The implementation of the arts and culture learning area in previously disadvantaged schools in the Nelsona Mandela Bay area : teacher experiences
- Authors: Browne, Elaine
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Arts -- Study and teaching (Primary) , Culture -- Study and teaching , Teachers -- Training of -- Curricula
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9484 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1407 , Arts -- Study and teaching (Primary) , Culture -- Study and teaching , Teachers -- Training of -- Curricula
- Description: Inherent to post‐apartheid educational transformation was the design and subsequent implementation of a new national school curriculum. The current curriculum‐in‐use, namely the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) comprises eight compulsory learning areas. One of these learning areas, Arts and Culture, aims to equip learners with skills and knowledge with regard to four distinct arts disciplines, namely music, dance, drama and visual art. In the General Education and Training Band (GET) phase, general classroom teachers are expected to implement this highly specialised learning area. This research aimed to determine how teachers employed at Nelson Mandela Bay primary schools were disadvantaged during the apartheid era, experience the implementation of arts education. Focus group interviews were conducted at schools situated in the low socio‐economic areas. The results revealed that, despite their profound awareness of the unique advantages of arts education for the learners, several impediments hampered the successful attainment of its value. The obstacles highlighted by the teachers were the curriculum itself, teaching and learning environments that are not conducive for arts education, and unsatisfactory involvement of the Department of Education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Browne, Elaine
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Arts -- Study and teaching (Primary) , Culture -- Study and teaching , Teachers -- Training of -- Curricula
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:9484 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1407 , Arts -- Study and teaching (Primary) , Culture -- Study and teaching , Teachers -- Training of -- Curricula
- Description: Inherent to post‐apartheid educational transformation was the design and subsequent implementation of a new national school curriculum. The current curriculum‐in‐use, namely the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) comprises eight compulsory learning areas. One of these learning areas, Arts and Culture, aims to equip learners with skills and knowledge with regard to four distinct arts disciplines, namely music, dance, drama and visual art. In the General Education and Training Band (GET) phase, general classroom teachers are expected to implement this highly specialised learning area. This research aimed to determine how teachers employed at Nelson Mandela Bay primary schools were disadvantaged during the apartheid era, experience the implementation of arts education. Focus group interviews were conducted at schools situated in the low socio‐economic areas. The results revealed that, despite their profound awareness of the unique advantages of arts education for the learners, several impediments hampered the successful attainment of its value. The obstacles highlighted by the teachers were the curriculum itself, teaching and learning environments that are not conducive for arts education, and unsatisfactory involvement of the Department of Education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The implementation of the right to education in South Africa and Nigeria
- Authors: Taiwo, Elijah Adewale
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Right to education -- South Africa , Right to education -- Nigeria , Human rights -- Study and teaching , Comparative education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Nigeria , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , LLD
- Identifier: vital:10279 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1392 , Right to education -- South Africa , Right to education -- Nigeria , Human rights -- Study and teaching , Comparative education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Nigeria , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- Nigeria
- Description: The thesis examines the right to education in South Africa and Nigeria. It presents the right to education as an empowerment right which is given a wide recognition in a number of important international and regional human rights instruments as well as in national constitutions. It asserts that the right to education is a right with a multiplying effect in the sense that where it is effectively guaranteed, it enhances the enjoyment of all other rights and freedoms, and when it is denied, it precludes the enjoyment of many other human rights. The thesis examines the provisions of relevant international and regional human rights instruments to assess the adequacy of a framework that applies to South Africa and Nigeria's obligations regarding the right to education. It argues that those instruments impose obligations on all the States to make primary, secondary and higher levels of education available, accessible, acceptable and adaptable to all in their territories. It argues that by having ratified those international agreements in which the right to education is protected, both South Africa and Nigeria assume obligations under international law, enjoining them to realise the right to education and to respect freedoms in education. The study adopts a comparative approach and relies on primary and secondary sources of data; the data is subjected to an in-depth content analysis. The focus of the comparison is on whether the South African's position regarding the right to education can inform Nigeria's interpretation of the right to education. The reason being that the Nigerian Constitution does not provide for the right to education as a basic right as exists in South Africa. The Nigerian Constitution categorised the right to education under “fundamental objectives and directive principles” which are non-justiciable. In this sense, the thesis argues that the legal classification of the right to education, to a large extent, affects its realisation in Nigeria. It suggests that an important area where Nigeria could learn from South Africa is the issue of justiciability and constitutionalising the right to education as well as other socio-economic rights. In terms of implementation, the thesis submits that despite the international obligations and commitments to provide education for all, there is a significant gap between what is stipulated and the practical realities in the two countries. It argues that the right to education is more than a mere school attendance, how well a learner progresses in school is equally important. It posits that the high failure rates and the progressive slide in students' performances in schools xx examinations as shown in the study illustrate the poor quality and falling standard of education in the two countries. South Africa enjoys one of the highest rates of formal school enrolment of any developing country, yet the link between access and success is also weak in the South African schools just as in Nigerian schools. Inadequate planning, poor implementation of policies, lack of adequate resources and commitments are identified as the prime factors hampering the implementation of the right to education in both countries. Solving these problems and making the right to education realisable call for a renewed government commitments and investment of appropriate human and financial resources on education. This also requires a strong political will as well as concerted efforts of all the various actors in the educational sector in the two countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Taiwo, Elijah Adewale
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Right to education -- South Africa , Right to education -- Nigeria , Human rights -- Study and teaching , Comparative education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Nigeria , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , LLD
- Identifier: vital:10279 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1392 , Right to education -- South Africa , Right to education -- Nigeria , Human rights -- Study and teaching , Comparative education , Education -- South Africa , Education -- Nigeria , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Right to education -- Law and legislation -- Nigeria
- Description: The thesis examines the right to education in South Africa and Nigeria. It presents the right to education as an empowerment right which is given a wide recognition in a number of important international and regional human rights instruments as well as in national constitutions. It asserts that the right to education is a right with a multiplying effect in the sense that where it is effectively guaranteed, it enhances the enjoyment of all other rights and freedoms, and when it is denied, it precludes the enjoyment of many other human rights. The thesis examines the provisions of relevant international and regional human rights instruments to assess the adequacy of a framework that applies to South Africa and Nigeria's obligations regarding the right to education. It argues that those instruments impose obligations on all the States to make primary, secondary and higher levels of education available, accessible, acceptable and adaptable to all in their territories. It argues that by having ratified those international agreements in which the right to education is protected, both South Africa and Nigeria assume obligations under international law, enjoining them to realise the right to education and to respect freedoms in education. The study adopts a comparative approach and relies on primary and secondary sources of data; the data is subjected to an in-depth content analysis. The focus of the comparison is on whether the South African's position regarding the right to education can inform Nigeria's interpretation of the right to education. The reason being that the Nigerian Constitution does not provide for the right to education as a basic right as exists in South Africa. The Nigerian Constitution categorised the right to education under “fundamental objectives and directive principles” which are non-justiciable. In this sense, the thesis argues that the legal classification of the right to education, to a large extent, affects its realisation in Nigeria. It suggests that an important area where Nigeria could learn from South Africa is the issue of justiciability and constitutionalising the right to education as well as other socio-economic rights. In terms of implementation, the thesis submits that despite the international obligations and commitments to provide education for all, there is a significant gap between what is stipulated and the practical realities in the two countries. It argues that the right to education is more than a mere school attendance, how well a learner progresses in school is equally important. It posits that the high failure rates and the progressive slide in students' performances in schools xx examinations as shown in the study illustrate the poor quality and falling standard of education in the two countries. South Africa enjoys one of the highest rates of formal school enrolment of any developing country, yet the link between access and success is also weak in the South African schools just as in Nigerian schools. Inadequate planning, poor implementation of policies, lack of adequate resources and commitments are identified as the prime factors hampering the implementation of the right to education in both countries. Solving these problems and making the right to education realisable call for a renewed government commitments and investment of appropriate human and financial resources on education. This also requires a strong political will as well as concerted efforts of all the various actors in the educational sector in the two countries.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The influence of 1950s fashion photographers, Richard Avedon and Irving Penn, on photographers Matthew Rolston and Steven Meisel
- Authors: Cordier, Astrid
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Fashion photpgraphy , Photographers -- United States
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8496 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008112 , Fashion photpgraphy , Photographers -- United States
- Description: Photography has been used to record and document periods in time, which Wells (2001:19) acknowledges by stating that, “…photographs are records and documents which pin down the changing world of appearance”. Richard Avedon and Irving Penn made a significant contribution to fashion photography during the 1950s but this has seldom been explored in a scholarly way. By defining the characteristics of Avedon and Penn’s work, a possible understanding of their influence on contemporary fashion photographers, Matthew Rolston and Steven Meisel may be determined and so expand on the understanding of the contribution of Avedon and Penn to contemporary fashion photography. Avedon, Penn, Rolston and Meisel’s fashion photographs will be visually analysed to show the similarities and the relevance of 1950s fashion photography to contemporary fashion photography. Paul Martin Lester’s (2003) method of visual analysis will be used as the basis for this analysis. The reason for choosing Lester’s methods of visual analysis is that it can be applied to all fields of visual art and design. Contemporary fashion photography draws on many different stylistic devices and periods in history for its re-invention, so it is important to understand what constitutes the defining characteristics of a stylistic period in history to be able to revisit it in contemporary photography.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Cordier, Astrid
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Fashion photpgraphy , Photographers -- United States
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:8496 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008112 , Fashion photpgraphy , Photographers -- United States
