The synthesis and photophysical properties of peripherally and non-peripherally substituted ball-type Mg (II) and Zn (II) phthalocyanines
- Authors: Canlica, Mevlude , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/248417 , vital:51684 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1039/C0DT00920B"
- Description: Newly synthesized ball-type Zn(II) and Mg(II) phthalocyanines containing four 1,1′-binaphthol substituents at peripheral and non-peripheral positions are presented. The structures of the synthesized compounds were characterized by using elemental analysis, UV-vis, FT-IR, 1H-NMR and mass spectroscopies. The ΦF values were 0.33, 0.08, 0.20 and 0.08 for 6–9, respectively. The ΦT values were 0.56, 0.85, 0.64 and 0.88 for 6–9, respectively. All the complexes showed reasonably large triplet lifetimes with τT values of 710 (6), 170 (7), 1490 (8) and 380 μs (9) in DMSO. These complexes offer potential as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy.
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- Date Issued: 2011
The use of experimental design in the development of an HPLC–ECD method for the analysis of captopril
- Authors: Khamanga, Sandile M , Walker, Roderick B
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/184056 , vital:44163 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2010.11.025"
- Description: An accurate, sensitive and specific high performance liquid chromatography–electrochemical detection (HPLC–ECD) method that was developed and validated for captopril (CPT) is presented. Separation was achieved using a Phenomenex® Luna 5 μm (C18) column and a mobile phase comprised of phosphate buffer (adjusted to pH 3.0): acetonitrile in a ratio of 70:30 (v/v). Detection was accomplished using a full scan multi channel ESA Coulometric detector in the “oxidative-screen” mode with the upstream electrode (E1) set at +600 mV and the downstream (analytical) electrode (E2) set at +950 mV, while the potential of the guard cell was maintained at +1050 mV. The detector gain was set at 300. Experimental design using central composite design (CCD) was used to facilitate method development. Mobile phase pH, molarity and concentration of acetonitrile (ACN) were considered the critical factors to be studied to establish the retention time of CPT and cyclizine (CYC) that was used as the internal standard. Twenty experiments including centre points were undertaken and a quadratic model was derived for the retention time for CPT using the experimental data. The method was validated for linearity, accuracy, precision, limits of quantitation and detection, as per the ICH guidelines. The system was found to produce sharp and well-resolved peaks for CPT and CYC with retention times of 3.08 and 7.56 min, respectively. Linear regression analysis for the calibration curve showed a good linear relationship with a regression coefficient of 0.978 in the concentration range of 2–70 μg/mL. The linear regression equation was y = 0.0131x + 0.0275. The limits of detection (LOQ) and quantitation (LOD) were found to be 2.27 and 0.6 μg/mL, respectively. The method was used to analyze CPT in tablets. The wide range for linearity, accuracy, sensitivity, short retention time and composition of the mobile phase indicated that this method is better for the quantification of CPT than the pharmacopoeial methods.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Triggers and barriers to youth entrepreneurship in the Eastern Cape South Africa
- Authors: Chindoga, Lynety
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Youth development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Young adults -- Employment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25948 , vital:64636
- Description: To realise the dream of the African Renaissance and a better life for all South Africans, the entrepreneurial energies of all people, including children, should be harnessed to contribute towards economic development, job creation and poverty alleviation. Entrepreneurship creates wealth and results in economic prosperity for a country. However, in South Africa, entrepreneurship still remains a dream yet to be realised. This is supported by the findings of Maas and Herrington (2006), who identified entrepreneurial activity in South Africa to be very weak as evidenced by a low Total Entrepreneurial Activity (TEA) rate. Youths are not engaging in entrepreneurial activity and are making the bulk of the unemployed in South Africa. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the perceived triggers and barriers to youth entrepreneurship in South Africa. Two sets of questionnaires were self- administered to high school students and university students. The respondents which consisted of three hundred and twenty three university students and two hundred and fifty six high school students, were selected using simple random sampling method. Five point Likert scale was used to measure the responses. Descriptive as well as inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The results indicated that youth entrepreneurial intention is low in South Africa. The results also indicated that students perceived mainly extrinsic rewards, market opportunities as well as intrinsic rewards as the three top triggers towards entrepreneurial intention. Independence/autonomy and capital were also regarded as triggers to entrepreneurial intentions. The barriers to youth entrepreneurship included lack of capital, skill and support as well as lack of market opportunities and risk. The study recommends that in order to encourage youth entrepreneurial intentions, government and all stakeholders should ensure that all the perceived triggers are made available. In addition, the barriers to youth entrepreneurship should be minimised. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011
