Social intrepreneurship and millennium development goals in developing countries: case study of Zimbabwe
- Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Authors: Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe , Poverty -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26661 , vital:65847
- Description: The study set out to examine the contribution of social entrepreneurship to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly MDG 1, the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Poverty reduction occurred when social entrepreneurial activities resulted in the improvement of the socio-economic well-being of social entrepreneurs and their beneficiaries. The problem this study sought to research on was that, despite the impact of social entrepreneurship, there has been inadequate attention to and discussion of its contribution to attaining the MDGs in Zimbabwe. The population were social entrepreneurs in Harare, Zimbabwe. The random sampling method was used to determine the sample size. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data in Harare, Zimbabwe from 132 social entrepreneurs and 200 beneficiaries of social entrepreneurial activities. Secondary information was obtained from textbooks and various internet sources. The data collected was analyzed through SPSS Version 22 because of its appropriateness and wide use. The null hypothesis that social entrepreneurship does not contribute to the achievement of MDGs was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis that social entrepreneurship provides an alternative to the achievement of MDGs. Findings from the study suggest that social entrepreneurs contribute immensely to poverty reduction. They also contribute towards research and development, promoting gender equality and empowerment, education for all as well as access to health facilities. The segments of the population benefiting from social entrepreneurship include the poor, socially excluded, discriminated, the unemployed and disabled. The impact on poverty and hunger was achieved through microfinance initiatives, income generation activities, empowerment and capacity building. Results showed that social entrepreneurship activities solve social problems through providing food, shelter, water, education and collateral to access finance. The study concluded that social entrepreneurship is a plausible approach to promote implementation of policies to reduce extreme poverty and hunger by using readily available resources to bring sustainable solutions to problems. The strategies to make social entrepreneurship more effective included creating a conducive legal and policy environment, financial provision, political support, and government support, publicity of the contribution of social entrepreneurship, mentorship and collaboration among stakeholders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe , Poverty -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26661 , vital:65847
- Description: The study set out to examine the contribution of social entrepreneurship to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly MDG 1, the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Poverty reduction occurred when social entrepreneurial activities resulted in the improvement of the socio-economic well-being of social entrepreneurs and their beneficiaries. The problem this study sought to research on was that, despite the impact of social entrepreneurship, there has been inadequate attention to and discussion of its contribution to attaining the MDGs in Zimbabwe. The population were social entrepreneurs in Harare, Zimbabwe. The random sampling method was used to determine the sample size. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data in Harare, Zimbabwe from 132 social entrepreneurs and 200 beneficiaries of social entrepreneurial activities. Secondary information was obtained from textbooks and various internet sources. The data collected was analyzed through SPSS Version 22 because of its appropriateness and wide use. The null hypothesis that social entrepreneurship does not contribute to the achievement of MDGs was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis that social entrepreneurship provides an alternative to the achievement of MDGs. Findings from the study suggest that social entrepreneurs contribute immensely to poverty reduction. They also contribute towards research and development, promoting gender equality and empowerment, education for all as well as access to health facilities. The segments of the population benefiting from social entrepreneurship include the poor, socially excluded, discriminated, the unemployed and disabled. The impact on poverty and hunger was achieved through microfinance initiatives, income generation activities, empowerment and capacity building. Results showed that social entrepreneurship activities solve social problems through providing food, shelter, water, education and collateral to access finance. The study concluded that social entrepreneurship is a plausible approach to promote implementation of policies to reduce extreme poverty and hunger by using readily available resources to bring sustainable solutions to problems. The strategies to make social entrepreneurship more effective included creating a conducive legal and policy environment, financial provision, political support, and government support, publicity of the contribution of social entrepreneurship, mentorship and collaboration among stakeholders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of small, medium and micro enterprises in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Sarakunze, Annie.
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Economic development -- South Africa , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26786 , vital:66005
- Description: In both developed and developing countries, the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise sector is considered an important factor in boosting the economic well-being of a country. The governments of many countries play a basic role in creating policies and programmes which support the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises. One of the initiatives used by the governments to nurture small businesses is business incubation.This study investigated the effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in selected areas of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of business incubation on the performance of SMMEs, determine the impact of business incubation on the growth of the SMME, to assess the impact of business incubation on the survival of the SMMEs and to investigate whether SMMEs are satisfied with the role of business incubators in their areas.This study employed a stratified simple random sampling technique. The population was first divided into six homogeneous strata and then simple random sampling was then employed. The self-administered questionnaires were then distributed into each and every stratum randomly. Simple random sampling was used because it enabled each and every member in the strata to have an equal chance of being selected. Owners, managers and employees were used as respondents in this study and a total sample of 200 SMMEs answered the questionnaire. The study followed a quantitative research design as it involved variables such as growth, firm performance and survival which have measures that involves the use of figures such as sales, number of employees and total value of assets. The data was analysed by Anova, Pearson Chi-Square and T-test statistical methods in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on the findings from this survey it was found that business incubators are effective in enhancing growth, survival and performance of SMMEs. Although other researchers found that there are no significant variations in growth, survival and performance of incubated and non-incubated businesses, this study however recognizes the importance of business incubation to SMMEs. This study concurs with most findings by many researchers of business incubation and thus recommends vigorous business incubation awareness to the SMMEs and networking. , Thesis (MBm) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Sarakunze, Annie.
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Economic development -- South Africa , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26786 , vital:66005
- Description: In both developed and developing countries, the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise sector is considered an important factor in boosting the economic well-being of a country. The governments of many countries play a basic role in creating policies and programmes which support the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises. One of the initiatives used by the governments to nurture small businesses is business incubation.This study investigated the effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in selected areas of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of business incubation on the performance of SMMEs, determine the impact of business incubation on the growth of the SMME, to assess the impact of business incubation on the survival of the SMMEs and to investigate whether SMMEs are satisfied with the role of business incubators in their areas.This study employed a stratified simple random sampling technique. The population was first divided into six homogeneous strata and then simple random sampling was then employed. The self-administered questionnaires were then distributed into each and every stratum randomly. Simple random sampling was used because it enabled each and every member in the strata to have an equal chance of being selected. Owners, managers and employees were used as respondents in this study and a total sample of 200 SMMEs answered the questionnaire. The study followed a quantitative research design as it involved variables such as growth, firm performance and survival which have measures that involves the use of figures such as sales, number of employees and total value of assets. The data was analysed by Anova, Pearson Chi-Square and T-test statistical methods in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on the findings from this survey it was found that business incubators are effective in enhancing growth, survival and performance of SMMEs. Although other researchers found that there are no significant variations in growth, survival and performance of incubated and non-incubated businesses, this study however recognizes the importance of business incubation to SMMEs. This study concurs with most findings by many researchers of business incubation and thus recommends vigorous business incubation awareness to the SMMEs and networking. , Thesis (MBm) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The effects of social media on relationship patterns among adolescents: A study of students in three selected high schools of Alice in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Authors: Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Online social networks , Mass media and children
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25085 , vital:63966
- Description: Technology with the aid of the internet and social media has brought so much into the world, it has managed to reach and develop almost the entire world and this includes remote areas of Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa. These are the least developed and usually the last regions of the world to receive technology. It should be noted that most of the times, technology is bound to make an impact as people use it and this was the motive behind this study which aimed at assessing the effects of socialised media on adolescents who are the future of South Africa. In the study, the researcher aims at discovering whether the use of social media engines among adolescents affects the ways with which they relate with one another. The study which adopted a quantitative methodology was conducted on matriculating students from three randomly selected schools from within and surrounding town of Alice in Eastern Cape South Africa. Respondents were sampled conveniently and data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. From the results and conclusions, it showed that technology has reached South Africa’s remote areas and young people like adolescents have many uses for it. However, they proved that even though they now have technology in form of the internet and social media, it does not affect the ways with which they form and maintained social relations. This means that technology does not have a significant impact in the relationship patterns of adolescents in remote areas of South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Online social networks , Mass media and children
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25085 , vital:63966
- Description: Technology with the aid of the internet and social media has brought so much into the world, it has managed to reach and develop almost the entire world and this includes remote areas of Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa. These are the least developed and usually the last regions of the world to receive technology. It should be noted that most of the times, technology is bound to make an impact as people use it and this was the motive behind this study which aimed at assessing the effects of socialised media on adolescents who are the future of South Africa. In the study, the researcher aims at discovering whether the use of social media engines among adolescents affects the ways with which they relate with one another. The study which adopted a quantitative methodology was conducted on matriculating students from three randomly selected schools from within and surrounding town of Alice in Eastern Cape South Africa. Respondents were sampled conveniently and data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. From the results and conclusions, it showed that technology has reached South Africa’s remote areas and young people like adolescents have many uses for it. However, they proved that even though they now have technology in form of the internet and social media, it does not affect the ways with which they form and maintained social relations. This means that technology does not have a significant impact in the relationship patterns of adolescents in remote areas of South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The experiences faced by lesbian, gays, bisexual, and transgender students at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Nyakwima, Esther Rutendo
