Listeners’ Participation in Community Radio: A Case Study of Forte FM Radio
- Authors: Bamigboye, Foluke Bosede
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Community radio Radio in community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Communications)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16254 , vital:40703
- Description: This dissertation investigates listeners’ participation in community radio, drawing on Forte FM radio in Nkonkobe Municipality in Alice, Eastern Cape. The aim of the study was therefore to explore how listeners are been involved in the activities of Forte FM radio station. This study adopts qualitative research approach. Convenience, and purposive non-probability samplings techniques were subsequently used to select samples for this study. In-depth interviews was conducted with the radio station manager while one focus group discussion each was held with residents of Golf Course and Ntselamanzi areas with eight participants in each focus group, making a total number of sixteen participants for the focus group discussions. The collected data were interpreted and analyzed thematically. The findings of this research showed a remarkable disparity between the listeners of the radio station and perceptions of participation on one hand, and the listeners’ opinion and perceptions of them vice versa. Also, programming is often conceptualized with little or no community involvement and interaction. Listeners interviewed in the course of carrying out the focus group discussion in the two sampled areas were of the views that they only get connected to Forte FM radio station on social grounds of greetings and “shout outs”, through public spheres and for self-representation in the variety of public spaces of Forte FM radio. Another critical finding of this study indicated that, Forte FM is doing its best towards involving listeners in its programming.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Listening to silenced voices: The lived experiences of Xhosa mothers during the initiation period of their sons
- Authors: Makupula, Mahlodi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Ethnocentrism Circumcision
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15815 , vital:40529
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of Xhosa mothers during the initiation period of their sons. The male rite of initiation among the amaXhosa has various taboos that prohibit women from getting involved in decision-making regarding the ritual. This creates a challenge as the number of female-headed households are increasing. The rationale for this study was to give Xhosa mothers a voice to relate their narratives of how they experienced the initiation period of their sons. In order to carry out this aim, the paradigm of Afrocentricity was used to anchor the study. Afrocentricity is a paradigm that supports the agency of African people in a study conducted about their issues. It also aims to give the previously oppressed groups a voice so that they can speak for themselves. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) as set out by Jonathan Smith was used as a qualitative research methodology in this study. Data was generated, recorded and transcribed from semi-structured interviews with eight selected participants. The biological mothers of Xhosa initiates, that experienced the initiation of their sons, took part in this study. The over-arching inclusion criteria were that the mothers gave permission for their sons to be initiated, and that their sons did not experience any major complications during the ritual. They met the inclusion criteria as set out by the researcher. The findings of the study indicated that the mothers’ experiences were multifaceted. They included the spiritual, psychological and emotional experiences, as well as their experiences as women, and, more especially, as mothers. The challenges that mothers faced during this period included lack of feedback regarding the health of their sons. This led to the experiencing of somatic symptoms like lack of sleep, poor appetite, and anxiety. In order to deal with their symptoms, the main coping mechanism that the participants used, was prayer. LISTENING TO SILENCED VOICES ii This study has highlighted the importance of listening to previously silenced voices in order to contribute to local knowledge. It is envisaged that the findings of this study will contribute to policy decisions that affect women, by ensuring the involvement of women in higher decision-making bodies. This is particularly important with the high number of femaleheaded households in the country.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Local web news as tools for framing food security: the content analysis of four selected Eastern Cape web newspapers
- Authors: Metula , Nolukhanyo Theorida
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Food security World Wide Web
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17484 , vital:41080
- Description: This study evaluates how the Eastern Cape local web newspapers frame food security in the Eastern Cape Province. A qualitative content analysis by means of textual analysis was used to evaluate the selected local web newspaper’s content on food security related stories within the period of July-December 2017. The sample was drawn from four Eastern Cape local web newspapers- Daily Dispatch Live, Herald Live, Go and Express and The Talk of the Town. The analysis sought to determine how the selected local web newspapers frame food security concerning food availability, accessibility and affordability in the Eastern Cape Province. Additionally, the study aimed to ascertain the issues about food security that are raised by the Eastern Cape local web newspapers and, to establish the extent to which these Eastern Cape local web newspapers’ framing is helpful in ensuring participation, empowerment and community mobilization for food securing purposes. The results of this study indicate that the local web newspapers frame Eastern Cape Province as untapped food basket. The framing suggests that the Province can leverage its agricultural resources for job creation which will ensure economic growth and food security. The local web newspapers framing suggests that there are numerous channels such as natural food production, livestock production, smallholder farming that can enhance availability and access to affordable food to people in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings revealed that local web newspapers frame increased agricultural production as an important issue that demand serious and urgent attention of the Provincial government as it has the potential of not only ensuring food security but also impacting positively on the income of local farmers. The local web newspapers frame farm attacks, land redistribution and reinstatement as important factors that hinder food production and, ultimately, food security in the Eastern Cape v Province. Furthermore, this study discovered that the frame of references used by the local web newspapers, especially the emphasis on local farming, land redistribution and private sector help to empower and mobilize individuals and communities to participate in food security initiatives. This study concludes that Eastern Cape Local Web Newspapers can be veritable tools to enhance food security channels in the Eastern Cape Province
