An assessment of challenges of reporting by TVET collages to the department of Higher Education and Training using a web-based monitoring and evaluation instrument : the case of two selected TVET colleges in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Siwa, Monwabisi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Automatic control -- Data processing TVET Colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17305 , vital:40936
- Description: The effective and efficient functioning of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges is pertinent to the development of critical and scares skills for the South African labour market. In this research, I examined the challenges facing the reporting by TVET colleges to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) using a web-based M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges. I presented what was the form of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET before the introduction of M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges in 2015.To this end, M&E and reporting is pivotal in the effective and efficient running of these institutions. In this research, I presented the evolution of the TVET Sector and reviewed literature on monitoring and evaluation, challenges of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET and the role of professional support needed to be given to the sector on monitoring and evaluation. Qualitative method and a case study methodology was used to investigate the challenges of reporting to DHET by TVET colleges. I used semi-structured interview with 4 participants from two selected colleges in the Eastern Cape. I employed interpretive paradigm and content analysis in interpreting and analysing data collected. I presented summary, findings, recommendations and conclusion. The topics for further research were also sponsored in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Siwa, Monwabisi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Automatic control -- Data processing TVET Colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17305 , vital:40936
- Description: The effective and efficient functioning of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges is pertinent to the development of critical and scares skills for the South African labour market. In this research, I examined the challenges facing the reporting by TVET colleges to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) using a web-based M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges. I presented what was the form of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET before the introduction of M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges in 2015.To this end, M&E and reporting is pivotal in the effective and efficient running of these institutions. In this research, I presented the evolution of the TVET Sector and reviewed literature on monitoring and evaluation, challenges of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET and the role of professional support needed to be given to the sector on monitoring and evaluation. Qualitative method and a case study methodology was used to investigate the challenges of reporting to DHET by TVET colleges. I used semi-structured interview with 4 participants from two selected colleges in the Eastern Cape. I employed interpretive paradigm and content analysis in interpreting and analysing data collected. I presented summary, findings, recommendations and conclusion. The topics for further research were also sponsored in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Morphological and genetic variation of Gymnothorax undulatus (Anguilliformes: Muraenidae) in the Western Indian Ocean
- Authors: Sithole, Yonela
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63722 , vital:28476
- Description: Expected release date-April 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sithole, Yonela
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63722 , vital:28476
- Description: Expected release date-April 2019
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The Q bell: experiences of patients with disabilities utilising a new call bell system
- Authors: Sithole, Siphiwo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Self-help devices for people with disabilities , People with disabilities -- Means of communication -- Technological innovations Communication devices for people with disabilities People with disabilities -- Rehabilitation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35543 , vital:33755
- Description: The Q-bell is a newly developed call bell system that aims to simplify the lives of people living with disabilities by providing a means for them to easily summon assistance from caregivers when needed. The product is designed to be hands free so that a patient only must exert minimal pressure on the device with any part of the body such as the cheek to call for attention. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of disabled participants regarding the functionality of the Q-bell systems during their stay in a care facility. To achieve this aim, an exploratory, descriptive, contextual, qualitative design was decided upon. There was a paucity of similar studies and this method was deemed the most effective method to fully grasp, contextualize and interpret the experiences of the research participants following the use of the Q-bell. The research population included all people with disabilities who were in care facilities. A purposive sampling method was used to identify a small number of disabled participants in care facilities to use the Q-bell. The researcher approached selected facilities and the residents in their care who had limited to no function of their hands and arms to test the Q-bell. The participants were given the Q-bell to use for 2-3 days, after which semi-structured interviews with participating individuals were conducted. Due to difficulties the researcher had with the infrastructure at the facilities eight participants were approached and interviewed in this study. All the interviews were conducted in private, but face to face, at the bedside of each participant, in the facilities of care. Digital voice recordings of these interviews were made after informed consent being sought from the participants. Verbatim transcripts of the recordings were made and a thematic analysis using Tesch’s method, was performed by the researcher followed by a consensus meeting with the independent coder. Ethical considerations such as beneficence, justice, autonomy, informed consent was adhered to by the researcher. Trustworthiness was achieved by following Guba’s principles of credibility, applicability, consistency and neutrality. Three themes emerged from the data analysis. Theme one highlighted the participants’ experiences whilst using the Q-bell. Theme two reflected the positive characteristics of the Q-bell when compared to other call devices the participants might have used while theme three posed possible recommendations the participants had to possibly improve on the design of the Q-bell. The research report concludes with the research limitations and recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sithole, Siphiwo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Self-help devices for people with disabilities , People with disabilities -- Means of communication -- Technological innovations Communication devices for people with disabilities People with disabilities -- Rehabilitation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35543 , vital:33755
- Description: The Q-bell is a newly developed call bell system that aims to simplify the lives of people living with disabilities by providing a means for them to easily summon assistance from caregivers when needed. The product is designed to be hands free so that a patient only must exert minimal pressure on the device with any part of the body such as the cheek to call for attention. The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of disabled participants regarding the functionality of the Q-bell systems during their stay in a care facility. To achieve this aim, an exploratory, descriptive, contextual, qualitative design was decided upon. There was a paucity of similar studies and this method was deemed the most effective method to fully grasp, contextualize and interpret the experiences of the research participants following the use of the Q-bell. The research population included all people with disabilities who were in care facilities. A purposive sampling method was used to identify a small number of disabled participants in care facilities to use the Q-bell. The researcher approached selected facilities and the residents in their care who had limited to no function of their hands and arms to test the Q-bell. The participants were given the Q-bell to use for 2-3 days, after which semi-structured interviews with participating individuals were conducted. Due to difficulties the researcher had with the infrastructure at the facilities eight participants were approached and interviewed in this study. All the interviews were conducted in private, but face to face, at the bedside of each participant, in the facilities of care. Digital voice recordings of these interviews were made after informed consent being sought from the participants. Verbatim transcripts of the recordings were made and a thematic analysis using Tesch’s method, was performed by the researcher followed by a consensus meeting with the independent coder. Ethical considerations such as beneficence, justice, autonomy, informed consent was adhered to by the researcher. Trustworthiness was achieved by following Guba’s principles of credibility, applicability, consistency and neutrality. Three themes emerged from the data analysis. Theme one highlighted the participants’ experiences whilst using the Q-bell. Theme two reflected the positive characteristics of the Q-bell when compared to other call devices the participants might have used while theme three posed possible recommendations the participants had to possibly improve on the design of the Q-bell. The research report concludes with the research limitations and recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Labour and external stakeholder management in construction projects
- Authors: Sisilana, Vuyisile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Project management Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35622 , vital:33764
