Stakeholder engagement and sustainable tourism development in the greater Taung Local Municipal area, North-West Province
- Authors: Mosenogi, Joel Marumo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sustainable tourism -- South Africa , Tourism -- Management , Tourism -- South Africa -- North West Province
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73059 , vital:79328
- Description: The global importance of sustainable tourism development as a foundation for economic growth, poverty reduction and employment cannot be over-emphasised, and this is not an exception for the North-West Province of South Africa. Sustainable tourism development is a multi-dimensional phenomenon which needs the involvement of all stakeholders to be a success. This study aims to explore and understand the role of stakeholder engagement on sustainable tourism development in the Greater Taung Local Municipality area. Applying a qualitative research approach under constructivism philosophy and exploratory design, data was collected using open-ended interview schedule. To effectively analyse data, the study adopted thematic approach which was achieved through qualitative techniques which included word cloud, tree maps, cluster analysis, hierarchy charts and word trees. The findings of the study showed that stakeholder engagement is largely dependent on the ability to effectively coordinate relevant stakeholders which is the main responsibility of government. Further findings of the study indicate that given the nature of development and diversity of the tourism industry, stakeholder identification cannot be a once off exercise performed by government alone. While government holds the responsibility of coordination, it is important to ensure that the process of stakeholder identification is as inclusive as possible and most importantly be guided by a set of stakeholder’s identification criteria. There is a need to also ensure that stakeholders are contently engaging. Findings also emphasise the importance of ensuring effective functionality of all formal structures within the tourism sector, the umbrella body and all other forums and stakeholders. These must be well organised, which requires active involvement and participation amongst all stakeholders. To successfully achieve this, various sustainability enablers such as technology, communication, information sharing, responsiveness, marketing, financing and education are important. Most importantly, there is a need for institutionalisation of innovation, research, monitoring and evaluation as the basis for the achievement of stakeholder engagement and sustainable tourism development. The study finally developed a stakeholder engagement and sustainable tourism development framework as a major contribution in the field of tourism. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mosenogi, Joel Marumo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sustainable tourism -- South Africa , Tourism -- Management , Tourism -- South Africa -- North West Province
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73059 , vital:79328
- Description: The global importance of sustainable tourism development as a foundation for economic growth, poverty reduction and employment cannot be over-emphasised, and this is not an exception for the North-West Province of South Africa. Sustainable tourism development is a multi-dimensional phenomenon which needs the involvement of all stakeholders to be a success. This study aims to explore and understand the role of stakeholder engagement on sustainable tourism development in the Greater Taung Local Municipality area. Applying a qualitative research approach under constructivism philosophy and exploratory design, data was collected using open-ended interview schedule. To effectively analyse data, the study adopted thematic approach which was achieved through qualitative techniques which included word cloud, tree maps, cluster analysis, hierarchy charts and word trees. The findings of the study showed that stakeholder engagement is largely dependent on the ability to effectively coordinate relevant stakeholders which is the main responsibility of government. Further findings of the study indicate that given the nature of development and diversity of the tourism industry, stakeholder identification cannot be a once off exercise performed by government alone. While government holds the responsibility of coordination, it is important to ensure that the process of stakeholder identification is as inclusive as possible and most importantly be guided by a set of stakeholder’s identification criteria. There is a need to also ensure that stakeholders are contently engaging. Findings also emphasise the importance of ensuring effective functionality of all formal structures within the tourism sector, the umbrella body and all other forums and stakeholders. These must be well organised, which requires active involvement and participation amongst all stakeholders. To successfully achieve this, various sustainability enablers such as technology, communication, information sharing, responsiveness, marketing, financing and education are important. Most importantly, there is a need for institutionalisation of innovation, research, monitoring and evaluation as the basis for the achievement of stakeholder engagement and sustainable tourism development. The study finally developed a stakeholder engagement and sustainable tourism development framework as a major contribution in the field of tourism. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Strategies to improve coastal and marine tourism sustainability in the Nelson Mandela Bay coastal region
- Authors: Mbangeni, Mihlali
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Tourism -- Environmental aspects -- Port Elizabeth , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainability -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73003 , vital:79323
- Description: Coastal and marine tourism (CMT) is a rapidly growing subsector of tourism. CMT is a form of tourism that occurs in coastal areas and marine environments. This form of tourism has benefited the coastal and marine environments contributing economically to coastal regions globally. However, in developing regions such as the Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, pollution, particularly plastics and waste from ships, is an environmental challenge. Thus, the need for managing and planning sustainability in coastal and marine tourism. The study evaluated the effectiveness of the current sustainability strategies used by Nelson Mandela Bay coastal region stakeholders. The interpretivist paradigm enabled a qualitative research approach. Thus, 8 semi-structured interviews were conducted through purposive sampling. Participants were from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Tourism directorate, top managers of coastal and marine tourism businesses, and ocean economy-related non-profit organisation operators. Thematic analysis was employed using Atlas.ti software and narratives presented the results of the study. The study found current strategies used to ensure sustainability and how the municipality promotes sustainability. CMT businesses practise sustainability and NPO have practical initiatives in place. The challenges identified by the participants were stakeholders not having the same intentions towards sustainability, lack of local community literacy, lack of stakeholder inclusion leading to a lack of collaboration as well as lack of sustainability visible initiatives and regulation. Measures used to mitigate these challenges were, empowering decision makers and local communities by conducting workshops, creatively communicating the importance of sustainability while encouraging more collaboration among stakeholders. Introducing sustainability to children and encourage recycling and separation of waste. Recommendations made were to raise educational awareness, encourage participation through incentives for coastal clean-up and NMB to have a tourism and sustainability office. Provide fresh and updated information on websites as well as local communities should be empowered with knowledge and the skills. Future research should use a comparative analysis with a similar study in a coastal region. It could also look at incorporating a longitudinal study design that could assist and assess the long-term impact of the recommended strategies on sustainability in the area. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mbangeni, Mihlali
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Tourism -- Environmental aspects -- Port Elizabeth , Tourism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainability -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73003 , vital:79323
- Description: Coastal and marine tourism (CMT) is a rapidly growing subsector of tourism. CMT is a form of tourism that occurs in coastal areas and marine environments. This form of tourism has benefited the coastal and marine environments contributing economically to coastal regions globally. However, in developing regions such as the Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, pollution, particularly plastics and waste from ships, is an environmental challenge. Thus, the need for managing and planning sustainability in coastal and marine tourism. The study evaluated the effectiveness of the current sustainability strategies used by Nelson Mandela Bay coastal region stakeholders. The interpretivist paradigm enabled a qualitative research approach. Thus, 8 semi-structured interviews were conducted through purposive sampling. Participants were from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Tourism directorate, top managers of coastal and marine tourism businesses, and ocean economy-related non-profit organisation operators. Thematic analysis was employed using Atlas.ti software and narratives presented the results of the study. The study found current strategies used to ensure sustainability and how the municipality promotes sustainability. CMT businesses practise sustainability and NPO have practical initiatives in place. The challenges identified by the participants were stakeholders not having the same intentions towards sustainability, lack of local community literacy, lack of stakeholder inclusion leading to a lack of collaboration as well as lack of sustainability visible initiatives and regulation. Measures used to mitigate these challenges were, empowering decision makers and local communities by conducting workshops, creatively communicating the importance of sustainability while encouraging more collaboration among stakeholders. Introducing sustainability to children and encourage recycling and separation of waste. Recommendations made were to raise educational awareness, encourage participation through incentives for coastal clean-up and NMB to have a tourism and sustainability office. Provide fresh and updated information on websites as well as local communities should be empowered with knowledge and the skills. Future research should use a comparative analysis with a similar study in a coastal region. It could also look at incorporating a longitudinal study design that could assist and assess the long-term impact of the recommended strategies on sustainability in the area. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Substantive equality and the individual right to affirmative action
- Authors: Bothma, Deon
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Equality -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72063 , vital:79182