- Description: Photography has been used to record and document periods in time, which Wells (2001:19) acknowledges by stating that, “…photographs are records and documents which pin down the changing world of appearance”. Richard Avedon and Irving Penn made a significant contribution to fashion photography during the 1950s but this has seldom been explored in a scholarly way. By defining the characteristics of Avedon and Penn’s work, a possible understanding of their influence on contemporary fashion photographers, Matthew Rolston and Steven Meisel may be determined and so expand on the understanding of the contribution of Avedon and Penn to contemporary fashion photography. Avedon, Penn, Rolston and Meisel’s fashion photographs will be visually analysed to show the similarities and the relevance of 1950s fashion photography to contemporary fashion photography. Paul Martin Lester’s (2003) method of visual analysis will be used as the basis for this analysis. The reason for choosing Lester’s methods of visual analysis is that it can be applied to all fields of visual art and design. Contemporary fashion photography draws on many different stylistic devices and periods in history for its re-invention, so it is important to understand what constitutes the defining characteristics of a stylistic period in history to be able to revisit it in contemporary photography.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The influence of endorsed professional surfers on consumer attitude towards surf brands
- Authors: Greybe, Frikkie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Brand name products , Branding (Marketing) , Surfers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8671 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008470 , Brand name products , Branding (Marketing) , Surfers
- Description: Sport, with the help of the media, plays a huge role in today’s society. Sport fans are following their favourite athlete and teams religiously as they compete locally and internationally. Over a century ago, the first professional athlete was endorsed. Since then companies are investing millions of dollars in athlete endorsement to promote brand awareness under consumers. The surfing industry is no different. With the Association of Professional Surfers (ASP) world tour, the big surf companies are jumping at the opportunity to sponsor pro surfers to market their products. Previous studies have shown athletes can evoke both positive and negative attitudes towards their endorsing brand thus effecting company’s sales. The aim of this study was to research the influence these endorsed pro surfers have on consumer behaviour towards their brand in a local market. A qualitative study was done on local surfers in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Results showed that favourite surfers evoke a positive attitude towards their sponsoring brand. However this influence does not seem to be as significant as in other sports. Surf companies within the industry should be aware of the big influence age has on the consumers behaviour and that different age groups follow different surfers. Companies should choose to sponsor professional surfers that fit the image of the company and the products, not necessarily the professional surfer who performs the best. Using professional surfers in advertising of products does create better brand awareness, but endorsed professional surfers are not likely to change consumer’s perceptions of the endorsing brand’s products.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Greybe, Frikkie
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Brand name products , Branding (Marketing) , Surfers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8671 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008470 , Brand name products , Branding (Marketing) , Surfers
- Description: Sport, with the help of the media, plays a huge role in today’s society. Sport fans are following their favourite athlete and teams religiously as they compete locally and internationally. Over a century ago, the first professional athlete was endorsed. Since then companies are investing millions of dollars in athlete endorsement to promote brand awareness under consumers. The surfing industry is no different. With the Association of Professional Surfers (ASP) world tour, the big surf companies are jumping at the opportunity to sponsor pro surfers to market their products. Previous studies have shown athletes can evoke both positive and negative attitudes towards their endorsing brand thus effecting company’s sales. The aim of this study was to research the influence these endorsed pro surfers have on consumer behaviour towards their brand in a local market. A qualitative study was done on local surfers in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Results showed that favourite surfers evoke a positive attitude towards their sponsoring brand. However this influence does not seem to be as significant as in other sports. Surf companies within the industry should be aware of the big influence age has on the consumers behaviour and that different age groups follow different surfers. Companies should choose to sponsor professional surfers that fit the image of the company and the products, not necessarily the professional surfer who performs the best. Using professional surfers in advertising of products does create better brand awareness, but endorsed professional surfers are not likely to change consumer’s perceptions of the endorsing brand’s products.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The influence of fire and plantation management on Wetlands on the Tsitsikamma plateau
- Authors: Hugo, Christine Denise
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Forest management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau , Dragonflies -- Effect of habitat modification on -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1464 , Forest management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau , Dragonflies -- Effect of habitat modification on -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau
- Description: Wetlands on the extensively afforested Tsitsikamma Plateau are prone to fire and according to foresters, they behave as fire channels that under bergwind conditions rapidly carry fire into plantations. The destruction of plantations causes great economic loss and MTO would therefore prefer to afforest some smaller wetlands to limit the fire hazard. This study was carried out in the middle of a drought period and sought to determine the influence of fire, plantation management and the environment on wetlands and its component species. This study of palustrine wetlands on the Tsitsikamma Plateau identified five wetland vegetation communities, in which plant species richness was relatively low. Plant compositional structure of wetlands is influenced by wetland location, the height of the adjacent plantation and fire frequency. This study found a pronounced plant species turnover from west to east and soil coarseness increased along the same gradient. Re-sprouters dominated the wetland communities in the Tsitsikamma but a few populations of the obligate re-seeding ‘Near threatened’ Leucadendron conicum rely on fire for rejuvenation purposes. Regarding dragonflies in wetlands, abundance was found to be low, while species richness was relatively high considering the absence of surface water. The study found that fire indirectly influenced dragonfly abundance and species composition by altering vegetation structure. Dragonfly abundance and species richness was generally higher in wetlands with older vegetation (≥ 9 years). Further, most dragonflies frequenting the palustrine wetland habitats were females. Seeing that female dragonflies spend most of their time away from prime breeding habitats to escape male harassment, the study indicated these wetlands as important refuge habitats for them. Dragonfly abundance is expected to increase once the drought ends; however, the overall patterns observed are likely to remain unchanged under wetter conditions. Narrow wetlands (< 10 m) are few on the plateau and it is not advisable to sacrifice wider wetlands in the Tsitsikamma. Further, with regards to ecological processes and wetlands’ influence on the surrounding Tsitsikamma matrix, more research is needed before wetlands may be sacrificed. To deal with the fire risk the Tsitsikamma environment poses to plantations, it is strongly recommended to establish and maintain a cleared buffer area between plantations and wetlands. Further, for vegetation rejuvenation purposes, it is important to burn wetlands at irregular intervals but not more frequently than every nine years and not less frequently than every 25-30 years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Hugo, Christine Denise
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Forest management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau , Dragonflies -- Effect of habitat modification on -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10747 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1464 , Forest management -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau , Dragonflies -- Effect of habitat modification on -- South Africa -- Tsitsikama Plateau
- Description: Wetlands on the extensively afforested Tsitsikamma Plateau are prone to fire and according to foresters, they behave as fire channels that under bergwind conditions rapidly carry fire into plantations. The destruction of plantations causes great economic loss and MTO would therefore prefer to afforest some smaller wetlands to limit the fire hazard. This study was carried out in the middle of a drought period and sought to determine the influence of fire, plantation management and the environment on wetlands and its component species. This study of palustrine wetlands on the Tsitsikamma Plateau identified five wetland vegetation communities, in which plant species richness was relatively low. Plant compositional structure of wetlands is influenced by wetland location, the height of the adjacent plantation and fire frequency. This study found a pronounced plant species turnover from west to east and soil coarseness increased along the same gradient. Re-sprouters dominated the wetland communities in the Tsitsikamma but a few populations of the obligate re-seeding ‘Near threatened’ Leucadendron conicum rely on fire for rejuvenation purposes. Regarding dragonflies in wetlands, abundance was found to be low, while species richness was relatively high considering the absence of surface water. The study found that fire indirectly influenced dragonfly abundance and species composition by altering vegetation structure. Dragonfly abundance and species richness was generally higher in wetlands with older vegetation (≥ 9 years). Further, most dragonflies frequenting the palustrine wetland habitats were females. Seeing that female dragonflies spend most of their time away from prime breeding habitats to escape male harassment, the study indicated these wetlands as important refuge habitats for them. Dragonfly abundance is expected to increase once the drought ends; however, the overall patterns observed are likely to remain unchanged under wetter conditions. Narrow wetlands (< 10 m) are few on the plateau and it is not advisable to sacrifice wider wetlands in the Tsitsikamma. Further, with regards to ecological processes and wetlands’ influence on the surrounding Tsitsikamma matrix, more research is needed before wetlands may be sacrificed. To deal with the fire risk the Tsitsikamma environment poses to plantations, it is strongly recommended to establish and maintain a cleared buffer area between plantations and wetlands. Further, for vegetation rejuvenation purposes, it is important to burn wetlands at irregular intervals but not more frequently than every nine years and not less frequently than every 25-30 years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The influence of genetic relatedness on sociality and demography of female African elephants
- Authors: Munishi, Linus Kasian
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: African elephant , Wildlife conservation , Elephants -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10711 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011612 , African elephant , Wildlife conservation , Elephants -- Africa
- Description: Many elephant populations across Africa were or are being devastated by poaching and habitat loss, making population and range size for the species important issues of conservation concern in elephant ranging areas, including Tarangire National Park (TNP). Poaching and/or overhunting are known to have direct effects on the demography of elephant populations. The current understanding of the indirect effects of poaching on the sociality and demography of elephant populations is relatively poor, both at the group and an individual level. In this thesis the importance of genetic relatedness (as influenced by poaching) on sociality and demography of the female elephants was studied, using a combination of genetic, observation of behaviour and two decades of demography data collected from the northern subpopulation of TNP. I investigated and characterized the relatedness categories within elephant groups. Using a conceptual model for group size analysis in aggregation economies, I hypothesized that elephant populations subject to social disruptions due to poaching would exhibit characteristics of the free entry model, whereas more stable, closed populations would better fit the group-controlled model. I present a rare quantitative analysis of genetic relatedness and group size patterns among groups of adult female elephants in two wild populations: one in Tarangire National Park (TNP), Tanzania, and another in Addo Elephant National Park (AENP), South Africa. I demonstrate that the group size in African elephant populations is governed by genetic relatedness, and that poaching/overhunting has a significant influence upon the apparent group formation and size in elephants. I then focused on the effect of relatedness on agonistic interactions between adult females. I hypothesized that individual-based aggressive interactions among adult female African elephants would vary according to degree of kinship, with closely related dyads showing less aggression towards each other in resource-limited environments, thereby leading to indirect fitness benefits for individuals. As predicted, females did not show agonistic interactions to their close kin most often, and the frequency and intensity of aggressive interactions was inversely related to the degree of relatedness of the interactants. The effect of group relatedness and structure on reproductive success of individual female African elephant in TNP was also investigated. Adult female reproductive success was significantly influenced by within- group relatedness and structure. Higher reproductive success (with higher frequency of calf production and survival and more female calves produced) were more evident in the closely related groups than groups with low relatedness, suggesting that females from genetically disrupted groups are less likely to be reproductive than those in closely related groups. The possibility of negative effects of poaching on the subsequent generation of poached adult females and the alternative of a positive demographic response through reduced density was assessed by analysing the demographic patterns of the first generation (F1) females of prime-aged adult female African elephants in TNP using within- group relatedness and size. I also compared vital rate (age of first birth and interbirth interval) responses of first generation (F1) cows from Tarangire (poached) elephants with other females from poached (Northern Luangwa National Park, Zambia) and unpoached (Amboseli National Park, Kenya and Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa) populations. Group relatedness had no significant effect on sex ratio of the F1 cows‟ calves. There was a significant difference between the mean age of first birth and interbirth interval of F1 cows from the two (poached, Tarangire and unpoached, Amboseli National Park) elephant populations, suggesting that elephant populations reduced by poaching to low levels show an increase vigour through release from density constraints. Based on these results, the broader implications of secondary effects of poaching on elephant populations are critically evaluated. Also the importance of understanding the consequences of these effects is highlighted in light of other elephant conservation and management approaches. This understanding is useful in making conservation and management decisions for elephants and other biodiversity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Munishi, Linus Kasian
