Honorary Citation for the Conferment of Doctor of Laws honoris causa - Tandabantu Tennyson August
- Rhodes University, Martin, Tom
- Authors: Rhodes University , Martin, Tom
- Date: 2024-14-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Speeches , Transcripts, speech , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/432591 , vital:72885
- Description: Rhodes University Honorary Doctorate Citation (5 April 2024) Tandabantu Tennyson August: 1980s. South Africa. In the Bantustans of the time, like the Transkei, the youth have little reason for hope. They have much reason for despair. Their choices seem limited to the politics of struggle or to crime, an attempt to gain some kind of advantage from the meagre and unacceptable options on offer. In those bleak times, what was needed was visionaries. People who could see beyond the current circumstances to a different future and imagine how best to prepare for it. Not as idealists, but as pragmatists. What would happen once circumstances change, once the struggle had succeeded? Would we be ready for it? What qualities would the youth need to have in order to both benefit from and participate in a new dispensation? One such visionary was Tandabantu Tennyson August, and it is my distinct pleasure to have the opportunity to tell you more about him. Born in 1948, Mr. August matriculated from Healdtown High School, before pursuing higher education at the University of Transkei, where obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in English and Geography. This was followed by Comparative Curriculum Studies at the University of South Africa, alongside obtaining teaching certificates from Lovedale and Cicira teacher training colleges, with majors in Physical Science, Mathematics, Science, and Mathematics. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for his impactful career in education. He taught at Wongalethu High, St Johns College and was deputy principal at Norwood, before taking up his first principalship, at Thanga High School in 1980. From 1984 to 1990 he was principal of Ndamase High School. During his tenure there, the matric pass rate never fell below 90%. From 1991 to 1995 he was principal Isivivane High School during which time the school was promoted from a primary to a high school. Following his distinguished service at schools, he worked at the Eastern Cape Department of Basic Education, first as a deputy chief education specialist (1996 – 2006) and then as chief education specialist (2006-2010). During that time, he played a pivotal role in establishing (in conjunction with Rhodes University) and being the provincial coordinator the Advanced Certificate in Education in English, followed by ACEs in mathematical literacy and life orientation. In 2016 he received a provincial teaching award for excellence. In 2017 he was awarded the Kade Asmal award for excellence in teaching. To this day, he remains an Executive member of the eastern cape Education advisory council. Quite a career. But there’s something I haven’t mentioned. He was also an accomplished rugby player of international standing. While at Lovedale College, he was selected to represent Border and then the South African African Rugby Board, playing England in Gqeberha in 1972, in a team that would later be known as the black springboks. He eventually received his green and gold springbok blazer as just recognition of his achievement. He incorporated his love of sport into his vision for the youth under his care, as part of his overriding mission of educating the whole person. He got everyone involved in sport, if not as a player, then as a supporter. Especially during his time as principal of Ndamase High School, I am led to believe, it was extremely intimidating for opposing teams to play them. Not only at Ndamase home games, but especially at their away games. There would be one bus for the team players, and six buses for the supporters. From 1986 – 1990: he was president of the Transkei schools` sports union (TSSU). But there’s yet another thing I haven’t mentioned. In 1981, just as his career as an educational leader was really taking off, he was involved in a terrible motor vehicle accident. It left him permanently disabled and, for much of his life, a wheelchair user. Rather than stopping him, it simply added another string to his bow, now as an advocate for the disabled. From 2012 – 2022: Chairperson Eastern Cape South African National Association For Special Education (SANASE): this organization cater for the education and wellbeing of learners with disabilities and special needs. In 2023, he was the national deputy president of the same organisation. From 2013 – to date: he is a Board Member on the National Council of & for persons with disabilities (NCPD). I had the pleasure of an extensive conversation with one of Mr August’s former pupils at Ndamase High, Professor Deyi Mbelani, the current director of Rhodes University’s Institute for the Study of Englishes in Africa. He told me many stories about Mr August’s leadership, that I only wish I had time to share with you now. I put it to Professor Mbelani that, having read about Mr August, the word that stood out for me was “dedication.” He agreed that “dedication” was the word, but that I must not leave out another: “vision”. It is Mr August’s status as a visionary that best defines him, he said. Going back over the above, I think he is right. Mr Chancellor I have the honour to request you to confer the degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa on the Mr Tandabantu Tennyson August. *The above citation draws heavily on documents submitted as part of the honorary doctorate nomination process and others compiled by the Division of Communications and Advancement. - Tom Martin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-14-05