- Description: The value of- and right to equality is important in all democracies. Equality discourse is particularly important in South Africa considering its unequal colonial and apartheid past. For centuries, certain categories of people have been excluded from fully participating in the economy and in social life while others benefitted substantially. The advent of democracy has called for a new constitutional order and the rule of law with a human rights focus underpinned by the values of non-racialism, freedom, and equality. Dismantling the architecture of oppression would not be possible without placing positive duties on the state and private individuals to redistribute economic and other opportunities from which those previously disadvantaged by unfair discrimination had been excluded. The right to equality is a contested concept, and the holistic understanding and application of formal and substantive notions of equality are often misunderstood and misapplied in the courts, business, political debates, and academia. This treatise focuses on the constitutional right to equality, with a specific focus on affirmative action measures and their application in the labour market and employment relations. The conventional notion of equality in the form of formal equality, that is not to be discriminated against, seems to be a stumbling block to the achievement of equality, since it often neglects the duty to provide in the form of substantive equality and positive measures. The Employment Equity Act, which has been enacted to give effect to the constitutional right to equality, distinctly provides provisions regulating the prohibition against unfair discrimination and the promotion of positive measures through affirmative action provisions. Affirmative action provisions in the Employment Equity Act have been a contentious matter among all races, men and women, and people with disabilities who contend for work opportunities in a labour market plagued by high levels of unemployment. Equality jurisprudence has been developing since the advent of democracy under a constitutional order and the subsequent promulgation of the Labour Relations Act and the Employment Equity Act. However, the body of case law has not been consistently developed and has resulted in more divergence in debates around equality provisions in various pieces of legislation. The divergent approaches to equality adjudication have necessitated a critical review of the equality provisions in the Bill of Rights and national employment legislation, and furthermore, an evaluation and critique of the application of relevant legislative provisions. Finally, to contribute to the existing body of literature, recommendations will be advanced for consideration by courts and other bodies empowered to decide disputes involving unfair discrimination and affirmative action. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Bothma, Deon
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Equality -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72063 , vital:79182
- Description: The value of- and right to equality is important in all democracies. Equality discourse is particularly important in South Africa considering its unequal colonial and apartheid past. For centuries, certain categories of people have been excluded from fully participating in the economy and in social life while others benefitted substantially. The advent of democracy has called for a new constitutional order and the rule of law with a human rights focus underpinned by the values of non-racialism, freedom, and equality. Dismantling the architecture of oppression would not be possible without placing positive duties on the state and private individuals to redistribute economic and other opportunities from which those previously disadvantaged by unfair discrimination had been excluded. The right to equality is a contested concept, and the holistic understanding and application of formal and substantive notions of equality are often misunderstood and misapplied in the courts, business, political debates, and academia. This treatise focuses on the constitutional right to equality, with a specific focus on affirmative action measures and their application in the labour market and employment relations. The conventional notion of equality in the form of formal equality, that is not to be discriminated against, seems to be a stumbling block to the achievement of equality, since it often neglects the duty to provide in the form of substantive equality and positive measures. The Employment Equity Act, which has been enacted to give effect to the constitutional right to equality, distinctly provides provisions regulating the prohibition against unfair discrimination and the promotion of positive measures through affirmative action provisions. Affirmative action provisions in the Employment Equity Act have been a contentious matter among all races, men and women, and people with disabilities who contend for work opportunities in a labour market plagued by high levels of unemployment. Equality jurisprudence has been developing since the advent of democracy under a constitutional order and the subsequent promulgation of the Labour Relations Act and the Employment Equity Act. However, the body of case law has not been consistently developed and has resulted in more divergence in debates around equality provisions in various pieces of legislation. The divergent approaches to equality adjudication have necessitated a critical review of the equality provisions in the Bill of Rights and national employment legislation, and furthermore, an evaluation and critique of the application of relevant legislative provisions. Finally, to contribute to the existing body of literature, recommendations will be advanced for consideration by courts and other bodies empowered to decide disputes involving unfair discrimination and affirmative action. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Tax policy and the obesity epidemic: a systematic review
- Authors: Mavuma, Onele
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Obesity , Metabolism -- Disorders , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72982 , vital:79302
- Description: Obesity is a serious public health concern that has substantial social, health, and economic consequences for individuals of all ages and genders. Globally, the prevalence of obesity has tripled since the 1980s, and it is predicted to continue to climb yearly in the years to come. Despite the implementation of numerous tax laws around the world to curb the epidemic, its prevalence is still rising dramatically. This study investigated the causes and influences of the obesity epidemic, as well as how tax policies contribute to the fight against obesity epidemic in both developed and developing countries. A systematic review that conforms to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to guarantee that the study's findings are transparent and reproducible by other researchers is employed in this study. This method followed a qualitative research approach, narrative synthesis method, and thematic analysis to analyse the study data. The study found that in developed and developing countries tax policies have a significant impact on altering the demand for unhealthy foods and drinks. In addition, there are a number of factors that contribute to obesity epidemic, including genetics, an environment that promotes obesity, nutrition, physical activity, greater reliance on technology, peer pressure, social networks, cultural norms and beliefs, mass media that promote junk food, lack of health education, and socioeconomic status. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxes, subsidies, or a mix of the two have been shown to be successful in combating the epidemic. In contrast, the South African sugar tax system and the fat tax have been shown to be ineffective tools to fight the epidemic. This study suggests that policymakers need to understand citizens' eating behaviours through behavioural lenses, devise behaviour-informed policies, and utilise nudges to induce healthy behaviours. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mavuma, Onele
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Obesity , Metabolism -- Disorders , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72982 , vital:79302
- Description: Obesity is a serious public health concern that has substantial social, health, and economic consequences for individuals of all ages and genders. Globally, the prevalence of obesity has tripled since the 1980s, and it is predicted to continue to climb yearly in the years to come. Despite the implementation of numerous tax laws around the world to curb the epidemic, its prevalence is still rising dramatically. This study investigated the causes and influences of the obesity epidemic, as well as how tax policies contribute to the fight against obesity epidemic in both developed and developing countries. A systematic review that conforms to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to guarantee that the study's findings are transparent and reproducible by other researchers is employed in this study. This method followed a qualitative research approach, narrative synthesis method, and thematic analysis to analyse the study data. The study found that in developed and developing countries tax policies have a significant impact on altering the demand for unhealthy foods and drinks. In addition, there are a number of factors that contribute to obesity epidemic, including genetics, an environment that promotes obesity, nutrition, physical activity, greater reliance on technology, peer pressure, social networks, cultural norms and beliefs, mass media that promote junk food, lack of health education, and socioeconomic status. Sugar-sweetened beverage taxes, subsidies, or a mix of the two have been shown to be successful in combating the epidemic. In contrast, the South African sugar tax system and the fat tax have been shown to be ineffective tools to fight the epidemic. This study suggests that policymakers need to understand citizens' eating behaviours through behavioural lenses, devise behaviour-informed policies, and utilise nudges to induce healthy behaviours. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Teachers’ understandings and experiences of policies on learner pregnancy in their schools in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Tshozi, Nomawethu Caroline
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sex instruction , Family life education , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71893 , vital:79149
