A comparative appraisal of access and quality of sexual and reproductive health services for gays and lesbians in Bulawayo (Zimbabwe) and Pretoria (South Africa)
- Authors: Jasi, Phineas
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Reproductive health , Sexual health
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21959 , vital:51854
- Description: This study investigated the extent to which gays and lesbians access quality sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in Pretoria and Bulawayo. The study also examines the facilitators and barriers for accessing the same services. Theoretically, the study was grounded in the Health Belief Model (Hochbaum, 1958, modified by Rosenstock, 1974 and Siddiqui, 2016). To answer the research questions, a mixed methods approach was applied involving both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. A total of 30 key informant interviews, eight focus group discussions and 387 questionnaires were administered using purposive, time location and snowball sampling approaches in the two cities. The study found that the most commonly available sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services were contraceptive services, sexually transmitted infections (STI) services and Human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) services. The services were provided at public health facilities, drop-in centres and through outreach activities operated by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The least available services that gays and lesbians required as part of a comprehensive package were access to information, education and communications (IEC) materials and mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS). Several service providers were not adhering to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for provision of comprehensive services for key populations including gays and lesbians. Critical gaps noted included the absence of key populations-only service hours, lack of options for clinicians to attend to them, presence of a stigma and discrimination free environment and provision of comprehensive package of services under one roof. Most of the referral facilities had limited drugs, equipment and supplies for cancer screening and they had no HIV prevention, sex change, in-vitro fertilization, and sterilization services and procedures. The quality of physical facilities and SRH services in both cities did not meet the expectations of gays and lesbians, acting as a barrier to their health seeking behaviour. Stigma and discrimination from healthcare workers was a huge barrier affecting access across all public health facilities. The acts of stigmatisation and discrimination affected the perceptions that gays and lesbians had regarding the quality of the services and compromised access of the same. In view of these health system challenges, the study recommends that there is need for public authorities in both cities to address the bottlenecks and barriers affecting access to SRH services and products such as lubricants, affordable quality condoms, dental dams and latex gloves while reinforcing the facilitating factors promoting access. Healthcare workers need further training on how to provide comprehensive services for gays and lesbians according to the WHO guidelines. Public health authorities in Bulawayo and Pretoria should build upon the identified factors which facilitated the access to SRH services and use of products such as condoms and lubricants. These factors require strengthening of community-based organizations and networks that work directly with gays and lesbians in both Bulawayo and Pretoria. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
A contingency management framework to mitigate cybersecurity threats to electronic health records in the public health sector in South Africa
- Authors: Ngxabane, Mbulelo https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2942-2568
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Health services administration--Information technology , Computer Security
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23427 , vital:57730
- Description: Most developing countries in the African continent, including South Africa, seem to be lagging behind in research, policy development, and how to prevent cybersecurity threats. These findings are evident in the significant number of cyberattacks recorded in the Cost of Data Breach Study and Global Analysis by Ponemon Institute. Research studies are placing the blame on the element of portability in electronic health records (EHRs) that has contributed to numerous vulnerabilities to hospital healthcare data. As a result, the healthcare information of patients in those hospitals that are equipped with interconnected medical devices is exposed to cybersecurity threats. The purpose of the study was to develop a healthcare contingency management framework that can be used by healthcare institutions to mitigate cybersecurity threats to EHRs in the public health sector in South Africa. The integrated systems theory (IST) which amalgamated five different theories relating to information security management was used as a theoretical foundation in this study. In achieving this purpose, the literature review was selected as the research design best suited to answer the question presented in this research study. An expert review was used to refine the framework outcome using interviews and questionnaires. The contribution that will be made by this study will be in a form of a conceptual framework that will be used to mitigate cybersecurity threats concerning EHRs in the public health sector. The healthcare contingency management framework (HCMF) can be adopted by either the National Health Department or Provincial Health Department to be used by healthcare facilities as a guide in reviewing their support function, process management, governance management, and their contingency management. Similar future studies need to be conducted on large scale such as in the whole public sector with the focus on the health sector. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
