"To learn how to speak": a study of Jeremy Cronin's poetry
- Authors: Pinnock, William
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poets, South African , Historical materialism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8484 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021038
- Description: In the chapters that follow, the porous boundary between the public and the private in Jeremy Cronin’s poetry is investigated in his three collections, Inside (1983), Even the Dead: Poems, Parables and a Jeremiad (1996) and More Than a Casual Contact (2006). I argue two particular Marxist theorists are central to reading Cronin’s poetry: Bertolt Brecht, and his notion of the Verfremdungseffekt, and Walter Benjamin and his work on historical materialism, primarily the essay On the Concept of History / Theses on the Philosophy of History (1940). Both theorists focus on the work of art in a historically contextualized manner, which extends the challenge to the boundary between the public and the private. Their work is underpinned by the desire to draw out hidden narratives occluded under the grand narratives of history and capitalist ideas of progress. I argue that these are the major preoccupations in Cronin’s oeuvre as well. As such Cronin’s poetry may be seen to write against a perspective that proposes a linear conceptualisation of history. The poetry therefore challenges the notion that art speaks of ‘universal truths.’ Such ideas of History and Truth, if viewed uncritically, allow for a tendency to conceive of the past as unchanging, which subconsciously promotes the idea that social and political realities are merely logical evolutionary steps. I argue that Cronin’s poetry is thus purposefully interruptive in the way that it confronts the damaging consequences of the linear conceptualisation of history and the universal truth it promotes. His work attempts to find new ways of connection and expression through learning from South Africa’s violent past. The significance of understanding each other and the historical environment as opposed to imposing perspectives that underwrite the symbolic order requires the transformation rather than the simple transferral of power, and is a central focus throughout Cronin’s oeuvre. This position suggests that while the struggle for political freedom may be over, the necessity to rethink how South Africans relate to each other is only beginning. Chapter One will focus on positioning Cronin, the poet and public figure, in South African literature and literary criticism. In this regard, two general trends have operated as critical paradigms in the study of South African poetry, namely Formalism (or ‘prac crit’) and a Marxist inflected materialism, which have in many ways perpetuated the division between the private and the public. This has resulted in poetry being read with an exclusive focus on either one of these two aspects, overlooking the possibilities of dialogue that may take place between them. Cronin’s perspective on these polarised responses will be discussed, which will illustrate the similarity of his position to Ndebele’s notion of the ‘ordinary’ which suggests a way beyond these binaries. This will lead to a discussion of how South African poets responded to the transition phase, suggesting that the elements of the polarisation still remained. Considering the major influences and paradigms when reading Cronin’s oeuvre provides a foundation for the following three chapters. These include Cronin’s use of Romanticism, Bertolt Brecht and the V-Effekt and Walter Benjamin’s perspectives on historical materialism. In addition to these three theoretical paradigms, the relevance of Pablo Neruda’s poetry to Cronin’s work is also foregrounded. In Chapter Two, the focus will be on Cronin’s first collection of poetry, Inside, concentrating on Cronin’s use of language as a way of constructing poetry in the sparseness of the prison experience. This will show an abiding preoccupation of learning to speak in a language that considers the material context out of which it emerges. In this regard, the poems “Poem-Shrike” “Prologue” and “Cave-site” are analysed. In addition, one of the central poems in Cronin’s oeuvre, “To learn how to speak […],” will be examined in order to illustrate how the poet extends this project on a meta-poetic level, asking for South African poets to ‘learn how to speak’ in the voices of South African experience and histories. I will show how this is linked to Cronin’s “Walking on Air” which illustrates how the V-Effeckt recovers the small private histories through re-telling the life story of James Matthews, a fellow prisoner incarcerated for his anti-apartheid activism, revealing how this story is intimately connected to the public sphere. In Chapter Three, Cronin’s second collection: Even the Dead: Poems, Parables and a Jeremiad will be examined. In the poem “Three Reasons for a Mixed, Umrabulo, Round-the-Corner Poetry” Cronin resists inherited Western poetic conventions by incorporating and subverting versions of the Romantic aesthetic, arguing for poetry to be immersed in South African multi-lingual and multi-cultural experiences. “Even the Dead” reveals how Cronin uses Walter Benjamin’s perspectives on historical materialism to confront amnesia. In terms of the themes established in “To learn how to speak […]”, the poem “Moorage” demonstrates how the public and private can never be separated in Cronin’s work. The final section of this chapter will examine how Cronin responds to Pablo Neruda’s poems “I am explaining a few things” and “The Education of a Chieftain,” and how these poems challenge narratives that privilege the ‘great leader’ instead of the so-called smaller individuals’ stories. Chapter Four examines selections from Cronin’s third collection, focusing on Cronin’s use of the automobile, charting an ambiguous trajectory through the ‘new’ South Africa. The examination of the poems “Where to begin?”, “Switchback” and “End of the century - which is why wipers,” all attempt to include individuals left on the margins of the narrative of global freeways and neo-liberal capitalist progress. The poems present an interrogation of how ‘vision’ is constructed. This will show that the poetry responds to the experiences of the marginalised under these grand narratives in a primarily fragmentary and interruptive manner. This in effect constitutes the culmination of Cronin’s poetic journey and the search for new ways of envisaging South Africa’s future and finding a new language with which to speak it.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Pinnock, William
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poets, South African , Historical materialism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8484 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021038
- Description: In the chapters that follow, the porous boundary between the public and the private in Jeremy Cronin’s poetry is investigated in his three collections, Inside (1983), Even the Dead: Poems, Parables and a Jeremiad (1996) and More Than a Casual Contact (2006). I argue two particular Marxist theorists are central to reading Cronin’s poetry: Bertolt Brecht, and his notion of the Verfremdungseffekt, and Walter Benjamin and his work on historical materialism, primarily the essay On the Concept of History / Theses on the Philosophy of History (1940). Both theorists focus on the work of art in a historically contextualized manner, which extends the challenge to the boundary between the public and the private. Their work is underpinned by the desire to draw out hidden narratives occluded under the grand narratives of history and capitalist ideas of progress. I argue that these are the major preoccupations in Cronin’s oeuvre as well. As such Cronin’s poetry may be seen to write against a perspective that proposes a linear conceptualisation of history. The poetry therefore challenges the notion that art speaks of ‘universal truths.’ Such ideas of History and Truth, if viewed uncritically, allow for a tendency to conceive of the past as unchanging, which subconsciously promotes the idea that social and political realities are merely logical evolutionary steps. I argue that Cronin’s poetry is thus purposefully interruptive in the way that it confronts the damaging consequences of the linear conceptualisation of history and the universal truth it promotes. His work attempts to find new ways of connection and expression through learning from South Africa’s violent past. The significance of understanding each other and the historical environment as opposed to imposing perspectives that underwrite the symbolic order requires the transformation rather than the simple transferral of power, and is a central focus throughout Cronin’s oeuvre. This position suggests that while the struggle for political freedom may be over, the necessity to rethink how South Africans relate to each other is only beginning. Chapter One will focus on positioning Cronin, the poet and public figure, in South African literature and literary criticism. In this regard, two general trends have operated as critical paradigms in the study of South African poetry, namely Formalism (or ‘prac crit’) and a Marxist inflected materialism, which have in many ways perpetuated the division between the private and the public. This has resulted in poetry being read with an exclusive focus on either one of these two aspects, overlooking the possibilities of dialogue that may take place between them. Cronin’s perspective on these polarised responses will be discussed, which will illustrate the similarity of his position to Ndebele’s notion of the ‘ordinary’ which suggests a way beyond these binaries. This will lead to a discussion of how South African poets responded to the transition phase, suggesting that the elements of the polarisation still remained. Considering the major influences and paradigms when reading Cronin’s oeuvre provides a foundation for the following three chapters. These include Cronin’s use of Romanticism, Bertolt Brecht and the V-Effekt and Walter Benjamin’s perspectives on historical materialism. In addition to these three theoretical paradigms, the relevance of Pablo Neruda’s poetry to Cronin’s work is also foregrounded. In Chapter Two, the focus will be on Cronin’s first collection of poetry, Inside, concentrating on Cronin’s use of language as a way of constructing poetry in the sparseness of the prison experience. This will show an abiding preoccupation of learning to speak in a language that considers the material context out of which it emerges. In this regard, the poems “Poem-Shrike” “Prologue” and “Cave-site” are analysed. In addition, one of the central poems in Cronin’s oeuvre, “To learn how to speak […],” will be examined in order to illustrate how the poet extends this project on a meta-poetic level, asking for South African poets to ‘learn how to speak’ in the voices of South African experience and histories. I will show how this is linked to Cronin’s “Walking on Air” which illustrates how the V-Effeckt recovers the small private histories through re-telling the life story of James Matthews, a fellow prisoner incarcerated for his anti-apartheid activism, revealing how this story is intimately connected to the public sphere. In Chapter Three, Cronin’s second collection: Even the Dead: Poems, Parables and a Jeremiad will be examined. In the poem “Three Reasons for a Mixed, Umrabulo, Round-the-Corner Poetry” Cronin resists inherited Western poetic conventions by incorporating and subverting versions of the Romantic aesthetic, arguing for poetry to be immersed in South African multi-lingual and multi-cultural experiences. “Even the Dead” reveals how Cronin uses Walter Benjamin’s perspectives on historical materialism to confront amnesia. In terms of the themes established in “To learn how to speak […]”, the poem “Moorage” demonstrates how the public and private can never be separated in Cronin’s work. The final section of this chapter will examine how Cronin responds to Pablo Neruda’s poems “I am explaining a few things” and “The Education of a Chieftain,” and how these poems challenge narratives that privilege the ‘great leader’ instead of the so-called smaller individuals’ stories. Chapter Four examines selections from Cronin’s third collection, focusing on Cronin’s use of the automobile, charting an ambiguous trajectory through the ‘new’ South Africa. The examination of the poems “Where to begin?”, “Switchback” and “End of the century - which is why wipers,” all attempt to include individuals left on the margins of the narrative of global freeways and neo-liberal capitalist progress. The poems present an interrogation of how ‘vision’ is constructed. This will show that the poetry responds to the experiences of the marginalised under these grand narratives in a primarily fragmentary and interruptive manner. This in effect constitutes the culmination of Cronin’s poetic journey and the search for new ways of envisaging South Africa’s future and finding a new language with which to speak it.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
(De)constructing the archive : an annotated catalog of the Deon van der Walt Collection in the NMMU Library
- Authors: Buys, Frederick Jacobus
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Music -- Bibliography -- Catalogs , Archives -- Catalogs , Tenors (Singers) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8526 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020585
