A return to common-sense: why ecology needs transcendental realism
- Authors: Price, Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/390324 , vital:68538 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2019.1580178"
- Description: Empirical realist ecologists, such as C. S. Holling, face significant methodological contradictions; for instance, they must cope with the problem that ecological models and theories of climate change, resilience and succession cannot make predictions in open systems. Generally, they respond to this problem by supplementing their empirical realism with transcendental idealism: they therefore say that their models are simply metaphorical or heuristic, that is, 'not true' in that they are not empirical. Thus, they explicitly deny an ontology for what their models are about. Nevertheless, in their practice, ecologists act as if their theories do have an ontology and thus tell us something truthful about the real world. This discrepancy leaves ecology vulnerable to unnecessary critique, such as that climate science is not real science. Transcendental realism offers a solution because it releases ecologists from the requirement to make predictions; but it does so without denying ontology. This provides several advantages to ecologists.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Price, Leigh
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/390324 , vital:68538 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1080/14767430.2019.1580178"
- Description: Empirical realist ecologists, such as C. S. Holling, face significant methodological contradictions; for instance, they must cope with the problem that ecological models and theories of climate change, resilience and succession cannot make predictions in open systems. Generally, they respond to this problem by supplementing their empirical realism with transcendental idealism: they therefore say that their models are simply metaphorical or heuristic, that is, 'not true' in that they are not empirical. Thus, they explicitly deny an ontology for what their models are about. Nevertheless, in their practice, ecologists act as if their theories do have an ontology and thus tell us something truthful about the real world. This discrepancy leaves ecology vulnerable to unnecessary critique, such as that climate science is not real science. Transcendental realism offers a solution because it releases ecologists from the requirement to make predictions; but it does so without denying ontology. This provides several advantages to ecologists.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A snake in the grass: Genetic structuring of the widespread African grass snake (Psammophylax Fitzinger 1843), with the description of a new genus and a new species
- Keates, Chad, Conradie, Werner C, Greenbaum, Eli, Edwards, Shelley
- Authors: Keates, Chad , Conradie, Werner C , Greenbaum, Eli , Edwards, Shelley
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/461473 , vital:76205 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jzs.12337"
- Description: Psammophylax (Fitzinger 1843) is a widespread yet poorly studied genus of African grass snakes. A genetic phylogeny of six of the seven species was estimated using multiple phylogenetic and distance‐based methods. To support the genetic analyses, we conducted morphological analyses on the body (traditional morphology) and head (geometric morphometrics) separately. Phylogenetic analyses recovered a similar topology to past studies, but with better resolution and node support. We found substantial genetic structuring within the genus, supported by significantly different head shapes between P. a. acutus and other Psammophylax. Psammophylax a. acutus was recovered as sister to its congeners, and sequence divergence values and morphometrics supported its recognition as a new genus. Increased sampling in East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia) revealed that Psammophylax multisquamis is polyphyletic, necessitating the description of a new, morphologically cryptic species from northern Tanzania. The distribution of P. multisquamis sensu stricto is likely restricted to Kenya and Ethiopia. The study has further resolved multiple aspects of Psammophylax systematics, including the taxonomic validity of two central African subspecies, P. variabilis vanoyei (Laurent 1956) and P. tritaeniatus subniger (Laurent 1956). Inclusion of specimens from the more remote parts of Africa, in future analyses, may result in the recovery of additional diversity within Psammophylax.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Keates, Chad , Conradie, Werner C , Greenbaum, Eli , Edwards, Shelley
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/461473 , vital:76205 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jzs.12337"
- Description: Psammophylax (Fitzinger 1843) is a widespread yet poorly studied genus of African grass snakes. A genetic phylogeny of six of the seven species was estimated using multiple phylogenetic and distance‐based methods. To support the genetic analyses, we conducted morphological analyses on the body (traditional morphology) and head (geometric morphometrics) separately. Phylogenetic analyses recovered a similar topology to past studies, but with better resolution and node support. We found substantial genetic structuring within the genus, supported by significantly different head shapes between P. a. acutus and other Psammophylax. Psammophylax a. acutus was recovered as sister to its congeners, and sequence divergence values and morphometrics supported its recognition as a new genus. Increased sampling in East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia) revealed that Psammophylax multisquamis is polyphyletic, necessitating the description of a new, morphologically cryptic species from northern Tanzania. The distribution of P. multisquamis sensu stricto is likely restricted to Kenya and Ethiopia. The study has further resolved multiple aspects of Psammophylax systematics, including the taxonomic validity of two central African subspecies, P. variabilis vanoyei (Laurent 1956) and P. tritaeniatus subniger (Laurent 1956). Inclusion of specimens from the more remote parts of Africa, in future analyses, may result in the recovery of additional diversity within Psammophylax.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A social capital analysis of citizen participation and service delivery in metropolitan government in Zimbabwe: the case of Glenview, Harare since 2013
- Authors: Sachikonye, Tafadzwa I
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social capital (Sociology) -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Municipal services -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Local government -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Public administration -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Citizen particpation -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Local government --Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Harare (Zimbabwe). City Council
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96236 , vital:31253
- Description: Significant challenges exist in contemporary Zimbabwe with regard to urban government, including with specific reference to citizenship participation and service delivery capacities. One of the crucial factors considered in the existing literature when examining urban government is the extent to which the central government intrudes in the affairs of urban government. This is particularly important given that, in recent years, many urban governments have been controlled by the main opposition party in the country. In this context, the thesis offers a critical examination of urban government in contemporary Zimbabwe by focusing on urban government in Harare (the capital) and, even more specifically, on the high-density, low-income area of Glenview. Harare is one of two metropolitan urban areas in Zimbabwe, along with Bulawayo, and is governed by the Harare City Council. While the central state’s relationship with urban governments (including Harare) in Zimbabwe is important, and is examined in this thesis, the primary concern is how this and other factors affect citizenship participation and service delivery in Harare. In pursuing this, the thesis draws upon social capital theory (including questions around trust and networks) to facilitate a critical analysis of urban government, citizenship participation and service delivery in Harare and Glenview specifically. The fieldwork for this thesis involved a qualitative research methodology, including informal interviews with relevant local stakeholders in Harare and associated documents. The thesis concludes that localised political, social and other contextual factors in Harare undercut the prospects for meaningful citizenship participation (with forms of social exclusion existing) and that this has negative implications for effective and efficient service delivery mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sachikonye, Tafadzwa I
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Social capital (Sociology) -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Municipal services -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Local government -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Public administration -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Citizen particpation -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Local government --Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Harare (Zimbabwe). City Council
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96236 , vital:31253
- Description: Significant challenges exist in contemporary Zimbabwe with regard to urban government, including with specific reference to citizenship participation and service delivery capacities. One of the crucial factors considered in the existing literature when examining urban government is the extent to which the central government intrudes in the affairs of urban government. This is particularly important given that, in recent years, many urban governments have been controlled by the main opposition party in the country. In this context, the thesis offers a critical examination of urban government in contemporary Zimbabwe by focusing on urban government in Harare (the capital) and, even more specifically, on the high-density, low-income area of Glenview. Harare is one of two metropolitan urban areas in Zimbabwe, along with Bulawayo, and is governed by the Harare City Council. While the central state’s relationship with urban governments (including Harare) in Zimbabwe is important, and is examined in this thesis, the primary concern is how this and other factors affect citizenship participation and service delivery in Harare. In pursuing this, the thesis draws upon social capital theory (including questions around trust and networks) to facilitate a critical analysis of urban government, citizenship participation and service delivery in Harare and Glenview specifically. The fieldwork for this thesis involved a qualitative research methodology, including informal interviews with relevant local stakeholders in Harare and associated documents. The thesis concludes that localised political, social and other contextual factors in Harare undercut the prospects for meaningful citizenship participation (with forms of social exclusion existing) and that this has negative implications for effective and efficient service delivery mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A social realist account of constraints and enablements navigated by South African students during the four year professional accounting programme at Rhodes University, South Africa
