An assessment of electronic-governance as a support system for service delivery in the public sector
- Maramura, Tafadzwa Clementine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4419-1887
- Authors: Maramura, Tafadzwa Clementine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4419-1887
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Civil service -- South Africa , Electronic government information , Internet in public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26053 , vital:64786
- Description: This is an exploratory research that is aimed at assessing the role of e-governance tools and initiatives on how they can be support systems for service delivery in the public service sector. The rationale of this research came as a response to the ever increasing and recurring service delivery protests that are underpinning the Government of South Africa. Hence the inception of electronic-governance (e-governance) comes at the right time with the aim of mordernising and reforming the public sector for efficient and effective service delivery. E-governance is about transforming governance to be more citizens centered and thus technology is the tool in this effort which can enable change in how the government works and how public officials interact with the public at stake. Cloete (2012:128) asserts that e-governance is the future of public governance and public service delivery globally. Thus governments that do not make the transition from paper-based systems of public administration to electronic platforms of public service delivery may swiftly undermine their chances of developing their societies as 21st century information societies. This research however does not imply that e-governance will be a miraculous panacea to poor service provision in South Africa, but it implies that its role in the public service sector can be as a support system for efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery. This is coupled by the research findings which are espoused on through a secondary data approach and thematically analysed to assess the role of e-governance as a support system on service delivery in the public service sector. Thus from the literature it is remarkable to acknowledge that the South African public service sector has successfully established and implemented a significant number of e-governance initiatives from 1994 to present day. Simultaneously to reveal how e-governance can be a support system for the public service, it is not one-dimensional, it is however multidimensional and thereby cutting across the entire field of public administration inter alia the public service sector. The already initiated e-governance tools in South Africa also range from national, provincial and municipal level thereby clearly revealing how e-governance can also be a support system to cooperative governance and intergovernmental relations inter alia. This research does not imply that e-governance can be a panacea to the public service sector ills but however with the fast moving techno-global world the move to an ICT driven public service sector has more merits than demerits to the general public who are at the receiving end of public services. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
An assessment of electronic-governance as a support system for service delivery in the public sector
- Authors: Maramura, Tafadzwa Clementine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4419-1887
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Civil service -- South Africa , Electronic government information , Internet in public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26053 , vital:64786
- Description: This is an exploratory research that is aimed at assessing the role of e-governance tools and initiatives on how they can be support systems for service delivery in the public service sector. The rationale of this research came as a response to the ever increasing and recurring service delivery protests that are underpinning the Government of South Africa. Hence the inception of electronic-governance (e-governance) comes at the right time with the aim of mordernising and reforming the public sector for efficient and effective service delivery. E-governance is about transforming governance to be more citizens centered and thus technology is the tool in this effort which can enable change in how the government works and how public officials interact with the public at stake. Cloete (2012:128) asserts that e-governance is the future of public governance and public service delivery globally. Thus governments that do not make the transition from paper-based systems of public administration to electronic platforms of public service delivery may swiftly undermine their chances of developing their societies as 21st century information societies. This research however does not imply that e-governance will be a miraculous panacea to poor service provision in South Africa, but it implies that its role in the public service sector can be as a support system for efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery. This is coupled by the research findings which are espoused on through a secondary data approach and thematically analysed to assess the role of e-governance as a support system on service delivery in the public service sector. Thus from the literature it is remarkable to acknowledge that the South African public service sector has successfully established and implemented a significant number of e-governance initiatives from 1994 to present day. Simultaneously to reveal how e-governance can be a support system for the public service, it is not one-dimensional, it is however multidimensional and thereby cutting across the entire field of public administration inter alia the public service sector. The already initiated e-governance tools in South Africa also range from national, provincial and municipal level thereby clearly revealing how e-governance can also be a support system to cooperative governance and intergovernmental relations inter alia. This research does not imply that e-governance can be a panacea to the public service sector ills but however with the fast moving techno-global world the move to an ICT driven public service sector has more merits than demerits to the general public who are at the receiving end of public services. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
An investigation of poverty as a contributory factor to sexual risk-taking behaviour among female adolescent scholars: a case study of Mbuzini Village Mpumalanga province
- Authors: Mahlalela, Vusi Zakhele
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Risk-taking (Psychology) in adolescence , Sexually transmitted diseases , College students -- Sexual behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26548 , vital:65584