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: African elephant , Wildlife conservation , Elephants -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:10711 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011612 , African elephant , Wildlife conservation , Elephants -- Africa
- Description: Many elephant populations across Africa were or are being devastated by poaching and habitat loss, making population and range size for the species important issues of conservation concern in elephant ranging areas, including Tarangire National Park (TNP). Poaching and/or overhunting are known to have direct effects on the demography of elephant populations. The current understanding of the indirect effects of poaching on the sociality and demography of elephant populations is relatively poor, both at the group and an individual level. In this thesis the importance of genetic relatedness (as influenced by poaching) on sociality and demography of the female elephants was studied, using a combination of genetic, observation of behaviour and two decades of demography data collected from the northern subpopulation of TNP. I investigated and characterized the relatedness categories within elephant groups. Using a conceptual model for group size analysis in aggregation economies, I hypothesized that elephant populations subject to social disruptions due to poaching would exhibit characteristics of the free entry model, whereas more stable, closed populations would better fit the group-controlled model. I present a rare quantitative analysis of genetic relatedness and group size patterns among groups of adult female elephants in two wild populations: one in Tarangire National Park (TNP), Tanzania, and another in Addo Elephant National Park (AENP), South Africa. I demonstrate that the group size in African elephant populations is governed by genetic relatedness, and that poaching/overhunting has a significant influence upon the apparent group formation and size in elephants. I then focused on the effect of relatedness on agonistic interactions between adult females. I hypothesized that individual-based aggressive interactions among adult female African elephants would vary according to degree of kinship, with closely related dyads showing less aggression towards each other in resource-limited environments, thereby leading to indirect fitness benefits for individuals. As predicted, females did not show agonistic interactions to their close kin most often, and the frequency and intensity of aggressive interactions was inversely related to the degree of relatedness of the interactants. The effect of group relatedness and structure on reproductive success of individual female African elephant in TNP was also investigated. Adult female reproductive success was significantly influenced by within- group relatedness and structure. Higher reproductive success (with higher frequency of calf production and survival and more female calves produced) were more evident in the closely related groups than groups with low relatedness, suggesting that females from genetically disrupted groups are less likely to be reproductive than those in closely related groups. The possibility of negative effects of poaching on the subsequent generation of poached adult females and the alternative of a positive demographic response through reduced density was assessed by analysing the demographic patterns of the first generation (F1) females of prime-aged adult female African elephants in TNP using within- group relatedness and size. I also compared vital rate (age of first birth and interbirth interval) responses of first generation (F1) cows from Tarangire (poached) elephants with other females from poached (Northern Luangwa National Park, Zambia) and unpoached (Amboseli National Park, Kenya and Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa) populations. Group relatedness had no significant effect on sex ratio of the F1 cows‟ calves. There was a significant difference between the mean age of first birth and interbirth interval of F1 cows from the two (poached, Tarangire and unpoached, Amboseli National Park) elephant populations, suggesting that elephant populations reduced by poaching to low levels show an increase vigour through release from density constraints. Based on these results, the broader implications of secondary effects of poaching on elephant populations are critically evaluated. Also the importance of understanding the consequences of these effects is highlighted in light of other elephant conservation and management approaches. This understanding is useful in making conservation and management decisions for elephants and other biodiversity.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The influence of leadership on the organisational effectiveness of SAPS precincts
- Authors: Chetty, Sandy-Lee
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: South Africa Police Service , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Leadership -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1590 , South Africa Police Service , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Leadership -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Description: Public institutions have the responsibility to deliver various services to the public in the most effective and efficient manner. In South Africa, many public sector reforms were instituted after 1994. The main reasons for these reforms were to improve the access of the historically disadvantaged to public services, to increase efficiencies, to reduce costs and to reduce public debt. Despite improvements to the policy framework that underpins service delivery by the public sector, however, there are still many challenges in the delivery of public services. An improved public policy to deliver service alone is not enough if not supported by effective systems and processes for actual delivery, as well as effective leadership that leads and ensures the delivery of such services. Improving the organisational effectiveness of public institutions is therefore important in South Africa. The present study explores the role that leadership plays in the pursuit of organisational effectiveness in a selected public institution, namely the South African Police Service (SAPS). The primary objective of this study is to improve the organisational effectiveness of SAPS in the Nelson Mandela Bay municipal area by investigating the influence of leadership style (transactional and transformational) and personality (Machiavellian, narcissistic, collectivistic, masculine and feminine) on organisational effectiveness of SAPS (as measured by overall organisational performance and the individual job performance intentions of police officers). The research design is positivistic, as the relationships among the above-mentioned variables are statistically tested. The sample consisted of 90 police officers of senior rank drawn from five police stations in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The empirical results were reported and interpreted. These results revealed that constructive narcissistic and collectivistic leadership personality traits, as well as transformational leadership style exert a positive influence on the organisational performance of the Nelson Mandela Bay police precincts. The empirical results also showed that collectivistic leadership personality traits influence the performance intent of these police officials positively. These results are discussed in terms of the implications they hold for the managers of police precincts. The limitations of the study are reported which provide areas for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Chetty, Sandy-Lee
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: South Africa Police Service , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Leadership -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8607 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1590 , South Africa Police Service , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Leadership -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Description: Public institutions have the responsibility to deliver various services to the public in the most effective and efficient manner. In South Africa, many public sector reforms were instituted after 1994. The main reasons for these reforms were to improve the access of the historically disadvantaged to public services, to increase efficiencies, to reduce costs and to reduce public debt. Despite improvements to the policy framework that underpins service delivery by the public sector, however, there are still many challenges in the delivery of public services. An improved public policy to deliver service alone is not enough if not supported by effective systems and processes for actual delivery, as well as effective leadership that leads and ensures the delivery of such services. Improving the organisational effectiveness of public institutions is therefore important in South Africa. The present study explores the role that leadership plays in the pursuit of organisational effectiveness in a selected public institution, namely the South African Police Service (SAPS). The primary objective of this study is to improve the organisational effectiveness of SAPS in the Nelson Mandela Bay municipal area by investigating the influence of leadership style (transactional and transformational) and personality (Machiavellian, narcissistic, collectivistic, masculine and feminine) on organisational effectiveness of SAPS (as measured by overall organisational performance and the individual job performance intentions of police officers). The research design is positivistic, as the relationships among the above-mentioned variables are statistically tested. The sample consisted of 90 police officers of senior rank drawn from five police stations in the Nelson Mandela Bay. The empirical results were reported and interpreted. These results revealed that constructive narcissistic and collectivistic leadership personality traits, as well as transformational leadership style exert a positive influence on the organisational performance of the Nelson Mandela Bay police precincts. The empirical results also showed that collectivistic leadership personality traits influence the performance intent of these police officials positively. These results are discussed in terms of the implications they hold for the managers of police precincts. The limitations of the study are reported which provide areas for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The legal and regulatory aspects of international remittances within the SADC region
- Authors: Mbalekwa, Simbarashe
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Emigrant remittances -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10210 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006368 , Emigrant remittances -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Description: Migrant labourers who cross borders often have to send money back to their various countries of origin. These monetary transfers are known as remittances. To send these funds migrants often opt to rely on informal mechanisms as opposed to the remittance services of formal financial institutions such as banks. Informal remittance mechanisms raise a number of concerns such as those related to consumer protection. In contrast to formal channels informal channels are not based on any legally binding agreements. They are highly based on trust and do not offer any legally binding guarantee that the funds will be delivered or that the remitter will be reimbursed in the event of non-delivery. Aside from consumer protection concerns, informal remittances also raise security related concerns. These channels are not subject to the supervision of any regulatory authority and usually offer a high level of anonymity. They can act as an attractive mechanism for terrorists and criminal organisations to launder and mobilise their illicit funds. Taking into mind the concerns mentioned above, as well as others, it would be preferable for more remittances to be channeled through formal financial mechanisms. In conducting research on remittance transactions financial, as well as other institutions and organisations, have outlined legal and regulatory provisions in sending and recipient countries as being a factor that often hinders migrants from accessing formal financial services. This dissertation examines how the South African legal and regulatory framework affects the formalisation of remittances by migrant labourers, with a focus on the context of low-income migrants. The study identifies the Exchange control, immigration, anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism legislative provisions as being the most significant provisions that affect the formalisation of migrant remittances. So as to make an analysis and gather recommendations were possible, a comparison of the South African legal and regulatory provisions is made to those of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The dissertation comes to the conclusion that South African legal and regulatory provisions hinder the formalisation of migrant remittances to a certain extent. They do so by collectively and individually restricting migrants who do not fulfill legislative requisites from accessing formal remittance channels. It is submitted that such migrants are inclined to rely on informal remittance mechanisms when the need to send money arises. Furthermore, South African law restricts competition within the remittance market by making it difficult for service providers to enter the market. The lack of an adequate competitive level fosters the prevalence of high remittance costs which can pose a significant barrier to low income migrants that wish to channel funds via formal means. Taking into mind the significance of formalising remittances as well as the objectives that the laws that hinder them seek to attain, which are equally significant, it is necessary for the regulatory authorities to investigate ways on how to possibly cater for both. It is submitted that if more remittances were to be channeled through official means the objectives sought to be attained by some of these legislative provisions would be attained more efficiently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mbalekwa, Simbarashe