- Description: In the face of the unemployment crisis in South Africa, organisations involved in infrastructure projects are encouraged to engage local communities, to source any available skills as a form of labour on those projects, as an initiative to alleviate unemployment. This initiative presents numerous challenges in the coordination of resources and activities across organisations. Although this collaborative effort is for combating social problems in our local communities; it has resulted in costing organisations and government millions of Rands because of delays due to work stoppages and cost overruns in construction projects. Stakeholder management theory provides the grounding for this research. Although a framework already exists in project management for stakeholder management, but there is lack of research in the engagement of external stakeholders especially in local community projects and project managers struggle to make the stakeholder management processes relevant to this stakeholder. A qualitative study was undertaken, and the data was collected in the form of semi-structured interviews, to collect the views and perceptions from construction project managers involved in projects affected by local labour work stoppages. This study seeks to find out the real causes and effects of local labour work stoppages and finding efficient ways of resolving this. This research seeks to be a starting point for further research in work stoppages caused by business forums as it was concluded as a major cause during interviews with industry professionals. This research found that disruptions from business forums are one of the causes of work stoppages, which was not found in literature. This research concluded that government intervention is required to resolve this growing challenge. It has been concluded that the project stakeholder management processes are not applied in construction projects by project managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sisilana, Vuyisile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Project management Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35622 , vital:33764
- Description: In the face of the unemployment crisis in South Africa, organisations involved in infrastructure projects are encouraged to engage local communities, to source any available skills as a form of labour on those projects, as an initiative to alleviate unemployment. This initiative presents numerous challenges in the coordination of resources and activities across organisations. Although this collaborative effort is for combating social problems in our local communities; it has resulted in costing organisations and government millions of Rands because of delays due to work stoppages and cost overruns in construction projects. Stakeholder management theory provides the grounding for this research. Although a framework already exists in project management for stakeholder management, but there is lack of research in the engagement of external stakeholders especially in local community projects and project managers struggle to make the stakeholder management processes relevant to this stakeholder. A qualitative study was undertaken, and the data was collected in the form of semi-structured interviews, to collect the views and perceptions from construction project managers involved in projects affected by local labour work stoppages. This study seeks to find out the real causes and effects of local labour work stoppages and finding efficient ways of resolving this. This research seeks to be a starting point for further research in work stoppages caused by business forums as it was concluded as a major cause during interviews with industry professionals. This research found that disruptions from business forums are one of the causes of work stoppages, which was not found in literature. This research concluded that government intervention is required to resolve this growing challenge. It has been concluded that the project stakeholder management processes are not applied in construction projects by project managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Construction company joint ventures in South Africa
- Authors: Sisilana, Owethu
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Joint ventures Strategic alliances (Business) Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35554 , vital:33756
- Description: In the construction industry, construction joint ventures (CJVs) have become one of the major organisational forms utilised in large-scale projects. However, because of the complexity of CJVs, the management of CJVs is much more difficult than that of usual projects undertaken by a single construction firm. In South Africa the existence of a clear and effective strategy for the successful transformation of organisational culture in a CJV is not clear. Similarly, poorly organised administrative structures in a CJV can also be a barrier to organisational performance. In South Africa there seems to be no evidence of a common understanding on the CJV formation process. According to CIDB (2004) there is no standard CJV agreement document. Therefore, a need arises to establish guidelines on the formation of a CJV agreement. Secondly, there is a need to establish strategies for the successful transformation of organisational culture in CJV. The research obtains an inside view with contractors who have participated in CJV’s, therefore, utilising the qualitative research method. The choice of data collection method was semi-structured one-on-one face to face interviews. In deriving the findings of the research, the ATLAS.ti software was used throughout the research process to manage both the secondary and primary data. The main factors which cause major problems in CJV's is the preliminary agreement, the partner selection and cultural differences. There is no evidence of a collective understanding among CJV partners regarding the successful formation processes of a CJV. The concept that the industry needs a standardised CJV agreement has been welcomed by the participants, the existence of a common CJV agreement would certainly resolve many problems in the way things are done currently including the implementation of joint venture projects. There is consensus between all participants that there is no standard CJV agreement in use in the South African construction industry and exploring a common approach is an idea that is viewed reasonable and to be one of the practical solutions to the problems in the industry. There are several limitations in this study. First, the sample included emerging and established contractors who are currently registered with the CIDB under Contractor Development Program only. While the sample size is relatively small, the researcher was cautious when interpreting the results. Secondly the targeted population for this research was selected using a sample of convenience method as opposed to a random sample, then the results of the study cannot be generally applied to a larger population. Thirdly, an obvious weakness of the research is the methodological difficulties related to qualitative research which relies on the inferences that are made by the researcher based on their own understanding of the data collected. It is therefore crucial that the data gathered is credible and that the findings represent the truth and actual sentiments as they appear from the data collection process. The research is of importance to managers and supervisors of construction companies of all sizes. The findings of this study will assist in ensuring that CJV are efficiently managed irrespective of the cultural differences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sisilana, Owethu
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa , Joint ventures Strategic alliances (Business) Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35554 , vital:33756
- Description: In the construction industry, construction joint ventures (CJVs) have become one of the major organisational forms utilised in large-scale projects. However, because of the complexity of CJVs, the management of CJVs is much more difficult than that of usual projects undertaken by a single construction firm. In South Africa the existence of a clear and effective strategy for the successful transformation of organisational culture in a CJV is not clear. Similarly, poorly organised administrative structures in a CJV can also be a barrier to organisational performance. In South Africa there seems to be no evidence of a common understanding on the CJV formation process. According to CIDB (2004) there is no standard CJV agreement document. Therefore, a need arises to establish guidelines on the formation of a CJV agreement. Secondly, there is a need to establish strategies for the successful transformation of organisational culture in CJV. The research obtains an inside view with contractors who have participated in CJV’s, therefore, utilising the qualitative research method. The choice of data collection method was semi-structured one-on-one face to face interviews. In deriving the findings of the research, the ATLAS.ti software was used throughout the research process to manage both the secondary and primary data. The main factors which cause major problems in CJV's is the preliminary agreement, the partner selection and cultural differences. There is no evidence of a collective understanding among CJV partners regarding the successful formation processes of a CJV. The concept that the industry needs a standardised CJV agreement has been welcomed by the participants, the existence of a common CJV agreement would certainly resolve many problems in the way things are done currently including the implementation of joint venture projects. There is consensus between all participants that there is no standard CJV agreement in use in the South African construction industry and exploring a common approach is an idea that is viewed reasonable and to be one of the practical solutions to the problems in the industry. There are several limitations in this study. First, the sample included emerging and established contractors who are currently registered with the CIDB under Contractor Development Program only. While the sample size is relatively small, the researcher was cautious when interpreting the results. Secondly the targeted population for this research was selected using a sample of convenience method as opposed to a random sample, then the results of the study cannot be generally applied to a larger population. Thirdly, an obvious weakness of the research is the methodological difficulties related to qualitative research which relies on the inferences that are made by the researcher based on their own understanding of the data collected. It is therefore crucial that the data gathered is credible and that the findings represent the truth and actual sentiments as they appear from the data collection process. The research is of importance to managers and supervisors of construction companies of all sizes. The findings of this study will assist in ensuring that CJV are efficiently managed irrespective of the cultural differences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An analysis of the payment of municipal services by the Department of Roads and Public works in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sirhamza, Wendy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public works -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23164 , vital:30449
