An evaluation of industrial action in selected agro-based infant industries in the Msasa Industrial Area of Harare (Zimbabwe)
- Authors: Kapunura, Gift
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Strikes and lockouts--Zimbabwe Zimbabwe--Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Sociology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15452 , vital:40409
- Description: Agro based-infant industries played a greater role in the development of Zimbabwe since 1980 when the country gained its independence. However, its success has been hindered by industrial action in the country. The continuous increase in the number of industrial action is the major motives of this study. Conversely, with the increasing levels of industrial action in the country, it was noted that the main causes of industrial action were low wages, poor communication between employers and employees, disparities in pay structures, lack of consultation in the process of decision-making and poor working conditions. The study adopted a qualitative approach in data collection and analysis. Thirty in-depth interviews were undertaken with selected participants who are the workers and managers of agro-based infant industries using purposive sampling technique in Msasa industrial area. Findings of the study show that main forms of industrial action were industrial strike, sit in, absenteeism, go slow, work to rule and overtime ban. Major findings of the study point to the fact that industrial action affects the solidarity of workers negatively since some of the workers will not stand for others when they are dismissed after industrial action. In general, industrial action therefore weakens worker solidarity. Secondly, industrial action affects the economic welfare of workers and their families negatively. This is because during the period of industrial action there could be pay cut and the families will not be able to afford basic commodities, thereby affecting their general welfare as well as bringing tension and conflicts within the families. Thirdly, it is also acknowledged in the study that industrial action affects employer-employee relations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kapunura, Gift
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Strikes and lockouts--Zimbabwe Zimbabwe--Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Sociology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15452 , vital:40409
- Description: Agro based-infant industries played a greater role in the development of Zimbabwe since 1980 when the country gained its independence. However, its success has been hindered by industrial action in the country. The continuous increase in the number of industrial action is the major motives of this study. Conversely, with the increasing levels of industrial action in the country, it was noted that the main causes of industrial action were low wages, poor communication between employers and employees, disparities in pay structures, lack of consultation in the process of decision-making and poor working conditions. The study adopted a qualitative approach in data collection and analysis. Thirty in-depth interviews were undertaken with selected participants who are the workers and managers of agro-based infant industries using purposive sampling technique in Msasa industrial area. Findings of the study show that main forms of industrial action were industrial strike, sit in, absenteeism, go slow, work to rule and overtime ban. Major findings of the study point to the fact that industrial action affects the solidarity of workers negatively since some of the workers will not stand for others when they are dismissed after industrial action. In general, industrial action therefore weakens worker solidarity. Secondly, industrial action affects the economic welfare of workers and their families negatively. This is because during the period of industrial action there could be pay cut and the families will not be able to afford basic commodities, thereby affecting their general welfare as well as bringing tension and conflicts within the families. Thirdly, it is also acknowledged in the study that industrial action affects employer-employee relations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An evaluation of state assisted human settlement development model: a case study of Duncan village and Reeston human settlement project in Buffalo city metropolitan municipality in the Eastern Cape.
- Authors: Mthembu,Bhekisisa Jacob
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Human settlements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Communities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D.Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13764 , vital:39709
- Description: This study undertook an extensive evaluation of state assisted Human Settlement development, with specific vigor on the case study of Reeston Human Settlement project in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape. This was motivated by a number of factors such as satisfaction issues in the area of Human settlements and the issues that continue to hinder the effective delivery of houses such as availability of land, the willingness of the beneficial to relocate to the allocated houses. South Africa is in its 24 years of democratic dispensation, the human settlements continue to be the thorn in a flesh in the government effectiveness. The existing legislation on the housing development serves as the cornerstone of development, housing theories also continue to be the guiding principles under which the development can flourish if followed to the latter. It is evident that, the democratic government in the country has delivered millions of houses to the beneficiaries, thus restoring dignity to many. However, there has been significant backlog of over 2.1 million houses. This is based on the housing waiting list available with the various Local Municipalities and the respective provinces department is Human Settlements. The objectives of the study was taken into consideration in ensuring congruence with the study aim. The objectives are stated below is to evaluate the application of Human settlement programmes, policy imperatives, implementation and practice in South Africa by means of the case study of the Reeston project in the Eastern Cape. The following objectives are set for the study: To analyse the policy and institutional framework guiding the establishment of state-assisted human settlement projects in the country. To analyse the level of execution in the selected human settlement projects in the Buffalo City Metropolitan area reflected the policy and institutional framework for the establishment of state-assisted human settlements. v To ascertain the beneficiaries’ narratives about the projects (and the overarching policy/institutional framework), and what socio-cultural and/or economic factors, if any, mediate those narratives. To detail the socio-economic conditions and livelihood strategies of Reeston Human settlements residents. The study took the combined method of research, being the qualitative and quantitative research method. The choice of a research approach is guided among others by three main aspects: the research problem, the researcher’s experience and the audience at whom the research is directed. A mixed approach method has been employed for this study, because as several authors confirm, this is how to get the best out of both the qualitative and quantitative approaches. The evaluation took the analysis of the Duncan Village, looking at the transition from the informal settlements to the Reeston Housing development in the Eastern Cape Province. Respondents were visited in their places of comfort where they were able to express themselves so that the researcher can be able to retrieve more information in this regard. The findings of the research revealed the level of satisfaction, dwelling attributes, neighborhood issues, environmental issues for consideration in the housing development as a form of dwelling. The study contributes significantly to the body of knowledge as it provides solution to the provision of housing development in South Africa, especially the Duncan Village as a prime site for development for Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study presents a new model for developing houses in the informal settlements without relocating the beneficiaries from their area of comfort. A sustainable housing development to the need of the people will be the one that is re4sponsive to the findings of this study, these are: satisfaction with the government services rendered in the area, the surroundings in the dwellings and most importantly the environmental considerations
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mthembu,Bhekisisa Jacob
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Human settlements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Communities -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D.Admin
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13764 , vital:39709
- Description: This study undertook an extensive evaluation of state assisted Human Settlement development, with specific vigor on the case study of Reeston Human Settlement project in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape. This was motivated by a number of factors such as satisfaction issues in the area of Human settlements and the issues that continue to hinder the effective delivery of houses such as availability of land, the willingness of the beneficial to relocate to the allocated houses. South Africa is in its 24 years of democratic dispensation, the human settlements continue to be the thorn in a flesh in the government effectiveness. The existing legislation on the housing development serves as the cornerstone of development, housing theories also continue to be the guiding principles under which the development can flourish if followed to the latter. It is evident that, the democratic government in the country has delivered millions of houses to the beneficiaries, thus restoring dignity to many. However, there has been significant backlog of over 2.1 million houses. This is based on the housing waiting list available with the various Local Municipalities and the respective provinces department is Human Settlements. The objectives of the study was taken into consideration in ensuring congruence with the study aim. The objectives are stated below is to evaluate the application of Human settlement programmes, policy imperatives, implementation and practice in South Africa by means of the case study of the Reeston project in the Eastern Cape. The following objectives are set for the study: To analyse the policy and institutional framework guiding the establishment of state-assisted human settlement projects in the country. To analyse the level of execution in the selected human settlement projects in the Buffalo City Metropolitan area reflected the policy and institutional framework for the establishment of state-assisted human settlements. v To ascertain the beneficiaries’ narratives about the projects (and the overarching policy/institutional framework), and what socio-cultural and/or economic factors, if any, mediate those