Case study : using visual representations to enhance conceptual knowledge of division in mathematics
- Authors: Joel, Linea Beautty
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching , Visual learning , Division -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1992 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013356
- Description: Literature emphasizes how important it is that procedural and conceptual knowledge of mathematics should be learned in integration. Yet, generally, the learning and teaching in mathematics classrooms relies heavily on isolated procedures. This study aims to improve teaching and learning of partitive and quotitive division, moving away from isolated procedural knowledge to that of procedures with their underlying concepts through the use of manipulatives, visual representation and questioning. Learning and teaching lessons were designed to teach partitive and quotitive division both procedurally and conceptually. The study explored the roles these manipulatives, visual representations and questioning played toward the conceptual learning of partitive and quotitive division. It was found that manipulatives and iconic visualization enhanced learning, and this could be achieved through scaffolding using a questioning approach. It was concluded that manipulatives and iconic visualization need to be properly planned and used, and integrated with questioning to achieve success in the learning of procedural and conceptual knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Case study : using visual representations to enhance conceptual knowledge of division in mathematics
- Authors: Joel, Linea Beautty
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching , Visual learning , Division -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1992 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013356
- Description: Literature emphasizes how important it is that procedural and conceptual knowledge of mathematics should be learned in integration. Yet, generally, the learning and teaching in mathematics classrooms relies heavily on isolated procedures. This study aims to improve teaching and learning of partitive and quotitive division, moving away from isolated procedural knowledge to that of procedures with their underlying concepts through the use of manipulatives, visual representation and questioning. Learning and teaching lessons were designed to teach partitive and quotitive division both procedurally and conceptually. The study explored the roles these manipulatives, visual representations and questioning played toward the conceptual learning of partitive and quotitive division. It was found that manipulatives and iconic visualization enhanced learning, and this could be achieved through scaffolding using a questioning approach. It was concluded that manipulatives and iconic visualization need to be properly planned and used, and integrated with questioning to achieve success in the learning of procedural and conceptual knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Antifugal evaluation and phytochemical analysis of selected medicinal plants used in the treatment of fungal diseases associated with HIV infection in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mbeng, Wilfred Otang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Botany)
- Identifier: vital:11307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006834 , Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Description: Background. As a result of the AIDS pandemic, many people areimmuno compromised andopportunistic fungal infections (OFIs) such as candidiasis are common. Despite the widespread use of medicinal plants in South Africa, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the use of such plants in the management of these infections. This study evaluates three South African medicinal plants (Arctotis arctotoides, Pittosporum viridiflorum, and Gasteria bicolor) traditionally used in the treatment of OFIs in HIV/AIDS patients, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Materials and methods. A six-stage process of documentation, evaluation and analysis of results was conducted: (1) Selection of medicinal plants most frequently used in the treatment of OFIs through ethnomedical studies and the survey of specialised literature; (2) Collection and preparation of the extract of each plant; (3) Antifungal evaluation of the crude plant extracts. (4) Phytochemical and antioxidant evaluation of the active crude plant extracts; (5) Cytotoxicity evaluation of the bioactive extracts using the Chang liver cell line, and (6) Statistical analysis of the results. Ethnobotanical information was obtained through interviews with traditional healers and AIDS patients with the aid of semi-structured questionnaires, direct observations and by reviewing studies reported in the literature. Following the approval from the University of Fort Hare‘s Ethics Committee, 101 HIV/AIDS patients were recruited through convenience sampling into an anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire study. The agar diffusion and micro-dilution methods were used to determine the antifungal activities of the hexane, acetone and aqueous extracts of A. arctotoides, G. bicolor and P. viridiflorum against 10 opportunistic fungi.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mbeng, Wilfred Otang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Botany)
- Identifier: vital:11307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006834 , Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Description: Background. As a result of the AIDS pandemic, many people areimmuno compromised andopportunistic fungal infections (OFIs) such as candidiasis are common. Despite the widespread use of medicinal plants in South Africa, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the use of such plants in the management of these infections. This study evaluates three South African medicinal plants (Arctotis arctotoides, Pittosporum viridiflorum, and Gasteria bicolor) traditionally used in the treatment of OFIs in HIV/AIDS patients, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Materials and methods. A six-stage process of documentation, evaluation and analysis of results was conducted: (1) Selection of medicinal plants most frequently used in the treatment of OFIs through ethnomedical studies and the survey of specialised literature; (2) Collection and preparation of the extract of each plant; (3) Antifungal evaluation of the crude plant extracts. (4) Phytochemical and antioxidant evaluation of the active crude plant extracts; (5) Cytotoxicity evaluation of the bioactive extracts using the Chang liver cell line, and (6) Statistical analysis of the results. Ethnobotanical information was obtained through interviews with traditional healers and AIDS patients with the aid of semi-structured questionnaires, direct observations and by reviewing studies reported in the literature. Following the approval from the University of Fort Hare‘s Ethics Committee, 101 HIV/AIDS patients were recruited through convenience sampling into an anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire study. The agar diffusion and micro-dilution methods were used to determine the antifungal activities of the hexane, acetone and aqueous extracts of A. arctotoides, G. bicolor and P. viridiflorum against 10 opportunistic fungi.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Comparative phototransformation of environmental pollutants using metallophthalocyanines supported on electrospun polymer fibers
- Zugle, Ruphino, Nyokong, Tebello
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190509 , vital:45001 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/app.38381"
- Description: The fluorescence and photoactivity of a series of Zn and Lu phthalocyanine complexes incorporated in various polymer fibers were investigated for the phototransformation of 4-chlorophenol, 4-nitrophenol, and methyl orange. The phthalocyanine complexes functionalized on polystyrene and polysulfone polymer fibers could be applied in the degradation of 4-chlorophenol, 4-nitrophenol, and methyl orange with 4-chlorophenol being much more susceptible to degradation while methyl orange was the least. Also polymer fibers of polystyrene were found to be reusable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Zugle, Ruphino , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190509 , vital:45001 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/app.38381"
- Description: The fluorescence and photoactivity of a series of Zn and Lu phthalocyanine complexes incorporated in various polymer fibers were investigated for the phototransformation of 4-chlorophenol, 4-nitrophenol, and methyl orange. The phthalocyanine complexes functionalized on polystyrene and polysulfone polymer fibers could be applied in the degradation of 4-chlorophenol, 4-nitrophenol, and methyl orange with 4-chlorophenol being much more susceptible to degradation while methyl orange was the least. Also polymer fibers of polystyrene were found to be reusable.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gasification characteristics of sugarcane bagasse
- Authors: Anukam, Anthony Ike
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016170 , Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Description: Sugarcane is a major crop in many countries. It is the most abundant lignocellulosic material in tropical countries such as South Africa. It is one of the plants with the highest bioconversion efficiency. The sugarcane crop is able to efficiently fix solar energy, yielding some 55 tons of dry matter per hectare of land annually. After harvest, the crop produces sugar juice and bagasse. Sugarcane bagasse is a residue that results from the crushing of sugarcane in the sugar industry. It is a renewable feedstock that can be used for power generation and manufacturing cellulosic ethanol. As biomass, sugarcane bagasse holds promise as a fuel source since it can produce more than enough electricity and heat energy to supply the needs of a common sugar factory. However, in the sugarcane industry the bagasse is currently burnt inefficiently in boilers that provide the heating for the industry. This project seeks to investigate the possibility of gasifying sugarcane bagasse as an efficient conversion technology. The investigation is necessary because fuel properties govern the gasifier design and ultimately, the gasification efficiency. Proximate and ultimate analysis of sugarcane bagasse was conducted after which the results were used to conduct a computer simulation of the mass and energy balance during gasification. The kinetic investigation undertaken through the TGA and DTG analyses revealed the activation energy and pre – exponential factor which were obtained by the model – free Kissinger method of kinetic analysis and were found to be 181.51 kJ/mol and 3.1 × 103/min respectively. The heating value of sugarcane bagasse was also measured and found to be 17.8 MJ/kg, which was used in the calculation of the conversion efficiency of the gasification process. Fuel properties, including moisture content and gasifier operating parameters were varied in order to determine optimum gasifier operating conditions that results in maximum conversion efficiency. The highest conversion efficiency was achieved at low moisture content after computer simulation of the gasification process. Moisture content also affected the volume of CO and H2 as the former decreases with increasing moisture content while the latter increases with increasing moisture content, accelerating the water – gas reaction. Scanning electron microscope fitted to an Energy dispersive X – ray spectroscopy was also used in order to view the shape and size distribution as well as determine the elemental composition of sugarcane bagasse. The results obtained established that the fuel properties and gasification conditions affect the conversion efficiency. During computer simulation, it was established that smaller particle size resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The smaller throat diameter also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The throat angle of 25° also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The temperature of input air was also found to be one of the major determining factors in terms of conversion efficiency. The dissertation presents the proximate and ultimate analysis results as well as the kinetic analysis results. The SEM/EDX analysis as well as the computer simulation results of the gasification process is also presented. The major contribution of this project was on the investigation of the gasification characteristics of sugarcane bagasse and the utilization of these in the design of a laboratory scale sugarcane bagasse gasifier with enhanced conversion efficiency through computer simulation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Anukam, Anthony Ike