Trophic ecology of zooplankton at a frontal transition zone: fatty acid signatures at the subtropical convergence, Southern Ocean
- Authors: Richoux, Nicole B
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/458033 , vital:75711 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1093/plankt/fbq132"
- Description: Regional variations in fatty acid composition were assessed in zooplankton communities situated immediately north and south of the subtropical convergence (STC), where warm (maximum 21°C) nutrient-poor waters of the southwest Indian Ocean converge with cool (minimum 11°C) nutrient-rich subantarctic waters of the Southern Ocean. I hypothesized that food web structures differ from north to south based on average spatial differences in primary productivity, and that zooplankton in the more productive region show enhanced herbivorous feeding. Several taxonomic groups including euphausiids showed differences in their fatty acid signatures from north to south, indicating the existence of measurable within- and among-species differences in trophic relationships between the two communities, presumably stemming from variations in food quality and availability. The indices 22:6ω3/20:5ω3, 18:1ω9/18:1ω7 and Σω3/Σω6 indicated that carnivory was the dominant feeding mode in the north, whereas herbivory was more prevalent in the south, a pattern that was not detected in the same region using stable isotope ratios. Such conflicting results substantiate the importance of utilizing more than one method to investigate feeding relationships in aquatic systems. Fatty acid profiles of the amphipod Themisto gaudichaudii revealed some distinct herbivory markers, indicating more complex feeding habits by this important pelagic species than previously reported. My findings shed new light on the regional variations in zooplankton diet and food web dynamics in a poorly understood but critically important frontal zone bordering the Southern Ocean.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Use and users of municipal commonage around three small towns in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Davenport, Nicholas A , Shackleton, Charlie M , Gambiza, James
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/181116 , vital:43700 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2010.11.003"
- Description: Municipal commonages surround many small towns throughout South Africa, and are an integral component of the national land reform programme. But little is known about their extent, use or value, and most appear to have limited or no management or investment. This paper reports on a survey of randomly selected households in three small towns in the Eastern Cape to ascertain the extent and purpose of use of municipal commonages. Between 27% and 70% of urban households used commonage depending on site. Key resources used were fuelwood, medicinal plants, and grazing of livestock. Typically, commonage using households were poorer and less educated than other urban residents, although the profile of users is unique for each town. Given the extensive use of commonage resources, and their contribution to the livelihoods of the poor, local municipalities need to develop and implement sound management strategies that account for all users of commonages, rather than the oft encountered focus on livestock owners and production.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of gold electrodes modified with CdTe quantum dots and their conjugates with nickel tetraamino phthalocyanine
- Authors: Khene, Samson , Moeno, Sharon , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247187 , vital:51554 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.poly.2011.06.002"
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis of conjugates of cadmium telluride quantum dots (CdTe-QDs) caped with thioglycolic acid and peripherally substituted nickel tetraamino phthalocyanine (NiTAPc) complex. The conjugates are characterized using cyclic (CV) and differential pulse (DPV) voltammetries, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and time correlated single photon counting. CV and DPV show that NiTAPc stabilizes the CdTe QDs against oxidation to metallic products.
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- Date Issued: 2011
Water-soluble quaternized mercaptopyridine-substituted zinc-phthalocyanines
- Authors: Durmuş, Mahmut , Yaman, Hanif , Göl, Cem , Ahsen, Vefa , Nyokong, Tebello
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/247133 , vital:51549 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dyepig.2011.02.007"
- Description: The synthesis and characterization of the new zinc phthalocyanine derivatives, tetra- (non-peripheral, 5) and octa-(peripheral, 6) substituted with 2-mercaptopyridine and their respective quaternized derivatives (8 and 9) are reported. Photochemical and photophysical properties of the new complexes are compared with those of the previously reported peripherally tetra-substituted complexes 7 and 10. The quaternized compounds exhibit excellent solubility in water, making them potential photosensitizers for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cancer. Spectroscopic, aggregation, photophysical and photochemical properties of these complexes are also investigated and compared. Photophysical (fluorescence quantum yields and lifetimes) and photochemical (singlet oxygen and photodegradation quantum yield) properties of these phthalocyanine photosensitizers are very important for the assessment of these complexes as PDT agents. In this study, the effects of the position of the substituents and quaternization of the substituents on the photophysical and photochemical parameters of the zinc phthalocyanines are also reported. This study also showed that the water-soluble quaternized zinc phthalocyanines strongly bind to blood plasma proteins such as bovine serum albumin (BSA).
