Assessing the effects of materials management practices on performance of locomotive manufacturing firms in Gauteng province
- Authors: Setino, Rebecca
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Materials management , Industrial procurement , Business logistics -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65935 , vital:74288
- Description: The study assessed the effects of materials management practices (materials planning, procurement, availability, handling, and delivery) on the performance of rail rolling stock and locomotive manufacturing firms in Gauteng Province. The study also investigated the causes of delays in supply of materials in the rail rolling stock and locomotive manufacturing industry in Gauteng. The research design employed was both descriptive and explanatory, using a quantitative research approach in which online surveys were conducted on a sample of 200 respondents from the rolling stock manufacturing firms in Gauteng. Descriptive statistics performed through SPSS 27 and SEM performed through AMOS 26 were used for data analysis. The findings of the study revealed that materials management practises were implemented in the rail rolling stock and locomotive manufacturing industry. According to the results, materials availability and materials handling have positive and statistically significant effects on the performance of rail manufacturing firms in Gauteng Province. However, materials planning, procurement and delivery practices have no significant effect on the performance of rail manufacturing firms in Gauteng Province. Therefore, the results reveal that firm performance is driven by materials availability and materials handling. In addition, late delivery of materials to the production line was found to be the main cause of project delays. The study thus offered a contrasting perspective to the general findings that show materials management practices to be a significant contributor to manufacturing firm performance. However, the study confirms the importance of materials handling and availability as a predictor of performance in manufacturing firms. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Setino, Rebecca
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Materials management , Industrial procurement , Business logistics -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65935 , vital:74288
- Description: The study assessed the effects of materials management practices (materials planning, procurement, availability, handling, and delivery) on the performance of rail rolling stock and locomotive manufacturing firms in Gauteng Province. The study also investigated the causes of delays in supply of materials in the rail rolling stock and locomotive manufacturing industry in Gauteng. The research design employed was both descriptive and explanatory, using a quantitative research approach in which online surveys were conducted on a sample of 200 respondents from the rolling stock manufacturing firms in Gauteng. Descriptive statistics performed through SPSS 27 and SEM performed through AMOS 26 were used for data analysis. The findings of the study revealed that materials management practises were implemented in the rail rolling stock and locomotive manufacturing industry. According to the results, materials availability and materials handling have positive and statistically significant effects on the performance of rail manufacturing firms in Gauteng Province. However, materials planning, procurement and delivery practices have no significant effect on the performance of rail manufacturing firms in Gauteng Province. Therefore, the results reveal that firm performance is driven by materials availability and materials handling. In addition, late delivery of materials to the production line was found to be the main cause of project delays. The study thus offered a contrasting perspective to the general findings that show materials management practices to be a significant contributor to manufacturing firm performance. However, the study confirms the importance of materials handling and availability as a predictor of performance in manufacturing firms. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, practices and the prevalence of intestinal parasites in Sarah Baartman District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mrwebi, Sisanda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Intestinal parasites , Knowledge Attitudes and Practices , transmitted helminths
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62924 , vital:73070
- Description: ntestinal parasites also known as parasitic worms are one of the common water, soil and feacal transmitted infections of public importance in the world. This study evaluated the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) of public workers comprising EPWP and CWP general workers on intestinal parasites in a selected municipality in the study area . Additionally, using secondary data, the researcher established the prevalence of intestinal parasites in Sarah Baartman District Municipality (SBDM) from 2012 to 2020. Method: The study made use of a quantitative, cross-sectional research design resembling a study by S.D. Hambury .A structured questionnaire, closed-ended, telephonically-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 160 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and Community Work Programme (CWP) general workers. Data on the prevalence was obtained from the SBDM National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). Data was analysed using both inferential and descriptive statistics using SPSS software version 16.1, inferential statistics tests used were Chi2 square tests and p-value tests. Descriptive statistic tests used included frequency distributions, percentage, cumulative percent, and valid percent. Results: The participants’ overall awareness, attitudes and practices of the study were poor, 64.4% of the study participants had the correct knowledge about intestinal parasite infections. The age of study participants and who the participants thought was at risk of being infected by intestinal parasites had a non significant relationship (p>0.05). Gender and the responses to who is at risk of getting infected with intestinal parasites had a statistically significant (p<0.05) relationship. Intestinal parasite prevalence from 2012 to 2020 in SBDM was 46.37% which means it was close to half of the sampled population. Males had the highest prevalence as compared to females, with a prevalence of 53.1% xvi in males and 46.9% in females. The highest disease infection was found between ages one and six years. Conclusion: The researcher concluded that the overall awareness, attitudes and practices on intestinal parasites in SBDM were poor. The intestinal parasites present in SBDM were Cytoisospora belli (35.4%) and Giardia lamblia (35.4%), Ascaris lumbricoides (17.7%), Trichuris trichiura (3%), and Taenia species (2%). The study also revealed that the prevalence of intestinal parasites was low from 2012 to 2020. Recommendations were made with an emphasis on education to increase disease prevention and control awareness. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mrwebi, Sisanda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Intestinal parasites , Knowledge Attitudes and Practices , transmitted helminths
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62924 , vital:73070
- Description: ntestinal parasites also known as parasitic worms are one of the common water, soil and feacal transmitted infections of public importance in the world. This study evaluated the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) of public workers comprising EPWP and CWP general workers on intestinal parasites in a selected municipality in the study area . Additionally, using secondary data, the researcher established the prevalence of intestinal parasites in Sarah Baartman District Municipality (SBDM) from 2012 to 2020. Method: The study made use of a quantitative, cross-sectional research design resembling a study by S.D. Hambury .A structured questionnaire, closed-ended, telephonically-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 160 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and Community Work Programme (CWP) general workers. Data on the prevalence was obtained from the SBDM National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). Data was analysed using both inferential and descriptive statistics using SPSS software version 16.1, inferential statistics tests used were Chi2 square tests and p-value tests. Descriptive statistic tests used included frequency distributions, percentage, cumulative percent, and valid percent. Results: The participants’ overall awareness, attitudes and practices of the study were poor, 64.4% of the study participants had the correct knowledge about intestinal parasite infections. The age of study participants and who the participants thought was at risk of being infected by intestinal parasites had a non significant relationship (p>0.05). Gender and the responses to who is at risk of getting infected with intestinal parasites had a statistically significant (p<0.05) relationship. Intestinal parasite prevalence from 2012 to 2020 in SBDM was 46.37% which means it was close to half of the sampled population. Males had the highest prevalence as compared to females, with a prevalence of 53.1% xvi in males and 46.9% in females. The highest disease infection was found between ages one and six years. Conclusion: The researcher concluded that the overall awareness, attitudes and practices on intestinal parasites in SBDM were poor. The intestinal parasites present in SBDM were Cytoisospora belli (35.4%) and Giardia lamblia (35.4%), Ascaris lumbricoides (17.7%), Trichuris trichiura (3%), and Taenia species (2%). The study also revealed that the prevalence of intestinal parasites was low from 2012 to 2020. Recommendations were made with an emphasis on education to increase disease prevention and control awareness. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Characterization of the coastal Aquifer of Gqeberha, South Africa : Developing a conceptual understanding
- Authors: Vandala, Bamanye
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Aquifers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Groundwater ecology , Hydrogeology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62710 , vital:72932
- Description: The aquifer systems in Gqeberha are poorly understood due to a lack of groundwater studies within the area, and this is particularly the case for the coastal aquifer of Gqeberha. Amidst the water crisis the city is currently facing, groundwater has become crucial, with over 1000 boreholes reportedly drilled in the coastal area, most of which are residential. This has resulted in the need to conduct more groundwater studies in the area and in Nelson Mandela Bay. This study presents a detailed hydrogeological characterization of the coastal aquifer of Gqeberha. This was achieved through the use of different techniques, which include field mapping, geophysics, hydrochemistry, and pumping test analysis. The work was done on the coastal seeps of the Algoa Group Formation and the fractured aquifer of the Peninsula Formation. The results through mapping indicated an abundance of folds, faults, and fractures which all have implications for groundwater flow. The majority of fractures are striking in the NE-SW and NW-SE directions. The pumping test analysis also indicated fractal flow with significant matrix flow resulting in a dual porosity system up to at least 200m in depth. The transmissivity and storativity values range from 6.78 – 44.5 m2/day and 0.0172 – 0.0325, respectively. This is highly dependent on the fracture interconnectivity, which varies across the area and is higher at shallow depths, as suggested by the geophysical profiles. Geophysical profiles indicate that the contact between the Algoa Group Formations and the Peninsula Formation results in coastal seeps due to the difference in hydraulic conductivities. The hydrochemical analysis suggests that the seeps generally have Na-Cl and Ca-Mg-Cl water types. The groundwater in the eastern area has a Ca-HCO3 water type, and the groundwater in the western region has a Ca-Mg-Cl water type, with the Chelsea-Noordhoek Fault system separating the two groundwater signatures. Groundwater at greater depths has a Na-Cl water type with higher TDS values. The chemical signatures seen are due to external factors, which include sea sprays, anthropogenic activities, rock-water processes, and possibly connate water in the Peninsula Formation aquifer. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the present conditions of the aquifer in Gqeberha. This research serves as a foundational study that can provide a baseline for future hydrogeological investigations in the area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Vandala, Bamanye
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Aquifers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Groundwater ecology , Hydrogeology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62710 , vital:72932
- Description: The aquifer systems in Gqeberha are poorly understood due to a lack of groundwater studies within the area, and this is particularly the case for the coastal aquifer of Gqeberha. Amidst the water crisis the city is currently facing, groundwater has become crucial, with over 1000 boreholes reportedly drilled in the coastal area, most of which are residential. This has resulted in the need to conduct more groundwater studies in the area and in Nelson Mandela Bay. This study presents a detailed hydrogeological characterization of the coastal aquifer of Gqeberha. This was achieved through the use of different techniques, which include field mapping, geophysics, hydrochemistry, and pumping test analysis. The work was done on the coastal seeps of the Algoa Group Formation and the fractured aquifer of the Peninsula Formation. The results through mapping indicated an abundance of folds, faults, and fractures which all have implications for groundwater flow. The majority of fractures are striking in the NE-SW and NW-SE directions. The pumping test analysis also indicated fractal flow with significant matrix flow resulting in a dual porosity system up to at least 200m in depth. The transmissivity and storativity values range from 6.78 – 44.5 m2/day and 0.0172 – 0.0325, respectively. This is highly dependent on the fracture interconnectivity, which varies across the area and is higher at shallow depths, as suggested by the geophysical profiles. Geophysical profiles indicate that the contact between the Algoa Group Formations and the Peninsula Formation results in coastal seeps due to the difference in hydraulic conductivities. The hydrochemical analysis suggests that the seeps generally have Na-Cl and Ca-Mg-Cl water types. The groundwater in the eastern area has a Ca-HCO3 water type, and the groundwater in the western region has a Ca-Mg-Cl water type, with the Chelsea-Noordhoek Fault system separating the two groundwater signatures. Groundwater at greater depths has a Na-Cl water type with higher TDS values. The chemical signatures seen are due to external factors, which include sea sprays, anthropogenic activities, rock-water processes, and possibly connate water in the Peninsula Formation aquifer. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the present conditions of the aquifer in Gqeberha. This research serves as a foundational study that can provide a baseline for future hydrogeological investigations in the area. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Chemical analysis and biological activities of crude extracts and essential oil of selected medicinal plants from the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and Volta Region of Ghana
