Experiences of final year nursing students at a public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape province regarding their preparedness to become registered nurses
- Authors: Mampunge, Fezeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing assessment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Examinations , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing student -- Registered nurse -- Experience , Preparedness -- College -- Clinical staff and Clinical accompaniment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11905 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006815 , Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing assessment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Examinations , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing student -- Registered nurse -- Experience , Preparedness -- College -- Clinical staff and Clinical accompaniment
- Description: Within the nursing profession, the transition from the student to a graduate nurse is a common rite of passage that marks the end of initial educational preparation in the discipline and the beginning of a professional journey as a nurse and a member of the multidisciplinary team (Nash, Lemcke & Sacre. 2009:48). This is a period of adjustment, stress, growth and development and the transitional nurse is likely to feel uncomfortable, fearful and may experience feelings of inadequacy. This study was undertaken to explore and describe the experiences of final year nursing students at a public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape regarding their preparedness to become registered nurses, with the aim to identify gaps and make recommendations on strategies to close the gaps. The objectives were to explore and describe the experiences of final year nursing students at the public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape Province with regard to their preparedness to become registered nurses and to recommend strategies to improve the preparation of nursing students for transition to become registered nurses. To answer the research question “What are the experiences of final year nursing students at a public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape Province with regard their preparedness to become registered nurses”, a qualitative, explorative and descriptive design was used as a framework for the study. Data were collected by means of unstructured focus group interviews with a purposively selected sample of 27 final year nursing students at the particular college of nursing. Data were analysed using Tesch’s method of analysis for qualitative research. Two themes emerged, revealing that participants at the college experienced preparedness and lack of preparedness to assume the role of a professional nurse. This related to certain aspects that had an impact on the preparation of the final year nursing students for practice and included: curriculum-related aspects; clinical teaching and learning support; learning opportunities; interpersonal relationships between lecturers, students and clinical staff; equipment; and library resources. It was concluded that the learning needs of the nursing students were not adequately catered for, leading to lack of preparedness. Through the involvement of nursing students in the evaluation of their learning, shortfalls in both education and practice areas could therefore be detected. Recommendations regarding strategies to be used to promote preparedness of final year nursing students included: continuous feedback on student performance in the form of exit evaluations on the part of students to identify learning needs; writing of progress reports on the part of clinical practice; and the employment of clinical preceptors with clear role specifications between the lecturers, ward sisters and preceptors to avoid role confusion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mampunge, Fezeka
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing assessment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Examinations , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing student -- Registered nurse -- Experience , Preparedness -- College -- Clinical staff and Clinical accompaniment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11905 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006815 , Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nurses -- In-service training -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Ability testing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing assessment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Examinations , Nursing -- Standards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Nursing student -- Registered nurse -- Experience , Preparedness -- College -- Clinical staff and Clinical accompaniment
- Description: Within the nursing profession, the transition from the student to a graduate nurse is a common rite of passage that marks the end of initial educational preparation in the discipline and the beginning of a professional journey as a nurse and a member of the multidisciplinary team (Nash, Lemcke & Sacre. 2009:48). This is a period of adjustment, stress, growth and development and the transitional nurse is likely to feel uncomfortable, fearful and may experience feelings of inadequacy. This study was undertaken to explore and describe the experiences of final year nursing students at a public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape regarding their preparedness to become registered nurses, with the aim to identify gaps and make recommendations on strategies to close the gaps. The objectives were to explore and describe the experiences of final year nursing students at the public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape Province with regard to their preparedness to become registered nurses and to recommend strategies to improve the preparation of nursing students for transition to become registered nurses. To answer the research question “What are the experiences of final year nursing students at a public college of nursing in the Eastern Cape Province with regard their preparedness to become registered nurses”, a qualitative, explorative and descriptive design was used as a framework for the study. Data were collected by means of unstructured focus group interviews with a purposively selected sample of 27 final year nursing students at the particular college of nursing. Data were analysed using Tesch’s method of analysis for qualitative research. Two themes emerged, revealing that participants at the college experienced preparedness and lack of preparedness to assume the role of a professional nurse. This related to certain aspects that had an impact on the preparation of the final year nursing students for practice and included: curriculum-related aspects; clinical teaching and learning support; learning opportunities; interpersonal relationships between lecturers, students and clinical staff; equipment; and library resources. It was concluded that the learning needs of the nursing students were not adequately catered for, leading to lack of preparedness. Through the involvement of nursing students in the evaluation of their learning, shortfalls in both education and practice areas could therefore be detected. Recommendations regarding strategies to be used to promote preparedness of final year nursing students included: continuous feedback on student performance in the form of exit evaluations on the part of students to identify learning needs; writing of progress reports on the part of clinical practice; and the employment of clinical preceptors with clear role specifications between the lecturers, ward sisters and preceptors to avoid role confusion.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Evaluating the need for an Employee Performance Management System in the Eastern Cape Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (2012)
- Authors: Mthembu, Bhekisisa Jacob
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11686 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013579
- Description: Local government is the most important sphere of government, given the fact that, it is the closest to the people. It always experiences the service delivery protest by the community residents it serves. This is often due to unfulfilled promises concerning the delivery of services. Often the annual performance results are also unsatisfactory as compared to the agreed upon service delivery agreements. National treasury as a distributor of funding to Municipalities often has to request the return of the unused funds at the end of the financial year period. This is the results of poor managing and planning for the resources at the disposal of the Municipalities. There has been a number of transformational processes over the past few years in the manner that municipalities are being managed and run on a day today basis. This research is focused on the system enhancement for Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality which is situated in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, in particular, has in the 2011 Local government election acquired a metropolitan status, which requires another transformationprocess in the manner it is being managed. At the same time this automatically raises the bar on the service delivery mode and expectations by the communities. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, act 108 of 1996 states how Municipalities are to render services to the communities. And therefore pieces of egislation serves as a guide for the processes and systems in the municipalities at large. This research examined the need for an employee performance management system in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality for the 2012 period. In the review of the literature, there was a number of analysis of issues such as organisation culture which plays an important role in the system implementation and success. And it became evident that, there can be no success of any system in an organisation without the thorough evaluation of the organisational culture. The data was sourced through close ended questionnaires which were distributed to 51 respondents that were identified. These were five Directors, five General Managers, 10 Programme Managers from across the institution, 30 staff members from across all directorates and one portfolio councillor from Corporate service directorate.Each respondent was given a period of one week to respond to the questionnaires. The research provides suggested solutions to the current problems in Municipalities in terms of employee performance management within the organisation. The recommendations provided are not conclusive as the circumstances cannot be the same from one municipality to the other. In order to ensure their sustainability within Local Government, there is need for an employee performance management system to evaluate the performance of all the employees. The research findings identified the leadership role in ensuring the introduction and successful implementation of the employee performance management system, in order to address the service delivery challenges faced by the municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mthembu, Bhekisisa Jacob
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:11686 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013579
- Description: Local government is the most important sphere of government, given the fact that, it is the closest to the people. It always experiences the service delivery protest by the community residents it serves. This is often due to unfulfilled promises concerning the delivery of services. Often the annual performance results are also unsatisfactory as compared to the agreed upon service delivery agreements. National treasury as a distributor of funding to Municipalities often has to request the return of the unused funds at the end of the financial year period. This is the results of poor managing and planning for the resources at the disposal of the Municipalities. There has been a number of transformational processes over the past few years in the manner that municipalities are being managed and run on a day today basis. This research is focused on the system enhancement for Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality which is situated in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, in particular, has in the 2011 Local government election acquired a metropolitan status, which requires another transformationprocess in the manner it is being managed. At the same time this automatically raises the bar on the service delivery mode and expectations by the communities. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, act 108 of 1996 states how Municipalities are to render services to the communities. And therefore pieces of egislation serves as a guide for the processes and systems in the municipalities at large. This research examined the need for an employee performance management system in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality for the 2012 period. In the review of the literature, there was a number of analysis of issues such as organisation culture which plays an important role in the system implementation and success. And it became evident that, there can be no success of any system in an organisation without the thorough evaluation of the organisational culture. The data was sourced through close ended questionnaires which were distributed to 51 respondents that were identified. These were five Directors, five General Managers, 10 Programme Managers from across the institution, 30 staff members from across all directorates and one portfolio councillor from Corporate service directorate.Each respondent was given a period of one week to respond to the questionnaires. The research provides suggested solutions to the current problems in Municipalities in terms of employee performance management within the organisation. The recommendations provided are not conclusive as the circumstances cannot be the same from one municipality to the other. In order to ensure their sustainability within Local Government, there is need for an employee performance management system to evaluate the performance of all the employees. The research findings identified the leadership role in ensuring the introduction and successful implementation of the employee performance management system, in order to address the service delivery challenges faced by the municipalities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The perceptions of 2nd year bridging course students regarding mentoring at private nursing colleges in Eastern Cape
- Authors: Pillay, Thriscilla
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11916 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016157
