age, gender, and income groups (Chapter 3). A total of 96 household surveys were conducted in selected villages, this was complemented by direct observations and field surveys of the home gardens (Chapter 4). Questionnaires and freelists were administered to a total of 120 participants also stratified by age, gender, and income groups to collect data on indigenous knowledge of WEPs (Chapter 5). Thematic analysis were performed for interview data (Chapter 2) and data were summarised, descriptive statistics, chi square tests (Chapter 3), Kruskal-Wallis tests (Chapter 4), ANOVA tests and correlation tests (Chapter 5) were performed using SPSS software. The findings show that there has been a major nutrition transition characterised by changed meal composition, patterns, and frequency relating to the consumption of WEPs. The changes can be attributed to increasing western influence characterised by rising urbanisation, western lifestyle of church, school, and employment in an income-based economy dependent on retail stores to fulfil their daily dietary needs. Despite this, WEPs are still valuable to rural people, this is indicated by the fact that traditional foods are made optional at some modern and traditional celebrations. Overall, most of perceptions (65.6%) regarding the consumption of WEPs were positive. The overwhelming majority of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that preparations from the local WEPs are relatively more tasty (98.3%), healthy (96.6%), nutritious (86.7%), and better represent the traditional foods (94.1%). Additionally, participants perceived WEPs to have health benefits in that they have medicinal properties to help prevent diseases, are a good source of energy, highly nutritious and they give strength. Despite these benefits and positive perceptions, most participants expressed doubt over the commercial success of WEPs if they were to compete with cultivated crops in the market. As a result, they perceive the future of WEPs to be bleak as 95% of participants believe that their consumption is in decline. This can be largely attributed to deagrarianisation, climate change, and preference of cultivated foods by the youth. The study also showed that a diversity fruits and vegetables are available in rural home gardens, with cultivated fruits grown in abundance and WEPs available in almost all households (98%). WEPs represented 34% of the total estimated economic value of plants available in rural home gardens. Most of the home gardens produce food to supplement household food supply with only a few households engaged in trading. The trading of WEPs was recorded in 9% of the home gardens while 16% sold cultivated fruits and/or vegetables. Challenges such as lack of water and poor rainfall are shocks which affect the availability, richness, and abundance of home garden produce. WEPs are generally well known in rural areas as participants listed an average of 8.4±2.4 species. There was a significant statistical difference between the number of species listed by age group (p = 0.009) with the elderly listing a higher average number of species (9.3±2.6) compared to adults (8.1±2.5) and the youth (7.8±1.7). Vangueria infausta, Sclerocarya caffra, Ximenia caffra, Amaranthus retroflexus L. retroflexus, Citrullus lanatus,and Cleome gynadra where among the top listed species. There was also a significant positive correlation between the number of listed fruits with number of listed vegetables. The study also found a positive correlation between knowledge of WEPs and consumption. Most of the knowledge about WEPs was learned from a family member (89%), own observation (86%), a village elder (75%). This knowledge was mostly acquired from childhood through oral tradition (63%) and through participation (21%), and consumption (12%). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
- Authors: Mothupi, Frans Makwena
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Wild plants, Edible South Africa , Sustainable livelihood , Traditional knowledge , Economic value , Food security South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435885 , vital:73209 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435885
- Description: The prevalence of hunger and malnutrition has been steadily increasing in the world over the past decades. The rate of food insecurity was further exacerbated by the COVID 19 pandemic which plunged millions more into hunger as a result of a recovering economy and high food prices. These challenges are mostly experienced in Africa and are estimated to worsen in this region already affected by conflict, poor healthcare, and natural disasters such as floods and droughts. The green revolution in the 1960’s elevated agricultural production to play a pivotal role in the provision of food. However, production focused mainly on the cultivation of staple crops such as rice, wheat, and maize. The reliance on these crops has contributed to the lack of micronutrient intake and consumption of non-diverse diets. Wild edible plants (WEPs) which previously formed a significant part of indigenous people’s diet, have been regarded as an important food source crucial for the alleviation of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Despite their nutritional qualities, they are often ignored, overlooked, and undermined by agricultural programmes and food security interventions. Additionally, WEPs are largely absent in modern diets, they are often surrounded by negative perceptions, they are economically undervalued, and the indigenous knowledge of these species is under threat. As a result, this study regards WEPs as important resources that can significantly contribute to improved livelihood outcomes such as income, food security and good health. Using the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, this study evaluated the contribution of WEPs to sustaining livelihoods, providing economic value, and examined how WEPs are perceived as well as the relationship between their knowledge and consumption in rural areas. This study was conducted in rural villages that are under the jurisdiction of the Moletjie and Matlala tribal authorities in the Polokwane and Aganang local municipalities, South Africa. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed for data collection. A total of 356 participants were interviewed for this study. Firstly, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 elderly participants (Chapter 2). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 120 participants stratified by age, gender, and income groups (Chapter 3). A total of 96 household surveys were conducted in selected villages, this was complemented by direct observations and field surveys of the home gardens (Chapter 4). Questionnaires and freelists were administered to a total of 120 participants also stratified by age, gender, and income groups to collect data on indigenous knowledge of WEPs (Chapter 5). Thematic analysis were performed for interview data (Chapter 2) and data were summarised, descriptive statistics, chi square tests (Chapter 3), Kruskal-Wallis tests (Chapter 4), ANOVA tests and correlation tests (Chapter 5) were performed using SPSS software. The findings show that there has been a major nutrition transition characterised by changed meal composition, patterns, and frequency relating to the consumption of WEPs. The changes can be attributed to increasing western influence characterised by rising urbanisation, western lifestyle of church, school, and employment in an income-based economy dependent on retail stores to fulfil their daily dietary needs. Despite this, WEPs are still valuable to rural people, this is indicated by the fact that traditional foods are made optional at some modern and traditional celebrations. Overall, most of perceptions (65.6%) regarding the consumption of WEPs were positive. The overwhelming majority of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that preparations from the local WEPs are relatively more tasty (98.3%), healthy (96.6%), nutritious (86.7%), and better represent the traditional foods (94.1%). Additionally, participants perceived WEPs to have health benefits in that they have medicinal properties to help prevent diseases, are a good source of energy, highly nutritious and they give strength. Despite these benefits and positive perceptions, most participants expressed doubt over the commercial success of WEPs if they were to compete with cultivated crops in the market. As a result, they perceive the future of WEPs to be bleak as 95% of participants believe that their consumption is in decline. This can be largely attributed to deagrarianisation, climate change, and preference of cultivated foods by the youth. The study also showed that a diversity fruits and vegetables are available in rural home gardens, with cultivated fruits grown in abundance and WEPs available in almost all households (98%). WEPs represented 34% of the total estimated economic value of plants available in rural home gardens. Most of the home gardens produce food to supplement household food supply with only a few households engaged in trading. The trading of WEPs was recorded in 9% of the home gardens while 16% sold cultivated fruits and/or vegetables. Challenges such as lack of water and poor rainfall are shocks which affect the availability, richness, and abundance of home garden produce. WEPs are generally well known in rural areas as participants listed an average of 8.4±2.4 species. There was a significant statistical difference between the number of species listed by age group (p = 0.009) with the elderly listing a higher average number of species (9.3±2.6) compared to adults (8.1±2.5) and the youth (7.8±1.7). Vangueria infausta, Sclerocarya caffra, Ximenia caffra, Amaranthus retroflexus L. retroflexus, Citrullus lanatus,and Cleome gynadra where among the top listed species. There was also a significant positive correlation between the number of listed fruits with number of listed vegetables. The study also found a positive correlation between knowledge of WEPs and consumption. Most of the knowledge about WEPs was learned from a family member (89%), own observation (86%), a village elder (75%). This knowledge was mostly acquired from childhood through oral tradition (63%) and through participation (21%), and consumption (12%). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
Case in modern standard Arabic
- Ghammaz, Hamzah Saleh Theyab
- Authors: Ghammaz, Hamzah Saleh Theyab
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435593 , vital:73171 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435593