- Authors: Agbo, Irene Adzo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Lantana camara , Peptic ulcer -- Treatment , Traditional medicine - South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62431 , vital:72728
- Description: Lantana camara and Khaya grandifoliola extracts are among many plants found traditionally effective for the treatment of wounds and ulcers. This study assessed the phytochemical content, isolation and identification of single compounds from methanol and ethyl acetate extracts of Lantana camara and Khaya grandifoliola. Further, the bioactivity testing including antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytoxicity of the extracts was done to confirm the wound healing potential discovered by the traditional healers. Materials and methods: Extraction was done successively using maceration method with 100 % ethyl acetate and 100 % methanol with a biomass-to-solvent ratio of 1:3 (w/v) to obtain L. camara ethyl acetate extracts of berry (ELB), flower (ELF) and leaf (ELL) and methanol extracts of MLB, MLF, MLL and K. grandifoliola ethyl acetate extracts of leaf (EKL), root (EKR) and stem bark (EKSB) and methanol extracts of MKL, MKR, MKSB respectively. L. camara leaf essential oil (EO) was extracted using the hydro-distillation method with a Clevenger apparatus. Total phytochemical content was assessed for each extract using spectrophotometric methods and a calibration curve of standards: bromocresol green method with atropine; Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric method with gallic acid, aluminium chloride colorimetric method with quercetin and concentrated sulphuric acid chloroform with linalool for total alkaloid, phenolic, flavonoid and terpenoid contents respectively. Single compound isolation and purification was conducted using chromatographic techniques. Elucidation of single compounds was done using spectrometric method, high resolution- mass spectrometry, and one and two-dimensional (1D and 2D)-NMR. Stereochemistry of each compound was confirmed using electronic circular dichroism spectra. A Crystalline compound was identified by single crystal X-ray diffraction using CuKα-radiation. In vitro bioactivities were assessed with methods such as 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, free radical scavenging activity of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, inhibitory effect on nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages, and 96-well plate micro dilution for cytotoxicity, ant-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity testing. Results: Methanol extracts of both plants retained high phytochemical concentrations of all the phytoconstituents investigated compared with the ethyl acetate extracts which retained lower concentrations. The results of the L. camara methanol extracts include; total alkaloid content (TAC) (2.05±0.18, 1.87±1.54 and 2.60±1.10 mg AEQ/100 mg); total phenolic content (TPC) (14.05±4.04, 34.59±3.01 and 18.58±1.87 mg GAEQ/100 mg); the total flavonoid content(TFC) of flower (12.45±1.87, 20.41±2.69 and mg QEQ/100 mg); total terpenoids (TTC) (20.74±2.34, 20.74±2.34 and 15.97±1.19 mg LIN EQ/100mg) of MLB, MLF and MLL respectively. Whereas that of the K. grandifoliola methanol extracts include; TAC (7.32±0.14,8.49±0.34, 10.67±0.22 mg AEQ/100 mg); TPC (37.49±1.40, 44.41±0.69, 53.57±1.50 mgGAEQ/100 mg); TFC (6.54±0.55, 9.58±0.89 and 10.26±0.92 mg QEQ/100 mg); TTC(10.16±1.41, 35.78±2.14 and 23.45±1.76 mg LIN EQ/100mg) of MKL, MKR and MKSB respectively. The major components of essential oil, out of the 71 constituents identified include Davanone D (32.91 %), Caryophyllene (5.07 %), Nerolidol 2 (3.56 %) and GermacreneD (3.13 %). Compounds 3.47 was isolated from the methanol extract of L. camara flowers. This compound is reported for the first time from the L. camara flower extract. Two compounds, compounds 4.23, and 4.26, were isolated from the methanol extract of K. grandifoliola roots, compound 4.22 was isolated from the ethyl acetate root extract while compounds 4.24 and 4.25 were isolated from the ethyl acetate stem bark extract as isomers in a mixture. Compounds 4.22 and 4.23 are reported from K. grandifoliola root for the first time. The isolated compounds (compounds 3.47 and 4.23) were nontoxic to the Vero cell line and this may contribute to possible stimulation of cell proliferation, promoting wound healing. Cytotoxicity describes extract virulence to Vero cell line. MLF and ELB were found nontoxic even at the highest concentration of 200 μg/mL. The MKSB and MKR, as well as the EKSB were nontoxic. Antioxidant activity results, described by the percentage inhibition in the DPPH assay, showed that MLF and MKSB had the highest antioxidant activities compared with the ascorbic acid standard, with IC50 of 38.68±5.09 and 37.03±11.95 μg/mL for L. camara and K. grandifoliola respectively. ELB exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity inhibiting NO• radical generation in the LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages at concentration ranging from 50 and 100 μg/mL. EKSB and MKR showed significant anti-inflammatory activity at 100 and 200 μg/ml respectively. ELL and ELF demonstrated potent growth inhibition against S. pyogenes with an MIC value ≤ 0.125 mg/mL, while the MICs of the ELB and MLL were 0.5 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL respectively. MKSB and MKR and EKSB extract exhibited an effective growth inhibition against S. aureus with MIC of 1 mg/mL. The growth of S. pyogenes was supressed by both ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of all plant parts tested with MIC ranging from 0.25–2 mg/mL. Conclusion: The potent bioactivity shown in the results of the cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity testing, and the nontoxic singlecompounds of L. camara and K. grandifoliola extracts led to the conclusion that the two plants had wound healing potential. The study therefore confirmed their traditional uses for treatment of wounds. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Agbo, Irene Adzo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Lantana camara , Peptic ulcer -- Treatment , Traditional medicine - South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Traditional medicine -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62431 , vital:72728
- Description: Lantana camara and Khaya grandifoliola extracts are among many plants found traditionally effective for the treatment of wounds and ulcers. This study assessed the phytochemical content, isolation and identification of single compounds from methanol and ethyl acetate extracts of Lantana camara and Khaya grandifoliola. Further, the bioactivity testing including antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytoxicity of the extracts was done to confirm the wound healing potential discovered by the traditional healers. Materials and methods: Extraction was done successively using maceration method with 100 % ethyl acetate and 100 % methanol with a biomass-to-solvent ratio of 1:3 (w/v) to obtain L. camara ethyl acetate extracts of berry (ELB), flower (ELF) and leaf (ELL) and methanol extracts of MLB, MLF, MLL and K. grandifoliola ethyl acetate extracts of leaf (EKL), root (EKR) and stem bark (EKSB) and methanol extracts of MKL, MKR, MKSB respectively. L. camara leaf essential oil (EO) was extracted using the hydro-distillation method with a Clevenger apparatus. Total phytochemical content was assessed for each extract using spectrophotometric methods and a calibration curve of standards: bromocresol green method with atropine; Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric method with gallic acid, aluminium chloride colorimetric method with quercetin and concentrated sulphuric acid chloroform with linalool for total alkaloid, phenolic, flavonoid and terpenoid contents respectively. Single compound isolation and purification was conducted using chromatographic techniques. Elucidation of single compounds was done using spectrometric method, high resolution- mass spectrometry, and one and two-dimensional (1D and 2D)-NMR. Stereochemistry of each compound was confirmed using electronic circular dichroism spectra. A Crystalline compound was identified by single crystal X-ray diffraction using CuKα-radiation. In vitro bioactivities were assessed with methods such as 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, free radical scavenging activity of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, inhibitory effect on nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages, and 96-well plate micro dilution for cytotoxicity, ant-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity testing. Results: Methanol extracts of both plants retained high phytochemical concentrations of all the phytoconstituents investigated compared with the ethyl acetate extracts which retained lower concentrations. The results of the L. camara methanol extracts include; total alkaloid content (TAC) (2.05±0.18, 1.87±1.54 and 2.60±1.10 mg AEQ/100 mg); total phenolic content (TPC) (14.05±4.04, 34.59±3.01 and 18.58±1.87 mg GAEQ/100 mg); the total flavonoid content(TFC) of flower (12.45±1.87, 20.41±2.69 and mg QEQ/100 mg); total terpenoids (TTC) (20.74±2.34, 20.74±2.34 and 15.97±1.19 mg LIN EQ/100mg) of MLB, MLF and MLL respectively. Whereas that of the K. grandifoliola methanol extracts include; TAC (7.32±0.14,8.49±0.34, 10.67±0.22 mg AEQ/100 mg); TPC (37.49±1.40, 44.41±0.69, 53.57±1.50 mgGAEQ/100 mg); TFC (6.54±0.55, 9.58±0.89 and 10.26±0.92 mg QEQ/100 mg); TTC(10.16±1.41, 35.78±2.14 and 23.45±1.76 mg LIN EQ/100mg) of MKL, MKR and MKSB respectively. The major components of essential oil, out of the 71 constituents identified include Davanone D (32.91 %), Caryophyllene (5.07 %), Nerolidol 2 (3.56 %) and GermacreneD (3.13 %). Compounds 3.47 was isolated from the methanol extract of L. camara flowers. This compound is reported for the first time from the L. camara flower extract. Two compounds, compounds 4.23, and 4.26, were isolated from the methanol extract of K. grandifoliola roots, compound 4.22 was isolated from the ethyl acetate root extract while compounds 4.24 and 4.25 were isolated from the ethyl acetate stem bark extract as isomers in a mixture. Compounds 4.22 and 4.23 are reported from K. grandifoliola root for the first time. The isolated compounds (compounds 3.47 and 4.23) were nontoxic to the Vero cell line and this may contribute to possible stimulation of cell proliferation, promoting wound healing. Cytotoxicity describes extract virulence to Vero cell line. MLF and ELB were found nontoxic even at the highest concentration of 200 μg/mL. The MKSB and MKR, as well as the EKSB were nontoxic. Antioxidant activity results, described by the percentage inhibition in the DPPH assay, showed that MLF and MKSB had the highest antioxidant activities compared with the ascorbic acid standard, with IC50 of 38.68±5.09 and 37.03±11.95 μg/mL for L. camara and K. grandifoliola respectively. ELB exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity inhibiting NO• radical generation in the LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages at concentration ranging from 50 and 100 μg/mL. EKSB and MKR showed significant anti-inflammatory activity at 100 and 200 μg/ml respectively. ELL and ELF demonstrated potent growth inhibition against S. pyogenes with an MIC value ≤ 0.125 mg/mL, while the MICs of the ELB and MLL were 0.5 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL respectively. MKSB and MKR and EKSB extract exhibited an effective growth inhibition against S. aureus with MIC of 1 mg/mL. The growth of S. pyogenes was supressed by both ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of all plant parts tested with MIC ranging from 0.25–2 mg/mL. Conclusion: The potent bioactivity shown in the results of the cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity testing, and the nontoxic singlecompounds of L. camara and K. grandifoliola extracts led to the conclusion that the two plants had wound healing potential. The study therefore confirmed their traditional uses for treatment of wounds. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Dietary assessment of Cape Gannets (Morus capensis) and African Penguins (Spheniscus demersus) in Algoa Bay using molecular scatology
- Bowmaker - Falconer, Kezia, Von Der Heyden, Sophie
- Authors: Bowmaker - Falconer, Kezia , Von Der Heyden, Sophie
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Gannets , Gannets -- Food , Sea birds -- South Africa -- Bird Island, Algoa Bay.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62420 , vital:72675
