Driving factors of mobile banking application in South Africa
- Authors: Peter, Unati
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52984 , vital:44885
- Description: There has been a gaping variance between the number of mobile phone users and landline users in South Africa (RSA). Results from an assessment in 2011 suggested that 29 million South Africans subscribed to mobile phones versus 5 million landline users (Balabanoff, 2014). The exponential growth of mobile applications has been precipitated by the increased growth of the mobile phone market. This growth is coupled with numerous advantages that mobile services bring to the user, such as better operability, productivity advances and entertainment (Balabanoff, 2014). Even though adoption strategies regarding mobile banking have been studied in various parts of the world, acceptance of mobile banking applications in South Africa has not been greatly researched. Hence, this study focused on exploring consumer behaviour and acceptance towards adopting mobile banking in South Africa, where mobile banking is at an elementary stage, but provides potential benefits to both users and business at large. A quantitative research style was followed by this research. An electronic quantitative questionnaire was distributed to South African civilians who are eligible to hold bank accounts in their own names. The research was then conducted on a sample size of 86 respondents. Due to limitations on time, this study utilised convenience sampling. Data gathered from the questionnaires was examined using statistical analysis to scrutinise the correlation between the variables used in the research model, this being Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The UTAUT is commonly used to predict and explain factors that influence the adoption of technology by users. These factors help decision-makers in formulating technology acceptance strategies. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Peter, Unati
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52984 , vital:44885
- Description: There has been a gaping variance between the number of mobile phone users and landline users in South Africa (RSA). Results from an assessment in 2011 suggested that 29 million South Africans subscribed to mobile phones versus 5 million landline users (Balabanoff, 2014). The exponential growth of mobile applications has been precipitated by the increased growth of the mobile phone market. This growth is coupled with numerous advantages that mobile services bring to the user, such as better operability, productivity advances and entertainment (Balabanoff, 2014). Even though adoption strategies regarding mobile banking have been studied in various parts of the world, acceptance of mobile banking applications in South Africa has not been greatly researched. Hence, this study focused on exploring consumer behaviour and acceptance towards adopting mobile banking in South Africa, where mobile banking is at an elementary stage, but provides potential benefits to both users and business at large. A quantitative research style was followed by this research. An electronic quantitative questionnaire was distributed to South African civilians who are eligible to hold bank accounts in their own names. The research was then conducted on a sample size of 86 respondents. Due to limitations on time, this study utilised convenience sampling. Data gathered from the questionnaires was examined using statistical analysis to scrutinise the correlation between the variables used in the research model, this being Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The UTAUT is commonly used to predict and explain factors that influence the adoption of technology by users. These factors help decision-makers in formulating technology acceptance strategies. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effect of fire frequency on the recovery of soil invertebrate communities in semi-arid savanna biome of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madikana, Ayabulela https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9119-4650
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Soil invertebrates , Fire ecology , Arid regions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22831 , vital:52946
- Description: Fires are common in South African savanna habitats, which can disrupt the dynamics of entire invertebrate populations, endangering biodiversity and the environment. The aim of this study was to look at how fire frequency affected invertebrate population dynamics and biodiversity in a 41-year-old fire experiment at the University of Fort Hare research farm in Alice. The experiment had six different levels of burning frequency: no-burn (K), annual burn (B1), biannual burn (B2), triennial burn (B3), quadrennial burn (B4), and sexennial burn (B6). The experimental plots were replicated two times in a randomized complete block design and have been continuously retained since 1980. A ground yellow mustard solution was used to collect earthworms, which were then identified by an earthworm taxonomist. Pitfall traps were used to collect ants and other insects, which were then identified under a microscope. In total, three soil samples were collected from each plot to assess selected soil nutrients, moisture, and pH. The Shannon diversity index, richness, and population of earthworms, ants, and other insects were calculated, and a one-way ANOVA analysis was done to check if the treatments differed significantly. A correlations study was used to look for any influence connected to soil parameters, including the Shannon diversity index, species richness, and density of soil invertebrates. According to our findings, the measured parameters did not show any significant differences in the measured parameters between the different frequency levels. All the plots had two species of earthworm , Proandricus timmianus and Proandricus beddardi except the biennial burn plot, which had all three, the afore mentioned species and one other unidentified species, Proandricus sp. The triennial burn treatment slightly enhanced the insect diversity, richness, and evenness of ant species difference while the diversity, evenness, and richness were lowest in the sexennial burn plot. However, there was no signif difference in population. After B4, the no burn plot had the second largest diversity and species richness, and the third highest species evenness and had a 100 percent species similarity index. The ants were evenly distributed in the no burn plot compared to the other plots, with K having a lower density than the other plots except for B4, K being slightly more diverse than B6, and B1 with a slightly lower diversity than the other plots, and it being the third species rich plot after B2 and B3, followed by the rest of the plots. This study implied that fire frequency has an insignificant impact on invertebrates’ communities in Savanna biomes words.icant , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effectiveness of cost containment measures: the case of Harry Gwala District Municipality
- Authors: Lungwengwe, Neziswa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Cost accounting , Managerial accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51765 , vital:43370
- Description: The primary research objective of this case study was to understand the effectiveness of cost containment measures implemented by all departments at Harry Gwala District Municipality. The case study also explored factors that may have contributed to the implementation of cost containment measures to ensure that the municipality spends funds on essential items and avoids unauthorised expenditure. A case study with fourteen (14) participants was chosen in order to focus on a particular area that the researcher could easily monitor. The researcher mixed qualitative and quantitative research designs to maintain the strengths and improve the weaknesses in both designs. Audited Annual Financial Statements and approved budgets were analysed to assess the effectiveness of cost containment measures. The study found that while employees were aware of their roles and responsibilities, it is safe to say that they did not follow procedures to ensure that costs were maintained. The results of the study showed that the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) had no financial background. There was generally no change in the behaviour of employees as far as cost containment measures were concerned. The current repairs and maintenance budget was far below the norm of 8% of the carrying value of municipal assets and the municipality only budgeted between 2 – 3% per year for the assets with a carrying value of about R2.3 billion. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Lungwengwe, Neziswa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Activity-based costing , Cost accounting , Managerial accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51765 , vital:43370
- Description: The primary research objective of this case study was to understand the effectiveness of cost containment measures implemented by all departments at Harry Gwala District Municipality. The case study also explored factors that may have contributed to the implementation of cost containment measures to ensure that the municipality spends funds on essential items and avoids unauthorised expenditure. A case study with fourteen (14) participants was chosen in order to focus on a particular area that the researcher could easily monitor. The researcher mixed qualitative and quantitative research designs to maintain the strengths and improve the weaknesses in both designs. Audited Annual Financial Statements and approved budgets were analysed to assess the effectiveness of cost containment measures. The study found that while employees were aware of their roles and responsibilities, it is safe to say that they did not follow procedures to ensure that costs were maintained. The results of the study showed that the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) had no financial background. There was generally no change in the behaviour of employees as far as cost containment measures were concerned. The current repairs and maintenance budget was far below the norm of 8% of the carrying value of municipal assets and the municipality only budgeted between 2 – 3% per year for the assets with a carrying value of about R2.3 billion. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Effects of different levels of education and government spending on economic growth
- Authors: Malangeni, Luxolo Mihle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Economic development -- Africa , Economics -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51842 , vital:43377
- Description: This study investigates the impact of the level of education and education spending on economic growth in the Southern African development community (SADC) using annual panel data from 1995 to 2017 using the FMOSLS and DOLS cointegration estimators. Three levels of education are identified in study (primary, secondary and tertiary). Moreover, we create an index of government spending on education corresponding to these three levels of education. The empirical results suggest that there is a positive long-term relationship between secondary education and economic growth but not for other levels of education. Moreover, it is found that only government spending at primary and secondary education contribute to economic growth. The causality analysis for confirm that only secondary education affects economic growth and is affected by government spending on education. Policy implications of the study are discussed. Government should be careful in managing the public spending on education in a way to increase the skilled labor. Education Policies must be drive based on principle. Professional schools must be first priority in education policies in the region. Government should direct the public expenditures on education towards productive sectors that will contribute in improving the standard of living contributing so on economic growth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Malangeni, Luxolo Mihle
