A project delivery framework within the Construction Industry
- Authors: Chikandiwa,Yeaukai Memory
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Construction --Management -- South Africa , Project Management , Communication
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52594 , vital:43692
- Description: A lack of effective communication has often resulted in information bottlenecks and conflicts in the execution of construction projects and is the primary cause of problems such as delays, increased project cost, reduced roductivity, loss of profit, or damaged professional or business relationships within the construction Industry. Despite all the advancement in the communication and integration tools in a drive to optimize the construction industry, this challenge still remains. In order to address this problem, this research project sought to determine the key elements that constitute effective communication and its importance to the successful projects delivery within the construction industry. A survey design which involved a sample study of a representative population through the use of a questionnaire was used. The research population comprised of all design consultants. The research found that, Common tools and processes, Good change management, PM best practices & Performance KPIs and resources are the main missing elements respectively for effective communication, which foster the conflicts inherent within the industry. The following key factors are however mostly present in project team; well-articulated project scope, quality information exchange and commendable people, cultures and behaviour. Informational asymmetries, misrepresentation, poor PM skills hinders effective communication and often results in project failure. There is therefore need to concertize the design professionals on the importance of effective communication and enlighten them on the dynamics involved. The construction industry is inherently complex, multi-disciplinary, fragmented, sporadic, dynamic and generally resistant to change. Hence, the need for rigorous research and feed back to the design professionals on effective communication especially during the changing times driven by technology, dubbed the 4th revolution. More work is to be done in order to achieve the effective communication, in the following study research area for the construction industry; the alignment of tools and processes, change management and Performance KPIs for the construction industry. These factors present a huge challenge in a fragmented and adversarial industry which is inherently resistant to change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering,the Built Environment and Information technology,2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Chikandiwa,Yeaukai Memory
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Construction --Management -- South Africa , Project Management , Communication
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52594 , vital:43692
- Description: A lack of effective communication has often resulted in information bottlenecks and conflicts in the execution of construction projects and is the primary cause of problems such as delays, increased project cost, reduced roductivity, loss of profit, or damaged professional or business relationships within the construction Industry. Despite all the advancement in the communication and integration tools in a drive to optimize the construction industry, this challenge still remains. In order to address this problem, this research project sought to determine the key elements that constitute effective communication and its importance to the successful projects delivery within the construction industry. A survey design which involved a sample study of a representative population through the use of a questionnaire was used. The research population comprised of all design consultants. The research found that, Common tools and processes, Good change management, PM best practices & Performance KPIs and resources are the main missing elements respectively for effective communication, which foster the conflicts inherent within the industry. The following key factors are however mostly present in project team; well-articulated project scope, quality information exchange and commendable people, cultures and behaviour. Informational asymmetries, misrepresentation, poor PM skills hinders effective communication and often results in project failure. There is therefore need to concertize the design professionals on the importance of effective communication and enlighten them on the dynamics involved. The construction industry is inherently complex, multi-disciplinary, fragmented, sporadic, dynamic and generally resistant to change. Hence, the need for rigorous research and feed back to the design professionals on effective communication especially during the changing times driven by technology, dubbed the 4th revolution. More work is to be done in order to achieve the effective communication, in the following study research area for the construction industry; the alignment of tools and processes, change management and Performance KPIs for the construction industry. These factors present a huge challenge in a fragmented and adversarial industry which is inherently resistant to change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering,the Built Environment and Information technology,2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A promising biological control agent for the invasive alien plant, Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae), in South Africa
- Paterson, Iain D, Mdodana, Lumka A, Mpekula, Ongezwa, Mabunda, Bheki D, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Paterson, Iain D , Mdodana, Lumka A , Mpekula, Ongezwa , Mabunda, Bheki D , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416806 , vital:71387 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2014.919439"
- Description: Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae) is an invasive alien plant from Central and South America that has become a problematic environmental weed in South Africa. A potential biological control agent, the stem-wilter, Catorhintha schaffneri Brailovsky and Garcia (Coreidae), was collected in southern Brazil and imported into quarantine in South Africa. Field host range data suggested that C. schaffneri has a host range restricted to P. aculeata. No-choice nymph survival tests were then conducted on 27 test plant species in 9 families. Survival to the adult stage was only recorded on P. aculeata and the closely related Pereskia grandifolia Haw. (Cactaceae). Mortality was significantly higher on P. grandifolia with only 3% of the nymphs reaching the adult stage compared with 74% on P. aculeata indicating that P. aculeata is the primary host plant. P. grandifolia is native in South America and is of no agricultural importance in South Africa so any feeding on P. grandifolia in South Africa would have no negative environmental or economic consequences. In other tests, adult survival on P. aculeata [25.8 days (SE ± 3.74)] was significantly longer than on other test plant species [4.3 days (SE ± 0.36)] further confirming the host specificity of the species. Impact studies conducted in quarantine indicated that C. schaffneri is damaging to P. aculeata, significantly reducing the number of leaves and the shoot lengths of plants, even at relatively low insect densities. C. schaffneri is safe for release in South Africa and is likely to be a damaging and effective agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Paterson, Iain D , Mdodana, Lumka A , Mpekula, Ongezwa , Mabunda, Bheki D , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/416806 , vital:71387 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2014.919439"
- Description: Pereskia aculeata Miller (Cactaceae) is an invasive alien plant from Central and South America that has become a problematic environmental weed in South Africa. A potential biological control agent, the stem-wilter, Catorhintha schaffneri Brailovsky and Garcia (Coreidae), was collected in southern Brazil and imported into quarantine in South Africa. Field host range data suggested that C. schaffneri has a host range restricted to P. aculeata. No-choice nymph survival tests were then conducted on 27 test plant species in 9 families. Survival to the adult stage was only recorded on P. aculeata and the closely related Pereskia grandifolia Haw. (Cactaceae). Mortality was significantly higher on P. grandifolia with only 3% of the nymphs reaching the adult stage compared with 74% on P. aculeata indicating that P. aculeata is the primary host plant. P. grandifolia is native in South America and is of no agricultural importance in South Africa so any feeding on P. grandifolia in South Africa would have no negative environmental or economic consequences. In other tests, adult survival on P. aculeata [25.8 days (SE ± 3.74)] was significantly longer than on other test plant species [4.3 days (SE ± 0.36)] further confirming the host specificity of the species. Impact studies conducted in quarantine indicated that C. schaffneri is damaging to P. aculeata, significantly reducing the number of leaves and the shoot lengths of plants, even at relatively low insect densities. C. schaffneri is safe for release in South Africa and is likely to be a damaging and effective agent.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A proposed management framework for water stewardship for small business in South Africa
- Authors: Huxtable, Collette
- Date: 2022-12-12
- Subjects: Water-supply Management , Small business South Africa , Water-supply Economic aspects , Triple bottom line , Sustainable development reporting , Competitive advantage
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419090 , vital:71615
- Description: Climate change, severe weather events, population growth and, urbanisation are just a few of the leading causes contributing to the global water crisis. This global water crisis is negatively impacting the environment, and society, which includes business (large and small). Businesses are facing many water risks and challenges in their daily operations, such as water scarcity, water stress and water pollution, which are resulting in them being negatively impacted financially. For all business to overcome these risks and challenges which are negatively impacting their operations and to assist in protecting the scarce water resources left on the planet, the implementation of water stewardship practices will play a very important role. The literature has fallen short in addressing water stewardship frameworks and practices for small business. Through a sustainability lens underpinned by Natural Resource Based View Theory, this research study sets out to develop a water stewardship framework for implementation by small business to provide them with a competitive advantage. By reviewing the current literature and frameworks available to large business organisations, the insights gained allowed for a draft water stewardship framework to be developed from this literature, suitable for small business. This draft water stewardship framework for small business was used to gather further information on its suitability for small business, through an interview process. A qualitative interview process with seven small businesses in Makhanda (South Africa), allowed for data to be gathered and used to refine and adjust the draft water stewardship framework for small business. The findings from this research study show that small business do not have a global awareness of water problems and are not aware of the concept of water stewardship. Small business were very receptive to the draft water stewardship framework for small business and felt that its implementation would make a difference in saving scarce water resources and create a competitive advantage for them. The study concludes by recommending a water stewardship framework for small business (WSF4SB), who will play a leading role in fighting the water crisis. The implementation of the WSF4SB aims to provide small business with a sustainable competitive advantage by looking after scarce water resources ensuring there is sufficient water for current and future generations. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12-12