- Description: Seabirds are important marine sentinels, providing valuable information about ecosystem health and condition. Dietary studies of seabirds can inform on ecosystem functioning through identifying the condition and changes occurring in their surrounding environment. Dietary studies are also crucial as they can identify threats that seabirds face. Until recently, the diets of southern African endemic and Endangered Cape Gannets Morus capensis and African Penguins Spheniscus demersus were solely investigated through stomach content analyses, which allows for the identification and quantification of prey remains. To overcome some of the limitations associated with stomach content analysis, stable isotope and fatty acid analyses were proposed. However, these methods still require bird handling and thus impose some stress on the birds. DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter shows promise as a completely noninvasive method for seabird dietary studies. This thesis first examined whether DNA metabarcoding could be used to determine the diet of Cape Gannet and African Penguin breeding in Algoa Bay, South Africa. Then, this method was used to investigate the influence of intrinsic (both seabird species) and extrinsic (African Penguins) factors on the diet of the two seabird species. For the first data chapter, stomach content samples and faecal matter were collected concurrently from breeding Cape Gannets and African Penguins on Bird Island. DNA was successfully extracted from most faecal matter samples and the primers (18S_SSU, 16S_Fish) used for group, taxa and fish prey identification allowed amplification of prey DNA for both study species. A similar piscivorous diet was determined by both dietary methods for Cape Gannets with Sardine Sardinops sagax and Atlantic Saury Scomberesox saurus dominating the diet. Sardine also dominated the African Penguin diet in both dietary methods. In addition, DNA metabarcoding in African Penguins revealed a more diverse diet compared to the one determined by stomach content analysis. This was likely due to the limitations on the allowed number of stomach content samples to be collected for that Endangered species. Non-invasive DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter was then used to investigate whether the diet varied with breeding stages (incubation, chick-rearing) and age classes (chick-rearing adults, chicks) in both seabird species, but also breeding colonies (Algoa Bay: Bird Island, St Croix Island) in African Penguins. DNA metabarcoding revealed that breeding stages influenced the diet of Cape Gannets and African Penguins on Bird Island where prey species diversity was greater for incubating adults. On the contrary, the diet of incubating and chick-rearing penguins on St Croix Island was similar. When comparing the diet of African Penguins between Bird Island and St Croix Island, there was an increased overlap in diet composition between incubating and chick-rearing adults on St Croix Island when compared to Bird Island. Importantly, DNA metabarcoding indicated an increase in fishery interactions in Algoa Bay, particularly for Cape Gannets and the hake Merluccius spp. fishery, where the contribution of hake to chick-rearing adults and chick diet was considerably greater than incubating adult diet. In this study, I showed that DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter provides an opportunity for non-invasive dietary studies in two southern African endemic and Endangered seabird species. Incorporating non-invasive methods as a complement to other dietary methods for monitoring seabird trophic ecology is crucial when considering the worsening status of several seabird species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Bowmaker - Falconer, Kezia , Von Der Heyden, Sophie
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Gannets , Gannets -- Food , Sea birds -- South Africa -- Bird Island, Algoa Bay.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62420 , vital:72675
- Description: Seabirds are important marine sentinels, providing valuable information about ecosystem health and condition. Dietary studies of seabirds can inform on ecosystem functioning through identifying the condition and changes occurring in their surrounding environment. Dietary studies are also crucial as they can identify threats that seabirds face. Until recently, the diets of southern African endemic and Endangered Cape Gannets Morus capensis and African Penguins Spheniscus demersus were solely investigated through stomach content analyses, which allows for the identification and quantification of prey remains. To overcome some of the limitations associated with stomach content analysis, stable isotope and fatty acid analyses were proposed. However, these methods still require bird handling and thus impose some stress on the birds. DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter shows promise as a completely noninvasive method for seabird dietary studies. This thesis first examined whether DNA metabarcoding could be used to determine the diet of Cape Gannet and African Penguin breeding in Algoa Bay, South Africa. Then, this method was used to investigate the influence of intrinsic (both seabird species) and extrinsic (African Penguins) factors on the diet of the two seabird species. For the first data chapter, stomach content samples and faecal matter were collected concurrently from breeding Cape Gannets and African Penguins on Bird Island. DNA was successfully extracted from most faecal matter samples and the primers (18S_SSU, 16S_Fish) used for group, taxa and fish prey identification allowed amplification of prey DNA for both study species. A similar piscivorous diet was determined by both dietary methods for Cape Gannets with Sardine Sardinops sagax and Atlantic Saury Scomberesox saurus dominating the diet. Sardine also dominated the African Penguin diet in both dietary methods. In addition, DNA metabarcoding in African Penguins revealed a more diverse diet compared to the one determined by stomach content analysis. This was likely due to the limitations on the allowed number of stomach content samples to be collected for that Endangered species. Non-invasive DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter was then used to investigate whether the diet varied with breeding stages (incubation, chick-rearing) and age classes (chick-rearing adults, chicks) in both seabird species, but also breeding colonies (Algoa Bay: Bird Island, St Croix Island) in African Penguins. DNA metabarcoding revealed that breeding stages influenced the diet of Cape Gannets and African Penguins on Bird Island where prey species diversity was greater for incubating adults. On the contrary, the diet of incubating and chick-rearing penguins on St Croix Island was similar. When comparing the diet of African Penguins between Bird Island and St Croix Island, there was an increased overlap in diet composition between incubating and chick-rearing adults on St Croix Island when compared to Bird Island. Importantly, DNA metabarcoding indicated an increase in fishery interactions in Algoa Bay, particularly for Cape Gannets and the hake Merluccius spp. fishery, where the contribution of hake to chick-rearing adults and chick diet was considerably greater than incubating adult diet. In this study, I showed that DNA metabarcoding of faecal matter provides an opportunity for non-invasive dietary studies in two southern African endemic and Endangered seabird species. Incorporating non-invasive methods as a complement to other dietary methods for monitoring seabird trophic ecology is crucial when considering the worsening status of several seabird species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Effects of selected natural flavonoids on an optimized insulin resistance induction model on myotubes and hepatocytes in vitro
- Authors: Van de Venter, Ruben
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Flavonoid , Insulin resistance , Myotubes and hepatocytes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63049 , vital:73085
- Description: Introduction: As the third largest life-threatening non-communicable disease, further research to improve T2DM treatment remains pivotal. The approved insulin sensitizing agents, metformin and thiazolidinediones, although effective, have an array of adverse effects. This leads to the growing need for safer insulin sensitizing agents. Aims: To induce insulin resistance, an insulin resistance induction (IRI) model consisting of palmitic acid (PA), fructose, and dexamethasone (DEX), was optimized. The model was utilized to compare the insulin sensitizing efficacy of chrysin, apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin. The most effective flavonoid was extrapolated based on the hydroxylation hypothesis and relevant SAR. The flavonoid was combined with metformin to evaluate potential insulin sensitizing synergism. Methods: C3A hepatocytes and L6 myotubes were exposed to the IRI models: IR1, IR2, and OIR, for 24 and 48h. Morphological features indicative of insulin resistance were monitored through high-content analysis (HCA). Thereafter, cells were exposed to OIR and concurrently treated with the selected flavonoids. Cytotoxicity, oxidative stress (OS), mitochondrial content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and lipid accumulation, were once again evaluated through HCA. Subsequently, quercetin was combined with metformin (QM); insulin resistant conditions established through OIR exposure, and QM administered as prophylaxis. The efficacy of QM was determined through changes in phosphorylated-Akt, glucose uptake, and gluconeogenesis. Results: IR1 and IR2 demonstrated excessive potency, whereas OIR consistently generated insulin resistant C3A/L6 cells by increasing OS (↑14%/20%), lipid accumulation (0.7-fold/1.5-fold), and decreasing MMP (↓4%/6%). Of the selected flavonoids, quercetin was most effective at ameliorating each of these parameters. Furthermore, QM demonstrated potential insulin sensitizing synergism, as it improved Akt phosphorylation (Thr308: ↑31%/↑17%; Ser473: ↑29%), glucose uptake (↑10%/ 5%), and suppressed hepatic gluconeogenesis (15↓%) more effectively compared to monotherapy. Conclusions: OIR is an effective model for the induction of complete early-stage insulin resistance in myotubes and hepatocytes. Quercetin demonstrates exceptional antidiabetic activity due its unique expression of hydroxyl groups. Lastly, QM, comparative to monotherapy, improves insulin sensitivity with enhanced efficacy. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Van de Venter, Ruben
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Flavonoid , Insulin resistance , Myotubes and hepatocytes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63049 , vital:73085
- Description: Introduction: As the third largest life-threatening non-communicable disease, further research to improve T2DM treatment remains pivotal. The approved insulin sensitizing agents, metformin and thiazolidinediones, although effective, have an array of adverse effects. This leads to the growing need for safer insulin sensitizing agents. Aims: To induce insulin resistance, an insulin resistance induction (IRI) model consisting of palmitic acid (PA), fructose, and dexamethasone (DEX), was optimized. The model was utilized to compare the insulin sensitizing efficacy of chrysin, apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin. The most effective flavonoid was extrapolated based on the hydroxylation hypothesis and relevant SAR. The flavonoid was combined with metformin to evaluate potential insulin sensitizing synergism. Methods: C3A hepatocytes and L6 myotubes were exposed to the IRI models: IR1, IR2, and OIR, for 24 and 48h. Morphological features indicative of insulin resistance were monitored through high-content analysis (HCA). Thereafter, cells were exposed to OIR and concurrently treated with the selected flavonoids. Cytotoxicity, oxidative stress (OS), mitochondrial content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and lipid accumulation, were once again evaluated through HCA. Subsequently, quercetin was combined with metformin (QM); insulin resistant conditions established through OIR exposure, and QM administered as prophylaxis. The efficacy of QM was determined through changes in phosphorylated-Akt, glucose uptake, and gluconeogenesis. Results: IR1 and IR2 demonstrated excessive potency, whereas OIR consistently generated insulin resistant C3A/L6 cells by increasing OS (↑14%/20%), lipid accumulation (0.7-fold/1.5-fold), and decreasing MMP (↓4%/6%). Of the selected flavonoids, quercetin was most effective at ameliorating each of these parameters. Furthermore, QM demonstrated potential insulin sensitizing synergism, as it improved Akt phosphorylation (Thr308: ↑31%/↑17%; Ser473: ↑29%), glucose uptake (↑10%/ 5%), and suppressed hepatic gluconeogenesis (15↓%) more effectively compared to monotherapy. Conclusions: OIR is an effective model for the induction of complete early-stage insulin resistance in myotubes and hepatocytes. Quercetin demonstrates exceptional antidiabetic activity due its unique expression of hydroxyl groups. Lastly, QM, comparative to monotherapy, improves insulin sensitivity with enhanced efficacy. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Enhancing the optimal use of the properties for revenue generation at the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure
- Authors: Twala, Zolile Donald Linda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance and repair , Buildings -- Maintenance , Public works -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66068 , vital:74329
- Description: Literature on property management revealed that it became a challenge in many countries to manage and maintain properties, especially in the public sector. Concerning public infrastructure, research has confirmed that even in the most developed states, such as Canada and the United States of America (USA), the maintenance of public properties and related services was in danger due to fewer funds being budgeted for maintenance during their life cycle (Kaganova & Telgarsky, 2018). It was noted that there needed to be more studies conducted in South Africa under public infrastructure. This study aimed to explore how the NDPWI could improve the optimal use of properties under its custodianship to maximise revenue generation by carrying out the identified critical success factors from the property managers (internal) and client departments (external). Trying to find a well-maintained property creates more chances for the client departments or tenants to occupy the property for a more extended period while delivering their service to its clients and the NDPWI maximising the revenue generation. “The research applied a literature review and other sources, such as internal or media reports, as a background to discover meaning-making of insights from the property manager’s experiences, which were associated with their perceptions of property management challenges”. This research applied a qualitative research approach. Qualitative content was analysed, utilising a mixture of a deductive and inductive approach. The main reason for utilising both deductive and inductive approaches is that the researcher tried to understand and develop the theory around the NDPWI low-income generation utilising state properties to their optimal use and find out if all properties were well maintained and could, which allowed the NDPWI to maximise income generation. Five conclusions emerged from the findings of this study on insight from twenty-five (25) property managers who have been in their role for a minimum of five (5) years. The proof to substantiate these conclusions came directly from insights shared by the twenty-five (25) participants from their experience in property management. Conclusions were linked to the theories and reports that informed this study. Firstly, this study revealed that the majority of the participants agreed that the role of leadership in property management was critical for giving strategic direction within the organisation, ensuring that there were clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and ensuring there were no contradictions and confusion among the staff while executing their functions. Adequate talent was recruited, but skills were required to be strengthened. Secondly, the study revealed that the non-maintenance of state buildings contributed negatively to the client departments when executing their constitutional mandate efficiently and effectively in a safe environment. Poor building conditions were revealed as among the issues that the client departments needed to be occupying and optimally utilising; instead, they relied on leased inn properties from the private sector. Thirdly, the study revealed that the client relationship and quality of service they received from the NDPWI needed to be improved to ensure that clients were prioritised on their needs and expectations. NDPWI was taking too long to respond to the instruction of the client departments, and it was frustrating the client departments leading to some client departments proposing to devolve the power of the NDPWI to assist them. Fourthly, accessibility of the state properties was not as good as it was supposed to be, as the client departments would need the properties in specific areas, they needed to offer their services, and they could not get such properties under the NDPWI. They ended up looking for leased properties that meet their specification in the procurement instruction in good condition and safety. Fifthly, innovative technology could improve communication between the clients and help save time on conducting meetings in one common place. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Twala, Zolile Donald Linda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance and repair , Buildings -- Maintenance , Public works -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66068 , vital:74329