- Description: Learner pregnancy has increased over the past few years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa and particularly in the province of the Eastern Cape where this research study is conducted. There have been policies formulated and promulgated in the past to prevent and manage learner pregnancies, however, they have not been successful in lowering numbers of learners getting pregnant. Government has responded to this by revising these policies and introducing comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in the curriculum from primary school. This has been met with resistance from school governing bodies and religious groups in the country, thereby delaying implementation. Teachers are having to deal at the coalface with this problem of learners getting pregnant at an early age in their schools. This research study explores teachers’ understandings and experiences of policies on learner pregnancy in their schools in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It takes on qualitative research and an interpretive paradigm following a participatory visual methodology using photovoice and document analysis as data generation methods which culminated in policy briefs. Three township secondary schools from quintile 3 were purposively selected for this study from which eight were Life Orientation teachers and one a learner support agent (LSA) participated. The findings revealed that teachers feel incapacitated in handling sexuality matters and are not adequately enabled to effectively implement the formulated learner pregnancy policies in their schools. In addition, monitoring of the implementation of the learner pregnancy policies and support from the DBE were lacking. Moreover, collaboration with key stakeholders, such as parents, healthcare professionals (including nurses and social workers), and the community, was missing. This study recommends that the Department of Basic Education, through schools, should strengthen prevention strategies and rigorously push for the integration of CSE into the curriculum emphasising responsible decision-making, pregnancy prevention and reproductive health. Additionally, the DBE should provide ongoing training for teachers through in-service development workshops to enhance their understanding of learner pregnancy policies while also monitoring their effective implementation. This has implications for policymakers and curriculum developers to advocate for and design appropriate strategies and resources. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Education, Research and Engagement, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Tshozi, Nomawethu Caroline
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sex instruction , Family life education , Education, Secondary -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71893 , vital:79149
- Description: Learner pregnancy has increased over the past few years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa and particularly in the province of the Eastern Cape where this research study is conducted. There have been policies formulated and promulgated in the past to prevent and manage learner pregnancies, however, they have not been successful in lowering numbers of learners getting pregnant. Government has responded to this by revising these policies and introducing comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in the curriculum from primary school. This has been met with resistance from school governing bodies and religious groups in the country, thereby delaying implementation. Teachers are having to deal at the coalface with this problem of learners getting pregnant at an early age in their schools. This research study explores teachers’ understandings and experiences of policies on learner pregnancy in their schools in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It takes on qualitative research and an interpretive paradigm following a participatory visual methodology using photovoice and document analysis as data generation methods which culminated in policy briefs. Three township secondary schools from quintile 3 were purposively selected for this study from which eight were Life Orientation teachers and one a learner support agent (LSA) participated. The findings revealed that teachers feel incapacitated in handling sexuality matters and are not adequately enabled to effectively implement the formulated learner pregnancy policies in their schools. In addition, monitoring of the implementation of the learner pregnancy policies and support from the DBE were lacking. Moreover, collaboration with key stakeholders, such as parents, healthcare professionals (including nurses and social workers), and the community, was missing. This study recommends that the Department of Basic Education, through schools, should strengthen prevention strategies and rigorously push for the integration of CSE into the curriculum emphasising responsible decision-making, pregnancy prevention and reproductive health. Additionally, the DBE should provide ongoing training for teachers through in-service development workshops to enhance their understanding of learner pregnancy policies while also monitoring their effective implementation. This has implications for policymakers and curriculum developers to advocate for and design appropriate strategies and resources. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Education, Research and Engagement, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Technology adoption in South African call centres
- Authors: Jonker, Yvette
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Call centers -- Technological innovations , Telecommunication , Technology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72779 , vital:79262
- Description: Technology adoption is important in the evolution of call centres, where the focus is on automation with minimal human intervention. This study explores the key drivers influencing the adoption of technology in South African call centres. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, the research analyses the constructs of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions. It also looks at specifically the call centre environment, concentrating on the challenges and opportunities available due to technological integration. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to call centre employees, yielding a sample of 141 for statistical analysis. Exploratory factor analysis and multivariate techniques were used to identify relationships between the independent factors and the behavioural intention to adopt new technologies. The findings show that performance expectancy and perceived usefulness are the most significant drivers of technology adoption, followed by effort expectancy and facilitating conditions. Social influence appeared as an important mediator, specifically in environments where management plays a dominant role in driving technology adoption. The study's results contribute to theoretical and practical fields. Theoretically, it extends the application of UTAUT by incorporating insights into the unique behavioural and infrastructural challenges of developing economies. Practically, the research gives recommendations for call centre managers, including specific training, increased technical support and strategies to address resistance to change. These insights are relevant for call centres wanting to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction and customer service through effective technological integration. This study supplements existing literature on technology adoption, focusing on the call centre industry. It provides a foundation for future studies and offers a guideline for companies seeking to optimise adopting and implementing new technologies in call centres. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Jonker, Yvette
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Call centers -- Technological innovations , Telecommunication , Technology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72779 , vital:79262
- Description: Technology adoption is important in the evolution of call centres, where the focus is on automation with minimal human intervention. This study explores the key drivers influencing the adoption of technology in South African call centres. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, the research analyses the constructs of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions. It also looks at specifically the call centre environment, concentrating on the challenges and opportunities available due to technological integration. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to call centre employees, yielding a sample of 141 for statistical analysis. Exploratory factor analysis and multivariate techniques were used to identify relationships between the independent factors and the behavioural intention to adopt new technologies. The findings show that performance expectancy and perceived usefulness are the most significant drivers of technology adoption, followed by effort expectancy and facilitating conditions. Social influence appeared as an important mediator, specifically in environments where management plays a dominant role in driving technology adoption. The study's results contribute to theoretical and practical fields. Theoretically, it extends the application of UTAUT by incorporating insights into the unique behavioural and infrastructural challenges of developing economies. Practically, the research gives recommendations for call centre managers, including specific training, increased technical support and strategies to address resistance to change. These insights are relevant for call centres wanting to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction and customer service through effective technological integration. This study supplements existing literature on technology adoption, focusing on the call centre industry. It provides a foundation for future studies and offers a guideline for companies seeking to optimise adopting and implementing new technologies in call centres. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Technology and employment in the alternative banking sector of South Africa
- Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Labor supply -- South Africa -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72821 , vital:79266
- Description: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Labor supply -- South Africa -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72821 , vital:79266
- Description: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Temas en tendense in die poësie van Clinton v. du Plessis
- Authors: Milborrow, Selwyn
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 20th century , Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century , Afrikaans literature
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72377 , vital:79217
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore themes and trends in the poetry of Clinton V. du Plessis, with specific focus on selected texts. Du Plessis, a coloured Afrikaans poet, is known for his disapproval of the Afrikaans mainstream publishing industry, and his critical attitude towards the Afrikaans literary canon. This positioning serves as an essential starting point for understanding his work. His debut collection, Geloofsbelydenis van ’n kluisenaar, was published by Perskor in 1984. His self-publications include Flitse (2012), Rangeer (2013), Woorde roes in die water (2014), Verslag (2019), 60 op 60 (2022) and Kaartjies, asseblief (2024). Du Plessis states that a sense of estrangement set in after his debut with Perskor. He reveals to Pearce (2012) that he decided to publish his own work due to the maintenance of a “master narrative” by the Afrikaans literary establishment. He began to self-publish. Nowadays, he posts his poems on Facebook, a social media platform. This shift has gradually led to a movement away from his marginal status. In an interview with Janse Van Rensburg (2018), he confesses that an outsider status holds its own appeal for him, but that it will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Despite his status as a marginal figure, he has crossed the threshold of the canon four times. These paradoxes in Du Plessis’ career cannot be overlooked. While he deliberately adopted the role of a marginal figure, he has received increasing recognition for his poetry over the past decade, including awards, exposure to a broader readership on social media, as well as publications with mainstream publishers. This context creates a canvas on which the themes and trends in Du Plessis’ poetry will be explored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Milborrow, Selwyn
