The analysis of the economic impact of climate change on maize production under different farming systems: the case of smallholder Farmers in Jozini Municipality, KwaZulu Natal Province, South Africa
- Authors: Nxumalo, Bongiwe Goodness
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dry farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Food supply -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Corn -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021277 , Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dry farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Food supply -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Corn -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: Maize is the most grown crop by the farmers in Jozini. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to assess the economic impact of climate change on maize production under different farming systems in Jozini Municipality in KwaZulu Natal (KZN). The study was looking at the smallholder farmers producing maize under dryland and irrigation system. A total of 100 farmers were selected for the study (40 from dry-land and 60 from irrigating farmers). Cluster and random sampling procedures were used to select the sample. Questionnaires were used for the collection of primary data, from the respondents (maize farmers). Data was analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentages), gross margin, regression analysis and the Ricardian model. Data for computing gross margins and net revenue was taken from the on-farm trials. Gross margin was used on regression analysis and the net revenue was used on the Ricardian modelThe results of the regression analysis indicated that land size, farmer’s experience to farming, level of education, use of fertiliser, use of irrigation and the yield obtained were significant and have a positive relationship with farmers gross margin. The results of the Ricardian model indicated that climate change affects both farming systems, but farmers that are producing under dryland are the most affected farmers because they rely more on climate variables especially rainfall for their production. So a change in climate variables affects maize farmers’ productivity and thus affecting farmers’ gross margin and net revenue. The study recommends that the farmers must use irrigation in order to support maize production even in the absence of rainfall. Farmers must also adapt to the short growing season so that they will be able to produce even in the presence of climate change.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Nxumalo, Bongiwe Goodness
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dry farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Food supply -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Corn -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021277 , Climate change mitigation -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Irrigation farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dry farming -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Food supply -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Corn -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Description: Maize is the most grown crop by the farmers in Jozini. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to assess the economic impact of climate change on maize production under different farming systems in Jozini Municipality in KwaZulu Natal (KZN). The study was looking at the smallholder farmers producing maize under dryland and irrigation system. A total of 100 farmers were selected for the study (40 from dry-land and 60 from irrigating farmers). Cluster and random sampling procedures were used to select the sample. Questionnaires were used for the collection of primary data, from the respondents (maize farmers). Data was analysed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentages), gross margin, regression analysis and the Ricardian model. Data for computing gross margins and net revenue was taken from the on-farm trials. Gross margin was used on regression analysis and the net revenue was used on the Ricardian modelThe results of the regression analysis indicated that land size, farmer’s experience to farming, level of education, use of fertiliser, use of irrigation and the yield obtained were significant and have a positive relationship with farmers gross margin. The results of the Ricardian model indicated that climate change affects both farming systems, but farmers that are producing under dryland are the most affected farmers because they rely more on climate variables especially rainfall for their production. So a change in climate variables affects maize farmers’ productivity and thus affecting farmers’ gross margin and net revenue. The study recommends that the farmers must use irrigation in order to support maize production even in the absence of rainfall. Farmers must also adapt to the short growing season so that they will be able to produce even in the presence of climate change.
- Full Text:
The challenges facing the National Rural Youth Service Corps' (NARYSEC) skills development programme implementation in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa : a case study of O.R. Tambo district municipality
- Authors: Magwentshu, Kanyisa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth -- Employment Vocational guidance Youth development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12803 , vital:39363
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the National Youth Service Corps’ (NARYSEC) skills development programme implementation in the OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape Province. A secondary aim was to determine whether the actual NARYSEC implementation matches the desirable needs of the poverty-stricken unemployed NARYSEC beneficiary participants and their communities. The study, which was framed within Amartya Sen’s Capability and Entitlement Approaches (1985), used multiple data collection instruments – (1) semi-structured survey questionnaire, (2) face-to-face semi-structured interviews, (3) semi-structured telephonic interviews and (4) key expert informant in-depth face-to-face interviews – to collect data from 73 NARYSEC participants and three expert informants (N=76). The study used purposive and snowball sampling strategies in selecting the participants. Data was analysed using thematic data analysis technique and the results suggested that the NARYSEC skills development programme offered to unemployed youth in the resource depleted former homeland districts of the former Transkei of the Eastern Cape Province, did not achieve the NARYSEC objectives and the desirable needs of the NARYSEC beneficiaries and their communities. The evidence suggested that failure of the NARYSEC programme could be attributed to the implementation methods as well repeated cycles of mismatch between the official NARYSEC objectives of recruiting and developing rural youth to perform community service in their own communities and the actual NARYSEC implementation results. The study showed that one of the challenges NARYSEC programme faced was from the poorly structured implementation mechanisms, which were manned by untrained civil servants and not by skills development experts who were capable of implementing the programme successfully. The research findings also seemed to suggest that two of the major factors responsible for the NARYSEC programme failure in the Eastern Cape were the chronic implementation weaknesses stemming from the historical and contextual constraints dating back to the apartheid era. To enhance the NARYSEC objectives and the desirable needs of the unemployed rural youth and their communities, the study suggests the following: Firstly, it was recommended that policy planners and implementers should incorporate the desirable needs and aspirations of the youth and their communities into the NARYSEC programme design and implementation process. This recommendation is informed by the divergence that characterized the NARYSEC programme implementation. Secondly, it is suggested that the NARYSEC Monitoring &Evaluation process must be revamped in order to reverse the general trend of the poor monitoring and evaluation performance that characterised the NARYSEC programme implementation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Magwentshu, Kanyisa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth -- Employment Vocational guidance Youth development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12803 , vital:39363
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges facing the National Youth Service Corps’ (NARYSEC) skills development programme implementation in the OR Tambo District in the Eastern Cape Province. A secondary aim was to determine whether the actual NARYSEC implementation matches the desirable needs of the poverty-stricken unemployed NARYSEC beneficiary participants and their communities. The study, which was framed within Amartya Sen’s Capability and Entitlement Approaches (1985), used multiple data collection instruments – (1) semi-structured survey questionnaire, (2) face-to-face semi-structured interviews, (3) semi-structured telephonic interviews and (4) key expert informant in-depth face-to-face interviews – to collect data from 73 NARYSEC participants and three expert informants (N=76). The study used purposive and snowball sampling strategies in selecting the participants. Data was analysed using thematic data analysis technique and the results suggested that the NARYSEC skills development programme offered to unemployed youth in the resource depleted former homeland districts of the former Transkei of the Eastern Cape Province, did not achieve the NARYSEC objectives and the desirable needs of the NARYSEC beneficiaries and their communities. The evidence suggested that failure of the NARYSEC programme could be attributed to the implementation methods as well repeated cycles of mismatch between the official NARYSEC objectives of recruiting and developing rural youth to perform community service in their own communities and the actual NARYSEC implementation results. The study showed that one of the challenges NARYSEC programme faced was from the poorly structured implementation mechanisms, which were manned by untrained civil servants and not by skills development experts who were capable of implementing the programme successfully. The research findings also seemed to suggest that two of the major factors responsible for the NARYSEC programme failure in the Eastern Cape were the chronic implementation weaknesses stemming from the historical and contextual constraints dating back to the apartheid era. To enhance the NARYSEC objectives and the desirable needs of the unemployed rural youth and their communities, the study suggests the following: Firstly, it was recommended that policy planners and implementers should incorporate the desirable needs and aspirations of the youth and their communities into the NARYSEC programme design and implementation process. This recommendation is informed by the divergence that characterized the NARYSEC programme implementation. Secondly, it is suggested that the NARYSEC Monitoring &Evaluation process must be revamped in order to reverse the general trend of the poor monitoring and evaluation performance that characterised the NARYSEC programme implementation.
