Dancing with(in) possibilities: emerging public and convivial pedagogies for ecological citizenship
- Authors: Skerrit, Hayley Frances
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/436510 , vital:73278
- Description: This research project explores ways in which ecological citizenship can be stimulated through collaborative public pedagogy and transgressive learning (t-learning) processes. This research identifies ‘places’ of innovation to cover sections that would usually be described in terms of ‘problem statement’, ‘research focus’, ‘intended outcomes / main contribution’ and ‘theory and methodology’. The Place of Worry is identified through the triple C Crisis (Covid, Capitalism and Climate-Change) which reveal the disconnect to the diverse ecologies (both social and natural) that sustain us. The Place of Possibility demonstrates that through ecological citizenship we can begin to absent absences (De Sousa Santos, 2016) and transform into an embodied response to the triple C crisis. The Place of Emergence transforms these possibilities into practice by demonstrating the place between the worry and the possibility allows for an emergence of a new kind of solution, referred to as the third space within this thesis. The Place of Process delves into the t-learning stories that emerged through research creation and works with iterative feedback and cycles of creation. The unfolding of this t-learning project is guided by the use of metaphor and symbolism as a figuration of macro- and microscopic interactions within these learning fields/ecosystems. Symbolic figuration and speculative metaphor are valuable in this thesis and in my own collaborative meaning-making endeavour as they offer translation protocols for when language fails to embody, the rich embodied experience of this form of learning. The embodiment of this work will help to create restorative care practices through transgressive learning (Lotz-Sisitka et al., 2016) and research creation (Manning, 2016). The study has a particular focus on the emergence of identities and onto-epistemological orientation within the social learning journey towards ecological citizenship and the various ways in which they can be embodied to enable public pedagogy. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post School Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
- Authors: Skerrit, Hayley Frances
- Date: 2024-04-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/436510 , vital:73278
- Description: This research project explores ways in which ecological citizenship can be stimulated through collaborative public pedagogy and transgressive learning (t-learning) processes. This research identifies ‘places’ of innovation to cover sections that would usually be described in terms of ‘problem statement’, ‘research focus’, ‘intended outcomes / main contribution’ and ‘theory and methodology’. The Place of Worry is identified through the triple C Crisis (Covid, Capitalism and Climate-Change) which reveal the disconnect to the diverse ecologies (both social and natural) that sustain us. The Place of Possibility demonstrates that through ecological citizenship we can begin to absent absences (De Sousa Santos, 2016) and transform into an embodied response to the triple C crisis. The Place of Emergence transforms these possibilities into practice by demonstrating the place between the worry and the possibility allows for an emergence of a new kind of solution, referred to as the third space within this thesis. The Place of Process delves into the t-learning stories that emerged through research creation and works with iterative feedback and cycles of creation. The unfolding of this t-learning project is guided by the use of metaphor and symbolism as a figuration of macro- and microscopic interactions within these learning fields/ecosystems. Symbolic figuration and speculative metaphor are valuable in this thesis and in my own collaborative meaning-making endeavour as they offer translation protocols for when language fails to embody, the rich embodied experience of this form of learning. The embodiment of this work will help to create restorative care practices through transgressive learning (Lotz-Sisitka et al., 2016) and research creation (Manning, 2016). The study has a particular focus on the emergence of identities and onto-epistemological orientation within the social learning journey towards ecological citizenship and the various ways in which they can be embodied to enable public pedagogy. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Secondary and Post School Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-05
Computational studies in human African trypanosomiasis
- Authors: Muronzi, Tendai
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431883 , vital:72812 , DOI 10.21504/10962/431885
- Description: Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by two subspecies of the parasite, namely Trypanosoma brucei (Tb) gambiense (g-HAT) and rhodesiense (r-HAT). HAT is endemic in sub-Saharan countries, where the parasite transmission vectors, tsetse flies, breed. An estimated 70 million people remain at risk of contracting the disease, where the infection is classified as acute or chronic for g-HAT and r-HAT, respectively, with both forms ending in fatal meningoencephalitis when left untreated. Both g-HAT and r-HAT are responsible for widespread fatal epidemics throughout sub-Saharan African history, resulting from the complex molecular interplay between trypanosomes and humans through unique, innate immunity evasion mechanisms. Of interest, the Tbr subspecies expresses a serum resistance-associated protein (SRA), which binds to human serum lytic factor, apolipoprotein L1 (ApoL1), nullifying any trypanocidal activity. In response, ApoL1 (G1 and G2) variants found in humans of sub-Saharan African lineage have been cited for conferring resistance to the r-HAT infection in an interaction that is not fully elucidated In the event of successful infection, current HAT chemotherapeutics are plagued with complexity of administration, poor efficacy, toxicity, and potential drug resistance, highlighting a need for improved approaches. The parasite folate pathway provides a strategic target for alternative anti-trypanosomal drug development as trypanosomatids are folate auxotrophs, requiring host folate for growth and survival. Validated drug targets pteridine reductase (TbPTR1) and dihydrofolate reductase (TbDHFR) are essential for salvaging cofactors folate and folate biopterin crucial to parasite survival, making them viable targets for anti-folate investigation. The overall aims of this thesis were to a) provide insights into the molecular and dynamic basis of the SRA and ApoL1 interplay in HAT infection and b) identify safer and more efficient anti-folate anti-trypanosomal drug alternatives through in silico approaches. To achieve our first aim, in silico structure prediction was applied to generate 3D models of ApoL1 C-terminal variants G0, G1, G1G/M, G2 and G1G2, and four SRA variants retrieved from the NCBI database. The SRA and ApoL1 structures were inspected dynamically to identify the effect of the variants through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Dynamic residue network (DRN) analysis of MD trajectories was fundamental in identifying residues playing a vital role in the intramolecular communication of both proteins in the presence of mutations. Protein-protein docking was then applied to calculate plausible SRA-ApoL1 C-terminal wild-type complex structures to further elucidate the nature of SRA-mediated infection. Through MD simulations, twelve SRA-ApoL1 dimeric structures were narrowed down from five to two energetically sound complexes. The two feasible SRA-ApoL1 complexes (1 and 2) exhibited favourable communication observed through DRN analysis, including the retaining key communication residues identified in prior monomer DRN calculations. ApoL1 C-terminal variants were additionally incorporated into SRA-ApoL1 complexes 1 and 2 for further complex dynamics analysis This investigation into the nature of SRA-ApoL1 binding resulted in five primary outcomes: 1) highlighting the intramolecular effects ApoL1 variants have on the stability of the protein, 2) the identification of crucial SRA and ApoL1 communication residues in both monomeric or dimeric form, 3) the isolation of feasible SRA-ApoL1 complexes determined through global and local structural analyses 4) identification of residues crucial to the complex formation and maintenance of SRA-ApoL1, overlapping with those identified in (1), and 5) the minimal dissociative role of the G1 mutations in the complex, but compounding effect of the G2 deletion mutation. Computational modelling and drug repurposing were employed to achieve the thesis's second aim as they drastically cut down the costs involved in drug discovery and provide a more time-efficient screening method through numerous drug candidates. Using high throughput virtual screening, a subset of 2089 approved DrugBank compounds were screened against TbPTR1. The outputs were filtered to 24 viable compounds in 54 binding poses using binding energy and molecular interactions. Through subsequent MD simulations of 200ns, thirteen potential hit compounds were identified. The resultant hit compounds were subjected to further blind docking against TbDHFR and molecular dynamics to identify compounds with the potential for dual inhibition. The filtered subset was also tested in in vitro single concentration and dose-response bioassays to assess inhibitory properties against Trypanosoma brucei, complementing in silico findings. Post-molecular dynamics, four compounds exhibited high stabilities and molecular interactions with both TbPTR1 and TbDHFR, with two presenting favourable results in the in vitro assays. Three compounds additionally shared common structural moieties. In all, the in silico repurposing highlighted drugs characterised by favourable interactions and stabilities in TbPTR1, thus providing (1) a framework for further studies investigating anti-folate HAT compounds and (2) modulatory scaffolds based on identified moieties that can be used for the design of safe anti-folate trypanosomal drugs. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Muronzi, Tendai
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431883 , vital:72812 , DOI 10.21504/10962/431885