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Gays , Homosexuality , Bisexuals
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25227 , vital:64070
- Description: Sexual orientation is one of the vital aspects that a person’s identity, persona, self-esteem, solidarity, equality and worthless are determined. Misconceptions and prejudices often lead to emotional, psychological and verbal discrimination or victimisation and even physical violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life. This study explored the experiences, challenges faced by LGBT students at the University Of Fort Hare and the strategies they employ to deal with these challenges and policies which are in place to protect them. The study utilized the psychodynamic theory and the social cognitive theoretical framework to illustrate the homosexuality nexus. The study employed a qualitative and quantitative research methodology which utilised questionnaires and interviews as a methods of data collection. The study revealed that the homosexual population at the University Of Fort Hare is experiencing homophobia, condemnation, homophobic attacks, prejudicial remarks, discrimination and abuse. It was noted that perceived discrimination is rampant from heterosexual students in every category related to discrimination. While the findings do not prove that discrimination causes mental health problems, data collected takes a step towards demonstrating that the social stigma felt by LGBT students has mental health consequences. Inequitable experiences may affect stress levels because discrimination is shadowed by prejudice remarks against homosexuals. The results of the study have further revealed that homosexual students are resilient to harsh circumstances like violence and discrimination. They are by no means secure within their own gendered and sexual lives. They have an idea as to what strategies and implementation tactics would work best for them, given their socio-cultural framework. Homosexual students successively adopt various strategies to protect themselves, such as boundary setting, avoiding certain circumstances, hiding identities, revenging and some openly admitting that they are gay students. Although there are policies in place to protect homosexual students at the University Of Fort Hare, gay and lesbian students have adopted their own strategies to protect themselves as they are unaware of these policies. However, in terms of policies safeguarding homosexuals, it can be noted that the University Of Fort Hare has generally adopted a top-down policy, one-size fits all approach to solving gender issues on campus. The policies are mainly centred on the distribution of resources and strict guidelines on the way people or inmates should conduct themselves towards each other. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Nyakwima, Esther Rutendo
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Gays , Homosexuality , Bisexuals
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25227 , vital:64070
- Description: Sexual orientation is one of the vital aspects that a person’s identity, persona, self-esteem, solidarity, equality and worthless are determined. Misconceptions and prejudices often lead to emotional, psychological and verbal discrimination or victimisation and even physical violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life. This study explored the experiences, challenges faced by LGBT students at the University Of Fort Hare and the strategies they employ to deal with these challenges and policies which are in place to protect them. The study utilized the psychodynamic theory and the social cognitive theoretical framework to illustrate the homosexuality nexus. The study employed a qualitative and quantitative research methodology which utilised questionnaires and interviews as a methods of data collection. The study revealed that the homosexual population at the University Of Fort Hare is experiencing homophobia, condemnation, homophobic attacks, prejudicial remarks, discrimination and abuse. It was noted that perceived discrimination is rampant from heterosexual students in every category related to discrimination. While the findings do not prove that discrimination causes mental health problems, data collected takes a step towards demonstrating that the social stigma felt by LGBT students has mental health consequences. Inequitable experiences may affect stress levels because discrimination is shadowed by prejudice remarks against homosexuals. The results of the study have further revealed that homosexual students are resilient to harsh circumstances like violence and discrimination. They are by no means secure within their own gendered and sexual lives. They have an idea as to what strategies and implementation tactics would work best for them, given their socio-cultural framework. Homosexual students successively adopt various strategies to protect themselves, such as boundary setting, avoiding certain circumstances, hiding identities, revenging and some openly admitting that they are gay students. Although there are policies in place to protect homosexual students at the University Of Fort Hare, gay and lesbian students have adopted their own strategies to protect themselves as they are unaware of these policies. However, in terms of policies safeguarding homosexuals, it can be noted that the University Of Fort Hare has generally adopted a top-down policy, one-size fits all approach to solving gender issues on campus. The policies are mainly centred on the distribution of resources and strict guidelines on the way people or inmates should conduct themselves towards each other. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The implementation of the Child Justice Act: experiences of social workers working as probation officers
- Authors: Mkokeli, Babalwa
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Children -- Legal status, laws, etc , Probation officers , Juvenile justice, Administration of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25282 , vital:64138
- Description: The implementation of the Child Justice Act (Act No. 75 of 2008) started on 01 April 2010. The law regulates ways of handling children found to be in conflict with the law. Whilst this law was still a Bill, probation officers who are social workers employed by Social Development & Special Programmes were already bound to work with young offenders, employed under the Probation Services Act no.116 of 2002. Probation officers had clear regulations on their role and responsibility towards children found in conflict with the law, unlike other stakeholders working within the sphere of child justice. Absence of the law encompassing child justice caused a struggle for probation officer because stakeholders like South African Police Service (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Department of Justice services were not considering services of probation officers important. The situation was frustrating because there was lack of cooperation between probation officers and role players like police, prosecutors and magistrates which often led to gross irregularities on cases of young offenders. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of probation officers with the implementation of the Child Justice Act, particularly working relations with the above mentioned stakeholders. The researcher used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), a qualitative research approach which is committed to examining people’s daily experiences. In collecting data the researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire schedule comprising open rather than closed-ended questions. The researcher intended to interview fifteen probation officers working at OR Tambo District Municipality. A purposive sampling was used targeting officers who are aware of the child justice system before and after the implementation of the Act. Study findings revealed improvement on working relations between SAPS, NPA and Justice such as (i) increase in the rate of informing probation officers about arrested children, (ii) sitting of preliminary inquiries (PIs), (iii) drop in the number of detained children, (iv) practice of in camera proceedings for young offenders. However, despite the presence of the Child Justice Act (CJA) findings also revealed challenges which were the following: (i) drop in the number of arrested or diverted children, (ii) non-compliance by SAPS to inform POs about arrested children especially during weekends, which often results in parents not being aware that their children are in custody, (iii) areas where PIs are not held, areas where they are not regular as well as non-uniformity in how PIs are conducted, and (iv) cases of children held in public during court proceedings and cases of young offenders handled as adult cases. The following were made as recommendations arising from the study: (i) enforcement of Child Justice Forums at local levels, (ii) strengthening of responsibility and accountability by all stakeholders, and (iii) building capacity and effective monitoring from down up. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Mkokeli, Babalwa
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Children -- Legal status, laws, etc , Probation officers , Juvenile justice, Administration of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25282 , vital:64138
- Description: The implementation of the Child Justice Act (Act No. 75 of 2008) started on 01 April 2010. The law regulates ways of handling children found to be in conflict with the law. Whilst this law was still a Bill, probation officers who are social workers employed by Social Development & Special Programmes were already bound to work with young offenders, employed under the Probation Services Act no.116 of 2002. Probation officers had clear regulations on their role and responsibility towards children found in conflict with the law, unlike other stakeholders working within the sphere of child justice. Absence of the law encompassing child justice caused a struggle for probation officer because stakeholders like South African Police Service (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Department of Justice services were not considering services of probation officers important. The situation was frustrating because there was lack of cooperation between probation officers and role players like police, prosecutors and magistrates which often led to gross irregularities on cases of young offenders. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of probation officers with the implementation of the Child Justice Act, particularly working relations with the above mentioned stakeholders. The researcher used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), a qualitative research approach which is committed to examining people’s daily experiences. In collecting data the researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire schedule comprising open rather than closed-ended questions. The researcher intended to interview fifteen probation officers working at OR Tambo District Municipality. A purposive sampling was used targeting officers who are aware of the child justice system before and after the implementation of the Act. Study findings revealed improvement on working relations between SAPS, NPA and Justice such as (i) increase in the rate of informing probation officers about arrested children, (ii) sitting of preliminary inquiries (PIs), (iii) drop in the number of detained children, (iv) practice of in camera proceedings for young offenders. However, despite the presence of the Child Justice Act (CJA) findings also revealed challenges which were the following: (i) drop in the number of arrested or diverted children, (ii) non-compliance by SAPS to inform POs about arrested children especially during weekends, which often results in parents not being aware that their children are in custody, (iii) areas where PIs are not held, areas where they are not regular as well as non-uniformity in how PIs are conducted, and (iv) cases of children held in public during court proceedings and cases of young offenders handled as adult cases. The following were made as recommendations arising from the study: (i) enforcement of Child Justice Forums at local levels, (ii) strengthening of responsibility and accountability by all stakeholders, and (iii) building capacity and effective monitoring from down up. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
Negotiation of Sex: A Study on Prevention Methods of Gender Based Violence amongst Intimate Partners of Ntabankulu
- Authors: Mketi, Funeka Gloria
- Date: 2014-10
- Subjects: Violent Crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/7550 , vital:54348
- Description: ABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to investigate whether negotiation of sex between intimate partners can be used as a prevention strategy of gender-based violence. The study included both female and male participants. Availability sampling technique was used to select the sample size of thirty. Participants were recruited from the street and data was collected in a private office. Participant’s ethical rights to confidentiality, anonymity, voluntary participation, and informed consent obtained prior taking part in the study were highly respected. Thirty questionnaires were used to collect data. Nature and prevalence of gender-based violence, attitudes, mechanisms and processes involved in negotiation of sex, and prevention strategies were investigated. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. SPSS analyzed and summarized data into tables. Findings showed that prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in intimate partners is high. Negotiation of sex can be used as one of the prevention strategies, and the available processes and mechanisms of negotiating sex should be strengthened. Results also revealed that women empowerment in education and interventions focused on changing men’s attitude towards negotiation can help. Lastly, it appears that there is a need for capacitating both females and males with negotiation skills. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculy of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-10