- Authors: Myers, Lyndrianne Peta
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Students , Accounting -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Finance -- South Africa , Higher education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93800 , vital:30946
- Description: This dissertation is an analysis of the enablements and constraints navigated by 43 students from different academic years within the Department of Accounting, Rhodes University, in their pursuit of obtaining the postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (DipAcc) qualification. Passing this diploma year entitles students to become Trainee Accountants, which is one of the requirements for their ultimate goal of becoming a chartered accountant. In the course of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews conducted for this study, students from across the four years of the professional degree programme, shared what had helped or hindered them on their journeys to and through Rhodes University, and within the Department of Accounting at this university. Focus group discussions were then held with academics from the department, where the student participants’ experiences were shared. The responses of the members of the focus groups confirmed many of the student participants’ experiences as did interviews with representatives from the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). These representatives also spoke about students’ experiences at other campuses. To determine how localised the student participants’ experiences were, selected individuals from a number of other Departments or Schools of Accounting at SAICA-accredited institutions in South Africa were also interviewed. SAICA representatives also discussed the ‘pervasive skills’ which trainee accountants are expected to acquire. The perspectives from these different groups, have provided validation of the student research participants’ experiences. Critical Realism and Social Realism were used as theoretical underpinnings while Social Realism, Bernstein’s Pedagogic Device, Legitimation Code Theory and New Literacies Theory were used as explanatory theories. Using these theories, the participants’ experiences were analysed and could be understood in a different way. This dissertation reveals how this unequal privileging of individuals as a result of the existing structures is perpetuated at university level. It is the poorer students from under-resourced schools who generally struggle with the language and the practices and ways of being required for success at university. Student participants’ experiences of constraint and enablement arose primarily in the areas of the finances required for tuition and living expenses while at university; having English as a language of learning; and difficulties experienced with taking advantage of the learning opportunities within the department. Research participants also spoke about their experiences of transformation in terms of both student protests, and a mentoring programme which assisted them in gaining access to the practises and ways of being required for the discipline. In so doing they were inducted into the discipline’s community of practice. This dissertation has assisted in providing an understanding of what has helped and what has hindered students at Rhodes University, on their journeys towards obtaining the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting qualification. It has also provided insight into the mechanisms which lie behind these experiences. This study will provide practitioners and policy-makers with the opportunity to be better informed about students’ struggles, to contemplate their interactions with students and to identify, remove or reduce unnecessarily burdensome hurdles. Equally and perhaps more importantly, this study and the work which emerges as a result of this research, will provide students with tools to assist them in their academic journeys, to manage essential hurdles, and to eliminate or avoid unnecessary hurdles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Myers, Lyndrianne Peta
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rhodes University -- Students , Accounting -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- Finance -- South Africa , Higher education and state -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/93800 , vital:30946
- Description: This dissertation is an analysis of the enablements and constraints navigated by 43 students from different academic years within the Department of Accounting, Rhodes University, in their pursuit of obtaining the postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (DipAcc) qualification. Passing this diploma year entitles students to become Trainee Accountants, which is one of the requirements for their ultimate goal of becoming a chartered accountant. In the course of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews conducted for this study, students from across the four years of the professional degree programme, shared what had helped or hindered them on their journeys to and through Rhodes University, and within the Department of Accounting at this university. Focus group discussions were then held with academics from the department, where the student participants’ experiences were shared. The responses of the members of the focus groups confirmed many of the student participants’ experiences as did interviews with representatives from the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). These representatives also spoke about students’ experiences at other campuses. To determine how localised the student participants’ experiences were, selected individuals from a number of other Departments or Schools of Accounting at SAICA-accredited institutions in South Africa were also interviewed. SAICA representatives also discussed the ‘pervasive skills’ which trainee accountants are expected to acquire. The perspectives from these different groups, have provided validation of the student research participants’ experiences. Critical Realism and Social Realism were used as theoretical underpinnings while Social Realism, Bernstein’s Pedagogic Device, Legitimation Code Theory and New Literacies Theory were used as explanatory theories. Using these theories, the participants’ experiences were analysed and could be understood in a different way. This dissertation reveals how this unequal privileging of individuals as a result of the existing structures is perpetuated at university level. It is the poorer students from under-resourced schools who generally struggle with the language and the practices and ways of being required for success at university. Student participants’ experiences of constraint and enablement arose primarily in the areas of the finances required for tuition and living expenses while at university; having English as a language of learning; and difficulties experienced with taking advantage of the learning opportunities within the department. Research participants also spoke about their experiences of transformation in terms of both student protests, and a mentoring programme which assisted them in gaining access to the practises and ways of being required for the discipline. In so doing they were inducted into the discipline’s community of practice. This dissertation has assisted in providing an understanding of what has helped and what has hindered students at Rhodes University, on their journeys towards obtaining the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting qualification. It has also provided insight into the mechanisms which lie behind these experiences. This study will provide practitioners and policy-makers with the opportunity to be better informed about students’ struggles, to contemplate their interactions with students and to identify, remove or reduce unnecessarily burdensome hurdles. Equally and perhaps more importantly, this study and the work which emerges as a result of this research, will provide students with tools to assist them in their academic journeys, to manage essential hurdles, and to eliminate or avoid unnecessary hurdles.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A sociological analysis of Rhodes University students’ understanding of depression
- Authors: Kadula, Tadala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: College students -- South Africa -- Mental health , College students -- South Africa -- Mental health -- Case studies , Depression, Mental , Rhodes University -- Students -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96258 , vital:31255
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, this research sought to analyse and explore how Rhodes University students, both depressed and not depressed, understand depression, and how their understanding influences their interaction with people who do suffer from depression. For the purposes of this paper, eight participants were involved in an in-depth interview process. Out of the eight participants, six of them suffered from depression while the other remaining two participants had never suffered from depression, but they were close to someone who had depression. The findings of this research varied, some understood depression as a mental disturbance, others understood it as a condition that affects your emotions, and others understood it as a multifaceted condition that is highly subjective and cannot be understood using standardized measures. The participants’ personal experience and introduction into a new environment, in this context, university, changed their understanding of depression. The change in how they understood depression correlated with the change in how they interacted with depressed people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Kadula, Tadala
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: College students -- South Africa -- Mental health , College students -- South Africa -- Mental health -- Case studies , Depression, Mental , Rhodes University -- Students -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96258 , vital:31255
- Description: Using the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, this research sought to analyse and explore how Rhodes University students, both depressed and not depressed, understand depression, and how their understanding influences their interaction with people who do suffer from depression. For the purposes of this paper, eight participants were involved in an in-depth interview process. Out of the eight participants, six of them suffered from depression while the other remaining two participants had never suffered from depression, but they were close to someone who had depression. The findings of this research varied, some understood depression as a mental disturbance, others understood it as a condition that affects your emotions, and others understood it as a multifaceted condition that is highly subjective and cannot be understood using standardized measures. The participants’ personal experience and introduction into a new environment, in this context, university, changed their understanding of depression. The change in how they understood depression correlated with the change in how they interacted with depressed people.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A sociological analysis of the Rhodes University Students and staff members’ perceptions on the use of traditional medicine and biomedicine
