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 risk management model for commercial property development and investment in Ghana
- Authors: Asianoah, Rexford Kofi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Risk management , Commercial real estate , Investment -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60493 , vital:65633
- Description: Commercial property development and investment provide many benefits to individuals and governments around the globe; these include the generation of income for investors, employment, tax revenues, and contributions to a country‘s GDP. Yet commercial property development and investment projects involve construction, economic and management risks. A lack of effective risk assessment and management tools may lead to developers and investors incurring losses. To curtail such losses, this study sought to create a credible management model that can be used to assess and manage risks in Ghana‘s commercial property development and investment industry. An extensive literature review was done, covering all 12 identified study constructs: real estate trends and cycle, construction project management, outside advice/mentorship, spatial development, strategic factors, business management skills, PMBOK, PESTEL analysis, general management skills, governance structures, financial feasibility, professional feasibility, and risk management. Each construct was defined and operationalised. A positivistic philosophical approach was used, and quantitative approach was used to solicit data from the main respondents through the distribution of questionnaires to the target population sample. CB-SEM and SPSS version 24 were used to analyse data, SEM to test the positive relationships hypothesised between the identified variables and SPSS to analyse the demographic data. The major findings are that there is a lack of financial and professional feasibility analysis among respondents along the following factors: the PMBOK, real estate trends and cycles, general management, business management, strategic factors, spatial development, and PESTEL analysis. It was found that these factors have positive and favourable influences on CPDI projects. The study recommends that developers and investors do financial and professional feasibility studies before they embark on projects. This could improve project viability in commercial property development and investment. The study has contributed to the body of knowledge in CPDI sector by developing a new risk assessment/risk management model. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering Built Environment and Technology, School of the built Environment, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Asianoah, Rexford Kofi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Risk management , Commercial real estate , Investment -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60493 , vital:65633
- Description: Commercial property development and investment provide many benefits to individuals and governments around the globe; these include the generation of income for investors, employment, tax revenues, and contributions to a country‘s GDP. Yet commercial property development and investment projects involve construction, economic and management risks. A lack of effective risk assessment and management tools may lead to developers and investors incurring losses. To curtail such losses, this study sought to create a credible management model that can be used to assess and manage risks in Ghana‘s commercial property development and investment industry. An extensive literature review was done, covering all 12 identified study constructs: real estate trends and cycle, construction project management, outside advice/mentorship, spatial development, strategic factors, business management skills, PMBOK, PESTEL analysis, general management skills, governance structures, financial feasibility, professional feasibility, and risk management. Each construct was defined and operationalised. A positivistic philosophical approach was used, and quantitative approach was used to solicit data from the main respondents through the distribution of questionnaires to the target population sample. CB-SEM and SPSS version 24 were used to analyse data, SEM to test the positive relationships hypothesised between the identified variables and SPSS to analyse the demographic data. The major findings are that there is a lack of financial and professional feasibility analysis among respondents along the following factors: the PMBOK, real estate trends and cycles, general management, business management, strategic factors, spatial development, and PESTEL analysis. It was found that these factors have positive and favourable influences on CPDI projects. The study recommends that developers and investors do financial and professional feasibility studies before they embark on projects. This could improve project viability in commercial property development and investment. The study has contributed to the body of knowledge in CPDI sector by developing a new risk assessment/risk management model. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering Built Environment and Technology, School of the built Environment, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A strategic turnaround model for distressed properties
- Authors: Pitsiladi, Lesvokli N
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Reorganization , Distressed properties
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60467 , vital:65603
- Description: The importance of commercial real estate is clearly shown by the role it plays, worldwide, in the sustainability of economic activities, with a substantial global impact when measured in monetary terms. This study responds to an important gap in the built environment and turnaround literature relating to the likelihood of a successful distressed commercial property financial recovery. The present research effort addressed the absence of empirical evidence by identifying a number of important factors that influence the likelihood of a successful distressed, commercial property financial recovery. Once the important factors that increase the likelihood of recovery have been determined, the results can be used as a basis for turnaround strategies concerning property investors who invest in distressed opportunities. A theoretical turnaround model concerning properties in distress, would be of interest to ‘opportunistic investing’ yield-hungry investors targeting real estate transactions involving ‘turnaround’ potential. Against this background, the main research problem investigated in the present research effort was as follows: Determine the important factors that would increase the likelihood of a successful distressed commercial property financial recovery. A proposed theoretical model was constructed and empirically tested through a questionnaire distributed physically and electronically to a sample of real estate practitioners from across the globe, and who had all been involved, directly or indirectly, with reviving distressed properties. An explanation was provided to respondents of how the questionnaire was developed and how it would be administered. The demographic information pertaining to the 391 respondents was analysed and summarised. The statistical analysis performed to ensure the validity and reliability of the results, was explained to respondents, together with a detailed description of the covariance structural equation modelling method used to verify the proposed theoretical conceptual model. vi The independent variables of the present research effort comprised; Obsolescence Identification, Capital Improvements Feasibility, Tenant Mix, Triple Net Leases, Concessions, Property Management, Contracts, Business Analysis, Debt Renegotiation, Cost-Cutting, Market Analysis, Strategic Planning and Demography, while the dependent variable was The Perceived Likelihood of a Distressed Commercial Property Financial Recovery. After analysis of the findings, a revised model was then proposed and assessed. Both validity and reliability were assessed and resulted in the following factors that potentially influence the dependent variables; Strategy, Concessions, Tenant Mix, Debt Restructuring, Demography, Analyse Alternatives, Capital Improvements Feasibility, Property Management and Net Leases while, after analysis, the dependent variable was replaced by two dependent variables; The Likelihood of a Distressed Property Turnaround and The Likelihood of a Distressed Property Financial Recovery. The results showed that Strategy (comprising of items from Strategic Planning, Business Analysis, Obsolescence Identification and Property Management) and Concessions (comprising of items from Concessions and Triple Net Leases) had a positive influence on both the dependent variables. Property Management (comprising of items from Business Analysis, Property Management, Capital Improvements Feasibility and Tenant Mix) had a positive influence on Financial Turnaround variable while Capital Improvements Feasibility (comprising of items from Capital Improvements Feasibility, Obsolescence Identification and Property Management) had a negative influence on both. Demography (comprising of items only from Demography) had a negative influence on the Financial Recovery variable. The balance of the relationships were depicted as non-significant. The present research effort presents important actions that can be used to influence the turnaround and recovery of distressed real estate. The literature had indicated reasons to recover distressed properties as having wide-ranging economic consequences for the broader communities and the countries in which they reside. The turnaround of distressed properties will not only present financial rewards for opportunistic investors but will have positive effects on the greater community and economy and, thus, social and economic stability. Vii With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, issues with climate change and sustainability, global demographic shifts, changing user requirements, shifts in technology, the threat of obsolescence, urbanisation, globalisation, geo-political tensions, shifting global order, new trends and different generational expectations, it is becoming more apparent that the threat of distressed, abandoned and derelict properties is here to stay, and which will present future opportunities for turnaround, distressed property owners, as well as future worries for urban authorities and municipalities dealing with urban decay. The study concluded with an examination of the perceived limitations of the study as well as presenting a comprehensive range of suggestions for further research. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, School of the built Environment, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Pitsiladi, Lesvokli N
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Reorganization , Distressed properties
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60467 , vital:65603
- Description: The importance of commercial real estate is clearly shown by the role it plays, worldwide, in the sustainability of economic activities, with a substantial global impact when measured in monetary terms. This study responds to an important gap in the built environment and turnaround literature relating to the likelihood of a successful distressed commercial property financial recovery. The present research effort addressed the absence of empirical evidence by identifying a number of important factors that influence the likelihood of a successful distressed, commercial property financial recovery. Once the important factors that increase the likelihood of recovery have been determined, the results can be used as a basis for turnaround strategies concerning property investors who invest in distressed opportunities. A theoretical turnaround model concerning properties in distress, would be of interest to ‘opportunistic investing’ yield-hungry investors targeting real estate transactions involving ‘turnaround’ potential. Against this background, the main research problem investigated in the present research effort was as follows: Determine the important factors that would increase the likelihood of a successful distressed commercial property financial recovery. A proposed theoretical model was constructed and empirically tested through a questionnaire distributed physically and electronically to a sample of real estate practitioners from across the globe, and who had all been involved, directly or indirectly, with reviving distressed properties. An explanation was provided to respondents of how the questionnaire was developed and how it would be administered. The demographic information pertaining to the 391 respondents was analysed and summarised. The statistical analysis performed to ensure the validity and reliability of the results, was explained to respondents, together with a detailed description of the covariance structural equation modelling method used to verify the proposed theoretical conceptual model. vi The independent variables of the present research effort comprised; Obsolescence Identification, Capital Improvements Feasibility, Tenant Mix, Triple Net Leases, Concessions, Property Management, Contracts, Business Analysis, Debt Renegotiation, Cost-Cutting, Market Analysis, Strategic Planning and Demography, while the dependent variable was The Perceived Likelihood of a Distressed Commercial Property Financial Recovery. After analysis of the findings, a revised model was then proposed and assessed. Both validity and reliability were assessed and resulted in the following factors that potentially influence the dependent variables; Strategy, Concessions, Tenant Mix, Debt Restructuring, Demography, Analyse Alternatives, Capital Improvements Feasibility, Property Management and Net Leases while, after analysis, the dependent variable was replaced by two dependent variables; The Likelihood of a Distressed Property Turnaround and The Likelihood of a