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- Date Issued: 2011
Work-family conflict, stress and some demographic and occupational variables among female factory workers in East London, South Africa
- Authors: Dywili, Mtutuzeli
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Work and family -- South Africa , Job stress -- South Africa , Women employees -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24128 , vital:62382
- Description: The study examines work-family conflict, stress, and some demographic and occupational variables among female factory workers in East London, South Africa. The participants were female factory workers in East London, South Africa. The independent variables for the study were, demographic and occupational variables, while stress is the dependent variable. Work-family conflict is dependent on demographic and occupational variables, while on the other hand is independent to stress. The demographic variables concerned are age, marital status, number of children and age of the last born child. The occupational variable on the other hand is occupational level, i.e. managerial versus non-managerial. The measuring instruments were a self-designed questionnaire to measure the demographic and occupational variables, a questionnaire developed by Stephens and Sommer (1996) to measure work-family conflict (cronbach’s alpha = 0,90) and the Effort – Reward Imbalance (ERI) questionnaire (Pikhart, Bobak, Siegrist, Pajak, Rywick, Kyshegyi, Gostaus, Skodova& Marmot, 1996) to measure stress at workplace. Cronbach’s alpha for the whole questionnaire reaches the value of 0,89. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011
An investigation into the efficacy of English language literacy support for students at the Ibika campus of the Walter Sisulu University.
- Authors: Napier, Astrid
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: English Language , Study and Teaching , Information Literacy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23851 , vital:60919
- Description: Institutions of higher learning are experiencing high failure rates, and this according to Scott, Yeld and Hendry (2007) can partly be attributed to the lack of adequate support for students after they have been admitted. Adequate support is very necessary, since research has shown that many students, especially those from former Department of Education and Training, are underprepared for tertiary institutions. Students at the Ibika Campus, the site where the research took place, are predominately from the former Department of Education and Training. The objective of this study therefore was to investigate why students at the Ibika Campus of the Walter Sisulu University seem to encounter problems with English mastery even though English language support services have been instituted; to discover what the perceptions of the WSU students and staff were with regard to the English support services; to determine what challenges the support services had , if any, in providing best service and to ascertain whether the English support services could be enhanced. The research was conducted at the Ibika Campus of the WSU. The design was that of the case study and a mixed method methodology was used. A total sample of 142 students, 5 staff members from the library, 1 staff member from the WC and 5 staff members from computer laboratories, as well as 12 staff members from the Ibika campus participated. A non probability sampling method was used. Students were selected from 1st year, second year and third year of their respective studies, ranging across the 14 departments at Ibika campus. Lecturing staff members were also selected across these departments. The instruments were structured questionnaires and interviews. The findings indicated that the English support services faced many challenges in their endeavor to provide services to students and the conclusion is that the English Language support services were therefore not as effective as it could be in giving support to students. It is recommended that the English Language support services immediately be improved in terms of space, since the venues for all three support services are too small, human resources and resources that support Teaching and Learning. It is further recommended that the university authorities seriously consider implementing an assessment test for all new entrants to the university, in order to establish who were in need of English Language support, and that these students be immersed in a programme that will assist them to improve their English Language proficiency. Finally, it is recommended that students complete a graduation threshold English proficiency examination in order that the institution can have confidence that students are proficient in English. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2011
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011-01
An investigation into the efficacy of English language literacy support for students at the Ibika campus of the Walter Sisulu university.
- Authors: Napier, Astrid
- Date: 2011_01
- Subjects: Study and Teaching , Information Literacy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23498 , vital:57953
- Description: Institutions of higher learning are experiencing high failure rates, and this according to Scott, Yeld and Hendry (2007) can partly be attributed to the lack of adequate support for students after they have been admitted. Adequate support is very necessary, since research has shown that many students, especially those from former Department of Education and Training, are underprepared for tertiary institutions. Students at the Ibika Campus, the site where the research took place, are predominately from the former Department of Education and Training. The objective of this study therefore was to investigate why students at the Ibika Campus of the Walter Sisulu University seem to encounter problems with English mastery even though English language support services have been instituted; to discover what the perceptions of the WSU students and staff were with regard to the English support services; to determine what challenges the support services had , if any, in providing best service and to ascertain whether the English support services could be enhanced. The research was conducted at the Ibika Campus of the WSU. The design was that of the case study and a mixed method methodology was used. A total sample of 142 students, 5 staff members from the library, 1 staff member from the WC and 5 staff members from computer laboratories, as well as 12 staff members from the Ibika campus participated. A non probability sampling method was used. Students were selected from 1st year, second year and third year of their respective studies, ranging across the 14 departments at Ibika