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Economic development -- Africa , Economics -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51842 , vital:43377
- Description: This study investigates the impact of the level of education and education spending on economic growth in the Southern African development community (SADC) using annual panel data from 1995 to 2017 using the FMOSLS and DOLS cointegration estimators. Three levels of education are identified in study (primary, secondary and tertiary). Moreover, we create an index of government spending on education corresponding to these three levels of education. The empirical results suggest that there is a positive long-term relationship between secondary education and economic growth but not for other levels of education. Moreover, it is found that only government spending at primary and secondary education contribute to economic growth. The causality analysis for confirm that only secondary education affects economic growth and is affected by government spending on education. Policy implications of the study are discussed. Government should be careful in managing the public spending on education in a way to increase the skilled labor. Education Policies must be drive based on principle. Professional schools must be first priority in education policies in the region. Government should direct the public expenditures on education towards productive sectors that will contribute in improving the standard of living contributing so on economic growth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Enablers and dis-enablers to the success of the East London industrial development zone
- Authors: Ramncwana, Ayanda
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52967 , vital:44890
- Description: Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have been a global phenomenon since the 1960s and have been integral to the transformation of emerging and ailing economies. In 2002 the South African government identified SEZs as instruments for advancing its economy into a higher industrialisation path based the assessment of potential socio-economic gains. Past research findings, however, suggest that South African SEZs, when compared to international SEZ performances, are lagging behind both in terms of delivering a compelling SEZ value proposition and achieving the desired socio-economic gains. Limited research has been conducted on the factors which enable and dis-enable the success of SEZs in South Africa. This study evaluates the factors that enable and dis-enable the effectiveness of South African SEZs in achieving their socio-economic development objectives. Applying a qualitative case study methodology, research was conducted on the East London Industrial Development Zone(ELIDZ), one of the first SEZs to be designated in South Africa in 2002. The study finds that a weak SEZ regulatory framework characterised by slow delivery of important SEZ industrial support has dis-enabled South African SEZs. A complex business environment has also dis-enabled the competitiveness of South African SEZs. The study reveals that while it is easier to conduct business inside the SEZs, South African SEZs are not given adequate policy latitude to be an experimental ground to drive reform that will improve the ease of doing business in South Africa. A challenging labour market marred by low productivity, high production costs and inadequately skilled labour continue to challenge the success of SEZs in South Africa. Poor regional infrastructure and delays in the roll out of fiscal incentives, are also some of the factors that have dis-enabled the success of the East London IDZ. World-class infrastructure inside the ELIDZ, inherent locational competitive advantages and the existence of locational-specific non-fiscal incentives have, however, been the key enablers that have improved the competitiveness of the ELIDZ. Despite some of the notable dis-enablers to the competitiveness of South African SEZs, the ELIDZ has done well in achieving short-term static outcomes such as employment, exports, investment attraction and FDI despite some of the factors that had dis-enabled the zone. The zone has also achieved certain dynamic outcomes such as skills upgrading, industrial upgrading, technology transfer and diversification of the economic output, albeit these still being at low levels. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ramncwana, Ayanda
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52967 , vital:44890
- Description: Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have been a global phenomenon since the 1960s and have been integral to the transformation of emerging and ailing economies. In 2002 the South African government identified SEZs as instruments for advancing its economy into a higher industrialisation path based the assessment of potential socio-economic gains. Past research findings, however, suggest that South African SEZs, when compared to international SEZ performances, are lagging behind both in terms of delivering a compelling SEZ value proposition and achieving the desired socio-economic gains. Limited research has been conducted on the factors which enable and dis-enable the success of SEZs in South Africa. This study evaluates the factors that enable and dis-enable the effectiveness of South African SEZs in achieving their socio-economic development objectives. Applying a qualitative case study methodology, research was conducted on the East London Industrial Development Zone(ELIDZ), one of the first SEZs to be designated in South Africa in 2002. The study finds that a weak SEZ regulatory framework characterised by slow delivery of important SEZ industrial support has dis-enabled South African SEZs. A complex business environment has also dis-enabled the competitiveness of South African SEZs. The study reveals that while it is easier to conduct business inside the SEZs, South African SEZs are not given adequate policy latitude to be an experimental ground to drive reform that will improve the ease of doing business in South Africa. A challenging labour market marred by low productivity, high production costs and inadequately skilled labour continue to challenge the success of SEZs in South Africa. Poor regional infrastructure and delays in the roll out of fiscal incentives, are also some of the factors that have dis-enabled the success of the East London IDZ. World-class infrastructure inside the ELIDZ, inherent locational competitive advantages and the existence of locational-specific non-fiscal incentives have, however, been the key enablers that have improved the competitiveness of the ELIDZ. Despite some of the notable dis-enablers to the competitiveness of South African SEZs, the ELIDZ has done well in achieving short-term static outcomes such as employment, exports, investment attraction and FDI despite some of the factors that had dis-enabled the zone. The zone has also achieved certain dynamic outcomes such as skills upgrading, industrial upgrading, technology transfer and diversification of the economic output, albeit these still being at low levels. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Engaging the female voice in understanding gender and sexuality interaction: the school and social work as medium for empowerment
- Authors: Madikizela, B M
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sex (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51298 , vital:43261
- Description: The lack of the female voice in relationships with men means that they cannot negotiate safe sex, friendships with both male and female peers, their freedom of movement within the parameters of their relationships, etc. As a result of this, HIV and teenage pregnancy rates remain unacceptably high. The public health sector in present-day South Africa finds itself increasingly strained due to high levels of new incidents of HIV in young women between the age of 18 and 24. Statistics show that pregnancies are on the rise due to early sexual interactions. These statistics stand in stark contrast with the fact that gender and sexuality are topics taught in the school system through subjects such as Life Orientation. The assumption is often that young people, and in the context of this study, young women, will translate the knowledge into skill sets and behaviours that would help them assert themselves more and have control of their bodies. The statistics, however, seem to tell a different story. The purpose of the study is to understand why, despite the fact that there are subjects in the school curriculum and programs offered by different organisations, HIV infection amongst young women as well as teenage pregnancies remain a problem, an indication that the female voice remains marginalised in intimate spaces. The theoretical frameworks for this study include a Humanising Pedagogy, interrogating education and training engagements for social change while also engaging with various works of Judith Butler as a lens to view the marginalisation of young women in a gendered society. This study is qualitative in nature as it uses a critical ethnographic research design. It aimed to uncover and understand the deeper meanings of the phenomena experienced by young women from their point of view. The study employed a non-probability, purposive sample technique, in addition to the ethnographic analysis. A sample of 15 young women between the ages of 18 and 24 in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro engaged in the study. These young women were recruited from Rise out of School Programme, part of the Khethimpilo prevention program. Informed consent to participate in the study was secured before interviews were conducted and participants were not coerced into participation and were free to drop out at any point. All endeavours to protect participants from physical harm and mental stress were taken. Misconceptions and misunderstandings which arose in the piloting phase of the study were removed and complete confidentiality was maintained in the management of all information obtained about participants. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Guba’s model of ensuring trustworthiness of the data was applied. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madikizela, B M
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sex (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51298 , vital:43261
- Description: The lack of the female voice in relationships with men means that they cannot negotiate safe sex, friendships with both male and female peers, their freedom of movement within the parameters of their relationships, etc. As a result of this, HIV and teenage pregnancy rates remain unacceptably high. The public health sector in present-day South Africa finds itself increasingly strained due to high levels of new incidents of HIV in young women between the age of 18 and 24. Statistics show that pregnancies are on the rise due to early sexual interactions. These statistics stand in stark contrast with the fact that gender and sexuality are topics taught in the school system through subjects such as Life Orientation. The assumption is often that young people, and in the context of this study, young women, will translate the knowledge into skill sets and behaviours that would help them assert themselves more and have control of their bodies. The statistics, however, seem to tell a different story. The purpose of the study is to understand why, despite the fact that there are subjects in the school curriculum and programs offered by different organisations, HIV infection amongst young women as well as teenage pregnancies remain a problem, an indication that the female voice remains marginalised in intimate spaces. The theoretical frameworks for this study include a Humanising Pedagogy, interrogating education and training engagements for social change while also engaging with various works of Judith Butler as a lens to view the marginalisation of young women in a gendered society. This study is qualitative in nature as it uses a critical ethnographic research design. It aimed to uncover and understand the deeper meanings of the phenomena experienced by young women from their point of view. The study employed a non-probability, purposive sample technique, in addition to the ethnographic analysis. A sample of 15 young women between the ages of 18 and 24 in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro engaged in the study. These young women were recruited from Rise out of School Programme, part of the Khethimpilo prevention program. Informed consent to participate in the study was secured before interviews were conducted and participants were not coerced into participation and were free to drop out at any point. All endeavours to protect participants from physical harm and mental stress were taken. Misconceptions and misunderstandings which arose in the piloting phase of the study were removed and complete confidentiality was maintained in the management of all information obtained about participants. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Guba’s model of ensuring trustworthiness of the data was applied. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Enhancing professionalism through the implementation of Batho Pele principles: the case of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature