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Emigrant remittances -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10210 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1006368 , Emigrant remittances -- South Africa , Foreign exchange -- South Africa , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Description: Migrant labourers who cross borders often have to send money back to their various countries of origin. These monetary transfers are known as remittances. To send these funds migrants often opt to rely on informal mechanisms as opposed to the remittance services of formal financial institutions such as banks. Informal remittance mechanisms raise a number of concerns such as those related to consumer protection. In contrast to formal channels informal channels are not based on any legally binding agreements. They are highly based on trust and do not offer any legally binding guarantee that the funds will be delivered or that the remitter will be reimbursed in the event of non-delivery. Aside from consumer protection concerns, informal remittances also raise security related concerns. These channels are not subject to the supervision of any regulatory authority and usually offer a high level of anonymity. They can act as an attractive mechanism for terrorists and criminal organisations to launder and mobilise their illicit funds. Taking into mind the concerns mentioned above, as well as others, it would be preferable for more remittances to be channeled through formal financial mechanisms. In conducting research on remittance transactions financial, as well as other institutions and organisations, have outlined legal and regulatory provisions in sending and recipient countries as being a factor that often hinders migrants from accessing formal financial services. This dissertation examines how the South African legal and regulatory framework affects the formalisation of remittances by migrant labourers, with a focus on the context of low-income migrants. The study identifies the Exchange control, immigration, anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism legislative provisions as being the most significant provisions that affect the formalisation of migrant remittances. So as to make an analysis and gather recommendations were possible, a comparison of the South African legal and regulatory provisions is made to those of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The dissertation comes to the conclusion that South African legal and regulatory provisions hinder the formalisation of migrant remittances to a certain extent. They do so by collectively and individually restricting migrants who do not fulfill legislative requisites from accessing formal remittance channels. It is submitted that such migrants are inclined to rely on informal remittance mechanisms when the need to send money arises. Furthermore, South African law restricts competition within the remittance market by making it difficult for service providers to enter the market. The lack of an adequate competitive level fosters the prevalence of high remittance costs which can pose a significant barrier to low income migrants that wish to channel funds via formal means. Taking into mind the significance of formalising remittances as well as the objectives that the laws that hinder them seek to attain, which are equally significant, it is necessary for the regulatory authorities to investigate ways on how to possibly cater for both. It is submitted that if more remittances were to be channeled through official means the objectives sought to be attained by some of these legislative provisions would be attained more efficiently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The legal and regulatory aspects of international remittances within the SADC region
- Authors: Mbalekwa, Simbarashe
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Emigrant remittances , Foreign exchange , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10280 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1373 , Emigrant remittances , Foreign exchange , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Description: Migrant labourers who cross borders often have to send money back to their various countries of origin. These monetary transfers are known as remittances. To send these funds migrants often opt to rely on informal mechanisms as opposed to the remittance services of formal financial institutions such as banks. Informal remittance mechanisms raise a number of concerns such as those related to consumer protection. In contrast to formal channels informal channels are not based on any legally binding agreements. They are highly based on trust and do not offer any legally binding guarantee that the funds will be delivered or that the remitter will be reimbursed in the event of non-delivery. Aside from consumer protection concerns, informal remittances also raise security related concerns. These channels are not subject to the supervision of any regulatory authority and usually offer a high level of anonymity. They can act as an attractive mechanism for terrorists and criminal organisations to launder and mobilise their illicit funds. Taking into mind the concerns mentioned above, as well as others, it would be preferable for more remittances to be channelled through formal financial mechanisms. In conducting research on remittance transactions financial, as well as other institutions and organisations, have outlined legal and regulatory provisions in sending and recipient countries as being a factor that often hinders migrants from accessing formal financial services. This dissertation examines how the South African legal and regulatory framework affects the formalisation of remittances by migrant labourers, with a focus on the context of low-income migrants. The study identifies the Exchange control, immigration, anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism legislative provisions as being the most significant provisions that affect the formalisation of migrant remittances. So as to make an analysis and gather recommendations were possible, a comparison of the South African legal and regulatory provisions is made to those of Zambia and Zimbabwe. xiii The dissertation comes to the conclusion that South African legal and regulatory provisions hinder the formalisation of migrant remittances to a certain extent. They do so by collectively and individually restricting migrants who do not fulfil legislative requisites from accessing formal remittance channels. It is submitted that such migrants are inclined to rely on informal remittance mechanisms when the need to send money arises. Furthermore, South African law restricts competition within the remittance market by making it difficult for service providers to enter the market. The lack of an adequate competitive level fosters the prevalence of high remittance costs which can pose a significant barrier to low income migrants that wish to channel funds via formal means. Taking into mind the significance of formalising remittances as well as the objectives that the laws that hinder them seek to attain, which are equally significant, it is necessary for the regulatory authorities to investigate ways on how to possibly cater for both. It is submitted that if more remittances were to be channelled through official means the objectives sought to be attained by some of these legislative provisions would be attained more efficiently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mbalekwa, Simbarashe
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Emigrant remittances , Foreign exchange , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10280 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1373 , Emigrant remittances , Foreign exchange , Finance -- Government policy -- Developing countries , Transfer payments -- Developing countries
- Description: Migrant labourers who cross borders often have to send money back to their various countries of origin. These monetary transfers are known as remittances. To send these funds migrants often opt to rely on informal mechanisms as opposed to the remittance services of formal financial institutions such as banks. Informal remittance mechanisms raise a number of concerns such as those related to consumer protection. In contrast to formal channels informal channels are not based on any legally binding agreements. They are highly based on trust and do not offer any legally binding guarantee that the funds will be delivered or that the remitter will be reimbursed in the event of non-delivery. Aside from consumer protection concerns, informal remittances also raise security related concerns. These channels are not subject to the supervision of any regulatory authority and usually offer a high level of anonymity. They can act as an attractive mechanism for terrorists and criminal organisations to launder and mobilise their illicit funds. Taking into mind the concerns mentioned above, as well as others, it would be preferable for more remittances to be channelled through formal financial mechanisms. In conducting research on remittance transactions financial, as well as other institutions and organisations, have outlined legal and regulatory provisions in sending and recipient countries as being a factor that often hinders migrants from accessing formal financial services. This dissertation examines how the South African legal and regulatory framework affects the formalisation of remittances by migrant labourers, with a focus on the context of low-income migrants. The study identifies the Exchange control, immigration, anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism legislative provisions as being the most significant provisions that affect the formalisation of migrant remittances. So as to make an analysis and gather recommendations were possible, a comparison of the South African legal and regulatory provisions is made to those of Zambia and Zimbabwe. xiii The dissertation comes to the conclusion that South African legal and regulatory provisions hinder the formalisation of migrant remittances to a certain extent. They do so by collectively and individually restricting migrants who do not fulfil legislative requisites from accessing formal remittance channels. It is submitted that such migrants are inclined to rely on informal remittance mechanisms when the need to send money arises. Furthermore, South African law restricts competition within the remittance market by making it difficult for service providers to enter the market. The lack of an adequate competitive level fosters the prevalence of high remittance costs which can pose a significant barrier to low income migrants that wish to channel funds via formal means. Taking into mind the significance of formalising remittances as well as the objectives that the laws that hinder them seek to attain, which are equally significant, it is necessary for the regulatory authorities to investigate ways on how to possibly cater for both. It is submitted that if more remittances were to be channelled through official means the objectives sought to be attained by some of these legislative provisions would be attained more efficiently.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The legal framework pertaining to selected segments of the financial market
- Authors: Swart, Lynette
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Financial institutions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Finance, Public -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10216 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1425 , Financial institutions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Finance, Public -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: A sound financial system is the cornerstone of any country‘s economy. As South Africa has always been deemed to have a sound legal framework pertaining to the financial market, it has never faced the situation where it had to extensively review its entire legal framework. However, the recent global economic meltdown left policy makers, internationally, questioning the soundness of their financial systems and South Africa has been no exception. This dissertation provides an overview of the legal framework pertaining to selected segments of the financial market. This legal framework is then tested against certain selected issues highlighted by the global economic meltdown in order to establish whether it was and still is sufficiently robust to effectively negotiate these challenges. In order to deal with the selected segments of the legal framework pertaining to the financial market as comprehensively as possible, the selected segments for the purposes of this dissertation include the capital market, the money market and the derivative market. This dissertation also evaluates the impact of other recent domestic developments pertaining to securities settlement in South Africa. These developments include the recently promulgated Companies Act 71 of 2008 and the currently drafted Participant Failure Manual. This dissertation suggests that the Companies Act 71 of 2008 will have a significant impact on securities settlement. It is recommended that companies, holders of uncertificated securities and holders of beneficial interests in uncertificated securities familiarise themselves with their revised rights and obligations in order to, amongst other things, ensure compliance with this new legislative framework. This dissertation reveals that, even though our financial system has been found to be fundamentally sound and thus far have dealt with the global economic meltdown quite well, legislative reform to conform to international best practice is imperative. It is recommended that policy makers should strive to ensure that the South African legal framework pertaining to the financial market is sufficiently aligned with the principles, methodologies and recommendations as provided for by the international institutions providing best practice. The highlighted areas of legislative reform include the legal frameworks pertaining to credit rating agencies, investor due diligence, ix crisis management tools, compensation structures, accounting and valuations standards, issuer transparency, market transparency and risk management. This dissertation highlights that a significant amount of legislative amendments and endorsements by the relevant regulators and the Master of the Court are required for the successful integration of the Participant Failure Manual into the legal framework pertaining to the financial market. If, when and how the notion of Participant Failure will be accepted and regulated by the relevant regulators, without creating a conflict of interest, remains a question to be answered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Swart, Lynette