- Description: This thesis provides a novel account of case checking in Modern Standard Arabic (henceforth MSA). It argues against the concept that nominative case in topic and comment structures is default. Default or inherent case is not related to case filter, nor is it assigned by any syntactic method. Some linguists claim that the default case in Arabic language is employed only when no case assigner is available. I argue, in light of the minimalist program (henceforth MP), that default (inherent) case is always a problem for syntactic theory and that the nominative case which the topic and comment sentences bear is valued by a functional head. The topic and comment constructions contain a predicational head (Pred)- a functional head, that is equivalent to vP which occurs in verbal constructions. The head of PredP is accountable for nominative case value on the topic and comment structures. This thesis also provides a novel paradigm regarding the clitics that appear at the end of verbs in MSA. This paradigm proves that these clitics are not agreement, tense, nor mood markers but rather Verbal Case markers and it provides a minimalist program account to explain case checking on verbs in MSA. Regarding sentence initial DP, and contra to the proposal that in SVO sentence initial DP is a subject, I have scrutinised the nature of this DP and provided enough evidence that it is a topic. Additionally, I have investigated the relationship between agreement asymmetry and the position of the subject in MSA from the minimalist feature inheritance account viewpoint. Mainly, I reviewed null pro hypothesis which proved to be redundant to account for the derivation of VSO or SVO word orders. I have also proved what were considered agreement markers are not agreement markers but resumptive pronouns. Finally, I proved that there is not agreement asymmetry in MSA. Agreement pattern in MSA results from the agree operation and it is achieved under Probe-Goal alignment; regardless of whether the Goal is raised up to Spec-TP or remains in situ (Spec-VP), the agreement is not supposed to change. This conclusion is in harmony with the principles of MP Agree Theory. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Ghammaz, Hamzah Saleh Theyab
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435593 , vital:73171 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435593
- Description: This thesis provides a novel account of case checking in Modern Standard Arabic (henceforth MSA). It argues against the concept that nominative case in topic and comment structures is default. Default or inherent case is not related to case filter, nor is it assigned by any syntactic method. Some linguists claim that the default case in Arabic language is employed only when no case assigner is available. I argue, in light of the minimalist program (henceforth MP), that default (inherent) case is always a problem for syntactic theory and that the nominative case which the topic and comment sentences bear is valued by a functional head. The topic and comment constructions contain a predicational head (Pred)- a functional head, that is equivalent to vP which occurs in verbal constructions. The head of PredP is accountable for nominative case value on the topic and comment structures. This thesis also provides a novel paradigm regarding the clitics that appear at the end of verbs in MSA. This paradigm proves that these clitics are not agreement, tense, nor mood markers but rather Verbal Case markers and it provides a minimalist program account to explain case checking on verbs in MSA. Regarding sentence initial DP, and contra to the proposal that in SVO sentence initial DP is a subject, I have scrutinised the nature of this DP and provided enough evidence that it is a topic. Additionally, I have investigated the relationship between agreement asymmetry and the position of the subject in MSA from the minimalist feature inheritance account viewpoint. Mainly, I reviewed null pro hypothesis which proved to be redundant to account for the derivation of VSO or SVO word orders. I have also proved what were considered agreement markers are not agreement markers but resumptive pronouns. Finally, I proved that there is not agreement asymmetry in MSA. Agreement pattern in MSA results from the agree operation and it is achieved under Probe-Goal alignment; regardless of whether the Goal is raised up to Spec-TP or remains in situ (Spec-VP), the agreement is not supposed to change. This conclusion is in harmony with the principles of MP Agree Theory. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Ingqiqo yamanina kuxanduva lokusiphula neengcambu ugonyamelo nokuxhatshazwa: Uhlalutyo lweetekisi ZesiXhosa ezicatshulwe kuncwadi olubhalwe ngamanina (1976-2015)
- Authors: Bilatyi, Katy Nomthandazo
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435582 , vital:73170 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435582
- Description: Uphando luza kuqwalasela ingqiqo yamanina kuxanduva lokusiphula neengcambu ugonyamelo nokuxhatshazwa kwawo ngamadoda. Ingxoxo iza kugxila kubabhali abangamanina beencwadi zesiXhosa ezicatshulweyo kolu phando, nalapho kuqwalaselwa indlela ababazoba ngayo abalinganiswa babo abangamanina. Kule ngxoxo kuqwalaselwa indlela ababhali abangamanina abafana noBelebesi (1976), Dazela (1988), Magadla (1992) Madolo (1998), Mayosi (2003), Magqashela (2006) kunye noBuzani (2015) abathe babazoba ngayo abalinganiswa abangamanina kwiincwadi zesiXhosa ezicatshuliweyo. Oku kukutyhila ubukrelekrele bababhali ekusebenziseni uncwadi ukuzisa izisombululo kwimingeni ajamelene nayo amanina efana nogonyamelo kunye noxhatshwazo. Obu bukrelekrele baba babhali bujongwa ngokweembali ezimbini, imbali yaphambi kozuzo lwenkululeko emva kongenelelo lobuKoloniyali kunye neyasemva kozuzo lwenkululeko yaseMzantsi Afrika. Iincwadi ezikhethiweyo zibhalwe phakathi kweminyaka ye-1976 ukuya kwiminyaka yama-2015. Uphando luya kujonga ukuba lungaba lukhona utshintsho kusini na kwindlela la manina ababazoba ngayo abalinganiswa ngokwezi mbali zahlukileyo kananjalo naxa bezotywa ngababhali abangamadoda. Uphando luya kutyhila kananjalo imixholo nemixholwana abayikhethayo nedlulisa iimvakalelo zabo bengamanina kumbandela wogonyamelo olukhatshwa yipatriyakhi kunye noxhatshazo abalufumana kumadoda. Xa kuphendlwa le mixholo yaba babhali bahlukileyo baneemvelaphi ezahlukileyo ngokwemontlalo bebhala ngokwamaxesha okanye iimbhali ezahlukileyo, kuya kucaca ukuba amava abo ayafana nokuba linina okanye ibhinqa. Loo mava abo anele ukuba bajikeleze kwimixholo ebizwa ngokuba yifeminist themes nakubeni izimbo zabo zokubhala zahlukile nje. Injongo kukubonisa ukuba nangona amanina aphila phantsi kweemeko neemontlalo ezahlukileyo nje, iinzima neentlungu zawo azisombulula ngendlela efanayo ngokusebenzisa usiba. Le ngxoxo ikhatshwa ziithiyori ezifana nefemayinizimu, ngakumbi ifemayinizimu yaseAfrika kunye kunye nangokoMzantsi Afrika iquka iMotherism kunye nenkcubeko ephehlelelwe phantsi kwePatriyakhi. Ezi thiyori ziludondolo lokuphendla nokuhlalutya ezi ncwadi zikhethiweyo zesiXhosa ukuze sicacelwe yeyona ndima idlalwa ngamanina kuluntu nanjengoko sisazi ukuba apha eMzantsi Afrika adlale eyona ndima yokuncedisa ekuziseni utshintsho kwimibandela yengcinezelo nasekuzuzweni kwenkululeko. Yiyo loo nto kufuneka nawo abonakale exhamla ngokulinganayo namadoda kwinkululeko ayisebenzeleyo ngokususa ugonyamelo, uxhatshazo nokubulawa kwawo ngamadoda. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Bilatyi, Katy Nomthandazo
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435582 , vital:73170 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435582
- Description: Uphando luza kuqwalasela ingqiqo yamanina kuxanduva lokusiphula neengcambu ugonyamelo nokuxhatshazwa kwawo ngamadoda. Ingxoxo iza kugxila kubabhali abangamanina beencwadi zesiXhosa ezicatshulweyo kolu phando, nalapho kuqwalaselwa indlela ababazoba ngayo abalinganiswa babo abangamanina. Kule ngxoxo kuqwalaselwa indlela ababhali abangamanina abafana noBelebesi (1976), Dazela (1988), Magadla (1992) Madolo (1998), Mayosi (2003), Magqashela (2006) kunye noBuzani (2015) abathe babazoba ngayo abalinganiswa abangamanina kwiincwadi zesiXhosa ezicatshuliweyo. Oku kukutyhila ubukrelekrele bababhali ekusebenziseni uncwadi ukuzisa izisombululo kwimingeni ajamelene nayo amanina efana nogonyamelo kunye noxhatshwazo. Obu bukrelekrele baba babhali bujongwa ngokweembali ezimbini, imbali yaphambi kozuzo lwenkululeko emva kongenelelo lobuKoloniyali kunye neyasemva kozuzo lwenkululeko yaseMzantsi Afrika. Iincwadi ezikhethiweyo zibhalwe phakathi kweminyaka ye-1976 ukuya kwiminyaka yama-2015. Uphando luya kujonga ukuba lungaba lukhona utshintsho kusini na kwindlela la manina ababazoba ngayo abalinganiswa ngokwezi mbali zahlukileyo kananjalo naxa bezotywa ngababhali abangamadoda. Uphando luya kutyhila kananjalo imixholo nemixholwana abayikhethayo nedlulisa iimvakalelo zabo bengamanina kumbandela wogonyamelo olukhatshwa yipatriyakhi kunye noxhatshazo abalufumana kumadoda. Xa kuphendlwa le mixholo yaba babhali bahlukileyo baneemvelaphi ezahlukileyo ngokwemontlalo bebhala ngokwamaxesha okanye iimbhali ezahlukileyo, kuya kucaca ukuba amava abo ayafana nokuba linina okanye ibhinqa. Loo mava abo anele ukuba bajikeleze kwimixholo ebizwa ngokuba yifeminist themes nakubeni izimbo zabo zokubhala zahlukile nje. Injongo kukubonisa ukuba nangona amanina aphila phantsi kweemeko neemontlalo ezahlukileyo nje, iinzima neentlungu zawo azisombulula ngendlela efanayo ngokusebenzisa usiba. Le ngxoxo ikhatshwa ziithiyori ezifana nefemayinizimu, ngakumbi ifemayinizimu yaseAfrika kunye kunye nangokoMzantsi Afrika iquka iMotherism kunye nenkcubeko ephehlelelwe phantsi kwePatriyakhi. Ezi thiyori ziludondolo lokuphendla nokuhlalutya ezi ncwadi zikhethiweyo zesiXhosa ukuze sicacelwe yeyona ndima idlalwa ngamanina kuluntu nanjengoko sisazi ukuba apha eMzantsi Afrika adlale eyona ndima yokuncedisa ekuziseni utshintsho kwimibandela yengcinezelo nasekuzuzweni kwenkululeko. Yiyo loo nto kufuneka nawo abonakale exhamla ngokulinganayo namadoda kwinkululeko ayisebenzeleyo ngokususa ugonyamelo, uxhatshazo nokubulawa kwawo ngamadoda. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Social justice implications of the language of the court judgment genre and its development in pre- and post-independence Zimbabwe
- Authors: Nemaramba, Dylan
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435605 , vital:73172
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Nemaramba, Dylan
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435605 , vital:73172
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The mediating role of generational difference on the relationship between psychological capital, psychological empowerment, organisational support and the wellbeing of South African National Defence Force members
- Authors: Selepe, Babitsanang Annah
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435616 , vital:73173 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435616