- Authors: Mhlwatika, Zandile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53467 , vital:45156
- Description: The study investigated how Batho Pele Principles can enhance professionalism in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. The New Public Management approach (NPM) was used to explore how professionalism can be promoted through the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles. The study adopted a qualitative research method by means of which secondary information was obtained from various sources to explore ways and means of enhancing professionalism through the implementation of Batho Pele Principles. This study discussed factors promoting the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles and revealed various factors that can inhibit the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles. The study also discussed the importance of codes of conduct and ethics in promoting professionalism as well as the strategies used to implement the Batho Pele Principles in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. The findings of the study revealed that professionalism can be enhanced through the implementation of Batho Pele Principles. For this to be successful in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, the Batho Pele Principles should be implemented in conjunction with codes of conduct and ethics. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mhlwatika, Zandile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53467 , vital:45156
- Description: The study investigated how Batho Pele Principles can enhance professionalism in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. The New Public Management approach (NPM) was used to explore how professionalism can be promoted through the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles. The study adopted a qualitative research method by means of which secondary information was obtained from various sources to explore ways and means of enhancing professionalism through the implementation of Batho Pele Principles. This study discussed factors promoting the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles and revealed various factors that can inhibit the implementation of the Batho Pele Principles. The study also discussed the importance of codes of conduct and ethics in promoting professionalism as well as the strategies used to implement the Batho Pele Principles in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. The findings of the study revealed that professionalism can be enhanced through the implementation of Batho Pele Principles. For this to be successful in the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, the Batho Pele Principles should be implemented in conjunction with codes of conduct and ethics. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Enhancing the provision of social housing through public-private partnerships in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Sobuza, Duduzile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54806 , vital:47905
- Description: The purpose of this study was to establish the extent to which the provision of social housing can be enhanced through public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the Buffalo City Municipality. A total quality management approach was used as a foundation to understand the application of PPPs in social housing delivery in the Buffalo City Municipality. The study was desktop research to understand the role of PPPs in the provision of social housing. The findings of the study revealed that PPPs provide additional capital for social housing development. The study highlighted that PPPs play a crucial role in providing alternative management and implementation skills as well as offering greater efficiency in the utilisation of financial resources in the delivery of social housing. The findings of the study further revealed that PPPs accelerate social housing delivery through the provision of additional sources of finance where the government is unable to increase public debt to meet investment needs. The study also identified a plethora of constraints that can hinder the adoption of PPP initiatives in social housing delivery. These include capacity constraints, financial constraints, lack of access to land and an unfavourable policy environment. Subsequently, the study advanced a set of recommendations in this regard that includes the creation of transparent and competitive procurement processes, government support in terms of financial incentives, review of the regulatory framework to improve access to land and the regulation of financial services institutions for access to affordable housing credit. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Department of Public Management and Leadership , 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Sobuza, Duduzile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54806 , vital:47905
- Description: The purpose of this study was to establish the extent to which the provision of social housing can be enhanced through public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the Buffalo City Municipality. A total quality management approach was used as a foundation to understand the application of PPPs in social housing delivery in the Buffalo City Municipality. The study was desktop research to understand the role of PPPs in the provision of social housing. The findings of the study revealed that PPPs provide additional capital for social housing development. The study highlighted that PPPs play a crucial role in providing alternative management and implementation skills as well as offering greater efficiency in the utilisation of financial resources in the delivery of social housing. The findings of the study further revealed that PPPs accelerate social housing delivery through the provision of additional sources of finance where the government is unable to increase public debt to meet investment needs. The study also identified a plethora of constraints that can hinder the adoption of PPP initiatives in social housing delivery. These include capacity constraints, financial constraints, lack of access to land and an unfavourable policy environment. Subsequently, the study advanced a set of recommendations in this regard that includes the creation of transparent and competitive procurement processes, government support in terms of financial incentives, review of the regulatory framework to improve access to land and the regulation of financial services institutions for access to affordable housing credit. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Department of Public Management and Leadership , 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Entrepreneurial intentions of Eskom employees in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ngamlana, Vuyiseka Pakama
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53026 , vital:44871
- Description: Entrepreneurship has been gathering increasing attention because of its critical impact on the economy. This is due to Entrepreneurship serving both as an engine driving economic growth and as a strategy, which promotes the discovery, dissemination and implementation of innovation. In South Africa, limited research has been conducted to test the entrepreneurial intentions of employees working in the State Owned Enterprises (SOEs). SOEs such as Eskom are facing significant political, institutional and normative pressures which minimise its ability to perform its mandate. Eskom has a surplus work force with a headcount of 47 600 employees, this is 15 000 more than the headcount it had a decade ago, while the electricity production has not changed. The aim of this study is to examine entrepreneurial intentions of Eskom employees and the factors that influence individuals to select employment in the public sector. The entrepreneurial intention model used in this study draws from the work by Mhlanga (2019). The model consists of culture, family obligations, job security, role modelling, entrepreneurial self – efficacy, access to financial resources and locus of control to entrepreneurial intentions. Convenience sampling was used in this study (n=160). The research design involved a cross-sectional approach. SPSS and STATA statistical software were used for the analyses. Job security, role modelling and selfefficacy were found to influence entrepreneurial intentions of Eskom employees in the Eastern Cape. Eskom employees in the Eastern Cape were found to be optimistic about the availability of financing and accessibility for start-ups business ventures. One of the recommendations therefore is for Eskom management to facilitate initiatives such as Entrepreneurship Workshops for Eskom employees to network and share ideas, with funders and mentors. The target population consist of 2050 employees sample size of 160 respondents was obtained. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NNU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ngamlana, Vuyiseka Pakama
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53026 , vital:44871
- Description: Entrepreneurship has been gathering increasing attention because of its critical impact on the economy. This is due to Entrepreneurship serving both as an engine driving economic growth and as a strategy, which promotes the discovery, dissemination and implementation of innovation. In South Africa, limited research has been conducted to test the entrepreneurial intentions of employees working in the State Owned Enterprises (SOEs). SOEs such as Eskom are facing significant political, institutional and normative pressures which minimise its ability to perform its mandate. Eskom has a surplus work force with a headcount of 47 600 employees, this is 15 000 more than the headcount it had a decade ago, while the electricity production has not changed. The aim of this study is to examine entrepreneurial intentions of Eskom employees and the factors that influence individuals to select employment in the public sector. The entrepreneurial intention model used in this study draws from the work by Mhlanga (2019). The model consists of culture, family obligations, job security, role modelling, entrepreneurial self – efficacy, access to financial resources and locus of control to entrepreneurial intentions. Convenience sampling was used in this study (n=160). The research design involved a cross-sectional approach. SPSS and STATA statistical software were used for the analyses. Job security, role modelling and selfefficacy were found to influence entrepreneurial intentions of Eskom employees in the Eastern Cape. Eskom employees in the Eastern Cape were found to be optimistic about the availability of financing and accessibility for start-ups business ventures. One of the recommendations therefore is for Eskom management to facilitate initiatives such as Entrepreneurship Workshops for Eskom employees to network and share ideas, with funders and mentors. The target population consist of 2050 employees sample size of 160 respondents was obtained. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NNU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Entrepreneurship development in South Africa