- Description: The study investigated poverty as a contributory factor to risky sexual behaviour among female adolescent scholars. A qualitative approach was employed in this study, which was carried out among 27 participants, 21 of whom were females between the ages of 14 and 27 years. 6 of whom were drawn from the ranks of social workers, community development practitioners, community leaders and parents who formed the school governing body. Non- probability sampling methods and purposive sampling techniques were employed to select the sample. The data was collected by means of one-to-one in-depth interviews and a once-off focus group discussion. The findings of the study revealed that most of the participants were sexually active: only one was sexually inactive and some had children. The study also found that some of the participants received money from their sexual partners. These findings are discussed in the conclusion to the study and appropriate recommendations are made. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Mahlalela, Vusi Zakhele
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Risk-taking (Psychology) in adolescence , Sexually transmitted diseases , College students -- Sexual behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26548 , vital:65584
- Description: The study investigated poverty as a contributory factor to risky sexual behaviour among female adolescent scholars. A qualitative approach was employed in this study, which was carried out among 27 participants, 21 of whom were females between the ages of 14 and 27 years. 6 of whom were drawn from the ranks of social workers, community development practitioners, community leaders and parents who formed the school governing body. Non- probability sampling methods and purposive sampling techniques were employed to select the sample. The data was collected by means of one-to-one in-depth interviews and a once-off focus group discussion. The findings of the study revealed that most of the participants were sexually active: only one was sexually inactive and some had children. The study also found that some of the participants received money from their sexual partners. These findings are discussed in the conclusion to the study and appropriate recommendations are made. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
Exploring the usefulness of learning management system (LMS) in higher education learning development at a historically disadvantaged Eastern Cape University
- Authors: Holmberg, Lorraine
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Instructional systems--Management , Education, Higher--Management , Universities and colleges--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24216 , vital:62443
- Description: This case study aims to explore how using a Learning Management System (LMS*) to mediate learning, impacts learning development (LD) at a historically disadvantaged university (HDU) in the Eastern Cape (EC). Massification and the technological revolution have together changed the way that teaching and learning takes place, more especially in higher education institutions (HEI). Due to the increased demand for higher education (HE), computers have been used to mediate the learning space, altering the skills teachers and learners are required to have. The LMS under exploration provides a multitude of tools for managing both administrative and academic tasks. This study has drawn extensively from the framework of Activity Theory (AT), and Vygotsky’s theory of learning development to develop understandings and guide data analysis in preparation for discussion and for conclusions to be drawn. The study mostly investigated student interaction patterns with the various tools of the LMS in an effort to determine how these activities impact learning development. A mixed methods approach was used to address data that was automatically generated by the LMS; quantitative analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics was applied to numeric data, while thematic analysis was applied to textual data obtained from the threaded discussion that transpired between members of the learning community. Findings show the impact which context has on learner development and how, unless all the tools of the LMS are formally integrated for learning purposes, learners can become distracted by the functions these tools offer. This in particular pertains to learners struggling to integrate and assimilate new information. Further to this, the discussion tools serve social purposes, and have the potential to benefit constructionist learning principles, on condition that activity on the tools is structured and has clear outcomes. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Holmberg, Lorraine
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Instructional systems--Management , Education, Higher--Management , Universities and colleges--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24216 , vital:62443
- Description: This case study aims to explore how using a Learning Management System (LMS*) to mediate learning, impacts learning development (LD) at a historically disadvantaged university (HDU) in the Eastern Cape (EC). Massification and the technological revolution have together changed the way that teaching and learning takes place, more especially in higher education institutions (HEI). Due to the increased demand for higher education (HE), computers have been used to mediate the learning space, altering the skills teachers and learners are required to have. The LMS under exploration provides a multitude of tools for managing both administrative and academic tasks. This study has drawn extensively from the framework of Activity Theory (AT), and Vygotsky’s theory of learning development to develop understandings and guide data analysis in preparation for discussion and for conclusions to be drawn. The study mostly investigated student interaction patterns with the various tools of the LMS in an effort to determine how these activities impact learning development. A mixed methods approach was used to address data that was automatically generated by the LMS; quantitative analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics was applied to numeric data, while thematic analysis was applied to textual data obtained from the threaded discussion that transpired between members of the learning community. Findings show the impact which context has on learner development and how, unless all the tools of the LMS are formally integrated for learning purposes, learners can become distracted by the functions these tools offer. This in particular pertains to learners struggling to integrate and assimilate new information. Further to this, the discussion tools serve social purposes, and have the potential to benefit constructionist learning principles, on condition that activity on the tools is structured and has clear outcomes. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