- Description: Literature on property management revealed that it became a challenge in many countries to manage and maintain properties, especially in the public sector. Concerning public infrastructure, research has confirmed that even in the most developed states, such as Canada and the United States of America (USA), the maintenance of public properties and related services was in danger due to fewer funds being budgeted for maintenance during their life cycle (Kaganova & Telgarsky, 2018). It was noted that there needed to be more studies conducted in South Africa under public infrastructure. This study aimed to explore how the NDPWI could improve the optimal use of properties under its custodianship to maximise revenue generation by carrying out the identified critical success factors from the property managers (internal) and client departments (external). Trying to find a well-maintained property creates more chances for the client departments or tenants to occupy the property for a more extended period while delivering their service to its clients and the NDPWI maximising the revenue generation. “The research applied a literature review and other sources, such as internal or media reports, as a background to discover meaning-making of insights from the property manager’s experiences, which were associated with their perceptions of property management challenges”. This research applied a qualitative research approach. Qualitative content was analysed, utilising a mixture of a deductive and inductive approach. The main reason for utilising both deductive and inductive approaches is that the researcher tried to understand and develop the theory around the NDPWI low-income generation utilising state properties to their optimal use and find out if all properties were well maintained and could, which allowed the NDPWI to maximise income generation. Five conclusions emerged from the findings of this study on insight from twenty-five (25) property managers who have been in their role for a minimum of five (5) years. The proof to substantiate these conclusions came directly from insights shared by the twenty-five (25) participants from their experience in property management. Conclusions were linked to the theories and reports that informed this study. Firstly, this study revealed that the majority of the participants agreed that the role of leadership in property management was critical for giving strategic direction within the organisation, ensuring that there were clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and ensuring there were no contradictions and confusion among the staff while executing their functions. Adequate talent was recruited, but skills were required to be strengthened. Secondly, the study revealed that the non-maintenance of state buildings contributed negatively to the client departments when executing their constitutional mandate efficiently and effectively in a safe environment. Poor building conditions were revealed as among the issues that the client departments needed to be occupying and optimally utilising; instead, they relied on leased inn properties from the private sector. Thirdly, the study revealed that the client relationship and quality of service they received from the NDPWI needed to be improved to ensure that clients were prioritised on their needs and expectations. NDPWI was taking too long to respond to the instruction of the client departments, and it was frustrating the client departments leading to some client departments proposing to devolve the power of the NDPWI to assist them. Fourthly, accessibility of the state properties was not as good as it was supposed to be, as the client departments would need the properties in specific areas, they needed to offer their services, and they could not get such properties under the NDPWI. They ended up looking for leased properties that meet their specification in the procurement instruction in good condition and safety. Fifthly, innovative technology could improve communication between the clients and help save time on conducting meetings in one common place. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Evaluating antidiabetic properties of selected African medicinal plants in a cell-based model
- Sirkhotte, Saeedah, Reddy, Shanika
- Authors: Sirkhotte, Saeedah , Reddy, Shanika
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Insulin resistance , Gluconeogenesis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62600 , vital:72827
- Description: The World Health Organisation lists diabetes as one of the major non-communicable diseases affecting the world, and its prevalence is expected to increase rapidly. Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterised by insulin resistance and impaired blood glucose control. T2DM is of growing concern within South Africa, with 10.8% of the population currently diagnosed. The popularity, as well as availability, of traditional plant-based medicine in South Africa, might provide a solution. Antidiabetic potential is commonly tested by in vitro assays, however the methods to test this potential via gluconeogenesis are limited. This project aimed to optimise an in vitro hepatic gluconeogenesis model. In addition, this project aimed to determine the antidiabetic properties of Prunus africana, Hypoxis stellipilis, and Eriocephalus africanus by in vitro analysis. These properties were examined in human hepatoma cells (C3A cell line) and rat pancreatic cells (INS1 cell line) and methods included: cytotoxicity analysis, Amplex® red glucose oxidase assay, antibody staining, gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR, oxidative stress analysis, and calcium signaling for insulin release. Insulin resistance was successfully induced by exposing C3A hepatocarcinoma cells to a combination treatment of 50 μM dexamethasone, 1.25 mM fructose and 0.125 mM palmitic acid for a period of three days. Thereafter, gluconeogenesis was assessed using the Amplex® red glucose oxidase assay. The established model was effective in inducing insulin resistance and upregulating gluconeogenesis. Of the tested plant extracts, H. stellipilis showed the most potential as an antidiabetic treatment. It had low toxicity, significantly decreased hepatic glucose production and reduced the amount of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK) and well as PCK gene expression, and reduced lipid content and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the C3A cell line. H. stellipilis increased calcium signalling in INS1 rat insulinoma cells, however there was a decrease in expression of genes for insulin and glucose transporter 2 after 6 hr exposure. H. stellipilis appears be beneficial as an antidiabetic treatment. Although antidiabetic studies have been done on other Hypoxis species, this is the first study on the effects of H. stellipilis on gluconeogenesis and diabetes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sirkhotte, Saeedah , Reddy, Shanika
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Insulin resistance , Gluconeogenesis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62600 , vital:72827
- Description: The World Health Organisation lists diabetes as one of the major non-communicable diseases affecting the world, and its prevalence is expected to increase rapidly. Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterised by insulin resistance and impaired blood glucose control. T2DM is of growing concern within South Africa, with 10.8% of the population currently diagnosed. The popularity, as well as availability, of traditional plant-based medicine in South Africa, might provide a solution. Antidiabetic potential is commonly tested by in vitro assays, however the methods to test this potential via gluconeogenesis are limited. This project aimed to optimise an in vitro hepatic gluconeogenesis model. In addition, this project aimed to determine the antidiabetic properties of Prunus africana, Hypoxis stellipilis, and Eriocephalus africanus by in vitro analysis. These properties were examined in human hepatoma cells (C3A cell line) and rat pancreatic cells (INS1 cell line) and methods included: cytotoxicity analysis, Amplex® red glucose oxidase assay, antibody staining, gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR, oxidative stress analysis, and calcium signaling for insulin release. Insulin resistance was successfully induced by exposing C3A hepatocarcinoma cells to a combination treatment of 50 μM dexamethasone, 1.25 mM fructose and 0.125 mM palmitic acid for a period of three days. Thereafter, gluconeogenesis was assessed using the Amplex® red glucose oxidase assay. The established model was effective in inducing insulin resistance and upregulating gluconeogenesis. Of the tested plant extracts, H. stellipilis showed the most potential as an antidiabetic treatment. It had low toxicity, significantly decreased hepatic glucose production and reduced the amount of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK) and well as PCK gene expression, and reduced lipid content and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the C3A cell line. H. stellipilis increased calcium signalling in INS1 rat insulinoma cells, however there was a decrease in expression of genes for insulin and glucose transporter 2 after 6 hr exposure. H. stellipilis appears be beneficial as an antidiabetic treatment. Although antidiabetic studies have been done on other Hypoxis species, this is the first study on the effects of H. stellipilis on gluconeogenesis and diabetes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Experiences of mothers who are on tuberculosis treatment While caring for their children in Nelson Mandela Bay health district
- Authors: Mwadiwa, Chiedza
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Caring experiences -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Tuberculosis treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62935 , vital:73071
- Description: Women and mothers have an important role to play as caregivers of their children. However, mothers are often faced with challenges with fulfilling this important role. Many women value the caring role as a mother over other areas of their lives, and for ill women, such as those with tuberculosis (TB) and those on TB treatment, it can be difficult to relinquish maternal responsibility. Indeed, many mothers in South Africa and other low- and middle-income countries develop TB during pregnancy and postpartum because their immune systems are compromised. For a mother who is chronically ill, carrying out a mother’s caregiving role presents a range of challenges. However, few studies have addressed this problem or explored the experiences of such mothers. The purpose of the study was to understand the experiences of mothers who are on TB treatment while caring for their children in order to establish their support needs and thereby develop recommendations to assist CHWs, nurses and nurse managers at primary healthcare (PHC) clinics to provide optimum care to such women. The Socio-Ecological model was used as the theoretical lens to explore the phenomenon under investigation. A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive research design was identified as most suited to respond to the research question. Purposive sampling was used to select both the participants and the clinics in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District (NMBHD) for the purpose of this study. The population was mothers on TB treatment caring for their children (aged five years or younger) who were attending either one of the two of the largest PHC clinics in Sub-district C in the NMBH. Altogether ten mothers on TB treatment caring for their children took part in individual semi-structured interviews conducted telephonically. Ethical clearance was obtained from Nelson Mandela University and permission was obtained from the Department of Health (DoH), district office, operational managers at the respective clinics, and the participants involved in the study. Trustworthiness was enhanced by ensuring credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Ethical principles were upheld throughout the course of this study namely respect for persons, beneficence and justice. All interviews were recorded and transcribed, and the data was analysed using Tesch’s method of data analysis to identify the themes. Three themes came out of the data, namely: Theme 1: Mothers expressed having to navigate a range of physical and psychosocial challenges while caring for their v children; Theme 2: Mothers struggled to perform motherly roles while on TB treatment; Theme 3: Mothers described their relationships with their family, community members and clinic health practitioners. The experiences of the participants were described using direct quotations from the interviews followed by a literature control used to verify the participants’ experiences. Thereafter, the findings were used to develop recommendations to optimise the care and support of mothers on TB treatment who are caring for their children. Four recommendations were developed: Recommendation 1: Prepare and support mothers with TB to care for themselves and their children; Recommendation 2: Assist CHWs and nurses to care and support mothers with TB and their children; Recommendation 3: Prepare and support family members to support mothers with TB and their children and Recommendation 4: Educate community members regarding the needs of mothers with TB. There is limited existing research on mothers who are on TB treatment while caring for their children. This research study helped to fill this gap, particularly in an urban Eastern Cape context. The findings illustrated mothers’ physical and psychosocial challenges, as well their role-related challenges and finally the challenges related to the various spousal, family, community and clinic relationships that influence their experience of caring for their child while on TB treatment. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mwadiwa, Chiedza