- Authors: Huxtable, Collette
- Date: 2022-12-12
- Subjects: Water-supply Management , Small business South Africa , Water-supply Economic aspects , Triple bottom line , Sustainable development reporting , Competitive advantage
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/419090 , vital:71615
- Description: Climate change, severe weather events, population growth and, urbanisation are just a few of the leading causes contributing to the global water crisis. This global water crisis is negatively impacting the environment, and society, which includes business (large and small). Businesses are facing many water risks and challenges in their daily operations, such as water scarcity, water stress and water pollution, which are resulting in them being negatively impacted financially. For all business to overcome these risks and challenges which are negatively impacting their operations and to assist in protecting the scarce water resources left on the planet, the implementation of water stewardship practices will play a very important role. The literature has fallen short in addressing water stewardship frameworks and practices for small business. Through a sustainability lens underpinned by Natural Resource Based View Theory, this research study sets out to develop a water stewardship framework for implementation by small business to provide them with a competitive advantage. By reviewing the current literature and frameworks available to large business organisations, the insights gained allowed for a draft water stewardship framework to be developed from this literature, suitable for small business. This draft water stewardship framework for small business was used to gather further information on its suitability for small business, through an interview process. A qualitative interview process with seven small businesses in Makhanda (South Africa), allowed for data to be gathered and used to refine and adjust the draft water stewardship framework for small business. The findings from this research study show that small business do not have a global awareness of water problems and are not aware of the concept of water stewardship. Small business were very receptive to the draft water stewardship framework for small business and felt that its implementation would make a difference in saving scarce water resources and create a competitive advantage for them. The study concludes by recommending a water stewardship framework for small business (WSF4SB), who will play a leading role in fighting the water crisis. The implementation of the WSF4SB aims to provide small business with a sustainable competitive advantage by looking after scarce water resources ensuring there is sufficient water for current and future generations. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12-12
A Psychobiography of the late Milase Jumartha Majola (néé Moyake)- 1932 - 2021
- Authors: Mbambo-Tom, Thembeka Esther
- Date: 2022-10
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27640 , vital:69379
- Description: This study is a psychobiography of a Black South African Woman, Milase Jumartha Majola (néé Moyake), herein fondly referred to as ‘Mrs Majola’. Mrs Majola is not an icon in the general sense, but yet a definite unsung hero for many in her community. In her 89 years, she has touched many people’s lives and left a vast imprint in the community. Mrs Majola has been identified as a psychobiographical subject for this study based on her exemplary and extraordinary endeavours, which contributed significantly to the psycho-social well-being of the youth and the elderly within Port Elizabeth townships (now known as Gqeberha). The main objective of this study was to explore and describe Mrs Majola’s psychosocial development. Her psycho-social development was studied through the PERMA Theory of well-being lens and transformed into a narrative to understand better what made her a remarkable individual. Data was gathered from primary and secondary sources to enrich the psychobiography and qualitatively analysed. The findings show that Mrs Majola could balance her life in a way supported by the PERMA Theory of well-being. Results demonstrate her ability to understand and manage her Positive (negative) emotions, Engagements, Relationships, Meaningfulness, and Accomplishments as a mother, co-worker and community leader, which created numerous success stories during her tenure. Even though Mrs Majola experienced many hardships in life, such as losing her husband at the young age of 39, she always stayed positive and successfully used her inner strength to motivate her to keep living her purpose in life. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10
- Authors: Mbambo-Tom, Thembeka Esther
- Date: 2022-10
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27640 , vital:69379
- Description: This study is a psychobiography of a Black South African Woman, Milase Jumartha Majola (néé Moyake), herein fondly referred to as ‘Mrs Majola’. Mrs Majola is not an icon in the general sense, but yet a definite unsung hero for many in her community. In her 89 years, she has touched many people’s lives and left a vast imprint in the community. Mrs Majola has been identified as a psychobiographical subject for this study based on her exemplary and extraordinary endeavours, which contributed significantly to the psycho-social well-being of the youth and the elderly within Port Elizabeth townships (now known as Gqeberha). The main objective of this study was to explore and describe Mrs Majola’s psychosocial development. Her psycho-social development was studied through the PERMA Theory of well-being lens and transformed into a narrative to understand better what made her a remarkable individual. Data was gathered from primary and secondary sources to enrich the psychobiography and qualitatively analysed. The findings show that Mrs Majola could balance her life in a way supported by the PERMA Theory of well-being. Results demonstrate her ability to understand and manage her Positive (negative) emotions, Engagements, Relationships, Meaningfulness, and Accomplishments as a mother, co-worker and community leader, which created numerous success stories during her tenure. Even though Mrs Majola experienced many hardships in life, such as losing her husband at the young age of 39, she always stayed positive and successfully used her inner strength to motivate her to keep living her purpose in life. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10
A psycholinguistic investigation of orthographic neighbourhood effects in reading and spelling in isiXhosa
- Authors: Cox, Paige Samantha
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Literacy , Xhosa language Orthography and spelling , Psycholinguistics , Word recognition , Reading , Orthographic neighbourhood effects
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/404916 , vital:70121
- Description: Despite increased research interest in recent years in the metalinguistic skills underpinning reading in the Southern Bantu languages, little work has been done on the underlying microlinguistic layer. This refers to the actual mechanical underpinnings of linguistic skills; zooming in on micro-language structures so as to explicate our understanding of how reading works. One such microlinguistic phenomenon is the effect of orthographic neighbours on reading and writing. Research has found predominantly faciliatory neighbourhood effects for English word reading (Andrews, 1997; Siakaluk, Sears & Lupker, 2002; Yarkoni, Balota & Yap, 2008). Specifically, words with more orthographic neighbours have faster response times in lexical decision and naming tasks. However, in languages such as Spanish and French, inhibitory neighbourhood effects are reported (Grainger & Jacobs, 1996; Carreiras, Perea & Grainger, 1997). These findings highlight the language-specific nature of orthographic neighbourhood effects (Andrews, 1997), and the necessity for language- specific investigations of these effects. This thesis investigates the linguistic properties of orthographic neighbours in isiXhosa, thereby developing a database of orthographic neighbourhoods in isiXhosa. Further, this research explores the interaction between orthographic neighbourhood density and neighbourhood frequency with three literacy skills: lexical decision response time, word reading accuracy, and spelling accuracy. Data were collected from 97 isiXhosa grade three learners from five schools in KwaNobuhle Township in the Eastern Cape. A corpus of 170 000 tokens of isiXhosa words (Rees & Randera, 2017) was used to compile a database of orthographic neighbourhoods for 30 real, and 30 pseudowords which ranged in orthographic neighbourhood density and neighbourhood frequency, whilst controlling for word length and word frequency. Using this database, lexical decision, word reading, and spelling tasks were designed and administered to the participants. Findings indicate a significant inhibitory effect of orthographic neighbourhood frequency on spelling accuracy. Words with high neighbourhood frequencies are more likely to be spelt incorrectly. There was no observed effect of orthographic neighbourhoods on lexical decision response time and word reading accuracy. These results are interpreted within connectionist and search models of orthographic processing. Specifically, the findings indicate a partial reliance on lexical processing strategies when spelling. That is, orthographic neighbours compete for lexical access when spelling. Education practitioners may wish to present learners with lists of orthographic neighbours when introducing novel words so as to make explicit the fine grain differences between words in the language. This also means that future research will need to develop a larger repository of orthographic neighbours in isiXhosa that can be made available for pedagogical purposes. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
- Authors: Cox, Paige Samantha
- Date: 2022-10-14
- Subjects: Literacy , Xhosa language Orthography and spelling , Psycholinguistics , Word recognition , Reading , Orthographic neighbourhood effects
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/404916 , vital:70121
- Description: Despite increased research interest in recent years in the metalinguistic skills underpinning reading in the Southern Bantu languages, little work has been done on the underlying microlinguistic layer. This refers to the actual mechanical underpinnings of linguistic skills; zooming in on micro-language structures so as to explicate our understanding of how reading works. One such microlinguistic phenomenon is the effect of orthographic neighbours on reading and writing. Research has found predominantly faciliatory neighbourhood effects for English word reading (Andrews, 1997; Siakaluk, Sears & Lupker, 2002; Yarkoni, Balota & Yap, 2008). Specifically, words with more orthographic neighbours have faster response times in lexical decision and naming tasks. However, in languages such as Spanish and French, inhibitory neighbourhood effects are reported (Grainger & Jacobs, 1996; Carreiras, Perea & Grainger, 1997). These findings highlight the language-specific nature of orthographic neighbourhood effects (Andrews, 1997), and the necessity for language- specific investigations of these effects. This thesis investigates the linguistic properties of orthographic neighbours in isiXhosa, thereby developing a database of orthographic neighbourhoods in isiXhosa. Further, this research explores the interaction between orthographic neighbourhood density and neighbourhood frequency with three literacy skills: lexical decision response time, word reading accuracy, and spelling accuracy. Data were collected from 97 isiXhosa grade three learners from five schools in KwaNobuhle Township in the Eastern Cape. A corpus of 170 000 tokens of isiXhosa words (Rees & Randera, 2017) was used to compile a database of orthographic neighbourhoods for 30 real, and 30 pseudowords which ranged in orthographic neighbourhood density and neighbourhood frequency, whilst controlling for word length and word frequency. Using this database, lexical decision, word reading, and spelling tasks were designed and administered to the participants. Findings indicate a significant inhibitory effect of orthographic neighbourhood frequency on spelling accuracy. Words with high neighbourhood frequencies are more likely to be spelt incorrectly. There was no observed effect of orthographic neighbourhoods on lexical decision response time and word reading accuracy. These results are interpreted within connectionist and search models of orthographic processing. Specifically, the findings indicate a partial reliance on lexical processing strategies when spelling. That is, orthographic neighbours compete for lexical access when spelling. Education practitioners may wish to present learners with lists of orthographic neighbours when introducing novel words so as to make explicit the fine grain differences between words in the language. This also means that future research will need to develop a larger repository of orthographic neighbours in isiXhosa that can be made available for pedagogical purposes. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Linguistics and Applied Language Studies, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-10-14