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- Date Issued: 2019
Managing personal archives in specialised repositories: a case study of Phillip Valentine Tobias collection(s) at the University of the Witwatersrand
- Authors: Marima, Elizabeth Nakai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Archives management , Institutional repositories
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11473 , vital:39075
- Description: Personal archives are noncurrent records created by individuals that are selected and kept for their enduring value. They are a record of the past and stand as evidence of what transpired. They make part of repository holdings together with public archives in organisational repositories. Public archives document transactions, statutes, procedures, and regulations. Personal archives contain the documentation of individual lives, emotions, values, experiences and human personality. They seek to reflect the character of the individual who created them. Management of personal archives in repositories refers to their acquisition, collection, arrangement, description, preservation, conservation, creation if access and use. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to investigate the managing of personal archives in specialized repositories: A case study of Phillip Valentine Tobias Collection(s) at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study sought to investigate the legal framework that regulates managing of personal archives and the experiences, perceptions and expectations of people managing the personal archives. Furthermore, the study sought to identify strategies of improving the management of personal archives at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study was motivated by the archival theory that conceptualizes grouping of records together for their content and contextual value as evidence with the aim of restating the past. The theory further defines personal archives as records of continued value created by an individual which accumulated naturally, impartially and without prejudice in order to accurately witness the past. The study used a qualitative methodology and was guided by the interpretivist research paradigm. Data was collected using open-ended questions to conduct semi-structured interviews. To complement data, a document analysis, focus group and casual observation were also used. The site of study was University of the Witwatersrand. The total population constituted 41 staff members working in six special repositories with the Phillip Tobias collections at University of the Witwatersrand. The sample size was 25 staff members working in three special repositories. The qualitative data was reported verbartim and the Constant Comparative method was used for data analysis. The findings indicated challenges to the archival theory as the contextual grouping of personal archives was distorted. The study also showed that the archives were xv mismanaged due to framework irregularities, lack of top management support and limited resources. The major resources that were limited were infrastructure, archival ICT systems, human resources and training needs. From the interviews, the research identified strategies of improving the management of personal archives. The study recommended that the university benchmark for archival support strategies and to also engage in existence justification initiatives to harness top management’s attention towards the archive. Out of the identified strategies, the study suggested a tailor made strategy, which combined aspects of each strategy in order to avoid associated challenges.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Patriarchy and the participation of women in Zimbabwean national politics: a study of selected women Politicians in Matabeleland Region
- Authors: Manyevere, Sithabile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Women politicians Women -- Political activity -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17506 , vital:41082
- Description: The research sought to analyse how patriarchal perceptions have affected women in Zimbabwean national politics with specific focus on women politicians in Matabeleland region. The researcher observed that women politicians in this region seem to face multiple oppressions and yet seem to have been excluded in previous studies. The mixed method approach was adopted for the research. Questionnaires were used for the quantitative method, while key informant interviews and focus group discussions were utilised for the qualitative method. Findings from the survey revealed stereotypical perceptions such as that men are better leaders than women, women are not capable of holding decision making positions and the perception that politics is not safe for women. The findings from the key informants indicate that women politicians in Matabeleland face quite a number of challenges emanating from these patriarchal perceptions. The challenges include violence, humiliation and cultural stigmatization. Although women have attempted to resist patriarchy, it seems that the resistance has not been enough to eliminate the patriarchal mentality and the oppressions that accompany it. The research adopts a combination of feminist and intersectionality theory as a framework for analysis of the problem under investigation. The research potentially contributes to academic discourse by advancing literature on the multi-faceted aspects of patriarchy. The study recommends psychological and financial empowerment of women, electoral reforms and criminalization of offenders. The implementation of proper reforms and corrective measures envisage the long-awaited new dawn among women whom since time memorial, have been suppressed by deep-seated societal and patriarchal beliefs.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Perceptions of climatic change and food insecurity: a case study of Buhera District, Eastern Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mashiri, Martin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Food security
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Rural Development)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16287 , vital:40706