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The challenges of re-skilling former prison inmates in the 21st century: a case study of Nkonkobe municipality, Eastern Cape - South Africa
- Authors: Ralasi, Nolusindiso
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Criminals -- Rehabilitation , Prisoners -- Education , Alternatives to imprisonment
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25687 , vital:64432
- Description: The main aim of this study is to investigate challenges of re-skilling former inmates in South Africa in the 21st century. This is a case study of the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape - South Africa. The objectives of this research are: to identify the current skills and education programmes offered by the DCS, to establish perceptions of inmates regarding the role of the DCS in skills training and education, to find out whether the current former inmates feel the support of society, to ascertain the offenders’ education levels, professional skills and job experience before and after prison, to identify the status of the offenders’ rights and rehabilitation programmes, to provide recommendations on ways to cement policy loopholes that have a deleterious effect on the government’s drive to create a whole new world for the ex-inmates and their holding communities. A qualitative research design was used to collect data from the participants in order to obtain in-depth information concerning the perceived impact of the life skills programmes on the behaviour and conduct of former inmates who participated in the programme. The findings reveal that the life skills programmes had an impact on the behaviour of former inmates because the life skills that they had gained from the programme mostly helped them desist from committing the offences that they used to commit. The life skills also curbed their anti-social behaviour tendencies. The factors that contributed to the success of the project included the approaches that the facilitators used to run the project, such as, motivating the inmates in everything that they did and the cooperation between the facilitators, the prison and the community. The findings also reveal that the good team work that occurred between the former inmates, support from the community, as well as the support from the Department of Correctional Services contributed to the success of the project. It was also suggested that the project should include all youths in the community; imprisonment should not be a passport to empowerment. The final suggestion was that the project should include all stakeholders in the community. The life skills projects should target unemployed youths in the communities so that they can gain skills that can help them become self-employed. The study also recommends that the life skills programmes should be implemented in all prisons in South Africa to provide inmates with life skills that can help them face day-to-day life challenges. This study culminates in the realisation that no life skills programmes can be successful in any society if they exclude the core social members who are law-abiding citizens. This is key to ensure that these programmes do not polarise the society due to empowerment being erroneously viewed as a preserve of those who did not abide by societal laws. This would set a wrong precedence that this study seeks to forestall. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ralasi, Nolusindiso
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Criminals -- Rehabilitation , Prisoners -- Education , Alternatives to imprisonment
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25687 , vital:64432
- Description: The main aim of this study is to investigate challenges of re-skilling former inmates in South Africa in the 21st century. This is a case study of the Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape - South Africa. The objectives of this research are: to identify the current skills and education programmes offered by the DCS, to establish perceptions of inmates regarding the role of the DCS in skills training and education, to find out whether the current former inmates feel the support of society, to ascertain the offenders’ education levels, professional skills and job experience before and after prison, to identify the status of the offenders’ rights and rehabilitation programmes, to provide recommendations on ways to cement policy loopholes that have a deleterious effect on the government’s drive to create a whole new world for the ex-inmates and their holding communities. A qualitative research design was used to collect data from the participants in order to obtain in-depth information concerning the perceived impact of the life skills programmes on the behaviour and conduct of former inmates who participated in the programme. The findings reveal that the life skills programmes had an impact on the behaviour of former inmates because the life skills that they had gained from the programme mostly helped them desist from committing the offences that they used to commit. The life skills also curbed their anti-social behaviour tendencies. The factors that contributed to the success of the project included the approaches that the facilitators used to run the project, such as, motivating the inmates in everything that they did and the cooperation between the facilitators, the prison and the community. The findings also reveal that the good team work that occurred between the former inmates, support from the community, as well as the support from the Department of Correctional Services contributed to the success of the project. It was also suggested that the project should include all youths in the community; imprisonment should not be a passport to empowerment. The final suggestion was that the project should include all stakeholders in the community. The life skills projects should target unemployed youths in the communities so that they can gain skills that can help them become self-employed. The study also recommends that the life skills programmes should be implemented in all prisons in South Africa to provide inmates with life skills that can help them face day-to-day life challenges. This study culminates in the realisation that no life skills programmes can be successful in any society if they exclude the core social members who are law-abiding citizens. This is key to ensure that these programmes do not polarise the society due to empowerment being erroneously viewed as a preserve of those who did not abide by societal laws. This would set a wrong precedence that this study seeks to forestall. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
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The delivery of the clothing and textiles curriculum in Zimbabwean universities: towards an integrated approach to vertical and horizontal discourses
- Authors: Muzenda, Verity
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Clothing and dress -- Study and teaching --Zimbabwe , Education -- Curricula -- Zimbabwe , Textile industry -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe , Universities and colleges -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019748 , Clothing and dress -- Study and teaching --Zimbabwe , Education -- Curricula -- Zimbabwe , Textile industry -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe , Universities and colleges -- Zimbabwe
- Description: The introduction of Technical Vocational Education (TVE) has been marred by a myriad of challenges, and this has not spared universities. The incompetency of lecturers, the perceptions of both lecturers and students, the relationship between universities and the world of work as well as support strategies have been the most contested issues in TVE. The researcher used the mixed method design which is rooted in the post-positivist research paradigm that integrates concurrent procedures in the collection, analysis and interpretation of the data. Post-positivist research paradigm attempts to enhance one’s understanding of the way certain phenomena are and that objectivity is an ideal that can never be achieved. The sample of the study comprised two Heads of Department (HODs) from the universities under study, 18 lecturers for the interviews, 18 lecturers who responded to the questionnaire, 24 students formed the 4 focus groups for both universities with 6 students each. Two industrial personnel were also interviewed. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data while qualitative data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observations and document analysis. The researcher employed the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) to summarise, compile tables and graphs on quantitative data and qualitative data was analysed using content analysis through emerging themes. The study established that lecturers were not competent enough to deliver CT curriculum in universities and this was as a result of the type of training lecturers received which was no longer congruent with the technological advancement which have taken place in the textile industry. It was also instituted that universities were producing students who lacked the hands-on skills necessary for them to be acceptable in the world of work. There was a stern shortage of equipment and machinery in CT departments in universities. The machinery and equipment in the departments were too old and broken. Furthermore, the study established that there was no collaboration between universities and industries. Industrial personnel lamented that universities were not willing to put into consideration all the suggestions they gave them and that time for Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) or placement was too short for them to impart all the requisite skills to students. It was also established that students were discontented by the teaching methods that lecturers were using and the way they were being assessed. Students conveyed their desire for the industry to be involved in assessing them whilst they were in universities. Based on the above findings, the study concluded that lecturers were incapacitated to deliver CT due to the training they received in colleges and universities which was no longer congruent with the dynamics of technology. The study also concluded that the shortage of machinery and equipment also demotivated lecturers and incapacitated them. It was also concluded that the lack of collaboration between universities and industries posed serious challenges to both lecturers and students. The study recommends that the quality of the existing lecturing force must be improved mainly through extensive staff development training programmes.There is need for lecturers to be staff developed through training workshops in order to improve on competence. There should be collaboration among University management, lecturers and the industry during curriculum design, implementation and monitoring to improve their attachment and sense of ownership of CT programmes. To improve on students’ acquisition of skills, the study recommends that time for Work-Integrated Learning should be lengthened so that students leave the industry well equipped with relevant skills and knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Muzenda, Verity
