An investigation into stakeholder inclusivity and the board’s ability to create competitive advantage at South Africa’s “big five” retail banks
- Authors: Wolhuter, Darren Wilfred
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Stakeholder management South Africa , Strategic planning South Africa , Banks and banking South Africa , Corporate governance South Africa , Competition , Resource-based theory
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284548 , vital:56073
- Description: Stakeholder theory has long put forth the concept that managerial attention must be given to all stakeholders towards the realisation of value creation opportunities. Through the process of stakeholder engagement, and through the adoption of stakeholder inclusivity principles, an organisation can position itself to reap the benefits of understanding the legitimate needs and interests of all its stakeholders by seeking to satisfy all its stakeholders in turn. This study analysed the integrated reports of five retail banks, whose main base of operations were in South Africa, to assess the board’s ability to create value for its stakeholders through adopting a stakeholder inclusive approach to corporate governance as advocated for by the King Code on Corporate Governance in South Africa – King IV™. This assessment was done through an examination of a selection of outcomes relevant to the banking industry and related to each of the six capitals that form part of the value creation process as indicated for in the Integrated Reporting Framework (IIRC, 2013): 1) Financial Capital, 2) Manufactured Capital; 3) Intellectual Capital; 4) Human Capital; 5) Social and Relationship Capital, and; 6) Natural Capital. The results obtained, over a three-year period – 2018 to 2020, revealed that while the directors had a firm understanding of who their material stakeholders were, they struggled to create value that catered to all their stakeholders collectively. In addition, the directors were also unable to create sustainable value over the assessment period. As a result of this, most banks, with the exception of one, were unable to realise the value creation opportunities that could have led to a potential source of competitive advantage. The study concludes that while no observable sustainable competitive advantage was evident over the period of assessment, the concept of stakeholder inclusivity is an important corporate governance principle that drives value creation and, as such, warrants more attention from the director’s point of view. This research is intended to contribute to the growing knowledge on the importance of stakeholder inclusivity in corporate governance execution. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Wolhuter, Darren Wilfred
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Stakeholder management South Africa , Strategic planning South Africa , Banks and banking South Africa , Corporate governance South Africa , Competition , Resource-based theory
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284548 , vital:56073
- Description: Stakeholder theory has long put forth the concept that managerial attention must be given to all stakeholders towards the realisation of value creation opportunities. Through the process of stakeholder engagement, and through the adoption of stakeholder inclusivity principles, an organisation can position itself to reap the benefits of understanding the legitimate needs and interests of all its stakeholders by seeking to satisfy all its stakeholders in turn. This study analysed the integrated reports of five retail banks, whose main base of operations were in South Africa, to assess the board’s ability to create value for its stakeholders through adopting a stakeholder inclusive approach to corporate governance as advocated for by the King Code on Corporate Governance in South Africa – King IV™. This assessment was done through an examination of a selection of outcomes relevant to the banking industry and related to each of the six capitals that form part of the value creation process as indicated for in the Integrated Reporting Framework (IIRC, 2013): 1) Financial Capital, 2) Manufactured Capital; 3) Intellectual Capital; 4) Human Capital; 5) Social and Relationship Capital, and; 6) Natural Capital. The results obtained, over a three-year period – 2018 to 2020, revealed that while the directors had a firm understanding of who their material stakeholders were, they struggled to create value that catered to all their stakeholders collectively. In addition, the directors were also unable to create sustainable value over the assessment period. As a result of this, most banks, with the exception of one, were unable to realise the value creation opportunities that could have led to a potential source of competitive advantage. The study concludes that while no observable sustainable competitive advantage was evident over the period of assessment, the concept of stakeholder inclusivity is an important corporate governance principle that drives value creation and, as such, warrants more attention from the director’s point of view. This research is intended to contribute to the growing knowledge on the importance of stakeholder inclusivity in corporate governance execution. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Exploring the entrepreneurial intention of students in one Higher Education Institution (HEI)
- Authors: Kenye-Duma, Ayanda Rachel
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship South Africa , Intention , Entrepreneurship Study and teaching (Higher) South Africa , Students Attitudes , Social entrepreneurship , Social capital (Sociology) , Unemployment South Africa , Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284514 , vital:56070
- Description: This study was interpretive and qualitatively explored students' entrepreneurial intentions at Rhodes University. It was conducted to understand entrepreneurship among students. Understanding students' entrepreneurship is critical as entrepreneurship is touted as a reasonable response to alleviate the high unemployment in South Africa. The study explored how students became entrepreneurs (or how their entrepreneurship intentions were formed) and the factors that enhanced (enablers and barriers) and inhibited them. The significance of living with and after COVID-19, youth and graduate unemployment alleviation places entrepreneurship development by institutions of higher learning, governments and private sector in the centre of economic recovery. The establishment of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) in 2016, highlights the commitment of the South African government, for Higher Education Institutions (HEI) to engage more in entrepreneurship and do more research to understand how students become entrepreneurs and unravel the challenges. Understanding students' entrepreneurship intentions can facilitate a supportive environment for students entrepreneurship. With “very little research about student entrepreneurship at this university” being the guiding research problem, the aim was to gain insight into the entrepreneurship intention of university students by exploring factors that influence students to become entrepreneurs. The study employed Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour to explore the entrepreneurial intentions of university students in terms of the underlying attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control. The students who participated in the study fell into three categories of entrepreneurial intention: (i) Intending to start a business, (ii) starting a business, and (ii) those who were already operating a business. All the participants, irrespective of their stage of entrepreneurial intention, demonstrated a positive attitude and self-efficacy. All participants showed self-efficacy by identifying barriers and taking positive steps to overcome them. The main barriers were access to funding, capital, training, business opportunities with the university and lack of interaction with established entrepreneurs. The results demonstrated the close interplay of attitudes, social norms and perceived behavioural control in students’ entrepreneurial intentions. Social recognition of entrepreneurship, social capital, education and role models contributed to positive attitudes, and social norms influenced students’ entrepreneurial intentions. A supportive environment was found to be critical for nurturing entrepreneurship intentions. The study recommends a supportive climate cultivated by Rhodes University to promote entrepreneurship. The supportive environment must include the elevation of entrepreneurship in prominent offices of the university, strengthening entrepreneurship societies and interactions with established entrepreneurs, and engagement with the private sector to contribute and promote entrepreneurship among students. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Kenye-Duma, Ayanda Rachel
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship South Africa , Intention , Entrepreneurship Study and teaching (Higher) South Africa , Students Attitudes , Social entrepreneurship , Social capital (Sociology) , Unemployment South Africa , Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284514 , vital:56070
- Description: This study was interpretive and qualitatively explored students' entrepreneurial intentions at Rhodes University. It was conducted to understand entrepreneurship among students. Understanding students' entrepreneurship is critical as entrepreneurship is touted as a reasonable response to alleviate the high unemployment in South Africa. The study explored how students became entrepreneurs (or how their entrepreneurship intentions were formed) and the factors that enhanced (enablers and barriers) and inhibited them. The significance of living with and after COVID-19, youth and graduate unemployment alleviation places entrepreneurship development by institutions of higher learning, governments and private sector in the centre of economic recovery. The establishment of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) in 2016, highlights the commitment of the South African government, for Higher Education Institutions (HEI) to engage more in entrepreneurship and do more research to understand how students become entrepreneurs and unravel the challenges. Understanding students' entrepreneurship intentions can facilitate a supportive environment for students entrepreneurship. With “very little research about student entrepreneurship at this university” being the guiding research problem, the aim was to gain insight into the entrepreneurship intention of university students by exploring factors that influence students to become entrepreneurs. The study employed Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour to explore the entrepreneurial intentions of university students in terms of the underlying attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control. The students who participated in the study fell into three categories of entrepreneurial intention: (i) Intending to start a business, (ii) starting a business, and (ii) those who were already operating a business. All the participants, irrespective of their stage of entrepreneurial intention, demonstrated a positive attitude and self-efficacy. All participants showed self-efficacy by identifying barriers and taking positive steps to overcome them. The main barriers were access to funding, capital, training, business opportunities with the university and lack of interaction with established entrepreneurs. The results demonstrated the close interplay of attitudes, social norms and perceived behavioural control in students’ entrepreneurial intentions. Social recognition of entrepreneurship, social capital, education and role models contributed to positive attitudes, and social norms influenced students’ entrepreneurial intentions. A supportive environment was found to be critical for nurturing entrepreneurship intentions. The study recommends a supportive climate cultivated by Rhodes University to promote entrepreneurship. The supportive environment must include the elevation of entrepreneurship in prominent offices of the university, strengthening entrepreneurship societies and interactions with established entrepreneurs, and engagement with the private sector to contribute and promote entrepreneurship among students. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
Motives and barriers to the implementation of renewable energy sources in South African tertiary institutions
- Authors: Sibindi, Siyangiso
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources South Africa , Education, Higher South Africa , Education, Higher Environmental aspects South Africa , Environmental responsibility South Africa , Climate change mitigation South Africa , Sustainable development South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284537 , vital:56072
- Description: Organisations face major challenges to address the exploitation of non-renewable resources and consider management considerations for dealing with climate change. Organisations have been pushed to play a part in their carbon footprints and in curbing climate change. Among these organisations are tertiary institutions that can greatly impact environmental sustainability and address carbon dioxide emissions by embarking on renewable energy technologies. Tertiary institutions play a major role in society by the provision of skilled labour and personnel that are equipped to deal with a range of advancements and challenges. The sustainability of these tertiary institutions has thus been called into question due to the impact they can bring to societies. This research thus aims to identify the motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption in tertiary education institutions. To do this, a literature review was conducted to identify possible motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption. These were then compiled into a questionnaire that was sent to respondents of three different institutions. Respondents were then requested to give feedback on each of the motives and barriers. The respondents were also asked general questions found in literature that addressed the adoption of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. The data was collected using the designed questionnaires. The respondents were able to articulate their perceived barriers and motives to the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The results showed that the barriers in the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions were: ‘Cost to Install’, ‘Transition Process’ and ‘Government Policies’. The motives on why educational institutions need to embark on renewable energy projects were found to be ‘Energy Independence’, ‘Cleaner Source of Energy’ and ‘Reduction in Carbon Emissions’. The cost of renewable energy technologies, the process of moving from the Eskom grid, and renewable energy policies that are ambiguous were some factors that were highlighted by respondents on why it is challenging to adopt renewable energies in tertiary institutions. On the other hand, the effects of load shedding currently being experienced in the country and the migration to cleaner sources of energy that cause less harm to the environment, are some of the drivers noted by respondents on why tertiary institutions need to embark on renewable energy technologies. More emphasis needs to be put by stakeholders on tertiary institutions to migrate to cleaner sources of energy, and policies need to be put in place in order to promote institutions to adopt these types of energies. Governments and other role-players need to be visible at all times in addressing energy challenges in tertiary institutions in the wake of the recent load-shedding concerns that have been crippling South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Sibindi, Siyangiso