- Authors: Mketi, Funeka Gloria
- Date: 2014-10
- Subjects: Violent Crimes
- Language: English
- Type: Masters theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/7550 , vital:54348
- Description: ABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to investigate whether negotiation of sex between intimate partners can be used as a prevention strategy of gender-based violence. The study included both female and male participants. Availability sampling technique was used to select the sample size of thirty. Participants were recruited from the street and data was collected in a private office. Participant’s ethical rights to confidentiality, anonymity, voluntary participation, and informed consent obtained prior taking part in the study were highly respected. Thirty questionnaires were used to collect data. Nature and prevalence of gender-based violence, attitudes, mechanisms and processes involved in negotiation of sex, and prevention strategies were investigated. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. SPSS analyzed and summarized data into tables. Findings showed that prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in intimate partners is high. Negotiation of sex can be used as one of the prevention strategies, and the available processes and mechanisms of negotiating sex should be strengthened. Results also revealed that women empowerment in education and interventions focused on changing men’s attitude towards negotiation can help. Lastly, it appears that there is a need for capacitating both females and males with negotiation skills. , Thesis (Masters) -- Faculy of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-10
Opportunities and challenges for socio-economic transformation in rural Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mutami, Cephas
- Date: 2014-10
- Subjects: Economic development--Social aspects , Rural development , Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26459 , vital:65338
- Description: The focus of the thesis is the impediments of rural development in Zimbabwe and how opportunities for socio-economic transformation can be enhanced in the current setting. The study embarks from a conceptualization of rural poverty in Zimbabwe using theoretical and empirical evidence. Poverty in rural Zimbabwe has a historical legacy of deprivation and dispossession and is concentrated in communal areas which have low resources bases with low agriculture potential due to low rainfall and poor soils. The myriad of challenges in rural Zimbabwe point to the incoherent of rural development polices which are distorting markets for inputs and produce. Thus the study sought to address the rural development policy bottlenecks and develop a policy agenda for development.Using mixed methods approach, the study considered household economic conditions, their production practices and their vulnerability contexts in three selected districts which represent communal, old resettlement and small scale A1 and A2 areas. The household data is blended with interview data of rural development practitioners in both private and public agencies to produce comprehensive information on the impact of rural development policies. Archival research method was also used to do content reviews on government policy papers and programs so as to provide a holistic approach to analysis. Naturally mixed methods produce large volumes of data which requires thorough analysis. This was only possible through the use of analytical computer software packages for qualitative and quantitative data such as Atlas Ti and Excel spreadsheet, respectively. The study revealed that rural households in Zimbabwe are farmers. The majority of these farmers are smallholders who are located in remote communal areas and resettlement areas. Communal farmers constitute the bulk of rural citizens and live on less than a dollar a day. They are engaged in mixed farming methods and other non-farm activities especially during off-agriculture season. Communal households basically produce staples, with a low percentage producing cotton and groundnuts. Production choices and methods are shaped by subsistence needs of households but more so by risks and vulnerability contexts which they operate in. Farmers in resettlement areas face a different set of opportunities and threats to their livelihoods as they are located in prime agricultural land. However they are still challenged with the rural development approaches of central government. On the policy front, there is no pronounced rural development policy in Zimbabwe. The current setting has numerous pronouncements and programs which all seek to alleviate underdevelopment in Zimbabwe. These programs are replicating each other in practice and in most cases benefit the political elites and large scale commercial farmers. The multiplicity of government institutions which deal with rural development results in incremental decisions and programs which further impoverishes rural households. The study posits a rural development policy framework which is based on a comprehensive policy agenda which takes into cognizance the production requirements of households. Such a policy needs to be inclusive to the rural households in terms of governance and programs. A rural development policy agenda and framework would require the harnessing of resources from both the government and private players in well-articulated market friendly approaches. This would stimulate high productivity, enhance off-farm activities, raise incomes and foremost create appropriate social protection programs. Thus the potential for sustained economic growth and development in Zimbabwe lies with smallholder agriculture based rural development framework which can impact on the 67% population who live and work in rural areas. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-10
- Authors: Mutami, Cephas
- Date: 2014-10
- Subjects: Economic development--Social aspects , Rural development , Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26459 , vital:65338
- Description: The focus of the thesis is the impediments of rural development in Zimbabwe and how opportunities for socio-economic transformation can be enhanced in the current setting. The study embarks from a conceptualization of rural poverty in Zimbabwe using theoretical and empirical evidence. Poverty in rural Zimbabwe has a historical legacy of deprivation and dispossession and is concentrated in communal areas which have low resources bases with low agriculture potential due to low rainfall and poor soils. The myriad of challenges in rural Zimbabwe point to the incoherent of rural development polices which are distorting markets for inputs and produce. Thus the study sought to address the rural development policy bottlenecks and develop a policy agenda for development.Using mixed methods approach, the study considered household economic conditions, their production practices and their vulnerability contexts in three selected districts which represent communal, old resettlement and small scale A1 and A2 areas. The household data is blended with interview data of rural development practitioners in both private and public agencies to produce comprehensive information on the impact of rural development policies. Archival research method was also used to do content reviews on government policy papers and programs so as to provide a holistic approach to analysis. Naturally mixed methods produce large volumes of data which requires thorough analysis. This was only possible through the use of analytical computer software packages for qualitative and quantitative data such as Atlas Ti and Excel spreadsheet, respectively. The study revealed that rural households in Zimbabwe are farmers. The majority of these farmers are smallholders who are located in remote communal areas and resettlement areas. Communal farmers constitute the bulk of rural citizens and live on less than a dollar a day. They are engaged in mixed farming methods and other non-farm activities especially during off-agriculture season. Communal households basically produce staples, with a low percentage producing cotton and groundnuts. Production choices and methods are shaped by subsistence needs of households but more so by risks and vulnerability contexts which they operate in. Farmers in resettlement areas face a different set of opportunities and threats to their livelihoods as they are located in prime agricultural land. However they are still challenged with the rural development approaches of central government. On the policy front, there is no pronounced rural development policy in Zimbabwe. The current setting has numerous pronouncements and programs which all seek to alleviate underdevelopment in Zimbabwe. These programs are replicating each other in practice and in most cases benefit the political elites and large scale commercial farmers. The multiplicity of government institutions which deal with rural development results in incremental decisions and programs which further impoverishes rural households. The study posits a rural development policy framework which is based on a comprehensive policy agenda which takes into cognizance the production requirements of households. Such a policy needs to be inclusive to the rural households in terms of governance and programs. A rural development policy agenda and framework would require the harnessing of resources from both the government and private players in well-articulated market friendly approaches. This would stimulate high productivity, enhance off-farm activities, raise incomes and foremost create appropriate social protection programs. Thus the potential for sustained economic growth and development in Zimbabwe lies with smallholder agriculture based rural development framework which can impact on the 67% population who live and work in rural areas. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-10
Perceptions of social media as a tool for research: a study of postgraduate students, University of Fort Hare, Alice campus
- Authors: Abolanle, Ogunnubi Adeyemi
- Date: 2014-10
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare , Media literacy , Internet research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26381 , vital:65299
- Description: The study aimed at examining the perceptions of social media as a tool for research among postgraduate students at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus. Data were collected using a quantitative research approach by administering structured questionnaires to 310 postgraduate students under the cluster sampling across different faculties and departments, and analysed by SPSS Statistical software and Chi-square test. 264 questionnaires were returned for analysis and these respondents maintained that they utilized social media platforms for their academic research. The findings further revealed that social media has to a large extent improved students‟ research activities as they frequently seek practical knowledge for demonstration and tutorship. Furthermore, the respondents regard social media as a good platform for research topics in audio and video formats, scholarly articles, journals and books. This study concluded that since students explore the social media platforms and search engines for various reasons, academic research inclusive, it therefore becomes imperative to create more links within the social media for students to explore books, scholarly journals and articles necessary for research and academic purposes. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-10
- Authors: Abolanle, Ogunnubi Adeyemi
- Date: 2014-10
- Subjects: University of Fort Hare , Media literacy , Internet research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26381 , vital:65299
- Description: The study aimed at examining the perceptions of social media as a tool for research among postgraduate students at the University of Fort Hare, Alice campus. Data were collected using a quantitative research approach by administering structured questionnaires to 310 postgraduate students under the cluster sampling across different faculties and departments, and analysed by SPSS Statistical software and Chi-square test. 264 questionnaires were returned for analysis and these respondents maintained that they utilized social media platforms for their academic research. The findings further revealed that social media has to a large extent improved students‟ research activities as they frequently seek practical knowledge for demonstration and tutorship. Furthermore, the respondents regard social media as a good platform for research topics in audio and video formats, scholarly articles, journals and books. This study concluded that since students explore the social media platforms and search engines for various reasons, academic research inclusive, it therefore becomes imperative to create more links within the social media for students to explore books, scholarly journals and articles necessary for research and academic purposes. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-10
Assuring the quality of mentoring in Malawi's 1+1 model of initial primary teacher education programme: implications for teacher development
- Authors: Mwanza, Alnord Levison Dave
- Date: 2014-09
- Subjects: Mentoring in education , Total quality management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24632 , vital:63385