Factors responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents: a case study of an Eastern Cape institute, South Africa
- Authors: Fagbamila, Tolulope Odunola
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape. , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abused teenagers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29021 , vital:76465
- Description: In spite of the number of studies that have been carried out on the factors responsible for sex practice and non-contraceptive use among the female adolescents, very little impact has been felt on female adolescents‟ sexual behaviour. This is seen from a very high record of unintended pregnancy rates, STIs and illegal abortion among them. An initial assumption that adolescents always try not to get pregnant since most of the pregnancies are unplanned but reverse is the case in this era. What are the responsible factors to this social challenge? The researcher wanted to know the underlying epidemiological factors that are responsible for the early sexual behaviour and non-contraceptive use among the female adolescents using descriptive statistics and two-way ANOVA. Descriptive statistics describe the basic features of the data in a study and provide simple summaries about the sample and the measures. They also form the basis of virtually every quantitative analysis of data together with simple graphic summaries. A Two-way ANOVA is used to compare the effect of multiple levels of two factors with multiple observations at each level. However, it is expected that the outcome of the research would help to generate information that will assist in identifying and introducing strategies to reduce adolescent pregnancy rates, sexually transmitted infections and to encourage greater levels of contraceptive measures usage among the female adolescents. Research findings were that more than half of the female adolescents were extremely poor. Majority of the young female adolescents were being taken care of by single parents, their mothers only. Nevertheless, the level of contraceptive measures unawareness among the female adolescents decreased as their academic performance increased. Hence, the highly contacted sexually transmitted infection among the middle aged female adolescents was HIV/AIDS 4,5 percent while the highly contacted sexually transmitted infection among the adult female adolescent was syphilis 7.2 percent. The main factor attributed to factor responsible for their sex practice was experimentation followed by family status. By “strongly agree” opinion rating, poverty was rated as the main factor responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents. Among the factors associated with sexually transmitted infections, poverty was also rated the main factor. Female adolescent income source had no effect on their academic performance, be it parents, guardian, grants, NGO or friends. Sex practice had an effect on female adolescents academic performance. Nevertheless, adolescent income source and contraceptive category/method never had effect on poverty opinion, as a factor responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents while contraceptive awareness had a significant effect on poverty opinion, as STIs risk factors. However, further studies will be carried out later in future using one way Analysis of Variance to study each of the factor effects on the dependent variables. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Fagbamila, Tolulope Odunola
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape. , Teenage pregnancy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Abused teenagers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/29021 , vital:76465
- Description: In spite of the number of studies that have been carried out on the factors responsible for sex practice and non-contraceptive use among the female adolescents, very little impact has been felt on female adolescents‟ sexual behaviour. This is seen from a very high record of unintended pregnancy rates, STIs and illegal abortion among them. An initial assumption that adolescents always try not to get pregnant since most of the pregnancies are unplanned but reverse is the case in this era. What are the responsible factors to this social challenge? The researcher wanted to know the underlying epidemiological factors that are responsible for the early sexual behaviour and non-contraceptive use among the female adolescents using descriptive statistics and two-way ANOVA. Descriptive statistics describe the basic features of the data in a study and provide simple summaries about the sample and the measures. They also form the basis of virtually every quantitative analysis of data together with simple graphic summaries. A Two-way ANOVA is used to compare the effect of multiple levels of two factors with multiple observations at each level. However, it is expected that the outcome of the research would help to generate information that will assist in identifying and introducing strategies to reduce adolescent pregnancy rates, sexually transmitted infections and to encourage greater levels of contraceptive measures usage among the female adolescents. Research findings were that more than half of the female adolescents were extremely poor. Majority of the young female adolescents were being taken care of by single parents, their mothers only. Nevertheless, the level of contraceptive measures unawareness among the female adolescents decreased as their academic performance increased. Hence, the highly contacted sexually transmitted infection among the middle aged female adolescents was HIV/AIDS 4,5 percent while the highly contacted sexually transmitted infection among the adult female adolescent was syphilis 7.2 percent. The main factor attributed to factor responsible for their sex practice was experimentation followed by family status. By “strongly agree” opinion rating, poverty was rated as the main factor responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents. Among the factors associated with sexually transmitted infections, poverty was also rated the main factor. Female adolescent income source had no effect on their academic performance, be it parents, guardian, grants, NGO or friends. Sex practice had an effect on female adolescents academic performance. Nevertheless, adolescent income source and contraceptive category/method never had effect on poverty opinion, as a factor responsible for sex practice, STIs and non-contraceptive use among female adolescents while contraceptive awareness had a significant effect on poverty opinion, as STIs risk factors. However, further studies will be carried out later in future using one way Analysis of Variance to study each of the factor effects on the dependent variables. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