- Description: The world is experiencing strange weather conditions which have, arguably not been experienced before. Some parts of the world are experiencing severe drought, other parts are receiving above normal rainfall associated with violent cyclones. The changing environmental conditions are perceived by environmental scientists as the consequences of climatic change that has been triggered by global warming which has been largely attributed to an increase of greenhouse emissions due to human activities such as transportation, industry and energy production. Sub-Saharan Africa contributes the least greenhouse gas emissions in the world but it is unfortunate that the region is suffering most from the perceived impacts of climatic change. The region has been experiencing prolonged drought conditions that have negatively impacted food production and it is projected that millions will suffer malnutrition and starvation in future if the perceived causes of climatic change are not addressed. This research seeks to make an in-depth analysis on the perceptions of climatic change and food insecurity in Buhera district east of Zimbabwe. The researcher used interviews and observations to gather firsthand information from a diverse number of participants. The findings of this research largely drew upon the Sustainable Livelihood Framework as a lens for interpretation. The results of this research indicate that there is less food available in Buhera due to poor crop production; perceived to be as a result of the changing climate
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- Date Issued: 2019
Perceptions of guardians of children towards government’s decision to outlaw corporal punishment: A case study of Highfield suburb in Harare, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Shayamano , Molly
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporal punishment of children Children's rights
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17641 , vital:41131
- Description: Corporal punishment is a behaviour modification technique that has been utilised since time immemorial. Much interest in today’s world is centred on understanding and utilising the most effective discipline techniques. Many human rights activists and researchers are pointing out the negatives of corporal punishment. As such, human rights activists are pushing for the banning of all forms of corporal punishment of children. This study explored guardians’ perceptions towards the government’s decision to outlaw corporal punishment in Highfield in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital. The social construction theory by Berger and Luckman (1966) and the Operant conditioning theory by Skinner (1956) were utilised to underpin the study. The study adopted a mixed method approach in which focus group discussions, key informant interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data. The study results reveal that guardians in Highfield hold different sentiments with regard to the government’s decision to outlaw corporal punishment. The majority of guardians view the decision as a bad move that will result in negative consequences, whereas another group of guardians supports the decision. The study also reveals that the government’s decision to outlaw corporal punishment has both positive and negative consequences, which include delinquent behaviour, high crime rates, disrespect of elders, moral decay, decreased violence, increased communication between parents and children, and reduced child abuse cases. The study also found that social workers working closely with children and their families also have a role to play in ensuring positive behaviour modification. The study recommends the introduction of community programs on positive parenting in communities, initiated and strengthened by social workers.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Pragmatics teaching: on the development of learners’ linguistic competence among selected East London District schools
- Authors: Myoli, Ndileka
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pragmatics -- Study and teaching Language and languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11232 , vital:37607
- Description: South Africa was listed amongst the countries with a percentage of students with achievement too low for estimation by “Progress International Results in Reading” in 2011. Meanwhile, there was also an indication that, high school learners in the Eastern Cape Province are highly challenged, as far as their ability to produce speech, as well as the ability to interpret meaning beyond what is literally suggested. Since such difficulties usually pose problems of content understanding, concerned researchers in the field of language took it upon themselves to investigate the underlying cause of the problem, in order to prevent more problems of pragmatics incompetence, such as, problems with social interaction that could retard one’s ability to function independently as an adult. While many studies have been conducted in the area of Pragmatics language competence, this study found it necessary to contribute around this debate. Since the study was two-fold, isiXhosa Home language learners of Grades 10 to 12 were investigated with an objective to determine the extent of pragmatic incompetence and the Teachers were investigated to determine the effectiveness of their teaching of pragmatics language. A number of 108 high school isiXhosa learners, of ages of between 16 and 18 years, from East London Directorate, 36 per Grade, from the three selected schools high schools, were sampled, 36 consisting of 18 males and 18 females per grade from each selected high school. 9 isiXhosa Home Language teachers of between the ages of 45 to 54 years were sampled from the selected schools. This study used an assessment test for the learners and the questionnaire for the teachers, as a means of data collection techniques. The study applied a high consideration of validity as well as of ethical matters in order to ensure the reliability of results. The study found that, isiXhosa Home language learners’ levels of pragmatic competence are high and with the appropriate use of good methods of pragmatics language teaching, learners’ pragmatics competence can develop.This study will be able to encourage syllabus designers to collaborate with subject teachers, beginning right at the inception of the syllabus planning. IsiXhosa language teachers can develop teaching material appropriate for their primary goal, which is the development of pragmatic competence. Further research is recommended to investigate more around this area of study to a point where isiXhosa Home language can be counted amongst the great and valued languages of South Africa.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Psychosocial challenges faced by people living with hiv/aids at Victoria Hospital, Alice, Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sam, Ntombifikile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: HIV infections