A culturally responsive strategy for teaching sexual concepts in rural Xhosa secondary schools
- Authors: Simayi, Ayanda
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Sex instruction for children , Sex instruction for youth , Rural schools -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Doctorate's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58519 , vital:59660
- Description: While research shows that the recognition and integration of indigenous knowledge (IK) is an important issue for developing culturally responsive strategies when teaching and learning science to, and by, indigenous people, little has been said about cultural taboos of a sexual nature and their effects on teaching and learning. This study investigated issues of taboo language use when teaching topics of a sexual nature during high school Biology classes. It also investigated the effects of a teacher development intervention based on Ogunniyi’s Contiguity Argumentation Theory (CATPD) towards culturally responsive teaching strategies. Four phases in one cycle of a Critical Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (CPALAR) design were used in schools located in deep rural villages with a sample of Life Science Grade 12 teachers. Initially, 30 teachers answered a semi-structured questionnaire aimed at identifying cultural restrictions that could impede the teaching of sexual concepts (Stage 1). Stages 2-4 included seven participants of both gender. Data were generated from two sets of drawings with descriptions and audio recorded focus group discussions. The teaching of a collectively developed Indigenised Teaching Strategy lesson by a group-selected ‘modelteacher’ was video-recorded and analysed. Written participant evaluation is presented in a flow chart. Data analysis was done by manual thematic data analysis and by using Atlas ti. 8. The use of multiple data collection strategies contributed to the trustworthiness and credibility of the study. The few existing studies on cultural taboos report avoidance of using the vernacular for biological terminology and promote the exclusive use of standard, terms in English. In contrast, Xhosa IK-based sexual euphemisms derived from elderly, unlearned Xhosa women were successfully used for teaching sexual concepts. The teachers reported their findings through the cultural lens of Xhosa people. Cognitive change from the suppressed level in the CAT hierarchy to a more harmonious equipollent level of understanding was brought about using Bakhtin’s theory of heteroglossia and the indigenist cognitive perspective of Contiguity Argumentation Theory. This cognitive shift enabled verbalisation of the culturally avoided taboo sexual concepts. The transition in thinking symbolised transformation in terms of critical pedagogy. The claim is made that using Contiguity Argumentation Theory (CAT) and Bakhtin’s explanations of heteroglossia provides an effective professional intervention in a deeply culturally determined Xhosa community. While not generalisable, the effect of this strategy should be of value when considering teacher development in indigenous communities and disciplines. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
An analysis of small, medium, and micro enteprise contribution to job creation: a case study of the Chris Hani District Municipality
- Authors: Mbotshane, Sibongile
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54913 , vital:48472
- Description: It is the norm that job creation becomes the responsibility of entrepreneurs in the area where they operate. The role of the state is legislatively to create a conducive environment for the entrepreneurs to flourish and do their respective businesses in a manner that is beneficial to themselves and the society at large. This study was conducted in Chris Hani District municipality. The district consists of six Local Municipalities where it coordinates their activities and renders support where necessary. Over the past few years, the district has been inundated with requests for financial support from SMMEs. In this regard the researcher undertook to do a follow up in the form of this study to the extent in which the SMMEs contribute to job creation in the district. The study undertook both a qualitative and quantitative approach in ensuring they complement one another and to allow effective engagements with the SMMEs as the core of the study. The sampled respondents/participants in the study were given questionnaires to respond to that would assist the researcher in analysing the raw data and be able to arrive at a particular conclusion in relation to the research questions. Respondents were given an opportunity to respond to questionnaires for a period of two weeks at the comfort of their homes. The results of the study indicate that those firms with a good track record, high annual turnover, sophistication and diverse skills, good credit record, good cash flow, proper financial records, bankable and viable business plans, collateral and registered for VAT were more likely to have a higher impact on the creation of both the short- and long-term employment as they are in a more sustainable position. The conclusion of the study is that the internal factors turned to have the greatest influence on SMME sustainability and job creation in this regard. However, there is more to be done by the private and public SMME support agencies. The study recommends that in-depth empirical research be conducted on the support services provided by private and public SMME support agencies in terms of the services that they offer and the effectiveness of the services and how these are communicated to potential customers. It is also recommended that training workshops aimed at addressing the internal constraints identified be conducted. It is further recommended that the development and implementation of sector-specific mentoring programmes for the owner-managers of the SMMEs be implemented for them to positively contribute to job creation in the region. Strategies to improve the awareness of support services provided by SMME support agencies need to be developed. This would ensure the effective use of these services by SMMEs. It is also recommended that SMME support agencies staff be trained in order to better understand and be more responsive to the owner managers’ needs. , Thesis (MADS) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Assessment of compliance to the maintenance procedure of medical equipment in a selected hospital, Oliver Reginald Tambo District, Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mbangata, Mzuyanda
