The impact of cost saving on service quailty
- Authors: Van Rayner, Fiona Mary
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/631 , Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Description: The aim of all companies is continuously to improve their products and/or services. Managers need to understand what service quality entails and what measures to take to ensure that quality is upheld and employees are satisfied. Cost-saving initiatives often require certain changes to take place within the organisation. In the event of such changes, the psychological contract is often violated, which may have a positive or negative effect on the affected individuals. Management expects to get more work done with fewer employees, who in turn are expected to keep up the service quality. The current shortage of medical technologists in the country has made it impossible for them to cope with the heavy workload. As a result, many leave the profession and venture into something completely different. Those that are left become completely demotivated; they experience less job satisfaction and show less commitment to their work. However, some may even embrace the changes because to them it may mean bigger and better challenges. The aim of this study is to identify which approaches management took to ensure cost saving and how these approaches impacted on the behaviour of employees. A literature review was conducted to determine what the theory reveals about cost saving and its impact on employee behaviour. This was followed by an empirical survey conducted within the National Health Laboratory Services in the Ibhayi region. Finally, the practical findings and literary theory were compared to make recommendations to management on how to ensure positive employee behaviour and boost employee morale.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Van Rayner, Fiona Mary
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8751 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/631 , Service industries -- South Africa -- Cost control , Service industries -- South Africa -- Quality control , Employee morale , Job satisfaction
- Description: The aim of all companies is continuously to improve their products and/or services. Managers need to understand what service quality entails and what measures to take to ensure that quality is upheld and employees are satisfied. Cost-saving initiatives often require certain changes to take place within the organisation. In the event of such changes, the psychological contract is often violated, which may have a positive or negative effect on the affected individuals. Management expects to get more work done with fewer employees, who in turn are expected to keep up the service quality. The current shortage of medical technologists in the country has made it impossible for them to cope with the heavy workload. As a result, many leave the profession and venture into something completely different. Those that are left become completely demotivated; they experience less job satisfaction and show less commitment to their work. However, some may even embrace the changes because to them it may mean bigger and better challenges. The aim of this study is to identify which approaches management took to ensure cost saving and how these approaches impacted on the behaviour of employees. A literature review was conducted to determine what the theory reveals about cost saving and its impact on employee behaviour. This was followed by an empirical survey conducted within the National Health Laboratory Services in the Ibhayi region. Finally, the practical findings and literary theory were compared to make recommendations to management on how to ensure positive employee behaviour and boost employee morale.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of inbound logistics activities on the operational performance of the postal services organization in South Africa
- Authors: Tabeni, Mvelo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Post Office Postal service -- South Africa Business logistics Business logistics -- Cost effectiveness Delivery of goods -- Management Physical distribution of goods Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004577
- Description: Introduction and Relevant Details: This research investigates the impact of inbound logistics' activities on the operational performance of the business within the branches of the South African Post Office (SAPO) in the Eastern Cape Province. The study basically hypothesises a statistically significant positive correlation between inbound logistics' activities and the operational performance of the business with regards to revenue generation and operational costs in particular. A sample of 100 branch offices was randomly selected. A 50-item questionnaire was administered by mail to the branches to collect the data during September 2005, and statistical tests for correlation were conducted on at least five dependent variables; stock procurement costs, effects on revenue, number of stock variation occurrences, order variation occurrences and the stock holding effects. Results of Data Analysis: The results of 88 respondents (88%) showed the existence of the significant positive relationship between the inbound logistics activities and the operational performance of the business at the South African Post Office branches as proposed by the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation tests were above 0.7 for most of the tested variables, showing a strong relationship. The inbound logistics' activities were also found to be positively correlated to revenue generation as well as to the operational expenses of the business. Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings allowed the researcher to conclude also that whatever improvements are made to the inbound logistics will also impact on the operational performance of the business, while failures in the inbound logistics will do so negatively. Business endeavours to maximise revenue and minimise costs are directly affected by the inbound logistics' activities. The branches of the SAPO seemed to be dissatisfied with most of the services rendered by the Supply Distribution Centre (SOC) of the SAPO, and such services have negatively affected the achievement of revenue targets at the branches as well as the operational costs. Holistic approaches to developing positive perceptions in the branches together with improving service activities at the SOC are recommended. Collaborative initiatives between branches and the SOC, reviewing the lead-times and the establishment of proper structures to handle supply chain queries, enhanced by information system technology to provide accurate and up-to-date information to branches and related parties about stock order issues are required . Areas of further research highlighted include the inbound logistics' activities of the SOC and the effectiveness of company policies as a guide to Supply Chain Management (SCM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Tabeni, Mvelo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African Post Office Postal service -- South Africa Business logistics Business logistics -- Cost effectiveness Delivery of goods -- Management Physical distribution of goods Customer services -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:797 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004577
- Description: Introduction and Relevant Details: This research investigates the impact of inbound logistics' activities on the operational performance of the business within the branches of the South African Post Office (SAPO) in the Eastern Cape Province. The study basically hypothesises a statistically significant positive correlation between inbound logistics' activities and the operational performance of the business with regards to revenue generation and operational costs in particular. A sample of 100 branch offices was randomly selected. A 50-item questionnaire was administered by mail to the branches to collect the data during September 2005, and statistical tests for correlation were conducted on at least five dependent variables; stock procurement costs, effects on revenue, number of stock variation occurrences, order variation occurrences and the stock holding effects. Results of Data Analysis: The results of 88 respondents (88%) showed the existence of the significant positive relationship between the inbound logistics activities and the operational performance of the business at the South African Post Office branches as proposed by the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation tests were above 0.7 for most of the tested variables, showing a strong relationship. The inbound logistics' activities were also found to be positively correlated to revenue generation as well as to the operational expenses of the business. Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings allowed the researcher to conclude also that whatever improvements are made to the inbound logistics will also impact on the operational performance of the business, while failures in the inbound logistics will do so negatively. Business endeavours to maximise revenue and minimise costs are directly affected by the inbound logistics' activities. The branches of the SAPO seemed to be dissatisfied with most of the services rendered by the Supply Distribution Centre (SOC) of the SAPO, and such services have negatively affected the achievement of revenue targets at the branches as well as the operational costs. Holistic approaches to developing positive perceptions in the branches together with improving service activities at the SOC are recommended. Collaborative initiatives between branches and the SOC, reviewing the lead-times and the establishment of proper structures to handle supply chain queries, enhanced by information system technology to provide accurate and up-to-date information to branches and related parties about stock order issues are required . Areas of further research highlighted include the inbound logistics' activities of the SOC and the effectiveness of company policies as a guide to Supply Chain Management (SCM).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of media commercialization on public service broadcasting : the case of Radio Zimbabwe after the adoption of the Commercialisation Act (No 26) of 2001