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016170 , Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Description: Sugarcane is a major crop in many countries. It is the most abundant lignocellulosic material in tropical countries such as South Africa. It is one of the plants with the highest bioconversion efficiency. The sugarcane crop is able to efficiently fix solar energy, yielding some 55 tons of dry matter per hectare of land annually. After harvest, the crop produces sugar juice and bagasse. Sugarcane bagasse is a residue that results from the crushing of sugarcane in the sugar industry. It is a renewable feedstock that can be used for power generation and manufacturing cellulosic ethanol. As biomass, sugarcane bagasse holds promise as a fuel source since it can produce more than enough electricity and heat energy to supply the needs of a common sugar factory. However, in the sugarcane industry the bagasse is currently burnt inefficiently in boilers that provide the heating for the industry. This project seeks to investigate the possibility of gasifying sugarcane bagasse as an efficient conversion technology. The investigation is necessary because fuel properties govern the gasifier design and ultimately, the gasification efficiency. Proximate and ultimate analysis of sugarcane bagasse was conducted after which the results were used to conduct a computer simulation of the mass and energy balance during gasification. The kinetic investigation undertaken through the TGA and DTG analyses revealed the activation energy and pre – exponential factor which were obtained by the model – free Kissinger method of kinetic analysis and were found to be 181.51 kJ/mol and 3.1 × 103/min respectively. The heating value of sugarcane bagasse was also measured and found to be 17.8 MJ/kg, which was used in the calculation of the conversion efficiency of the gasification process. Fuel properties, including moisture content and gasifier operating parameters were varied in order to determine optimum gasifier operating conditions that results in maximum conversion efficiency. The highest conversion efficiency was achieved at low moisture content after computer simulation of the gasification process. Moisture content also affected the volume of CO and H2 as the former decreases with increasing moisture content while the latter increases with increasing moisture content, accelerating the water – gas reaction. Scanning electron microscope fitted to an Energy dispersive X – ray spectroscopy was also used in order to view the shape and size distribution as well as determine the elemental composition of sugarcane bagasse. The results obtained established that the fuel properties and gasification conditions affect the conversion efficiency. During computer simulation, it was established that smaller particle size resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The smaller throat diameter also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The throat angle of 25° also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The temperature of input air was also found to be one of the major determining factors in terms of conversion efficiency. The dissertation presents the proximate and ultimate analysis results as well as the kinetic analysis results. The SEM/EDX analysis as well as the computer simulation results of the gasification process is also presented. The major contribution of this project was on the investigation of the gasification characteristics of sugarcane bagasse and the utilization of these in the design of a laboratory scale sugarcane bagasse gasifier with enhanced conversion efficiency through computer simulation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of mining on infrastructure development and poverty reduction in mining communities
- Authors: Xongo, Nosipho
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Economic development -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Poverty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9309 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018576
- Description: There is a growing concern from government, communities, civil society and mining companies on the sustained development of the impact of mining on communities and the benefits of mineral development. Communities are more vocal in expressing their expectations for benefits and on the other hand mines are concerned about profits and maintaining a social licence to operate. This study critically evaluates the impact mining has on socio-economic development in mining communities. The focus area of the study is the West Rand District Municipality in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The ‘impact’ refers to the mine’s contribution to infrastructure development and poverty reduction projects in areas where the mine is operating and sourcing labour from. Forecasts for better performance in the future will be assessed. Issues such as community consultation, identification of projects, development forums, the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and partnerships are addressed. The literature was reviewed from existing national and international research on the topic. The study starts from two assumptions. The first is that minerals are potentially a great resource of wealth for poor countries. The second assumption is that minerals have the potential to benefit the local population through the creation of indirect employment, skills transfer, enhancing the capacity of health and education services, improved infrastructure and small and medium business opportunities. Poverty levels are viewed on a national and international scale. The study reveals problems, with existing approaches, on mine community development. It concludes that the impact of mining on infrastructure development and poverty reduction projects can be huge, but only if a variety of demanding preconditions are met. The study concludes that the reality of mineral led development in mine communities has not lived up to a roaring promise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Xongo, Nosipho
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mineral industries -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Economic development -- Environmental aspects -- South Africa -- Gauteng , Poverty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9309 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018576
- Description: There is a growing concern from government, communities, civil society and mining companies on the sustained development of the impact of mining on communities and the benefits of mineral development. Communities are more vocal in expressing their expectations for benefits and on the other hand mines are concerned about profits and maintaining a social licence to operate. This study critically evaluates the impact mining has on socio-economic development in mining communities. The focus area of the study is the West Rand District Municipality in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The ‘impact’ refers to the mine’s contribution to infrastructure development and poverty reduction projects in areas where the mine is operating and sourcing labour from. Forecasts for better performance in the future will be assessed. Issues such as community consultation, identification of projects, development forums, the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and partnerships are addressed. The literature was reviewed from existing national and international research on the topic. The study starts from two assumptions. The first is that minerals are potentially a great resource of wealth for poor countries. The second assumption is that minerals have the potential to benefit the local population through the creation of indirect employment, skills transfer, enhancing the capacity of health and education services, improved infrastructure and small and medium business opportunities. Poverty levels are viewed on a national and international scale. The study reveals problems, with existing approaches, on mine community development. It concludes that the impact of mining on infrastructure development and poverty reduction projects can be huge, but only if a variety of demanding preconditions are met. The study concludes that the reality of mineral led development in mine communities has not lived up to a roaring promise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Exploring the management of information technology funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning : a case study of two schools in the King William's Town Education District
- Authors: Ngcoza, Xoliswa Phyllis
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information technology--Management Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17439 , vital:40968
- Description: Today the term ‘Information Technology’ (IT) is a buzz word globally. It is an indispensable tool in government departments and it enhances management, planning and organisation of all activities in the departments. Information Technology (IT) refers to equipments such as overhead and digital projectors, digital cameras, cell phones, Television recorders, language laboratories, printers, computers and all its components such as different soft wares, hard wares, Central Processing Units (CPU) etc. These machines are teaching aids just like pens, rulers, writing boards etc when they are used by teachers and become learning tools when they are used by learners. It can be argued that IT can be the life blood of management in schools because by using it all the departments in the institutions are managed and co-ordinated easily. The database containing information about the learners, the staff, the subjects offered, the compiling and filing of mark schedules are easily done and are available at any time on request. IT helps in the managing of learning and teaching. The main focus of this study is to explore the management of IT funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning. Today without funds IT use would be impossible. Relevant soft wares for all subjects taught such as Mathematics, Biology, Physical Education Environmental Studies etc are managed and planned by the management of the institutions to enable teachers to teach effectively and efficiently and to make studies easy for the learners to understand and to do research on their own. When the IT equipments are used properly, fast, efficient and effective service delivery would be realized. All these technological tools aforementioned depend on the availability of funds in the institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ngcoza, Xoliswa Phyllis
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information technology--Management Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17439 , vital:40968
- Description: Today the term ‘Information Technology’ (IT) is a buzz word globally. It is an indispensable tool in government departments and it enhances management, planning and organisation of all activities in the departments. Information Technology (IT) refers to equipments such as overhead and digital projectors, digital cameras, cell phones, Television recorders, language laboratories, printers, computers and all its components such as different soft wares, hard wares, Central Processing Units (CPU) etc. These machines are teaching aids just like pens, rulers, writing boards etc when they are used by teachers and become learning tools when they are used by learners. It can be argued that IT can be the life blood of management in schools because by using it all the departments in the institutions are managed and co-ordinated easily. The database containing information about the learners, the staff, the subjects offered, the compiling and filing of mark schedules are easily done and are available at any time on request. IT helps in the managing of learning and teaching. The main focus of this study is to explore the management of IT funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning. Today without funds IT use would be impossible. Relevant soft wares for all subjects taught such as Mathematics, Biology, Physical Education Environmental Studies etc are managed and planned by the management of the institutions to enable teachers to teach effectively and efficiently and to make studies easy for the learners to understand and to do research on their own. When the IT equipments are used properly, fast, efficient and effective service delivery would be realized. All these technological tools aforementioned depend on the availability of funds in the institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Assessing asset management in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mahlangabeza, Bukeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Asset management accounts -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Local government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8848 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020108