- Description: Nursing faces many challenges today, such as an international shortageof nurses and high medico-legal risks. One way of becoming a professional nurse is to complete a diploma course called the Bridging Course at a private nursing college. This is a two-year diploma course that is controlled by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), Regulation 683. This course allows enrolled nurses to further their studies to become a professional nurse, thus becoming an independent practitioner. These Bridging Course students need to do mentoring as part of their training so as to socialise them into the requirements for the role they will fulfil as a professional nurse and assist them to attain the competencies needed to function independently after the training phase. The various prescribed competencies that the Bridging Course student nurse needs to complete are clinical, co-ordination and management competencies. Clinical competencies equip them to perform and teach all nursing duties and co-ordination competencies ensure smooth, effective running of a ward. Then there are management competencies to be able to meet the vision, mission and philosophy of the unit and to have control from an or Nursing faces many challenges today, such as an international shortage of nurses and high medico-legal risks. One way of becoming a professional nurse is to complete a diploma course called the Bridging Course at a private nursing college. This is a two-year diploma course that is controlled by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), Regulation 683. This course allows enrolled nurses to further their studies to become a professional nurse, thus becoming an independent practitioner. These Bridging Course students need to do mentoring as part of their training so as to socialise them into the requirements for the role they will fulfil as a professional nurse and assist them to attain the competencies needed to function independently after the training phase. The various prescribed competencies that the Bridging Course student nurse needs to complete are clinical, co-ordination and management competencies. Clinical competencies equip them to perform and teach all nursing duties and co-ordination competencies ensure smooth, effective running of a ward. Then there are management competencies to be able to meet the vision, mission and philosophy of the unit and to have control from an organisational, human resource and business perspective. Research studies have discovered higher retention and graduation rates to be one of the positive outcomes of the mentoring process; also that mentoring solidifies people as leaders (Seekoe, 2011:15). Due to the international shortage of professional nurses, effective mentoring is much needed. This will allow the professional nurses to be able to perform competently in all expected areas. Having competent, qualified professional nurses may help to reduce medico-legal risks and restore the public’s trust in the nursing profession. Despite extensive research on mentoring, there is little research on the Bridging Course student nurse’s perceptions regarding mentoring, ganisational, human resource and business perspective. Research studies have discovered higher retention and graduation rates to be one of the positive outcomes of the mentoring process; also that mentoring solidifies people as leaders (Seekoe, 2011:15). Due to the international shortage of professional nurses, effective mentoring is much needed. This will allow the professional nurses to be able to perform competently in all expected areas. Having competent, qualified professional nurses may help to reduce medico-legal risks and restore the public’s trust in the nursing profession. Despite extensive research on mentoring, there is little research on the Bridging Course student nurse’s perceptions regarding mentoring.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Pillay, Thriscilla
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11916 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016157
- Description: Nursing faces many challenges today, such as an international shortageof nurses and high medico-legal risks. One way of becoming a professional nurse is to complete a diploma course called the Bridging Course at a private nursing college. This is a two-year diploma course that is controlled by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), Regulation 683. This course allows enrolled nurses to further their studies to become a professional nurse, thus becoming an independent practitioner. These Bridging Course students need to do mentoring as part of their training so as to socialise them into the requirements for the role they will fulfil as a professional nurse and assist them to attain the competencies needed to function independently after the training phase. The various prescribed competencies that the Bridging Course student nurse needs to complete are clinical, co-ordination and management competencies. Clinical competencies equip them to perform and teach all nursing duties and co-ordination competencies ensure smooth, effective running of a ward. Then there are management competencies to be able to meet the vision, mission and philosophy of the unit and to have control from an or Nursing faces many challenges today, such as an international shortage of nurses and high medico-legal risks. One way of becoming a professional nurse is to complete a diploma course called the Bridging Course at a private nursing college. This is a two-year diploma course that is controlled by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), Regulation 683. This course allows enrolled nurses to further their studies to become a professional nurse, thus becoming an independent practitioner. These Bridging Course students need to do mentoring as part of their training so as to socialise them into the requirements for the role they will fulfil as a professional nurse and assist them to attain the competencies needed to function independently after the training phase. The various prescribed competencies that the Bridging Course student nurse needs to complete are clinical, co-ordination and management competencies. Clinical competencies equip them to perform and teach all nursing duties and co-ordination competencies ensure smooth, effective running of a ward. Then there are management competencies to be able to meet the vision, mission and philosophy of the unit and to have control from an organisational, human resource and business perspective. Research studies have discovered higher retention and graduation rates to be one of the positive outcomes of the mentoring process; also that mentoring solidifies people as leaders (Seekoe, 2011:15). Due to the international shortage of professional nurses, effective mentoring is much needed. This will allow the professional nurses to be able to perform competently in all expected areas. Having competent, qualified professional nurses may help to reduce medico-legal risks and restore the public’s trust in the nursing profession. Despite extensive research on mentoring, there is little research on the Bridging Course student nurse’s perceptions regarding mentoring, ganisational, human resource and business perspective. Research studies have discovered higher retention and graduation rates to be one of the positive outcomes of the mentoring process; also that mentoring solidifies people as leaders (Seekoe, 2011:15). Due to the international shortage of professional nurses, effective mentoring is much needed. This will allow the professional nurses to be able to perform competently in all expected areas. Having competent, qualified professional nurses may help to reduce medico-legal risks and restore the public’s trust in the nursing profession. Despite extensive research on mentoring, there is little research on the Bridging Course student nurse’s perceptions regarding mentoring.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An explosive study of factors leading to students drop out at Lilitha College of Education in Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mnikina, Thandazwa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016148
- Description: This study is about exploring the factors that contribute to nursing students’ dropout at a public college. Lilitha College examination policy states that for a student to complete the Four Year Comprehensive Diploma Course, the student shall have passed all the four year courses. An increased student dropout rate has been identified to be affecting nursing student’s progress at Lilitha College of Nursing, East London Campus. This is a cause for concern and the researcher decided to investigate and explore the factors contributing to students’ dropout. This situation paralyzes the attempt by government to deal effectively with the shortage of trained nurses. The purpose of the study was to investigate and explore the factors that contribute to students’ dropout at Lilitha College of Nursing East London Campus. The objectives of this study were: To explore and describe experiences of students who dropped out from Lilitha College before course completion, to identify contributory factors related to increased students’ dropout rate, to come up with recommendations as how to curb the problem of student dropout and to ensure an increase of nursing students who complete at the end of the programme. This study followed a qualitative approach and explorative descriptive design. The population was all the students that have dropped out at Lilitha College of Nursing, East London Campus in the four year basic comprehensive programme from 2007 – 2011 at all levels of study. The sample size in this study was determined by data saturation, meaning that the data were collected to the point where no new information was obtained (Polit & Beck 2004: 308). A purposive sample of 15 former Lilitha students now working as Enrolled nursing assistants participated in this study. Data collection was divided into two sections, namely, demographic characteristics and face to face interviews. Demographic characteristics of the participants were obtained by asking questions related to age, sex, race, marital status, number of children per participant and the year of study at the time of dropping out. In section two of the study the interview guide was used for the purposes of data collection for this study, where four questions were formulated to guide the interview that was followed by probing questions. All tape recordings were listened to and transcribed verbatim. Field notes that were taken during unstructured interview were interpreted. The ideas that emerged from the interview sessions were then consolidated. Questions in the interview guide and their responses were drawn up and similar responses that arose from the interviews were grouped together. The identified major themes and sub themes were coded and categorized. Data belonging to each category were grouped together and analyzed and then the final remarks on the data analysis were completed. For most participants the course was frightening and difficult. They explained that they were exposed to a lot of information in a short space of time. In class, there was a lot of theory and in the wards there were skills to be learnt. Learners had to compile all the information and try to make sense out of it. Students follow up and support in the clinical facilities was reported as inadequate. The college should employ full time facilitators. This can improve teaching in the clinical area. The student should have mentors so that whenever they encounter a problem there will be people to assist and give them guidance. Through mentoring and support, student absenteeism can be controlled and students can gain self-confidence and learn more.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mnikina, Thandazwa
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11914 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016148
- Description: This study is about exploring the factors that contribute to nursing students’ dropout at a public college. Lilitha College examination policy states that for a student to complete the Four Year Comprehensive Diploma Course, the student shall have passed all the four year courses. An increased student dropout rate has been identified to be affecting nursing student’s progress at Lilitha College of Nursing, East London Campus. This is a cause for concern and the researcher decided to investigate and explore the factors contributing to students’ dropout. This situation paralyzes the attempt by government to deal effectively with the shortage of trained nurses. The purpose of the study was to investigate and explore the factors that contribute to students’ dropout at Lilitha College of Nursing East London Campus. The objectives of this study were: To explore and describe experiences of students who dropped out from Lilitha College before course completion, to identify contributory factors related to increased students’ dropout rate, to come up with recommendations as how to curb the problem of student dropout and to ensure an increase of nursing students who complete at the end of the programme. This study followed a qualitative approach and explorative descriptive design. The population was all the students that have dropped out at Lilitha College of Nursing, East London Campus in the four year basic comprehensive programme from 2007 – 2011 at all levels of study. The sample size in this study was determined by data saturation, meaning that the data were collected to the point where no new information was obtained (Polit & Beck 2004: 308). A purposive sample of 15 former Lilitha students now working as Enrolled nursing assistants participated in this study. Data collection was divided into two sections, namely, demographic characteristics and face to face interviews. Demographic characteristics of the participants were obtained by asking questions related to age, sex, race, marital status, number of children per participant and the year of study at the time of dropping out. In section two of the study the interview guide was used for the purposes of data collection for this study, where four questions were formulated to guide the interview that was followed by probing questions. All tape recordings were listened to and transcribed verbatim. Field notes that were taken during unstructured interview were interpreted. The ideas that emerged from the interview sessions were then consolidated. Questions in the interview guide and their responses were drawn up and similar responses that arose from the interviews were grouped together. The identified major themes and sub themes were coded and categorized. Data belonging to each category were grouped together and analyzed and then the final remarks on the data analysis were completed. For most participants the course was frightening and difficult. They explained that they were exposed to a lot of information in a short space of time. In class, there was a lot of theory and in the wards there were skills to be learnt. Learners had to compile all the information and try to make sense out of it. Students follow up and support in the clinical facilities was reported as inadequate. The college should employ full time facilitators. This can improve teaching in the clinical area. The student should have mentors so that whenever they encounter a problem there will be people to assist and give them guidance. Through mentoring and support, student absenteeism can be controlled and students can gain self-confidence and learn more.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An assessment of needle ice, snowfall and the zero-curtain effect and its relationship with soil frost dynamics on sub-Antartic Marion Island