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16210 , vital:40698
- Description: This study investigated the psychosocial challenges faced by people living with HIV/AIDS at Victoria Hospital, Alice, Nkonkobe municipality in the Eastern Cape. This study explored the views, attitudes and perceptions of people living with HIV/AIDS to understand the psychosocial challenges they underwent. The study aimed at achieving the following specific objectives: (i) To investigate the psychosocial challenges faced by people living with HIV and AIDS at the Victoria Hospital. (ii) To assess the impact of families and communities to people living with HIV/AIDS with respect to the lack of psychosocial support provided to people who are infected with HIV and AIDS at the Victoria Hospital in the Alice Area of the province of the Eastern Cape. (iii) To identify possible psychosocial support systems that could be provided by social service practitioners and by social networks for people living with HIV and AIDS and their families. The study used qualitative research approach where in-depth interviews and a focus group with key informants were used as methods of data collection. The study was premised on the systems theory to give a theoretical orientation into understanding the psychosocial challenges of people living with HIV/AIDS and possible support to be given to them. The sample size was made up of 10 patient participants; eight (8) ii females, two (2) males; and three (3) health practitioners. Non-probability sampling technique was used in the study. Specifically, purposive sampling was used to select the participants because the researcher believed that the participants had knowledge and experiences about HIV/AIDS. The data was analysed qualitatively through a content thematic analysis technique. The study found that there are many psychosocial challenges that are faced by people living with HIV/AIDS such as poverty, social support, rejection, depression and stigma and discrimination. The study recommends that the affected communities should have support groups for people living with HIV/AIDS to empower them and their families. The study also recommends the implementation of community engagements in the form of educating communities about HIV/AIDS and the importance of supporting people living with HIV/AIDS. More emphasis on the right to equality and the right for everyone to be treated with dignity and respect, as stated by Chapter 2 of the Bill of Rights of the South African constitution is highly recommended. Based on the evidence provided through the findings, the researcher is optimistic that all the challenges presented will be taken into consideration in future plans and policies.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Re-defining the calling – narratives of women excluded from the ordained ministry in the Seventh-Day Adventist church in South Africa
- Authors: Chinyamurindi, Willie Tafadzwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Ordination of women
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17529 , vital:41085
- Description: This work gives focus to understanding the notion of a calling amongst women excluded from the ordained ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Africa. Historically, there is an observation that women attend religious services in larger numbers than their male counterparts. Despite this, it is notable that in terms of leadership, very few women occupy this preserve. Further, the experiences of those in positions of leadership (especially women) remain an under-researched area. This study used a qualitative approach, with an explanatory research design. Analyses were conducted by NVivo qualitative research software amongst 15 women who had completed theological training within the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Africa. Narrative analysis was used as a means of analysing the collected data. The data analysis generated four main narratives and resultant sub-narrative(s): 1) calling as influencing decision to enter the pastoral ministry; 2) the pastoral ministry framed as a sustained challenge to women pastors; 3) the existence of a perceived theological disjuncture; and finally 4) passive yet overt resolution tactics. Implications for individual and organisational functioning are made based on these findings
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- Date Issued: 2019
Records management at Albany Museum, Grahamstown, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Obileke , Ugonna Christiana
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Records -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17663 , vital:41133
- Description: This study is about records management at the Albany Museum in Grahamstown, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were to find out the extent to which records management is practised; to find out what records management programme exist; to find out the infrastructure available for records management; and to identify the challenges, if any, facing records management in Albany Museum. The records life cycle and the records continuum formed the theoretical framework. The study adopted qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The state accountant, senior administrator, fossil excavator, receptionist and the postgraduate researcher formed the sample of the study. Quantitative data were coded and analysed using Microsoft Office Excel 2013 while the qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. The major findings showed that records management Albany Museum is very weak, which makes it difficult for the museum to derive or benefit from effective records management as well as experiencing delays in decision-making, loss and misplacement of records. Also, it was revealed that there was no personnel responsible for the records management. The study recommended for recruitment of personnel for records management in the museum to improve on records management as well as the development of a functioning records management program
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- Date Issued: 2019
Records management practices at the Victoria hospital, Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Sosibo, Bongeka
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Records -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17706 , vital:41138