- Authors: Rhodes University , Martin, Tom
- Date: 2024-14-05
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Speeches , Transcripts, speech , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/432591 , vital:72885
- Description: Rhodes University Honorary Doctorate Citation (5 April 2024) Tandabantu Tennyson August: 1980s. South Africa. In the Bantustans of the time, like the Transkei, the youth have little reason for hope. They have much reason for despair. Their choices seem limited to the politics of struggle or to crime, an attempt to gain some kind of advantage from the meagre and unacceptable options on offer. In those bleak times, what was needed was visionaries. People who could see beyond the current circumstances to a different future and imagine how best to prepare for it. Not as idealists, but as pragmatists. What would happen once circumstances change, once the struggle had succeeded? Would we be ready for it? What qualities would the youth need to have in order to both benefit from and participate in a new dispensation? One such visionary was Tandabantu Tennyson August, and it is my distinct pleasure to have the opportunity to tell you more about him. Born in 1948, Mr. August matriculated from Healdtown High School, before pursuing higher education at the University of Transkei, where obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in English and Geography. This was followed by Comparative Curriculum Studies at the University of South Africa, alongside obtaining teaching certificates from Lovedale and Cicira teacher training colleges, with majors in Physical Science, Mathematics, Science, and Mathematics. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for his impactful career in education. He taught at Wongalethu High, St Johns College and was deputy principal at Norwood, before taking up his first principalship, at Thanga High School in 1980. From 1984 to 1990 he was principal of Ndamase High School. During his tenure there, the matric pass rate never fell below 90%. From 1991 to 1995 he was principal Isivivane High School during which time the school was promoted from a primary to a high school. Following his distinguished service at schools, he worked at the Eastern Cape Department of Basic Education, first as a deputy chief education specialist (1996 – 2006) and then as chief education specialist (2006-2010). During that time, he played a pivotal role in establishing (in conjunction with Rhodes University) and being the provincial coordinator the Advanced Certificate in Education in English, followed by ACEs in mathematical literacy and life orientation. In 2016 he received a provincial teaching award for excellence. In 2017 he was awarded the Kade Asmal award for excellence in teaching. To this day, he remains an Executive member of the eastern cape Education advisory council. Quite a career. But there’s something I haven’t mentioned. He was also an accomplished rugby player of international standing. While at Lovedale College, he was selected to represent Border and then the South African African Rugby Board, playing England in Gqeberha in 1972, in a team that would later be known as the black springboks. He eventually received his green and gold springbok blazer as just recognition of his achievement. He incorporated his love of sport into his vision for the youth under his care, as part of his overriding mission of educating the whole person. He got everyone involved in sport, if not as a player, then as a supporter. Especially during his time as principal of Ndamase High School, I am led to believe, it was extremely intimidating for opposing teams to play them. Not only at Ndamase home games, but especially at their away games. There would be one bus for the team players, and six buses for the supporters. From 1986 – 1990: he was president of the Transkei schools` sports union (TSSU). But there’s yet another thing I haven’t mentioned. In 1981, just as his career as an educational leader was really taking off, he was involved in a terrible motor vehicle accident. It left him permanently disabled and, for much of his life, a wheelchair user. Rather than stopping him, it simply added another string to his bow, now as an advocate for the disabled. From 2012 – 2022: Chairperson Eastern Cape South African National Association For Special Education (SANASE): this organization cater for the education and wellbeing of learners with disabilities and special needs. In 2023, he was the national deputy president of the same organisation. From 2013 – to date: he is a Board Member on the National Council of & for persons with disabilities (NCPD). I had the pleasure of an extensive conversation with one of Mr August’s former pupils at Ndamase High, Professor Deyi Mbelani, the current director of Rhodes University’s Institute for the Study of Englishes in Africa. He told me many stories about Mr August’s leadership, that I only wish I had time to share with you now. I put it to Professor Mbelani that, having read about Mr August, the word that stood out for me was “dedication.” He agreed that “dedication” was the word, but that I must not leave out another: “vision”. It is Mr August’s status as a visionary that best defines him, he said. Going back over the above, I think he is right. Mr Chancellor I have the honour to request you to confer the degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa on the Mr Tandabantu Tennyson August. *The above citation draws heavily on documents submitted as part of the honorary doctorate nomination process and others compiled by the Division of Communications and Advancement. - Tom Martin.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-14-05