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Equipment health monitoring , Maintenance--Equipment and supplies
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21871 , vital:51838
- Description: Background Medical equipment assumes a major part in diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases as well as illness and rehabilitation of patients. The maintenance of medical equipment is one of the most vital components in quality health care service delivery and it should not be ignored in the hospital. Therefore, it is critical that medical equipment must be maintained, and be in good working condition to ensure it completes its life cycle, also to prevent possible injuries to the patients and clinicians/end-users. Proper maintenance of medical equipment needs compliance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inappropriate maintenance of medical equipment leads to medical equipment malfunctioning, decreases the level of medical equipment performance, and wastes money and other resources. The equipment downtime makes health care services not accessible to patients. Maintenance includes the following activities, medical equipment acceptance, preventive maintenance, inspection, calibration and repair following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Aim of the study The purpose of the study was to assess compliance to the maintenance procedures of medical equipment in a selected hospital in Oliver Reginald Tambo District, Eastern Cape Province. Methodology A qualitative descriptive design was used to access information regarding compliance with the maintenance of medical equipment in a selected hospital, in Oliver Reginald Tambo District, Eastern Cape. The compliance was accessed at the selected hospital that has eight departments. The research objectives gave a framework for how the research was to be conducted. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews until data saturation. An open coding Tesch’s qualitative method was used for data analysis. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants who were knowledgeable and responsible for management of medical equipment maintenance. The participants were experienced clinicians and technicians answerable for medical equipment maintenance and management. The researcher adhered to ethical and trustworthiness principles. Findings The following themes and their related categories emerged as compliance procedures adhered to/applied: i) Determinants of applied procedures; ii) Compliance with maintenance that is facilitate frequent checks, daily regular testing of equipment; iii) Report faulty equipment; iv) Send equipment for repairs; v) Do follow up on repairs; and vi) Keep machines working all the time. Contributory factors to non-compliance included: Unavailability of funds; technical staff shortage; lack of technical training; non-compliance in performance of quality checks; lack of training of end users; lack of set of maintenance plans; and long procurement process. Complications aligned with non-compliance: Inappropriate referral patients; inaccessibility of health care services; and misdiagnosing patients. Recommendations The strengthening of clinical engineering department with human resources (technical staff), finance (funds for spare parts) and physical resources (workspace, testing equipment and tools, service manuals etc.) Prioritise medical equipment maintenance also improvement of maintenance budget allocation and utilization. Provision of training for end users and technical staff. Establishment and implementation of maintenance plan and improvement of procurement processes. Conclusion The selected hospital is partially compliant with the maintenance of medical equipment because the hospital performs only reactive maintenance. It evidently appeared that affected service delivery is initiated by the shortage of technical staff and equipment availability and reliability. The hospital needs to focus and improve on the above mentioned factors affecting medical equipment maintenance. The results showed that improper maintenance of medical equipment contributes to the overcrowding of tertiary hospitals through unnecessary referrals due to medical equipment malfunctioning. The study contributes to improving the maintenance management of medical equipment. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Big data use at an automotive manufacturer: a framework to address privacy concerns in Hadoop Technology.
- Authors: Padayachee, Prenisha
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Data protection. , Privacy, Right of. , Computer networks--Security measures.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22255 , vital:52009
- Description: An automotive manufacturer can generate big data through accessible data points from internal and external Internet of Things (IoT) data sources connected to the production line. Big data analytics needs to be applied to these large and complex datasets to realise the associated opportunities, such as an improved manufacturing process, optimised supply chain management, competitive advantage and business growth. In order to store, manage and process the data, automotive manufacturers are using Apache Hadoop technology. Apache Hadoop is a cost-effective, scalable, and fault-tolerant technology. However, there has been a concern raised regarding the privacy of big data in Apache Hadoop. A key challenge in Hadoop technology is its ineffective security model, making the data susceptible to unauthorised users. Consequently, a breach in data privacy results in automotive manufacturers becoming victims of theft of trade secrets and intellectual property via