Exploring knowledge, attitudes and psychosocial experiences of health care workers regarding covid-19 in Bufalo City municipality
- Authors: Notununu, Zintle
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Medical personnel
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27028 , vital:66231
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude and psychosocial experiences of health care workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. Covid-19 is a disease that attacks the respiratory system and functions. It is a highly infectious disease with a lengthy 5-6 sometimes even 14-day incubation period. It is very serious condition and has killed a lot of people including the Health Care Workers A qualitative descriptive explorative contextual design was employed in this research study. The design was relevant for this study to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude, and psychosocial experiences of health workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. The non-probability sampling method was used and a convenient sampling technique was used to select the participants. Professional nurses who met the criteria and who were on duty on the day of data collection were included in the study. The researcher interviewed 15 professional nurses and stopped as the data was saturated. A semi-structured Interview guide was used as an instrument to collect data containing open-ended questions. The researcher maintained ethical principles throughout the study. Concepts of trustworthiness of the study were applied throughout the research. Tech’s eight steps approach was used to guide the data analysis process. The findings of this study indicate that health care workers have a high level of knowledge about Covid-19. They know what Covid-19 is, how it started, its signs and symptoms, how to protect themselves from it and its complications. Negative attitudes, fears were noticed from the HCWs and thus the need for psychological support was identified. Feelings of neglect and lack of motivation were also identified. Psychological support for health care workers must be provided to prevent staff burnout. Personal Protective Equipment used in the hospital premises must be left and washed in the hospital laundry to prevent the spread of infection to the families of the HCWs. It was indicated that there are health care workers who experienced chronic illnesses after being diagnosed with Covid-19. These chronic illnesses include diabetes and high blood pressure. It was brought to light that myths circulating on the social media about Covid-19 vaccines are delaying the end of Covid-19 epidemic by putting the health care workers at risk of being infected with it as they will be expected to treat patients diagnosed with Covid-19; therefore, government should develop a policy that will limit people from spreading things that they are not true and cannot prove. In conclusion, community awareness and forced vaccination are recommended to end the Covid-19 virus. Monitory incentives should be provided to motivate health care workers. Their overtime that they have worked during Covid-19 must be paid. The Department of Health and hospital managers must make sure that working conditions are improved. This includes the availability of machines to test for Covid-19. More research needs to be done to find out why some people who were diagnosed with Covid-19 end up having chronic illnesses that they never had previously. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Notununu, Zintle
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) , Medical personnel
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27028 , vital:66231
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude and psychosocial experiences of health care workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. Covid-19 is a disease that attacks the respiratory system and functions. It is a highly infectious disease with a lengthy 5-6 sometimes even 14-day incubation period. It is very serious condition and has killed a lot of people including the Health Care Workers A qualitative descriptive explorative contextual design was employed in this research study. The design was relevant for this study to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude, and psychosocial experiences of health workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. The non-probability sampling method was used and a convenient sampling technique was used to select the participants. Professional nurses who met the criteria and who were on duty on the day of data collection were included in the study. The researcher interviewed 15 professional nurses and stopped as the data was saturated. A semi-structured Interview guide was used as an instrument to collect data containing open-ended questions. The researcher maintained ethical principles throughout the study. Concepts of trustworthiness of the study were applied throughout the research. Tech’s eight steps approach was used to guide the data analysis process. The findings of this study indicate that health care workers have a high level of knowledge about Covid-19. They know what Covid-19 is, how it started, its signs and symptoms, how to protect themselves from it and its complications. Negative attitudes, fears were noticed from the HCWs and thus the need for psychological support was identified. Feelings of neglect and lack of motivation were also identified. Psychological support for health care workers must be provided to prevent staff burnout. Personal Protective Equipment used in the hospital premises must be left and washed in the hospital laundry to prevent the spread of infection to the families of the HCWs. It was indicated that there are health care workers who experienced chronic illnesses after being diagnosed with Covid-19. These chronic illnesses include diabetes and high blood pressure. It was brought to light that myths circulating on the social media about Covid-19 vaccines are delaying the end of Covid-19 epidemic by putting the health care workers at risk of being infected with it as they will be expected to treat patients diagnosed with Covid-19; therefore, government should develop a policy that will limit people from spreading things that they are not true and cannot prove. In conclusion, community awareness and forced vaccination are recommended to end the Covid-19 virus. Monitory incentives should be provided to motivate health care workers. Their overtime that they have worked during Covid-19 must be paid. The Department of Health and hospital managers must make sure that working conditions are improved. This includes the availability of machines to test for Covid-19. More research needs to be done to find out why some people who were diagnosed with Covid-19 end up having chronic illnesses that they never had previously. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2020
- Full Text:
Exploring knowledge, attitudes and psychosocial experiences of health care workers regarding covid-19 in Bufalo City Municipality
- Authors: Notununu, Zintle
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: Medical personnel and patient , Health services administration , COVID-19 (Disease)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23545 , vital:58122
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude and psychosocial experiences of health care workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. Covid-19 is a disease that attacks the respiratory system and functions. It is a highly infectious disease with a lengthy 5-6 sometimes even 14-day incubation period. It is very serious condition and has killed a lot of people including the Health Care Workers A qualitative descriptive explorative contextual design was employed in this research study. The design was relevant for this study to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude, and psychosocial experiences of health workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. The non-probability sampling method was used and a convenient sampling technique was used to select the participants. Professional nurses who met the criteria and who were on duty on the day of data collection were included in the study. The researcher interviewed 15 professional nurses and stopped as the data was saturated. A semi-structured Interview guide was used as an instrument to collect data containing open-ended questions. The researcher maintained ethical principles throughout the study. Concepts of trustworthiness of the study were applied throughout the research. Tech’s eight steps approach was used to guide the data analysis process. The findings of this study indicate that health care workers have a high level of knowledge about Covid-19. They know what Covid-19 is, how it started, its signs and symptoms, how to protect themselves from it and its complications. Negative attitudes, fears were noticed from the HCWs and thus the need for psychological support was identified. Feelings of neglect and lack of motivation were also identified. Psychological support for health care workers must be provided to prevent staff burnout. Personal Protective Equipment used in the hospital premises must be left and washed in the hospital laundry to prevent the spread of infection to the families of the HCWs. It was indicated that there are health care workers who experienced chronic illnesses after being diagnosed with Covid-19. These chronic illnesses include diabetes and high blood pressure. It was brought to light that myths circulating on the social media about Covid-19 vaccines are delaying the end of Covid-19 epidemic by putting the health care workers at risk of being infected with it as they will be expected to treat patients diagnosed with Covid-19; therefore, government should develop a policy that will limit people from spreading things that they are not true and cannot prove. In conclusion, community awareness and forced vaccination are recommended to end the Covid-19 virus. Monitory incentives should be provided to motivate health care workers. Their overtime that they have worked during Covid-19 must be paid. The Department of Health and hospital managers must make sure that working conditions are improved. This includes the availability of machines to test for Covid-19. More research needs to be done to find out why some people who were diagnosed with Covid-19 end up having chronic illnesses that they never had previously. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Notununu, Zintle
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: Medical personnel and patient , Health services administration , COVID-19 (Disease)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23545 , vital:58122
- Description: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude and psychosocial experiences of health care workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. Covid-19 is a disease that attacks the respiratory system and functions. It is a highly infectious disease with a lengthy 5-6 sometimes even 14-day incubation period. It is very serious condition and has killed a lot of people including the Health Care Workers A qualitative descriptive explorative contextual design was employed in this research study. The design was relevant for this study to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude, and psychosocial experiences of health workers regarding Covid-19 in Buffalo City Municipality. The non-probability sampling method was used and a convenient sampling technique was used to select the participants. Professional nurses who met the criteria and who were on duty on the day of data collection were included in the study. The researcher interviewed 15 professional nurses and stopped as the data was saturated. A semi-structured Interview guide was used as an instrument to collect data containing open-ended questions. The researcher maintained ethical principles throughout the study. Concepts of trustworthiness of the study were applied throughout the research. Tech’s eight steps approach was used to guide the data analysis process. The findings of this study indicate that health care workers have a high level of knowledge about Covid-19. They know what Covid-19 is, how it started, its signs and symptoms, how to protect themselves from it and its complications. Negative attitudes, fears were noticed from the HCWs and thus the need for psychological support was identified. Feelings of neglect and lack of motivation were also identified. Psychological support for health care workers must be provided to prevent staff burnout. Personal Protective Equipment used in the hospital premises must be left and washed in the hospital laundry to prevent the spread of infection to the families of the HCWs. It was indicated that there are health care workers who experienced chronic illnesses after being diagnosed with Covid-19. These chronic illnesses include diabetes and high blood pressure. It was brought to light that myths circulating on the social media about Covid-19 vaccines are delaying the end of Covid-19 epidemic by putting the health care workers at risk of being infected with it as they will be expected to treat patients diagnosed with Covid-19; therefore, government should develop a policy that will limit people from spreading things that they are not true and cannot prove. In conclusion, community awareness and forced vaccination are recommended to end the Covid-19 virus. Monitory incentives should be provided to motivate health care workers. Their overtime that they have worked during Covid-19 must be paid. The Department of Health and hospital managers must make sure that working conditions are improved. This includes the availability of machines to test for Covid-19. More research needs to be done to find out why some people who were diagnosed with Covid-19 end up having chronic illnesses that they never had previously. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