narratives. To detail the socio-economic conditions and livelihood strategies of Reeston Human settlements residents. The study took the combined method of research, being the qualitative and quantitative research method. The choice of a research approach is guided among others by three main aspects: the research problem, the researcher’s experience and the audience at whom the research is directed. A mixed approach method has been employed for this study, because as several authors confirm, this is how to get the best out of both the qualitative and quantitative approaches. The evaluation took the analysis of the Duncan Village, looking at the transition from the informal settlements to the Reeston Housing development in the Eastern Cape Province. Respondents were visited in their places of comfort where they were able to express themselves so that the researcher can be able to retrieve more information in this regard. The findings of the research revealed the level of satisfaction, dwelling attributes, neighborhood issues, environmental issues for consideration in the housing development as a form of dwelling. The study contributes significantly to the body of knowledge as it provides solution to the provision of housing development in South Africa, especially the Duncan Village as a prime site for development for Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study presents a new model for developing houses in the informal settlements without relocating the beneficiaries from their area of comfort. A sustainable housing development to the need of the people will be the one that is re4sponsive to the findings of this study, these are: satisfaction with the government services rendered in the area, the surroundings in the dwellings and most importantly the environmental considerations
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An evaluation of the effectiveness of campus safety and security measures in crime prevention at the University of Fort Hare (Alice) campus
- Authors: Mdlungu, Tandiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Crime prevention Campus violence Universities and colleges -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12557 , vital:39287
- Description: The study focused on safety and security measures employed at institutions of higher learning. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of safety and security measures employed by institutions of higher learning in preventing crime. The study was carried out at the University of Fort Hare. An empirical research was conducted to collect data from the students using questionnaires. The study highlighted the rate of crime on campus as well as the effectiveness of safety and security measures on campus. The general finding of this study indicate that 51 percent of the students on campus have been victims of crime. From the victims, more than 50 percent did not report the crime to authorities. Majority of crimes are property crimes. Majority of students are not aware of any safety and security policies in the campus. Findings highlighted crime prevention challenges faced by the university. Moreover, students agree that the institution needs to improve as well as upgrade its existing safety and security measure which could help prevent the high prevalence of crime on campus From the findings of the research the researcher made recommendations and drew conclusions that could be beneficial to students as well as the institutions administrators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mdlungu, Tandiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Crime prevention Campus violence Universities and colleges -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12557 , vital:39287
- Description: The study focused on safety and security measures employed at institutions of higher learning. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of safety and security measures employed by institutions of higher learning in preventing crime. The study was carried out at the University of Fort Hare. An empirical research was conducted to collect data from the students using questionnaires. The study highlighted the rate of crime on campus as well as the effectiveness of safety and security measures on campus. The general finding of this study indicate that 51 percent of the students on campus have been victims of crime. From the victims, more than 50 percent did not report the crime to authorities. Majority of crimes are property crimes. Majority of students are not aware of any safety and security policies in the campus. Findings highlighted crime prevention challenges faced by the university. Moreover, students agree that the institution needs to improve as well as upgrade its existing safety and security measure which could help prevent the high prevalence of crime on campus From the findings of the research the researcher made recommendations and drew conclusions that could be beneficial to students as well as the institutions administrators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An evaluation of the impact of the biogas digesters project at Melani village, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mthimunye , Thabiso Vincent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Biogas
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14561 , vital:40014
- Description: A study was conducted in Melani rural community of Raymond Mhlaba district in Eastern Cape, with the aim of identifying types of energy sources and households energy utilization. Melani village (32°43’29” S, 27°07’35” E) is 13 km away from Alice, the closest town and its household population is about 350. The survey was conducted with 50% of the randomly chosen households using semi-structured questionnaires and some onset CTA-A hobo current transducers were installed in three households to measure electricity used for either cooking, heating or lighting. The survey shows that electricity (supplied by Eskom) is the main source of energy for cooking, lighting and heating, while paraffin and candles are also used for lighting. The data collected using the data acquisition system has also shown that each household consumes an average of 140 kWh of electricity per month. Assuming this amount of energy being used throughout the year, on average the households consume 1680 kWh of electricity per year. The research concludes that there is a need to promote sustainable energy resources and technologies such as the use of biogas digesters as an alternative source of energy since the households has on average 20 of cattle, 10 of goats, 10 sheep and 4 donkeys. The research has also shown that the economic analysis of the biogas project is financially feasible. The Net present value was high and positive showing the feasibility of the investment on the project. The payback period was implying that the project pays itself off within the service life or within a set payback limit, which must be shorter than the technical service period of 5 years. The research has further shown that the emission factor for carbon dioxide for every 1MWh of electrical energy saved is 1.07 kg and consequently a corresponding volume of avoidance water is 1.40 KL. This can be mentioned that this monthly cost saving in the electrical energy consumption can go a long way in improving the social and economic welfare of the people. More so, it also vi plays a key role in the reduction of the global warming potential and the amount of air pollutant in the atmosphere. The avoidance water also contributed greatly in reducing the total volume of water used in the cooling towers of the coal power generation plant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mthimunye , Thabiso Vincent
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Biogas
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14561 , vital:40014
- Description: A study was conducted in Melani rural community of Raymond Mhlaba district in Eastern Cape, with the aim of identifying types of energy sources and households energy utilization. Melani village (32°43’29” S, 27°07’35” E) is 13 km away from Alice, the closest town and its household population is about 350. The survey was conducted with 50% of the randomly chosen households using semi-structured questionnaires and some onset CTA-A hobo current transducers were installed in three households to measure electricity used for either cooking, heating or lighting. The survey shows that electricity (supplied by Eskom) is the main source of energy for cooking, lighting and heating, while paraffin and candles are also used for lighting. The data collected using the data acquisition system has also shown that each household consumes an average of 140 kWh of electricity per month. Assuming this amount of energy being used throughout the year, on average the households consume 1680 kWh of electricity per year. The research concludes that there is a need to promote sustainable energy resources and technologies such as the use of biogas digesters as an alternative source of energy since the households has on average 20 of cattle, 10 of goats, 10 sheep and 4 donkeys. The research has also shown that the economic analysis of the biogas project is financially feasible. The Net present value was high and positive showing the feasibility of the investment on the project. The payback period was implying that the project pays itself off within the service life or within a set payback limit, which must be shorter than the technical service period of 5 years. The research has further shown that the emission factor for carbon dioxide for every 1MWh of electrical energy saved is 1.07 kg and consequently a corresponding volume of avoidance water is 1.40 KL. This can be mentioned that this monthly cost saving in the electrical energy consumption can go a long way in improving the social and economic welfare of the people. More so, it also vi plays a key role in the reduction of the global warming potential and the amount of air pollutant in the atmosphere. The avoidance water also contributed greatly in reducing the total volume of water used in the cooling towers of the coal power generation plant.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An evaluation of the mediation process that led to the agreement for the resolution of conflict in South Sudan in August 2015
- Authors: Osilo, Betty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mediation -- Sudan , Conflict management -- Sudan Dispute resolution (Law) -- Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34521 , vital:33389