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Caring experiences -- Nelson Mandela Bay , Tuberculosis treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62935 , vital:73071
- Description: Women and mothers have an important role to play as caregivers of their children. However, mothers are often faced with challenges with fulfilling this important role. Many women value the caring role as a mother over other areas of their lives, and for ill women, such as those with tuberculosis (TB) and those on TB treatment, it can be difficult to relinquish maternal responsibility. Indeed, many mothers in South Africa and other low- and middle-income countries develop TB during pregnancy and postpartum because their immune systems are compromised. For a mother who is chronically ill, carrying out a mother’s caregiving role presents a range of challenges. However, few studies have addressed this problem or explored the experiences of such mothers. The purpose of the study was to understand the experiences of mothers who are on TB treatment while caring for their children in order to establish their support needs and thereby develop recommendations to assist CHWs, nurses and nurse managers at primary healthcare (PHC) clinics to provide optimum care to such women. The Socio-Ecological model was used as the theoretical lens to explore the phenomenon under investigation. A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive research design was identified as most suited to respond to the research question. Purposive sampling was used to select both the participants and the clinics in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District (NMBHD) for the purpose of this study. The population was mothers on TB treatment caring for their children (aged five years or younger) who were attending either one of the two of the largest PHC clinics in Sub-district C in the NMBH. Altogether ten mothers on TB treatment caring for their children took part in individual semi-structured interviews conducted telephonically. Ethical clearance was obtained from Nelson Mandela University and permission was obtained from the Department of Health (DoH), district office, operational managers at the respective clinics, and the participants involved in the study. Trustworthiness was enhanced by ensuring credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Ethical principles were upheld throughout the course of this study namely respect for persons, beneficence and justice. All interviews were recorded and transcribed, and the data was analysed using Tesch’s method of data analysis to identify the themes. Three themes came out of the data, namely: Theme 1: Mothers expressed having to navigate a range of physical and psychosocial challenges while caring for their v children; Theme 2: Mothers struggled to perform motherly roles while on TB treatment; Theme 3: Mothers described their relationships with their family, community members and clinic health practitioners. The experiences of the participants were described using direct quotations from the interviews followed by a literature control used to verify the participants’ experiences. Thereafter, the findings were used to develop recommendations to optimise the care and support of mothers on TB treatment who are caring for their children. Four recommendations were developed: Recommendation 1: Prepare and support mothers with TB to care for themselves and their children; Recommendation 2: Assist CHWs and nurses to care and support mothers with TB and their children; Recommendation 3: Prepare and support family members to support mothers with TB and their children and Recommendation 4: Educate community members regarding the needs of mothers with TB. There is limited existing research on mothers who are on TB treatment while caring for their children. This research study helped to fill this gap, particularly in an urban Eastern Cape context. The findings illustrated mothers’ physical and psychosocial challenges, as well their role-related challenges and finally the challenges related to the various spousal, family, community and clinic relationships that influence their experience of caring for their child while on TB treatment. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Experiences of psychological practitioners when working with Isixhosa speaking minors in the Eastern Cape.
- Authors: Matushe, Masakhane
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: language barriers -- Eastern Cape , Psychological practitioner
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62884 , vital:73062
- Description: Language barriers continue to pose challenges in education and the health sector where psychological assessments and tests are administered in a language that is different from that of the client. The implication this has on the interpretations of test-taker scores may be bias against those whose first language is not English or Afrikaans, which are two of the primary languages majority of the tests currently used in the South Africa are normed against. This study aimed to explore the implications of the current language repertoires on test-taker performance. This was achieved through exploring the experiences of psychological practitioners who use English language psychological tests on isiXhosa speaking child clients in the Eastern Cape. The methodology followed an exploratory-descriptive, qualitative design, adopting Lincoln and Guba's model of trustworthiness. The researcher employed a qualitative method with an exploratory-descriptive research design, and participants were recruited by utilizing a purposive sampling strategy. Thematic analysis was used as a means of data analysis,and the following themes emerged and were discussed: The use of translators & interpreters, and the challenges thereof; practitioner’s own language proficiencies and limitations; cultutral influence and langaage exposure of clients; Adaptation as well as revision of decolonization of testing measures; and training psychological practitioners. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Matushe, Masakhane
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: language barriers -- Eastern Cape , Psychological practitioner
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62884 , vital:73062
- Description: Language barriers continue to pose challenges in education and the health sector where psychological assessments and tests are administered in a language that is different from that of the client. The implication this has on the interpretations of test-taker scores may be bias against those whose first language is not English or Afrikaans, which are two of the primary languages majority of the tests currently used in the South Africa are normed against. This study aimed to explore the implications of the current language repertoires on test-taker performance. This was achieved through exploring the experiences of psychological practitioners who use English language psychological tests on isiXhosa speaking child clients in the Eastern Cape. The methodology followed an exploratory-descriptive, qualitative design, adopting Lincoln and Guba's model of trustworthiness. The researcher employed a qualitative method with an exploratory-descriptive research design, and participants were recruited by utilizing a purposive sampling strategy. Thematic analysis was used as a means of data analysis,and the following themes emerged and were discussed: The use of translators & interpreters, and the challenges thereof; practitioner’s own language proficiencies and limitations; cultutral influence and langaage exposure of clients; Adaptation as well as revision of decolonization of testing measures; and training psychological practitioners. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Exploring culturally adapted psychological interventions for mental illness in South Africa: A scoping review
- Authors: Mbatha, Andiswa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Cultural Adaptation , Evidence-Based Treatments
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62898 , vital:73065
- Description: Culturally appropriate interventions are crucial for its universal applicability. Although it is well documented that mental health practitioners need to consider cultural factors when working with clients, there is a paucity of research concerning culturally adapted psychological treatments within South Africa. Mental Health practitioners use borrowed Westernised methods of psychological interventions, whose effectiveness has been proven to work on people with different values and belief systems from those of South Africa. This study sought to map the literature on culturally adapted psychological interventions in the South African context. The main research question of the study is: “According to the literature, what are the culturally adapted psychological interventions available for use in the South African context?” Employing the scoping review methodology, published literature was sourced from various electronic databases. The data is presented in a table format using the thematic framework. The study found that out of 250 records that were retrieved, we identified nine articles describing four distinct interventions in treating three mental illnesses in South Africa. Cognitive behaviour therapy (n = 3), behaviour activation (n=2) mindfulness-based stress reduction (n=2) interpersonal therapy (n=1) and Motivational interviewing (n=1) surfaced as culturally adapted psychological interventions to treat people with depression, trauma and substance use disorder. Improvement in symptoms was a common result of all therapies. The potential benefit of the study is to provide recommendations that will inform further research and clinical practice. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mbatha, Andiswa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Cultural Adaptation , Evidence-Based Treatments
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62898 , vital:73065
- Description: Culturally appropriate interventions are crucial for its universal applicability. Although it is well documented that mental health practitioners need to consider cultural factors when working with clients, there is a paucity of research concerning culturally adapted psychological treatments within South Africa. Mental Health practitioners use borrowed Westernised methods of psychological interventions, whose effectiveness has been proven to work on people with different values and belief systems from those of South Africa. This study sought to map the literature on culturally adapted psychological interventions in the South African context. The main research question of the study is: “According to the literature, what are the culturally adapted psychological interventions available for use in the South African context?” Employing the scoping review methodology, published literature was sourced from various electronic databases. The data is presented in a table format using the thematic framework. The study found that out of 250 records that were retrieved, we identified nine articles describing four distinct interventions in treating three mental illnesses in South Africa. Cognitive behaviour therapy (n = 3), behaviour activation (n=2) mindfulness-based stress reduction (n=2) interpersonal therapy (n=1) and Motivational interviewing (n=1) surfaced as culturally adapted psychological interventions to treat people with depression, trauma and substance use disorder. Improvement in symptoms was a common result of all therapies. The potential benefit of the study is to provide recommendations that will inform further research and clinical practice. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Exploring the leadership agility in industry 4.0 for company x in Gqeberha
- Authors: Cairncross, Merle Vera
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Industry 4.0 , Business intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65577 , vital:74193
- Description: In today’s dynamic business landscape, more organisations are progressively attempting to become agile by implementing agile corporate structures, processes and leadership frameworks. By effectively incorporating leadership agility into their processes, leadership can be better prepared to improve its decision-making agility, further able to deploy strategies for improved detection and response to failure as well as improve communication in the organisation. This treatise explores the critical role of leadership agility in enabling organisations to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving environment such as Industry 4.0 and capitalise on emerging opportunities. For this study, qualitative data was collected from functional level management by means of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. The interviews aimed to identify behaviours and beliefs that contribute to an agile organisation, examine barriers impeding agile decision-making and explore strategies to cultivate an agile decision-making culture. By understanding the key factors that enable leadership agility and promote agility within decision-making processes, this research aimed to provide valuable insights for organisations seeking to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0. Through literature analysis and interviews, the researcher concluded that agile leaders possess crucial competencies and behaviours that allow them to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. These include effective communication, openness to change, innovative thinking, flexibility, self-management, developing others and organisational awareness. Agile leaders strategize and prepare their organisations in Industry 4.0 by adopting an adaptive leadership style, cultivating an agile decision-making culture, encouraging continuous improvement, promoting creativity and innovation and responding swiftly to changes, thus gaining a competitive edge in Industry 4.0. Embracing leadership agility enables organisations to capitalise on Industry 4.0’s opportunities and navigate its challenges, ultimately fostering a competitive business environment. By organising and synthesising the knowledge obtained in this study, a framework is proposed for agile leadership, which consolidates , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Cairncross, Merle Vera
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Industry 4.0 , Business intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65577 , vital:74193