Distressed Property Financial Recovery. The results showed that Strategy (comprising of items from Strategic Planning, Business Analysis, Obsolescence Identification and Property Management) and Concessions (comprising of items from Concessions and Triple Net Leases) had a positive influence on both the dependent variables. Property Management (comprising of items from Business Analysis, Property Management, Capital Improvements Feasibility and Tenant Mix) had a positive influence on Financial Turnaround variable while Capital Improvements Feasibility (comprising of items from Capital Improvements Feasibility, Obsolescence Identification and Property Management) had a negative influence on both. Demography (comprising of items only from Demography) had a negative influence on the Financial Recovery variable. The balance of the relationships were depicted as non-significant. The present research effort presents important actions that can be used to influence the turnaround and recovery of distressed real estate. The literature had indicated reasons to recover distressed properties as having wide-ranging economic consequences for the broader communities and the countries in which they reside. The turnaround of distressed properties will not only present financial rewards for opportunistic investors but will have positive effects on the greater community and economy and, thus, social and economic stability. Vii With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, issues with climate change and sustainability, global demographic shifts, changing user requirements, shifts in technology, the threat of obsolescence, urbanisation, globalisation, geo-political tensions, shifting global order, new trends and different generational expectations, it is becoming more apparent that the threat of distressed, abandoned and derelict properties is here to stay, and which will present future opportunities for turnaround, distressed property owners, as well as future worries for urban authorities and municipalities dealing with urban decay. The study concluded with an examination of the perceived limitations of the study as well as presenting a comprehensive range of suggestions for further research. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, School of the built Environment, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A systematic risk management model for construction project management: a case study of the new infrastructure project in the University of Mpumalanga
- Authors: Lukhele, Themba Mfanafuthi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Risk management , Construction industry -- Management , Infrastructure -- University of Mpumalanga
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60479 , vital:65609
- Description: The construction industry has become the significant player in the economy of many developed and developing countries in the world. The industry contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment rate of many nations. As such, the industry is the engine for the economic development and growth across the world. Recently, African countries have received global attention due to its calls for massive infrastructure development and maintenance thereof. Accordingly, the South African government has adopted a National Infrastructure Development Plan (NIDP), which seeks not only to transform the economic landscape of the country, but also to support the integration of the African economies through infrastructure development. To ensure that the execution of these infrastructure projects is successfully delivered in terms of time, cost, and scope; project risk management in the construction industry has become an important area of interest in the execution and delivery of the infrastructure projects. However, the constantly increasing complexity and dynamics in the delivery of construction projects have serious effects on the risk management processes during the execution of the project. In practice, risk methods and techniques have proven to be unrealistic when using the traditional risk management approach in the context of the complexity and dynamic environments wherein construction projects are delivered. Worryingly, project management practitioners in engineering and construction projects still lack the holistic and systematic insight and understanding of construction projects when applying the risk management procedures in the complex and dynamic projects environments. As a result, there are growing reports of unsatisfactory delivery of construction projects in terms of time, cost, quality, and environmental objectives. In this regard, the call for embracing the systems thinking paradigm as the alternative approach that will provide more clarity in dealing with the complex management challenges and which will gradually substitute the traditional theoretical approach of dealing with construction project management, is becoming prominent. Against this background, this study uses a multiple case study approach to explore how a systematic risk management approach could be developed and applied towards successful delivery of construction projects, and subsequently to propose a systematic risk management model that is designed to depict and grasp the underlying complexities and dynamics embedded ix | P a g e in construction projects. The choice of the case study design is founded on its utility and appropriateness for in-depth investigations into phenomena in its context as well as its usefulness for exploratory studies. Therefore, to explore the risk management phenomenon in real-life settings, the unit of analysis in this study was based on three construction projects built in one of the new Institutions of Higher Learning in South Africa during the period between 2017 and 2019. Notwithstanding the unique characteristics of these projects, the complexity and dynamic environments of these projects also emanated from the facts that i) the successful delivery of the projects was a predecessor activity to the academic schedule and activities; ii) this was one of the first universities to be built by the democratic Republic of South Africa; and, iii) the construction contract used for the delivery of the construction projects is relatively new to the professionals in the country’s construction industry. This qualitative case study design has its backbone in the constructivism philosophical paradigm which is underpinned by the ontology that there are multiple realities as conceptualized, experienced, and perceived by the people in their real-life situations or natural settings. Accordingly, the construction professionals, projects’ documents as well as field work observations were purposively chosen as the essential and reliable methods of data collection for this case study. For analysis, a conventional content data analysis methodology was applied on the empirical data that was obtained from the multiple data sources to provide a clearer understanding of the contexts in which the risk management for construction projects is performed. Accordingly, a qualitative data analysis software system called MAXQDA was used to enable the performance of data coding, managing coding, and eventually the retrieving of the coded segments in a form of visual models and summary tables. Ultimately, the qualitative content analysis approach in this thesis was performed in terms of a ‘critical filter of thick description’ which involved a balanced approach between the deductive analysis and the inductive analysis processes. With the assistance of the MAXQDA, performing the multiple levels coding and analysis processes in this thesis has not only been efficient, but also more reliable. To shed insight into the empirical findings of the study, a hybrid theoretical framework has been applied in the discussion and interpretation of the findings. The theoretical framework of this study is underpinned by the complexity theory and the theory of systems engineering. The applicability of these theories in this study is essential in providing a x | P a g e systematic and logical explanation of the practices of risk management in construction projects and further helps to explain why particular events occurred in the processes of risk management. Eventually, the theoretical framework has enabled the designing and developing of a systematic risk management model that will assist in depicting and grasping the underlying complexities while supporting proactive decision making in the delivery of construction projects. To this end, this study has made several major contributions in three multiple folds in the body of knowledge. Firstly, this study makes theoretical contributions by developing an empirically underpinned systematic risk management model which provide more clarity on comprehending the multifaceted and complex risk factors embedded in construction projects. Secondly, the qualitative case study approach and the associated analysis methods thereof in this thesis provides novelty and lays the groundwork for future research and methodological replicability in another similar phenomenon elsewhere in the world. Thirdly, this study has gone some way towards expanding the understanding and the basis for managerial decision making in relation to front-end planning and proactive approach for risk management, and eventually to improve projects’ performances on cost, time, scope, and environmental sustainability. In this regard, the key practical implication for project management practitioners is that the adoption and embracing of the systematic and holistic thinking approach in the risk management processes could enhance the successful delivery of construction projects. In the literature, there is paucity and need for more research into the exploration and analysis of the integration and interplay between the systems engineering and complexity perspectives and the other knowledge areas in the PMBOK. In conclusion, this thesis therefore argues that to address the deficiencies in risk management practices during construction projects’ delivery, the solution requires a paradigm shift from the traditional linear approach which, by design, overlooks the complexities, non-linearity and interdependences of the elements that are underpinning and characterizing the nature of the contemporary construction projects. Therefore, this thesis supports the increasingly emerging debate on the discourse that the superior traditional and linear approaches do not solve the current problems, and as such they should be replaced with the systems and holistic thinking approach that will provide more clarity in dealing with the complex management challenges in contemporary construction projects. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, Built environment and Information Technology, School of the built Environment 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Lukhele, Themba Mfanafuthi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Risk management , Construction industry -- Management , Infrastructure -- University of Mpumalanga
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60479 , vital:65609
- Description: The construction industry has become the significant player in the economy of many developed and developing countries in the world. The industry contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment rate of many nations. As such, the industry is the engine for the economic development and growth across the world. Recently, African countries have received global attention due to its calls for massive infrastructure development and maintenance thereof. Accordingly, the South African government has adopted a National Infrastructure Development Plan (NIDP), which seeks not only to transform the economic landscape of the country, but also to support the integration of the African economies through infrastructure development. To ensure that the execution of these infrastructure projects is successfully delivered in terms of time, cost, and scope; project risk management in the construction industry has become an important area of interest in the execution and delivery of the infrastructure projects. However, the constantly increasing complexity and dynamics in the delivery of construction projects have serious effects on the risk management processes during the execution of the project. In practice, risk methods and techniques have proven to be unrealistic when using the traditional risk management approach in the context of the complexity and dynamic environments wherein construction projects are delivered. Worryingly, project management practitioners in engineering and construction projects still lack the holistic and systematic insight and understanding of construction projects when applying the risk management procedures in the complex and dynamic projects environments. As a result, there are growing reports of unsatisfactory delivery of construction projects in terms of time, cost, quality, and environmental objectives. In this regard, the call for embracing the systems thinking paradigm as the alternative approach that will provide more clarity in dealing with the complex management challenges and which will gradually substitute the traditional theoretical approach of dealing with construction project management, is becoming prominent. Against this background, this study uses a multiple case study approach to explore how a systematic risk management approach could be developed and applied towards successful delivery of construction projects, and subsequently to propose a systematic risk management model that is designed to depict and grasp the underlying complexities and dynamics embedded ix | P a g e in construction projects. The choice of the case study design is founded on its utility and appropriateness for in-depth investigations into phenomena in its context as well as its usefulness for exploratory studies. Therefore, to explore the risk management phenomenon in real-life settings, the unit of analysis in this study was based on three construction projects built in one of