Job insecurity and work-family conflict in relation to job engagement in the energy industry in selected organisations in Amathole District
- Chamisa, Shingirayi Florence https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5804-583X
- Authors: Chamisa, Shingirayi Florence https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5804-583X
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Role conflict , Job security , Work and family
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25546 , vital:64332
- Description: Most employees are failing to meet the competing work related and household strains leading to burnout, absenteeism and loss of the few existing highly skilled employees. The current study utilised the Job Demand-Resources Model to examine the relationship between job insecurity and work-family conflict on the one hand and job engagement on the other hand among technical personnel within selected Eskom depots in the Amathole District Municipality of the Eastern Cape. There is limited research regarding the impact of job insecurity and work-family conflict on job engagement among technicians in the energy industry. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was used. The sample (N= 221) comprised of technicians from Eskom branches. Data was collected through the questionnaire method and SPSS was used for data analysis. The results of the Product Pearson Correlation method indicated that job insecurity negatively predicts job engagement, contrary to work-family conflict. Unexpectedly, results from multiple regression method and chi-square showed that job insecurity and work-family conflict together do not account for a significantly higher proportion of variance on job engagement than any of the two separately. This study argument existing knowledge on job insecurity, work-family conflict and job engagement among technicians in the energy industry that has largely been ignored by previous researchers and validates certain aspects of the Job Demands Resources Model. The energy industry should provide consideration to how the need for shifts and sometimes working long hours is justified. Strategies need to be implemented in improving managerial and co-worker support for technicians through socialization and team building activities. In addition, employers must invest in strategies used in stimulating employee well-being directly such as supportive leadership to reduce feelings of job insecurity and stress from the pressure of competing work and home demands. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Chamisa, Shingirayi Florence https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5804-583X
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Role conflict , Job security , Work and family
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25546 , vital:64332
- Description: Most employees are failing to meet the competing work related and household strains leading to burnout, absenteeism and loss of the few existing highly skilled employees. The current study utilised the Job Demand-Resources Model to examine the relationship between job insecurity and work-family conflict on the one hand and job engagement on the other hand among technical personnel within selected Eskom depots in the Amathole District Municipality of the Eastern Cape. There is limited research regarding the impact of job insecurity and work-family conflict on job engagement among technicians in the energy industry. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was used. The sample (N= 221) comprised of technicians from Eskom branches. Data was collected through the questionnaire method and SPSS was used for data analysis. The results of the Product Pearson Correlation method indicated that job insecurity negatively predicts job engagement, contrary to work-family conflict. Unexpectedly, results from multiple regression method and chi-square showed that job insecurity and work-family conflict together do not account for a significantly higher proportion of variance on job engagement than any of the two separately. This study argument existing knowledge on job insecurity, work-family conflict and job engagement among technicians in the energy industry that has largely been ignored by previous researchers and validates certain aspects of the Job Demands Resources Model. The energy industry should provide consideration to how the need for shifts and sometimes working long hours is justified. Strategies need to be implemented in improving managerial and co-worker support for technicians through socialization and team building activities. In addition, employers must invest in strategies used in stimulating employee well-being directly such as supportive leadership to reduce feelings of job insecurity and stress from the pressure of competing work and home demands. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
Social intrepreneurship and millennium development goals in developing countries: case study of Zimbabwe
- Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Authors: Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe , Poverty -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26661 , vital:65847
- Description: The study set out to examine the contribution of social entrepreneurship to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly MDG 1, the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Poverty reduction occurred when social entrepreneurial activities resulted in the improvement of the socio-economic well-being of social entrepreneurs and their beneficiaries. The problem this study sought to research on was that, despite the impact of social entrepreneurship, there has been inadequate attention to and discussion of its contribution to attaining the MDGs in Zimbabwe. The population were social entrepreneurs in Harare, Zimbabwe. The random sampling method was used to determine the sample size. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data in Harare, Zimbabwe from 132 social entrepreneurs and 200 beneficiaries of social entrepreneurial activities. Secondary information was obtained from textbooks and various internet sources. The data collected was analyzed through SPSS Version 22 because of its appropriateness and wide use. The null hypothesis that social entrepreneurship does not contribute to the achievement of MDGs was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis that social entrepreneurship provides an alternative to the achievement of MDGs. Findings from the study suggest that social entrepreneurs contribute immensely to poverty reduction. They also contribute towards research and development, promoting gender equality and empowerment, education for all as well as access to health facilities. The segments of the population benefiting from social entrepreneurship include the poor, socially excluded, discriminated, the unemployed and disabled. The impact on poverty and hunger was achieved through microfinance initiatives, income generation activities, empowerment and capacity building. Results showed that social entrepreneurship activities solve social problems through providing food, shelter, water, education and collateral to access finance. The study concluded that social entrepreneurship is a plausible approach to promote implementation of policies to reduce extreme poverty and hunger by using readily available resources to bring sustainable solutions to problems. The strategies to make social entrepreneurship more effective included creating a conducive legal and policy environment, financial provision, political support, and government support, publicity of the contribution of social entrepreneurship, mentorship and collaboration among stakeholders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Ngorora, Grace P K https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4756-313
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Zimbabwe , Poverty -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26661 , vital:65847
- Description: The study set out to examine the contribution of social entrepreneurship to the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly MDG 1, the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Poverty reduction occurred when social entrepreneurial activities resulted in the improvement of the socio-economic well-being of social entrepreneurs and their beneficiaries. The problem this study sought to research on was that, despite the impact of social entrepreneurship, there has been inadequate attention to and discussion of its contribution to attaining the MDGs in Zimbabwe. The population were social entrepreneurs in Harare, Zimbabwe. The random sampling method was used to determine the sample size. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data in Harare, Zimbabwe from 132 social entrepreneurs and 200 beneficiaries of social entrepreneurial activities. Secondary information was obtained from textbooks and various internet sources. The data collected was analyzed through SPSS Version 22 because of its appropriateness and wide use. The null hypothesis that social entrepreneurship does not contribute to the achievement of MDGs was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis that social entrepreneurship provides an alternative to the achievement of MDGs. Findings from the study suggest that social entrepreneurs contribute immensely to poverty reduction. They also contribute towards research and development, promoting gender equality and empowerment, education for all as well as access to health facilities. The segments of the population benefiting from social entrepreneurship include the poor, socially excluded, discriminated, the unemployed and disabled. The impact on poverty and hunger was achieved through microfinance initiatives, income generation activities, empowerment and capacity building. Results showed that social entrepreneurship activities solve social problems through providing food, shelter, water, education and collateral to access finance. The study concluded that social entrepreneurship is a plausible approach to promote implementation of policies to reduce extreme poverty and hunger by using readily available resources to bring sustainable solutions to problems. The strategies to make social entrepreneurship more effective included creating a conducive legal and policy environment, financial provision, political support, and government support, publicity of the contribution of social entrepreneurship, mentorship and collaboration among stakeholders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The Educational Journal
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Education – South Africa , South Africa – Economic conditions , South Africa – Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41657 , vital:36552 , Bulk File 7
- Description: The Educational Journal was the official organ of the Teachers' League of South Africa and focussed on education within the context of a racialized South Africa. From the 2000s, the journal was published by the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW), a trade union formed in August 1998 from the amalgamation of militant and moderate trade unions and also operated in the education sphere.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Education – South Africa , South Africa – Economic conditions , South Africa – Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41657 , vital:36552 , Bulk File 7
- Description: The Educational Journal was the official organ of the Teachers' League of South Africa and focussed on education within the context of a racialized South Africa. From the 2000s, the journal was published by the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW), a trade union formed in August 1998 from the amalgamation of militant and moderate trade unions and also operated in the education sphere.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The Educational Journal
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Education – South Africa , South Africa – Economic conditions , South Africa – Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38629 , vital:34841 , Bulk File 7
- Description: The Educational Journal was the official organ of the Teachers' League of South Africa and focussed on education within the context of a racialized South Africa. From the 2000s, the journal was published by the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW), a trade union formed in August 1998 from the amalgamation of militant and moderate trade unions and also operated in the education sphere.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Education – South Africa , South Africa – Economic conditions , South Africa – Social conditions
- Language: English
- Type: text , Article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/38629 , vital:34841 , Bulk File 7
- Description: The Educational Journal was the official organ of the Teachers' League of South Africa and focussed on education within the context of a racialized South Africa. From the 2000s, the journal was published by the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW), a trade union formed in August 1998 from the amalgamation of militant and moderate trade unions and also operated in the education sphere.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of small, medium and micro enterprises in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
- Authors: Sarakunze, Annie.