- Authors: Zilindile, Mphumzi Brooklyn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Snow -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Frost -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Ice -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Marion Island (Prince Edward Islands) -- Description and travel
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geography)
- Identifier: vital:11515 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006908 , Snow -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Frost -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Ice -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Marion Island (Prince Edward Islands) -- Description and travel
- Description: This study aims to uncover the synoptic weather circulation pattern which is associated with the occurrence of needle ice, snowfall and the zero-curtain effect. The method of study was done through an intensive ground climate measurement campaign from April 2008 to May 2009 with a temperature logger installed throughout the recording period. Results from data analyses indicate that the complex changes in climate parameters may lead to an equally complex response in terms of spatial soil frost dynamics and its direct and indirect effects on soil sediment displacement and ecosystem dynamics. Field evidence in the study suggests that on Marion Island needle ice developed in temperatures as high as -0.2 ºC in strong winds. This confirms that the wet environment of Marion Island, which is dominated by diurnal soil frost is fundamentally different from seasonal frost and permafrost environments. The scoria material is susceptible to needle ice growth and the compacted soil alters the micro-climatology of the affected area making it more susceptible to the formation of needle ice. Soil moisture for needle ice formation and growth is provided by the misty conditions associated with the advent of the cold front (pre-cyclonic). Furthermore, observations of needle ice on Marion show that needles are mostly clear with no sediment inclusion. This is indicative of needle ice formation that has not been interrupted by a shortage of moisture. The zero-curtain effect on Marion Island can occur either as a response to the thawing of the soil after the seasonal freeze. The synoptic assessment of snowfall on Marion Island indicates that; snowfall is associated with the passage of a cold front linked to a strong meridional system of low pressure just south of the island.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Zilindile, Mphumzi Brooklyn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Snow -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Frost -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Ice -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Marion Island (Prince Edward Islands) -- Description and travel
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Geography)
- Identifier: vital:11515 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006908 , Snow -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Frost -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Ice -- Prince Edward Islands -- Marion Island , Marion Island (Prince Edward Islands) -- Description and travel
- Description: This study aims to uncover the synoptic weather circulation pattern which is associated with the occurrence of needle ice, snowfall and the zero-curtain effect. The method of study was done through an intensive ground climate measurement campaign from April 2008 to May 2009 with a temperature logger installed throughout the recording period. Results from data analyses indicate that the complex changes in climate parameters may lead to an equally complex response in terms of spatial soil frost dynamics and its direct and indirect effects on soil sediment displacement and ecosystem dynamics. Field evidence in the study suggests that on Marion Island needle ice developed in temperatures as high as -0.2 ºC in strong winds. This confirms that the wet environment of Marion Island, which is dominated by diurnal soil frost is fundamentally different from seasonal frost and permafrost environments. The scoria material is susceptible to needle ice growth and the compacted soil alters the micro-climatology of the affected area making it more susceptible to the formation of needle ice. Soil moisture for needle ice formation and growth is provided by the misty conditions associated with the advent of the cold front (pre-cyclonic). Furthermore, observations of needle ice on Marion show that needles are mostly clear with no sediment inclusion. This is indicative of needle ice formation that has not been interrupted by a shortage of moisture. The zero-curtain effect on Marion Island can occur either as a response to the thawing of the soil after the seasonal freeze. The synoptic assessment of snowfall on Marion Island indicates that; snowfall is associated with the passage of a cold front linked to a strong meridional system of low pressure just south of the island.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of donor-funded community empowerment projects on poverty alleviation: a case of selected projects in Chiredzi district of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mundau, Mulwayini
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poverty -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe , Economic assistance -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Donor-advised funds -- Zimbabwe -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M SW
- Identifier: vital:11762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005637 , Poverty -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe , Economic assistance -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Donor-advised funds -- Zimbabwe -- Case studies
- Description: The aim of the study was to carry out an investigation into the impact of donor-funded community empowerment projects on poverty alleviation. The data for this study were from the use of triangulation method of data collection which enhanced the assessment of the impact of donor funded community empowerment projects on poverty alleviation with specific focus on selected projects in the Chiredzi district of Zimbabwe. The findings of the study show the need for adoption of empowerment inclined practices by the local NGOs. There is need for community involvement in decision making, project ownership, and clear lines of communication with the NGOs, among others. However the findings also show the strength in linking project members with relevant institutions, and training, in order to ensure sustainability of community projects in ensuring community empowerment towards poverty eradication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mundau, Mulwayini
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Poverty -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe , Economic assistance -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Donor-advised funds -- Zimbabwe -- Case studies
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M SW
- Identifier: vital:11762 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005637 , Poverty -- Zimbabwe , Non-governmental organizations -- Zimbabwe , Economic assistance -- Zimbabwe , Community development -- Zimbabwe , Donor-advised funds -- Zimbabwe -- Case studies
- Description: The aim of the study was to carry out an investigation into the impact of donor-funded community empowerment projects on poverty alleviation. The data for this study were from the use of triangulation method of data collection which enhanced the assessment of the impact of donor funded community empowerment projects on poverty alleviation with specific focus on selected projects in the Chiredzi district of Zimbabwe. The findings of the study show the need for adoption of empowerment inclined practices by the local NGOs. There is need for community involvement in decision making, project ownership, and clear lines of communication with the NGOs, among others. However the findings also show the strength in linking project members with relevant institutions, and training, in order to ensure sustainability of community projects in ensuring community empowerment towards poverty eradication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Characterization of bioflocculants produced by consortia of three marine bacteria belonging to the genera bacillus and cobetia previously isolated from the bottom sediment of Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Ugbenyen, Anthony Moses https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1381-3428
- Authors: Ugbenyen, Anthony Moses https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1381-3428
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Water -- Purification -- Flocculation , Water quality management , Flocculation
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24454 , vital:62804
- Description: The bioflocculant-producing potentials of three marine bacteria isolated from the sediment samples of Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were assessed. Analysis of the partial nucleotide sequence of the 16S rDNA of the bacteria revealed 99 percent, 99 percent, and 98 percent similarity to Cobetia sp. L222, Bacillus sp. A-5A, and Bacillus sp. HXG-C1 respectively and the sequence was deposited in GenBank as Cobetia sp. OAUIFE, Bacillus sp. MAYA and Bacillus sp. Gilbert (accession number JF799092, JF799093, and HQ537128 respectively). Cultivation condition studies for Cobetia sp. OAUIFE revealed that bioflocculant production was optimal with an inoculum size of 2 percent (v/v), initial pH of 6.0, Mn2+ as the metal ion, and glucose as the carbon source. Metal ions, including Na+, K+, Li+, Ca2+and Mg2+ stimulated bioflocculant production resulting in flocculating activity of above 90 percent. This crude bioflocculant is thermally stable, with about 78 percent of its flocculating activity remaining after heating at 100 oC for 25 min. Analysis of the purified bioflocculant revealed it to be an acidic extracellular polysaccharide. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of methoxyl, hydroxyl, and carboxyl - groups in the compound bioflocculant and SEM micrograph of the bioflocculant revealed a crystal-linear structure. On the other hand, bioflocculant production by Bacillus sp. MAYA was optimal when glucose (95.6 percent flocculating activity) and ammonium nitrate (83.3 percent flocculating activity) were used as carbon and nitrogen sources respectively; inoculum size was 2 percent (v/v); initial pH 6; and Ca2+ as coagulant aid. Chemical analysis of the purified bioflocculant shows that it is composed of uronic acid, neutral sugar and protein. FTIR analysis also revealed the presence of methoxyl, hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino- groups in this bioflocculant. The bioflocculant is thermostable with about 65.6 percent residual flocculating activity retained after heating the bioflocculant at 100 oC for 25 min. However bioflocculant production by Bacillus sp. Gilbert was optimal when sodium carbonate (95.2 percent flocculating activity) and potassium nitrate (76.6 percent flocculating activity) were used as carbon and nitrogen sources respectively; inoculum size was 3 percent (v/v); initial pH 9; and Al3+ as cation. The crude bioflocculant retained 44.2 percent residual flocculating activity after heating at 100 oC for 15 min. FTIR analysis reveals the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl and methylene - groups in the compound bioflocculant. SEM micrograph of the bioflocculant revealed an amorphous compound. The consortia of these bacteria strains also produced bioflocculants with high flocculating activities which were highly efficient in removing turbidity and chemical oxygen demand (COD) from brewery wastewater, diary wastewater and river water. The bioflocculants from the consortia seemed better than traditional flocculants such as alum . The characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Cobetia sp. OAUIFE and Bacillus sp. MAYA showed that this extracellular bioflocculant, composed of 66percent uronic acid and 31percent protein and an optimum flocculation (90 percent) of kaolin suspension, when the dosage concentration was 0.8 mg/ml, under weak alkaline pH of 8, and Ca2+ as a coagulant aid. The bioflocculant is thermally stable, with a high residual flocculating activity of 86.7 percent, 89.3 percent and 87.0 percent after heating at 50 oC, 80 oC and 100 oC for 25 min respectively. The FTIR analysis of the bioflocculant indicated the presence of hydroxyl, amino, carbonyl and carboxyl functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image revealed a crystal-linear spongy-like bioflocculant structure and EDX analysis of the purified bioflocculant showed that the elemental composition in mass proportion of C,N,O,S and P was 6.67:6.23:37.55:0.38:4.42 (percent w/w). However, the characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Cobetia sp OAUIFE and Bacillus sp. Gilbert showed an optimum flocculation (90 percent) of kaolin suspension when the dosage concentration was 0.2 mg/ml, under neutral pH of 7, and Ca2+ as a coagulant aid. The FTIR analysis of the bioflocculant indicated the presence of hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image revealed an amorphous morphology. On the other hand the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Bacillus sp. MAYA and Bacillus sp. Gilbert showed similar characteristic with the bioflocculant from the consortium of Cobetia sp. OAUIFE and Bacillus sp. Gilbert except for Al3+ being the preferred coagulant aid. The characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Cobetia sp. OAUIFE, Bacillus sp. MAYA and Bacillus sp. Gilbert showed an optimum flocculation (87 percent) of kaolin suspension when the dosage concentration was 1.0 mg/ml. Under strong alkaline pH of 12, flocculating activity reached (95 percent) when Al3+ was the coagulant aid. The FTIR analysis of the bioflocculant indicated the presence of hydroxyl, amino, carbonyl and carboxyl and phosphoryl functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image revealed a flaky amorphous morphological structure. Due to the excellent COD and turbidity removal efficiencies of the bioflocculants produced by the consortia, these make those attractive candidates for use in water and wastewater treatment. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ugbenyen, Anthony Moses https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1381-3428