- Description: In December 2013, a civil war broke out in South Sudan, following the dismissal of the former Vice-President Riek Machar by President Salva Kiir, who accused him of attempting a coup. This led to the splitting of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and saw the formation of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO). The political power struggle brought an ethnic dimension to the conflict with confrontations between the Dinka and the Nuer, the two largest ethnic groups in South Sudan. In August 2015, the Agreement for the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan, which was spear headed by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), was signed by President Salva Kiir, Riek Machar, and the G10. Riek Machar returned to the capital Juba, and the Transitional Government of National Unity was formed with his swearing in as the first Vice-President. However, the agreement did not hold as just a day before South Sudan’s fifth independence anniversary; shootings erupted outside the presidential palace in Juba causing Machar to flee. The collapse of the transitional government and an increase in the intensity of violence has threatened the security of the South Sudanese and entire region. This evaluative qualitative study applied the critical research methodology to examine the reasons for the continued civil war in South Sudan. It assessed why intervention through mediation by IGAD, which is the recognised regional authority, failed to bring about peace and stability in South Sudan. The study also applied the Contingency Framework of Mediation to South Sudan’s mediation process to explain the theoretical complexities surrounding the inability for the militant factions to find a sustainable peace agreement. It was found that the regional players and the international community were more interested in pushing for their own interests rather than achieving sustainable peace and stability. The study concludes that provided both the adversaries and the mediators lack a genuine commitment to the mediation process, little can be done to achieve peace and stability in South Sudan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Osilo, Betty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mediation -- Sudan , Conflict management -- Sudan Dispute resolution (Law) -- Sudan
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34521 , vital:33389
- Description: In December 2013, a civil war broke out in South Sudan, following the dismissal of the former Vice-President Riek Machar by President Salva Kiir, who accused him of attempting a coup. This led to the splitting of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and saw the formation of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO). The political power struggle brought an ethnic dimension to the conflict with confrontations between the Dinka and the Nuer, the two largest ethnic groups in South Sudan. In August 2015, the Agreement for the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan, which was spear headed by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), was signed by President Salva Kiir, Riek Machar, and the G10. Riek Machar returned to the capital Juba, and the Transitional Government of National Unity was formed with his swearing in as the first Vice-President. However, the agreement did not hold as just a day before South Sudan’s fifth independence anniversary; shootings erupted outside the presidential palace in Juba causing Machar to flee. The collapse of the transitional government and an increase in the intensity of violence has threatened the security of the South Sudanese and entire region. This evaluative qualitative study applied the critical research methodology to examine the reasons for the continued civil war in South Sudan. It assessed why intervention through mediation by IGAD, which is the recognised regional authority, failed to bring about peace and stability in South Sudan. The study also applied the Contingency Framework of Mediation to South Sudan’s mediation process to explain the theoretical complexities surrounding the inability for the militant factions to find a sustainable peace agreement. It was found that the regional players and the international community were more interested in pushing for their own interests rather than achieving sustainable peace and stability. The study concludes that provided both the adversaries and the mediators lack a genuine commitment to the mediation process, little can be done to achieve peace and stability in South Sudan.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An evaluation of the role of cost management control systems on organisational performance in public enterprises in Namibia: a case study of the Namibia airports company
- Authors: Shindobo, Teopolina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Cost accounting , Activity-based costing , Performance standards -- Namibia -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35785 , vital:33812
- Description: The primary goal of this study was to evaluate the role of cost management control systems (CMCS) on organisational performance of public enterprises in Namibia, using Namibia Airports Company (NAC) as a case study organisation. NAC uses the activity based costing (ABC) management control system and is still making losses, the auditor General have recommended that there is a need to evaluate the CMCS used by the NAC and their expenditure. In pursuing the primary objective of the study, four secondary objectives were therefore developed. The first objective was concerned with evaluating the purpose of the CMCSs in organisational decision making process. The second objective was concerned with analysing the effect of CMCSs on organisational performance in public enterprises. This was also achieved through a comprehensive review of literature. The third objective dealt with the design of a suitable methodology. The last objective was concerned with conclusions and recommendations of the study. The study followed a quantitative research methodology and a total of 100 questionnaires were self-administered to the respondents. Sixty-five questionnaires were returned with usable responses and were captured for analysis. Statistical analysis was applied in order to meet the requirements of research methodology as well as record and analyse the research findings. The study used descriptive statistics, reliability statistics, factor analysis and one way variance analysis (ANOVAs). Factor analysis was performed on the elements used to measure the impacts of CMCSs on the organisational performance of the Namibia Airports Company. Four key impacts of CMCSs were identified in this study. ANOVAs were employed as a way of determining significant differences between groups with regard to the factors that were identified. The finding of the study revealed that, the level of employee involvement in cost management activities is relatively weak at Namibia Airports Company despite a higher frequency of using the CMCSs. There is a significant effect on financial performance of the organisation as a result of employing CMCSs. The significant impacts of CMCSs on the organisational performance of the Namibia Airports Company include opportunities for improving financial performance management, efficiency in service delivery, and strategic decisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Shindobo, Teopolina
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Cost accounting , Activity-based costing , Performance standards -- Namibia -- Evaluation , Organizational effectiveness -- Namibia
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35785 , vital:33812
- Description: The primary goal of this study was to evaluate the role of cost management control systems (CMCS) on organisational performance of public enterprises in Namibia, using Namibia Airports Company (NAC) as a case study organisation. NAC uses the activity based costing (ABC) management control system and is still making losses, the auditor General have recommended that there is a need to evaluate the CMCS used by the NAC and their expenditure. In pursuing the primary objective of the study, four secondary objectives were therefore developed. The first objective was concerned with evaluating the purpose of the CMCSs in organisational decision making process. The second objective was concerned with analysing the effect of CMCSs on organisational performance in public enterprises. This was also achieved through a comprehensive review of literature. The third objective dealt with the design of a suitable methodology. The last objective was concerned with conclusions and recommendations of the study. The study followed a quantitative research methodology and a total of 100 questionnaires were self-administered to the respondents. Sixty-five questionnaires were returned with usable responses and were captured for analysis. Statistical analysis was applied in order to meet the requirements of research methodology as well as record and analyse the research findings. The study used descriptive statistics, reliability statistics, factor analysis and one way variance analysis (ANOVAs). Factor analysis was performed on the elements used to measure the impacts of CMCSs on the organisational performance of the Namibia Airports Company. Four key impacts of CMCSs were identified in this study. ANOVAs were employed as a way of determining significant differences between groups with regard to the factors that were identified. The finding of the study revealed that, the level of employee involvement in cost management activities is relatively weak at Namibia Airports Company despite a higher frequency of using the CMCSs. There is a significant effect on financial performance of the organisation as a result of employing CMCSs. The significant impacts of CMCSs on the organisational performance of the Namibia Airports Company include opportunities for improving financial performance management, efficiency in service delivery, and strategic decisions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An examination of the pass-through from exchange rate to inflation in South Africa
- Authors: Mhizha,Tinashe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Inflation (Finance) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13705 , vital:39698
- Description: This study examined the exchange-rate-pass-through to import, producer and consumer prices in South Africa using quarterly data covering the period 2000 to 2015. The study made use of panel data techniques to examine the degree of pass-through to import prices, producer prices as well consumer prices. The Hausman test indicated fixed effects (FE) as the correct model for the data. In order to correct for errors and get a more robust model, the least squares dummy variable (LSDV) model was estimated. The key findings claim that the exchange rate is negative and weakly significant to explain South African prices. It was highest for producer prices, followed by import prices and lowest at consumer prices. The findings have implications for policy and theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mhizha,Tinashe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Inflation (Finance) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13705 , vital:39698
- Description: This study examined the exchange-rate-pass-through to import, producer and consumer prices in South Africa using quarterly data covering the period 2000 to 2015. The study made use of panel data techniques to examine the degree of pass-through to import prices, producer prices as well consumer prices. The Hausman test indicated fixed effects (FE) as the correct model for the data. In order to correct for errors and get a more robust model, the least squares dummy variable (LSDV) model was estimated. The key findings claim that the exchange rate is negative and weakly significant to explain South African prices. It was highest for producer prices, followed by import prices and lowest at consumer prices. The findings have implications for policy and theory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploration of absence and presence through the mediums of bronze, glass and resin figurative sculpture, within a narrative of memory