- Description: The research study sought to analyze the payment of municipal service by the Department of Roads and Public Works in the Eastern Cape. Factor’s affecting the payment of municipal services by the DRPW is a great challenge in the Eastern Cape but not mainly in this province only. The purpose of the study was to help decision makers of the department in their strategic planning to be aware of the challenges in the payment of municipal services. The researcher selected qualitative method of research. The primary data for research study was collected through semi structures interview and the questionnaires. The findings of the study were obtained from the responses provided by the respondents and negatively affect the department’s ability to meet its obligation to pay municipal services. Recommendations are provided that could assist the Department of Roads and Public Works to improve in the payment of municipal services. Recommendations will hopefully help to improve the financial status for the betterment of the municipalities of this province. Research recommends centralization of municipal utilities from the client department to the owner and to improve intergovernmental relations and stakeholders management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sirhamza, Wendy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public works -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23164 , vital:30449
- Description: The research study sought to analyze the payment of municipal service by the Department of Roads and Public Works in the Eastern Cape. Factor’s affecting the payment of municipal services by the DRPW is a great challenge in the Eastern Cape but not mainly in this province only. The purpose of the study was to help decision makers of the department in their strategic planning to be aware of the challenges in the payment of municipal services. The researcher selected qualitative method of research. The primary data for research study was collected through semi structures interview and the questionnaires. The findings of the study were obtained from the responses provided by the respondents and negatively affect the department’s ability to meet its obligation to pay municipal services. Recommendations are provided that could assist the Department of Roads and Public Works to improve in the payment of municipal services. Recommendations will hopefully help to improve the financial status for the betterment of the municipalities of this province. Research recommends centralization of municipal utilities from the client department to the owner and to improve intergovernmental relations and stakeholders management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Partnerships and silos in municipal development : a study of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)
- Authors: Siqoko, Kolisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public-private sector cooperation Local government Municipal services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Rural Development
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16124 , vital:40668
- Description: Infrastructural deficit-non-existent or derelict- especially at municipal level is a major challenge in post 1994 South Africa. The inability of municipalities to develop new infrastructure or maintain existing ones, such as roads, portable water facilities, drainage and refuse collection facilities, has often resulted to social unrest and associated economic hardship for citizens. While the municipal governments have usually blamed budgetary constraints for their infrastructural dilemma, there is yet no clear sustainable plan towards a multi-actor approach as a way of leveraging stakeholder resources to solve this nagging problem. In Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), the local government seems to maintain a ‘hierachist’ and exclusivist role in infrastructural provisioning even though the Metro boasts of a pool of vibrant stakeholders – private sector, universities and non-governmental organisations. This study, therefore, examines the development model adopted by BCMM in its infrastructural development program, and also explores the extent to which this model has included or excluded other stakeholders in the city. The main aim of the study is to explore the resource capacity of different actors in the manucipality, and how these resources intersect with the infrastructural development program of the Metro Municipality. An insight into the findings reveals a ‘dis-configured relationship’ among the stakeholders which manifests in lack of stakeholder engagement among actors in project implementation, while at the same time maintaining a level of engagement in policy design for the purposes of validation. The study adopts a qualitative research design. It also draws on cultural theory of plural rationality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Siqoko, Kolisa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public-private sector cooperation Local government Municipal services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Rural Development
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16124 , vital:40668
- Description: Infrastructural deficit-non-existent or derelict- especially at municipal level is a major challenge in post 1994 South Africa. The inability of municipalities to develop new infrastructure or maintain existing ones, such as roads, portable water facilities, drainage and refuse collection facilities, has often resulted to social unrest and associated economic hardship for citizens. While the municipal governments have usually blamed budgetary constraints for their infrastructural dilemma, there is yet no clear sustainable plan towards a multi-actor approach as a way of leveraging stakeholder resources to solve this nagging problem. In Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), the local government seems to maintain a ‘hierachist’ and exclusivist role in infrastructural provisioning even though the Metro boasts of a pool of vibrant stakeholders – private sector, universities and non-governmental organisations. This study, therefore, examines the development model adopted by BCMM in its infrastructural development program, and also explores the extent to which this model has included or excluded other stakeholders in the city. The main aim of the study is to explore the resource capacity of different actors in the manucipality, and how these resources intersect with the infrastructural development program of the Metro Municipality. An insight into the findings reveals a ‘dis-configured relationship’ among the stakeholders which manifests in lack of stakeholder engagement among actors in project implementation, while at the same time maintaining a level of engagement in policy design for the purposes of validation. The study adopts a qualitative research design. It also draws on cultural theory of plural rationality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The tax consequences of income and expenses arising from illegal activities
- Authors: Singh, Shalona
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Income tax South Africa , Tax evasion South Africa , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa Criminal provisions , Crime Economic aspects South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/59456 , vital:27609
- Description: Income tax in South Africa is levied in terms of the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962 (the South African Income Tax Act) on taxable income, which by definition, is arrived at by deducting from ''gross income" receipts and accruals that are exempt from tax as well as deductions and allowances provided for in the Act. The South African Income Tax Act provides no guidance with regard to the taxation of income and expenditure from illegal activities. In this mini thesis, case law and legislation is reviewed in an attempt to provide clarity on the tax consequences of income and expenses arising from illegal activities. An overview is provided of the taxation of income and expenditure in respect of illegal activities in the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand. Similarities are found between the American, Australian, New Zealand and South African tax regimes in relation to the taxation of income earned from illegal activities, but there appears to be more certainty in America, Australia and New Zealand with regard to the deduction of expenses arising from illegal activities. In South Africa, taxpayers earning income from ongoing illegal activities will, in principle, comply with the definition of “trade” as defined in section 1 of the South African Income Tax Act. However, this is contrary to the view of the South African Revenue Service that illegal activities do not meet the definition of “trade”, a viewpoint that may not hold if challenged in court. Recommendations are made for the amendment of the South African Income Tax Act to specifically provide for the inclusion in “gross income” of income from illegal activities and to prohibit the deduction of expenditure arising from illegal activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Singh, Shalona
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: South Africa. Income Tax Act, 1962 , Income tax South Africa , Tax evasion South Africa , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa Criminal provisions , Crime Economic aspects South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/59456 , vital:27609