- Description: Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by two subspecies of the parasite, namely Trypanosoma brucei (Tb) gambiense (g-HAT) and rhodesiense (r-HAT). HAT is endemic in sub-Saharan countries, where the parasite transmission vectors, tsetse flies, breed. An estimated 70 million people remain at risk of contracting the disease, where the infection is classified as acute or chronic for g-HAT and r-HAT, respectively, with both forms ending in fatal meningoencephalitis when left untreated. Both g-HAT and r-HAT are responsible for widespread fatal epidemics throughout sub-Saharan African history, resulting from the complex molecular interplay between trypanosomes and humans through unique, innate immunity evasion mechanisms. Of interest, the Tbr subspecies expresses a serum resistance-associated protein (SRA), which binds to human serum lytic factor, apolipoprotein L1 (ApoL1), nullifying any trypanocidal activity. In response, ApoL1 (G1 and G2) variants found in humans of sub-Saharan African lineage have been cited for conferring resistance to the r-HAT infection in an interaction that is not fully elucidated In the event of successful infection, current HAT chemotherapeutics are plagued with complexity of administration, poor efficacy, toxicity, and potential drug resistance, highlighting a need for improved approaches. The parasite folate pathway provides a strategic target for alternative anti-trypanosomal drug development as trypanosomatids are folate auxotrophs, requiring host folate for growth and survival. Validated drug targets pteridine reductase (TbPTR1) and dihydrofolate reductase (TbDHFR) are essential for salvaging cofactors folate and folate biopterin crucial to parasite survival, making them viable targets for anti-folate investigation. The overall aims of this thesis were to a) provide insights into the molecular and dynamic basis of the SRA and ApoL1 interplay in HAT infection and b) identify safer and more efficient anti-folate anti-trypanosomal drug alternatives through in silico approaches. To achieve our first aim, in silico structure prediction was applied to generate 3D models of ApoL1 C-terminal variants G0, G1, G1G/M, G2 and G1G2, and four SRA variants retrieved from the NCBI database. The SRA and ApoL1 structures were inspected dynamically to identify the effect of the variants through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Dynamic residue network (DRN) analysis of MD trajectories was fundamental in identifying residues playing a vital role in the intramolecular communication of both proteins in the presence of mutations. Protein-protein docking was then applied to calculate plausible SRA-ApoL1 C-terminal wild-type complex structures to further elucidate the nature of SRA-mediated infection. Through MD simulations, twelve SRA-ApoL1 dimeric structures were narrowed down from five to two energetically sound complexes. The two feasible SRA-ApoL1 complexes (1 and 2) exhibited favourable communication observed through DRN analysis, including the retaining key communication residues identified in prior monomer DRN calculations. ApoL1 C-terminal variants were additionally incorporated into SRA-ApoL1 complexes 1 and 2 for further complex dynamics analysis This investigation into the nature of SRA-ApoL1 binding resulted in five primary outcomes: 1) highlighting the intramolecular effects ApoL1 variants have on the stability of the protein, 2) the identification of crucial SRA and ApoL1 communication residues in both monomeric or dimeric form, 3) the isolation of feasible SRA-ApoL1 complexes determined through global and local structural analyses 4) identification of residues crucial to the complex formation and maintenance of SRA-ApoL1, overlapping with those identified in (1), and 5) the minimal dissociative role of the G1 mutations in the complex, but compounding effect of the G2 deletion mutation. Computational modelling and drug repurposing were employed to achieve the thesis's second aim as they drastically cut down the costs involved in drug discovery and provide a more time-efficient screening method through numerous drug candidates. Using high throughput virtual screening, a subset of 2089 approved DrugBank compounds were screened against TbPTR1. The outputs were filtered to 24 viable compounds in 54 binding poses using binding energy and molecular interactions. Through subsequent MD simulations of 200ns, thirteen potential hit compounds were identified. The resultant hit compounds were subjected to further blind docking against TbDHFR and molecular dynamics to identify compounds with the potential for dual inhibition. The filtered subset was also tested in in vitro single concentration and dose-response bioassays to assess inhibitory properties against Trypanosoma brucei, complementing in silico findings. Post-molecular dynamics, four compounds exhibited high stabilities and molecular interactions with both TbPTR1 and TbDHFR, with two presenting favourable results in the in vitro assays. Three compounds additionally shared common structural moieties. In all, the in silico repurposing highlighted drugs characterised by favourable interactions and stabilities in TbPTR1, thus providing (1) a framework for further studies investigating anti-folate HAT compounds and (2) modulatory scaffolds based on identified moieties that can be used for the design of safe anti-folate trypanosomal drugs. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
Species diversity and distribution patterns of three freshwater fish genera in southern Africa
- Authors: Mutizwa, Tadiwa Isaac
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431896 , vital:72813
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2025. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Mutizwa, Tadiwa Isaac
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431896 , vital:72813
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2025. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
The effects of inclusive education policies and administrative circulars on small schools in Namibia
- Hamutumua, Teopolina Ndilina-Laudika
- Authors: Hamutumua, Teopolina Ndilina-Laudika
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Inclusive education Namibia Kavango West , Education and state Namibia , Small schools Namibia Kavango West , Right to education Namibia Kavango West , Education Social aspects Namibia Kavango West , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419737 , vital:71671
- Description: The achievement of the right to education for all children in Namibia is fundamentally dependent upon the quality of education provided to these learners irrespective of their social circumstances. Being a sparsely populated region, nearly half of the primary schools in the Kavango West region have fewer than 100 learners; thus, these small schools are regarded as not economically viable. The educational development in rural regions is shaped by limited access to quality, inclusive education and the persistence of low-quality primary education which has resulted in high repetition rates and dropouts. This research is a Critical Discourse Analysis of the education policies and regulations. As a case study, it unpacks Formal Education Circulars on staffing norms and on the closure of small schools, looking at their affordances/constraints on the provision of inclusive quality education for children schooling at small schools in Namibia. Interviews and document analysis were used to gather data. Critical Theory frames the process of ideological critique which, among other things, identifies inequalities and factors that limit human freedom and how such factors can be alleviated. The research asks the question: what are the explicit and implicit underlying realities experienced at one-man schools, which depict the varied situations in which these schools survive? Factors emerging from the study showed that small schools in Namibia are symbols of inequity and the exclusion of educationally marginalised children and their poor communities. Small schools are hardly able to sustain and draw in the resources required to meet the education needs of marginalised communities which fall under the multidimensional poverty index in Namibia. The study found that at the moment there are no deliberate efforts from the Ministry of Education to bring about the necessary changes to small schools, and therefore one-man schools have continued to operate as isolated sections of an inflexible system. It is my contention that deliberate efforts are still needed to improve small schools. Policy decisions that respond to the current challenges faced by one-man schools may be sufficient to bring about noteworthy changes in the operations of one-man schools and these changes could effectively impact the learners learning. The decision to drive change requires a multilayered approach that articulates a clear vision, which is systematically implemented to improve one-man schools in Namibia. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Primary and Early Chilhood Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
The effects of inclusive education policies and administrative circulars on small schools in Namibia
- Authors: Hamutumua, Teopolina Ndilina-Laudika
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Inclusive education Namibia Kavango West , Education and state Namibia , Small schools Namibia Kavango West , Right to education Namibia Kavango West , Education Social aspects Namibia Kavango West , Business communication
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419737 , vital:71671
- Description: The achievement of the right to education for all children in Namibia is fundamentally dependent upon the quality of education provided to these learners irrespective of their social circumstances. Being a sparsely populated region, nearly half of the primary schools in the Kavango West region have fewer than 100 learners; thus, these small schools are regarded as not economically viable. The educational development in rural regions is shaped by limited access to quality, inclusive education and the persistence of low-quality primary education which has resulted in high repetition rates and dropouts. This research is a Critical Discourse Analysis of the education policies and regulations. As a case study, it unpacks Formal Education Circulars on staffing norms and on the closure of small schools, looking at their affordances/constraints on the provision of inclusive quality education for children schooling at small schools in Namibia. Interviews and document analysis were used to gather data. Critical Theory frames the process of ideological critique which, among other things, identifies inequalities and factors that limit human freedom and how such factors can be alleviated. The research asks the question: what are the explicit and implicit underlying realities experienced at one-man schools, which depict the varied situations in which these schools survive? Factors emerging from the study showed that small schools in Namibia are symbols of inequity and the exclusion of educationally marginalised children and their poor communities. Small schools are hardly able to sustain and draw in the resources required to meet the education needs of marginalised communities which fall under the multidimensional poverty index in Namibia. The study found that at the moment there are no deliberate efforts from the Ministry of Education to bring about the necessary changes to small schools, and therefore one-man schools have continued to operate as isolated sections of an inflexible system. It is my contention that deliberate efforts are still needed to improve small schools. Policy decisions that respond to the current challenges faced by one-man schools may be sufficient to bring about noteworthy changes in the operations of one-man schools and these changes could effectively impact the learners learning. The decision to drive change requires a multilayered approach that articulates a clear vision, which is systematically implemented to improve one-man schools in Namibia. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, Primary and Early Chilhood Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