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Renewable energy sources South Africa , Education, Higher South Africa , Education, Higher Environmental aspects South Africa , Environmental responsibility South Africa , Climate change mitigation South Africa , Sustainable development South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284537 , vital:56072
- Description: Organisations face major challenges to address the exploitation of non-renewable resources and consider management considerations for dealing with climate change. Organisations have been pushed to play a part in their carbon footprints and in curbing climate change. Among these organisations are tertiary institutions that can greatly impact environmental sustainability and address carbon dioxide emissions by embarking on renewable energy technologies. Tertiary institutions play a major role in society by the provision of skilled labour and personnel that are equipped to deal with a range of advancements and challenges. The sustainability of these tertiary institutions has thus been called into question due to the impact they can bring to societies. This research thus aims to identify the motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption in tertiary education institutions. To do this, a literature review was conducted to identify possible motives and barriers to renewable energy adoption. These were then compiled into a questionnaire that was sent to respondents of three different institutions. Respondents were then requested to give feedback on each of the motives and barriers. The respondents were also asked general questions found in literature that addressed the adoption of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. The data was collected using the designed questionnaires. The respondents were able to articulate their perceived barriers and motives to the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The results showed that the barriers in the implementation of renewable energy technologies in tertiary institutions were: ‘Cost to Install’, ‘Transition Process’ and ‘Government Policies’. The motives on why educational institutions need to embark on renewable energy projects were found to be ‘Energy Independence’, ‘Cleaner Source of Energy’ and ‘Reduction in Carbon Emissions’. The cost of renewable energy technologies, the process of moving from the Eskom grid, and renewable energy policies that are ambiguous were some factors that were highlighted by respondents on why it is challenging to adopt renewable energies in tertiary institutions. On the other hand, the effects of load shedding currently being experienced in the country and the migration to cleaner sources of energy that cause less harm to the environment, are some of the drivers noted by respondents on why tertiary institutions need to embark on renewable energy technologies. More emphasis needs to be put by stakeholders on tertiary institutions to migrate to cleaner sources of energy, and policies need to be put in place in order to promote institutions to adopt these types of energies. Governments and other role-players need to be visible at all times in addressing energy challenges in tertiary institutions in the wake of the recent load-shedding concerns that have been crippling South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The challenges and opportunities in ESG integration in investment activities for private equity firms/funds in South Africa
- Authors: Dube, Cuma Velile
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business South Africa , Investments Moral and ethical aspects South Africa , Private equity South Africa , Investments Environmental aspects South Africa , Investments Social aspects South Africa , Investments Law and legislation South Africa , United Nations Principles of Responsible Investing (UNPRI)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284493 , vital:56068
- Description: Responsible Investing (RI) is an investment strategy that considers not only the economic but also the environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in the investment analysis and post-investment activities. The consideration of ESG issues is aimed at generating long-term risk-adjusted financial returns and a positive social and environmental impact. This research seeks to contribute to the study of responsible investment (RI), as it relates to private equity investments, an area not well researched. This research also seeks to contribute to the academic literature on responsible institutional investment in South Africa; the opportunities it presents to optimise portfolios, as well as the means with which the challenges faced in integrating ESG factors in investment activities may be overcome. More specifically, the challenges and opportunities for the integration of ESG factors in the investment process were investigated through the experiences of a small sample of South African private equity firms. The sample of private equity firms that participated in this research are signatories of the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investing (UNPRI). Representatives of the participating firms were interviewed in line with the qualitative research design and the post-positivist paradigm of this research. The research design and paradigm are chosen to explore the experiences of practitioners in their integration of ESG issues in the investment process. This research shows that the challenges to ESG integration for the private equity firms considered have remained largely consistent over the last ten years. The challenges include industry skills and knowledge gap and the lack of reliable and comparable ESG data at the portfolio company level. The Opportunities presented, by adopting responsible investing as an investment strategy, are rooted in protecting the downside (risk management) and in finding new value creation opportunities. In summary, it was found that the participating firms continue to face significant capacity challenges in overcoming the challenges to mainstreaming ESG in investment processes. Further research may explore whether the challenges and opportunities that persist from the findings of this research are pervasive throughout the entire sector and whether innovative ways have been found to overcome the challenges have been found by private equity firms that are not signatories of the UNPRI. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Dube, Cuma Velile
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business South Africa , Investments Moral and ethical aspects South Africa , Private equity South Africa , Investments Environmental aspects South Africa , Investments Social aspects South Africa , Investments Law and legislation South Africa , United Nations Principles of Responsible Investing (UNPRI)
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284493 , vital:56068
- Description: Responsible Investing (RI) is an investment strategy that considers not only the economic but also the environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in the investment analysis and post-investment activities. The consideration of ESG issues is aimed at generating long-term risk-adjusted financial returns and a positive social and environmental impact. This research seeks to contribute to the study of responsible investment (RI), as it relates to private equity investments, an area not well researched. This research also seeks to contribute to the academic literature on responsible institutional investment in South Africa; the opportunities it presents to optimise portfolios, as well as the means with which the challenges faced in integrating ESG factors in investment activities may be overcome. More specifically, the challenges and opportunities for the integration of ESG factors in the investment process were investigated through the experiences of a small sample of South African private equity firms. The sample of private equity firms that participated in this research are signatories of the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investing (UNPRI). Representatives of the participating firms were interviewed in line with the qualitative research design and the post-positivist paradigm of this research. The research design and paradigm are chosen to explore the experiences of practitioners in their integration of ESG issues in the investment process. This research shows that the challenges to ESG integration for the private equity firms considered have remained largely consistent over the last ten years. The challenges include industry skills and knowledge gap and the lack of reliable and comparable ESG data at the portfolio company level. The Opportunities presented, by adopting responsible investing as an investment strategy, are rooted in protecting the downside (risk management) and in finding new value creation opportunities. In summary, it was found that the participating firms continue to face significant capacity challenges in overcoming the challenges to mainstreaming ESG in investment processes. Further research may explore whether the challenges and opportunities that persist from the findings of this research are pervasive throughout the entire sector and whether innovative ways have been found to overcome the challenges have been found by private equity firms that are not signatories of the UNPRI. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The effectiveness of networking and collaboration in creative hubs: a case of Hub@Goethe
- Authors: De Beer, Magdalena Gertruda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Cultural industries South Africa , Cultural industries Economic aspects South Africa , Economic development projects South Africa , Social entrepreneurship South Africa , Creative ability Economic aspects South Africa , Social capital (Sociology) South Africa , Social networks South Africa , Hub@Goethe
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284504 , vital:56069
- Description: This research took the form of a case study investigating the effectiveness of a single hub in South Africa, namely Hub@Goethe in Johannesburg. The context of the creative economy and creative industries provided insight into the experiences of creative cultural labourers in the new economic model. The context emphasised the research problem which considered the difficulties experienced by creative and cultural entrepreneurs and their career paths who, through labour precarity, remain isolated from the market, without access to physical spaces, network connections and business knowledge to realise their business ideas. The literature reviewed revealed how co-working office spaces, creative spaces and hubs provide creative entrepreneurs with the spatial infrastructure, amenities, and network access to mitigate challenges in the creative cultural sectors. These spaces offer a multitude of different amenities which is specific to their community’s needs. Guided by the theory of social capital and structural holes reviewed in the literature, the effectiveness was assessed by the hub’s ability to provide network access benefits or resource endowments. The research looked at whether the hub could provide creative cultural entrepreneurs with resource benefits such as a) access to social interactions, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, b) access to business or professional skills-based education programmes and mentorship, c) access to market and d) generation both social and economic benefit. The research adopted a qualitative approach, seeking insights into the creative entrepreneurs’ experiences at the hub utilising one-to-one interviews. The thematic analysis confirmed that the hub was effective overall in providing entrepreneurs with access to benefits or resource endowments embedded in the network, confirming that hubs may be an effective tool in mitigating difficulties experienced by creative entrepreneurs in the creative industries. The research also showed areas of improvement where the hub could increase its experienced effectiveness, especially in reference to routes to market. The research findings inferred the importance of physical space, proximity and accessibility has on collaborative practices amongst creative entrepreneurs within the hub space. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: De Beer, Magdalena Gertruda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Cultural industries South Africa , Cultural industries Economic aspects South Africa , Economic development projects South Africa , Social entrepreneurship South Africa , Creative ability Economic aspects South Africa , Social capital (Sociology) South Africa , Social networks South Africa , Hub@Goethe
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284504 , vital:56069
- Description: This research took the form of a case study investigating the effectiveness of a single hub in South Africa, namely Hub@Goethe in Johannesburg. The context of the creative economy and creative industries provided insight into the experiences of creative cultural labourers in the new economic model. The context emphasised the research problem which considered the difficulties experienced by creative and cultural entrepreneurs and their career paths who, through labour precarity, remain isolated from the market, without access to physical spaces, network connections and business knowledge to realise their business ideas. The literature reviewed revealed how co-working office spaces, creative spaces and hubs provide creative entrepreneurs with the spatial infrastructure, amenities, and network access to mitigate challenges in the creative cultural sectors. These spaces offer a multitude of different amenities which is specific to their community’s needs. Guided by the theory of social capital and structural holes reviewed in the literature, the effectiveness was assessed by the hub’s ability to provide network access benefits or resource endowments. The research looked at whether the hub could provide creative cultural entrepreneurs with resource benefits such as a) access to social interactions, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, b) access to business or professional skills-based education programmes and mentorship, c) access to market and d) generation both social and economic benefit. The research adopted a qualitative approach, seeking insights into the creative entrepreneurs’ experiences at the hub utilising one-to-one interviews. The thematic analysis confirmed that the hub was effective overall in providing entrepreneurs with access to benefits or resource endowments embedded in the network, confirming that hubs may be an effective tool in mitigating difficulties experienced by creative entrepreneurs in the creative industries. The research also showed areas of improvement where the hub could increase its experienced effectiveness, especially in reference to routes to market. The research findings inferred the importance of physical space, proximity and accessibility has on collaborative practices amongst creative entrepreneurs within the hub space. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
The quality of higher education and its influence on graduate employability and employer perception
- Authors: Mqingwana, Siviwe Nokulinda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Employability , Career education , Education, Higher Aims and objectives , College graduates Employment , Universities and colleges Ratings and rankings , Labor supply Effect of education on , College graduates Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284526 , vital:56071