- Description: Income tax in South Africa is levied in terms of the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962 (the South African Income Tax Act) on taxable income, which by definition, is arrived at by deducting from ''gross income" receipts and accruals that are exempt from tax as well as deductions and allowances provided for in the Act. The South African Income Tax Act provides no guidance with regard to the taxation of income and expenditure from illegal activities. In this mini thesis, case law and legislation is reviewed in an attempt to provide clarity on the tax consequences of income and expenses arising from illegal activities. An overview is provided of the taxation of income and expenditure in respect of illegal activities in the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand. Similarities are found between the American, Australian, New Zealand and South African tax regimes in relation to the taxation of income earned from illegal activities, but there appears to be more certainty in America, Australia and New Zealand with regard to the deduction of expenses arising from illegal activities. In South Africa, taxpayers earning income from ongoing illegal activities will, in principle, comply with the definition of “trade” as defined in section 1 of the South African Income Tax Act. However, this is contrary to the view of the South African Revenue Service that illegal activities do not meet the definition of “trade”, a viewpoint that may not hold if challenged in court. Recommendations are made for the amendment of the South African Income Tax Act to specifically provide for the inclusion in “gross income” of income from illegal activities and to prohibit the deduction of expenditure arising from illegal activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Self-esteem and traumatic stress severity in individuals from individualists and collectivists’ perspectives
- Authors: Singh, Romisha
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder , Self-esteem Self-esteem -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23186 , vital:30451
- Description: It is evident that traumatic stress influences cultures differently but how this happens is still unclear. It may be assumed that the differences in PTSD severity between independent and interdependent cultures may exist due to the differential influence of individual self-esteem. Although some international research is prevalent, none address the issue of self-esteem and the cultural element of independent vs interdependent specifically and to the knowledge of the researcher no similar South African research exists. To investigate whether independent or interdependent classification mediates the influence of individual self-esteem on traumatic stress severity, a quantitative correlational design is used. Based on a sample size of N=197, an independent sample t-test – with unequal group sizes - suggested that individuals from independent and interdependent cultures reportedly expressed post-traumatic symptomology similarly. Results from the ANCOVA have indicated that individual self-esteem does not influence traumatic stress severity and that independently classified White English speaking participants between the ages of 21-30 are more likely to experience higher levels of traumatic stress severity as opposed to interdependently classified Coloured Afrikaans speaking participants between the ages of 21-30. Finally, chi-square analysis indicated that ethnicity cannot be deemed as a variable that can predict culture classification. However, the varying home language preferences in cultures suggest a possibility of varying ethnic identities within each of the ethnic groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Singh, Romisha
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder , Self-esteem Self-esteem -- Cross-cultural studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23186 , vital:30451
- Description: It is evident that traumatic stress influences cultures differently but how this happens is still unclear. It may be assumed that the differences in PTSD severity between independent and interdependent cultures may exist due to the differential influence of individual self-esteem. Although some international research is prevalent, none address the issue of self-esteem and the cultural element of independent vs interdependent specifically and to the knowledge of the researcher no similar South African research exists. To investigate whether independent or interdependent classification mediates the influence of individual self-esteem on traumatic stress severity, a quantitative correlational design is used. Based on a sample size of N=197, an independent sample t-test – with unequal group sizes - suggested that individuals from independent and interdependent cultures reportedly expressed post-traumatic symptomology similarly. Results from the ANCOVA have indicated that individual self-esteem does not influence traumatic stress severity and that independently classified White English speaking participants between the ages of 21-30 are more likely to experience higher levels of traumatic stress severity as opposed to interdependently classified Coloured Afrikaans speaking participants between the ages of 21-30. Finally, chi-square analysis indicated that ethnicity cannot be deemed as a variable that can predict culture classification. However, the varying home language preferences in cultures suggest a possibility of varying ethnic identities within each of the ethnic groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Sexual relationship power in negotiating safer sex practices amongst female university students in heterosexual relationships
- Authors: Simmers, Lionel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sex (Psychology) , Psychosexual development Safe sex in AIDS prevention Couples -- Sexual behavior Communication -- Sex differences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35689 , vital:33777
- Description: The structural effects of patriarchy, culture and socially constructed gender roles on women‟s identities, sexuality and relationship power is still a relatively under-researched area within South Africa. This study aimed to explore and describe the sexual relationship power of female university students in negotiating for safer sex practices, as women between 18 and 25 years of age are considered the most at-risk cohort for HIV and sexual health related risk and infection. The study utilized purposive sampling techniques, selecting young women and men to explore the influence of culture, socially constructions, gender, sexuality and sexual relationship power in negotiating for safer sex. Data was collected via semi structured individual interviews with 5 female participants and a focus group discussion with 8 female and 3 male participants. All data collection procedures were conducted in English, as this is the language of instruction at the institution. The data was analysed using a six-phase model for thematic analysis. The study used an interpretivist lens to allow the participants understanding of their experiences with the phenomenon of sexual relationship power. The findings revealed that gender, power and sexuality are contradictory and contested terrains. Traditional gender discourses make men‟s greater power within heterosexual relationships appear normal. Yet, the results reveal that gender identities and roles, and sexual relationship power is tension filled and that these individuals experience discontinuities and gaps in their power. This is apparent in the women participants‟ assertion that their personal sexual relationship power depends on the context. This means that men do not enjoy overall power and that these breaks in power hold promise for the construction and creation of newer forms of gender behaviour which will give women‟s identities greater power in expressing themselves in their sexual relationships and will equip them to better protect their sexual health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Simmers, Lionel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Sex (Psychology) , Psychosexual development Safe sex in AIDS prevention Couples -- Sexual behavior Communication -- Sex differences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35689 , vital:33777
- Description: The structural effects of patriarchy, culture and socially constructed gender roles on women‟s identities, sexuality and relationship power is still a relatively under-researched area within South Africa. This study aimed to explore and describe the sexual relationship power of female university students in negotiating for safer sex practices, as women between 18 and 25 years of age are considered the most at-risk cohort for HIV and sexual health related risk and infection. The study utilized purposive sampling techniques, selecting young women and men to explore the influence of culture, socially constructions, gender, sexuality and sexual relationship power in negotiating for safer sex. Data was collected via semi structured individual interviews with 5 female participants and a focus group discussion with 8 female and 3 male participants. All data collection procedures were conducted in English, as this is the language of instruction at the institution. The data was analysed using a six-phase model for thematic analysis. The study used an interpretivist lens to allow the participants understanding of their experiences with the phenomenon of sexual relationship power. The findings revealed that gender, power and sexuality are contradictory and contested terrains. Traditional gender discourses make men‟s greater power within heterosexual relationships appear normal. Yet, the results reveal that gender identities and roles, and sexual relationship power is tension filled and that these individuals experience discontinuities and gaps in their power. This is apparent in the women participants‟ assertion that their personal sexual relationship power depends on the context. This means that men do not enjoy overall power and that these breaks in power hold promise for the construction and creation of newer forms of gender behaviour which will give women‟s identities greater power in expressing themselves in their sexual relationships and will equip them to better protect their sexual health.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Attitudes of midwives towards the use of traditional medicine among pregnant women in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Simelane, Nompumelelo Andiswa
- Authors: Simelane, Nompumelelo Andiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Pregnancy -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Women's health services -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Integrative medicine -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23197 , vital:30452