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Clothing and dress -- Study and teaching --Zimbabwe , Education -- Curricula -- Zimbabwe , Textile industry -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe , Universities and colleges -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1019748 , Clothing and dress -- Study and teaching --Zimbabwe , Education -- Curricula -- Zimbabwe , Textile industry -- Study and teaching -- Zimbabwe , Universities and colleges -- Zimbabwe
- Description: The introduction of Technical Vocational Education (TVE) has been marred by a myriad of challenges, and this has not spared universities. The incompetency of lecturers, the perceptions of both lecturers and students, the relationship between universities and the world of work as well as support strategies have been the most contested issues in TVE. The researcher used the mixed method design which is rooted in the post-positivist research paradigm that integrates concurrent procedures in the collection, analysis and interpretation of the data. Post-positivist research paradigm attempts to enhance one’s understanding of the way certain phenomena are and that objectivity is an ideal that can never be achieved. The sample of the study comprised two Heads of Department (HODs) from the universities under study, 18 lecturers for the interviews, 18 lecturers who responded to the questionnaire, 24 students formed the 4 focus groups for both universities with 6 students each. Two industrial personnel were also interviewed. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data while qualitative data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observations and document analysis. The researcher employed the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) to summarise, compile tables and graphs on quantitative data and qualitative data was analysed using content analysis through emerging themes. The study established that lecturers were not competent enough to deliver CT curriculum in universities and this was as a result of the type of training lecturers received which was no longer congruent with the technological advancement which have taken place in the textile industry. It was also instituted that universities were producing students who lacked the hands-on skills necessary for them to be acceptable in the world of work. There was a stern shortage of equipment and machinery in CT departments in universities. The machinery and equipment in the departments were too old and broken. Furthermore, the study established that there was no collaboration between universities and industries. Industrial personnel lamented that universities were not willing to put into consideration all the suggestions they gave them and that time for Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) or placement was too short for them to impart all the requisite skills to students. It was also established that students were discontented by the teaching methods that lecturers were using and the way they were being assessed. Students conveyed their desire for the industry to be involved in assessing them whilst they were in universities. Based on the above findings, the study concluded that lecturers were incapacitated to deliver CT due to the training they received in colleges and universities which was no longer congruent with the dynamics of technology. The study also concluded that the shortage of machinery and equipment also demotivated lecturers and incapacitated them. It was also concluded that the lack of collaboration between universities and industries posed serious challenges to both lecturers and students. The study recommends that the quality of the existing lecturing force must be improved mainly through extensive staff development training programmes.There is need for lecturers to be staff developed through training workshops in order to improve on competence. There should be collaboration among University management, lecturers and the industry during curriculum design, implementation and monitoring to improve their attachment and sense of ownership of CT programmes. To improve on students’ acquisition of skills, the study recommends that time for Work-Integrated Learning should be lengthened so that students leave the industry well equipped with relevant skills and knowledge.
- Full Text:
The effect of real exchange rate volatility on export performance: evidence from South Africa (2000-2011)
- Authors: Chamunorwa, Wilson
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11499 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018600 , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa
- Description: The effect of real exchange rate volatility on export performance: evidence from South Africa (2000-2011) This study sought to investigate the relationship between exchange rate volatility and export performance in South Africa. The main objective of the study was to examine the impact of exchange rate volatility on export performance in South Africa. This relationship was examined using GARCH methods. Exports were regressed against real effective exchange rate, trade openness and capacity utilisation. The research aimed to establish whether exchange rate volatility impacts negatively on export performance in the manner suggested by the econometric model. The result obtained showed that exchange rate volatility had a significantly negative effect on South African exports in the period 2000-2011.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chamunorwa, Wilson
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11499 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018600 , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa
- Description: The effect of real exchange rate volatility on export performance: evidence from South Africa (2000-2011) This study sought to investigate the relationship between exchange rate volatility and export performance in South Africa. The main objective of the study was to examine the impact of exchange rate volatility on export performance in South Africa. This relationship was examined using GARCH methods. Exports were regressed against real effective exchange rate, trade openness and capacity utilisation. The research aimed to establish whether exchange rate volatility impacts negatively on export performance in the manner suggested by the econometric model. The result obtained showed that exchange rate volatility had a significantly negative effect on South African exports in the period 2000-2011.
- Full Text:
The effectiveness of centralised human resource management on service delivery: a case of Bedford Hospital, Department of Health, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ncebakazi, Frances Qalase
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11683 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013557
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health centralised Human Resource functions from the facilities to the provincial office. This according to the provincial office was to address the over expenditure on Compensation of employees that was highlighted by the Auditor General report of 2008/2009. The researcher was of the opinion that various issues of concern were over looked by the provincial office before or during the implementation of the centralisation of HRM. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the centralisation of HRM on service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital. The secondary objective was to find out what centralisation is and its implications. Lastly, to develop recommendations which address the outcomes of the study. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants from Bedford hospital and the provincial office. Interview questions were used to collect data from both respondents. The study examined both responses and grouped them into themes. The findings did not imply that centralisation does not improve service delivery but have indicated a lack of service delivery focus on the part of the provincial office. The Eastern Cape Department of Health centralised Human Resource functions from the facilities to the provincial office. This according to the provincial office was to address the over expenditure on Compensation of employees that was highlighted by the Auditor General report of 2008/2009. The researcher was of the opinion that various issues of concern were over looked by the provincial office before or during the implementation of the centralisation of HRM. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the centralisation of HRM on service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital. The secondary objective was to find out what centralisation is and its implications. Lastly, to develop recommendations which address the outcomes of the study. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants from Bedford hospital and the provincial office. Interview questions were used to collect data from both respondents. The study examined both responses and grouped them into themes. The findings did not imply that centralisation does not improve service delivery but have indicated a lack of service delivery focus on the part of the provincial office. The research has also revealed that amongst the challenges identified, there were those that were key challenges. The researcher was of the opinion that addressing those key generic challenges would minimise all other challenges and improve service delivery. Lack of communication on organisation strategies and lack of Monitoring and Evaluation systems were identified as key challenges that cut across the entire ECDoH. The study has recommended that the provincial office should improve on communication strategies with the facilities whenever decisions are taken. Secondly, to develop M&E systems in order to ensure that performance standards are monitored and evaluated. This according to the researcher would improve service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital.that were key challenges. The researcher was of the opinion that addressing those key generic challenges would minimise all other challenges and improve service delivery. Lack of communication on organisation strategies and lack of Monitoring and Evaluation systems were identified as key challenges that cut across the entire ECDoH. The study has recommended that the provincial office should improve on communication strategies with the facilities whenever decisions are taken. Secondly, to develop M&E systems in order to ensure that performance standards are monitored and evaluated. This according to the researcher would improve service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ncebakazi, Frances Qalase