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Financial institutions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Finance, Public -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10216 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1425 , Financial institutions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Finance, Public -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: A sound financial system is the cornerstone of any country‘s economy. As South Africa has always been deemed to have a sound legal framework pertaining to the financial market, it has never faced the situation where it had to extensively review its entire legal framework. However, the recent global economic meltdown left policy makers, internationally, questioning the soundness of their financial systems and South Africa has been no exception. This dissertation provides an overview of the legal framework pertaining to selected segments of the financial market. This legal framework is then tested against certain selected issues highlighted by the global economic meltdown in order to establish whether it was and still is sufficiently robust to effectively negotiate these challenges. In order to deal with the selected segments of the legal framework pertaining to the financial market as comprehensively as possible, the selected segments for the purposes of this dissertation include the capital market, the money market and the derivative market. This dissertation also evaluates the impact of other recent domestic developments pertaining to securities settlement in South Africa. These developments include the recently promulgated Companies Act 71 of 2008 and the currently drafted Participant Failure Manual. This dissertation suggests that the Companies Act 71 of 2008 will have a significant impact on securities settlement. It is recommended that companies, holders of uncertificated securities and holders of beneficial interests in uncertificated securities familiarise themselves with their revised rights and obligations in order to, amongst other things, ensure compliance with this new legislative framework. This dissertation reveals that, even though our financial system has been found to be fundamentally sound and thus far have dealt with the global economic meltdown quite well, legislative reform to conform to international best practice is imperative. It is recommended that policy makers should strive to ensure that the South African legal framework pertaining to the financial market is sufficiently aligned with the principles, methodologies and recommendations as provided for by the international institutions providing best practice. The highlighted areas of legislative reform include the legal frameworks pertaining to credit rating agencies, investor due diligence, ix crisis management tools, compensation structures, accounting and valuations standards, issuer transparency, market transparency and risk management. This dissertation highlights that a significant amount of legislative amendments and endorsements by the relevant regulators and the Master of the Court are required for the successful integration of the Participant Failure Manual into the legal framework pertaining to the financial market. If, when and how the notion of Participant Failure will be accepted and regulated by the relevant regulators, without creating a conflict of interest, remains a question to be answered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The lived experience of meaning in life and satisfaction with life among older adults
- Authors: Cooper, Holly
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Meaning (Psychology) , Satisfaction , Old age , Old age homes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4398 , vital:20595
- Description: The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the meaning in life and satisfaction with life of the elderly living in the old age institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Cooper, Holly
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Meaning (Psychology) , Satisfaction , Old age , Old age homes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4398 , vital:20595
- Description: The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the meaning in life and satisfaction with life of the elderly living in the old age institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The management of the antecedents of absenteeism at a motor manufacturing company
- Authors: Mandleni, Oscar
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) , Motor industry , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8755 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011559 , Absenteeism (Labor) , Motor industry , Production management
- Description: Absenteeism is a complex set of behaviours masquerading as a unitary phenomenon. Absenteeism is a big problem in the motor manufacturing industry, especially, because of the number of processes that are labour intensive. Absenteeism is a multifaceted problem with many antecedents which make it challenging to resolve or contain. Financial impact is one of the consequences of absenteeism on a business, especially when one thinks that the primary objective of a firm in to make money. Absenteeism defeats these objectives through cost incurred for overtime to catch up production losses. Furthermore, in cases where replacement of personnel is necessary, this may include administrative costs related to the time human resource personnel spend looking for replacement employees or the time production management spends re-assigning employees. Absenteeism results in decreased productivity and may affect the quality of the product due to the increased workload and burden put on employees who are at work. Absenteeism is classified into scheduled and unscheduled absenteeism. Although some absenteeism is avoidable, it is important to understand that some absence is unavoidable. This is because people may fall ill, get injured or have unavoidable obligations which may lead to absenteeism. The purpose of this study was to identify the antecedents of absenteeism, with the assumption that once they are identified, they can be controlled, reduced or eliminated and the absenteeism rate thus reduced. The theoretical study focused on defining absenteeism, ascertaining the impact of absenteeism in the workplace, especially in an international organisation in the motor manufacturing industry and discussing the antecedents of absenteeism and strategies that can be used to manage these antecedents. The empirical study consisted of a survey, with a questionnaire as a data collecting tool. The process used to conduct the survey was to distribute the questionnaire among production employees in three operational units; namely Final Assembly, Paint Shop and Body Shop at a motor manufacturing company. Employees were approached, the purpose of the questionnaire explained and they were asked if they would be willing to complete the questionnaire. Employees who agreed to complete the questionnaire were briefed on the contents of the questionnaire and the completion process. The relationship between biographical variables and absenteeism was discussed. For the purpose of this study the following independent variables were discussed: age, marital status, gender, work area, length of service and number of dependents. The empirical study focused on the antecedents of absenteeism, and specifically job, organisational and personal factors, as well supervisors‟ attempts to manage absenteeism. The respondents indicated that they believed absenteeism was a problem in the study and that people stayed away for reasons other than genuine illness. It was recommended that absenteeism figures, such as the overall Gross Absence Rate (GAR) and Absence Frequency Rate for the organisation, and specific work areas and teams, are regularly communicated to employees and displayed prominently to emphasise the importance of attendance. Some suggestions were that: Supervisors should foster a genuinely respectful relationship between themselves and employees which will results in employees feeling obliged to be at work. The company should introduce a day care or crèche at work to allow female employees to bring their kids to work in the event they are unable to be looked after at home. Alcohol and drug abuse should not be seen as an external problem in the organisation but rather as something an organisation should get involved in to assist employee who might have a problem. The first step was to create a channel where employee can feel free to approach the company if they are in need of help. The study demonstrated that it was important to identify antecedents in order to address the real problems related to absenteeism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Mandleni, Oscar
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Absenteeism (Labor) , Motor industry , Production management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8755 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011559 , Absenteeism (Labor) , Motor industry , Production management
- Description: Absenteeism is a complex set of behaviours masquerading as a unitary phenomenon. Absenteeism is a big problem in the motor manufacturing industry, especially, because of the number of processes that are labour intensive. Absenteeism is a multifaceted problem with many antecedents which make it challenging to resolve or contain. Financial impact is one of the consequences of absenteeism on a business, especially when one thinks that the primary objective of a firm in to make money. Absenteeism defeats these objectives through cost incurred for overtime to catch up production losses. Furthermore, in cases where replacement of personnel is necessary, this may include administrative costs related to the time human resource personnel spend looking for replacement employees or the time production management spends re-assigning employees. Absenteeism results in decreased productivity and may affect the quality of the product due to the increased workload and burden put on employees who are at work. Absenteeism is classified into scheduled and unscheduled absenteeism. Although some absenteeism is avoidable, it is important to understand that some absence is unavoidable. This is because people may fall ill, get injured or have unavoidable obligations which may lead to absenteeism. The purpose of this study was to identify the antecedents of absenteeism, with the assumption that once they are identified, they can be controlled, reduced or eliminated and the absenteeism rate thus reduced. The theoretical study focused on defining absenteeism, ascertaining the impact of absenteeism in the workplace, especially in an international organisation in the motor manufacturing industry and discussing the antecedents of absenteeism and strategies that can be used to manage these antecedents. The empirical study consisted of a survey, with a questionnaire as a data collecting tool. The process used to conduct the survey was to distribute the questionnaire among production employees in three operational units; namely Final Assembly, Paint Shop and Body Shop at a motor manufacturing company. Employees were approached, the purpose of the questionnaire explained and they were asked if they would be willing to complete the questionnaire. Employees who agreed to complete the questionnaire were briefed on the contents of the questionnaire and the completion process. The relationship between biographical variables and absenteeism was discussed. For the purpose of this study the following independent variables were discussed: age, marital status, gender, work area, length of service and number of dependents. The empirical study focused on the antecedents of absenteeism, and specifically job, organisational and personal factors, as well supervisors‟ attempts to manage absenteeism. The respondents indicated that they believed absenteeism was a problem in the study and that people stayed away for reasons other than genuine illness. It was recommended that absenteeism figures, such as the overall Gross Absence Rate (GAR) and Absence Frequency Rate for the organisation, and specific work areas and teams, are regularly communicated to employees and displayed prominently to emphasise the importance of attendance. Some suggestions were that: Supervisors should foster a genuinely respectful relationship between themselves and employees which will results in employees feeling obliged to be at work. The company should introduce a day care or crèche at work to allow female employees to bring their kids to work in the event they are unable to be looked after at home. Alcohol and drug abuse should not be seen as an external problem in the organisation but rather as something an organisation should get involved in to assist employee who might have a problem. The first step was to create a channel where employee can feel free to approach the company if they are in need of help. The study demonstrated that it was important to identify antecedents in order to address the real problems related to absenteeism.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The medicinal chemistry of cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) and cyclo(Phe-4F-Pro)