- Description: This study examined the quality of higher education and its influence on graduate employability and employer perception. Through determining the factors influencing graduates’ employment by employers and also the elements that induce employers in employing graduates, this was achieved. This research is rooted in a positivist perspective determining the relationship between graduate employability and a universities’ status. The main goal of this research was to examine to what extent employers are influenced by a higher education institution's perceived reputation when employing graduates. The linear regression model was used to predict the relationship between graduate employability (dependent variable) and the perceived reputation of the university by employers and citations of the university. This was achieved using quantitative methods. The quantitative database that this research relied on is Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) world university ranking. This research made use of descriptive data analysis as well as linear regression. The data set analysis showed citations of the institution had a significant negative relationship with the rate of employability (although this was a relatively weak relationship). The reputation of the institution and the number of international students enrolled do not affect the rate of employability. The analysed data set also showed that the number of citations of a university had a significant impact on the rate of employability at the 10% significance level. As such, higher education institutions need to consider including current market demand into their offerings to improve their graduate’s employability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Mqingwana, Siviwe Nokulinda
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Employability , Career education , Education, Higher Aims and objectives , College graduates Employment , Universities and colleges Ratings and rankings , Labor supply Effect of education on , College graduates Vocational guidance
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/284526 , vital:56071
- Description: This study examined the quality of higher education and its influence on graduate employability and employer perception. Through determining the factors influencing graduates’ employment by employers and also the elements that induce employers in employing graduates, this was achieved. This research is rooted in a positivist perspective determining the relationship between graduate employability and a universities’ status. The main goal of this research was to examine to what extent employers are influenced by a higher education institution's perceived reputation when employing graduates. The linear regression model was used to predict the relationship between graduate employability (dependent variable) and the perceived reputation of the university by employers and citations of the university. This was achieved using quantitative methods. The quantitative database that this research relied on is Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) world university ranking. This research made use of descriptive data analysis as well as linear regression. The data set analysis showed citations of the institution had a significant negative relationship with the rate of employability (although this was a relatively weak relationship). The reputation of the institution and the number of international students enrolled do not affect the rate of employability. The analysed data set also showed that the number of citations of a university had a significant impact on the rate of employability at the 10% significance level. As such, higher education institutions need to consider including current market demand into their offerings to improve their graduate’s employability. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
A qualitative analysis of the formation and maintenance of the franchisee/franchisor relationship
- Authors: Rodgerson, Jeffrey David
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Franchises (Retail trade) South Africa , RE/MAX (Firm) , Industrial management South Africa , Entrepreneurship South Africa , Prediction of occupational success South Africa , Success in business South Africa , Business ethics South Africa , International Franchise Association
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190782 , vital:45027
- Description: A number of studies have examined the franchisee/franchisor relationship to investigate how to select the correct franchisee and, subsequently, how to maintain a productive franchisee/franchisor relationship. A literature review was therefore conducted on the selection process and the maintenance of the franchisee/ franchisor relationship. The literature suggests that a set of selection criteria to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship has not been clearly identified. Therefore, this study’s first objectives are: 1) the selection criteria that are used by the franchisor in selecting franchisees. Specifically, how RE/MAX South Africa selects local franchisees; and 2) how the franchisor manages the relationship to ensure compliance by the franchisees who have been selected. For this study, the selection criteria identified by Nevin (1999) and Olm et al. (1988) will serve as the basis of the first part of the study. The four selection criteria categories that have been identified by Nevin (1999) include: financial capability; experience and management skill; demographic characteristics; and attitude towards business. The literature reveals that the viewpoint of the franchisee is often overlooked by researchers, and yet the need of the franchisee should be ascertained to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship. The literature has indicated that if the franchisors can keep the franchisees satisfied, the opportunity of franchise success and gaining franchisee compliance is much greater. In other words, if a franchisor can attain the correct people and know exactly what they want out of a franchise relationship, this will provide the franchise with a greater chance of success. The third objective of this research is, therefore, to analyse – from the perspective of both franchisees and their franchisor - how the relationship between them is maintained, and ultimately how the franchisor gains compliance from the franchisees. The model of Trust and Compliance (Davies, Lassar, Manolis, Prince and Winsor, 2011), which sets out the relationship between satisfaction, conflict, trust and compliance, was used to examine the franchisee/franchisor relationship. The practices of RE/MAX South Africa served as a case study for this research. Interviews were conducted, with the CEO and five franchisees, to identify the criteria used to select franchisees and gain a holistic understanding of the process of maintaining the relationship. The interview questions were structured using the Davies et al (2011) Model of Trust and Compliance. The data analysis technique that was used to analyse the interviews was thematic analysis. The findings firstly revealed that due to the fluid and low barriers to entry within the real estate industry, RE/MAX as an organisation does not have a standardised set of selection criteria but that an in-house guideline, called the RE/MAX Formula, was vital to this selection process. Secondly, in maintaining the franchisee/franchisor relationship and referring to the four factors of the trust and compliance model (Davies et al., 2011), the following key findings were noted. Firstly, the relationship between satisfaction and trust was primarily based around reciprocation within the franchisee/franchisor relationship. Secondly, various sources of conflict were identified, and it was noted that if conflict was not dealt with adequately, there was a breakdown of trust within the relationship. Finally, the building of trust was based on transparency, accountability, goal congruency and credibility. Recommendations for franchise management and further research were made. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Rodgerson, Jeffrey David
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Franchises (Retail trade) South Africa , RE/MAX (Firm) , Industrial management South Africa , Entrepreneurship South Africa , Prediction of occupational success South Africa , Success in business South Africa , Business ethics South Africa , International Franchise Association
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190782 , vital:45027
- Description: A number of studies have examined the franchisee/franchisor relationship to investigate how to select the correct franchisee and, subsequently, how to maintain a productive franchisee/franchisor relationship. A literature review was therefore conducted on the selection process and the maintenance of the franchisee/ franchisor relationship. The literature suggests that a set of selection criteria to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship has not been clearly identified. Therefore, this study’s first objectives are: 1) the selection criteria that are used by the franchisor in selecting franchisees. Specifically, how RE/MAX South Africa selects local franchisees; and 2) how the franchisor manages the relationship to ensure compliance by the franchisees who have been selected. For this study, the selection criteria identified by Nevin (1999) and Olm et al. (1988) will serve as the basis of the first part of the study. The four selection criteria categories that have been identified by Nevin (1999) include: financial capability; experience and management skill; demographic characteristics; and attitude towards business. The literature reveals that the viewpoint of the franchisee is often overlooked by researchers, and yet the need of the franchisee should be ascertained to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship. The literature has indicated that if the franchisors can keep the franchisees satisfied, the opportunity of franchise success and gaining franchisee compliance is much greater. In other words, if a franchisor can attain the correct people and know exactly what they want out of a franchise relationship, this will provide the franchise with a greater chance of success. The third objective of this research is, therefore, to analyse – from the perspective of both franchisees and their franchisor - how the relationship between them is maintained, and ultimately how the franchisor gains compliance from the franchisees. The model of Trust and Compliance (Davies, Lassar, Manolis, Prince and Winsor, 2011), which sets out the relationship between satisfaction, conflict, trust and compliance, was used to examine the franchisee/franchisor relationship. The practices of RE/MAX South Africa served as a case study for this research. Interviews were conducted, with the CEO and five franchisees, to identify the criteria used to select franchisees and gain a holistic understanding of the process of maintaining the relationship. The interview questions were structured using the Davies et al (2011) Model of Trust and Compliance. The data analysis technique that was used to analyse the interviews was thematic analysis. The findings firstly revealed that due to the fluid and low barriers to entry within the real estate industry, RE/MAX as an organisation does not have a standardised set of selection criteria but that an in-house guideline, called the RE/MAX Formula, was vital to this selection process. Secondly, in maintaining the franchisee/franchisor relationship and referring to the four factors of the trust and compliance model (Davies et al., 2011), the following key findings were noted. Firstly, the relationship between satisfaction and trust was primarily based around reciprocation within the franchisee/franchisor relationship. Secondly, various sources of conflict were identified, and it was noted that if conflict was not dealt with adequately, there was a breakdown of trust within the relationship. Finally, the building of trust was based on transparency, accountability, goal congruency and credibility. Recommendations for franchise management and further research were made. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
A quantitative analysis of the relationship between the 12 components of the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and the Human Development Index (HDI) scores within the 16 Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations
- Authors: Peel, Brendon Robert
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Quantitative research , Economic development Developing countries , Economic development Africa, Sub-Saharan , Economic development projects Africa, Sub-Saharan , Heritage Foundation (South Africa) , United Nations Development Programme , Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) , Human Development Index (HDI) , Resource Based Theory (RBT)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191841 , vital:45171
- Description: Nations in Sub-Saharan Africa tend to experience some of the worst levels of human development and economic freedom in the world. Previous research has shown that there is a positive and significant correlation between these two macroeconomic facets. Further research has shown that if nations' policy-makers can manage their resources and capabilities appropriately, then this could improve their economic freedom and human development levels. This study aims to analyse the relationship between the scores of the 12 different components of the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and the overall Human Development Index (HDI) scores of Sub-Saharan African nations. The specific selection of nations utilised in the study are the 16 countries that make up the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Based on a review of the literature on human development, economic freedom, and the Resource Based Theory (RBT) on a macro-level, a correlational study was conducted to determine the relationship between the relevant variables. The information was collected from the Heritage Foundation and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), respectively. The data and scores collected and used in the study are from the years 2015 to 2019. The correlational results demonstrated that nine of the 12 components of the IEF has a positive and significant correlation with HDI within the selected African nations. The strongest correlation being between 'Property Rights' and HDI. Therefore, it is likely that if the property rights within a nation are upheld, said nation would have higher levels of human development. The three components that proved to have an insignificant result with HDI were; 'Tax Burden', 'Government Spending', and 'Fiscal Health'. The results indicate that all components that fall under the category of 'Government Size' share no significant correlational relationship with human development. It is recommended that governments and policy-makers take this into consideration when managing their resources and capabilities to improve the nation's human development. Further research is required to identify the specifics on how this management and allocation of resources can be utilised effectively to improve the human development and economic freedom in Sub-Saharan Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Peel, Brendon Robert
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Quantitative research , Economic development Developing countries , Economic development Africa, Sub-Saharan , Economic development projects Africa, Sub-Saharan , Heritage Foundation (South Africa) , United Nations Development Programme , Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) , Human Development Index (HDI) , Resource Based Theory (RBT)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191841 , vital:45171