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11683 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013557
- Description: The Eastern Cape Department of Health centralised Human Resource functions from the facilities to the provincial office. This according to the provincial office was to address the over expenditure on Compensation of employees that was highlighted by the Auditor General report of 2008/2009. The researcher was of the opinion that various issues of concern were over looked by the provincial office before or during the implementation of the centralisation of HRM. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the centralisation of HRM on service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital. The secondary objective was to find out what centralisation is and its implications. Lastly, to develop recommendations which address the outcomes of the study. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants from Bedford hospital and the provincial office. Interview questions were used to collect data from both respondents. The study examined both responses and grouped them into themes. The findings did not imply that centralisation does not improve service delivery but have indicated a lack of service delivery focus on the part of the provincial office. The Eastern Cape Department of Health centralised Human Resource functions from the facilities to the provincial office. This according to the provincial office was to address the over expenditure on Compensation of employees that was highlighted by the Auditor General report of 2008/2009. The researcher was of the opinion that various issues of concern were over looked by the provincial office before or during the implementation of the centralisation of HRM. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the centralisation of HRM on service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital. The secondary objective was to find out what centralisation is and its implications. Lastly, to develop recommendations which address the outcomes of the study. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants from Bedford hospital and the provincial office. Interview questions were used to collect data from both respondents. The study examined both responses and grouped them into themes. The findings did not imply that centralisation does not improve service delivery but have indicated a lack of service delivery focus on the part of the provincial office. The research has also revealed that amongst the challenges identified, there were those that were key challenges. The researcher was of the opinion that addressing those key generic challenges would minimise all other challenges and improve service delivery. Lack of communication on organisation strategies and lack of Monitoring and Evaluation systems were identified as key challenges that cut across the entire ECDoH. The study has recommended that the provincial office should improve on communication strategies with the facilities whenever decisions are taken. Secondly, to develop M&E systems in order to ensure that performance standards are monitored and evaluated. This according to the researcher would improve service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital.that were key challenges. The researcher was of the opinion that addressing those key generic challenges would minimise all other challenges and improve service delivery. Lack of communication on organisation strategies and lack of Monitoring and Evaluation systems were identified as key challenges that cut across the entire ECDoH. The study has recommended that the provincial office should improve on communication strategies with the facilities whenever decisions are taken. Secondly, to develop M&E systems in order to ensure that performance standards are monitored and evaluated. This according to the researcher would improve service delivery in the ECDoH and Bedford hospital.
- Full Text:
The effectiveness of tender practises in municipal supply chain management: an exploration of two municipalities in Amathole District Municpality in the Eastern Cape province (2009-2012)
- Authors: Ngqase, S A
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1119 , vital:26527
- Description: The tendering process is central to acquisition of public services and goods in all over South Africa. Municipalities and government institutions just like any private institution need to buy products and services in order to perform their functions effectively. But the procurement function has not been an easy one for the government with the tender process being slow and not transparent which can lead to a process of selling invoices taking up to three months, potentially destroying small businesses. The primary objective of the study therefore, is to find the causes of nepotisms, bribery, and corruption in tender practices in the two selected municipalities of the Amathole District and the factors that lead to delayed payments in the tender practices and further makes recommendations on how to eliminate such factors. The study used a mixed method approach research methodology which is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods and included the two municipalities from the Amathole District Municipality, the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and Nkonkobe Municipality, and used questionnaires and an interview to collect a data.
- Full Text: false
- Authors: Ngqase, S A
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1119 , vital:26527
- Description: The tendering process is central to acquisition of public services and goods in all over South Africa. Municipalities and government institutions just like any private institution need to buy products and services in order to perform their functions effectively. But the procurement function has not been an easy one for the government with the tender process being slow and not transparent which can lead to a process of selling invoices taking up to three months, potentially destroying small businesses. The primary objective of the study therefore, is to find the causes of nepotisms, bribery, and corruption in tender practices in the two selected municipalities of the Amathole District and the factors that lead to delayed payments in the tender practices and further makes recommendations on how to eliminate such factors. The study used a mixed method approach research methodology which is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods and included the two municipalities from the Amathole District Municipality, the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and Nkonkobe Municipality, and used questionnaires and an interview to collect a data.
- Full Text: false
The efficacy of revenue collection strategies in local government: the case of Yei River County, South Sudan
- Authors: Logoro, John Mogga Ezekiel
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1092 , vital:26526
- Description: The study explores the Efficacy of Revenue Collection Strategies in Local Government as a Public Sector management tool for service provision in Yei River County – Republic of South Sudan. The main research question being pursued sought to find out the extent to which Revenue collection strategies can be an effective tool for public sector management and service provision in Yei River County. The study used both quantitative data (obtained through questionnaire survey) and qualitative data (through in-depth responses from County staff). The findings of the study seem to indicate that ineffective revenue collection strategies are being utilised by the local government officials. Some members of the communities and traders were still ignorant as to why they should be paying taxes which makes many of them to evade paying taxes. The study also reveals some challenges such as corrupt practices, poverty and illiteracy as some of the hindrances to effective revenue collection. However, there is a degree of success in revenue collection in the County as evidenced by the ongoing development activities such as urban road repairs which were financed by local taxes. A lot needs to be done in order to improve revenue collection in this County of Yei River County if services are to be delivered effectively and efficiently to the people. It is therefore strongly recommended that there is a need to put in place good educative measures to ensure that the citizens are informed about why they should be paying taxes to the County other than evading taxes and above all, the County need to strengthen the County Revenue Authority for better revenue collection.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Logoro, John Mogga Ezekiel
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1092 , vital:26526
- Description: The study explores the Efficacy of Revenue Collection Strategies in Local Government as a Public Sector management tool for service provision in Yei River County – Republic of South Sudan. The main research question being pursued sought to find out the extent to which Revenue collection strategies can be an effective tool for public sector management and service provision in Yei River County. The study used both quantitative data (obtained through questionnaire survey) and qualitative data (through in-depth responses from County staff). The findings of the study seem to indicate that ineffective revenue collection strategies are being utilised by the local government officials. Some members of the communities and traders were still ignorant as to why they should be paying taxes which makes many of them to evade paying taxes. The study also reveals some challenges such as corrupt practices, poverty and illiteracy as some of the hindrances to effective revenue collection. However, there is a degree of success in revenue collection in the County as evidenced by the ongoing development activities such as urban road repairs which were financed by local taxes. A lot needs to be done in order to improve revenue collection in this County of Yei River County if services are to be delivered effectively and efficiently to the people. It is therefore strongly recommended that there is a need to put in place good educative measures to ensure that the citizens are informed about why they should be paying taxes to the County other than evading taxes and above all, the County need to strengthen the County Revenue Authority for better revenue collection.