- Authors: Mankantshu, Buncwanekazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnopharmacology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , College students -- Attitudes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , College students -- Medical care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rhodes University -- Students -- Attitudes , Rhodes University -- Employees -- Medical care , Rhodes University -- Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96280 , vital:31257
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to understand to the role that discourse on traditional medicine plays in the choices that Rhodes University students and staff make regarding who they consult when they are sick. A secondary objective was to explore the participants’ views on the Department of Health’s draft policy on the institutionalisation of African traditional medicine and potential collaboration with the biomedical health care system. This was a qualitative study that used in-depth interviews and questionnaires to collect data, which was interpreted using thematic data analysis. A key finding was that participants were mostly influenced by their families with regard to the health care choices – either biomedical or traditional medicine. And that affordability, accessibility and availability are not important factors in health care choices as suggested by literature. Participants also based their decisions on what they believed would help them, either biomedicine or traditional medicine.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mankantshu, Buncwanekazi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Ethnopharmacology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , College students -- Attitudes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , College students -- Medical care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Social medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Rhodes University -- Students -- Attitudes , Rhodes University -- Employees -- Medical care , Rhodes University -- Employees -- Attitudes
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSocSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96280 , vital:31257
- Description: The primary objective of this study was to understand to the role that discourse on traditional medicine plays in the choices that Rhodes University students and staff make regarding who they consult when they are sick. A secondary objective was to explore the participants’ views on the Department of Health’s draft policy on the institutionalisation of African traditional medicine and potential collaboration with the biomedical health care system. This was a qualitative study that used in-depth interviews and questionnaires to collect data, which was interpreted using thematic data analysis. A key finding was that participants were mostly influenced by their families with regard to the health care choices – either biomedical or traditional medicine. And that affordability, accessibility and availability are not important factors in health care choices as suggested by literature. Participants also based their decisions on what they believed would help them, either biomedicine or traditional medicine.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A sociological investigation of conflict and its effects on employees performance at the Windhoek training centre
- Authors: Van Wyk, Deria
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Conflict Management-- Namibia , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45734 , vital:38959
- Description: Conflicts are an inevitable part of organizational life since the goals of different stakeholders such as managers and staff are often incompatible. Conflict in the workplace can be detrimental to progress, efficiency and performance. In order to create a productive workforce, effective conflict resolution strategies need to be implemented. This has often led to workplace harmony and productivity. If not managed effectively and discreetly, workplace relationships will suffer and consequently will result in disunity and chaos. A cohesive work environment promotes employee performance and organizational effectiveness. Poorly managing conflicts in the workplace can have adverse effects on the level and frequency of future conflicts and can negatively affect productivity, job performance. The purpose of this study is to investigate the causes and effects of conflict at the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre and to find workable solutions to manage the conflict in an effort to improve job satisfaction and employee performance. Performance of Vocational Instructors at the WVTC are not always up to standard due to certain factors. This study aims to identify these factors and find solutions to address these problems. The study has followed a qualitative approach which included individual interviews using an interview guide. Secondary sources which ranges from journal articles and scholarly books were used as per social sciences research requirements
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Van Wyk, Deria
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Conflict Management-- Namibia , Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45734 , vital:38959
- Description: Conflicts are an inevitable part of organizational life since the goals of different stakeholders such as managers and staff are often incompatible. Conflict in the workplace can be detrimental to progress, efficiency and performance. In order to create a productive workforce, effective conflict resolution strategies need to be implemented. This has often led to workplace harmony and productivity. If not managed effectively and discreetly, workplace relationships will suffer and consequently will result in disunity and chaos. A cohesive work environment promotes employee performance and organizational effectiveness. Poorly managing conflicts in the workplace can have adverse effects on the level and frequency of future conflicts and can negatively affect productivity, job performance. The purpose of this study is to investigate the causes and effects of conflict at the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre and to find workable solutions to manage the conflict in an effort to improve job satisfaction and employee performance. Performance of Vocational Instructors at the WVTC are not always up to standard due to certain factors. This study aims to identify these factors and find solutions to address these problems. The study has followed a qualitative approach which included individual interviews using an interview guide. Secondary sources which ranges from journal articles and scholarly books were used as per social sciences research requirements
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A sociological investigation on alcohol abuse among the Xhosa youth: the case of Sibangweni village in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mancayi, Sibulele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Alcoholism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Alcoholics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth -- Alcohol use , Youth -- Substance use
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40878 , vital:36250
- Description: The issue of alcohol abuse appears to be an area of concern across the world and South African communities seem not to be exempt to this issue. Unlike in the past, where alcohol abuse was an issue that affected elderly people in mostly urban settings, the seems to be a growing trend of this phenomenon in rural communities. Furthermore, the youth are the most affected social group by the habit of alcohol abuse. There are numerous causes of alcohol abuse and cultural influence can be identified as one of them. However, what needs to be ascertained is whether culture promotes or discourages drinking patterns that could ultimately cause alcohol abuse. With focus on the rural community of Sibangweni on the outskirts of Umtata in the Eastern Cape; qualitative research interviews were conducted with fifteen participants to investigate the nature of the relationship of the Xhosa culture and alcohol abuse among the youth in the community. Through a thematic analysis of the data that was collected through structured interviews it became clear that the is room for improvement in terms of maintaining consistency in the tenets of cultural practices. It became apparent that when practiced according to the traditional cultural framework, the Xhosa culture does not necessarily lead to alcohol abuse, even though consuming alcohol is a part of the culture. What also became clear is that culture could actually be an intervention mechanism to behavioural related issue in society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mancayi, Sibulele
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Alcoholism -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Alcoholics -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Youth -- Alcohol use , Youth -- Substance use
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40878 , vital:36250
- Description: The issue of alcohol abuse appears to be an area of concern across the world and South African communities seem not to be exempt to this issue. Unlike in the past, where alcohol abuse was an issue that affected elderly people in mostly urban settings, the seems to be a growing trend of this phenomenon in rural communities. Furthermore, the youth are the most affected social group by the habit of alcohol abuse. There are numerous causes of alcohol abuse and cultural influence can be identified as one of them. However, what needs to be ascertained is whether culture promotes or discourages drinking patterns that could ultimately cause alcohol abuse. With focus on the rural community of Sibangweni on the outskirts of Umtata in the Eastern Cape; qualitative research interviews were conducted with fifteen participants to investigate the nature of the relationship of the Xhosa culture and alcohol abuse among the youth in the community. Through a thematic analysis of the data that was collected through structured interviews it became clear that the is room for improvement in terms of maintaining consistency in the tenets of cultural practices. It became apparent that when practiced according to the traditional cultural framework, the Xhosa culture does not necessarily lead to alcohol abuse, even though consuming alcohol is a part of the culture. What also became clear is that culture could actually be an intervention mechanism to behavioural related issue in society.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A Sociological Investigation on the Influence of Gender Inequality in Agricultural Development: A Study of Koloni village, Raymond Mhlaba Municipality.