- Authors: Sibara, Siphokazi Nontando
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52986 , vital:44894
- Description: The current unemployment rate in South Africa is sitting at 30%. The South African government has identified various ways of combating this high rate. Entrepreneurship has been identified as one of the tools that can be utilised by the country to assist bring down these high levels. However, it seems that even though this is the case, there has been a decline in the sustainability of entrepreneurship. As per the GEM 2018 report on entrepreneurial activity in South Africa in the age group 25 – 34 years, there has been a downward trend as it has increased back from the low 2016 levels of 6.3% to 14.5% in 2017. The study aims to explore variables that can assist to develop entrepreneurship in South Africa, thereby assisting with its sustainability. Once entrepreneurship is sustainable it can assist with creating job opportunities thereby decreasing the high levels of unemployment in the country. The study starts by asking several research questions that introduce the various variables were identified that have an impact on the development of entrepreneurship. The variables that have been identified are the following: education, national and business culture, support, business skills and competencies. The study uses these variables to investigate the path leading to entrepreneurship development in the country. A qualitative research methodology has been used to carry out the research. Participants from the Eastern Cape, East London area are identified as a sample with which to conduct interviews and collect data. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Sibara, Siphokazi Nontando
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52986 , vital:44894
- Description: The current unemployment rate in South Africa is sitting at 30%. The South African government has identified various ways of combating this high rate. Entrepreneurship has been identified as one of the tools that can be utilised by the country to assist bring down these high levels. However, it seems that even though this is the case, there has been a decline in the sustainability of entrepreneurship. As per the GEM 2018 report on entrepreneurial activity in South Africa in the age group 25 – 34 years, there has been a downward trend as it has increased back from the low 2016 levels of 6.3% to 14.5% in 2017. The study aims to explore variables that can assist to develop entrepreneurship in South Africa, thereby assisting with its sustainability. Once entrepreneurship is sustainable it can assist with creating job opportunities thereby decreasing the high levels of unemployment in the country. The study starts by asking several research questions that introduce the various variables were identified that have an impact on the development of entrepreneurship. The variables that have been identified are the following: education, national and business culture, support, business skills and competencies. The study uses these variables to investigate the path leading to entrepreneurship development in the country. A qualitative research methodology has been used to carry out the research. Participants from the Eastern Cape, East London area are identified as a sample with which to conduct interviews and collect data. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Essential employee knowledge management and re-skilling within the 4ir in the South African automotive industry towards 2030
- Authors: Hufkie, Brian
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51556 , vital:43304
- Description: It was the purpose of the study to gain an understanding of what Essential Employee Knowledge Management and Re-Skilling is needed in the South African Automotive Industry towards 2030 with regards to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The reason for choosing the South African automotive industry was because the automotive industry is South Africa’s most important manufacturing sector. Nearly one-third of value adding within the domestic business sector is from the contribution, directly or indirectly, of vehicle assembly and automotive component manufacturing. According to Muro and Whiton (2017), advanced automation is already disrupting job futures across the globe and the 4IR technologies will contribute to further impacts upon the labour market, as many routine and rule-based jobs that typically involving low to medium skills become automated. Omarjee (2018), further states that the skills gap and structural unemployment are at an ever-increasing pace of change, which means organisations will face more structural unemployment challenges and which, therefore, amplifies the need for a significant amount of talent development, knowledge management, reskilling and up-skilling required in South Africa towards 4IR readiness. According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA, 2018), South Africa’s skills challenges are because of complications of socio-economic and socio-historic factors. It is undisputed that 4IR requires a highly skilled workforce, and one which South Africa, regrettably, has been struggling to produce. The report further estimates that 30% of South African workers are unskilled, 46% are semiskilled workers and 24% are skilled workers. Therefore, skilling and reskilling of workers is important in preparing for the 4IR. The study undertook a focused environmental scan of recently published and pertinent articles in the public domain media. The aim, furthermore, was to use the environmental scan to contribute meaningful recommendations to all key stakeholders involved. The environmental scan looked at the macro environment and which included the social, technological, political, economic and the environmental factors influencing the South African automotive industry. Secondly, a qualitative case study approach was used to describe the true experiences of assembly workers and their immediate supervisors in a South African automotive plant. An interpretivism paradigm was applied in line with the case study research methodology. A semi-structured interview guide was developed to obtain primary data through the interviewing process and to test the dependent and independent variables. Using convenience sampling, interviews were set up with identified company related respondents, which included supervisors and blue-collar workers at a South African automotive company. The study results revealed that although some of the respondents did not know what 4IR was, there was agreement amongst those who knew what was involved and why 4IR should happen. The shared understanding was that 4IR involves vast amounts of data that assists in improving processes, systems and services. The study results also indicated that the implementation of automation, robotics and AI within the manufacturing industry had increased the fears of employees in terms of technology application is replacing their jobs. Some of the respondents also perceived a lack of transparency with regards to a structured approach towards a reskilling plan targeting the blue-collar workers’ readiness, in line with the 4IR within the automotive industry. Furthermore, what was clear was that reskilling, training and a retraining was needed within the orgainisation. Based on the overall study results, it appears that there is currently limited observed evidence about the current state of readiness of 4IR awareness and its adoption within a South African automotive industry entity. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hufkie, Brian
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Knowledge management , Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51556 , vital:43304
- Description: It was the purpose of the study to gain an understanding of what Essential Employee Knowledge Management and Re-Skilling is needed in the South African Automotive Industry towards 2030 with regards to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The reason for choosing the South African automotive industry was because the automotive industry is South Africa’s most important manufacturing sector. Nearly one-third of value adding within the domestic business sector is from the contribution, directly or indirectly, of vehicle assembly and automotive component manufacturing. According to Muro and Whiton (2017), advanced automation is already disrupting job futures across the globe and the 4IR technologies will contribute to further impacts upon the labour market, as many routine and rule-based jobs that typically involving low to medium skills become automated. Omarjee (2018), further states that the skills gap and structural unemployment are at an ever-increasing pace of change, which means organisations will face more structural unemployment challenges and which, therefore, amplifies the need for a significant amount of talent development, knowledge management, reskilling and up-skilling required in South Africa towards 4IR readiness. According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA, 2018), South Africa’s skills challenges are because of complications of socio-economic and socio-historic factors. It is undisputed that 4IR requires a highly skilled workforce, and one which South Africa, regrettably, has been struggling to produce. The report further estimates that 30% of South African workers are unskilled, 46% are semiskilled workers and 24% are skilled workers. Therefore, skilling and reskilling of workers is important in preparing for the 4IR. The study undertook a focused environmental scan of recently published and pertinent articles in the public domain media. The aim, furthermore, was to use the environmental scan to contribute meaningful recommendations to all key stakeholders involved. The environmental scan looked at the macro environment and which included the social, technological, political, economic and the environmental factors influencing the South African automotive industry. Secondly, a qualitative case study approach was used to describe the true experiences of assembly workers and their immediate supervisors in a South African automotive plant. An interpretivism paradigm was applied in line with the case study research methodology. A semi-structured interview guide was developed to obtain primary data through the interviewing process and to test the dependent and independent variables. Using convenience sampling, interviews were set up with identified company related respondents, which included supervisors and blue-collar workers at a South African automotive company. The study results revealed that although some of the respondents did not know what 4IR was, there was agreement amongst those who knew what was involved and why 4IR should happen. The shared understanding was that 4IR involves vast amounts of data that assists in improving processes, systems and services. The study results also indicated that the implementation of automation, robotics and AI within the manufacturing industry had increased the fears of employees in terms of technology application is replacing their jobs. Some of the respondents also perceived a lack of transparency with regards to a structured approach towards a reskilling plan targeting the blue-collar workers’ readiness, in line with the 4IR within the automotive industry. Furthermore, what was clear was that reskilling, training and a retraining was needed within the orgainisation. Based on the overall study results, it appears that there is currently limited observed evidence about the current state of readiness of 4IR awareness and its adoption within a South African automotive industry entity. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Estimating activity patterns in camera trap studies, and the overlap between domestic and indigenous ungulates