- Authors: Ndung'u, Susan Wanjiru
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Peptide drugs , Cyclic peptides , Pharmaceutical chemistry , Peptides -- Synthesis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7083 , vital:21223
- Description: Although peptides and proteins are considered as lead compounds for the discovery and development of new therapeutic agents, poor metabolic and physical properties have limited their optimisation as drug candidates (Adessi & Soto, 2002). Research by medicinal chemists however, generated the discovery of structural similarities between some peptides and diketopiperazines and the common occurrence of such compounds in natural products. This discovery initiated the synthesis of diketopiperazines from amino acids in an attempt to bypass the previously mentioned limitations of using peptides as drug candidates (Dinsmore & Beshore, 2002). Diketopiperazines (DKPs) are the simplest form of cyclic dipeptides, and a class of unexplored bioactive peptides that have great potential for the future. The compounds are relatively simple to synthesise and are prevalent in nature (Prasad, 1995). The DKP backbone is rigid and therefore poses conformational constraint on the compounds. This rigidity allows for simple conformational analysis of the compounds and also gives insight into the conformational requirements for interaction with the targets involved in their biological activity. The reduced conformational freedom also increases the receptor specificity and thus the compounds are proposed to have less unfavourable effects (Anteunis, 1978). The aim of the study was to synthesise compounds that would exhibit metabolic stability, receptor specificity and enhanced lipophilicity which would increase the bioavailability of the compounds. This was to be achieved by the introduction of fluorine and chlorine elements into the DKPs. The structure of the DKPs would be altered which in turn would improve the physicochemical properties and the biological activity of the compounds (Naumann, 1999). Cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) and cyclo(Phe-4F-Pro) were synthesised using the method of Milne et al. (1992) and by boiling the linear counterparts under reflux in sec-butanol-toluene. The structures of the synthesised DKPs were elucidated using mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy and molecular modeling. Qualitative analysis and evaluation of the physicochemical properties of the DKPs were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray powder diffraction. The study aimed to determine the biological activity of cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) and cyclo(Phe-4F-Pro) with respect to their anticancer, antimicrobial, haematological and antidiabetic effects. The anticancer results obtained indicated that the percentage inhibition produced by both DKPs were lower than those proposed by Graz et al. (2000) for proline-containing DKPs where, a greater than 50% inhibition was observed for cyclo(Phe-Pro). Antimicrobial studies revealed that both DKPs demonstrated marginal effects on Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms but showed significant effects against C. albicans. The haematological studies revealed that cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) at a screening concentration of 12.5 mM, significantly decreased the levels of D-dimer (P < 0.0001). The antidiabetics studies showed limited activity of the DKPs in inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Ndung'u, Susan Wanjiru
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Peptide drugs , Cyclic peptides , Pharmaceutical chemistry , Peptides -- Synthesis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7083 , vital:21223
- Description: Although peptides and proteins are considered as lead compounds for the discovery and development of new therapeutic agents, poor metabolic and physical properties have limited their optimisation as drug candidates (Adessi & Soto, 2002). Research by medicinal chemists however, generated the discovery of structural similarities between some peptides and diketopiperazines and the common occurrence of such compounds in natural products. This discovery initiated the synthesis of diketopiperazines from amino acids in an attempt to bypass the previously mentioned limitations of using peptides as drug candidates (Dinsmore & Beshore, 2002). Diketopiperazines (DKPs) are the simplest form of cyclic dipeptides, and a class of unexplored bioactive peptides that have great potential for the future. The compounds are relatively simple to synthesise and are prevalent in nature (Prasad, 1995). The DKP backbone is rigid and therefore poses conformational constraint on the compounds. This rigidity allows for simple conformational analysis of the compounds and also gives insight into the conformational requirements for interaction with the targets involved in their biological activity. The reduced conformational freedom also increases the receptor specificity and thus the compounds are proposed to have less unfavourable effects (Anteunis, 1978). The aim of the study was to synthesise compounds that would exhibit metabolic stability, receptor specificity and enhanced lipophilicity which would increase the bioavailability of the compounds. This was to be achieved by the introduction of fluorine and chlorine elements into the DKPs. The structure of the DKPs would be altered which in turn would improve the physicochemical properties and the biological activity of the compounds (Naumann, 1999). Cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) and cyclo(Phe-4F-Pro) were synthesised using the method of Milne et al. (1992) and by boiling the linear counterparts under reflux in sec-butanol-toluene. The structures of the synthesised DKPs were elucidated using mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy and molecular modeling. Qualitative analysis and evaluation of the physicochemical properties of the DKPs were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and x-ray powder diffraction. The study aimed to determine the biological activity of cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) and cyclo(Phe-4F-Pro) with respect to their anticancer, antimicrobial, haematological and antidiabetic effects. The anticancer results obtained indicated that the percentage inhibition produced by both DKPs were lower than those proposed by Graz et al. (2000) for proline-containing DKPs where, a greater than 50% inhibition was observed for cyclo(Phe-Pro). Antimicrobial studies revealed that both DKPs demonstrated marginal effects on Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms but showed significant effects against C. albicans. The haematological studies revealed that cyclo(D-Phe-2Cl-Pro) at a screening concentration of 12.5 mM, significantly decreased the levels of D-dimer (P < 0.0001). The antidiabetics studies showed limited activity of the DKPs in inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The photodecomposition of different polymorphic forms of 1,4-dihydropyridine channel blockers
- Authors: Francis, Farzaana
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Photodegradation , Nifedipine , Nimodipine , Dihydropyridine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1496 , Photodegradation , Nifedipine , Nimodipine , Dihydropyridine
- Description: 1,4-Dihydropyridines (DHPs) are a classification of compounds used as calcium channel blockers in the treatment of various conditions. These compounds readily undergo photodegradation. The degradants produced have no pharmaceutical activity and render the drugs ineffective. DHPs also exhibit polymorphism. Nifedipine and Nimodipine are two such drugs. This study aimed to monitor the photodegradation of these two drugs and to establish the effect of particle size, polymorphism and β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) on the rate of photodegradation. Different polymorphs (namely the amorphous and stable crystalline polymorphs) of the two drugs were prepared for use in the study. Mixtures of each drug with β-CD were also prepared for photostability studies. The mixtures were prepared in a 1:1 molar ratio. The rate of photodegradation was studied with a 500 W metal halide lamp in accordance to ICH guidelines. The study employed samples on a small scale where degradation was analysed with High Performance Liquid Chromatography, and also samples on a larger scale where degradation was monitored with Powder X-ray Diffraction. The two sets of results of observing the degradation process by two analytical techniques where compared in terms of their quantification methods. The extent of photodegradation was suitably modelled and fitted using the Avrami-Erofeyev kinetic equation. Smaller particle size showed increased photodegradation for Nimodipine; the effect was insignificant for Nifedipine however. For both drugs it was found that the amorphous polymorph underwent faster photodegradation. The study showed that β-CD caused an increase in photodegradation for both drugs under these experimental conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Francis, Farzaana
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Photodegradation , Nifedipine , Nimodipine , Dihydropyridine
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10378 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1496 , Photodegradation , Nifedipine , Nimodipine , Dihydropyridine
- Description: 1,4-Dihydropyridines (DHPs) are a classification of compounds used as calcium channel blockers in the treatment of various conditions. These compounds readily undergo photodegradation. The degradants produced have no pharmaceutical activity and render the drugs ineffective. DHPs also exhibit polymorphism. Nifedipine and Nimodipine are two such drugs. This study aimed to monitor the photodegradation of these two drugs and to establish the effect of particle size, polymorphism and β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) on the rate of photodegradation. Different polymorphs (namely the amorphous and stable crystalline polymorphs) of the two drugs were prepared for use in the study. Mixtures of each drug with β-CD were also prepared for photostability studies. The mixtures were prepared in a 1:1 molar ratio. The rate of photodegradation was studied with a 500 W metal halide lamp in accordance to ICH guidelines. The study employed samples on a small scale where degradation was analysed with High Performance Liquid Chromatography, and also samples on a larger scale where degradation was monitored with Powder X-ray Diffraction. The two sets of results of observing the degradation process by two analytical techniques where compared in terms of their quantification methods. The extent of photodegradation was suitably modelled and fitted using the Avrami-Erofeyev kinetic equation. Smaller particle size showed increased photodegradation for Nimodipine; the effect was insignificant for Nifedipine however. For both drugs it was found that the amorphous polymorph underwent faster photodegradation. The study showed that β-CD caused an increase in photodegradation for both drugs under these experimental conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The possible introduction of advance pricing agreements in South Africa income tax legislation
- Authors: Malevu, Shimane Mbuyiseni
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- South Africa , Price regulation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8954 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1333 , Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- South Africa , Price regulation -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise analyses the suitability of the Advance Pricing Agreements (APA) for the South African Transfer Pricing legislation. The transfer pricing legislation places emphasis on the arm's length principle. Determining an arm's length price is problematic and as a result some countries have resorted to APA's to establish an arm's length price up-front, and thus avoid reviews and subsequent audits. The treatise first focuses on the transfer pricing provisions and other relevant applicable sections of the Act from the South African point of view, and it then examines the current status quo, i.e. the review processes used by the South African Revenue Services (SARS) as detailed in the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Developments (OECD) Guidelines and the SARS Practice Note. Since negotiated tax treaties form part of the South Africa law, the impact of these treaties are discussed in Chapter 4. The treatise discusses in detail an APA from the OECD's point of view. It examines the objectives of an APA; the benefit and the shortcomings of using an APA. It then examines the APA request processes from a Canadian perspective and the administration of the APA from an USA perspective. The treatise examines South African trading partners using APA in transfer pricing matters, with reference to the effects and the challenges such countries face. The treatise concludes by looking at the benefits provided by use of an APA by South African major trading partners. The effect and the use of such APA will have in South Africa is also discussed and how it should be modelled; the present status quo with regard to personnel at SARS; and the possible impact the introduction and implementation will have in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Malevu, Shimane Mbuyiseni
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- South Africa , Price regulation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8954 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1333 , Transfer pricing -- Taxation -- South Africa , Price regulation -- South Africa
- Description: This treatise analyses the suitability of the Advance Pricing Agreements (APA) for the South African Transfer Pricing legislation. The transfer pricing legislation places emphasis on the arm's length principle. Determining an arm's length price is problematic and as a result some countries have resorted to APA's to establish an arm's length price up-front, and thus avoid reviews and subsequent audits. The treatise first focuses on the transfer pricing provisions and other relevant applicable sections of the Act from the South African point of view, and it then examines the current status quo, i.e. the review processes used by the South African Revenue Services (SARS) as detailed in the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Developments (OECD) Guidelines and the SARS Practice Note. Since negotiated tax treaties form part of the South Africa law, the impact of these treaties are discussed in Chapter 4. The treatise discusses in detail an APA from the OECD's point of view. It examines the objectives of an APA; the benefit and the shortcomings of using an APA. It then examines the APA request processes from a Canadian perspective and the administration of the APA from an USA perspective. The treatise examines South African trading partners using APA in transfer pricing matters, with reference to the effects and the challenges such countries face. The treatise concludes by looking at the benefits provided by use of an APA by South African major trading partners. The effect and the use of such APA will have in South Africa is also discussed and how it should be modelled; the present status quo with regard to personnel at SARS; and the possible impact the introduction and implementation will have in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The prevalence and consequences of workplace bullying in South Africa