- Authors: Mxoli, Aviwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Sociology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16373 , vital:40713
- Description: This study investigates the influence of gender inequality in agricultural development in Koloni village, Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study explored the views of the agricultural active individual on the influence of gender inequality in agricultural development. Likewise, the study investigated the causes of gender inequality in agricultural productivity in the study area. Moreover, this study examined how gender inequality affect sale of agricultural production in Koloni Village. The study used theory triangulation and was guided by three theories namely: Women’s Empowerment Theory, Feminist Agrifood Systems Theory and the Agrarian Feminist Theory. The study used both quantitative and qualitative research methods embedded in pragmatic ontological and epistemological inquiry. Data collection process included the use of survey questionnaires, semi structured in-depth interviews and focus groups. The targeted participants of the study were obtained using non-probability sampling procedure. The quantitative data gathered were analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data were processed with the use of content analysis and the research findings are presented using sided by side comparison. The key findings of the study indicate that women do not reach their full potential in agriculture, owing to women’s lack of skill crucial in agriculture. Furthermore, gender inequality jeopardizes women’s chances of benefiting from workshops and trainings and that consequently affects women’s skills essential for agricultural production. The study concluded that gender inequality hinders agricultural development in Koloni village, Raymond Mhlaba municipality, South Africa. The findings of this study indicated that more women engage in agricultural activities than men nonetheless ii patriarchal systems within the agricultural sector that marginalises women is still dominant in Koloni village.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mxoli, Aviwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Agricultural productivity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc (Sociology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16373 , vital:40713
- Description: This study investigates the influence of gender inequality in agricultural development in Koloni village, Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study explored the views of the agricultural active individual on the influence of gender inequality in agricultural development. Likewise, the study investigated the causes of gender inequality in agricultural productivity in the study area. Moreover, this study examined how gender inequality affect sale of agricultural production in Koloni Village. The study used theory triangulation and was guided by three theories namely: Women’s Empowerment Theory, Feminist Agrifood Systems Theory and the Agrarian Feminist Theory. The study used both quantitative and qualitative research methods embedded in pragmatic ontological and epistemological inquiry. Data collection process included the use of survey questionnaires, semi structured in-depth interviews and focus groups. The targeted participants of the study were obtained using non-probability sampling procedure. The quantitative data gathered were analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data were processed with the use of content analysis and the research findings are presented using sided by side comparison. The key findings of the study indicate that women do not reach their full potential in agriculture, owing to women’s lack of skill crucial in agriculture. Furthermore, gender inequality jeopardizes women’s chances of benefiting from workshops and trainings and that consequently affects women’s skills essential for agricultural production. The study concluded that gender inequality hinders agricultural development in Koloni village, Raymond Mhlaba municipality, South Africa. The findings of this study indicated that more women engage in agricultural activities than men nonetheless ii patriarchal systems within the agricultural sector that marginalises women is still dominant in Koloni village.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A sociological study to explore the knowledge of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis at Rhodes University
- Authors: Ntshinga, Throny
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pre-exposure prophylaxis -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Government policy -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Health education (Higher) -- South Africa , Rhodes University -- Students -- Health and hygiene
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96247 , vital:31254
- Description: South Africa has a very high prevalence rate of HIV infections, this is why this exploratory qualitative study examines the Rhodes University’s HIV policy and its awareness programmes, with a specific focus on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). The World Health Organisation’s (2016-2017) recommendations for Pre-exposure Prophylaxis has been accepted and rolled-out nationwide by the South African Department of Health. This is to maintain the HIV-negative status of not only the general public, but specifically students at higher institutions of learning. PrEP has been integrated with other HIV prevention methods through the Higher Education and Training HIV/AIDS programme. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with five female and four male students, and six health care staff members at Rhodes University. Data was thematically analysed, and the findings show that there is a lack of knowledge of both the HIV policy and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis among the participating students. However, the staff members are knowledgeable due to the fact that they work in health care.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Ntshinga, Throny
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Pre-exposure prophylaxis -- South Africa , HIV infections -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Prevention -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Government policy -- South Africa , AIDS (Disease) -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Health education (Higher) -- South Africa , Rhodes University -- Students -- Health and hygiene
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/96247 , vital:31254
- Description: South Africa has a very high prevalence rate of HIV infections, this is why this exploratory qualitative study examines the Rhodes University’s HIV policy and its awareness programmes, with a specific focus on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). The World Health Organisation’s (2016-2017) recommendations for Pre-exposure Prophylaxis has been accepted and rolled-out nationwide by the South African Department of Health. This is to maintain the HIV-negative status of not only the general public, but specifically students at higher institutions of learning. PrEP has been integrated with other HIV prevention methods through the Higher Education and Training HIV/AIDS programme. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with five female and four male students, and six health care staff members at Rhodes University. Data was thematically analysed, and the findings show that there is a lack of knowledge of both the HIV policy and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis among the participating students. However, the staff members are knowledgeable due to the fact that they work in health care.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A sociological understanding of urban governance and social accountability: the case of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Sivalo, Delta Mbonisi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Politics and government -- 1980- , Municipal government -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Municipal government -- Sociological aspects-- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Municipal government -- Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe -- Harare
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71515 , vital:29860
- Description: This thesis seeks to understand the ways in which urban governance and urban-based civic participation interact with each other in contemporary Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on the factors influencing and shaping social accountability and effective citizen involvement in urban governance processes. This main objective is pursued with specific reference to Bulawayo, which is one of two metropolitan centres in Zimbabwe. The focus is specifically on questions around social accountability, citizen participation and centralised urban governance. In this regard, it is important to recognise that social accountability and urban governance need to be understood in the context of their inherent relationship and how these both shape and determine each other. In this respect, there is need to probe the foundations that shape the lived experiences of communities, through social accountability and urban governance, and how these pattern development and social change. Zimbabwe for over a decade now has gone through a series of economic and political crises which have impacted detrimentally on urban governance. With the economy in free-fall, local authorities have had to pursue a range of strategies to sustain themselves. These socio-economic conditions have forced a change in relations between the state, cities and citizens. Many studies have examined this regarding the politics of contestation between the ruling party (ZANU-PF), the state, and the main opposition party (MDC) in urban governance in Zimbabwe. However, this study zeros in on social accountability and how it is shaped by the prevailing socio-economic and political environment in Zimbabwe. At the same time, the lived experiences of communities vary and this variance influences and affects social accountability interventions and outcomes in cities like Bulawayo. Importantly, the thesis offers a longitudinal study which can map the contextual factors affecting and influencing social accountability in Bulawayo over time. Though recognising the debilitating effects of centralised urban governance on social accountability, the thesis also raises questions about the shifting, and often tenuous, relationship between the city and the central state, on one hand, and the city and its citizens on the other. In doing so, it considers the role of citizens, institutions and actors in responding to the impacts of urban governance and social accountability. In pursuing this thesis, a range of mainly qualitative research methods were used, including key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observation and use of documents. In the end, the thesis offers a nuanced analysis of the everyday complexities and challenges for social accountability in urban Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and thereby contributes to theorising social accountability and urban governance in Africa more broadly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sivalo, Delta Mbonisi
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Politics and government -- 1980- , Municipal government -- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Municipal government -- Sociological aspects-- Zimbabwe -- Harare , Municipal government -- Citizen participation -- Zimbabwe -- Harare
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/71515 , vital:29860