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 20th century , Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century , Afrikaans literature
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72377 , vital:79217
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore themes and trends in the poetry of Clinton V. du Plessis, with specific focus on selected texts. Du Plessis, a coloured Afrikaans poet, is known for his disapproval of the Afrikaans mainstream publishing industry, and his critical attitude towards the Afrikaans literary canon. This positioning serves as an essential starting point for understanding his work. His debut collection, Geloofsbelydenis van ’n kluisenaar, was published by Perskor in 1984. His self-publications include Flitse (2012), Rangeer (2013), Woorde roes in die water (2014), Verslag (2019), 60 op 60 (2022) and Kaartjies, asseblief (2024). Du Plessis states that a sense of estrangement set in after his debut with Perskor. He reveals to Pearce (2012) that he decided to publish his own work due to the maintenance of a “master narrative” by the Afrikaans literary establishment. He began to self-publish. Nowadays, he posts his poems on Facebook, a social media platform. This shift has gradually led to a movement away from his marginal status. In an interview with Janse Van Rensburg (2018), he confesses that an outsider status holds its own appeal for him, but that it will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Despite his status as a marginal figure, he has crossed the threshold of the canon four times. These paradoxes in Du Plessis’ career cannot be overlooked. While he deliberately adopted the role of a marginal figure, he has received increasing recognition for his poetry over the past decade, including awards, exposure to a broader readership on social media, as well as publications with mainstream publishers. This context creates a canvas on which the themes and trends in Du Plessis’ poetry will be explored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The 4IR influence on business performance and customer satisfaction in the South African retail industry
- Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
- Authors: Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Performance , Business -- Evaluation , Industrial revolution
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71970 , vital:79162
- Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping global business landscapes by introducing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics. In the context of the South African retail industry, understanding how 4IR influences business performance and customer satisfaction (CS) is essential for maintaining competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth. This study investigates the impact of 4IR on business performance, and customer satisfaction, using digital marketing strategies (DMS), and customer experience (CX) as intervening variables. A mixed-method approach was employed to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to customers, enabling the measurement of relationships among 4IR, DMS, and CX. Qualitative data, derived from semi-structured interviews with industry experts, provided a deeper contextual understanding of how 4IR and DMS influence business performance and CS in real-world retail environments. The findings reveal that 4IR technologies significantly contribute to operational efficiency, supply chain management, and the generation of data-driven insights, thereby enhancing both business performance and customer satisfaction. A strong positive relationship emerged between 4IR and DMS, indicating that the integration of advanced tools, such as AI-driven personalisation, substantially improves DMS efficiency. However, 4IR’s direct influence on CX was not found to be significant, suggesting that while technologies like tap-to-pay and IoT improve convenience, they do not alone elevate the overall CX. Furthermore, DMS demonstrated no significant direct effect on CX, implying that its benefits must be combined with service quality for meaningful improvements. In contrast, DMS had a pronounced positive impact on business performance by boosting customer acquisition, retention, and revenue. Finally, the study showed that enhanced CX, marked by seamless navigation and personalisation, significantly drives CS and brand loyalty. Building on these insights, the study developed a strategic framework for retail digital transformation, providing a structured approach for retailers to integrate 4IR technologies effectively. This framework emphasises the need for a balanced combination of technology adoption and integration, human capital development, process optimisation, ethical and strategic governance, evaluation and continous improvement and collaborative ecosystem development to maximise business performance and long-term customer engagement. This research highlights the crucial role of 4IR in shaping modern retail practices in South Africa as the adoption of advanced 4IR technologies and effective DMS can substantially improve operational processes and financial outcomes. However, to translate these advancements into memorable CXs, retailers must align technological innovations with high service quality and personalisation efforts. These findings bear significant implications for retail managers, policymakers, and marketers, as they highlight the necessity of strategic investments in both technology and customer-centric practices. Future studies could explore cross-cultural contexts and longitudinal assessments to further validate the influence of 4IR-driven retail strategies on business performance and customer satisfaction. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Performance , Business -- Evaluation , Industrial revolution
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71970 , vital:79162
- Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping global business landscapes by introducing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics. In the context of the South African retail industry, understanding how 4IR influences business performance and customer satisfaction (CS) is essential for maintaining competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth. This study investigates the impact of 4IR on business performance, and customer satisfaction, using digital marketing strategies (DMS), and customer experience (CX) as intervening variables. A mixed-method approach was employed to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to customers, enabling the measurement of relationships among 4IR, DMS, and CX. Qualitative data, derived from semi-structured interviews with industry experts, provided a deeper contextual understanding of how 4IR and DMS influence business performance and CS in real-world retail environments. The findings reveal that 4IR technologies significantly contribute to operational efficiency, supply chain management, and the generation of data-driven insights, thereby enhancing both business performance and customer satisfaction. A strong positive relationship emerged between 4IR and DMS, indicating that the integration of advanced tools, such as AI-driven personalisation, substantially improves DMS efficiency. However, 4IR’s direct influence on CX was not found to be significant, suggesting that while technologies like tap-to-pay and IoT improve convenience, they do not alone elevate the overall CX. Furthermore, DMS demonstrated no significant direct effect on CX, implying that its benefits must be combined with service quality for meaningful improvements. In contrast, DMS had a pronounced positive impact on business performance by boosting customer acquisition, retention, and revenue. Finally, the study showed that enhanced CX, marked by seamless navigation and personalisation, significantly drives CS and brand loyalty. Building on these insights, the study developed a strategic framework for retail digital transformation, providing a structured approach for retailers to integrate 4IR technologies effectively. This framework emphasises the need for a balanced combination of technology adoption and integration, human capital development, process optimisation, ethical and strategic governance, evaluation and continous improvement and collaborative ecosystem development to maximise business performance and long-term customer engagement. This research highlights the crucial role of 4IR in shaping modern retail practices in South Africa as the adoption of advanced 4IR technologies and effective DMS can substantially improve operational processes and financial outcomes. However, to translate these advancements into memorable CXs, retailers must align technological innovations with high service quality and personalisation efforts. These findings bear significant implications for retail managers, policymakers, and marketers, as they highlight the necessity of strategic investments in both technology and customer-centric practices. Future studies could explore cross-cultural contexts and longitudinal assessments to further validate the influence of 4IR-driven retail strategies on business performance and customer satisfaction. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The application of section 197 of the labour relations act 66 of 1995 on termination of service-level agreements
- Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
- Authors: Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72168 , vital:79194
- Description: Striking a balance between the rights of employees to fair labour practices, the primary objective of the Labour Relations Act1 to advance economic development which essentially entails ensuring job security versus employers’ rights to fair labour practices has caused a significant hurdle in the employment and industrial law arena. In an endeavour to bridge this gap, section 197 of the LRA was legislated to ensure the job security of the employees during the transfer of businesses by one employer to another, whilst also ensuring smooth transfer and stability of businesses during such transfers. Section 197 of the LRA suggests that employees are automatically transferred to a new employer in the event of a business being transferred as a going concern in accordance with section 197 of the LRA.2 1 66 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72168 , vital:79194
- Description: Striking a balance between the rights of employees to fair labour practices, the primary objective of the Labour Relations Act1 to advance economic development which essentially entails ensuring job security versus employers’ rights to fair labour practices has caused a significant hurdle in the employment and industrial law arena. In an endeavour to bridge this gap, section 197 of the LRA was legislated to ensure the job security of the employees during the transfer of businesses by one employer to another, whilst also ensuring smooth transfer and stability of businesses during such transfers. Section 197 of the LRA suggests that employees are automatically transferred to a new employer in the event of a business being transferred as a going concern in accordance with section 197 of the LRA.2 1 66 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The contribution of gender bonds towards women’s economic empowerment in South Africa
- Authors: Klaas, Avuyonke
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Women -- Economic conditions , Women -- Employment , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72857 , vital:79272