- Description: Due to scarce financial resources, over-stretched budgets, pressures for service delivery and the dynamic nature of local government, asset management plays a key strategic role in enhancing local municipal functionality and efficiency. Asset management is the management of physical assets, infrastructure, and immoveable assets. It is an evolving discipline that is enhanced by the understanding of asset conditions and performance. It improves decision-making within local government. Every year, local government announces millions of Rands’ worth of assets that are unaccounted for and that go missing in annual reports. It was the purpose of this study to assess the asset management function at the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The aim is to improve the management of moveable assets by investigating the following variables: strategic management of assets, knowledge management, governance, leadership, the impact of corruption and skills management. The approach to the study is a qualitative research paradigm with a case study methodology and an interview as a research instrument. The sample chosen comprised people from the top level of municipal management down to municipal asset controllers. The two forms of data that were collected in the study were primary data and secondary data. Primary data was collected from municipal workers and collated together for analysis purposes. Secondary data was gathered from library sources such as journals, books, conference papers, government acts, municipal policies and local newspapers. This data informed the interview questions. The interview strategy was chosen as the best way to conduct the empirical part of this research and was guided by an interview guide. The study found that there are operational defects in the way asset management is organised. This makes the function seem unimportant. The results also indicated a lack of staff members and skills shortages; such as management and computer skills. Indications are that theft, negligence, corruption and carelessness negatively impact the management of assets. Recommendations include the filling of vacant posts, tightening of internal controls, providing the necessary training and improving the asset management. The study makes a contribution to the current body of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mahlangabeza, Bukeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Asset management accounts -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Local government -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Management -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8848 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020108
- Description: Due to scarce financial resources, over-stretched budgets, pressures for service delivery and the dynamic nature of local government, asset management plays a key strategic role in enhancing local municipal functionality and efficiency. Asset management is the management of physical assets, infrastructure, and immoveable assets. It is an evolving discipline that is enhanced by the understanding of asset conditions and performance. It improves decision-making within local government. Every year, local government announces millions of Rands’ worth of assets that are unaccounted for and that go missing in annual reports. It was the purpose of this study to assess the asset management function at the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The aim is to improve the management of moveable assets by investigating the following variables: strategic management of assets, knowledge management, governance, leadership, the impact of corruption and skills management. The approach to the study is a qualitative research paradigm with a case study methodology and an interview as a research instrument. The sample chosen comprised people from the top level of municipal management down to municipal asset controllers. The two forms of data that were collected in the study were primary data and secondary data. Primary data was collected from municipal workers and collated together for analysis purposes. Secondary data was gathered from library sources such as journals, books, conference papers, government acts, municipal policies and local newspapers. This data informed the interview questions. The interview strategy was chosen as the best way to conduct the empirical part of this research and was guided by an interview guide. The study found that there are operational defects in the way asset management is organised. This makes the function seem unimportant. The results also indicated a lack of staff members and skills shortages; such as management and computer skills. Indications are that theft, negligence, corruption and carelessness negatively impact the management of assets. Recommendations include the filling of vacant posts, tightening of internal controls, providing the necessary training and improving the asset management. The study makes a contribution to the current body of knowledge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A study of the factors impacting on the performance of school opernational teams in secondary schools in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Gibbs, Marilyn Dawn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Teaching teams -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Teams in the workplace -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020783
- Description: It is critical in this dynamic and changing environment that both the leadership and educators of schools and organisations are well equipped with the skills and knowledge to create high performance teams (HPT). High performance teams can be defined as those highly motivated team players in the organisation or school that maximise their people integrated knowledge, skills and values to a shared purpose or vision of their stakeholders. In this mixed method research an analysis of the whole school operational teams of some secondary schools including all educators, head of departments, administrators and principals was undertaken. Four secondary schools from two quintile groups situated in various areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan were the sampling units and the sample size was eighty one. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected utilising a carefully constructed questionnaire based on a theoretical conceptual framework of enabling factors for HPT in business contexts. The theoretical framework of the Kenexa High Performance Model was utilised in this study. A questionnaire was constructed based on the factors of the High Performance Work Index (HPW) study done by the Australian Business School. This model was adjusted to utilise factors aligned to those factors within the school operational context. Using other literature references further factors were included into the survey instrument. The School High Performance Work Index (SHPWI) was the dependent variable while the independent variables included organizational commitment, and employee engagement. These were literature based measures and the questionnaire items were taken from previous research studies, thereby allowing construct validity. The other independent variables included Communication, Leadership, Strategic Management, School Organizational Climate, Positive Practices, Conflict Management, Motivation and Trust. A statistical analysis was undertaken on each school’s team response data. Reliability and validity of the constructed questionnaire was shown by using the Kenexa employee engagement index and the Organizational Commitment measure, which were highly correlated with the SHPWI. In literature, high performance teams (HPT) show common patterns in business and in this study it was seen that a number of common factors contributed towards a HPT in school operational teams. In this research study the main enabling factors in whole school operational teams that could lead to the formation of HPT’s involved factors of leadership, communication and motivation. The SHPWI showed a high correlation with employee engagement and organizational commitment. The HPT profile involved innovation (freedom of thinking), employee (educator) engagement, fairness, leadership, learner needs, communication, trust, conflict management, school organizational climate, positive practices, strategic management and motivation. In the correlation between the SHPWI and the independent variables the highest correlation (statistically significant at p < 0.05 N = 81; r > 0. 500) occurred between the School High Performance Index and Leadership (0.822), Communication (0.785) and Motivation (0.766). In the multiple linear regression (MLR) of the results of this study the highest correlations with a value of R2 = 0.774 was obtained with variables of Leadership, Communication, Motivation and Strategic Management factors. Qualitative data was coded and linked with the factors in the quantitative data and the top five factors were selected and summarised for each school. Merged data showed that each school exhibited a different profile of strengths and weaknesses. Recommendations were outlined for each school operational team. Different schools in different quintiles have different needs and gap factors that require improvement. It is therefore imperative that schools analyse their strengths and weaknesses within their school operational teams. This research study aimed therefore to start research on a human resource metric that can be further developed to allow school operational teams to examine and analyze their own HPT profile, so that specific interventions may be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gibbs, Marilyn Dawn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Teaching teams -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Teams in the workplace -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8883 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020783
- Description: It is critical in this dynamic and changing environment that both the leadership and educators of schools and organisations are well equipped with the skills and knowledge to create high performance teams (HPT). High performance teams can be defined as those highly motivated team players in the organisation or school that maximise their people integrated knowledge, skills and values to a shared purpose or vision of their stakeholders. In this mixed method research an analysis of the whole school operational teams of some secondary schools including all educators, head of departments, administrators and principals was undertaken. Four secondary schools from two quintile groups situated in various areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan were the sampling units and the sample size was eighty one. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected utilising a carefully constructed questionnaire based on a theoretical conceptual framework of enabling factors for HPT in business contexts. The theoretical framework of the Kenexa High Performance Model was utilised in this study. A questionnaire was constructed based on the factors of the High Performance Work Index (HPW) study done by the Australian Business School. This model was adjusted to utilise factors aligned to those factors within the school operational context. Using other literature references further factors were included into the survey instrument. The School High Performance Work Index (SHPWI) was the dependent variable while the independent variables included organizational commitment, and employee engagement. These were literature based measures and the questionnaire items were taken from previous research studies, thereby allowing construct validity. The other independent variables included Communication, Leadership, Strategic Management, School Organizational Climate, Positive Practices, Conflict Management, Motivation and Trust. A statistical analysis was undertaken on each school’s team response data. Reliability and validity of the constructed questionnaire was shown by using the Kenexa employee engagement index and the Organizational Commitment measure, which were highly correlated with the SHPWI. In literature, high performance teams (HPT) show common patterns in business and in this study it was seen that a number of common factors contributed towards a HPT in school operational teams. In this research study the main enabling factors in whole school operational teams that could lead to the formation of HPT’s involved factors of leadership, communication and motivation. The SHPWI showed a high correlation with employee engagement and organizational commitment. The HPT profile involved innovation (freedom of thinking), employee (educator) engagement, fairness, leadership, learner needs, communication, trust, conflict management, school organizational climate, positive practices, strategic management and motivation. In the correlation between the SHPWI and the independent variables the highest correlation (statistically significant at p < 0.05 N = 81; r > 0. 