- Description: This thesis seeks to understand the ways in which urban governance and urban-based civic participation interact with each other in contemporary Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on the factors influencing and shaping social accountability and effective citizen involvement in urban governance processes. This main objective is pursued with specific reference to Bulawayo, which is one of two metropolitan centres in Zimbabwe. The focus is specifically on questions around social accountability, citizen participation and centralised urban governance. In this regard, it is important to recognise that social accountability and urban governance need to be understood in the context of their inherent relationship and how these both shape and determine each other. In this respect, there is need to probe the foundations that shape the lived experiences of communities, through social accountability and urban governance, and how these pattern development and social change. Zimbabwe for over a decade now has gone through a series of economic and political crises which have impacted detrimentally on urban governance. With the economy in free-fall, local authorities have had to pursue a range of strategies to sustain themselves. These socio-economic conditions have forced a change in relations between the state, cities and citizens. Many studies have examined this regarding the politics of contestation between the ruling party (ZANU-PF), the state, and the main opposition party (MDC) in urban governance in Zimbabwe. However, this study zeros in on social accountability and how it is shaped by the prevailing socio-economic and political environment in Zimbabwe. At the same time, the lived experiences of communities vary and this variance influences and affects social accountability interventions and outcomes in cities like Bulawayo. Importantly, the thesis offers a longitudinal study which can map the contextual factors affecting and influencing social accountability in Bulawayo over time. Though recognising the debilitating effects of centralised urban governance on social accountability, the thesis also raises questions about the shifting, and often tenuous, relationship between the city and the central state, on one hand, and the city and its citizens on the other. In doing so, it considers the role of citizens, institutions and actors in responding to the impacts of urban governance and social accountability. In pursuing this thesis, a range of mainly qualitative research methods were used, including key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observation and use of documents. In the end, the thesis offers a nuanced analysis of the everyday complexities and challenges for social accountability in urban Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and thereby contributes to theorising social accountability and urban governance in Africa more broadly.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A spatio-temporal, landscape perspective on Acacia dealbata invasions and broader land use and cover changes in the northern Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Gouws, Aidan J, Prof.Shackleton, Charlie M
- Authors: Gouws, Aidan J , Prof.Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/179670 , vital:43156 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-019-7204-y"
- Description: Biological invasions and human land use both have the potential to drastically alter the patterns and processes of landscapes, driving habitat fragmentation and altering natural disturbance regimes. The proliferation of an invasive species depends on composition and configuration of the landscape, as well as the invasiveness of the species. To effectively manage a highly invasive species, such as Acacia dealbata, it is crucial to understand the historical progression of the invasion within the landscape. This study sought to examine the landscape dynamics of biological invasions by tracking the historical spread of A. dealbata and broader land use/land cover (LULC) changes at different spatiotemporal scales in the northern Eastern Cape. A timeseries of aerial photographs were systematically classified according to designated A. dealbata and LULC categories in ArcGIS to track the changes in the extent and rate of spread of A. dealbata. Markedly dynamic, multi-directional, and spatio-temporally variable LULC transitions were observed across the northern Eastern Cape over the last six decades. A. dealbata frequently retained a high proportion of cover over time, and despite the loss of cover to other LULC classes, a net increase in A. dealbata cover occurred as it spread at an overall annual rate of 0.11–0.21%, occupying approximately 8–18% of land cover across all sampled sites by 2013.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Gouws, Aidan J , Prof.Shackleton, Charlie M
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/179670 , vital:43156 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-019-7204-y"
- Description: Biological invasions and human land use both have the potential to drastically alter the patterns and processes of landscapes, driving habitat fragmentation and altering natural disturbance regimes. The proliferation of an invasive species depends on composition and configuration of the landscape, as well as the invasiveness of the species. To effectively manage a highly invasive species, such as Acacia dealbata, it is crucial to understand the historical progression of the invasion within the landscape. This study sought to examine the landscape dynamics of biological invasions by tracking the historical spread of A. dealbata and broader land use/land cover (LULC) changes at different spatiotemporal scales in the northern Eastern Cape. A timeseries of aerial photographs were systematically classified according to designated A. dealbata and LULC categories in ArcGIS to track the changes in the extent and rate of spread of A. dealbata. Markedly dynamic, multi-directional, and spatio-temporally variable LULC transitions were observed across the northern Eastern Cape over the last six decades. A. dealbata frequently retained a high proportion of cover over time, and despite the loss of cover to other LULC classes, a net increase in A. dealbata cover occurred as it spread at an overall annual rate of 0.11–0.21%, occupying approximately 8–18% of land cover across all sampled sites by 2013.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A Statistical assessment of available solar resource across multiple sites in South Africa
- Authors: Eastwood, Kirstie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematical statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39907 , vital:35505
- Description: Around the globe, fossil fuels remain the primary source of energy at around 78% of the world’s total energy consumption. However, the associated carbon emissions, environmental impact, the depletion of fossil fuels and price and cost volatility are factors influencing the growing popularity of research into renewable energy. Solar power is acknowledged as the fastest-growing renewable energy, but the uncertainty surrounding the long-term projections of solar irradiance available for energy conversion is a hindrance when discussing the financial risk with potential investors. This study investigates the quality of freely available solar resource data in South Africa as well as proposes techniques for potential solar farm site comparisons. Tolerance intervals derived within a Bayesian framework provide information on the future available solar resource across multiple sites. These techniques capture the inherent variability in the available solar resource which equips investors with statistical methods that lead to the better understanding of the solar resource and thus aids in better decision-making.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Eastwood, Kirstie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Mathematical statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39907 , vital:35505
- Description: Around the globe, fossil fuels remain the primary source of energy at around 78% of the world’s total energy consumption. However, the associated carbon emissions, environmental impact, the depletion of fossil fuels and price and cost volatility are factors influencing the growing popularity of research into renewable energy. Solar power is acknowledged as the fastest-growing renewable energy, but the uncertainty surrounding the long-term projections of solar irradiance available for energy conversion is a hindrance when discussing the financial risk with potential investors. This study investigates the quality of freely available solar resource data in South Africa as well as proposes techniques for potential solar farm site comparisons. Tolerance intervals derived within a Bayesian framework provide information on the future available solar resource across multiple sites. These techniques capture the inherent variability in the available solar resource which equips investors with statistical methods that lead to the better understanding of the solar resource and thus aids in better decision-making.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategic HRM framework for improving corporate governance in a municipal environment
- Gomomo, Jongisizwe Augustine
- Authors: Gomomo, Jongisizwe Augustine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa , Personnel management Personnel departments
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39698 , vital:35349
- Description: In South Africa, the concept of corporate governance in a municipal environment is relatively new and the application of corporate governance principles remains a challenge (Ard and Berg, 2010, pp. 80-82). Previous research on corporate governance in a municipal environment mainly focused on challenges with regards to corporate governance and not on the role of strategic Human Resource Management in improving corporate governance. The main purpose of this study was therefore to develop a SHRM framework that could be utilised by municipalities to improve corporate governance. The following actions were taken to achieve this objective: A literature study was conducted to examine theory related to corporate governance and to consider corporate governance from an international, African and local government perspective. Various approaches, principles and practices related to corporate governance were also examined. The literature study further explored the legislative frameworks introduced in South Africa to improve corporate governance and in this respect the contribution of the Constitution of South Africa, the King Reports I-IV, Batho-Pele principles, municipal structures, municipal integrated development plans and the South African Board for People Practice are outlined. Existing SHRM models were analysed and specific HR strategies for improving corporate governance in municipalities were extracted from these models. The findings from the literature review were then integrated into a best practice SHRM framework for establishing corporate governance at municipalities. This integrated SHRM framework was used as a basis for the development of a survey questionnaire administered to employees in leadership positions at selected Eastern Cape metropolitan and district municipalities and the Eastern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs. The questionnaire incorporated seven main HR strategies, indicators of corporate governance and corporate governance challenges at municipalities. The empirical results from this study revealed that HR Risk Management and Performance Management strategies were the main predictors of corporate governance at municipalities. Combining the HR strategies into a summative factor also demonstrated that HR strategies should be vertically aligned with the overall vision and mission of municipalities (effective and efficient service delivery) and horizontally integrated for optimal impact on corporate governance. Challenges experienced at municipalities did not moderate the relationship between the summative HR strategies and corporate governance. As such, these challenges cannot be justification for poor corporate governance at municipalities. The study makes a valuable theoretical and empirical contribution to the field of corporate governance, HRM and specifically corporate governance in a municipal environment. The integrated SHRM framework developed in the study is comprehensive and tested. Furthermore, the framework provides a specific context for corporate governance in a municipal environment by incorporating the legal Regulatory and Statutory framework for corporate governance, the SABPP Code of Conduct for HR practitioners, and the seven main SHRM focus areas, namely HR vision and strategy, employment practices, on-boarding practices, human capital development practices, Performance Management, designing and establishing an ethical organisation and HR Risk Management. In addition, it provides a link between these strategies and corporate governance indicators that is deemed important in a municipal environment where effective and efficient service delivery is the ultimate test for success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Gomomo, Jongisizwe Augustine