A review of factors influencing poor performance in matric examinations in Libode District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Tsama, Vuyani
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: High school students , School improvement programs , Education--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20506 , vital:46029
- Description: The researcher reviewed the factors that influence poor performance in matriculation examinations in the Libode District, also referred to as the OR Tambo Coastal District. Okoye (1982) defines poor academic performance of the individual or candidate in the learning situation as one in which a candidate fails to attain a set standard of performance in a given evaluation exercise such as a test, an examination or a series of continuous assessment. The research used a mixed method approach in an explanatory and case study research design. A purposive sampling of sixty (60) participants, who were the principals in the schools selected, was used. The researcher distributed forty-five (45) questionnaires and fifteen (15) interviews were conducted. The data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for the qualitative data. Furthermore, inferential statistics were done, validating some statements in the research, and approving or disproving statements in the findings of the research. The perceptions of the causes of poor performance showed that forty percent (40 percent) of respondents disagreed that good planning was being done by the Department of Basic Education. Thirty-eight (38 percent ) percent of the participants also disagreed that low motivation on the part of the children was a factor in the poor results, followed by thirty-five percent (35 percent ) who slightly agreed that matric learners are failing because of socio-economic factors. Furthermore, on the challenges affecting the Department of Education, eight-seven percent (87 percent ) of the respondents supported the impact of drugs on poor performance, sixty-nine percent (69 percent) cited the issue of shortages of Learner Teaching and Support Material (LTSM) and sixty-five percent (65 percent) of respondents attributed the erratic and unfair progression of learners at grade eight (8), nine (9) and ten (10) level, which ultimately affected the grade twelve (12) results. The interview findings showed that the average pass rate was fifty percent (50 percent) in most schools, and the administration and leadership issues of the schools had been poorly managed. This, coupled with a shortage of LTSM and societal issues, such as drugs, negatively affected the matriculates. The research findings pointed to the challenge of drugs as being the biggest societal contributor to poor performance in matriculation results in OR Tambo Coastal District. The inferential statistics showed that gender could not affect the principal’s role as administrators and leader. However, gender did impact on leadership style. Women’s leadership style, which was more participative and consultative, was found to produce lower results; while male principals, who used a more bureaucratic, authoritative style, tended to produce higher results. Among other issues, the task-oriented, emotional nature of the principal’s job showed effects on school performance overall and the education level of the grade twelves (12), but educators alone could not affect the matric results. Furthermore, alone, the department’s efforts to improve results were not found to be productive; rather a number of factors could be combined to produce results. Lastly, the researcher recommended that the OR Tambo Coastal District should train teachers through development programmes, adjust the leadership style to one that is situational and transformational, and improve dialogue with school principals through regular school visits. Again, underperforming schools should be provided with LTSM, and teachers should be recruited and deployed on time. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Tsama, Vuyani
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: High school students , School improvement programs , Education--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20506 , vital:46029
- Description: The researcher reviewed the factors that influence poor performance in matriculation examinations in the Libode District, also referred to as the OR Tambo Coastal District. Okoye (1982) defines poor academic performance of the individual or candidate in the learning situation as one in which a candidate fails to attain a set standard of performance in a given evaluation exercise such as a test, an examination or a series of continuous assessment. The research used a mixed method approach in an explanatory and case study research design. A purposive sampling of sixty (60) participants, who were the principals in the schools selected, was used. The researcher distributed forty-five (45) questionnaires and fifteen (15) interviews were conducted. The data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for the qualitative data. Furthermore, inferential statistics were done, validating some statements in the research, and approving or disproving statements in the findings of the research. The perceptions of the causes of poor performance showed that forty percent (40 percent) of respondents disagreed that good planning was being done by the Department of Basic Education. Thirty-eight (38 percent ) percent of the participants also disagreed that low motivation on the part of the children was a factor in the poor results, followed by thirty-five percent (35 percent ) who slightly agreed that matric learners are failing because of socio-economic factors. Furthermore, on the challenges affecting the Department of Education, eight-seven percent (87 percent ) of the respondents supported the impact of drugs on poor performance, sixty-nine percent (69 percent) cited the issue of shortages of Learner Teaching and Support Material (LTSM) and sixty-five percent (65 percent) of respondents attributed the erratic and unfair progression of learners at grade eight (8), nine (9) and ten (10) level, which ultimately affected the grade twelve (12) results. The interview findings showed that the average pass rate was fifty percent (50 percent) in most schools, and the administration and leadership issues of the schools had been poorly managed. This, coupled with a shortage of LTSM and societal issues, such as drugs, negatively affected the matriculates. The research findings pointed to the challenge of drugs as being the biggest societal contributor to poor performance in matriculation results in OR Tambo Coastal District. The inferential statistics showed that gender could not affect the principal’s role as administrators and leader. However, gender did impact on leadership style. Women’s leadership style, which was more participative and consultative, was found to produce lower results; while male principals, who used a more bureaucratic, authoritative style, tended to produce higher results. Among other issues, the task-oriented, emotional nature of the principal’s job showed effects on school performance overall and the education level of the grade twelves (12), but educators alone could not affect the matric results. Furthermore, alone, the department’s efforts to improve results were not found to be productive; rather a number of factors could be combined to produce results. Lastly, the researcher recommended that the OR Tambo Coastal District should train teachers through development programmes, adjust the leadership style to one that is situational and transformational, and improve dialogue with school principals through regular school visits. Again, underperforming schools should be provided with LTSM, and teachers should be recruited and deployed on time. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Eastern Cape students’ barriers to well-being and academic success in higher education: A photovoice study
- Authors: Dilley, Jessica
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Education, Higher , Educational change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20949 , vital:46862
- Description: The contemporary educational landscape in South Africa is characterised by prevailing inequities and disparities within higher education institutions and poor academic achievement. Although participation in higher education has increased over time, many students do not complete their courses within the required time and a high proportion of students continue to drop out, with few students progressing to postgraduate level. Majority of students who do not complete their courses are poor. Many students are faced with a number of barriers that stand in the way of academic success and, ultimately, graduation. However, through agency students often draw from a range of supports to promote their well-being and academic success. This study aims to balance the literature by investigating not only the barriers, but also the supports to success in university. This study addresses the notion that students from historically black universities are underrepresented in the literature. The current study explored Eastern Cape students’ barriers and supports to success within higher education. Five undergraduate female students participated in focus groups, which incorporated photovoice, adding to the participative nature of the research methodology. Focus group data were subjected to thematic analysis, informed by social constructionist theory. Three themes were prevalent: barriers within higher education, coping strategies positioned on a continuum and supports in higher education. Descriptions revealed that barriers and supports are reinforced by prevailing discourses, which are critiqued and/or used for the benefit of the students’ well-being. Barriers were limiting, yet also sites for personal growth and agency, whilst the engagement with supports was mediated predominantly by the intersection of social categories (race, gender, socio-economic status) occupied by students. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dilley, Jessica
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Education, Higher , Educational change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20949 , vital:46862
- Description: The contemporary educational landscape in South Africa is characterised by prevailing inequities and disparities within higher education institutions and poor academic achievement. Although participation in higher education has increased over time, many students do not complete their courses within the required time and a high proportion of students continue to drop out, with few students progressing to postgraduate level. Majority of students who do not complete their courses are poor. Many students are faced with a number of barriers that stand in the way of academic success and, ultimately, graduation. However, through agency students often draw from a range of supports to promote their well-being and academic success. This study aims to balance the literature by investigating not only the barriers, but also the supports to success in university. This study addresses the notion that students from historically black universities are underrepresented in the literature. The current study explored Eastern Cape students’ barriers and supports to success within higher education. Five undergraduate female students participated in focus groups, which incorporated photovoice, adding to the participative nature of the research methodology. Focus group data were subjected to thematic analysis, informed by social constructionist theory. Three themes were prevalent: barriers within higher education, coping strategies positioned on a continuum and supports in higher education. Descriptions revealed that barriers and supports are reinforced by prevailing discourses, which are critiqued and/or used for the benefit of the students’ well-being. Barriers were limiting, yet also sites for personal growth and agency, whilst the engagement with supports was mediated predominantly by the intersection of social categories (race, gender, socio-economic status) occupied by students. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2020
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Evaluation of the utilisation of game liver and maize meal in the production of liver sausage
- Authors: Cairncross, Kelly Inga
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Meat -- Preservation , Sausages
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23743 , vital:59029