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Economic development -- South Africa , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26786 , vital:66005
- Description: In both developed and developing countries, the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise sector is considered an important factor in boosting the economic well-being of a country. The governments of many countries play a basic role in creating policies and programmes which support the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises. One of the initiatives used by the governments to nurture small businesses is business incubation.This study investigated the effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in selected areas of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of business incubation on the performance of SMMEs, determine the impact of business incubation on the growth of the SMME, to assess the impact of business incubation on the survival of the SMMEs and to investigate whether SMMEs are satisfied with the role of business incubators in their areas.This study employed a stratified simple random sampling technique. The population was first divided into six homogeneous strata and then simple random sampling was then employed. The self-administered questionnaires were then distributed into each and every stratum randomly. Simple random sampling was used because it enabled each and every member in the strata to have an equal chance of being selected. Owners, managers and employees were used as respondents in this study and a total sample of 200 SMMEs answered the questionnaire. The study followed a quantitative research design as it involved variables such as growth, firm performance and survival which have measures that involves the use of figures such as sales, number of employees and total value of assets. The data was analysed by Anova, Pearson Chi-Square and T-test statistical methods in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on the findings from this survey it was found that business incubators are effective in enhancing growth, survival and performance of SMMEs. Although other researchers found that there are no significant variations in growth, survival and performance of incubated and non-incubated businesses, this study however recognizes the importance of business incubation to SMMEs. This study concurs with most findings by many researchers of business incubation and thus recommends vigorous business incubation awareness to the SMMEs and networking. , Thesis (MBm) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Sarakunze, Annie.
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Entrepreneurship , Economic development -- South Africa , Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26786 , vital:66005
- Description: In both developed and developing countries, the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise sector is considered an important factor in boosting the economic well-being of a country. The governments of many countries play a basic role in creating policies and programmes which support the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises. One of the initiatives used by the governments to nurture small businesses is business incubation.This study investigated the effectiveness of business incubators in enhancing growth, survival and performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in selected areas of the Eastern Cape Province. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of business incubation on the performance of SMMEs, determine the impact of business incubation on the growth of the SMME, to assess the impact of business incubation on the survival of the SMMEs and to investigate whether SMMEs are satisfied with the role of business incubators in their areas.This study employed a stratified simple random sampling technique. The population was first divided into six homogeneous strata and then simple random sampling was then employed. The self-administered questionnaires were then distributed into each and every stratum randomly. Simple random sampling was used because it enabled each and every member in the strata to have an equal chance of being selected. Owners, managers and employees were used as respondents in this study and a total sample of 200 SMMEs answered the questionnaire. The study followed a quantitative research design as it involved variables such as growth, firm performance and survival which have measures that involves the use of figures such as sales, number of employees and total value of assets. The data was analysed by Anova, Pearson Chi-Square and T-test statistical methods in order to arrive at findings and conclusions. Based on the findings from this survey it was found that business incubators are effective in enhancing growth, survival and performance of SMMEs. Although other researchers found that there are no significant variations in growth, survival and performance of incubated and non-incubated businesses, this study however recognizes the importance of business incubation to SMMEs. This study concurs with most findings by many researchers of business incubation and thus recommends vigorous business incubation awareness to the SMMEs and networking. , Thesis (MBm) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce , 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The effects of social media on relationship patterns among adolescents: A study of students in three selected high schools of Alice in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Authors: Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Online social networks , Mass media and children
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25085 , vital:63966
- Description: Technology with the aid of the internet and social media has brought so much into the world, it has managed to reach and develop almost the entire world and this includes remote areas of Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa. These are the least developed and usually the last regions of the world to receive technology. It should be noted that most of the times, technology is bound to make an impact as people use it and this was the motive behind this study which aimed at assessing the effects of socialised media on adolescents who are the future of South Africa. In the study, the researcher aims at discovering whether the use of social media engines among adolescents affects the ways with which they relate with one another. The study which adopted a quantitative methodology was conducted on matriculating students from three randomly selected schools from within and surrounding town of Alice in Eastern Cape South Africa. Respondents were sampled conveniently and data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. From the results and conclusions, it showed that technology has reached South Africa’s remote areas and young people like adolescents have many uses for it. However, they proved that even though they now have technology in form of the internet and social media, it does not affect the ways with which they form and maintained social relations. This means that technology does not have a significant impact in the relationship patterns of adolescents in remote areas of South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Kalasaru, Onai Ronald https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4984-4250