A qualitative analysis of the formation and maintenance of the franchisee/franchisor relationship
- Authors: Rodgerson, Jeffrey David
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Franchises (Retail trade) South Africa , RE/MAX (Firm) , Industrial management South Africa , Entrepreneurship South Africa , Prediction of occupational success South Africa , Success in business South Africa , Business ethics South Africa , International Franchise Association
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190782 , vital:45027
- Description: A number of studies have examined the franchisee/franchisor relationship to investigate how to select the correct franchisee and, subsequently, how to maintain a productive franchisee/franchisor relationship. A literature review was therefore conducted on the selection process and the maintenance of the franchisee/ franchisor relationship. The literature suggests that a set of selection criteria to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship has not been clearly identified. Therefore, this study’s first objectives are: 1) the selection criteria that are used by the franchisor in selecting franchisees. Specifically, how RE/MAX South Africa selects local franchisees; and 2) how the franchisor manages the relationship to ensure compliance by the franchisees who have been selected. For this study, the selection criteria identified by Nevin (1999) and Olm et al. (1988) will serve as the basis of the first part of the study. The four selection criteria categories that have been identified by Nevin (1999) include: financial capability; experience and management skill; demographic characteristics; and attitude towards business. The literature reveals that the viewpoint of the franchisee is often overlooked by researchers, and yet the need of the franchisee should be ascertained to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship. The literature has indicated that if the franchisors can keep the franchisees satisfied, the opportunity of franchise success and gaining franchisee compliance is much greater. In other words, if a franchisor can attain the correct people and know exactly what they want out of a franchise relationship, this will provide the franchise with a greater chance of success. The third objective of this research is, therefore, to analyse – from the perspective of both franchisees and their franchisor - how the relationship between them is maintained, and ultimately how the franchisor gains compliance from the franchisees. The model of Trust and Compliance (Davies, Lassar, Manolis, Prince and Winsor, 2011), which sets out the relationship between satisfaction, conflict, trust and compliance, was used to examine the franchisee/franchisor relationship. The practices of RE/MAX South Africa served as a case study for this research. Interviews were conducted, with the CEO and five franchisees, to identify the criteria used to select franchisees and gain a holistic understanding of the process of maintaining the relationship. The interview questions were structured using the Davies et al (2011) Model of Trust and Compliance. The data analysis technique that was used to analyse the interviews was thematic analysis. The findings firstly revealed that due to the fluid and low barriers to entry within the real estate industry, RE/MAX as an organisation does not have a standardised set of selection criteria but that an in-house guideline, called the RE/MAX Formula, was vital to this selection process. Secondly, in maintaining the franchisee/franchisor relationship and referring to the four factors of the trust and compliance model (Davies et al., 2011), the following key findings were noted. Firstly, the relationship between satisfaction and trust was primarily based around reciprocation within the franchisee/franchisor relationship. Secondly, various sources of conflict were identified, and it was noted that if conflict was not dealt with adequately, there was a breakdown of trust within the relationship. Finally, the building of trust was based on transparency, accountability, goal congruency and credibility. Recommendations for franchise management and further research were made. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Rodgerson, Jeffrey David
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Franchises (Retail trade) South Africa , RE/MAX (Firm) , Industrial management South Africa , Entrepreneurship South Africa , Prediction of occupational success South Africa , Success in business South Africa , Business ethics South Africa , International Franchise Association
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/190782 , vital:45027
- Description: A number of studies have examined the franchisee/franchisor relationship to investigate how to select the correct franchisee and, subsequently, how to maintain a productive franchisee/franchisor relationship. A literature review was therefore conducted on the selection process and the maintenance of the franchisee/ franchisor relationship. The literature suggests that a set of selection criteria to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship has not been clearly identified. Therefore, this study’s first objectives are: 1) the selection criteria that are used by the franchisor in selecting franchisees. Specifically, how RE/MAX South Africa selects local franchisees; and 2) how the franchisor manages the relationship to ensure compliance by the franchisees who have been selected. For this study, the selection criteria identified by Nevin (1999) and Olm et al. (1988) will serve as the basis of the first part of the study. The four selection criteria categories that have been identified by Nevin (1999) include: financial capability; experience and management skill; demographic characteristics; and attitude towards business. The literature reveals that the viewpoint of the franchisee is often overlooked by researchers, and yet the need of the franchisee should be ascertained to increase the chance of a successful franchisee/franchisor relationship. The literature has indicated that if the franchisors can keep the franchisees satisfied, the opportunity of franchise success and gaining franchisee compliance is much greater. In other words, if a franchisor can attain the correct people and know exactly what they want out of a franchise relationship, this will provide the franchise with a greater chance of success. The third objective of this research is, therefore, to analyse – from the perspective of both franchisees and their franchisor - how the relationship between them is maintained, and ultimately how the franchisor gains compliance from the franchisees. The model of Trust and Compliance (Davies, Lassar, Manolis, Prince and Winsor, 2011), which sets out the relationship between satisfaction, conflict, trust and compliance, was used to examine the franchisee/franchisor relationship. The practices of RE/MAX South Africa served as a case study for this research. Interviews were conducted, with the CEO and five franchisees, to identify the criteria used to select franchisees and gain a holistic understanding of the process of maintaining the relationship. The interview questions were structured using the Davies et al (2011) Model of Trust and Compliance. The data analysis technique that was used to analyse the interviews was thematic analysis. The findings firstly revealed that due to the fluid and low barriers to entry within the real estate industry, RE/MAX as an organisation does not have a standardised set of selection criteria but that an in-house guideline, called the RE/MAX Formula, was vital to this selection process. Secondly, in maintaining the franchisee/franchisor relationship and referring to the four factors of the trust and compliance model (Davies et al., 2011), the following key findings were noted. Firstly, the relationship between satisfaction and trust was primarily based around reciprocation within the franchisee/franchisor relationship. Secondly, various sources of conflict were identified, and it was noted that if conflict was not dealt with adequately, there was a breakdown of trust within the relationship. Finally, the building of trust was based on transparency, accountability, goal congruency and credibility. Recommendations for franchise management and further research were made. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
A quantitative analysis of the relationship between the 12 components of the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and the Human Development Index (HDI) scores within the 16 Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations
- Authors: Peel, Brendon Robert
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Quantitative research , Economic development Developing countries , Economic development Africa, Sub-Saharan , Economic development projects Africa, Sub-Saharan , Heritage Foundation (South Africa) , United Nations Development Programme , Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) , Human Development Index (HDI) , Resource Based Theory (RBT)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191841 , vital:45171
- Description: Nations in Sub-Saharan Africa tend to experience some of the worst levels of human development and economic freedom in the world. Previous research has shown that there is a positive and significant correlation between these two macroeconomic facets. Further research has shown that if nations' policy-makers can manage their resources and capabilities appropriately, then this could improve their economic freedom and human development levels. This study aims to analyse the relationship between the scores of the 12 different components of the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and the overall Human Development Index (HDI) scores of Sub-Saharan African nations. The specific selection of nations utilised in the study are the 16 countries that make up the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Based on a review of the literature on human development, economic freedom, and the Resource Based Theory (RBT) on a macro-level, a correlational study was conducted to determine the relationship between the relevant variables. The information was collected from the Heritage Foundation and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), respectively. The data and scores collected and used in the study are from the years 2015 to 2019. The correlational results demonstrated that nine of the 12 components of the IEF has a positive and significant correlation with HDI within the selected African nations. The strongest correlation being between 'Property Rights' and HDI. Therefore, it is likely that if the property rights within a nation are upheld, said nation would have higher levels of human development. The three components that proved to have an insignificant result with HDI were; 'Tax Burden', 'Government Spending', and 'Fiscal Health'. The results indicate that all components that fall under the category of 'Government Size' share no significant correlational relationship with human development. It is recommended that governments and policy-makers take this into consideration when managing their resources and capabilities to improve the nation's human development. Further research is required to identify the specifics on how this management and allocation of resources can be utilised effectively to improve the human development and economic freedom in Sub-Saharan Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Peel, Brendon Robert