- Description: Deon van der Walt was, at the height of his career, considered the leading lyric tenor of his generation. In a career that spanned more than 25 years he performed in the great opera houses of the world and sang for the leading conductors of the time, sharing the stage with the best singers in the world. He was the first male South African to accomplish the so-called “grand slam” of opera, having sung in the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden (London), Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna), La Scala (Milan) and the Metropolitan Opera House (New York). He was also a prolific oratorio and lieder singer, collaborating with the best artists the musical world had to offer. In addition he left a large recorded legacy, both published and unpublished. His untimely death on 29 November 2005 was extensively reported on both locally and abroad - a fact which again highlighted the importance of his personal and professional contribution to the international opera world.The Deon van der Walt Collection is the single most important key to unlocking the life and career of one of the most successful South African opera singers of all time. It was bequeathed to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) Library the Deon van der Walt Trust in 2007. The collection is made up of an arbitrary assortment of books, documents, sound and video recordings that were left in van der Walt’s Zürich accommodations at the time of his death in 2005. It is housed in separate section on the lower level of the South Campus Library of the NMMU. The collection has been partially catalogued by the NMMU Library but left largely unattended for the last 6 years. The compiling of an annotated catalogue of this collection is the vital first step in connecting the dots of an extraordinary musical career that was hailed as one of the greatest of his time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Buys, Frederick Jacobus
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Music -- Bibliography -- Catalogs , Archives -- Catalogs , Tenors (Singers) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8526 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020585
- Description: Deon van der Walt was, at the height of his career, considered the leading lyric tenor of his generation. In a career that spanned more than 25 years he performed in the great opera houses of the world and sang for the leading conductors of the time, sharing the stage with the best singers in the world. He was the first male South African to accomplish the so-called “grand slam” of opera, having sung in the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden (London), Wiener Staatsoper (Vienna), La Scala (Milan) and the Metropolitan Opera House (New York). He was also a prolific oratorio and lieder singer, collaborating with the best artists the musical world had to offer. In addition he left a large recorded legacy, both published and unpublished. His untimely death on 29 November 2005 was extensively reported on both locally and abroad - a fact which again highlighted the importance of his personal and professional contribution to the international opera world.The Deon van der Walt Collection is the single most important key to unlocking the life and career of one of the most successful South African opera singers of all time. It was bequeathed to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) Library the Deon van der Walt Trust in 2007. The collection is made up of an arbitrary assortment of books, documents, sound and video recordings that were left in van der Walt’s Zürich accommodations at the time of his death in 2005. It is housed in separate section on the lower level of the South Campus Library of the NMMU. The collection has been partially catalogued by the NMMU Library but left largely unattended for the last 6 years. The compiling of an annotated catalogue of this collection is the vital first step in connecting the dots of an extraordinary musical career that was hailed as one of the greatest of his time.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A critical analysis of ethnic conflict in Kenya : the politicisation of ethnicity in Kenya subsequent to the 2007 elections
- Authors: Daweti, Siyabulela
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ethnic conflict -- Kenya , Kenya -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8345 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020780
- Description: This study examines the interface between Kenyan politics and ethnicity. More specifically it examines why ethnicity is at the core of Kenyan politics. Although this study discusses how colonialism influenced the ethnicisation of African politics, it focuses more on the era of post-colonial politics. The objective of the study is to investigate how post-colonial Kenyan leaders have shaped the content of Kenyan politics. This study explores ethnic conflicts in Kenya, more especially the 2008 conflict. In order to provide a clear framework for the analysis of Kenyan society, Zambian politics and its social dynamics were also examined in this study. In terms of political development and other variables, one could describe Zambia as Kenya’s peer. It is, therefore, an ideal country against which to evaluate Kenya. In terms research methodology, this study has taken a descriptive and an explanatory approach. Thematic and content analysis has also been employed as data analysis methods. This study has established that the manner in which Kenyan politics are organised is centred on ethnicity. The study found that Kenya’s unique political and social components have predisposed Kenya to ethnic conflicts. For example, a political future within Kenyan political parties and in public office is heavily influenced by one’s ethnicity. Ethnicity also plays a role in the nature of political coalitions. As a solution to the Kenyan problem, this author has recommended that Kenya’s politics (and political campaigns) be based on issues related to the development of Kenyan society, rather than ethnicity. Those in public office should also elevate national identity above ethnic identity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Daweti, Siyabulela
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Ethnic conflict -- Kenya , Kenya -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8345 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020780
- Description: This study examines the interface between Kenyan politics and ethnicity. More specifically it examines why ethnicity is at the core of Kenyan politics. Although this study discusses how colonialism influenced the ethnicisation of African politics, it focuses more on the era of post-colonial politics. The objective of the study is to investigate how post-colonial Kenyan leaders have shaped the content of Kenyan politics. This study explores ethnic conflicts in Kenya, more especially the 2008 conflict. In order to provide a clear framework for the analysis of Kenyan society, Zambian politics and its social dynamics were also examined in this study. In terms of political development and other variables, one could describe Zambia as Kenya’s peer. It is, therefore, an ideal country against which to evaluate Kenya. In terms research methodology, this study has taken a descriptive and an explanatory approach. Thematic and content analysis has also been employed as data analysis methods. This study has established that the manner in which Kenyan politics are organised is centred on ethnicity. The study found that Kenya’s unique political and social components have predisposed Kenya to ethnic conflicts. For example, a political future within Kenyan political parties and in public office is heavily influenced by one’s ethnicity. Ethnicity also plays a role in the nature of political coalitions. As a solution to the Kenyan problem, this author has recommended that Kenya’s politics (and political campaigns) be based on issues related to the development of Kenyan society, rather than ethnicity. Those in public office should also elevate national identity above ethnic identity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A critical cultural review of the media coverage in the infighting of Nelson Mandela's burial in 2013
- Authors: Tandwa, Nontlahla
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mandela, Nelson, 1918-2013 , Mass media and culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5733 , vital:20987
- Description: The aim of the study is to analyze the representation of isiXhosa traditional culture through the coverage on media coverage as the topic suggests following a legal battle on the removal of the remains of Mandela‘s children in the year 2013. The online news articles selected in this study covered issues since Mandela was in and out of hospital. The articles covered are those of local newspaper, The Herald-online- as it is based in the Eastern Cape and has covered more on the traditional beliefs, understanding and following such rituals. The aim of the study is to explore and describe the perceptions and experiences of people around the family feud and the legal battle on the removal of those remains. It will also emphasize on the representation of the media on this problem and how Xhosa tradition can be affected and also compare other newspaper articles on their coverage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Tandwa, Nontlahla
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Mandela, Nelson, 1918-2013 , Mass media and culture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5733 , vital:20987
- Description: The aim of the study is to analyze the representation of isiXhosa traditional culture through the coverage on media coverage as the topic suggests following a legal battle on the removal of the remains of Mandela‘s children in the year 2013. The online news articles selected in this study covered issues since Mandela was in and out of hospital. The articles covered are those of local newspaper, The Herald-online- as it is based in the Eastern Cape and has covered more on the traditional beliefs, understanding and following such rituals. The aim of the study is to explore and describe the perceptions and experiences of people around the family feud and the legal battle on the removal of those remains. It will also emphasize on the representation of the media on this problem and how Xhosa tradition can be affected and also compare other newspaper articles on their coverage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A critical study in the management of the female adolescent voice
- Authors: Goosen, Gysbert Jacobus
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Voice, Change of , Women singers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3438 , vital:20430
- Description: This treatise is a qualitative study that critically explores a current body of knowledge significant to the development of the female adolescent voice. The female adolescent voice is a field that is relatively under-researched in comparison to the male adolescent voice, although research in this regard has shown an increase in interest in the last two decades (Gackle 2011: 11). However, information related to the male adolescent voice still far outweighs the female adolescent voice. This study, through the use of six secondary objectives, identifies and highlights areas of the female adolescent voice development, where much of the current research lacks depth and insight. It therefore analyses and compares applicable literature in an attempt principally to contribute to a more structured and academic approach in this field. Insight into the auditory effects that occur during physiological mutation is further supported by investigating the functioning of the female voice registers and the respective influences of these on the different phases of vocal development of the female adolescent. The assistance and expertise of the conductor in this process, as well as in common areas such as voice classification, auditioning, voice placement, and repertoire selection are investigated to further consolidate and compare possible interventions for problems pertaining specifically to the female adolescent voice. The study concludes with a summary of the treatise and proposes suggestions for further study in this field.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Goosen, Gysbert Jacobus
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Voice, Change of , Women singers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3438 , vital:20430
- Description: This treatise is a qualitative study that critically explores a current body of knowledge significant to the development of the female adolescent voice. The female adolescent voice is a field that is relatively under-researched in comparison to the male adolescent voice, although research in this regard has shown an increase in interest in the last two decades (Gackle 2011: 11). However, information related to the male adolescent voice still far outweighs the female adolescent voice. This study, through the use of six secondary objectives, identifies and highlights areas of the female adolescent voice development, where much of the current research lacks depth and insight. It therefore analyses and compares applicable literature in an attempt principally to contribute to a more structured and academic approach in this field. Insight into the auditory effects that occur during physiological mutation is further supported by investigating the functioning of the female voice registers and the respective influences of these on the different phases of vocal development of the female adolescent. The assistance and expertise of the conductor in this process, as well as in common areas such as voice classification, auditioning, voice placement, and repertoire selection are investigated to further consolidate and compare possible interventions for problems pertaining specifically to the female adolescent voice. The study concludes with a summary of the treatise and proposes suggestions for further study in this field.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A sociological study of employees' perceptions of electronic surveillance in public FET institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Jonas, Randolph Patrick