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Online social networks , Mass media and children
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25085 , vital:63966
- Description: Technology with the aid of the internet and social media has brought so much into the world, it has managed to reach and develop almost the entire world and this includes remote areas of Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa. These are the least developed and usually the last regions of the world to receive technology. It should be noted that most of the times, technology is bound to make an impact as people use it and this was the motive behind this study which aimed at assessing the effects of socialised media on adolescents who are the future of South Africa. In the study, the researcher aims at discovering whether the use of social media engines among adolescents affects the ways with which they relate with one another. The study which adopted a quantitative methodology was conducted on matriculating students from three randomly selected schools from within and surrounding town of Alice in Eastern Cape South Africa. Respondents were sampled conveniently and data was collected through self-administered questionnaires. From the results and conclusions, it showed that technology has reached South Africa’s remote areas and young people like adolescents have many uses for it. However, they proved that even though they now have technology in form of the internet and social media, it does not affect the ways with which they form and maintained social relations. This means that technology does not have a significant impact in the relationship patterns of adolescents in remote areas of South Africa. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The experiences faced by lesbian, gays, bisexual, and transgender students at the University of Fort Hare
- Authors: Nyakwima, Esther Rutendo
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Gays , Homosexuality , Bisexuals
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25227 , vital:64070
- Description: Sexual orientation is one of the vital aspects that a person’s identity, persona, self-esteem, solidarity, equality and worthless are determined. Misconceptions and prejudices often lead to emotional, psychological and verbal discrimination or victimisation and even physical violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life. This study explored the experiences, challenges faced by LGBT students at the University Of Fort Hare and the strategies they employ to deal with these challenges and policies which are in place to protect them. The study utilized the psychodynamic theory and the social cognitive theoretical framework to illustrate the homosexuality nexus. The study employed a qualitative and quantitative research methodology which utilised questionnaires and interviews as a methods of data collection. The study revealed that the homosexual population at the University Of Fort Hare is experiencing homophobia, condemnation, homophobic attacks, prejudicial remarks, discrimination and abuse. It was noted that perceived discrimination is rampant from heterosexual students in every category related to discrimination. While the findings do not prove that discrimination causes mental health problems, data collected takes a step towards demonstrating that the social stigma felt by LGBT students has mental health consequences. Inequitable experiences may affect stress levels because discrimination is shadowed by prejudice remarks against homosexuals. The results of the study have further revealed that homosexual students are resilient to harsh circumstances like violence and discrimination. They are by no means secure within their own gendered and sexual lives. They have an idea as to what strategies and implementation tactics would work best for them, given their socio-cultural framework. Homosexual students successively adopt various strategies to protect themselves, such as boundary setting, avoiding certain circumstances, hiding identities, revenging and some openly admitting that they are gay students. Although there are policies in place to protect homosexual students at the University Of Fort Hare, gay and lesbian students have adopted their own strategies to protect themselves as they are unaware of these policies. However, in terms of policies safeguarding homosexuals, it can be noted that the University Of Fort Hare has generally adopted a top-down policy, one-size fits all approach to solving gender issues on campus. The policies are mainly centred on the distribution of resources and strict guidelines on the way people or inmates should conduct themselves towards each other. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Nyakwima, Esther Rutendo
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Gays , Homosexuality , Bisexuals
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25227 , vital:64070
- Description: Sexual orientation is one of the vital aspects that a person’s identity, persona, self-esteem, solidarity, equality and worthless are determined. Misconceptions and prejudices often lead to emotional, psychological and verbal discrimination or victimisation and even physical violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life. This study explored the experiences, challenges faced by LGBT students at the University Of Fort Hare and the strategies they employ to deal with these challenges and policies which are in place to protect them. The study utilized the psychodynamic theory and the social cognitive theoretical framework to illustrate the homosexuality nexus. The study employed a qualitative and quantitative research methodology which utilised questionnaires and interviews as a methods of data collection. The study revealed that the homosexual population at the University Of Fort Hare is experiencing homophobia, condemnation, homophobic attacks, prejudicial remarks, discrimination and abuse. It was noted that perceived discrimination is rampant from heterosexual students in every category related to discrimination. While the findings do not prove that discrimination causes mental health problems, data collected takes a step towards demonstrating that the social stigma felt by LGBT students has mental health consequences. Inequitable experiences may affect stress levels because discrimination is shadowed by prejudice remarks against homosexuals. The results of the study have further revealed that homosexual students are resilient to harsh circumstances like violence and discrimination. They are by no means secure within their own gendered and sexual lives. They have an idea as to what strategies and implementation tactics would work best for them, given their socio-cultural framework. Homosexual students successively adopt various strategies to protect themselves, such as boundary setting, avoiding certain circumstances, hiding identities, revenging and some openly admitting that they are gay students. Although there are policies in place to protect homosexual students at the University Of Fort Hare, gay and lesbian students have adopted their own strategies to protect themselves as they are unaware of these policies. However, in terms of policies safeguarding homosexuals, it can be noted that the University Of Fort Hare has generally adopted a top-down policy, one-size fits all approach to solving gender issues on campus. The policies are mainly centred on the distribution of resources and strict guidelines on the way people or inmates should conduct themselves towards each other. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