corporate spies. This theft has a negative impact and results in the loss of company reputation, business competitiveness and business growth in the automotive market. This study investigated a solution to ensure big data privacy when using Hadoop technology. The Selective Organisational Information Privacy and Security Violations Model (SOIPSVM) and the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) provided the theoretical base for this study. The researcher undertook a literature analysis and qualitative study to understand and address the identified research problem. The primary data was collected from ten Information Technology (IT) specialists at a local automotive manufacturer. These specialists participated in an interview session, which also included the completion of a questionnaire. All questions were pre-determined and open-ended, and the participants' responses were recorded. Primary data was analysed using the inductive approach by identifying relevant themes and sub-themes. In contrast, the literature analysis included academic journals, conference proceedings, websites, and books, which were critically discussed in this study. This study's findings indicated various measures to be implemented by the automotive manufacturer to address the research problem. Critical success factors were derived from the identified measures, which addressed significant data privacy issues in using Hadoop technology. The identified critical success factors included: control of internal and external data sources; monitor the value of big data towards improving the automotive manufacturing process and user behaviour; implementation of user authentication; encryption to secure data; disaster recovery and backup plan; execution of authorisation and Access Control List (ACLS); conduct audits and regular reviews of user access to data; apply data masking to sensitive data and tokenization to secure data; build own infrastructure to store and analyse data; install regular security updates and update passwords regularly. Each factor had a purpose that examined big data management, governance and compliance in detail. The identified factors contributed towards ensuring data privacy in the use of Hadoop technology. These factors were categorised into contextual and rule and regulatory conditions adopted from the SOIPSVM. Identified conditions were then aligned to the five-level CMM. Each condition was expanded upon at various maturity levels to form a framework that addressed the main research problem. The framework's application was described as an independent assessment of each critical success factor and provided a guide through various maturity levels. The framework's purpose was to address and overcome big data privacy concerns in using Hadoop technology at a local automotive manufacturer. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Cynical evictions and the possessory action in search of an appropriate remedy
- Authors: Phillips, Jeremy Alan https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2046-0744
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Eviction
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22434 , vital:52285
- Description: A cynical eviction is an unlawful eviction where, in the course of the eviction, the evictee's home is destroyed. They are a notorious brand of eviction which has darkly coloured South Africa's history and social geography. And they persist still to this day. The cynicality of a cynical eviction lies in the fact that because the home, and its composite materials, are destroyed, application of the mandament van spolie is precluded. With the obvious remedy barred, there is academic and judicial disagreement about which remedy should be used instead. Some have argued that, despite the technical difficulties, the mandament van spolie should be relied on, while others insist that the extraordinary constitutional remedy, crafted in the Tswelopele case, is the best option. This dissertation argues that there are obvious shortcomings with both two remedies, and investigates whether a third remedy, the possessory action, might be better-suited. It finds that, while the possessory action has many benefits, it too is deficient in some respects. It ultimately concludes that all three remedies are only, at best, partially appropriate for addressing cynical evictions and that whichever remedy is the most appropriate in the instant cynical eviction should be preferred for that particular case. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the treatment options for dental caries among the adult patients for dental caries in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Veleekizhakethil, Legy
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Dental caries , Periodontics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22968 , vital:53257
- Description: Dentistry offers several caries-preventive measures, some of which emphasise not only patient’s responsibility to manage their disease, but also how dental professionals should manage it. Consequently, this study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of adult patients towards treatment options relating to dental caries in the geographical context of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, situated in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Purpose Firstly, this quantitative study set out to assess the existing oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among an adult population visiting dental health facilities in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Secondly, it aimed to examine the prevalence of dental caries, periodontal diseases and tooth associated diseases in this specific setting. Furthermore, the study sought to provide baseline data in order to organise a successful dental prevention programme. The data obtained will determine the layout of policies to be put forward to the Department of Health. Methodology The researcher took a quantitative approach and conducted descriptive surveys from November 2019 to March 2020. A close-ended, structured questionnaire for data collection was designed