- Description: The use of traditional medicines by pregnant women is a global concern. Despite limited theoretical evidence on the safety profile of traditional medicines to substantiate their use in pregnancy, expectant mothers are found to be widely using them. Safety concerns related to traditional medicine use in pregnancy include its use during the critical embryonic period, antenatal and intrapartum periods. These medications were associated with complications such as obstructed labour, foetal distress, emergency caesarean sections having to be performed and neonates delivered with low Apgar scorings. Midwives are usually the first and at times the only healthcare providers that come into contact with pregnant women. It was therefore necessary to investigate the midwives’ attitudes towards the use of traditional medicine among pregnant women. The objectives of this study were to: Explore and describe the attitudes of midwives towards the use of traditional medicine in Nelson Mandela Bay. Based on the findings of the study, make recommendations for midwives and nurse managers on how they could inform pregnant women of the benefits and harms of using traditional medicine during pregnancy. The study was conducted between November 2016 and January 2017, using a quantitative approach with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual design having obtained the necessary approval from the university and relevant authorities. The research population was midwives who work in maternity units in Nelson Mandela Bay. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data from conveniently sampled participants using set inclusion and exclusion criteria after obtaining informed consent. Data were captured by the researcher on a Microsoft Excel spread sheet and were reduced and analysed with the help of a statistician using the software package IBM SPSS Statistics 24 to ensure efficacy of the results. One hundred and twenty questionnaires were distributed and 89 were returned, yielding a 74% response rate. From the research findings, midwives in the Nelson Mandela Bay do not support the use of traditional medicine during pregnancy. Midwives acknowledged their responsibility to enquire and provide relevant information regarding the use of traditional medicine in pregnancy. Furthermore, midwives associated the use of traditional medicine with womens’ cultural diversity and lack of knowledge about pregnancy and labour. Based on these findings, recommendations for midwives and nurse managers on how they could inform pregnant women of the benefits and harms of using traditional medicine during pregnancy were made. Further recommendations were made for midwifery practice, nursing education and future research. The researcher used a literature control to ensure validation and integrity of the study. Further quality of the study was maintained by observing the principles of reliability and validity. Ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont Report adopting the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Simelane, Nompumelelo Andiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Pregnancy -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Women's health services -- Social aspects -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Integrative medicine -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23197 , vital:30452
- Description: The use of traditional medicines by pregnant women is a global concern. Despite limited theoretical evidence on the safety profile of traditional medicines to substantiate their use in pregnancy, expectant mothers are found to be widely using them. Safety concerns related to traditional medicine use in pregnancy include its use during the critical embryonic period, antenatal and intrapartum periods. These medications were associated with complications such as obstructed labour, foetal distress, emergency caesarean sections having to be performed and neonates delivered with low Apgar scorings. Midwives are usually the first and at times the only healthcare providers that come into contact with pregnant women. It was therefore necessary to investigate the midwives’ attitudes towards the use of traditional medicine among pregnant women. The objectives of this study were to: Explore and describe the attitudes of midwives towards the use of traditional medicine in Nelson Mandela Bay. Based on the findings of the study, make recommendations for midwives and nurse managers on how they could inform pregnant women of the benefits and harms of using traditional medicine during pregnancy. The study was conducted between November 2016 and January 2017, using a quantitative approach with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual design having obtained the necessary approval from the university and relevant authorities. The research population was midwives who work in maternity units in Nelson Mandela Bay. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data from conveniently sampled participants using set inclusion and exclusion criteria after obtaining informed consent. Data were captured by the researcher on a Microsoft Excel spread sheet and were reduced and analysed with the help of a statistician using the software package IBM SPSS Statistics 24 to ensure efficacy of the results. One hundred and twenty questionnaires were distributed and 89 were returned, yielding a 74% response rate. From the research findings, midwives in the Nelson Mandela Bay do not support the use of traditional medicine during pregnancy. Midwives acknowledged their responsibility to enquire and provide relevant information regarding the use of traditional medicine in pregnancy. Furthermore, midwives associated the use of traditional medicine with womens’ cultural diversity and lack of knowledge about pregnancy and labour. Based on these findings, recommendations for midwives and nurse managers on how they could inform pregnant women of the benefits and harms of using traditional medicine during pregnancy were made. Further recommendations were made for midwifery practice, nursing education and future research. The researcher used a literature control to ensure validation and integrity of the study. Further quality of the study was maintained by observing the principles of reliability and validity. Ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont Report adopting the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Analysing the role of enterprise and supplier development within Mercedes Benz South Africa in improving their B-BBEE scorecard
- Authors: Silinga, Zukiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23208 , vital:30455
- Description: This research is born out of the realisation of the unique challenges that the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy required from the private sector in South Africa, with Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) being one of the components of the B-BBEE’s economic empowerment strategy. Over the years, the B-BBEE’s role has been one of ensuring that economic empowerment of historically disadvantaged individuals was addressed. The role of the B-BBEE policy is described as the framework that targets the reform of the economy, reduction of poverty and inequality and empowerment of those individuals that were historically disadvantaged (Patel & Graham, 2012, p. 194). The automotive industry is South Africa’s most important and largest sector, making a great contribution to the country’s GDP. It is responsible for the employment of many people in the country, including employment in the component manufacturers and tyre industry. With these linkages throughout the economy, the government has identified the automotive industry as a vital growth sector. Government is certain that this sector will address one of the major challenges for economic growth in South Africa, which is unemployment. In the year 2015, the B-BBEE Act was amended with new compliance requirements and this changed the B-BBEE rating of Mercedes Benz South Africa (MBSA), resulting in a reduction of the company’s rating. The changes to the standard, particularly the ownership component, resulted in challenges for multinational companies such as MBSA, and an opportunity to improve the rating was identified in the ESD component sector. If these new compliance requirements were not addressed by MBSA, a predictable reduction in B-BBEE status would occur, resulting in a loss of business with government and provision of government incentives. The objective of this research study was to analyse the role that ESD plays within MBSA in improving their B-BBEE scorecard, as part of its overall B-BBEE strategy. This study was sculpted on the concept that the role of ESD at MBSA is related to (a) preferential procurement, (b) skills transfer, and (c) mentoring and a detailed literature review was conducted for these variables as well as for ESD. In testing the above research objective, the researcher utilised statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to the relationship of ESD to these variables. A positivistic research paradigm (quantitative) was selected in order to test the objective by using hypothesis testing. An empirical study was undertaken by means of a survey with a questionnaire utilised as a data collecting tool and distributed using the supplier database of MBSA. The aim of the questionnaire was to validate the outcomes obtained from the theoretical overview. Out of a sample of 116 respondents employed at the suppliers, only 92 responses were received, thus representing a 79% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The key findings of the study indicated that preferential procurement, skills development and mentoring play a significant role in the promotion of ESD. Preferential procurement indicated a stronger association than the other variables, and thus it was recommended that MBSA place importance on this variable. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of MBSA in an effort to improve the ESD component of the B-BBEE score of the company. As a way of addressing some of the challenges automotive manufacturers face, suggestions for future research were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Silinga, Zukiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Employee empowerment -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23208 , vital:30455