- Description: There is a growing concern in understanding the contribution of generational difference (as a mediating variable) and factors that increase soldiers' well-being. This study aimed to determine the relationship between Psychological Capital, Psychological Empowerment and Organisational Support, and well-being. Additionally, it proposes the generational differences as a potential mediating factor among these variables. The study was guided by a positivist philosophy and quantitative research method was employed. The sample for this research consisted of 777 members from both Internal deployed within borders of Free state and those going for external deployment at De-Brug. The results show most respondents were male (78.3%) and 21.7% female. Most respondents were categorised as Gen Y (between 1981 - 1996, 67.0%), followed by Gen X (1965 - 1980, 24.8%) and Gen Z (1997 - 2012, 8.2%). Most respondents were in the SA Army, followed by SAAF and SAMHS and the SA Navy. Spearman’s Correlation and ANOVA analyses were conducted to test the relationship between the variables. The results revealed significant relationships between the variables included in the empirical model. However, Well-being does not have a statistically significant correlation with the mediation variable, generation cohort. Similarly, generation cohorts (X, Y, Z) do not significantly correlate with the predictor variables, Perceived Organisational Support, Psychological Empowerment. However, there is a statistically significant small negative correlation between generation cohort (Age) and Psychological Capital. The multiple regression analysis exhibited a significant overall model fit, indicating that 30% of the variance in employee well-being was accounted for by the predictors. Thus, this research implicates that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) would benefit from developing a culture and adopting policies as well as programmes that prioritises psychological well-being above physical prowess. For this reason, the present study is regarded as offering a potentially valuable contribution to the existing body of research in the positive psychology and reveals practical implications and applications within the military context. The study recommends that combat readiness requires prioritising mental health above physical strength. Policymakers should consider psychological factors like psychological capital and psychological 6 empowerment. Training programmes should include Psychological Capital and cognitive resilience. There should also be further research on positive psychology and troops' well-being. These factors can help improve peacekeeping and combat force readiness. Understanding generational variations' mediating effect can inform resilience and training programmes. Military organisations should cultivate confident, capable, and educated leaders to improve military proficiency. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Selepe, Babitsanang Annah
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435616 , vital:73173 , DOI 10.21504/10962/435616
- Description: There is a growing concern in understanding the contribution of generational difference (as a mediating variable) and factors that increase soldiers' well-being. This study aimed to determine the relationship between Psychological Capital, Psychological Empowerment and Organisational Support, and well-being. Additionally, it proposes the generational differences as a potential mediating factor among these variables. The study was guided by a positivist philosophy and quantitative research method was employed. The sample for this research consisted of 777 members from both Internal deployed within borders of Free state and those going for external deployment at De-Brug. The results show most respondents were male (78.3%) and 21.7% female. Most respondents were categorised as Gen Y (between 1981 - 1996, 67.0%), followed by Gen X (1965 - 1980, 24.8%) and Gen Z (1997 - 2012, 8.2%). Most respondents were in the SA Army, followed by SAAF and SAMHS and the SA Navy. Spearman’s Correlation and ANOVA analyses were conducted to test the relationship between the variables. The results revealed significant relationships between the variables included in the empirical model. However, Well-being does not have a statistically significant correlation with the mediation variable, generation cohort. Similarly, generation cohorts (X, Y, Z) do not significantly correlate with the predictor variables, Perceived Organisational Support, Psychological Empowerment. However, there is a statistically significant small negative correlation between generation cohort (Age) and Psychological Capital. The multiple regression analysis exhibited a significant overall model fit, indicating that 30% of the variance in employee well-being was accounted for by the predictors. Thus, this research implicates that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) would benefit from developing a culture and adopting policies as well as programmes that prioritises psychological well-being above physical prowess. For this reason, the present study is regarded as offering a potentially valuable contribution to the existing body of research in the positive psychology and reveals practical implications and applications within the military context. The study recommends that combat readiness requires prioritising mental health above physical strength. Policymakers should consider psychological factors like psychological capital and psychological 6 empowerment. Training programmes should include Psychological Capital and cognitive resilience. There should also be further research on positive psychology and troops' well-being. These factors can help improve peacekeeping and combat force readiness. Understanding generational variations' mediating effect can inform resilience and training programmes. Military organisations should cultivate confident, capable, and educated leaders to improve military proficiency. , Thesis (PhD) -- Humanities, Psychology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
A comparative analysis of land, labour and gender in a communal area and fast track farm in Zvimba Rural District, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chinomona, Perpetua
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434612 , vital:73089 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434612
- Description: This thesis provides a comparative analysis of gender, land, and labour between two different types of farming sites in rural Zimbabwe, namely long-established communal areas and the more recent Al fast track land reform resettlement areas. More specifically, the focus is on Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track resettlement farm respectively, located in Zvimba District in Mashonaland West Province. The study focuses on the period from the year 2000, the year in which the fast track resettlement programme was launched by the government. The thesis examines in particular the status and experience of women with regard to land acquisition, access and security as well as the division of labour (including assets, inputs and labour-time) in the spheres of production (i.e., agriculture) and social reproduction (i.e., the domestic sphere). This includes highlighting the power relations existing between men and women in both spheres, in the light of prevailing systems of patriarchy. Analytically, the thesis is framed in terms of feminism, drawing upon the complementary insights of Third World feminism and socialist feminism. In seeking to capture the perspectives and practices of men and women in the two sites, the fieldwork for the study entails a qualitative methodology. The findings of the research demonstrate the existence and relevance of patriarchal systems with respect to land and labour in Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm, with key commonalities appearing across the two sites with reference to the multiple ways in which women are disadvantaged and disempowered. Therefore, gender bias and inequality in land and labour are exhibited by the fact that men have, for instance, easier access to land, less involvement in labouring activities, control over a higher proportion of household income and a disproportionate level of power in the household. At the same time, there are certain differences between Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm around questions of gender, land and labour, but these are differences in degree rather than kind. Perhaps more important in explaining the differences between the two sites, and indeed differences within each site, are other variables. These variables include marital status, form or marriage (for example, customary or civil marriages), age and gender. By considering these variables as well, the thesis shows the importance of unpacking the notion of ‘woman’ to reveal the variegated and differential experiences of different categories of women in rural Zimbabwe. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Chinomona, Perpetua
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434612 , vital:73089 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434612
- Description: This thesis provides a comparative analysis of gender, land, and labour between two different types of farming sites in rural Zimbabwe, namely long-established communal areas and the more recent Al fast track land reform resettlement areas. More specifically, the focus is on Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track resettlement farm respectively, located in Zvimba District in Mashonaland West Province. The study focuses on the period from the year 2000, the year in which the fast track resettlement programme was launched by the government. The thesis examines in particular the status and experience of women with regard to land acquisition, access and security as well as the division of labour (including assets, inputs and labour-time) in the spheres of production (i.e., agriculture) and social reproduction (i.e., the domestic sphere). This includes highlighting the power relations existing between men and women in both spheres, in the light of prevailing systems of patriarchy. Analytically, the thesis is framed in terms of feminism, drawing upon the complementary insights of Third World feminism and socialist feminism. In seeking to capture the perspectives and practices of men and women in the two sites, the fieldwork for the study entails a qualitative methodology. The findings of the research demonstrate the existence and relevance of patriarchal systems with respect to land and labour in Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm, with key commonalities appearing across the two sites with reference to the multiple ways in which women are disadvantaged and disempowered. Therefore, gender bias and inequality in land and labour are exhibited by the fact that men have, for instance, easier access to land, less involvement in labouring activities, control over a higher proportion of household income and a disproportionate level of power in the household. At the same time, there are certain differences between Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm around questions of gender, land and labour, but these are differences in degree rather than kind. Perhaps more important in explaining the differences between the two sites, and indeed differences within each site, are other variables. These variables include marital status, form or marriage (for example, customary or civil marriages), age and gender. By considering these variables as well, the thesis shows the importance of unpacking the notion of ‘woman’ to reveal the variegated and differential experiences of different categories of women in rural Zimbabwe. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
A critical analysis of the factors influencing knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa
- Authors: Sha, Shafeek
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434817 , vital:73107 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434817