- Authors: Momberg, Markus Albertus
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa -- Prevention , Harrasment -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Interpersonal relations -- South Africa , Labour laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1572 , Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa -- Prevention , Harrasment -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Interpersonal relations -- South Africa , Labour laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: A study is made of the ever-growing worldwide social pandemic of workplace bullying. We define workplace bullying in terms of its characteristics and distinguish it from unfair discrimination in the form of harassment. A survey is presented of its occurrence worldwide and how it manifests as an organisational conflict, both as hierarchical and horizontal abuse. This is analysed in terms of a social science perspective. We consider grievance reporting as an indication of trends in workplace bullying and discuss the limitations of such reporting. We review the consequent effects of such limitations on the health of workers and workplace efficiency and note the shortcomings of existing labour law in dealing with this inadequacy. Our findings are summarised, with recommendations for resolving this conflict situation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Momberg, Markus Albertus
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa -- Prevention , Harrasment -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Interpersonal relations -- South Africa , Labour laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: vital:10211 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1572 , Bullying in the workplace -- South Africa -- Prevention , Harrasment -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Interpersonal relations -- South Africa , Labour laws and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: A study is made of the ever-growing worldwide social pandemic of workplace bullying. We define workplace bullying in terms of its characteristics and distinguish it from unfair discrimination in the form of harassment. A survey is presented of its occurrence worldwide and how it manifests as an organisational conflict, both as hierarchical and horizontal abuse. This is analysed in terms of a social science perspective. We consider grievance reporting as an indication of trends in workplace bullying and discuss the limitations of such reporting. We review the consequent effects of such limitations on the health of workers and workplace efficiency and note the shortcomings of existing labour law in dealing with this inadequacy. Our findings are summarised, with recommendations for resolving this conflict situation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The principal factor : examining the role of principals in the success of their schools
- Authors: Dubula, Nomvuyo Mildred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: School principals -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8240 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010881 , School principals -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In this Treatise, a study is undertaken to analyse and examine the role of school principals in the success of their schools; with specific reference to township high schools in the Port Elizabeth district (P.E. district). The study assumes that P.E. district principals, as leaders and managers should deliver essential services effectively, efficiently, and with optimal use of resources to attain maximum results in school performance. The same is expected of their counterparts in any part of the country, it is not exclusively demanded from PE district principals. In terms of the current education legislation and policy framework, the principals have to account for the performance of their schools. To this end the National Department of Education introduced legislation in 2007 to ensure that principals account to the Head of The Department of Education of the relevant province. Section 16 A of the South African Schools Act (SASA) was introduced by the Education Law Amendment Act 31/2007. The provisions of this section deal with “the functions and responsibilities of principals of public schools.” Specifically section 16A (1) (b) states that “The principal must prepare and submit to the Head of the Department an annual report in respect of: (i.) The academic performance of that school (ii.) The effective use of available resources.” Since the enactment of section 16 A as referred to above, the Provincial Departments have begun to make principals account for the success or failure of learners, for human resource development, financial management, parent involvement in school matters and the active participation of school governing bodies. What should be clear is that the above encompasses all the critical and fundamental aspects that have an impact on the progress of any educational institution. The combination of the two requirements stated above reflects the extent to which the Department of Education is committed to making certain that principals in their respective schools create an environment where learners can achieve their full potential. It is such creation of conducive environments that will enable all learners in the country to achieve equal opportunities in society irrespective of their original backgrounds. This ideal is consistent with section 9 of the Constitution, 1996 which provides for the right to equality of all people. The research, also assumes that leadership is about direction and purpose, while management lays emphasis on effectiveness and efficiency. Leadership and management are fundamental aspects of those duties and responsibilities associated with the position of a school principal. It is further postulated that, a good principal understands that circumstances determine the proportion of each of these elements that is required by any given situation i.e. whether more of leadership or bigger dose management is appropriate in dealing with a certain set of circumstances or not. The study identifies variables that make a school principal a strong leader and good manager and lists the following as the critical focus areas: Balancing instructional and managerial leadership Strengthening the connection between school and home Developing effective leadership Effective teaching practices Staff development The study also assumes that township schools are no exception to those in different parts of the country. Despite some serious daily challenges peculiar to the township situations, these schools still have to perform satisfactorily like all other institutions of learning. The legislative and policy framework applies equally to all schools. The study argues primarily that all schools can perform well and develop the potential of their learners to the fullest. The difference lies in the leadership and management of the respective institutions by their principals. All stakeholders are presumed to posses the potential, the ability and the urge to do their utmost best to render quality services that would lead to the attainment of excellent results. It is worthwhile for the system that those who show themselves to lack these attributes should be identified, not to weed them out but to assist so that they acquire the necessary skills and expertise. After all it is by strengthening the weakest link that a chain becomes strong.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Dubula, Nomvuyo Mildred
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: School principals -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8240 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1010881 , School principals -- Training of -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School improvement programs -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational leadership -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In this Treatise, a study is undertaken to analyse and examine the role of school principals in the success of their schools; with specific reference to township high schools in the Port Elizabeth district (P.E. district). The study assumes that P.E. district principals, as leaders and managers should deliver essential services effectively, efficiently, and with optimal use of resources to attain maximum results in school performance. The same is expected of their counterparts in any part of the country, it is not exclusively demanded from PE district principals. In terms of the current education legislation and policy framework, the principals have to account for the performance of their schools. To this end the National Department of Education introduced legislation in 2007 to ensure that principals account to the Head of The Department of Education of the relevant province. Section 16 A of the South African Schools Act (SASA) was introduced by the Education Law Amendment Act 31/2007. The provisions of this section deal with “the functions and responsibilities of principals of public schools.” Specifically section 16A (1) (b) states that “The principal must prepare and submit to the Head of the Department an annual report in respect of: (i.) The academic performance of that school (ii.) The effective use of available resources.” Since the enactment of section 16 A as referred to above, the Provincial Departments have begun to make principals account for the success or failure of learners, for human resource development, financial management, parent involvement in school matters and the active participation of school governing bodies. What should be clear is that the above encompasses all the critical and fundamental aspects that have an impact on the progress of any educational institution. The combination of the two requirements stated above reflects the extent to which the Department of Education is committed to making certain that principals in their respective schools create an environment where learners can achieve their full potential. It is such creation of conducive environments that will enable all learners in the country to achieve equal opportunities in society irrespective of their original backgrounds. This ideal is consistent with section 9 of the Constitution, 1996 which provides for the right to equality of all people. The research, also assumes that leadership is about direction and purpose, while management lays emphasis on effectiveness and efficiency. Leadership and management are fundamental aspects of those duties and responsibilities associated with the position of a school principal. It is further postulated that, a good principal understands that circumstances determine the proportion of each of these elements that is required by any given situation i.e. whether more of leadership or bigger dose management is appropriate in dealing with a certain set of circumstances or not. The study identifies variables that make a school principal a strong leader and good manager and lists the following as the critical focus areas: Balancing instructional and managerial leadership Strengthening the connection between school and home Developing effective leadership Effective teaching practices Staff development The study also assumes that township schools are no exception to those in different parts of the country. Despite some serious daily challenges peculiar to the township situations, these schools still have to perform satisfactorily like all other institutions of learning. The legislative and policy framework applies equally to all schools. The study argues primarily that all schools can perform well and develop the potential of their learners to the fullest. The difference lies in the leadership and management of the respective institutions by their principals. All stakeholders are presumed to posses the potential, the ability and the urge to do their utmost best to render quality services that would lead to the attainment of excellent results. It is worthwhile for the system that those who show themselves to lack these attributes should be identified, not to weed them out but to assist so that they acquire the necessary skills and expertise. After all it is by strengthening the weakest link that a chain becomes strong.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The proposed new gambling tax in South Africa
- Authors: Roberts, Justin Esrom
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Gambling , Gambling -- Taxation , Gambling -- Taxation -- South Africa , Income tax deductions -- South Africa , Withholding tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8950 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1639 , Gambling , Gambling -- Taxation , Gambling -- Taxation -- South Africa , Income tax deductions -- South Africa , Withholding tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: In the 2011/2012 Budget Speech delivered by the Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, it was announced that a 15% withholding tax on gambling winnings above R 25 000 was to be introduced with effect from 1 April 2012. This treatise was undertaken to critically analyse the different elements of the proposed new withholding tax. It was established that the fiscus already benefits significantly from the gambling industry and levies and taxes from the gambling industry dwarf the revenue SARS collect from other forms of taxes such as Donations tax and Estate Duty tax. The necessity, therefore, of taxing gambling winnings in the hands of the individual is debatable. A comparison with the three foreign countries used by the Minister as an example of countries who have successfully implemented a withholding tax on gambling winnings exposed operational or other characteristics which bear no significant relationship to the situation in which the industry operates in South Africa. Probably the most significant difference is the fact that in the three foreign countries, losses are deductible and only the net gains are taxed. Although it iv could add to an already seemingly administrative-intensive legislation, it is submitted that taxing gambling winnings and ignoring losses suffered by gamblers will be disproportionately unfair towards the taxpayer. The many questions raised in this treatise illustrate the level of uncertainty still surrounding the new proposed gambling tax. It is hoped that communication will be provided by SARS as soon as possible to address the issues at hand. This would go a long way in ensuring that the implementation of the proposed withholding tax on gambling winnings is as smooth and efficient as possible.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Roberts, Justin Esrom