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community , Quantitative research , Economic development Developing countries , Economic development Africa, Sub-Saharan , Economic development projects Africa, Sub-Saharan , Heritage Foundation (South Africa) , United Nations Development Programme , Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) , Human Development Index (HDI) , Resource Based Theory (RBT)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/191841 , vital:45171
- Description: Nations in Sub-Saharan Africa tend to experience some of the worst levels of human development and economic freedom in the world. Previous research has shown that there is a positive and significant correlation between these two macroeconomic facets. Further research has shown that if nations' policy-makers can manage their resources and capabilities appropriately, then this could improve their economic freedom and human development levels. This study aims to analyse the relationship between the scores of the 12 different components of the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) and the overall Human Development Index (HDI) scores of Sub-Saharan African nations. The specific selection of nations utilised in the study are the 16 countries that make up the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Based on a review of the literature on human development, economic freedom, and the Resource Based Theory (RBT) on a macro-level, a correlational study was conducted to determine the relationship between the relevant variables. The information was collected from the Heritage Foundation and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), respectively. The data and scores collected and used in the study are from the years 2015 to 2019. The correlational results demonstrated that nine of the 12 components of the IEF has a positive and significant correlation with HDI within the selected African nations. The strongest correlation being between 'Property Rights' and HDI. Therefore, it is likely that if the property rights within a nation are upheld, said nation would have higher levels of human development. The three components that proved to have an insignificant result with HDI were; 'Tax Burden', 'Government Spending', and 'Fiscal Health'. The results indicate that all components that fall under the category of 'Government Size' share no significant correlational relationship with human development. It is recommended that governments and policy-makers take this into consideration when managing their resources and capabilities to improve the nation's human development. Further research is required to identify the specifics on how this management and allocation of resources can be utilised effectively to improve the human development and economic freedom in Sub-Saharan Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
A reasonably practicable health and safety programme for micro contractors in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Munnoo, Sanjay
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Industrial safety -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Safety measures , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58418 , vital:59198
- Description: Micro contractors (MCs) in construction are pivotal to the growth of the South African economy. The South African construction industry has world-class H&S legislation and regulation; however, frequent accidents occur at an alarmingly high level. Accident statistics presented in this thesis paint a worrying picture of a vicious cycle of recurrent accidents and injuries in the South African construction industry. Whilst governments planned National Development Programme will provide opportunities for MCs, in hindsight there’s dire need to have solid foundation of H&S development prior to MCs expanding operations into small and medium sized enterprises. The grouping of very small contractors into MCs under the definition of Schedule 1 of the National Small Business Act (NSBA) may result in fewer Health & Safety (H&S) initiatives aimed at the MCs, given the turnover limit has a maximum of R10 million per annum. The topic incorporated ’reasonably practicable’, to identify what MCs currently know, and ought to know, about the hazards or risks on construction sites, and then develop a pragmatic framework to eliminate or minimise risk. MCs generally did not understand H&S regulations hence carried out tasks for the sake of compliance. Punitive measures and enforcement of H&S regulations have done little to reduce the number of accidents. The study provided context for management and employees at MCs to approach H&S in a logical approach without circumventing H&S regulations. The challenges affecting MCs determined that there’s need for specialised H&S legislation and regulation to be developed for MCs that factors socio-economic challenges of literacy, skills, affordability, and poverty. Consequently, structured methods of support by stakeholders in the form of support and mentorship would result in a significant improvement of MCs’ H&S performance. Standards such as the ISO 45001:2018 state that it can be implemented for all size of construction firms. Whilst this standard may be suitable for MCs in developed countries there exists a vacuum in terms of its applicability to MCs in South Africa. The main objective was to develop a framework for MCs that will help to reduce accidents while simultaneously improving sustainability and service delivery. ii The research adopted an interpretivism philosophical position, which is reliant on people's views and conduct. The research applied deductive reasoning by survey technique and to construct a theory of H&S issues and corrective measures through research questions. The study adopted a mixed method research approach using a survey sent to the members of the South African Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Saiosh), persons registered with the South African South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP), and members of the Association of Construction Health and Safety Management (ACHSAM), and using the thematic analysis of data from 16 interviews representatives of member organisations, H&S consultants, and PCs. Accident statistics obtained from the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance (FEM) were also analysed. The study findings indicate that a reasonably practicable H&S programme must be developed for MCs due to the ‘onerous’ requirements arising from the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) and Construction Regulations (CR). The study determined that it would be unaffordable for MCs to implement and maintain the ISO 45001:2018 standard. H&S practices at MCs under guidance of a H&S practitioner can be deemed to be undertaken frequently, as opposed to infrequently, however, new entrant MCs struggled to comply with H&S legislation and regulations and that has resulted in a H&S culture being generally non-existent or difficult to establish. The significance of this study lies in the recommendations that are proposed. Effective H&S in MCs require greater support from the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL), member organisations and the PCs in construction. The study proposes that a national H&S logbook be set up to record H&S compliance and accidents at MCs. Furthermore, a phased approach should be instituted for improving H&S. These phases should include phase one, for new entrant MCs from zero to three years, phase two for MCs during the development and growth phase from three to five years, and MCs deemed competent with H&S should be encouraged or required to train and mentor new entrant MCs. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Munnoo, Sanjay
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Industrial safety -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Safety measures , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58418 , vital:59198
- Description: Micro contractors (MCs) in construction are pivotal to the growth of the South African economy. The South African construction industry has world-class H&S legislation and regulation; however, frequent accidents occur at an alarmingly high level. Accident statistics presented in this thesis paint a worrying picture of a vicious cycle of recurrent accidents and injuries in the South African construction industry. Whilst governments planned National Development Programme will provide opportunities for MCs, in hindsight there’s dire need to have solid foundation of H&S development prior to MCs expanding operations into small and medium sized enterprises. The grouping of very small contractors into MCs under the definition of Schedule 1 of the National Small Business Act (NSBA) may result in fewer Health & Safety (H&S) initiatives aimed at the MCs, given the turnover limit has a maximum of R10 million per annum. The topic incorporated ’reasonably practicable’, to identify what MCs currently know, and ought to know, about the hazards or risks on construction sites, and then develop a pragmatic framework to eliminate or minimise risk. MCs generally did not understand H&S regulations hence carried out tasks for the sake of compliance. Punitive measures and enforcement of H&S regulations have done little to reduce the number of accidents. The study provided context for management and employees at MCs to approach H&S in a logical approach without circumventing H&S regulations. The challenges affecting MCs determined that there’s need for specialised H&S legislation and regulation to be developed for MCs that factors socio-economic challenges of literacy, skills, affordability, and poverty. Consequently, structured methods of support by stakeholders in the form of support and mentorship would result in a significant improvement of MCs’ H&S performance. Standards such as the ISO 45001:2018 state that it can be implemented for all size of construction firms. Whilst this standard may be suitable for MCs in developed countries there exists a vacuum in terms of its applicability to MCs in South Africa. The main objective was to develop a framework for MCs that will help to reduce accidents while simultaneously improving sustainability and service delivery. ii The research adopted an interpretivism philosophical position, which is reliant on people's views and conduct. The research applied deductive reasoning by survey technique and to construct a theory of H&S issues and corrective measures through research questions. The study adopted a mixed method research approach using a survey sent to the members of the South African Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Saiosh), persons registered with the South African South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP), and members of the Association of Construction Health and Safety Management (ACHSAM), and using the thematic analysis of data from 16 interviews representatives of member organisations, H&S consultants, and PCs. Accident statistics obtained from the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance (FEM) were also analysed. The study findings indicate that a reasonably practicable H&S programme must be developed for MCs due to the ‘onerous’ requirements arising from the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) and Construction Regulations (CR). The study determined that it would be unaffordable for MCs to implement and maintain the ISO 45001:2018 standard. H&S practices at MCs under guidance of a H&S practitioner can be deemed to be undertaken frequently, as opposed to infrequently, however, new entrant MCs struggled to comply with H&S legislation and regulations and that has resulted in a H&S culture being generally non-existent or difficult to establish. The significance of this study lies in the recommendations that are proposed. Effective H&S in MCs require greater support from the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL), member organisations and the PCs in construction. The study proposes that a national H&S logbook be set up to record H&S compliance and accidents at MCs. Furthermore, a phased approach should be instituted for improving H&S. These phases should include phase one, for new entrant MCs from zero to three years, phase two for MCs during the development and growth phase from three to five years, and MCs deemed competent with H&S should be encouraged or required to train and mentor new entrant MCs. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process