- Description: Teacher education has been the focus of numerous studies across the world. The debates revolve around what models or approaches to teacher development produce high quality teachers as measured by their ability to promote student learning. This has given rise to a continuum of models. At the one extreme there are those who advocate practice first and theory later; at the other there are those who recommend theory first and then practice. In between there is a combination of a variety of approaches. The models of teacher development, however, continue to grapple with the problem of how to balance theory and practice. In Malawi, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST) (MIE, 2006) came up with what they see as a balance between theory and practice when they introduced the 1 year of theory and 1 year of practice, a model referred to as the 1+1. The focus of this study was on the one year of practical teaching where mentoring is critical; hence the particular attention to examine and understand how its quality was assured from the perspective of fitness for purpose and fitness of purpose. The study was anchored mainly in the post-positivist paradigm and the methodology used was the mixed-methods approach. A mixed methods sequential explanatory design comprising a survey followed by a case study was employed. For the survey, four sets of semi-structured questionnaires whose Cronbach Alpha Reliability Coefficients, α, were 0.971, 0.827, 0.859 respectively were developed using the Tailored Design Method; these were pilot tested and then administered through a drop-and-pick strategy to a census sample of 804 respondents comprising 92 school mentors, 92 school head-teachers, 4 Teacher Training College mentoring coordinators and 616 student teachers. A total response rate of 96percent was obtained. The case study design phase comprised six one-on-one face-to-face structured interviews; five focus groups; five non-participant observations; and a review of ten documents employing interview schedules, observations and document checklists as instruments for data collection. A total of 27 participants, three of whom did not participate in the survey phase, were involved in this phase. Quantitative data collected from either phase was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 20 while content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. As a mixed-method study, some of the qualitative data was quantitized and some of the quantitative data was qualititized; and integration of data was made during the following stages: research questions formulation, data collection, data presentation, and discussion and interpretation. The study revealed several weaknesses in assuring the quality of mentoring in the 1+1 IPTE model. First, the norms and standards for mentoring designed by the Ministry of Education were not used to guide the mentoring process. Instead, they were designed to fulfil accountability requirements of the Ministry of Education and Teacher Training Colleges rather than self-improvement. Hence, the study revealed that all the 92 schools had, therefore, no policies, practice codes and standards for monitoring mentoring casting doubt on the functioning of internal quality assurance. The study further revealed that 12 of the school mentors (13percent) had lower academic qualifications than their seventy-two student teachers they were mentoring; 35 of the school mentors (38percent) were at the entry grade of their teaching career; two of the mentors (2percent) (mentoring over twelve student teachers) were within the first three years of teaching, which means that they, themselves, were in need of being mentored; and all the school mentors had full time teaching responsibilities. As such, some student teachers indicated that they were not being assessed at all by their school mentors. This situation regarding mentors raises concerns over the subject knowledge levels of the mentors, the role model functions of the mentors and their competency to effectively mentor student teachers, as well as concerns regarding the quality of the mentoring programme and its outcomes. Findings from the study also revealed little or no monitoring of mentoring in schools as schools had no structures and systems for monitoring mentoring; and heavy workloads and financial constraints prevented college lecturers from monitoring mentoring in primary schools. However, on a positive note, the study revealed that 99percent of school mentors were trained for their mentoring roles and were receiving regular training which was provided regularly on a term-basis. Based on the above findings, the 1+1 Initial Primary Teacher Education model in Malawi is undermined by weak mentoring practices which have the potential to widen the theory and practice gap, and potentially impact on the quality of teachers produced. It is further recommended that the mentoring practices move away from the technicist approach and focus on the actual processes of mentoring; that norms and standards for school mentor selection and support are developed; that there should be more workshopping, seminars and conferences for mentors; and that schools should be assisted to develop collegial-emancipatory quality assurance systems for mentoring. A rainbow model for assuring the quality of mentoring in the 1+1 IPTE mode is finally recommended. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-09
- Authors: Mwanza, Alnord Levison Dave
- Date: 2014-09
- Subjects: Mentoring in education , Total quality management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24632 , vital:63385
- Description: Teacher education has been the focus of numerous studies across the world. The debates revolve around what models or approaches to teacher development produce high quality teachers as measured by their ability to promote student learning. This has given rise to a continuum of models. At the one extreme there are those who advocate practice first and theory later; at the other there are those who recommend theory first and then practice. In between there is a combination of a variety of approaches. The models of teacher development, however, continue to grapple with the problem of how to balance theory and practice. In Malawi, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST) (MIE, 2006) came up with what they see as a balance between theory and practice when they introduced the 1 year of theory and 1 year of practice, a model referred to as the 1+1. The focus of this study was on the one year of practical teaching where mentoring is critical; hence the particular attention to examine and understand how its quality was assured from the perspective of fitness for purpose and fitness of purpose. The study was anchored mainly in the post-positivist paradigm and the methodology used was the mixed-methods approach. A mixed methods sequential explanatory design comprising a survey followed by a case study was employed. For the survey, four sets of semi-structured questionnaires whose Cronbach Alpha Reliability Coefficients, α, were 0.971, 0.827, 0.859 respectively were developed using the Tailored Design Method; these were pilot tested and then administered through a drop-and-pick strategy to a census sample of 804 respondents comprising 92 school mentors, 92 school head-teachers, 4 Teacher Training College mentoring coordinators and 616 student teachers. A total response rate of 96percent was obtained. The case study design phase comprised six one-on-one face-to-face structured interviews; five focus groups; five non-participant observations; and a review of ten documents employing interview schedules, observations and document checklists as instruments for data collection. A total of 27 participants, three of whom did not participate in the survey phase, were involved in this phase. Quantitative data collected from either phase was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 20 while content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. As a mixed-method study, some of the qualitative data was quantitized and some of the quantitative data was qualititized; and integration of data was made during the following stages: research questions formulation, data collection, data presentation, and discussion and interpretation. The study revealed several weaknesses in assuring the quality of mentoring in the 1+1 IPTE model. First, the norms and standards for mentoring designed by the Ministry of Education were not used to guide the mentoring process. Instead, they were designed to fulfil accountability requirements of the Ministry of Education and Teacher Training Colleges rather than self-improvement. Hence, the study revealed that all the 92 schools had, therefore, no policies, practice codes and standards for monitoring mentoring casting doubt on the functioning of internal quality assurance. The study further revealed that 12 of the school mentors (13percent) had lower academic qualifications than their seventy-two student teachers they were mentoring; 35 of the school mentors (38percent) were at the entry grade of their teaching career; two of the mentors (2percent) (mentoring over twelve student teachers) were within the first three years of teaching, which means that they, themselves, were in need of being mentored; and all the school mentors had full time teaching responsibilities. As such, some student teachers indicated that they were not being assessed at all by their school mentors. This situation regarding mentors raises concerns over the subject knowledge levels of the mentors, the role model functions of the mentors and their competency to effectively mentor student teachers, as well as concerns regarding the quality of the mentoring programme and its outcomes. Findings from the study also revealed little or no monitoring of mentoring in schools as schools had no structures and systems for monitoring mentoring; and heavy workloads and financial constraints prevented college lecturers from monitoring mentoring in primary schools. However, on a positive note, the study revealed that 99percent of school mentors were trained for their mentoring roles and were receiving regular training which was provided regularly on a term-basis. Based on the above findings, the 1+1 Initial Primary Teacher Education model in Malawi is undermined by weak mentoring practices which have the potential to widen the theory and practice gap, and potentially impact on the quality of teachers produced. It is further recommended that the mentoring practices move away from the technicist approach and focus on the actual processes of mentoring; that norms and standards for school mentor selection and support are developed; that there should be more workshopping, seminars and conferences for mentors; and that schools should be assisted to develop collegial-emancipatory quality assurance systems for mentoring. A rainbow model for assuring the quality of mentoring in the 1+1 IPTE mode is finally recommended. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-09
A model for enhancing trust in information systems tools within Nigeria media planning agencies
- Olaitan, Olutoyin https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5350-4136
- Authors: Olaitan, Olutoyin https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5350-4136
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Information resources management--Nigeria , Information networks--Security measures--Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24904 , vital:63669
- Description: Media Planning Agencies (MPAs) are responsible for purchasing time and advertising space on behalf of organisations who desire to advertise or market their products and services (Kupoluyi, 2011). These agencies perform their tasks based on the evaluative factors of pricing, demographics, reach, psychographics and other factors relevant to the clients’ target market which are all enabled by technology. MPAs utilise industry specific Information Systems (IS) tools in their business processes. McKnight (2005) contends that trust in IS tools directly impacts on the willingness of a user to depend on such IS tools for accomplishing their goals. The research problem exists due to the fact that the current level of trust in these IS tools employed within MPAs in Nigeria is very low (Egbonwon, 2012). This distrust has led to the non-optimisation of the available tools. Empirical findings reveal that most of the personnel in these agencies prefer to actualise their processes manually, or at best with the limited aid of Microsoft Office tools such as Excel and Word (Akharume, 2012). Thus the research problem investigated trust-enhancing mechanisms for IS tools in MPAs to improve efficient and effective use. The study conducted an in-depth critique of the role of trust in maximizing IS tools to improve efficiency and effectiveness within Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This was done through a literature review and questionnaire. The output of the research process is the proposition of a model for enhancing trust in IS tools within MPAs. The study proposed that the enhancement of trust in IS tools will lead to optimal use of these tools, thus leading to efficiency and effectiveness in the operations of Nigerian MPAs. The model was developed by following Hevner, March, Park and Ram’s (2004) Design Science research guidelines and validated through an expert review process. The outcome of the expert review was used to further refine the model and thereafter conclude the study. It is believed that the outcome of this research will empower MPAs to become competitive nationally, grow into global players in their industry and achieve efficiency with regards to how business is conducted. , Thesis (MCom IS) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
- Authors: Olaitan, Olutoyin https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5350-4136
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Information resources management--Nigeria , Information networks--Security measures--Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24904 , vital:63669