- Description: Gender inequalities in developing countries continue to hinder the potential of women globally. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated gender inequalities in developing countries. The United Nations emphasises the need to empower women and girls by providing economic resources to achieve sustainable development. Because gender bonds are still in their early stages of development, there is no primary data on them in South Africa, hence a secondary data approach was used. The primary goal of this research was to explore the impact of gender bonds on women's economic empowerment in South Africa. Data were acquired from two impact reports, eight International Capital Markets Association frameworks, two country reports, seven YouTube success stories, two second-party opinion reports, two disbursement reports, three issuance toolkits, two external reviewers' reports, and academic articles which were utilised to analyse the outcomes, outputs and impacts of the gender bonds. The analysis revealed that gender bonds contribute towards women’s economic empowerment. Furthermore, South Africa should consider issuing a gender bond that prioritises rural women, working in productive sectors, coupled with technical skills development, and should consider the South African context when considering borrowers by business size and borrowers by age, and bond issuers should collaborate on social impact investing. This study showed that gender bonds contribute not just to SDG 5 (gender equality), but to many other SDGs such as SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality basic education), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption). The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on gender bonds and women’s economic empowerment in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Klaas, Avuyonke
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Women -- Economic conditions , Women -- Employment , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72857 , vital:79272
- Description: Gender inequalities in developing countries continue to hinder the potential of women globally. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated gender inequalities in developing countries. The United Nations emphasises the need to empower women and girls by providing economic resources to achieve sustainable development. Because gender bonds are still in their early stages of development, there is no primary data on them in South Africa, hence a secondary data approach was used. The primary goal of this research was to explore the impact of gender bonds on women's economic empowerment in South Africa. Data were acquired from two impact reports, eight International Capital Markets Association frameworks, two country reports, seven YouTube success stories, two second-party opinion reports, two disbursement reports, three issuance toolkits, two external reviewers' reports, and academic articles which were utilised to analyse the outcomes, outputs and impacts of the gender bonds. The analysis revealed that gender bonds contribute towards women’s economic empowerment. Furthermore, South Africa should consider issuing a gender bond that prioritises rural women, working in productive sectors, coupled with technical skills development, and should consider the South African context when considering borrowers by business size and borrowers by age, and bond issuers should collaborate on social impact investing. This study showed that gender bonds contribute not just to SDG 5 (gender equality), but to many other SDGs such as SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality basic education), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption). The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on gender bonds and women’s economic empowerment in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The contribution of the expanded public works programme infrastructure sector to alleviate conditions of poverty
- Authors: Jacobs, Andrew
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: South Africa -- Expanded Public Works Programme , Public works -- South Africa , Poverty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:79254
- Description: Almost 30 years after the end of apartheid South Africa continues to experience the highest rates of unemployment, poverty and inequality in the world. This has the potential to result in massive socio-economic instability. Renewed interest has been identified in public works programmes, which has the potential to contribute towards reducing the triple burden of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The protection and creation of jobs through public employment programmes, including the creation of jobs through the traditional Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), has become an important part of South Africa’s strategy for economic growth and stability. The aim of this study was to contribute to a deeper insight into the capacity of the EPWP to contribute towards reducing unemployment and poverty to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities and set out to: - Explore how employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP has contributed to the household income of the beneficiaries. Explore how the income received from employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP is used within the households. Identify and explore the skills the beneficiaries have developed by participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. Explore the perceived experiences of the beneficiaries’ participation in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. A qualitative case study design was employed to explore the insights and experiences of the beneficiaries participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM). Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the current and former EPWP beneficiaries in BCM to understand the experiential lens of the participants. The findings indicated that income received from EPWP employment is a valuable supplement to household income, enabling households to manage under conditions of increasing costs of living. Key shortcomings of the EPWP include the temporary nature of benefits, low income levels, inadequate training and inability to improve future employability. The study revealed the importance of income relief provided through short-term employment under EPWP for those unemployed beneficiaries living in conditions of poverty. Despite its shortcomings, the potential of EPWP as a policy tool to assist low-skilled unemployed workers to cope with economic shocks in the short term cannot be ignored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Jacobs, Andrew
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: South Africa -- Expanded Public Works Programme , Public works -- South Africa , Poverty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:79254
- Description: Almost 30 years after the end of apartheid South Africa continues to experience the highest rates of unemployment, poverty and inequality in the world. This has the potential to result in massive socio-economic instability. Renewed interest has been identified in public works programmes, which has the potential to contribute towards reducing the triple burden of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The protection and creation of jobs through public employment programmes, including the creation of jobs through the traditional Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), has become an important part of South Africa’s strategy for economic growth and stability. The aim of this study was to contribute to a deeper insight into the capacity of the EPWP to contribute towards reducing unemployment and poverty to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities and set out to: - Explore how employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP has contributed to the household income of the beneficiaries. Explore how the income received from employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP is used within the households. Identify and explore the skills the beneficiaries have developed by participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. Explore the perceived experiences of the beneficiaries’ participation in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. A qualitative case study design was employed to explore the insights and experiences of the beneficiaries participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM). Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the current and former EPWP beneficiaries in BCM to understand the experiential lens of the participants. The findings indicated that income received from EPWP employment is a valuable supplement to household income, enabling households to manage under conditions of increasing costs of living. Key shortcomings of the EPWP include the temporary nature of benefits, low income levels, inadequate training and inability to improve future employability. The study revealed the importance of income relief provided through short-term employment under EPWP for those unemployed beneficiaries living in conditions of poverty. Despite its shortcomings, the potential of EPWP as a policy tool to assist low-skilled unemployed workers to cope with economic shocks in the short term cannot be ignored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The economic empowerment of women in rural arts and crafts making: the case of Cegcuwana village
- Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and craft movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72519 , vital:79234
- Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Science, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and craft movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72519 , vital:79234
- Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Science, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effect of language policy on language experiences of students in higher education micro spaces
- Authors: Dani, Zizipho Paillis
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Language and education -- South Africa , Language planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72240 , vital:79201