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Water -- Purification -- Flocculation , Water quality management , Flocculation
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24454 , vital:62804
- Description: The bioflocculant-producing potentials of three marine bacteria isolated from the sediment samples of Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were assessed. Analysis of the partial nucleotide sequence of the 16S rDNA of the bacteria revealed 99 percent, 99 percent, and 98 percent similarity to Cobetia sp. L222, Bacillus sp. A-5A, and Bacillus sp. HXG-C1 respectively and the sequence was deposited in GenBank as Cobetia sp. OAUIFE, Bacillus sp. MAYA and Bacillus sp. Gilbert (accession number JF799092, JF799093, and HQ537128 respectively). Cultivation condition studies for Cobetia sp. OAUIFE revealed that bioflocculant production was optimal with an inoculum size of 2 percent (v/v), initial pH of 6.0, Mn2+ as the metal ion, and glucose as the carbon source. Metal ions, including Na+, K+, Li+, Ca2+and Mg2+ stimulated bioflocculant production resulting in flocculating activity of above 90 percent. This crude bioflocculant is thermally stable, with about 78 percent of its flocculating activity remaining after heating at 100 oC for 25 min. Analysis of the purified bioflocculant revealed it to be an acidic extracellular polysaccharide. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of methoxyl, hydroxyl, and carboxyl - groups in the compound bioflocculant and SEM micrograph of the bioflocculant revealed a crystal-linear structure. On the other hand, bioflocculant production by Bacillus sp. MAYA was optimal when glucose (95.6 percent flocculating activity) and ammonium nitrate (83.3 percent flocculating activity) were used as carbon and nitrogen sources respectively; inoculum size was 2 percent (v/v); initial pH 6; and Ca2+ as coagulant aid. Chemical analysis of the purified bioflocculant shows that it is composed of uronic acid, neutral sugar and protein. FTIR analysis also revealed the presence of methoxyl, hydroxyl, carboxyl and amino- groups in this bioflocculant. The bioflocculant is thermostable with about 65.6 percent residual flocculating activity retained after heating the bioflocculant at 100 oC for 25 min. However bioflocculant production by Bacillus sp. Gilbert was optimal when sodium carbonate (95.2 percent flocculating activity) and potassium nitrate (76.6 percent flocculating activity) were used as carbon and nitrogen sources respectively; inoculum size was 3 percent (v/v); initial pH 9; and Al3+ as cation. The crude bioflocculant retained 44.2 percent residual flocculating activity after heating at 100 oC for 15 min. FTIR analysis reveals the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl and methylene - groups in the compound bioflocculant. SEM micrograph of the bioflocculant revealed an amorphous compound. The consortia of these bacteria strains also produced bioflocculants with high flocculating activities which were highly efficient in removing turbidity and chemical oxygen demand (COD) from brewery wastewater, diary wastewater and river water. The bioflocculants from the consortia seemed better than traditional flocculants such as alum . The characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Cobetia sp. OAUIFE and Bacillus sp. MAYA showed that this extracellular bioflocculant, composed of 66percent uronic acid and 31percent protein and an optimum flocculation (90 percent) of kaolin suspension, when the dosage concentration was 0.8 mg/ml, under weak alkaline pH of 8, and Ca2+ as a coagulant aid. The bioflocculant is thermally stable, with a high residual flocculating activity of 86.7 percent, 89.3 percent and 87.0 percent after heating at 50 oC, 80 oC and 100 oC for 25 min respectively. The FTIR analysis of the bioflocculant indicated the presence of hydroxyl, amino, carbonyl and carboxyl functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image revealed a crystal-linear spongy-like bioflocculant structure and EDX analysis of the purified bioflocculant showed that the elemental composition in mass proportion of C,N,O,S and P was 6.67:6.23:37.55:0.38:4.42 (percent w/w). However, the characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Cobetia sp OAUIFE and Bacillus sp. Gilbert showed an optimum flocculation (90 percent) of kaolin suspension when the dosage concentration was 0.2 mg/ml, under neutral pH of 7, and Ca2+ as a coagulant aid. The FTIR analysis of the bioflocculant indicated the presence of hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image revealed an amorphous morphology. On the other hand the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Bacillus sp. MAYA and Bacillus sp. Gilbert showed similar characteristic with the bioflocculant from the consortium of Cobetia sp. OAUIFE and Bacillus sp. Gilbert except for Al3+ being the preferred coagulant aid. The characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by the consortium of Cobetia sp. OAUIFE, Bacillus sp. MAYA and Bacillus sp. Gilbert showed an optimum flocculation (87 percent) of kaolin suspension when the dosage concentration was 1.0 mg/ml. Under strong alkaline pH of 12, flocculating activity reached (95 percent) when Al3+ was the coagulant aid. The FTIR analysis of the bioflocculant indicated the presence of hydroxyl, amino, carbonyl and carboxyl and phosphoryl functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image revealed a flaky amorphous morphological structure. Due to the excellent COD and turbidity removal efficiencies of the bioflocculants produced by the consortia, these make those attractive candidates for use in water and wastewater treatment. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2013
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Antifugal evaluation and phytochemical analysis of selected medicinal plants used in the treatment of fungal diseases associated with HIV infection in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Mbeng, Wilfred Otang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Botany)
- Identifier: vital:11307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006834 , Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Description: Background. As a result of the AIDS pandemic, many people areimmuno compromised andopportunistic fungal infections (OFIs) such as candidiasis are common. Despite the widespread use of medicinal plants in South Africa, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the use of such plants in the management of these infections. This study evaluates three South African medicinal plants (Arctotis arctotoides, Pittosporum viridiflorum, and Gasteria bicolor) traditionally used in the treatment of OFIs in HIV/AIDS patients, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Materials and methods. A six-stage process of documentation, evaluation and analysis of results was conducted: (1) Selection of medicinal plants most frequently used in the treatment of OFIs through ethnomedical studies and the survey of specialised literature; (2) Collection and preparation of the extract of each plant; (3) Antifungal evaluation of the crude plant extracts. (4) Phytochemical and antioxidant evaluation of the active crude plant extracts; (5) Cytotoxicity evaluation of the bioactive extracts using the Chang liver cell line, and (6) Statistical analysis of the results. Ethnobotanical information was obtained through interviews with traditional healers and AIDS patients with the aid of semi-structured questionnaires, direct observations and by reviewing studies reported in the literature. Following the approval from the University of Fort Hare‘s Ethics Committee, 101 HIV/AIDS patients were recruited through convenience sampling into an anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire study. The agar diffusion and micro-dilution methods were used to determine the antifungal activities of the hexane, acetone and aqueous extracts of A. arctotoides, G. bicolor and P. viridiflorum against 10 opportunistic fungi.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mbeng, Wilfred Otang
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Botany)
- Identifier: vital:11307 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006834 , Medicinal plants -- ethnobotanical survey , Opportunistic fungal infections , HIV/AIDS -- Cytotoxicity , Eastern Cape -- South Africa
- Description: Background. As a result of the AIDS pandemic, many people areimmuno compromised andopportunistic fungal infections (OFIs) such as candidiasis are common. Despite the widespread use of medicinal plants in South Africa, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding the use of such plants in the management of these infections. This study evaluates three South African medicinal plants (Arctotis arctotoides, Pittosporum viridiflorum, and Gasteria bicolor) traditionally used in the treatment of OFIs in HIV/AIDS patients, in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Materials and methods. A six-stage process of documentation, evaluation and analysis of results was conducted: (1) Selection of medicinal plants most frequently used in the treatment of OFIs through ethnomedical studies and the survey of specialised literature; (2) Collection and preparation of the extract of each plant; (3) Antifungal evaluation of the crude plant extracts. (4) Phytochemical and antioxidant evaluation of the active crude plant extracts; (5) Cytotoxicity evaluation of the bioactive extracts using the Chang liver cell line, and (6) Statistical analysis of the results. Ethnobotanical information was obtained through interviews with traditional healers and AIDS patients with the aid of semi-structured questionnaires, direct observations and by reviewing studies reported in the literature. Following the approval from the University of Fort Hare‘s Ethics Committee, 101 HIV/AIDS patients were recruited through convenience sampling into an anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire study. The agar diffusion and micro-dilution methods were used to determine the antifungal activities of the hexane, acetone and aqueous extracts of A. arctotoides, G. bicolor and P. viridiflorum against 10 opportunistic fungi.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gasification characteristics of sugarcane bagasse
- Authors: Anukam, Anthony Ike
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016170 , Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Description: Sugarcane is a major crop in many countries. It is the most abundant lignocellulosic material in tropical countries such as South Africa. It is one of the plants with the highest bioconversion efficiency. The sugarcane crop is able to efficiently fix solar energy, yielding some 55 tons of dry matter per hectare of land annually. After harvest, the crop produces sugar juice and bagasse. Sugarcane bagasse is a residue that results from the crushing of sugarcane in the sugar industry. It is a renewable feedstock that can be used for power generation and manufacturing cellulosic ethanol. As biomass, sugarcane bagasse holds promise as a fuel source since it can produce more than enough electricity and heat energy to supply the needs of a common sugar factory. However, in the sugarcane industry the bagasse is currently burnt inefficiently in boilers that provide the heating for the industry. This project seeks to investigate the possibility of gasifying sugarcane bagasse as an efficient conversion technology. The investigation is necessary because fuel properties govern the gasifier design and ultimately, the gasification efficiency. Proximate and ultimate analysis of sugarcane bagasse was conducted after which the results were used to conduct a computer simulation of the mass and energy balance during gasification. The kinetic investigation undertaken through the TGA and DTG analyses revealed the activation energy and pre – exponential factor which were obtained by the model – free Kissinger method of kinetic analysis and were found to be 181.51 kJ/mol and 3.1 × 103/min respectively. The heating value of sugarcane bagasse was also measured and found to be 17.8 MJ/kg, which was used in the calculation of the conversion efficiency of the gasification process. Fuel properties, including moisture content and gasifier operating parameters were varied in order to determine optimum gasifier operating conditions that results in maximum conversion efficiency. The highest conversion efficiency was achieved at low moisture content after computer simulation of the gasification process. Moisture content also affected the volume of CO and H2 as the former decreases with increasing moisture content while the latter increases with increasing moisture content, accelerating the water – gas reaction. Scanning electron microscope fitted to an Energy dispersive X – ray spectroscopy was also used in order to view the shape and size distribution as well as determine the elemental composition of sugarcane bagasse. The results obtained established that the fuel properties and gasification conditions affect the conversion efficiency. During computer simulation, it was established that smaller particle size resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The smaller throat diameter also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The throat angle of 25° also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The temperature of input air was also found to be one of the major determining factors in terms of conversion efficiency. The dissertation presents the proximate and ultimate analysis results as well as the kinetic analysis results. The SEM/EDX analysis as well as the computer simulation results of the gasification process is also presented. The major contribution of this project was on the investigation of the gasification characteristics of sugarcane bagasse and the utilization of these in the design of a laboratory scale sugarcane bagasse gasifier with enhanced conversion efficiency through computer simulation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Anukam, Anthony Ike
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Chemistry)
- Identifier: vital:11343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016170 , Bagasse -- Bagasse industry , Sugarcane -- Biotechnology , Computer simulation