- Authors: Saurombe, Memory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8410 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/601 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011671 , Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Description: Cultural and educational functions of public service broadcasting come at a fortuitous time, as the changing environment of broadcasting is on various agendas. At the heart of this is the question of the present and future status of public service broadcasting. Major changes have taken place in the political economy of the media and the world economy at large, technological advancement has resulted in privatization and commercialization of the media. In most societies where these changes have taken place, public service broadcasting has been threatened by the rapid rise of commercial institutions, resulting in stiff competition for audiences. This study will examine the extent to which the adoption of the Commercialization Act (No 26) of 2001 in Zimbabwe has affected Radio Zimbabwe’s role as a public broadcaster. The study is based on the hypothesis that with the adoption of the Commercialization Act, Radio Zimbabwe is no longer playing its public service role effectively. The current nature of programming at Radio Zimbabwe as the research hopes to show will highlight tremendous changes towards a commercial logic. The study uses a combination of document analysis, secondary literature and qualitative interviews.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Saurombe, Memory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8410 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/601 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011671 , Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , Broadcasting -- Zimbabwe , Mass media -- Social aspects -- Zimbabwe , Public broadcasting -- Zimbabwe -- History -- 20th century
- Description: Cultural and educational functions of public service broadcasting come at a fortuitous time, as the changing environment of broadcasting is on various agendas. At the heart of this is the question of the present and future status of public service broadcasting. Major changes have taken place in the political economy of the media and the world economy at large, technological advancement has resulted in privatization and commercialization of the media. In most societies where these changes have taken place, public service broadcasting has been threatened by the rapid rise of commercial institutions, resulting in stiff competition for audiences. This study will examine the extent to which the adoption of the Commercialization Act (No 26) of 2001 in Zimbabwe has affected Radio Zimbabwe’s role as a public broadcaster. The study is based on the hypothesis that with the adoption of the Commercialization Act, Radio Zimbabwe is no longer playing its public service role effectively. The current nature of programming at Radio Zimbabwe as the research hopes to show will highlight tremendous changes towards a commercial logic. The study uses a combination of document analysis, secondary literature and qualitative interviews.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The impact of total productive maintenance (TPM) on manufacturing performance at the Colt Section of DaimlerChrysler in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ncube, Mfowabo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/579 , Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Today's successful manufacturing organisations require a significant competitive advantage, hence the need to implement and develop a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) strategy. This research paper addresses the impact of TPM on manufacturing performance at the Colt production facility (DCSA). A literature survey was undertaken into the elements and benefits of TPM. Questionaires were also sent to all levels of people at the Colt production facility for their views on TPM and the impact, they believe, it has had on manufacturing performance. In conclusion, this research paper has also led to the development of recommendations to improve TPM activities at the Colt production facility. From the research, it was shown that top management support for TPM activities is needed and that training is an essential factor for TPM's success in improving manufacturing performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Ncube, Mfowabo
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8560 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/579 , Total productive maintenance , Plant maintenance -- Management , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: Today's successful manufacturing organisations require a significant competitive advantage, hence the need to implement and develop a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) strategy. This research paper addresses the impact of TPM on manufacturing performance at the Colt production facility (DCSA). A literature survey was undertaken into the elements and benefits of TPM. Questionaires were also sent to all levels of people at the Colt production facility for their views on TPM and the impact, they believe, it has had on manufacturing performance. In conclusion, this research paper has also led to the development of recommendations to improve TPM activities at the Colt production facility. From the research, it was shown that top management support for TPM activities is needed and that training is an essential factor for TPM's success in improving manufacturing performance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The importance of phytoplankton size in mediating trophic interactions within the plankton of a southern African estuary
- Authors: Froneman, P William
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: vital:6928 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011944
- Description: The influence of the phytoplankton size composition in mediating the trophic interactions between the bacteria, phytoplankton, microheterotrophs (<200 μm) and mesozooplankton (>200 μm) was investigated on three occasions in a warm temperate, temporarily open/closed estuary situated along the southern African coastline. Results of the investigation indicated that the microheterotrophs represented the most important consumers of bacteria and chlorophyll (chl)-a <5.0 μm. The low impact of the mesozooplankton on the bacteria and chl-a <5.0 μm during the study appeared to be related to the inability of the larger zooplankton to feed efficiently on small particles. During those periods when total chl-a concentration was dominated by picophytoplankton (<2.0 μm) and microphytoplankton (>20 μm), mesozooplankton were unable to feed efficiently on the chl-a due to feeding constraints. In response to the unfavorable size structure of the phytoplankton assemblages, mesozooplankton appeared to consume the microheterotrophs. The negative impact of the mesozooplankton on the microheterotrophs resulted in a decrease in the impact of these organisms on the bacteria and the chl-a <5.0 μm. This result is consistent with the predator-prey cascades. On the other hand, when the total chl-a was dominated by nanophytoplankton (2–20 μm), mesozooplankton were able to feed directly on the phytoplankton. Results of the study indicate that size structure of the phytoplankton assemblages within estuaries plays an important role in mediating the trophic interactions between the various components of the plankton food web.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Froneman, P William
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: vital:6928 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011944
- Description: The influence of the phytoplankton size composition in mediating the trophic interactions between the bacteria, phytoplankton, microheterotrophs (<200 μm) and mesozooplankton (>200 μm) was investigated on three occasions in a warm temperate, temporarily open/closed estuary situated along the southern African coastline. Results of the investigation indicated that the microheterotrophs represented the most important consumers of bacteria and chlorophyll (chl)-a <5.0 μm. The low impact of the mesozooplankton on the bacteria and chl-a <5.0 μm during the study appeared to be related to the inability of the larger zooplankton to feed efficiently on small particles. During those periods when total chl-a concentration was dominated by picophytoplankton (<2.0 μm) and microphytoplankton (>20 μm), mesozooplankton were unable to feed efficiently on the chl-a due to feeding constraints. In response to the unfavorable size structure of the phytoplankton assemblages, mesozooplankton appeared to consume the microheterotrophs. The negative impact of the mesozooplankton on the microheterotrophs resulted in a decrease in the impact of these organisms on the bacteria and the chl-a <5.0 μm. This result is consistent with the predator-prey cascades. On the other hand, when the total chl-a was dominated by nanophytoplankton (2–20 μm), mesozooplankton were able to feed directly on the phytoplankton. Results of the study indicate that size structure of the phytoplankton assemblages within estuaries plays an important role in mediating the trophic interactions between the various components of the plankton food web.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The inducement of a contract by duress of goods - a reappraisal
- Authors: Glover, Graham B
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/70734 , vital:29722 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC54192
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Glover, Graham B
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/70734 , vital:29722 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC54192
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2006
The influence of customer relationship management on the service quality of banks
- Authors: Rootman, Chantal
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Customer relations -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Quality control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8980 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/400 , Customer relations -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Quality control