- Description: Media Planning Agencies (MPAs) are responsible for purchasing time and advertising space on behalf of organisations who desire to advertise or market their products and services (Kupoluyi, 2011). These agencies perform their tasks based on the evaluative factors of pricing, demographics, reach, psychographics and other factors relevant to the clients’ target market which are all enabled by technology. MPAs utilise industry specific Information Systems (IS) tools in their business processes. McKnight (2005) contends that trust in IS tools directly impacts on the willingness of a user to depend on such IS tools for accomplishing their goals. The research problem exists due to the fact that the current level of trust in these IS tools employed within MPAs in Nigeria is very low (Egbonwon, 2012). This distrust has led to the non-optimisation of the available tools. Empirical findings reveal that most of the personnel in these agencies prefer to actualise their processes manually, or at best with the limited aid of Microsoft Office tools such as Excel and Word (Akharume, 2012). Thus the research problem investigated trust-enhancing mechanisms for IS tools in MPAs to improve efficient and effective use. The study conducted an in-depth critique of the role of trust in maximizing IS tools to improve efficiency and effectiveness within Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This was done through a literature review and questionnaire. The output of the research process is the proposition of a model for enhancing trust in IS tools within MPAs. The study proposed that the enhancement of trust in IS tools will lead to optimal use of these tools, thus leading to efficiency and effectiveness in the operations of Nigerian MPAs. The model was developed by following Hevner, March, Park and Ram’s (2004) Design Science research guidelines and validated through an expert review process. The outcome of the expert review was used to further refine the model and thereafter conclude the study. It is believed that the outcome of this research will empower MPAs to become competitive nationally, grow into global players in their industry and achieve efficiency with regards to how business is conducted. , Thesis (MCom IS) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
A model for enhancing trust in information systems tools within Nigerian media planning agencies
- Olutoyin, Olaitan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5350-4136
- Authors: Olutoyin, Olaitan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5350-4136
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Advertising media planning -- Nigeria , Information resources management -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25592 , vital:64337
- Description: Media Planning Agencies (MPAs) are responsible for purchasing time and advertising space on behalf of organisations who desire to advertise or market their products and services (Kupoluyi, 2011). These agencies perform their tasks based on the evaluative factors of pricing, demographics, reach, psychographics and other factors relevant to the clients’ target market which are all enabled by technology. MPAs utilise industry specific Information Systems (IS) tools in their business processes. McKnight (2005) contends that trust in IS tools directly impacts on the willingness of a user to depend on such IS tools for accomplishing their goals. The research problem exists due to the fact that the current level of trust in these IS tools employed within MPAs in Nigeria is very low (Egbonwon, 2012). This distrust has led to the non-optimisation of the available tools. Empirical findings reveal that most of the personnel in these agencies prefer to actualise their processes manually, or at best with the limited aid of Microsoft Office tools such as Excel and Word (Akharume, 2012). Thus the research problem investigated trust-enhancing mechanisms for IS tools in MPAs to improve efficient and effective use. The study conducted an in-depth critique of the role of trust in maximizing IS tools to improve efficiency and effectiveness within Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This was done through a literature review and questionnaire. The output of the research process is the proposition of a model for enhancing trust in IS tools within MPAs. The study proposed that the enhancement of trust in IS tools will lead to optimal use of these tools, thus leading to efficiency and effectiveness in the operations of Nigerian MPAs. The model was developed by following Hevner, March, Park and Ram’s (2004) Design Science research guidelines and validated through an expert review process. The outcome of the expert review was used to further refine the model and thereafter conclude the study. It is believed that the outcome of this research will empower MPAs to become competitive nationally, grow into global players in their industry and achieve efficiency with regards to how business is conducted. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
- Authors: Olutoyin, Olaitan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5350-4136
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Advertising media planning -- Nigeria , Information resources management -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25592 , vital:64337
- Description: Media Planning Agencies (MPAs) are responsible for purchasing time and advertising space on behalf of organisations who desire to advertise or market their products and services (Kupoluyi, 2011). These agencies perform their tasks based on the evaluative factors of pricing, demographics, reach, psychographics and other factors relevant to the clients’ target market which are all enabled by technology. MPAs utilise industry specific Information Systems (IS) tools in their business processes. McKnight (2005) contends that trust in IS tools directly impacts on the willingness of a user to depend on such IS tools for accomplishing their goals. The research problem exists due to the fact that the current level of trust in these IS tools employed within MPAs in Nigeria is very low (Egbonwon, 2012). This distrust has led to the non-optimisation of the available tools. Empirical findings reveal that most of the personnel in these agencies prefer to actualise their processes manually, or at best with the limited aid of Microsoft Office tools such as Excel and Word (Akharume, 2012). Thus the research problem investigated trust-enhancing mechanisms for IS tools in MPAs to improve efficient and effective use. The study conducted an in-depth critique of the role of trust in maximizing IS tools to improve efficiency and effectiveness within Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This was done through a literature review and questionnaire. The output of the research process is the proposition of a model for enhancing trust in IS tools within MPAs. The study proposed that the enhancement of trust in IS tools will lead to optimal use of these tools, thus leading to efficiency and effectiveness in the operations of Nigerian MPAs. The model was developed by following Hevner, March, Park and Ram’s (2004) Design Science research guidelines and validated through an expert review process. The outcome of the expert review was used to further refine the model and thereafter conclude the study. It is believed that the outcome of this research will empower MPAs to become competitive nationally, grow into global players in their industry and achieve efficiency with regards to how business is conducted. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
An investigation into identity formation of school- going adolescents : application of the neo- eriksonian paradigm in an urban African context
- Authors: Vasi, Shirlee
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Adolescence , Identity (Psychology) in adolescence , Youth
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26503 , vital:65482
- Description: The study drew on two approaches on identity formation, each postulating differing but complementary exploration components style and status in an effort to better understand the dimensions of identity formation as measured by the EOM EIS 2 and the ISI3. The sample of the study N 111 was socio/demographically diverse with respect to gender, age, race and language, with participants drawn from an urban high school setting in the Eastern Cape. Overall patterns of results revealed by Analysis of Variance ANOVA suggested that significant differences exist between adolescents with respect to gender and age in a South African context. No significant results were noted for the identity variables of race and language, with the identity variables of the EOM EIS 2 and the ISI3. Inter-correlations among the identity variables of the EOM EIS 2 and the ISI3 for the sample of school-going adolescents in this study were investigated. The findings provide evidence that the two instruments to a large extent carry a similar meaning theoretically within an African setting. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
- Authors: Vasi, Shirlee
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Adolescence , Identity (Psychology) in adolescence , Youth
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26503 , vital:65482
- Description: The study drew on two approaches on identity formation, each postulating differing but complementary exploration components style and status in an effort to better understand the dimensions of identity formation as measured by the EOM EIS 2 and the ISI3. The sample of the study N 111 was socio/demographically diverse with respect to gender, age, race and language, with participants drawn from an urban high school setting in the Eastern Cape. Overall patterns of results revealed by Analysis of Variance ANOVA suggested that significant differences exist between adolescents with respect to gender and age in a South African context. No significant results were noted for the identity variables of race and language, with the identity variables of the EOM EIS 2 and the ISI3. Inter-correlations among the identity variables of the EOM EIS 2 and the ISI3 for the sample of school-going adolescents in this study were investigated. The findings provide evidence that the two instruments to a large extent carry a similar meaning theoretically within an African setting. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
An investigation into the learning outcomes the selected life orientation educators teach in the intermediate and senior phase: implications for instructional supervision in two J.S.S. in Butterworth district
- Authors: Sele, Noxolo
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Life skills -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25393 , vital:64235
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the Life Orientation (LO) Learning Outcomes the selected educators teach in the Intermediate and Senior Phase. It focuses on two Junior Secondary Schools (J.S.S.) in Butterworth Education District of the Eastern Cape Province. According to the Department of Education (2002) Life Orientation is mandatory for all learners in the Senior and Further Education and Training phases of Basic Education. It offers possibilities for equipping learners in South Africa with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to develop confidence within themselves and to become responsible citizens. In this inquiry, the study used qualitative research methods to explore how teachers and learners perceive the implementation of LO. The research on both teachers and learners has testified that the most looked part in LO is its importance on the developmental aspect of learners. The finding also draws strongly from what the literature has revealed, that Life Orientation curriculum expressly revolves around learners achieving outcomes, which are identified and assessed through the acquisition and demonstration of knowledge, skills, attitudes and value. The educators affirmed that LO was an important subject but was looked down by many teachers as less interesting and boring. The interviewees argued that LO contributes to best understanding of challenges facing our youth. One major recommendation was that grade teachers must draw insights from various teaching approaches and move beyond using one approach to deliver LO. Among other things, future research need to investigate what training needs do teachers and school heads need to arouse their interest and eagerness to facilitate teaching of LO? , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
- Authors: Sele, Noxolo
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Life skills -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25393 , vital:64235
- Description: This study seeks to investigate the Life Orientation (LO) Learning Outcomes the selected educators teach in the Intermediate and Senior Phase. It focuses on two Junior Secondary Schools (J.S.S.) in Butterworth Education District of the Eastern Cape Province. According to the Department of Education (2002) Life Orientation is mandatory for all learners in the Senior and Further Education and Training phases of Basic Education. It offers possibilities for equipping learners in South Africa with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to develop confidence within themselves and to become responsible citizens. In this inquiry, the study used qualitative research methods to explore how teachers and learners perceive the implementation of LO. The research on both teachers and learners has testified that the most looked part in LO is its importance on the developmental aspect of learners. The finding also draws strongly from what the literature has revealed, that Life Orientation curriculum expressly revolves around learners achieving outcomes, which are identified and assessed through the acquisition and demonstration of knowledge, skills, attitudes and value. The educators affirmed that LO was an important subject but was looked down by many teachers as less interesting and boring. The interviewees argued that LO contributes to best understanding of challenges facing our youth. One major recommendation was that grade teachers must draw insights from various teaching approaches and move beyond using one approach to deliver LO. Among other things, future research need to investigate what training needs do teachers and school heads need to arouse their interest and eagerness to facilitate teaching of LO? , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
Pills, Politics and Partners: NGOs and the Management of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in the Eastern Cape, with special reference to the Lusikisiki Project, 2004-2014
- Authors: Govere, Fredrick Murambiwa
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Management , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Services for -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25720 , vital:64473