The implementation of the Child Justice Act: experiences of social workers working as probation officers
- Authors: Mkokeli, Babalwa
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Children -- Legal status, laws, etc , Probation officers , Juvenile justice, Administration of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25282 , vital:64138
- Description: The implementation of the Child Justice Act (Act No. 75 of 2008) started on 01 April 2010. The law regulates ways of handling children found to be in conflict with the law. Whilst this law was still a Bill, probation officers who are social workers employed by Social Development & Special Programmes were already bound to work with young offenders, employed under the Probation Services Act no.116 of 2002. Probation officers had clear regulations on their role and responsibility towards children found in conflict with the law, unlike other stakeholders working within the sphere of child justice. Absence of the law encompassing child justice caused a struggle for probation officer because stakeholders like South African Police Service (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Department of Justice services were not considering services of probation officers important. The situation was frustrating because there was lack of cooperation between probation officers and role players like police, prosecutors and magistrates which often led to gross irregularities on cases of young offenders. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of probation officers with the implementation of the Child Justice Act, particularly working relations with the above mentioned stakeholders. The researcher used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), a qualitative research approach which is committed to examining people’s daily experiences. In collecting data the researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire schedule comprising open rather than closed-ended questions. The researcher intended to interview fifteen probation officers working at OR Tambo District Municipality. A purposive sampling was used targeting officers who are aware of the child justice system before and after the implementation of the Act. Study findings revealed improvement on working relations between SAPS, NPA and Justice such as (i) increase in the rate of informing probation officers about arrested children, (ii) sitting of preliminary inquiries (PIs), (iii) drop in the number of detained children, (iv) practice of in camera proceedings for young offenders. However, despite the presence of the Child Justice Act (CJA) findings also revealed challenges which were the following: (i) drop in the number of arrested or diverted children, (ii) non-compliance by SAPS to inform POs about arrested children especially during weekends, which often results in parents not being aware that their children are in custody, (iii) areas where PIs are not held, areas where they are not regular as well as non-uniformity in how PIs are conducted, and (iv) cases of children held in public during court proceedings and cases of young offenders handled as adult cases. The following were made as recommendations arising from the study: (i) enforcement of Child Justice Forums at local levels, (ii) strengthening of responsibility and accountability by all stakeholders, and (iii) building capacity and effective monitoring from down up. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- Authors: Mkokeli, Babalwa
- Date: 2014-11
- Subjects: Children -- Legal status, laws, etc , Probation officers , Juvenile justice, Administration of
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25282 , vital:64138
- Description: The implementation of the Child Justice Act (Act No. 75 of 2008) started on 01 April 2010. The law regulates ways of handling children found to be in conflict with the law. Whilst this law was still a Bill, probation officers who are social workers employed by Social Development & Special Programmes were already bound to work with young offenders, employed under the Probation Services Act no.116 of 2002. Probation officers had clear regulations on their role and responsibility towards children found in conflict with the law, unlike other stakeholders working within the sphere of child justice. Absence of the law encompassing child justice caused a struggle for probation officer because stakeholders like South African Police Service (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Department of Justice services were not considering services of probation officers important. The situation was frustrating because there was lack of cooperation between probation officers and role players like police, prosecutors and magistrates which often led to gross irregularities on cases of young offenders. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of probation officers with the implementation of the Child Justice Act, particularly working relations with the above mentioned stakeholders. The researcher used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), a qualitative research approach which is committed to examining people’s daily experiences. In collecting data the researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire schedule comprising open rather than closed-ended questions. The researcher intended to interview fifteen probation officers working at OR Tambo District Municipality. A purposive sampling was used targeting officers who are aware of the child justice system before and after the implementation of the Act. Study findings revealed improvement on working relations between SAPS, NPA and Justice such as (i) increase in the rate of informing probation officers about arrested children, (ii) sitting of preliminary inquiries (PIs), (iii) drop in the number of detained children, (iv) practice of in camera proceedings for young offenders. However, despite the presence of the Child Justice Act (CJA) findings also revealed challenges which were the following: (i) drop in the number of arrested or diverted children, (ii) non-compliance by SAPS to inform POs about arrested children especially during weekends, which often results in parents not being aware that their children are in custody, (iii) areas where PIs are not held, areas where they are not regular as well as non-uniformity in how PIs are conducted, and (iv) cases of children held in public during court proceedings and cases of young offenders handled as adult cases. The following were made as recommendations arising from the study: (i) enforcement of Child Justice Forums at local levels, (ii) strengthening of responsibility and accountability by all stakeholders, and (iii) building capacity and effective monitoring from down up. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2014
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014-11
- «
- ‹
- 1
- ›
- »