the new Institutions of Higher Learning in South Africa during the period between 2017 and 2019. Notwithstanding the unique characteristics of these projects, the complexity and dynamic environments of these projects also emanated from the facts that i) the successful delivery of the projects was a predecessor activity to the academic schedule and activities; ii) this was one of the first universities to be built by the democratic Republic of South Africa; and, iii) the construction contract used for the delivery of the construction projects is relatively new to the professionals in the country’s construction industry. This qualitative case study design has its backbone in the constructivism philosophical paradigm which is underpinned by the ontology that there are multiple realities as conceptualized, experienced, and perceived by the people in their real-life situations or natural settings. Accordingly, the construction professionals, projects’ documents as well as field work observations were purposively chosen as the essential and reliable methods of data collection for this case study. For analysis, a conventional content data analysis methodology was applied on the empirical data that was obtained from the multiple data sources to provide a clearer understanding of the contexts in which the risk management for construction projects is performed. Accordingly, a qualitative data analysis software system called MAXQDA was used to enable the performance of data coding, managing coding, and eventually the retrieving of the coded segments in a form of visual models and summary tables. Ultimately, the qualitative content analysis approach in this thesis was performed in terms of a ‘critical filter of thick description’ which involved a balanced approach between the deductive analysis and the inductive analysis processes. With the assistance of the MAXQDA, performing the multiple levels coding and analysis processes in this thesis has not only been efficient, but also more reliable. To shed insight into the empirical findings of the study, a hybrid theoretical framework has been applied in the discussion and interpretation of the findings. The theoretical framework of this study is underpinned by the complexity theory and the theory of systems engineering. The applicability of these theories in this study is essential in providing a x | P a g e systematic and logical explanation of the practices of risk management in construction projects and further helps to explain why particular events occurred in the processes of risk management. Eventually, the theoretical framework has enabled the designing and developing of a systematic risk management model that will assist in depicting and grasping the underlying complexities while supporting proactive decision making in the delivery of construction projects. To this end, this study has made several major contributions in three multiple folds in the body of knowledge. Firstly, this study makes theoretical contributions by developing an empirically underpinned systematic risk management model which provide more clarity on comprehending the multifaceted and complex risk factors embedded in construction projects. Secondly, the qualitative case study approach and the associated analysis methods thereof in this thesis provides novelty and lays the groundwork for future research and methodological replicability in another similar phenomenon elsewhere in the world. Thirdly, this study has gone some way towards expanding the understanding and the basis for managerial decision making in relation to front-end planning and proactive approach for risk management, and eventually to improve projects’ performances on cost, time, scope, and environmental sustainability. In this regard, the key practical implication for project management practitioners is that the adoption and embracing of the systematic and holistic thinking approach in the risk management processes could enhance the successful delivery of construction projects. In the literature, there is paucity and need for more research into the exploration and analysis of the integration and interplay between the systems engineering and complexity perspectives and the other knowledge areas in the PMBOK. In conclusion, this thesis therefore argues that to address the deficiencies in risk management practices during construction projects’ delivery, the solution requires a paradigm shift from the traditional linear approach which, by design, overlooks the complexities, non-linearity and interdependences of the elements that are underpinning and characterizing the nature of the contemporary construction projects. Therefore, this thesis supports the increasingly emerging debate on the discourse that the superior traditional and linear approaches do not solve the current problems, and as such they should be replaced with the systems and holistic thinking approach that will provide more clarity in dealing with the complex management challenges in contemporary construction projects. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, Built environment and Information Technology, School of the built Environment 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Academic resilience of engineering students: a case study
- Authors: Mapaling, Curwyn
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Resilience (Personality trait) , Engineering students
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60775 , vital:67337
- Description: Extensive research has been done and much knowledge exists about academic resilience among youth in school contexts, but there is a lack of data and literature on academic resilience at university level. This knowledge gap is especially critical in disciplines such as engineering, where student dropout rates have historically been high. In 2017, a redesigned engineering degree qualification, the Bachelor of Engineering Technology, was introduced at South African universities. This case study explored the academic resilience of the first cohort of final-year Bachelor of Engineering Technology students at Nelson Mandela University. Mixed methods and multiple theories were employed, which allowed for the generation of rich data for this exploratory case study. In the quantitative phase, 66 students from Industrial, Civil, Electrical, Marine and Mechanical Engineering courses participated by completing a series of standardised psychometric measurement tools. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was conducted on the quantitative data collected from the measurement items. In the qualitative phase, 13 engineering students, 6 engineering lecturers and 6 support staff members were interviewed individually, to explore their perceptions and experiences of academic resilience. Qualitative data generated through the semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggested that staff and students perceive academic resilience differently. It also seems that staff wellbeing impacts the academic resilience of students, and the relationship between staff wellness and student academic resilience is suggested as a next step for research on the topic of academic resilience at university level, especially among courses with high drop-out rates like engineering. Although not generalisable, it appears that a variety of extracurricular support structures and initiatives and strong relationships between the higher education sector and engineering industries can contribute significantly to students' academic resilience. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Post Graduate Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mapaling, Curwyn
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Resilience (Personality trait) , Engineering students
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60775 , vital:67337
- Description: Extensive research has been done and much knowledge exists about academic resilience among youth in school contexts, but there is a lack of data and literature on academic resilience at university level. This knowledge gap is especially critical in disciplines such as engineering, where student dropout rates have historically been high. In 2017, a redesigned engineering degree qualification, the Bachelor of Engineering Technology, was introduced at South African universities. This case study explored the academic resilience of the first cohort of final-year Bachelor of Engineering Technology students at Nelson Mandela University. Mixed methods and multiple theories were employed, which allowed for the generation of rich data for this exploratory case study. In the quantitative phase, 66 students from Industrial, Civil, Electrical, Marine and Mechanical Engineering courses participated by completing a series of standardised psychometric measurement tools. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was conducted on the quantitative data collected from the measurement items. In the qualitative phase, 13 engineering students, 6 engineering lecturers and 6 support staff members were interviewed individually, to explore their perceptions and experiences of academic resilience. Qualitative data generated through the semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggested that staff and students perceive academic resilience differently. It also seems that staff wellbeing impacts the academic resilience of students, and the relationship between staff wellness and student academic resilience is suggested as a next step for research on the topic of academic resilience at university level, especially among courses with high drop-out rates like engineering. Although not generalisable, it appears that a variety of extracurricular support structures and initiatives and strong relationships between the higher education sector and engineering industries can contribute significantly to students' academic resilience. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Post Graduate Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Affirmative action and people with disabilities in the work place
- Authors: Mpambani, Ntombizodwa Rose
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation , People with disabilities , Work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60685 , vital:66321
- Description: Worldwide and in South Africa, affirmative action has been extensively used both as a policy instrument and a means of social reparation and reform. This study focuses on compliance and monitoring for affirmative action for persons with disabilities in the South African workplace. Affirmative action is a transitory method of advancing equality. Constitutionally, it is acknowledged in South Africa that affirmative action in the form of substantive equality. This study explores whether or not employers utilize affirmative action in accordance with the Employment Equity Act. It also aims to evaluate how the Department of Employment and Labour and the courts implement affirmative action. The study considers the relevant literature available, statutes, and employment equality policies, as well as an evaluation of case law. In South Africa, individuals who have disabilities are one of the groups that the Employment Equity Act attempts to protect. People with disabilities are disadvantaged in the work arena, which has substantial psychological, social, and economic consequences. The government established the numerical target that employers must strive to achieve in the workplace. Consequently, it is essential to investigate further the obstacles that impede the employment of persons with disabilities including the physical accessibility of the environment and information, transportation, the attitudes of others (such as employers and co-employees), and the extra expenditures associated with managing a disability. The delivery, nature, and structure of an individual's education is one of the first determinants of socialization into society. There is a delicate relationship between poverty, disability, and social assistance programs that may have a substantial effect on the employment and job search of persons with disabilities. Interestingly, South Africa combines significant unemployment rates with effective social assistance programs. There are compelling economic, social, psychological, and political arguments for boosting the employment of those with disabilities. The policy of affirmative action is effective, but the study notes that the objectives have not yet been realized. The situation in South Africa is compounded by a variety of confusing circumstances, including substantial unemployment, strong social assistance, and disabled individuals with poor skill levels. The survey concluded that the majority of firms do not execute affirmative action appropriately and that enforcement is minimal. It is recommended that disabled workers and labour unions confront employers that do not comply with the Employment Equity Act. To guarantee that persons with disabilities are completely integrated into the workforce, proactive and constructive strategies must be used. It is the morally just and virtuous thing to do, not just for disabled people but for all people. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of School: Mercantile Law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mpambani, Ntombizodwa Rose
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation , People with disabilities , Work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60685 , vital:66321