500) occurred between the School High Performance Index and Leadership (0.822), Communication (0.785) and Motivation (0.766). In the multiple linear regression (MLR) of the results of this study the highest correlations with a value of R2 = 0.774 was obtained with variables of Leadership, Communication, Motivation and Strategic Management factors. Qualitative data was coded and linked with the factors in the quantitative data and the top five factors were selected and summarised for each school. Merged data showed that each school exhibited a different profile of strengths and weaknesses. Recommendations were outlined for each school operational team. Different schools in different quintiles have different needs and gap factors that require improvement. It is therefore imperative that schools analyse their strengths and weaknesses within their school operational teams. This research study aimed therefore to start research on a human resource metric that can be further developed to allow school operational teams to examine and analyze their own HPT profile, so that specific interventions may be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Selected physiological and perceptual responses of batsmen during a simulated one day international century : impact on performance
- Authors: Pote, Lee
- Date: 2013 , 2013-04-02
- Subjects: Cricket -- Batting , Sports -- Physiological aspects , Sports -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5097 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001650
- Description: Background: Very few studies have examined the demands of prolonged batting on physical, psychophysical and performance responses. Objective: The purpose of this study was therefore to determine the physiological and perceptual responses of batsmen scoring a simulated One Day International century. Furthermore, the impact that these responses had on batting performance were also measured. Methods: Seventeen male cricketers currently playing for Rhodes University or the country districts side, performed a simulated bating innings (BATEX©), typical of scoring a One Day international century. The BATEX© protocol consisted of six, five over stages (21 minutes each), with each stage matched to a specific phase of play where batsmen were encouraged to bat with the mindset of that phase. During stages one, three and five players ran at a “self-selected cruise pace” whereas during stages two, four and six players were required to run at maximum speed. At set intervals, selected physiological, perceptual and performance measures were recorded. Results: Most physiological responses increased and decreased accordingly with the low and high intensity stages with the exception of respiratory exchange ratio and core temperature responses. Mean physiological responses however, showed a progressive rise over time. Central ratings of perceived exertion increased as a function of intensity and duration. Sprint times got slower as the protocol progressed, while accuracy (impact accuracy) improved significantly (p<0.05) after stage one and then stabilised for the remainder of the protocol. Conclusion: The simulated batting protocol significantly impacted the physiological and perceptual responses over time. This was due to both the intensity and the duration of the work-bout. Furthermore, the increased physiological load placed on the batsmen significantly impacted the physical performance of the batsmen. An increase in sprint times (players getting slower) towards the end of the protocol may indicate the presence of physical fatigue. This physical fatigue did not however seem to impact the batsmen cognitively as accuracy improved after the first stage and then remained constant over time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Pote, Lee
- Date: 2013 , 2013-04-02
- Subjects: Cricket -- Batting , Sports -- Physiological aspects , Sports -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5097 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001650
- Description: Background: Very few studies have examined the demands of prolonged batting on physical, psychophysical and performance responses. Objective: The purpose of this study was therefore to determine the physiological and perceptual responses of batsmen scoring a simulated One Day International century. Furthermore, the impact that these responses had on batting performance were also measured. Methods: Seventeen male cricketers currently playing for Rhodes University or the country districts side, performed a simulated bating innings (BATEX©), typical of scoring a One Day international century. The BATEX© protocol consisted of six, five over stages (21 minutes each), with each stage matched to a specific phase of play where batsmen were encouraged to bat with the mindset of that phase. During stages one, three and five players ran at a “self-selected cruise pace” whereas during stages two, four and six players were required to run at maximum speed. At set intervals, selected physiological, perceptual and performance measures were recorded. Results: Most physiological responses increased and decreased accordingly with the low and high intensity stages with the exception of respiratory exchange ratio and core temperature responses. Mean physiological responses however, showed a progressive rise over time. Central ratings of perceived exertion increased as a function of intensity and duration. Sprint times got slower as the protocol progressed, while accuracy (impact accuracy) improved significantly (p<0.05) after stage one and then stabilised for the remainder of the protocol. Conclusion: The simulated batting protocol significantly impacted the physiological and perceptual responses over time. This was due to both the intensity and the duration of the work-bout. Furthermore, the increased physiological load placed on the batsmen significantly impacted the physical performance of the batsmen. An increase in sprint times (players getting slower) towards the end of the protocol may indicate the presence of physical fatigue. This physical fatigue did not however seem to impact the batsmen cognitively as accuracy improved after the first stage and then remained constant over time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Spiritual rituals and competitive sport outcomes: a study of South African coaches’ and elite players’ perceptions of spirituality in soccer
- Authors: Dodo, Emmanuel Oluwafemi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (HMS)
- Identifier: vital:11541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006780 , Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Description: During sports competitions, especially soccer many players and coaches would pray before, during and after the game. Sometimes they would pray when they score a goal. The behaviour has attracted a research interest wanting to know why they do what they do often. The purpose of the study was to understand and evaluate the perceptions of coaches and elite players who continuously use spiritual rituals before, during and after soccer games to influence competitive outcomes. This study was carried out under the guidance of the following key questions; (a) Do spiritual perceptions of elite players influence outcomes of soccer competitions? (b) Does a divergence in spiritual perception between coaches and players influence competitive outcomes? and (c) Are spiritual (ritual) perceptions of soccer coaches and elite players related to religiosity/psychological interventions? In this study, a mixed method of data collection was used to eliminate the biases inherent in single method research. Specifically, qualitative and quantitative methods involving questionnaire, interview and observation supported by secondary and primary literature were used to gather information that would provide answers to the raised key questions. The results show that spiritual ritual practices would not influence the outcome of soccer competitions. Secondly, the spiritual ritual divergence among players and coaches would not influence outcomes of soccer competitions. Thirdly, the results showed that the use of spiritual rituals among players was purely for personal reasons, while the coaches used spiritual rituals as psychological intervention strategy to prepare the team before a given competitive. The overall results show that coaches and players agreed that spiritual rituals interventions are used for psychological interventions more than spiritual interventions. The implications of these findings to the players and coaches are discussed linked with future research focus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Dodo, Emmanuel Oluwafemi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (HMS)
- Identifier: vital:11541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006780 , Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Description: During sports competitions, especially soccer many players and coaches would pray before, during and after the game. Sometimes they would pray when they score a goal. The behaviour has attracted a research interest wanting to know why they do what they do often. The purpose of the study was to understand and evaluate the perceptions of coaches and elite players who continuously use spiritual rituals before, during and after soccer games to influence competitive outcomes. This study was carried out under the guidance of the following key questions; (a) Do spiritual perceptions of elite players influence outcomes of soccer competitions? (b) Does a divergence in spiritual perception between coaches and players influence competitive outcomes? and (c) Are spiritual (ritual) perceptions of soccer coaches and elite players related to religiosity/psychological interventions? In this study, a mixed method of data collection was used to eliminate the biases inherent in single method research. Specifically, qualitative and quantitative methods involving questionnaire, interview and observation supported by secondary and primary literature were used to gather information that would provide answers to the raised key questions. The results show that spiritual ritual practices would not influence the outcome of soccer competitions. Secondly, the spiritual ritual divergence among players and coaches would not influence outcomes of soccer competitions. Thirdly, the results showed that the use of spiritual rituals among players was purely for personal reasons, while the coaches used spiritual rituals as psychological intervention strategy to prepare the team before a given competitive. The overall results show that coaches and players agreed that spiritual rituals interventions are used for psychological interventions more than spiritual interventions. The implications of these findings to the players and coaches are discussed linked with future research focus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An investigation into the school experiences of HIV-positive secondary school learners on ARV treatment in Katutura, Windhoek
- Authors: Haipinge, Emilie
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: HIV-positive youth -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) HIV-positive youth -- Social conditions -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) HIV infections -- Social aspects -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) HIV infections -- Psychological aspects -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) AIDS phobia -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) Antiretroviral agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1837 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004334