The electrocatalytic activity of metallophthalocyanines and their conjugates with carbon nanomaterials and metal tungstate nanoparticles
- Authors: Ndebele, Nobuhle
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431934 , vital:72816 , DOI 10.21504/10962/431933
- Description: In this dissertation, seventeen phthalocyanine complexes were synthesised. Of these, only four are known and have been published. These complexes were synthesised using the conventional statistical condensation method that involves refluxing the phthalonitrile(s) (4-((1,3-bis(dimethylamino)propan-2-yl)oxy)phthalonitrile, 4-(4-carboxyphenoxy)phthalonitrile, 4-(4-acetylphenoxy)phthalonitrile, dimethyl 5-(3,4-dicyanophenoxy)-isophthalate, 4-(4-(tert-butyl)phenoxy)phthalonitrile, 5-phenoxylpicolinic acid phthalonitrile 4-(4-formylphenoxy) phthalonitrile, and 4-(4-(3-oxo-3-phenylprop-1-enyl) phenoxy) phthalonitrile) with the metal salt and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undecane as a catalyst in a high-temperature solvent. And thereafter (when necessary), isolation and purification of the target compounds were achieved through the use of silica column chromatography. These compounds were characterised using various analytical techniques such as; ultraviolet-visible absorption, mass spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectra and elemental analysis. These techniques proved that the complexes were successfully synthesised and isolated as pure compounds. Carbon-based (graphene quantum dots and nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots) and metal oxide (bismuth tungsten oxide and nickel tungsten oxide) nanomaterials were synthesised. Together with the purchased single-walled carbon nanotubes, these nanomaterials were conjugated to some of the MPc complexes via non-covalent (carbon-based nanomaterials) and covalent (metal oxides) linkage forming hybrid materials. These nanomaterials and hybrids were characterised using various analytical methods (ultraviolet-visible absorption, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, thermographic analysis, and dynamic light scattering). Nanomaterials were utilised herein to determine their effect on the properties of MPc complexes and provide a synergistic effect in the hope of enhancing these properties. All complexes synthesised in this work (MPcs, nanomaterials and hybrids) were employed as electrocatalysts in electrochemical sensing. These electrocatalysts were embedded onto the glassy carbon electrode via an adsorption method known as drop-casting. The modified electrode surfaces were characterised using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning electrochemical microscopy to determine various electrochemical parameters. These electrocatalysts were used in the detection of either nitrite, catechol and/or dopamine. The detection limits, sensitivities, kinetics and catalytic constants were among other parameters determined for each electrocatalyst. These electrocatalysts proved to be stable electrocatalysts that could potentially be used for practical applications. The determined parameters were comparable and sometimes better than those obtained in literature. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
- Authors: Ndebele, Nobuhle
- Date: 2023-10-13
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/431934 , vital:72816 , DOI 10.21504/10962/431933
- Description: In this dissertation, seventeen phthalocyanine complexes were synthesised. Of these, only four are known and have been published. These complexes were synthesised using the conventional statistical condensation method that involves refluxing the phthalonitrile(s) (4-((1,3-bis(dimethylamino)propan-2-yl)oxy)phthalonitrile, 4-(4-carboxyphenoxy)phthalonitrile, 4-(4-acetylphenoxy)phthalonitrile, dimethyl 5-(3,4-dicyanophenoxy)-isophthalate, 4-(4-(tert-butyl)phenoxy)phthalonitrile, 5-phenoxylpicolinic acid phthalonitrile 4-(4-formylphenoxy) phthalonitrile, and 4-(4-(3-oxo-3-phenylprop-1-enyl) phenoxy) phthalonitrile) with the metal salt and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undecane as a catalyst in a high-temperature solvent. And thereafter (when necessary), isolation and purification of the target compounds were achieved through the use of silica column chromatography. These compounds were characterised using various analytical techniques such as; ultraviolet-visible absorption, mass spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectra and elemental analysis. These techniques proved that the complexes were successfully synthesised and isolated as pure compounds. Carbon-based (graphene quantum dots and nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots) and metal oxide (bismuth tungsten oxide and nickel tungsten oxide) nanomaterials were synthesised. Together with the purchased single-walled carbon nanotubes, these nanomaterials were conjugated to some of the MPc complexes via non-covalent (carbon-based nanomaterials) and covalent (metal oxides) linkage forming hybrid materials. These nanomaterials and hybrids were characterised using various analytical methods (ultraviolet-visible absorption, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, thermographic analysis, and dynamic light scattering). Nanomaterials were utilised herein to determine their effect on the properties of MPc complexes and provide a synergistic effect in the hope of enhancing these properties. All complexes synthesised in this work (MPcs, nanomaterials and hybrids) were employed as electrocatalysts in electrochemical sensing. These electrocatalysts were embedded onto the glassy carbon electrode via an adsorption method known as drop-casting. The modified electrode surfaces were characterised using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning electrochemical microscopy to determine various electrochemical parameters. These electrocatalysts were used in the detection of either nitrite, catechol and/or dopamine. The detection limits, sensitivities, kinetics and catalytic constants were among other parameters determined for each electrocatalyst. These electrocatalysts proved to be stable electrocatalysts that could potentially be used for practical applications. The determined parameters were comparable and sometimes better than those obtained in literature. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-10-13
A critical analysis of the criteria applied in South Africa to distinguish an independent contractor from an employee for income tax purposes
- Authors: Mkhoma, Londekile Nosipho
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Independent contractor , Common law tests , Income tax
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61702 , vital:71827
- Description: The study set out to critically analyse the criteria used by South Africa to determine the distinction between independent contractors and employees. Comparisons are also drawn with the criteria used in the United Kingdom(UK) and New Zealand (NZ) to assess whether there are new ideas that can be drawn from these and help improve the criteria used in South Africa. This was motivated by the ongoing debates around this issue and the desire to make a contribution that might bring some new insights and clarity. Under South African tax legislation employers are only obliged to deduct income tax from persons identified as employees while on the other hand, they cannot deduct tax contributions from the money paid to independent contractors for services rendered. Furthermore, there is no statutory definition for the term “independent contractor” in the Income Tax Act of South Africa nor in the country’s labour legislation. The definition of this term has largely been established by the labour courts in instances where disputes have arisen around these matters. Using a doctrinal research method (including a comparative legal research), which is a qualitative research approach, articles, statutes, judgements, explanatory memoranda, and policy documents on the subject under investigation were analysed. It is submitted that the criteria used in the two countries used in the comparison are similar to the ones used in South Africa, with some variations. All three countries use similar tests to make their determinations and a survey of the UK and NZ’s case law indicates that the most preferred criteria are the multifactoral approach to determine the true nature of the relationship between employers and their employees. This approach has been found to be more flexible which allows it to accommodate the changes that are occurring in the world of work. In the South African context, the labour court has adopted a substance-over-form approach in making their determinations, arguing that the nature of the working relationship between employer and employee is a more important indicator than the mere contents of a written contract. The labour court has also used labour legislation mainly to assist in the interpretation of the distinction between independent contractors and employees. The study established that the criteria used in the UK is a bit more complex because workers are put in three different categories and the definition of employee is not 4 uniform in all the available statutes. In New Zealand the multiple factor approach is preferred just like in South Africa. In conclusion is submitted that the study established that there is nothing, other than the UK’s Mutuality of Obligation Test, that would assist in further clarifying the criteria used to classify employees or independent contractors in South Africa , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mkhoma, Londekile Nosipho
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Independent contractor , Common law tests , Income tax
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61702 , vital:71827
- Description: The study set out to critically analyse the criteria used by South Africa to determine the distinction between independent contractors and employees. Comparisons are also drawn with the criteria used in the United Kingdom(UK) and New Zealand (NZ) to assess whether there are new ideas that can be drawn from these and help improve the criteria used in South Africa. This was motivated by the ongoing debates around this issue and the desire to make a contribution that might bring some new insights and clarity. Under South African tax legislation employers are only obliged to deduct income tax from persons identified as employees while on the other hand, they cannot deduct tax contributions from the money paid to independent contractors for services rendered. Furthermore, there is no statutory definition for the term “independent contractor” in the Income Tax Act of South Africa nor in the country’s labour legislation. The definition of this term has largely been established by the labour courts in instances where disputes have arisen around these matters. Using a doctrinal research method (including a comparative legal research), which is a qualitative research approach, articles, statutes, judgements, explanatory memoranda, and policy documents on the subject under investigation were analysed. It is submitted that the criteria used in the two countries used in the comparison are similar to the ones used in South Africa, with some variations. All three countries use similar tests to make their determinations and a survey of the UK and NZ’s case law indicates that the most preferred criteria are the multifactoral approach to determine the true nature of the relationship between employers and their employees. This approach has been found to be more flexible which allows it to accommodate the changes that are occurring in the world of work. In the South African context, the labour court has adopted a substance-over-form approach in making their determinations, arguing that the nature of the working relationship between employer and employee is a more important indicator than the mere contents of a written contract. The labour court has also used labour legislation mainly to assist in the interpretation of the distinction between independent contractors and employees. The study established that the criteria used in the UK is a bit more complex because workers are put in three different categories and the definition of employee is not 4 uniform in all the available statutes. In New Zealand the multiple factor approach is preferred just like in South Africa. In conclusion is submitted that the study established that there is nothing, other than the UK’s Mutuality of Obligation Test, that would assist in further clarifying the criteria used to classify employees or independent contractors in South Africa , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A framework to assess apomediation in social networking sites: a case of individuals with autoimmune disease