- Description: South Africa is one of the few countries in sub-Saharan Africa where HIV prevalence rates remain stubbornly high.1 This trend is both concerning and difficult to explain given that South Africa is economically well-resourced with a better health care infrastructure relative to other African countries. The African National Congress identified the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a major public health threat to South Africa as early as the 1990s (Parikh and Whiteside, 2007; Gevisser, 2007). In response, international donors provided a substantial amount of financial resources to support improvements in South Africa’s health care infrastructure. The persistently high rates of HIV/AIDS in the population beg for answers to questions such as why South Africa’s political leadership has been unable to control the spread of the disease and what particular social, behavioural and economic factors have contributed to South Africa’s disproportionate share of the global HIV/AIDS burden. At this point in time, public health experts still have not been able to definitively isolate the factors that explain the severity of the HIV/AIDS disease burden within South Africa’s population. While international donor aid continues to play a central role in the social, economic and health betterment in developing nations, its political impact on local governance structures has been much debated.2 In particular, the roles played by non-government organisations (NGOs) in the fight against HIV/AIDS in South Africa have been found to be complex, controversial, and their lasting value contested. Specifically debated is the disproportionate global investment in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment in South Africa and the ways in which it has shaped intervention strategies, public and private policy, and the governance roles assumed by various national and local governmental agencies. Despite the threat of diminished financial support from international donor agencies that has loomed heavily over recipient countries in recent years, a number of key international donors have actually scaled up their global response to HIV/AIDS, particularly in South Africa.3 These donor agencies include the U.S. government’s Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund, as well as non-profit humanitarian organisations such as Mèdecins Sans Frontiéres (MSF), commonly known as Doctors without Borders. This study aims to critically examine the prevailing intervention strategy used by these international donors to “push the pill;” that is, to push a public health agenda that holds antiretroviral (ARV) therapy as the preeminent solution to fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic at the expense of other intervention strategies. While a biomedical approach remains the most compelling intervention strategy, the fight against HIV/AIDS needs to be more comprehensive in its scope taking into account local knowledge and culture. This study will discuss how political rhetoric delivered through the media and monitoring, evaluation, and reporting systems has been used to embed a biomedical pill agenda into the organizational culture and intervention strategies implemented by local community-based organizations. Through a process of strategic translation, HIV/AIDS has been portrayed as the number one health problem facing South Africa today; in fact, across all of Sub-Saharan Africa (World Health Organisation 2005a, 2005b). As such, the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic has justified the focus on making ARV drugs available throughout Sub-Saharan Africa at the expense of other interventions that could aim more precisely at the key social and health problems faced by the South African population which compromise health and well-being. The question about whose interests are donors and donor-funded agencies representing, and what are the intended and unintended consequences that result from these interests is the subject of this study. The study will attempt to shed light on these questions through a critical examination of the widely publicized HIV/AIDS intervention programme, the Lusikisiki Project, located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. I have drawn extensively from the development discourse literature and such scholars as Ferguson, 1990; Escobar, 1994 and 1995; Rist, 1997; and Mosse, 2005, to provide theoretical grounding for answering the questions posed.4 The study will critically analyse the social and political factors that defined this reputedly successful HIV/AIDS intervention project. Further, the study wil elucidate other cultural and behavioural factors that shaped the initiative in its battle against HIV/AIDS. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
- Authors: Govere, Fredrick Murambiwa
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Management , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention , HIV-positive persons -- Services for -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25720 , vital:64473
- Description: South Africa is one of the few countries in sub-Saharan Africa where HIV prevalence rates remain stubbornly high.1 This trend is both concerning and difficult to explain given that South Africa is economically well-resourced with a better health care infrastructure relative to other African countries. The African National Congress identified the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a major public health threat to South Africa as early as the 1990s (Parikh and Whiteside, 2007; Gevisser, 2007). In response, international donors provided a substantial amount of financial resources to support improvements in South Africa’s health care infrastructure. The persistently high rates of HIV/AIDS in the population beg for answers to questions such as why South Africa’s political leadership has been unable to control the spread of the disease and what particular social, behavioural and economic factors have contributed to South Africa’s disproportionate share of the global HIV/AIDS burden. At this point in time, public health experts still have not been able to definitively isolate the factors that explain the severity of the HIV/AIDS disease burden within South Africa’s population. While international donor aid continues to play a central role in the social, economic and health betterment in developing nations, its political impact on local governance structures has been much debated.2 In particular, the roles played by non-government organisations (NGOs) in the fight against HIV/AIDS in South Africa have been found to be complex, controversial, and their lasting value contested. Specifically debated is the disproportionate global investment in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment in South Africa and the ways in which it has shaped intervention strategies, public and private policy, and the governance roles assumed by various national and local governmental agencies. Despite the threat of diminished financial support from international donor agencies that has loomed heavily over recipient countries in recent years, a number of key international donors have actually scaled up their global response to HIV/AIDS, particularly in South Africa.3 These donor agencies include the U.S. government’s Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund, as well as non-profit humanitarian organisations such as Mèdecins Sans Frontiéres (MSF), commonly known as Doctors without Borders. This study aims to critically examine the prevailing intervention strategy used by these international donors to “push the pill;” that is, to push a public health agenda that holds antiretroviral (ARV) therapy as the preeminent solution to fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic at the expense of other intervention strategies. While a biomedical approach remains the most compelling intervention strategy, the fight against HIV/AIDS needs to be more comprehensive in its scope taking into account local knowledge and culture. This study will discuss how political rhetoric delivered through the media and monitoring, evaluation, and reporting systems has been used to embed a biomedical pill agenda into the organizational culture and intervention strategies implemented by local community-based organizations. Through a process of strategic translation, HIV/AIDS has been portrayed as the number one health problem facing South Africa today; in fact, across all of Sub-Saharan Africa (World Health Organisation 2005a, 2005b). As such, the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS epidemic has justified the focus on making ARV drugs available throughout Sub-Saharan Africa at the expense of other interventions that could aim more precisely at the key social and health problems faced by the South African population which compromise health and well-being. The question about whose interests are donors and donor-funded agencies representing, and what are the intended and unintended consequences that result from these interests is the subject of this study. The study will attempt to shed light on these questions through a critical examination of the widely publicized HIV/AIDS intervention programme, the Lusikisiki Project, located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. I have drawn extensively from the development discourse literature and such scholars as Ferguson, 1990; Escobar, 1994 and 1995; Rist, 1997; and Mosse, 2005, to provide theoretical grounding for answering the questions posed.4 The study will critically analyse the social and political factors that defined this reputedly successful HIV/AIDS intervention project. Further, the study wil elucidate other cultural and behavioural factors that shaped the initiative in its battle against HIV/AIDS. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
The challenges faced by orphans and vulnerable children in cluster foster homes in South Africa: the case of Ekhaya losizo in Grahamstown
- Authors: Nyamutinga, Dudzai
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Foster home care -- South Africa , Social work with children -- South Africa , Orphans -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27402 , vital:67291
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the challenges faced by orphans and vulnerable children in cluster foster homes . The case of Ekhaya losizo Cluster home. The study intended to bring out the challenges that children who have been abandoned, neglected and orphaned face after they are found in need of care and protection and then are placed in institutional care. The first objective was to explore the different kind of challenges that orphans and vulnerable children encounter in a cluster foster home. The research study concluded that children face physical, emotional and psychological challenges. The research also examined the effects of these physical, social and emotional challenges on the wellbeing and welfare of these orphans and vulnerable children. According to the research study, most children in the cluster home faced a number of social, emotional and psychological wellbeing which affect normal development. The research focused on investigating the kind of support that is offered by community members to such orphans and vulnerable children. According to the findings, children are provided with emotional support, financial, social and educational. The study findings revealed that there is much support provided by the community. The last objective which is the fourth one is aimed at examining services that are offered by social service practitioners in the care of orphans and vulnerable children in cluster foster care. The study findings managed to document that social workers are very much instrumental in the welfare of children. This is because they are involved in identifying the child in need of care and protection as stipulated in the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, they do placements of children in cluster homes, monitoring and also identifying suitable caregivers who are able to provide proper nurturance to children. Psychologists are also instrumental in providing counselling to these children. They help those children that are traumatized, orphaned, abandoned and those that are having adaptation challenges as well as attachment challenges. The study utilized a qualitative method in order for the researcher to understand the challenges faced by orphans and vulnerable children. Purposive sampling which is non- probability was used with both in-depth interview as well as focus group discussion. The researcher purposely selected those people who are relevant in providing the relevant information for the research. The study utilized an in-depth interview guide as well as focus group discussion to gather information from respondents. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
- Authors: Nyamutinga, Dudzai
- Date: 2014-06
- Subjects: Foster home care -- South Africa , Social work with children -- South Africa , Orphans -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27402 , vital:67291