- Description: What are the school experiences of HIV-positive secondary school learners on ARV treatment? Although the provision of life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) treatment is central in the medical and policy response to the HIV pandemic, relatively little research (in the SADC region and in Namibia particularly) attends to people’s experiences and the social effects of taking ARV treatment. This study probed the experiences of high school learners on ARV treatment in Khomas Region, Namibia. As researcher I used a qualitative case study design based mainly on interviews with a purposive, select sample of eight learners at the school where I am a teacher-counsellor. Methods used also included: observations; focus group interviews with eight teachers at the site school; a questionnaire survey with Life Skills teachers from 25 schools in the Khomas Region; and document analysis. Using a theory of health-related stigma and discrimination as well as perspectives on resilience and agency as conceptual and analytical lenses, this study found that only a handful of these learners were living openly with HIV and AIDS. Being both HIV-positive and on ARV medication was a double bind for learners facing pervasive stigma and discrimination in and out of school. Discourses associated with HIV and AIDS, sex, and sexuality shaped people’s response to them and they feared being ‘caught out’. Here the study explores the complex reciprocal relationship between cause and effect in stigma, showing some consequences for these learners: isolation (both voluntary and imposed), mental anguish, depression and suicidal leanings; also (at school) absenteeism, grade repetition and dropout. Distinguishing stigma from discrimination in this study enabled insight into actual practices that constrain learner participation and inclusion in and out of school. Trust between learners on ARVs and teachers proved to be low. Teacher respondents not only felt unequipped to deal with the psychosocial needs of learners on ARVs but also indicated that confronting these needs animated their personal vulnerability (around HIV-related experiences in their own families). However, hopeful patterns also emerged. Some mediatory factors out of school shaped these learners’ experiences and identities positively, with implications for in-school experiences and participation. Some learner journeys reflected shifts from deep despair towards the emergence of voice, positive self-concepts and resilient dispositions. Here, also, this study enters a neglected area of research, showing how the complex interplay of learners’ own agency with social support brought these positive outcomes. Most learners had experienced rejection from immediate family, receiving support rather from community members who became ‘family’. The study thus also raises pressing questions on the nature of support structures (both in and out of school) in contexts shaped by HIV and AIDS, where stigma and discrimination are pervasive and where stable family structures, parental oversight and ‘normal’ progression through school cannot be assumed. It recommends that schools gain better insight into how learners’ circumstances shape their experiences, and develop internal policies, procedures and networks to reduce stigma and discrimination against HIV-positive learners on ARV treatment, as well as. ensuring material, medical, emotional, and psychological support for them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Haipinge, Emilie
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: HIV-positive youth -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) HIV-positive youth -- Social conditions -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) HIV infections -- Social aspects -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) HIV infections -- Psychological aspects -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) AIDS phobia -- Namibia -- Katutura (Windhoek) Antiretroviral agents
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:1837 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004334
- Description: What are the school experiences of HIV-positive secondary school learners on ARV treatment? Although the provision of life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) treatment is central in the medical and policy response to the HIV pandemic, relatively little research (in the SADC region and in Namibia particularly) attends to people’s experiences and the social effects of taking ARV treatment. This study probed the experiences of high school learners on ARV treatment in Khomas Region, Namibia. As researcher I used a qualitative case study design based mainly on interviews with a purposive, select sample of eight learners at the school where I am a teacher-counsellor. Methods used also included: observations; focus group interviews with eight teachers at the site school; a questionnaire survey with Life Skills teachers from 25 schools in the Khomas Region; and document analysis. Using a theory of health-related stigma and discrimination as well as perspectives on resilience and agency as conceptual and analytical lenses, this study found that only a handful of these learners were living openly with HIV and AIDS. Being both HIV-positive and on ARV medication was a double bind for learners facing pervasive stigma and discrimination in and out of school. Discourses associated with HIV and AIDS, sex, and sexuality shaped people’s response to them and they feared being ‘caught out’. Here the study explores the complex reciprocal relationship between cause and effect in stigma, showing some consequences for these learners: isolation (both voluntary and imposed), mental anguish, depression and suicidal leanings; also (at school) absenteeism, grade repetition and dropout. Distinguishing stigma from discrimination in this study enabled insight into actual practices that constrain learner participation and inclusion in and out of school. Trust between learners on ARVs and teachers proved to be low. Teacher respondents not only felt unequipped to deal with the psychosocial needs of learners on ARVs but also indicated that confronting these needs animated their personal vulnerability (around HIV-related experiences in their own families). However, hopeful patterns also emerged. Some mediatory factors out of school shaped these learners’ experiences and identities positively, with implications for in-school experiences and participation. Some learner journeys reflected shifts from deep despair towards the emergence of voice, positive self-concepts and resilient dispositions. Here, also, this study enters a neglected area of research, showing how the complex interplay of learners’ own agency with social support brought these positive outcomes. Most learners had experienced rejection from immediate family, receiving support rather from community members who became ‘family’. The study thus also raises pressing questions on the nature of support structures (both in and out of school) in contexts shaped by HIV and AIDS, where stigma and discrimination are pervasive and where stable family structures, parental oversight and ‘normal’ progression through school cannot be assumed. It recommends that schools gain better insight into how learners’ circumstances shape their experiences, and develop internal policies, procedures and networks to reduce stigma and discrimination against HIV-positive learners on ARV treatment, as well as. ensuring material, medical, emotional, and psychological support for them.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The perceptions of educators, in the Queenstown education district, of the labour dispute resolution system
- Authors: Rataza, Themba Theophilus
- Subjects: Labor disputes -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9434 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020542
- Description: The objective of this study is to conduct a survey concerning the perceptions of educators in the Queenstown education district of the labour dispute resolution system. The education department is one of the biggest departments in the Eastern Cape’s Provincial Administration system. The likelihood of disputes is high when there are many employees. The focus of the study therefore is on how educators perceive the role of the department in terms of ensuring that labour disputes with the department are resolved efficiently and speedily. The advent of a democratic dispensation resulted in the ushering in of progressive labour legislation such as Labour Relations Act 55 of 1995. The objective of this Act is to facilitate economic development, social justice, labour peace and democratization of the workplace. In other words this Act gave birth to the manner in which labour disputes should be resolved. The study was carried out not only to explore the perceptions of educators but also with a view to making recommendations on the findings in order to help contribute towards labour peace and productivity in the workplace. The attitudes of one hundred and forty-one educators were surveyed via questionnaires and six educators who have had labour disputes with the department were interviewed. The key findings of the study revealed that both the educators who were surveyed and those interviewed lack confidence in the effectiveness of the labour dispute procedures in the district; they perceive the system as being inaccessible to them; time taken to resolve disputes is too lengthy; the system lacks necessary independence from the department of education or government and the department is seen as not adhering to its own policies and legislation. Hence there are many disputes and there is a great need for more awareness and for improved training in handling labour dispute resolution systems for district officials and educators. The study recommends more awareness and training sessions for both district officials responsible for labour relations and educators at large. It also calls for an increasingly proactive role by teacher unions in partnership with the department of education to avoid labour disputes. Although the findings cannot be generalized toother districts of the province, they do however highlight critical areas in labour dispute resolution where attention can be paid and focus made in order to ensure labour peace in the workplace for improved productivity and effective teaching and learning.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Rataza, Themba Theophilus
- Subjects: Labor disputes -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9434 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020542
- Description: The objective of this study is to conduct a survey concerning the perceptions of educators in the Queenstown education district of the labour dispute resolution system. The education department is one of the biggest departments in the Eastern Cape’s Provincial Administration system. The likelihood of disputes is high when there are many employees. The focus of the study therefore is on how educators perceive the role of the department in terms of ensuring that labour disputes with the department are resolved efficiently and speedily. The advent of a democratic dispensation resulted in the ushering in of progressive labour legislation such as Labour Relations Act 55 of 1995. The objective of this Act is to facilitate economic development, social justice, labour peace and democratization of the workplace. In other words this Act gave birth to the manner in which labour disputes should be resolved. The study was carried out not only to explore the perceptions of educators but also with a view to making recommendations on the findings in order to help contribute towards labour peace and productivity in the workplace. The attitudes of one hundred and forty-one educators were surveyed via questionnaires and six educators who have had labour disputes with the department were interviewed. The key findings of the study revealed that both the educators who were surveyed and those interviewed lack confidence in the effectiveness of the labour dispute procedures in the district; they perceive the system as being inaccessible to them; time taken to resolve disputes is too lengthy; the system lacks necessary independence from the department of education or government and the department is seen as not adhering to its own policies and legislation. Hence there are many disputes and there is a great need for more awareness and for improved training in handling labour dispute resolution systems for district officials and educators. The study recommends more awareness and training sessions for both district officials responsible for labour relations and educators at large. It also calls for an increasingly proactive role by teacher unions in partnership with the department of education to avoid labour disputes. Although the findings cannot be generalized toother districts of the province, they do however highlight critical areas in labour dispute resolution where attention can be paid and focus made in order to ensure labour peace in the workplace for improved productivity and effective teaching and learning.