- Authors: Walmsley, Sarah-Anne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Dualism in art
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42439 , vital:36656
- Description: This research study was based upon three critical components. These include absence and presence, memory and the female nude. The problem statement aimed to determine how compositionally sound pairings and groupings of bronze, glass and resin figurative sculptures may be manipulated to create visual equilibrium in a work and communicate an inherent conceptual element. This necessitated the following research question which explored what the role of memory and the imago is within dualistic representations of the absent and present, as represented in the mediums of bronze, glass and resin. The creative and research processes culminate in the body of artwork, entitled Absence and Presence: in Search of Memory and the Imago, which is presented as a narrative installation and exhibition of sculptural work. This body of work was driven by the creation of a signifier and allegory for an absent presence or present absence which will always evoke the contemplation of this interplay between these two terms and the ways in which they define and become one another within the narrative of personal memory. Personal memories will always collide with the present and bring with them the memories of absence, but encourage the subject to make tangible this absence in order to confront it and in doing so, realise that it cannot be addressed separately from the presence which defines it
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Walmsley, Sarah-Anne
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Dualism in art
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42439 , vital:36656
- Description: This research study was based upon three critical components. These include absence and presence, memory and the female nude. The problem statement aimed to determine how compositionally sound pairings and groupings of bronze, glass and resin figurative sculptures may be manipulated to create visual equilibrium in a work and communicate an inherent conceptual element. This necessitated the following research question which explored what the role of memory and the imago is within dualistic representations of the absent and present, as represented in the mediums of bronze, glass and resin. The creative and research processes culminate in the body of artwork, entitled Absence and Presence: in Search of Memory and the Imago, which is presented as a narrative installation and exhibition of sculptural work. This body of work was driven by the creation of a signifier and allegory for an absent presence or present absence which will always evoke the contemplation of this interplay between these two terms and the ways in which they define and become one another within the narrative of personal memory. Personal memories will always collide with the present and bring with them the memories of absence, but encourage the subject to make tangible this absence in order to confront it and in doing so, realise that it cannot be addressed separately from the presence which defines it
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploration of first-time mothers' experiences of exclusive breastfeeding and support in the Buffalo City Metropolitan, South Africa
- Authors: Dasheka, Zukiswa Theodorah
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Breastfeeding--South Africa Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Nursing Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11096 , vital:37130
- Description: There are inadequate child feeding practices worldwide, and this varies amongst the regions. Suboptimal exclusive breastfeeding remains the key contributor to the leading causes of child mortalities, namely, diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections. An infant who is not exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life has fourteen times likelihood of dying of all causes, especially, diarrhoea and pneumonia compared to an exclusively breastfed infant. Worldwide, only 40 percent infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives. South Africa, on the other hand, has an alarming figure of only 8 percent infants that are exclusively breastfed for six months. A qualitative approach, with an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was chosen to seek deeper understanding and meaning of first-time mothers’ experiences regarding exclusive breastfeeding practices and support’s influence on maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding within their natural environment. First-time mothers were the population for this study while the target population were first-time mothers who had given birth to a live, full term and healthy infant, regardless of the delivery mode in one of the Community Health Centres or hospitals within Buffalo City Metropolitan, South Africa. A non-probability, purposive sample of 10 participants was used. Ethical approval was granted by the University of Fort Hare Research Ethics Committee. The Eastern Cape Department of Health issued the clearance certificate. Informed consent was obtained from participants before data collection. Emotional risk protection was managed by the researcher through stopping of the interviews when the participant seemed emotional affected by the interviews. The relevant ethical considerations were accommodated. Trustworthiness was ensured through observing the principles of transferability, credibility, confirmability and dependability. Data were collected through individual face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview guide and conducted at the participant’s home or at the local clinic per participants’ choice. Two audio-recorders were used to capture the data. Data were then analysed according to Creswell’s steps and Tesch’s eight coding steps. Codes, categories, sub-categories and themes were formulated. Findings The key findings were challenges, empowerment, support and resilience during initiation of breastfeeding and diverse support and resilience during maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion All participants agreed on the benefits of breastfeeding, receiving information about exclusive breastfeeding during antenatal care and making a decision to exclusively breastfeed upon delivery. It is evident that the information received by first-time mothers is not congruent with the challenges they faced during initiation. There is a need, therefore, for nurses to find a way of sharing breastfeeding practice with the community members in order to avoid mixed messages which end up confusing to the first-time mother. Furthermore, the education given to the first-time mothers needs to be individualised to focus on individual needs of these mothers. Given the current staffing structure in the delivery centres, nurses are not always enough to give full focus and practical assistance to first-time mothers. It is therefore recommended that peer supporters be available to play this role, post-delivery, before the first-time mother is discharged. The formulation of compulsory supportive group among the first-time mothers was suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dasheka, Zukiswa Theodorah
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Breastfeeding--South Africa Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Nursing Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11096 , vital:37130
- Description: There are inadequate child feeding practices worldwide, and this varies amongst the regions. Suboptimal exclusive breastfeeding remains the key contributor to the leading causes of child mortalities, namely, diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections. An infant who is not exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life has fourteen times likelihood of dying of all causes, especially, diarrhoea and pneumonia compared to an exclusively breastfed infant. Worldwide, only 40 percent infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives. South Africa, on the other hand, has an alarming figure of only 8 percent infants that are exclusively breastfed for six months. A qualitative approach, with an exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was chosen to seek deeper understanding and meaning of first-time mothers’ experiences regarding exclusive breastfeeding practices and support’s influence on maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding within their natural environment. First-time mothers were the population for this study while the target population were first-time mothers who had given birth to a live, full term and healthy infant, regardless of the delivery mode in one of the Community Health Centres or hospitals within Buffalo City Metropolitan, South Africa. A non-probability, purposive sample of 10 participants was used. Ethical approval was granted by the University of Fort Hare Research Ethics Committee. The Eastern Cape Department of Health issued the clearance certificate. Informed consent was obtained from participants before data collection. Emotional risk protection was managed by the researcher through stopping of the interviews when the participant seemed emotional affected by the interviews. The relevant ethical considerations were accommodated. Trustworthiness was ensured through observing the principles of transferability, credibility, confirmability and dependability. Data were collected through individual face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview guide and conducted at the participant’s home or at the local clinic per participants’ choice. Two audio-recorders were used to capture the data. Data were then analysed according to Creswell’s steps and Tesch’s eight coding steps. Codes, categories, sub-categories and themes were formulated. Findings The key findings were challenges, empowerment, support and resilience during initiation of breastfeeding and diverse support and resilience during maintenance of exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion All participants agreed on the benefits of breastfeeding, receiving information about exclusive breastfeeding during antenatal care and making a decision to exclusively breastfeed upon delivery. It is evident that the information received by first-time mothers is not congruent with the challenges they faced during initiation. There is a need, therefore, for nurses to find a way of sharing breastfeeding practice with the community members in order to avoid mixed messages which end up confusing to the first-time mother. Furthermore, the education given to the first-time mothers needs to be individualised to focus on individual needs of these mothers. Given the current staffing structure in the delivery centres, nurses are not always enough to give full focus and practical assistance to first-time mothers. It is therefore recommended that peer supporters be available to play this role, post-delivery, before the first-time mother is discharged. The formulation of compulsory supportive group among the first-time mothers was suggested.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploration of leadership development in a learner representative structure in a secondary school, Oshana Region, Namibia