- Description: The study aimed to evaluate the utilisation of game liver and maize meal as a partial fat replacer in the production of liver sausage. Mixed game livers (Blesbok, Impala and Springbok) were purchased and processed into sausages with varying levels of maize meal (6percent, 8percent, 10percent and 12percent). The liver sausages were cooked in a water bath for 2 hours to an internal temperate of 70 °C. Cooked sausages were cooled in ice water before storage at 4 °C before vacuum packed and frozen at -20 °C for 30 days. Proximate and fatty acid composition, pH, water activity, texture, lipid oxidation, and microbial content was determined on both day 0 and 30 days after frozen storage. Of the proximate composition, carbohydrate content had significant differences (P≤0.05) and increased as maize meal inclusion increased. The pH of raw game liver sausage batter differed (P≤0.05) between treatments. The pH of cooked game liver sausage differed (P≤0.05) from the raw batter. Textural parameters showed an increase (P<0.01) for both hardness and chewiness after 30 days of frozen storage. A positive correlation was found between hardness and chewiness with an increase in maize meal inclusion. TBARS values of the 12percent treatment differed (P≤0.05) from the maize meal inclusion treatments, but no differences (P>0.05) were recorded over 30 days of frozen storage. No differences (P>0.05) were recorded for the fatty acid composition between treatments. No growth was observed for microbial quality indicators nor Campylobacter spp. for all treatments. This study showed that frozen storage only had a negative effect on some textural parameters, while the inclusion of maize meal affects most physicochemical characteristics. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cairncross, Kelly Inga
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Meat -- Preservation , Sausages
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23743 , vital:59029
- Description: The study aimed to evaluate the utilisation of game liver and maize meal as a partial fat replacer in the production of liver sausage. Mixed game livers (Blesbok, Impala and Springbok) were purchased and processed into sausages with varying levels of maize meal (6percent, 8percent, 10percent and 12percent). The liver sausages were cooked in a water bath for 2 hours to an internal temperate of 70 °C. Cooked sausages were cooled in ice water before storage at 4 °C before vacuum packed and frozen at -20 °C for 30 days. Proximate and fatty acid composition, pH, water activity, texture, lipid oxidation, and microbial content was determined on both day 0 and 30 days after frozen storage. Of the proximate composition, carbohydrate content had significant differences (P≤0.05) and increased as maize meal inclusion increased. The pH of raw game liver sausage batter differed (P≤0.05) between treatments. The pH of cooked game liver sausage differed (P≤0.05) from the raw batter. Textural parameters showed an increase (P<0.01) for both hardness and chewiness after 30 days of frozen storage. A positive correlation was found between hardness and chewiness with an increase in maize meal inclusion. TBARS values of the 12percent treatment differed (P≤0.05) from the maize meal inclusion treatments, but no differences (P>0.05) were recorded over 30 days of frozen storage. No differences (P>0.05) were recorded for the fatty acid composition between treatments. No growth was observed for microbial quality indicators nor Campylobacter spp. for all treatments. This study showed that frozen storage only had a negative effect on some textural parameters, while the inclusion of maize meal affects most physicochemical characteristics. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
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Exploring the performance of four and five-year-old rural children on two and three-dimensional cognitive test items within the Raymond Mhlaba Municipality
- Sohena, Kholwani Bulelwa (https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6451-0446)
- Authors: Sohena, Kholwani Bulelwa (https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6451-0446)
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Creative thinking , Cognition
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21178 , vital:47384
- Description: Digital assessment, in particular tablet-based assessment, is on the rise and holds favourable prospects, especially for the rural South African context. However, the use of two-dimensional test items, such as pictures or patterns, has been found to lead to test bias in rural African settings, where such formats are unfamiliar. Little is known whether this would also be the case for two-dimensional tablet-based items. Therefore, this study investigated four and five-year-old rural isiXhosa-speaking children’s performance on two-dimensional tablet-based items compared with three-dimensional replicas of the tablet-based items. A total of sixty-three children were assessed and the data collected through the two test modes was statistically analysed according to the objectives of the study using the statistical package for the social science (SPSS). Descriptive statistics were employed by computing frequencies to determine the total sample’s performance on the two-dimensional tablet-based items as well as the three-dimensional items. Furthermore, a cross tabulation, followed by a chi-square analysis was done to examine the association between the children’s performance and the two test modes. The findings indicate a similar performance for the sample on both test formats with a slightly stronger performance by the sample on tablet-based items. More than just dimensionality was found to influence test performance in this study. Overall tablet-based assessment seems to be a promising tool for assessing children’s cognitive development in the rural South African context. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sohena, Kholwani Bulelwa (https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6451-0446)
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Creative thinking , Cognition
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21178 , vital:47384
- Description: Digital assessment, in particular tablet-based assessment, is on the rise and holds favourable prospects, especially for the rural South African context. However, the use of two-dimensional test items, such as pictures or patterns, has been found to lead to test bias in rural African settings, where such formats are unfamiliar. Little is known whether this would also be the case for two-dimensional tablet-based items. Therefore, this study investigated four and five-year-old rural isiXhosa-speaking children’s performance on two-dimensional tablet-based items compared with three-dimensional replicas of the tablet-based items. A total of sixty-three children were assessed and the data collected through the two test modes was statistically analysed according to the objectives of the study using the statistical package for the social science (SPSS). Descriptive statistics were employed by computing frequencies to determine the total sample’s performance on the two-dimensional tablet-based items as well as the three-dimensional items. Furthermore, a cross tabulation, followed by a chi-square analysis was done to examine the association between the children’s performance and the two test modes. The findings indicate a similar performance for the sample on both test formats with a slightly stronger performance by the sample on tablet-based items. More than just dimensionality was found to influence test performance in this study. Overall tablet-based assessment seems to be a promising tool for assessing children’s cognitive development in the rural South African context. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Exploring young children’s tablet-based cognitive assessment within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality: a case study approach.
- Authors: Mdyogolo, Thandokazi
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Human-computer interaction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21070 , vital:46947
- Description: The adaptation and development of tablet-based measures are on the rise and hold promising prospects particularly for the rural South African context. However, limited research has been done on tablet-based assessment and whether it can be applied to the psychological assessment of the rural isiXhosa speaking children. For this reason the purpose of the study was to explore and describe how South African rural isiXhosa speaking children respond to a set of newly developed tablet-based items. By gathering information of this kind, the study hopes to inform and contribute to a larger national project concerned with the development of a tablet-based cognitive measure for isiXhosa speaking children. A multiple-case study design was utilized in a qualitative research paradigm. The data was collected amongst ten isiXhosa speaking children between the ages of 4 years and 5 years. The qualitative data was thematically analysed and Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) model for assessing the trustworthiness of qualitative data was applied. Findings indicate that tablet-based assessment holds promising prospects for the cognitive assessment of isiXhosa speaking children. However a number of factors were identified that influenced the rural isiXhosa speaking children’s performance on the tablet-based cognitive items. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mdyogolo, Thandokazi
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Human-computer interaction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21070 , vital:46947
- Description: The adaptation and development of tablet-based measures are on the rise and hold promising prospects particularly for the rural South African context. However, limited research has been done on tablet-based assessment and whether it can be applied to the psychological assessment of the rural isiXhosa speaking children. For this reason the purpose of the study was to explore and describe how South African rural isiXhosa speaking children respond to a set of newly developed tablet-based items. By gathering information of this kind, the study hopes to inform and contribute to a larger national project concerned with the development of a tablet-based cognitive measure for isiXhosa speaking children. A multiple-case study design was utilized in a qualitative research paradigm. The data was collected amongst ten isiXhosa speaking children between the ages of 4 years and 5 years. The qualitative data was thematically analysed and Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) model for assessing the trustworthiness of qualitative data was applied. Findings indicate that tablet-based assessment holds promising prospects for the cognitive assessment of isiXhosa speaking children. However a number of factors were identified that influenced the rural isiXhosa speaking children’s performance on the tablet-based cognitive items. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Fossil Shell Flour supplementation in the diet of Dohne Merino rams: effects on feed acceptability and heat stress tolerance
- Mwanda, Lwazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9503-6150
- Authors: Mwanda, Lwazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9503-6150
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Sheep--Feeding and feeds , Animal feeding , Fossils
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22567 , vital:52464
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of feeding Dohne Merino rams with various inclusion levels of Fossil Shell Flour (FSF) as an additive supplement on feed preference and heat tolerance response of Dohne Merino rams. The FSF is used as an animal feed additive and is known to be rich in minerals. A total of twenty-four Dohne Merino rams (average 19.8 ± 0.43 kg body weight) were used to determine the feed preference of varying inclusion levels fossil shell flour (0g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg). The preference was assessed using feed intake and coefficient of preference. The feed intake, co-efficient of preference and physical attributes of feed (such as colour, smell and texture) was measured. The feed intake and coefficient of preference were higher in rams supplemented 60g FSF/kg (P < 0.05). The physical attributes of the experimental diets were adjudged based on the colour, smell and texture. The colour of experimental diets were brown in 0g FSF/kg while in 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg the colour of experimental diets were light brown (P< 0.05). All the experimental diets had a pleasant smell (P< 0.05). The texture of diets with 0g FSF/kg was moderately firm while diets 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg had a firm texture. The order of preference of diets supplemented with fossil shell flour in terms of feed intake by Dohne Merino rams was: 60g FSF/kg > 40g FSF/kg > 20gFSF/kg > 0g FSF/kg. In the second experiment, a total of twenty-four (n=24) Dohne Merino rams of about 8 to 9 months old, weighing 19.8 ± 0.43 kg were confined in individual pens for a period of 100 days. The rams were subjected to four varying inclusion levels of fossil shell flour (0g/kg, 20g/kg, 40g/kg and 60g/kg. Water and feed intake were recorded throughout the period of successive feeding. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 45 and 90. The parameters studied included the average daily water intake (ADWI), average feed intake (ADFI), skin temperature (ST), respiration rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), total plasma protein (TPP), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). The inclusion levels of FSF affected both the ADWI and ADFI, showing a high-water intake and feed intake in rams subjected to 40g/kg of FSF followed by 60g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg and 0g FSF/kg (P< 0.01) respectively. All the physiological parameters ST, RT, RR, HR and PR decreased with an increase in the inclusion levels of FSF (P< 0.01). The TPP increased as the levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). The MCHC was low in rams subjected to 60g FSF/kg and in 0g to 40g FSF/kg TPP increases as levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). This study concluded that supplementing with various inclusion levels of FSF had a positive effect on feed preference. The FSF also showed the ability to mitigate heat stress in Dohne Merino rams. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mwanda, Lwazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9503-6150