- Description: Worldwide and in South Africa, affirmative action has been extensively used both as a policy instrument and a means of social reparation and reform. This study focuses on compliance and monitoring for affirmative action for persons with disabilities in the South African workplace. Affirmative action is a transitory method of advancing equality. Constitutionally, it is acknowledged in South Africa that affirmative action in the form of substantive equality. This study explores whether or not employers utilize affirmative action in accordance with the Employment Equity Act. It also aims to evaluate how the Department of Employment and Labour and the courts implement affirmative action. The study considers the relevant literature available, statutes, and employment equality policies, as well as an evaluation of case law. In South Africa, individuals who have disabilities are one of the groups that the Employment Equity Act attempts to protect. People with disabilities are disadvantaged in the work arena, which has substantial psychological, social, and economic consequences. The government established the numerical target that employers must strive to achieve in the workplace. Consequently, it is essential to investigate further the obstacles that impede the employment of persons with disabilities including the physical accessibility of the environment and information, transportation, the attitudes of others (such as employers and co-employees), and the extra expenditures associated with managing a disability. The delivery, nature, and structure of an individual's education is one of the first determinants of socialization into society. There is a delicate relationship between poverty, disability, and social assistance programs that may have a substantial effect on the employment and job search of persons with disabilities. Interestingly, South Africa combines significant unemployment rates with effective social assistance programs. There are compelling economic, social, psychological, and political arguments for boosting the employment of those with disabilities. The policy of affirmative action is effective, but the study notes that the objectives have not yet been realized. The situation in South Africa is compounded by a variety of confusing circumstances, including substantial unemployment, strong social assistance, and disabled individuals with poor skill levels. The survey concluded that the majority of firms do not execute affirmative action appropriately and that enforcement is minimal. It is recommended that disabled workers and labour unions confront employers that do not comply with the Employment Equity Act. To guarantee that persons with disabilities are completely integrated into the workforce, proactive and constructive strategies must be used. It is the morally just and virtuous thing to do, not just for disabled people but for all people. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of School: Mercantile Law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An Analysis of the Impact of Platinum mining strikes on the South African Economy and exchange rate volatility
- Authors: Malusi, Zintle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Platinum group Industry , South African economy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61648 , vital:71822
- Description: The platinum group metals (PGM) mining sector is the largest component of the South African mining sector based on its contribution to GDP, employment and its overall contribution to the South African economy. Over the past decades South African production of PGMs has been declining, but post global financial crisis the country’s production growth has reduced due to the significant labour disruptions the industry has faced since late 2010. This paper aims to analyse the impact of these industrial strikes on the South African economy for the period 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2016 given the availability of data and significant strikes in that period. An examination of the impact strikes has had on the South African economy by running regressions using the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) technique. The study also looked at economic variables such as exchange rate, interest rate and the platinum index to determine the effect on the platinum mining sector. Regression equations are tested to prove the effects strikes have on theses variables and the economy at large , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Malusi, Zintle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Platinum group Industry , South African economy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61648 , vital:71822
- Description: The platinum group metals (PGM) mining sector is the largest component of the South African mining sector based on its contribution to GDP, employment and its overall contribution to the South African economy. Over the past decades South African production of PGMs has been declining, but post global financial crisis the country’s production growth has reduced due to the significant labour disruptions the industry has faced since late 2010. This paper aims to analyse the impact of these industrial strikes on the South African economy for the period 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2016 given the availability of data and significant strikes in that period. An examination of the impact strikes has had on the South African economy by running regressions using the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) technique. The study also looked at economic variables such as exchange rate, interest rate and the platinum index to determine the effect on the platinum mining sector. Regression equations are tested to prove the effects strikes have on theses variables and the economy at large , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An efficient approach for the synthesis of dolutegravir and its analogue exploiting flow chemistry
- Authors: Nqeketo, Sinazo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: HIV (Viruses) – Enzymes –Inhibitors , Antiviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:70635
- Description: Africa has the highest Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence in the world and has invested heavily in running its HIV programmes and conducting research of medical significance. Despite efforts in combating this disease the production, distribution, cost, and availability of antiretroviral (ARV) generics remains a major problem as they are imported from China and India. Exploring the recently emerged “enabling technique”, namely flow chemistry in the production of APIs has gained a lot of attention. This study was devoted on exploring the application of flow chemistry on the synthesis of a newly approved anti-HIV drug dolutegravir (DTG); an integrase inhibitor with a high genetic barrier to resistance with a daily dosing scheduled compared to other ARVs and its third-generation inhibitor analogue, cabotegravir. Chapter one covers a comprehensive background and literature review of the HIV epidemic, an introduction of antiretroviral therapy as well as detailed dolutegravir and cabotegravir synthesis. A brief introduction of continuous flow technology with its advantages and disadvantages is discussed in this chapter. The efficient seven-step continuous flow procedure afforded dolutegravir and cabotegravir in improved reaction times and yields compared to the traditional batch procedure was demonstrated. The significant advantage of this flow process includes the reduction of the overall reaction time from step one to step seven, from prolonged 68 hours in batch to 34 minutes. The overall yield of each reaction step improved dramatically upon flow optimization. The yields of the second step (selective ester hydrolysis), fourth step (cyclization) and fifth step (amidation) increased from 64 %, 40 % and 33 % in batch to 98 %, 71 % and 100 % yield by HPLC respectively. Other than improved yields and residence times which was aided advantages of microreactor technology including intensive mixing, the flow process is also much better because it is cost effective. Most importantly, a novel process on the formation of pyridinone intermediate using ion-exchange resin catalysts towards the synthesis of dolutegravir and cabotegravir was described in this study , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Nqeketo, Sinazo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: HIV (Viruses) – Enzymes –Inhibitors , Antiviral agents -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:70635
- Description: Africa has the highest Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence in the world and has invested heavily in running its HIV programmes and conducting research of medical significance. Despite efforts in combating this disease the production, distribution, cost, and availability of antiretroviral (ARV) generics remains a major problem as they are imported from China and India. Exploring the recently emerged “enabling technique”, namely flow chemistry in the production of APIs has gained a lot of attention. This study was devoted on exploring the application of flow chemistry on the synthesis of a newly approved anti-HIV drug dolutegravir (DTG); an integrase inhibitor with a high genetic barrier to resistance with a daily dosing scheduled compared to other ARVs and its third-generation inhibitor analogue, cabotegravir. Chapter one covers a comprehensive background and literature review of the HIV epidemic, an introduction of antiretroviral therapy as well as detailed dolutegravir and cabotegravir synthesis. A brief introduction of continuous flow technology with its advantages and disadvantages is discussed in this chapter. The efficient seven-step continuous flow procedure afforded dolutegravir and cabotegravir in improved reaction times and yields compared to the traditional batch procedure was demonstrated. The significant advantage of this flow process includes the reduction of the overall reaction time from step one to step seven, from prolonged 68 hours in batch to 34 minutes. The overall yield of each reaction step improved dramatically upon flow optimization. The yields of the second step (selective ester hydrolysis), fourth step (cyclization) and fifth step (amidation) increased from 64 %, 40 % and 33 % in batch to 98 %, 71 % and 100 % yield by HPLC respectively. Other than improved yields and residence times which was aided advantages of microreactor technology including intensive mixing, the flow process is also much better because it is cost effective. Most importantly, a novel process on the formation of pyridinone intermediate using ion-exchange resin catalysts towards the synthesis of dolutegravir and cabotegravir was described in this study , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Science, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the effectiveness of area-based conservation intervention in avoiding biodiversity loss in South Africa
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the effectiveness of area-based conservation interventions in avoiding biodiversity loss in South Africa
- Authors: Von Staden, Lize
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Environmental policy , Conservation of natural resources -- Government policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61115 , vital:69762
- Description: Counterfactual impact evaluation studies form an important evidence base for the effectiveness of conservation projects, programs, and policies (collectively referred to as conservation interventions). In South Africa, counterfactual impact evaluation methods have rarely been applied to local conservation interventions, and therefore evidence for the effectiveness of key strategic national conservation approaches is lacking. This study evaluated three area-based interventions that together aim to avoid the loss of areas most important for the persistence of biodiversity in the terrestrial realm as evidence towards the effectiveness of South Africa’s landscape approach to biodiversity conservation. The first intervention, South Africa’s National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES), set ambitious targets to double the extent of South Africa’s protected area network while ensuring that the expansion preferentially occurs in areas of under-represented biodiversity. The strategy was evaluated in terms of its effectiveness in guiding protected area expansion towards more equitable representation of South Africa’s biodiversity through an assessment of changes in indicators of protected area expansion decision-making before and after the implementation of the strategy. The second intervention is the use of maps of biodiversity priorities to guide land use change decisions outside protected areas. Impact was evaluated as avoided loss of Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs), which need to remain in a natural condition to meet in situ conservation targets for species, ecosystems, and ecological processes. Avoided loss in CBAs was benchmarked against avoided loss in protected areas, to contextualize the effectiveness of land use planning as a conservation intervention. Lastly, the effectiveness of stricter land use regulations for threatened ecosystems to reduce land conversion pressure on these ecosystems was evaluated. Key findings were that protected areas are highly effective conservation interventions where they can be implemented, but their capacity for conservation impact is limited by severe constraints on strategic expansion. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Von Staden, Lize
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Environmental policy , Conservation of natural resources -- Government policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61115 , vital:69762