Acacia dealbata invasion and clearing in Upper Tsitsana communal areas of South Africa: human perceptions and ecological impacts
- Authors: Coka, Nwabisa
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434876 , vital:73113
- Description: The number of invasive alien plants in South Africa and globally continue to increase mostly due to increased human movement and climate change. It is estimated that approximately 10 000 hectares of South Africa’s terrestrial land is invaded by invasive alien species. Recent studies have reported that invasion by invasive alien plants cost South Africa billions of Rands every year through loss of water and ecosystem services. Although much has been done to understanding invasion trends, patterns, and processes in South Africa, little is knowns regarding human benefits linked to alien plant invasion as well as human perceptions regarding management interventions, particularly clearing by the national Working for Water programme. This thesis took a socio-ecological approach to assess (i) local people perceptions and knowledge of Acacia dealbata invasion and clearing, and (ii) extent of grazing grass diversity and composition recovery following A. dealbata clearing. To answer the above-mentioned objectives, both qualitative (face-to-face interviews) and quantitative (vegetation surveys) methods were used in grasslands located in upper Tsitsana catchment, South Africa. Results from the 165 interviews conducted in six villages show that most villagers are aware of A. dealbata in the area, but do not know that it is an invasive alien plant. Respondents accrue several benefits from the plant that include firewood (98% across all villages), construction pools (34% across all villages), and shade (3% across all villages). Respondents identified several costs associated with A. dealbata invasion, such as roots damage to houses (37% across all villages), hindering growth of crops (15% across all villages), and takes up yard space (29% across all villages). Most of the villages ranked the effects of A. dealbata on grazing as highly severe. Villages indicated that the Working for Water clearing programme presents them with socio-economic benefits such as employment and money. Some villagers noted that the clearing of A. dealbata in the area restores grazing grass (62% across all villages) and water (32% across all villages). Based on these interview survey results, the study concludes that A. dealbata has both costs and benefits that support local people’s livelihoods; therefore, its management should consider views for local users. Grass surveys conducted in 1 m2 quadrats that were replicated 15 times across four paired A. dealbata cleared and grassland sites showed that the removal of A. dealbata facilitates the recovery of native grasses. Of the 14 different grazable grass species that were identified across all quadrats only one (Bulbostylis sp.) is not palatable to livestock. Although grass cover was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the grasslands than the cleared patches, grass richness was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the cleared patches an indication that recovery of different grasses is taking place. Based on these vegetation survey results; the study concludes that recovery of grazing grasses after A. dealbata clearing four years ago is following a positive trajectory as the cleared sites are looking like the grassland sites. Overall, the study recommends that management of A. dealbata in Tsitsana landscape requires a socio-ecological approach to understand user benefits whilst at the same time developing measure to control the plant. The study has provided evidence that A. dealbata clearing facilitates passive restoration of grazing grass and local villages are aware of these restoration benefits. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Coka, Nwabisa
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434876 , vital:73113
- Description: The number of invasive alien plants in South Africa and globally continue to increase mostly due to increased human movement and climate change. It is estimated that approximately 10 000 hectares of South Africa’s terrestrial land is invaded by invasive alien species. Recent studies have reported that invasion by invasive alien plants cost South Africa billions of Rands every year through loss of water and ecosystem services. Although much has been done to understanding invasion trends, patterns, and processes in South Africa, little is knowns regarding human benefits linked to alien plant invasion as well as human perceptions regarding management interventions, particularly clearing by the national Working for Water programme. This thesis took a socio-ecological approach to assess (i) local people perceptions and knowledge of Acacia dealbata invasion and clearing, and (ii) extent of grazing grass diversity and composition recovery following A. dealbata clearing. To answer the above-mentioned objectives, both qualitative (face-to-face interviews) and quantitative (vegetation surveys) methods were used in grasslands located in upper Tsitsana catchment, South Africa. Results from the 165 interviews conducted in six villages