- Description: In today’s dynamic business landscape, more organisations are progressively attempting to become agile by implementing agile corporate structures, processes and leadership frameworks. By effectively incorporating leadership agility into their processes, leadership can be better prepared to improve its decision-making agility, further able to deploy strategies for improved detection and response to failure as well as improve communication in the organisation. This treatise explores the critical role of leadership agility in enabling organisations to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving environment such as Industry 4.0 and capitalise on emerging opportunities. For this study, qualitative data was collected from functional level management by means of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. The interviews aimed to identify behaviours and beliefs that contribute to an agile organisation, examine barriers impeding agile decision-making and explore strategies to cultivate an agile decision-making culture. By understanding the key factors that enable leadership agility and promote agility within decision-making processes, this research aimed to provide valuable insights for organisations seeking to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0. Through literature analysis and interviews, the researcher concluded that agile leaders possess crucial competencies and behaviours that allow them to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. These include effective communication, openness to change, innovative thinking, flexibility, self-management, developing others and organisational awareness. Agile leaders strategize and prepare their organisations in Industry 4.0 by adopting an adaptive leadership style, cultivating an agile decision-making culture, encouraging continuous improvement, promoting creativity and innovation and responding swiftly to changes, thus gaining a competitive edge in Industry 4.0. Embracing leadership agility enables organisations to capitalise on Industry 4.0’s opportunities and navigate its challenges, ultimately fostering a competitive business environment. By organising and synthesising the knowledge obtained in this study, a framework is proposed for agile leadership, which consolidates , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Exploring the psychological and emotional understanding of Amagqirha within the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Ncapayi, Abongile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: traditional healers , Indigenous Knowledge , Cultural religion
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62947 , vital:73074
- Description: Indigenous knowledge systems influence mental health understanding and treatments. Amongst the Xhosa’s (amaXhosa), a person may receive a ‘calling’ from the ancestors, usually associated with symptoms that would be characterized as a mental illness. However, the symptoms experienced during the calling, usually dissipate once training has been received. One of the categories within traditional healers are amagqirha, also known as diviners. These are individuals who receive the ‘calling’. Thereafter, they undergo extensive training and become blessed with clairvoyant “powers” to divine and act as mediators between the living and the dead. This study aimed to explore the psychological and emotional understanding of amagqirha of the Xhosa culture, within the Eastern Cape, South Africa. In doing so, the study centralizes the experiences of individuals within cultural spaces, allowing for commentary on the psychological and emotional understanding of the amagqirha. Furthermore, this study focused on the work that amagqirha do in communities and how this ultimately affects them. This study sought to understand the experiences and perceptions of the individuals who are affected by this ‘calling’. The researcher employed a qualitative method with an exploratory-descriptive research design. Ten participants were recruited by utilizing a purposive snowball sampling strategy. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview due to the sensitivity of the demographic of the study. Ethics were adhered to. Additionally, trustworthiness was guided by Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) four constructs: credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. Thematic analysis was used as a means of data analysis, as presented by Braun and Clarke (2006). The themes identified were: The collateral damage/profuse repercussions cast upon by the ancestors due to inaction (either by them or those that case before them), the severity of the emotional and psychological effects is equally prevalent prior and during their journey of vi ubugqirha, methods that may assist in alleviating the emotional and psychological symptoms, understanding of mental health, awareness of their own mental health status, and help-seeking (psychological services). The main findings suggested that there is a general understanding of the term ‘mental health’ amongst amagqirha. Additionally, the findings revealed that amagqirha experienced emotional and psychological symptoms/effects, prior to and during the journey of ubugqirha - these were due to the lack of understanding and fear. Furthermore, the findings suggesting that amagqirha embarked on various help-seeking measures, i.e., seeking psychological services or leaning into seeking guidance from their ancestors. However, they were met with barriers as well, i.e., finding a mental health practitioner with awareness on African spirituality, and dealing with the stigma that comes with help-seeking. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Ncapayi, Abongile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: traditional healers , Indigenous Knowledge , Cultural religion
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62947 , vital:73074
- Description: Indigenous knowledge systems influence mental health understanding and treatments. Amongst the Xhosa’s (amaXhosa), a person may receive a ‘calling’ from the ancestors, usually associated with symptoms that would be characterized as a mental illness. However, the symptoms experienced during the calling, usually dissipate once training has been received. One of the categories within traditional healers are amagqirha, also known as diviners. These are individuals who receive the ‘calling’. Thereafter, they undergo extensive training and become blessed with clairvoyant “powers” to divine and act as mediators between the living and the dead. This study aimed to explore the psychological and emotional understanding of amagqirha of the Xhosa culture, within the Eastern Cape, South Africa. In doing so, the study centralizes the experiences of individuals within cultural spaces, allowing for commentary on the psychological and emotional understanding of the amagqirha. Furthermore, this study focused on the work that amagqirha do in communities and how this ultimately affects them. This study sought to understand the experiences and perceptions of the individuals who are affected by this ‘calling’. The researcher employed a qualitative method with an exploratory-descriptive research design. Ten participants were recruited by utilizing a purposive snowball sampling strategy. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview due to the sensitivity of the demographic of the study. Ethics were adhered to. Additionally, trustworthiness was guided by Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) four constructs: credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. Thematic analysis was used as a means of data analysis, as presented by Braun and Clarke (2006). The themes identified were: The collateral damage/profuse repercussions cast upon by the ancestors due to inaction (either by them or those that case before them), the severity of the emotional and psychological effects is equally prevalent prior and during their journey of vi ubugqirha, methods that may assist in alleviating the emotional and psychological symptoms, understanding of mental health, awareness of their own mental health status, and help-seeking (psychological services). The main findings suggested that there is a general understanding of the term ‘mental health’ amongst amagqirha. Additionally, the findings revealed that amagqirha experienced emotional and psychological symptoms/effects, prior to and during the journey of ubugqirha - these were due to the lack of understanding and fear. Furthermore, the findings suggesting that amagqirha embarked on various help-seeking measures, i.e., seeking psychological services or leaning into seeking guidance from their ancestors. However, they were met with barriers as well, i.e., finding a mental health practitioner with awareness on African spirituality, and dealing with the stigma that comes with help-seeking. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Health Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Exploring the role of livelihood diversification of household food security in Umzimvubu Local Municipality
- Authors: Tikilili, Noluthando
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66054 , vital:74324
- Description: The study sought to explore the role of livelihood diversification for household food security in rural communities of Umzimvubu Local Municipality for sustainable development. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm as it gave the researcher appropriate information from a group of participants who better understand the livelihood assets. The qualitative research approach was adopted for the study due to its ability to appreciate the opinions, feelings and experiences of distinct individuals in order to give meaning to their behaviours. To gain better inferences and insights into this phenomenon, the researcher used semi-structured interviews with smallholder farmers who depend on practising farm activities for their livelihoods. The findings of the study revealed that due to retrenchment and the increase in unemployment rate, families are experiencing income inadequacy that has urged rural households to engage mostly in on-farm activities as a way of generating income and supplementing their livelihoods to sustain their families. Additionally, the findings unveiled that the efforts by government as well as non-government stakeholders to mitigate the effects of poverty by introducing the local entrepreneurs to the formal market, were evident. However, there are no consistent and stable programmes and policies to extend the market, or to encourage commercial farmers and smallholder farmers to work together to improve rural economies and transfer the much-needed skills to subsistence farmers. The study recommends that the government should play a leading role in capacitating rural communities and adequate funding should be made available to execute off-farm and non-farm activities to tackle the issues of food security and eliminating poverty. Also, with the emergence of a changing climate, there is a need for the Eastern Cape government to erect irrigation schemes, which can be done to sustain on-farm production and productivity for the rural communities. There is a need for the government to facilitate the introduction of stable and consistent programmes and efficient and effective policies which will enforce the commercial and small-holder farmers to work together and ensure that the much-needed skills and expertise are transferred to the marginalised group whilst improving the rural economy and meeting the market demands. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Tikilili, Noluthando
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66054 , vital:74324
- Description: The study sought to explore the role of livelihood diversification for household food security in rural communities of Umzimvubu Local Municipality for sustainable development. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm as it gave the researcher appropriate information from a group of participants who better understand the livelihood assets. The qualitative research approach was adopted for the study due to its ability to appreciate the opinions, feelings and experiences of distinct individuals in order to give meaning to their behaviours. To gain better inferences and insights into this phenomenon, the researcher used semi-structured interviews with smallholder farmers who depend on practising farm activities for their livelihoods. The findings of the study revealed that due to retrenchment and the increase in unemployment rate, families are experiencing income inadequacy that has urged rural households to engage mostly in on-farm activities as a way of generating income and supplementing their livelihoods to sustain their families. Additionally, the findings unveiled that the efforts by government as well as non-government stakeholders to mitigate the effects of poverty by introducing the local entrepreneurs to the formal market, were evident. However, there are no consistent and stable programmes and policies to extend the market, or to encourage commercial farmers and smallholder farmers to work together to improve rural economies and transfer the much-needed skills to subsistence farmers. The study recommends that the government should play a leading role in capacitating rural communities and adequate funding should be made available to execute off-farm and non-farm activities to tackle the issues of food security and eliminating poverty. Also, with the emergence of a changing climate, there is a need for the Eastern Cape government to erect irrigation schemes, which can be done to sustain on-farm production and productivity for the rural communities. There is a need for the government to facilitate the introduction of stable and consistent programmes and efficient and effective policies which will enforce the commercial and small-holder farmers to work together and ensure that the much-needed skills and expertise are transferred to the marginalised group whilst improving the rural economy and meeting the market demands. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Factors contributing to operational excellence in a pharmaceutical manufacturer in East London, South Africa
- Authors: Monakali, Xolani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Performance , Production management , Industrial management Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65795 , vital:74268