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Gambling , Gambling -- Taxation , Gambling -- Taxation -- South Africa , Income tax deductions -- South Africa , Withholding tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: vital:8950 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1639 , Gambling , Gambling -- Taxation , Gambling -- Taxation -- South Africa , Income tax deductions -- South Africa , Withholding tax -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Description: In the 2011/2012 Budget Speech delivered by the Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, it was announced that a 15% withholding tax on gambling winnings above R 25 000 was to be introduced with effect from 1 April 2012. This treatise was undertaken to critically analyse the different elements of the proposed new withholding tax. It was established that the fiscus already benefits significantly from the gambling industry and levies and taxes from the gambling industry dwarf the revenue SARS collect from other forms of taxes such as Donations tax and Estate Duty tax. The necessity, therefore, of taxing gambling winnings in the hands of the individual is debatable. A comparison with the three foreign countries used by the Minister as an example of countries who have successfully implemented a withholding tax on gambling winnings exposed operational or other characteristics which bear no significant relationship to the situation in which the industry operates in South Africa. Probably the most significant difference is the fact that in the three foreign countries, losses are deductible and only the net gains are taxed. Although it iv could add to an already seemingly administrative-intensive legislation, it is submitted that taxing gambling winnings and ignoring losses suffered by gamblers will be disproportionately unfair towards the taxpayer. The many questions raised in this treatise illustrate the level of uncertainty still surrounding the new proposed gambling tax. It is hoped that communication will be provided by SARS as soon as possible to address the issues at hand. This would go a long way in ensuring that the implementation of the proposed withholding tax on gambling winnings is as smooth and efficient as possible.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The relationship between self-efficacy and ways of coping of first-year university students
- Authors: Goss, Joanne Kate
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Self-efficacy , Control (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9860 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1555 , Self-efficacy , Control (Psychology)
- Description: This is a quantitative, exploratory study focusing on self-efficacy and ways of coping of male and female first-year psychology students at a university in the Nelson Mandela Metropole. The study aimed to explore and describe the relationship between The General Perceived Self- Efficacy Scale and the Ways of Coping Questionnaire of first-year university psychology students. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was employed. The sample consisted of 34 males and 94 females between the ages of 18 and 21 years, who were registered for a first-year psychology module. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The results showed moderate correlations between general perceived self-efficacy and problem-focused and focusing on the positive as ways of coping. In addition, the results showed significant relationships between general perceived self-efficacy and problem-focused coping, seeking social support and focusing on the positive as ways of coping. Gender differences with regards to the constructs of coping and self-efficacy were also explored. Limitations of the present research were noted and recommendations for future research were proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Goss, Joanne Kate
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Self-efficacy , Control (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9860 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1555 , Self-efficacy , Control (Psychology)
- Description: This is a quantitative, exploratory study focusing on self-efficacy and ways of coping of male and female first-year psychology students at a university in the Nelson Mandela Metropole. The study aimed to explore and describe the relationship between The General Perceived Self- Efficacy Scale and the Ways of Coping Questionnaire of first-year university psychology students. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was employed. The sample consisted of 34 males and 94 females between the ages of 18 and 21 years, who were registered for a first-year psychology module. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The results showed moderate correlations between general perceived self-efficacy and problem-focused and focusing on the positive as ways of coping. In addition, the results showed significant relationships between general perceived self-efficacy and problem-focused coping, seeking social support and focusing on the positive as ways of coping. Gender differences with regards to the constructs of coping and self-efficacy were also explored. Limitations of the present research were noted and recommendations for future research were proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The response of microalgal biomass and community composition to environmental factors in the Sundays Estuary
- Authors: Kotsedi, Daisy
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Algal blooms -- South Africa -- Sundays River Estuary
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10609 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1434 , Algal blooms -- South Africa -- Sundays River Estuary
- Description: The Sundays Estuary is permanently open to the sea and has been described as channel-like along its entire length with a narrow intertidal area (mostly less than 5 - 6 m in width). The estuary experiences regular freshwater inflow with large supplies of nutrients, derived from the Orange River transfer scheme and agricultural return flow. In particular, nitrate concentrations are high as a result of fertilisers used in the Sundays River catchment area. The objectives of this study were to measure microalgal biomass and community composition and relate to flow, water quality and other environmental variables. Surveys in August 2006, March 2007, February, June and August 2008 showed that salinity less than 10 percent mostly occurred from 12.5 km from the mouth and this was also where the highest water column chlorophyll a (>20 μg l-1) was found. Different groups of microalgae formed phytoplankton blooms for the different sampling sessions, which were correlated with high chlorophyll a. These included blooms of green algae (August 2006), flagellates (March 2007), dinoflagellates (June 2008) and diatom species (February and August 2008). The dominant diatom (Cyclotella atomus) indicated nutrient-rich conditions. Green algae and diatoms were associated with low salinity water in the upper reaches of the estuary. Flagellates were dominant throughout the estuary particularly when nutrients were low, whereas the dinoflagellate bloom in June 2008 was correlated with high ammonium and pH. Maximum benthic chlorophyll a was found at 12.5 km from the mouth in February, June and August 2008 and was correlated with high sediment organic and moisture content. Benthic diatoms were associated with high temperature whereas some species in June 2008 were associated with high ammonium concentrations. The middle reaches of the estuary characterise a zone of deposition rather than suspension which would favour benthic diatom colonization. Phytoplankton cells settling out on the sediments may account for the high benthic chlorophyll a because maximum water column chlorophyll a was also found in the REI zone (where salinity is less than 10 percent and where high biological activity occurs) in the Sundays Estuary. The estuary was sampled over five consecutive weeks from March to April 2009 to identify environmental factors that support different microalgal bloom species. Phytoplankton blooms, defined as chlorophyll a greater than 20 μg l-1, were found during Weeks 1, 4 and 5 from the middle to the upper reaches of the estuary. Diatom species (Cylindrotheca closterium, Cyclotella atomus and Cyclostephanus dubius) occurred in bloom concentrations during these weeks. These diatom species are cosmopolitan and indicate brackish nutrient-rich water. Flagellates were the dominant group in Weeks 2 to 4, but positive correlations with chlorophyll a were found during Weeks 1 and 2. During the first week of this study the conditions were warm and calm (measured as temperature and wind speed) and there was a well developed bloom (38 μg l-1). There was a strong cold front from 17 to 19 March, which mixed the water column resulting in the decrease of the chlorophyll a levels (<20 μg l-1) and the bloom collapsed during Weeks 2 and 3. However, in Weeks 4 and 5 conditions were again calm and warmer, which appeared to stimulate the phytoplankton bloom. Nanoplankton (2.7 - 20 μm) was dominant during each week sampled and contributed a considerable amount (55 - 79 percent) to the phytoplankton biomass. Once again subtidal benthic chlorophyll a and water column chlorophyll a were highest 12.5 km from the mouth. Deposition of phytoplankton cells from the water column was evident in the benthic samples. The study showed that the Sundays Estuary is eutrophic and characterised by microalgal blooms consisting of different phytoplankton groups.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Kotsedi, Daisy
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Algal blooms -- South Africa -- Sundays River Estuary
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10609 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1434 , Algal blooms -- South Africa -- Sundays River Estuary
- Description: The Sundays Estuary is permanently open to the sea and has been described as channel-like along its entire length with a narrow intertidal area (mostly less than 5 - 6 m in width). The estuary experiences regular freshwater inflow with large supplies of nutrients, derived from the Orange River transfer scheme and agricultural return flow. In particular, nitrate concentrations are high as a result of fertilisers used in the Sundays River catchment area. The objectives of this study were to measure microalgal biomass and community composition and relate to flow, water quality and other environmental variables. Surveys in August 2006, March 2007, February, June and August 2008 showed that salinity less than 10 percent mostly occurred from 12.5 km from the mouth and this was also where the highest water column chlorophyll a (>20 μg l-1) was found. Different groups of microalgae formed phytoplankton blooms for the different sampling sessions, which were correlated with high chlorophyll a. These included blooms of green algae (August 2006), flagellates (March 2007), dinoflagellates (June 2008) and diatom species (February and August 2008). The dominant diatom (Cyclotella atomus) indicated nutrient-rich conditions. Green algae and diatoms were associated with low salinity water in the upper reaches of the estuary. Flagellates were dominant throughout the estuary particularly when nutrients were low, whereas the dinoflagellate bloom in June 2008 was correlated with high ammonium and pH. Maximum benthic chlorophyll a was found at 12.5 km from the mouth in February, June and August 2008 and was correlated with high sediment organic and moisture content. Benthic diatoms were associated with high temperature whereas some species in June 2008 were associated with high ammonium concentrations. The middle reaches of the estuary characterise a zone of deposition rather than suspension which would favour benthic diatom colonization. Phytoplankton cells settling out on the sediments may account for the high benthic chlorophyll a because maximum water column chlorophyll a was also found in the REI zone (where salinity is less than 10 percent and where high biological activity occurs) in the Sundays Estuary. The estuary was sampled over five consecutive weeks from March to April 2009 to identify environmental factors that support different microalgal bloom species. Phytoplankton blooms, defined as chlorophyll a greater than 20 μg l-1, were found during Weeks 1, 4 and 5 from the middle to the upper reaches of the estuary. Diatom species (Cylindrotheca closterium, Cyclotella atomus and Cyclostephanus dubius) occurred in bloom concentrations during these weeks. These diatom species are cosmopolitan and indicate brackish nutrient-rich water. Flagellates were the dominant group in Weeks 2 to 4, but positive correlations with chlorophyll a were found during Weeks 1 and 2. During the first week of this study the conditions were warm and calm (measured as temperature and wind speed) and there was a well developed bloom (38 μg l-1). There was a strong cold front from 17 to 19 March, which mixed the water column resulting in the decrease of the chlorophyll a levels (<20 μg l-1) and the bloom collapsed during Weeks 2 and 3. However, in Weeks 4 and 5 conditions were again calm and warmer, which appeared to stimulate the phytoplankton bloom. Nanoplankton (2.7 - 20 μm) was dominant during each week sampled and contributed a considerable amount (55 - 79 percent) to the phytoplankton biomass. Once again subtidal benthic chlorophyll a and water column chlorophyll a were highest 12.5 km from the mouth. Deposition of phytoplankton cells from the water column was evident in the benthic samples. The study showed that the Sundays Estuary is eutrophic and characterised by microalgal blooms consisting of different phytoplankton groups.
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- Date Issued: 2011