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Sheep--Feeding and feeds , Animal feeding , Fossils
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22567 , vital:52464
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of feeding Dohne Merino rams with various inclusion levels of Fossil Shell Flour (FSF) as an additive supplement on feed preference and heat tolerance response of Dohne Merino rams. The FSF is used as an animal feed additive and is known to be rich in minerals. A total of twenty-four Dohne Merino rams (average 19.8 ± 0.43 kg body weight) were used to determine the feed preference of varying inclusion levels fossil shell flour (0g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg). The preference was assessed using feed intake and coefficient of preference. The feed intake, co-efficient of preference and physical attributes of feed (such as colour, smell and texture) was measured. The feed intake and coefficient of preference were higher in rams supplemented 60g FSF/kg (P < 0.05). The physical attributes of the experimental diets were adjudged based on the colour, smell and texture. The colour of experimental diets were brown in 0g FSF/kg while in 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg the colour of experimental diets were light brown (P< 0.05). All the experimental diets had a pleasant smell (P< 0.05). The texture of diets with 0g FSF/kg was moderately firm while diets 20g FSF/kg, 40g FSF/kg and 60g FSF/kg had a firm texture. The order of preference of diets supplemented with fossil shell flour in terms of feed intake by Dohne Merino rams was: 60g FSF/kg > 40g FSF/kg > 20gFSF/kg > 0g FSF/kg. In the second experiment, a total of twenty-four (n=24) Dohne Merino rams of about 8 to 9 months old, weighing 19.8 ± 0.43 kg were confined in individual pens for a period of 100 days. The rams were subjected to four varying inclusion levels of fossil shell flour (0g/kg, 20g/kg, 40g/kg and 60g/kg. Water and feed intake were recorded throughout the period of successive feeding. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 45 and 90. The parameters studied included the average daily water intake (ADWI), average feed intake (ADFI), skin temperature (ST), respiration rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), total plasma protein (TPP), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). The inclusion levels of FSF affected both the ADWI and ADFI, showing a high-water intake and feed intake in rams subjected to 40g/kg of FSF followed by 60g FSF/kg, 20g FSF/kg and 0g FSF/kg (P< 0.01) respectively. All the physiological parameters ST, RT, RR, HR and PR decreased with an increase in the inclusion levels of FSF (P< 0.01). The TPP increased as the levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). The MCHC was low in rams subjected to 60g FSF/kg and in 0g to 40g FSF/kg TPP increases as levels of FSF increases (P< 0.01). This study concluded that supplementing with various inclusion levels of FSF had a positive effect on feed preference. The FSF also showed the ability to mitigate heat stress in Dohne Merino rams. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
Leadership competencies of primary health care facility managers at Buffalo City Metropolitan District in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Makinana, Noxolo Beauty
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Primary health care -- Leadership , Facility management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22033 , vital:51954
- Description: The study explored and described the perceptions and experiences of Primary Health Care facility managers regarding their leadership and management competencies in the Buffalo City Metro Health District in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to explore and describe the leadership competencies required for facility managers to exercise their leadership in Primary Health Care facilities and to bring about the recommendation. The population of this study comprised of facility managers who are appointed in facility management position permanently or on acting basis during the time of the study, in rural, urban, and semi-urban Primary Health Care facilities (clinics) in Buffalo City Health District. Non-probability convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Two focus group interviews with 10 participants per group were held to collect data. Thematic data analysis was used to analyze the data. The findings were discussed according to themes and subthemes. Four themes and 9 subthemes were identified from the data. Themes include departmental factors, individual factors, and political factors. The subthemes include managers lack of support, need for capacitation of staff, lack of uniformity in exercising leadership, work positions, infrastructure, staff shortages, lack of involvement in decision making, lack of resources, feeling of being a failure, not meeting expectation (workload) role of managers, pressure, the resistance of staff members to change, absenteeism, teamwork, compliance to policies, the 80/20 principle, nurse-patient ratio, and consultation. The trustworthiness of the findings was ensured by focussing on dependability, confirmability, transferability, and credibility. The study concluded that facility managers receive very limited supervision to perform their management duties in their facilities. They also need adequate resources, induction, training and a habitable work environment to ensure that quality care is provided. The study recommended that the Department of Health should have a program for supervision, mentorship, and guiding the facility managers in the Primary Health Care facilities. It should also establish a training and development program on leadership, finance management and technology. Lastly, there should be more accountability by facility managers at the different departmental levels i.e. national, province, district subdistrict, and other internal and external stakeholders. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Makinana, Noxolo Beauty
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Primary health care -- Leadership , Facility management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22033 , vital:51954
- Description: The study explored and described the perceptions and experiences of Primary Health Care facility managers regarding their leadership and management competencies in the Buffalo City Metro Health District in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to explore and describe the leadership competencies required for facility managers to exercise their leadership in Primary Health Care facilities and to bring about the recommendation. The population of this study comprised of facility managers who are appointed in facility management position permanently or on acting basis during the time of the study, in rural, urban, and semi-urban Primary Health Care facilities (clinics) in Buffalo City Health District. Non-probability convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Two focus group interviews with 10 participants per group were held to collect data. Thematic data analysis was used to analyze the data. The findings were discussed according to themes and subthemes. Four themes and 9 subthemes were identified from the data. Themes include departmental factors, individual factors, and political factors. The subthemes include managers lack of support, need for capacitation of staff, lack of uniformity in exercising leadership, work positions, infrastructure, staff shortages, lack of involvement in decision making, lack of resources, feeling of being a failure, not meeting expectation (workload) role of managers, pressure, the resistance of staff members to change, absenteeism, teamwork, compliance to policies, the 80/20 principle, nurse-patient ratio, and consultation. The trustworthiness of the findings was ensured by focussing on dependability, confirmability, transferability, and credibility. The study concluded that facility managers receive very limited supervision to perform their management duties in their facilities. They also need adequate resources, induction, training and a habitable work environment to ensure that quality care is provided. The study recommended that the Department of Health should have a program for supervision, mentorship, and guiding the facility managers in the Primary Health Care facilities. It should also establish a training and development program on leadership, finance management and technology. Lastly, there should be more accountability by facility managers at the different departmental levels i.e. national, province, district subdistrict, and other internal and external stakeholders. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
Special Economic Zones and Employment in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Mongi, Tshaka https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1492-5584
- Authors: Mongi, Tshaka https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1492-5584
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Africa, Sub-Saharan -- Economic policy , Free ports and zones
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20230 , vital:45434
- Description: Developing countries, especially those in the Sub-Saharan African region are still marked with high and increasing rate of unemployment. To counter this, countries in the African countries introduced the Special Economic Zones programme in the 1970s which proliferated during the 1990s to date. However, there is scant academic literature on the role of SEZs’ contribution to job creation. Against this background, this study investigated the contribution of the SEZs to job creation in the SSA region in general and South Africa in particular. A mixed method approach was used wherein the qualitative data focused on the South Africa and the quantitative data focused on SSA in general. In-depth interviews with key informants in four operational SEZs and DTI in South Africa were complimented with document reviews and direct observation. Inductive thematic analysis was also used to analyse qualitative data, while the Panel Corrected Standard Errors was used to analyse the qualitative data. The results show that SEZs have made a positive contribution to job creation in South Africa. This contribution is constrained, inter alia, by stringent visa regulations, an ineffective one-stop-shop model, reliance on government funding and the lag between the signing and operation of investments. Nevertheless, incentives and support services seem to counteract some of these challenges. Similarly, the SEZs have a positive contribution to job creation in SSA. However, this impact has been largely insignificant. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mongi, Tshaka https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1492-5584
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Africa, Sub-Saharan -- Economic policy , Free ports and zones
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20230 , vital:45434
- Description: Developing countries, especially those in the Sub-Saharan African region are still marked with high and increasing rate of unemployment. To counter this, countries in the African countries introduced the Special Economic Zones programme in the 1970s which proliferated during the 1990s to date. However, there is scant academic literature on the role of SEZs’ contribution to job creation. Against this background, this study investigated the contribution of the SEZs to job creation in the SSA region in general and South Africa in particular. A mixed method approach was used wherein the qualitative data focused on the South Africa and the quantitative data focused on SSA in general. In-depth interviews with key informants in four operational SEZs and DTI in South Africa were complimented with document reviews and direct observation. Inductive thematic analysis was also used to analyse qualitative data, while the Panel Corrected Standard Errors was used to analyse the qualitative data. The results show that SEZs have made a positive contribution to job creation in South Africa. This contribution is constrained, inter alia, by stringent visa regulations, an ineffective one-stop-shop model, reliance on government funding and the lag between the signing and operation of investments. Nevertheless, incentives and support services seem to counteract some of these challenges. Similarly, the SEZs have a positive contribution to job creation in SSA. However, this impact has been largely insignificant. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