- Description: Nations in Sub-Saharan Africa tend to experience some of the worst levels of human development and economic freedom in the world. Previous research has shown that there is a positive and significant correlation between these two macroeconomic facets. Further research has shown that if nations' policy-makers can manage their resources and capabilities appropriately, then this could improve their economic freedom and human development levels. This study aims to analyse the relationship between the scores of the 12 different components of the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and the overall Human Development Index (HDI) scores of Sub-Saharan African nations. The specific selection of nations utilised in the study are the 16 countries that make up the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Based on a review of the literature on human development, economic freedom, and the Resource Based Theory (RBT) on a macro-level, a correlational study was conducted to determine the relationship between the relevant variables. The information was collected from the Heritage Foundation and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), respectively. The data and scores collected and used in the study are from the years 2015 to 2019. The correlational results demonstrated that nine of the 12 components of the IEF has a positive and significant correlation with HDI within the selected African nations. The strongest correlation being between 'Property Rights' and HDI. Therefore, it is likely that if the property rights within a nation are upheld, said nation would have higher levels of human development. The three components that proved to have an insignificant result with HDI were; 'Tax Burden', 'Government Spending', and 'Fiscal Health'. The results indicate that all components that fall under the category of 'Government Size' share no significant correlational relationship with human development. It is recommended that governments and policy-makers take this into consideration when managing their resources and capabilities to improve the nation's human development. Further research is required to identify the specifics on how this management and allocation of resources can be utilised effectively to improve the human development and economic freedom in Sub-Saharan Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
An analysis of talent management practices of recently hired employees from the perspective of the psychological contract
- Authors: Bischoff, Olivia Edjegayhu
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Gifted persons , Contracts Psychological aspects , Personnel management Psychological aspects , Breach of contract , Psychology, Industrial , Organizational behavior , Industrial relations , Employees Attitudes , Employee retention
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191865 , vital:45173
- Description: This research took the form of an explanatory case study focused within a single organisation to evaluate talent management practices of recently hired employees from the perspective of the psychological contract. The theory underpinning this research is Resource-Based Theory (RBT) in the context of Talent Management. The research aims were: 1) to analyse how talent management practices have affected the psychological contract, 2) to analyse how employees have responded and intend to respond if there has been a breach in the contract and 3) to analyse how employees have responded or intend to respond where psychological contract expectations have been met. The key concepts identified include talent management and the psychological contract. The literature therefore expanded on talent management highlighting the importance of recruiting, attracting and retaining talent, especially in a global context where experience and skills are a source of competitive advantage. Following this, the concept of the psychological contract was used as a lens through which to analyse the experience of individuals, specifically focusing on new employees joining the organisation, to assess their socialisation and onboarding experience. The literature further explored the importance of focusing on new employees, as this is deemed by the literature as a critical time of transition in the shaping of the psychological contract. In further reviewing the literature regarding early onboarding, further review of the literature identified important components, including (1) socialisation and onboarding, (2) performance management and probation, (3) employee development and (4) work conditions. From reviewing the literature four propositions were deduced as follows: • Proposition 1: All integrative processes in early onboarding influence the initial psychological contract of the employee. Proposition 1 was further divided into three sub propositions as follows: Sub Proposition 1a) HR plays a key role in early onboarding, influencing the initial psychological contract; Sub Proposition 1b) Supervisor support plays a key role in early onboarding, influencing the initial psychological contract; and IV Sub Proposition 1c) The work team plays a key role in early onboarding, influencing the initial psychological contract. • Proposition 2 stated: Performance discussions influence the psychological contract. • Proposition 3: Employee development opportunities are a source of motivation in the fulfilment of the psychological contract. • Proposition 4: Employment conditions influence the fulfilment of the psychological contract. The research followed a qualitative approach, using deductive analysis to analyse the data collected from semi-structured interviews. The findings and discussion show that the propositions confirmed the literature and were relevant to the case study at hand. Where there was varying degree of experience regarding the effect of the influence or impact on the psychological contract this was noted and expanded on accordingly. The study also recognised the additional context that presented itself within the findings, namely the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research concludes in acknowledging the delimitations and limitations of the study while making suggestions for areas of future studies. To conclude, this research shows that the transition of a new employee in their early stages within the organisation is an opportunity to support in positively influencing and maintaining the psychological contract to support employee satisfaction and motivation. If organisations can also appreciate that the psychological contract is dynamic and can change over time based on changing circumstances or needs, then this can be proactively monitored to support long-term retention of talent. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Bischoff, Olivia Edjegayhu
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Gifted persons , Contracts Psychological aspects , Personnel management Psychological aspects , Breach of contract , Psychology, Industrial , Organizational behavior , Industrial relations , Employees Attitudes , Employee retention
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191865 , vital:45173
- Description: This research took the form of an explanatory case study focused within a single organisation to evaluate talent management practices of recently hired employees from the perspective of the psychological contract. The theory underpinning this research is Resource-Based Theory (RBT) in the context of Talent Management. The research aims were: 1) to analyse how talent management practices have affected the psychological contract, 2) to analyse how employees have responded and intend to respond if there has been a breach in the contract and 3) to analyse how employees have responded or intend to respond where psychological contract expectations have been met. The key concepts identified include talent management and the psychological contract. The literature therefore expanded on talent management highlighting the importance of recruiting, attracting and retaining talent, especially in a global context where experience and skills are a source of competitive advantage. Following this, the concept of the psychological contract was used as a lens through which to analyse the experience of individuals, specifically focusing on new employees joining the organisation, to assess their socialisation and onboarding experience. The literature further explored the importance of focusing on new employees, as this is deemed by the literature as a critical time of transition in the shaping of the psychological contract. In further reviewing the literature regarding early onboarding, further review of the literature identified important components, including (1) socialisation and onboarding, (2) performance management and probation, (3) employee development and (4) work conditions. From reviewing the literature four propositions were deduced as follows: • Proposition 1: All integrative processes in early onboarding influence the initial psychological contract of the employee. Proposition 1 was further divided into three sub propositions as follows: Sub Proposition 1a) HR plays a key role in early onboarding, influencing the initial psychological contract; Sub Proposition 1b) Supervisor support plays a key role in early onboarding, influencing the initial psychological contract; and IV Sub Proposition 1c) The work team plays a key role in early onboarding, influencing the initial psychological contract. • Proposition 2 stated: Performance discussions influence the psychological contract. • Proposition 3: Employee development opportunities are a source of motivation in the fulfilment of the psychological contract. • Proposition 4: Employment conditions influence the fulfilment of the psychological contract. The research followed a qualitative approach, using deductive analysis to analyse the data collected from semi-structured interviews. The findings and discussion show that the propositions confirmed the literature and were relevant to the case study at hand. Where there was varying degree of experience regarding the effect of the influence or impact on the psychological contract this was noted and expanded on accordingly. The study also recognised the additional context that presented itself within the findings, namely the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research concludes in acknowledging the delimitations and limitations of the study while making suggestions for areas of future studies. To conclude, this research shows that the transition of a new employee in their early stages within the organisation is an opportunity to support in positively influencing and maintaining the psychological contract to support employee satisfaction and motivation. If organisations can also appreciate that the psychological contract is dynamic and can change over time based on changing circumstances or needs, then this can be proactively monitored to support long-term retention of talent. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
Simulating the economic impact emerging from the strategic decision-making of firms: A macroeconomic agent-based model
- Giovannoni, Amalio Dino John
- Authors: Giovannoni, Amalio Dino John
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Decision making Economic aspects , Industrial management Decision making , Industrial management Computer simulation , Knowledge economy , Technological unemployment , Economic development Computer simulation , Employees Training of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191887 , vital:45175
- Description: The key research problem addressed in this project is: how does the strategic decision making of firms affect an economy? While this is a difficult question to answer, insights may be gained through the use of computational techniques such as agent-based modelling (ABM). An agent-based model is developed that simulates micro-level economic interactions between individuals and _rms in different markets, resulting in emergent macro-level features. Technological progress is an important determinant of economic growth and has been decomposed into two complementary factors: knowledge and technological sophistication. The model is used to explore the long-term, macroeconomic consequences of _rms investing more heavily in knowledge development. The simulations show that a shift towards a knowledge-based economy (KBE) has an insignificant impact on GDP over the long-term. However, the shift does produce a significant increase in unemployment. The higher unemployment is shown to be particularly high for the unskilled sectors of the population. It is therefore paramount that companies embark on skills development, training and educational initiatives when following a path of technological and knowledge innovation. A transformation of the education system to one that is inclusive, focused on quality, adaptive, encourages creativity, aligned with the needs of industry, and stimulates R&D is crucial. Without a coordinated strategy between industry, academia, and government in attempts to achieve a KBE, economic growth may be constrained, while the levels of unemployment, inequality and poverty may deteriorate. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Giovannoni, Amalio Dino John
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Decision making Economic aspects , Industrial management Decision making , Industrial management Computer simulation , Knowledge economy , Technological unemployment , Economic development Computer simulation , Employees Training of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191887 , vital:45175
- Description: The key research problem addressed in this project is: how does the strategic decision making of firms affect an economy? While this is a difficult question to answer, insights may be gained through the use of computational techniques such as agent-based modelling (ABM). An agent-based model is developed that simulates micro-level economic interactions between individuals and _rms in different markets, resulting in emergent macro-level features. Technological progress is an important determinant of economic growth and has been decomposed into two complementary factors: knowledge and technological sophistication. The model is used to explore the long-term, macroeconomic consequences of _rms investing more heavily in knowledge development. The simulations show that a shift towards a knowledge-based economy (KBE) has an insignificant impact on GDP over the long-term. However, the shift does produce a significant increase in unemployment. The higher unemployment is shown to be particularly high for the unskilled sectors of the population. It is therefore paramount that companies embark on skills development, training and educational initiatives when following a path of technological and knowledge innovation. A transformation of the education system to one that is inclusive, focused on quality, adaptive, encourages creativity, aligned with the needs of industry, and stimulates R&D is crucial. Without a coordinated strategy between industry, academia, and government in attempts to achieve a KBE, economic growth may be constrained, while the levels of unemployment, inequality and poverty may deteriorate. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
The relationship between business model description and financial performance of selected South African banks
- Authors: Mothabine, Thabe
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Banks and banking South Africa , Business planning South Africa , Organizational effectiveness South Africa , Banks and banking Econometric models , Rate of return South Africa , International Integrated Reporting Council , CAMELS (Capital adequacy, Asset quality, Management, Earnings, Liquidity, and Sensitivity) Rating System model
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191876 , vital:45174
- Description:
The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between South Africa’s top seven bank’s business model description and their financial performance. Research has highlighted that there is a relationship between business models and performance, however, a limited amount of studies have provided empirical evidence to this effect. The study followed a deductive approach by firstly assessing and analysing the components of the banks business model according to the IIRC’s International