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Electronic monitoring in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Privacy, Right of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16154 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020623
- Description: The perceptions of employees regarding electronic surveillance in the workplace were studied using a mixed method approach. The change that permeates society and organisations have not escaped public FET institutions in South Africa. These changes such as computerisation of work and the employment of electronic surveillance, have implications for management, control, privacy, productivity and trust in the workplace. Yet, public FET institutions are not performing to the expected standards. Surveillance of work and employees at these institutions are interventions of management to ensure organisational goals are achieved. Despite the prevalence of electronic surveillance in the workplace, employee perceptions and their lived experiences thereof are seldom reported. Published research barely focuses on employees’ perceptions of electronic surveillance in the workplace, and instead offers a perfunctory look at the perceptual dimensions. Employees’ perceptions reflects their lived experiences in the workplace and yield a foundational understanding of workplace dynamics and organisational behaviour. The perceptions of employees regarding electronic surveillance were viewed through the lens of quantitative and qualitative analysis to give statistical and thick descriptions respectively to augment better understanding. The study therefore provides a descriptive account of employees’ perceptions of electronic surveillance and its effects. Specifically the study examined employee perceptions of electronic surveillance as a control measure of management, as an intrusion of employee privacy and impacting on the trust relationship and productivity. An extensive review of the literature provided the basis for the research questions and eight hypotheses were proposed. A survey, by means of an electronic questionnaire, was conducted to test the hypotheses using a random sample of employees at three public FET institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The results are presented followed by a discussion, conclusions and limitations. Suggestions and recommendations for future research are also indicated. The central thesis of the study is presented, namely that electronic surveillance is experienced as a measure of management to control workers and that privacy as well trust, as an element of the employment relationship, are influenced by it. Further findings indicated that there are no statistically significant differences in the responses of the three job categories namely lecturers, managers and administration and support staff. Interviews were also conducted and the data from the interviews reported the depth and breadth of the perceptions of a small sample of employees who related their experiences and situations in terms of the key themes of electronic surveillance as control and an intrusion of their right to privacy, trust and productivity. The findings indicate that acceptance of electronic surveillance is contingent upon contextual factors and the meaning people assign to their situations. Privacy concerns were limited to personal information, fairness and dignity. The link between electronic surveillance and control and discipline is reported in the responses. The findings indicate that perceptions of electronic surveillance as managerial control is related to the lived experiences of employees. Employees voiced positive perceptions of electronic surveillance in cases where management clearly communicates the purpose to the employees. The study of the subjective experiences of employees in workplaces under electronic surveillance thus helped to illuminate the intricacies of employment relationships in the changing world of work. The study findings widen the knowledge base on organisational behaviour and is essential for human resources management and organisational development interventions. Human rights and ethics are part of the sense making process when employees construct social reality. Management and control is redefined in various terms and has implications for change management strategies and organisational development practises in globalising and network society. The study raises the critical question whether electronic surveillance as an adjunct for bureaucratic control is still relevant in a changing world of work where good faith, trust and confidence are still highly valued. The insights into the role of trust in the employment relationship is important for managing public institutions in complex settings. Management must be aware of the differences in the lived experiences of employees when dealing with workplace issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Jonas, Randolph Patrick
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Electronic monitoring in the workplace -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Privacy, Right of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Personnel management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16154 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020623
- Description: The perceptions of employees regarding electronic surveillance in the workplace were studied using a mixed method approach. The change that permeates society and organisations have not escaped public FET institutions in South Africa. These changes such as computerisation of work and the employment of electronic surveillance, have implications for management, control, privacy, productivity and trust in the workplace. Yet, public FET institutions are not performing to the expected standards. Surveillance of work and employees at these institutions are interventions of management to ensure organisational goals are achieved. Despite the prevalence of electronic surveillance in the workplace, employee perceptions and their lived experiences thereof are seldom reported. Published research barely focuses on employees’ perceptions of electronic surveillance in the workplace, and instead offers a perfunctory look at the perceptual dimensions. Employees’ perceptions reflects their lived experiences in the workplace and yield a foundational understanding of workplace dynamics and organisational behaviour. The perceptions of employees regarding electronic surveillance were viewed through the lens of quantitative and qualitative analysis to give statistical and thick descriptions respectively to augment better understanding. The study therefore provides a descriptive account of employees’ perceptions of electronic surveillance and its effects. Specifically the study examined employee perceptions of electronic surveillance as a control measure of management, as an intrusion of employee privacy and impacting on the trust relationship and productivity. An extensive review of the literature provided the basis for the research questions and eight hypotheses were proposed. A survey, by means of an electronic questionnaire, was conducted to test the hypotheses using a random sample of employees at three public FET institutions in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The results are presented followed by a discussion, conclusions and limitations. Suggestions and recommendations for future research are also indicated. The central thesis of the study is presented, namely that electronic surveillance is experienced as a measure of management to control workers and that privacy as well trust, as an element of the employment relationship, are influenced by it. Further findings indicated that there are no statistically significant differences in the responses of the three job categories namely lecturers, managers and administration and support staff. Interviews were also conducted and the data from the interviews reported the depth and breadth of the perceptions of a small sample of employees who related their experiences and situations in terms of the key themes of electronic surveillance as control and an intrusion of their right to privacy, trust and productivity. The findings indicate that acceptance of electronic surveillance is contingent upon contextual factors and the meaning people assign to their situations. Privacy concerns were limited to personal information, fairness and dignity. The link between electronic surveillance and control and discipline is reported in the responses. The findings indicate that perceptions of electronic surveillance as managerial control is related to the lived experiences of employees. Employees voiced positive perceptions of electronic surveillance in cases where management clearly communicates the purpose to the employees. The study of the subjective experiences of employees in workplaces under electronic surveillance thus helped to illuminate the intricacies of employment relationships in the changing world of work. The study findings widen the knowledge base on organisational behaviour and is essential for human resources management and organisational development interventions. Human rights and ethics are part of the sense making process when employees construct social reality. Management and control is redefined in various terms and has implications for change management strategies and organisational development practises in globalising and network society. The study raises the critical question whether electronic surveillance as an adjunct for bureaucratic control is still relevant in a changing world of work where good faith, trust and confidence are still highly valued. The insights into the role of trust in the employment relationship is important for managing public institutions in complex settings. Management must be aware of the differences in the lived experiences of employees when dealing with workplace issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A survey of youth development projects in the Department of Social Development in the province of the Eastern Cape: a management perspective
- Dliwayo, Mziwodumo Archibald
- Authors: Dliwayo, Mziwodumo Archibald
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth in development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects , Youth -- Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4429 , vital:20600
- Description: The objective of this research is to establish how non-adherence of Amathole District development projects to the Department of Social Development’s Community Development Systems and Operational Manual has contributed to failure of these projects. The background to this research lies in the deliberate policy efforts of the post 1994 democratic dispensation in South Africa to drive development through community-based development approaches. Explicitly pro-poor public policies, development plans and fiscal frameworks were anchored on the concept of community empowerment. The Reconstruction and Development Programme was the first such policy and strategy framework that sought to enshrine the principles of community empowerment and participation. As such, Provincial and Local government are often seen as key strategic drivers of community empowerment initiatives and interventions. South Africa’s governance model is still evolving, but it is clearly committed to local development and service delivery through a decentralised system of government that espouses community involvement. Government strategy has been heavily focused on speed and delivery in order to deal with the historical socio-economic backlogs it inherited. In the focus area of youth development projects, one recognises that poor management has dramatically reduced the effectiveness of many interventions. This research explores how non-adherence of these projects to policy guidelines set out in the Community Development Systems and Operations Manual has contributed to their failure. The research does this by looking at the various management procedures that are supposed to be undertaken during both the initial planning phases and during the subsequent implementation phases of youth development projects. Actual methodologies are compared against this standard. The research is undoubtedly a contribution to the field of strategic management of youth development initiatives which have as their primary intention the reduction of youth unemployment. Research surveys on this topic are limited, and the objective is to enrich the discourse on effective youth projects management practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Dliwayo, Mziwodumo Archibald
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth in development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects , Youth -- Services for
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4429 , vital:20600