campus. Lecturing staff members were also selected across these departments. The instruments were structured questionnaires and interviews. The findings indicated that the English support services faced many challenges in their endeavor to provide services to students and the conclusion is that the English Language support services were therefore not as effective as it could be in giving support to students. It is recommended that the English Language support services immediately be improved in terms of space, since the venues for all three support services are too small, human resources and resources that support Teaching and Learning. It is further recommended that the university authorities seriously consider implementing an assessment test for all new entrants to the university, in order to establish who were in need of English Language support, and that these students be immersed in a programme that will assist them to improve their English Language proficiency. Finally, it is recommended that students complete a graduation threshold English proficiency examination in order that the institution can have confidence that students are proficient in English. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Education, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011_01
Critical assessment of leadership skills in developmental local government: a case study of Buffalo City Municipality in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mnyatheli, Mbeko Bandla Sizasomzi
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: Leadership , Municipal government , Buffalo City (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26175 , vital:64950
- Description: This study seeks to examine the nature and role of leadership, in pursuit of a suitable leadership for a Developmental Local Government environment. The aim of this study is to describe the nature of leadership, particularly in local government, and in public organization in general. The study begins by teasing out the various concepts and terminology attendant with leadership in this environment. The study further reviews relevant literature as basis for understanding and goes on to interrogate the general theories on leadership with a view to choose the best practice in leadership of a developmental local government. Central to its quest for answers, is the drive from the constitutional mandate, a developmental local government imposed to municipality by the constitution of the Republic of South Africa, (1996) arising out of the need to transform the South African local government from an erstwhile policy of racial segregation to a new democratic political dispensation fostering equity and access to services and resources for all citizens. The challenge for the new leadership therefore is how to deal, speedily with the huge disparities and socio-economic backlogs? What kind of leadership and what level of knowledge, skills and competencies are required and how soon can public goods and services be delivered to the satisfaction of the communities it serves? ‘Analysis of variance’ was used to analyse and interpret data collected. Literature on the difference between transactional and transformational leadership formed the basis of the findings. Finally, findings and conclusions were drawn. On the bases of these, recommendations for Buffalo City Municipality were presented. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011-01
Evaluation and comparison of rural and industrial brick masonry units for sustainabile low cost housing
- Authors: Maweza, Elijah Loyiso
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: Masonry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24923 , vital:63676
- Description: The lack of adequate housing for the rural population of South Africa is experienced in every community. The South African government has drawn policies, strategies and required standards that must govern the provision of housing to the people. One of the required standards of housing is that the walls be constructed in such a way that they are able to adequately resist water penetration into any part of the building where it would be detrimental to the health of the occupants or the lifespan of the building. This research took the investigation of the characteristics of bricks that increase or reduce water absorption by bricks as the main objective. The investigation looked first at the raw materials of bricks, the soils and clay. The particle size related soil fractions were investigated because particle sizes are directly linked to the porosity of the bricks. Porosity describes the percentage of pores that are in the bricks, which show the extent to which bricks can internally accommodate moisture. Soil mineralogy was also discussed because as bricks are fired, the changes that they undergo affect the mineralogy of the bricks. The manufacturing procedures (brick moulding and firing) as reported from literature are briefly discussed in chapter 2. The effect of heat on clays is also discussed in order to explain the changes that occur as a result of firing. The porosity and the sorptivity of bricks were the relevant brick properties that are discussed. The methods employed to investigate the characteristics of bricks as discussed in chapter 3 were as follows: (i) Winning and preparation of raw materials. (ii) Particle size analysis. (iii) Water and carbon content in newly formed rural and industrial bricks. (iv) The firing procedures and temperature distribution investigation. (v) The chemical composition of rural and industrial bricks. (vi) Porosity. (vii) The Neutron Radiography equipment and operations. (viii) Sorptivity. With these investigations it was discovered that the quality of the bricks can be improved by: (i) Selecting and preparing the raw materials. This can be done by considering the soil types and reducing the soil particle sizes by sieving and grinding. (ii) Moulding the bricks properly by thoroughly working the soil, reducing the water content and increasing compaction. (iii) Drying the bricks using the sun and the exhaust heat from the kilns that are firing bricks at the time. (iv) Adopting brick firing techniques that produce the desired bricks more efficiently. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011-01
Functionalized Ru(II) polypyridines and phthalocyanines: Potential dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells(DSSCs)
- Authors: Adeloye, Adewale Olufunsho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1736-5738
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Dye-sensitized solar cells
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24365 , vital:62645