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the challenges faced by orphans and vulnerable children in cluster foster homes . The case of Ekhaya losizo Cluster home. The study intended to bring out the challenges that children who have been abandoned, neglected and orphaned face after they are found in need of care and protection and then are placed in institutional care. The first objective was to explore the different kind of challenges that orphans and vulnerable children encounter in a cluster foster home. The research study concluded that children face physical, emotional and psychological challenges. The research also examined the effects of these physical, social and emotional challenges on the wellbeing and welfare of these orphans and vulnerable children. According to the research study, most children in the cluster home faced a number of social, emotional and psychological wellbeing which affect normal development. The research focused on investigating the kind of support that is offered by community members to such orphans and vulnerable children. According to the findings, children are provided with emotional support, financial, social and educational. The study findings revealed that there is much support provided by the community. The last objective which is the fourth one is aimed at examining services that are offered by social service practitioners in the care of orphans and vulnerable children in cluster foster care. The study findings managed to document that social workers are very much instrumental in the welfare of children. This is because they are involved in identifying the child in need of care and protection as stipulated in the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, they do placements of children in cluster homes, monitoring and also identifying suitable caregivers who are able to provide proper nurturance to children. Psychologists are also instrumental in providing counselling to these children. They help those children that are traumatized, orphaned, abandoned and those that are having adaptation challenges as well as attachment challenges. The study utilized a qualitative method in order for the researcher to understand the challenges faced by orphans and vulnerable children. Purposive sampling which is non- probability was used with both in-depth interview as well as focus group discussion. The researcher purposely selected those people who are relevant in providing the relevant information for the research. The study utilized an in-depth interview guide as well as focus group discussion to gather information from respondents. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-06
Christian teaching and learning methodologies on the social life of children: a case study of the children's ministry of the church of Central Africa Presbyterian, Blantyre Synod, Malawi
- Authors: Mulele, Dennis Kanthunkako
- Date: 2014-05
- Subjects: Sociology, Biblical , Christian sociology , Religious aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26470 , vital:65420
- Description: The escalation of antisocial behaviour among Christian children of the CCAP Blantyre Synod is a major threat for the future of the church community and the nation of Malawi, at large. This upsurge is a growing concern among Christian parents especially during this century. Through research interviews that were conducted with Christian adults, this dissertation seeks to establish the causes of antisocial behaviour among the Christian children of the CCAP Blantyre Synod. This dissertation also aims to find out whether the Christian teaching and learning methods used by Blantyre Synod are effective in addressing the escalation of antisocial behaviour. This study also analyses the challenges faced by Blantyre Synod and the effects on Christian children. A multi-method research strategy included a qualitative research approach and case study. Data were collected from multiple sources in 8 congregations of the CCAP, Blantyre Synod. Documentary evidence; guided interviews with participants in the CCAP Blantyre Synod and questionnaires were used. The interviews were conducted with Christian parents, church leaders and Sunday school teachers. Some of these interviews were recorded. This research explores the factors that influence the escalation of antisocial behaviour and the effects on Christian children. This research revealed that the escalation of antisocial behaviour arises because of a lack of parental modeling, use of technology and globalization, poverty, lack of understanding human rights, environment in which a Christian child lives, lack of well trained Sundays school teachers, westernization practices, peer grouping and political influences. The study concludes that the utilization of Christian teaching and learning methodologies on the social life of children in CCAP, Blantyre Synod will help in the fight against antisocial behaviour and close the gaps that facilitate the escalation of antisocial behaviour. Therefore the use of effective Christian teaching and learning methodologies provide an opportunity to tailor policies to be used in Christian teaching and learning of Christian children. , Thesis (MTh) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-05
- Authors: Mulele, Dennis Kanthunkako
- Date: 2014-05
- Subjects: Sociology, Biblical , Christian sociology , Religious aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26470 , vital:65420
- Description: The escalation of antisocial behaviour among Christian children of the CCAP Blantyre Synod is a major threat for the future of the church community and the nation of Malawi, at large. This upsurge is a growing concern among Christian parents especially during this century. Through research interviews that were conducted with Christian adults, this dissertation seeks to establish the causes of antisocial behaviour among the Christian children of the CCAP Blantyre Synod. This dissertation also aims to find out whether the Christian teaching and learning methods used by Blantyre Synod are effective in addressing the escalation of antisocial behaviour. This study also analyses the challenges faced by Blantyre Synod and the effects on Christian children. A multi-method research strategy included a qualitative research approach and case study. Data were collected from multiple sources in 8 congregations of the CCAP, Blantyre Synod. Documentary evidence; guided interviews with participants in the CCAP Blantyre Synod and questionnaires were used. The interviews were conducted with Christian parents, church leaders and Sunday school teachers. Some of these interviews were recorded. This research explores the factors that influence the escalation of antisocial behaviour and the effects on Christian children. This research revealed that the escalation of antisocial behaviour arises because of a lack of parental modeling, use of technology and globalization, poverty, lack of understanding human rights, environment in which a Christian child lives, lack of well trained Sundays school teachers, westernization practices, peer grouping and political influences. The study concludes that the utilization of Christian teaching and learning methodologies on the social life of children in CCAP, Blantyre Synod will help in the fight against antisocial behaviour and close the gaps that facilitate the escalation of antisocial behaviour. Therefore the use of effective Christian teaching and learning methodologies provide an opportunity to tailor policies to be used in Christian teaching and learning of Christian children. , Thesis (MTh) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-05
Development and assessment of gastroretentive sustained release captopril tablets
- Authors: Mukozhiwa, Samantha Yolanda
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Captopril , Drug delivery systems , Drugs Controlled release , Cardiovascular system Diseases , Cardiovascular agents , Angiotensin converting enzyme Inhibitors
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480301 , vital:78427
- Description: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide and global projections predict that the number of deaths due to CVD will continue to increase over the next 17 years [1]. With the growing burden of CVD the design and development of formulations that optimise the delivery of existing therapeutic molecules may be an approach to improving the management of patients with CVD. Captopril (CPT) is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used for the routine management of hypertension, cardiac failure and diabetic nephropathy [2-4]. However it has a relatively short half-life and typical therapeutic dosing regimens require multiple dosing [2]. CPT is a potential candidate for sustained oral drug delivery, however its poor stability profile and high water solubility present significant formulation challenges. CPT exhibits optimal stability at pH < 4 and is unstable in the alkaline environment of intestinal fluids [5]. A sustained release gastroretentive formulation is therefore proposed as an approach that may improve the in vivo stability of CPT in addition to slowly releasing the molecule at a desired rate that may also minimize the occurrence of drug-related adverse effects. A Capillary Zone Electrophoresis (CZE) method for the quantitation of CPT in pharmaceutical dosage forms was developed and optimised using a Central Composite Design (CCD) approach. The CZE method was found to have the necessary linearity, accuracy, precision, sensitivity and specificity for the analysis of CPT in pharmaceutical formulations. Preformulation studies were conducted as part of the preparative work required to manufacture high quality, stable gastroretentive sustained release CPT tablets. The experiments conducted were tailored for the development of CPT sustained release tablets using direct compression manufacture and included an analysis of particle size and shape, powder flow properties and CPT-excipient compatibility studies. The results revealed that there was no definite evidence of interactions between CPT and the excipients to be used to manufacture CPT tablets, and CPT formulations were developed using these excipients. A direct compression procedure was selected for tablet manufacture due to apparent simplicity and to avoid unnecessary exposure of CPT to the heat and moisture that would be encountered if a wet granulation manufacturing process was used. A numerical optimisation approach was used to predict a formulation composition that would produce minimal CPT release initially, a short floating lag time (FLT) and maximum CPT release after 12 hours of dissolution testing. The effect of increasing the agitation speed of USP Apparatus 2 on the release of CPT from the optimised formulation was also investigated. The results revealed that changing the speed of the paddle had only a relatively small impact on the in vitro release behaviour of CPT from the tablets. The optimised formulation was subjected to additional testing in an attempt to investigate the effects of pH and osmolarity on the swelling and erosion characteristics of the dosage form. It was important to evaluate the effects of pH and osmolarity from the perspective of the solubility and stability of CPT. The results generated from swelling studies revealed that the swelling characteristics of the proposed formulation were not significantly altered by a change in pH and osmolarity of the test medium and this is probably due to the non-ionic nature of HPMC. In addition, the results revealed that the solubility and/or stability of CPT in different dissolution media did not affect the water uptake and swelling of the tablet matrices. The results revealed the erosion rate constants were low and suggest that although polymer erosion does occur, the role of this phenomenon in the release of CPT may not be as significant as that of diffusion. The release kinetics of CPT from the tablets was established by fitting in vitro release data to several mathematical models. The in vitro release data were best described using the Korsmeyer-Peppas model and values of release exponent (n) suggest that the majority of the tablets exhibited an anomalous CPT transport mechanism. The short-term stability of the optimised formulation was established by undertaking stability studies at 25°/60% RH and 40°/75% RH. The results revealed that there was no significant change in appearance and physicochemical properties of the tablets over 60 days. In conclusion, gastroretentive sustained release CPT tablets with the potential for further development and optimisation have been successfully developed and assessed in these studies. A basis is thus provided for further development of this technology. , Thesis (MSc (Pharm)) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
- Authors: Mukozhiwa, Samantha Yolanda
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Captopril , Drug delivery systems , Drugs Controlled release , Cardiovascular system Diseases , Cardiovascular agents , Angiotensin converting enzyme Inhibitors
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480301 , vital:78427
- Description: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide and global projections predict that the number of deaths due to CVD will continue to increase over the next 17 years [1]. With the growing burden of CVD the design and development of formulations that optimise the delivery of existing therapeutic molecules may be an approach to improving the management of patients with CVD. Captopril (CPT) is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used for the routine management of hypertension, cardiac failure and diabetic nephropathy [2-4]. However it has a relatively short half-life and typical therapeutic dosing regimens require multiple dosing [2]. CPT is a potential candidate for sustained oral drug delivery, however its poor stability profile and high water solubility present significant formulation challenges. CPT exhibits optimal stability at pH < 4 and is unstable in the alkaline environment of intestinal fluids [5]. A sustained release gastroretentive formulation is therefore proposed as an approach that may improve the in vivo stability of CPT in addition to slowly releasing the molecule at a desired rate that may also minimize the occurrence of drug-related adverse effects. A Capillary Zone Electrophoresis (CZE) method for the quantitation of CPT in pharmaceutical dosage forms was developed and optimised using a Central Composite Design (CCD) approach. The CZE method was found to have the necessary linearity, accuracy, precision, sensitivity and specificity for the analysis of CPT in pharmaceutical formulations. Preformulation studies were conducted as part of the preparative work required to manufacture high quality, stable gastroretentive sustained release CPT tablets. The experiments conducted were tailored for the development of CPT sustained release tablets using direct compression manufacture and included an analysis of particle size and shape, powder flow properties and CPT-excipient compatibility studies. The results revealed that there was no definite evidence of interactions between CPT and the excipients to be used to manufacture CPT tablets, and CPT formulations were developed using these excipients. A direct compression procedure was selected for tablet manufacture due to apparent