- Description: Records management is vital in organizations as it enables efficiency and transparency of administrative functions in organizations. Victoria Hospital (VH), under the Raymond Mhlaba municipality, in Alice, in the Eastern Cape was chosen as the case study. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the extent of records management practices in this public hospital. The study’s objectives centred on examining the type of records generated at VH, determine some of the activities used in their management and assess the current processes and means that are used to make these records available. Both paper and electronic records were the focus of this study and as such the records lifecycle and the records continuum were thus integrated to inform the theoretical basis for this study. The researcher combined both quantitative and qualitative research methods in an attempt to increase the validity and reliability of the data gathered. This triangulation of methods facilitated thoroughness and eliminated biases and weaknesses in as far as methodology is concerned. The study used the survey research method to determine the status of records management at the Victoria Hospital. The findings showed that the type of records generated at the Victoria hospital include patient, personnel and administrative records. The results of the study revealed that policy issues, lack of infrastructure and irregularity of training, absence of a qualified records manager were identified by the respondents as some of the challenges faced by the VPH in order to effectively executive records management practices in their organization. A number of recommendations were put forward and a few will be highlighted here. Hospitals should consider providing relevant formal training or courses for at least more than 75% officials earmarked for or engaged in the implementation of e-health and erecords. Victoria hospital should consider hiring more qualified records managers and registry staff. Records management training should take place at least twice a year so that staff is kept motivated. Top management must ensure that they support records management in terms of finance including the ensuing challenges.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Records Management Programmes at the Walter Sisulu University, in South Africa: Case Study of Nelson Mandela Drive Campus
- Authors: Giba, Nozipho
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Records -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M.LIS
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17575 , vital:41098
- Description: The main aim of this study was to investigate the status of records management programme at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) using the Nelson Mandela Drive Site of Mthatha Campus. In carrying out this study, four research objectives with thirtyseven (37) research questions were posed. Purposive Sampling was employed to sample 30 Administrative support staff. The instruments used for data collection were questionnaire and face to face interview. Twenty-nine (29) questionnaires out of the thirty (30) returned completed and five senior managers were interviewed face to face. Descriptive statistic was used to analyse the research questions on the questionnaire and thematic approach was used for analysing the response from the interviews. The major findings of the study revealed WSU fell below the requirements in terms of records management programme on maintaining records that document its business activities. Inadequate infrastructure, inadequacy regarding the desirable control of WSU records at each stage as required by the records life cycle framework was also found to be inadequate and limited knowledge of legal requirements regarding records management. Based on these findings, the following recommendations were made. Effort should be made to implement a Centralised control of Decentralised Registry System (Integrated Registry System), provision of training of staff, as well as proper infrastructural facilities.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Reflection and representation: modes of communicating Zimbabwean historical narratives through popular music
- Authors: Gwindingwe, Gift
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Communication Interpersonal communication
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15804 , vital:40528
- Description: Music, before and after independence in the former colonies, has been playing a central role of articulating national concerns. It became an alternative medium through which historical narratives were channeled out to the public. While many scholars have acknowledged the critical role of music’s attempt to whip the autocratic governments into line, and the attempts by the governments across the world to thwart the critical/activism role of music, little emphasis was put on the mechanism of circumventing censorship, the linguistic competence (or lack of it) of music in conscientising the public on national issues. This thesis aims to harness this seemingly entertainment tool (music) into serious academic discourse by looking at the way power relations and ideological contestations are symbolically reflected, represented and communicated in popular culture, in particular the Zimbabwean Sungura and Chimurenga music. It makes a critical analysis of the diction of music as it attempts (or fails to) reflect and represent the Zimbabwean historical narratives from the early 1990s to 2008. The study tries to (semiologically) fracture the musical lexicon and the ideological stance on which it is based to show the extent to which music communicates by way of reflecting and representing the Zimbabwean historical narratives. The thesis looks at how popular music has ‘become the most prominent signifier’ and at ‘the shifting meanings and the significance of … music’ (Nooshin 2005:231) in Zimbabwe. It utilises a qualitative research approach specifically an interpretive prism. Key research methods for the study include in-depth semi-structured interviews which were conducted with purposively selected informants such as university academics and two of the selected musicians. The selected academics were purposively sampled basing on the researcher’s knowledge of their inclination towards Cultural Studies, particularly popular culture. The study has managed to bring clarity to the research questions in a big way considering the application of the various theories that framed the thesis discussion. Research findings indicate that interpretive semiotics aids to unpack the philosophy of meaning making through song. Music as a medium has the reflective effect of a mirror and a photographic effect of a camera to enunciate the ideological innuendo in the leader-led dichotomy. The study shows that protest popular music rejects knowledge that affirms the status quo; it is counter hegemonic and seeks to regenerate selfhoods and self-liberation amongst the subaltern class.