- Full Text:
The enforcement of the right of access to adequate housing in South Africa: a lesson for Lesotho
- Authors: Pule, Sesinyi Edwin
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Housing -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Housing -- Law and legislation -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11122 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016249 , Housing -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Housing -- Law and legislation -- Lesotho
- Description: South Africa is one of the countries with a very horrifying history. However, in the dawn of democratic governance, a worldly admirable constitution was brought into picture. The 1993 and 1996 South African Constitutions entrenched an elaborate Bill of Rights with provisions empowering courts to grant “appropriate relief and to make “just and equitable” orders. Happily, the Bill of Rights included justiciable and enforceable socio-economic rights. Amongst them, there is a right of access to adequate housing, for which this work is about. South Africa is viewed as a country with developed jurisprudence in the enforcement of socio-economic rights, hence it has been used as a lesson for Lesotho. Lesotho is still drowning in deep blue seas on enforcement of socio-economic rights either because the constitution itself hinders the progress thereon or because the parliament is unwilling to commit execute to the obligations found in the socio-economic rights filed. This work scrutinizes many jurisdictions and legal systems with a view to draw lively examples that may be followed by Lesotho courts towards enforcing housing rights. Indian and South African jurisprudences epitomize this notion.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Pule, Sesinyi Edwin
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Housing -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Housing -- Law and legislation -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:11122 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016249 , Housing -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Housing -- Law and legislation -- Lesotho
- Description: South Africa is one of the countries with a very horrifying history. However, in the dawn of democratic governance, a worldly admirable constitution was brought into picture. The 1993 and 1996 South African Constitutions entrenched an elaborate Bill of Rights with provisions empowering courts to grant “appropriate relief and to make “just and equitable” orders. Happily, the Bill of Rights included justiciable and enforceable socio-economic rights. Amongst them, there is a right of access to adequate housing, for which this work is about. South Africa is viewed as a country with developed jurisprudence in the enforcement of socio-economic rights, hence it has been used as a lesson for Lesotho. Lesotho is still drowning in deep blue seas on enforcement of socio-economic rights either because the constitution itself hinders the progress thereon or because the parliament is unwilling to commit execute to the obligations found in the socio-economic rights filed. This work scrutinizes many jurisdictions and legal systems with a view to draw lively examples that may be followed by Lesotho courts towards enforcing housing rights. Indian and South African jurisprudences epitomize this notion.
- Full Text:
The establishment of a mobile phone information security culture: linking student awareness and behavioural intent
- Authors: Bukelwa, Ngoqo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information security awareness -- Mobile phone security , Information safety
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/657 , vital:26485 , Information security awareness -- Mobile phone security , Information safety
- Description: The information security behaviour of technology users has become an increasingly popular research area as security experts have come to recognise that while securing technology by means of firewalls, passwords and offsite backups is important, such security may be rendered ineffective if the technology users themselves are not information security conscious. The mobile phone has become a necessity for many students but, at the same time, it exposes them to security threats that may result in a loss of information. Students in developing countries are at a disadvantage because they have limited access to information relating to information security threats, unlike their counterparts in more developed societies who can readily access this information from sources like the Internet. The developmental environment is plagued with challenges like access to the Internet or limited access to computers. The poor security behaviour exhibited by student mobile phone users, which was confirmed by the findings of this study, is of particular interest in the university context as most undergraduate students are offered a computer-related course which covers certain information security-related principles. During the restructuring of the South African higher education system, smaller universities and technikons (polytechnics) were merged to form comprehensive universities. Thus, the resultant South African university landscape is made up of traditional and comprehensive universities as well as universities of technology. Ordinarily, one would expect university students to have similar profiles. However in the case of this study, the environment was a unique factor which had a direct impact on students’ learning experiences and learning outcomes. Mbeki (2004) refers to two economies within South Africa the first one is financially sound and globally integrated, and the other found in urban and rural areas consists of unemployed and unemployable people who do not benefit from progress in the first economy. Action research was the methodological approach which was chosen for the purposes of this study to collect the requisite data among a population of university students from the ‘second economy’. The study focuses on the relationship between awareness and behavioural intention in understanding mobile phone user information security behaviour. The study concludes by proposing a behaviour profile forecasting framework based on predefined security behavioural profiles. A key finding of this study is that the security behaviour exhibited by mobile phone users is influenced by a combination of information security awareness and information security behavioural intention, and not just information security awareness.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bukelwa, Ngoqo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information security awareness -- Mobile phone security , Information safety
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Information Systems)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/657 , vital:26485 , Information security awareness -- Mobile phone security , Information safety
- Description: The information security behaviour of technology users has become an increasingly popular research area as security experts have come to recognise that while securing technology by means of firewalls, passwords and offsite backups is important, such security may be rendered ineffective if the technology users themselves are not information security conscious. The mobile phone has become a necessity for many students but, at the same time, it exposes them to security threats that may result in a loss of information. Students in developing countries are at a disadvantage because they have limited access to information relating to information security threats, unlike their counterparts in more developed societies who can readily access this information from sources like the Internet. The developmental environment is plagued with challenges like access to the Internet or limited access to computers. The poor security behaviour exhibited by student mobile phone users, which was confirmed by the findings of this study, is of particular interest in the university context as most undergraduate students are offered a computer-related course which covers certain information security-related principles. During the restructuring of the South African higher education system, smaller universities and technikons (polytechnics) were merged to form comprehensive universities. Thus, the resultant South African university landscape is made up of traditional and comprehensive universities as well as universities of technology. Ordinarily, one would expect university students to have similar profiles. However in the case of this study, the environment was a unique factor which had a direct impact on students’ learning experiences and learning outcomes. Mbeki (2004) refers to two economies within South Africa the first one is financially sound and globally integrated, and the other found in urban and rural areas consists of unemployed and unemployable people who do not benefit from progress in the first economy. Action research was the methodological approach which was chosen for the purposes of this study to collect the requisite data among a population of university students from the ‘second economy’. The study focuses on the relationship between awareness and behavioural intention in understanding mobile phone user information security behaviour. The study concludes by proposing a behaviour profile forecasting framework based on predefined security behavioural profiles. A key finding of this study is that the security behaviour exhibited by mobile phone users is influenced by a combination of information security awareness and information security behavioural intention, and not just information security awareness.