- Description: This study explored how the implementation of language policies or lack thereof within micro spaces in educational institutions can affect the language experience of the students in these spaces. The micro spaces that this study refers to are classrooms, social spaces, and residences in institutions of higher education and learning. Institutions of higher education and training have developed language policies that are in place, but these policies concentrate more on the corporate and pedagogical side of the institutions, excluding the micro spaces, although they still exist in the institution. In addition, the study explored matters about language policy in the academic spaces of Basic and Higher Education Institutions. It investigated the effect of the implementation of the institutional language policies of South African higher education institutions on the micro spaces that form part of the institution and how it has affected students living in these spaces who have experienced it. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide evidence of the growing need for research focused on language in these spaces. The participants of the study were aged from 18–65, because the age range covered both the lecturers who teach using English as the main mode of instruction, as per their institutional language policies, and the students who are taught using English as a Second or First Additional Language. The questionnaire was disseminated via social media outlets, garnering responses from 70 participants, while those interviewed consisted of 18 participants comprising nine lecturers and nine students. The study uses belonging as a lens through which the language experiences are analysed of South African students in educational spaces. The findings of this study indicate that the National Language Policy, which was formulated to promote multilingualism, advocates for equality of all the official languages and upholds the redress measures that are set out in the Constitution of South Africa, has not been implemented, monitored and evaluated effectively within Higher Education. This lack of implementation can be attributed to the lack of monitoring and evaluation, resources and knowledge surrounding the policies. The concept of multilingualism under the guidelines taken from the policies of different higher education institutions and the DHET language policy is discussed as a possible solution or gateway to bridging what many may refer to as an identified gap. Multilingual tools such as translanguaging, code-switching and code-meshing are already being utilised in some classrooms and spaces but cannot be utilised as the only solution in the long run. The study has also identified the need for language policies that are specific to domestic and social spaces in the institutions as means to mitigate confusion, bullying, esteem issues and the risks that may arise from having one dominant language in such spaces. Some learners are of the belief that their academic journey would have had a more positive impact if they had been able to express themselves better in English or if they had been taught in their native language. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communications, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Dani, Zizipho Paillis
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Language and education -- South Africa , Language planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72240 , vital:79201
- Description: This study explored how the implementation of language policies or lack thereof within micro spaces in educational institutions can affect the language experience of the students in these spaces. The micro spaces that this study refers to are classrooms, social spaces, and residences in institutions of higher education and learning. Institutions of higher education and training have developed language policies that are in place, but these policies concentrate more on the corporate and pedagogical side of the institutions, excluding the micro spaces, although they still exist in the institution. In addition, the study explored matters about language policy in the academic spaces of Basic and Higher Education Institutions. It investigated the effect of the implementation of the institutional language policies of South African higher education institutions on the micro spaces that form part of the institution and how it has affected students living in these spaces who have experienced it. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide evidence of the growing need for research focused on language in these spaces. The participants of the study were aged from 18–65, because the age range covered both the lecturers who teach using English as the main mode of instruction, as per their institutional language policies, and the students who are taught using English as a Second or First Additional Language. The questionnaire was disseminated via social media outlets, garnering responses from 70 participants, while those interviewed consisted of 18 participants comprising nine lecturers and nine students. The study uses belonging as a lens through which the language experiences are analysed of South African students in educational spaces. The findings of this study indicate that the National Language Policy, which was formulated to promote multilingualism, advocates for equality of all the official languages and upholds the redress measures that are set out in the Constitution of South Africa, has not been implemented, monitored and evaluated effectively within Higher Education. This lack of implementation can be attributed to the lack of monitoring and evaluation, resources and knowledge surrounding the policies. The concept of multilingualism under the guidelines taken from the policies of different higher education institutions and the DHET language policy is discussed as a possible solution or gateway to bridging what many may refer to as an identified gap. Multilingual tools such as translanguaging, code-switching and code-meshing are already being utilised in some classrooms and spaces but cannot be utilised as the only solution in the long run. The study has also identified the need for language policies that are specific to domestic and social spaces in the institutions as means to mitigate confusion, bullying, esteem issues and the risks that may arise from having one dominant language in such spaces. Some learners are of the belief that their academic journey would have had a more positive impact if they had been able to express themselves better in English or if they had been taught in their native language. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communications, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effect of regional integration on socio-economic development in countries of the Southern African customs union: the case of South Africa and Botswana 2000-2020
- Authors: Liwela, Ncumisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Customs unions -- South Africa , Customs unions -- Botswana , Economic development -- Africa -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72298 , vital:79208
- Description: Globally, regional integration is becoming extensively important and significant, particularly in developing economies like those in Africa. The primary reason for its broad and wide adoption is its capacity to uphold and promote long-term improvements in economic productivity and living standards, boost economic growth, facilitate trade and enhance access to crucial and significant resources. Regional integration is an intrinsic aspect of developing economies and is considered a feasible policy alternative in modern literature for addressing various political, economic and sociological concerns. This study looks into the effect of regional integration in the context of socio- economic development in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), focusing on South Africa and Botswana from the year 2000 to 2020. Socio- economic development in this context refers to economic growth, employment levels, income distribution, poverty reduction and overall improvements in living standards. The research investigates how SACU’s regional integration framework- through trade policies, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and economic cooperation- has influenced these socio-economic indicators in the two countries. A quantitative research design is employed, utilising secondary data analysis to measure the impact of SACU’s policies on key socio-economic variables. Economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, trade flows and income disparities are analysed to assess the extent to which regional integration has contributed to sustainable development and economic convergence. The findings reveal that while SACU has facilitated trade and economic collaboration, persistent structural inequalities, policy misalignments and external economic challenges have and still constrains its effectiveness in fostering equitable socio-economic development. The study concludes with policy recommendations to enhance regional integration’s role in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth within SACU. This research contributes to the understanding of regional integration’s potential to drive socio-economic development in Southern Africa and offers insights for future policy directions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences,2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Liwela, Ncumisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Customs unions -- South Africa , Customs unions -- Botswana , Economic development -- Africa -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72298 , vital:79208
- Description: Globally, regional integration is becoming extensively important and significant, particularly in developing economies like those in Africa. The primary reason for its broad and wide adoption is its capacity to uphold and promote long-term improvements in economic productivity and living standards, boost economic growth, facilitate trade and enhance access to crucial and significant resources. Regional integration is an intrinsic aspect of developing economies and is considered a feasible policy alternative in modern literature for addressing various political, economic and sociological concerns. This study looks into the effect of regional integration in the context of socio- economic development in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), focusing on South Africa and Botswana from the year 2000 to 2020. Socio- economic development in this context refers to economic growth, employment levels, income distribution, poverty reduction and overall improvements in living standards. The research investigates how SACU’s regional integration framework- through trade policies, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and economic cooperation- has influenced these socio-economic indicators in the two countries. A quantitative research design is employed, utilising secondary data analysis to measure the impact of SACU’s policies on key socio-economic variables. Economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, trade flows and income disparities are analysed to assess the extent to which regional integration has contributed to sustainable development and economic convergence. The findings reveal that while SACU has facilitated trade and economic collaboration, persistent structural inequalities, policy misalignments and external economic challenges have and still constrains its effectiveness in fostering equitable socio-economic development. The study concludes with policy recommendations to enhance regional integration’s role in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth within SACU. This research contributes to the understanding of regional integration’s potential to drive socio-economic development in Southern Africa and offers insights for future policy directions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences,2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies towards addressing output gaps in South Africa
- Authors: Gcadana, Nqabisa Mary
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fiscal policy -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72702 , vital:79249