- Description: Sugarcane is a major crop in many countries. It is the most abundant lignocellulosic material in tropical countries such as South Africa. It is one of the plants with the highest bioconversion efficiency. The sugarcane crop is able to efficiently fix solar energy, yielding some 55 tons of dry matter per hectare of land annually. After harvest, the crop produces sugar juice and bagasse. Sugarcane bagasse is a residue that results from the crushing of sugarcane in the sugar industry. It is a renewable feedstock that can be used for power generation and manufacturing cellulosic ethanol. As biomass, sugarcane bagasse holds promise as a fuel source since it can produce more than enough electricity and heat energy to supply the needs of a common sugar factory. However, in the sugarcane industry the bagasse is currently burnt inefficiently in boilers that provide the heating for the industry. This project seeks to investigate the possibility of gasifying sugarcane bagasse as an efficient conversion technology. The investigation is necessary because fuel properties govern the gasifier design and ultimately, the gasification efficiency. Proximate and ultimate analysis of sugarcane bagasse was conducted after which the results were used to conduct a computer simulation of the mass and energy balance during gasification. The kinetic investigation undertaken through the TGA and DTG analyses revealed the activation energy and pre – exponential factor which were obtained by the model – free Kissinger method of kinetic analysis and were found to be 181.51 kJ/mol and 3.1 × 103/min respectively. The heating value of sugarcane bagasse was also measured and found to be 17.8 MJ/kg, which was used in the calculation of the conversion efficiency of the gasification process. Fuel properties, including moisture content and gasifier operating parameters were varied in order to determine optimum gasifier operating conditions that results in maximum conversion efficiency. The highest conversion efficiency was achieved at low moisture content after computer simulation of the gasification process. Moisture content also affected the volume of CO and H2 as the former decreases with increasing moisture content while the latter increases with increasing moisture content, accelerating the water – gas reaction. Scanning electron microscope fitted to an Energy dispersive X – ray spectroscopy was also used in order to view the shape and size distribution as well as determine the elemental composition of sugarcane bagasse. The results obtained established that the fuel properties and gasification conditions affect the conversion efficiency. During computer simulation, it was established that smaller particle size resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The smaller throat diameter also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The throat angle of 25° also resulted in higher conversion efficiency. The temperature of input air was also found to be one of the major determining factors in terms of conversion efficiency. The dissertation presents the proximate and ultimate analysis results as well as the kinetic analysis results. The SEM/EDX analysis as well as the computer simulation results of the gasification process is also presented. The major contribution of this project was on the investigation of the gasification characteristics of sugarcane bagasse and the utilization of these in the design of a laboratory scale sugarcane bagasse gasifier with enhanced conversion efficiency through computer simulation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Exploring the management of information technology funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning : a case study of two schools in the King William's Town Education District
- Authors: Ngcoza, Xoliswa Phyllis
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information technology--Management Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17439 , vital:40968
- Description: Today the term ‘Information Technology’ (IT) is a buzz word globally. It is an indispensable tool in government departments and it enhances management, planning and organisation of all activities in the departments. Information Technology (IT) refers to equipments such as overhead and digital projectors, digital cameras, cell phones, Television recorders, language laboratories, printers, computers and all its components such as different soft wares, hard wares, Central Processing Units (CPU) etc. These machines are teaching aids just like pens, rulers, writing boards etc when they are used by teachers and become learning tools when they are used by learners. It can be argued that IT can be the life blood of management in schools because by using it all the departments in the institutions are managed and co-ordinated easily. The database containing information about the learners, the staff, the subjects offered, the compiling and filing of mark schedules are easily done and are available at any time on request. IT helps in the managing of learning and teaching. The main focus of this study is to explore the management of IT funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning. Today without funds IT use would be impossible. Relevant soft wares for all subjects taught such as Mathematics, Biology, Physical Education Environmental Studies etc are managed and planned by the management of the institutions to enable teachers to teach effectively and efficiently and to make studies easy for the learners to understand and to do research on their own. When the IT equipments are used properly, fast, efficient and effective service delivery would be realized. All these technological tools aforementioned depend on the availability of funds in the institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ngcoza, Xoliswa Phyllis
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information technology--Management Management information systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17439 , vital:40968
- Description: Today the term ‘Information Technology’ (IT) is a buzz word globally. It is an indispensable tool in government departments and it enhances management, planning and organisation of all activities in the departments. Information Technology (IT) refers to equipments such as overhead and digital projectors, digital cameras, cell phones, Television recorders, language laboratories, printers, computers and all its components such as different soft wares, hard wares, Central Processing Units (CPU) etc. These machines are teaching aids just like pens, rulers, writing boards etc when they are used by teachers and become learning tools when they are used by learners. It can be argued that IT can be the life blood of management in schools because by using it all the departments in the institutions are managed and co-ordinated easily. The database containing information about the learners, the staff, the subjects offered, the compiling and filing of mark schedules are easily done and are available at any time on request. IT helps in the managing of learning and teaching. The main focus of this study is to explore the management of IT funding as a critical aspect of managing teaching and learning. Today without funds IT use would be impossible. Relevant soft wares for all subjects taught such as Mathematics, Biology, Physical Education Environmental Studies etc are managed and planned by the management of the institutions to enable teachers to teach effectively and efficiently and to make studies easy for the learners to understand and to do research on their own. When the IT equipments are used properly, fast, efficient and effective service delivery would be realized. All these technological tools aforementioned depend on the availability of funds in the institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Spiritual rituals and competitive sport outcomes: a study of South African coaches’ and elite players’ perceptions of spirituality in soccer
- Authors: Dodo, Emmanuel Oluwafemi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (HMS)
- Identifier: vital:11541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006780 , Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Description: During sports competitions, especially soccer many players and coaches would pray before, during and after the game. Sometimes they would pray when they score a goal. The behaviour has attracted a research interest wanting to know why they do what they do often. The purpose of the study was to understand and evaluate the perceptions of coaches and elite players who continuously use spiritual rituals before, during and after soccer games to influence competitive outcomes. This study was carried out under the guidance of the following key questions; (a) Do spiritual perceptions of elite players influence outcomes of soccer competitions? (b) Does a divergence in spiritual perception between coaches and players influence competitive outcomes? and (c) Are spiritual (ritual) perceptions of soccer coaches and elite players related to religiosity/psychological interventions? In this study, a mixed method of data collection was used to eliminate the biases inherent in single method research. Specifically, qualitative and quantitative methods involving questionnaire, interview and observation supported by secondary and primary literature were used to gather information that would provide answers to the raised key questions. The results show that spiritual ritual practices would not influence the outcome of soccer competitions. Secondly, the spiritual ritual divergence among players and coaches would not influence outcomes of soccer competitions. Thirdly, the results showed that the use of spiritual rituals among players was purely for personal reasons, while the coaches used spiritual rituals as psychological intervention strategy to prepare the team before a given competitive. The overall results show that coaches and players agreed that spiritual rituals interventions are used for psychological interventions more than spiritual interventions. The implications of these findings to the players and coaches are discussed linked with future research focus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Dodo, Emmanuel Oluwafemi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (HMS)
- Identifier: vital:11541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006780 , Sports -- Psychological aspects , Sports -- Religious aspects , Sports medicine -- South Africa , Sports rivalries -- South Africa , Coaches (Athletics) -- South Africa , Soccer players -- South Africa
- Description: During sports competitions, especially soccer many players and coaches would pray before, during and after the game. Sometimes they would pray when they score a goal. The behaviour has attracted a research interest wanting to know why they do what they do often. The purpose of the study was to understand and evaluate the perceptions of coaches and elite players who continuously use spiritual rituals before, during and after soccer games to influence competitive outcomes. This study was carried out under the guidance of the following key questions; (a) Do spiritual perceptions of elite players influence outcomes of soccer competitions? (b) Does a divergence in spiritual perception between coaches and players influence competitive outcomes? and (c) Are spiritual (ritual) perceptions of soccer coaches and elite players related to religiosity/psychological interventions? In this study, a mixed method of data collection was used to eliminate the biases inherent in single method research. Specifically, qualitative and quantitative methods involving questionnaire, interview and observation supported by secondary and primary literature were used to gather information that would provide answers to the raised key questions. The results show that spiritual ritual practices would not influence the outcome of soccer competitions. Secondly, the spiritual ritual divergence among players and coaches would not influence outcomes of soccer competitions. Thirdly, the results showed that the use of spiritual rituals among players was purely for personal reasons, while the coaches used spiritual rituals as psychological intervention strategy to prepare the team before a given competitive. The overall results show that coaches and players agreed that spiritual rituals interventions are used for psychological interventions more than spiritual interventions. The implications of these findings to the players and coaches are discussed linked with future research focus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The use of Blackboard as a tool for the teaching and assessment of large classes in mathematics education: a case study of second year level Bachelor of Education students in one university in South Africa
- Authors: Riley, Alanna
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Blackboards , Blackboard drawing , Mathematics -- Study and teaching , College students , Educational change , Information technology , Teaching -- Aids and devices , College teaching , Assessment , Blended learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16182 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006237 , Blackboards , Blackboard drawing , Mathematics -- Study and teaching , College students , Educational change , Information technology , Teaching -- Aids and devices , College teaching , Assessment , Blended learning
- Description: This study locates the Blackboard Learning Management System as a Technology Enhanced Learning tool within the bounds of the discipline of eLearning and aimed to interrogate the use of Blackboard for the purposes of teaching, learning and assessment in large classes. It is evident from the literature reviewed that changes in both Higher Education in the South Africa with regards to policy and legislation in addition to international shifts towards increased access and participation in a fast paced, ever-evolving knowledge-based economy, providing the context for this work. The theoretical framework for this study is not unidimensional due to the fact that the educational field of eLearning as an area of specialisation draws on a multitude of theories in terms of their utility value for instructional design of courses utilising Information and Communications Technology as a mode of delivery. This study was conducted within the bounds of an interpretivist paradigm as the researcher sought to focus on the use of Blackboard and the experiences of the lecturers and students involved in the implementation thereof. The research design for this study took the form of a case study and a multiple case method was employed. The researcher collected data through personal interviews conducted with participating lecturers, while student data was collected by means of a qualitative survey which was conducted through the Blackboard Learning Management System. The data was analyzed by means of a thematic analysis, consistent with the interpretive paradigm chosen for this study. The findings of this study revealed that Blackboard was utilised effectively in order to facilitate communication, access to course resources and promoted more efficient assessment processes. The implementation was however not without challenges many of which were systemic and focused on the lack of resources available to the students. The implications of using Blackboard for teaching and assessment of large classes include the use of the Learning Management System as part of a multimodal method of course delivery in an effort to reach the multitude of registered students both conceptually as well as electronically. The recommendations arising from this study include consideration on the part of the faculty for a unified approach in the use of Blackboard for communication as well as deployment of resources. Additionally, this study may form the foundation of further studies in this field, with a focus on the active engagement and training of lecturers in order to integrate traditional teaching methods with blended learning opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Riley, Alanna