- Description: It is commonly believed that family businesses have formed the backbone of many economies around the globe and that they have been the predominant form of enterprise that has given rise to some of the most famous multinational enterprises. Family businesses contribute to the wealth creation in most economies and conservative estimates suggest that 65% to 80% of all businesses worldwide are owned and managed by families. In South Africa, Indian family owned businesses contribute more to employment than any other family business. There is a general perception amongst South Africans that Indian family owned businesses are more successful and that this success is continued from one generation to the next. Intrigued by this “phenomenon” for many years, the researcher decided to investigate it. The perspective adopted for this research was to look at the research problem from a knowledge management discipline viewpoint, in general, with a specific focus on knowledge sharing and Indian family owned businesses. The purpose of this study is to critically analyse the factors that influence the effectiveness of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. So the research answered the question: How do Indian family owned businesses in South Africa share their knowledge to ensure the continued success of their businesses through succeeding generations? A positivist research paradigm and philosophy was adopted for this research together with a quantitative research approach using survey research as the research strategy of choice. After conducting an extensive literature review, the next step was to develop and formulate a theoretical model, and flowing from the model and prior research, a research instrument was developed and administered to a qualifying sample of Indian family owned businesses in South Africa. Structural equation modelling was used as the principal mode of statistical analysis to measure the relationships amongst the variables in the model proposed in this study. After analysing the empirical data, the following key factors were identified as statistically significant in being determinants of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa: organisational culture, learning organisation, and leadership. These findings serve to contribute to the existing literature within the fields of knowledge management and family business. This study will richly contribute to research-based evidence of the factors that influence knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. The outcomes will allow existing and emerging family businesses to ensure the future success of their enterprises from one generation to the next by embracing the empirical findings of this research and thus ultimately contribute to the future success of the family business as a whole. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Sha, Shafeek
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434817 , vital:73107 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434817
- Description: It is commonly believed that family businesses have formed the backbone of many economies around the globe and that they have been the predominant form of enterprise that has given rise to some of the most famous multinational enterprises. Family businesses contribute to the wealth creation in most economies and conservative estimates suggest that 65% to 80% of all businesses worldwide are owned and managed by families. In South Africa, Indian family owned businesses contribute more to employment than any other family business. There is a general perception amongst South Africans that Indian family owned businesses are more successful and that this success is continued from one generation to the next. Intrigued by this “phenomenon” for many years, the researcher decided to investigate it. The perspective adopted for this research was to look at the research problem from a knowledge management discipline viewpoint, in general, with a specific focus on knowledge sharing and Indian family owned businesses. The purpose of this study is to critically analyse the factors that influence the effectiveness of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. So the research answered the question: How do Indian family owned businesses in South Africa share their knowledge to ensure the continued success of their businesses through succeeding generations? A positivist research paradigm and philosophy was adopted for this research together with a quantitative research approach using survey research as the research strategy of choice. After conducting an extensive literature review, the next step was to develop and formulate a theoretical model, and flowing from the model and prior research, a research instrument was developed and administered to a qualifying sample of Indian family owned businesses in South Africa. Structural equation modelling was used as the principal mode of statistical analysis to measure the relationships amongst the variables in the model proposed in this study. After analysing the empirical data, the following key factors were identified as statistically significant in being determinants of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa: organisational culture, learning organisation, and leadership. These findings serve to contribute to the existing literature within the fields of knowledge management and family business. This study will richly contribute to research-based evidence of the factors that influence knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. The outcomes will allow existing and emerging family businesses to ensure the future success of their enterprises from one generation to the next by embracing the empirical findings of this research and thus ultimately contribute to the future success of the family business as a whole. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Dictionaries as pedagogic tools: a case study of selected schools in Makhanda, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Wababa, Zola Richman
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434651 , vital:73093 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434656
- Description: The importance of dictionaries in society has been confirmed in relevant literature while their specific role in education is underlined by several studies focused on the use of dictionaries in teaching and learning. This study focuses on mother-tongue or first language (L1) isiXhosa learners and their use of dictionaries across subjects in the Intermediate Phase of primary schooling. The research sought to examine how dictionaries are used in teaching and learning and how they could be used more effectively in the teaching and learning processes, with a focus on isiXhosa L1 learners in the Makhanda area of the Sarah Baartman District of education, Eastern Cape. The general aim of this study was to improve the process and practice of using and producing Language for General Purpose (LGP) and Language for Specific Purpose (LSP) dictionaries across subjects. The study also sought to contribute to improving the functional value and user-friendliness of teaching support materials, such as dictionaries. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) policy document states that dictionaries are essential in teaching and learning of both language and content subjects. In relation to language subjects, the CAPS is explicit about the use of dictionaries in the acquisition of vocabulary, meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar, among other types of information that are integral in language attainment and learning. Nonetheless, the CAPS document does not clearly articulate the use of dictionaries in content subjects. The study draws on two branches of lexicography – namely, dictionary user research and dictionary criticism – to examine the extent to which dictionaries are problem-solving tools which assist users to meet their cognitive and communicative needs. Thus, the study seeks to influence policy and practice of the use of dictionaries as teaching and learning resource materials that could help teachers and learners better understand key concepts across subjects. A mixed-method approach was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a variety of data collection instruments, viz., observation schedules, questionnaires, and interviews. The study found that although teachers were aware of dictionaries, they did not use them as a resource in teaching. Furthermore, teachers lacked skills in the use of dictionaries, therefore, they were not able to effectively integrate dictionaries in their lessons. The research also found that learners had little awareness of dictionaries and did not fully understand their role in language acquisition or content. Lastly, the study offered some insights on how dictionaries could be integrated in teaching and learning, and how their use could address some communicative and cognitive problems faced by non-mother tongue English speakers in a context where English dominates teaching and learning at the expense of learners’ L1. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Wababa, Zola Richman
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434651 , vital:73093 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434656
- Description: The importance of dictionaries in society has been confirmed in relevant literature while their specific role in education is underlined by several studies focused on the use of dictionaries in teaching and learning. This study focuses on mother-tongue or first language (L1) isiXhosa learners and their use of dictionaries across subjects in the Intermediate Phase of primary schooling. The research sought to examine how dictionaries are used in teaching and learning and how they could be used more effectively in the teaching and learning processes, with a focus on isiXhosa L1 learners in the Makhanda area of the Sarah Baartman District of education, Eastern Cape. The general aim of this study was to improve the process and practice of using and producing Language for General Purpose (LGP) and Language for Specific Purpose (LSP) dictionaries across subjects. The study also sought to contribute to improving the functional value and user-friendliness of teaching support materials, such as dictionaries. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) policy document states that dictionaries are essential in teaching and learning of both language and content subjects. In relation to language subjects, the CAPS is explicit about the use of dictionaries in the acquisition of vocabulary, meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar, among other types of information that are integral in language attainment and learning. Nonetheless, the CAPS document does not clearly articulate the use of dictionaries in content subjects. The study draws on two branches of lexicography – namely, dictionary user research and dictionary criticism – to examine the extent to which dictionaries are problem-solving tools which assist users to meet their cognitive and communicative needs. Thus, the study seeks to influence policy and practice of the use of dictionaries as teaching and learning resource materials that could help teachers and learners better understand key concepts across subjects. A mixed-method approach was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a variety of data collection instruments, viz., observation schedules, questionnaires, and interviews. The study found that although teachers were aware of dictionaries, they did not use them as a resource in teaching. Furthermore, teachers lacked skills in the use of dictionaries, therefore, they were not able to effectively integrate dictionaries in their lessons. The research also found that learners had little awareness of dictionaries and did not fully understand their role in language acquisition or content. Lastly, the study offered some insights on how dictionaries could be integrated in teaching and learning, and how their use could address some communicative and cognitive problems faced by non-mother tongue English speakers in a context where English dominates teaching and learning at the expense of learners’ L1. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Electricity demand and supply in South Africa: is nuclear energy a feasible alternative to coal for baseload energy supply in South Africa?