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Corporate governance -- South Africa , Personnel management Personnel departments
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39698 , vital:35349
- Description: In South Africa, the concept of corporate governance in a municipal environment is relatively new and the application of corporate governance principles remains a challenge (Ard and Berg, 2010, pp. 80-82). Previous research on corporate governance in a municipal environment mainly focused on challenges with regards to corporate governance and not on the role of strategic Human Resource Management in improving corporate governance. The main purpose of this study was therefore to develop a SHRM framework that could be utilised by municipalities to improve corporate governance. The following actions were taken to achieve this objective: A literature study was conducted to examine theory related to corporate governance and to consider corporate governance from an international, African and local government perspective. Various approaches, principles and practices related to corporate governance were also examined. The literature study further explored the legislative frameworks introduced in South Africa to improve corporate governance and in this respect the contribution of the Constitution of South Africa, the King Reports I-IV, Batho-Pele principles, municipal structures, municipal integrated development plans and the South African Board for People Practice are outlined. Existing SHRM models were analysed and specific HR strategies for improving corporate governance in municipalities were extracted from these models. The findings from the literature review were then integrated into a best practice SHRM framework for establishing corporate governance at municipalities. This integrated SHRM framework was used as a basis for the development of a survey questionnaire administered to employees in leadership positions at selected Eastern Cape metropolitan and district municipalities and the Eastern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs. The questionnaire incorporated seven main HR strategies, indicators of corporate governance and corporate governance challenges at municipalities. The empirical results from this study revealed that HR Risk Management and Performance Management strategies were the main predictors of corporate governance at municipalities. Combining the HR strategies into a summative factor also demonstrated that HR strategies should be vertically aligned with the overall vision and mission of municipalities (effective and efficient service delivery) and horizontally integrated for optimal impact on corporate governance. Challenges experienced at municipalities did not moderate the relationship between the summative HR strategies and corporate governance. As such, these challenges cannot be justification for poor corporate governance at municipalities. The study makes a valuable theoretical and empirical contribution to the field of corporate governance, HRM and specifically corporate governance in a municipal environment. The integrated SHRM framework developed in the study is comprehensive and tested. Furthermore, the framework provides a specific context for corporate governance in a municipal environment by incorporating the legal Regulatory and Statutory framework for corporate governance, the SABPP Code of Conduct for HR practitioners, and the seven main SHRM focus areas, namely HR vision and strategy, employment practices, on-boarding practices, human capital development practices, Performance Management, designing and establishing an ethical organisation and HR Risk Management. In addition, it provides a link between these strategies and corporate governance indicators that is deemed important in a municipal environment where effective and efficient service delivery is the ultimate test for success.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy for adopting cloud computing services in small, medium and micro enterprises (SME) in the Nelson Mandela Metropole
- Authors: Sarpong, George
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cloud computing , Technological innovations -- Management Information technology -- Management Management information systems New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43567 , vital:36920
- Description: Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa continue to form the foundation for growing the economy. Thus, these enterprises have a significant role in to play in helping the country to eliminate poverty and unemployment. In order for these businesses to continue to grow and stay abreast with the changing business landscape, these businesses need to adopt some or other form of technology. One such technology is cloud computing, which is at times referred to as external hosting. Cloud computing is a type of technology that allows any business to operate as if it had a team of dedicated professional information technology (IT) personnel continually checking and monitoring its IT systems. As a result, cloud computing often allows a business to save on costs, improve communication with clients and speed up the transfer of information across the business. Thus, as SMEs often have small or non-existent IT departments, cloud computing offers these business an opportunity to compete with larger corporations without having to compromise on the quality of their service. However, in spite of these benefits, cloud computing still remains something of a novelty to many small businesses that operate in Nelson Mandela Metropole, as these businesses tend to either adopt a small portion of the technology or not to adopt the technology at all. The reasons for not significantly investing in the technology are usually far ranging but are often linked to these businesses not understanding how the service can be best used to help their business to grow. This study includes a description of a strategy that SMEs can follow when adopting cloud computing services as part of their business models. In addition to this, this study includes a discussion on the various benefits and disadvantages that await SMEs that make the decision to invest in the service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Sarpong, George
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Cloud computing , Technological innovations -- Management Information technology -- Management Management information systems New business enterprises -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Small business -- South Africa -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43567 , vital:36920
- Description: Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa continue to form the foundation for growing the economy. Thus, these enterprises have a significant role in to play in helping the country to eliminate poverty and unemployment. In order for these businesses to continue to grow and stay abreast with the changing business landscape, these businesses need to adopt some or other form of technology. One such technology is cloud computing, which is at times referred to as external hosting. Cloud computing is a type of technology that allows any business to operate as if it had a team of dedicated professional information technology (IT) personnel continually checking and monitoring its IT systems. As a result, cloud computing often allows a business to save on costs, improve communication with clients and speed up the transfer of information across the business. Thus, as SMEs often have small or non-existent IT departments, cloud computing offers these business an opportunity to compete with larger corporations without having to compromise on the quality of their service. However, in spite of these benefits, cloud computing still remains something of a novelty to many small businesses that operate in Nelson Mandela Metropole, as these businesses tend to either adopt a small portion of the technology or not to adopt the technology at all. The reasons for not significantly investing in the technology are usually far ranging but are often linked to these businesses not understanding how the service can be best used to help their business to grow. This study includes a description of a strategy that SMEs can follow when adopting cloud computing services as part of their business models. In addition to this, this study includes a discussion on the various benefits and disadvantages that await SMEs that make the decision to invest in the service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy for improving the maturity levels of IT service management in higher education institutions in South Africa
- Authors: Hilmer, Thomas
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management , Information technology Education, Higher -- South Africa Education -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40161 , vital:35824
- Description: IT Service Management (ITSM) refers to a set of activities that an organisation can perform to develop, supply, operate, manage and improve information technology related services in order to meet the needs of the business. The interest in ITSM is based on the expectation that applying best practice ITSM processes will result in lower expenses, fewer incidents and improved customer satisfaction. Various standards, frameworks, methodologies and processes have evolved to support this move to a value-driven, service-orientated approach to managing an organisation’s information systems. Between 2007 and 2009, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa benefited from a national project to improve the quality of their IT services through training in ITIL, a best practice ITSM framework. An assessment at the time, however, found that the maturity levels of the ITIL processes implemented after the intervention remained low, and this observation is common in other industries as well. The implementation of industry best practice ITSM frameworks does not always proceed smoothly; they can be costly, have long implementation times, and can be seen as excessively complicated and suited mainly for large organisations. Therefore, it is often challenging for organisations such as HEIs to improve their ITSM process maturity levels. The aim of this study is to develop a strategy that may assist South African HEIs in taking steps to improve their IT Service Management maturity levels. This primary research objective is addressed through a number of secondary research objectives, namely, to understand the challenges that HEIs often encounter when implementing ITSM; to determine the ITSM implementation status at a number of South African HEIs; to determine the various elements and components required to formulate the ITSM strategy; to determine whether alternatives to ITIL are feasible options for HEIs in South Africa; and to validate the proposed strategy by verifying its quality, utility and efficacy. A comprehensive literature review provides information on various ITSM standards, frameworks and methodologies. It also investigates ITSM adoption and implementation by organisations in general, and HEIs in particular, and how modern practices such as DevOps, Agile and Lean relate to ITSM. Thereafter, an online survey is used to determine the status of ITSM maturity levels at South African HEIs, and whether alternatives to ITIL are being used. Expert interviews are used to obtain additional information on what is required to formulate the proposed strategy. The findings from the literature review, survey and expert interviews are used to develop a four-step strategy, which was evaluated for its quality, utility and efficacy through an online assessment by the same experts. This strategy can be considered a useful tool for Higher Education Institutions in South Africa if they wish to increase their levels of IT Service Management maturity. The findings of this study make a substantial contribution to the field of ITSM research at South African Higher Education Institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Hilmer, Thomas