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The generalization ability of artificial neural networks in forecasting TCP/IP network traffic trends
- Authors: Moyo, Vusumuzi
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11404 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021127
- Description: Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have been used in many fields for a variety of applications, and proved to be reliable. They have proved to be one of the most powerful tools in the domain of forecasting and analysis of various time series. The forecasting of TCP/IP network traffic is an important issue receiving growing attention from the computer networks. By improving upon this task, efficient network traffic engineering and anomaly detection tools can be created, resulting in economic gains from better resource management. The use of ANNs requires some critical decisions on the part of the user. These decisions, which are mainly concerned with the determinations of the components of the network structure and the parameters defined for the learning algorithm, can significantly affect the ability of the ANN to generalize, i.e. to have the outputs of the ANN approximate target values given inputs that are not in the training set. This has an impact on the quality of forecasts produced by the ANN. Although there are some discussions in the literature regarding the issues that affect network generalization ability, there is no standard method or approach that is universally accepted to determine the optimum values of these parameters for a particular problem. This research examined the impact a selection of key design features has on the generalization ability of ANNs. We examined how the size and composition of the network architecture, the size of the training samples, the choice of learning algorithm, the training schedule and the size of the learning rate both individually and collectively affect the ability of an ANN to learn the training data and to generalize well to novel data. To investigate this matter, we empirically conducted several experiments in forecasting a real world TCP/IP network traffic time series and the network performance validated using an independent test set. MATLAB version 7.4.0.287’s Neural Network toolbox version 5.0.2 (R2007a) was used for our experiments. The results are found to be promising in terms of ease of design and use of ANNs. Our results indicate that in contrast to Occam’s razor principle for a single hidden layer an increase in number of hidden neurons produces a corresponding increase in generalization ability of ANNs, however larger networks do not always improve the generalization ability of ANNs even though an increase in number of hidden neurons results in a concomitant rise in network generalization. Also, contradicting commonly accepted guidelines, networks trained with a larger representation of the data, exhibit better generalization than networks trained on smaller representations, even though the larger networks have a significantly greater capacity. Furthermore, the results obtained indicate that the learning rate, momentum, training schedule and choice of learning algorithm have as much a significant effect on ANN generalization ability. A number of conclusions were drawn from the results and later used to generate a comprehensive set of guidelines that will facilitate the process of design and use of ANNs in TCP/IP network traffic forecasting. The main contribution of this research lies in the identification of optimal strategies for the use of ANNs in forecasting TCP/IP network traffic trends. Although the information obtained from the tests carried out in this research is specific to the problem considered, it provides users of back-propagation networks with a valuable guide on the behaviour of networks under a wide range of operating conditions. It is important to note that the guidelines accrued from this research are of an assistive and not necessarily restrictive nature to potential ANN modellers.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Moyo, Vusumuzi
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Computer Science)
- Identifier: vital:11404 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1021127
- Description: Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have been used in many fields for a variety of applications, and proved to be reliable. They have proved to be one of the most powerful tools in the domain of forecasting and analysis of various time series. The forecasting of TCP/IP network traffic is an important issue receiving growing attention from the computer networks. By improving upon this task, efficient network traffic engineering and anomaly detection tools can be created, resulting in economic gains from better resource management. The use of ANNs requires some critical decisions on the part of the user. These decisions, which are mainly concerned with the determinations of the components of the network structure and the parameters defined for the learning algorithm, can significantly affect the ability of the ANN to generalize, i.e. to have the outputs of the ANN approximate target values given inputs that are not in the training set. This has an impact on the quality of forecasts produced by the ANN. Although there are some discussions in the literature regarding the issues that affect network generalization ability, there is no standard method or approach that is universally accepted to determine the optimum values of these parameters for a particular problem. This research examined the impact a selection of key design features has on the generalization ability of ANNs. We examined how the size and composition of the network architecture, the size of the training samples, the choice of learning algorithm, the training schedule and the size of the learning rate both individually and collectively affect the ability of an ANN to learn the training data and to generalize well to novel data. To investigate this matter, we empirically conducted several experiments in forecasting a real world TCP/IP network traffic time series and the network performance validated using an independent test set. MATLAB version 7.4.0.287’s Neural Network toolbox version 5.0.2 (R2007a) was used for our experiments. The results are found to be promising in terms of ease of design and use of ANNs. Our results indicate that in contrast to Occam’s razor principle for a single hidden layer an increase in number of hidden neurons produces a corresponding increase in generalization ability of ANNs, however larger networks do not always improve the generalization ability of ANNs even though an increase in number of hidden neurons results in a concomitant rise in network generalization. Also, contradicting commonly accepted guidelines, networks trained with a larger representation of the data, exhibit better generalization than networks trained on smaller representations, even though the larger networks have a significantly greater capacity. Furthermore, the results obtained indicate that the learning rate, momentum, training schedule and choice of learning algorithm have as much a significant effect on ANN generalization ability. A number of conclusions were drawn from the results and later used to generate a comprehensive set of guidelines that will facilitate the process of design and use of ANNs in TCP/IP network traffic forecasting. The main contribution of this research lies in the identification of optimal strategies for the use of ANNs in forecasting TCP/IP network traffic trends. Although the information obtained from the tests carried out in this research is specific to the problem considered, it provides users of back-propagation networks with a valuable guide on the behaviour of networks under a wide range of operating conditions. It is important to note that the guidelines accrued from this research are of an assistive and not necessarily restrictive nature to potential ANN modellers.
- Full Text:
The impact of export diversification on economic performance in South Africa: 1980-2012
- Authors: Choga, Ireen
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Doctor of Commerce (in Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018223
- Description: A widely held view is that export diversification constitutes an important component of export led growth, and poses a major challenge for many developing countries. Given this, the role of export diversification on economic growth warrants a fresh analysis in South Africa. The primary objective of this study is to determine the impact of export diversification on economic growth in South Africa. In this context, the study seeks to establish the relationship between export diversification, export stability and export growth. Initially, the study examines the extent and structure of export diversification in South Africa; it then empirically establishes the link between export diversification, export stability and export growth. Finally, it develops a model and investigates the effects of export diversification on economic growth in South Africa. As an attempt to fulfill the proposed objectives, this study uses quarterly data for the period 1980 to 2012 as well as data for 28 selected groups of commodities to investigate the effects of export diversification on economic growth in South Africa. Measures of export diversification and structural changes in exports in the context of South Africa were discussed. The findings of this study are that the Commodity Specific Cumulative Experience function showed that plots for manufactured commodities are shifted to the right indicating that the commodities are non-traditional in nature whereas, plots for primary commodities are shifted to the left. Results also indicated that South Africa relies more on traditional exports than manufactured exports. Various measures of export instability were used to calculate the export instability index in South Africa. The results of the study reveal that the South African export basket is slightly diversified, and the less diversified or primary commodities are associated with high instability VECM approach was used to allow us to establish the extent of influence of export diversification and other explanatory variables on economic growth. Consistent with other researchers, the study found that export diversification plays significant roles to economic growth in South Africa. A number of diagnostic checks were employed to validate the parameter evaluation of the outcomes achieved by the model. The model passed all the diagnostic checks. On the whole, the results to a larger extent painted a pictured that export diversification is important or drives economic growth in South Africa. Corroborating our findings with work of other scholars, we conclude that our results are complementary.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Choga, Ireen
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Doctor of Commerce (in Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018223
- Description: A widely held view is that export diversification constitutes an important component of export led growth, and poses a major challenge for many developing countries. Given this, the role of export diversification on economic growth warrants a fresh analysis in South Africa. The primary objective of this study is to determine the impact of export diversification on economic growth in South Africa. In this context, the study seeks to establish the relationship between export diversification, export stability and export growth. Initially, the study examines the extent and structure of export diversification in South Africa; it then empirically establishes the link between export diversification, export stability and export growth. Finally, it develops a model and investigates the effects of export diversification on economic growth in South Africa. As an attempt to fulfill the proposed objectives, this study uses quarterly data for the period 1980 to 2012 as well as data for 28 selected groups of commodities to investigate the effects of export diversification on economic growth in South Africa. Measures of export diversification and structural changes in exports in the context of South Africa were discussed. The findings of this study are that the Commodity Specific Cumulative Experience function showed that plots for manufactured commodities are shifted to the right indicating that the commodities are non-traditional in nature whereas, plots for primary commodities are shifted to the left. Results also indicated that South Africa relies more on traditional exports than manufactured exports. Various measures of export instability were used to calculate the export instability index in South Africa. The results of the study reveal that the South African export basket is slightly diversified, and the less diversified or primary commodities are associated with high instability VECM approach was used to allow us to establish the extent of influence of export diversification and other explanatory variables on economic growth. Consistent with other researchers, the study found that export diversification plays significant roles to economic growth in South Africa. A number of diagnostic checks were employed to validate the parameter evaluation of the outcomes achieved by the model. The model passed all the diagnostic checks. On the whole, the results to a larger extent painted a pictured that export diversification is important or drives economic growth in South Africa. Corroborating our findings with work of other scholars, we conclude that our results are complementary.