- Description: Despite the extensive research undertaken in the subject area of services marketing, much is still unknown to service providers of specific services in terms of service delivery concepts. This study attempts to address this limitation. The study revolves around the customer relationship management and service quality of banks. Service firms, including banks, are vitally important to the economy of any country, as they contribute to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment rate. However, to survive in a complex, competitive business environment, service firms are required to focus on their clients’ needs. Specifically, banks can focus on their relationships with clients and levels of service quality. In order to establish the influence of selected variables on the customer relationship management (CRM) of banks and the influence of CRM on the service quality of banks, an empirical investigation was conducted. The aim of this study was to quantify significant relationships among selected variables; therefore the positivistic research paradigm was used. The sample consisted of banking clients in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. The sample size was 290, with a response rate of 91.03%. The empirical investigation revealed that significant positive relationships exist between both the knowledgeability, and attitude, of bank employees and a bank’s CRM. These relationships imply that more extensive knowledgeability of bank employees and bank employees with more positive attitudes lead to improved, maintained relationships between a bank and its clients. In addition, the empirical investigation revealed that CRM positively influences the service quality of banks. This relationship implies that if a bank successfully maintains relationships with its clients, the bank’s level of perceived service quality would increase. Additionally, the empirical investigation has shown the relationship between a banking client’s age and the CRM of a bank. The higher the age of a banking client, the more that client considers the CRM of a bank to be important. There exists a relationship between a banking client’s education level and the perceived service quality of a bank. If a banking clients’ education level increases, the importance of their bank’s service quality decreases and, conversely, a banking client with a lower level of education regards the service quality level of a bank as more important than higher qualified clients. The study indicated that strategies to improve, specifically, the knowledgeability and attitude of bank employees can and should be implemented by banks in ways to positively influence their CRM and ultimately their service quality. In effect, this will increase client satisfaction and ensure client loyalty to the bank. Ultimately, this will contribute to the bank’s success, which will ensure economic stability and prosperity for a country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Rootman, Chantal
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Customer relations -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Quality control
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8980 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/400 , Customer relations -- South Africa , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Quality control
- Description: Despite the extensive research undertaken in the subject area of services marketing, much is still unknown to service providers of specific services in terms of service delivery concepts. This study attempts to address this limitation. The study revolves around the customer relationship management and service quality of banks. Service firms, including banks, are vitally important to the economy of any country, as they contribute to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment rate. However, to survive in a complex, competitive business environment, service firms are required to focus on their clients’ needs. Specifically, banks can focus on their relationships with clients and levels of service quality. In order to establish the influence of selected variables on the customer relationship management (CRM) of banks and the influence of CRM on the service quality of banks, an empirical investigation was conducted. The aim of this study was to quantify significant relationships among selected variables; therefore the positivistic research paradigm was used. The sample consisted of banking clients in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan area. The sample size was 290, with a response rate of 91.03%. The empirical investigation revealed that significant positive relationships exist between both the knowledgeability, and attitude, of bank employees and a bank’s CRM. These relationships imply that more extensive knowledgeability of bank employees and bank employees with more positive attitudes lead to improved, maintained relationships between a bank and its clients. In addition, the empirical investigation revealed that CRM positively influences the service quality of banks. This relationship implies that if a bank successfully maintains relationships with its clients, the bank’s level of perceived service quality would increase. Additionally, the empirical investigation has shown the relationship between a banking client’s age and the CRM of a bank. The higher the age of a banking client, the more that client considers the CRM of a bank to be important. There exists a relationship between a banking client’s education level and the perceived service quality of a bank. If a banking clients’ education level increases, the importance of their bank’s service quality decreases and, conversely, a banking client with a lower level of education regards the service quality level of a bank as more important than higher qualified clients. The study indicated that strategies to improve, specifically, the knowledgeability and attitude of bank employees can and should be implemented by banks in ways to positively influence their CRM and ultimately their service quality. In effect, this will increase client satisfaction and ensure client loyalty to the bank. Ultimately, this will contribute to the bank’s success, which will ensure economic stability and prosperity for a country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The investigation, development and characterisation of novel zirconium-based tanning agents
- Guthrie-Strachan, Jeffry James
- Authors: Guthrie-Strachan, Jeffry James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zirconium Tanning Leather
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004977
- Description: Various oxygen- and nitrogen-donor ligands were investigated as potential zirconium masking agents in zirconium tanning. α-Hydroxycarboxylic acid ligands were identified as effective zirconium(IV) chelators in acidic aqueous solution. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, 4-hydroxymandelic acid, 4-chloromandelic acid and 4-bromomandelic acid complexes were synthesised, isolated and characterised using a range of analytical techniques. Linear Free Energy Relationships were examined to optimise the stability of the zirconium complexes. Hammett [sigma] plots and Yukawa-Tsuno modified σ plots of the mandelate ligand and zirconium complex series indicated that inductive effects dominate within the benzene ring, however, mesomeric effects are significant outside the ring. Zirconium 4-hydroxymandelate complex solutions were identified as the most effective tanning agents and achieved shrinkage temperatures of 80 and 97ºC for hide powder and goatskin, respectively. The zirconium and 4-hydroxymandelic acid interact synergistically to yield leather equivalent to combination tanned leather in one step. Tanning was performed similarly to vegetable tanning processes with a pickle pH of approximately 5 and fixation was achieved upon acidification. Pilot-scale tanning of goatskin produced white tanned leathers and crust leathers which were physically and aesthetically comparable to matched chromium tanned material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Guthrie-Strachan, Jeffry James
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Zirconium Tanning Leather
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004977
- Description: Various oxygen- and nitrogen-donor ligands were investigated as potential zirconium masking agents in zirconium tanning. α-Hydroxycarboxylic acid ligands were identified as effective zirconium(IV) chelators in acidic aqueous solution. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, 4-hydroxymandelic acid, 4-chloromandelic acid and 4-bromomandelic acid complexes were synthesised, isolated and characterised using a range of analytical techniques. Linear Free Energy Relationships were examined to optimise the stability of the zirconium complexes. Hammett [sigma] plots and Yukawa-Tsuno modified σ plots of the mandelate ligand and zirconium complex series indicated that inductive effects dominate within the benzene ring, however, mesomeric effects are significant outside the ring. Zirconium 4-hydroxymandelate complex solutions were identified as the most effective tanning agents and achieved shrinkage temperatures of 80 and 97ºC for hide powder and goatskin, respectively. The zirconium and 4-hydroxymandelic acid interact synergistically to yield leather equivalent to combination tanned leather in one step. Tanning was performed similarly to vegetable tanning processes with a pickle pH of approximately 5 and fixation was achieved upon acidification. Pilot-scale tanning of goatskin produced white tanned leathers and crust leathers which were physically and aesthetically comparable to matched chromium tanned material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The Johannesburg project
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6167 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012355
- Description: Colin Lewis was Professor of Geography at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa from 1989 until his retirement at the end of 2007. In 1990, with the strong support of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Dr Derek Henderson, he instigated the Certificate in Change Ringing (Church Bell Ringing) in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology - the first such course to be offered in Africa. Since that date he has lectured in the basic theory, and taught the practice of change ringing. He is the Ringing Master of the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, Grahamstown, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Lewis, Colin A
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6167 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012355
- Description: Colin Lewis was Professor of Geography at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa from 1989 until his retirement at the end of 2007. In 1990, with the strong support of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Dr Derek Henderson, he instigated the Certificate in Change Ringing (Church Bell Ringing) in the Rhodes University Department of Music and Musicology - the first such course to be offered in Africa. Since that date he has lectured in the basic theory, and taught the practice of change ringing. He is the Ringing Master of the Cathedral of St Michael and St George, Grahamstown, South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The Karoo igneous province:
- Duncan, Andrew R, Marsh, Julian S
- Authors: Duncan, Andrew R , Marsh, Julian S
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145156 , vital:38413 , ISBN 9781919908779
- Description: The Karoo igneous province.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Duncan, Andrew R , Marsh, Julian S
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: text , book