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Blackboards , Blackboard drawing , Mathematics -- Study and teaching , College students , Educational change , Information technology , Teaching -- Aids and devices , College teaching , Assessment , Blended learning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16182 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006237 , Blackboards , Blackboard drawing , Mathematics -- Study and teaching , College students , Educational change , Information technology , Teaching -- Aids and devices , College teaching , Assessment , Blended learning
- Description: This study locates the Blackboard Learning Management System as a Technology Enhanced Learning tool within the bounds of the discipline of eLearning and aimed to interrogate the use of Blackboard for the purposes of teaching, learning and assessment in large classes. It is evident from the literature reviewed that changes in both Higher Education in the South Africa with regards to policy and legislation in addition to international shifts towards increased access and participation in a fast paced, ever-evolving knowledge-based economy, providing the context for this work. The theoretical framework for this study is not unidimensional due to the fact that the educational field of eLearning as an area of specialisation draws on a multitude of theories in terms of their utility value for instructional design of courses utilising Information and Communications Technology as a mode of delivery. This study was conducted within the bounds of an interpretivist paradigm as the researcher sought to focus on the use of Blackboard and the experiences of the lecturers and students involved in the implementation thereof. The research design for this study took the form of a case study and a multiple case method was employed. The researcher collected data through personal interviews conducted with participating lecturers, while student data was collected by means of a qualitative survey which was conducted through the Blackboard Learning Management System. The data was analyzed by means of a thematic analysis, consistent with the interpretive paradigm chosen for this study. The findings of this study revealed that Blackboard was utilised effectively in order to facilitate communication, access to course resources and promoted more efficient assessment processes. The implementation was however not without challenges many of which were systemic and focused on the lack of resources available to the students. The implications of using Blackboard for teaching and assessment of large classes include the use of the Learning Management System as part of a multimodal method of course delivery in an effort to reach the multitude of registered students both conceptually as well as electronically. The recommendations arising from this study include consideration on the part of the faculty for a unified approach in the use of Blackboard for communication as well as deployment of resources. Additionally, this study may form the foundation of further studies in this field, with a focus on the active engagement and training of lecturers in order to integrate traditional teaching methods with blended learning opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Experiences of HIV and AIDS patients and families regarding palliative care in an urban care centre in Buffalo City
- Authors: Bunt, Helen
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Palliative care -- HIV/AIDS , Patients and families experiences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11904 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006814 , Palliative care -- HIV/AIDS , Patients and families experiences
- Description: The South African Constitution (South Africa, 1996) states that access to healthcare services is a basic human right. The Patients’ Rights Charter (HPCSA, 2008: 6) stipulates that the provision for “special needs in the case of persons living with HIV or AIDS” and palliative care be “affordable and effective”. The need for palliative care in South Africa today continues to increase. Khan and Sayed 2011[2]) found that five years after commencement of anti-retrovirals, twenty five percent of their patients had passed away. This study was performed in the Eastern Cape which is one of the poorest provinces with the second highest HIV prevalence rate. Since 2008, Sophumelela Centre Incorporated has offered palliative care for HIV and AIDS patients in Buffalo City. Some of these patients and their families were interviewed about their experiences in this care centre. The South African Constitution (South Africa, 1996) states that access to healthcare services is a basic human right. The Patients’ Rights Charter (HPCSA, 2008: 6) stipulates that the provision for “special needs in the case of persons living with HIV or AIDS” and palliative care be “affordable and effective”. The need for palliative care in South Africa today continues to increase. Khan and Sayed (2011[2]) found that five years after commencement of anti-retrovirals, twenty five percent of their patients had passed away. This study was performed in the Eastern Cape which is one of the poorest provinces with the second highest HIV prevalence rate. Since 2008, Sophumelela Centre Incorporated has offered palliative care for HIV and AIDS patients in Buffalo City. Some of these patients and their families were interviewed about their experiences in this care centre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bunt, Helen
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Palliative care -- HIV/AIDS , Patients and families experiences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc (Nursing Science)
- Identifier: vital:11904 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1006814 , Palliative care -- HIV/AIDS , Patients and families experiences
- Description: The South African Constitution (South Africa, 1996) states that access to healthcare services is a basic human right. The Patients’ Rights Charter (HPCSA, 2008: 6) stipulates that the provision for “special needs in the case of persons living with HIV or AIDS” and palliative care be “affordable and effective”. The need for palliative care in South Africa today continues to increase. Khan and Sayed 2011[2]) found that five years after commencement of anti-retrovirals, twenty five percent of their patients had passed away. This study was performed in the Eastern Cape which is one of the poorest provinces with the second highest HIV prevalence rate. Since 2008, Sophumelela Centre Incorporated has offered palliative care for HIV and AIDS patients in Buffalo City. Some of these patients and their families were interviewed about their experiences in this care centre. The South African Constitution (South Africa, 1996) states that access to healthcare services is a basic human right. The Patients’ Rights Charter (HPCSA, 2008: 6) stipulates that the provision for “special needs in the case of persons living with HIV or AIDS” and palliative care be “affordable and effective”. The need for palliative care in South Africa today continues to increase. Khan and Sayed (2011[2]) found that five years after commencement of anti-retrovirals, twenty five percent of their patients had passed away. This study was performed in the Eastern Cape which is one of the poorest provinces with the second highest HIV prevalence rate. Since 2008, Sophumelela Centre Incorporated has offered palliative care for HIV and AIDS patients in Buffalo City. Some of these patients and their families were interviewed about their experiences in this care centre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Igalelo loncwadi lwandulo ku-Ithemba liyaphilisa ka-W.K. Tamsanqa no-Ingqumbo yeminyanya ka- A. C. Jordan
- Authors: Ganto, Diniwe Joyce
- Date: 2013
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (African Languages)
- Identifier: vital:11150 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013014
- Description: Olu phando luqwalasela nzulu igalelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla uncwadi. Kubalulekile ukuba kwenziwe oku kuba ugxudululu lwabahlalutyi boncwadi lwesiXhosa bakholisa ukukhumathela ekukhangeleni ifuthe loncwadi lwaseNtshona kuncwadi lwesiXhosa, babe bona abahlalutyi abagrombonca igalelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla (kwisiXhosa) benqongophele. Nemingqandandana ekhoyo yophando oselwenziwe kuncwadi lwesiXhosa ikholisa ukukhangela ifuthe, lona uphando olungegalelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla lunqongophele. Iincwadi endiphengulula zona kulo msebenzi yile kaJordan (Ingqumbo Yeminyanya), nekaTamsanqa (Ithemba Liyaphilisa). Indlela endiwuhlahlube ngayo lo msebenzi wophengululo ingolu hlobo: Isahluko sokuqala yimbulambethe edandalazisa iindlela-ndlela endiza kuchankcatha ngazo ukugrombonca eli galelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla. Isahluko sesibini siza kugrombonca imigqaliselo ekwakuchancathwa kuyo endulo xa kuyilwa amabalana omthonyama. Ndibuye ndifunxe ulwazi olunzulu ngala mabali andulo. Isahluko sesithathu siza kukhukhuza sikhangele ezi ncwadi zimbini Ingqumbo Yeminyanya ne Ithemba Liyaphilisa ukuba ezi zithako nala mabali andulo asetyenziswe njani na kuzo. Isahluko sesine siza kutwabulula indlela abazinonga ngayo ezi zithako nala mabali andulo kwezi ncwadi zabo ooJordan noTamsanqa. Kwakhona ndiphinde ndikhangele ukuba ezi zithako zinagalelo lini na kwizigidimi ezingundoqo eziphuhliswa kwezi ncwadi. Isahluko sesihlanu sisishokobezo somsebenzi wezahluko zonke endizenzileyo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ganto, Diniwe Joyce
- Date: 2013
- Language: Xhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (African Languages)
- Identifier: vital:11150 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1013014
- Description: Olu phando luqwalasela nzulu igalelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla uncwadi. Kubalulekile ukuba kwenziwe oku kuba ugxudululu lwabahlalutyi boncwadi lwesiXhosa bakholisa ukukhumathela ekukhangeleni ifuthe loncwadi lwaseNtshona kuncwadi lwesiXhosa, babe bona abahlalutyi abagrombonca igalelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla (kwisiXhosa) benqongophele. Nemingqandandana ekhoyo yophando oselwenziwe kuncwadi lwesiXhosa ikholisa ukukhangela ifuthe, lona uphando olungegalelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla lunqongophele. Iincwadi endiphengulula zona kulo msebenzi yile kaJordan (Ingqumbo Yeminyanya), nekaTamsanqa (Ithemba Liyaphilisa). Indlela endiwuhlahlube ngayo lo msebenzi wophengululo ingolu hlobo: Isahluko sokuqala yimbulambethe edandalazisa iindlela-ndlela endiza kuchankcatha ngazo ukugrombonca eli galelo loncwadi lwandulo kolwanamhla. Isahluko sesibini siza kugrombonca imigqaliselo ekwakuchancathwa kuyo endulo xa kuyilwa amabalana omthonyama. Ndibuye ndifunxe ulwazi olunzulu ngala mabali andulo. Isahluko sesithathu siza kukhukhuza sikhangele ezi ncwadi zimbini Ingqumbo Yeminyanya ne Ithemba Liyaphilisa ukuba ezi zithako nala mabali andulo asetyenziswe njani na kuzo. Isahluko sesine siza kutwabulula indlela abazinonga ngayo ezi zithako nala mabali andulo kwezi ncwadi zabo ooJordan noTamsanqa. Kwakhona ndiphinde ndikhangele ukuba ezi zithako zinagalelo lini na kwizigidimi ezingundoqo eziphuhliswa kwezi ncwadi. Isahluko sesihlanu sisishokobezo somsebenzi wezahluko zonke endizenzileyo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Assessment of sources of livelihoods and opportunities to improve the contribution of farming within available food chains
- Authors: Mbusi, Nontembeko
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livelihood strategies , Outcomes , Poverty , Farming , Employment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11204 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007575 , Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livelihood strategies , Outcomes , Poverty , Farming , Employment
- Description: Official statistics suggest that as many as 40 percent to 60 percent of people in South Africa are living in poverty, and the 15 percent poorest are in a desperate struggle for survival. Since 1994, Government has been making an effort to help smallholder agriculture through numerous programmes, including those that address land ownership and provide credit and grants for farms and households, but very little change has taken place. Understanding the sources of livelihood and opportunities to improve the contribution of farming within available food chains is therefore an important practical need. The study investigated sources of livelihood and mapped the livelihoods profile of the farming households in parts of the Eastern Cape. The study was conducted in the Alice and Peddie communities in the Amathole district municipality. A set of structured questionnaires were used to interview the sample of 80 farming households selected through a random process within two irrigation schemes and communities that were selected purposively in line with the focus of the larger project on which this study is based. The resulting data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. The descriptive results indicated that members of most rural households were old, married, uneducated and unemployed. Farming was primary livelihood strategy employed in these areas. Rural households were also dependent on remittances, social grants and pension funds because the farming strategy could not meet all their household needs. The major crops that were grown for income and food security to sustain their livelihoods included maize, potatoes, onions and butternut. Factors that had significant influences on outcomes were extension services, grants, pension and remittances, land productivity, type of irrigation system, market accessibility, output price difference and value adding. The available opportunities were land productivity, irrigation facilities, government or NGO programmes and working as a group. For improved livelihood of rural communities in Alice and Peddie, government needs to strengthen agricultural activities and equip farmers with market information, improve their access to irrigation schemes, provide training on value adding and also improve access to extension services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mbusi, Nontembeko
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livelihood strategies , Outcomes , Poverty , Farming , Employment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Agricultural Economics)