- Description: The objective of this research is to establish how non-adherence of Amathole District development projects to the Department of Social Development’s Community Development Systems and Operational Manual has contributed to failure of these projects. The background to this research lies in the deliberate policy efforts of the post 1994 democratic dispensation in South Africa to drive development through community-based development approaches. Explicitly pro-poor public policies, development plans and fiscal frameworks were anchored on the concept of community empowerment. The Reconstruction and Development Programme was the first such policy and strategy framework that sought to enshrine the principles of community empowerment and participation. As such, Provincial and Local government are often seen as key strategic drivers of community empowerment initiatives and interventions. South Africa’s governance model is still evolving, but it is clearly committed to local development and service delivery through a decentralised system of government that espouses community involvement. Government strategy has been heavily focused on speed and delivery in order to deal with the historical socio-economic backlogs it inherited. In the focus area of youth development projects, one recognises that poor management has dramatically reduced the effectiveness of many interventions. This research explores how non-adherence of these projects to policy guidelines set out in the Community Development Systems and Operations Manual has contributed to their failure. The research does this by looking at the various management procedures that are supposed to be undertaken during both the initial planning phases and during the subsequent implementation phases of youth development projects. Actual methodologies are compared against this standard. The research is undoubtedly a contribution to the field of strategic management of youth development initiatives which have as their primary intention the reduction of youth unemployment. Research surveys on this topic are limited, and the objective is to enrich the discourse on effective youth projects management practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Altering urbanscapes: South African writers re-imagining Johannesburg, with specific reference to Lauren Beukes, K. Sello Duiker, Nadine Gordimer and Phaswane Mpe
- Authors: Fryer, Jocelyn Teri
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Novelists, South African , Johannesburg (South Africa) -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8481 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020877
- Description: The following dissertation considers the ways in which we have come to perceive of our post-apartheid South African urban spaces. It focusses on the representation of our contemporary urban spaces as I posit that they are re-imagined in the works of Phaswane Mpe, K.Sello Duiker, Nadine Gordimer and Lauren Beukes. In particular, it is concerned with the representation of Johannesburg, and specifically Hillbrow, in relation to the space of the rural, the suburban enclave and the city of Cape Town. I argue that while so-called urban ‘slums’ such as Hillbrow have been denigrated in the local imaginary, the texts that I have selected draw attention to the potentialities of such spaces. Rather than aspiring to ‘First World’ aesthetics of modernity then, we might come to see such spaces as Hillbrow anew, and even to learn from them as models, so as to better create more fully integrated and dynamic African cities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Fryer, Jocelyn Teri
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Novelists, South African , Johannesburg (South Africa) -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8481 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020877
- Description: The following dissertation considers the ways in which we have come to perceive of our post-apartheid South African urban spaces. It focusses on the representation of our contemporary urban spaces as I posit that they are re-imagined in the works of Phaswane Mpe, K.Sello Duiker, Nadine Gordimer and Lauren Beukes. In particular, it is concerned with the representation of Johannesburg, and specifically Hillbrow, in relation to the space of the rural, the suburban enclave and the city of Cape Town. I argue that while so-called urban ‘slums’ such as Hillbrow have been denigrated in the local imaginary, the texts that I have selected draw attention to the potentialities of such spaces. Rather than aspiring to ‘First World’ aesthetics of modernity then, we might come to see such spaces as Hillbrow anew, and even to learn from them as models, so as to better create more fully integrated and dynamic African cities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An analysis of change and transformation strategies: the Department of Home Affairs, Province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Biyase, Sibongiseni Nobert
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: South Africa -- Department of Home Affairs , Civil service reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8329 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020373
- Description: The South African public sector is important for the sustainable growth and development of the country. One of its major responsibilities is to ensure that all citizens have access to and receive the services they need. The manner in which public sector institutions are structured has an impact on the delivery of effective and efficient services to citizens.Achieving a high degree of productivity is an important objective of public service organisations across the world given the pressure to deliver quality public goods and services within the limits of ever-increasing resource constraints. The South African Public Service is no exception to this global phenomenon. The focus on the public service is therefore continuously to improve performance to meet citizens’ needs. Where as performance is directed at measuring outputs achieved, productivity goes an important step further by measuring the relationship between the resources used to achieve outputs. The focus of this study is the analysis of change and transformation strategies in the Department of Home Affairs, Province of the Eastern Cape. The primary purpose was to assess the current state of service delivery in the Department of Home Affairs and to ascertain how continuous monitoring and evaluation could be factored in to enhance the delivery of services. The target population was the employees and clients of the Department of Home Affairs. Employees were selected randomly and asked to participate in the study. The sample was a convenient-purposive sampling and a quantitative research questionnaire was used.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Biyase, Sibongiseni Nobert
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: South Africa -- Department of Home Affairs , Civil service reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social change -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8329 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020373
- Description: The South African public sector is important for the sustainable growth and development of the country. One of its major responsibilities is to ensure that all citizens have access to and receive the services they need. The manner in which public sector institutions are structured has an impact on the delivery of effective and efficient services to citizens.Achieving a high degree of productivity is an important objective of public service organisations across the world given the pressure to deliver quality public goods and services within the limits of ever-increasing resource constraints. The South African Public Service is no exception to this global phenomenon. The focus on the public service is therefore continuously to improve performance to meet citizens’ needs. Where as performance is directed at measuring outputs achieved, productivity goes an important step further by measuring the relationship between the resources used to achieve outputs. The focus of this study is the analysis of change and transformation strategies in the Department of Home Affairs, Province of the Eastern Cape. The primary purpose was to assess the current state of service delivery in the Department of Home Affairs and to ascertain how continuous monitoring and evaluation could be factored in to enhance the delivery of services. The target population was the employees and clients of the Department of Home Affairs. Employees were selected randomly and asked to participate in the study. The sample was a convenient-purposive sampling and a quantitative research questionnaire was used.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An assessment of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's local government turnaround strategy : a governance perspective
- Authors: Jakoet-Salie, Amina
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Business planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (South Africa) -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020143
- Description: This study assessed the Local Government Turnaround Strategy (LGTAS), from a governance perspective, in addressing service delivery challenges in local government, with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The research study comprises six chapters. The research is based on the assumption that one of the biggest challenges facing most municipalities in South Africa is lack of universal access to water and electricity, sanitation, refuse removal systems and local economic development. As a result of these challenges, the NMBM has implemented the NMBM Turnaround Strategy so that it can fulfill its constitutional developmental mandate conferred on it by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. The research study provided a brief historical background on the development and transformation of local government in South Africa. This research adopted both the quantitative and qualitative approaches. The purpose of the research study was to describe and explore the 2009 Local Government Turnaround Strategy (LGTAS) with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The evaluation of the LGTAS of the NMBM will therefore be fundamentally descriptive, but highly exploratory in nature. The empirical survey was employed for purposes of the study and the interpretation of the research findings were analysed and described. As a metropolitan municipality, the NMBM has been entrenched with a responsibility to promote developmental progression within its locality (Integrated Development Plan: 2007). This research also identified the strengths and the weaknesses of the LGTAS as it is regarded as critical in successful service delivery. It is envisaged that this research will assist the NMBM, and other municipalities’ country-wide, to identify challenges that they are faced with and deal with it accordingly in terms of the objectives identified in the LGTAS. Furthermore, this research study envisages promoting sustainable development within the NMBM as well as improving the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery that will ensure communities of their well-being and dignity. Various recommendations are presented, based on the findings primarily from the literature review and empirical survey, on how the existing status quo of the NMBM can be changed to enhance service delivery and be aligned to the Batho Pele principles. If these recommendations are adopted, the NMBM will be able to deal more effectively and efficiently with the developmental obstacles it currently faces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Jakoet-Salie, Amina
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Business planning -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (South Africa) -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8320 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020143
- Description: This study assessed the Local Government Turnaround Strategy (LGTAS), from a governance perspective, in addressing service delivery challenges in local government, with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The research study comprises six chapters. The research is based on the assumption that one of the biggest challenges facing most municipalities in South Africa is lack of universal access to water and electricity, sanitation, refuse removal systems and local economic development. As a result of these challenges, the NMBM has implemented the NMBM Turnaround Strategy so that it can fulfill its constitutional developmental mandate conferred on it by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. The research study provided a brief historical background on the development and transformation of local government in South Africa. This research adopted both the quantitative and qualitative approaches. The purpose of the research study was to describe and explore the 2009 Local Government Turnaround Strategy (LGTAS) with specific reference to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The evaluation of the LGTAS of the NMBM will therefore be fundamentally descriptive, but highly exploratory in nature. The empirical survey was employed for purposes of the study and the interpretation of the research findings were analysed and described. As a metropolitan municipality, the NMBM has been entrenched with a responsibility to promote developmental progression within its locality (Integrated Development Plan: 2007). This research also identified the strengths and the weaknesses of the LGTAS as it is regarded as critical in successful service delivery. It is envisaged that this research will assist the NMBM, and other municipalities’ country-wide, to identify challenges that they are faced with and deal with it accordingly in terms of the objectives identified in the LGTAS. Furthermore, this research study envisages promoting sustainable development within the NMBM as well as improving the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery that will ensure communities of their well-being and dignity. Various recommendations are presented, based on the findings primarily from the literature review and empirical survey, on how the existing status quo of the NMBM can be changed to enhance service delivery and be aligned to the Batho Pele principles. If these recommendations are adopted, the NMBM will be able to deal more effectively and efficiently with the developmental obstacles it currently faces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An assessment of the role of agricultural projetcs in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa Local Municipality