- Full Text:
An investigation into the factors affecting street trading in the Mnquma Local Municipality
- Authors: Bota, Patrick Mziwoxolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Street vendors -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Mthatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013128
- Description: This study investigates the challenges faced by street traders in Mnquma Local Municipality. The purpose is to examine the factors affecting street traders trading at N2 Mthatha Street at Butterworth in Mnquma Local Municipality. For this reason, it was necessary to study the literature on local economic development. The challenges facing street traders were also investigated and analysed in order to formulate recommendations for solving challenges facing street trading in Mnquma Local Municipality. In order to fulfil the objective of the study and to address the research problem faceto-face interviews were conducted with the street traders, municipal officials and Hawkers’ Association. The literature review and the interviews enabled the recommendation of possible answers to the problem. These recommendations would be valuable and, one hopes, will also be of assistance to the Mnquma Local Municipality. Findings of this study indicate that challenges faced by street traders in Butterworth include lack of financial support to start their businesses. Also, the fact that there is no water taps that can be used by the members of the public in the Central Business District (CBD) in Butterworth as well as street lights at night is one of the challenges. Recommendations were made with regard to support and assistance for street traders, environmental management and also a recommendation on business registration and licensing. The study concludes that if the Mnquma local municipality can implement all the proposed recommendations, all the factors raised by street traders as disturbing the functionality of their businesses particularly in Butterworth will be rectified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bota, Patrick Mziwoxolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Street vendors -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Street vendors -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Gcuwa , Metropolitan finance -- South Africa -- Mthatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8263 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013128
- Description: This study investigates the challenges faced by street traders in Mnquma Local Municipality. The purpose is to examine the factors affecting street traders trading at N2 Mthatha Street at Butterworth in Mnquma Local Municipality. For this reason, it was necessary to study the literature on local economic development. The challenges facing street traders were also investigated and analysed in order to formulate recommendations for solving challenges facing street trading in Mnquma Local Municipality. In order to fulfil the objective of the study and to address the research problem faceto-face interviews were conducted with the street traders, municipal officials and Hawkers’ Association. The literature review and the interviews enabled the recommendation of possible answers to the problem. These recommendations would be valuable and, one hopes, will also be of assistance to the Mnquma Local Municipality. Findings of this study indicate that challenges faced by street traders in Butterworth include lack of financial support to start their businesses. Also, the fact that there is no water taps that can be used by the members of the public in the Central Business District (CBD) in Butterworth as well as street lights at night is one of the challenges. Recommendations were made with regard to support and assistance for street traders, environmental management and also a recommendation on business registration and licensing. The study concludes that if the Mnquma local municipality can implement all the proposed recommendations, all the factors raised by street traders as disturbing the functionality of their businesses particularly in Butterworth will be rectified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A Crown on the Move: stylistic integration of the Luba-Lunda complex in Lunda-Kazembe performance
- Authors: Simbao, Ruth K
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147524 , vital:38646 , https://doi.org/10.1162/afar.2006.39.3.26
- Description: Carried on a scarlet and zebra-hide litter above the heads of a throbbing crowd, Mwata Kazembe XIX gloriously stretches out his arms as if to embrace a world that is his own (Fig. 1). As he parts the sea of well-wishers, splashes of red burst into view and the talking drum beats out its decree. Basking in a charged clamor where the senses blur in clouds of dust, Mwata gracefully sways from side to side, jangling the beads and cowries on the back of his akatasa crown. It is on this day that the Lunda-Kazembe Crown moves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Simbao, Ruth K
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/147524 , vital:38646 , https://doi.org/10.1162/afar.2006.39.3.26
- Description: Carried on a scarlet and zebra-hide litter above the heads of a throbbing crowd, Mwata Kazembe XIX gloriously stretches out his arms as if to embrace a world that is his own (Fig. 1). As he parts the sea of well-wishers, splashes of red burst into view and the talking drum beats out its decree. Basking in a charged clamor where the senses blur in clouds of dust, Mwata gracefully sways from side to side, jangling the beads and cowries on the back of his akatasa crown. It is on this day that the Lunda-Kazembe Crown moves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Versions of hospitality in recent writing on the fiction of JM Coetzee:
- Authors: Marais, Mike
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144039 , vital:38305 , DOI: 10.4314/eia.v40i1.8
- Description: In one of the interviews in Summertime, Martin, a former colleague, claims that he and the deceased John Coetzee felt their "presence" in South Africa "was legal but illegitimate," that it "was grounded in a crime, namely colonial conquest," which rendered them "sojourners, temporary residents, and to that extent without a home, without a homeland" (209-10). With this statement in mind, Maria J. Lopez argues that a sense of unbelonging underlies J. M. Coetzee's entire oeuvre, including the Australian fiction, and forms a kind of "imaginative and intellectual masterplot" (xii). ). It is this "narrative" that she traces in her monograph, starting with the early fiction and concluding with chapters on the fictionalised autobiographies and Australian fiction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Marais, Mike
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/144039 , vital:38305 , DOI: 10.4314/eia.v40i1.8
- Description: In one of the interviews in Summertime, Martin, a former colleague, claims that he and the deceased John Coetzee felt their "presence" in South Africa "was legal but illegitimate," that it "was grounded in a crime, namely colonial conquest," which rendered them "sojourners, temporary residents, and to that extent without a home, without a homeland" (209-10). With this statement in mind, Maria J. Lopez argues that a sense of unbelonging underlies J. M. Coetzee's entire oeuvre, including the Australian fiction, and forms a kind of "imaginative and intellectual masterplot" (xii). ). It is this "narrative" that she traces in her monograph, starting with the early fiction and concluding with chapters on the fictionalised autobiographies and Australian fiction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An assessment of factors affecting distribution models: an FMCG perspective
- Reshalin, Kumesh Sivaram Jay
- Authors: Reshalin, Kumesh Sivaram Jay
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business logistics , Delivery of goods , Shipment of goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8907 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021024
- Description: The Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry in South Africa is now more than ever, facing a new era with strong competition and a need for innovative and sustainable distribution strategies to remain competitive in the market. Organisations are continuously searching for ways to increase their competitiveness and sustainability as markets change and develop, so do the strategies used to enter them. Organisations must therefore be able to choose the most effective approach to enter markets in order to remain competitive. Recent approaches require organisations to identify innovative distribution methods to meet consumer needs due to a considerable increase in competition, which makes it very difficult for organisations to differentiate their products solely on the basis of cost or quality. The research problem addressed in this study comprised an assessment of factors affecting distribution models from an FMCG perspective. This necessitated a comprehensive literature review of the various definitions, trends impacting on distribution as well as investigating the status relating to distribution models. Strategies and attributes of successful distribution models were evaluated to determine an effective distribution model to assist the organisation in challenging competition. The researcher found that a significant number of authors have suggested the following key attributes for a successful distribution model, namely operational excellence, performance management, strategic partnership, technology drivers, and relationship marketing. An empirical study was conducted after the appropriate measuring instrument was developed. The purpose of the measuring instrument was to validate the literature findings, identify the rank importance of the identified attributes and to evaluate the extent to which these factors are provided for in the organisation, based on the points above. The present study assessed innovation at Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd., a local FMCG firm in an effort to develop a distribution model that would be successful for the company. The study comprised a sample of 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors which form part of the distribution model of Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd. Questionnaires were sent to each of the 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors and a response rate of 100 percent was obtained. The major findings indicated that the respondents agreed with the literature in respect of the important attributes of a successful distribution model. Overall the majority of the respondents identified the distribution model between Coca-Cola Fortune and the Official Coca-Cola Distributors as a successful distribution model. The literature findings together with the empirical study findings resulted in the development of a strategic model to maintain a successful and competitive distribution model. The current investigation highlighted the overall perception of Coca-Cola Fortune’s distribution model and the importance of having a successful model. To sustain this distribution model the organisation must maintain the key attributes of a successful distribution model as identified in the literature to ensure competitiveness, sustainability and meeting changing consumer demands.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Reshalin, Kumesh Sivaram Jay
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Business logistics , Delivery of goods , Shipment of goods
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8907 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021024