- Authors: Peral, Christopher Michael
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Ungulates -- Behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52019 , vital:43437
- Description: Animal activity can reveal responses to social and ecological factors such as the presence of food, water, shelter, predators, competitors or conspecifics. Thus, an understanding of an animal’s activity patterns provides insights into how and why they are using landscapes in the manner in which they do. Camera trap surveys, typically used to record the occurrence of species of interest, are also an efficient way to collect data regarding animal activity patterns but require robust analytical methods. The analysis of camera trap data requires assumptions that may differ for camera trap surveys that estimate occurrence or activity. One such assumption is temporal independence. This refers to the removal of images within a specified time interval, as these images are assumed to be images of the same individual. This assumption stems from the use of-time-to-independence in occurrence or density-based studies, where it reduces overestimation of animal counts. In studies of animal activity, this assumption is generally used, even though animal behaviour or activity occurs continuously over time and as such should be measured over time. I analysed 112 467 images of eight cooccurring species, to test the effect across various times to independence, these being set at 1, 5, 10, 15, 30 and 60 minutes. Time-to-independence resulted in significant loss of data and biased the interpretation of the activity patterns of species and interactions amongst species, particularly for herbivorous social species. In light of these findings, activity pattern estimates based on camera trap studies should be cautious when using time-to-independence. I then explore ‘habitat use’ in space and time by domestic and indigenous ungulates using a camera trap survey. Domestic ungulates (livestock) have become common place on rangelands and may compete with native species. It was hypothesised that there will be overlap in habitat use by livestock and indigenous ungulates. My results show that indigenous ungulate species, particularly larger species such as kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), changed their spatial and temporal use as a result of the presence of domestic ungulates. Other smaller indigenous ungulates, such as steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), were less affected by the presence of livestock. Kudu were found to use more open habitats at different times whilst springbok used more dense habitats at different times in the presence of livestock. This supports the hypothesis of competition between livestock and indigenous ungulates. This study provides novel insight into the analysis and interpretation of activity patterns based on camera trap surveys. Additionally, this study demonstrates the competitive displacement between domestic and indigenous ungulate species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Peral, Christopher Michael
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Ungulates -- Behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52019 , vital:43437
- Description: Animal activity can reveal responses to social and ecological factors such as the presence of food, water, shelter, predators, competitors or conspecifics. Thus, an understanding of an animal’s activity patterns provides insights into how and why they are using landscapes in the manner in which they do. Camera trap surveys, typically used to record the occurrence of species of interest, are also an efficient way to collect data regarding animal activity patterns but require robust analytical methods. The analysis of camera trap data requires assumptions that may differ for camera trap surveys that estimate occurrence or activity. One such assumption is temporal independence. This refers to the removal of images within a specified time interval, as these images are assumed to be images of the same individual. This assumption stems from the use of-time-to-independence in occurrence or density-based studies, where it reduces overestimation of animal counts. In studies of animal activity, this assumption is generally used, even though animal behaviour or activity occurs continuously over time and as such should be measured over time. I analysed 112 467 images of eight cooccurring species, to test the effect across various times to independence, these being set at 1, 5, 10, 15, 30 and 60 minutes. Time-to-independence resulted in significant loss of data and biased the interpretation of the activity patterns of species and interactions amongst species, particularly for herbivorous social species. In light of these findings, activity pattern estimates based on camera trap studies should be cautious when using time-to-independence. I then explore ‘habitat use’ in space and time by domestic and indigenous ungulates using a camera trap survey. Domestic ungulates (livestock) have become common place on rangelands and may compete with native species. It was hypothesised that there will be overlap in habitat use by livestock and indigenous ungulates. My results show that indigenous ungulate species, particularly larger species such as kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), changed their spatial and temporal use as a result of the presence of domestic ungulates. Other smaller indigenous ungulates, such as steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) and duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), were less affected by the presence of livestock. Kudu were found to use more open habitats at different times whilst springbok used more dense habitats at different times in the presence of livestock. This supports the hypothesis of competition between livestock and indigenous ungulates. This study provides novel insight into the analysis and interpretation of activity patterns based on camera trap surveys. Additionally, this study demonstrates the competitive displacement between domestic and indigenous ungulate species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Estimating Bayesian tolerance intervals for a two - factor factorial model
- Authors: Besele, Kagiso Francis
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqenerha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Mathematical statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52302 , vital:43587
- Description: Quality improvement efforts have become the cornerstone of all manufacturing processes. Quality can be defined in terms of variability reduction, and since variability is a statistical concept, statistical techniques such as statistical quality control present techniques for assessing process variation. Methods such as experimental design provide a way to ascertain factor relationships and give a basis for computing variability that arises from each process variable, ultimately providing a way of calculating total process variability. This in turn results in variance components and eventually variance component estimation. As with any statistical model, estimates may be classified in any one of two ways, point estimates or interval estimates. Interval estimates that provide information about an entire population, and not only information on a few observations from a sample or knowledge about only a population parameter, are known as tolerance intervals. Wolfinger (1998) provided a Bayesian simulationbased approach for ascertaining three types of tolerance intervals using a balanced one-way random effects model. In this study, the method initially proposed by Wolfinger (1998), is extended in order to estimate tolerance intervals for the balanced two-way crossed classification random effects model with interaction. The suggested and derived techniques will be applied to the thermal impedance data initially collected by Houf and Berman (1988), and the method presented by Wolfinger (1998) will be expanded to also include the estimation of tolerance intervals for averages of observations from new or unknown measurements. This Bayesian approach provides a thorough but yet simplistic paradigm to using tolerance intervals in manufacturing settings. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Besele, Kagiso Francis
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqenerha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Mathematical statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52302 , vital:43587
- Description: Quality improvement efforts have become the cornerstone of all manufacturing processes. Quality can be defined in terms of variability reduction, and since variability is a statistical concept, statistical techniques such as statistical quality control present techniques for assessing process variation. Methods such as experimental design provide a way to ascertain factor relationships and give a basis for computing variability that arises from each process variable, ultimately providing a way of calculating total process variability. This in turn results in variance components and eventually variance component estimation. As with any statistical model, estimates may be classified in any one of two ways, point estimates or interval estimates. Interval estimates that provide information about an entire population, and not only information on a few observations from a sample or knowledge about only a population parameter, are known as tolerance intervals. Wolfinger (1998) provided a Bayesian simulationbased approach for ascertaining three types of tolerance intervals using a balanced one-way random effects model. In this study, the method initially proposed by Wolfinger (1998), is extended in order to estimate tolerance intervals for the balanced two-way crossed classification random effects model with interaction. The suggested and derived techniques will be applied to the thermal impedance data initially collected by Houf and Berman (1988), and the method presented by Wolfinger (1998) will be expanded to also include the estimation of tolerance intervals for averages of observations from new or unknown measurements. This Bayesian approach provides a thorough but yet simplistic paradigm to using tolerance intervals in manufacturing settings. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Estimating the population size of three large carnivore species and the diet of six large carnivore species, in Madikwe Game Reserve
- Authors: Honiball, Terry-Lee
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Carnivores
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52139 , vital:43421
- Description: Large carnivores play a vital role in ecosystems, providing ecosystem services such as herbivore regulation. If not properly monitored, carnivores could place significant pressure on certain prey species, and in extreme cases, result in the local extinction of certain species. A lack of demographic data can indirectly threaten carnivores, as policies and management decisions based on demographic data can result in the over harvesting or unsustainable hunting of large carnivores. Furthermore, their conservation is becoming confined to small, fenced, protected areas. Whereby species are intensively managed, making demographic and ecological data a fundamental part of conservation decisions. Therefore, it is essential for conservation practitioners to understand large carnivore demography and their role, to conserve them effectively. To provide Madikwe Game Reserve with the necessary data for effective long-term monitoring and management of the large carnivore guild, I estimated the population size of the cryptic carnivores. I then investigated the efficacy of different camera trap survey designs on improving the detection probability of leopard (Panthera pardus), brown hyaena (Parahyaena brunnea), and spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta). I found that brown hyaena and spotted hyaena detection probability increased with a higher number of camera traps, whereas leopard detection probability did not increase with an increased number of camera traps. I further investigated the diet, prey preferences and dietary overlap of lion (Panthera leo), cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), leopard, spotted hyaena and brown hyaena. I found that all species displayed a degree of dietary overlap, however the most notable level of competition occurred between leopards, wild dogs, and cheetahs. This iv information will assist MGR to make informed decisions about large carnivore management in the reserve. I recommend continued long-term monitoring for the establishment of trends over time, allowing for holistic management of the entire large carnivore guild. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Honiball, Terry-Lee