based on the aspects of knowledge, attitudes, practices and behaviour pertaining to the area of dental caries. A clinical examination of dental status was performed using dental probes, dental mirrors and tooth air-drying. All decay, and missing, filled or restored teeth due to dental caries, along with the presence of calculus, gingival, and periodontal lesions were recorded. Results Participants had an average knowledge score of 80percent with a 95percent confidence interval of (76percent; 84percent). The majority knew the importance of cleaning their teeth (88.9percent), were aware of the effects of sugary diets (80.7percent), avoided sugary foods (64.6percent), and lastly were aware of the causes of dental caries (71.3percent). However it is concerning that most had never visited a dentist, as reflected by 69.1percent of participants agreeing or strongly agreeing. At least 70percent of those who responded were satisfied with their dentists in that they ( the dentists) freely share ideas and opinions and provide advice on options for dental care. The study revealed a high prevalence of dental caries with a ratio of 6.23. Conclusions The majority of the participants affirmed the importance of visiting the dentist for a routine dental examination. In addition, the majority are aware that sugary diets are associated with dental caries. However, there is a high prevalence of dental caries among participants in this setting. Therefore, dentists should provide preventive measures, along with professional restorative and plaque removal, to curb the burden of dental caries and periodontal diseases. The type and extent of preventive measures must be adjusted according to the patient’s individual needs. Dental health professionals must collaborate with other health-care providers to promote preventive dental health. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Low uptake and early removal of Implanon NXT among women of reproductive age in Limpopo
- Authors: Magomani, Nandu Victoria https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-5473-9984
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Contraceptive drug implants
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21849 , vital:51829
- Description: Implanon NXT also referred to as subdermal Implant, is a long-acting subdermal contraceptive method available in the South African public health care system since 2014. The implant was introduced to broaden the choice for women of childbearing age to delay or prevent unwanted pregnancies. Following a surge in popularity, reports of early removals and frequent adverse effects led to a significant decrease in its uptake in the country. Insufficient knowledge on Implanon, poor management of side effects, poor counseling by health care workers, and lack of partner support were the main themes that were picked from the interview, influencing uptake or early removals of the Implanon. The major concerning side effect reported was uncontrolled and irregular heavy bleeding The purpose of the study was to explore the factors associated with low uptake and early removals of Implanon NXT among women of reproductive age in one district in Limpopo province. A qualitative research design was used, primarily as exploratory and descriptive in nature. Participants were identified using non-probable, purposeful voluntary sampling. Data collection was achieved using open-ended structured interviews with sixteen (16) women aged from18-49. Data was analysed using thematic method of organizing data into categories, followed by coding and sorting the data to identify patterns and interpret the meanings and responses. An independent consultant was involved to confirm the thematic areas identified after which consensus discussions took place to finalize the analysed data. From the results, it appeared that there was a need that Implanon should be marketed by use of digital platforms and print media for information sharing. These platforms should be utilized by DOH from the National, provincial, district, facility and community levels. There should be clear protocol on how to manage different kinds of side effects, and this information should be rolled out to the implementation level. Health Care workers should provide client education and counselling services to the clients about the effectiveness of the method. Male partner involvement is crucial to provide support for women on contraceptives and to support their contraceptive choices. Mentorship will help providers to attain their proficiency in Implanon counselling, insertions, and removals. Lastly, availing adequate and effective youth-friendly services to enable young people to open up more about challenges and options that can be explored. For the adolescents and youth, these services should be provided by trained providers not at the general unit, where there is a mixture of adult population and the elderly, but at youth zones to enhance the uptake of Implanon NXT. Recommendations are for clinical practice area, for generic student education as well as for further research. The conclusions confirm that the government need to revitalise the Implanon program, to drive the uptake and reduce early removals. Training of health workers and mentorship should emphasize more comprehensive counselling, provide adequate information on what is to be expected and more importantly, how to treat and manage the side effects. That early removals due to side effects become the last option as information need to be widely available to all users utilising the traditional methods and modern methods such as digital platforms to spread the correct information and create demand for the Implanon. The functional service-provision-based youth-friendly services which will cater for the needs of young women and adolescents is highlighted as it provides a comfortable and conducive environment to provide and receive a comprehensive sexual reproductive health and rights services. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Mass media use and knowledge gap amongst Walter Sisulu University, public relations management students: a content analysis study.