Framework, and then comparing the components focus of each bank for every year of this study; followed by an assessment, analyses and evaluation of each banks financial performance using the CAMELS Rating System model. Once these analyses were done for both business model description and financial performance, the study attempted to assess if the banks with the richest business model description yielded the best financial performance. The findings revealed that the banks with the richest business model description were not necessarily the best performing banks, in actual fact, these banks had low ratings for their performance, and the banks with the lowest rating for their business model description had the highest financial performance rating. However, other factors contributed to these ratings, such as some banks had low ratings for their business model description due to their business models not following the Framework. Conversely, for a more detailed and an in depth analysis and to distinguish whether there is a relationship between business model description and financial performance, the study applied correlation coefficient by using the business model description scores and financial performance components scores for each bank for the three years. The results revealed that there was a strong positive correlation between 2017 and 2018, and a weak positive correlation in 2019. This meant that indeed there was a relationship between the business model description and the bank’s financial performance. While the limitations of this study have been acknowledged, the study has contributed to the knowledge of understanding the relationship between business models and financial performance in a South African context. However, further research could be conducted on more banks in order to deduct a broader view on the relationship between business model description and financial performance of South African banks. Moreover, it would be of greater significance to conduct the various analyses over a longer period of time, because with a broader scope of data, for a longer period, more conclusive findings could be possible. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021 - Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Mothabine, Thabe
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Banks and banking South Africa , Business planning South Africa , Organizational effectiveness South Africa , Banks and banking Econometric models , Rate of return South Africa , International Integrated Reporting Council , CAMELS (Capital adequacy, Asset quality, Management, Earnings, Liquidity, and Sensitivity) Rating System model
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191876 , vital:45174
- Description:
The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between South Africa’s top seven bank’s business model description and their financial performance. Research has highlighted that there is a relationship between business models and performance, however, a limited amount of studies have provided empirical evidence to this effect. The study followed a deductive approach by firstly assessing and analysing the components of the banks business model according to the IIRC’s International
Framework, and then comparing the components focus of each bank for every year of this study; followed by an assessment, analyses and evaluation of each banks financial performance using the CAMELS Rating System model. Once these analyses were done for both business model description and financial performance, the study attempted to assess if the banks with the richest business model description yielded the best financial performance. The findings revealed that the banks with the richest business model description were not necessarily the best performing banks, in actual fact, these banks had low ratings for their performance, and the banks with the lowest rating for their business model description had the highest financial performance rating. However, other factors contributed to these ratings, such as some banks had low ratings for their business model description due to their business models not following the Framework. Conversely, for a more detailed and an in depth analysis and to distinguish whether there is a relationship between business model description and financial performance, the study applied correlation coefficient by using the business model description scores and financial performance components scores for each bank for the three years. The results revealed that there was a strong positive correlation between 2017 and 2018, and a weak positive correlation in 2019. This meant that indeed there was a relationship between the business model description and the bank’s financial performance. While the limitations of this study have been acknowledged, the study has contributed to the knowledge of understanding the relationship between business models and financial performance in a South African context. However, further research could be conducted on more banks in order to deduct a broader view on the relationship between business model description and financial performance of South African banks. Moreover, it would be of greater significance to conduct the various analyses over a longer period of time, because with a broader scope of data, for a longer period, more conclusive findings could be possible. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021 - Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
A proposed framework for the development of urban agriculture in South African cities
- Authors: Brown, Nicola Jayne
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Urban agriculture -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Food security -- Climatic factors -- South Africa , Resilience (Ecology)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174413 , vital:42475
- Description: While climate change and rapid urbanisation are impacting our cities and existing infrastructure, population growth and resource scarcity are placing unprecedented pressure on our food systems. In light of such challenges and the Sustainable Development Goals, resilient solutions are being sought to move both urban development and food production towards a more sustainable future. In this context, Urban Agriculture (UA) has been identified as a possible mechanism to complement rural food production with many associated social, economic and environmental benefits for urban communities. Some of these benefits include increased food system resilience, better urban environmental management, circular and productive reuse of urban wastes, employment opportunities, reduced food miles and the promotion of social inclusivity. Through a sustainable food system lens and underpinned by Resilience Theory, this research study sets out to investigate and explore the considerations for UA development. The research study reviews UA literature to identify and analyse the common challenges which act as barriers to implementation, as well as the current or potential opportunities which could be leveraged to drive UA development. The insights gained from literature on UA and UA development frameworks; and the data gathered from qualitative interviews with experts working in UA-related fields in South Africa (SA), were used to build a conceptual framework for UA development in SA. The conceptual framework developed is intended to be used as a guide for local municipalities, urban planners, urban farmers, urban communities and UA support organisations in their approach to developing UA initiatives. The findings from this research study reveal that UA development in SA involves numerous actors at both provincial and municipal levels; and within private institutions, businesses, universities, farmer organisations and society. The findings also reveal that UA currently occurs at many levels in SA, with each level drawing a particular range of participants due to the various social, economic and/or environmental features of the initiative. Along with challenges associated with land access, the lack of UA-related knowledge, the threat of theft, vandalism and soil contamination (to name a few); a lack of understanding of how agriculture can fit into urban spaces was found to be a major obstacle. The findings suggest that this lack of understanding has led to an under-realisation of the full potential of UA in South African towns and cities; and an inability to incentivise and optimise the development of UA. Considering the findings derived from the investigation, the study proposes five major considerations for UA development in SA, all of which are unpacked in the conceptual framework. The study concludes by making recommendations for UA decision-makers and UA organisations to consider for future developments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Brown, Nicola Jayne
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Urban agriculture -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Food security -- Climatic factors -- South Africa , Resilience (Ecology)
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/174413 , vital:42475
- Description: While climate change and rapid urbanisation are impacting our cities and existing infrastructure, population growth and resource scarcity are placing unprecedented pressure on our food systems. In light of such challenges and the Sustainable Development Goals, resilient solutions are being sought to move both urban development and food production towards a more sustainable future. In this context, Urban Agriculture (UA) has been identified as a possible mechanism to complement rural food production with many associated social, economic and environmental benefits for urban communities. Some of these benefits include increased food system resilience, better urban environmental management, circular and productive reuse of urban wastes, employment opportunities, reduced food miles and the promotion of social inclusivity. Through a sustainable food system lens and underpinned by Resilience Theory, this research study sets out to investigate and explore the considerations for UA development. The research study reviews UA literature to identify and analyse the common challenges which act as barriers to implementation, as well as the current or potential opportunities which could be leveraged to drive UA development. The insights gained from literature on UA and UA development frameworks; and the data gathered from qualitative interviews with experts working in UA-related fields in South Africa (SA), were used to build a conceptual framework for UA development in SA. The conceptual framework developed is intended to be used as a guide for local municipalities, urban planners, urban farmers, urban communities and UA support organisations in their approach to developing UA initiatives. The findings from this research study reveal that UA development in SA involves numerous actors at both provincial and municipal levels; and within private institutions, businesses, universities, farmer organisations and society. The findings also reveal that UA currently occurs at many levels in SA, with each level drawing a particular range of participants due to the various social, economic and/or environmental features of the initiative. Along with challenges associated with land access, the lack of UA-related knowledge, the threat of theft, vandalism and soil contamination (to name a few); a lack of understanding of how agriculture can fit into urban spaces was found to be a major obstacle. The findings suggest that this lack of understanding has led to an under-realisation of the full potential of UA in South African towns and cities; and an inability to incentivise and optimise the development of UA. Considering the findings derived from the investigation, the study proposes five major considerations for UA development in SA, all of which are unpacked in the conceptual framework. The study concludes by making recommendations for UA decision-makers and UA organisations to consider for future developments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation of support services available for black female owners of bed & breakfasts in Makhanda
- Authors: Mdluli, Lukhona Silubonile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Bed and breakfast accommodations -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesspeople, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Government aid to small business -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Racism -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177181 , vital:42797
- Description: Over the last 26 years, the South African government has committed to SMME development. To do this, policies and support institutions were put in place which would create a favourable environment for SMME development. This was particularly important as after 1994, when the South African economy was re-integrated into global markets after years of having sanctions imposed against the country as a result of the apartheid system. The tourism industry was identified as one of the key economic drivers which would strengthen the economy and assist in job creation, especially since South Africa would be able to attract international tourists. Further, it created the opportunity for new participants to enter the industry, including black entrepreneurs who previously could not enter the industry as a result of the apartheid laws. The opening up of the country to international markets and the focus on the tourism industry also presented the opportunity for new forms of tourism to be explored including township tourism, which gave rise to the black-owned bed & breakfast sector. Over time, it has become evident that black entrepreneurs in this sector are facing a number of challenges, in spite of the pro-SMME policies and support institutions that are in place. Because this study seeks to investigate the support services available for black female bed & breakfast owners in Makhanda, a qualitative research approach using the interpretative theoretical framework was applied. By using semi-structured interview questions, to establish what challenges do black female bed and breakfast owners face the researcher was able to respond to the following; what participants identify as their needs; and whether they are able to access the support services that are made available by the Government. Results indicated that the majority of entrepreneurs have difficulty accessing funding to develop their businesses. The seasonality of Grahamstown/ Makhanda tourism businesses has its pros and cons for tourism entrepreneurs. Despite efforts by government to transform the tourism industry, black female entrepreneurs in this industry still experience a myriad of challenges, including passive racism. Insufficient institutional support and inaccessible support services for women have made it difficult to manage in this this environment. Thus, a recommendation is put forward for female focused entrepreneurship policy, which is more responsive in terms of a judicial and legal system(s) aimed at addressing women’s particular needs and challenges. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mdluli, Lukhona Silubonile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Bed and breakfast accommodations -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesspeople, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Business enterprises, Black -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Women-owned business enterprises -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Government aid to small business -- South Africa , Small business -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Racism -- South Africa -- Makhanda , Businesswomen -- South Africa -- Makhanda
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177181 , vital:42797