- Van de Westhuizen, Eldrigde Werner
- Authors: Van de Westhuizen, Eldrigde Werner
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Social nertworking , Content sharing
- Language: English
- Type: Doctolral's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66334 , vital:74634
- Description: Over the past couple of years there has been a major change in the health-related information available to patients. The modern patient typically researches online before consulting a doctor, leading to more independence for patients regarding their medical care. Doctors continue to play a pivotal role in the medical profession due to their medical education and experience, however, patients are progressively turning to online information to understand their condition. They also check online, following consultation with their doctor, to confirm that the information provided is correct; and frequently ask for advice from people with the same condition. Clearly, patients are changing their normal health seeking behaviour by supplementing what they hear from healthcare professionals through searches for additional sources of information. Unfortunately, online health-related information is not always factual. The misinformation could cause potential problems in the doctor-patient relationship because the doctor has all the information about the patient’s condition, therefore any indication that the patient is trying to undermine the authority of the doctor could be devastating. There is a need for people, or tools, that can support the patient to direct them to high quality information regarding their condition. This concept, known as apomediation, was discussed in detail in this research, as well as the effect on patients. Unfortunately, there is a lack of understanding of the extent to which these tools or people support the apomediation process for patients. This research focused on social networking sites, which is the tool to be used, while the patients were individuals with an autoimmune disease. The purpose of this research is to construct a framework to understand the extent to which social networking sites support apomediation for individuals with autoimmune disease. Research was conducted on existing models and theories that supports apomediation, as well as investigating which social networking sites are available that best support apomediation based on the core features of these sites. The research then focused on the requirements of individuals with autoimmune disease in respect of apomediation. These building blocks led to the construction of a framework artefact 6 that can guide patients on how to determine the extent to which social networking sites support apomediation. An assessment tool was also developed, based on the framework artefact, to evaluate the framework’s effectiveness in executing its designed intention. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Van de Westhuizen, Eldrigde Werner
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Social nertworking , Content sharing
- Language: English
- Type: Doctolral's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66334 , vital:74634
- Description: Over the past couple of years there has been a major change in the health-related information available to patients. The modern patient typically researches online before consulting a doctor, leading to more independence for patients regarding their medical care. Doctors continue to play a pivotal role in the medical profession due to their medical education and experience, however, patients are progressively turning to online information to understand their condition. They also check online, following consultation with their doctor, to confirm that the information provided is correct; and frequently ask for advice from people with the same condition. Clearly, patients are changing their normal health seeking behaviour by supplementing what they hear from healthcare professionals through searches for additional sources of information. Unfortunately, online health-related information is not always factual. The misinformation could cause potential problems in the doctor-patient relationship because the doctor has all the information about the patient’s condition, therefore any indication that the patient is trying to undermine the authority of the doctor could be devastating. There is a need for people, or tools, that can support the patient to direct them to high quality information regarding their condition. This concept, known as apomediation, was discussed in detail in this research, as well as the effect on patients. Unfortunately, there is a lack of understanding of the extent to which these tools or people support the apomediation process for patients. This research focused on social networking sites, which is the tool to be used, while the patients were individuals with an autoimmune disease. The purpose of this research is to construct a framework to understand the extent to which social networking sites support apomediation for individuals with autoimmune disease. Research was conducted on existing models and theories that supports apomediation, as well as investigating which social networking sites are available that best support apomediation based on the core features of these sites. The research then focused on the requirements of individuals with autoimmune disease in respect of apomediation. These building blocks led to the construction of a framework artefact 6 that can guide patients on how to determine the extent to which social networking sites support apomediation. An assessment tool was also developed, based on the framework artefact, to evaluate the framework’s effectiveness in executing its designed intention. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A fraud investigation skills self-assessment framework for internal audit practitioners
- Authors: Labuschagne, Mario
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: fraud investigation , Auditing, Internal
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61465 , vital:70660
- Description: Globally incidents of fraud are on the increase, resulting in an expectation from users of internal audit services that internal auditors should accept responsibility for conducting fraud investigations. This expectation exists even though limited guidance pronouncements on how to conduct fraud investigations being available from the Institute of internal auditors (IIA) and internal auditors not always being equipped to conduct fraud investigations. This expectation also stretches beyond the current pronounced role and responsibilities of internal audit practitioners, according to the IIAs International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) (hereafter, referred to as the Standards). Conducting fraud investigations without possessing the relevant knowledge and skills, introduces the risk that evidence collected may be considered inadmissible in a court of law. The research problem is stated as, “a dearth of adequate guidance pronouncements for internal audit practitioners exists, in respect of fraud investigations.” In response to the expectation, risk, and research problem, underpinned by the policeman theory and theory of inspired confidence, the primary research objective of the study was to develop a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework for use by internal audit practitioners who are expected to conduct fraud investigations. The study’s research objectives were achieved by making use of an interpretivist research paradigm and a qualitative methodological approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from authoritative internal auditors on the membership database of the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA). Findings confirmed the existence of an expectation gap and the lack of guidance contained in IIA guidance pronouncements and Standards. Developed from the findings, the thesis proposes a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. The proposed self-assessment framework lists 14 fraud investigation knowledge and skills measures in the form of statements that internal audit practitioners should use to assess their personal level of proficiency for conducting a fraud investigation. The results from the self-assessment should then be Page | vii used to guide an internal audit practitioner on whether to accept the responsibility for conducting a fraud investigation or to defer the investigation to a more proficient fraud investigator. The decision for accepting the responsibility to conduct a fraud investigation ultimately resides with the internal audit practitioner. The study concluded that an expectation from organisations exists for internal audit practitioners to conduct fraud investigations, even though limited guidance pronouncements are available to internal audit practitioners from the IIA for conducting fraud investigations. The study identified that the most prominent risk associated with a fraud investigation being conducted by a person lacking the required fraud investigation knowledge and skills was that of collected evidence being dismissed in a court of law and not being able to use the evidence against a perpetrator. It can, therefore, be recommended that internal audit practitioners should not conduct a fraud investigation if they lacked any of the proficiencies required. The study provides support for the development and use of the proposed fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Labuschagne, Mario
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: fraud investigation , Auditing, Internal
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61465 , vital:70660