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Carnivores
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52139 , vital:43421
- Description: Large carnivores play a vital role in ecosystems, providing ecosystem services such as herbivore regulation. If not properly monitored, carnivores could place significant pressure on certain prey species, and in extreme cases, result in the local extinction of certain species. A lack of demographic data can indirectly threaten carnivores, as policies and management decisions based on demographic data can result in the over harvesting or unsustainable hunting of large carnivores. Furthermore, their conservation is becoming confined to small, fenced, protected areas. Whereby species are intensively managed, making demographic and ecological data a fundamental part of conservation decisions. Therefore, it is essential for conservation practitioners to understand large carnivore demography and their role, to conserve them effectively. To provide Madikwe Game Reserve with the necessary data for effective long-term monitoring and management of the large carnivore guild, I estimated the population size of the cryptic carnivores. I then investigated the efficacy of different camera trap survey designs on improving the detection probability of leopard (Panthera pardus), brown hyaena (Parahyaena brunnea), and spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta). I found that brown hyaena and spotted hyaena detection probability increased with a higher number of camera traps, whereas leopard detection probability did not increase with an increased number of camera traps. I further investigated the diet, prey preferences and dietary overlap of lion (Panthera leo), cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), leopard, spotted hyaena and brown hyaena. I found that all species displayed a degree of dietary overlap, however the most notable level of competition occurred between leopards, wild dogs, and cheetahs. This iv information will assist MGR to make informed decisions about large carnivore management in the reserve. I recommend continued long-term monitoring for the establishment of trends over time, allowing for holistic management of the entire large carnivore guild. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Ethical sensitivity of internal audit university students
- Authors: Chauke, Deroul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Accounting -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Ethics , Management -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51074 , vital:43206
- Description: Ethics is an important aspect of business, particularly in the internal audit profession, and especially after the corporate scandals in the twenty-first century. Internal auditors play an important role in business and society as they hold executive directors of organisations accountable on behalf of various stakeholders and shareholders, by reviewing the effectiveness of internal control systems, risk management, and governance processes. Similar to the legal and medical professions, internal auditors are expected by the public and clients they serve, to uphold high ethical standards. The overall objective of this study is to determine whether internal audit university students possess sufficient ethical sensitivity to appropriately respond to ethical challenges they could face when they enter the internal audit profession. To achieve the objective of this study, a qualitative research approach was followed. To collect the primary data, a questionnaire containing six vignettes was administered to internal audit university students at three universities in South Africa. The qualitative data provided the researcher with rich and in-depth evidence about the ethical sensitivity of internal audit university students. The findings of this study revealed that most students have the necessary ethical sensitivity to respond to ethical challenges. The findings also revealed that taking an ethics course enhanced the students’ ethical sensitivity. It has also emerged from the findings that a few participants were not ethically sensitive as they failed to report an unethical activity. They chose instead to detach themselves from the unethical activity by maintaining their silence. This finding indicates the need to conduct further studies on the ethical sensitivity of internal audit university students using different research instruments and more universities or larger samples. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Chauke, Deroul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Accounting -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Ethics , Management -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51074 , vital:43206
- Description: Ethics is an important aspect of business, particularly in the internal audit profession, and especially after the corporate scandals in the twenty-first century. Internal auditors play an important role in business and society as they hold executive directors of organisations accountable on behalf of various stakeholders and shareholders, by reviewing the effectiveness of internal control systems, risk management, and governance processes. Similar to the legal and medical professions, internal auditors are expected by the public and clients they serve, to uphold high ethical standards. The overall objective of this study is to determine whether internal audit university students possess sufficient ethical sensitivity to appropriately respond to ethical challenges they could face when they enter the internal audit profession. To achieve the objective of this study, a qualitative research approach was followed. To collect the primary data, a questionnaire containing six vignettes was administered to internal audit university students at three universities in South Africa. The qualitative data provided the researcher with rich and in-depth evidence about the ethical sensitivity of internal audit university students. The findings of this study revealed that most students have the necessary ethical sensitivity to respond to ethical challenges. The findings also revealed that taking an ethics course enhanced the students’ ethical sensitivity. It has also emerged from the findings that a few participants were not ethically sensitive as they failed to report an unethical activity. They chose instead to detach themselves from the unethical activity by maintaining their silence. This finding indicates the need to conduct further studies on the ethical sensitivity of internal audit university students using different research instruments and more universities or larger samples. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Evaluation of anti-diabetic activity of selected red marine macro-algae found along South African coastal areas
- Bambo, Karabo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3721-2424
- Authors: Bambo, Karabo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3721-2424
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Marine algae , Phytochemicals
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22533 , vital:52405
- Description: Marine macro-algae are a good source of potential primary and secondary metabolites. Phytochemicals of the samples were extracted using methanol and water. This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity and antidiabetic activity of selected red marine macro-algae sampled from Gqeberha, South Africa. The species collected were identified as Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita using DNA barcoding. Results showed the presence of several phytochemicals such as saponins, phenols, flavonols, tannins, proanthocyanidins and flavonoids. Methanol was a more effective polyphenol extraction solvent than water. Gelidium pristoides (H2O) was observed to contain the highest phenol and proanthocyanidin content, which correlated to Gelidium pristoides (H2O) having the greatest FRAP and DPPH radical scavenging activity IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita (MeOH) extract had the greatest flavonoid content. Flavonol content was high for Scinaia furcellata while the highest tannin content was observed in both H2O and MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides. All the selected marine macro-algae species showed concentration-dependent reducing power. The extract with the highest ABTS scavenging activity was Gelidium pristoides (MeOH) IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita was the only species that showed Nitric oxide scavenging activity, with (H2O) extract showing the highest activity IC50 at 3.052. Only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata showed very slight α-amylase inhibition, however, all extracts successfully inhibited the activity of α-glucosidase with the exception of the H2O extracts of Scinaia furcellata. All crude extracts of Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita showed no significant/weak effect on glucose uptake and utilization by C3A cells following 24 hours of treatment, with the exception of the aqueous extracts of Scinaia furcellata at the highest concentration of 100 μg/ml. The in-vitro MTT cytotoxicity assay revealed that only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata had a 15 significant toxic effect on C3A hepatocytes at concentrations of 100 μg/ml and 25μg/ml, respectively. Portieria tripinita aqueous extract showed cytotoxicity when evaluated using Hoechst 33342/Propidium iodide (PI) dual staining. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bambo, Karabo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3721-2424
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Marine algae , Phytochemicals
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22533 , vital:52405
- Description: Marine macro-algae are a good source of potential primary and secondary metabolites. Phytochemicals of the samples were extracted using methanol and water. This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity and antidiabetic activity of selected red marine macro-algae sampled from Gqeberha, South Africa. The species collected were identified as Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita using DNA barcoding. Results showed the presence of several phytochemicals such as saponins, phenols, flavonols, tannins, proanthocyanidins and flavonoids. Methanol was a more effective polyphenol extraction solvent than water. Gelidium pristoides (H2O) was observed to contain the highest phenol and proanthocyanidin content, which correlated to Gelidium pristoides (H2O) having the greatest FRAP and DPPH radical scavenging activity IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita (MeOH) extract had the greatest flavonoid content. Flavonol content was high for Scinaia furcellata while the highest tannin content was observed in both H2O and MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides. All the selected marine macro-algae species showed concentration-dependent reducing power. The extract with the highest ABTS scavenging activity was Gelidium pristoides (MeOH) IC50 at 0.227. Portieria tripinita was the only species that showed Nitric oxide scavenging activity, with (H2O) extract showing the highest activity IC50 at 3.052. Only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata showed very slight α-amylase inhibition, however, all extracts successfully inhibited the activity of α-glucosidase with the exception of the H2O extracts of Scinaia furcellata. All crude extracts of Gelidium pristoides, Scinaia furcellata and Portieria tripinita showed no significant/weak effect on glucose uptake and utilization by C3A cells following 24 hours of treatment, with the exception of the aqueous extracts of Scinaia furcellata at the highest concentration of 100 μg/ml. The in-vitro MTT cytotoxicity assay revealed that only MeOH extracts of Gelidium pristoides and Scinaia furcellata had a 15 significant toxic effect on C3A hepatocytes at concentrations of 100 μg/ml and 25μg/ml, respectively. Portieria tripinita aqueous extract showed cytotoxicity when evaluated using Hoechst 33342/Propidium iodide (PI) dual staining. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Evaluation of local economic development in Jinja City-Uganda