- Kadhepa-Kandjengo, Selma Ndeyapo
- Authors: Kadhepa-Kandjengo, Selma Ndeyapo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Namibia , Educational leadership -- Namibia , Education, Secondary -- Namibia , Student government -- Namibia , Student participation in administration -- Namibia , Cultural Historical Activity Theory
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62450 , vital:28193
- Description: Before independence, Namibia inherited a system of Bantu education which was hierarchical, authoritarian and non-democratic. Upon independence, the educational sector went through numerous reforms which were meant to transform education and to make it more democratic, whereby all stakeholders can broadly participate. In spite of these reforms, leadership of schools has remained a hierarchical system, where a principal who, as an individual, runs the school without recognition of the potential leadership of others. Recent studies on leadership have called for shared leadership, whereby leadership is a practice, permeable to learner leaders and not associated with individuals. This research study aims to explore learner leadership development in the Learner Representative Council (LRC) structure at a secondary school in Namibia. The motivation of this research study was twofold - firstly, my personal interest in learner leadership was aroused by my teaching experience. The second reason was due to my realisation that the area was under-researched in Namibia, hence I wanted to fill the existing gap on learner leadership. The study critically engaged learners and teachers to help me get an understanding of learner leadership and the factors enabling learner leadership development. I also found that challenges which resulted in contradictions, hampered leadership development. The study took an interventionist approach and second generation Cultural Historical Activity Theory was used to surface tensions and contradictions affecting learner leadership development. Change Laboratory workshops enabled the expansive learning process with the 12 LRC members. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, observation, document analysis and journaling. The study found that learner leadership was understood more in terms of traditional views of leadership, whereby a learner needed to possess certain qualities in order to lead. The findings further pointed out that the LRC members were mainly involved in managerial roles and not really leadership roles, as such, and they were not involved in decision-making at the school. Although provision for the LRC body is made in an Educational Act, historical and cultural forces account for teachers’ reluctance to support the LRC members, as well as for silence of learner voice. I hope that findings from this research study strengthen learner leadership structures in schools and contribute to the creation of knowledge on learner leadership in Namibia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kadhepa-Kandjengo, Selma Ndeyapo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Namibia , Educational leadership -- Namibia , Education, Secondary -- Namibia , Student government -- Namibia , Student participation in administration -- Namibia , Cultural Historical Activity Theory
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62450 , vital:28193
- Description: Before independence, Namibia inherited a system of Bantu education which was hierarchical, authoritarian and non-democratic. Upon independence, the educational sector went through numerous reforms which were meant to transform education and to make it more democratic, whereby all stakeholders can broadly participate. In spite of these reforms, leadership of schools has remained a hierarchical system, where a principal who, as an individual, runs the school without recognition of the potential leadership of others. Recent studies on leadership have called for shared leadership, whereby leadership is a practice, permeable to learner leaders and not associated with individuals. This research study aims to explore learner leadership development in the Learner Representative Council (LRC) structure at a secondary school in Namibia. The motivation of this research study was twofold - firstly, my personal interest in learner leadership was aroused by my teaching experience. The second reason was due to my realisation that the area was under-researched in Namibia, hence I wanted to fill the existing gap on learner leadership. The study critically engaged learners and teachers to help me get an understanding of learner leadership and the factors enabling learner leadership development. I also found that challenges which resulted in contradictions, hampered leadership development. The study took an interventionist approach and second generation Cultural Historical Activity Theory was used to surface tensions and contradictions affecting learner leadership development. Change Laboratory workshops enabled the expansive learning process with the 12 LRC members. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, observation, document analysis and journaling. The study found that learner leadership was understood more in terms of traditional views of leadership, whereby a learner needed to possess certain qualities in order to lead. The findings further pointed out that the LRC members were mainly involved in managerial roles and not really leadership roles, as such, and they were not involved in decision-making at the school. Although provision for the LRC body is made in an Educational Act, historical and cultural forces account for teachers’ reluctance to support the LRC members, as well as for silence of learner voice. I hope that findings from this research study strengthen learner leadership structures in schools and contribute to the creation of knowledge on learner leadership in Namibia.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploration of the effects of government financial subsidies on the performance of schools and learners in the OR Tambo District Municipality
- Mtyida, Thembani Justice Zolisa
- Authors: Mtyida, Thembani Justice Zolisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School budgets -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization Education -- South Africa -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9198 , vital:34304
- Description: An exploration of the effects of government financial subsidies on the performance of schools and learners in the OR Tambo District Municipality Under the Direction of: Prof EOC Ijeoma. As much as the awarded fiscal resources have been critical for improving the quality of learning and education as well as the performance of schools, there are still often inhibitors that affect the extent to which such fiscal packages are able to induce achievement of the desired educational outcomes. Thematic analysis of the interview findings revealed the limitations undermining the extent to which the allocated fiscal resources are able to influence the achievement of the desired positive educational outcomes and these are linked to poor school financial management, poor planning and budgeting, poor school governance and corruption and theft of funds. The other limitations that mar the effective performance of certain schools to achieve the desired educational outcomes were also noted to arise from the shortage of teachers for critical subjects, poor motivation of teachers in rural areas, poor learners’ welfare and poor infrastructure. To respond to these challenges, it is argued that the OR Tambo District Department of Education must develop special fiscal packages for teachers in the rural areas, develop special fiscal packages for teachers of special subjects such as science and mathematics, invest in the educational infrastructure and facilities, and proactively develop school managers. Future research can explore a framework for monitoring and evaluation of the effects of educational fiscal grants on the performance of schools and learners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mtyida, Thembani Justice Zolisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School budgets -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization Education -- South Africa -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9198 , vital:34304
- Description: An exploration of the effects of government financial subsidies on the performance of schools and learners in the OR Tambo District Municipality Under the Direction of: Prof EOC Ijeoma. As much as the awarded fiscal resources have been critical for improving the quality of learning and education as well as the performance of schools, there are still often inhibitors that affect the extent to which such fiscal packages are able to induce achievement of the desired educational outcomes. Thematic analysis of the interview findings revealed the limitations undermining the extent to which the allocated fiscal resources are able to influence the achievement of the desired positive educational outcomes and these are linked to poor school financial management, poor planning and budgeting, poor school governance and corruption and theft of funds. The other limitations that mar the effective performance of certain schools to achieve the desired educational outcomes were also noted to arise from the shortage of teachers for critical subjects, poor motivation of teachers in rural areas, poor learners’ welfare and poor infrastructure. To respond to these challenges, it is argued that the OR Tambo District Department of Education must develop special fiscal packages for teachers in the rural areas, develop special fiscal packages for teachers of special subjects such as science and mathematics, invest in the educational infrastructure and facilities, and proactively develop school managers. Future research can explore a framework for monitoring and evaluation of the effects of educational fiscal grants on the performance of schools and learners.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploration of the romantic experiences of young female adults raised by single mothers
- Authors: Masinyane, Anita
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Single-parent families , Single mothers -- South Africa Intimacy (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22343 , vital:29945