- Description: The Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry in South Africa is now more than ever, facing a new era with strong competition and a need for innovative and sustainable distribution strategies to remain competitive in the market. Organisations are continuously searching for ways to increase their competitiveness and sustainability as markets change and develop, so do the strategies used to enter them. Organisations must therefore be able to choose the most effective approach to enter markets in order to remain competitive. Recent approaches require organisations to identify innovative distribution methods to meet consumer needs due to a considerable increase in competition, which makes it very difficult for organisations to differentiate their products solely on the basis of cost or quality. The research problem addressed in this study comprised an assessment of factors affecting distribution models from an FMCG perspective. This necessitated a comprehensive literature review of the various definitions, trends impacting on distribution as well as investigating the status relating to distribution models. Strategies and attributes of successful distribution models were evaluated to determine an effective distribution model to assist the organisation in challenging competition. The researcher found that a significant number of authors have suggested the following key attributes for a successful distribution model, namely operational excellence, performance management, strategic partnership, technology drivers, and relationship marketing. An empirical study was conducted after the appropriate measuring instrument was developed. The purpose of the measuring instrument was to validate the literature findings, identify the rank importance of the identified attributes and to evaluate the extent to which these factors are provided for in the organisation, based on the points above. The present study assessed innovation at Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd., a local FMCG firm in an effort to develop a distribution model that would be successful for the company. The study comprised a sample of 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors which form part of the distribution model of Coca-Cola Fortune (Pty) Ltd. Questionnaires were sent to each of the 40 Official Coca-Cola Distributors and a response rate of 100 percent was obtained. The major findings indicated that the respondents agreed with the literature in respect of the important attributes of a successful distribution model. Overall the majority of the respondents identified the distribution model between Coca-Cola Fortune and the Official Coca-Cola Distributors as a successful distribution model. The literature findings together with the empirical study findings resulted in the development of a strategic model to maintain a successful and competitive distribution model. The current investigation highlighted the overall perception of Coca-Cola Fortune’s distribution model and the importance of having a successful model. To sustain this distribution model the organisation must maintain the key attributes of a successful distribution model as identified in the literature to ensure competitiveness, sustainability and meeting changing consumer demands.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Updating the ionospheric propagation factor, M(3000)F2, global model using the neural network technique and relevant geophysical input parameters
- Oronsaye, Samuel Iyen Jeffrey
- Authors: Oronsaye, Samuel Iyen Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5434 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001609 , Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Description: This thesis presents an update to the ionospheric propagation factor, M(3000)F2, global empirical model developed by Oyeyemi et al. (2007) (NNO). An additional aim of this research was to produce the updated model in a form that could be used within the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) global model without adding to the complexity of the IRI. M(3000)F2 is the highest frequency at which a radio signal can be received over a distance of 3000 km after reflection in the ionosphere. The study employed the artificial neural network (ANN) technique using relevant geophysical input parameters which are known to influence the M(3000)F2 parameter. Ionosonde data from 135 ionospheric stations globally, including a number of equatorial stations, were available for this work. M(3000)F2 hourly values from 1976 to 2008, spanning all periods of low and high solar activity were used for model development and verification. A preliminary investigation was first carried out using a relatively small dataset to determine the appropriate input parameters for global M(3000)F2 parameter modelling. Inputs representing diurnal variation, seasonal variation, solar variation, modified dip latitude, longitude and latitude were found to be the optimum parameters for modelling the diurnal and seasonal variations of the M(3000)F2 parameter both on a temporal and spatial basis. The outcome of the preliminary study was applied to the overall dataset to develop a comprehensive ANN M(3000)F2 model which displays a remarkable improvement over the NNO model as well as the IRI version. The model shows 7.11% and 3.85% improvement over the NNO model as well as 13.04% and 10.05% over the IRI M(3000)F2 model, around high and low solar activity periods respectively. A comparison of the diurnal structure of the ANN and the IRI predicted values reveal that the ANN model is more effective in representing the diurnal structure of the M(3000)F2 values than the IRI M(3000)F2 model. The capability of the ANN model in reproducing the seasonal variation pattern of the M(3000)F2 values at 00h00UT, 06h00UT, 12h00UT, and l8h00UT more appropriately than the IRI version is illustrated in this work. A significant result obtained in this study is the ability of the ANN model in improving the post-sunset predicted values of the M(3000)F2 parameter which is known to be problematic to the IRI M(3000)F2 model in the low-latitude and the equatorial regions. The final M(3000)F2 model provides for an improved equatorial prediction and a simplified input space that allows for easy incorporation into the IRI model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Oronsaye, Samuel Iyen Jeffrey
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5434 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001609 , Neural networks (Computer science) , Ionospheric radio wave propagation , Ionosphere , Geophysics , Ionosondes
- Description: This thesis presents an update to the ionospheric propagation factor, M(3000)F2, global empirical model developed by Oyeyemi et al. (2007) (NNO). An additional aim of this research was to produce the updated model in a form that could be used within the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) global model without adding to the complexity of the IRI. M(3000)F2 is the highest frequency at which a radio signal can be received over a distance of 3000 km after reflection in the ionosphere. The study employed the artificial neural network (ANN) technique using relevant geophysical input parameters which are known to influence the M(3000)F2 parameter. Ionosonde data from 135 ionospheric stations globally, including a number of equatorial stations, were available for this work. M(3000)F2 hourly values from 1976 to 2008, spanning all periods of low and high solar activity were used for model development and verification. A preliminary investigation was first carried out using a relatively small dataset to determine the appropriate input parameters for global M(3000)F2 parameter modelling. Inputs representing diurnal variation, seasonal variation, solar variation, modified dip latitude, longitude and latitude were found to be the optimum parameters for modelling the diurnal and seasonal variations of the M(3000)F2 parameter both on a temporal and spatial basis. The outcome of the preliminary study was applied to the overall dataset to develop a comprehensive ANN M(3000)F2 model which displays a remarkable improvement over the NNO model as well as the IRI version. The model shows 7.11% and 3.85% improvement over the NNO model as well as 13.04% and 10.05% over the IRI M(3000)F2 model, around high and low solar activity periods respectively. A comparison of the diurnal structure of the ANN and the IRI predicted values reveal that the ANN model is more effective in representing the diurnal structure of the M(3000)F2 values than the IRI M(3000)F2 model. The capability of the ANN model in reproducing the seasonal variation pattern of the M(3000)F2 values at 00h00UT, 06h00UT, 12h00UT, and l8h00UT more appropriately than the IRI version is illustrated in this work. A significant result obtained in this study is the ability of the ANN model in improving the post-sunset predicted values of the M(3000)F2 parameter which is known to be problematic to the IRI M(3000)F2 model in the low-latitude and the equatorial regions. The final M(3000)F2 model provides for an improved equatorial prediction and a simplified input space that allows for easy incorporation into the IRI model.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A teaching case study of the strategic alignment of business strategy and information technology strategy at Nedbank
- Authors: Tsoaeli, Tebalo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nedbank Banks and banking -- South Africa Business planning Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:720 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001883
- Description: In today’s business world, a lot of organizations are investing heavily in Information Technology (IT) in order to develop a competitive edge. According to Loukis, Sapounas and Milionis (2009:85) “firms all over the world make significant investments in IT aiming to increase their efficiency and effectiveness”. According to Cline and Guynes (2001:10), “during the last 30 years, IT has become an increasingly integral part of business operations”. Most of the times, organizations fail to get real value from the investments made in IT. This is mainly due to the fact that organizations fail to realize the value brought about by aligning IT strategy with Business strategy. Hu and Huang (2004:60) state that “each year organizations invest in IT to improve their competitive advantage and ultimately their business performance; however, more often than not, the anticipated benefits of IT investments fail to materialize due to misalignment of or lack of alignment, between the business and IT strategies”. Henderson and Venkatraman (1999:475) emphasize that “alignment is a desired state for organizations investing in IT that is not always achieved, as it often entails a radical change in the way managers consider IT”. It is through the alignment of IT strategy and Business strategy that organizations are able to realize the value brought about by investing in IT. Papp (2001:20)illustrates that “misalignment can cause problems with not only the development and integration of business and IT strategies, but can actually prevent IT from being fully leveraged to its maximum potential within an organization”. An organization that realizes the value of aligning IT strategy and Business strategy is able to develop a competitive advantage over its competitors. According to Daneshvar and Ramesh (2010:1) “each organization is aware of the special effects, benefits and implication of IT in business performance and also its capacity in building sustainable competitive advantages”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Tsoaeli, Tebalo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nedbank Banks and banking -- South Africa Business planning Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:720 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001883
- Description: In today’s business world, a lot of organizations are investing heavily in Information Technology (IT) in order to develop a competitive edge. According to Loukis, Sapounas and Milionis (2009:85) “firms all over the world make significant investments in IT aiming to increase their efficiency and effectiveness”. According to Cline and Guynes (2001:10), “during the last 30 years, IT has become an increasingly integral part of business operations”. Most of the times, organizations fail to get real value from the investments made in IT. This is mainly due to the fact that organizations fail to realize the value brought about by aligning IT strategy with Business strategy. Hu and Huang (2004:60) state that “each year organizations invest in IT to improve their competitive advantage and ultimately their business performance; however, more often than not, the anticipated benefits of IT investments fail to materialize due to misalignment of or lack of alignment, between the business and IT strategies”. Henderson and Venkatraman (1999:475) emphasize that “alignment is a desired state for organizations investing in IT that is not always achieved, as it often entails a radical change in the way managers consider IT”. It is through the alignment of IT strategy and Business strategy that organizations are able to realize the value brought about by investing in IT. Papp (2001:20)illustrates that “misalignment can cause problems with not only the development and integration of business and IT strategies, but can actually prevent IT from being fully leveraged to its maximum potential within an organization”. An organization that realizes the value of aligning IT strategy and Business strategy is able to develop a competitive advantage over its competitors. According to Daneshvar and Ramesh (2010:1) “each organization is aware of the special effects, benefits and implication of IT in business performance and also its capacity in building sustainable competitive advantages”.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The role of agriculture in the Ncora area