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/145156 , vital:38413 , ISBN 9781919908779
- Description: The Karoo igneous province.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The knowledge and attitudes of registered nurses in public hospitals related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission
- Authors: Mo, Yabin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Nurses -- South Africa -- Attitudes , AIDS (Disease) -- Nursing -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Nursing -- South Africa , Nurse and patient -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10018 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/571 , Nurses -- South Africa -- Attitudes , AIDS (Disease) -- Nursing -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Nursing -- South Africa , Nurse and patient -- South Africa
- Description: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) have brought about a global epidemic far more extensive than was predicted even a decade ago (van Rensburg, 2002:1). South Africa has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world (South African Department of Health, 2000: 5), it still increase yearly. Before a vaccine and/or effective treatment become available, effective education and information campaigns are necessary for preventing the spreading of HIV and AIDS (WHO (the World Health Organization), 1988:21). According to WHO and ICN (International Council of Nurses) (1988:12), Nurses can play a pivotal role in the education of patients, their families and friends with regard to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission, so as to control the spread of this disease. In South Africa, more than 60 percent of the healthcare human resources comprise professional nursing practitioners (Muller, 2002: 95). Therefore, the education and training of nurses is one of the effective methods to preventing further spread of HIV and AIDS infection in South Africa. Accordingly, nurses need to reduce both personal and occupational risk of becoming infected with HIV themselves, as well as provide education to patients and their families. Before effective and efficient in-service education guidelines on the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission can be developed, any knowledge deficit and negative attitudes of registered nurses regarding the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission should be identified. Thus, it is important to survey the knowledge and attitudes of nurses in healthcare institutions related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission. The main goal of the study was to explore and describe the knowledge and attitudes of registered nurses in public hospitals related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission. The secondary objective was to develop in-service education guidelines for registered nurses in public hospitals to optimise both personal and occupational prevention measures relating to HIV and AIDS transmission. The research was conducted using a quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The purposive sampling method was used to select the participants and a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. This data was analysed by inferential statistics and descriptive statistics and areas of deficits concerning knowledge and negative attitudes were identified. In this study there were deficits concerning the knowledge and negative attitudes regarding the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission to a greater or lesser degree in all the subgroups of the questionnaire. In general, the registered nurses with the attendance of HIV and AIDS training program, experience in caring for HIV and AIDS patients made the level of certain knowledge related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission different; Working experience as a registered nurses and the attendance of HIV and AIDS training programmes did not make attitudes towards the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission significantly different. The registered nurses with experience of caring for HIV and AIDS patients had more positive attitudes than those without the experience. This information was used to compile in-service education guidelines for registered nurses concerning the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission. The in-service education guidelines will be given to clinical facilitators at public hospitals. It is envisaged that this will guide them as to what to include in their in-service education programmes concerning the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission for registered nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Mo, Yabin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Nurses -- South Africa -- Attitudes , AIDS (Disease) -- Nursing -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Nursing -- South Africa , Nurse and patient -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: vital:10018 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/571 , Nurses -- South Africa -- Attitudes , AIDS (Disease) -- Nursing -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Nursing -- South Africa , Nurse and patient -- South Africa
- Description: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) have brought about a global epidemic far more extensive than was predicted even a decade ago (van Rensburg, 2002:1). South Africa has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world (South African Department of Health, 2000: 5), it still increase yearly. Before a vaccine and/or effective treatment become available, effective education and information campaigns are necessary for preventing the spreading of HIV and AIDS (WHO (the World Health Organization), 1988:21). According to WHO and ICN (International Council of Nurses) (1988:12), Nurses can play a pivotal role in the education of patients, their families and friends with regard to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission, so as to control the spread of this disease. In South Africa, more than 60 percent of the healthcare human resources comprise professional nursing practitioners (Muller, 2002: 95). Therefore, the education and training of nurses is one of the effective methods to preventing further spread of HIV and AIDS infection in South Africa. Accordingly, nurses need to reduce both personal and occupational risk of becoming infected with HIV themselves, as well as provide education to patients and their families. Before effective and efficient in-service education guidelines on the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission can be developed, any knowledge deficit and negative attitudes of registered nurses regarding the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission should be identified. Thus, it is important to survey the knowledge and attitudes of nurses in healthcare institutions related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission. The main goal of the study was to explore and describe the knowledge and attitudes of registered nurses in public hospitals related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission. The secondary objective was to develop in-service education guidelines for registered nurses in public hospitals to optimise both personal and occupational prevention measures relating to HIV and AIDS transmission. The research was conducted using a quantitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The purposive sampling method was used to select the participants and a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. This data was analysed by inferential statistics and descriptive statistics and areas of deficits concerning knowledge and negative attitudes were identified. In this study there were deficits concerning the knowledge and negative attitudes regarding the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission to a greater or lesser degree in all the subgroups of the questionnaire. In general, the registered nurses with the attendance of HIV and AIDS training program, experience in caring for HIV and AIDS patients made the level of certain knowledge related to the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission different; Working experience as a registered nurses and the attendance of HIV and AIDS training programmes did not make attitudes towards the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission significantly different. The registered nurses with experience of caring for HIV and AIDS patients had more positive attitudes than those without the experience. This information was used to compile in-service education guidelines for registered nurses concerning the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission. The in-service education guidelines will be given to clinical facilitators at public hospitals. It is envisaged that this will guide them as to what to include in their in-service education programmes concerning the prevention of HIV and AIDS transmission for registered nurses.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The management of risk: adolescent sexual and reproductive health in South Africa
- Authors: Macleod, Catriona I
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6302 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015958
- Description: Scientific discourse allows for the calculation of negative outcomes attendant on conception and birth during adolescence, thereby producing a discourse of risk. The management of risk allows for the deployment of governmental apparatuses of security. Security, as outlined by Foucault, is a specific principle of political method and practice aimed at defending and securing a national population. In this paper I analyse how techniques of security are deployed in the interactions between health service providers and young women seeking contraceptive and reproductive assistance at a regional hospital in South Africa, and how racialised and gendered politics are strategically deployed within these techniques. Security combines with various governmental techniques to produce its effects. The techniques used in this instance include pastoral care, liberal humanism, the incitement to governmental self-formation, and, in the last instance, sovereign power.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Macleod, Catriona I
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6302 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1015958