simplicity and to avoid unnecessary exposure of CPT to the heat and moisture that would be encountered if a wet granulation manufacturing process was used. A numerical optimisation approach was used to predict a formulation composition that would produce minimal CPT release initially, a short floating lag time (FLT) and maximum CPT release after 12 hours of dissolution testing. The effect of increasing the agitation speed of USP Apparatus 2 on the release of CPT from the optimised formulation was also investigated. The results revealed that changing the speed of the paddle had only a relatively small impact on the in vitro release behaviour of CPT from the tablets. The optimised formulation was subjected to additional testing in an attempt to investigate the effects of pH and osmolarity on the swelling and erosion characteristics of the dosage form. It was important to evaluate the effects of pH and osmolarity from the perspective of the solubility and stability of CPT. The results generated from swelling studies revealed that the swelling characteristics of the proposed formulation were not significantly altered by a change in pH and osmolarity of the test medium and this is probably due to the non-ionic nature of HPMC. In addition, the results revealed that the solubility and/or stability of CPT in different dissolution media did not affect the water uptake and swelling of the tablet matrices. The results revealed the erosion rate constants were low and suggest that although polymer erosion does occur, the role of this phenomenon in the release of CPT may not be as significant as that of diffusion. The release kinetics of CPT from the tablets was established by fitting in vitro release data to several mathematical models. The in vitro release data were best described using the Korsmeyer-Peppas model and values of release exponent (n) suggest that the majority of the tablets exhibited an anomalous CPT transport mechanism. The short-term stability of the optimised formulation was established by undertaking stability studies at 25°/60% RH and 40°/75% RH. The results revealed that there was no significant change in appearance and physicochemical properties of the tablets over 60 days. In conclusion, gastroretentive sustained release CPT tablets with the potential for further development and optimisation have been successfully developed and assessed in these studies. A basis is thus provided for further development of this technology. , Thesis (MSc (Pharm)) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
Featuring simplicity: jargon and access in contemporary South African art
- Authors: Bereng, Lerato
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Curatorship , Art museum curators , Art, Modern , Morija Arts & Cultural Festival , Simplicity in art , Jargon (Terminology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60479 , vital:27784
- Description: The focus of this paper is an exploration of curating and its various forms as understood in a South African art context. In order to understand this context I examine definitions of South African publics as well as different curatorial models. I raise questions around art and accessibility as well as the functions of language as a gate keeper within the visual arts. Through a practical exploration of curatorial methods of engagement, I assess the curator's role as disseminator of information. My final project Conversations at Morija that was held in Morija, Lesotho faces the challenge of curating within a space that has a strong creative platform, but lacks a visual art audience. The exhibition was held during the 2013 Morija Art and Culture festival which is dominated by its music component. Despite Morija being the country's creative centre and sole museum, there is little support for its programme both monetary and in terms of attendance. Through a series of conversations several issues pertaining to Morija, Lesotho and the diaspora were addressed. I look at the absence of creative platforms and alternative curatorial methods that engage the public in a participatory manner. Briefly exploring questions of migrant labour and definitions of what constitutes a diaspora. I look at relatable ways to engage the local audience whilst maintaining a creative core in which to spark dialogue around pertinent matters relating to the country. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
- Authors: Bereng, Lerato
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Curatorship , Art museum curators , Art, Modern , Morija Arts & Cultural Festival , Simplicity in art , Jargon (Terminology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/60479 , vital:27784
- Description: The focus of this paper is an exploration of curating and its various forms as understood in a South African art context. In order to understand this context I examine definitions of South African publics as well as different curatorial models. I raise questions around art and accessibility as well as the functions of language as a gate keeper within the visual arts. Through a practical exploration of curatorial methods of engagement, I assess the curator's role as disseminator of information. My final project Conversations at Morija that was held in Morija, Lesotho faces the challenge of curating within a space that has a strong creative platform, but lacks a visual art audience. The exhibition was held during the 2013 Morija Art and Culture festival which is dominated by its music component. Despite Morija being the country's creative centre and sole museum, there is little support for its programme both monetary and in terms of attendance. Through a series of conversations several issues pertaining to Morija, Lesotho and the diaspora were addressed. I look at the absence of creative platforms and alternative curatorial methods that engage the public in a participatory manner. Briefly exploring questions of migrant labour and definitions of what constitutes a diaspora. I look at relatable ways to engage the local audience whilst maintaining a creative core in which to spark dialogue around pertinent matters relating to the country. , Thesis (MFA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Fine Art, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
Lived bodies: women’s experience of sex and gender
- Authors: Lothian, Julie-Anne
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Lived body , Human body Sociological aspects , Women Sociological aspects , Sex role , Gender
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69445 , vital:29538
- Description: This thesis will discuss the category of women, as a social group, through a phenomenological understanding of women’s subjective experiences. In arguing for the phenomenological perspective of the lived body, I show the ways in which other conceptions of women’s embodied subjectivity ultimately fail to provide comprehensive accounts of the lived experience of being a woman. I begin with an investigation into how biological determinists hypothesise women’s bodies as sexed. I then move to respond to Judith Butler’s poststructuralist feminist account of the gendered body. Finally, I argue that the embodied experience of being a woman is best explained as an ambiguous relationship between socially constructed expectations of femininity and biological materiality. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Political and International Studies, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
- Authors: Lothian, Julie-Anne
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Lived body , Human body Sociological aspects , Women Sociological aspects , Sex role , Gender
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69445 , vital:29538
- Description: This thesis will discuss the category of women, as a social group, through a phenomenological understanding of women’s subjective experiences. In arguing for the phenomenological perspective of the lived body, I show the ways in which other conceptions of women’s embodied subjectivity ultimately fail to provide comprehensive accounts of the lived experience of being a woman. I begin with an investigation into how biological determinists hypothesise women’s bodies as sexed. I then move to respond to Judith Butler’s poststructuralist feminist account of the gendered body. Finally, I argue that the embodied experience of being a woman is best explained as an ambiguous relationship between socially constructed expectations of femininity and biological materiality. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Political and International Studies, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
Sorption and emulsion liquid membranes in the remediation of metal processing waste water effluents using rhodium, trioctylamine and trihexylamine as a model
- Authors: Moyo, Francis
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Liquid membranes , Rhodium , Trioctylamine , Trihexylamine , Emulsions (Pharmacy) , Sorption
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480289 , vital:78426
- Description: Two optimised ELMs were prepared with the diluent always being 30 % solution of toluene in kerosene. The first ELM contained 30.000 g/L (w/v) polyisobutylene, 10.870 g/L (m/v) of trioctyl amine and 51.001 g/L (m/v) of SPAN 80. The other optimised ELM was composed of 20.000 g/l of polyisobutylene, 10.268 g/l trioctyl amine and 50.024 g/l of SPAN 80. The stripping phase was always 2 M HNO3 and the mixing ratios of organic phase to stripping phase were 1:1 and 2:1. The t-test was used to test for the difference between the mean micro-droplet sizes had a p-value of 0.3018 at 5 % level of significance, i.e. there was no statistically the mean micro-droplet size of the optimised ELMs. Demulsification was performed with polyethylene glycol with molecular weight of 400 g/mol at 50 ± 1 °C for 24 hours. The volumetric ratio of treated side-stream and the ELM was 5:1 and 98.7 to 108 % of the initial Rh amount was recovered in the stripping phase after chemical demulsification. Major carryover of the diluent components into the stripping phase observed was from trioctyl amine, toluene and polyethylene glycol was observed. The final spent side-stream should not be discharged into the environment based on the acute Daphnia pulex toxicity test. For sorption studies, the specific surface area of kaolin was 18.21 0.8 m2 g-1 and loss on ignition was 0.0086 0.004 %. Removal efficiencies of trioctyl amine for 10 g of kaolin and particle size 65-100 μm and 101-400 μm were 18.1 % and 17.5 % respectively while sorption capacities were 0.92 g/g and 0.88 g/g respectively. The removal efficiency of 20 g of kaolin was 35.8 % and 33.3 % and sorption capacities were 0.93 g/g and 0.87 g/g respectively. For particle sizes 101-400 μm, the R2 values obtained for Freundlich and Langmuir were 0.9757 and 0.9819 respectively. The n and Kf for Freundlich isotherm were 1.086 and 2.622. Removal efficiency for trihexyl amine for particle size 101-400 μm and 65-100 μm was 28.5 % and 29.3 % respectively while sorption capacities were 0.73 g/g and 0.75 g/g respectively. The R2 values obtained for Freundlich and Langmuir for particle sizes 101-400 μm were 0.957 and 0.989 respectively. The n and Kf for Freundlich isotherm were 1.307 and 2.151 respectively. These results suggest that kaolinite could potentially be used in remediation of metal wastewaters containing hydrophobic extractants. , Thesis (MSc (Pharm)) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-04-11
- Authors: Moyo, Francis
- Date: 2014-04-11
- Subjects: Liquid membranes , Rhodium , Trioctylamine , Trihexylamine , Emulsions (Pharmacy) , Sorption
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480289 , vital:78426
- Description: Two optimised ELMs were prepared with the diluent always being 30 % solution of toluene in kerosene. The first ELM contained 30.000 g/L (w/v) polyisobutylene, 10.870 g/L (m/v) of trioctyl amine and 51.001 g/L (m/v) of SPAN 80. The other optimised ELM was composed of 20.000 g/l of polyisobutylene, 10.268 g/l trioctyl amine and 50.024 g/l of SPAN 80. The stripping phase was always 2 M HNO3 and the mixing ratios of organic phase to stripping phase were 1:1 and 2:1. The t-test was used to test for the difference between the mean micro-droplet sizes had a p-value of 0.3018 at 5 % level of significance, i.e. there was no statistically the mean micro-droplet size of the optimised ELMs. Demulsification was performed with polyethylene glycol with molecular weight of 400 g/mol at 50 ± 1 °C for 24 hours. The volumetric ratio of treated side-stream and the ELM was 5:1 and 98.7 to 108 % of the initial Rh amount was recovered in the stripping phase after chemical demulsification. Major carryover of the diluent components into the stripping phase observed was from trioctyl amine, toluene and polyethylene glycol was observed. The final spent side-stream should not be discharged into the environment based on the acute Daphnia pulex toxicity test. For sorption studies, the specific surface area of kaolin was 18.21 0.8 m2 g-1 and loss on ignition was 0.0086 0.004 %. Removal efficiencies of trioctyl amine for 10 g of kaolin and particle size 65-100 μm and 101-400 μm were 18.1 % and 17.5 % respectively while sorption capacities were 0.92 g/g and 0.88 g/g respectively. The removal efficiency of 20 g of kaolin was 35.8 % and 33.3 % and sorption capacities were 0.93 g/g and 0.87 g/g respectively. For particle sizes 101-400 μm, the R2 values obtained for Freundlich and Langmuir were 0.9757 and 0.9819 respectively. The n and Kf for Freundlich isotherm were 1.086 and 2.622. Removal efficiency for trihexyl amine for particle size 101-400 μm and 65-100 μm was 28.5 % and 29.3 % respectively while sorption capacities were 0.73 g/g and 0.75 g/g respectively. The R2 values obtained for Freundlich and Langmuir for particle sizes 101-400 μm were 0.957 and 0.989 respectively. The n and Kf for Freundlich isotherm were 1.307 and 2.151 respectively. These results suggest that kaolinite could potentially be used in remediation of metal wastewaters containing hydrophobic extractants. , Thesis (MSc (Pharm)) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, 2014
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- Date Issued: 2014-04-11