- Description: Family units have seen significant changes over the last decades, from more traditional to non-traditional family structure. South African literature has since seen a rise in single-parent family studies, however, has been geared towards the outcome of paternal absence on the male child. The paternal absence on young women and their romantic experiences remains largely unexplored. Historically, young women without fathers have been found to experience damaging effects on their well-being. Specifically, adversities pertaining to their identity, academic performance, relationships with and attitudes towards men and career and future prospects are evident in literature. This study was conducted with young female adults from the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan, raised by single mothers to explore their perceptions and experiences of romantic relationships growing up without the paternal figure. This study utilizes a feminist psychology and social learning theoretical framework to conceptualise these experiences. The study uses a qualitative methodology and phenomenological design approach. The sample was identified through non-probability purposive sampling, and the data collected through semi-structured interviews. The data is analysed using a thematic analysis framework. The eight young women who participated in this study, collectively constructed themselves to be resilient to the experiences of fatherlessness, they portrayed themselves as self-sufficient, empowered in their identities, driven in their academic performance and career development and future aspirations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Masinyane, Anita
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Single-parent families , Single mothers -- South Africa Intimacy (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22343 , vital:29945
- Description: Family units have seen significant changes over the last decades, from more traditional to non-traditional family structure. South African literature has since seen a rise in single-parent family studies, however, has been geared towards the outcome of paternal absence on the male child. The paternal absence on young women and their romantic experiences remains largely unexplored. Historically, young women without fathers have been found to experience damaging effects on their well-being. Specifically, adversities pertaining to their identity, academic performance, relationships with and attitudes towards men and career and future prospects are evident in literature. This study was conducted with young female adults from the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan, raised by single mothers to explore their perceptions and experiences of romantic relationships growing up without the paternal figure. This study utilizes a feminist psychology and social learning theoretical framework to conceptualise these experiences. The study uses a qualitative methodology and phenomenological design approach. The sample was identified through non-probability purposive sampling, and the data collected through semi-structured interviews. The data is analysed using a thematic analysis framework. The eight young women who participated in this study, collectively constructed themselves to be resilient to the experiences of fatherlessness, they portrayed themselves as self-sufficient, empowered in their identities, driven in their academic performance and career development and future aspirations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploration of whether using a global employment company could mitigate the South African tax risks in relation to inbound expatriates in multinational companies
- Authors: Pavey, Janet Gail
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Double taxation -- South Africa , Corporations, Foreign -- South Africa , Foreign workers -- Taxation -- South Africa , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Corporations -- Taxation -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61368 , vital:28019
- Description: The main objective of this research paper was to explore whether a multinational company could use a global employment company to employ its expatriates to mitigate, simplify or limit the tax risk for that foreign company when sending expatriates to South Africa. To investigate this topic, an interpretive research approach was used, a doctrinal research methodology was followed, and inductive reasoning was applied. The documentary data used in this research was publicly available. Firstly, the meaning of the term “expatriate” was explored, together with the types of employment arrangements commonly used to employ this type of employee. The South African tax consequences that an inbound expatriate may create for a multinational company were then analysed. These tax consequences were applied to the common types of employment arrangements to determine what the South African tax impact of these arrangements is likely to be and which entity within a multinational group is likely to be affected. It was investigated whether using a foreign global employment company provides any tax simplification or tax mitigation strategies for the multinational company for expatriates inbound to South Africa. The primary conclusions of this research were that it was found that using a global employment company may only provide a tax benefit in South Africa in very specific circumstances: (i) where the economic employer of the expatriate is the South African entity; (ii) where flexibility is required to easily move the expatriate to other jurisdictions; and (iii) where there are multiple home-host country combinations that the multinational group needs to consider when moving its expatriates. It would appear that using a global employment company as the employment arrangement for an inbound expatriate to South Africa may have a fairly limited application if its purpose is to mitigate tax risks. In effect, a global employment company is likely to provide tax benefits only where it acts as an international labour broker for the multinational company of which it is a part.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Pavey, Janet Gail
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Double taxation -- South Africa , Corporations, Foreign -- South Africa , Foreign workers -- Taxation -- South Africa , International business enterprises -- South Africa , Corporations -- Taxation -- South Africa , Value-added tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61368 , vital:28019
- Description: The main objective of this research paper was to explore whether a multinational company could use a global employment company to employ its expatriates to mitigate, simplify or limit the tax risk for that foreign company when sending expatriates to South Africa. To investigate this topic, an interpretive research approach was used, a doctrinal research methodology was followed, and inductive reasoning was applied. The documentary data used in this research was publicly available. Firstly, the meaning of the term “expatriate” was explored, together with the types of employment arrangements commonly used to employ this type of employee. The South African tax consequences that an inbound expatriate may create for a multinational company were then analysed. These tax consequences were applied to the common types of employment arrangements to determine what the South African tax impact of these arrangements is likely to be and which entity within a multinational group is likely to be affected. It was investigated whether using a foreign global employment company provides any tax simplification or tax mitigation strategies for the multinational company for expatriates inbound to South Africa. The primary conclusions of this research were that it was found that using a global employment company may only provide a tax benefit in South Africa in very specific circumstances: (i) where the economic employer of the expatriate is the South African entity; (ii) where flexibility is required to easily move the expatriate to other jurisdictions; and (iii) where there are multiple home-host country combinations that the multinational group needs to consider when moving its expatriates. It would appear that using a global employment company as the employment arrangement for an inbound expatriate to South Africa may have a fairly limited application if its purpose is to mitigate tax risks. In effect, a global employment company is likely to provide tax benefits only where it acts as an international labour broker for the multinational company of which it is a part.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploratory study of barriers and enablers of strategy execution in the Eastern Cape Department of Education in South Africa
- Authors: Vena, Nomava Vinolia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Strategic planning South Africa Eastern Cape , Business planning South Africa Eastern Cape , Public administration South Africa Eastern Cape , Corporate governance South Africa Eastern Cape , Government accountability South Africa Eastern Cape , South Africa. Department of Education
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63649 , vital:28465
- Description: Effective strategy execution is very important for the achievement of an organisation’s goals. Because it is a difficult task to translate a strategy into action, itis imperative for leadership to prioritize its strategic plan to ensure its success. The purpose of this study is to identify barriers and enablers of strategy execution in Basic Education in the Eastern Cape; its focus is on strategic goal number six: “Efficient administration ensured through good corporate governance and management”. The effectiveness of the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) is measured by its service delivery, how strategy is executed in providing quality education. These are guided by the norms and standards like the National Education Policy Act: Norms and Standards for educators, as set by the National Department of Basic Education and the Treasury Acts. The motivation for the study was the Department’s poor performance as reported by the Auditor General (AG) in his 2015 audit report, that there has been a lack of good governance and accountability in the ECDoE. The study is qualitative: a sample of twenty-five (25) ECDoE senior managers were interviewed as the custodians of the execution of the strategic plan. Purposive sampling method selected the twenty-five from a total of forty-five (45) senior managers, some of whom were in Head Office and some in the twenty-three (23) districts. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews and responses were captured on Excel Spreadsheet, and analysed with the Thematic Analysis. Major findings relating to barriers were on Human Resource Management, Poor Leadership, Resourcing (Tools of Trade), Improper Budgeting Systems, Poor Communication, and Organisational Structure. Some variables were interchangeably identified both as barriers and enablers, such as budgeting and resourcing. There were many recommendations, but for this study one, the Finance Section, will suffice: and that is that the Finance Section should analyse each directorate’s spending for each year before the new budget is allocated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Vena, Nomava Vinolia
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Strategic planning South Africa Eastern Cape , Business planning South Africa Eastern Cape , Public administration South Africa Eastern Cape , Corporate governance South Africa Eastern Cape , Government accountability South Africa Eastern Cape , South Africa. Department of Education