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology -- Management , Information technology Education, Higher -- South Africa Education -- Effect of technological innovations on -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40161 , vital:35824
- Description: IT Service Management (ITSM) refers to a set of activities that an organisation can perform to develop, supply, operate, manage and improve information technology related services in order to meet the needs of the business. The interest in ITSM is based on the expectation that applying best practice ITSM processes will result in lower expenses, fewer incidents and improved customer satisfaction. Various standards, frameworks, methodologies and processes have evolved to support this move to a value-driven, service-orientated approach to managing an organisation’s information systems. Between 2007 and 2009, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in South Africa benefited from a national project to improve the quality of their IT services through training in ITIL, a best practice ITSM framework. An assessment at the time, however, found that the maturity levels of the ITIL processes implemented after the intervention remained low, and this observation is common in other industries as well. The implementation of industry best practice ITSM frameworks does not always proceed smoothly; they can be costly, have long implementation times, and can be seen as excessively complicated and suited mainly for large organisations. Therefore, it is often challenging for organisations such as HEIs to improve their ITSM process maturity levels. The aim of this study is to develop a strategy that may assist South African HEIs in taking steps to improve their IT Service Management maturity levels. This primary research objective is addressed through a number of secondary research objectives, namely, to understand the challenges that HEIs often encounter when implementing ITSM; to determine the ITSM implementation status at a number of South African HEIs; to determine the various elements and components required to formulate the ITSM strategy; to determine whether alternatives to ITIL are feasible options for HEIs in South Africa; and to validate the proposed strategy by verifying its quality, utility and efficacy. A comprehensive literature review provides information on various ITSM standards, frameworks and methodologies. It also investigates ITSM adoption and implementation by organisations in general, and HEIs in particular, and how modern practices such as DevOps, Agile and Lean relate to ITSM. Thereafter, an online survey is used to determine the status of ITSM maturity levels at South African HEIs, and whether alternatives to ITIL are being used. Expert interviews are used to obtain additional information on what is required to formulate the proposed strategy. The findings from the literature review, survey and expert interviews are used to develop a four-step strategy, which was evaluated for its quality, utility and efficacy through an online assessment by the same experts. This strategy can be considered a useful tool for Higher Education Institutions in South Africa if they wish to increase their levels of IT Service Management maturity. The findings of this study make a substantial contribution to the field of ITSM research at South African Higher Education Institutions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy for sustainable ICT development in deep rural environments
- Authors: Medupe, Tsietsi Jacob
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology , Sustainable development Information technology -- Developing countries Rural development -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41438 , vital:36483
- Description: This study provides a strategy for sustainable Information and Communcation Technology (ICT) development in deep rural environments and describes a case study conducted within the community of the AmaJingqi traditional council. It investigates the sustainability of the ICT services within a rural environments, the income profile and affordability of different members of the community and the strategy formulation model. The study’s main focus is on creating a strategy to be used as a guideline for the successful development and implementation of sustainable ICT development in deep rural environments and on defining ICT Sustainability. Furthermore, the different ICT users are profiled based on affordability and access to services, and deep rural environments are also defined. Moreover, the study describes the complete composition of sustainable ICT. It discusses design science research methodology and the reasons why the method is used is motivated and advanced. The study also outlines various research paradigms and philosophies and a number of research strategies are also discussed. The literature review focuses on various policies and frameworks which have been formulated to advance the universal access of ICT services by rural communities. It also outlines some of the ICT initiatives which have failed and the reasons for the failures and what will be corrected for similar mistakes not to be repeated. The study discusses the concepts of a strategy framework that outlines the theoretical foundation of the strategy formulation model, strategy implementation and control. It also discusses the diagnostics and outlines the various strategy guiding polices. The strategy is validated, expert reviews are solicited and the strategy is revised and finalised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Medupe, Tsietsi Jacob
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Information technology , Sustainable development Information technology -- Developing countries Rural development -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41438 , vital:36483
- Description: This study provides a strategy for sustainable Information and Communcation Technology (ICT) development in deep rural environments and describes a case study conducted within the community of the AmaJingqi traditional council. It investigates the sustainability of the ICT services within a rural environments, the income profile and affordability of different members of the community and the strategy formulation model. The study’s main focus is on creating a strategy to be used as a guideline for the successful development and implementation of sustainable ICT development in deep rural environments and on defining ICT Sustainability. Furthermore, the different ICT users are profiled based on affordability and access to services, and deep rural environments are also defined. Moreover, the study describes the complete composition of sustainable ICT. It discusses design science research methodology and the reasons why the method is used is motivated and advanced. The study also outlines various research paradigms and philosophies and a number of research strategies are also discussed. The literature review focuses on various policies and frameworks which have been formulated to advance the universal access of ICT services by rural communities. It also outlines some of the ICT initiatives which have failed and the reasons for the failures and what will be corrected for similar mistakes not to be repeated. The study discusses the concepts of a strategy framework that outlines the theoretical foundation of the strategy formulation model, strategy implementation and control. It also discusses the diagnostics and outlines the various strategy guiding polices. The strategy is validated, expert reviews are solicited and the strategy is revised and finalised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy to effectively manage the disaster recovery plan (DRP) at the city of Johannesburg: roads sector
- Authors: Maphutha, Selina Masai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems , Data recovery (Computer science) Computer security Emergency management Local government -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40944 , vital:36274
- Description: Electronic information is critical to Municipalities, the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) rely on computerised systems to perform their operations and deliver services to its inhabitants. Disaster recovery planning for the City of Johannesburg is crucial and urgent, as it will ensure that the organisation is able to recover the core business functionality of its software, data, and systems after the occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster. Municipalities should have adequate recovery strategies in place in case of disasters. Planning for recovery from a disaster is quickly becoming recognized as a necessity, however organisational leaders are not putting recovery strategies as a priority and thus result in challenges when implementing the recovery processes i.e. Lack of resources, overlooking risk management, lack of leadership commitment to continuity processes and lack of understanding the concept of DRP and BCP. Disruption can happen when not anticipated, It is impossible to foresee what may hit an organisation. It is thus necessary and compulsory for organisation to plan for disasters most especially with ever-increasing dependence of business processes on technology services. The purpose of this research was to assess the adequacy of the Disaster recovery plan at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) and to develop a strategy to effectively manage the DRP. The research revealed that the DRP at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) is not comprehensive and that there are other processes that are not effectively implemented. There is a lack of resources for implementing the DRP. The dedicated staff is not adequately technically skilled to implement the disaster recovery processes. This study has revealed that the challenges noted were common to other institutions. An adequate DRP is crucial; capacity management and seamless procurement processes are also crucial for the success of the disaster recovery processes. Theoretically, this research adds to the literature on disaster recovery management and highlights the challenges and complexities involved. Practically, the research provides several lessons and guiding principles that the organisation may consider around disaster recovery management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Maphutha, Selina Masai
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Management information systems , Data recovery (Computer science) Computer security Emergency management Local government -- South Africa -- Johannesburg
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40944 , vital:36274