- Authors: Guzana, Andile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8328 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020351
- Description: This study assessed the role of agricultural projects in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa local municipality. These projects are very important for poverty alleviation and to fight the growing levels of unemployment in the Eastern Cape. Despite the advantages of these projects, there are challenges that impact negatively on the implementation of these projects such as conflict, lack of resources, market failure and these projects are too disconnected. Consequently, the projects do not achieve their intended objectives and there are high levels of dissatisfaction among project members. The study was conducted in two wards of Ngqushwa local municipality, and two projects were selected from each ward and ten members were selected from each project and the total number of a sample for the study was forty project members. The research utilized both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through questionnaires, document analysis and observations. The sampling method that was used to select respondents or participants was purposive. The findings of the study indicated that agricultural projects in this area did not bring about any significant reduction in poverty, and they did not bring about any significant economic development. The study also revealed that there was lack of community participation in matters pertaining to community development and lack of support by all relevant stakeholders which resulted in failure at the implementation phase. The researcher also discovered that the poverty alleviation approach was mainly focused on one type of project, other than looking at other avenues to ensure that those who do not have interest in food gardens are given alternative opportunities like cattle farming. In view of these findings, the study recognises a need for empowerment in terms of knowledge and skills, understanding and resource management of agricultural projects. The study thus recommended that community members should be actively involved in community development projects. Additionally, the study recommended for the establishment or formulation of new policies or amendments of the existing policies in order to boost agriculture in rural areas so as to be able to alleviate poverty effectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Guzana, Andile
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8328 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020351
- Description: This study assessed the role of agricultural projects in poverty alleviation at Ngqushwa local municipality. These projects are very important for poverty alleviation and to fight the growing levels of unemployment in the Eastern Cape. Despite the advantages of these projects, there are challenges that impact negatively on the implementation of these projects such as conflict, lack of resources, market failure and these projects are too disconnected. Consequently, the projects do not achieve their intended objectives and there are high levels of dissatisfaction among project members. The study was conducted in two wards of Ngqushwa local municipality, and two projects were selected from each ward and ten members were selected from each project and the total number of a sample for the study was forty project members. The research utilized both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through questionnaires, document analysis and observations. The sampling method that was used to select respondents or participants was purposive. The findings of the study indicated that agricultural projects in this area did not bring about any significant reduction in poverty, and they did not bring about any significant economic development. The study also revealed that there was lack of community participation in matters pertaining to community development and lack of support by all relevant stakeholders which resulted in failure at the implementation phase. The researcher also discovered that the poverty alleviation approach was mainly focused on one type of project, other than looking at other avenues to ensure that those who do not have interest in food gardens are given alternative opportunities like cattle farming. In view of these findings, the study recognises a need for empowerment in terms of knowledge and skills, understanding and resource management of agricultural projects. The study thus recommended that community members should be actively involved in community development projects. Additionally, the study recommended for the establishment or formulation of new policies or amendments of the existing policies in order to boost agriculture in rural areas so as to be able to alleviate poverty effectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An evaluation of management information systems in the Department of Social Development, province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ngqungqu, Siphokazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8351 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020889
- Description: The alignment of information systems with organisational objectives and strategies is crucial to the efficient performance of any organisation. There is a growing focus on the effectiveness of management and evidence-based decision making in public institutions in South Africa. The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development and Special Programmes (ECDSD) implemented a Social Development Information Management System (SDIMS), which is an information system that supports various functions performed by the Department. While SDMIS provides large amounts of valuable information, it still has much ground to cover in terms of fully meeting the Department’s information needs. There is an increasing demand for information to inform decision making with regards to priority setting, resource usage, monitoring the impact of the Department’s intervention programmes, and monitoring the progress of the Department’s strategic goals. The main purpose of this study was to analyse the extent to which MIS is utilised in the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development and Special Programmes and to make recommendations for the alignment of MIS with organisational objectives in order to achieve these objectives. Furthermore, the study intends to investigate the extent to which the information needs of managers are considered in designing and providing information. The objectives of the study are, firstly, to analyse the current state of MIS utilisation in the Department. Secondly, to evaluate the utilisation of information provided by the MIS unit for decision making, and, thirdly, to make recommendations on how to improve MIS utilisation. Qualitative approach techniques were utilised to collect data for the study. Research questionnaires were distributed to thirty respondents. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven interviewees out of a target number of ten. The response rate was 68 percent and this was considered as adequate for scientific analysis and reporting. The study produced the following research findings: Mainly, the MIS users believe that they understand MIS and its capabilities, and have received training on how to use the system. The quality of information provided by MIS is mostly complete and largely meets user requirements and expectations. MIS information is for the most part accurate and comprehensive enough to expedite decision-making. Although MIS largely meets user requirements and expectations in terms of completeness, accuracy and reliability, the study indicates that it still falls short in integrating information from other sources, which include government transversal systems such as the Basic Accounting System (BAS) and the Personnel Salary System (PERSAL). MIS information is mostly available and easy to access, but occasionally not timely. This is mostly caused by the unavailability of real-time information synchronisation between MIS and other government systems. In light of the above findings, the researcher recommends that: There is still more to be done in order to continuously inform and train users on the latest MIS capability developments in the form of awareness workshops, contact and remote support, and through internal news bulletins. The Department needs to work with other government entities that are custodians of transversal systems in finding a solution to the creation of real-time integration of MIS with other external sources of information. Even though the level of MIS utilisation is not too much of a concern, the Department needs to ensure that users of information are kept up to date with new MIS reporting capabilities so as not to underutilise the system. It is therefore recommended that the Department ensure that information is more often reviewed and reports are customised to meet the ever-changing needs of the Department.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Ngqungqu, Siphokazi
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8351 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020889
- Description: The alignment of information systems with organisational objectives and strategies is crucial to the efficient performance of any organisation. There is a growing focus on the effectiveness of management and evidence-based decision making in public institutions in South Africa. The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development and Special Programmes (ECDSD) implemented a Social Development Information Management System (SDIMS), which is an information system that supports various functions performed by the Department. While SDMIS provides large amounts of valuable information, it still has much ground to cover in terms of fully meeting the Department’s information needs. There is an increasing demand for information to inform decision making with regards to priority setting, resource usage, monitoring the impact of the Department’s intervention programmes, and monitoring the progress of the Department’s strategic goals. The main purpose of this study was to analyse the extent to which MIS is utilised in the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development and Special Programmes and to make recommendations for the alignment of MIS with organisational objectives in order to achieve these objectives. Furthermore, the study intends to investigate the extent to which the information needs of managers are considered in designing and providing information. The objectives of the study are, firstly, to analyse the current state of MIS utilisation in the Department. Secondly, to evaluate the utilisation of information provided by the MIS unit for decision making, and, thirdly, to make recommendations on how to improve MIS utilisation. Qualitative approach techniques were utilised to collect data for the study. Research questionnaires were distributed to thirty respondents. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven interviewees out of a target number of ten. The response rate was 68 percent and this was considered as adequate for scientific analysis and reporting. The study produced the following research findings: Mainly, the MIS users believe that they understand MIS and its capabilities, and have received training on how to use the system. The quality of information provided by MIS is mostly complete and largely meets user requirements and expectations. MIS information is for the most part accurate and comprehensive enough to expedite decision-making. Although MIS largely meets user requirements and expectations in terms of completeness, accuracy and reliability, the study indicates that it still falls short in integrating information from other sources, which include government transversal systems such as the Basic Accounting System (BAS) and the Personnel Salary System (PERSAL). MIS information is mostly available and easy to access, but occasionally not timely. This is mostly caused by the unavailability of real-time information synchronisation between MIS and other government systems. In light of the above findings, the researcher recommends that: There is still more to be done in order to continuously inform and train users on the latest MIS capability developments in the form of awareness workshops, contact and remote support, and through internal news bulletins. The Department needs to work with other government entities that are custodians of transversal systems in finding a solution to the creation of real-time integration of MIS with other external sources of information. Even though the level of MIS utilisation is not too much of a concern, the Department needs to ensure that users of information are kept up to date with new MIS reporting capabilities so as not to underutilise the system. It is therefore recommended that the Department ensure that information is more often reviewed and reports are customised to meet the ever-changing needs of the Department.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An evaluation of selected skills development programmes in the Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Gadu, Thandiswa Constance