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- Date Issued: 2019
Social Media as Human Rights Watchdog: A critical Analysis of Facebook and WhatsApp use by Citizens and Civil Society Groups in the Run-up to the 2018 Elections in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mututwa, Wishes.T
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social media Online social networks
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15837 , vital:40531
- Description: This study analysed the use of social media platforms, WhatsApp and Facebook in monitoring human rights ahead of Zimbabwe’s 2018 Harmonised elections. Zimbabwe has witnessed gross human rights violations since the attainment of independence in 1980 but most of these violations have been misrepresented, partially captured or ignored particularly by the partisan state media. While issues of human rights have been researched on, there has been a gap in research on the role of social media in safeguarding human rights in Zimbabwe, particularly during election times. There has also been a gap in research about the influences of social media, not just to inspire revolutions but to strengthen democratic practices in Zimbabwe through vibrant discussions of human rights issues on social media platforms. This study was informed by Habermas Theory of public sphere and Social network theory in order to analyse texts shared and discussed on WhatsApp and Facebook about human rights committed ahead of 2018 Harmonised elections. The aim was to establish use of social media as watchdog of human rights. A qualitative content analysis was applied to study texts shared on WhatsApp and Facebook about human rights violations across the country. Three WhatsApp groups and seven Facebook pages were selected for the study from which posts and responses from participants were extracted for analysis. The findings of the study revealed that social media can effectively strengthen democratic practices by exposing government’s unconstitutional practices. Further, social media can be useful in offering ordinary citizens a platform for engagement with civic society as they discuss issues that affect them. The findings of the study also hold the state accountable for the majority of human rights abuses committed throughout the election campaign period. The study then recommended that the government of Zimbabwe should go back to constitutionalism and abide by international human rights treaties to which they are signatory. Further, the study recommended that Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission and other independent commissions be empowered so that human rights are fully enjoyed in Zimbabwe, not just during election campaign periods but all the time
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- Date Issued: 2019
Social Media usage in low-income communities: Opportunities and constraints in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Botchway, Stanley Aubyn
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social media
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc. Sci
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17717 , vital:41150
- Description: Social media is 21st century phenomenon has captured the attention of millions of people across the globe and has hitherto, permeated through all facet of our contemporary life. It has become the important conduit through which people far and near interact. Sharing of information, communicating, collaborating, engaging are some of the visible highlights of Social Media. Social media usage cut across different demographics. This is due to the unique characteristics of social media which includes openness, participation and sharing. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact such usage have on less advantaged communities and how it can be used to further their cause in achieving socioeconomic parity. This study is qualitative in nature and it relied on semi-structured interviews and observations to collect data. Purposive and convenience sampling was used to select respondents. The findings of the study indicate that utilizing social media for the utmost gain is imperative in that the presence of new technologies has revolutionised the way people socialise beyond real time and boundaries. It was also noted that social media is the new norm as such societies far and beyond need to harness the potential not only for the social media generation but for the communities within its reach. Thus, researching into the impact this phenomenon has on the poorest communities is of great importance for both the public and policy makers. This study however recommends regulation of social media in order to contain security risks that it poses. It is therefore important to enhance internet security to protect the privacy threats. It is also important to invest more on issues of information and communication technology on low-income communities
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- Date Issued: 2019
South Africa-based diaspora movements and the pursuit of democratic consolidation in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Ndlovu, Sitembiso Irene
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: African diaspora
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15848 , vital:40532