- Description: Over the last 26 years, the South African government has committed to SMME development. To do this, policies and support institutions were put in place which would create a favourable environment for SMME development. This was particularly important as after 1994, when the South African economy was re-integrated into global markets after years of having sanctions imposed against the country as a result of the apartheid system. The tourism industry was identified as one of the key economic drivers which would strengthen the economy and assist in job creation, especially since South Africa would be able to attract international tourists. Further, it created the opportunity for new participants to enter the industry, including black entrepreneurs who previously could not enter the industry as a result of the apartheid laws. The opening up of the country to international markets and the focus on the tourism industry also presented the opportunity for new forms of tourism to be explored including township tourism, which gave rise to the black-owned bed & breakfast sector. Over time, it has become evident that black entrepreneurs in this sector are facing a number of challenges, in spite of the pro-SMME policies and support institutions that are in place. Because this study seeks to investigate the support services available for black female bed & breakfast owners in Makhanda, a qualitative research approach using the interpretative theoretical framework was applied. By using semi-structured interview questions, to establish what challenges do black female bed and breakfast owners face the researcher was able to respond to the following; what participants identify as their needs; and whether they are able to access the support services that are made available by the Government. Results indicated that the majority of entrepreneurs have difficulty accessing funding to develop their businesses. The seasonality of Grahamstown/ Makhanda tourism businesses has its pros and cons for tourism entrepreneurs. Despite efforts by government to transform the tourism industry, black female entrepreneurs in this industry still experience a myriad of challenges, including passive racism. Insufficient institutional support and inaccessible support services for women have made it difficult to manage in this this environment. Thus, a recommendation is put forward for female focused entrepreneurship policy, which is more responsive in terms of a judicial and legal system(s) aimed at addressing women’s particular needs and challenges. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Creating shared value through innovating business models: a case study of the Mapela Water Project
- Authors: Moyo, Bonnie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- South Africa , Mapela Water Project , Hourglass Model
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177135 , vital:42793
- Description: Shared value creation is a contemporary concept that aims to address the strained relationship between business and society through business models that expand the competitive advantage of business while addressing societal challenges in the business environment. Being a novel concept, studies on how value is created and shared are limited, especially where the unit of analysis is a specific project. This paper investigates how value is created and shared among stakeholders using a water project case study reported as a shared value initiative. The investigation is considered under the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund, Massa, Bocken, Brent and Musango, 2016) as a guiding framework. This sustainable business model is suggested as a business model that creates shared value. The study uses a qualitative research approach to investigate the inputs into the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) in the form of capitals, briefly considers the business models of specific stakeholders and then analyses the value created, missed and destroyed for each stakeholder through their value creation mechanisms. In the findings, six different capitals are identified from the participating stakeholders, and the value created, destroyed, and missed is discussed in the context of shared value principles. The findings show that capitals are used as inputs into the Hourglass Model and are consumed, created, and regenerated. There is also the realisation from the findings that different stakeholders required different and varying amounts of the six capitals identified. The interconnectedness of the capitals is shown in the study, and the findings show that the context of the environment within which a project operates contributes to the creation of shared value. As with the six capitals, the findings show that multiple stakeholders create shared value confirming stakeholder theory's guiding principles regarding stakeholder salience, which are relevant for creating shared value. Some stakeholders are identified as being more important to creating shared value in the project than others. Trade-offs are then required for value creation from a finite pool of capitals and stakeholders to consider the capitals and stakeholders' long and short-term impacts. Identifying stakeholders and the capitals allowed the researcher to consider the value created, destroyed and missed in the project. This assessment of shared value generated forms part of the findings on business models' outcomes for shared value, summarised for the project. Based on these areas where the outcomes are missing or destroying value, recommendations are made to address these opportunities, and an area of further research is identified. Drawing on these outcomes, developing clusters as per the value creation avenues of shared value would be the most appropriate avenue for this project. The study adds to the shared value body of knowledge by operationalising the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) and illustrating how the Model can be used to consider shared value creation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Moyo, Bonnie
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Business planning -- South Africa , Strategic planning -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa , Mineral industries -- South Africa , Mapela Water Project , Hourglass Model
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177135 , vital:42793
- Description: Shared value creation is a contemporary concept that aims to address the strained relationship between business and society through business models that expand the competitive advantage of business while addressing societal challenges in the business environment. Being a novel concept, studies on how value is created and shared are limited, especially where the unit of analysis is a specific project. This paper investigates how value is created and shared among stakeholders using a water project case study reported as a shared value initiative. The investigation is considered under the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund, Massa, Bocken, Brent and Musango, 2016) as a guiding framework. This sustainable business model is suggested as a business model that creates shared value. The study uses a qualitative research approach to investigate the inputs into the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) in the form of capitals, briefly considers the business models of specific stakeholders and then analyses the value created, missed and destroyed for each stakeholder through their value creation mechanisms. In the findings, six different capitals are identified from the participating stakeholders, and the value created, destroyed, and missed is discussed in the context of shared value principles. The findings show that capitals are used as inputs into the Hourglass Model and are consumed, created, and regenerated. There is also the realisation from the findings that different stakeholders required different and varying amounts of the six capitals identified. The interconnectedness of the capitals is shown in the study, and the findings show that the context of the environment within which a project operates contributes to the creation of shared value. As with the six capitals, the findings show that multiple stakeholders create shared value confirming stakeholder theory's guiding principles regarding stakeholder salience, which are relevant for creating shared value. Some stakeholders are identified as being more important to creating shared value in the project than others. Trade-offs are then required for value creation from a finite pool of capitals and stakeholders to consider the capitals and stakeholders' long and short-term impacts. Identifying stakeholders and the capitals allowed the researcher to consider the value created, destroyed and missed in the project. This assessment of shared value generated forms part of the findings on business models' outcomes for shared value, summarised for the project. Based on these areas where the outcomes are missing or destroying value, recommendations are made to address these opportunities, and an area of further research is identified. Drawing on these outcomes, developing clusters as per the value creation avenues of shared value would be the most appropriate avenue for this project. The study adds to the shared value body of knowledge by operationalising the Hourglass Model (Ludeke-Freund et al., 2016) and illustrating how the Model can be used to consider shared value creation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Water conservation and water demand management in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mlomzale, Kwanele
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water conservation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Water demand management -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Municipal services -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Water-supply -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177159 , vital:42795
- Description: Water is one of the scarce and constrained natural resource globally, and a necessity to every living creature, organism and the natural environment – it is the existence of life. Water, as an irreplaceable natural resource, plays a vital role in every country's development and prosperity, integrating socio-economic needs of both the present and future generation. Therefore, sustainable strategies and approaches or concepts are significant in ensuring that such a unique resource is preserved and conserved sustainably. Municipal environment or local government sphere creates a pivotal role in governing the use of water, through the provision of legislation, regulations and establishment of water conservation and water demand management strategies and plans. However, it has been established that there is a lack of integrated water resource management approach and planning in municipalities, creating concerns with regards to controlling the overutilisation of water and protection of water sources in general. The aim and goals of the study are to review Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality's (BCMM) water conservation and water demand management (BCMM WC/WDM) development and implementation by, assessing the existing strategy related to water conservation and water demand management; constraints and opportunity identification; and provision of recommendations in improving the practices in the municipality. The study presents core theories and empirical studies relevant to the water conservation and water demand management, and also deals with theoretical framework found under the Natural Resource-Based View and its application to water conservation and water demand management concepts. A qualitative research design approach was used for the research, which is underpinned by a post-positivism paradigm. In terms of data collection, two methods were used in the study: (i) document study and secondary analysis; and (ii) semi-structured interviews with BCMM relevant officials. The study identified gaps and inconsistencies in the development and implementation of BCMM WC/WDM strategy, although the municipality has taken some step towards its implementation. However, the strives taken by BCMM in implementing water conservation and water demand management initiatives are acknowledged. The study provides recommendations related to the findings identified upon the data collection and fieldwork. The recommendation proposed by the study includes proper communicating the BCMM WC/WDM strategy to all relevant stakeholders, focus on reducing the non-revenue water, implementation of various project related to pressure management, encourage culture of using water efficiently through educational and community awareness campaigns, capacitation of BCMM including seeking financial support, continuous review of the strategy and exploring other water supply sources to relax the already constrained existing water sources. The limitations of the study compared to the broader scope of water conservation and water demand management aspects are highlighted and acknowledged. Thus, in the conclusion of this study, further future studies are suggested to explore other related aspects of water conservation and water demand management in BCMM. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mlomzale, Kwanele
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Water conservation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Water demand management -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Municipal services -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Buffalo City , Water-supply -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: thesis , text , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177159 , vital:42795
- Description: Water is one of the scarce and constrained natural resource globally, and a necessity to every living creature, organism and the natural environment – it is the existence of life. Water, as an irreplaceable natural resource, plays a vital role in every country's development and prosperity, integrating socio-economic needs of both the present and future generation. Therefore, sustainable strategies and approaches or concepts are significant in ensuring that such a unique resource is preserved and conserved sustainably. Municipal environment or local government sphere creates a pivotal role in governing the use of water, through the provision of legislation, regulations and establishment of water conservation and water demand management strategies and plans. However, it has been established that there is a lack of integrated water resource management approach and planning in municipalities, creating concerns with regards to controlling the overutilisation of water and protection of water sources in general. The aim and goals of the study are to review Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality's (BCMM) water conservation and water demand management (BCMM WC/WDM) development and implementation by, assessing the existing strategy related to water conservation and water demand management; constraints and opportunity identification; and provision of recommendations in improving the practices in the municipality. The study presents core theories and empirical studies relevant to the water conservation and water demand management, and also deals with theoretical framework found under the Natural Resource-Based View and its application to water conservation and water demand management concepts. A qualitative research design approach was used for the research, which is underpinned by a post-positivism paradigm. In terms of data collection, two methods were used in the study: (i) document study and secondary analysis; and (ii) semi-structured interviews with BCMM relevant officials. The study identified gaps and inconsistencies in the development and implementation of BCMM WC/WDM strategy, although the municipality has taken some step towards its implementation. However, the strives taken by BCMM in implementing water conservation and water demand management initiatives are acknowledged. The study provides recommendations related to the findings identified upon the data collection and fieldwork. The recommendation proposed by the study includes proper communicating the BCMM WC/WDM strategy to all relevant stakeholders, focus on reducing the non-revenue water, implementation of various project related to pressure management, encourage culture of using water efficiently through educational and community awareness campaigns, capacitation of BCMM including seeking financial support, continuous review of the strategy and exploring other water supply sources to relax the already constrained existing water sources. The limitations of the study compared to the broader scope of water conservation and water demand management aspects are highlighted and acknowledged. Thus, in the conclusion of this study, further future studies are suggested to explore other related aspects of water conservation and water demand management in BCMM. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An evaluation of co-management practices: A case of a South African platinum mine management and the local community