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The determinants of the currency deposit ratio of South Africa: an econometric analysis
- Authors: Chiwota, Richard
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Econometricshttp://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85040763
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19694 , vital:43169
- Description: The main objective of the study was to investigate the determinants of the currency deposit ratio of South Africa. The stability of the demand for money has been a recurring area of interest of empirical research on the South African economy. Underlying this interest in the behavior of money demand is the potential role of movement in monetary aggregates as indicators of future developments in inflation. Specifically, if a stable relationship exists between the demand for money and its determinants, changes in the money supply can provide useful information in the longer terms. While there has been considerable empirical research on estimating the money demand function for many less developed countries (LDCs), the currency demand function has been largely ignored. The study used secondary data sourced from the South African Reserve Bank, Statistics South Africa and Quantec. It also used annual data from 2000 to 2018 with an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) technique used for regression purposes. The study opted for this model because the variables were a mixture of me (0) and me (1). The empirical results show that income had a positive relationship with currency deposit ratio. In other words, when income increases, the amount of currency in circulation increases relative to deposits. Results show that there is a negative relationship between inflation and currency demand ratio. The SARB has to monitor changes in income in order to keep pace with the demand for cash. They must also use other monetary policy operational variables such as M3 to ensure that there is a match between income and money demand and money supply. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chiwota, Richard
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Econometricshttp://id.loc.gov/authorities/subjects/sh85040763
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/19694 , vital:43169
- Description: The main objective of the study was to investigate the determinants of the currency deposit ratio of South Africa. The stability of the demand for money has been a recurring area of interest of empirical research on the South African economy. Underlying this interest in the behavior of money demand is the potential role of movement in monetary aggregates as indicators of future developments in inflation. Specifically, if a stable relationship exists between the demand for money and its determinants, changes in the money supply can provide useful information in the longer terms. While there has been considerable empirical research on estimating the money demand function for many less developed countries (LDCs), the currency demand function has been largely ignored. The study used secondary data sourced from the South African Reserve Bank, Statistics South Africa and Quantec. It also used annual data from 2000 to 2018 with an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) technique used for regression purposes. The study opted for this model because the variables were a mixture of me (0) and me (1). The empirical results show that income had a positive relationship with currency deposit ratio. In other words, when income increases, the amount of currency in circulation increases relative to deposits. Results show that there is a negative relationship between inflation and currency demand ratio. The SARB has to monitor changes in income in order to keep pace with the demand for cash. They must also use other monetary policy operational variables such as M3 to ensure that there is a match between income and money demand and money supply. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
Thermal studies on three common mangrove-associated ectotherms in Mngazana Estuary, with emphasis on the survival of the salt marsh crab, Parasesarma catenatum (Ortman 1897
- Nonyukela, Asandiswa Simamkele
- Authors: Nonyukela, Asandiswa Simamkele
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Mangrove forests
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20838 , vital:46627
- Description: Ecological data on the development and distribution of mangroves over time suggest that mangroves were strictly tropical in nature but have extended to higher latitudes during warmer periods. Species distribution models show that the mangrove range may have since 1963 expand by 17 km in 2020 and by as much as 68 km southwards by 2050. More climate data obtained, and modelling of future climate have increased interest in the thermal tolerance or organisms. Critical thermal maxima (CTMax) and thermal tolerance were employed to determine the thermal limits of common estuarine species associated with the mangrove forests at Mngazana Estuary. Three species were selected, each representing a medium within the mangrove environment: for water, i) Palaemon peringueyi; ii) for air, Cerithidea decollata; and iii) Parasesarma catenatum on the substratum. Animals were acclimated for 48 hrs following the thermal history of the environment. Each individual was exposed to constant rate of water temperature increase of 1°C.h-1. Different size classes (adult, sub-adult, juveniles) of crabs were used to determine the CTMax performance. Parasesarma catenatum showed intraspecific variability in CTMax in both air and water. Palaemon Peringueyi had a CTMax value of 33.8°C±1.96 while C. decollata had a CTMax of 39.6°C±2.76 and P. catenatum had a CTMax of 36,38 ±1,57 in water and 34,1 ±1,67 in air. Different size classes (Adult, Sub-adult, Juveniles) of crabs were used to further determine their CTMax performance. Parasesarma catenatum showed of intraspecific variability in CTMax in both air and water. Juvenile crabs showed higher CTMax in water than in air, while adult and sub-adults showed a higher CTMax in air. The size classes of P. catenatum (Adult, Sub-adult, Juveniles) were exposed to a range of salinity treatments from 5-65 for both shock and acclimated exposures. For acclimated exposures, crabs were acclimated down/up at change of 5-10 untill the test salinity was reached, at which point the crabs were exposed. For the shock exposure, the crabs were directly exposed to the test salinity from the holding salinity of 35. This study shows P. catenatum is euryhaline, tolerating salinities been 10 and 50. Survival was highest across all cohorts for the short-term (shock) exposure, suggesting prolonged exposure to hypo/hypersaline conditions may be detrimental for this keystone Mngazana Estuary species. Juven.ile populations showed the highest survival rate for both shock and acclimated exposure. This study highlights the importance of microhabitat variability and its effect on the tolerance of different species to abiotic factors and so may be useful in modelling the effects of climate change in these systems. , Thesis (MSc) (Zoology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nonyukela, Asandiswa Simamkele
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: Mangrove forests
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20838 , vital:46627
- Description: Ecological data on the development and distribution of mangroves over time suggest that mangroves were strictly tropical in nature but have extended to higher latitudes during warmer periods. Species distribution models show that the mangrove range may have since 1963 expand by 17 km in 2020 and by as much as 68 km southwards by 2050. More climate data obtained, and modelling of future climate have increased interest in the thermal tolerance or organisms. Critical thermal maxima (CTMax) and thermal tolerance were employed to determine the thermal limits of common estuarine species associated with the mangrove forests at Mngazana Estuary. Three species were selected, each representing a medium within the mangrove environment: for water, i) Palaemon peringueyi; ii) for air, Cerithidea decollata; and iii) Parasesarma catenatum on the substratum. Animals were acclimated for 48 hrs following the thermal history of the environment. Each individual was exposed to constant rate of water temperature increase of 1°C.h-1. Different size classes (adult, sub-adult, juveniles) of crabs were used to determine the CTMax performance. Parasesarma catenatum showed intraspecific variability in CTMax in both air and water. Palaemon Peringueyi had a CTMax value of 33.8°C±1.96 while C. decollata had a CTMax of 39.6°C±2.76 and P. catenatum had a CTMax of 36,38 ±1,57 in water and 34,1 ±1,67 in air. Different size classes (Adult, Sub-adult, Juveniles) of crabs were used to further determine their CTMax performance. Parasesarma catenatum showed of intraspecific variability in CTMax in both air and water. Juvenile crabs showed higher CTMax in water than in air, while adult and sub-adults showed a higher CTMax in air. The size classes of P. catenatum (Adult, Sub-adult, Juveniles) were exposed to a range of salinity treatments from 5-65 for both shock and acclimated exposures. For acclimated exposures, crabs were acclimated down/up at change of 5-10 untill the test salinity was reached, at which point the crabs were exposed. For the shock exposure, the crabs were directly exposed to the test salinity from the holding salinity of 35. This study shows P. catenatum is euryhaline, tolerating salinities been 10 and 50. Survival was highest across all cohorts for the short-term (shock) exposure, suggesting prolonged exposure to hypo/hypersaline conditions may be detrimental for this keystone Mngazana Estuary species. Juven.ile populations showed the highest survival rate for both shock and acclimated exposure. This study highlights the importance of microhabitat variability and its effect on the tolerance of different species to abiotic factors and so may be useful in modelling the effects of climate change in these systems. , Thesis (MSc) (Zoology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
An analysis of crime trends at University of Fort Hare, Alice campus: Ten years (2008-2018) projection case studies
- Giyama, Mlungisi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4024-9447
- Authors: Giyama, Mlungisi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4024-9447
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Criminal statistics , Victims of crimes surveys
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28584 , vital:74447
- Description: This research has concerted on the trend of crimes committed at University Fort Hare over past ten years. The previous conducted researches show several forms of crimes committed at different higher learning institutions and some crime are even cited happening in South Africa. The problem is Incompetence of University of Fort Hare security guards, which are responsible to prevent the occurrence of crime at the Alice campus. The university have scarcity of programmes that intends to inform students and staff members on how to protect themselves when there is crime threat. University of Fort Hare has unlimited access by community members. The knowledge gap on crimes committed at higher leaning is unexplained psychological such as depression and stress experienced by perpetrators. Secondly, there is lack of studies focused on the discussion about importance of criminal background check of prospective students. The unavailability of electronics that scans dangerous weapons such as knife (okapi) result to crimes such as murder at University of Fort Hare. The problem of abusing alcohol and other drugs by students result to rapes when students are drunk or high. The study aims to evaluate the trend in crimes that occurred from July 2008 to August 2018 at the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus. The objective is to find out types of crimes that occur quarterly at the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus. To discover the perception of selected staff members and students about the safety on campus and to find strategies introduced by the university to address crimes that are committed at University of Fort Hare Alice campus. The study has adopted qualitative research method and exploratory research design. The questions to be asked include what types of crimes occur at University of Fort Hare Alice Campus and how is the perception of selected staff members and students about the safety on campus? The researcher found out that crimes occurring at the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus has changed to new forms of crimes such as murder, looting of shops, slaughtering cattle, deformation of character on social media, bribery for academic admission, arson of buildings, stealing of university property, rapes and sexual assaults meanwhile these crimes were not prominent before 2008. The researcher discovered that students are the ones mostly affected by crimes that happened at University of Fort Hare (UFH) Alice campus in 2015, 2016 and 2018 thereafter followed staff members. Most people who are victims of crimes at University of Fort Hare (UFH) Alice campus arrived between 2014 and 2016. The study indicates that fewer security officers and lack of security equipment such as communicating radios cause crimes at University of Fort Hare (UFH) Alice campus. Cases reported to the security office takes a long time to conclude. Dark parts at the campus are found to cause some of crimes at the University of Fort Hare Alice campus. The significant of conducting this study, will help University of Fort Hare develop better policies regarding crimes on campus. The researcher also wanted to support the consistency of trying to find out a solution for university crime. It is recommended that University of Fort Hare management needs to hire more guards to make sure that each residence and building has a guard. During events at Alice campus that includes people from outside, there must be police and event’s organisers need to present security plan when they are requesting university facilities to ensure the safeness of staff members and students. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Giyama, Mlungisi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4024-9447