- Authors: Maqanda, Vuyani
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434802 , vital:73106 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434802
- Description: Climate change mitigation has created pressure on the energy mix choices of all countries. Highly polluting energy sources are increasingly unpopular. Renewable energy options have emerged as preferred choices for the low-emissions transition. Proponents of nuclear power have promoted the technology as a low-emissions technology by focusing on the operational phase and ignoring the other polluting phases. South Africa generated about 83% of its electricity supply from coal in 2019 and was rated as the 12th most polluting country in the world. In addition to the high pollution levels, the ageing coal fleet suffered from poor maintenance that resulted in frequent power blackouts. One of the government’s energy plans from 2010 proposed the addition of 9 600 MW of nuclear capacity by 2030. However, this plan was not implemented. This study investigates why nuclear power historically never expanded beyond a single power facility in South Africa as well as the possible future role of nuclear power in alleviating South Africa’s current electricity supply constraints and emissions commitments in the period up to 2050. Qualitative analysis is used for this study with a focus on historical document analysis and interviews with energy experts. Two research methods, case studies, and expert opinions were used in this study with data sourced from policy documents, Statistics South Africa, the World Bank, and published articles from various platforms. The Hotelling model, focusing on the impact of price differentials on energy transitions, was used as a theoretical framework. The conclusion from applying the model was that nuclear power was more expensive than the other options even when internalisation of pollution externalities was considered and therefore nuclear power could not displace the cheaper alternatives like coal based on price factors alone. The Multi-Level Perspective, working through institutions, revealed that the institutional setting did not support a transition to nuclear energy. The lack of coordination of strategies derailed the transition. The comparative case study analysis of Germany, the UK, Australia, and India reaffirmed this as countries with better coordination succeeded in transitions. Energy experts offered differing views on the feasibility of nuclear power but many agreed that South Africa should focus on technologies it has better competencies in. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Maqanda, Vuyani
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434802 , vital:73106 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434802
- Description: Climate change mitigation has created pressure on the energy mix choices of all countries. Highly polluting energy sources are increasingly unpopular. Renewable energy options have emerged as preferred choices for the low-emissions transition. Proponents of nuclear power have promoted the technology as a low-emissions technology by focusing on the operational phase and ignoring the other polluting phases. South Africa generated about 83% of its electricity supply from coal in 2019 and was rated as the 12th most polluting country in the world. In addition to the high pollution levels, the ageing coal fleet suffered from poor maintenance that resulted in frequent power blackouts. One of the government’s energy plans from 2010 proposed the addition of 9 600 MW of nuclear capacity by 2030. However, this plan was not implemented. This study investigates why nuclear power historically never expanded beyond a single power facility in South Africa as well as the possible future role of nuclear power in alleviating South Africa’s current electricity supply constraints and emissions commitments in the period up to 2050. Qualitative analysis is used for this study with a focus on historical document analysis and interviews with energy experts. Two research methods, case studies, and expert opinions were used in this study with data sourced from policy documents, Statistics South Africa, the World Bank, and published articles from various platforms. The Hotelling model, focusing on the impact of price differentials on energy transitions, was used as a theoretical framework. The conclusion from applying the model was that nuclear power was more expensive than the other options even when internalisation of pollution externalities was considered and therefore nuclear power could not displace the cheaper alternatives like coal based on price factors alone. The Multi-Level Perspective, working through institutions, revealed that the institutional setting did not support a transition to nuclear energy. The lack of coordination of strategies derailed the transition. The comparative case study analysis of Germany, the UK, Australia, and India reaffirmed this as countries with better coordination succeeded in transitions. Energy experts offered differing views on the feasibility of nuclear power but many agreed that South Africa should focus on technologies it has better competencies in. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Issues in language acquisition planning in Zimbabwe: the case of Ndebele within the primary education system
- Authors: Masuku, Seabird
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434626 , vital:73091 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434627
- Description: This thesis discusses pertinent language issues within the primary school system in Zimbabwe in view of complaints (over many years) of communities in the two Matabeleland provinces and Bulawayo about high failure rates of learners in the final grade 7 examinations. It also interrogates the government’s commitment to the development of indigenous languages in the primary school system, particularly in the three provinces mentioned above as mirrored in the 2013 constitution of the country. The study conducted traces the language trends exhibited currently back to their beginnings during the colonial era in language planning by the government and the policies that informed such planning. What obtains on the ground seems to be violating the principles behind the declaration of the International Mother Language Day (30C/62) proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999. On 16 May 2007 the United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution A/RES/61/266, called upon Member States (Zimbabwe included) "to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world". The amended education act of 2006 states that in Zimbabwe’s primary schools early learning must be done through mother tongue instruction then switch to English in grade 4 upwards. As a first step of a child’s academic life, the lower primary education needs to be conducted in the child’s mother tongue to bridge the gap between the child’s home environment and the new school environment as well as to reduce culture shock associated with the sudden introduction of a new language. Studies, such as those done by Noormohamadi, (2008) and Mackenzie, (2013) have shown that children tend to understand better if they are taught in their mother tongue. In this thesis I seek to establish if the teaching of Ndebele at primary school reveals the socio-cultural ideology (awareness of circumstances surrounding individuals and how their behaviours are affected, specifically by their surroundings, social and cultural factors) and political ideology (thinking structures about the way policies should be run) underpinning language planning in Zimbabwe. It is my observation and argument that the Education Act proclaims what has not been practised on the ground through teacher training and deployment practices. To establish if the teaching of Ndebele at primary school reveals the socio-cultural and political ideologies underpinning language planning in Zimbabwe, I carried out research in Matabeleland South, Bulawayo and Matabeleland North provinces covering a total of 27 schools, 27 heads of school and 135 teachers. The research’s main aims were to find out if Ndebele was taught at school, by who and using what materials. It should be noted that mother tongue, in learning, acts as a basis of interpretation of subsequent concepts. When a child is learning new concepts or words in the second language, he or she first searches the equivalent in his or her mother tongue. If the primary language has not been developed well enough to have such equivalents, such a child is likely to have problems in forming new concepts in the second language. The role of language in meaning, therefore, is a variable that depends on the socio-geographical location of the languages and their speakers. The research established that, indigenous languages, Ndebele included, are not developed by the government through financial support for teaching material production and qualified teacher deployment. Instead, it was discovered that in Matabeleland there are some learners at primary school who are taught by a Shona-speaking teacher who cannot communicate properly with the learners. It should be remembered that a primary language is used by a child as the foundation to learn the basic concepts in his or her own language and to give him or her freedom to express himself or herself without the inhibitions imposed by an insufficient mastery of the medium of instruction. As a way of concluding the research I found it necessary that the use of mother tongue by learners at lower grades of primary school be strengthened through the deployment of teachers who can teach Ndebele properly because it provides a strong foundation for further education. Using the mother tongue, students learn to think, communicate and acquire an intuitive understanding of grammar. The mother tongue is; therefore, the greatest asset and vital tool people use to acquire new concepts. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Masuku, Seabird
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434626 , vital:73091 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434627
- Description: This thesis discusses pertinent language issues within the primary school system in Zimbabwe in view of complaints (over many years) of communities in the two Matabeleland provinces and Bulawayo about high failure rates of learners in the final grade 7 examinations. It also interrogates the government’s commitment to the development of indigenous languages in the primary school system, particularly in the three provinces mentioned above as mirrored in the 2013 constitution of the country. The study conducted traces the language trends exhibited currently back to their beginnings during the colonial era in language planning by the government and the policies that informed such planning. What obtains on the ground seems to be violating the principles behind the declaration of the International Mother Language Day (30C/62) proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999. On 16 May 2007 the United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution A/RES/61/266, called upon Member States (Zimbabwe included) "to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world". The amended education act of 2006 states that in Zimbabwe’s primary schools early learning must be done through mother tongue instruction then switch to English in grade 4 upwards. As a first step of a child’s academic life, the lower primary education needs to be conducted in the child’s mother tongue to bridge the gap between the child’s home environment and the new school environment as well as to reduce culture shock associated with the sudden introduction of a new language. Studies, such as those done by Noormohamadi, (2008) and Mackenzie, (2013) have shown that children tend to understand better if they are taught in their mother tongue. In this thesis I seek to establish if the teaching of Ndebele at primary school reveals the socio-cultural ideology (awareness of circumstances surrounding individuals and how their behaviours are affected, specifically by their surroundings, social and cultural factors) and political ideology (thinking structures about the way policies should be run) underpinning language planning in Zimbabwe. It is my observation and argument that the Education Act proclaims what has not been practised on the ground through teacher training and deployment practices. To establish if the teaching of Ndebele at primary school reveals the socio-cultural and political ideologies underpinning language planning in Zimbabwe, I carried out research in Matabeleland South, Bulawayo and Matabeleland North provinces covering a total of 27 schools, 27 heads of school and 135 teachers. The research’s main aims were to find out if Ndebele was taught at school, by who and using what materials. It should be noted that mother tongue, in learning, acts as a basis of interpretation of subsequent concepts. When a child is learning new concepts or words in the second language, he or she first searches the equivalent in his or her mother tongue. If the primary language has not been developed well enough to have such equivalents, such a child is likely to have problems in forming new concepts in the second language. The role of language in meaning, therefore, is a variable that depends on the socio-geographical location of the languages and their speakers. The research established that, indigenous languages, Ndebele included, are not developed by the government through financial support for teaching material production and qualified teacher deployment. Instead, it was discovered that in Matabeleland there are some learners at primary school who are taught by a Shona-speaking teacher who cannot communicate properly with the learners. It should be remembered that a primary language is used by a child as the foundation to learn the basic concepts in his or her own language and to give him or her freedom to express himself or herself without the inhibitions imposed by an insufficient mastery of the medium of instruction. As a way of concluding the research I found it necessary that the use of mother tongue by learners at lower grades of primary school be strengthened through the deployment of teachers who can teach Ndebele properly because it provides a strong foundation for further education. Using the mother tongue, students learn to think, communicate and acquire an intuitive understanding of grammar. The mother tongue is; therefore, the greatest asset and vital tool people use to acquire new concepts. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