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The impact of financial development on private investment in south Africa
- Authors: Mukuya, Prisca R
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11488 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018210 , Economic development -- South Africa , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa
- Description: Empirical evidence and theoretical propositions suggest that financial development is strongly correlated to private investment because financial development positively affects investments by affecting capital accumulation, altering savings rate or by channelizing savings to various capital producing technologies. This study empirically investigated the impact of financial development on private investment in South Africa using quarterly data for the period 1994/01 to 2011/04. This study assess whether the theoretical and empirical propositions can be supported in South Africa. Cointegration tests using the Johansen approach (1988) were conducted to examine if there is a stable relationship in the level of private investment and financial development in South Africa. As a proxy for financial sector development, credit to private sector as per cent of GDP and stock market development were employed. Other variables that affect investment such as real interest rates and real GDP were also included in the model. Results of the study indicate that stock market development and real GDP have a positive relationship with private investment. Bank credit to the private sector however showed a negative relationship with private investment. A negative relationship was also noted for the relationship between private investment and real interest rates.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mukuya, Prisca R
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11488 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1018210 , Economic development -- South Africa , Gross domestic product -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- South Africa
- Description: Empirical evidence and theoretical propositions suggest that financial development is strongly correlated to private investment because financial development positively affects investments by affecting capital accumulation, altering savings rate or by channelizing savings to various capital producing technologies. This study empirically investigated the impact of financial development on private investment in South Africa using quarterly data for the period 1994/01 to 2011/04. This study assess whether the theoretical and empirical propositions can be supported in South Africa. Cointegration tests using the Johansen approach (1988) were conducted to examine if there is a stable relationship in the level of private investment and financial development in South Africa. As a proxy for financial sector development, credit to private sector as per cent of GDP and stock market development were employed. Other variables that affect investment such as real interest rates and real GDP were also included in the model. Results of the study indicate that stock market development and real GDP have a positive relationship with private investment. Bank credit to the private sector however showed a negative relationship with private investment. A negative relationship was also noted for the relationship between private investment and real interest rates.
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The impact of financial intermediaries on the savings-investment ratio in South Africa
- Authors: Mtimkhulu, Ayibongwe Joseph
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Saving and investment -- South Africa , Intermediation (Finance) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11484 , Saving and investment -- South Africa , Intermediation (Finance) -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined whether or not financial intermediation can explain the variations in the savings-investment ratio in South Africa during the period 1990 to 2012. The study specifically tests the McKinnon Conduit Effect hypothesis which states that increasing interest rate raises the capacity of financial savings via financial intermediaries based on data from South Africa. Apart from informal graphical test, this study employed formal tests such as the Augmented Dickey-Fuller and Phillips Perron stationarity tests to test the properties of the variables considered, including interest rates, for stationarity. In order to ascertain the long-run and short-run dynamics between its variables, the Johansen co-integration test is utilized, while the Error Correction Mechanism is also employed. Results from the study state that financial assets (a proxy for financial intermediation), income and real interest rate all positively impact the savings-investment ratio. Additionally, short-run analysis results showed that income, financial assets and real interest rates positively influence the savings-investment ratio. Real interest rates were seen as being both positive and statistically significant. Therefore the study recommended that the financial services sector and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) should work together as this will result in the improvement of efficiencies in price discovery with regards to bank charges, access to banking facilities and the timely provision of services in order to encourage savings (for investment purposes) in the South African economy.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mtimkhulu, Ayibongwe Joseph
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Saving and investment -- South Africa , Intermediation (Finance) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11484 , Saving and investment -- South Africa , Intermediation (Finance) -- South Africa
- Description: This study examined whether or not financial intermediation can explain the variations in the savings-investment ratio in South Africa during the period 1990 to 2012. The study specifically tests the McKinnon Conduit Effect hypothesis which states that increasing interest rate raises the capacity of financial savings via financial intermediaries based on data from South Africa. Apart from informal graphical test, this study employed formal tests such as the Augmented Dickey-Fuller and Phillips Perron stationarity tests to test the properties of the variables considered, including interest rates, for stationarity. In order to ascertain the long-run and short-run dynamics between its variables, the Johansen co-integration test is utilized, while the Error Correction Mechanism is also employed. Results from the study state that financial assets (a proxy for financial intermediation), income and real interest rate all positively impact the savings-investment ratio. Additionally, short-run analysis results showed that income, financial assets and real interest rates positively influence the savings-investment ratio. Real interest rates were seen as being both positive and statistically significant. Therefore the study recommended that the financial services sector and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) should work together as this will result in the improvement of efficiencies in price discovery with regards to bank charges, access to banking facilities and the timely provision of services in order to encourage savings (for investment purposes) in the South African economy.
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The impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole district, South Africa
- Authors: Terera, Sharon Ruvimbo
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017905
- Description: This study explored the impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of human resources practices (HR) on nurse retention in public hospitals; investigate the influence of HR practices on organizational commitment of nurses, and retention and to make recommendations to the hospitals on possible ways to improve the organisational commitment and employee retention of nurses based on the research findings. The study utilized a quantitative research design and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised of 150 nurses and the data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings revealed that the effective use of sound human resources practices reduces nurse turnover whilst nurse organisational commitment and retention improves.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Terera, Sharon Ruvimbo
- Date: 2014
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11566 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017905
- Description: This study explored the impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of human resources practices (HR) on nurse retention in public hospitals; investigate the influence of HR practices on organizational commitment of nurses, and retention and to make recommendations to the hospitals on possible ways to improve the organisational commitment and employee retention of nurses based on the research findings. The study utilized a quantitative research design and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised of 150 nurses and the data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings revealed that the effective use of sound human resources practices reduces nurse turnover whilst nurse organisational commitment and retention improves.