- Description: Globally incidents of fraud are on the increase, resulting in an expectation from users of internal audit services that internal auditors should accept responsibility for conducting fraud investigations. This expectation exists even though limited guidance pronouncements on how to conduct fraud investigations being available from the Institute of internal auditors (IIA) and internal auditors not always being equipped to conduct fraud investigations. This expectation also stretches beyond the current pronounced role and responsibilities of internal audit practitioners, according to the IIAs International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) (hereafter, referred to as the Standards). Conducting fraud investigations without possessing the relevant knowledge and skills, introduces the risk that evidence collected may be considered inadmissible in a court of law. The research problem is stated as, “a dearth of adequate guidance pronouncements for internal audit practitioners exists, in respect of fraud investigations.” In response to the expectation, risk, and research problem, underpinned by the policeman theory and theory of inspired confidence, the primary research objective of the study was to develop a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework for use by internal audit practitioners who are expected to conduct fraud investigations. The study’s research objectives were achieved by making use of an interpretivist research paradigm and a qualitative methodological approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from authoritative internal auditors on the membership database of the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA). Findings confirmed the existence of an expectation gap and the lack of guidance contained in IIA guidance pronouncements and Standards. Developed from the findings, the thesis proposes a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. The proposed self-assessment framework lists 14 fraud investigation knowledge and skills measures in the form of statements that internal audit practitioners should use to assess their personal level of proficiency for conducting a fraud investigation. The results from the self-assessment should then be Page | vii used to guide an internal audit practitioner on whether to accept the responsibility for conducting a fraud investigation or to defer the investigation to a more proficient fraud investigator. The decision for accepting the responsibility to conduct a fraud investigation ultimately resides with the internal audit practitioner. The study concluded that an expectation from organisations exists for internal audit practitioners to conduct fraud investigations, even though limited guidance pronouncements are available to internal audit practitioners from the IIA for conducting fraud investigations. The study identified that the most prominent risk associated with a fraud investigation being conducted by a person lacking the required fraud investigation knowledge and skills was that of collected evidence being dismissed in a court of law and not being able to use the evidence against a perpetrator. It can, therefore, be recommended that internal audit practitioners should not conduct a fraud investigation if they lacked any of the proficiencies required. The study provides support for the development and use of the proposed fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process
- Authors: Kinsman, Estonia Jasmine
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Affluent consumers
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60786 , vital:67404
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. Key words: Black households; CFP® professionals; culture; diverse needs; reconceptualisation; six-step financial planning process. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kinsman, Estonia Jasmine
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Affluent consumers
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60786 , vital:67404
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. Key words: Black households; CFP® professionals; culture; diverse needs; reconceptualisation; six-step financial planning process. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process
- Authors: Kinsman, Jasmine Estonia
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Business enterprises--Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61442 , vital:70648
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kinsman, Jasmine Estonia
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Business enterprises--Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61442 , vital:70648
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A study of employee perceptions on water saving to align sustainable automotive manufacturing with operations
- Authors: Townsend, Dylan
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Transportation, Automotive , manufacturing -- employee perspective
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63146 , vital:73190
- Description: Sustainability has become a key strategic management focus area for XY Group. One element of this sustainability goal is water saving. Water saving measures usually entail implementing novel process technologies or processes to measure and reduce consumption. Furthermore, it also requires behavioural changes. Although water sustainability has strategic significance, effective implementation in operations is often lacking in the organisation. In addition, when implementing water sustainability initiatives, the novel and seemingly disconnected nature to the rest of the production activities, lead to more challenges of alignment among the necessary departments. Better alignment will translate to a higher level of commitment and more effective implementation of water sustainability initiatives. This research aimed to understand the perceptions of managers and employees toward water sustainability. In addition, it aimed to identify the factors that could support in driving water sustainability at an organisational level. The research achieved these objectives and identified key drivers of sustainable and lean-green manufacturing. The outcome of the research is a conceptual model that can assist manufacturing organisations in improving the level of alignment and execution of sustainability initiatives. Underpinning this research is a positivistic philosophy using quantitative methodology. Data was collected via an online questionnaire from N=172 respondents. The analysis of this data provided insights that answered the research questions. The primary findings show a sense of urgency and optimism currently exists towards sustainable manufacturing. Underpinning this, the study found a high level of perceived trust within the organisation. In addition, the level of vertical alignment achieved through integration of sustainability into business strategies influenced perceptions. Although, the level of effectiveness of initiatives remains hindered by the level of horizontal alignment within the organisation. Collaboration, combining lean and green manufacturing, and senior management commitment will support driving water sustainability further in future. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Townsend, Dylan
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Transportation, Automotive , manufacturing -- employee perspective
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63146 , vital:73190
- Description: Sustainability has become a key strategic management focus area for XY Group. One element of this sustainability goal is water saving. Water saving measures usually entail implementing novel process technologies or processes to measure and reduce consumption. Furthermore, it also requires behavioural changes. Although water sustainability has strategic significance, effective implementation in operations is often lacking in the organisation. In addition, when implementing water sustainability initiatives, the novel and seemingly disconnected nature to the rest of the production activities, lead to more challenges of alignment among the necessary departments. Better alignment will translate to a higher level of commitment and more effective implementation of water sustainability initiatives. This research aimed to understand the perceptions of managers and employees toward water sustainability. In addition, it aimed to identify the factors that could support in driving water sustainability at an organisational level. The research achieved these objectives and identified key drivers of sustainable and lean-green manufacturing. The outcome of the research is a conceptual model that can assist manufacturing organisations in improving the level of alignment and execution of sustainability initiatives. Underpinning this research is a positivistic philosophy using quantitative methodology. Data was collected via an online questionnaire from N=172 respondents. The analysis of this data provided insights that answered the research questions. The primary findings show a sense of urgency and optimism currently exists towards sustainable manufacturing. Underpinning this, the study found a high level of perceived trust within the organisation. In addition, the level of vertical alignment achieved through integration of sustainability into business strategies influenced perceptions. Although, the level of effectiveness of initiatives remains hindered by the level of horizontal alignment within the organisation. Collaboration, combining lean and green manufacturing, and senior management commitment will support driving water sustainability further in future. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Achieving consumers’ water demand through sustainable development
- Authors: Sibiya, Sandile
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Water demand management , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63100 , vital:73186
- Description: This study is concentrated around achieving consumer water demand through sustainable development of water infrastructure within the King Cetshwayo District, which is still very limited. The goal of this study was to look into the technical issues that arise from inferior project delivery, poor infrastructural maintenance, and the elements that contribute to suboptimal service delivery of water infrastructure projects. This research was conducted using qualitative research, which offers insight from a participant’s point of view. It focuses on human experiences and communal circumstances. It is therefore, sound judgement to use a qualitative research method to collect data using a semi-structured interview guide. The researcher utilised deliberate sampling using purposive sampling. The recruitment process targeted the corporate and the senior management levels. This study's objective was to investigate the elements involved in developing sustainable water infrastructure to fulfil consumers water demand and to identify strategies for using sustainable development techniques to address the water scarcity. The study findings reveal that the main issues with poor service delivery include service delivery issues, cost overruns, unsatisfactory performance, improper use of funds and project completion delays. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Sibiya, Sandile
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Water demand management , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63100 , vital:73186