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63649 , vital:28465
- Description: Effective strategy execution is very important for the achievement of an organisation’s goals. Because it is a difficult task to translate a strategy into action, itis imperative for leadership to prioritize its strategic plan to ensure its success. The purpose of this study is to identify barriers and enablers of strategy execution in Basic Education in the Eastern Cape; its focus is on strategic goal number six: “Efficient administration ensured through good corporate governance and management”. The effectiveness of the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) is measured by its service delivery, how strategy is executed in providing quality education. These are guided by the norms and standards like the National Education Policy Act: Norms and Standards for educators, as set by the National Department of Basic Education and the Treasury Acts. The motivation for the study was the Department’s poor performance as reported by the Auditor General (AG) in his 2015 audit report, that there has been a lack of good governance and accountability in the ECDoE. The study is qualitative: a sample of twenty-five (25) ECDoE senior managers were interviewed as the custodians of the execution of the strategic plan. Purposive sampling method selected the twenty-five from a total of forty-five (45) senior managers, some of whom were in Head Office and some in the twenty-three (23) districts. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews and responses were captured on Excel Spreadsheet, and analysed with the Thematic Analysis. Major findings relating to barriers were on Human Resource Management, Poor Leadership, Resourcing (Tools of Trade), Improper Budgeting Systems, Poor Communication, and Organisational Structure. Some variables were interchangeably identified both as barriers and enablers, such as budgeting and resourcing. There were many recommendations, but for this study one, the Finance Section, will suffice: and that is that the Finance Section should analyse each directorate’s spending for each year before the new budget is allocated.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploratory study of control and oversight measures for ethical conduct in supply chain management : the case of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Zindi, Beauty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10415 , vital:35459
- Description: Unethical conduct takes root and largely flourishes in environments devoid of compliance with SCM laws, regulations and sound corporate governance values and principles. Ethical conduct is a prerequisite of good governance and sound municipal financial management. Unethical conduct in SCM leads to a loss of public trust and confidence in the management of public affairs. Despite the existence of control and oversight structures and processes for monitoring compliance with ethical standards, norms and regulations in SCM, procurement and contract management processes, BCMM still flouts SCM regulations. This leads to non-compliance with precincts of SCM policy regulations, the MFMA, as well as the Municipal Systems Act (MSA). Lack of adequate and effective control and oversight measures further exacerbates the problem, leading to poor management of procurement systems as well as inconsistencies in the disposal and delivery of services. Effective control and oversight often results in the reduction of waste, eradication of corruption and improvement of municipal financial performance, as well as improved ethical conduct, integrity, transparency and accountability. Qualitative approach was used to gather data using interviews and secondary sources in the form of official documents to explore the extent to which control and oversight measures for ethical conduct in Supply Chain Management are effective in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The data is to be analysed using content analysis and filtering techniques. Challenges that are affecting the effective management of Supply Chain in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality were brought forth and recommendations to improve Supply Chain Management in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality are examined in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Zindi, Beauty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10415 , vital:35459
- Description: Unethical conduct takes root and largely flourishes in environments devoid of compliance with SCM laws, regulations and sound corporate governance values and principles. Ethical conduct is a prerequisite of good governance and sound municipal financial management. Unethical conduct in SCM leads to a loss of public trust and confidence in the management of public affairs. Despite the existence of control and oversight structures and processes for monitoring compliance with ethical standards, norms and regulations in SCM, procurement and contract management processes, BCMM still flouts SCM regulations. This leads to non-compliance with precincts of SCM policy regulations, the MFMA, as well as the Municipal Systems Act (MSA). Lack of adequate and effective control and oversight measures further exacerbates the problem, leading to poor management of procurement systems as well as inconsistencies in the disposal and delivery of services. Effective control and oversight often results in the reduction of waste, eradication of corruption and improvement of municipal financial performance, as well as improved ethical conduct, integrity, transparency and accountability. Qualitative approach was used to gather data using interviews and secondary sources in the form of official documents to explore the extent to which control and oversight measures for ethical conduct in Supply Chain Management are effective in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The data is to be analysed using content analysis and filtering techniques. Challenges that are affecting the effective management of Supply Chain in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality were brought forth and recommendations to improve Supply Chain Management in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality are examined in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploratory study of Heads of Departments' responses to student calls for decolonised higher education
- Grant, Carolyn, Quinn, Lynn, Vorster, Jo-Anne E
- Authors: Grant, Carolyn , Quinn, Lynn , Vorster, Jo-Anne E
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123420 , vital:35436 , https://doi.org/10.17159/2520-9868/i72a05
- Description: Central to the tumultuous student protests of 2015 and 2016 was an urgent call for the decolonisation of South African universities. Existing curricula, including teaching and assessment practices, as well as institutional cultures and structures were challenged. Against this backdrop, in this article we focus on the academic leadership role of Heads of Departments (HoDs) at Rhodes University. In this small-scale project we interrogate how HoDs conceptualised their roles in this uncertain and complex context. From the data analysis a number of tensions emerged in the ways in which they articulated and enacted their roles. The findings indicate that the protests have contributed to the increasing complexity of the role of an HoD. Issues raised during the protests catalysed HoDs at Rhodes University, some for the first time, into considering the implications of the decolonising call from students and into exercising stronger transformative leadership roles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Grant, Carolyn , Quinn, Lynn , Vorster, Jo-Anne E
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/123420 , vital:35436 , https://doi.org/10.17159/2520-9868/i72a05
- Description: Central to the tumultuous student protests of 2015 and 2016 was an urgent call for the decolonisation of South African universities. Existing curricula, including teaching and assessment practices, as well as institutional cultures and structures were challenged. Against this backdrop, in this article we focus on the academic leadership role of Heads of Departments (HoDs) at Rhodes University. In this small-scale project we interrogate how HoDs conceptualised their roles in this uncertain and complex context. From the data analysis a number of tensions emerged in the ways in which they articulated and enacted their roles. The findings indicate that the protests have contributed to the increasing complexity of the role of an HoD. Issues raised during the protests catalysed HoDs at Rhodes University, some for the first time, into considering the implications of the decolonising call from students and into exercising stronger transformative leadership roles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploratory study of students’ expectations and perceptions of service quality in a South African higher education institution
- Authors: Williams, Alyssa Shawntay
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Relationship marketing , Consumer satisfaction , Sampling (Statistics) , College students Attitudes , Universities and colleges South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63844 , vital:28496
- Description: Within the past few years, higher education institutions have come under an exorbitant amount of pressure to restructure, increase funding and grow student numbers, whilst still preserving the service quality they offer. The purpose of this study is to measure students’ expectations and perceptions in a higher education institution and establish how significant of a gap exists between what is expected and what is perceived. The instrument utilised within the present study is SERVQUAL. A convenience sampling approach was adopted, furthermore, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data pertaining to the objectives concerning students’ gap between expectations and perceptions and hypotheses regarding the gap between students’ differences in each faculty, respectively. The study found that there were gaps in all dimensions with the order being, from highest to lowest: Reliability – Responsiveness – Assurance – Empathy – Tangibility. In addition, the significant difference in means according to faculty was established and the only dimension with a significant difference was Empathy. These results were used to offer recommendations to management, faculties and departments of the higher education institution under study about where they are deficient, consequently, improving their services to enhance their service quality and increase their competitive advantage but without financial strain. Overall, the conclusions the present study reached was that students and higher education institutions need to have a mutual interest in their relations. This means that as much as higher education institutions need to provide high service quality to students, students need to be willing to provide feedback and interact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Williams, Alyssa Shawntay