- Description: Scientific discourse allows for the calculation of negative outcomes attendant on conception and birth during adolescence, thereby producing a discourse of risk. The management of risk allows for the deployment of governmental apparatuses of security. Security, as outlined by Foucault, is a specific principle of political method and practice aimed at defending and securing a national population. In this paper I analyse how techniques of security are deployed in the interactions between health service providers and young women seeking contraceptive and reproductive assistance at a regional hospital in South Africa, and how racialised and gendered politics are strategically deployed within these techniques. Security combines with various governmental techniques to produce its effects. The techniques used in this instance include pastoral care, liberal humanism, the incitement to governmental self-formation, and, in the last instance, sovereign power.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The poetry of N.H. Brettell : a critical edition
- Authors: Hacksley, Reginald Gregory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brettell, N H -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008072
- Description: This thesis presents for the first time a critical reading edition of all known poems by N. H. Brettell. It makes no claim to being definitive, nor does it attempt to establish a final text. It represents merely the best thinking of the editor. Brettell printed and circulated his poetry primarily in hand-made illustrated volumes in a process reminiscent of the scribal publication of the seventeenth century. Only 137 of his 206 extant poems were commercially published during his lifetime. In this study all known printed versions of Brettell's poetry whether in privately printed or commercially published form were examined. All variant readings were recorded and are shown. Wherever possible the relationships between texts are also noted. The poems in this edition are ordered in each case according to the version in the latest datable privately produced collection. The commentary and critical introduction were compiled with the general reader in mind. No previous familiarity with southern African fauna and flora is assumed: animals, birds and insects are described and their scientific names supplied. Expressions current in ordinary British or South African English and present in non-specialist dictionaries are not glossed, but archaic and dialectal forms felt to require explication are briefly explained. So too are less familiar South African dialectal expressions which have been assimilated into the South African English lexicon. Intertextual, Christian and mythological references, both African and Western, are annotated in an attempt to make such references accessible to readers who may not share Brettell's cultural background. The intention is to close the changing distance between the text and the audience. An essay discussing the merits, potential and limitations of electronic scholarly editing is included as part of the textual introduction. A CD-Rom containing Brettell's watercolour illustrations in his privately produced collections and audio-clips of him reading his poetry accompanies this thesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Hacksley, Reginald Gregory
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Brettell, N H -- Criticism and interpretation South African poetry (English) -- History and criticism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008072
- Description: This thesis presents for the first time a critical reading edition of all known poems by N. H. Brettell. It makes no claim to being definitive, nor does it attempt to establish a final text. It represents merely the best thinking of the editor. Brettell printed and circulated his poetry primarily in hand-made illustrated volumes in a process reminiscent of the scribal publication of the seventeenth century. Only 137 of his 206 extant poems were commercially published during his lifetime. In this study all known printed versions of Brettell's poetry whether in privately printed or commercially published form were examined. All variant readings were recorded and are shown. Wherever possible the relationships between texts are also noted. The poems in this edition are ordered in each case according to the version in the latest datable privately produced collection. The commentary and critical introduction were compiled with the general reader in mind. No previous familiarity with southern African fauna and flora is assumed: animals, birds and insects are described and their scientific names supplied. Expressions current in ordinary British or South African English and present in non-specialist dictionaries are not glossed, but archaic and dialectal forms felt to require explication are briefly explained. So too are less familiar South African dialectal expressions which have been assimilated into the South African English lexicon. Intertextual, Christian and mythological references, both African and Western, are annotated in an attempt to make such references accessible to readers who may not share Brettell's cultural background. The intention is to close the changing distance between the text and the audience. An essay discussing the merits, potential and limitations of electronic scholarly editing is included as part of the textual introduction. A CD-Rom containing Brettell's watercolour illustrations in his privately produced collections and audio-clips of him reading his poetry accompanies this thesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The politics in and around governance in the New Partnership for Africa's Development
- Authors: Roussel, Jean Thierry Kevin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: New Partnership for Africa's Development , Sustainable development -- Africa , Economic development -- Africa , Africa -- Foreign economic relations , Africa -- Economic conditions , Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003037 , New Partnership for Africa's Development , Sustainable development -- Africa , Economic development -- Africa , Africa -- Foreign economic relations , Africa -- Economic conditions , Africa -- Politics and government
- Description: This study examines the prominence of the term governance and its use in multilateral organisations, in particular the New Partnership for African Development. It argues that the term governance is contentious and needs to be reviewed. This is in light of the elevation of governance as a requisite for development, which has come about through the development of NEPAD. This is primarily a study on the position of the state in multilateral regimes and how governance will affect the state and non-state actors. The politics in and around governance are therefore important in any assessment of African development as governance becomes a developmental necessity. The African Rennaisance and African Union have become ‘beacons of hope’ for Africa and these have been discussed here. We can see NEPAD as a historical development that fits into the African Renaissance. This has been a mechanism to ensure state survival and the states that drive NEPAD have played a significant role in providing legitimacy to Africa’s calls for development. This thesis attempts to explain the shift in developmental policy in that NEPAD has seemingly become the first African development strategy that has the support of the West. Through this thesis, we will examine the role that the Post Washington consensus has played in getting this phase of African development started. What becomes significant here is the way in which governance has been accepted as the gauge for support in development. This study therefore aims to offer a means by which to analyse governance in multilateral organisations. As the term is contentious, three paradigms on governance will be provided in order to refine governance in such a way that it can be applied in analysis. This thesis shows that governance can be refined into corporatist, prebendal and conciliar forms. The form of governance that NEPAD will take has implications for the type of reconfiguration of the state brought about by governance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Roussel, Jean Thierry Kevin
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: New Partnership for Africa's Development , Sustainable development -- Africa , Economic development -- Africa , Africa -- Foreign economic relations , Africa -- Economic conditions , Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2827 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003037 , New Partnership for Africa's Development , Sustainable development -- Africa , Economic development -- Africa , Africa -- Foreign economic relations , Africa -- Economic conditions , Africa -- Politics and government
- Description: This study examines the prominence of the term governance and its use in multilateral organisations, in particular the New Partnership for African Development. It argues that the term governance is contentious and needs to be reviewed. This is in light of the elevation of governance as a requisite for development, which has come about through the development of NEPAD. This is primarily a study on the position of the state in multilateral regimes and how governance will affect the state and non-state actors. The politics in and around governance are therefore important in any assessment of African development as governance becomes a developmental necessity. The African Rennaisance and African Union have become ‘beacons of hope’ for Africa and these have been discussed here. We can see NEPAD as a historical development that fits into the African Renaissance. This has been a mechanism to ensure state survival and the states that drive NEPAD have played a significant role in providing legitimacy to Africa’s calls for development. This thesis attempts to explain the shift in developmental policy in that NEPAD has seemingly become the first African development strategy that has the support of the West. Through this thesis, we will examine the role that the Post Washington consensus has played in getting this phase of African development started. What becomes significant here is the way in which governance has been accepted as the gauge for support in development. This study therefore aims to offer a means by which to analyse governance in multilateral organisations. As the term is contentious, three paradigms on governance will be provided in order to refine governance in such a way that it can be applied in analysis. This thesis shows that governance can be refined into corporatist, prebendal and conciliar forms. The form of governance that NEPAD will take has implications for the type of reconfiguration of the state brought about by governance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The politics of transformation in South Africa: an evaluation of education policies and their implementation with particular reference to the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Rembe, Symphorosa Wilibald