- Identifier: vital:11204 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007575 , Households -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rural poor -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Livelihood strategies , Outcomes , Poverty , Farming , Employment
- Description: Official statistics suggest that as many as 40 percent to 60 percent of people in South Africa are living in poverty, and the 15 percent poorest are in a desperate struggle for survival. Since 1994, Government has been making an effort to help smallholder agriculture through numerous programmes, including those that address land ownership and provide credit and grants for farms and households, but very little change has taken place. Understanding the sources of livelihood and opportunities to improve the contribution of farming within available food chains is therefore an important practical need. The study investigated sources of livelihood and mapped the livelihoods profile of the farming households in parts of the Eastern Cape. The study was conducted in the Alice and Peddie communities in the Amathole district municipality. A set of structured questionnaires were used to interview the sample of 80 farming households selected through a random process within two irrigation schemes and communities that were selected purposively in line with the focus of the larger project on which this study is based. The resulting data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. The descriptive results indicated that members of most rural households were old, married, uneducated and unemployed. Farming was primary livelihood strategy employed in these areas. Rural households were also dependent on remittances, social grants and pension funds because the farming strategy could not meet all their household needs. The major crops that were grown for income and food security to sustain their livelihoods included maize, potatoes, onions and butternut. Factors that had significant influences on outcomes were extension services, grants, pension and remittances, land productivity, type of irrigation system, market accessibility, output price difference and value adding. The available opportunities were land productivity, irrigation facilities, government or NGO programmes and working as a group. For improved livelihood of rural communities in Alice and Peddie, government needs to strengthen agricultural activities and equip farmers with market information, improve their access to irrigation schemes, provide training on value adding and also improve access to extension services.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Effects of the brittle national information policy framework on information services in Malawi
- Authors: Gausi, Hambani Adamson
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005989 , Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information services in Malawi. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information access in Malawi; establish factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy in Malawi; find out the extent to which the absence of an overarching policy has affected capacity building in information services in Malawi; and identify the legal and regulatory framework implications of the absence of such a policy in Malawi. The study adopted an exploratory research design. Data were collected using document analysis, observations and in-depth interviews. Eighty-two face-to-face interviews were conducted with policy makers in government, Members of Parliamentary committees on legal and media issues, information scientists, information service providers, academicians, legal experts and information users. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. An interview guide comprising closed and open ended questions was used to interview respondents. Data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings of this study may be used by Government in developing relevant national information policies that would enhance free access and utilisation of information. Furthermore the study is significant in identifying factors that may impede the development of a national information policy. The study revealed that Malawi has a brittle national information policy framework for the provision of information services. Malawi doesn’t have an overarching policy framework for the sector and as a result, there is no policy guidance to drive the development of sectoral policies and supporting legislation. Policy development in Malawi is more reactive to issues than systematic and very slow. Consequently, access to and utilization of information is low; capacity building is low in terms of competencies and infrastructure and; the legal and regulatory framework for information services is weak. The study also revealed that factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy include: motivation for the development of sectoral information policies; lack of an institutional framework to guide the development of policy; lack of finances and technical capacity; lack of sustained political will; level of economic development; existence of overarching government development plans; international trends; and the diverse nature of the information sector. The general recommendation emanating from the findings of the study is that Malawi needs an overarching national information policy which would articulate and address issues regarding access to information, capacity building in terms of skills and infrastructure, and the legal and regulatory framework. Information is a cross-cutting issue requiring an all-encompassing policy. However, specific recommendations from the findings of this study are that government should expedite the development of policies and enactment of relevant pieces of legislation which are not yet in place to enhance free access and utilisation of information and ICTs; government should speed up the introduction of information literacy in the school curriculum starting from primary school level to university; government should develop a library policy to promote the development of school libraries in both primary and secondary schools, and public libraries in all towns, district assemblies and rural growth centres which should be well resourced including Internet facilities; and government should constantly review and harmonise policies and legislation in the information sector so that they are in line with current trends.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gausi, Hambani Adamson
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Bibl
- Identifier: vital:11573 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1005989 , Information science -- Malawi , Information policy -- Malawi , Information services -- Law and legislation -- Malawi , Libraries -- Malawi
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information services in Malawi. The objectives of the study were to: find out the effects of the absence of an overarching national information policy on information access in Malawi; establish factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy in Malawi; find out the extent to which the absence of an overarching policy has affected capacity building in information services in Malawi; and identify the legal and regulatory framework implications of the absence of such a policy in Malawi. The study adopted an exploratory research design. Data were collected using document analysis, observations and in-depth interviews. Eighty-two face-to-face interviews were conducted with policy makers in government, Members of Parliamentary committees on legal and media issues, information scientists, information service providers, academicians, legal experts and information users. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. An interview guide comprising closed and open ended questions was used to interview respondents. Data were analysed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings of this study may be used by Government in developing relevant national information policies that would enhance free access and utilisation of information. Furthermore the study is significant in identifying factors that may impede the development of a national information policy. The study revealed that Malawi has a brittle national information policy framework for the provision of information services. Malawi doesn’t have an overarching policy framework for the sector and as a result, there is no policy guidance to drive the development of sectoral policies and supporting legislation. Policy development in Malawi is more reactive to issues than systematic and very slow. Consequently, access to and utilization of information is low; capacity building is low in terms of competencies and infrastructure and; the legal and regulatory framework for information services is weak. The study also revealed that factors impeding the development of an overarching national information policy include: motivation for the development of sectoral information policies; lack of an institutional framework to guide the development of policy; lack of finances and technical capacity; lack of sustained political will; level of economic development; existence of overarching government development plans; international trends; and the diverse nature of the information sector. The general recommendation emanating from the findings of the study is that Malawi needs an overarching national information policy which would articulate and address issues regarding access to information, capacity building in terms of skills and infrastructure, and the legal and regulatory framework. Information is a cross-cutting issue requiring an all-encompassing policy. However, specific recommendations from the findings of this study are that government should expedite the development of policies and enactment of relevant pieces of legislation which are not yet in place to enhance free access and utilisation of information and ICTs; government should speed up the introduction of information literacy in the school curriculum starting from primary school level to university; government should develop a library policy to promote the development of school libraries in both primary and secondary schools, and public libraries in all towns, district assemblies and rural growth centres which should be well resourced including Internet facilities; and government should constantly review and harmonise policies and legislation in the information sector so that they are in line with current trends.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gender and age differences between managers and employees on organisational commitment in selected factories in the Buffalo City Metropolitan area
- Authors: Qwabe, Nombali Palesa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organisational commitment , Affective commitment , Continuance commitment , Normative commitment , Gender differences , Age differences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11557 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007117 , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organisational commitment , Affective commitment , Continuance commitment , Normative commitment , Gender differences , Age differences
- Description: Employee commitment is one of the most important aspects that help an organisation achieve its desired goals. This study investigates the possible effects of gender and age differences between managers and employees on organisational commitment among lower-level employees in selected factories in the Buffalo City Metropolitan area. The organisational commitment instrument used in this research is the Meyer and Allen (1997) organisational commitment questionnaire which contains 18 items (6 items for each scale: affective commitment, continuance commitment and normative commitment). For this purpose, a sample of 100 lower-level employees was used. The results indicated significant differences in the unexpected directions in affective commitment and continuance commitment between male employees supervised by male managers and male employees supervised by female managers; male employees were found to have higher levels of affective and continuance commitment when supervised by female managers. Female employees were found to have a higher level of normative commitment when supervised by male managers than when supervised by female managers which was also in the unexpected direction. In addition, the study showed surprising results in terms of the social or cultural hypothesis where employees supervised by male managers and older managers were not significantly different in organisational commitment to those managed by female and by younger or same-age managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Qwabe, Nombali Palesa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organisational commitment , Affective commitment , Continuance commitment , Normative commitment , Gender differences , Age differences
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: vital:11557 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007117 , Employee loyalty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Executives -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee morale -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organisational commitment , Affective commitment , Continuance commitment , Normative commitment , Gender differences , Age differences
- Description: Employee commitment is one of the most important aspects that help an organisation achieve its desired goals. This study investigates the possible effects of gender and age differences between managers and employees on organisational commitment among lower-level employees in selected factories in the Buffalo City Metropolitan area. The organisational commitment instrument used in this research is the Meyer and Allen (1997) organisational commitment questionnaire which contains 18 items (6 items for each scale: affective commitment, continuance commitment and normative commitment). For this purpose, a sample of 100 lower-level employees was used. The results indicated significant differences in the unexpected directions in affective commitment and continuance commitment between male employees supervised by male managers and male employees supervised by female managers; male employees were found to have higher levels of affective and continuance commitment when supervised by female managers. Female employees were found to have a higher level of normative commitment when supervised by male managers than when supervised by female managers which was also in the unexpected direction. In addition, the study showed surprising results in terms of the social or cultural hypothesis where employees supervised by male managers and older managers were not significantly different in organisational commitment to those managed by female and by younger or same-age managers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Effects of exchange rate volatility on the stock market: a case study of South Africa
- Authors: Mlambo, Courage