The influence of electronic-consumer experience (e-CX) on consumer post-purchase outcomes of South African e-commerce retail organisations
- Authors: Williams, Alyssa Shawntay
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434828 , vital:73108
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Williams, Alyssa Shawntay
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434828 , vital:73108
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2026. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
The Zimbabwe National Gender Policy (NGP) 2013–2017 and Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE): a study of small-scale gold miners in the Bubi and Gwanda rural districts, Zimbabwe
- Moyo, Phoebe Michelle Zibusiso Sandi
- Authors: Moyo, Phoebe Michelle Zibusiso Sandi
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434638 , vital:73092 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434638
- Description: The study examines the impact of Zimbabwe’s second National Gender Policy (NGP) 2013-2017 under the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Gender and Community Development on women’s access to and control over productive resources in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector in Bubi and Gwanda rural districts of Zimbabwe. Despite the implementation of the NGP over the past fourteen years, its effect on the economic empowerment of women has not been investigated adequately. Women’s economic empowerment (WEE) is recognized as a crucial development strategy. However, it faces challenges related to the tensions between structure and agency. Some perceive WEE as an entrepreneurial concept focusing on equal access and control over productive resources like credit, equipment, skills, and business training. Others argue that WEE should encompass more than just resource access and control by addressing structural factors that hinder women’s agency e.g. unequal social relations between men and women, patriarchy, unpaid care work, and sociocultural norms. The study employed a hybrid lens, combining structure and agency to analyse the implementation of the NGP’s empowerment programs. Drawing on Kabeer’s (1994) Social Relations Approach (SRA), the study utilized two key concepts from the SRA, namely social relations and institutional analysis, to examine the interaction between the NGP and various institutions (market, community, and family) where women are located. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which the NGP has supported or impeded WEE among the female small-scale gold miners in Bubi and Gwanda, a qualitative approach was employed as an investigative method. The findings indicated that the NGP adopts a liberal or agency centred approach to WEE. This approach emphasizes women’s agency and their ability to fulfil their potential in the public sphere. The NGP has facilitated access to credit, equipment, skills, and business training. However, the evidence also highlighted the uneven implementation of the NGP’s empowerment programs between the Bubi and Gwanda districts. Overall, the evidence revealed that, while the NGP has addressed gender inequalities to a limited degree, it has also reinforced class inequalities. The NGP’s empowerment programs have overlooked the structural factors that keep women in subordinate positions, such as the unequal social relations that exist between men and women, patriarchy, unpaid care work and sociocultural norms. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Moyo, Phoebe Michelle Zibusiso Sandi
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434638 , vital:73092 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434638
- Description: The study examines the impact of Zimbabwe’s second National Gender Policy (NGP) 2013-2017 under the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Gender and Community Development on women’s access to and control over productive resources in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector in Bubi and Gwanda rural districts of Zimbabwe. Despite the implementation of the NGP over the past fourteen years, its effect on the economic empowerment of women has not been investigated adequately. Women’s economic empowerment (WEE) is recognized as a crucial development strategy. However, it faces challenges related to the tensions between structure and agency. Some perceive WEE as an entrepreneurial concept focusing on equal access and control over productive resources like credit, equipment, skills, and business training. Others argue that WEE should encompass more than just resource access and control by addressing structural factors that hinder women’s agency e.g. unequal social relations between men and women, patriarchy, unpaid care work, and sociocultural norms. The study employed a hybrid lens, combining structure and agency to analyse the implementation of the NGP’s empowerment programs. Drawing on Kabeer’s (1994) Social Relations Approach (SRA), the study utilized two key concepts from the SRA, namely social relations and institutional analysis, to examine the interaction between the NGP and various institutions (market, community, and family) where women are located. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which the NGP has supported or impeded WEE among the female small-scale gold miners in Bubi and Gwanda, a qualitative approach was employed as an investigative method. The findings indicated that the NGP adopts a liberal or agency centred approach to WEE. This approach emphasizes women’s agency and their ability to fulfil their potential in the public sphere. The NGP has facilitated access to credit, equipment, skills, and business training. However, the evidence also highlighted the uneven implementation of the NGP’s empowerment programs between the Bubi and Gwanda districts. Overall, the evidence revealed that, while the NGP has addressed gender inequalities to a limited degree, it has also reinforced class inequalities. The NGP’s empowerment programs have overlooked the structural factors that keep women in subordinate positions, such as the unequal social relations that exist between men and women, patriarchy, unpaid care work and sociocultural norms. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
A discourse analysis study of traditional health practitioners’ role in the treatment of female sexual violence and its mental health sequelae in KwaZulu-Natal
- Authors: Muthwa, Nqobile
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa , Physicians -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63904 , vital:73625
- Description: South Africa is considered the epicentre of rape, leading to its reputation as the ‘rape capital of the world’. As a way of mitigating the risk of re-victimisation to individuals who have experienced rape, hospital-based post-rape centres were developed to offer services and support to rape victims. The uptake of these services remains scant as issues such as rape stigma, limited knowledge on their availability and alternative health systems limits their usage. In South Africa, there exists medical pluralism, which refers to multiple ways of making sense of illness and treatment seeking methods. It is estimated that around 80% of South Africans utilise the services of traditional health practitioners in conjunction with biomedical health practices or as a standalone service to get alternative solutions for their health needs. Victims of rape need to access a wide range of services such as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), medical examinations, and emergency contraception. There has been a paucity in research looking into the alternative treatments accessed by rape victims who do not access services in the formal healthcare system. It is against this backdrop that this study explored the construction and treatment formulation of rape by traditional health practitioners. The study focused on the use of language and how it becomes action that influences the services rendered to rape victims. Thematic analysis, discourse and conversational analytical approaches were used to analyse data that emerges from the one-on-one interviews. 15 traditional healers who identified as abathandazi, Izangoma and izinyanga were selected to participate in the present study. The healthworlds framework and social constructionism were used to make sense of how traditional health practitioners construct rape and how the dominant discourses surrounding rape influence how they understand their position as healthcare providers. The main findings of the study illustrated that in the healthworld of traditional healers’ understanding of rape was constructed as ukungcola nobumnyama / impurity and darkness. These discourses spoke to the perception of rape as an aberration as one’s ancestors should prevent traumas and catastrophes from befalling on the individual. When rape occurs, it signalled spiritual problems resulting into a phenomenon where ancestors cannot safeguard the living. Under these discourse rape was also constructed as something that taints, impurifies and contaminates not just the raped individual but their entire bloodline and ancestors. As a result of the discourse surrounding rape, cleansing and purification rituals played a huge role in post-rape care. In addition, traditional health practitioners viewed their role as facilitators in reestablishing the relationship between the raped individual and their ancestors. The study observed that rape victims who share the same healthworld are likely to experience spiritual transgressions following rape which will have long-lasting effects on the psychological health outcomes of victims. The present study recommends a post-rape care model that advocates for collaborative opportunities between biomedical and traditional healthcare practitioners. This model can be integrated into existing post-rape care systems to provide holistic and comprehensive healthcare that addresses biopsychosocial as well as the spiritual and cultural influences of rape. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Muthwa, Nqobile
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa , Physicians -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63904 , vital:73625