- Description: Counterfactual impact evaluation studies form an important evidence base for the effectiveness of conservation projects, programs, and policies (collectively referred to as conservation interventions). In South Africa, counterfactual impact evaluation methods have rarely been applied to local conservation interventions, and therefore evidence for the effectiveness of key strategic national conservation approaches is lacking. This study evaluated three area-based interventions that together aim to avoid the loss of areas most important for the persistence of biodiversity in the terrestrial realm as evidence towards the effectiveness of South Africa’s landscape approach to biodiversity conservation. The first intervention, South Africa’s National Protected Area Expansion Strategy (NPAES), set ambitious targets to double the extent of South Africa’s protected area network while ensuring that the expansion preferentially occurs in areas of under-represented biodiversity. The strategy was evaluated in terms of its effectiveness in guiding protected area expansion towards more equitable representation of South Africa’s biodiversity through an assessment of changes in indicators of protected area expansion decision-making before and after the implementation of the strategy. The second intervention is the use of maps of biodiversity priorities to guide land use change decisions outside protected areas. Impact was evaluated as avoided loss of Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs), which need to remain in a natural condition to meet in situ conservation targets for species, ecosystems, and ecological processes. Avoided loss in CBAs was benchmarked against avoided loss in protected areas, to contextualize the effectiveness of land use planning as a conservation intervention. Lastly, the effectiveness of stricter land use regulations for threatened ecosystems to reduce land conversion pressure on these ecosystems was evaluated. Key findings were that protected areas are highly effective conservation interventions where they can be implemented, but their capacity for conservation impact is limited by severe constraints on strategic expansion. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to reduce unemployment in South Africa
- Authors: Daniel, Nwabisa Nandipha
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Unemployment--South Africa , unemployment Statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61086 , vital:69739
- Description: This study evaluated South Africa’s legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to determine its effectiveness in reducing unemployment. The study is primarily driven by South Africa’s persistent challenge of unemployment with Statistics South Africa estimating the unemployment rate at 35.5 per cent or 7.9 million labourers. Persistently high levels of unemployment harm the socio-economy as unemployment increases poverty and contributes to inequality. For the government an increase in expenditure on social relief programmes, while offering some relief, decreases revenue collection. In order to mitigate this imbalance, the South African government identified public infrastructure investment as a stimulus for economic growth and create employment, such as in the Expanded Public Works Programme initiative. The legislative framework is an important aspect of study as policy is legitimised and implemented through the legislative framework. Previous studies have focused on the effect of fiscal policy on economic growth and employment creation. These studies have also used quantitative data analysis to explain the relationship between fiscal policy, economic growth, and unemployment. Other studies have focused on public policy planning and implementation, and some of the policies that have been implemented to address unemployment. This study focused on public infrastructure investments specifically rather than fiscal policy in general. The study also examined the legislative framework to determine whether it is effective in reducing unemployment through public infrastructure investment. The study made used qualitative data analysis as the researcher undertook a document analysis of publicly available documents which were sampled using a purposive sampling technique and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were that the legislative framework supported employment creation through public infrastructure investment through the establishment of a public institution to support the construction industry, the use of local content as inputs and labour-intensive technologies in the infrastructure delivery process. The legislative framework was not effective in supporting the policy, which is demonstrated by the perpetually high unemployment rate despite unemployment alleviating initiatives being implemented in the early and mid-2000s , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Daniel, Nwabisa Nandipha
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Unemployment--South Africa , unemployment Statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61086 , vital:69739
- Description: This study evaluated South Africa’s legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to determine its effectiveness in reducing unemployment. The study is primarily driven by South Africa’s persistent challenge of unemployment with Statistics South Africa estimating the unemployment rate at 35.5 per cent or 7.9 million labourers. Persistently high levels of unemployment harm the socio-economy as unemployment increases poverty and contributes to inequality. For the government an increase in expenditure on social relief programmes, while offering some relief, decreases revenue collection. In order to mitigate this imbalance, the South African government identified public infrastructure investment as a stimulus for economic growth and create employment, such as in the Expanded Public Works Programme initiative. The legislative framework is an important aspect of study as policy is legitimised and implemented through the legislative framework. Previous studies have focused on the effect of fiscal policy on economic growth and employment creation. These studies have also used quantitative data analysis to explain the relationship between fiscal policy, economic growth, and unemployment. Other studies have focused on public policy planning and implementation, and some of the policies that have been implemented to address unemployment. This study focused on public infrastructure investments specifically rather than fiscal policy in general. The study also examined the legislative framework to determine whether it is effective in reducing unemployment through public infrastructure investment. The study made used qualitative data analysis as the researcher undertook a document analysis of publicly available documents which were sampled using a purposive sampling technique and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were that the legislative framework supported employment creation through public infrastructure investment through the establishment of a public institution to support the construction industry, the use of local content as inputs and labour-intensive technologies in the infrastructure delivery process. The legislative framework was not effective in supporting the policy, which is demonstrated by the perpetually high unemployment rate despite unemployment alleviating initiatives being implemented in the early and mid-2000s , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the national minimum wage dispensation
- Authors: Masenya, Mogodi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Evaluation , Minimum wage -- distribution , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60807 , vital:67833
- Description: After South Africa became a democratic country, there was a shift in the labour and employment sector. This led to introduction of new labour laws which would be in harmony with the constitutional dream and objectives. As such, the BCEA was introduced to bring about change to the basic conditions of employment. As a result of this, new minimum wages policies and laws were enacted. The wages were to be determined by the following means: first way was by means of bargaining council agreements, the second way by means of statutory council agreements, and the third way by means of sectoral determinations. The sectoral determinations policy was introduced through the BCEA. The BCEA through the ECC promulgated sectoral determinations which was aimed to establish minimum wages and conditions of employment for workers in the sectors deemed to be vulnerable. A minimum wage was firstly adopted in New Zealand and in European countries as early as the 19th century. This policy was then widely adopted after the establishment of the International Labour Organisation. The purpose or aim of a minimum wage is to protect workers against exploitatively low pay and to ensure a just and equitable share of the profits of work, thus creating a minimum living wage for all those that are employed and in need of such protection. Minimum wages are also often used as a policy tool to reduce poverty and inequality, including between men and women, by advocating for equal pay for work of equal value. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No 135 are the key international conventions that determine minimum wage fixing. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No. 135 seek to ensure that the minimum wage is set at a certain level that allows workers and their families to meet their needs. Article 4 of Convention No. 131 requires the creation and maintenance of machinery adapted to national conditions and requirements whereby minimum wages for groups of wage earners covered under article 1 can be fixed and adjusted from time to time. However, the situation of minimum wages differs between developed and developing countries. This raises a concern, more particularly, whether developing countries can be able to adopt the minimum wage policy. This research makes investigate the adoption of iv minimum wage policy in developed and developing countries, and how it affected their socio-economic status. On about 2018, South Africa enacted the National Minimum Wage Act. This Act was aimed at establishing a floor of minimum wage for all employees. This Act was intended to promote and protect vulnerable workers who were left out from the previous wage policies. The long-term aim of a minimum wage was to remove the problem of poverty pay, which exists when the earnings from paid work do not result in a living minimum wage and fail to push people out of poverty. When this Act was enacted, the national minimum wage floor was set at R20 per hour. However, in EPWP, Domestic Worker, and Farm workers had lower rates because they were regulated by other laws. Furthermore, there were challenges of non-compliance by employers. The national minimum wage policy as a socio-economic tool has had an impact on several levels of the economy. This policy has contributed to either alleviation or elevation of poverty and unemployment. Therefore, this study looks at the impact the minimum wage has had on these 2 aspects of life. The research provides a specific asymmetric data of the impact of the policy in all sectors throughout the time since this policy was adopted. It further shows how the minimum wage policy intervention has been affected by covid 19 pandemic. This empirical evidence is provided by way of charts and graphs to demonstrate the changes that has occurred. At the end of the treatise a conclusion on how this policy has affected the South African economy is reached. Furthermore, recommendations on how economic risks posed by the minimum wage policy can be reduced. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Masenya, Mogodi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Evaluation , Minimum wage -- distribution , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60807 , vital:67833
- Description: After South Africa became a democratic country, there was a shift in the labour and employment sector. This led to introduction of new labour laws which would be in harmony with the constitutional dream and objectives. As such, the BCEA was introduced to bring about change to the basic conditions of employment. As a result of this, new minimum wages policies and laws were enacted. The wages were to be determined by the following means: first way was by means of bargaining council agreements, the second way by means of statutory council agreements, and the third way by means of sectoral determinations. The sectoral determinations policy was introduced through the BCEA. The BCEA through the ECC promulgated sectoral determinations which was aimed to establish minimum wages and conditions of employment for workers in the sectors deemed to be vulnerable. A minimum wage was firstly adopted in New Zealand and in European countries as early as the 19th century. This policy was then widely adopted after the establishment of the International Labour Organisation. The purpose or aim of a minimum wage is to protect workers against exploitatively low pay and to ensure a just and equitable share of the profits of work, thus creating a minimum living wage for all those that are employed and in need of such protection. Minimum wages are also often used as a policy tool to reduce poverty and inequality, including between men and women, by advocating for equal pay for work of equal value. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No 135 are the key international conventions that determine minimum wage fixing. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No. 135 seek to ensure that the minimum wage is set at a certain level that allows workers and their families to meet their needs. Article 4 of Convention No. 131 requires the creation and maintenance of machinery adapted to national conditions and requirements whereby minimum wages for groups of wage earners covered under article 1 can be fixed and adjusted from time to time. However, the situation of minimum wages differs between developed and developing countries. This raises a concern, more particularly, whether developing countries can be able to adopt the minimum wage policy. This research makes investigate the adoption of iv minimum wage policy in developed and developing countries, and how it affected their socio-economic status. On about 2018, South Africa enacted the National Minimum Wage Act. This Act was aimed at establishing a floor of minimum wage for all employees. This Act was intended to promote and protect vulnerable workers who were left out from the previous wage policies. The long-term aim of a minimum wage was to remove the problem of poverty pay, which exists when the earnings from paid work do not result in a living minimum wage and fail to push people out of poverty. When this Act was enacted, the national minimum wage floor was set at R20 per hour. However, in EPWP, Domestic Worker, and Farm workers had lower rates because they were regulated by other laws. Furthermore, there were challenges of non-compliance by employers. The national minimum wage policy as a socio-economic tool has had an impact on several levels of the economy. This policy has contributed to either alleviation or elevation of poverty and unemployment. Therefore, this study looks at the impact the minimum wage has had on these 2 aspects of life. The research provides a specific asymmetric data of the impact of the policy in all sectors throughout the time since this policy was adopted. It further shows how the minimum wage policy intervention has been affected by covid 19 pandemic. This empirical evidence is provided by way of charts and graphs to demonstrate the changes that has occurred. At the end of the treatise a conclusion on how this policy has affected the South African economy is reached. Furthermore, recommendations on how economic risks posed by the minimum wage policy can be reduced. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An exploration of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) facilitating the growth and certification of small-scale organic farmers: Giyani, Garden Route and Overberg case studies