- Authors: Matsimela, Tebogo Mapipi
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resource -- Management -- South Africa , Mines and mineral resource -- Management -- Social aspects , Mines and mineral resource -- Management -- Moral and ethical aspects , Platinum mines and mining -- Management -- South Africa -- Case studies , Corporate governance -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/171874 , vital:42134
- Description: A vast body of literature reveals the paradigm shift of South Africa’s economy from an agricultural community to an industrial economy. Elbra (2013) illustrated that South African mining host communities viewed that mineral endowments have become a “resource curse” instead of a driver of local economic development for the benefit of the community. To understand the mining and community conflict and their subsequent complexities, the Marikana massacre in August 2012 must be revisited (Bell, 2016). The problems may be broadly summarised as a lack of stakeholder engagement and inclusivity. Studies involving stakeholder management and co-management focused on the identification of stakeholders and their management. The research evaluated the co-management practices between mine management and a local community. It considered the challenges that emanated from the co-management practices. The primary focus of this research has been to evaluate the co-management features between the mine management and the local community and to identify the challenges associated with co-management from a mine management perspective. Furthermore, the research attempted to find effective co-management practices between the mine management and the local community which may be used to improve the partnership. Armitage, Berkes and Doubleplay (2007) recognised that in facilitating effective co-management, the commitment towards fulfilling good governance and accountability was paramount in ensuring that the rights and obligations of both private and public actors were achieved. However, Ran and Qi (2018) acknowledged that such partnerships were not immune to challenges because the poor implementation of co-management features like power-sharing could collapse a co-management partnership. This study aimed to evaluate the current co-management practices from the mine management’s perspective. A literature search revealed the range of co-management features that explained the different use of practices. The features included co-management and power sharing, co-management and institution building, co-management and trust and social capital, co-management as a process, co-management and problem solving, and co-management and governance. The study evaluated the co-management features between the mine management and the local community, identified the current challenges associated with co-management from a mine management perspective and attempted to make recommendations on effective co-management practices between the mine management and a local community. A qualitative case study method was employed. This method allowed the researcher to evaluate multifaceted matters which may have been investigated in the past but not inconsiderable detail (Baxter and Jack, 2008). Data was sampled using purposive sampling. This was because the population sample was chosen according to their roles and responsibilities and their involvement in the co-management between the mine management and the local community. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and document analyses. The findings of the research were derived from a range of company documents. Thematic analysis was employed to understand the practices of co-management which underpinned the co-management partnership between the mine management and the local community. It was found that there was a positive relationship between the literature study and the response from the mine management. The shared responsibilities emerged out of a dialogue characterised by deliberation and negotiations between the mine management and the stakeholders. Berkes (2009), asserted that co-management bore a resemblance to the process of the sharing of ideas of how responsibilities could be better shared and that it emanated from a process of deliberation and negotiation. Furthermore, if the evolution of the co-management partnership was not managed carefully, it could pose a risk to the partnership itself. It was acknowledged by the research respondents that there were complications involved in having the community as a shareholder in the mine, but equally, the community showed an appreciation of being involved in building a sustainable mine. The model of sustainable partnership emphasised that any viable partnership should adopt this model to achieve a sustainable performance (Thomson and Boutilier, 2011). This research showed that the co-management practices between the mine management and the local community concurred with the findings of Zvarivadza (2018). Trust and transparency between mine management and the community could go a long way in ensuring that the mine fulfilled its legal responsibilities in the local community where the mine is located.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Matsimela, Tebogo Mapipi
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Mines and mineral resource -- Management -- South Africa , Mines and mineral resource -- Management -- Social aspects , Mines and mineral resource -- Management -- Moral and ethical aspects , Platinum mines and mining -- Management -- South Africa -- Case studies , Corporate governance -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/171874 , vital:42134
- Description: A vast body of literature reveals the paradigm shift of South Africa’s economy from an agricultural community to an industrial economy. Elbra (2013) illustrated that South African mining host communities viewed that mineral endowments have become a “resource curse” instead of a driver of local economic development for the benefit of the community. To understand the mining and community conflict and their subsequent complexities, the Marikana massacre in August 2012 must be revisited (Bell, 2016). The problems may be broadly summarised as a lack of stakeholder engagement and inclusivity. Studies involving stakeholder management and co-management focused on the identification of stakeholders and their management. The research evaluated the co-management practices between mine management and a local community. It considered the challenges that emanated from the co-management practices. The primary focus of this research has been to evaluate the co-management features between the mine management and the local community and to identify the challenges associated with co-management from a mine management perspective. Furthermore, the research attempted to find effective co-management practices between the mine management and the local community which may be used to improve the partnership. Armitage, Berkes and Doubleplay (2007) recognised that in facilitating effective co-management, the commitment towards fulfilling good governance and accountability was paramount in ensuring that the rights and obligations of both private and public actors were achieved. However, Ran and Qi (2018) acknowledged that such partnerships were not immune to challenges because the poor implementation of co-management features like power-sharing could collapse a co-management partnership. This study aimed to evaluate the current co-management practices from the mine management’s perspective. A literature search revealed the range of co-management features that explained the different use of practices. The features included co-management and power sharing, co-management and institution building, co-management and trust and social capital, co-management as a process, co-management and problem solving, and co-management and governance. The study evaluated the co-management features between the mine management and the local community, identified the current challenges associated with co-management from a mine management perspective and attempted to make recommendations on effective co-management practices between the mine management and a local community. A qualitative case study method was employed. This method allowed the researcher to evaluate multifaceted matters which may have been investigated in the past but not inconsiderable detail (Baxter and Jack, 2008). Data was sampled using purposive sampling. This was because the population sample was chosen according to their roles and responsibilities and their involvement in the co-management between the mine management and the local community. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and document analyses. The findings of the research were derived from a range of company documents. Thematic analysis was employed to understand the practices of co-management which underpinned the co-management partnership between the mine management and the local community. It was found that there was a positive relationship between the literature study and the response from the mine management. The shared responsibilities emerged out of a dialogue characterised by deliberation and negotiations between the mine management and the stakeholders. Berkes (2009), asserted that co-management bore a resemblance to the process of the sharing of ideas of how responsibilities could be better shared and that it emanated from a process of deliberation and negotiation. Furthermore, if the evolution of the co-management partnership was not managed carefully, it could pose a risk to the partnership itself. It was acknowledged by the research respondents that there were complications involved in having the community as a shareholder in the mine, but equally, the community showed an appreciation of being involved in building a sustainable mine. The model of sustainable partnership emphasised that any viable partnership should adopt this model to achieve a sustainable performance (Thomson and Boutilier, 2011). This research showed that the co-management practices between the mine management and the local community concurred with the findings of Zvarivadza (2018). Trust and transparency between mine management and the community could go a long way in ensuring that the mine fulfilled its legal responsibilities in the local community where the mine is located.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
An exploratory case study on the barriers, challenges and benefits of sustainability reporting by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa
- Authors: Mhlope, Veliswa
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sustainable development reporting -- South Africa -- Case studies , Social responsibility of business , Environmental responsibility -- South Africa , Environmental reporting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172018 , vital:42149
- Description: SMEs in South Africa and other developing countries have been slow to take up sustainability reporting. This qualitative study is aimed to study the challenges and barriers faced by SMEs, together with the potential benefits for SMEs participating in this type of reporting. It also makes recommendations about how SMEs can participate in and benefit from sustainability reporting. The study shows that indeed there are several challenges in terms of getting involved in sustainability reporting for SMEs. On the other hand, the research finds that the SMEs who are already participating in sustainability reporting can show the benefits of engaging in sustainability reporting and that these benefits far outweigh the challenges. The participating SMEs are also able to show that they have attained a competitive advantage as a result of engaging in sustainability reporting. If, however, sustainability reporting is to become entrenched into SMEs, a few changes need to take place to address challenges such as lack of information about sustainability reporting and its benefits, lack of regulations and more importantly, lack of awareness about sustainable development. As the South African government begins to respond to issues such as climate change, skills development and good governance, it will become necessary for them to introduce regulations to manage this risk. It is also highly possible that in the next few years, reporting will become a regulatory requirement that SMEs will be forced to comply with to continue to do business. The SMEs who are already practising sustainability practices will benefit from being first movers. Those SMEs who start sooner rather than later will already have the internal resources and capabilities to take advantage of the legislative environment. They will have a head start over their rivals in terms of gaining competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Mhlope, Veliswa
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Case studies , Sustainable development reporting -- South Africa -- Case studies , Social responsibility of business , Environmental responsibility -- South Africa , Environmental reporting -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172018 , vital:42149
- Description: SMEs in South Africa and other developing countries have been slow to take up sustainability reporting. This qualitative study is aimed to study the challenges and barriers faced by SMEs, together with the potential benefits for SMEs participating in this type of reporting. It also makes recommendations about how SMEs can participate in and benefit from sustainability reporting. The study shows that indeed there are several challenges in terms of getting involved in sustainability reporting for SMEs. On the other hand, the research finds that the SMEs who are already participating in sustainability reporting can show the benefits of engaging in sustainability reporting and that these benefits far outweigh the challenges. The participating SMEs are also able to show that they have attained a competitive advantage as a result of engaging in sustainability reporting. If, however, sustainability reporting is to become entrenched into SMEs, a few changes need to take place to address challenges such as lack of information about sustainability reporting and its benefits, lack of regulations and more importantly, lack of awareness about sustainable development. As the South African government begins to respond to issues such as climate change, skills development and good governance, it will become necessary for them to introduce regulations to manage this risk. It is also highly possible that in the next few years, reporting will become a regulatory requirement that SMEs will be forced to comply with to continue to do business. The SMEs who are already practising sustainability practices will benefit from being first movers. Those SMEs who start sooner rather than later will already have the internal resources and capabilities to take advantage of the legislative environment. They will have a head start over their rivals in terms of gaining competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Exploring the role of supervisors in developing employee commitment in a Namibian Public Institution from the subordinates’ perspective
- Authors: Daniel, Anna
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Supervisors -- Namibia -- Case studies , Leadership -- Namibia -- Case studies , Employee motivation -- Namibia -- Case studies , Employee loyalty -- Namibia -- Case studies , Supervision -- Namibia -- Case studies , Management -- Employee participation -- Namibia -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/170770 , vital:41958