- Description: South Africa is considered the epicentre of rape, leading to its reputation as the ‘rape capital of the world’. As a way of mitigating the risk of re-victimisation to individuals who have experienced rape, hospital-based post-rape centres were developed to offer services and support to rape victims. The uptake of these services remains scant as issues such as rape stigma, limited knowledge on their availability and alternative health systems limits their usage. In South Africa, there exists medical pluralism, which refers to multiple ways of making sense of illness and treatment seeking methods. It is estimated that around 80% of South Africans utilise the services of traditional health practitioners in conjunction with biomedical health practices or as a standalone service to get alternative solutions for their health needs. Victims of rape need to access a wide range of services such as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), medical examinations, and emergency contraception. There has been a paucity in research looking into the alternative treatments accessed by rape victims who do not access services in the formal healthcare system. It is against this backdrop that this study explored the construction and treatment formulation of rape by traditional health practitioners. The study focused on the use of language and how it becomes action that influences the services rendered to rape victims. Thematic analysis, discourse and conversational analytical approaches were used to analyse data that emerges from the one-on-one interviews. 15 traditional healers who identified as abathandazi, Izangoma and izinyanga were selected to participate in the present study. The healthworlds framework and social constructionism were used to make sense of how traditional health practitioners construct rape and how the dominant discourses surrounding rape influence how they understand their position as healthcare providers. The main findings of the study illustrated that in the healthworld of traditional healers’ understanding of rape was constructed as ukungcola nobumnyama / impurity and darkness. These discourses spoke to the perception of rape as an aberration as one’s ancestors should prevent traumas and catastrophes from befalling on the individual. When rape occurs, it signalled spiritual problems resulting into a phenomenon where ancestors cannot safeguard the living. Under these discourse rape was also constructed as something that taints, impurifies and contaminates not just the raped individual but their entire bloodline and ancestors. As a result of the discourse surrounding rape, cleansing and purification rituals played a huge role in post-rape care. In addition, traditional health practitioners viewed their role as facilitators in reestablishing the relationship between the raped individual and their ancestors. The study observed that rape victims who share the same healthworld are likely to experience spiritual transgressions following rape which will have long-lasting effects on the psychological health outcomes of victims. The present study recommends a post-rape care model that advocates for collaborative opportunities between biomedical and traditional healthcare practitioners. This model can be integrated into existing post-rape care systems to provide holistic and comprehensive healthcare that addresses biopsychosocial as well as the spiritual and cultural influences of rape. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
A framework for the strategic alignment of internal auditing in the public sector
- Authors: Nyenyiso, Sizwe
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Auditing, Internal , Auditing , Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65368 , vital:74095
- Description: The role of internal auditing has evolved from a control-based function to a strategic partner of strategy formulation and execution. In today’s fast paced business environment, the demand for internal audit (IA) services has increased enormously as management struggles to respond to disruptions. To maximise the IA value and effectively respond to the expectations of stakeholders, the internal audit functions (IAFs) must be properly aligned with the strategic direction of their organisations. Public sector IAFs must align their work with the strategies, objectives and risks of the public sector organisations and promote organisational improvement. Failure to strategically align the IAFs may lead to the non-delivery of their mandate, and thus be unable to assure, advise and provide the insights that inform strategic decision making. It is concerning that the public sector IAFs may not be adequately aligned to the strategic direction of their organisations, and that no mechanism is in place to enable this alignment. Hence the primary objective of this study to develop a framework for aligning public sector IAFs with the strategic direction of the South African public sector organisations. The secondary objectives were to investigate factors that impact on IA alignment with the strategies of the public sector organisations; and how these can be integrated into the IA strategic alignment framework. This qualitative Delphi study used a combination of the Agency Theory and Strategic Alignment Theory (SAT) to better understand the phenomenon of IA strategic alignment. An iterative process of three Delphi rounds was followed to facilitate consensus among participants, who were selected using a purposive sampling method. This culminated in the development of IA strategic alignment framework, encompassing five components: organisational context; IA governance; IA planning approach; IA processes and IA resourcing, as well as 48 factors (35 positive and 13 negative) of IA strategic alignment. The study also found 15 benefits of IA strategic alignment (eight benefits to the organisation and seven to the IAF). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Accounting, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Nyenyiso, Sizwe
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Auditing, Internal , Auditing , Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65368 , vital:74095
- Description: The role of internal auditing has evolved from a control-based function to a strategic partner of strategy formulation and execution. In today’s fast paced business environment, the demand for internal audit (IA) services has increased enormously as management struggles to respond to disruptions. To maximise the IA value and effectively respond to the expectations of stakeholders, the internal audit functions (IAFs) must be properly aligned with the strategic direction of their organisations. Public sector IAFs must align their work with the strategies, objectives and risks of the public sector organisations and promote organisational improvement. Failure to strategically align the IAFs may lead to the non-delivery of their mandate, and thus be unable to assure, advise and provide the insights that inform strategic decision making. It is concerning that the public sector IAFs may not be adequately aligned to the strategic direction of their organisations, and that no mechanism is in place to enable this alignment. Hence the primary objective of this study to develop a framework for aligning public sector IAFs with the strategic direction of the South African public sector organisations. The secondary objectives were to investigate factors that impact on IA alignment with the strategies of the public sector organisations; and how these can be integrated into the IA strategic alignment framework. This qualitative Delphi study used a combination of the Agency Theory and Strategic Alignment Theory (SAT) to better understand the phenomenon of IA strategic alignment. An iterative process of three Delphi rounds was followed to facilitate consensus among participants, who were selected using a purposive sampling method. This culminated in the development of IA strategic alignment framework, encompassing five components: organisational context; IA governance; IA planning approach; IA processes and IA resourcing, as well as 48 factors (35 positive and 13 negative) of IA strategic alignment. The study also found 15 benefits of IA strategic alignment (eight benefits to the organisation and seven to the IAF). , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Accounting, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
A leadership model for South Africa’s infrastructure-related State-owned Enterprises
- Authors: Notununu, Fezile
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Government business enterprises -- South Africa , Construction industry , Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64750 , vital:73885
- Description: The objective of this research was to create a leadership model designed specifically to address the challenges faced by South Africa's infrastructure-related, state-owned enterprises. Both Eskom and Transnet are currently experiencing leadership crises, which might be further exacerbated by the global economic difficulties. Through an initial literature review it became evident that there was a knowledge gap regarding leadership within South Africa's state-owned enterprises. Consequently, it was crucial to conduct an extensive analysis of leadership styles to ensure effective infrastructure management for these state-owned enterprises. The primary aim of this study was to propose a leadership model that would be suitable for South Africa's infrastructure-related, state-owned enterprises. To achieve this objective, the relationship between effective leadership and perceived success in infrastructure development was explored, as well as the relationship between effective planning and perceived success in infrastructure development within these enterprises. Additionally, the connection between leadership training and perceived success in infrastructure development was investigated in the study. Quantitative research methods were employed to address these research objectives. The data for this study were collected through an online survey, with a total of 335 respondents from South Africa. Descriptive statistics and structural equation modelling (SEM) were used for analysis, using SPSS AMOS 29 Software. The findings of the study indicated a significant positive relationship between effective management and perceived success in infrastructure development for state-owned enterprises. However, the results regarding the relationship between effective planning and perceived success were not statistically significant, as the p-value exceeded 0.05. Based on the outcomes of the study, appropriate and meaningful recommendations have been provided regarding the leadership model necessary for effective infrastructure management in South Africa's infrastructure-related, state-owned enterprises. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Notununu, Fezile
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Government business enterprises -- South Africa , Construction industry , Leadership -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64750 , vital:73885
- Description: The objective of this research was to create a leadership model designed specifically to address the challenges faced by South Africa's infrastructure-related, state-owned enterprises. Both Eskom and Transnet are currently experiencing leadership crises, which might be further exacerbated by the global economic difficulties. Through an initial literature review it became evident that there was a knowledge gap regarding leadership within South Africa's state-owned enterprises. Consequently, it was crucial to conduct an extensive analysis of leadership styles to ensure effective infrastructure management for these state-owned enterprises. The primary aim of this study was to propose a leadership model that would be suitable for South Africa's infrastructure-related, state-owned enterprises. To achieve this objective, the relationship between effective leadership and perceived success in infrastructure development was explored, as well as the relationship between effective planning and perceived success in infrastructure development within these enterprises. Additionally, the connection between leadership training and perceived success in infrastructure development was investigated in the study. Quantitative research methods were employed to address these research objectives. The data for this study were collected through an online survey, with a total of 335 respondents from South Africa. Descriptive statistics and structural equation modelling (SEM) were used for analysis, using SPSS AMOS 29 Software. The findings of the study indicated a significant positive relationship between effective management and perceived success in infrastructure development for state-owned enterprises. However, the results regarding the relationship between effective planning and perceived success were not statistically significant, as the p-value exceeded 0.05. Based on the outcomes of the study, appropriate and meaningful recommendations have been provided regarding the leadership model necessary for effective infrastructure management in South Africa's infrastructure-related, state-owned enterprises. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Built Environment and Civil Engineering, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
A model to measure the digital competence of South African citizens
- Authors: Du Preez, Creswell Martin
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Communication of technical information , Digital divide , Information technology -- Social aspects , Information society
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64522 , vital:73746