- Authors: Mashele,N’wa-Jama
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Organic farming – Case studies --South Africa , Organic farming research
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60741 , vital:66574
- Description: In this study, I evaluated the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) as a framework to support the growth and certification of small-scale organic farmers. I used the interpretivism and constructivism lenses to understand the PGS from the perspective of members of three PGS groups. The research was qualitative, treating the three PGS groups as case studies. I collected data using focus groups, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, field notes and observations. The theoretical frameworks that guided the research and data analysis were Socio-ecological Systems (SES) based principles and the Multi-Level-Perspective (MLP) framework. The data were analysed using Atlas.ti content analysis software. The key results were grouped into four themes: capacity; market and logistics; learning process; and disturbance, shock and stress. The theme of ‘capacity’ dealt with the functioning of a PGS, where three categories were identified: group composition and capacity; resource limitations and institutional support; marketing and consumer education. The more diversity in age, education and culture of PGS stakeholders, the better performance and chances of continuity and propagation. PGS has limited capacity partly due to its voluntary nature and infancy. It needs institutional support to grow and be useful for members. Department of Agriculture extension officers knew little about organic farming, thus limiting their engagement and assistance to such farmers. The theme of ‘market and logistics’ looked at the various factors that influence the farmers’ market reach. The perception from the members was that there was minimal consumer awareness about organic agriculture and the PGS. The marketing of organic produce relied largely on the individual farmer’s efforts and ability to search for and secure markets. The theme of the ‘learning process’ was categorised into learning and knowledge exchange. Members of the PGS groups highly regarded the invaluable knowledge shared through farm visits and online platforms, such as their WhatsApp groups. This knowledge improved and informed their farming techniques and led to the growth of v their skill base and experimentation. They viewed the way knowledge was exchanged as non-threatening and highly useful. The fourth theme of ‘disturbance, shock and stress’ dealt with the effects of COVID19. The three groups were all affected by lockdown restrictions (at the time of data collection) and were initially cut off from their usual markets. This led to a loss of income, loss of farm staff and a loss of the desired growth of the farms. The group’s diverse farming practices bolstered their resilience, enabling them to adapt and try alternative marketing strategies. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mashele,N’wa-Jama
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Organic farming – Case studies --South Africa , Organic farming research
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60741 , vital:66574
- Description: In this study, I evaluated the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) as a framework to support the growth and certification of small-scale organic farmers. I used the interpretivism and constructivism lenses to understand the PGS from the perspective of members of three PGS groups. The research was qualitative, treating the three PGS groups as case studies. I collected data using focus groups, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, field notes and observations. The theoretical frameworks that guided the research and data analysis were Socio-ecological Systems (SES) based principles and the Multi-Level-Perspective (MLP) framework. The data were analysed using Atlas.ti content analysis software. The key results were grouped into four themes: capacity; market and logistics; learning process; and disturbance, shock and stress. The theme of ‘capacity’ dealt with the functioning of a PGS, where three categories were identified: group composition and capacity; resource limitations and institutional support; marketing and consumer education. The more diversity in age, education and culture of PGS stakeholders, the better performance and chances of continuity and propagation. PGS has limited capacity partly due to its voluntary nature and infancy. It needs institutional support to grow and be useful for members. Department of Agriculture extension officers knew little about organic farming, thus limiting their engagement and assistance to such farmers. The theme of ‘market and logistics’ looked at the various factors that influence the farmers’ market reach. The perception from the members was that there was minimal consumer awareness about organic agriculture and the PGS. The marketing of organic produce relied largely on the individual farmer’s efforts and ability to search for and secure markets. The theme of the ‘learning process’ was categorised into learning and knowledge exchange. Members of the PGS groups highly regarded the invaluable knowledge shared through farm visits and online platforms, such as their WhatsApp groups. This knowledge improved and informed their farming techniques and led to the growth of v their skill base and experimentation. They viewed the way knowledge was exchanged as non-threatening and highly useful. The fourth theme of ‘disturbance, shock and stress’ dealt with the effects of COVID19. The three groups were all affected by lockdown restrictions (at the time of data collection) and were initially cut off from their usual markets. This led to a loss of income, loss of farm staff and a loss of the desired growth of the farms. The group’s diverse farming practices bolstered their resilience, enabling them to adapt and try alternative marketing strategies. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An explorative study into the introduction of sugar tax in the sugar industry: A case of Illovo
- Authors: Jacobs, Nomfundo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Sugar Trade , Maple sugar industry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61350 , vital:70421
- Description: An explorative study into the introduction of sugar tax in the sugar industry: A case of Illovo. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry, Illovo Sugar in particular. This tax was introduced in 2018 and it only affected the beverage industry, with its effects being concentrated on industrial sales. The government's intention was to reduce the rising levels of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases, in response to the increased sugar consumption in the country. In addition, the introduction of this tax was expected to reduce sugar consumption in the country, thereby improving public health. Ultimately, the government wanted to encourage citizens to adjust their lifestyles by reducing their sugar intake. To this end, the sugar tax was implemented with the expectation that it would lead to a decrease in sugar consumption in South Africa. The researcher made use of the qualitative research method to collect the data. This enabled a comprehensive understanding of the research topic, as the participants chosen had been working in the sugar industry for a number of years and could give detailed accounts of the implications of the tax on the industry and the communities. Furthermore, the researcher conducted in-depth interviews with the participants to better understand their perceptions on how the tax had impacted their businesses. The data collected was then analysed according to thematic content analysis, and this produced factual, reliable, and valid results. The findings of this study revealed that the sugar tax had a negative impact on Illovo's business operations. Despite this, Illovo was able to leverage its resources and expertise to devise strategies for mitigating the impact of the sugar tax, allowing them to remain competitive in their industry. This included focusing on independent stores and restructuring staff and resources to manage the lower sugar demand. Additionally, Illovo also looked at selling sugar to more profitable customers, helping to reduce costs and associated risk. Despite the strategies adopted, further research is recommended in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding into the phenomenon using a large sample size. This v would allow for further insights into the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry and whether any changes need to be made in order to ensure that it continues to remain competitive in the industry. Furthermore, research should also be conducted into the implications of the sugar tax on other sectors of the economy, as policy makers may need to consider the possible effects on other industries and even on the government itself versus the possible benefits to the public. Additionally, this research could also be extended to include a longitudinal study in order to capture any changes that take place in the years to come. These changes may include further price adjustments, changes in consumer behaviour, and any possible implications on public health. This would allow for a greater understanding of the implications of this tax for both the industry and society. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Jacobs, Nomfundo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Sugar Trade , Maple sugar industry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61350 , vital:70421
- Description: An explorative study into the introduction of sugar tax in the sugar industry: A case of Illovo. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry, Illovo Sugar in particular. This tax was introduced in 2018 and it only affected the beverage industry, with its effects being concentrated on industrial sales. The government's intention was to reduce the rising levels of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases, in response to the increased sugar consumption in the country. In addition, the introduction of this tax was expected to reduce sugar consumption in the country, thereby improving public health. Ultimately, the government wanted to encourage citizens to adjust their lifestyles by reducing their sugar intake. To this end, the sugar tax was implemented with the expectation that it would lead to a decrease in sugar consumption in South Africa. The researcher made use of the qualitative research method to collect the data. This enabled a comprehensive understanding of the research topic, as the participants chosen had been working in the sugar industry for a number of years and could give detailed accounts of the implications of the tax on the industry and the communities. Furthermore, the researcher conducted in-depth interviews with the participants to better understand their perceptions on how the tax had impacted their businesses. The data collected was then analysed according to thematic content analysis, and this produced factual, reliable, and valid results. The findings of this study revealed that the sugar tax had a negative impact on Illovo's business operations. Despite this, Illovo was able to leverage its resources and expertise to devise strategies for mitigating the impact of the sugar tax, allowing them to remain competitive in their industry. This included focusing on independent stores and restructuring staff and resources to manage the lower sugar demand. Additionally, Illovo also looked at selling sugar to more profitable customers, helping to reduce costs and associated risk. Despite the strategies adopted, further research is recommended in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding into the phenomenon using a large sample size. This v would allow for further insights into the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry and whether any changes need to be made in order to ensure that it continues to remain competitive in the industry. Furthermore, research should also be conducted into the implications of the sugar tax on other sectors of the economy, as policy makers may need to consider the possible effects on other industries and even on the government itself versus the possible benefits to the public. Additionally, this research could also be extended to include a longitudinal study in order to capture any changes that take place in the years to come. These changes may include further price adjustments, changes in consumer behaviour, and any possible implications on public health. This would allow for a greater understanding of the implications of this tax for both the industry and society. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An investigation into the cybersecurity skills gap in South Africa