- Description: To ensure that high quality, secure and effective pharmaceutical goods are consistently produced and supplied to the appropriate end user, pharmaceutical manufacturing companies operate in a highly regulated environment. The idea that quality is not assessed is incorrect; rather, it is built, is at the heart of this production environment. Since fulfilling deadlines on time in full is the benchmark for good customer service, to achieve this results in numerous quality limits that have an impact on the quick delivery of medicines. Companies are often competing for the same clients; thus, there is increasing competition, which is mostly due to the availability of reasonable and inexpensive generics. The most profitable company will be the one which operates and produces at low cost, with great efficiency and economies of scale. Furthermore, the generic pharmaceutical firm is not immune from the fundamental purpose of business, which is to make money for the shareholders and add value for the clients. In order to maintain competitiveness in a pharmaceutical company which operates in East London, South Africa, this study aims to identify the factors that lead to perceived operational excellence. Respondents were given a standardised questionnaire; thus the study employed a quantitative research methodology. The sample size for the study was determined by randomly selecting 100 employees, composed of Operators, General Assistants, Production Team Leaders, Production Pharmacists, Pharmacist Assistants and Artisans from Pharmaceutical Company X. With the aid of a research assistant, the questionnaire was distributed to and answered by respondents. The gathered data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 for Windows. The results of the study were then shown in cross tabulations, pie charts and bar graphs. The main outcomes of the study revealed that the majority of consumers believed pharmaceutical products were of a high calibre in terms of quality. Furthermore, the majority of participants agreed that operational excellence is important in companies that produce fast-moving consumer goods, like the pharmaceutical industry does. The survey also revealed the need for operational excellence in the pharmaceutical industry. Given that quality in the pharmaceutical industry has grown to be a crucial issue, the study suggests that the importance of pharmaceutical product quality needs to be more widely understood. Academics, pharmaceutical companies and legislators will all benefit from the study. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Monakali, Xolani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Performance , Production management , Industrial management Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65795 , vital:74268
- Description: To ensure that high quality, secure and effective pharmaceutical goods are consistently produced and supplied to the appropriate end user, pharmaceutical manufacturing companies operate in a highly regulated environment. The idea that quality is not assessed is incorrect; rather, it is built, is at the heart of this production environment. Since fulfilling deadlines on time in full is the benchmark for good customer service, to achieve this results in numerous quality limits that have an impact on the quick delivery of medicines. Companies are often competing for the same clients; thus, there is increasing competition, which is mostly due to the availability of reasonable and inexpensive generics. The most profitable company will be the one which operates and produces at low cost, with great efficiency and economies of scale. Furthermore, the generic pharmaceutical firm is not immune from the fundamental purpose of business, which is to make money for the shareholders and add value for the clients. In order to maintain competitiveness in a pharmaceutical company which operates in East London, South Africa, this study aims to identify the factors that lead to perceived operational excellence. Respondents were given a standardised questionnaire; thus the study employed a quantitative research methodology. The sample size for the study was determined by randomly selecting 100 employees, composed of Operators, General Assistants, Production Team Leaders, Production Pharmacists, Pharmacist Assistants and Artisans from Pharmaceutical Company X. With the aid of a research assistant, the questionnaire was distributed to and answered by respondents. The gathered data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 for Windows. The results of the study were then shown in cross tabulations, pie charts and bar graphs. The main outcomes of the study revealed that the majority of consumers believed pharmaceutical products were of a high calibre in terms of quality. Furthermore, the majority of participants agreed that operational excellence is important in companies that produce fast-moving consumer goods, like the pharmaceutical industry does. The survey also revealed the need for operational excellence in the pharmaceutical industry. Given that quality in the pharmaceutical industry has grown to be a crucial issue, the study suggests that the importance of pharmaceutical product quality needs to be more widely understood. Academics, pharmaceutical companies and legislators will all benefit from the study. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Factors contributing to the productivity of operations at the port of Ngqura, Gqeberha
- Authors: Mlonzi, Aluta Phathuxolo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Port Ngqura (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Industrial productivity , Operations research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65773 , vital:74236
- Description: Ports are the gateway to economic trade and a huge contributor to South Africa’s economy. Productivity has become a critical component for ports in the port industry as a means of enhancing market potential and competitiveness (Kuo, Lu, and Le, 2020). Therefore ports must investigate their productivity factors to stay competitive. This study sought to determine the factors that contribute to productivity at the Port of Ngqura. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study where data was obtained by conducting interviews with a sample of ten employees from Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet National Port Authority. Out of the ten employees identified, only four participants took part in the study. According to the respondents, the key factors contributing to productivity at the Port of Ngqura include the staff, efficient staff training, equipment, technology, and infrastructure. Furthermore, the respondents highlighted the importance of technology, specifically the planning and operations systems such as NAVIS and SPARCS, in optimising productivity. Infrastructure was also emphasised as a significant factor affecting productivity. Only the views of employees working at the Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet Port Authority at the Port of Ngqura were considered. The study achieved a low response rate. Based on the empirical research, the study could conclude by making the following recommendations that the Port of Ngqura should prioritise enhancing its operations by making significant investments in equipment and infrastructure. Through the adoption of an efficient human resource strategy, the port should also handle workforce problems brought on by resignations, voluntary separation plans (VSPs), and contract terminations. Planning for succession effectively is crucial to maintaining institutional knowledge. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mlonzi, Aluta Phathuxolo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Port Ngqura (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Industrial productivity , Operations research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65773 , vital:74236
- Description: Ports are the gateway to economic trade and a huge contributor to South Africa’s economy. Productivity has become a critical component for ports in the port industry as a means of enhancing market potential and competitiveness (Kuo, Lu, and Le, 2020). Therefore ports must investigate their productivity factors to stay competitive. This study sought to determine the factors that contribute to productivity at the Port of Ngqura. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study where data was obtained by conducting interviews with a sample of ten employees from Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet National Port Authority. Out of the ten employees identified, only four participants took part in the study. According to the respondents, the key factors contributing to productivity at the Port of Ngqura include the staff, efficient staff training, equipment, technology, and infrastructure. Furthermore, the respondents highlighted the importance of technology, specifically the planning and operations systems such as NAVIS and SPARCS, in optimising productivity. Infrastructure was also emphasised as a significant factor affecting productivity. Only the views of employees working at the Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet Port Authority at the Port of Ngqura were considered. The study achieved a low response rate. Based on the empirical research, the study could conclude by making the following recommendations that the Port of Ngqura should prioritise enhancing its operations by making significant investments in equipment and infrastructure. Through the adoption of an efficient human resource strategy, the port should also handle workforce problems brought on by resignations, voluntary separation plans (VSPs), and contract terminations. Planning for succession effectively is crucial to maintaining institutional knowledge. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Factors influencing employee engagement in a flexible work environment: a study of the Road Accident Fund
- Authors: Goqo, Nondumiso Zama
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Road Accident Fund (South Africa) , Employee motivation , Flexible work arrangements , Work-life balance Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65600 , vital:74200
- Description: Employee engagement is a critical aspect of organisational success, and with the increasing adoption of flexible working arrangements (FWAs), understanding its determinants becomes crucial. However, many organisations are struggling to keep employees engaged while offering them flexible working patterns. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors that influence employee engagement among employees of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa after the introduction of flexible working arrangements. To achieve the main aim of this study, a literature study was undertaken on employee engagement and a flexible working environment. The main focus of the literature study was to determine the factors with the most potential to influence employee engagement in the context of a flexible working environment. These factors emerged as work-life balance, employee wellbeing, leadership, rewards and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility. This led to conducting an empirical study utilising a self-administered online survey as the data collection instrument to determine the influence of these factors on the engagement of RAF employees. A scale was developed to determine these factors and the current engagement level of employees at the RAF was measured using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) (2002). A descriptive and correlational research design was employed, utilising a convenience sampling method with a final sample of 413 achieved. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential techniques, including Cronbach’s Alpha, frequency distributions, measure of central tendencies and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), product moment correlation, t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square tests. This included the testing for potential relationships between the variables of interest.The results of the empirical study revealed some of factors that were identified in the literature review of this study were found to have a positive influence on the engagement of employees working in the flexible working environment offered by the RAF. These factors are employee well-being, leadership, reward and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility (time). The factors that were excluded by the results were work-life balance and workplace flexibility (place). These exceptions imply that these factors have less influence on the overall employee engagement levels at the RAF. Moreover, the levels of engagement of RAF employees were found to be at a moderate level. Furthermore, the results indicated that regardless of whether employees utilised FWAs or not, their levels of engagement remained at a moderate level. In other words, the utilisation of FWAs did not appear to significantly impact on the overall engagement levels of employees, and both groups exhibited similar moderate engagement levels. The findings also suggest that the RAF should maintain and enhance the factors that have a positive influence on employee engagement. In addition, the organisation should work on addressing those factors that do not play as significant a role in influencing engagement as the other factors. By taking these steps, the RAF can effectively enhance the overall level of employee engagement among its workforce. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Goqo, Nondumiso Zama
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Road Accident Fund (South Africa) , Employee motivation , Flexible work arrangements , Work-life balance Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65600 , vital:74200
- Description: Employee engagement is a critical aspect of organisational success, and with the increasing adoption of flexible working arrangements (FWAs), understanding its determinants becomes crucial. However, many organisations are struggling to keep employees engaged while offering them flexible working patterns. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors that influence employee engagement among employees of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa after the introduction of flexible working arrangements. To achieve the main aim of this study, a literature study was undertaken on employee engagement and a flexible working environment. The main focus of the literature study was to determine the factors with the most potential to influence employee engagement in the context of a flexible working environment. These factors emerged as work-life balance, employee wellbeing, leadership, rewards and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility. This led to conducting an empirical study utilising a self-administered online survey as the data collection instrument to determine the influence of these factors on the engagement of RAF employees. A scale was developed to determine these factors and the current engagement level of employees at the RAF was measured using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) (2002). A descriptive and correlational research design was employed, utilising a convenience sampling method with a final sample of 413 achieved. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential techniques, including Cronbach’s Alpha, frequency distributions, measure of central tendencies and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), product moment correlation, t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square tests. This included the testing for potential relationships between the variables of interest.The results of the empirical study revealed some of factors that were identified in the literature review of this study were found to have a positive influence on the engagement of employees working in the flexible working environment offered by the RAF. These factors are employee well-being, leadership, reward and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility (time). The factors that were excluded by the results were work-life balance and workplace flexibility (place). These exceptions imply that these factors have less influence on the overall employee engagement levels at the RAF. Moreover, the levels of engagement of RAF employees were found to be at a moderate level. Furthermore, the results indicated that regardless of whether employees utilised FWAs or not, their levels of engagement remained at a moderate level. In other words, the utilisation of FWAs did not appear to significantly impact on the overall engagement levels of employees, and both groups exhibited similar moderate engagement levels. The findings also suggest that the RAF should maintain and enhance the factors that have a positive influence on employee engagement. In addition, the organisation should work on addressing those factors that do not play as significant a role in influencing engagement as the other factors. By taking these steps, the RAF can effectively enhance the overall level of employee engagement among its workforce. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Field mapping and geochemistry of lower Jurassic sediments and volcanics of the upper Karoo supergroup near Ha Mosi, Lesotho mountains