- Description: This study describes the design, synthesis, characterization and preliminary investigation of the solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency of ruthenium(II) functionalized polypyridine and phthalocyanine complexes with extended π-conjugation. Polypyridinyl functionalized with anthracene, 2,3-dimethylacrylic acid and 1-methoxy-1-buten-3-yne were synthesized and characterized by infrared, UV-Vis, photoluminescence, 1H and 13C NMR and elemental analysis. The functionalized polypyridine molecules were used to synthesize various ruthenium(II) homoleptic/heteroleptic and/or heteronuclear complexes and their photophysical and electrochemical properties evaluated. The preliminary results of the solar-to-electrical conversion efficiencies of some synthesized Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes were presented in chapter 5. It was found out as expected that the ruthenium(II) polypyridine complexes containing either heteronuclear polypyridine ligands or their thiocyanate analogues of the types [Ru(L1)2L2(PF6)2], [RuL1(L2)2(PF6)2] and [RuL1L2(NCS)2], showed better photophysical properties (red-shifted metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) transitions concomitant with enhanced molar extinction coefficients), luminescence and interesting electrochemical redox properties than those containing homonuclear ligand types [Ru(L1)3(PF6)2]. The ruthenium(II) anthracenyl functionalized phthalocyanine complexes which were obtained by electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions in the peripheral positions gave good solubility properties in various organic solvents and also showed interesting near infrared absorption and electroredox characteristics. Cyclic and square wave voltammetries of these complexes revealed major redox processes and the numbers of electron(s) transfer were determined by chronocoulometry. It was established that a mono- and/or multi-electronic transfer reactions can occur in the various ruthenium(II) complexes. The photophysical properties of some complexes showed them to be better and promising candidates in the design of chemosensors, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and as photosensitizers, while their redox-active natures make them potential mediators in electron-transfer for various photochemical processes. However, due to low surface concentration and/or adsorption of some tested complexes on TiO2 semiconductor nanocrystalline particle, low currents were generated and the highest solar-to- electrical conversion efficiency recorded in this study was 0.10 percent. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011-01
Functionalized Ru(II) polypyridines and phthalocyanines: Potential dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells(DSSCs)
- Authors: Adeloye, Adewale Olufunsho https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1736-5738
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Dye-sensitized solar cells
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24343 , vital:62638
- Description: This study describes the design, synthesis, characterization and preliminary investigation of the solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency of ruthenium(II) functionalized polypyridine and phthalocyanine complexes with extended π-conjugation. Polypyridinyl functionalized with anthracene, 2,3-dimethylacrylic acid and 1-methoxy-1-buten-3-yne were synthesized and characterized by infrared, UV-Vis, photoluminescence, 1H and 13C NMR and elemental analysis. The functionalized polypyridine molecules were used to synthesize various ruthenium(II) homoleptic/heteroleptic and/or heteronuclear complexes and their photophysical and electrochemical properties evaluated. The preliminary results of the solar-to-electrical conversion efficiencies of some synthesized Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes were presented in chapter 5. It was found out as expected that the ruthenium(II) polypyridine complexes containing either heteronuclear polypyridine ligands or their thiocyanate analogues of the types [Ru(L1)2L2(PF6)2], [RuL1(L2)2(PF6)2] and [RuL1L2(NCS)2], showed better photophysical properties (red-shifted metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) transitions concomitant with enhanced molar extinction coefficients), luminescence and interesting electrochemical redox properties than those containing homonuclear ligand types [Ru(L1)3(PF6)2]. The ruthenium(II) anthracenyl functionalized phthalocyanine complexes which were obtained by electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions in the peripheral positions gave good solubility properties in various organic solvents and also showed interesting near infrared absorption and electroredox characteristics. Cyclic and square wave voltammetries of these complexes revealed major redox processes and the numbers of electron(s) transfer were determined by chronocoulometry. It was established that a mono- and/or multi-electronic transfer reactions can occur in the various ruthenium(II) complexes. The photophysical properties of some complexes showed them to be better and promising candidates in the design of chemosensors, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and as photosensitizers, while their redox-active natures make them potential mediators in electron-transfer for various photochemical processes. However, due to low surface concentration and/or adsorption of some tested complexes on TiO2 semiconductor nanocrystalline particle, low currents were generated and the highest solar-to-electrical conversion efficiency recorded in this study was 0.10 percent. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011-01
Revisiting Coloniasm : An exploration of its legacy in four African texts
- Authors: Andzongo, Marjorie Debande Eseme
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: Colonies -- History , Africa -- Colonisation , Africa -- Politics and government
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23282 , vital:57019