- Authors: Mva, Coceka
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Education, Rural , Mass media--Social aspects , Mass media in education
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21036 , vital:46916
- Description: Walter Sisulu University recruits students from the deep rural areas as well as students from urban areas all over the Eastern Cape Province. Students coming from rural areas are completely different from students coming from urban areas. The difference is caused by the different quality of infrastructure each area is exposed to. Urban students are exposed to high quality education whereas rural students have very poor infrastructure that they can hardly use to better their education. Urban students are exposed to all kinds of mass media and they are taught how to use and manipulate them. For rural students the exposure to mass media is too rare to the point where only the minority is able to use them. Therefore, this research was done to find out if there are any differences in understanding social and current events between urban and rural students studying public relations management at Walter Sisulu University. The study therefore sought to find out if this came as a result of their differentiated exposure to the mass media. Literature collected shows that rural students do not benefit as much as urban students from the knowledge and information communicated by the mass media. This is because rural areas lack electricity for television and radio usage, they lack quality roads for newspapers to be delivered to rural areas. However, questionnaires and interviews show that when at university, rural students struggle to cope in their first year of studies but their performance becomes better in their second and final year of study. , Thesis (MSoc Sci) (Communication) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Retrospective analysis of factors contributing to parasuicide among youth in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Nganto, Yanga
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Parasuicide -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22897 , vital:53181
- Description: Parasuicide is a problem that affects the youth locally and globally. Parasuicide has negative psychological impacts on youth. This study was designed to assess elements of parasuicide in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality of South Africa, using records of patients admitted to Frere and Cecilia Makiwane hospitals between 2016 and 2020. The purpose of the study was to conduct a descriptive retrospective review of parasuicide among youth to determine trends, causes, and contributing factors of committing parasuicide. Methods A retrospective, quantitative and descriptive study was conducted with 200 files of patients aged between 18 and 35 years conveniently sampled. These patients diagnosed as committed parasuicide and were admitted at Frere and Cecilia Makiwane hospitals over a period of four years from 1 April 2016 to 31 March 202. Only record files of patients’ residing in East London and Mdantsane catchment area were selected. Raw data was collected for a period of twelve weeks using a developed data collection tool developed in Ms Excel spreadsheet. Results In this sample, the large number of the patients were under 26 years (60.5%), female (57%), single (92.5%), and Black (99.5%). Furthermore, majority of the patients had attained secondary education (89.5%), were unemployed (83%) and living with their families (59%). There were different methods and agents used by participants to commit parasuicide and reasons differed from person to person. Among patients who reported a suicide attempt, organophosphates were most commonly used agent for self-poisoning (47%, n=94), followed by substances such as use of drugs and alcohol (n=57, 28.5%), violence (n=27, 13.5%), corrosive agents including bleach and Jik (n=11, 5.5%), and hydrogen peroxide including acidic sub-stances like battery acid (n=11, 5.5%). The common reason found in the study and indicates participants had psychiatric disorder (34.5%). Conclusion Limiting access to organophosphate agents and other lethal means is an effective strategy that should be adopted to prevent parasuicide among youth. Timely identification of risks or warning signs, social prevention and immediate intervention at the state level will play an important role in controlling parasuicide among youth. Moreover, improving health care services with psychotherapy support would empower youth with skills that would enhance their self-confidence, self-worth and resilience. Consequently, attainment of these attributes would result in the prevention and control of parasuicide amongst youth. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Sediment characteristics and hydrodynamic conditions of the Swartkops estuary, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Best, Lutho https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6400-9061
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Geology, Stratigraphic , Estuarine oceanography , Swartkops River Estuary (South Africa)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22611 , vital:52596
- Description: This study is a part of an environmental research project aimed at providing assessment information to the grain-size distribution, mineral compositions, sedimentary structures and coastal erosion and rehabilitation methods along the Swartkops estuary, a recent developing industry area of South Africa. The methodologies used in this study comprise desk study of literature, field geological investigation and sampling, and laboratory analyses including grainsize analysis, thin section microscope study, XRD mineral composition study and SEM-EDX grain surface texture and composition analyses.The basement and surrounding areas of the Swartkops estuary consist of three formations: the Enon Formation of mainly conglomerate, the Kirkwood Formation of sandstone and mudstone, and the Sundays River Formation of dominantly mudstone with sandstone, which integrated as Uitenhage Group of Cretaceous sequence with modern estuarine sand and alluvial sediments filled in the entire basin. Grain size analysis is a useful tool to assess hydrodynamic environments. The grain size parameters showed that most of the Swartkops estuary sediments are moderately sorted with very few well and poorly sorted, coarse to fine skewed in grain size distribution.Whereas the Bluewater Bay beach sediments