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Post-apartheid era -- South Africa South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003036
- Description: The post-apartheid government of South Africa has committed itself to achieving fundamental transformation of the education system. The government has adopted policies and measures that aimed to bring about the goals of equity and redress, and to enhance democracy and participation of all groups in development and decision making processes at all levels. It is acknowledged that the democratic government has accomplished a lot in education within this short period and has made numerous strides in enhancing equity, redress and social justice; providing high quality education for all the people of South Africa; bringing about democratisation and development; and enhancing effectiveness and efficiency. However, despite these apparent achievements, this study shows that there have been a number of setbacks and contradictions in the policies which have affected the process of bringing about fundamental changes and transformation in the education sector. The setbacks and contradictions resulted from factors which have affected the type of policies developed to transform the education sector. They also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, thereby limiting the achievements of the goals of transformation agenda in education. Hence, this study examined the politics of transformation and change in the education sector by examining the type of policies that have been put in place; their formulation, implementation and outcome. The main research questions are: • What kind or type of policies have been put in place to transform the education sector? • How and by whom were the policies formulated? • How are these policies being implemented and what have been the outcomes of the process? Transformation and in particular the policy process is beset with continuous debate, contestation and struggle for the success of ideas and interests which are pursued by individual actors, groups and policy networks through the institutions. During these different stages policies are modified, constituted and reconstituted. As a result, they give rise to intended and unintended outcomes which are likely to support or contradict the objectives of those policies. Hence, the process cannot be explained using only one approach or theory. Therefore, this study has been situated in ideas, group and network and institutional approaches or theories to examine the factors that have affected education policies, their formulation and implementation and the overall transformation of education in South Africa. It contends that policy change and variation result from interaction of ideas and interests within patterns of group and policy networks and preset institutions. The study adopts qualitative interpretive methodology in order to question, understand and explain institutions; interests groups and ideas; socio economic and power relations involved in the process. It also appraises the framework for action. In addition to conducting literature review, unstructured interviews were held with officials from provincial and national Departments of Education, members of national and provincial legislatures, principals, teachers, members of school governing bodies, learners, Non-governmental organisations, Community based organisations, Faith based organisations, teachers’ and workers’ unions. Observations were made during meetings of school governing bodies. The study draws reference from the Eastern Cape Province between 1994 and 2002 and looks at the school level (Basic and Further Education levels). Reference is also made to selective policy instruments namely, the South African Schools Act (SASA) (1996), Curriculum 2005 and Norms and Standards for School Funding (1999). Overall, the findings of the study have shown that various factors have led to setbacks and contradictions in the policies that were adopted in education. They have also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, hence exerting certain limitations on the achievements of the goals of transformation in education. The factors identified in the findings are the outcome of the negotiated settlement and subsequent changes made by the apartheid government in education before the 1994 elections; constraints and unequal participation of different groups in education policy development in various established structures and avenues; drawbacks in the implementation of education policies by decentralised structures and agents at various levels. This was exacerbated by lack of capacity, lack of adequate resources, lack of commitment and will among some of the civil servants coupled with corruption and mismanagement. The legacy of apartheid and the homeland governments, together with existing backlogs added another layer. Consequently, there were challenges in the economic policy which led to inadequate funding for education. The findings of this study show that competing ideas and interests advanced by groups and networks have impact on decision making, policy content and implementation. Therefore, some policies will reflect and maintain the interests of those individual actors, groups and policy networks that exerted most influence. The findings also reveal that institutional norms and rules, inadequate resources, lack of capacity and skilled human resources and economic environment, constrain decision making, policy content and implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Rembe, Symphorosa Wilibald
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Post-apartheid era -- South Africa South Africa -- Politics and government -- 1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:2826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003036
- Description: The post-apartheid government of South Africa has committed itself to achieving fundamental transformation of the education system. The government has adopted policies and measures that aimed to bring about the goals of equity and redress, and to enhance democracy and participation of all groups in development and decision making processes at all levels. It is acknowledged that the democratic government has accomplished a lot in education within this short period and has made numerous strides in enhancing equity, redress and social justice; providing high quality education for all the people of South Africa; bringing about democratisation and development; and enhancing effectiveness and efficiency. However, despite these apparent achievements, this study shows that there have been a number of setbacks and contradictions in the policies which have affected the process of bringing about fundamental changes and transformation in the education sector. The setbacks and contradictions resulted from factors which have affected the type of policies developed to transform the education sector. They also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, thereby limiting the achievements of the goals of transformation agenda in education. Hence, this study examined the politics of transformation and change in the education sector by examining the type of policies that have been put in place; their formulation, implementation and outcome. The main research questions are: • What kind or type of policies have been put in place to transform the education sector? • How and by whom were the policies formulated? • How are these policies being implemented and what have been the outcomes of the process? Transformation and in particular the policy process is beset with continuous debate, contestation and struggle for the success of ideas and interests which are pursued by individual actors, groups and policy networks through the institutions. During these different stages policies are modified, constituted and reconstituted. As a result, they give rise to intended and unintended outcomes which are likely to support or contradict the objectives of those policies. Hence, the process cannot be explained using only one approach or theory. Therefore, this study has been situated in ideas, group and network and institutional approaches or theories to examine the factors that have affected education policies, their formulation and implementation and the overall transformation of education in South Africa. It contends that policy change and variation result from interaction of ideas and interests within patterns of group and policy networks and preset institutions. The study adopts qualitative interpretive methodology in order to question, understand and explain institutions; interests groups and ideas; socio economic and power relations involved in the process. It also appraises the framework for action. In addition to conducting literature review, unstructured interviews were held with officials from provincial and national Departments of Education, members of national and provincial legislatures, principals, teachers, members of school governing bodies, learners, Non-governmental organisations, Community based organisations, Faith based organisations, teachers’ and workers’ unions. Observations were made during meetings of school governing bodies. The study draws reference from the Eastern Cape Province between 1994 and 2002 and looks at the school level (Basic and Further Education levels). Reference is also made to selective policy instruments namely, the South African Schools Act (SASA) (1996), Curriculum 2005 and Norms and Standards for School Funding (1999). Overall, the findings of the study have shown that various factors have led to setbacks and contradictions in the policies that were adopted in education. They have also affected the formulation and implementation of the policies, hence exerting certain limitations on the achievements of the goals of transformation in education. The factors identified in the findings are the outcome of the negotiated settlement and subsequent changes made by the apartheid government in education before the 1994 elections; constraints and unequal participation of different groups in education policy development in various established structures and avenues; drawbacks in the implementation of education policies by decentralised structures and agents at various levels. This was exacerbated by lack of capacity, lack of adequate resources, lack of commitment and will among some of the civil servants coupled with corruption and mismanagement. The legacy of apartheid and the homeland governments, together with existing backlogs added another layer. Consequently, there were challenges in the economic policy which led to inadequate funding for education. The findings of this study show that competing ideas and interests advanced by groups and networks have impact on decision making, policy content and implementation. Therefore, some policies will reflect and maintain the interests of those individual actors, groups and policy networks that exerted most influence. The findings also reveal that institutional norms and rules, inadequate resources, lack of capacity and skilled human resources and economic environment, constrain decision making, policy content and implementation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The population structure of two estuarine fish species, atherina breviceps (Pisces: Atherinidae) and gilchristella aestuaria (Pisces: Clupeidae), along the Southern African coastline