- Description: The purpose of this study was to revisit the topic of colonialism once more, in order to ascertain whether it had both negative and positive impacts in Africa. This is so because colonialism is mostly renowned for its negative attributes, therefore, the study attempted to give a more balanced analysis of colonialism and its effects on the colonies and colonised subjects. To this effect, the study examined four African texts: Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart(1967), Ngugi wa Thiong’o and Ngugi Wa Mirri’s I Will Marry When I Want (1982), Mongo Beti’s Mission to Kala (1957) and Sembene Ousmane’s The Last of The Empire (1983). The analysis showed that colonialism did have damaging and constructive impacts on the former colonies. However, these constructive impacts have their limitations where Africans are concerned. The study also came to the conclusion that despite the destructiveness of colonialism there are vital aspects of the Western civilisation that need to be and have been accommodated by Africans. Therefore, amalgamating the positives of various cultures rather than trying to separate them, is the way forward for people of any race as the world has undeniably become a global village. It is easy to see the wrongs and injustices of European Imperialism in Africa. African culture was damaged. The Europeans did not understand tribal differences and tribal customs. They did not even try to understand. The Europeans forced the Africans to learn new ways. They tried to make the Africans feel inferior. They forced the Africans to accept European government, religion, and languages. They drew up colonial boundaries without giving any thought to splitting up tribes. Some of the things the Europeans did in Africa helped the natives. But most of those things were done for the sake of the Europeans. Railway systems, roads, and schools were built and the continent of Africa was opened up to the rest of the world. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
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The role of the Department of Education in addressing the education of children living and working in the street in the Eastern Cape:
- Authors: Mawisa, Nompumelelo Mavis
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: Street children , Social Conditions , Education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23337 , vital:57354
- Description: A UNICEF report on the drastic effects of child labour in developing countries indicates there are 4040 million children under the age of 18 not attending school (1977). Many are street and working children who deserve the chance, but face parental neglect and poverty to attend school and become conscious and productive citizens. Non-formal education has been identified as an alternative to traditional schooling, in which children learn vocational trades or academic subjects, aimed at enhancing their lives. This alternative approach is considered non-formal education because it is typically short–term and non – degree granting. Though non-formal education can be used for rehabilitation purposes, it cannot replace ultimate schooling. All children want to graduate and compete in the job market. The main aim of this study is to determine the role of the Department of Education in addressing the education of children working and living in the street in the Eastern Cape. The children working and living in the street phenomenon is a major development problem that is experienced all over the developing world. A major cause of this problem in the Eastern Cape is drop–outs due to parental negligence and poverty. To assist children working and living in the street and those in conflict with the law, child and youth care centres in East London, King William’s Town and Queenstown have been established. However, they have not had a very noticeable impact on the magnitude of the problem. Potential for such an impact seems to lie in the domain of collaboration with other non-governmental organisations, other departments and education providers. This study evaluated the quality of education of child and youth care centres and non-formal education programmes in providing education to children working and living in the street, with a view to highlighting the difference that formal education in mainstream schools has, in relation to these centres. The descriptive survey design was used in this study. The sample comprised ten children working and living in the street three child and youth care centres in East London, King William’s Town and Queenstown, ten children working and living in the street in East London, three managers from these centres, and two managers from the Department of Education and the Department of Social Development. The study employed the purposive sampling technique. Data to answer the research questions were collected mainly through questionnaires and interviews. The following conclusions were drawn from this study regarding empowering of children who are working and living in the street: (1) children were acutely cognisant of their impoverished positions in society but were unable to alleviate their economic burdens due to poverty. (2) The lack of teacher training strongly impacted on the children’s self concept to achieve empowerment (3) Non-formal education programmes should be used temporary whilst children working and living in the street are being rehabilitated. Thereafter children should join mainstream schools where they can obtain certificates on completion of their studies. The age factor should be considered when administering non-formal education. (4) Parents were the most important stakeholders in facilitating the enrolment of children in schools and monitoring their attendance. (5) Collaboration of all relevant stakeholders in the education of children working and living in the street is key to their education. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011-01
ZIMBABWE’S LIBERATION STRUGGLE: A CRITICAL DECADE OF THE ZIMBABWE AFRICAN NATIONAL UNION (ZANU)’S GUERRILLA WAR, 1970-1980
- Authors: Dzimbanhete, Jephias Andrew (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7648-8722)
- Date: 2011-01
- Subjects: National Liberation Movements -- Zimbabwe , Guerillas , Zimbabwe -- History -- Chimurenga
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23315 , vital:57048
- Description: This study offers a comprehensive examination of the Zimbabwean war of independence depicting the mobilisation of forces of liberation against an intransigent colonial Rhodesian settler state during a critical decade of the 1970s. Its introductory outline presents a broad historical context to the decolonisation processes in Africa. It also introduces the two liberation movements that drove the war of independence, and these revolved around the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) and the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU). The empirical chapters of the thesis narrow the focus to the main research subject, that explain the ZANU’s guerrilla warfare and how that was launched under the military wing of the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA). The study looks, particularly on how and why that formation assembled groundswell support and generated pervasive intelligence to operate relentlessly against the Rhodesian colonial government resulting in a compromised independence in 1980. In addition to a wide-ranging survey of literature that deals with the Zimbabwean war of independence, the production of this thesis is thoroughly grounded on empirical methods that hinge on archival research and oral testimonies. The study breaks new ground in outlining the various facets and different phases of