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The impact of land and agrarian reforms on poverty alleviation: lessons from the Jay Dee Rovon workers trust and Mon Desire in Joubertina, Eastern Cape-South Africa
- Authors: Mqikela, Ntombozuko
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11207 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016070 , Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The broad objective of the study is to investigate the impact of Land and Agrarian reforms on poverty alleviation in Joubertina. Purposive sampling method (non-probability sampling) was carried out mainly on two groups of people, land reform beneficiary in Jay Dee Rovon and non-beneficiary in Mon Desire. Moreover, the stratified random sampling method was also applied in Jay Dee Rovon to choose a sample of 60 households from 129 land reform beneficiaries in Jay Dee Rovon and simple random sample of 60 applied to Mon Desire household subsistence. Binary Logistic Regression model was used to test factors that influenced beneficiary on level of production. Results indicated that age and farming experience were significant variables. Age had a negative coefficient value, meaning an increase in age was less likely to cause beneficiary to produce at commercial level. Descriptive statistics revealed that farming activities in the study areas seems to be performed mostly by relatively medium age people followed by younger people and lastly by the older people. Moreover, farming experience with positive coefficient revealed that it is highly likely to influence the beneficiary to produce at commercial for marketing. The older the farmer the more the experience s/he had in farming activities. However, descriptive revealed, medium and young age people with little knowledge tend to be more active than older people on farming activities but on the other hand they are more capable of carrying out physical activities. The results revealed that land reform beneficiaries likely to influence the level of production for marketing while non-beneficiaries produce for home consumption and little for sale in local market. An improvement on yield results an increase on income and thus leading to a change in ownership of household’s durable assets. An increase in yield also indirectly results employment recreation, increasing real wage and improve farm income thus leading to poverty reduction in JDR as compare to MD. The study recommends that the government should also assist non-beneficiaries in MD with agricultural infrastructure to improve their level of production and food security at household level.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mqikela, Ntombozuko
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11207 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016070 , Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural extension work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The broad objective of the study is to investigate the impact of Land and Agrarian reforms on poverty alleviation in Joubertina. Purposive sampling method (non-probability sampling) was carried out mainly on two groups of people, land reform beneficiary in Jay Dee Rovon and non-beneficiary in Mon Desire. Moreover, the stratified random sampling method was also applied in Jay Dee Rovon to choose a sample of 60 households from 129 land reform beneficiaries in Jay Dee Rovon and simple random sample of 60 applied to Mon Desire household subsistence. Binary Logistic Regression model was used to test factors that influenced beneficiary on level of production. Results indicated that age and farming experience were significant variables. Age had a negative coefficient value, meaning an increase in age was less likely to cause beneficiary to produce at commercial level. Descriptive statistics revealed that farming activities in the study areas seems to be performed mostly by relatively medium age people followed by younger people and lastly by the older people. Moreover, farming experience with positive coefficient revealed that it is highly likely to influence the beneficiary to produce at commercial for marketing. The older the farmer the more the experience s/he had in farming activities. However, descriptive revealed, medium and young age people with little knowledge tend to be more active than older people on farming activities but on the other hand they are more capable of carrying out physical activities. The results revealed that land reform beneficiaries likely to influence the level of production for marketing while non-beneficiaries produce for home consumption and little for sale in local market. An improvement on yield results an increase on income and thus leading to a change in ownership of household’s durable assets. An increase in yield also indirectly results employment recreation, increasing real wage and improve farm income thus leading to poverty reduction in JDR as compare to MD. The study recommends that the government should also assist non-beneficiaries in MD with agricultural infrastructure to improve their level of production and food security at household level.
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The impact of learning advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5630 , vital:29353
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
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- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5630 , vital:29353
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
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The impact of learning advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2182 , vital:27666
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Marufu, Tandiwe Joy
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Nurses -- Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2182 , vital:27666
- Description: Ongoing instability in the nursing workforce is raising questions globally about the issue of nurse turnover. It is against this background that this research examines the impact of learning, advancement and quality of work-life on turnover intentions among nurses in selected hospitals from Eastern Cape. Little research has been conducted to investigate the impact of the above mentioned subjects on turnover intentions among nurses in the South African health sector. Research questions as well as hypotheses were formulated as the means to gain data on the subject. The research employed a quantitative design with a sample size of 160 nurses and 159 were returned. The data analysis consisted of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The main findings of the study showed a positive relationship among job satisfaction, work-life rewards, learning and advancement opportunities and job satisfaction. However, there were negative relationships between job satisfaction and turnover intentions; work-life rewards and turnover intentions; and also among learning, career advancement and turnover intentions. Finally, suggestions were made to the top management in the Health sector to come up with strategies and mechanisms that improve nurses’ quality of work-life and offering them training and advancement opportunities through organisational change programs.
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The impact of oil price changes on selected economic indicators in South Africa
- Authors: Vellem, Nomtha
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Interest rate futures -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11485 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017862 , Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Interest rate futures -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Description: The study examines the effect of oil price changes on selected economic indicators in South Africa. A VAR-5 model was applied to quarterly data of 1990:Q1-2012:Q4 estimating the impulse response functions, variance decomposition and Granger-causality tests. The findings allow for a conclusion that oil significantly affects the exchange rate and an inverse link between oil and GDP exists. A unidirectional relation is found where oil Granger-causes the exchange rate and GDP Granger-causes oil in South Africa.
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- Authors: Vellem, Nomtha
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Interest rate futures -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11485 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1017862 , Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Interest rate futures -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Description: The study examines the effect of oil price changes on selected economic indicators in South Africa. A VAR-5 model was applied to quarterly data of 1990:Q1-2012:Q4 estimating the impulse response functions, variance decomposition and Granger-causality tests. The findings allow for a conclusion that oil significantly affects the exchange rate and an inverse link between oil and GDP exists. A unidirectional relation is found where oil Granger-causes the exchange rate and GDP Granger-causes oil in South Africa.
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The impact of oil price volatility on unemployment: a case study of South Africa
- Authors: Senzangakhona, Phakama
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cointegration -- South Africa Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Interest rate futures -- South Africa Petroleum products -- Prices -- South Africa Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1697 , vital:27550
- Description: This study analyses and investigates the impact of crude oil price vitality on unemployment in South Africa. This is done by firstly surveying theoretical and empirical literature on the crude oil price-unemployment relationship before relating it to South Africa. Secondly, crude oil and unemployment trends with their causes are overviewed. The study employs a Johansen co-integration technique based on VAR to model unemployment against crude oil prices, real effective exchange rate, real interest rates and real gross domestic product. Using quarterly data for the period 1990-2010, econometric results show that crude oil prices are positively related to unemployment in the long run while the opposite is true in the short run. Parameter estimates and variables are statistically significant; hence there are also policy recommendations which are related to both empirical and theoretical literature. Lastly, impulse response functions show that unemployment returns to equilibrium in the long run when crude oil price changes whereas real interest rates followed by crude oil prices explain most of unemployment changes compared to other variables in the long run.
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- Authors: Senzangakhona, Phakama
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cointegration -- South Africa Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Interest rate futures -- South Africa Petroleum products -- Prices -- South Africa Petroleum industry and trade -- South Africa -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1697 , vital:27550
- Description: This study analyses and investigates the impact of crude oil price vitality on unemployment in South Africa. This is done by firstly surveying theoretical and empirical literature on the crude oil price-unemployment relationship before relating it to South Africa. Secondly, crude oil and unemployment trends with their causes are overviewed. The study employs a Johansen co-integration technique based on VAR to model unemployment against crude oil prices, real effective exchange rate, real interest rates and real gross domestic product. Using quarterly data for the period 1990-2010, econometric results show that crude oil prices are positively related to unemployment in the long run while the opposite is true in the short run. Parameter estimates and variables are statistically significant; hence there are also policy recommendations which are related to both empirical and theoretical literature. Lastly, impulse response functions show that unemployment returns to equilibrium in the long run when crude oil price changes whereas real interest rates followed by crude oil prices explain most of unemployment changes compared to other variables in the long run.
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