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11468 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007125 , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Description: This study assessed the effects of currency volatility on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. An evaluation of literature on exchange rate volatility and stock markets was conducted resulting into specification of an empirical model.The Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedascity (1.1) (GARCH) model was used in establishing the relationship between exchange rate volatility and stock market performance. The study employed monthly South African data for the period 2000 – 2010. The data frequency selected ensured an adequate number of observations. A very weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market was confirmed. The research finding is supported by previous studies. Prime overdraft rate and total mining production were found to have a negative impact on Market capitalisation. Surprisingly, US interest rates were found to have a positive impact on Market capitalisation. This study recommended that, since the South African stock market is not really exposed to the negative effects of currency volatility, government can use exchange rate as a policy tool to attract foreign portfolio investment. The weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market suggests that the JSE can be marketed as a safe market for foreign investors. However, investors, bankers and portfolio managers still need to be vigilant in regard to the spillovers from the foreign exchange rate into the stock market. Although there is a weak relationship between rand volatility and the stock market in South Africa, this does not necessarily mean that investors and portfolio managers need not monitor the developments between these two variables.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mlambo, Courage
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: vital:11468 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1007125 , Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa , Currency question -- South Africa , Free trade -- South Africa , Capital movements -- South Africa , Cointegration -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign , International trade , Stock exchanges -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy
- Description: This study assessed the effects of currency volatility on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. An evaluation of literature on exchange rate volatility and stock markets was conducted resulting into specification of an empirical model.The Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedascity (1.1) (GARCH) model was used in establishing the relationship between exchange rate volatility and stock market performance. The study employed monthly South African data for the period 2000 – 2010. The data frequency selected ensured an adequate number of observations. A very weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market was confirmed. The research finding is supported by previous studies. Prime overdraft rate and total mining production were found to have a negative impact on Market capitalisation. Surprisingly, US interest rates were found to have a positive impact on Market capitalisation. This study recommended that, since the South African stock market is not really exposed to the negative effects of currency volatility, government can use exchange rate as a policy tool to attract foreign portfolio investment. The weak relationship between currency volatility and the stock market suggests that the JSE can be marketed as a safe market for foreign investors. However, investors, bankers and portfolio managers still need to be vigilant in regard to the spillovers from the foreign exchange rate into the stock market. Although there is a weak relationship between rand volatility and the stock market in South Africa, this does not necessarily mean that investors and portfolio managers need not monitor the developments between these two variables.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An exploration of corporate social responsibility in SME liquor retail outlets in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mupazi, Rutendo Getrude
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/799 , vital:26498 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In the contemporary business environment, a plethora of retail literature exists which examine the influence of CSR on the business. However, literature that explores Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the liquor retail sector has been relatively sparse. This study explored CSR in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) liquor retail outlets in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to investigate the engagement of SME liquor retailers in CSR practices, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between providing employee training on responsible retailing of alcohol and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether employee involvement in decision making influences CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between the practical actions to reduce alcohol-related harm and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether SME liquor retailers do social good as an expression of CSR as well as to determine whether SME liquor retailers are influenced by stakeholders to engage in CSR initiatives. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select a sample of 94 from the sample frame of 123 SME liquor retailers. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as statistical software was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. The findings of this research revealed that Stakeholder influence, employee involvement in decision making and employee training in responsible retailing of alcohol have an influence on the CSR practices of SME liquor retailers. The study also identified the safety and practical measures that SME liquor retailers are practicing as a way of reducing alcohol related-harm. A recommendation to stakeholders, such as suppliers and government to find more strategies of influencing SME liquor retailers to practice CSR, was made. Lastly, recommendations were made to SME liquor owners and managers on how to improve their CSR practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mupazi, Rutendo Getrude
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/799 , vital:26498 , Small business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Retail trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor industry -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social responsibility of business -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Liquor laws -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: In the contemporary business environment, a plethora of retail literature exists which examine the influence of CSR on the business. However, literature that explores Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the liquor retail sector has been relatively sparse. This study explored CSR in Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) liquor retail outlets in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to investigate the engagement of SME liquor retailers in CSR practices, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between providing employee training on responsible retailing of alcohol and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether employee involvement in decision making influences CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to ascertain whether a relationship exists between the practical actions to reduce alcohol-related harm and CSR practices by SME liquor retailers, to investigate whether SME liquor retailers do social good as an expression of CSR as well as to determine whether SME liquor retailers are influenced by stakeholders to engage in CSR initiatives. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in this study. A quantitative research design was used in conducting this research. Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select a sample of 94 from the sample frame of 123 SME liquor retailers. The survey method, by way of a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as statistical software was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. The findings of this research revealed that Stakeholder influence, employee involvement in decision making and employee training in responsible retailing of alcohol have an influence on the CSR practices of SME liquor retailers. The study also identified the safety and practical measures that SME liquor retailers are practicing as a way of reducing alcohol related-harm. A recommendation to stakeholders, such as suppliers and government to find more strategies of influencing SME liquor retailers to practice CSR, was made. Lastly, recommendations were made to SME liquor owners and managers on how to improve their CSR practices.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Euryops floribundus encroachment in Eastern Cape communal rangelands: indigenous and scientific understanding of effects on range
- Authors: Gxasheka, Masibonge
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016203 , Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted in Eastern Cape Province to 1) investigate local people’s knowledge and perceptions on Euryops floribundus and 2) landscape distribution and effect of Euryops floribundus on herbaceous vegetation and soil. A total of 90 households who own livestock were randomly selected from the three communal areas, namely; Tsengiwe, Upper Mnxe and Manzimdaka for household surveys and group discussions. For landscape study, a total of about 5 ha of land were selected at Upper Mnxe communal area. Selection criteria included the presence of E. floribundus and different landscape gradients. A total of four 50mx50 plots were marked along the landscape gradients: Bottom, Middle, and Upper Slope and upland positions. To study the effect of E. floribundus invasion on the herbaceous vegetation and soil, a total of 4 ha communal land was selected in an accessible area which had a largely flat terrain. The area was selected to have adjacent sites with no invasion (< 5% shrub cover), light (5-15% shrub cover), moderate (>15-35) and heavy invasions (>35% shrub cover) of E. floribundus. The average household size in the study area was 6.8± 0.7. All people in the three communal areas unanimously ranked sheep as the most important species for their livelihood, but the ranking of cattle and goat varied among the communal areas. All elder groups agreed that Europs floribundus decreases both the quantity and quality of herbaceous forage as well as livestock production. Moreover, invaded patches create more bare areas which are responsible for the loss of top fertile soils and the formation of rills and gullies. The result showed that the total density of E. floribundus significantly increased from the topland (2301 plants ha-1) moving to the bottomland (4888 plants ha-1). Canopy cover was significantly lowest in the topland (17.9%), but the remaining gradients had similar cover. Grass dry matter yield was higher in the bottomlands and sloppy gradients than the toplands. Soil organic carbon was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the flat than the sloppy terrain. Soils from higher elevations (toplands and upper sloppy) had significantly higher N than the lower elevations (bottomlands and Middle sloppy). The lowest dry matter was observed at low invasion and non-invaded sites. Soil chemical properties were generally different from all density levels. In conclusion, E. floribundus encroachment was found to be major cause of decline in the peoples’ livelihood because as this reduces the vegetation diversity and livestock production, both of which are the major of their livelihoods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gxasheka, Masibonge
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: vital:11585 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016203 , Euryops -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnoscience -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food security -- South Africa - Eastern Cape , Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Range ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Description: The study was conducted in Eastern Cape Province to 1) investigate local people’s knowledge and perceptions on Euryops floribundus and 2) landscape distribution and effect of Euryops floribundus on herbaceous vegetation and soil. A total of 90 households who own livestock were randomly selected from the three communal areas, namely; Tsengiwe, Upper Mnxe and Manzimdaka for household surveys and group discussions. For landscape study, a total of about 5 ha of land were selected at Upper Mnxe communal area. Selection criteria included the presence of E. floribundus and different landscape gradients. A total of four 50mx50 plots were marked along the landscape gradients: Bottom, Middle, and Upper Slope and upland positions. To study the effect of E. floribundus invasion on the herbaceous vegetation and soil, a total of 4 ha communal land was selected in an accessible area which had a largely flat terrain. The area was selected to have adjacent sites with no invasion (< 5% shrub cover), light (5-15% shrub cover), moderate (>15-35) and heavy invasions (>35% shrub cover) of E. floribundus. The average household size in the study area was 6.8± 0.7. All people in the three communal areas unanimously ranked sheep as the most important species for their livelihood, but the ranking of cattle and goat varied among the communal areas. All elder groups agreed that Europs floribundus decreases both the quantity and quality of herbaceous forage as well as livestock production. Moreover, invaded patches create more bare areas which are responsible for the loss of top fertile soils and the formation of rills and gullies. The result showed that the total density of E. floribundus significantly increased from the topland (2301 plants ha-1) moving to the bottomland (4888 plants ha-1). Canopy cover was significantly lowest in the topland (17.9%), but the remaining gradients had similar cover. Grass dry matter yield was higher in the bottomlands and sloppy gradients than the toplands. Soil organic carbon was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the flat than the sloppy terrain. Soils from higher elevations (toplands and upper sloppy) had significantly higher N than the lower elevations (bottomlands and Middle sloppy). The lowest dry matter was observed at low invasion and non-invaded sites. Soil chemical properties were generally different from all density levels. In conclusion, E. floribundus encroachment was found to be major cause of decline in the peoples’ livelihood because as this reduces the vegetation diversity and livestock production, both of which are the major of their livelihoods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013