- Authors: Kinsman, Estonia Jasmine
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Affluent consumers
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60786 , vital:67404
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. Key words: Black households; CFP® professionals; culture; diverse needs; reconceptualisation; six-step financial planning process. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kinsman, Estonia Jasmine
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Affluent consumers
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60786 , vital:67404
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. Key words: Black households; CFP® professionals; culture; diverse needs; reconceptualisation; six-step financial planning process. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process
- Authors: Kinsman, Jasmine Estonia
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Business enterprises--Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61442 , vital:70648
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kinsman, Jasmine Estonia
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Business enterprises--Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61442 , vital:70648
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A reflection on the use of case studies as a methodology for social learning research in sub Saharan Africa
- Cundill, Georgina, Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, 1965-, Mukute, Mutizwa, Ali, Million Belay, Shackleton, Sheona E, Kulundu-Bolus, Injairu M
- Authors: Cundill, Georgina , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, 1965- , Mukute, Mutizwa , Ali, Million Belay , Shackleton, Sheona E , Kulundu-Bolus, Injairu M
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/182832 , vital:43884 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.njas.2013.04.001"
- Description: A recent review has highlighted that the methodology most commonly employed to research social learning has been the individual case study. We draw on four examples of social learning research in the environmental and sustainability sciences from sub-Saharan Africa to reflect on possible reasons behind the preponderance of case study research in this field, and to identify common elements that may be significant for social learning research more generally. We find that a common interest in change oriented social learning, and therefore processes of change, makes case studies a necessary approach because long term process analyses are required that are sensitive to social-ecological contexts. Common elements of the examples reflected upon included: a focus on initiating, tracking and/or understanding a process of change toward sustainability; long term research; an action research agenda that involves reflecting on data with research participants; and temporal, process based analysis of data coupled with in-depth theoretical analysis. This paper highlights that there is significant scope for exploratory research that compares case studies of social learning research to generate a deeper understanding of social learning processes, and their relationship to human agency and societal change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Cundill, Georgina , Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, 1965- , Mukute, Mutizwa , Ali, Million Belay , Shackleton, Sheona E , Kulundu-Bolus, Injairu M
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/182832 , vital:43884 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.njas.2013.04.001"
- Description: A recent review has highlighted that the methodology most commonly employed to research social learning has been the individual case study. We draw on four examples of social learning research in the environmental and sustainability sciences from sub-Saharan Africa to reflect on possible reasons behind the preponderance of case study research in this field, and to identify common elements that may be significant for social learning research more generally. We find that a common interest in change oriented social learning, and therefore processes of change, makes case studies a necessary approach because long term process analyses are required that are sensitive to social-ecological contexts. Common elements of the examples reflected upon included: a focus on initiating, tracking and/or understanding a process of change toward sustainability; long term research; an action research agenda that involves reflecting on data with research participants; and temporal, process based analysis of data coupled with in-depth theoretical analysis. This paper highlights that there is significant scope for exploratory research that compares case studies of social learning research to generate a deeper understanding of social learning processes, and their relationship to human agency and societal change.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
A reflective multiple case study approach to understanding partner relationships within the context of community engagement at Rhodes University
- Authors: Bobo, Azola Benita Dorothea
- Date: 2021-05-06
- Subjects: Community development South Africa Makhanda , Community and college South Africa Makhanda , Community psychology South Africa Makhanda , Decolonization South Africa , Social action South Africa Makhanda , Transformative learning South Africa Makhanda , Rhodes University , Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE)
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/253854 , vital:52406 , DOI 10.21504/10962/253854
- Description: Using a social constructivist approach, within the social action model of community psychology, this research interrogates the features of successful community engagement partnerships that exist within the context of higher education. It draws on the co-management model that the Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE) division proposes, where partnerships are seen to be mutually beneficial. This research further interrogates whether the principles of community engagement that RUCE propose play out in reality, and whether systems of power are deconstructed, in working towards more equitable engagements. Drawing on the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Residence Programme for case studies, this research used a reflective multiple case study design in attempting to answer the research question. Four partner groups (i.e., 4 community partners and 4 community engagement representatives) were selected for this research. Each participant was interviewed twice (with a 6-month time gap) and also participated in two focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the findings. In taking a social justice approach, it can be argued that RUCE has made strides towards forming collaborative partnerships based on the ethics of ubuntu and aspects of transformative learning, which may lead to the decolonisation of higher education. However, critical engagement with the research findings suggests that in many cases the principles that RUCE propose are aspirational. More work needs to be done with both students and community partners to develop the kinds of partnerships that RUCE aspires to. This research provides valuable insight into how carefully managed community engagement partnerships in higher education have the potential to contribute to the transformation agenda of higher education institutions, while promoting equitable societies. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-05-06
- Authors: Bobo, Azola Benita Dorothea
- Date: 2021-05-06
- Subjects: Community development South Africa Makhanda , Community and college South Africa Makhanda , Community psychology South Africa Makhanda , Decolonization South Africa , Social action South Africa Makhanda , Transformative learning South Africa Makhanda , Rhodes University , Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE)
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/253854 , vital:52406 , DOI 10.21504/10962/253854
- Description: Using a social constructivist approach, within the social action model of community psychology, this research interrogates the features of successful community engagement partnerships that exist within the context of higher education. It draws on the co-management model that the Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE) division proposes, where partnerships are seen to be mutually beneficial. This research further interrogates whether the principles of community engagement that RUCE propose play out in reality, and whether systems of power are deconstructed, in working towards more equitable engagements. Drawing on the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Residence Programme for case studies, this research used a reflective multiple case study design in attempting to answer the research question. Four partner groups (i.e., 4 community partners and 4 community engagement representatives) were selected for this research. Each participant was interviewed twice (with a 6-month time gap) and also participated in two focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the findings. In taking a social justice approach, it can be argued that RUCE has made strides towards forming collaborative partnerships based on the ethics of ubuntu and aspects of transformative learning, which may lead to the decolonisation of higher education. However, critical engagement with the research findings suggests that in many cases the principles that RUCE propose are aspirational. More work needs to be done with both students and community partners to develop the kinds of partnerships that RUCE aspires to. This research provides valuable insight into how carefully managed community engagement partnerships in higher education have the potential to contribute to the transformation agenda of higher education institutions, while promoting equitable societies. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Psychology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-05-06
A relational approach to landscape stewardship: Towards a new perspective for multi-actor collaboration
- Cockburn, Jessica J, Rosenberg, Eureta, Copteros, Athina, Cornelius, Susanna F, Libala, Notiswa, Metcalfe, Liz, van der Waal, Benjamin
- Authors: Cockburn, Jessica J , Rosenberg, Eureta , Copteros, Athina , Cornelius, Susanna F , Libala, Notiswa , Metcalfe, Liz , van der Waal, Benjamin
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/370098 , vital:66297 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/land9070224"
- Description: Landscape stewardship is increasingly understood within the framing of complex social-ecological systems. To consider the implications of this, we focus on one of the key characteristics of complex social-ecological systems: they are relationally constituted, meaning that system characteristics emerge out of dynamic relations between system components. We focus on multi-actor collaboration as a key form of relationality in landscapes, seeking a more textured understanding of the social relations between landscape actors. We draw on a set of ‘gardening tools’ to analyse the boundary-crossing work of multi-actor collaboration. These tools comprise three key concepts: relational expertise, common knowledge, and relational agency. We apply the tools to two cases of landscape stewardship in South Africa: the Langkloof Region and the Tsitsa River catchment. These landscapes are characterised by economically, socio-culturally, and politically diverse groups of actors. Our analysis reveals that history and context strongly influence relational processes, that boundary-crossing work is indeed difficult, and that doing boundary-crossing work in smaller pockets within a landscape is helpful. The tools also helped to identify three key social-relational practices which lend a new perspective on boundary-crossing work: 1. belonging while differing, 2. growing together by interacting regularly and building common knowledge, and 3. learning and adapting together with humility and empathy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Cockburn, Jessica J , Rosenberg, Eureta , Copteros, Athina , Cornelius, Susanna F , Libala, Notiswa , Metcalfe, Liz , van der Waal, Benjamin