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Criminal statistics , Victims of crimes surveys
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/28584 , vital:74447
- Description: This research has concerted on the trend of crimes committed at University Fort Hare over past ten years. The previous conducted researches show several forms of crimes committed at different higher learning institutions and some crime are even cited happening in South Africa. The problem is Incompetence of University of Fort Hare security guards, which are responsible to prevent the occurrence of crime at the Alice campus. The university have scarcity of programmes that intends to inform students and staff members on how to protect themselves when there is crime threat. University of Fort Hare has unlimited access by community members. The knowledge gap on crimes committed at higher leaning is unexplained psychological such as depression and stress experienced by perpetrators. Secondly, there is lack of studies focused on the discussion about importance of criminal background check of prospective students. The unavailability of electronics that scans dangerous weapons such as knife (okapi) result to crimes such as murder at University of Fort Hare. The problem of abusing alcohol and other drugs by students result to rapes when students are drunk or high. The study aims to evaluate the trend in crimes that occurred from July 2008 to August 2018 at the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus. The objective is to find out types of crimes that occur quarterly at the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus. To discover the perception of selected staff members and students about the safety on campus and to find strategies introduced by the university to address crimes that are committed at University of Fort Hare Alice campus. The study has adopted qualitative research method and exploratory research design. The questions to be asked include what types of crimes occur at University of Fort Hare Alice Campus and how is the perception of selected staff members and students about the safety on campus? The researcher found out that crimes occurring at the University of Fort Hare Alice Campus has changed to new forms of crimes such as murder, looting of shops, slaughtering cattle, deformation of character on social media, bribery for academic admission, arson of buildings, stealing of university property, rapes and sexual assaults meanwhile these crimes were not prominent before 2008. The researcher discovered that students are the ones mostly affected by crimes that happened at University of Fort Hare (UFH) Alice campus in 2015, 2016 and 2018 thereafter followed staff members. Most people who are victims of crimes at University of Fort Hare (UFH) Alice campus arrived between 2014 and 2016. The study indicates that fewer security officers and lack of security equipment such as communicating radios cause crimes at University of Fort Hare (UFH) Alice campus. Cases reported to the security office takes a long time to conclude. Dark parts at the campus are found to cause some of crimes at the University of Fort Hare Alice campus. The significant of conducting this study, will help University of Fort Hare develop better policies regarding crimes on campus. The researcher also wanted to support the consistency of trying to find out a solution for university crime. It is recommended that University of Fort Hare management needs to hire more guards to make sure that each residence and building has a guard. During events at Alice campus that includes people from outside, there must be police and event’s organisers need to present security plan when they are requesting university facilities to ensure the safeness of staff members and students. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2020
- Full Text:
Anthropometric, physiological and biochemical parameters in relation to perceived stress and lifestyle diseases among correctional services staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Authors: Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Correctional personnel , Lifestyles -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22082 , vital:51981
- Description: Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen significantly in the past three decades, with marked variations across countries in the levels and trends in overweight and obesity with distinct regional patterns. Physical inactivity has increased in South Africa as the country develops, with increasing urbanization and modernization, technology, and low physical activities at workplaces. Correctional Services staff tend to suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, orthopaedic conditions, high cholesterol, overweight, and obesity due to insufficient physical activity engagement. Aims and objectives: The study aimed to assess the anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters in relation to stress and lifestyle diseases of correctional services staff in the Amathole region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 81 Correctional Services Staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The employees' health status, anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters, and perceived stress were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Data were expressed as mean +/- SD for quantitative variables or numbers and percentages for categorical variables. An independent sample T-test was used to assess statistical differences between males and female correctional service staff. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship strength and linearity of the anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters. A direct logistic regression was employed to predict the indicator variable. Results: The results showed that just over two-thirds (67%) of the participants reported not being ready for exercise. Nearly 94% of the study population were categorized as either overweight, obese, severely obese, or morbidly obese. Approximately three-quarters (74%) of the respondents reported moderate to high- perceived stress levels. Approximately 40% of the population were at risk determined by the Waist to Hip Ratio. Furthermore, waist circumference, 43% and 77% of the study population were categorized as obese, male and female participants, respectively. Over three-quarters, (79%) of the study population were diagnosed with elevated high pressure, stage 1 and 2 hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis. A minimum of 18% and 17.3% of the study population were diagnosed with Pre-diabetic and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. An analysis of gender group differences showed overweight, obesity, and Body Fat Percentages were prevalent among females. The results further showed a positive increase in abdominal fat accumulation with age; thus, the Weight Circumference of the participants was significantly high. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was common among male and female correctional services staff, with a significantly lower Body Fat Percentage for males compared to females. However, upon further investigation, males' Waist to Hip Ratio was significantly higher than for female correctional services staff. Perceived stress scores for male participants were significantly lower compared to female participants. An analysis of staff member group differences showed that support staff's body fat percentage was significantly lower than top management and middle management groups. There was also a statistical difference in the Waist to Hip Ratio for the three managerial groups. More than three-quarters of the correctional services staff were classified with moderate (65.4%) to highstress levels (8.6%). Direct logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of several independent variables on the likelihood that participants would be classified as Obese. The results indicated that 80.2% of the participants were correctly classified before the model was conducted. Another direct logistic regression analysis was employed to predict stress among Correctional Services Staff found that age made a statistically significant contribution to the model, while the most robust predictor to report high stress was not getting enough exercise. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Correctional Services Staff, putting them at risk for developing lifestyle-related diseases. Workplace health promotion is significant in preventing non-communicable diseases among Correctional Services Staff to reduce medical costs, increase disability incidents, reduce morbidity, mortality and improve work productivity. The role of physical exercise in the development of stress and decreasing obesity is central to addressing these issues in the workplace. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Matshikiza, Ondela Innocent https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9326-6697
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Correctional personnel , Lifestyles -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22082 , vital:51981
- Description: Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen significantly in the past three decades, with marked variations across countries in the levels and trends in overweight and obesity with distinct regional patterns. Physical inactivity has increased in South Africa as the country develops, with increasing urbanization and modernization, technology, and low physical activities at workplaces. Correctional Services staff tend to suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, orthopaedic conditions, high cholesterol, overweight, and obesity due to insufficient physical activity engagement. Aims and objectives: The study aimed to assess the anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters in relation to stress and lifestyle diseases of correctional services staff in the Amathole region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 81 Correctional Services Staff in the Amathole Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The employees' health status, anthropometric, physiological, biochemical parameters, and perceived stress were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Data were expressed as mean +/- SD for quantitative variables or numbers and percentages for categorical variables. An independent sample T-test was used to assess statistical differences between males and female correctional service staff. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship strength and linearity of the anthropometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters. A direct logistic regression was employed to predict the indicator variable. Results: The results showed that just over two-thirds (67%) of the participants reported not being ready for exercise. Nearly 94% of the study population were categorized as either overweight, obese, severely obese, or morbidly obese. Approximately three-quarters (74%) of the respondents reported moderate to high- perceived stress levels. Approximately 40% of the population were at risk determined by the Waist to Hip Ratio. Furthermore, waist circumference, 43% and 77% of the study population were categorized as obese, male and female participants, respectively. Over three-quarters, (79%) of the study population were diagnosed with elevated high pressure, stage 1 and 2 hypertension, or a hypertensive crisis. A minimum of 18% and 17.3% of the study population were diagnosed with Pre-diabetic and Type 2 diabetes mellitus, respectively. An analysis of gender group differences showed overweight, obesity, and Body Fat Percentages were prevalent among females. The results further showed a positive increase in abdominal fat accumulation with age; thus, the Weight Circumference of the participants was significantly high. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was common among male and female correctional services staff, with a significantly lower Body Fat Percentage for males compared to females. However, upon further investigation, males' Waist to Hip Ratio was significantly higher than for female correctional services staff. Perceived stress scores for male participants were significantly lower compared to female participants. An analysis of staff member group differences showed that support staff's body fat percentage was significantly lower than top management and middle management groups. There was also a statistical difference in the Waist to Hip Ratio for the three managerial groups. More than three-quarters of the correctional services staff were classified with moderate (65.4%) to highstress levels (8.6%). Direct logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of several independent variables on the likelihood that participants would be classified as Obese. The results indicated that 80.2% of the participants were correctly classified before the model was conducted. Another direct logistic regression analysis was employed to predict stress among Correctional Services Staff found that age made a statistically significant contribution to the model, while the most robust predictor to report high stress was not getting enough exercise. Conclusion: Overweight and obesity are prevalent among Correctional Services Staff, putting them at risk for developing lifestyle-related diseases. Workplace health promotion is significant in preventing non-communicable diseases among Correctional Services Staff to reduce medical costs, increase disability incidents, reduce morbidity, mortality and improve work productivity. The role of physical exercise in the development of stress and decreasing obesity is central to addressing these issues in the workplace. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2020
- Full Text:
Chemical evaluation, in vitro ruminal dry matter (DM) degradability and ruminal biological activity of common browse tree fruits of Alice
- Authors: Sondzaba, Bavuyise
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Ruminants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20882 , vital:46695
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of species variations on chemical composition and in vitro ruminal degradability of Vachellia karroo, Grewia Occidentalis, Diospyros Lycioides and Ziziphus Mucronata fruits harvested from communally grazed lands in Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The browse fruits were collected between February and May and analysed for crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), organic matter (OM) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), condensed tannins (CT), macro minerals (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na) and Phosphorus(P)) and micro minerals (Ion (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu)). There was significant variation (P<0.05) in chemical composition between browse fruits. The CP content differed significantly amongst the browse fruits, but all contained enough to meet the maintenance requirements of ruminants. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CP (182.26 g/kg DM), DM (896.50 g/kg DM) and ash (55.60 g/kg DM) contents compared to other browse species, while D. Lycioides fruits had higher (P<0.05) OM (951.60 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits harvested from G. Occidentalis had higher (P<0.05) ADF (513.27 g/kg DM), NDF (577.22 g/kg DM) and ADL (223.20 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse fruits. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CT (269.33 g/kg DM) content followed by Z. Mucronata (187.46 g/kg DM), while D. Lycioide (54.22 g/kg DM) and G. Occidentali (66.65 g/kg DM) had the same CT contents (P>0.05). There was a significant variation between browse species in macro and micro mineral contents. Fruits from G. Occindelis (43.93 g/kg DM) and V. Karroo (43.44 g/kg DM) had higher (P<0.05) Ca content compared to Z. Mucronata (24.06 g/kg DM) and D. Lycioides (20.06 g/kg DM). Ziziphus Muronata had higher (P<0.05) P (1.96 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits form V.karroo had higher Mg (4.75 g/kg DM), K (11.50 g/kg DM) and Na 3888 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse species. Fruits from V. Karroo showed significantly higher micro mineral content compared to other species. In terms of dry matter degradability (DMD), incubation time had an apparent effect on degradability of browse fruits except at 4 hours. The DM degradability increased with the increase of time and after 48 hours DMD was found to be satisfactory since it was above the prescribed 40 to 50 percent. However, the presence of condensed tannins had an effect on ruminal degradability of browse fruits. It was concluded that browse fruits have the potential to be used as protein supplements during the dry season since they contain moderate levels of crude protein. However, caution should be taken when feeding these browse fruits since they contain condensed tannins that affect rumen degradability. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sondzaba, Bavuyise
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Ruminants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20882 , vital:46695
- Description: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of species variations on chemical composition and in vitro ruminal degradability of Vachellia karroo, Grewia Occidentalis, Diospyros Lycioides and Ziziphus Mucronata fruits harvested from communally grazed lands in Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The browse fruits were collected between February and May and analysed for crude protein (CP), dry matter (DM), ash, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), organic matter (OM) and acid detergent lignin (ADL), condensed tannins (CT), macro minerals (Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na) and Phosphorus(P)) and micro minerals (Ion (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Manganese (Mn) and Copper (Cu)). There was significant variation (P<0.05) in chemical composition between browse fruits. The CP content differed significantly amongst the browse fruits, but all contained enough to meet the maintenance requirements of ruminants. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CP (182.26 g/kg DM), DM (896.50 g/kg DM) and ash (55.60 g/kg DM) contents compared to other browse species, while D. Lycioides fruits had higher (P<0.05) OM (951.60 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits harvested from G. Occidentalis had higher (P<0.05) ADF (513.27 g/kg DM), NDF (577.22 g/kg DM) and ADL (223.20 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse fruits. Fruits from V. Karroo had higher (P<0.05) CT (269.33 g/kg DM) content followed by Z. Mucronata (187.46 g/kg DM), while D. Lycioide (54.22 g/kg DM) and G. Occidentali (66.65 g/kg DM) had the same CT contents (P>0.05). There was a significant variation between browse species in macro and micro mineral contents. Fruits from G. Occindelis (43.93 g/kg DM) and V. Karroo (43.44 g/kg DM) had higher (P<0.05) Ca content compared to Z. Mucronata (24.06 g/kg DM) and D. Lycioides (20.06 g/kg DM). Ziziphus Muronata had higher (P<0.05) P (1.96 g/kg DM) content than other browse fruits. Fruits form V.karroo had higher Mg (4.75 g/kg DM), K (11.50 g/kg DM) and Na 3888 g/kg DM) content compared to other browse species. Fruits from V. Karroo showed significantly higher micro mineral content compared to other species. In terms of dry matter degradability (DMD), incubation time had an apparent effect on degradability of browse fruits except at 4 hours. The DM degradability increased with the increase of time and after 48 hours DMD was found to be satisfactory since it was above the prescribed 40 to 50 percent. However, the presence of condensed tannins had an effect on ruminal degradability of browse fruits. It was concluded that browse fruits have the potential to be used as protein supplements during the dry season since they contain moderate levels of crude protein. However, caution should be taken when feeding these browse fruits since they contain condensed tannins that affect rumen degradability. , Thesis (MSc) (Chemistry) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
Cost cutting measures for the maintenance of hospital medical equipment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Authors: Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Finance, Public , Health services administration , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20094 , vital:45152
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health is located in Bisho, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and about 88 percent of the EC population is serviced by the public health sector. Most of the facilities are situated in remote areas and for the maintenance of medical equipment they rely on the service of the few private equipment vendors that are situated in two cities, East London and Port Elizabeth and in some instances these vendors are located in Gauteng province. The location of vendors makes it difficult and impossible for these medical equipment vendors to render the acceptable service to the Department. This study was undertaken to systematically study the cost cutting measures of medical equipment department of health, Eastern Cape. A quantitative method approach was used using exploratory and descriptive research design during the 2019-20 financial year (April 2019 to March 2020). The sample for this study was limited to managers who have the ability to provide the information about the acquisition, maintenance and management of medical equipment. The total sample size was 100. The major finding was that outsourcing is not feasible. The respondents preferred insourcing, standardisation of medical equipment and procuring equipment with comprehensive maintenance contracts. The findings from the study were that the Department will cut costs associated with medical equipment if maintenance of medical equipment is in-sourced, equipment is standardized and equipment is procured with maintenance contracts. The study recommended that the Department should revisit some of its medical equipment maintenance strategies and draw up comprehensive interventions to reduce costs associated with maintenance of medical equipment and improve service delivery in the Department. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mabentsela, Bonga https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9259-849X
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Finance, Public , Health services administration , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20094 , vital:45152
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health is located in Bisho, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and about 88 percent of the EC population is serviced by the public health sector. Most of the facilities are situated in remote areas and for the maintenance of medical equipment they rely on the service of the few private equipment vendors that are situated in two cities, East London and Port Elizabeth and in some instances these vendors are located in Gauteng province. The location of vendors makes it difficult and impossible for these medical equipment vendors to render the acceptable service to the Department. This study was undertaken to systematically study the cost cutting measures of medical equipment department of health, Eastern Cape. A quantitative method approach was used using exploratory and descriptive research design during the 2019-20 financial year (April 2019 to March 2020). The sample for this study was limited to managers who have the ability to provide the information about the acquisition, maintenance and management of medical equipment. The total sample size was 100. The major finding was that outsourcing is not feasible. The respondents preferred insourcing, standardisation of medical equipment and procuring equipment with comprehensive maintenance contracts. The findings from the study were that the Department will cut costs associated with medical equipment if maintenance of medical equipment is in-sourced, equipment is standardized and equipment is procured with maintenance contracts. The study recommended that the Department should revisit some of its medical equipment maintenance strategies and draw up comprehensive interventions to reduce costs associated with maintenance of medical equipment and improve service delivery in the Department. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2021
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Implication of family therapy in the South African context: a case of New Brighton, Port Elizabeth.