- Description: The rapid proliferation of disruptive technologies is a paradigm shift fundamentally changing how humanity lives, works, communicates, and relates to each other. Many governments are implementing digital transformation strategies to improve service delivery, citizen participation, and information-sharing mechanisms. South Africa has identified digital skills as a key challenge to becoming a professional and globally competitive knowledge society. However, the 2016 Global IT Report of the World Economic Forum highlights the skills problem in South Africa, ranking it 95th out of 139 countries on the skills pillar. This is due to poor quality of education, particularly in math and science. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly underscored the importance of digital competence in South Africa, highlighting both challenges and opportunities. As the pandemic forced a shift to remote work, education, and digital service delivery, the disparities in digital access and skills became more apparent, especially in under-resourced communities. This situation revealed the urgent need to enhance digital competence across the population to bridge the digital divide. On the other hand, the pandemic also acted as a catalyst for digital transformation in the country. There was an accelerated adoption of digital technologies in various sectors, from education using online platforms to businesses embracing e-commerce. This rapid shift showcased the potential of digital technology to foster resilience against such disruptions. It highlighted citizens’ critical need for comprehensive digital competence to navigate this new digital landscape effectively. A gap exists between current online digital skills training programmes and the ability of citizens to participate in the same. While mega-vendors like Microsoft, Google, and Oracle offer virtual training on specific technologies, it is argued that users need digital competence training before participating in these opportunities. In other words, be able to access online training platforms, create a user account, use secure passwords, and navigate online training systems. This critical component is not holistically addressed across the education system in South Africa. Furthermore, digital competence is a new concept in the South African context and has not been holistically assessed until now. This study sets out to develop a digital competence assessment model to measure the digital competence of South African citizens. Research was conducted to understand digital competence, its characteristics and assessment models and frameworks. A suitable framework was then selected and adapted for the South African context. The adapted framework was used to develop a South African Digital Competence Assessment Model. The model consists of a Digital Competence Assessment Grid, which forms the core of the Digital Competence Assessment Model, as well as an example of how the model can be used to develop an assessment questionnaire. The South African Digital Competence Assessment Grid and the Digital Competence Assessment Example were reviewed by experts as part of an expert review process. The recommendations from the experts were used to refine the Digital Competence Assessment Grid. As the concept of digital competence is new to South Africa, implementation strategies and considerations were discussed for the model. As a starting point, implementation resources were developed on how to use the model in the form of a Digital Competence Assessment Model Guide. The study thus makes an important contribution to advancing digital competence assessment in South Africa, which will inform the nature of the development programs needed and from which the competence profiles for various jobs and job families can be generated. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Du Preez, Creswell Martin
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: Communication of technical information , Digital divide , Information technology -- Social aspects , Information society
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/64522 , vital:73746
- Description: The rapid proliferation of disruptive technologies is a paradigm shift fundamentally changing how humanity lives, works, communicates, and relates to each other. Many governments are implementing digital transformation strategies to improve service delivery, citizen participation, and information-sharing mechanisms. South Africa has identified digital skills as a key challenge to becoming a professional and globally competitive knowledge society. However, the 2016 Global IT Report of the World Economic Forum highlights the skills problem in South Africa, ranking it 95th out of 139 countries on the skills pillar. This is due to poor quality of education, particularly in math and science. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly underscored the importance of digital competence in South Africa, highlighting both challenges and opportunities. As the pandemic forced a shift to remote work, education, and digital service delivery, the disparities in digital access and skills became more apparent, especially in under-resourced communities. This situation revealed the urgent need to enhance digital competence across the population to bridge the digital divide. On the other hand, the pandemic also acted as a catalyst for digital transformation in the country. There was an accelerated adoption of digital technologies in various sectors, from education using online platforms to businesses embracing e-commerce. This rapid shift showcased the potential of digital technology to foster resilience against such disruptions. It highlighted citizens’ critical need for comprehensive digital competence to navigate this new digital landscape effectively. A gap exists between current online digital skills training programmes and the ability of citizens to participate in the same. While mega-vendors like Microsoft, Google, and Oracle offer virtual training on specific technologies, it is argued that users need digital competence training before participating in these opportunities. In other words, be able to access online training platforms, create a user account, use secure passwords, and navigate online training systems. This critical component is not holistically addressed across the education system in South Africa. Furthermore, digital competence is a new concept in the South African context and has not been holistically assessed until now. This study sets out to develop a digital competence assessment model to measure the digital competence of South African citizens. Research was conducted to understand digital competence, its characteristics and assessment models and frameworks. A suitable framework was then selected and adapted for the South African context. The adapted framework was used to develop a South African Digital Competence Assessment Model. The model consists of a Digital Competence Assessment Grid, which forms the core of the Digital Competence Assessment Model, as well as an example of how the model can be used to develop an assessment questionnaire. The South African Digital Competence Assessment Grid and the Digital Competence Assessment Example were reviewed by experts as part of an expert review process. The recommendations from the experts were used to refine the Digital Competence Assessment Grid. As the concept of digital competence is new to South Africa, implementation strategies and considerations were discussed for the model. As a starting point, implementation resources were developed on how to use the model in the form of a Digital Competence Assessment Model Guide. The study thus makes an important contribution to advancing digital competence assessment in South Africa, which will inform the nature of the development programs needed and from which the competence profiles for various jobs and job families can be generated. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
A qualitative exploration of the role of LO teachers and LO subject advisors in the design and formulation of sexuality and HIV curriculum
- Authors: Jacobs, Elfean Randall
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: HIV (Viruses) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Life skills -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa , Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63956 , vital:73632
- Description: This research study investigated the role of LO teachers and LO subject advisors in designing and formulating a sexuality and HIV curriculum. The Life Orientation subject aims to equip learners with the necessary skills, knowledge, values, and attitudes to live a successful and healthy life in society. Some of LO's prescribed programmes, such as the sexuality and HIV curriculum, have operated for many years in the South African school curriculum. These programmes still do not address the social illnesses that destroy the lives of young people in our communities. There is a need for the transformation of these programmes. The research was conducted in the Blue Crane region in Somerset East and the Dr Beyers Naude region in Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Qualitative data generation methods were employed, which consisted of field notes and individual interviews with six (6) LO teachers at three (3) of the identified secondary schools and two (2) LO subject advisors from the district office. The main research question for this study was: What is the role of LO teachers and LO subject advisors in the design and formulation of sexuality and HIV curriculum in the life orientation subject? What are the pedagogical contributions of LO teachers and LO subject advisors on the content of the sexuality and HIV curriculum in their schools? What do LO teachers and LO subject advisors perceive as relevant in the teaching methodology of the sexuality and HIV curriculum in the schools? What do LO teachers and LO subject advisors perceive as the relevant content for a sexuality and HIV curriculum? The data generated from the individual interviews was analysed using thematic analysis. The analysed data was further broken down into seven (7) themes and subthemes. The interpretation of the themes and subthemes are discussed in detail. To ensure whether the analysed data was accurate and correct, the researcher utilised quality criteria to measure the trustworthiness of the study as well as the credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. , Thesis (D.Phil) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04
- Authors: Jacobs, Elfean Randall
- Date: 2024-04
- Subjects: HIV (Viruses) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Life skills -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa , Curriculum planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63956 , vital:73632
- Description: This research study investigated the role of LO teachers and LO subject advisors in designing and formulating a sexuality and HIV curriculum. The Life Orientation subject aims to equip learners with the necessary skills, knowledge, values, and attitudes to live a successful and healthy life in society. Some of LO's prescribed programmes, such as the sexuality and HIV curriculum, have operated for many years in the South African school curriculum. These programmes still do not address the social illnesses that destroy the lives of young people in our communities. There is a need for the transformation of these programmes. The research was conducted in the Blue Crane region in Somerset East and the Dr Beyers Naude region in Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Qualitative data generation methods were employed, which consisted of field notes and individual interviews with six (6) LO teachers at three (3) of the identified secondary schools and two (2) LO subject advisors from the district office. The main research question for this study was: What is the role of LO teachers and LO subject advisors in the design and formulation of sexuality and HIV curriculum in the life orientation subject? What are the pedagogical contributions of LO teachers and LO subject advisors on the content of the sexuality and HIV curriculum in their schools? What do LO teachers and LO subject advisors perceive as relevant in the teaching methodology of the sexuality and HIV curriculum in the schools? What do LO teachers and LO subject advisors perceive as the relevant content for a sexuality and HIV curriculum? The data generated from the individual interviews was analysed using thematic analysis. The analysed data was further broken down into seven (7) themes and subthemes. The interpretation of the themes and subthemes are discussed in detail. To ensure whether the analysed data was accurate and correct, the researcher utilised quality criteria to measure the trustworthiness of the study as well as the credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. , Thesis (D.Phil) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04