- Description: This research is born out of the realisation of the unique challenges that the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy required from the private sector in South Africa, with Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) being one of the components of the B-BBEE’s economic empowerment strategy. Over the years, the B-BBEE’s role has been one of ensuring that economic empowerment of historically disadvantaged individuals was addressed. The role of the B-BBEE policy is described as the framework that targets the reform of the economy, reduction of poverty and inequality and empowerment of those individuals that were historically disadvantaged (Patel & Graham, 2012, p. 194). The automotive industry is South Africa’s most important and largest sector, making a great contribution to the country’s GDP. It is responsible for the employment of many people in the country, including employment in the component manufacturers and tyre industry. With these linkages throughout the economy, the government has identified the automotive industry as a vital growth sector. Government is certain that this sector will address one of the major challenges for economic growth in South Africa, which is unemployment. In the year 2015, the B-BBEE Act was amended with new compliance requirements and this changed the B-BBEE rating of Mercedes Benz South Africa (MBSA), resulting in a reduction of the company’s rating. The changes to the standard, particularly the ownership component, resulted in challenges for multinational companies such as MBSA, and an opportunity to improve the rating was identified in the ESD component sector. If these new compliance requirements were not addressed by MBSA, a predictable reduction in B-BBEE status would occur, resulting in a loss of business with government and provision of government incentives. The objective of this research study was to analyse the role that ESD plays within MBSA in improving their B-BBEE scorecard, as part of its overall B-BBEE strategy. This study was sculpted on the concept that the role of ESD at MBSA is related to (a) preferential procurement, (b) skills transfer, and (c) mentoring and a detailed literature review was conducted for these variables as well as for ESD. In testing the above research objective, the researcher utilised statistical analysis methods to reach a conclusion with regard to the relationship of ESD to these variables. A positivistic research paradigm (quantitative) was selected in order to test the objective by using hypothesis testing. An empirical study was undertaken by means of a survey with a questionnaire utilised as a data collecting tool and distributed using the supplier database of MBSA. The aim of the questionnaire was to validate the outcomes obtained from the theoretical overview. Out of a sample of 116 respondents employed at the suppliers, only 92 responses were received, thus representing a 79% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The key findings of the study indicated that preferential procurement, skills development and mentoring play a significant role in the promotion of ESD. Preferential procurement indicated a stronger association than the other variables, and thus it was recommended that MBSA place importance on this variable. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to the management of MBSA in an effort to improve the ESD component of the B-BBEE score of the company. As a way of addressing some of the challenges automotive manufacturers face, suggestions for future research were made.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Livelihood strategies determinants and ranking across times : evidence from Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sikhunyana, Zintle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Households Rural development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15079 , vital:40161
- Description: The existing literature has acknowledged that analysis of livelihood strategies is more important for rural development policy and also that livelihood strategies are at the centre of development. Persistent challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality have called for a need to understand livelihood patterns of poor households as to effectively address these socio-economic issues in rural areas. The study aimed to identify determinants of livelihood strategies and to identify livelihood strategies that are superior to others in the rural Eastern Cape province of South Africa for the years 2002-2014. The study used multinomial logistic regression to identify the determinants of livelihood strategies. The findings showed that: age of household head, gender of household head, dwelling type, household size, number of economically active members, size of land that the household uses, and access to electricity statistically determine livelihood strategies of the poor in rural Eastern Cape. With regards to ranking, the study used dominance tests such as the Kruskal-Wallis test and also used one way between groups ANOVA with the post hoc test for additional information. The results from the Kruskal-Wallis test showed that remittances are superior livelihood strategies, and the results from one-way between groups ANOVA with post hoc showed that sales of farm products and services dominate other strategies. Restrictions on land conservation, and promotion of sustainable development have constrained rural households from freely using land in pursuit of their goals. The government needs to reconcile the policy amendments for land use. Furthermore, social grants alone are not sufficient to meet the needs of the poor; there should be alternative strategies on how to take the poor out of poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sikhunyana, Zintle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Households Rural development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15079 , vital:40161
- Description: The existing literature has acknowledged that analysis of livelihood strategies is more important for rural development policy and also that livelihood strategies are at the centre of development. Persistent challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality have called for a need to understand livelihood patterns of poor households as to effectively address these socio-economic issues in rural areas. The study aimed to identify determinants of livelihood strategies and to identify livelihood strategies that are superior to others in the rural Eastern Cape province of South Africa for the years 2002-2014. The study used multinomial logistic regression to identify the determinants of livelihood strategies. The findings showed that: age of household head, gender of household head, dwelling type, household size, number of economically active members, size of land that the household uses, and access to electricity statistically determine livelihood strategies of the poor in rural Eastern Cape. With regards to ranking, the study used dominance tests such as the Kruskal-Wallis test and also used one way between groups ANOVA with the post hoc test for additional information. The results from the Kruskal-Wallis test showed that remittances are superior livelihood strategies, and the results from one-way between groups ANOVA with post hoc showed that sales of farm products and services dominate other strategies. Restrictions on land conservation, and promotion of sustainable development have constrained rural households from freely using land in pursuit of their goals. The government needs to reconcile the policy amendments for land use. Furthermore, social grants alone are not sufficient to meet the needs of the poor; there should be alternative strategies on how to take the poor out of poverty.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Performance comparison of the residential types of air source heat pump water heaters in South Africa due to the refrigerant thermo-physical properties
- Authors: Sikhonza, Mandlenkosi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Heat pumps Water heaters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9275 , vital:34317
- Description: Globally hot water heating contributes enormously to the increase in energy consumption in the residential sector. Coal being a fossil fuel and non-renewable source of energy remains the major source used for electricity generation. The burning of coal is the primary cause of CO2 emission into the environment which causes climate change and global warming. Energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies were employed as one of the alternative ways of reducing global warming. In most residential areas in South Africa, the water heating generates 30 -50percent of the monthly electricity bill (Zhang and Huan, 2013). In this light, residential load management (RLM) is a significant part of the load management programme of Eskom’s overall demand side management strategy. Through RLM, the electricity load is being transferred from peak times to off times by switching the geysers during peak hours because geysers consume more electricity and contribute significantly to the national grid constraint problem (Eskom, 2012).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sikhonza, Mandlenkosi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Heat pumps Water heaters
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9275 , vital:34317
- Description: Globally hot water heating contributes enormously to the increase in energy consumption in the residential sector. Coal being a fossil fuel and non-renewable source of energy remains the major source used for electricity generation. The burning of coal is the primary cause of CO2 emission into the environment which causes climate change and global warming. Energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies were employed as one of the alternative ways of reducing global warming. In most residential areas in South Africa, the water heating generates 30 -50percent of the monthly electricity bill (Zhang and Huan, 2013). In this light, residential load management (RLM) is a significant part of the load management programme of Eskom’s overall demand side management strategy. Through RLM, the electricity load is being transferred from peak times to off times by switching the geysers during peak hours because geysers consume more electricity and contribute significantly to the national grid constraint problem (Eskom, 2012).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Construction management’s perceptions of health and safety
- Authors: Sigama, Takalani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Management , Building -- Safety measures Construction industry -- Health aspects Construction industry -- Safety regulations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35713 , vital:33784