- Description: This study is concentrated around achieving consumer water demand through sustainable development of water infrastructure within the King Cetshwayo District, which is still very limited. The goal of this study was to look into the technical issues that arise from inferior project delivery, poor infrastructural maintenance, and the elements that contribute to suboptimal service delivery of water infrastructure projects. This research was conducted using qualitative research, which offers insight from a participant’s point of view. It focuses on human experiences and communal circumstances. It is therefore, sound judgement to use a qualitative research method to collect data using a semi-structured interview guide. The researcher utilised deliberate sampling using purposive sampling. The recruitment process targeted the corporate and the senior management levels. This study's objective was to investigate the elements involved in developing sustainable water infrastructure to fulfil consumers water demand and to identify strategies for using sustainable development techniques to address the water scarcity. The study findings reveal that the main issues with poor service delivery include service delivery issues, cost overruns, unsatisfactory performance, improper use of funds and project completion delays. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An Analysis of the Impact of Platinum mining strikes on the South African Economy and exchange rate volatility
- Authors: Malusi, Zintle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Platinum group Industry , South African economy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61648 , vital:71822
- Description: The platinum group metals (PGM) mining sector is the largest component of the South African mining sector based on its contribution to GDP, employment and its overall contribution to the South African economy. Over the past decades South African production of PGMs has been declining, but post global financial crisis the country’s production growth has reduced due to the significant labour disruptions the industry has faced since late 2010. This paper aims to analyse the impact of these industrial strikes on the South African economy for the period 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2016 given the availability of data and significant strikes in that period. An examination of the impact strikes has had on the South African economy by running regressions using the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) technique. The study also looked at economic variables such as exchange rate, interest rate and the platinum index to determine the effect on the platinum mining sector. Regression equations are tested to prove the effects strikes have on theses variables and the economy at large , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Malusi, Zintle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Platinum group Industry , South African economy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61648 , vital:71822
- Description: The platinum group metals (PGM) mining sector is the largest component of the South African mining sector based on its contribution to GDP, employment and its overall contribution to the South African economy. Over the past decades South African production of PGMs has been declining, but post global financial crisis the country’s production growth has reduced due to the significant labour disruptions the industry has faced since late 2010. This paper aims to analyse the impact of these industrial strikes on the South African economy for the period 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2016 given the availability of data and significant strikes in that period. An examination of the impact strikes has had on the South African economy by running regressions using the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) technique. The study also looked at economic variables such as exchange rate, interest rate and the platinum index to determine the effect on the platinum mining sector. Regression equations are tested to prove the effects strikes have on theses variables and the economy at large , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An assessment of return to work strategies within the South African financial services industry
- Authors: Ryan, Justin
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 pandemic , work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62392 , vital:72646
- Description: The purpose of this study was to conduct research into the return to work strategies that were used in the South African Financial Services Industry following the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. The goal was to understand the motivation for the slow return to the office and to explore what strategies organisational leadership could employ to overcome this resistance. The South African Financial Services Industry represents multiple subsectors that are highly regulated in an age where the digital transformation of industries is common, as are the complexities and risks in integration. The significance of the study is to ascertain the appropriate strategies to encourage employees the return to the office since COVID-19. This study used a quantitative approach. This was achieved in the form of a survey sent to a sample of managers in South African Financial Services Industry using an electronic survey instrument created in Google Forms. One hundred and nineteen financial services managers fitting the criteria responded to the survey. The sampling methodology was both convenient and snowball sampling, non-probability techniques. The findings indicated that there is a relationship between extrinsic benefits received by employees and the return to work. The findings from the study also revealed that a hybrid working arrangement is preferred by the South African Financial Services Industry managers compared to working from home permanently From the study it is recommended that financial services organisations employ a hybrid working model where possible. Another recommendation is that leaders have a clear and transparent communication strategy of transforming the working environment to suit the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Ryan, Justin
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 pandemic , work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62392 , vital:72646
- Description: The purpose of this study was to conduct research into the return to work strategies that were used in the South African Financial Services Industry following the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. The goal was to understand the motivation for the slow return to the office and to explore what strategies organisational leadership could employ to overcome this resistance. The South African Financial Services Industry represents multiple subsectors that are highly regulated in an age where the digital transformation of industries is common, as are the complexities and risks in integration. The significance of the study is to ascertain the appropriate strategies to encourage employees the return to the office since COVID-19. This study used a quantitative approach. This was achieved in the form of a survey sent to a sample of managers in South African Financial Services Industry using an electronic survey instrument created in Google Forms. One hundred and nineteen financial services managers fitting the criteria responded to the survey. The sampling methodology was both convenient and snowball sampling, non-probability techniques. The findings indicated that there is a relationship between extrinsic benefits received by employees and the return to work. The findings from the study also revealed that a hybrid working arrangement is preferred by the South African Financial Services Industry managers compared to working from home permanently From the study it is recommended that financial services organisations employ a hybrid working model where possible. Another recommendation is that leaders have a clear and transparent communication strategy of transforming the working environment to suit the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An assessment of the effectiveness of waste management in the Nelson Mandela municipality
- Authors: Nyati, Tembakazi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: waste management , Refuse disposal industry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62310 , vital:72379
- Description: Waste management is an essential service that municipalities provide to residents. The preservation of public health and the continued safety and well-being of both people and the environment, are both supported by good waste management methods. It has become necessary to evaluate present waste management strategies to ensure that they are still effective, due to the rise in solid waste brought on by the growth and development of communities. The primary objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of waste management in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The study was conducted using a qualitative phenomenological approach. A total of 10 participants were chosen for the study and in-depth interviews were used as data collection tool to accomplish the objectives of the study. The qualitative data analysis tool Atlas TI was employed for data analysis to present emerging themes from the collected data. The findings of the study established that a lack of adequate resources presented a challenge to the municipality to provide effective waste management. The role of education and awareness was revealed to play a major role in ensuring that the public is well-informed about waste management. The study recommended that current waste management strategies be reviewed, and new policies be implemented. Finally, constant communication between residents and the municipality is needed to combat issues in neighbourhoods. The recommendations proposed in this study could be used as a possible guide to assist policy makers when reviewing and developing waste strategies. The evaluation of policies is key to addressing challenges regarding waste management. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Nyati, Tembakazi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: waste management , Refuse disposal industry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62310 , vital:72379