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8336 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020587
- Description: Employees joining any institution for the first time are not always performing duties/tasks to the level and standard set by the management of particular organisation. Some candidates perform to their fullest potential after they are inducted. The purpose of skills development act is to assists employers to participate in leadership and development programmes as to enhance the potential of individuals and organizations. Also to encourage employees to use the workplace as an active learning site and provide opportunities to acquire new skills. Human Resource Practitioners play a critical role in the ensuring that employees are capacitated. This study undertook to evaluate selected skills development programmes in the Amathole District Municipality. ADM is challenged in coordinating various skills development programmes due to various reasons such as budget. From the literature study and information gathered from the respondents in this research it became evident that training of employees is key to the improvement of performance. In this regard it is critical that ADM creates means that will mitigate the identified findings in order to improve the performance of personnel. Emailed questionnaires were used as a method of collecting data from the respondents. In this study a qualitative method was used to analyse the data collected from the respondents. Based on the information gathered from the respondents the researcher made findings and formulated recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Gadu, Thandiswa Constance
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Career development -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Employees -- Training of -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8336 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020587
- Description: Employees joining any institution for the first time are not always performing duties/tasks to the level and standard set by the management of particular organisation. Some candidates perform to their fullest potential after they are inducted. The purpose of skills development act is to assists employers to participate in leadership and development programmes as to enhance the potential of individuals and organizations. Also to encourage employees to use the workplace as an active learning site and provide opportunities to acquire new skills. Human Resource Practitioners play a critical role in the ensuring that employees are capacitated. This study undertook to evaluate selected skills development programmes in the Amathole District Municipality. ADM is challenged in coordinating various skills development programmes due to various reasons such as budget. From the literature study and information gathered from the respondents in this research it became evident that training of employees is key to the improvement of performance. In this regard it is critical that ADM creates means that will mitigate the identified findings in order to improve the performance of personnel. Emailed questionnaires were used as a method of collecting data from the respondents. In this study a qualitative method was used to analyse the data collected from the respondents. Based on the information gathered from the respondents the researcher made findings and formulated recommendations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An evaluation of the ward committee system as a mechanism for enhancing service delivery in the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality : a case study of Du Noon, ward 104
- Authors: Jikeka, Sisa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Citizens' associations -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Government accountability -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8341 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020636
- Description: Since the adoption of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, which identified the three spheres of government as distinctive, interrelated and interdependent, the local government sphere has been perceived in many parts of the country to be failing to fulfil its mandate of delivering essential basic services to local communities. The mandate of the South African local sphere of government has been to provide a developmental and accountable local government and to ensure provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. As a key developmental agent, local government is obliged by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 to develop a culture of municipal governance that encourage and create conditions for the local community to participate in the affairs of the municipality. In this regard, ward committees have been introduced to municipalities as community structures to play a critical role in linking and informing the municipalities about the needs, aspirations and challenges of their communities. In adherence to national legislation, such as the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act 117 (Act117 of 1998) and the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 2000 (Act 32 of 2000), the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality established advisory structures in the form of ward committees throughout its area of jurisdiction to advise the municipal council on any matter within the council’s competence. As a representative structure of the community the ward committee is expected to serve as a link between the council and the community and for this purpose articulates community needs and aspirations to better the living standards of the community. Despite the stated objectives of ward committees, the Du Noon area has been identified by City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality IDP: 2012-2017 as the ward with backlogs in infrastructure and service delivery. This study evaluates the extent at which the Du Noon ward committee (Ward 104) is enhancing service delivery in its area of jurisdiction. A sequential use of mixed methods was preferred, since quantitative and qualitative research methods were found to be complementary rather than opposed approaches. Using both obtrusive and unobtrusive collection procedures, the methods employed proofed practically useful. To this end, the study sought to examine extent at which the Du Noon ward committee is enhancing service delivery in its area of jurisdiction. The study further attempted to suggest practical techniques of bringing a resolve to the challenges faced by the ward committee in as far as providing effective and efficient service delivery to the community without fail.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Jikeka, Sisa
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Public administration -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Citizens' associations -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Government accountability -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8341 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020636
- Description: Since the adoption of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, which identified the three spheres of government as distinctive, interrelated and interdependent, the local government sphere has been perceived in many parts of the country to be failing to fulfil its mandate of delivering essential basic services to local communities. The mandate of the South African local sphere of government has been to provide a developmental and accountable local government and to ensure provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. As a key developmental agent, local government is obliged by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 to develop a culture of municipal governance that encourage and create conditions for the local community to participate in the affairs of the municipality. In this regard, ward committees have been introduced to municipalities as community structures to play a critical role in linking and informing the municipalities about the needs, aspirations and challenges of their communities. In adherence to national legislation, such as the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act 117 (Act117 of 1998) and the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 2000 (Act 32 of 2000), the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality established advisory structures in the form of ward committees throughout its area of jurisdiction to advise the municipal council on any matter within the council’s competence. As a representative structure of the community the ward committee is expected to serve as a link between the council and the community and for this purpose articulates community needs and aspirations to better the living standards of the community. Despite the stated objectives of ward committees, the Du Noon area has been identified by City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality IDP: 2012-2017 as the ward with backlogs in infrastructure and service delivery. This study evaluates the extent at which the Du Noon ward committee (Ward 104) is enhancing service delivery in its area of jurisdiction. A sequential use of mixed methods was preferred, since quantitative and qualitative research methods were found to be complementary rather than opposed approaches. Using both obtrusive and unobtrusive collection procedures, the methods employed proofed practically useful. To this end, the study sought to examine extent at which the Du Noon ward committee is enhancing service delivery in its area of jurisdiction. The study further attempted to suggest practical techniques of bringing a resolve to the challenges faced by the ward committee in as far as providing effective and efficient service delivery to the community without fail.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An expression of South African youth identity : understanding deliquency, violence and vandalism amongst the youth in selected informal settlements
- Authors: Mohale, Keneuoe
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth and violence -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Squatter settlements -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Child rearing , Identity (Psychology) in youth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020155
- Description: This study sought to explore the perceptions of violence by the youth and to investigate the causes and consequences of violence amongst the youth. Specifically, the study aimed at exploring why the youth are predisposed to violence and violent crimes in informal settlements. A qualitative research design was used in this study. The researcher made use of the qualitative design because it allows for the richness of the personal experiences and meanings of the respondents to be explored, allowing the researcher to uncover variations between respondents. Based on the qualitative design, the study utilised the in-depth interview to solicit the views of young people living in New Brighton Township in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were - To identify consequences of violence.- To assert if violence is normalised within a particular social environment.- To explore what predisposes the youth to violence.- To find out if parenting styles influence youth violence.- To explore the role of models in youth violence and crime. The respondents were selected through purposive sampling as the researcher sought typical and divergent data from the respondents. Data was collected through focus group interviews with nine young people aged nineteen to twenty- four years. The study established the following: Firstly, that violence is high in South African communities. It also found the following factors to be contributing to these high levels of violence: socialisation, unemployment, and family structures. The findings also indicated that some kinds of violence are normalised within the societies in which young people grow up in. Findings also indicate that, as a result of these violent behaviours, many South African youth lose their lives while others are imprisoned. This study also found that the environment in which a child grows up in has a greater impact on the child’s later behaviour in life. Overall, the study concluded that violence amongst the young people is a major problem facing South African communities. As one of the recommendations, the researcher indicated that punishing young people through imprisonment is not the solution, especially in a country where so many people are living in wretched poverty. Rather, the researcher recommended that minimising the levels of violence to which young people are exposed to on a daily basis could be one of the effective intervention strategies for decreasing this pandemic. This can be achieved by involving families, schools and communities in minimising this kind of exposure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mohale, Keneuoe
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Youth and violence -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Squatter settlements -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Child rearing , Identity (Psychology) in youth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: vital:8321 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020155