- Authors: De Jager, Michael
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Criminal investigation , Information technology--Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60635 , vital:66247
- Description: The usage of the internet both in our daily lives and in the operations of organisations has grown significantly in modern society. However, there are also risks and vulnerabilities associated with this, thus cyber threats. Cybersecurity has been put in place to safeguard the internet from these cyber threats, yet there is an ever-growing concern regarding the implementation of cybersecurity, both globally and in South Africa. With the increase in cyber threats, there is a growing need and demand for IT professionals with the requisite cybersecurity skills and knowledge to combat and mitigate these threats. However, an ever-increasing cybersecurity skills gap has been identified both globally and in South Africa. Yet the specific cybersecurity skills demand, needs and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa are currently unknown. This study therefore investigated the cybersecurity skills demand, needs, and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa by reporting on IT professionals’ perceptions in this regard. An online questionnaire was used to gather information for this and was distributed to IT professionals using various online platforms. According to the findings of the study, there are several challenges such as lack of time, lack of funding and a lack of resources that South Africa must overcome in order to address the cybersecurity skills gap. From the survey results it was also found that neither tertiary institutions, nor organisations, nor the South African government are investing enough in cybersecurity skills development. Without the right cybersecurity skills set or investment in the development of cybersecurity skills, cyber threats will continue to increase and will potentially become more harmful to South African organisations and to the South African society at large. Furthermore, this study addresses the extent to which cybersecurity-related skills are required and currently used by IT professionals in South Africa to address the cybersecurity skills gap. Tertiary institutions, organisations and the South African government may benefit from this investigation as it could assist in the development of cybersecurity course work as well as national cybersecurity laws, legislations and policies. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: De Jager, Michael
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Criminal investigation , Information technology--Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60635 , vital:66247
- Description: The usage of the internet both in our daily lives and in the operations of organisations has grown significantly in modern society. However, there are also risks and vulnerabilities associated with this, thus cyber threats. Cybersecurity has been put in place to safeguard the internet from these cyber threats, yet there is an ever-growing concern regarding the implementation of cybersecurity, both globally and in South Africa. With the increase in cyber threats, there is a growing need and demand for IT professionals with the requisite cybersecurity skills and knowledge to combat and mitigate these threats. However, an ever-increasing cybersecurity skills gap has been identified both globally and in South Africa. Yet the specific cybersecurity skills demand, needs and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa are currently unknown. This study therefore investigated the cybersecurity skills demand, needs, and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa by reporting on IT professionals’ perceptions in this regard. An online questionnaire was used to gather information for this and was distributed to IT professionals using various online platforms. According to the findings of the study, there are several challenges such as lack of time, lack of funding and a lack of resources that South Africa must overcome in order to address the cybersecurity skills gap. From the survey results it was also found that neither tertiary institutions, nor organisations, nor the South African government are investing enough in cybersecurity skills development. Without the right cybersecurity skills set or investment in the development of cybersecurity skills, cyber threats will continue to increase and will potentially become more harmful to South African organisations and to the South African society at large. Furthermore, this study addresses the extent to which cybersecurity-related skills are required and currently used by IT professionals in South Africa to address the cybersecurity skills gap. Tertiary institutions, organisations and the South African government may benefit from this investigation as it could assist in the development of cybersecurity course work as well as national cybersecurity laws, legislations and policies. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An investigation of alternative separation strategies for common chemical mixtures by means of host-guest chemistry protocols with host compounds N,N′- bis(5-phenyl-5-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11- dihydro-5-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine
- Authors: Barton, Danica Brione
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid -- South Africa , Enzymes –Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61176 , vital:69791
- Description: In this work, the selectivity behaviour of two host compounds, namely N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H1) and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11-dihydro-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H2), was assessed in mixtures of difficult-toseparate compounds, including the xylenes and ethylbenzene, pyridine and methylpyridines, and anisole and methylanisoles. These host compounds were synthesized using Grignard addition reactions with phenylmagnesium bromide on dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one and 10,11- dihydrodibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one, respectively. The resultant alcohols were treated with perchloric acid to form the corresponding perchlorate salts, which were then reacted with ethylenediamine to afford the required H1 and H2 host compounds. Yields were 95 ad 52% for this final step in each case. An investigation of the conformations, both from experiment (using single crystal X-ray diffractometry (SCXRD) on the apohost compound) and computational calculations was undertaken. Unfortunately, H1 always crystallized out as a powder unless this host compound formed a complex with a guest species, and so could not be subjected to SCXRD analysis as apohost alone. However, a single crystal structure for apohost H2 was successfully obtained and compared with computational data from a previous investigation. It was observed that the conformation of apohost H2 compared favourably with that of the lowest energy conformer from that work. In single solvent recrystallization experiments with o-, m-, p-xylene (o-Xy, m-Xy, p-Xy) and ethylbenzene (EB), both H1 and H2 formed complexes with only one of the four guest species, namely p-Xy and o-Xy, respectively. The host:guest (H:G) ratios were 1:1 for both of these complexes. In the equimolar guest/guest competition experiments, inclusion complexes only formed when p-Xy or o-Xy, respectively, were present in the mixtures; if p-Xy (for experiments with H1) or o-Xy (H2) was absent from these mixtures, only apohost was recovered from the glass vessels. Three selectivity profiles were constructed for each of these host compounds, in which each one was recrystallized from binary mixed guests in various proportions. These demonstrated an overwhelming preference of H1 for p-Xy and H2 for o-Xy, which concurred with the results from the equimolar experiments. Thermal analysis using H1∙p-Xy revealed that this complex was unstable at ambient conditions, while SCXRD explained this observation: this complex may be defined as a true clathrate since no host‧‧‧guest interactions were identified at all, and the guest was retained in the complex by means of steric factors alone. Furthermore, the guest molecules resided in wide open channels that may have facilitated the guest release process. H2∙o-Xy, on the other hand, was stable at room temperature, and the guest release event only commenced at 69.7 °C (Ton). This too was explained by SCXRD analyses in that interactions between host and guest species were observed in this case. Additionally, the guest molecules were housed in discrete cages, which made their escape more challenging compared with p-Xy in H1∙p-Xy. It was concluded that, in this guest series, both of the host compounds would be effective as separatory tools employing host-guest chemistry protocols due to their remarkable selectivities for p-Xy (H1) and o-Xy (H2). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Barton, Danica Brione
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid -- South Africa , Enzymes –Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61176 , vital:69791
- Description: In this work, the selectivity behaviour of two host compounds, namely N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H1) and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11-dihydro-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H2), was assessed in mixtures of difficult-toseparate compounds, including the xylenes and ethylbenzene, pyridine and methylpyridines, and anisole and methylanisoles. These host compounds were synthesized using Grignard addition reactions with phenylmagnesium bromide on dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one and 10,11- dihydrodibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one, respectively. The resultant alcohols were treated with perchloric acid to form the corresponding perchlorate salts, which were then reacted with ethylenediamine to afford the required H1 and H2 host compounds. Yields were 95 ad 52% for this final step in each case. An investigation of the conformations, both from experiment (using single crystal X-ray diffractometry (SCXRD) on the apohost compound) and computational calculations was undertaken. Unfortunately, H1 always crystallized out as a powder unless this host compound formed a complex with a guest species, and so could not be subjected to SCXRD analysis as apohost alone. However, a single crystal structure for apohost H2 was successfully obtained and compared with computational data from a previous investigation. It was observed that the conformation of apohost H2 compared favourably with that of the lowest energy conformer from that work. In single solvent recrystallization experiments with o-, m-, p-xylene (o-Xy, m-Xy, p-Xy) and ethylbenzene (EB), both H1 and H2 formed complexes with only one of the four guest species, namely p-Xy and o-Xy, respectively. The host:guest (H:G) ratios were 1:1 for both of these complexes. In the equimolar guest/guest competition experiments, inclusion complexes only formed when p-Xy or o-Xy, respectively, were present in the mixtures; if p-Xy (for experiments with H1) or o-Xy (H2) was absent from these mixtures, only apohost was recovered from the glass vessels. Three selectivity profiles were constructed for each of these host compounds, in which each one was recrystallized from binary mixed guests in various proportions. These demonstrated an overwhelming preference of H1 for p-Xy and H2 for o-Xy, which concurred with the results from the equimolar experiments. Thermal analysis using H1∙p-Xy revealed that this complex was unstable at ambient conditions, while SCXRD explained this observation: this complex may be defined as a true clathrate since no host‧‧‧guest interactions were identified at all, and the guest was retained in the complex by means of steric factors alone. Furthermore, the guest molecules resided in wide open channels that may have facilitated the guest release process. H2∙o-Xy, on the other hand, was stable at room temperature, and the guest release event only commenced at 69.7 °C (Ton). This too was explained by SCXRD analyses in that interactions between host and guest species were observed in this case. Additionally, the guest molecules were housed in discrete cages, which made their escape more challenging compared with p-Xy in H1∙p-Xy. It was concluded that, in this guest series, both of the host compounds would be effective as separatory tools employing host-guest chemistry protocols due to their remarkable selectivities for p-Xy (H1) and o-Xy (H2). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing diatom community composition and structure in palaeosediments of a southern Cape coastal wetland
- Authors: Sepato, Tshiamo Tsholofelo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Diatoms --South Africa – Southern Cape , Paleoecology , Marine algae --South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61258 , vital:69847