- Authors: Wambi, Brian Dan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Uganda , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53041 , vital:44905
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of Local Economic Development in Jinja city of Uganda. The research examined the process of service delivery, strategies of implementing Local Economic Development as well as the impact of the initiated development projects to the people. The results showed that the implementation of Local Economic Development in Jinja city can positively change the citizen’s social and economic status hence an improvement in their livelihood and standards of living. Also, implementation of Local Economic Development can grow domestic businesses and enhance local trade, as well as improve service delivery to the people. The study holds practical implications that Local Economic Development can reduce poverty rates in Jinja city through advancement of industrialisation, elevation of tourism, development of the mining sector, and promotion of fishing and agriculture activities to create jobs for the people. The results of this research hold significant theoretical implications that predictions and explanations based on the studied models in this report can be well replicated in the Ugandan context provided that suitable local content is used instead of imported content. Methodologically a systematic literature review of available published, reviewed articles was carried out, a random sample was used to select the studied articles in this research. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Wambi, Brian Dan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Uganda , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53041 , vital:44905
- Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of Local Economic Development in Jinja city of Uganda. The research examined the process of service delivery, strategies of implementing Local Economic Development as well as the impact of the initiated development projects to the people. The results showed that the implementation of Local Economic Development in Jinja city can positively change the citizen’s social and economic status hence an improvement in their livelihood and standards of living. Also, implementation of Local Economic Development can grow domestic businesses and enhance local trade, as well as improve service delivery to the people. The study holds practical implications that Local Economic Development can reduce poverty rates in Jinja city through advancement of industrialisation, elevation of tourism, development of the mining sector, and promotion of fishing and agriculture activities to create jobs for the people. The results of this research hold significant theoretical implications that predictions and explanations based on the studied models in this report can be well replicated in the Ugandan context provided that suitable local content is used instead of imported content. Methodologically a systematic literature review of available published, reviewed articles was carried out, a random sample was used to select the studied articles in this research. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Evolutionary robotics controllers with location perception facilitated by neural network-based simulators
- Authors: Phillips, Antin Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Evolutionary Robots -- South Africa , Neural networks (Computer science) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61613 , vital:71474
- Description: Humans impressively maintain a real-time approximation of their bodily form. For instance, one knows where one’s arm is, relative to the body, without needing to directly observe it. This ability, in part, allows humans to interact with the environment without direct observation. This bodily sense is referred to as ”proprioception“. The human body contains various proprioceptors, sensory neurons which provide information about the physical state of the body. This information, along with internal body representations that humans develop over time, allows one to maintain an approximation of their bodily form. Humans also possess an impressive sense of direction and navigation ability. For instance, a blindfolded human can move around a familiar environment and maintain an approximate sense of where they are within that environment. This ability is, in part, enabled by proprioception as it provides one with an approximation of the effects their actions have on their body. The field of Evolutionary Robots (ER) makes extensive use of robotic simulators to carry out simulated robotic evaluations. Research has been conducted into alternate forms of simulation and Simulator Neural Networks (SNNs) were subsequently developed. The speed and accuracy of these SNNs, relative to more typical simulation techniques, is what inspired the approach explored in this research. Robots do not necessarily possess the appropriate hardware to sense their position within an environment. Thus, it was proposed that SNNs could be incorporated into ER controllers to approximate the position of the robot. These SNNs would be executed in parallel to the robot and provide a constant approximation of the robot’s position. This would provide controllers with information that they would not otherwise have, albeit approximate information. Various experiments were carried out which examined both typical ER controllers as well as those which were augmented in the proposed fashion. The augmented controllers were found to outperform typical controllers as well as develop more advanced and efficient behaviours. Furthermore, the augmented controllers demonstrated the ability to solve tasks that regular controllers could not. A potential criticism of the approach suggested in this research is that ER controllers could hypothetically be trained in such a way that the proposed augmentation would be unnecessary. This possibility was investigated and it was found that successfully training controllers in such a manner would be unlikely. Furthermore, the effort involved in fine-tuning this training process would be greater than simply following the approach suggested in this research. Another potential drawback of the suggested approach involved the accuracy of the information that SNNs could provide to controllers. The approximated information was found to diverge over time and negatively affected controller performance. A method to address this issue was proposed and subsequently implemented. This method was demonstrated to be an effective means of reducing the divergence of the SNNs outputs and, in turn, improved controller performance. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Phillips, Antin Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Evolutionary Robots -- South Africa , Neural networks (Computer science) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61613 , vital:71474
- Description: Humans impressively maintain a real-time approximation of their bodily form. For instance, one knows where one’s arm is, relative to the body, without needing to directly observe it. This ability, in part, allows humans to interact with the environment without direct observation. This bodily sense is referred to as ”proprioception“. The human body contains various proprioceptors, sensory neurons which provide information about the physical state of the body. This information, along with internal body representations that humans develop over time, allows one to maintain an approximation of their bodily form. Humans also possess an impressive sense of direction and navigation ability. For instance, a blindfolded human can move around a familiar environment and maintain an approximate sense of where they are within that environment. This ability is, in part, enabled by proprioception as it provides one with an approximation of the effects their actions have on their body. The field of Evolutionary Robots (ER) makes extensive use of robotic simulators to carry out simulated robotic evaluations. Research has been conducted into alternate forms of simulation and Simulator Neural Networks (SNNs) were subsequently developed. The speed and accuracy of these SNNs, relative to more typical simulation techniques, is what inspired the approach explored in this research. Robots do not necessarily possess the appropriate hardware to sense their position within an environment. Thus, it was proposed that SNNs could be incorporated into ER controllers to approximate the position of the robot. These SNNs would be executed in parallel to the robot and provide a constant approximation of the robot’s position. This would provide controllers with information that they would not otherwise have, albeit approximate information. Various experiments were carried out which examined both typical ER controllers as well as those which were augmented in the proposed fashion. The augmented controllers were found to outperform typical controllers as well as develop more advanced and efficient behaviours. Furthermore, the augmented controllers demonstrated the ability to solve tasks that regular controllers could not. A potential criticism of the approach suggested in this research is that ER controllers could hypothetically be trained in such a way that the proposed augmentation would be unnecessary. This possibility was investigated and it was found that successfully training controllers in such a manner would be unlikely. Furthermore, the effort involved in fine-tuning this training process would be greater than simply following the approach suggested in this research. Another potential drawback of the suggested approach involved the accuracy of the information that SNNs could provide to controllers. The approximated information was found to diverge over time and negatively affected controller performance. A method to address this issue was proposed and subsequently implemented. This method was demonstrated to be an effective means of reducing the divergence of the SNNs outputs and, in turn, improved controller performance. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Evolutionary robotics controllers with location perception facilitated by neural network-based simulators
- Authors: Phillips, Antin Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Neural networks (Computer science) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52137 , vital:43444