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/370098 , vital:66297 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.3390/land9070224"
- Description: Landscape stewardship is increasingly understood within the framing of complex social-ecological systems. To consider the implications of this, we focus on one of the key characteristics of complex social-ecological systems: they are relationally constituted, meaning that system characteristics emerge out of dynamic relations between system components. We focus on multi-actor collaboration as a key form of relationality in landscapes, seeking a more textured understanding of the social relations between landscape actors. We draw on a set of ‘gardening tools’ to analyse the boundary-crossing work of multi-actor collaboration. These tools comprise three key concepts: relational expertise, common knowledge, and relational agency. We apply the tools to two cases of landscape stewardship in South Africa: the Langkloof Region and the Tsitsa River catchment. These landscapes are characterised by economically, socio-culturally, and politically diverse groups of actors. Our analysis reveals that history and context strongly influence relational processes, that boundary-crossing work is indeed difficult, and that doing boundary-crossing work in smaller pockets within a landscape is helpful. The tools also helped to identify three key social-relational practices which lend a new perspective on boundary-crossing work: 1. belonging while differing, 2. growing together by interacting regularly and building common knowledge, and 3. learning and adapting together with humility and empathy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
A research tool for analysing and monitoring the Extent to which Environmental issues are integrated into teachers’ lessons
- Authors: Nsubuga, Yvonne
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/386447 , vital:68142 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/sajee/article/view/122246"
- Description: South Africa enjoys strong policy support for the integration of environmental issues into school curricula. However, much doubt exists over the extent to which this has been converted into appropriate classroom practice at the majority of under-resourced rural schools in the country. This article reports on a study which piloted a research tool which can be used to analyse teachers’ lessons, with the aim of gaining insight into the extent to which they integrate natural resource management issues. The research tool was based on Bernstein’s concept of classification and consisted of five indicators of natural resource management integration into Life Sciences lessons. The study contributes to the design of research tools that can be used to analyse and monitor the integration of environmental issues into teachers’ lessons. It also provides some insight into the environmental content of a sample of Grade 10 Life Sciences lessons at four rural underresourced schools in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Nsubuga, Yvonne
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/386447 , vital:68142 , xlink:href="https://www.ajol.info/index.php/sajee/article/view/122246"
- Description: South Africa enjoys strong policy support for the integration of environmental issues into school curricula. However, much doubt exists over the extent to which this has been converted into appropriate classroom practice at the majority of under-resourced rural schools in the country. This article reports on a study which piloted a research tool which can be used to analyse teachers’ lessons, with the aim of gaining insight into the extent to which they integrate natural resource management issues. The research tool was based on Bernstein’s concept of classification and consisted of five indicators of natural resource management integration into Life Sciences lessons. The study contributes to the design of research tools that can be used to analyse and monitor the integration of environmental issues into teachers’ lessons. It also provides some insight into the environmental content of a sample of Grade 10 Life Sciences lessons at four rural underresourced schools in the Eastern Cape.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
A retrospective study of antimicrobial prescribing practices in paediatric patients at the Mahalapye District Hospital, Central Botswana
- Authors: Nyawera, Angella
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Anti-infective agents Botswana Mahalapye , Drug resistance , Pediatrics Botswana Mahalapye , Pediatrics Formulae, receipts, prescriptions , Drugs Prescribing Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290682 , vital:56774
- Description: Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been linked to the increased and irrational use of antimicrobial medicines. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial prescribing practices in the paediatric medical ward at Mahalapye District Hospital (MDH) in Botswana and to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were being implemented at the hospital. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive, mixed methods, observational approach was taken in this study. The study site was the paediatric medical ward (PMW) at MDH. Information about the antimicrobials prescribed for paediatric patients from January 2018 to December 2018 was collected from patients’ information files and compared to national antimicrobial prescribing guidelines to determine prescribers’ adherence. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with members of staff at MDH to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were adopted at the hospital. Results A total of 278 patients were included in this study, 12 of these were admitted twice during the study period. In total 290 admissions were analysed, with 659 antimicrobial medicines prescribed. The most common diagnoses were pneumonia (36.9%), acute gastroenteritis (20.7%), upper respiratory tract infections (3.4%), and bronchiolitis (3.1%). The most prescribed antimicrobials were ampicillin (21.4%), gentamicin (21.2%), and cefotaxime (8.3%). Adherence to guidelines was relatively good, with 82.7% of antimicrobials prescribed for the patients in the study having been prescribed in compliance with the national prescribing guidelines. The semi-structured interviews highlighted the fact that staff knew about AMS and AMR in general, however awareness of an AMS committee at MDH varied. The AMS committee was a multidisciplinary committee, which was a subcommittee of the Drugs and Therapeutics Committee (DTC). Discussion and Conclusion The results suggest that adherence to prescribing guidelines was relatively high compared to other paediatric antimicrobial utilisation studies in African countries. Prescribing of antimicrobial medicines was consistent with other African countries. The long period of time that it takes for microbiological test results to become available means that most prescribers rely on empirical prescribing. The antimicrobial committee is a multidisciplinary committee with defined roles for its members, consistent with international guidelines for implementing an AMS committee at a hospital. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
- Authors: Nyawera, Angella
- Date: 2022-04-06
- Subjects: Anti-infective agents Botswana Mahalapye , Drug resistance , Pediatrics Botswana Mahalapye , Pediatrics Formulae, receipts, prescriptions , Drugs Prescribing Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/290682 , vital:56774
- Description: Background: The development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been linked to the increased and irrational use of antimicrobial medicines. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial prescribing practices in the paediatric medical ward at Mahalapye District Hospital (MDH) in Botswana and to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were being implemented at the hospital. Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive, mixed methods, observational approach was taken in this study. The study site was the paediatric medical ward (PMW) at MDH. Information about the antimicrobials prescribed for paediatric patients from January 2018 to December 2018 was collected from patients’ information files and compared to national antimicrobial prescribing guidelines to determine prescribers’ adherence. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with members of staff at MDH to determine whether antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) measures were adopted at the hospital. Results A total of 278 patients were included in this study, 12 of these were admitted twice during the study period. In total 290 admissions were analysed, with 659 antimicrobial medicines prescribed. The most common diagnoses were pneumonia (36.9%), acute gastroenteritis (20.7%), upper respiratory tract infections (3.4%), and bronchiolitis (3.1%). The most prescribed antimicrobials were ampicillin (21.4%), gentamicin (21.2%), and cefotaxime (8.3%). Adherence to guidelines was relatively good, with 82.7% of antimicrobials prescribed for the patients in the study having been prescribed in compliance with the national prescribing guidelines. The semi-structured interviews highlighted the fact that staff knew about AMS and AMR in general, however awareness of an AMS committee at MDH varied. The AMS committee was a multidisciplinary committee, which was a subcommittee of the Drugs and Therapeutics Committee (DTC). Discussion and Conclusion The results suggest that adherence to prescribing guidelines was relatively high compared to other paediatric antimicrobial utilisation studies in African countries. Prescribing of antimicrobial medicines was consistent with other African countries. The long period of time that it takes for microbiological test results to become available means that most prescribers rely on empirical prescribing. The antimicrobial committee is a multidisciplinary committee with defined roles for its members, consistent with international guidelines for implementing an AMS committee at a hospital. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04-06
A return to common-sense: why ecology needs transcendental realism
- Authors: Price, Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/390324 , vital:68538 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2019.1580178"
- Description: Empirical realist ecologists, such as C. S. Holling, face significant methodological contradictions; for instance, they must cope with the problem that ecological models and theories of climate change, resilience and succession cannot make predictions in open systems. Generally, they respond to this problem by supplementing their empirical realism with transcendental idealism: they therefore say that their models are simply metaphorical or heuristic, that is, 'not true' in that they are not empirical. Thus, they explicitly deny an ontology for what their models are about. Nevertheless, in their practice, ecologists act as if their theories do have an ontology and thus tell us something truthful about the real world. This discrepancy leaves ecology vulnerable to unnecessary critique, such as that climate science is not real science. Transcendental realism offers a solution because it releases ecologists from the requirement to make predictions; but it does so without denying ontology. This provides several advantages to ecologists.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Price, Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/390324 , vital:68538 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2019.1580178"