are mostly fine grained, well sorted, fine to coarse skewed in grain size distribution. The bivariate scatter plots are an indication of shallow marine environment by beach and coastal processes with the influence of water flow and wind influence during transportation and deposition processes. Mineralogy studies revealed that the Swartkops estuary sediments are dominantly composed of minerals such as: quartz, calcite, feldspar (orthoclase and plagioclase), aragonite, clay minerals (smectite and illite), and salts such as NaCl and MgCl2. Skeletal carbonate minerals (shell fragments) are more than chemical precipitated carbonate minerals. Quartz is the most abundant detrital mineral observed in all the sediments and it comes from inland and transported into the estuary and the beach by fluvial streams, whereas skeletal calcite/aragonite is the most abundant biogenic carbonate derived from sea side and transported by marine currents. The study shows that grain surface textures reveal the existence of several features that reflect the depositional environments. Observed grain surface textures by microscope and SEM include V-shape pits, upturned pits caused by mechanical crashing and corrosion during transportation; crystalline precipitation of calcite, quartz, salt and clay by chemical precipitation and crystallization; dissolution pits and pores formed by dissolution, and burrow and boring by biogenetic activities. The grain surface morphologies are closely linked to different formation mechanisms and depositional environments. Well-developed sedimentary structures have been found in the beach and estuary, including sand dune, sand ridge, straight and sinuous ripple, ripple marks, aeolian nail marks, high angle tabular cross bedding, antidune, rill mark, rhomboid mark, swash line, mud crack, gravel pavement, interfering ripples, flat topped ripple mark, linguiod mark, asymmetric sinuous ripples, dendritic pattern on sandy beach, boring and bioturbation, burrows desiccation cracks and water escape hole. Different sedimentary structures are reflective of different hydrodynamic conditions and depositional environments. Coastal erosion is a major problem for damage of road, bridge and properties in the industrial areas in Swartkops, which is also a task for this study. The author had suggested some practical mitigation-methods to local government, such as groins, revetments, shoreline hardening, planting of vegetation, and vertical walls, bulkheads, sills, which could be useful for the protection of coastal erosion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
Study on the effect of shade net on internal and external quality parameters and chilling injury of fruits of citrus species in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
- Authors: Moabelo, Phillipine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9040-1390
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Fruit-culture , Horticulture , Citrus fruits
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22622 , vital:52600
- Description: Pre-harvest technology of shade net is environmental friendly and was found previously to improve fruit growth and yield. In addition, it reduces wind blemishes and sunburn, and effectively act as a buffer against climate fluctuations, such as excessive light, wind and hail damages. However, commercial shade nets are capital intensive; therefore, it is important for farmers to understand its impact on fruit quality that is desired for export market and assess whether the investment is profitable to the industry or not. It was brought to attention that several citrus cultivars grown in Addo, Eastern Cape under 20percent commercial shade net shows sensitivity to chilling injury (CI); however. no information is yet documented about the impact of this technology on fruit quality. To determine the efficacy of 20percent-shade net technology in relation to the control (no shade net), the present study was designed with the objective to compare internal and external quality parameters of ‘Washington and Cambria’ navels, ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin, and ‘Eureka’ lemon fruit grown in shade netted orchards and stored at low temperatures (4 and -0.6°C) for 30 days in Addo area, Eastern Cape. Internal quality attributes assessed includes juice content, °Brixpercent, titratable acid (TA), °Brix:acid ratio and average number of seeds. External quality data assessed include rind colour, and fruit size, firmness/texture and fresh weight loss. For chilling injury, fruits were evaluated by examining the degree of rind pitting and assigning levels of severity namely 0, 1, 2 or 3 where 0 = no pitting detected, 1 = 1 pit, 2 = 2 or more pitting detected and 3 = severe pitting detected. The post-harvest experiments were done on fruits harvested from commercial citrus orchards in Sundays River Valley, between Kirkwood and Addo (33° 34' 0" South, 25° 41' 0" East), in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, over two harvesting seasons (2018 and 2019). The ‘Eureka’ lemon and ‘Washington navel’ fruit were collected from Allendale farm; the ‘Cambria’ navel fruits from the Nuwelande and Olifantsbos farms; and the ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin fruits from the Dunbrody/Unifruitti farm. The quality attributes were recorded in the Laboratory of the Citrus Research International (CRI), Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa during Season 1, and in the Horticulture lab of the University of Fort Hare (UFH), Alice, Eastern Cape, South, Africa during Season 2. The experimental layout was a typical pseudo randomised completely block design (RCBD) (not truly randomised) whereby treatments tested were subjected over time (pre-test, post-test). The two treatments i.e. shade vs. control (no shade net) could not be randomly allocated to orchards due to the practical issue of working on a commercial farm, . The sub-factor consisted of three postharvest treatments: Ambiemt temperature (at 0 days storage), 4°C and -0.6°C storages for 30 days. Secondly, an experiment to evaluate the impact of petroleum-based wax mixed with 2-(4-thiazolyl) benzimidazole [thiabendazole (TBZ)] (TBZ: 500 mg.L-1) on shade net vs control fruits was conducted. The fruits were stored at 4°C and - 0.6°C (coated) for 30 days and were evaluated after 7 days storage at room temperature. Shade net did not significantly affect the internal quality attributes of citrus fruits. The 20percent- shade net promoted size of ‘Washington’, ‘Cambria’ navels and ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin, whilst rind colour was not affect. Firmness loss was higher on ‘Eureka’ lemon and ‘Washington’ navel, regardless of the growing conditions and cold storage duration. Rind firmness of ‘Cambria’ navel and ‘Valley Gold’ mandarin were not significantly affected by shade net and storage duration. ‘Eureka’ lemon was found to be more sensitive to CI. However, the application of wax+ TBZ eliminated CI on all 4-cultivars. Therefore, it is recommended to apply wax+ TBZ in packline to eliminate CI and fungal development. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