- Authors: Norton, Olivia Bridget
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Estuarine fishes -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Clupeidae -- South Africa , Silversides -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5745 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005431 , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Clupeidae -- South Africa , Silversides -- South Africa
- Description: Phylogeographic patterns of coastal organisms with different life histories and breeding strategies may reveal patterns not consistent with the current delineation of the biogeographic provinces around South Africa. The subdivision of the South African coastline into these three main climatological or biogeographic regions: namely the cool temperate west coast, the warm temperate south coast and the subtropical east coast, is based on average seawater temperatures and hydrological conditions. Genealogies of two estuarine fish species Atherina breviceps, a marine breeder, and Gilchristella aestuaria, an estuarine spawner, were reconstructed using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences. The study comprised two components, an assessment of a small dataset of both fish species to compare their population structure along the South African coastline and a more comprehensive investigation of the phylogeography of G. aestuaria collected from 21 estuaries around the coast. The comparative study of A. breviceps and G. aestuaria indicate different population distribution patterns along the South African coastline. Results of the A. breviceps analysis demonstrate substantial gene flow due to the random mixing of alleles, while the comparative G. aestuaria dataset indicates a more structured population and considerably less gene flow. The G. aestuaria population demonstrates geographic separation into four groups, namely the west coast (Great Berg), Bot (south coast), Seekoei (south coast) and east coast (Bushmans, Kasouga and Cefane). Results from the larger G. aestuaria dataset indicate that the phylogeographic patterns observed during this study do not conform to existing biogeographic boundaries along the southern African coastline. The delineation identified during this study between the warm temperate and subtropical regions is further south than originally perceived and this southward extension can be ascribed to the prevailing hydrology. The life history patterns and ecology of these two estuarine fish species appears key to understanding their population structure. These factors interact with environmental characteristics such as physical oceanography and the distribution of estuaries (along the coastline) to explain the observed distribution patterns and population structure of A. breviceps and G. aestuaria.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Norton, Olivia Bridget
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Estuarine fishes -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Clupeidae -- South Africa , Silversides -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5745 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005431 , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa , Clupeidae -- South Africa , Silversides -- South Africa
- Description: Phylogeographic patterns of coastal organisms with different life histories and breeding strategies may reveal patterns not consistent with the current delineation of the biogeographic provinces around South Africa. The subdivision of the South African coastline into these three main climatological or biogeographic regions: namely the cool temperate west coast, the warm temperate south coast and the subtropical east coast, is based on average seawater temperatures and hydrological conditions. Genealogies of two estuarine fish species Atherina breviceps, a marine breeder, and Gilchristella aestuaria, an estuarine spawner, were reconstructed using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences. The study comprised two components, an assessment of a small dataset of both fish species to compare their population structure along the South African coastline and a more comprehensive investigation of the phylogeography of G. aestuaria collected from 21 estuaries around the coast. The comparative study of A. breviceps and G. aestuaria indicate different population distribution patterns along the South African coastline. Results of the A. breviceps analysis demonstrate substantial gene flow due to the random mixing of alleles, while the comparative G. aestuaria dataset indicates a more structured population and considerably less gene flow. The G. aestuaria population demonstrates geographic separation into four groups, namely the west coast (Great Berg), Bot (south coast), Seekoei (south coast) and east coast (Bushmans, Kasouga and Cefane). Results from the larger G. aestuaria dataset indicate that the phylogeographic patterns observed during this study do not conform to existing biogeographic boundaries along the southern African coastline. The delineation identified during this study between the warm temperate and subtropical regions is further south than originally perceived and this southward extension can be ascribed to the prevailing hydrology. The life history patterns and ecology of these two estuarine fish species appears key to understanding their population structure. These factors interact with environmental characteristics such as physical oceanography and the distribution of estuaries (along the coastline) to explain the observed distribution patterns and population structure of A. breviceps and G. aestuaria.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The Post: 15 years of journalism with a conscience
- Authors: Banda, Fackson
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6327 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008467
- Description: This article celebrates the 15-year existence of the Post newspaper in Zambia, citing its unique niche as a purveyor of conscientious journalism. It justifies the Post's reportage in terms of what seems to be the paper's civic-journalistic mission.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Banda, Fackson
- Date: 2006
- Language: English
- Type: Article
- Identifier: vital:6327 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008467
- Description: This article celebrates the 15-year existence of the Post newspaper in Zambia, citing its unique niche as a purveyor of conscientious journalism. It justifies the Post's reportage in terms of what seems to be the paper's civic-journalistic mission.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2006
The power of hegemonic theory in Southern Africa: why Lesotho cannot develop an independent foreign policy
- Authors: Mahao, Lehloenya
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Hegemony -- South Africa , Lesotho -- Politics and government , Lesotho -- Foreign relations -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign relations -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003009 , Hegemony -- South Africa , Lesotho -- Politics and government , Lesotho -- Foreign relations -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign relations -- Lesotho
- Description: This thesis critiques hegemonic theory – especially the impact of a hegemonic state on the ability of small states to develop an independent foreign policy. The research uses Lesotho as a case study of a subordinate state in relation to the Republic of South Africa (RSA) as a hegemonic state. It draws on the history of Lesotho’s quest for sovereignty and argues that this sovereignty is constantly eroded to the advantage of its hegemonic neighbour. This constrains Lesotho’s ability to develop an independent foreign policy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Mahao, Lehloenya
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Hegemony -- South Africa , Lesotho -- Politics and government , Lesotho -- Foreign relations -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign relations -- Lesotho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2799 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003009 , Hegemony -- South Africa , Lesotho -- Politics and government , Lesotho -- Foreign relations -- South Africa , South Africa -- Foreign relations -- Lesotho
- Description: This thesis critiques hegemonic theory – especially the impact of a hegemonic state on the ability of small states to develop an independent foreign policy. The research uses Lesotho as a case study of a subordinate state in relation to the Republic of South Africa (RSA) as a hegemonic state. It draws on the history of Lesotho’s quest for sovereignty and argues that this sovereignty is constantly eroded to the advantage of its hegemonic neighbour. This constrains Lesotho’s ability to develop an independent foreign policy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The puzzle of domination in society : seeking solutions in the African context
- Authors: Madonko, Thokozile
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Rosen, Michael. On voluntary servitude , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 -- Political and social views , Biko, Steve, 1946-1977 , Ideology , Black people -- Race identity , Ideology -- Psychological aspects , Ideology -- Sociological aspects , Power (Social sciences) , Consciousness , Racism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2855 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007260 , Rosen, Michael. On voluntary servitude , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 -- Political and social views , Biko, Steve, 1946-1977 , Ideology , Black people -- Race identity , Ideology -- Psychological aspects , Ideology -- Sociological aspects , Power (Social sciences) , Consciousness , Racism