- Description: Empirical realist ecologists, such as C. S. Holling, face significant methodological contradictions; for instance, they must cope with the problem that ecological models and theories of climate change, resilience and succession cannot make predictions in open systems. Generally, they respond to this problem by supplementing their empirical realism with transcendental idealism: they therefore say that their models are simply metaphorical or heuristic, that is, 'not true' in that they are not empirical. Thus, they explicitly deny an ontology for what their models are about. Nevertheless, in their practice, ecologists act as if their theories do have an ontology and thus tell us something truthful about the real world. This discrepancy leaves ecology vulnerable to unnecessary critique, such as that climate science is not real science. Transcendental realism offers a solution because it releases ecologists from the requirement to make predictions; but it does so without denying ontology. This provides several advantages to ecologists.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A revenue generation model for adoption of voice telephony applications
- Authors: Mazwi, Sekelo P Lusanda
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Internet telephony , Telecommunication systems
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25530 , vital:64331
- Description: Amongst various Voice Telephony Applications discovered, IBM India has developed the Spoken Web which enables voice commerce capabilities that are ideally suitable for underprivileged rural communities. Admittedly, these communities are barred from fully utilising ICT enabled electronic commerce services such as the Internet for business marketing processes as a consequence of poor literacy and financial constraints. The advent of Voice Telephony Applications aids accessibility and participation of the underprivileged rural communities to the ICT world. It should be noted that users are not compelled to be computer savvy to make voice calls, but high voice call costs are the deterrent. Therefore, devising an appropriate Revenue Generation Model would enhance the accessibility and participation of the underprivileged rural communities to the ICT world. As guided by the Design Science Approach, and the Diffusion of Innovations and Social Exchange theories, this research project has discovered and applied five models such as the Freemium, Affiliation, Advertising, Incentives-driven and Subsidy within each development stage of Spoken Web. This research project is of the idea that reimbursing content providers through supporting the proposed Revenue Generation Model as a de facto solution will help in reducing voice call costs to the users of Voice Telephony Applications in future. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-01
- Authors: Mazwi, Sekelo P Lusanda
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Internet telephony , Telecommunication systems
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25530 , vital:64331
- Description: Amongst various Voice Telephony Applications discovered, IBM India has developed the Spoken Web which enables voice commerce capabilities that are ideally suitable for underprivileged rural communities. Admittedly, these communities are barred from fully utilising ICT enabled electronic commerce services such as the Internet for business marketing processes as a consequence of poor literacy and financial constraints. The advent of Voice Telephony Applications aids accessibility and participation of the underprivileged rural communities to the ICT world. It should be noted that users are not compelled to be computer savvy to make voice calls, but high voice call costs are the deterrent. Therefore, devising an appropriate Revenue Generation Model would enhance the accessibility and participation of the underprivileged rural communities to the ICT world. As guided by the Design Science Approach, and the Diffusion of Innovations and Social Exchange theories, this research project has discovered and applied five models such as the Freemium, Affiliation, Advertising, Incentives-driven and Subsidy within each development stage of Spoken Web. This research project is of the idea that reimbursing content providers through supporting the proposed Revenue Generation Model as a de facto solution will help in reducing voice call costs to the users of Voice Telephony Applications in future. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-01
A reverse logistics competitiveness framework for fast-moving consumer goods retailers in Pretoria
- Makaleng, Mpho Sharon Makgedi
- Authors: Makaleng, Mpho Sharon Makgedi
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Consumer goods , Logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57798 , vital:58265
- Description: The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector contributes significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) growth of the country. It is however regarded as one of the unpredictable sectors due to rapid technological advancements, new regulations, and intense competition. This has therefore led to the growth in importance of reverse logistics (RL) since the FMCG sector cannot avoid RL. This is because FMCG can be damaged in transit, recalled, returned due to unsatisfied customers, defects, or scrap material, amongst others. It is therefore important for the sector to implement RL practices and strategies that can lead to the firm’s competitiveness. This will further assist in recapturing the value of the products. Recently, RL has gained a lot of attention in both research and in practice. Nevertheless, not so much research has been done in the FMCG sector in SA. Through the implementation of RL practices, strategies and an effective RL management system, this sector will achieve many goals as well as lead to the firm’s competitiveness. The current study mainly sought to develop an RL competitiveness framework to help guide FMCG retailers. The study also investigated the RL practices, best practices, critical success factors (CSFs), strategies and their influence on the firm’s competitiveness. A positivist research philosophy, which combined descriptive and explanatory research was employed. Data was collected through two close-ended questionnaires, via SurveyMonkey, from 418 FMCG retailers and consumers. The descriptive results from the Statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 showed that FMCG retailers to a great extent implement the recalling of products. The results also revealed that FMCG retailers have centralised returns centres, and they share information and collaborate with suppliers for effective remanufacturing of products that have reached their end of shelf life, as highly implemented RL best practice, amongst others. Little understanding of the importance of RL, high costs associated with adopting RL practices, lack of top management support on RL initiatives, high cost of RL technology and customers’ unwillingness to pay extra for any RL practices and initiatives were identified as the key RL challenges faced by FMCG retailers. The descriptive results further cited financial resources, employment of skilled personnel to handle RL, having knowledge on RL and technology as the extremely critical factors in the successful v implementation of RL among FMCG retailers. The following RL strategies were identified as the highly implemented among FMCG retailers: integration of forward logistics (FL) and RL, the implementation of new technology, the adherence to environmental policies and regulations, knowledge management, eco-compatibility, and strategic alliances The structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis conducted using AMOS version 27, revealed that RL practices have a positive and significant influence on RL strategies. The results also revealed that RL strategies have a positive and significant influence on the firm’s competitiveness. The mediation results revealed that RL strategies fully mediate the relationship between the firm’s competitiveness and RL practices. Based on the empirical results and reviewed literature, a conceptual model and an RL competitiveness framework were developed and suggested. Moreover, the study recommended that the managers increase customer awareness of RL practices implemented by FMCG retail firms, train and educate their personnel on RL, enhance RL strategies to improve RL practices implementation success, and enforce RL formal policies. This study significantly contributes towards the development of future studies in RL and firm competitiveness through new insight and contribution to the body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Authors: Makaleng, Mpho Sharon Makgedi
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Consumer goods , Logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57798 , vital:58265
- Description: The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector contributes significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) growth of the country. It is however regarded as one of the unpredictable sectors due to rapid technological advancements, new regulations, and intense competition. This has therefore led to the growth in importance of reverse logistics (RL) since the FMCG sector cannot avoid RL. This is because FMCG can be damaged in transit, recalled, returned due to unsatisfied customers, defects, or scrap material, amongst others. It is therefore important for the sector to implement RL practices and strategies that can lead to the firm’s competitiveness. This will further assist in recapturing the value of the products. Recently, RL has gained a lot of attention in both research and in practice. Nevertheless, not so much research has been done in the FMCG sector in SA. Through the implementation of RL practices, strategies and an effective RL management system, this sector will achieve many goals as well as lead to the firm’s competitiveness. The current study mainly sought to develop an RL competitiveness framework to help guide FMCG retailers. The study also investigated the RL practices, best practices, critical success factors (CSFs), strategies and their influence on the firm’s competitiveness. A positivist research philosophy, which combined descriptive and explanatory research was employed. Data was collected through two close-ended questionnaires, via SurveyMonkey, from 418 FMCG retailers and consumers. The descriptive results from the Statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 showed that FMCG retailers to a great extent implement the recalling of products. The results also revealed that FMCG retailers have centralised returns centres, and they share information and collaborate with suppliers for effective remanufacturing of products that have reached their end of shelf life, as highly implemented RL best practice, amongst others. Little understanding of the importance of RL, high costs associated with adopting RL practices, lack of top management support on RL initiatives, high cost of RL technology and customers’ unwillingness to pay extra for any RL practices and initiatives were identified as the key RL challenges faced by FMCG retailers. The descriptive results further cited financial resources, employment of skilled personnel to handle RL, having knowledge on RL and technology as the extremely critical factors in the successful v implementation of RL among FMCG retailers. The following RL strategies were identified as the highly implemented among FMCG retailers: integration of forward logistics (FL) and RL, the implementation of new technology, the adherence to environmental policies and regulations, knowledge management, eco-compatibility, and strategic alliances The structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis conducted using AMOS version 27, revealed that RL practices have a positive and significant influence on RL strategies. The results also revealed that RL strategies have a positive and significant influence on the firm’s competitiveness. The mediation results revealed that RL strategies fully mediate the relationship between the firm’s competitiveness and RL practices. Based on the empirical results and reviewed literature, a conceptual model and an RL competitiveness framework were developed and suggested. Moreover, the study recommended that the managers increase customer awareness of RL practices implemented by FMCG retail firms, train and educate their personnel on RL, enhance RL strategies to improve RL practices implementation success, and enforce RL formal policies. This study significantly contributes towards the development of future studies in RL and firm competitiveness through new insight and contribution to the body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A review of factors influencing poor performance in matric examinations in Libode District, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Tsama, Vuyani