The design of a training centre for female Artisans in Motherwell, Gqeberha
- Authors: Kelsley, Chanel
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Continuing education centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Designs and plans , Artisans -- Training of -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58694 , vital:60003
- Description: The treatise deals with the design of an Artisans’ Training Centre for the women in thetownship of Motherwell, Port Elizabeth. The aim of the building is to provide a safe civic space for teaching the women of Motherwell the necessary artisan skills. By teaching the women these skills, pov - erty amongst women in current township conditions can be improved by providing them with a sustainable income. Furthermore, the aim is to promote a sense of unity amongst these women as they enter a male-dominated field. South Africa’s skills shortages are widely regarded as key factors preventing the achievement of targeted economic growth rates. The decline and massive shortage in artisan trades has been attributed to the sharp decline of the apprenticeship system and the failure of substitute inter - ventions. By getting more women involved in the artisans’ field it will assist in gender equality and the current skills shortages. The treatise explores the issues and methods involved in the design of an Artisans Training Cen - tre for women. The research starts with an investigation into the nature of public space and civic facilities within a South African township context and how to create a more suitable environment for women, before exploring the development of an educational typology, while exploring the is - sues and processes involved in the design of a civic building in a township environment. The archi - tectural design is seen as an appropriate response to the identified architectural issues. Relevant precedents are chosen based on the nature of these issues and the context in which they are situated. The buildings are analysed in terms of these key issues and will thereby provide an understanding of the architectural identity of the civic and educational building archetype. An understanding of the architectural typology and an analysis of relevant precedents lead to the identification of a set of site selection criteria which can be used to select an appropriate site within the Motherwell precinct. The nature of Motherwell and the identified issues related to the selected site are then investigated in order to develop a set of informants and constraints. Specific elements which are unique to the selected site are then investigated individually while using relevant precedents to establish an appropriate response to the issues involved. An appropriate architectural response is subsequently developed through an understanding of the physical and spatial qualities of the building typology while also responding to the specific issues related to the site. , Thesis (MArch) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Architecture, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11
The experiences of youth foster care leavers in Makanda town, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Maselana, Tembisa https://orcid.org/ 0000-0001-6959-0895
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Foster children -- Services for , Foster home care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22368 , vital:52031
- Description: This study sought to explore the experiences of foster care youth who had exited the system within a period of three years in Makhanda Town, Eastern Cape. The coping mechanisms employed by foster care youth after exiting the system, and the policies, legislations and support services available were explored. The study adopted a qualitative research method. Non-probability sampling was employed to recruit 23 foster care youth who had exited the system within three years in Makhanda Town. In addition, 6 professionals dealing with statutory cases, three (3) foster parents and one (1) key informant were selected. Data was collected through the use of face-to-face semistructured individual interviews with foster care youth who had exited the system. The focus group discussion was held with professionals dealing with statutory cases and the ward councillor. The researcher analysed the data thematically. The study findings revealed that long term and comprehensive planning was important so as to provide a consistent and all round support to the fostered youth during the pre and post foster care phases. It was established that for most foster care children, the lack of a complete plan affects their transition from their biological home through the foster care system. Consequently, they come out more vulnerable than when there were initially placed in foster care. The study highlighted the serious need for training and job placement for the youths, a structure that is currently non-existent. The study recommended that the Department of Social Development (DSD) should make it compulsory for statutory social workers within the foster care domain to come up with individualized and personalized plans that outline the needs and deliverables for each child placed in the foster care system. Importantly, DSD must create a framework that is endorsed and accepted by all stakeholders so as to achieve the best interest of the child in all situations. Furthermore, the study recommends that DSD should employ more social workers to address the current human resources shortages in foster care units. Lastly, the study recommends restructuring of placement system to be less paper-work for effective and efficient, integrity, and quality of the service provision. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2021
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- Date Issued: 2021-11