- Authors: Mkwela, Gcobani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9240 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021107
- Description: Despite 19 years of democracy and public action by civil society, policy makers continue to neglect the role of agriculture in improving the quality of life in rural areas such as Ncora in the Eastern Cape. The communities in the Ncora area still experience poverty despite the fact people receive state grants. Agriculture is declining in this area without basic infrastructure. The study argues that communities in the Ncora area need assistance from government in order to increase agricultural activities. These activities are an important route through which these communities can reduce poverty. The primary objective of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the role of agriculture in reducing poverty in the Ncora rural areas. The conditions necessary to sustain agriculture in the rural areas were identified. This was mainly done to help alleviate the plight of rural areas in the Ncora area and to improve the quality of life of the rural population. The study was based on three research objectives. The first objective was to investigate the constraints to agricultural production in Ncora. The second objective was to ascertain what has been done by the Eastern Cape government in increasing agricultural activities. The third objective was to investigate the contribution of agriculture in reducing poverty in Ncora. The main finding in terms of the first research objective is that constraints to agricultural production in Ncora are structural constraints. These include inadequate infrastructure such as poor roads, lack of transport and equipment, lack of farming skills, poor quality seed, no access to markets, inadequate and unaffordable services. In terms of the second research objective, the main finding is that the government has encouraged investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods will eliminate service backlogs in underserviced areas such as Ncora. Secondly, it has encouraged the revival of irrigation schemes such as the Ncora irrigation scheme and is investing in human capital through the empowerment of people in order to improve the quality of life of the Ncora community. Empowerment involves skills and training, education and access to basic services, expertise regarding credit, land and the growing of vegetables. The development of human capital is an important determinant of the pace of economic development. Human, social, natural, financial and physical capital are essential elements of reducing poverty. In fact, the Ncora community has lobbied Intsika Yethu Municipality for community development Community development through education and community participation in development programmes. Efforts have to be made to increase the skills that will enable them to complete development projects. These include technical skills in areas such as vegetable and crop production during the year. A key component of the success of development projects is to involve communities in the planning and decision-making processes. Community development is linked to empowerment, in other words, empowered people are able to contribute to the development of their community because they have knowledge of the economic, social and political goals of development. Therefore, empowerment enables people to participate in and have an influence on the decisions that affect their lives. The main finding in terms of the third research objective is that people in the Ncora community are using their own labour to improve food production to reduce poverty. The Ncora community has been shown when and how to make, grow and plant seeds, and look after the vegetables of their choice. The community of Ncora has learnt about cropping practices that are appropriate to their situation. The intention is to sell vegetables and crops to local communities and markets in order to generate income. The community has to do it for themselves or else they will wait forever.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mkwela, Gcobani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Ncora , Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9240 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021107
- Description: Despite 19 years of democracy and public action by civil society, policy makers continue to neglect the role of agriculture in improving the quality of life in rural areas such as Ncora in the Eastern Cape. The communities in the Ncora area still experience poverty despite the fact people receive state grants. Agriculture is declining in this area without basic infrastructure. The study argues that communities in the Ncora area need assistance from government in order to increase agricultural activities. These activities are an important route through which these communities can reduce poverty. The primary objective of this study was to obtain a better understanding of the role of agriculture in reducing poverty in the Ncora rural areas. The conditions necessary to sustain agriculture in the rural areas were identified. This was mainly done to help alleviate the plight of rural areas in the Ncora area and to improve the quality of life of the rural population. The study was based on three research objectives. The first objective was to investigate the constraints to agricultural production in Ncora. The second objective was to ascertain what has been done by the Eastern Cape government in increasing agricultural activities. The third objective was to investigate the contribution of agriculture in reducing poverty in Ncora. The main finding in terms of the first research objective is that constraints to agricultural production in Ncora are structural constraints. These include inadequate infrastructure such as poor roads, lack of transport and equipment, lack of farming skills, poor quality seed, no access to markets, inadequate and unaffordable services. In terms of the second research objective, the main finding is that the government has encouraged investment in infrastructure using labour-intensive methods will eliminate service backlogs in underserviced areas such as Ncora. Secondly, it has encouraged the revival of irrigation schemes such as the Ncora irrigation scheme and is investing in human capital through the empowerment of people in order to improve the quality of life of the Ncora community. Empowerment involves skills and training, education and access to basic services, expertise regarding credit, land and the growing of vegetables. The development of human capital is an important determinant of the pace of economic development. Human, social, natural, financial and physical capital are essential elements of reducing poverty. In fact, the Ncora community has lobbied Intsika Yethu Municipality for community development Community development through education and community participation in development programmes. Efforts have to be made to increase the skills that will enable them to complete development projects. These include technical skills in areas such as vegetable and crop production during the year. A key component of the success of development projects is to involve communities in the planning and decision-making processes. Community development is linked to empowerment, in other words, empowered people are able to contribute to the development of their community because they have knowledge of the economic, social and political goals of development. Therefore, empowerment enables people to participate in and have an influence on the decisions that affect their lives. The main finding in terms of the third research objective is that people in the Ncora community are using their own labour to improve food production to reduce poverty. The Ncora community has been shown when and how to make, grow and plant seeds, and look after the vegetables of their choice. The community of Ncora has learnt about cropping practices that are appropriate to their situation. The intention is to sell vegetables and crops to local communities and markets in order to generate income. The community has to do it for themselves or else they will wait forever.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Post-war reconstruction and development: a collective case study
- Authors: Heleta, Savo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9058 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008049 , Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Description: Since the end of the Cold War, there has been a surge in post-war stabilisation, reconstruction and development operations around the world. Externally driven efforts have been shaped by the liberal peace framework, which assumes that a rapid transmission or imposition of neo-liberal norms and values, combined with Western-style governance institutions, would create conditions for lasting peace and prosperity. Only in a few instances countries have attempted internally driven post-war reconstruction and development; in most cases, these efforts were either ignored or suppressed by international analysts, experts, academics and organisations. Despite all the expertise and funding spent since the early 1990s, externally driven operations have not led to lasting peace and stability, establishment of functioning institutions, eradication of poverty, livelihood improvements and economic reconstruction and development in war-torn countries. All too often, programmes, policies and „solutions‟ were designed and imposed by external actors either because they worked elsewhere or because they were influenced by geopolitical, economic and/or security interests of powerful countries. Furthermore, external actors have tended to assume that generic approaches based on the liberal peace framework can work in all places, while ignoring local actors, contexts and knowledge. Focusing on Bosnia and Herzegovina, South Sudan and Somaliland, this exploratory qualitative study critically explores and assesses both externally and internally driven post-war reconstruction and development practices and operations in order to understand the strengths and shortcomings of both approaches and offer recommendations for future improvements. This is important since socio-economic recovery and economic development are crucial for lasting stability and peace in post-war countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Heleta, Savo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9058 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008049 , Civil war , Peace , Peace-building , Nation-building
- Description: Since the end of the Cold War, there has been a surge in post-war stabilisation, reconstruction and development operations around the world. Externally driven efforts have been shaped by the liberal peace framework, which assumes that a rapid transmission or imposition of neo-liberal norms and values, combined with Western-style governance institutions, would create conditions for lasting peace and prosperity. Only in a few instances countries have attempted internally driven post-war reconstruction and development; in most cases, these efforts were either ignored or suppressed by international analysts, experts, academics and organisations. Despite all the expertise and funding spent since the early 1990s, externally driven operations have not led to lasting peace and stability, establishment of functioning institutions, eradication of poverty, livelihood improvements and economic reconstruction and development in war-torn countries. All too often, programmes, policies and „solutions‟ were designed and imposed by external actors either because they worked elsewhere or because they were influenced by geopolitical, economic and/or security interests of powerful countries. Furthermore, external actors have tended to assume that generic approaches based on the liberal peace framework can work in all places, while ignoring local actors, contexts and knowledge. Focusing on Bosnia and Herzegovina, South Sudan and Somaliland, this exploratory qualitative study critically explores and assesses both externally and internally driven post-war reconstruction and development practices and operations in order to understand the strengths and shortcomings of both approaches and offer recommendations for future improvements. This is important since socio-economic recovery and economic development are crucial for lasting stability and peace in post-war countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013