- Description: The study investigates South Africa-based Diaspora movements and their pursuit of democratic consolidation in Zimbabwe. The study is a qualitative one and made use of both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources included in-depth interviews, Facebook and Twitter posts, whilst secondary sources included textbooks and online journals. The study is premised on both the Political Process and Critical Theories. The study acknowledges that CSOs in general are important key players and have been identified as one of the major actors capable of helping in consolidating democracy. Zimbabwean Diaspora movements have been on the rise due to the mass exodus of its citizens to South Africa following economic collapse and civil strife in the country. The study found out that the civil society and political space in Zimbabwe is mired by partisan use of state security forces, repressive legislations, abuse of human rights and politicisation of the judicial system. These notwithstanding, the study reveals ZEF, CiZC and ZRYM have played their part in trying to consolidate democracy in Zimbabwe from their base in South Africa. They have employed various strategies and these include submitting petitions, advocacy and lobbying, partnerships and dialogues and making use of the Social media. Some of the breakthroughs recorded include educating Zimbabweans and disseminating information through social media, raising awareness and contributing to policy formation. The study, however, notes that apart from their achievements, they have also faced challenges like inadequate resources, xenophobia, leadership crises and donor fatigue. Key findings inferred that strategies used did not yield desired outcomes, and challenges faced made consolidating democracy in Zimbabwe a daunting task. The study recommends that partnerships between the Zimbabwean government and Diaspora movements need to be introduced and sustained in a way that catalyses a relationship where discussions can take place for democracy to be consolidated in Zimbabwe without any form of hostility from the government
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- Date Issued: 2019
Teachers’ beliefs and classroom practices about their oral and written corrective feedback strategies in selected peri-urban and rural schools in Umguza district in Zimbabwe.
- Authors: Green , Flosie Florence
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Teachers Classroom management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17987 , vital:42001
- Description: The goal of the study was to examine teachers’ beliefs and classroom practices about their corrective feedback strategies in selected peri-urban rural schools in Umguza District in Zimbabwe, in order to draw up a Corrective Feedback model aimed at enhancing ESL proficiency among O’ level school pupils. The study has been necessitated by challenges which post O’ level students face when communicating in English at institutions of higher learning. The study used the mixed research approach, whereby both quantitative and qualitative methods of gathering data were used though the dominant approach was the qualitative approach. Data was collected through questionnaires, semi structured interviews, lesson observations and examination of pupils’ written exercises. The questionnaire was completed by twenty two teachers. Semi-structured interviews were held with six teachers from the selected schools, while nine lesson observations were done and eighty exercise books were scrutinized for the presence of written Corrective Feedback. Results obtained showed that teachers’ stated beliefs about corrective feedback were not always demonstrated in their classroom practices. Furthermore the study revealed that oral Corrective Feedback was not used consistently in addition to a lack of uniformity in both the usage and interpretation of written Corrective Feedback. Results obtained showed that teachers’ stated beliefs about Corrective Feedback were not always demonstrated in their classroom practices. In addition, the study also revealed that some teachers were not aware of the codes used in written Corrective Feedback and their meaning. The conclusion reached in this study was that vi there is need for a more informed and consistent usage of Corrective Feedback among teachers. In the light of this finding, a Corrective Feedback model was suggested to assist teachers apply Corrective Feedback more consistently and more productively. A number of recommendations were made at the conclusion of this study. Firstly, it was recommended that marking codes be availed to teachers and pupils before the beginning of the school calendar. The contents of the advisory chart included in this study could be given to pupils to copy onto the back of their exercise books to enable them to interpret the feedback which the teachers would have written. It was recommended that teachers familiarise themselves with the developments in the use of CF in the ESL classroom. At school level this could be done through staff development workshop, where teachers share experiences about what works and what does not work in the ESL classroom. This should be done in view of the existing problem of communicative incompetency bedevilling pupils nationally. Secondly it was recommended that teachers familiarise themselves with the developments in the use of CF in the ESL classroom. The final recommendation was that teachers adopt minimal marking in the form of codes in order to cut down on turnaround time as well as stimulate individual learner automatisation of knowledge.