- Description: Over the years, scholars have noted the importance of organisations managing the performance of their employees by effectively maintaining their commitment. Hence, l ite rature highlighted that employee s have the potential to be recognised as a source of competitive advantage for an organisation and not a resource of an organisation. The main aim of the study was to explore the role of supervisors in developing employee commitment in a Namibian Public Ins titution from the subordinates’ perspective. The focus of this research was to understand how subordinates were included in decision making and were supported by their supervisors , and on how subordinates received feed b ack on role fulfilment and performance from their supervisors. Furthermore, the study described how subordinates viewed the leadership behaviour of their supervisors and how this i nfluenced employee commitment. The data was collected using qualitative me t hods through semi - structured face - to - face interview s with the subordinates of the selected institution. During this study, a sample of 15 subordinates taken from a population of 266 within the institution’s structure was inte rviewed . The interview quest ion s were based on how supervisors included subordinates in decision making, developed subordinates ’ support and delivered feedback on role and performance. The study used secondary data to determine the level of performance against set targets of the inst itu tion, using the annual performance report of the institution. In addition , the study used the staff access control syste m to determine the work time s of employees Lastly, the study analysed the data regarding staff resignation for the last five years to a ssess the level of staff turnover rate of the institution. The study f ound that the subordinates felt the re should be greater subordinate inclusion in decision making, increased levels of re gular feedback and higher levels of support shown by supervis ors t o subordinates when e xecuting their jobs. The study further highlighted the importance of supervisors to develop the ability of shifting from one leadership style to another depending on the situation at hand. The study reviewed six leadership style s that could influence commitment . Therefore, the study recommend s th at the institution direct its attention towards developing the situational leadership skills of their supervisors and developing their skills to enable them to better harmonise teamwork, increas e regular communication and give regular feedback to their subordinates . The results from this research will be beneficial to public institutions within the region and will, in add ition, enhance the academic body of literature in this field . The s tudy will draw the attention of supervisors to the importance of their behaviour, conduct, and their subsequent impact on employee commitment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Daniel, Anna
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Supervisors -- Namibia -- Case studies , Leadership -- Namibia -- Case studies , Employee motivation -- Namibia -- Case studies , Employee loyalty -- Namibia -- Case studies , Supervision -- Namibia -- Case studies , Management -- Employee participation -- Namibia -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/170770 , vital:41958
- Description: Over the years, scholars have noted the importance of organisations managing the performance of their employees by effectively maintaining their commitment. Hence, l ite rature highlighted that employee s have the potential to be recognised as a source of competitive advantage for an organisation and not a resource of an organisation. The main aim of the study was to explore the role of supervisors in developing employee commitment in a Namibian Public Ins titution from the subordinates’ perspective. The focus of this research was to understand how subordinates were included in decision making and were supported by their supervisors , and on how subordinates received feed b ack on role fulfilment and performance from their supervisors. Furthermore, the study described how subordinates viewed the leadership behaviour of their supervisors and how this i nfluenced employee commitment. The data was collected using qualitative me t hods through semi - structured face - to - face interview s with the subordinates of the selected institution. During this study, a sample of 15 subordinates taken from a population of 266 within the institution’s structure was inte rviewed . The interview quest ion s were based on how supervisors included subordinates in decision making, developed subordinates ’ support and delivered feedback on role and performance. The study used secondary data to determine the level of performance against set targets of the inst itu tion, using the annual performance report of the institution. In addition , the study used the staff access control syste m to determine the work time s of employees Lastly, the study analysed the data regarding staff resignation for the last five years to a ssess the level of staff turnover rate of the institution. The study f ound that the subordinates felt the re should be greater subordinate inclusion in decision making, increased levels of re gular feedback and higher levels of support shown by supervis ors t o subordinates when e xecuting their jobs. The study further highlighted the importance of supervisors to develop the ability of shifting from one leadership style to another depending on the situation at hand. The study reviewed six leadership style s that could influence commitment . Therefore, the study recommend s th at the institution direct its attention towards developing the situational leadership skills of their supervisors and developing their skills to enable them to better harmonise teamwork, increas e regular communication and give regular feedback to their subordinates . The results from this research will be beneficial to public institutions within the region and will, in add ition, enhance the academic body of literature in this field . The s tudy will draw the attention of supervisors to the importance of their behaviour, conduct, and their subsequent impact on employee commitment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
How the leaders of an Eastern Cape development agency experienced a transition from specialist roles to the leadership roles and how this shaped their leadership identity
- Authors: Mbokoma, Noxolo Patricia
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Managemenat -- South Africa -- Case studies , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Case studies , Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Case studies , Leadership -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/171997 , vital:42147
- Description: This study sought to investigate the experiences of leaders involved in a transition from specialist role to leadership role at the Eastern Cape Development Agency, South Africa. A qualitative case study within a constructivist paradigm was adopted. Bridges’ (1991) theory of transition was used in this study to understand and analyse the process of transition in this study. The study used purposive sampling technique, where six leaders were selected and interviewed. The data was analysed through inductive and content analysis techniques. The findings are presented thematically and supported with participants verbatim. The study established that as specialists transition to leadership roles they experience lack of role clarity, stress (role strain), resistance, inadequate support, shock, increased work load (role strain) and role conflict. These experiences influence on their role identity, expertise, peer relationships and financial status. The study also established that for smooth and successful transition, consultation, participation, proper succession planning, and training is vitally important. This was necessary to ease the tension between management, leadership, specialist responsibilities, and resistance from specialists. The study recommends adequate support and preparation in all stages of transition to ensure that the organization benefits from the transition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Mbokoma, Noxolo Patricia
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Managemenat -- South Africa -- Case studies , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Case studies , Organizational behavior -- South Africa -- Case studies , Leadership -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/171997 , vital:42147
- Description: This study sought to investigate the experiences of leaders involved in a transition from specialist role to leadership role at the Eastern Cape Development Agency, South Africa. A qualitative case study within a constructivist paradigm was adopted. Bridges’ (1991) theory of transition was used in this study to understand and analyse the process of transition in this study. The study used purposive sampling technique, where six leaders were selected and interviewed. The data was analysed through inductive and content analysis techniques. The findings are presented thematically and supported with participants verbatim. The study established that as specialists transition to leadership roles they experience lack of role clarity, stress (role strain), resistance, inadequate support, shock, increased work load (role strain) and role conflict. These experiences influence on their role identity, expertise, peer relationships and financial status. The study also established that for smooth and successful transition, consultation, participation, proper succession planning, and training is vitally important. This was necessary to ease the tension between management, leadership, specialist responsibilities, and resistance from specialists. The study recommends adequate support and preparation in all stages of transition to ensure that the organization benefits from the transition.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Mapping the transition from a traditional university into an entrepreneurial university
- Authors: Naidoo, Tharusha
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Management , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Academic-industrial cooperation , Entrepreneurship , Business and education -- South Africa , Research -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172214 , vital:42177
- Description: The study aims to map the transition of a traditional university into an entrepreneurial university. The concept of the entrepreneurial university has been established as a game changer in the development and innovation spheres at higher education institutions worldwide. In the year 2002, the South African Higher Education sector embarked on a modelling and redefining journey which gave birth to the National Plan for Higher Education. The Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education has undertaken work done on the entrepreneurial university which gave rise to the mapping that breeds ground towards policy. This study sought to investigate whether there is a conducive environment at Rhodes University, with an entrepreneurial climate to develop institutional capabilities and build new networks. The research highlights the current direction of Rhodes University and elaborates on the potential for the transition towards an entrepreneurial university. An overview of the entrepreneurial university was provided through an analysis of literature, which dominated in the more developed countries compared to South Africa. The researcher adopted a qualitative research study to capture the direct experiences of the individuals that are in the institution. A questionnaire was designed using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Guiding Framework and the direct perceptions of academics from the university were documented. The objectives were firstly, to explore elements of leadership and governance that enhance transformation of Higher Education Institution from a traditional university towards an entrepreneurial university. Secondly, to investigate internal resources that enhance Organisational Capacity with specific reference to people and incentives. Lastly, to determine how Teaching and Learning strengthen entrepreneurship development. The interviews revealed that the challenges faced by the institution were closely linked to those recognized by existing literature. What was interesting to note, limited funding and support were regarded as the most significant problems, closely followed by unskilled people and lack of infrastructure. It is suggested that cultivating and nurturing an entrepreneurial culture is of paramount importance together with the creation of a policy framework. Furthermore, the study concluded with practical recommendations proposed to management regarding the three strategic lenses. The research also illustrated that Rhodes University may not be viewed as being entrepreneurial but certainly has pockets of entrepreneurship and innovative activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Naidoo, Tharusha
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Management , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Academic-industrial cooperation , Entrepreneurship , Business and education -- South Africa , Research -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172214 , vital:42177
- Description: The study aims to map the transition of a traditional university into an entrepreneurial university. The concept of the entrepreneurial university has been established as a game changer in the development and innovation spheres at higher education institutions worldwide. In the year 2002, the South African Higher Education sector embarked on a modelling and redefining journey which gave birth to the National Plan for Higher Education. The Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education has undertaken work done on the entrepreneurial university which gave rise to the mapping that breeds ground towards policy. This study sought to investigate whether there is a conducive environment at Rhodes University, with an entrepreneurial climate to develop institutional capabilities and build new networks. The research highlights the current direction of Rhodes University and elaborates on the potential for the transition towards an entrepreneurial university. An overview of the entrepreneurial university was provided through an analysis of literature, which dominated in the more developed countries compared to South Africa. The researcher adopted a qualitative research study to capture the direct experiences of the individuals that are in the institution. A questionnaire was designed using the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Guiding Framework and the direct perceptions of academics from the university were documented. The objectives were firstly, to explore elements of leadership and governance that enhance transformation of Higher Education Institution from a traditional university towards an entrepreneurial university. Secondly, to investigate internal resources that enhance Organisational Capacity with specific reference to people and incentives. Lastly, to determine how Teaching and Learning strengthen entrepreneurship development. The interviews revealed that the challenges faced by the institution were closely linked to those recognized by existing literature. What was interesting to note, limited funding and support were regarded as the most significant problems, closely followed by unskilled people and lack of infrastructure. It is suggested that cultivating and nurturing an entrepreneurial culture is of paramount importance together with the creation of a policy framework. Furthermore, the study concluded with practical recommendations proposed to management regarding the three strategic lenses. The research also illustrated that Rhodes University may not be viewed as being entrepreneurial but certainly has pockets of entrepreneurship and innovative activities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021