the Zimbabwean liberation war. It reveals that the liberation fighters were not merely provided with arms and deployed to fight the Rhodesian army. Rather they underwent a methodical process, which comprised recruitment, extensive training and fundamental political education. This re-represents an alternative narrative or even eccentric paradigm to that persistently presented within the conventional Zimbabwean liberation war historiography. The thesis breaks further new ground in discussing the complex nature of how intelligence gathering and propaganda uses were also centrally linked to the cooperation of or assistance from the various segments of the colonial African society. Its empirical chapters outline the various actions undertaken by the various groups and individuals, the language they adopted in expressing themselves and the convivial connections between them and the guerrilla fighters in the countryside as the war front expanded within the home boundaries. Chapters also explore in greater detail how the liberation movement bred the complex relation and contestation between the political formation of ZANU and its military wing, ZANLA. The uneven power relations between these two formations somehow dictated the course and the outcome of the liberation war. As a result a constitutional settlement or military victory became the two options by which the Rhodesian question could be resolved in the later 1970s. As it turned out, attempts to seek a constitutional solution became a feature of diplomatic dimensions of the postcolonial Rhodesian political landscape. The study concludes with the latter point. , Thesis (PHD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2011
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- Date Issued: 2011-01
Adoption and use of a learning management system at the University of Fort Hare: environmental factors
- Authors: Xazela, M W H M
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Management information systems , Technology -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25851 , vital:64498
- Description: Learning Management Systems are adopted and used by institutions of higher learning such as universities, universities of technology and colleges. The acceptance of integrating Learning Management Systems into the traditional classroom method of teaching and learning presents many challenges to academic staff, students, and management at various levels. If such challenges are not addressed they may lead to project failure. If such projects fail, institutions may not realise the returns on their investments as institutions usually allocate many of their resources to start such projects. This study addresses the question of which critical environmental and management success factors are necessary for the successful acceptance of such a technology and what is necessary for such a technology to be used continually. This study examines Information Systems literature, users‘ environmental and management factors, and perceptions in the context of an institution of higher learning to suggest Critical Success Factors for such a project. Critical Success Factors are identified and discussed under the contexts of Management Support, the appointment of a Project Champion, provision of training to project participants, provision of adequate access to computing resources, monitoring and evaluation of the project, the existence of strong communication channels, and creation of positive perceptions about the target technology. Acceptance models such as Technology Acceptance Model and the Expectation Confirmation Model in Information Systems literature are also taken into consideration in coming up with the suggested Critical Success Factors. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
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- Date Issued: 2010-12
Evaluation of the impact of financial fraud and corruption on the sustainable development of selected municipalities in South Africa
- Authors: Okubena, Olumuyiwa Olamilekan
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- South Africa , Fraud -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25569 , vital:64335
- Description: This thesis explored the pernicious effects of financial fraud and corruption and the importance of the rule of law, transparency and accountability of public sector. These critical conditions serve as the foundation for the effective and efficient governance and the economic growth of a nation, especially through utilizing the opportunities provided by globalization through increased investment and trade. The thesis looks at the importance of upholding the rule of law and fostering transparency and accountability in the public sector in combating financial fraud and corruption, particularly as components of effective national strategies. The rule of law, transparency and accountability in the public sector serve not only as means to counter financial fraud and corruption but also as fundamental conditions of effective governance. It was discovered that financial fraud and corruption is a complex phenomenon, present in all countries. Its causes are engendered by conditions of underdevelopment. Hence, its effects hinder and impede the development process itself. It was also confirmed that financial fraud and corruption are co-determined by many other factors, including cultural and moral values. The motivation to remain honest may be weakened by low public official’s salaries, promotion of personnel unconnected to performance, dysfunctional government budgets, loss of organizational purpose, bad example by chief official’s and political leaders, or long established patron-client relationships, in which the sharing of bribes or the exchange of favors has become entrenched. Financial fraud and corruption can be highly concentrated at the top of a political system and associated with political power, or broadly based at lower levels in the system, associated with administrative processes and discretionary powers. Hence, bribes can be blatant or subtle and take many different forms, including cash payments, job offers, scholarships, foreign trips or political and other favors. Furthermore, the development of sustainable local authorities however is an ambitious issue that requires local authorities to focus on the improvement of the quality of life of present and future communities without depleting the natural resources at their disposal. For sustainable and equitable development, this study espouses on the far-reaching implications for local authorities through multiple regression analysis due to various economic, social and institutional challenges that have to be taken into consideration when a process to promote sustainable development is considered. To comprehensively actualize the implications