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: High school students , School improvement programs , Education--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20506 , vital:46029
- Description: The researcher reviewed the factors that influence poor performance in matriculation examinations in the Libode District, also referred to as the OR Tambo Coastal District. Okoye (1982) defines poor academic performance of the individual or candidate in the learning situation as one in which a candidate fails to attain a set standard of performance in a given evaluation exercise such as a test, an examination or a series of continuous assessment. The research used a mixed method approach in an explanatory and case study research design. A purposive sampling of sixty (60) participants, who were the principals in the schools selected, was used. The researcher distributed forty-five (45) questionnaires and fifteen (15) interviews were conducted. The data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for the qualitative data. Furthermore, inferential statistics were done, validating some statements in the research, and approving or disproving statements in the findings of the research. The perceptions of the causes of poor performance showed that forty percent (40 percent) of respondents disagreed that good planning was being done by the Department of Basic Education. Thirty-eight (38 percent ) percent of the participants also disagreed that low motivation on the part of the children was a factor in the poor results, followed by thirty-five percent (35 percent ) who slightly agreed that matric learners are failing because of socio-economic factors. Furthermore, on the challenges affecting the Department of Education, eight-seven percent (87 percent ) of the respondents supported the impact of drugs on poor performance, sixty-nine percent (69 percent) cited the issue of shortages of Learner Teaching and Support Material (LTSM) and sixty-five percent (65 percent) of respondents attributed the erratic and unfair progression of learners at grade eight (8), nine (9) and ten (10) level, which ultimately affected the grade twelve (12) results. The interview findings showed that the average pass rate was fifty percent (50 percent) in most schools, and the administration and leadership issues of the schools had been poorly managed. This, coupled with a shortage of LTSM and societal issues, such as drugs, negatively affected the matriculates. The research findings pointed to the challenge of drugs as being the biggest societal contributor to poor performance in matriculation results in OR Tambo Coastal District. The inferential statistics showed that gender could not affect the principal’s role as administrators and leader. However, gender did impact on leadership style. Women’s leadership style, which was more participative and consultative, was found to produce lower results; while male principals, who used a more bureaucratic, authoritative style, tended to produce higher results. Among other issues, the task-oriented, emotional nature of the principal’s job showed effects on school performance overall and the education level of the grade twelves (12), but educators alone could not affect the matric results. Furthermore, alone, the department’s efforts to improve results were not found to be productive; rather a number of factors could be combined to produce results. Lastly, the researcher recommended that the OR Tambo Coastal District should train teachers through development programmes, adjust the leadership style to one that is situational and transformational, and improve dialogue with school principals through regular school visits. Again, underperforming schools should be provided with LTSM, and teachers should be recruited and deployed on time. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-02
- Authors: Tsama, Vuyani
- Date: 2020-02
- Subjects: High school students , School improvement programs , Education--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20506 , vital:46029
- Description: The researcher reviewed the factors that influence poor performance in matriculation examinations in the Libode District, also referred to as the OR Tambo Coastal District. Okoye (1982) defines poor academic performance of the individual or candidate in the learning situation as one in which a candidate fails to attain a set standard of performance in a given evaluation exercise such as a test, an examination or a series of continuous assessment. The research used a mixed method approach in an explanatory and case study research design. A purposive sampling of sixty (60) participants, who were the principals in the schools selected, was used. The researcher distributed forty-five (45) questionnaires and fifteen (15) interviews were conducted. The data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel for the quantitative data and thematic analysis for the qualitative data. Furthermore, inferential statistics were done, validating some statements in the research, and approving or disproving statements in the findings of the research. The perceptions of the causes of poor performance showed that forty percent (40 percent) of respondents disagreed that good planning was being done by the Department of Basic Education. Thirty-eight (38 percent ) percent of the participants also disagreed that low motivation on the part of the children was a factor in the poor results, followed by thirty-five percent (35 percent ) who slightly agreed that matric learners are failing because of socio-economic factors. Furthermore, on the challenges affecting the Department of Education, eight-seven percent (87 percent ) of the respondents supported the impact of drugs on poor performance, sixty-nine percent (69 percent) cited the issue of shortages of Learner Teaching and Support Material (LTSM) and sixty-five percent (65 percent) of respondents attributed the erratic and unfair progression of learners at grade eight (8), nine (9) and ten (10) level, which ultimately affected the grade twelve (12) results. The interview findings showed that the average pass rate was fifty percent (50 percent) in most schools, and the administration and leadership issues of the schools had been poorly managed. This, coupled with a shortage of LTSM and societal issues, such as drugs, negatively affected the matriculates. The research findings pointed to the challenge of drugs as being the biggest societal contributor to poor performance in matriculation results in OR Tambo Coastal District. The inferential statistics showed that gender could not affect the principal’s role as administrators and leader. However, gender did impact on leadership style. Women’s leadership style, which was more participative and consultative, was found to produce lower results; while male principals, who used a more bureaucratic, authoritative style, tended to produce higher results. Among other issues, the task-oriented, emotional nature of the principal’s job showed effects on school performance overall and the education level of the grade twelves (12), but educators alone could not affect the matric results. Furthermore, alone, the department’s efforts to improve results were not found to be productive; rather a number of factors could be combined to produce results. Lastly, the researcher recommended that the OR Tambo Coastal District should train teachers through development programmes, adjust the leadership style to one that is situational and transformational, and improve dialogue with school principals through regular school visits. Again, underperforming schools should be provided with LTSM, and teachers should be recruited and deployed on time. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020-02
A review of the biocontrol programmes against aquatic weeds in South Africa
- Coetzee, Julie A, Bownes, Angela, Martin, Grant D, Miller, Benjamin E, Smith, Rosalie, Weyl, Philip S R, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Bownes, Angela , Martin, Grant D , Miller, Benjamin E , Smith, Rosalie , Weyl, Philip S R , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406965 , vital:70326 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a18"
- Description: Biological control (biocontrol) against invasive macrophytes is one of the longest standing programmes in South Africa, initiated in the 1970s against water hyacinth, Pontederia crassipes Mart. (Pontederiaceae). Since then, 15 agent species (13 insects, one mite and one pathogen) have been released against six weeds, most of which are floating macrophytes, with excellent levels of success. The release of the water hyacinth planthopper Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) in particular, has improved biocontrol prospects for water hyacinth since 2018. In the last decade, however, a new suite of submerged and rooted emergent invasive macrophytes has been targeted. The first release against a submerged macrophyte in South Africa, and the first release against Brazilian waterweed, Egeria densa Planch. (Hydrocharitaceae), anywhere in the world, was achieved with the release of a leafmining fly, Hydrellia egeriae Rodrigues-Júnior, Mathis and Hauser (Diptera: Ephydridae). Yellow flag, Iris pseudacorus L. (Iridaceae) and Mexican waterlily, Nymphaea mexicana Zucc. (Nymphaeaceae), have also been targeted for biocontrol for the first time worldwide, and are in the early stages of agent development. Post-release evaluations, long term monitoring and controlled experiments have highlighted the need for a more holistic approach to managing aquatic invasive plants in South Africa, whose presence is largely driven by eutrophication, resulting in regime shifts between floating and submerged invaded states.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Bownes, Angela , Martin, Grant D , Miller, Benjamin E , Smith, Rosalie , Weyl, Philip S R , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/406965 , vital:70326 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-ento_v29_n3_a18"
- Description: Biological control (biocontrol) against invasive macrophytes is one of the longest standing programmes in South Africa, initiated in the 1970s against water hyacinth, Pontederia crassipes Mart. (Pontederiaceae). Since then, 15 agent species (13 insects, one mite and one pathogen) have been released against six weeds, most of which are floating macrophytes, with excellent levels of success. The release of the water hyacinth planthopper Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) in particular, has improved biocontrol prospects for water hyacinth since 2018. In the last decade, however, a new suite of submerged and rooted emergent invasive macrophytes has been targeted. The first release against a submerged macrophyte in South Africa, and the first release against Brazilian waterweed, Egeria densa Planch. (Hydrocharitaceae), anywhere in the world, was achieved with the release of a leafmining fly, Hydrellia egeriae Rodrigues-Júnior, Mathis and Hauser (Diptera: Ephydridae). Yellow flag, Iris pseudacorus L. (Iridaceae) and Mexican waterlily, Nymphaea mexicana Zucc. (Nymphaeaceae), have also been targeted for biocontrol for the first time worldwide, and are in the early stages of agent development. Post-release evaluations, long term monitoring and controlled experiments have highlighted the need for a more holistic approach to managing aquatic invasive plants in South Africa, whose presence is largely driven by eutrophication, resulting in regime shifts between floating and submerged invaded states.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021