- Authors: Mncono, Noxolo Alicia
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Family psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21081 , vital:46969
- Description: The objectivity of this investigation layered on the establishment of the implication of family therapy in the South African context in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The aims of the study were (i) To determine the traditional ways of dealing with physical, emotional and psychosocial problems in IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth and, (ii) To explore the influence of traditional beliefs in the process of family therapy amongst IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The interest of this study originates from the side lining of the domination of Western European- oriented healing models which tends to question the infiltration of African therapeutic interventions focusing on the Xhosa cultural practices in facing human adversities specifically in New Brighton. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through semi-structured interviews, focus group and observation with an aim to justify the above mentioned objectives. The sample size consisted of 16 participants i.e. 11 family elders and 5 traditional healers as a result, data obtained was analysed through thematic analysis. This study investigated the influence of culture on health behaviours of isiXhosa speaking communities through the guidance of the PEN-3 cultural framework by Collins Airhihenbuwa. Furthermore, amaXhosa consult God (through prayer and attending church), ancestors (through rituals and cultural practises), family elders (for advice and guidance) and resort to traditional healers (for physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual problems). Moreover, amaXhosa routinely conduct family meetings consisting of extended families and apply their wisdom and experience in the provision of a solution to family related problems. Based on the overall analysis and identified gaps within this field of study it is recommended that an extensive research should emphasise on ways of the collaboration of African and Western perspectives on psychological counselling. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mncono, Noxolo Alicia
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Family psychotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21081 , vital:46969
- Description: The objectivity of this investigation layered on the establishment of the implication of family therapy in the South African context in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The aims of the study were (i) To determine the traditional ways of dealing with physical, emotional and psychosocial problems in IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth and, (ii) To explore the influence of traditional beliefs in the process of family therapy amongst IsiXhosa speaking communities in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. The interest of this study originates from the side lining of the domination of Western European- oriented healing models which tends to question the infiltration of African therapeutic interventions focusing on the Xhosa cultural practices in facing human adversities specifically in New Brighton. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through semi-structured interviews, focus group and observation with an aim to justify the above mentioned objectives. The sample size consisted of 16 participants i.e. 11 family elders and 5 traditional healers as a result, data obtained was analysed through thematic analysis. This study investigated the influence of culture on health behaviours of isiXhosa speaking communities through the guidance of the PEN-3 cultural framework by Collins Airhihenbuwa. Furthermore, amaXhosa consult God (through prayer and attending church), ancestors (through rituals and cultural practises), family elders (for advice and guidance) and resort to traditional healers (for physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual problems). Moreover, amaXhosa routinely conduct family meetings consisting of extended families and apply their wisdom and experience in the provision of a solution to family related problems. Based on the overall analysis and identified gaps within this field of study it is recommended that an extensive research should emphasise on ways of the collaboration of African and Western perspectives on psychological counselling. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Psychology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Investigating communal farmer’s perceptions on production practices and evaluating pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers
- Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Guzi, Anelisa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5568-3396
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Boran cattle , Nguni cattle , Cattle breeds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22721 , vital:52672
- Description: This study's overall objective was to investigate communal farmers' perceptions on production practices and evaluate pre-slaughter responsiveness of extensively reared Boran and Nguni steers. On objective one farmers’ knowledge and perceptions on cattle breeds, management, and marketing channels in selected villages of Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa were evaluated. Interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire divided into demographic information and relevant cattle production practices, following a snowball technique to select 101 cattle-keeping households from Gaga, Ntselamanzi, and Ncerha villages. Most of the interviewed cattle farmers were males (65percent), in the age range of 40-60 years, with a primary-matric educational level. Among others, they highlighted financial security (47percent) and traditional ceremonies (26percent) as the reasons for keeping cattle. Most dominant in their herds were the Boran (49percent) and crossbreds (23percent) reared extensively with some supplementation (nutritional and medicinal). Their breed selection was based on disease and tick tolerance, temperament, and product (milk and meat) quality. It was noted that most of the interviewed cattle owners have the basic knowledge of good management practices, breed differences, and marketing chains. They related to low productivity to diseases, lack of knowledge, and poor resources. On the second objective pre-slaughter blood-based stress indicators and their subsequent effects were evaluated on beef quality of extensively reared Nguni and Boran steers . Twenty steers (10 Nguni and 10 Boran) aged 18 months were divided into two groups (with 5 of each breed per group) and transported from the University of Fort Hare Honeydale farm to the East London abattoir in the morning and afternoon trips. Upon arrival at the abattoir, the steers were held in lairage units for 24 hours (group 1) and 16 hours (group 2) until slaughter. Blood samples were drawn using a needle and vacutainer tubes from each steer's jugular vein at the farm before transportation, upon arrival at the abattoir, and during slaughter to perform cortisol, glucose, and routine haematological analysis. M. longissimus dorsi samples were harvested on the left side of each carcass to measure the meat quality attributes. Interactions between the observed production-stage activities, breeds, and physiological changes of these steers were recognized; with cortisol and glucose increasing (P ≤ 0.05) during transportation (4.15±0.46 ng/mL and 5.35±0.46nmol/L respectively) and also with farm group 1 showing higher cortisol (42.62±14.47 ng/mL) than the second group. Furthermore, all steers that were in slaughter group 1 showed less cortisol (101.49±14.47 ng/mL) and glucose (6.50±14.47 nmol/L) levels than those in group 2. In addition, Boran steers had higher packed cell volume, erythrocyte count, and haemoglobin values (33.27±0.54 percent, 7.66±0.19 106 μL, and 11.15±0.16 g/dl respectively) compared to Nguni steers in all production-stages. Later in the experiment, the effect of breed type, production stage activities (farm handling, transportation, and lairage duration), and stress responsiveness on some meat quality parameters (pH, lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hue, Chroma, thawing and cooking loss, and tenderness) collected from the steers were measured. It was observed that the group lairaged for 16 hours produced the highest L* value (36.25±0.88) compared to those lairaged for 24 hours. As for the b* and hue of the meat, there were positive interactions between the breed type and the production stages (p<0.05). Lastly, cooking loss and tenderness were significantly affected by the breed type in all groups, with Nguni having the most tender meat (24.06±1.39 percent) and less cooking loss (16.92±1.33 percent) than Boran breeds. Therefore, the production stage conditions and breed type influenced some physiological stress-indicators and meat quality of Boran and Nguni steers raised on natural pastures. However, there were not many differences observed between the groups and breeds. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2020
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The effect of marketing capabilities on the competitive advantage of Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in OR Tambo District Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mpongwana, Konaye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4105-1536
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Market segmentation , Marketing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20197 , vital:45407
- Description: It is usually understood that the development of technological marketing capabilities by firms provides them with immense opportunities to transform their business practices and strategies, to strategically position themselves in the market and enhance firm performance. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of marketing capabilities (Intellectual capital, marketing strategy and market orientation) on the competitive advantage of SMMEs. Prior research has that early development of marketing capabilities enables firms to achieve competitive advantage. The issue to be attended to will be to identify the connection between the incorrect marketing capabilities and failure of SMMEs, if there is any. Furthermore, a thorough investigation looking at how the reduction of failure of SMMEs can be realised by investigating the marketing capabilities of SMMEs. Quantitative research approach was used in the study, with a population of 200 SMMEs, the Raosoft calculator is also used to calculate the sample size of 100 SMMEs which were used to collect the primary data of the study. Convenience sampling method was used by the researcher. The findings also revealed that SMMEs adopt new and advanced technologies when marketing their products and services. The study recommends that SMME Owners/ Managers should consider spending a higher proportion of their time and money engaging in activities related to marketing throughout the life of their business. Therefore, it has concluded that effective deployment of marketing capabilities can lead to competitive advantage and greater performance. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
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The effects of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Munyu, Yibanati
- Date: 2020-01
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20208 , vital:45411
- Description: The study examined the effect of exchange rate volatility on manufacturing exports in South Africa utilizing quarterly time series data from 1990 to 2018. Manufacturing exports (MX), foreign income (GDPf), input costs (C01), the real effective exchange rate (REER) and exchange rate volatility (V) were the key parameters. The study employed two alternative measures of exchange rate volatility. The first measure is the moving average standard deviation of the logarithm of the real effective exchange rate (MASDlnREER) based on the raw monthly data of the real effective exchange rate. The second measure is a dummy variable intended to capture the unexpected variation of the exchange rate. The study utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Error Correction Method (ECM) to examine the both the long run and short-run relationships. The empirical results revealed that in the long run, the real effective exchange rate volatility measure (MASDlnREER) has a negative and significant effect on manufacturing exports in South Africa. This result suggests that policy makers need to make an effort to moderate, the volatility of the Rand in an attempt to contain the adverse effects on manufacturing exports. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2020
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