- Description: The study examined fiscal and monetary policies' effectiveness in addressing the output gap in South Africa. The study used the HP filter formula on EViews to calculate the output gap values. Fiscal policy was measured by two proxies, government expenditure and government revenue, while monetary policy was also proxied by two variables: prime lending rate and money supply. The study employed two research techniques, NLADRL and SVAR, using data from the period 1980 to 2021. The theories that underpinned the study are Keynesian, monetarist, and business cycles. The NLARDL results show the countercyclical nature of fiscal policy via government expenditure and the positive cycle of government expenditure that exhibited a negative relationship and is statistically significant. However, in the short term, the positive cycle of government expenditure exhibited a negative relationship and are statistically significant association with the output gap, while the monetary policy, via the prime lending rate, exhibits a procyclical relationship. There is a positive relationship between the prime lending rate and the output gap, while the negative cycle of the prime lending rate that is significant statistically at 1 percent, thus, the positive cycle of the prime lending rate p-value 0.85 is statistically insignificant. The variance decomposition of the output gap variables in the SVAR analysis reveals significant differences in how the explanatory variables respond to shocks. Overall, the prime lending rate emerges as the most impactful shock affecting the South African economy during recessionary periods. Given the outcomes of the study showing that both the fiscal and monetary policies are not effective as opt to be, the study then suggest that structural reforms should be considered in South Africa and the matter of structural adjustment are discussed under the chapter of literature review. The study concludes that whilst both fiscal and monetary policies are essential tools to address output gaps in South Africa, structural constraints must be addressed. The study suggests that there is an urgent need for the implementation of structural reforms to sustain economic growth in South Africa. It is recommended that South African policymakers pay special attention to the structural constraints that continue to neutralise the effect of both fiscal and monetary policies in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Gcadana, Nqabisa Mary
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fiscal policy -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72702 , vital:79249
- Description: The study examined fiscal and monetary policies' effectiveness in addressing the output gap in South Africa. The study used the HP filter formula on EViews to calculate the output gap values. Fiscal policy was measured by two proxies, government expenditure and government revenue, while monetary policy was also proxied by two variables: prime lending rate and money supply. The study employed two research techniques, NLADRL and SVAR, using data from the period 1980 to 2021. The theories that underpinned the study are Keynesian, monetarist, and business cycles. The NLARDL results show the countercyclical nature of fiscal policy via government expenditure and the positive cycle of government expenditure that exhibited a negative relationship and is statistically significant. However, in the short term, the positive cycle of government expenditure exhibited a negative relationship and are statistically significant association with the output gap, while the monetary policy, via the prime lending rate, exhibits a procyclical relationship. There is a positive relationship between the prime lending rate and the output gap, while the negative cycle of the prime lending rate that is significant statistically at 1 percent, thus, the positive cycle of the prime lending rate p-value 0.85 is statistically insignificant. The variance decomposition of the output gap variables in the SVAR analysis reveals significant differences in how the explanatory variables respond to shocks. Overall, the prime lending rate emerges as the most impactful shock affecting the South African economy during recessionary periods. Given the outcomes of the study showing that both the fiscal and monetary policies are not effective as opt to be, the study then suggest that structural reforms should be considered in South Africa and the matter of structural adjustment are discussed under the chapter of literature review. The study concludes that whilst both fiscal and monetary policies are essential tools to address output gaps in South Africa, structural constraints must be addressed. The study suggests that there is an urgent need for the implementation of structural reforms to sustain economic growth in South Africa. It is recommended that South African policymakers pay special attention to the structural constraints that continue to neutralise the effect of both fiscal and monetary policies in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The impact of COVID-19 sentimental index on African stock market returns
- Authors: Mpayipeli, Nonophela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Efficient market theory , Covid-19 -- Economic aspects , Stock exchanges
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73081 , vital:79330
- Description: This study investigates how the Covid-19 Sentimental index affects stock market returns for South African, Nigerian, Morocco and Namibia. Stock market activity heavily relies on investor sentiment especially when investors demonstrate fear and uncertainty like during the Covid-19 pandemic period. This study creates a Sentimental index from Google search trends and Covid-19 specific search terms to measure investor feelings which subsequently determines changes in stock market returns. The research analyses stock market and investor sentiment relationships through short and long-term analyses using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) in combination with Nonlinear ARDL (NARDL) methods. The research includes macroeconomic control variables that consist of interest rate data and exchange rate information while utilizing the ADS Index to represent U.S. business conditions. The study results demonstrate how emotional market volatility strongly influences stock market behaviour within emerging economies because of investors' psychological influences on these financial systems. The study enhances knowledge about sentiment effects on market efficiency in African stock exchanges while delivering practical recommendations to policymakers along with investors and financial regulators for stabilizing sentiment-driven market shaking. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mpayipeli, Nonophela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Efficient market theory , Covid-19 -- Economic aspects , Stock exchanges
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73081 , vital:79330
- Description: This study investigates how the Covid-19 Sentimental index affects stock market returns for South African, Nigerian, Morocco and Namibia. Stock market activity heavily relies on investor sentiment especially when investors demonstrate fear and uncertainty like during the Covid-19 pandemic period. This study creates a Sentimental index from Google search trends and Covid-19 specific search terms to measure investor feelings which subsequently determines changes in stock market returns. The research analyses stock market and investor sentiment relationships through short and long-term analyses using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) in combination with Nonlinear ARDL (NARDL) methods. The research includes macroeconomic control variables that consist of interest rate data and exchange rate information while utilizing the ADS Index to represent U.S. business conditions. The study results demonstrate how emotional market volatility strongly influences stock market behaviour within emerging economies because of investors' psychological influences on these financial systems. The study enhances knowledge about sentiment effects on market efficiency in African stock exchanges while delivering practical recommendations to policymakers along with investors and financial regulators for stabilizing sentiment-driven market shaking. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The impact of financial sector development on unemployment: a study for South Africa from 1960 - 2021
- Authors: Mama, Nkosinathi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72948 , vital:79290
- Description: This study investigated the impact of financial sector development on unemployment in South Africa for the period 1960 to 2021. The study was inspired by historical events such as the great depression and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis which demonstrated a link between financial turmoil and elevated global unemployment rates. Employing an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study explored the impact of financial sector development on unemployment rate in South Africa. This technique was most suitable to this study due to its flexibility on integration order of variables and data requirements to produce robust results. Contrary to conventional economic expectations, the data suggests that an increase in domestic credit to the private sector (DCP) could worsen unemployment in the short run. In the long run, the study suggests that access to credit will have no impact on unemployment. On the other hand, results revealed that an increase in the efficiency of investments facilitated by the financial sector measured by gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) may have a negative impact on unemployment. The results demonstrated a significant and positive relationship between GFCF and unemployment in the long run. These findings suggested that the rigidities in the South African labour market and imperfection within the financial sector could be contributing to the country’s higher unemployment levels. Based on these findings, the study offers several policy recommendations. Policymakers can re-evaluate their priorities in attempts to curb unemployment. This can be achieved through promoting efficiency of investment allocation over depth. Thereby, promoting economic diversification and implementing labour market reform strategies that could address the complex interplay between financial sector development and unemployment. Continuous monitoring, research collaboration with public-private partnerships, and targeted education training programs are the proposed key instruments for refining and implementing effective policies. The study concluded by emphasising the importance of ongoing research to understand the evolving dynamics of financial sector development and unemployment, while also acknowledging the limitations of the study. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mama, Nkosinathi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72948 , vital:79290
- Description: This study investigated the impact of financial sector development on unemployment in South Africa for the period 1960 to 2021. The study was inspired by historical events such as the great depression and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis which demonstrated a link between financial turmoil and elevated global unemployment rates. Employing an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study explored the impact of financial sector development on unemployment rate in South Africa. This technique was most suitable to this study due to its flexibility on integration order of variables and data requirements to produce robust results. Contrary to conventional economic expectations, the data suggests that an increase in domestic credit to the private sector (DCP) could worsen unemployment in the short run. In the long run, the study suggests that access to credit will have no impact on unemployment. On the other hand, results revealed that an increase in the efficiency of investments facilitated by the financial sector measured by gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) may have a negative impact on unemployment. The results demonstrated a significant and positive relationship between GFCF and unemployment in the long run. These findings suggested that the rigidities in the South African labour market and imperfection within the financial sector could be contributing to the country’s higher unemployment levels. Based on these findings, the study offers several policy recommendations. Policymakers can re-evaluate their priorities in attempts to curb unemployment. This can be achieved through promoting efficiency of investment allocation over depth. Thereby, promoting economic diversification and implementing labour market reform strategies that could address the complex interplay between financial sector development and unemployment. Continuous monitoring, research collaboration with public-private partnerships, and targeted education training programs are the proposed key instruments for refining and implementing effective policies. The study concluded by emphasising the importance of ongoing research to understand the evolving dynamics of financial sector development and unemployment, while also acknowledging the limitations of the study. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The implications of electric vehicle implementation for employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector
- Authors: Coetzee, Marius George
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Electric vehicles -- South Africa , Automotive Industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72022 , vital:79178
- Description: The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is steadily gaining momentum, with over one million EV sales recorded in 2022, which accounts for 1.3% of total vehicle sales. This shift, largely driven by climate change initiatives and the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has led many countries to announce plans to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape province which is a hub for the country’s automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), is significantly impacted by these technological advancements. The automotive industry in the province, which contributes 13% to the provincial GDP and employs approximately 55,000 people, is vital to the Eastern Cape’s economy. However, the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs may bring about socio-economic challenges, particularly in terms of employment within this critical sector. This study investigated the potential impact of EV adoption on employment in the Eastern Cape's automotive industry, with a focus on three core areas: EV charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development. The shift towards EVs is expected to disrupt ICE vehicle production, which raises concerns regarding job losses due to the reduced complexity of EVs, which contain significantly fewer moving parts than do ICE vehicles (that is, 20 versus 2,000, respectively). This could lead to a decline in demand for automotive components, which would likely result in factory closures and job reductions across the province. The study sought to answer the central question: "What effect does EV implementation have on employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector?" To explore this, the study examined the roles of charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development, with the aim of providing insights into the broader socio-economic consequences of South Africa’s transition to EVs. An online survey was conducted to collect data for this study; this survey targeted 60 respondents, with 35% of these respondents having completed the questionnaire, thus resulting in a research sample of 21 participants. The hypotheses testing, which was , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Coetzee, Marius George
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Electric vehicles -- South Africa , Automotive Industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72022 , vital:79178
- Description: The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is steadily gaining momentum, with over one million EV sales recorded in 2022, which accounts for 1.3% of total vehicle sales. This shift, largely driven by climate change initiatives and the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has led many countries to announce plans to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape province which is a hub for the country’s automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), is significantly impacted by these technological advancements. The automotive industry in the province, which contributes 13% to the provincial GDP and employs approximately 55,000 people, is vital to the Eastern Cape’s economy. However, the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs may bring about socio-economic challenges, particularly in terms of employment within this critical sector. This study investigated the potential impact of EV adoption on employment in the Eastern Cape's automotive industry, with a focus on three core areas: EV charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development. The shift towards EVs is expected to disrupt ICE vehicle production, which raises concerns regarding job losses due to the reduced complexity of EVs, which contain significantly fewer moving parts than do ICE vehicles (that is, 20 versus 2,000, respectively). This could lead to a decline in demand for automotive components, which would likely result in factory closures and job reductions across the province. The study sought to answer the central question: "What effect does EV implementation have on employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector?" To explore this, the study examined the roles of charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development, with the aim of providing insights into the broader socio-economic consequences of South Africa’s transition to EVs. An online survey was conducted to collect data for this study; this survey targeted 60 respondents, with 35% of these respondents having completed the questionnaire, thus resulting in a research sample of 21 participants. The hypotheses testing, which was , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of online marketing strategies on student preference of university: The case of Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Luhanga, Grace
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Word-of-mouth advertising
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72894 , vital:79275
- Description: The growing reliance on digital platforms has transformed marketing in higher education, compelling institutions to adapt and innovate their approaches to student engagement. This study investigates the influence of online marketing strategies—specifically social media marketing, electronic word-of-mouth, email marketing, search engine optimisation, and search engine marketing—on students’ university preferences. The research is framed by theoretical models and literature on digital marketing in higher education, integrating concepts such as trust, engagement, and visibility. A positivist paradigm and quantitative methodology guided the research, employing a cross-sectional survey distributed to a sample of university-bound students. The survey instrument, validated through exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha testing, yielded reliable data from 448 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression and t-tests, were employed to analyse the data. Empirical results revealed statistically significant positive relationships between all five online marketing strategies and students' preferences for higher education institutions. Social media marketing and search engine optimisation emerged as the most influential variables, with social media platforms fostering engagement and brand awareness, and search engine optimisation enhancing discoverability. The study also highlighted gender- based differences in perceptions, particularly in search engine marketing and search engine optimisation, where male respondents rated these strategies higher than females. The findings underscored the critical role of data-driven and personalised marketing in shaping student decisions. They emphasise the need for higher education institutions to refine their digital strategies, integrating tools such as targeted email campaigns, optimised websites, and interactive content on social media platforms. Recommendations include leveraging eWOM through testimonials, utilising analytics for strategy refinement, and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance student interactions. This research provides actionable insights for academia and practitioners, highlighting the dynamic interplay between digital marketing strategies and student decision-making processes. It contributes to the broader discourse on technology's role in modern v education marketing, offering a roadmap for institutions aiming to remain competitive in a digitally saturated landscape. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Luhanga, Grace
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Word-of-mouth advertising
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72894 , vital:79275
- Description: The growing reliance on digital platforms has transformed marketing in higher education, compelling institutions to adapt and innovate their approaches to student engagement. This study investigates the influence of online marketing strategies—specifically social media marketing, electronic word-of-mouth, email marketing, search engine optimisation, and search engine marketing—on students’ university preferences. The research is framed by theoretical models and literature on digital marketing in higher education, integrating concepts such as trust, engagement, and visibility. A positivist paradigm and quantitative methodology guided the research, employing a cross-sectional survey distributed to a sample of university-bound students. The survey instrument, validated through exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha testing, yielded reliable data from 448 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression and t-tests, were employed to analyse the data. Empirical results revealed statistically significant positive relationships between all five online marketing strategies and students' preferences for higher education institutions. Social media marketing and search engine optimisation emerged as the most influential variables, with social media platforms fostering engagement and brand awareness, and search engine optimisation enhancing discoverability. The study also highlighted gender- based differences in perceptions, particularly in search engine marketing and search engine optimisation, where male respondents rated these strategies higher than females. The findings underscored the critical role of data-driven and personalised marketing in shaping student decisions. They emphasise the need for higher education institutions to refine their digital strategies, integrating tools such as targeted email campaigns, optimised websites, and interactive content on social media platforms. Recommendations include leveraging eWOM through testimonials, utilising analytics for strategy refinement, and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance student interactions. This research provides actionable insights for academia and practitioners, highlighting the dynamic interplay between digital marketing strategies and student decision-making processes. It contributes to the broader discourse on technology's role in modern v education marketing, offering a roadmap for institutions aiming to remain competitive in a digitally saturated landscape. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04