- Description: Projects in the construction sector are reputed for poor health and safety (H&S) performance, compared to other industries. This can be attributed to, inter alia, a relatively uncontrolled working environment, inherent operational risks, workers' behaviour in relation to H&S commitment, cultural and religious beliefs, and uncertainties inherent in projects. Hazards and risk arising from poor H&S practices result in injuries, and in some cases, fatalities. The aim of this study is to explore the perceptions of construction management regarding H&S on construction sites. This study investigates the relationship between behaviours, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviours towards H&S, and compares cultural divergences among levels of construction personnel, namely construction management, construction supervision, construction H&S personnel, and H&S representatives. The construction industry has for many years developed and maintained a very bad reputation for coping with project cost, H&S, quality, and schedule. The industry often delivers projects late, and contributes to a disproportionate rate of work-related injuries, and fatalities. Project H&S management is acknowledged as one of the techniques that could be improved on construction projects to enhance performance of construction contractors in South Africa. To answer the research question: ‘Why construction management perceive H&S as a hindrance to production?” the mixed-method research approach was used. An indepth literature review with respect to project H&S was carried out, followed by qualitative and quantitative empirical research. The study established the need for H&S training and awareness of Construction Managers, Construction Supervisors, Construction Health and Safety Managers (CHSMs), Officers (CHSOs), and H&S Representatives. The study recommends that an H&S training needs analysis is critical for all employees, since it raises H&S awareness among all stakeholders in the construction industry, and enables the development of training plans, thereby supporting the reduction of accidents and related incident.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sigama, Takalani
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Management , Building -- Safety measures Construction industry -- Health aspects Construction industry -- Safety regulations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35713 , vital:33784
- Description: Projects in the construction sector are reputed for poor health and safety (H&S) performance, compared to other industries. This can be attributed to, inter alia, a relatively uncontrolled working environment, inherent operational risks, workers' behaviour in relation to H&S commitment, cultural and religious beliefs, and uncertainties inherent in projects. Hazards and risk arising from poor H&S practices result in injuries, and in some cases, fatalities. The aim of this study is to explore the perceptions of construction management regarding H&S on construction sites. This study investigates the relationship between behaviours, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviours towards H&S, and compares cultural divergences among levels of construction personnel, namely construction management, construction supervision, construction H&S personnel, and H&S representatives. The construction industry has for many years developed and maintained a very bad reputation for coping with project cost, H&S, quality, and schedule. The industry often delivers projects late, and contributes to a disproportionate rate of work-related injuries, and fatalities. Project H&S management is acknowledged as one of the techniques that could be improved on construction projects to enhance performance of construction contractors in South Africa. To answer the research question: ‘Why construction management perceive H&S as a hindrance to production?” the mixed-method research approach was used. An indepth literature review with respect to project H&S was carried out, followed by qualitative and quantitative empirical research. The study established the need for H&S training and awareness of Construction Managers, Construction Supervisors, Construction Health and Safety Managers (CHSMs), Officers (CHSOs), and H&S Representatives. The study recommends that an H&S training needs analysis is critical for all employees, since it raises H&S awareness among all stakeholders in the construction industry, and enables the development of training plans, thereby supporting the reduction of accidents and related incident.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Generalized linear models, with applications in fisheries research
- Authors: Sidumo, Bonelwa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Western mosquitofish , Analysis of variance , Fisheries Catch effort South Africa Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Linear models (Statistics) , Multilevel models (Statistics) , Experimental design
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61102 , vital:27975
- Description: Gambusia affinis (G. affinis) is an invasive fish species found in the Sundays River Valley of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, The relative abundance and population dynamics of G. affinis were quantified in five interconnected impoundments within the Sundays River Valley, This study utilised a G. affinis data set to demonstrate various, classical ANOVA models. Generalized linear models were used to standardize catch per unit effort (CPUE) estimates and to determine environmental variables which influenced the CPUE, Based on the generalized linear model results dam age, mean temperature, Oreochromis mossambicus abundance and Glossogobius callidus abundance had a significant effect on the G. affinis CPUE. The Albany Angling Association collected data during fishing tag and release events. These data were utilized to demonstrate repeated measures designs. Mixed-effects models provided a powerful and flexible tool for analyzing clustered data such as repeated measures data and nested data, lienee it has become tremendously popular as a framework for the analysis of bio-behavioral experiments. The results show that the mixed-effects methods proposed in this study are more efficient than those based on generalized linear models. These data were better modeled with mixed-effects models due to their flexibility in handling missing data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sidumo, Bonelwa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Western mosquitofish , Analysis of variance , Fisheries Catch effort South Africa Sundays River (Eastern Cape) , Linear models (Statistics) , Multilevel models (Statistics) , Experimental design
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61102 , vital:27975
- Description: Gambusia affinis (G. affinis) is an invasive fish species found in the Sundays River Valley of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, The relative abundance and population dynamics of G. affinis were quantified in five interconnected impoundments within the Sundays River Valley, This study utilised a G. affinis data set to demonstrate various, classical ANOVA models. Generalized linear models were used to standardize catch per unit effort (CPUE) estimates and to determine environmental variables which influenced the CPUE, Based on the generalized linear model results dam age, mean temperature, Oreochromis mossambicus abundance and Glossogobius callidus abundance had a significant effect on the G. affinis CPUE. The Albany Angling Association collected data during fishing tag and release events. These data were utilized to demonstrate repeated measures designs. Mixed-effects models provided a powerful and flexible tool for analyzing clustered data such as repeated measures data and nested data, lienee it has become tremendously popular as a framework for the analysis of bio-behavioral experiments. The results show that the mixed-effects methods proposed in this study are more efficient than those based on generalized linear models. These data were better modeled with mixed-effects models due to their flexibility in handling missing data.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Implementation of facilities management strategy for Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Sibefu, Mawonga Edwin
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Facility management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Building management Real estate management Housing management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35740 , vital:33796
- Description: Facilities management is a profession that encompasses multiple disciplines to ensure the functionality of the built environment by integrating people, places, processes and technology. It combines management and business with the most current professional and technical knowledge to provide a people-oriented and effective work environment. The study has the following objectives: to determine whether pro-active planning in order to optimise sustainable physical infrastructure is currently being carried out; to determine whether the cost structure of facilities management is being analysed to ensure proper planning that is aligned with the budget and to determine whether the organisational structure of facilities management (FM) is developed and fully staffed with qualified officials and that it is being operated from the correct department. This will ensure that facilities management carries out its mandate of creating jobs. The mixed research methodology was used in this study as both quantitative and qualitative techniques were employed in gathering, organising and analysing information obtained from the participants. Pilot questions were distributed to all relevant managers within the Amathole District Municipality. The primary data was gathered from Directors, Heads of Departments (HODs), general managers, senior managers, unit managers and assistant managers with a view to ascertaining their level of understanding of the importance of facilities management (FM) within the Amathole District Municipality. The secondary data for this study was obtained from a literature review of relevant publications from various sources, such as reports, books, the internet and articles. From the respondents’ responses, it can be noted that facility management is of benefit to the organization in that it provides for cost value benefit, the development of policies, safety, good property management and an efficient security system. One of the main drawbacks is the lack of a facilities manager in the department. No Senior Manager has been appointed with the facilities management portfolio, which would assist the top management in making informed decisions. As a result, there is no facilities management strategy, policy or framework to guide the portfolio in the right direction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sibefu, Mawonga Edwin