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Relationship marketing , Consumer satisfaction , Sampling (Statistics) , College students Attitudes , Universities and colleges South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63844 , vital:28496
- Description: Within the past few years, higher education institutions have come under an exorbitant amount of pressure to restructure, increase funding and grow student numbers, whilst still preserving the service quality they offer. The purpose of this study is to measure students’ expectations and perceptions in a higher education institution and establish how significant of a gap exists between what is expected and what is perceived. The instrument utilised within the present study is SERVQUAL. A convenience sampling approach was adopted, furthermore, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data pertaining to the objectives concerning students’ gap between expectations and perceptions and hypotheses regarding the gap between students’ differences in each faculty, respectively. The study found that there were gaps in all dimensions with the order being, from highest to lowest: Reliability – Responsiveness – Assurance – Empathy – Tangibility. In addition, the significant difference in means according to faculty was established and the only dimension with a significant difference was Empathy. These results were used to offer recommendations to management, faculties and departments of the higher education institution under study about where they are deficient, consequently, improving their services to enhance their service quality and increase their competitive advantage but without financial strain. Overall, the conclusions the present study reached was that students and higher education institutions need to have a mutual interest in their relations. This means that as much as higher education institutions need to provide high service quality to students, students need to be willing to provide feedback and interact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An illustrated booklet for reinforcing community health worker knowledge of tuberculosis and facilitating patient counselling:
- Okeyo, Ida L A, Dowse, Roslind
- Authors: Okeyo, Ida L A , Dowse, Roslind
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/156629 , vital:40032 , https://phcfm.org/index.php/phcfm/article/view/1687/2559
- Description: Community health workers (CHWs) have facilitated the move to decentralize tuberculosis (TB) management, but lack access to information appropriate both for personal use and in patient interaction and education. To explore the impact of a pictorial-based TB booklet on reinforcing CHW knowledge and facilitating patient counselling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Okeyo, Ida L A , Dowse, Roslind
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/156629 , vital:40032 , https://phcfm.org/index.php/phcfm/article/view/1687/2559
- Description: Community health workers (CHWs) have facilitated the move to decentralize tuberculosis (TB) management, but lack access to information appropriate both for personal use and in patient interaction and education. To explore the impact of a pictorial-based TB booklet on reinforcing CHW knowledge and facilitating patient counselling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An Immersive Audio Control System Using Mobile Devices and Ethernet AVB-Capable Speakers:
- Foss, Richard, Devonport, Sean
- Authors: Foss, Richard , Devonport, Sean
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/426745 , vital:72388 , https://www.aes.org/e-lib/browse.cfm?elib=19714
- Description: Immersive Sound is commonly used to create the localization of sound sources above, below, and around listeners. To achieve this immersive goal, sound systems are employing an ever-increasing number of speakers. Given that immersive sound systems have large speaker configurations such as in cinemas, theaters, museums, and home theater installations, there is a need to provide control for these various contexts and also to provide a means of automating this control. An immersive sound system has been created that allows for the real-time control over sound source localization. It is a multi-user client/server system where the client devices are mobile devices, thereby allowing remote control over sound source localization. Touch and orientation capabilities of mobile devices are used for the generation of three-dimensional coordinates. The server receives localization control messages from the client and uses an Ethernet AVB (audio video bridging) network to distribute appropriate mix levels to speakers with built-in signal processing. These localization messages can be recorded by users for later playback.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Foss, Richard , Devonport, Sean
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/426745 , vital:72388 , https://www.aes.org/e-lib/browse.cfm?elib=19714
- Description: Immersive Sound is commonly used to create the localization of sound sources above, below, and around listeners. To achieve this immersive goal, sound systems are employing an ever-increasing number of speakers. Given that immersive sound systems have large speaker configurations such as in cinemas, theaters, museums, and home theater installations, there is a need to provide control for these various contexts and also to provide a means of automating this control. An immersive sound system has been created that allows for the real-time control over sound source localization. It is a multi-user client/server system where the client devices are mobile devices, thereby allowing remote control over sound source localization. Touch and orientation capabilities of mobile devices are used for the generation of three-dimensional coordinates. The server receives localization control messages from the client and uses an Ethernet AVB (audio video bridging) network to distribute appropriate mix levels to speakers with built-in signal processing. These localization messages can be recorded by users for later playback.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An information security governance model for industrial control systems
- Authors: Webster, Zynn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Computer networks -- Security measures , Data protection Computer security Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36383 , vital:33934
- Description: Industrial Control Systems (ICS) is a term used to describe several types of control systems, including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC). These systems consist of a combination of control components (e.g. electrical, mechanical, pneumatic) which act together to achieve an industrial objective (e.g., manufacturing, transportation of matter or energy). ICS play a fundamental role in critical infrastructures such as electricity grids, oil, gas and manufacturing industries. Initially ICS had little resemblance to typical enterprise IT systems; they were isolated and running proprietary control protocols using specialized hardware and software. However, with initiatives such as Industry 4.0 and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the nature of ICS has changed significantly. There is an ever-increasing use of commercial operating systems and standard protocols like TCP/IP and Ethernet. Consequently, modern ICS are more and more resembling conventional enterprise IT systems, and it is a well-known fact that these IT systems and networks are known to be vulnerable and that they require extensive management to ensure Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability. Since ICS are now adopting conventional IT characteristics they are also accepting the associated risks. However, owing to the functional area of ICS, the consequences of these threats are much more severe than those of enterprise IT systems. The need to manage security for these systems with highly skilled IT personnel has become essential. Therefore, this research was focussed to identify which unique security controls for ICS and enterprise IT systems can be combined and/or tailored to provide the organization with a single set of comprehensive security controls. By doing an investigation on existing standards and best practices for both enterprise IT and ICS environments, this study has produced a single set of security controls and presented how the security controls can be integrated into an existing information security governance model which organizations can use as a basis for generating a security framework, used not only to secure their enterprise IT systems, but also including the security of their ICS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Webster, Zynn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Computer networks -- Security measures , Data protection Computer security Business enterprises -- Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MIT
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/36383 , vital:33934
- Description: Industrial Control Systems (ICS) is a term used to describe several types of control systems, including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC). These systems consist of a combination of control components (e.g. electrical, mechanical, pneumatic) which act together to achieve an industrial objective (e.g., manufacturing, transportation of matter or energy). ICS play a fundamental role in critical infrastructures such as electricity grids, oil, gas and manufacturing industries. Initially ICS had little resemblance to typical enterprise IT systems; they were isolated and running proprietary control protocols using specialized hardware and software. However, with initiatives such as Industry 4.0 and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the nature of ICS has changed significantly. There is an ever-increasing use of commercial operating systems and standard protocols like TCP/IP and Ethernet. Consequently, modern ICS are more and more resembling conventional enterprise IT systems, and it is a well-known fact that these IT systems and networks are known to be vulnerable and that they require extensive management to ensure Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability. Since ICS are now adopting conventional IT characteristics they are also accepting the associated risks. However, owing to the functional area of ICS, the consequences of these threats are much more severe than those of enterprise IT systems. The need to manage security for these systems with highly skilled IT personnel has become essential. Therefore, this research was focussed to identify which unique security controls for ICS and enterprise IT systems can be combined and/or tailored to provide the organization with a single set of comprehensive security controls. By doing an investigation on existing standards and best practices for both enterprise IT and ICS environments, this study has produced a single set of security controls and presented how the security controls can be integrated into an existing information security governance model which organizations can use as a basis for generating a security framework, used not only to secure their enterprise IT systems, but also including the security of their ICS.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018