- Description: This study sought to explore the perceptions of violence by the youth and to investigate the causes and consequences of violence amongst the youth. Specifically, the study aimed at exploring why the youth are predisposed to violence and violent crimes in informal settlements. A qualitative research design was used in this study. The researcher made use of the qualitative design because it allows for the richness of the personal experiences and meanings of the respondents to be explored, allowing the researcher to uncover variations between respondents. Based on the qualitative design, the study utilised the in-depth interview to solicit the views of young people living in New Brighton Township in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of the study were - To identify consequences of violence.- To assert if violence is normalised within a particular social environment.- To explore what predisposes the youth to violence.- To find out if parenting styles influence youth violence.- To explore the role of models in youth violence and crime. The respondents were selected through purposive sampling as the researcher sought typical and divergent data from the respondents. Data was collected through focus group interviews with nine young people aged nineteen to twenty- four years. The study established the following: Firstly, that violence is high in South African communities. It also found the following factors to be contributing to these high levels of violence: socialisation, unemployment, and family structures. The findings also indicated that some kinds of violence are normalised within the societies in which young people grow up in. Findings also indicate that, as a result of these violent behaviours, many South African youth lose their lives while others are imprisoned. This study also found that the environment in which a child grows up in has a greater impact on the child’s later behaviour in life. Overall, the study concluded that violence amongst the young people is a major problem facing South African communities. As one of the recommendations, the researcher indicated that punishing young people through imprisonment is not the solution, especially in a country where so many people are living in wretched poverty. Rather, the researcher recommended that minimising the levels of violence to which young people are exposed to on a daily basis could be one of the effective intervention strategies for decreasing this pandemic. This can be achieved by involving families, schools and communities in minimising this kind of exposure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An investigation of the expectations held by retail tenants with regards to the internal marketing function performed by their shopping centre landlord
- Authors: Bosman, Jiminy-Ann Ashurde
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Shopping centers , Retail trade , Stores, Retail , Consumer satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3725 , vital:20458
- Description: While much has been written about retail stores and the retail environment, franchises and organisational marketing, not much can be found on “host” organisations such as shopping centres and their role within the marketing mix. A unique disparity exists within shopping centres in that not only are they an organisation with their own brand identity and culture, but they also play host to numerous retailers and franchises with very clear brands and messages of their own. The question that is often posed to the landlord is therefore whose message or what message is the correct one to market to the common consumer-base targeted by both the shopping centre (landlord) and the tenant (retailers). When considering this, it is important to understand that a symbiotic relationship exists between landlord and tenant within shopping centres in that if a tenant is successful this will result in greater rentals for the landlord and if the landlord’s property is successful, i.e. popular, this will result in greater revenue for the tenant. Both parties therefore actively engage in marketing of their businesses and whilst the message is often noticeably different, what is unique is that this is often to the same consumer-base. Tenants in many shopping centres contribute towards centre marketing expenses as part of their lease agreements and as a result have certain expectations in terms of what message is being marketed. Shopping centres varying in size and tenant numbers make the landlords marketing role that much more complex and often generic messaging is employed to umbrella the wide offering available. This study aims at investigating the expectations held by retail tenants of their shopping centre landlords through the internal communications function. Corporate communication theory as well as public relations theory was used as a grounding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Bosman, Jiminy-Ann Ashurde
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Shopping centers , Retail trade , Stores, Retail , Consumer satisfaction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3725 , vital:20458
- Description: While much has been written about retail stores and the retail environment, franchises and organisational marketing, not much can be found on “host” organisations such as shopping centres and their role within the marketing mix. A unique disparity exists within shopping centres in that not only are they an organisation with their own brand identity and culture, but they also play host to numerous retailers and franchises with very clear brands and messages of their own. The question that is often posed to the landlord is therefore whose message or what message is the correct one to market to the common consumer-base targeted by both the shopping centre (landlord) and the tenant (retailers). When considering this, it is important to understand that a symbiotic relationship exists between landlord and tenant within shopping centres in that if a tenant is successful this will result in greater rentals for the landlord and if the landlord’s property is successful, i.e. popular, this will result in greater revenue for the tenant. Both parties therefore actively engage in marketing of their businesses and whilst the message is often noticeably different, what is unique is that this is often to the same consumer-base. Tenants in many shopping centres contribute towards centre marketing expenses as part of their lease agreements and as a result have certain expectations in terms of what message is being marketed. Shopping centres varying in size and tenant numbers make the landlords marketing role that much more complex and often generic messaging is employed to umbrella the wide offering available. This study aims at investigating the expectations held by retail tenants of their shopping centre landlords through the internal communications function. Corporate communication theory as well as public relations theory was used as a grounding.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An investigation of the question of cyber-ethics in social media-communications within selected South African NGOs
- Authors: Mbinjama-Gamatham, Adelina
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Social media -- Moral and ethical aspects Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa , Online social networks -- Moral and ethical aspects , Communication -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45804 , vital:39196
- Description: The issue of ethics on the internet has become complicated due to a number of people placing material on cyberspace. NGOs are increasingly using social media to promote their products and services. Jürgen Habermas’ theory of communicative action and discourse ethics as a theoretical basis to the study merges together several factors which impact on the use of social media as a communicational tool for social marketing. The study explores how eight “ethical variables” (ethical and moral problems) are impacted by social media. The variables- justice, privacy, access, accuracy, truth, human dignity, regulation and ownership of information are a basis of enquiry by conducting in-depth interviews with employers/managers of 10 selected South African NGOs, as well as distributing survey questionnaires to 150 employees/volunteers of the NGOs to determine their experiences with cyberspace. The research investigates the social contexts of the selected NGOs and the safety measures they implement to protect their reputations and corporate identities. The study analyzes unethical behaviours that exist within the selected virtual organizations of the NGOs and investigates the ethical guidelines they follow in order to deal with the breaches of ethics. The study offers recommendations into amending drafted or existing public procedural policies for the purpose of self-regulating present and future users of social media. The study proposes that the continued misuse of social media may cause social media guidelines to be embedded into existing national legislative frameworks, such as South Africa’s Bill of Rights, as well as media and communications Acts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Mbinjama-Gamatham, Adelina
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Social media -- Moral and ethical aspects Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa , Online social networks -- Moral and ethical aspects , Communication -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45804 , vital:39196
- Description: The issue of ethics on the internet has become complicated due to a number of people placing material on cyberspace. NGOs are increasingly using social media to promote their products and services. Jürgen Habermas’ theory of communicative action and discourse ethics as a theoretical basis to the study merges together several factors which impact on the use of social media as a communicational tool for social marketing. The study explores how eight “ethical variables” (ethical and moral problems) are impacted by social media. The variables- justice, privacy, access, accuracy, truth, human dignity, regulation and ownership of information are a basis of enquiry by conducting in-depth interviews with employers/managers of 10 selected South African NGOs, as well as distributing survey questionnaires to 150 employees/volunteers of the NGOs to determine their experiences with cyberspace. The research investigates the social contexts of the selected NGOs and the safety measures they implement to protect their reputations and corporate identities. The study analyzes unethical behaviours that exist within the selected virtual organizations of the NGOs and investigates the ethical guidelines they follow in order to deal with the breaches of ethics. The study offers recommendations into amending drafted or existing public procedural policies for the purpose of self-regulating present and future users of social media. The study proposes that the continued misuse of social media may cause social media guidelines to be embedded into existing national legislative frameworks, such as South Africa’s Bill of Rights, as well as media and communications Acts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Assessing the local government turnaround strategy: the case of Ngqushwa Local Municipality
- Authors: Bokwe, Nosiphiwo Gloria
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal corporations -- South Africa , Regional planning -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8312 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020084
- Description: The thrust of the study is to investigate the Local Government Turnaround Strategy as introduced by Cabinet in the year 2009. In this treatise a critical evaluation of the Local Government Turnaround Strategy that was passed by cabinet as a panacea that seeks to address the challenges that are being faced by municipalities today will be embarked upon. A case study of the Ngqushwa Local Municipality in the Amathole District Municipal area will be undertaken with the view to understand whether the Local Government Turnaround Strategy will indeed assist ailing local municipalities like Ngqushwa. As can be seen in our country, apartheid has left many problems both in the social, economic and political realms of our society. When local government was first established it was for the perpetuation of separate development as enshrined in the policy of apartheid. Apartheid was not the beginning of geographic, institutional and social separation at the local level. Segregation was already a policy by the time apartheid was introduced in 1948. However, the Group Areas Act, the key piece of legislation, instituted strict residential segregation and compulsory removal of black people to own group areas. Through spatial separation, influx control, and a policy of own management for own areas, apartheid aimed to limit the extent to which affluent white municipalities would bear the financial burden of servicing disadvantaged black areas. These separate developments led to the collapse of the former Black Local Authorities. When the democratic government took over the same challenges reared their heads again. Many intervention programmes were introduced to assist ailing municipalities to be viable. The study thus has tried to indicate how the Turnaround has assisted municipalities like the Ngqushwa Local Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Bokwe, Nosiphiwo Gloria