of financial fraud and corruption on the sustainable development of local authorities, a multistage cluster sampling, a form of probability sampling technique was adopted. Semantically, to identify the research paradigms suitable for this study, a hybrid approach to research design was used (quantitative and qualitative). This however enables the impact of financial fraud and corruption on the sustainable development of selected local authorities in South Africa to be ascertained. Moreover, the study explores the circumstances and implications surrounding financial fraud and corruption in the local authorities in South-Africa. Financial fraud and corruption tends to emerge when an organization or a public official has monopoly power over a good or service that generates rent, has the discretionary power to decide who will receive it, and is not accountable. Financial fraud and corruption’s roots are grounded in a country’s social and cultural history, political and economic development, bureaucratic traditions and policies. This study also identifies that, direct and indirect factors promote financial fraud and corruption. Direct factors include regulations and authorizations, taxation, spending decisions, provision of goods and services at below market prices, and financing political parties. On the other hand, quality of bureaucracy, level of public sector wages, penalty systems, institutional controls, and transparency of rules, laws, and processes are the indirect factors that promote financial fraud and corruption. Financial fraud and corruption is a symptom of deep institutional weaknesses that leads to inefficient economic, social, and political outcomes. It reduces economic growth, retards long-term foreign and domestic investments, enhances inflation, depreciates national currency, reduces expenditures for education and health, increases military expenditures, misallocates talent to rent-seeking activities, pushes firms underground, distorts markets and the allocation of resources, increases income inequality and poverty, reduces tax revenue, increases child and infant mortality rates, distorts the fundamental role of the government (on enforcement of contracts and protection of property. Nonetheless, this study concludes that financial fraud and corruption impedes economic efficiency which could slow or shrink economic growth. This will adversely affect all income classes, especially the most vulnerable, the poor. The effect of financial fraud and corruption through investment expenditure on health and education critical to sustainable development was noted in this study. In practice, the distinction between governance and government and the resultant mechanisms directed at local sustainable development do not seem to be clear. Hence, lack of understanding of the meaning of sustainability and governance for local development is still lacking. Recommendations on the serious consequences of financial fraud and corruption on economic growth, capital formation, poverty and inequality to foster and address sustainable development are also provided in this study. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
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- Date Issued: 2010-12
Strategies for empowering Kenya's informal economy to realise its full potential for socio- economic development
- Authors: Nason, Benson Vundi
- Date: 2010-12
- Subjects: Informal sector (Economics) -- Kenya , Kenya -- Economic conditions , Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25676 , vital:64425
- Description: This study attempted to identify realistic strategies that are accepted by those in the Jua Kali sector of Kenya’s informal economy. The strategies were seen as being relevant, practical and achievable in integrating the sector, or some parts of it, in the formal economy. Special attention was given to export potential as the driving force in socio-economic development. Since Jua Kali enterprises are widely spread throughout an area covering all the more heavily populated regions of Kenya, including many small villages as well as major towns, a comprehensive, nationwide study was out of the question. For this reason, the study was limited to the following areas with known and readily accessible concentrations of Jua Kali entrepreneurs. This included key suburbs of Nairobi and key regional towns like Machakos, Athi River and Mlolongo. The objectives of the study were to establish the problems faced by the informal sector in Kenya, to find out how such problems have affected the relevant artisans, to investigate if the artisans were aware of those problems and what they were doing if anything, to solve the problems they encountered. Finally, the study sought to establish what the other stakeholders were doing to improve the informal sector. The bulk of the literature reviewed underscored the facts that: the manufacturing sub–sector of Kenya’s informal economy has immense potential as an engine for driving the nation’s economy. Secondly, the full potential of the informal sector will only be realised if the manufacturers concerned are empowered to develop their own strategies for developing the informal economy. Such strategies should aim towards the goal of producing and marketing high quality products that are sold to both local and at the international markets via exports. The study adopted critical ethnography as its research method. Critical ethnography as a method requires a plan for the conducting of field research that is reflexive in nature whereby the researcher facilitates a consensual process in which the subjects reflect on their own situation and develop their own solutions to problems. In the present case the process was a communal one with a consensual decision making and actions by the subjects. All interpretations and meaning to activities and actions to be taken were thereof informed by the subjects being studied. At the end of the study, the findings of the analysis were presented to each of the participating subjects for their final comments with those comments being incorporated in the report. The principles of critical ethnography therefore, were seen as providing an ideal framework for exploring the possibilities of self–empowerment that enabled the subjects of the study to fulfil their potential within this important sector. Data analysis and presentation have been presented using tables. Finally, the study’s conclusions and recommendations have been presented in the relevant and subsequent chapters therein. As opportunities and resources will allow in the future, the dissemination of the study findings will continue to be facilitated throughout the country of Kenya. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2010
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- Date Issued: 2010-12