- Description: The presence of human destitution, impoverishment and degradation in the midst of plenty has puzzled social thinkers for millennia. One of the oldest and grandest of theories: the theory of ideology attempts to provide an answer to the puzzle of domination in society. Michael Rosen, in his book On Voluntary Servitude (1996), argues that the solution provided by the theory of ideology is problematic. Furthermore, on the basis of his critique, Rosen argues that we should abandon the theory of ideology and consider alternatives to it. Even though many contemporary academics have turned away from the theory of ideology, because they view it as an imprisoning meta-theory, this study explores the possibility of there being a meta-theory that could help us to make sense of the world. Through an examination of Rosen's critique this thesis shows that Rosen is too quick in his dismissal of the theory of ideology because he fails to consider that a revised functionalist theory of ideology can be expanded to account for the mechanism(s) that ensure that, over time, the society in question acquires ideological consciousness to further its welfare. This thesis shows that Rosen is correct in his criticism of the theory of ideology's explanation of domination because the content, history and social effects of ideological consciousness cannot be fully explained in terms of their role in promoting or stabilising relations of domination. In light of Rosen's criticism the thesis shows that if one provides both an explanation of the psychological motivations of individuals and of the nature of the oppressive society in which they find themselves then what I call an integrated theory of ideology can be developed. In order to illustrate the importance of an integrated theory of ideology the study moves away from high-level theoretical abstraction to concrete social analyses, focusing on the work of Frantz Fanon and Steve Biko and their explanations of domination. The reason this study focuses on their work is because in their role as social scientists, Fanon and Biko provided a powerful critique of colonial, post-colonial and neo-colonial society. It will be argued that Fanon and Biko were able to provide a lasting critique of colonial reality because they offered their critique within the framework of such an integrated theory. Consequently, this study argues that, as Fanon and Biko's work illustrate, an integrated theory of ideology qua critical theory ought not to be abandoned because it is crucial for understanding and resisting forms of oppression that exist in the world today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Madonko, Thokozile
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Rosen, Michael. On voluntary servitude , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 -- Political and social views , Biko, Steve, 1946-1977 , Ideology , Black people -- Race identity , Ideology -- Psychological aspects , Ideology -- Sociological aspects , Power (Social sciences) , Consciousness , Racism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2855 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007260 , Rosen, Michael. On voluntary servitude , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 , Fanon, Frantz, 1925-1961 -- Political and social views , Biko, Steve, 1946-1977 , Ideology , Black people -- Race identity , Ideology -- Psychological aspects , Ideology -- Sociological aspects , Power (Social sciences) , Consciousness , Racism
- Description: The presence of human destitution, impoverishment and degradation in the midst of plenty has puzzled social thinkers for millennia. One of the oldest and grandest of theories: the theory of ideology attempts to provide an answer to the puzzle of domination in society. Michael Rosen, in his book On Voluntary Servitude (1996), argues that the solution provided by the theory of ideology is problematic. Furthermore, on the basis of his critique, Rosen argues that we should abandon the theory of ideology and consider alternatives to it. Even though many contemporary academics have turned away from the theory of ideology, because they view it as an imprisoning meta-theory, this study explores the possibility of there being a meta-theory that could help us to make sense of the world. Through an examination of Rosen's critique this thesis shows that Rosen is too quick in his dismissal of the theory of ideology because he fails to consider that a revised functionalist theory of ideology can be expanded to account for the mechanism(s) that ensure that, over time, the society in question acquires ideological consciousness to further its welfare. This thesis shows that Rosen is correct in his criticism of the theory of ideology's explanation of domination because the content, history and social effects of ideological consciousness cannot be fully explained in terms of their role in promoting or stabilising relations of domination. In light of Rosen's criticism the thesis shows that if one provides both an explanation of the psychological motivations of individuals and of the nature of the oppressive society in which they find themselves then what I call an integrated theory of ideology can be developed. In order to illustrate the importance of an integrated theory of ideology the study moves away from high-level theoretical abstraction to concrete social analyses, focusing on the work of Frantz Fanon and Steve Biko and their explanations of domination. The reason this study focuses on their work is because in their role as social scientists, Fanon and Biko provided a powerful critique of colonial, post-colonial and neo-colonial society. It will be argued that Fanon and Biko were able to provide a lasting critique of colonial reality because they offered their critique within the framework of such an integrated theory. Consequently, this study argues that, as Fanon and Biko's work illustrate, an integrated theory of ideology qua critical theory ought not to be abandoned because it is crucial for understanding and resisting forms of oppression that exist in the world today.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
The regulation of tax practitioners in South Africa: a proposed model
- Authors: Woodbridge, Taryn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003128 , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service
- Description: Tax practitioners in South Africa have been operating in an unregulated tax industry. This has allowed certain tax practitioners to fail in their duties to their clients, as many do not have to abide by any code of conduct or ethical principles, to the detriment of the public. Other than the provisions in the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962, there has been no regulation. As a result of losses suffered by taxpayers either through the incompetence, ignorance or negligence of a tax practitioner, as substantiated by case law, and increased costs borne by the South African Revenue Services due to unnecessary queries and tax disputes, the Minister of Finance, Trevor Manuel, introduced the concept of tax industry regulation in his Budget Speech in 2002. This resulted in the introduction of section 67 A into the Income Tax Act, providing for a registration process for tax practitioners. All practising tax practitioners were required to register with the Commissioner for the South African Revenue Services by 30 June 2005. In addition, a discussion paper was issued in 2002 setting out the proposal of the Revenue Services to regulate the tax industry through the formation of an Association of Tax Practitioners. This proposal includes various contentious issues and casts significant doubt on whether the proposed model is the most suitable. The goal of the research was therefore to evaluate the current status of tax advisory services in order to demonstrate the need for regulation and to compare the proposed SARS model with two established regulatory authorities: the Estate Agency Affairs Board and the Australian Tax Agents Board. A conceptual model for regulation was developed in order to test all the models against a simple regulatory framework to determine whether each was aligned to certain best practices proposed in this framework. The research methodology was qualitative in nature, involving the critical interpretation of documentary data and data generated during a public discussion forum of tax practitioners. It was concluded that the SARS proposal is too prescriptive and, at the same time, too broad in its scope. In order to address the key objective, identified as protection of the taxpaying public, a simplified regulation procedure was recommended, which would adhere to the proposed regulatory framework. , KMBT_363
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Woodbridge, Taryn
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003128 , Income tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , South African Revenue Service
- Description: Tax practitioners in South Africa have been operating in an unregulated tax industry. This has allowed certain tax practitioners to fail in their duties to their clients, as many do not have to abide by any code of conduct or ethical principles, to the detriment of the public. Other than the provisions in the Income Tax Act, 58 of 1962, there has been no regulation. As a result of losses suffered by taxpayers either through the incompetence, ignorance or negligence of a tax practitioner, as substantiated by case law, and increased costs borne by the South African Revenue Services due to unnecessary queries and tax disputes, the Minister of Finance, Trevor Manuel, introduced the concept of tax industry regulation in his Budget Speech in 2002. This resulted in the introduction of section 67 A into the Income Tax Act, providing for a registration process for tax practitioners. All practising tax practitioners were required to register with the Commissioner for the South African Revenue Services by 30 June 2005. In addition, a discussion paper was issued in 2002 setting out the proposal of the Revenue Services to regulate the tax industry through the formation of an Association of Tax Practitioners. This proposal includes various contentious issues and casts significant doubt on whether the proposed model is the most suitable. The goal of the research was therefore to evaluate the current status of tax advisory services in order to demonstrate the need for regulation and to compare the proposed SARS model with two established regulatory authorities: the Estate Agency Affairs Board and the Australian Tax Agents Board. A conceptual model for regulation was developed in order to test all the models against a simple regulatory framework to determine whether each was aligned to certain best practices proposed in this framework. The research methodology was qualitative in nature, involving the critical interpretation of documentary data and data generated during a public discussion forum of tax practitioners. It was concluded that the SARS proposal is too prescriptive and, at the same time, too broad in its scope. In order to address the key objective, identified as protection of the taxpaying public, a simplified regulation procedure was recommended, which would adhere to the proposed regulatory framework. , KMBT_363
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006