- Description: Humans impressively maintain a real-time approximation of their bodily form. For instance, one knows where one’s arm is, relative to the body, without needing to directly observe it. This ability, in part, allows humans to interact with the environment without direct observation. This bodily sense is referred to as ”proprioception“. The human body contains various proprioceptors, sensory neurons which provide information about the physical state of the body. This information, along with internal body representations that humans develop over time, allows one to maintain an approximation of their bodily form. Humans also possess an impressive sense of direction and navigation ability. For instance, a blindfolded human can move around a familiar environment and maintain an approximate sense of where they are within that environment. This ability is, in part, enabled by proprioception as it provides one with an approximation of the effects their actions have on their body. The field of Evolutionary Robots (ER) makes extensive use of robotic simulators to carry out simulated robotic evaluations. Research has been conducted into alternate forms of simulation and Simulator Neural Networks (SNNs) were subsequently developed. The speed and accuracy of these SNNs, relative to more typical simulation techniques, is what inspired the approach explored in this research. Robots do not necessarily possess the appropriate hardware to sense their position within an environment. Thus, it was proposed that SNNs could be incorporated into ER controllers to approximate the position of the robot. These SNNs would be executed in parallel to the robot and provide a constant approximation of the robot’s position. This would provide controllers with information that they would not otherwise have, albeit approximate information. Various experiments were carried out which examined both typical ER controllers as well as those which were augmented in the proposed fashion. The augmented controllers were found to outperform typical controllers as well as develop more advanced and efficient behaviours. Furthermore, the augmented controllers demonstrated the ability to solve tasks that regular controllers could not. A potential criticism of the approach suggested in this research is that ER controllers could hypothetically be trained in such a way that the proposed augmentation would be unnecessary. This possibility was investigated and it was found that successfully training controllers in such a manner would be unlikely. Furthermore, the effort involved in fine-tuning this training process would be greater than simply following the approach suggested in this research. Another potential drawback of the suggested approach involved the accuracy of the information that SNNs could provide to controllers. The approximated information was found to diverge over time and negatively affected controller performance. A method to address this issue was proposed and subsequently implemented. This method was demonstrated to be an effective means of reducing the divergence of the SNNs outputs and, in turn, improved controller performance. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Phillips, Antin Paul
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Neural networks (Computer science) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52137 , vital:43444
- Description: Humans impressively maintain a real-time approximation of their bodily form. For instance, one knows where one’s arm is, relative to the body, without needing to directly observe it. This ability, in part, allows humans to interact with the environment without direct observation. This bodily sense is referred to as ”proprioception“. The human body contains various proprioceptors, sensory neurons which provide information about the physical state of the body. This information, along with internal body representations that humans develop over time, allows one to maintain an approximation of their bodily form. Humans also possess an impressive sense of direction and navigation ability. For instance, a blindfolded human can move around a familiar environment and maintain an approximate sense of where they are within that environment. This ability is, in part, enabled by proprioception as it provides one with an approximation of the effects their actions have on their body. The field of Evolutionary Robots (ER) makes extensive use of robotic simulators to carry out simulated robotic evaluations. Research has been conducted into alternate forms of simulation and Simulator Neural Networks (SNNs) were subsequently developed. The speed and accuracy of these SNNs, relative to more typical simulation techniques, is what inspired the approach explored in this research. Robots do not necessarily possess the appropriate hardware to sense their position within an environment. Thus, it was proposed that SNNs could be incorporated into ER controllers to approximate the position of the robot. These SNNs would be executed in parallel to the robot and provide a constant approximation of the robot’s position. This would provide controllers with information that they would not otherwise have, albeit approximate information. Various experiments were carried out which examined both typical ER controllers as well as those which were augmented in the proposed fashion. The augmented controllers were found to outperform typical controllers as well as develop more advanced and efficient behaviours. Furthermore, the augmented controllers demonstrated the ability to solve tasks that regular controllers could not. A potential criticism of the approach suggested in this research is that ER controllers could hypothetically be trained in such a way that the proposed augmentation would be unnecessary. This possibility was investigated and it was found that successfully training controllers in such a manner would be unlikely. Furthermore, the effort involved in fine-tuning this training process would be greater than simply following the approach suggested in this research. Another potential drawback of the suggested approach involved the accuracy of the information that SNNs could provide to controllers. The approximated information was found to diverge over time and negatively affected controller performance. A method to address this issue was proposed and subsequently implemented. This method was demonstrated to be an effective means of reducing the divergence of the SNNs outputs and, in turn, improved controller performance. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Exploring an effective energy transition management framework for the South African energy sector
- Authors: Lloyd, Vuyisile Patrick
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Energy development -- South Africa , Business planning -- South Africa , Power resources -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51753 , vital:43369
- Description: The global energy transition slowed in 2019 according to the Energy Transition Index report from World Economic Forum, and South Africa (SA) was ranked one hundred and fourteenth out of the one hundred and fifteen countries assessed South Africa thus demonstrated low results in both the energy system performance index and the readiness for energy transition. A range of countries are also facing challenges that are central to the transformation of the energy sector, including protecting the environment, energy security and climate change. These persistent global crises and problems experienced by the energy sector in relation also to scarcity of natural resources, widening social inequalities and environmental degradation, have necessitated reforms and transitions in the energy sector. This study follows an interpretivism research philosophy because it is more suitable for a qualitative research methodology. The strategy of case study research is related to the paradigm of interpretivism approach and thus to the methodology of qualitative research. Various research strategies are used to gain in-depth knowledge, including the use of a case study research methodology to investigate a particular natural setting phenomenon. The research methodology with the embedded sub-units of analysis uses a single case study instrument. The primary unit of analysis considered for this study is the energy sector in South Africa in its current state. For this study, semi-structured interviews are utilised as the research instrument forming the primary data. Transition management and research propositions as conceptualised in this case study are theoretical concepts that management could use to positively influence the South African energy transition. SA is seriously impacted by the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic since the beginning of 2020. The online research approach used resulted in some limitations during data collection, not being able to conduct interviews face-to-face and inability to observe participants during data collection. The researcher also found limitations on accessing data from some of the energy experts recruited to participate in the research. Some reported being busy and not having time to fill out the questionnaires. The researcher carried out follow-ups and recruited new participants. Primary data was ultimately collected from a total of five energy experts who participated in the study against the initial plan for eight participants. Most energy transition studies have focused almost entirely on energy technologies choices. The research intends to contribute to the body of knowledge and provides solutions for management, government and energy sector stakeholders to build strategies to resolve the complex and persistent challenges that slow down the energy transition in South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Lloyd, Vuyisile Patrick
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Energy development -- South Africa , Business planning -- South Africa , Power resources -- Economic aspects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51753 , vital:43369
- Description: The global energy transition slowed in 2019 according to the Energy Transition Index report from World Economic Forum, and South Africa (SA) was ranked one hundred and fourteenth out of the one hundred and fifteen countries assessed South Africa thus demonstrated low results in both the energy system performance index and the readiness for energy transition. A range of countries are also facing challenges that are central to the transformation of the energy sector, including protecting the environment, energy security and climate change. These persistent global crises and problems experienced by the energy sector in relation also to scarcity of natural resources, widening social inequalities and environmental degradation, have necessitated reforms and transitions in the energy sector. This study follows an interpretivism research philosophy because it is more suitable for a qualitative research methodology. The strategy of case study research is related to the paradigm of interpretivism approach and thus to the methodology of qualitative research. Various research strategies are used to gain in-depth knowledge, including the use of a case study research methodology to investigate a particular natural setting phenomenon. The research methodology with the embedded sub-units of analysis uses a single case study instrument. The primary unit of analysis considered for this study is the energy sector in South Africa in its current state. For this study, semi-structured interviews are utilised as the research instrument forming the primary data. Transition management and research propositions as conceptualised in this case study are theoretical concepts that management could use to positively influence the South African energy transition. SA is seriously impacted by the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic since the beginning of 2020. The online research approach used resulted in some limitations during data collection, not being able to conduct interviews face-to-face and inability to observe participants during data collection. The researcher also found limitations on accessing data from some of the energy experts recruited to participate in the research. Some reported being busy and not having time to fill out the questionnaires. The researcher carried out follow-ups and recruited new participants. Primary data was ultimately collected from a total of five energy experts who participated in the study against the initial plan for eight participants. Most energy transition studies have focused almost entirely on energy technologies choices. The research intends to contribute to the body of knowledge and provides solutions for management, government and energy sector stakeholders to build strategies to resolve the complex and persistent challenges that slow down the energy transition in South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04