- Description: Waste management is an essential service that municipalities provide to residents. The preservation of public health and the continued safety and well-being of both people and the environment, are both supported by good waste management methods. It has become necessary to evaluate present waste management strategies to ensure that they are still effective, due to the rise in solid waste brought on by the growth and development of communities. The primary objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of waste management in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The study was conducted using a qualitative phenomenological approach. A total of 10 participants were chosen for the study and in-depth interviews were used as data collection tool to accomplish the objectives of the study. The qualitative data analysis tool Atlas TI was employed for data analysis to present emerging themes from the collected data. The findings of the study established that a lack of adequate resources presented a challenge to the municipality to provide effective waste management. The role of education and awareness was revealed to play a major role in ensuring that the public is well-informed about waste management. The study recommended that current waste management strategies be reviewed, and new policies be implemented. Finally, constant communication between residents and the municipality is needed to combat issues in neighbourhoods. The recommendations proposed in this study could be used as a possible guide to assist policy makers when reviewing and developing waste strategies. The evaluation of policies is key to addressing challenges regarding waste management. , Thesis (Ma) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An efficient approach for the synthesis of dolutegravir and its analogue exploiting flow chemistry
- Authors: Nqeketo, Sinazo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: HIV (Viruses) – Enzymes –Inhibitors , Antiviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:70635
- Description: Africa has the highest Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence in the world and has invested heavily in running its HIV programmes and conducting research of medical significance. Despite efforts in combating this disease the production, distribution, cost, and availability of antiretroviral (ARV) generics remains a major problem as they are imported from China and India. Exploring the recently emerged “enabling technique”, namely flow chemistry in the production of APIs has gained a lot of attention. This study was devoted on exploring the application of flow chemistry on the synthesis of a newly approved anti-HIV drug dolutegravir (DTG); an integrase inhibitor with a high genetic barrier to resistance with a daily dosing scheduled compared to other ARVs and its third-generation inhibitor analogue, cabotegravir. Chapter one covers a comprehensive background and literature review of the HIV epidemic, an introduction of antiretroviral therapy as well as detailed dolutegravir and cabotegravir synthesis. A brief introduction of continuous flow technology with its advantages and disadvantages is discussed in this chapter. The efficient seven-step continuous flow procedure afforded dolutegravir and cabotegravir in improved reaction times and yields compared to the traditional batch procedure was demonstrated. The significant advantage of this flow process includes the reduction of the overall reaction time from step one to step seven, from prolonged 68 hours in batch to 34 minutes. The overall yield of each reaction step improved dramatically upon flow optimization. The yields of the second step (selective ester hydrolysis), fourth step (cyclization) and fifth step (amidation) increased from 64 %, 40 % and 33 % in batch to 98 %, 71 % and 100 % yield by HPLC respectively. Other than improved yields and residence times which was aided advantages of microreactor technology including intensive mixing, the flow process is also much better because it is cost effective. Most importantly, a novel process on the formation of pyridinone intermediate using ion-exchange resin catalysts towards the synthesis of dolutegravir and cabotegravir was described in this study , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Nqeketo, Sinazo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: HIV (Viruses) – Enzymes –Inhibitors , Antiviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:70635
- Description: Africa has the highest Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence in the world and has invested heavily in running its HIV programmes and conducting research of medical significance. Despite efforts in combating this disease the production, distribution, cost, and availability of antiretroviral (ARV) generics remains a major problem as they are imported from China and India. Exploring the recently emerged “enabling technique”, namely flow chemistry in the production of APIs has gained a lot of attention. This study was devoted on exploring the application of flow chemistry on the synthesis of a newly approved anti-HIV drug dolutegravir (DTG); an integrase inhibitor with a high genetic barrier to resistance with a daily dosing scheduled compared to other ARVs and its third-generation inhibitor analogue, cabotegravir. Chapter one covers a comprehensive background and literature review of the HIV epidemic, an introduction of antiretroviral therapy as well as detailed dolutegravir and cabotegravir synthesis. A brief introduction of continuous flow technology with its advantages and disadvantages is discussed in this chapter. The efficient seven-step continuous flow procedure afforded dolutegravir and cabotegravir in improved reaction times and yields compared to the traditional batch procedure was demonstrated. The significant advantage of this flow process includes the reduction of the overall reaction time from step one to step seven, from prolonged 68 hours in batch to 34 minutes. The overall yield of each reaction step improved dramatically upon flow optimization. The yields of the second step (selective ester hydrolysis), fourth step (cyclization) and fifth step (amidation) increased from 64 %, 40 % and 33 % in batch to 98 %, 71 % and 100 % yield by HPLC respectively. Other than improved yields and residence times which was aided advantages of microreactor technology including intensive mixing, the flow process is also much better because it is cost effective. Most importantly, a novel process on the formation of pyridinone intermediate using ion-exchange resin catalysts towards the synthesis of dolutegravir and cabotegravir was described in this study , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the effectiveness of area-based conservation intervention in avoiding biodiversity loss in South Africa
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the effectiveness of area-based conservation interventions in avoiding biodiversity loss in South Africa
- Authors: Von Staden, Lize
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Environmental policy , Conservation of natural resources -- Government policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61115 , vital:69762
- Description: Counterfactual impact evaluation studies form an important evidence base for the effectiveness of conservation projects, programs, and policies (collectively referred to as conservation interventions). In South Africa, counterfactual impact evaluation methods have rarely been applied to local conservation interventions, and therefore evidence for the effectiveness of key strategic national conservation approaches is lacking. This study evaluated three area-based interventions that together aim to avoid the loss of areas most important for the persistence of biodiversity in the terrestrial realm as evidence towards the effectiveness of South Africa’s landscape approach to biodiversity conservation. The first intervention, South Africa’s National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES), set ambitious targets to double the extent of South Africa’s protected area network while ensuring that the expansion preferentially occurs in areas of under-represented biodiversity. The strategy was evaluated in terms of its effectiveness in guiding protected area expansion towards more equitable representation of South Africa’s biodiversity through an assessment of changes in indicators of protected area expansion decision-making before and after the implementation of the strategy. The second intervention is the use of maps of biodiversity priorities to guide land use change decisions outside protected areas. Impact was evaluated as avoided loss of Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs), which need to remain in a natural condition to meet in situ conservation targets for species, ecosystems, and ecological processes. Avoided loss in CBAs was benchmarked against avoided loss in protected areas, to contextualize the effectiveness of land use planning as a conservation intervention. Lastly, the effectiveness of stricter land use regulations for threatened ecosystems to reduce land conversion pressure on these ecosystems was evaluated. Key findings were that protected areas are highly effective conservation interventions where they can be implemented, but their capacity for conservation impact is limited by severe constraints on strategic expansion. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Von Staden, Lize
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Environmental policy , Conservation of natural resources -- Government policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61115 , vital:69762
- Description: Counterfactual impact evaluation studies form an important evidence base for the effectiveness of conservation projects, programs, and policies (collectively referred to as conservation interventions). In South Africa, counterfactual impact evaluation methods have rarely been applied to local conservation interventions, and therefore evidence for the effectiveness of key strategic national conservation approaches is lacking. This study evaluated three area-based interventions that together aim to avoid the loss of areas most important for the persistence of biodiversity in the terrestrial realm as evidence towards the effectiveness of South Africa’s landscape approach to biodiversity conservation. The first intervention, South Africa’s National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES), set ambitious targets to double the extent of South Africa’s protected area network while ensuring that the expansion preferentially occurs in areas of under-represented biodiversity. The strategy was evaluated in terms of its effectiveness in guiding protected area expansion towards more equitable representation of South Africa’s biodiversity through an assessment of changes in indicators of protected area expansion decision-making before and after the implementation of the strategy. The second intervention is the use of maps of biodiversity priorities to guide land use change decisions outside protected areas. Impact was evaluated as avoided loss of Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs), which need to remain in a natural condition to meet in situ conservation targets for species, ecosystems, and ecological processes. Avoided loss in CBAs was benchmarked against avoided loss in protected areas, to contextualize the effectiveness of land use planning as a conservation intervention. Lastly, the effectiveness of stricter land use regulations for threatened ecosystems to reduce land conversion pressure on these ecosystems was evaluated. Key findings were that protected areas are highly effective conservation interventions where they can be implemented, but their capacity for conservation impact is limited by severe constraints on strategic expansion. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to reduce unemployment in South Africa
- Authors: Daniel, Nwabisa Nandipha
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Unemployment--South Africa , unemployment Statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61086 , vital:69739