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal corporations -- South Africa , Regional planning -- Citizen participation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8312 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020084
- Description: The thrust of the study is to investigate the Local Government Turnaround Strategy as introduced by Cabinet in the year 2009. In this treatise a critical evaluation of the Local Government Turnaround Strategy that was passed by cabinet as a panacea that seeks to address the challenges that are being faced by municipalities today will be embarked upon. A case study of the Ngqushwa Local Municipality in the Amathole District Municipal area will be undertaken with the view to understand whether the Local Government Turnaround Strategy will indeed assist ailing local municipalities like Ngqushwa. As can be seen in our country, apartheid has left many problems both in the social, economic and political realms of our society. When local government was first established it was for the perpetuation of separate development as enshrined in the policy of apartheid. Apartheid was not the beginning of geographic, institutional and social separation at the local level. Segregation was already a policy by the time apartheid was introduced in 1948. However, the Group Areas Act, the key piece of legislation, instituted strict residential segregation and compulsory removal of black people to own group areas. Through spatial separation, influx control, and a policy of own management for own areas, apartheid aimed to limit the extent to which affluent white municipalities would bear the financial burden of servicing disadvantaged black areas. These separate developments led to the collapse of the former Black Local Authorities. When the democratic government took over the same challenges reared their heads again. Many intervention programmes were introduced to assist ailing municipalities to be viable. The study thus has tried to indicate how the Turnaround has assisted municipalities like the Ngqushwa Local Municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Challenges to corporate and brand image in multinational companies across different linguistic and socio-economic markets : a semiotic analysis
- Authors: Lukusa, Adolphine Cama
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Advocacy advertising , Mass media -- Semiotics , Figures of speech , Branding (Marketing)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:8430 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020189
- Description: Doing business "the French way" in a Francophone market niche may be somehow different from doing it "the English way" in an Anglophone market niche. Since both the employees’ and the customers’ knowledge of an organisation underpins the organisation’s performance in complex business world environments, Multinational Organisations (MNOs) need to find a manner in which they can achieve coherence between their strategic vision, organisational culture and corporate image across the different linguistic and socio-economic markets they interact with through the various marketing tools they use to stimulate recognition. As a result this can support the integrity and sustainability of their corporate brand across markets and across different linguistics landscapes while interacting with their existing and new foreign markets. This study concentrates particularly on the rhetoric figures and visual cues employed in the selected French and English advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements and different product packages of multinational organisation subsidiaries. The study looks at how both the rhetoric figures and visual cues in the selected advertising/promotional messages support the integrity and maintain the sustainability of the corporate brand of the selected companies. The latter is examined across different linguistic and socio-economic markets. The study explores and examines how the possible linguistic properties are used in the selected French and English advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements, including those on different product packages. It also looks at how the linguistic properties in selected advertising/promotional messages belonging to different types of advertisements are used in creating and maintaining a positive corporate image of the MNOs and that of their parent companies. In addition, this study analyzes the potential impacts and challenges on moral, cultural and life-style values that multinational subsidiaries inflict on customers through the advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements in the promotion and branding of their products and how this affects their corporate image and that of their parent organisations. This is a content analytical study of language features evident in the selected advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements and different product packages at the lexical, syntactic and discourse levels and their role and impact on selected multinational parent organisations and their subsidiaries’ corporate images together with those of their selected products. In order to conduct a data-driven study, the author built a data corpus based on 29 advertising messages from different types of advertisements and advertising messages printed on different product packages. The types of advertisements include the photographs and scanned images of billboards, mural billboards, outdoor advertising billboards and leaflets advertising/promoting specific services or products. The product packages include photographs and scanned images of product covers/wraps, primary packages of products, product containers’ stickers with messages printed on them, and primary boxes. The sample comes from six selected multinational subsidiary organisations from two different countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo, a Francophone and multilingual country, and the Republic of South Africa, an Anglophone and multilingual country. Through a detailed content analysis of the advertising/promotional messages from a diversity of sources used as a means of communication, with a focus on rhetoric figures ,visual cues and language features, their roles and potential impact on MNO’s, corporate images in foreign markets will be summarized. In the end, possible conclusions are drawn in the light of the role and impact that they have on the selected companies’ corporate image across different linguistic and socio-economic markets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lukusa, Adolphine Cama
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Advocacy advertising , Mass media -- Semiotics , Figures of speech , Branding (Marketing)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:8430 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020189
- Description: Doing business "the French way" in a Francophone market niche may be somehow different from doing it "the English way" in an Anglophone market niche. Since both the employees’ and the customers’ knowledge of an organisation underpins the organisation’s performance in complex business world environments, Multinational Organisations (MNOs) need to find a manner in which they can achieve coherence between their strategic vision, organisational culture and corporate image across the different linguistic and socio-economic markets they interact with through the various marketing tools they use to stimulate recognition. As a result this can support the integrity and sustainability of their corporate brand across markets and across different linguistics landscapes while interacting with their existing and new foreign markets. This study concentrates particularly on the rhetoric figures and visual cues employed in the selected French and English advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements and different product packages of multinational organisation subsidiaries. The study looks at how both the rhetoric figures and visual cues in the selected advertising/promotional messages support the integrity and maintain the sustainability of the corporate brand of the selected companies. The latter is examined across different linguistic and socio-economic markets. The study explores and examines how the possible linguistic properties are used in the selected French and English advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements, including those on different product packages. It also looks at how the linguistic properties in selected advertising/promotional messages belonging to different types of advertisements are used in creating and maintaining a positive corporate image of the MNOs and that of their parent companies. In addition, this study analyzes the potential impacts and challenges on moral, cultural and life-style values that multinational subsidiaries inflict on customers through the advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements in the promotion and branding of their products and how this affects their corporate image and that of their parent organisations. This is a content analytical study of language features evident in the selected advertising/promotional messages from different types of advertisements and different product packages at the lexical, syntactic and discourse levels and their role and impact on selected multinational parent organisations and their subsidiaries’ corporate images together with those of their selected products. In order to conduct a data-driven study, the author built a data corpus based on 29 advertising messages from different types of advertisements and advertising messages printed on different product packages. The types of advertisements include the photographs and scanned images of billboards, mural billboards, outdoor advertising billboards and leaflets advertising/promoting specific services or products. The product packages include photographs and scanned images of product covers/wraps, primary packages of products, product containers’ stickers with messages printed on them, and primary boxes. The sample comes from six selected multinational subsidiary organisations from two different countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo, a Francophone and multilingual country, and the Republic of South Africa, an Anglophone and multilingual country. Through a detailed content analysis of the advertising/promotional messages from a diversity of sources used as a means of communication, with a focus on rhetoric figures ,visual cues and language features, their roles and potential impact on MNO’s, corporate images in foreign markets will be summarized. In the end, possible conclusions are drawn in the light of the role and impact that they have on the selected companies’ corporate image across different linguistic and socio-economic markets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Confronting Afrikaans diction challenges in non-Afrikaans mother tongue choirs
- Authors: Botha, Charlotte
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Choral singing -- Diction , Afrikaans language -- Diction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8529 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020956
- Description: This study is an initial attempt to identify the most common Afrikaans diction challenges experienced by non-Afrikaans mother tongue speaking choirs, and to explore means of confronting these challenges. No dedicated source exists for choral diction in Afrikaans as a foreign language. This study reviews personal views and literature from various fields that would inform several key elements necessary for the creation of such a source. The primary data for this study was collected through study questionnaires, completed by expert choral conductors who are highly regarded for their success in teaching and performing Afrikaans diction in non-Afrikaans mother tongue speaking choirs, in performance settings such as the ATKV-Applous Choir Competition. Through its proposition of methods for the improvement of Afrikaans diction practices in the non-Afrikaans choral setting, the study promotes the prolific composition of Afrikaans choral literature, and its ubiquitous inclusion in choral repertoire both in South Africa and abroad.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Botha, Charlotte
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Choral singing -- Diction , Afrikaans language -- Diction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8529 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020956
- Description: This study is an initial attempt to identify the most common Afrikaans diction challenges experienced by non-Afrikaans mother tongue speaking choirs, and to explore means of confronting these challenges. No dedicated source exists for choral diction in Afrikaans as a foreign language. This study reviews personal views and literature from various fields that would inform several key elements necessary for the creation of such a source. The primary data for this study was collected through study questionnaires, completed by expert choral conductors who are highly regarded for their success in teaching and performing Afrikaans diction in non-Afrikaans mother tongue speaking choirs, in performance settings such as the ATKV-Applous Choir Competition. Through its proposition of methods for the improvement of Afrikaans diction practices in the non-Afrikaans choral setting, the study promotes the prolific composition of Afrikaans choral literature, and its ubiquitous inclusion in choral repertoire both in South Africa and abroad.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014