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Facility management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Building management Real estate management Housing management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35740 , vital:33796
- Description: Facilities management is a profession that encompasses multiple disciplines to ensure the functionality of the built environment by integrating people, places, processes and technology. It combines management and business with the most current professional and technical knowledge to provide a people-oriented and effective work environment. The study has the following objectives: to determine whether pro-active planning in order to optimise sustainable physical infrastructure is currently being carried out; to determine whether the cost structure of facilities management is being analysed to ensure proper planning that is aligned with the budget and to determine whether the organisational structure of facilities management (FM) is developed and fully staffed with qualified officials and that it is being operated from the correct department. This will ensure that facilities management carries out its mandate of creating jobs. The mixed research methodology was used in this study as both quantitative and qualitative techniques were employed in gathering, organising and analysing information obtained from the participants. Pilot questions were distributed to all relevant managers within the Amathole District Municipality. The primary data was gathered from Directors, Heads of Departments (HODs), general managers, senior managers, unit managers and assistant managers with a view to ascertaining their level of understanding of the importance of facilities management (FM) within the Amathole District Municipality. The secondary data for this study was obtained from a literature review of relevant publications from various sources, such as reports, books, the internet and articles. From the respondents’ responses, it can be noted that facility management is of benefit to the organization in that it provides for cost value benefit, the development of policies, safety, good property management and an efficient security system. One of the main drawbacks is the lack of a facilities manager in the department. No Senior Manager has been appointed with the facilities management portfolio, which would assist the top management in making informed decisions. As a result, there is no facilities management strategy, policy or framework to guide the portfolio in the right direction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A gender based analysis of the Amalima Programme in empowering married women within households in rural Gwanda, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Sibanda, Patience
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Power (Social sciences) Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Women Zimbabwe Social conditions , Women's rights Zimbabwe , Patriarchy Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63682 , vital:28470
- Description: Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have occupied a prominent role in the socio-economic development of rural areas of Zimbabwe since the time of the country’s independence in 1980, including a focus on improving the conditions and status of women in communal areas. These NGOs adopt a participatory methodology in their development programmes and projects, as they try to ensure that the active participation of women in rural development facilitates women’s access to resources and the realisation of their rights. These initiatives are important given the pronounced system of patriarchy which exists in communal areas. In the context of local patriarchies, NGOs also often claim that they empower women. This thesis focuses on the work of one particular NGO programme, namely the Amalima programme, with a particular focus on three wards in the communal areas in Gwanda, Zimbabwe. From a gendered perspective concerned with questions of women’s empowerment, the main objective of the thesis is to provide a critical analysis of the Amalima programme with particular reference to married women in Gwanda. Based on original fieldwork (including interviews with men, women and NGO practitioners), the thesis concludes that the outcomes of the Amalima programme in empowering married women in Gwanda are uneven and that, overall, the local system of patriarchy (including at household level) remains largely intact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sibanda, Patience
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Power (Social sciences) Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province , Women Zimbabwe Social conditions , Women's rights Zimbabwe , Patriarchy Zimbabwe Matabeleland South Province
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63682 , vital:28470
- Description: Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have occupied a prominent role in the socio-economic development of rural areas of Zimbabwe since the time of the country’s independence in 1980, including a focus on improving the conditions and status of women in communal areas. These NGOs adopt a participatory methodology in their development programmes and projects, as they try to ensure that the active participation of women in rural development facilitates women’s access to resources and the realisation of their rights. These initiatives are important given the pronounced system of patriarchy which exists in communal areas. In the context of local patriarchies, NGOs also often claim that they empower women. This thesis focuses on the work of one particular NGO programme, namely the Amalima programme, with a particular focus on three wards in the communal areas in Gwanda, Zimbabwe. From a gendered perspective concerned with questions of women’s empowerment, the main objective of the thesis is to provide a critical analysis of the Amalima programme with particular reference to married women in Gwanda. Based on original fieldwork (including interviews with men, women and NGO practitioners), the thesis concludes that the outcomes of the Amalima programme in empowering married women in Gwanda are uneven and that, overall, the local system of patriarchy (including at household level) remains largely intact.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Taxation of non-resident digital companies providing services in South Africa
- Authors: Shumba, Marilyn Tatenda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic commerce Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Value-added tax South Africa , Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Business enterprises, Foreign Taxation Law and legislation South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61680 , vital:28048
- Description: The role played by electronic commerce has increased in recent years and continues to increase. Due to this increase in the buying and selling of digital goods and services, revenue authorities have had to recognise that the existing taxation laws do not adequately tax the digital economy. The goal of this research was to establish how South Africa could amend its fiscal legislation in order to adequately tax the digital economy. The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) has been the leader in addressing the challenges posed by the digital economy. The thesis therefore focused on the recommendations by the OECD on how to tax the digital economy and relevant recommendations for South were adopted in this thesis, based on the work of the OECD. The main focus of these recommendations was on implementing the International VAT/GST Guidelines that were drafted by the OECD. The thesis also focused on the progress made by New Zealand with regard to taxing of the digital economy. New Zealand has a similar taxation system to South Africa so that the progress made there was relevant in the South African context. Recommendations were also made, based on the proposals by the New Zealand revenue authority that South Africa could adopt in taxing the digital economy. The main focus of these recommendations was lowering the Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration threshold for non-resident suppliers of electronic services and enacting legislation to provide for registration of an electronic marketplace for VAT purposes, instead of an individual supplier.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Shumba, Marilyn Tatenda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic commerce Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Value-added tax South Africa , Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development , Taxation Law and legislation South Africa , Business enterprises, Foreign Taxation Law and legislation South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61680 , vital:28048
- Description: The role played by electronic commerce has increased in recent years and continues to increase. Due to this increase in the buying and selling of digital goods and services, revenue authorities have had to recognise that the existing taxation laws do not adequately tax the digital economy. The goal of this research was to establish how South Africa could amend its fiscal legislation in order to adequately tax the digital economy. The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) has been the leader in addressing the challenges posed by the digital economy. The thesis therefore focused on the recommendations by the OECD on how to tax the digital economy and relevant recommendations for South were adopted in this thesis, based on the work of the OECD. The main focus of these recommendations was on implementing the International VAT/GST Guidelines that were drafted by the OECD. The thesis also focused on the progress made by New Zealand with regard to taxing of the digital economy. New Zealand has a similar taxation system to South Africa so that the progress made there was relevant in the South African context. Recommendations were also made, based on the proposals by the New Zealand revenue authority that South Africa could adopt in taxing the digital economy. The main focus of these recommendations was lowering the Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration threshold for non-resident suppliers of electronic services and enacting legislation to provide for registration of an electronic marketplace for VAT purposes, instead of an individual supplier.
- 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