- Description: This study evaluated South Africa’s legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to determine its effectiveness in reducing unemployment. The study is primarily driven by South Africa’s persistent challenge of unemployment with Statistics South Africa estimating the unemployment rate at 35.5 per cent or 7.9 million labourers. Persistently high levels of unemployment harm the socio-economy as unemployment increases poverty and contributes to inequality. For the government an increase in expenditure on social relief programmes, while offering some relief, decreases revenue collection. In order to mitigate this imbalance, the South African government identified public infrastructure investment as a stimulus for economic growth and create employment, such as in the Expanded Public Works Programme initiative. The legislative framework is an important aspect of study as policy is legitimised and implemented through the legislative framework. Previous studies have focused on the effect of fiscal policy on economic growth and employment creation. These studies have also used quantitative data analysis to explain the relationship between fiscal policy, economic growth, and unemployment. Other studies have focused on public policy planning and implementation, and some of the policies that have been implemented to address unemployment. This study focused on public infrastructure investments specifically rather than fiscal policy in general. The study also examined the legislative framework to determine whether it is effective in reducing unemployment through public infrastructure investment. The study made used qualitative data analysis as the researcher undertook a document analysis of publicly available documents which were sampled using a purposive sampling technique and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were that the legislative framework supported employment creation through public infrastructure investment through the establishment of a public institution to support the construction industry, the use of local content as inputs and labour-intensive technologies in the infrastructure delivery process. The legislative framework was not effective in supporting the policy, which is demonstrated by the perpetually high unemployment rate despite unemployment alleviating initiatives being implemented in the early and mid-2000s , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Daniel, Nwabisa Nandipha
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Unemployment--South Africa , unemployment Statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61086 , vital:69739
- Description: This study evaluated South Africa’s legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to determine its effectiveness in reducing unemployment. The study is primarily driven by South Africa’s persistent challenge of unemployment with Statistics South Africa estimating the unemployment rate at 35.5 per cent or 7.9 million labourers. Persistently high levels of unemployment harm the socio-economy as unemployment increases poverty and contributes to inequality. For the government an increase in expenditure on social relief programmes, while offering some relief, decreases revenue collection. In order to mitigate this imbalance, the South African government identified public infrastructure investment as a stimulus for economic growth and create employment, such as in the Expanded Public Works Programme initiative. The legislative framework is an important aspect of study as policy is legitimised and implemented through the legislative framework. Previous studies have focused on the effect of fiscal policy on economic growth and employment creation. These studies have also used quantitative data analysis to explain the relationship between fiscal policy, economic growth, and unemployment. Other studies have focused on public policy planning and implementation, and some of the policies that have been implemented to address unemployment. This study focused on public infrastructure investments specifically rather than fiscal policy in general. The study also examined the legislative framework to determine whether it is effective in reducing unemployment through public infrastructure investment. The study made used qualitative data analysis as the researcher undertook a document analysis of publicly available documents which were sampled using a purposive sampling technique and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were that the legislative framework supported employment creation through public infrastructure investment through the establishment of a public institution to support the construction industry, the use of local content as inputs and labour-intensive technologies in the infrastructure delivery process. The legislative framework was not effective in supporting the policy, which is demonstrated by the perpetually high unemployment rate despite unemployment alleviating initiatives being implemented in the early and mid-2000s , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An exploration of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) facilitating the growth and certification of small-scale organic farmers: Giyani, Garden Route and Overberg case studies
- Authors: Mashele,N’wa-Jama
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Organic farming – Case studies --South Africa , Organic farming research
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60741 , vital:66574
- Description: In this study, I evaluated the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) as a framework to support the growth and certification of small-scale organic farmers. I used the interpretivism and constructivism lenses to understand the PGS from the perspective of members of three PGS groups. The research was qualitative, treating the three PGS groups as case studies. I collected data using focus groups, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, field notes and observations. The theoretical frameworks that guided the research and data analysis were Socio-ecological Systems (SES) based principles and the Multi-Level-Perspective (MLP) framework. The data were analysed using Atlas.ti content analysis software. The key results were grouped into four themes: capacity; market and logistics; learning process; and disturbance, shock and stress. The theme of ‘capacity’ dealt with the functioning of a PGS, where three categories were identified: group composition and capacity; resource limitations and institutional support; marketing and consumer education. The more diversity in age, education and culture of PGS stakeholders, the better performance and chances of continuity and propagation. PGS has limited capacity partly due to its voluntary nature and infancy. It needs institutional support to grow and be useful for members. Department of Agriculture extension officers knew little about organic farming, thus limiting their engagement and assistance to such farmers. The theme of ‘market and logistics’ looked at the various factors that influence the farmers’ market reach. The perception from the members was that there was minimal consumer awareness about organic agriculture and the PGS. The marketing of organic produce relied largely on the individual farmer’s efforts and ability to search for and secure markets. The theme of the ‘learning process’ was categorised into learning and knowledge exchange. Members of the PGS groups highly regarded the invaluable knowledge shared through farm visits and online platforms, such as their WhatsApp groups. This knowledge improved and informed their farming techniques and led to the growth of v their skill base and experimentation. They viewed the way knowledge was exchanged as non-threatening and highly useful. The fourth theme of ‘disturbance, shock and stress’ dealt with the effects of COVID19. The three groups were all affected by lockdown restrictions (at the time of data collection) and were initially cut off from their usual markets. This led to a loss of income, loss of farm staff and a loss of the desired growth of the farms. The group’s diverse farming practices bolstered their resilience, enabling them to adapt and try alternative marketing strategies. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mashele,N’wa-Jama
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Organic farming – Case studies --South Africa , Organic farming research
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60741 , vital:66574
- Description: In this study, I evaluated the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) as a framework to support the growth and certification of small-scale organic farmers. I used the interpretivism and constructivism lenses to understand the PGS from the perspective of members of three PGS groups. The research was qualitative, treating the three PGS groups as case studies. I collected data using focus groups, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, field notes and observations. The theoretical frameworks that guided the research and data analysis were Socio-ecological Systems (SES) based principles and the Multi-Level-Perspective (MLP) framework. The data were analysed using Atlas.ti content analysis software. The key results were grouped into four themes: capacity; market and logistics; learning process; and disturbance, shock and stress. The theme of ‘capacity’ dealt with the functioning of a PGS, where three categories were identified: group composition and capacity; resource limitations and institutional support; marketing and consumer education. The more diversity in age, education and culture of PGS stakeholders, the better performance and chances of continuity and propagation. PGS has limited capacity partly due to its voluntary nature and infancy. It needs institutional support to grow and be useful for members. Department of Agriculture extension officers knew little about organic farming, thus limiting their engagement and assistance to such farmers. The theme of ‘market and logistics’ looked at the various factors that influence the farmers’ market reach. The perception from the members was that there was minimal consumer awareness about organic agriculture and the PGS. The marketing of organic produce relied largely on the individual farmer’s efforts and ability to search for and secure markets. The theme of the ‘learning process’ was categorised into learning and knowledge exchange. Members of the PGS groups highly regarded the invaluable knowledge shared through farm visits and online platforms, such as their WhatsApp groups. This knowledge improved and informed their farming techniques and led to the growth of v their skill base and experimentation. They viewed the way knowledge was exchanged as non-threatening and highly useful. The fourth theme of ‘disturbance, shock and stress’ dealt with the effects of COVID19. The three groups were all affected by lockdown restrictions (at the time of data collection) and were initially cut off from their usual markets. This led to a loss of income, loss of farm staff and a loss of the desired growth of the farms. The group’s diverse farming practices bolstered their resilience, enabling them to adapt and try alternative marketing strategies. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04