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- Date Issued: 2019
The community as part of a multi-stakeholder approach towards development opportunities for youth in Indwe, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Baleni , Khangelwa
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Youth development Community development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSW
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17518 , vital:41083
- Description: This dissertation discusses the involvement of a community in creating development opportunities for youth in Indwe, under Emalahleni Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape. Establishing a position where community members put themselves concerning youth development is what inspired the study. The study is further motivated by trying to gain perspectives from the youth because most discourses on youth rarely feature their voices. Additionally, it seeks to gain perspectives on the stakeholder’s insights on the involvement of the community in youth development. The literature consulted was broken up into; the situation of youth in South Africa, which looked at youth unemployment and youth development policies; youth development, which looked at risk and protective factors that affect youth development. The literature further uncovered the role currently played by communities in youth development, and lastly the multi-stakeholder processes for youth development. The Quintuple Helix model was a framework used to shape this study. This framework emphasises that the natural environment and in this case, the community be added to other stakeholders to ensure a sustainable youth development. What is crucial in the framework is the overlap and cross-communication between the different helixes or sectors, sectors such as the university, the government, the private sector, the culture based media, and the natural environment. The study utilised a qualitative methodology with an interpretive and descriptive paradigm, which used focus groups and a qualitative questionnaire as a method of data collection. The data was analysed and presented following the following three themes; i.e., community involvement in youth development, indigenous knowledge for youth development, and opportunities for youth development. The findings of the study revealed that, if Indwe community provides youth with more spaces, and chances to participate in their development, the youth could challenge prominent discourses than treat them as unmotivated, and exclude them from decision-making processes, which directly affect them, and the society within which they live. The findings also revealed that the Indwe community should inform youth iv development programmes, as this would ensure sustainability, and give a sense of ownership to the community. The findings further indicated that the Indwe community could utilise its natural resources to create opportunities for youth development. Moreover, the private sector, the media, and the education system have all contributed in youth development; however, the government has taken full responsibility for youth development in Indwe, and this caused the participants to feel that it is the government’s responsibility to create opportunities for youth development. In conclusion, Indwe community has a challenge of youth development. The problem is fuelled by issues such as complexity in politics, nepotism, and a lack of opportunities. Stakeholders such as the private sector, the media based culture, and the government are involved in the creation of development opportunities for youth in Indwe. However, the sector that has taken the most responsibility for the development of youth is the government. Indwe community members are not involved in the creation of opportunities for youth development; they, however, understand that they have to be significant role players.
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- Date Issued: 2019
The construction and positioning of pregnant learners within contemporary South African legislation and policy
- Authors: Naidoo, Tashmin
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pregnant teenagers Educational law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc. Sci (Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16517 , vital:40727
- Description: In South Africa, nearly a third of women have children before they reach the age of 20, and basic education is compulsory until the age of 16. Many learners within the South African context continue to attend school until they are at least 20. Of all those teenage girls who fall pregnant, it is estimated that only around a third stay in school during their pregnancy and return following childbirth, with the highest return rate among those in Grade 12. As a result the government is committed to enforcing legislation and policy that protects and allows for pregnant learners to exercise their rights. The rationale of the study focuses on the fact that, rights-based documents are often at odds with the hierarchical spaces within schools. In practice, teachers and school managers continue to have the power to exclude pregnant learners. Although there is excellent legislation and progressive policy, these documents do not address the larger ideological landscape that impacts on the successful implementation of policy. Often policy is contradictory, ambiguous and draws on very conservative discourse. The aims of this study were to analyze the positioning of the pregnant learner within legislation and policy. A qualitative framework utilizing positioning theory was adopted in order to understand how the pregnant learner is positioned and constructed within relevant policy and legislation. This was accomplished by critically analyzing the discourses used within policy in order to tease out various themes or discourses, for example the pregnant learner as an ‘unfit mother’, as responsible, or as rights bearing etc. This was done in order to understand how the pregnant learner is positioned and what the implications of this positioning impose upon her life. The analysis suggests that pregnant learners are positioned as shifting ‘subjects’ in order to achieve very specific aims. The study established that their rights are not always absolute but contingent on other factors, that she is positioned as transitional, vulnerable, and rights-bearing and expected to be responsible. It is recommended that these policies be amended through a process of engagement with teachers and school management in order to ensure the rights of pregnant learners in schools.
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- Date Issued: 2019