- Description: Electronic information is critical to Municipalities, the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) rely on computerised systems to perform their operations and deliver services to its inhabitants. Disaster recovery planning for the City of Johannesburg is crucial and urgent, as it will ensure that the organisation is able to recover the core business functionality of its software, data, and systems after the occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster. Municipalities should have adequate recovery strategies in place in case of disasters. Planning for recovery from a disaster is quickly becoming recognized as a necessity, however organisational leaders are not putting recovery strategies as a priority and thus result in challenges when implementing the recovery processes i.e. Lack of resources, overlooking risk management, lack of leadership commitment to continuity processes and lack of understanding the concept of DRP and BCP. Disruption can happen when not anticipated, It is impossible to foresee what may hit an organisation. It is thus necessary and compulsory for organisation to plan for disasters most especially with ever-increasing dependence of business processes on technology services. The purpose of this research was to assess the adequacy of the Disaster recovery plan at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) and to develop a strategy to effectively manage the DRP. The research revealed that the DRP at the City of Johannesburg (Road sector) is not comprehensive and that there are other processes that are not effectively implemented. There is a lack of resources for implementing the DRP. The dedicated staff is not adequately technically skilled to implement the disaster recovery processes. This study has revealed that the challenges noted were common to other institutions. An adequate DRP is crucial; capacity management and seamless procurement processes are also crucial for the success of the disaster recovery processes. Theoretically, this research adds to the literature on disaster recovery management and highlights the challenges and complexities involved. Practically, the research provides several lessons and guiding principles that the organisation may consider around disaster recovery management.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A strategy to promote awareness and adherence to information security policy at Capricorn District Municipality
- Authors: Mamabolo, Mokgadi Hellen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Data protection -- Management Computer security Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40867 , vital:36245
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the reasons for non-adherence to the ISP and to measure the current level of adherence to the ISP. The research revealed that non adherence to the ISP is caused by lack of training or awareness, and through non-communication of the ISP to employees. The study was conducted at Capricorn District Municipality, Polokwane Local Municipality, Molemole Local Municipality and Blouberg Local Municipality. A web-based questionnaire (QuestionPro) was developed and it was directed to every official who uses or interacts with municipal information, to quantify the level of adherence to ISP by employees. An email with the questionnaire link administered by www.questionpro.com was then sent to the population of 152 employees. Presently ISP adherence is one of the key concerns that are faced by organisations. Employees are perceived as one of the reasons that there are security breaches within organisations; hence, it is of paramount importance that these security breaches are noticed, as well as technical matters. Most researchers have reasoned that non-adherence to ISP is one of the major challenges faced by organisations. The non-adherence to ISP will lead to potential information security threats and unauthorised access to information that might compromise municipal business operations. The Information Security Officer together with the help of management must educate employees regarding the value of IS and why it is crucial to adhere to these policies. The proposed strategy summarises the various concepts required in the promotion of awareness and adherence to an effective ISP. Ultimately, this research study concludes that if management continually trains employees, raising awareness about ISP and monitoring their adherence to ISP, this should increase the adherence level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mamabolo, Mokgadi Hellen
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Computer security -- Management , Data protection -- Management Computer security Computer networks -- Security measures
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40867 , vital:36245
- Description: The purpose of this research was to investigate the reasons for non-adherence to the ISP and to measure the current level of adherence to the ISP. The research revealed that non adherence to the ISP is caused by lack of training or awareness, and through non-communication of the ISP to employees. The study was conducted at Capricorn District Municipality, Polokwane Local Municipality, Molemole Local Municipality and Blouberg Local Municipality. A web-based questionnaire (QuestionPro) was developed and it was directed to every official who uses or interacts with municipal information, to quantify the level of adherence to ISP by employees. An email with the questionnaire link administered by www.questionpro.com was then sent to the population of 152 employees. Presently ISP adherence is one of the key concerns that are faced by organisations. Employees are perceived as one of the reasons that there are security breaches within organisations; hence, it is of paramount importance that these security breaches are noticed, as well as technical matters. Most researchers have reasoned that non-adherence to ISP is one of the major challenges faced by organisations. The non-adherence to ISP will lead to potential information security threats and unauthorised access to information that might compromise municipal business operations. The Information Security Officer together with the help of management must educate employees regarding the value of IS and why it is crucial to adhere to these policies. The proposed strategy summarises the various concepts required in the promotion of awareness and adherence to an effective ISP. Ultimately, this research study concludes that if management continually trains employees, raising awareness about ISP and monitoring their adherence to ISP, this should increase the adherence level.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
A study of assimilation and alienation in West African fiction and psychic dislocation in South African fiction
- Authors: Poisat, Ross
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) , South African fiction -- History and criticism Assimilation (Sociology) Alienation (Social psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43270 , vital:36776
- Description: This dissertation will provide a study of Assimilation and Alienation in West African fiction of Ferdinand Oyono’s Houseboy (1956) and Ayi Kwei Armah’s Why Are We So Blest? (1972) and Psychic dislocation in South African fiction of Wulf Sachs’s Black Hamlet (1936/1996). The dissertation plans to examine the specific effects of assimilation, alienation and psychic dislocation by examining them as central lines of argument in the respective texts. In Houseboy, the Catholic mission is depicted as being subordinate to the French Policy of Assimilation in colonial Cameroon. This dissertation examines how Oyono represents the manner in which the French catechists indoctrinated, dehumanized and made ‘other’ the colonized Cameroonian people. The relationship between colonial violence and trauma in Oyono’s text is also explored in relation to how the trauma of the colonized is expressed by them being the subject of and witnessing colonial violence at the hands of French Imperial agents. Oyono’s text was selected because it presents a counter-hegemonic portrayal of the French Policy of Assimilation and the Catholic mission’s complicity in this process. Why Are We So Blest? is analysed in terms of Armah’s depiction of the Modin’s relationship to a Western model of education, which is illustrative of his academic, racial and cultural alienation. The protagonist in Armah’s text can be seen as complicit in the history of colonial oppression due to his intellectual dependency on Western knowledge. Furthermore, this dissertation explores how the Modin is alienated by his relationships with his white academic superiors, who ‘other’, deny him agency, and infantilize him. Furthermore, the Algerian revolution functions as an expression of culture and the African intellectual, by being denied entry to it, is also alienated from the African masses. Armah’s text was selected because of its complex depiction of alienation. The literary analysis of Black Hamlet in this dissertation seeks to address the neglect of the fictional and imaginative aspects of the text in preceding studies. The representation of the psychic dislocation of John as a Shona nganga’s relationship to his ancestors is approached from a cultural and racial perspective in further examining his psychic dislocation in relation to the narrator. Furthermore, this dissertation investigates how Black Hamlet can be seen to suggest that psychic dislocation is tied to the hierarchal nature of colonial relations between John and the white narrator, and to John’s unreal experience of racialized South African and Zulu cultural place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Poisat, Ross
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) , South African fiction -- History and criticism Assimilation (Sociology) Alienation (Social psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43270 , vital:36776
- Description: This dissertation will provide a study of Assimilation and Alienation in West African fiction of Ferdinand Oyono’s Houseboy (1956) and Ayi Kwei Armah’s Why Are We So Blest? (1972) and Psychic dislocation in South African fiction of Wulf Sachs’s Black Hamlet (1936/1996). The dissertation plans to examine the specific effects of assimilation, alienation and psychic dislocation by examining them as central lines of argument in the respective texts. In Houseboy, the Catholic mission is depicted as being subordinate to the French Policy of Assimilation in colonial Cameroon. This dissertation examines how Oyono represents the manner in which the French catechists indoctrinated, dehumanized and made ‘other’ the colonized Cameroonian people. The relationship between colonial violence and trauma in Oyono’s text is also explored in relation to how the trauma of the colonized is expressed by them being the subject of and witnessing colonial violence at the hands of French Imperial agents. Oyono’s text was selected because it presents a counter-hegemonic portrayal of the French Policy of Assimilation and the Catholic mission’s complicity in this process. Why Are We So Blest? is analysed in terms of Armah’s depiction of the Modin’s relationship to a Western model of education, which is illustrative of his academic, racial and cultural alienation. The protagonist in Armah’s text can be seen as complicit in the history of colonial oppression due to his intellectual dependency on Western knowledge. Furthermore, this dissertation explores how the Modin is alienated by his relationships with his white academic superiors, who ‘other’, deny him agency, and infantilize him. Furthermore, the Algerian revolution functions as an expression of culture and the African intellectual, by being denied entry to it, is also alienated from the African masses. Armah’s text was selected because of its complex depiction of alienation. The literary analysis of Black Hamlet in this dissertation seeks to address the neglect of the fictional and imaginative aspects of the text in preceding studies. The representation of the psychic dislocation of John as a Shona nganga’s relationship to his ancestors is approached from a cultural and racial perspective in further examining his psychic dislocation in relation to the narrator. Furthermore, this dissertation investigates how Black Hamlet can be seen to suggest that psychic dislocation is tied to the hierarchal nature of colonial relations between John and the white narrator, and to John’s unreal experience of racialized South African and Zulu cultural place.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019