- Authors: Valashiya, Khaya
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Sediments (Geology) -- South Africa -- karoo basin , Geochemistry , Geological mapping
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62687 , vital:72925
- Description: Geological mapping in the Lesotho-Drakensberg Mountains spans over 100 years with du Toit and Stockley being the major contributors to the published maps and to the understanding of emplacement of the Karoo Large Igneous Province (KLIP) in the countries of South Africa and Lesotho. Despite the detailed previous work, there remains limited data on paleoenvironmental changes at the contact between the sedimentary and volcanic sequences of the upper Karoo Supergroup. This study aims to map the lithostratigraphic boundaries, volcano-sedimentary facies and faults near Ha Mosi in southern Lesotho. A total 48 rock samples were collected for petrography, XRF and ICP-MS analyses. The new results were used to characterize the local chemostratigraphy and to propose new regional correlations across Lesotho and South Africa. In this thesis, eight lithostratigraphic units were defined with a total thickness of 550 m. The first two units (Units 1 and 2) comprise massive and bedded sandstones, interpreted as possible floodplain and ephemeral lacustrine deposits; these are ascribed to the upper Stormberg Group. These units are unconformably overlain by locally preserved thin basaltic (Unit 3) flows that are characterised by high Zr/Nb and Zr/Y ratios; and low Ti/Zr and P/Zr ratios similar to the Golden Gate Unit of the Drakensberg Group. The lava flows are overlain by bedded sandstone ascribed to Unit 4 and volcaniclastic breccia ascribed to Units 5 and 6. Unit 6 consists of a monolithic breccia that is composed of angular sandstone clasts similar to those of the underlying Stormberg Group. The monolithic breccia transitions upwards into a massive megaclastic clast-supported volcanic breccia, which consists of angular to sub-rounded basaltic and doleritic boulders. Petrified wood fragments are found within the megaclastic breccia, indicating the presence of vegetation during deposition and enhanced preservation. Unit 6 laterally grades into Unit 5, which is characterised by poorly bedded breccia composed of angular sandstone, mudstone clasts with minor basaltic and doleritic clasts and, breccia intraclasts. The breccia units are often associated with reworked sediments interpreted to be deposited by fluvial systems. The breccia is conformably overlain by basaltic lava flows (Unit 8) characterised by high Ti/Zr and P/Zr ratios and moderate to low Zr/Y and Zr/Nb ratios compared to the Unit 3 lavas and is similar to that of the Sani Pass Unit of the Drakensberg Group. The basaltic sequences in the Ha Mosi studied area preserve both pahoehoe textures and pillow lavas, indicating subaerial and subaqueous volcanism. The studied lithologies are intruded by gabbro and dolerites of the Karoo Dolerite Suite at 183 Ma. This stratigraphy records the transition from sedimentation in the Karoo Basin through to a dominantly volcanic succession, which has importance in terms of the Toarcian extinction at ca. 182 Ma. Mapped faults and associated fractures are orientated predominantly NW-SE with the hanging walls moved maximum 80 m to the south. The different dykes and fault structures possibly relate to the Weddel Triple Junction that developed during the Early Jurassic break up of Gondwana, between 200 and 180 Ma. The mapped lavas show that the magma source was a chemically heterogenous mantle that was subjected to different degrees of partial melting, with the introduction of small-scale chemical heterogeneities. The geodynamic setting is comparable to the Afar Triangle of north-east Africa where active tectonics created a large-scale NW-SE orientated fault system in response to crustal thinning and rifting. In both the Afar and Lesotho, vertical movements created lowlands that allow for the preservation of volcanic breccia and basalts with pillow lavas. These findings show that existing geological models in the Drakensberg-Lesotho Mountains can be improved upon detailed field mapping and geochemistry. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Valashiya, Khaya
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Sediments (Geology) -- South Africa -- karoo basin , Geochemistry , Geological mapping
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62687 , vital:72925
- Description: Geological mapping in the Lesotho-Drakensberg Mountains spans over 100 years with du Toit and Stockley being the major contributors to the published maps and to the understanding of emplacement of the Karoo Large Igneous Province (KLIP) in the countries of South Africa and Lesotho. Despite the detailed previous work, there remains limited data on paleoenvironmental changes at the contact between the sedimentary and volcanic sequences of the upper Karoo Supergroup. This study aims to map the lithostratigraphic boundaries, volcano-sedimentary facies and faults near Ha Mosi in southern Lesotho. A total 48 rock samples were collected for petrography, XRF and ICP-MS analyses. The new results were used to characterize the local chemostratigraphy and to propose new regional correlations across Lesotho and South Africa. In this thesis, eight lithostratigraphic units were defined with a total thickness of 550 m. The first two units (Units 1 and 2) comprise massive and bedded sandstones, interpreted as possible floodplain and ephemeral lacustrine deposits; these are ascribed to the upper Stormberg Group. These units are unconformably overlain by locally preserved thin basaltic (Unit 3) flows that are characterised by high Zr/Nb and Zr/Y ratios; and low Ti/Zr and P/Zr ratios similar to the Golden Gate Unit of the Drakensberg Group. The lava flows are overlain by bedded sandstone ascribed to Unit 4 and volcaniclastic breccia ascribed to Units 5 and 6. Unit 6 consists of a monolithic breccia that is composed of angular sandstone clasts similar to those of the underlying Stormberg Group. The monolithic breccia transitions upwards into a massive megaclastic clast-supported volcanic breccia, which consists of angular to sub-rounded basaltic and doleritic boulders. Petrified wood fragments are found within the megaclastic breccia, indicating the presence of vegetation during deposition and enhanced preservation. Unit 6 laterally grades into Unit 5, which is characterised by poorly bedded breccia composed of angular sandstone, mudstone clasts with minor basaltic and doleritic clasts and, breccia intraclasts. The breccia units are often associated with reworked sediments interpreted to be deposited by fluvial systems. The breccia is conformably overlain by basaltic lava flows (Unit 8) characterised by high Ti/Zr and P/Zr ratios and moderate to low Zr/Y and Zr/Nb ratios compared to the Unit 3 lavas and is similar to that of the Sani Pass Unit of the Drakensberg Group. The basaltic sequences in the Ha Mosi studied area preserve both pahoehoe textures and pillow lavas, indicating subaerial and subaqueous volcanism. The studied lithologies are intruded by gabbro and dolerites of the Karoo Dolerite Suite at 183 Ma. This stratigraphy records the transition from sedimentation in the Karoo Basin through to a dominantly volcanic succession, which has importance in terms of the Toarcian extinction at ca. 182 Ma. Mapped faults and associated fractures are orientated predominantly NW-SE with the hanging walls moved maximum 80 m to the south. The different dykes and fault structures possibly relate to the Weddel Triple Junction that developed during the Early Jurassic break up of Gondwana, between 200 and 180 Ma. The mapped lavas show that the magma source was a chemically heterogenous mantle that was subjected to different degrees of partial melting, with the introduction of small-scale chemical heterogeneities. The geodynamic setting is comparable to the Afar Triangle of north-east Africa where active tectonics created a large-scale NW-SE orientated fault system in response to crustal thinning and rifting. In both the Afar and Lesotho, vertical movements created lowlands that allow for the preservation of volcanic breccia and basalts with pillow lavas. These findings show that existing geological models in the Drakensberg-Lesotho Mountains can be improved upon detailed field mapping and geochemistry. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Financial deepening and economic performance in South African commercial banks
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Nomthandazo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Economic development , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Performance -- Measurement , Liquidity (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65829 , vital:74271
- Description: Financial deepening and economic growth have received much attention in the literature. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the relationship between financial deepening, and bank performance especially within the context of South African commercial banks. This research aims to investigate the empirical relationship between financial deepening and the performance of all South African commercial banks from 1987 to 2019. The research adopts a descriptive research design and utilizes secondary data along with time series analysis techniques. The research empirically investigates the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance, using financial deepening indicators such as Market Capitalisation (MC), Credit to the private sector (CR), Money Stock (MS), and Bank liquidity (BL). Control variables such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Inflation rate (IF), and Lending interest rate (LR) are also considered. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance of South African commercial banks. The findings indicate that financial deepening has both short-term and long-term impacts on bank performance. Each component of the financial deepening indicators demonstrates a strong and statistically significant relationship with bank performance. This empirical evidence suggests that financial deepening has made a positive contribution to the profitability of South African commercial banks. Furthermore, the analysis reveals a long-run equilibrium relationship between financial deepening and the economic performance of the South African banking sector. This research addresses the gap between theoretical beliefs and empirical evidence by establishing a robust and positive contribution of financial deepening to the profitability of South African commercial banks. The findings highlight the significance of financial deepening in enhancing bank performance in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Nomthandazo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Economic development , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Performance -- Measurement , Liquidity (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65829 , vital:74271
- Description: Financial deepening and economic growth have received much attention in the literature. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the relationship between financial deepening, and bank performance especially within the context of South African commercial banks. This research aims to investigate the empirical relationship between financial deepening and the performance of all South African commercial banks from 1987 to 2019. The research adopts a descriptive research design and utilizes secondary data along with time series analysis techniques. The research empirically investigates the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance, using financial deepening indicators such as Market Capitalisation (MC), Credit to the private sector (CR), Money Stock (MS), and Bank liquidity (BL). Control variables such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Inflation rate (IF), and Lending interest rate (LR) are also considered. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance of South African commercial banks. The findings indicate that financial deepening has both short-term and long-term impacts on bank performance. Each component of the financial deepening indicators demonstrates a strong and statistically significant relationship with bank performance. This empirical evidence suggests that financial deepening has made a positive contribution to the profitability of South African commercial banks. Furthermore, the analysis reveals a long-run equilibrium relationship between financial deepening and the economic performance of the South African banking sector. This research addresses the gap between theoretical beliefs and empirical evidence by establishing a robust and positive contribution of financial deepening to the profitability of South African commercial banks. The findings highlight the significance of financial deepening in enhancing bank performance in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Formulating an operational efficient strategy for the national health laboratory services in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sizila, Wandile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: National Health Laboratory Service (South Africa) , Public health laboratories -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lean manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65990 , vital:74295
- Description: This treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sizila, Wandile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: National Health Laboratory Service (South Africa) , Public health laboratories -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lean manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65990 , vital:74295
- Description: This treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12