- Description: Palaeoenvironmental studies are important as they aid in reconstructing histories of past landscapes and provide key long-term information for the conservation and management of ecosystems. The southern Cape coast is a focus area for palaeoenvironmental research due to its high botanical and climatic importance. A three-metre sediment core was retrieved from Whale Rock wetland (Plettenberg Bay, southern Cape Coast) and spanned ~8000 years – a large proportion of the Holocene epoch. Diatom data preserved in palaeosediments of the Whale Rock wetland are presented within this study. A total of 48 diatom species was identified. Based on the multivariate statistical analysis, the diatom assemblages were divided into three zones: Zone WR-1-A (~7200 – 6450 cal yr BP); Zone WR-1- B (~6450 – 6250 cal yr BP) and Zone WR-1-C (~250 cal yr BP – to present). Two diatom preservation hiatus periods were observed at ~8000 – 7200 cal yr BP and ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP. The results indicated that benthic diatom species were significantly dominant throughout the Whale Rock record. The diatom evidence revealed that the Whale Rock wetland system freshened over time as diatom species identified in Zone WR-1-A and Zone WR-1- B indicated marine influences whereas Zone WR-1-C displayed a dominance of species that thrive in freshwater conditions. A transitional phase occurred at ~6400 cal yr BP where abrupt changes began prior to the significant ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP diatom preservation hiatus period. Principal Component Analysis showed that salinity was the main environmental driver of change impacting the species abundance and diversity of diatom communities within the wetland system throughout the Holocene. When compared with regional palaeoenvironmental and palaeolimnological data, it is evident that several other wetland systems moved from a marine/brackish favoured system to a freshwater system with the transitional phase occurring at different periods within the Holocene. This study indicated that diatoms are powerful biological proxies of environmental change. It is recommended that the site be revisited to investigate further the hiatus phases to further explore the lack of diatom preservation for these periods and to also contribute more palaeoenvironmental proxy evidence as well as modern hydrological information. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Sepato, Tshiamo Tsholofelo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Diatoms --South Africa – Southern Cape , Paleoecology , Marine algae --South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61258 , vital:69847
- Description: Palaeoenvironmental studies are important as they aid in reconstructing histories of past landscapes and provide key long-term information for the conservation and management of ecosystems. The southern Cape coast is a focus area for palaeoenvironmental research due to its high botanical and climatic importance. A three-metre sediment core was retrieved from Whale Rock wetland (Plettenberg Bay, southern Cape Coast) and spanned ~8000 years – a large proportion of the Holocene epoch. Diatom data preserved in palaeosediments of the Whale Rock wetland are presented within this study. A total of 48 diatom species was identified. Based on the multivariate statistical analysis, the diatom assemblages were divided into three zones: Zone WR-1-A (~7200 – 6450 cal yr BP); Zone WR-1- B (~6450 – 6250 cal yr BP) and Zone WR-1-C (~250 cal yr BP – to present). Two diatom preservation hiatus periods were observed at ~8000 – 7200 cal yr BP and ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP. The results indicated that benthic diatom species were significantly dominant throughout the Whale Rock record. The diatom evidence revealed that the Whale Rock wetland system freshened over time as diatom species identified in Zone WR-1-A and Zone WR-1- B indicated marine influences whereas Zone WR-1-C displayed a dominance of species that thrive in freshwater conditions. A transitional phase occurred at ~6400 cal yr BP where abrupt changes began prior to the significant ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP diatom preservation hiatus period. Principal Component Analysis showed that salinity was the main environmental driver of change impacting the species abundance and diversity of diatom communities within the wetland system throughout the Holocene. When compared with regional palaeoenvironmental and palaeolimnological data, it is evident that several other wetland systems moved from a marine/brackish favoured system to a freshwater system with the transitional phase occurring at different periods within the Holocene. This study indicated that diatoms are powerful biological proxies of environmental change. It is recommended that the site be revisited to investigate further the hiatus phases to further explore the lack of diatom preservation for these periods and to also contribute more palaeoenvironmental proxy evidence as well as modern hydrological information. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on South African organisation’s way of working: A Black Management Forum Perspective
- Authors: Koti, Sonwabo Mawethu
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease)-- South Africa , Black Management Forum
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61454 , vital:70653
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine impact of Covid-19 on organisation’s work environment in South Africa, based on Black Management Forum’s views. The outbreak of Covid-19 led to disruption on organisation’s ways of working, this was due to lockdown rules and regulations, restrictions imposed by Government to curb the spread of the virus. The study used quantitative method approach; online survey questionnaire was distributed to recruited Black Management Forum (BMF) members who were willing to voluntarily participate via an email and WhatsApp platform. These members were sampled using convenience and snowball non-probability sampling techniques. The concepts of the study were scientifically hypothesised to determine whether such associations exist within the context of the work environment and productivity within the different corporate sector of industries in South Africa. The study findings confirmed that most organisations were impacted, and they changed their ways of work by implementing mostly work partly from home (WPFH) hybrid work model. The study findings also revealed that, workload was more during the pandemic than before, as results of changed work environment. Other finding from the study indicated that most employees adapted well to changes, understood the need for change and they performed well. Most employees also felt more productive and well supported and respected by managers. Service sectors were more impacted than other sectors and they showed more productivity as well. Most respondents felt that the adopted ways of working would remain post-pandemic and that they prefer this hybrid model of working because it gave them an opportunity to manage their own time. vii The research is significant as it critically examined how a pandemic can create organisational changes and the extent to which organisations must adjust. The research also provides policy recommendations that could assist corporate organisations in adopting new ways of working. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Koti, Sonwabo Mawethu
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease)-- South Africa , Black Management Forum
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61454 , vital:70653
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine impact of Covid-19 on organisation’s work environment in South Africa, based on Black Management Forum’s views. The outbreak of Covid-19 led to disruption on organisation’s ways of working, this was due to lockdown rules and regulations, restrictions imposed by Government to curb the spread of the virus. The study used quantitative method approach; online survey questionnaire was distributed to recruited Black Management Forum (BMF) members who were willing to voluntarily participate via an email and WhatsApp platform. These members were sampled using convenience and snowball non-probability sampling techniques. The concepts of the study were scientifically hypothesised to determine whether such associations exist within the context of the work environment and productivity within the different corporate sector of industries in South Africa. The study findings confirmed that most organisations were impacted, and they changed their ways of work by implementing mostly work partly from home (WPFH) hybrid work model. The study findings also revealed that, workload was more during the pandemic than before, as results of changed work environment. Other finding from the study indicated that most employees adapted well to changes, understood the need for change and they performed well. Most employees also felt more productive and well supported and respected by managers. Service sectors were more impacted than other sectors and they showed more productivity as well. Most respondents felt that the adopted ways of working would remain post-pandemic and that they prefer this hybrid model of working because it gave them an opportunity to manage their own time. vii The research is significant as it critically examined how a pandemic can create organisational changes and the extent to which organisations must adjust. The research also provides policy recommendations that could assist corporate organisations in adopting new ways of working. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing the Role of Women on Small-Scale Agribusiness at Wincanton Estate in Kariega, South Africa
- Authors: Zalwango, Joanita
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Women in agriculture --Eastern Cape – Kariega , Climate change -- Kariega
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61054 , vital:69690
- Description: Agricultural development is a prerequisite for most economies to grow. Agricultural activities are key to food security and sustaining livelihoods globally. Within the African continent, more women are employed in agriculture and agribusiness activities than other sectors. As main contributors to the labour force in the agricultural sector, women get involved in many agricultural and agribusiness activities to sustain their families. With over 60% of women in Sub–Saharan Africa involved in agriculture, there is need to explore and assess the role they play in promoting agribusiness with special focus on Kariega, in South Africa. The identified participants in the study, as self-employed farmers, participate in agribusiness, thereby creating employment opportunities whilst generating personal incomes. Several benefits to female involvement in agribusiness were identified, including the ability to sustain families, stable cash flow, and empowerment. Several challenges were identified, including adequate capital, inaccessibility to private land, droughts, water scarcity, climate change effects and stigmatisation. Through a feminist qualitative methodology, the study utilised semi- structured interviews to collect data from 10 women involved in agribusiness around Kariega, Nelson Mandela Bay. Themes from the findings are analysed to highlight the important role played by women toward agribusiness, their achievements, government and private sector role and the hinderances still faced by these women in agricultural cooperatives. Discussion from the analysis included a framework of recommendations, for policy makers, development practitioners and future researchers. The study found that all stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector should work together for sustainable agricultural development and sustainable development goals to be achieved. Sustainability among women farmers can be achieved by (a) Increasing government intervention and support (b) Climate smart agriculture practices (c) Overcoming stigmatisation (d) Encouraging and involving the youth (e) Diversification and integration of farm businesses and (f) Using contract farming. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing the Role of Women on Small-Scale Agribusiness at Wincanton Estate in Kariega, South Africa
- Authors: Zalwango, Joanita
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Women in agriculture --Eastern Cape – Kariega , Climate change -- Kariega
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61054 , vital:69690
- Description: Agricultural development is a prerequisite for most economies to grow. Agricultural activities are key to food security and sustaining livelihoods globally. Within the African continent, more women are employed in agriculture and agribusiness activities than other sectors. As main contributors to the labour force in the agricultural sector, women get involved in many agricultural and agribusiness activities to sustain their families. With over 60% of women in Sub–Saharan Africa involved in agriculture, there is need to explore and assess the role they play in promoting agribusiness with special focus on Kariega, in South Africa. The identified participants in the study, as self-employed farmers, participate in agribusiness, thereby creating employment opportunities whilst generating personal incomes. Several benefits to female involvement in agribusiness were identified, including the ability to sustain families, stable cash flow, and empowerment. Several challenges were identified, including adequate capital, inaccessibility to private land, droughts, water scarcity, climate change effects and stigmatisation. Through a feminist qualitative methodology, the study utilised semi- structured interviews to collect data from 10 women involved in agribusiness around Kariega, Nelson Mandela Bay. Themes from the findings are analysed to highlight the important role played by women toward agribusiness, their achievements, government and private sector role and the hinderances still faced by these women in agricultural cooperatives. Discussion from the analysis included a framework of recommendations, for policy makers, development practitioners and future researchers. The study found that all stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector should work together for sustainable agricultural development and sustainable development goals to be achieved. Sustainability among women farmers can be achieved by (a) Increasing government intervention and support (b) Climate smart agriculture practices (c) Overcoming stigmatisation (d) Encouraging and involving the youth (e) Diversification and integration of farm businesses and (f) Using contract farming. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2023-04