show that most villagers are aware of A. dealbata in the area, but do not know that it is an invasive alien plant. Respondents accrue several benefits from the plant that include firewood (98% across all villages), construction pools (34% across all villages), and shade (3% across all villages). Respondents identified several costs associated with A. dealbata invasion, such as roots damage to houses (37% across all villages), hindering growth of crops (15% across all villages), and takes up yard space (29% across all villages). Most of the villages ranked the effects of A. dealbata on grazing as highly severe. Villages indicated that the Working for Water clearing programme presents them with socio-economic benefits such as employment and money. Some villagers noted that the clearing of A. dealbata in the area restores grazing grass (62% across all villages) and water (32% across all villages). Based on these interview survey results, the study concludes that A. dealbata has both costs and benefits that support local people’s livelihoods; therefore, its management should consider views for local users. Grass surveys conducted in 1 m2 quadrats that were replicated 15 times across four paired A. dealbata cleared and grassland sites showed that the removal of A. dealbata facilitates the recovery of native grasses. Of the 14 different grazable grass species that were identified across all quadrats only one (Bulbostylis sp.) is not palatable to livestock. Although grass cover was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the grasslands than the cleared patches, grass richness was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the cleared patches an indication that recovery of different grasses is taking place. Based on these vegetation survey results; the study concludes that recovery of grazing grasses after A. dealbata clearing four years ago is following a positive trajectory as the cleared sites are looking like the grassland sites. Overall, the study recommends that management of A. dealbata in Tsitsana landscape requires a socio-ecological approach to understand user benefits whilst at the same time developing measure to control the plant. The study has provided evidence that A. dealbata clearing facilitates passive restoration of grazing grass and local villages are aware of these restoration benefits. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Environmental Science, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Aptamer-based biosensor for prostate specific antigen detection using cobalt phthalocyanine-exfoliated graphite composites
- Authors: Benise, Emihle
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434850 , vital:73110
- Description: The work focuses on the development of biosensors and their use for the detection of prostate specific antigen (PSA). Four cobalt phthalocyanines (CoPcs) complexes: (1) cobalt tetra pyridyloxy phthalocyanine, (2) cobalt tetra acetamidophenoxy phthalocyanine, (3) cobalt tris(acetamidophenoxy) mono benzoic acid phthalocyanine, and (4) cobalt tris(acetamidophenoxy) mono propionic acid phthalocyanine, an exfoliated graphite (EG), and aptamer are used to make probes for PSA detection. Each complex is π-π stacked onto the EG to form EG-CoPc(π-π) hybrid which was used to modify a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). EG and CoPc were also used to modify the GCE sequential (seq) with CoPc on top to give GCE-EG-CoPc(seq). For the detection PSA, PSA specific aptamer was either sequential added or covalently linked to complexes 3 and 4 on the modified electrodes and was only sequentially added onto complexes 1 and 2 modified electrodes. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were the techniques used for the detection of PSA. The electrodes were found to be selective in bovine serum albumin, glucose and cysteine and stable when 50 DPV scans were run. Electrodes gave good % recovery when human serum was spiked with different PSA concentrations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Benise, Emihle
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434850 , vital:73110
- Description: The work focuses on the development of biosensors and their use for the detection of prostate specific antigen (PSA). Four cobalt phthalocyanines (CoPcs) complexes: (1) cobalt tetra pyridyloxy phthalocyanine, (2) cobalt tetra acetamidophenoxy phthalocyanine, (3) cobalt tris(acetamidophenoxy) mono benzoic acid phthalocyanine, and (4) cobalt tris(acetamidophenoxy) mono propionic acid phthalocyanine, an exfoliated graphite (EG), and aptamer are used to make probes for PSA detection. Each complex is π-π stacked onto the EG to form EG-CoPc(π-π) hybrid which was used to modify a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). EG and CoPc were also used to modify the GCE sequential (seq) with CoPc on top to give GCE-EG-CoPc(seq). For the detection PSA, PSA specific aptamer was either sequential added or covalently linked to complexes 3 and 4 on the modified electrodes and was only sequentially added onto complexes 1 and 2 modified electrodes. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were the techniques used for the detection of PSA. The electrodes were found to be selective in bovine serum albumin, glucose and cysteine and stable when 50 DPV scans were run. Electrodes gave good % recovery when human serum was spiked with different PSA concentrations. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Developing a community of practice to promote the use of biological control in the integrated management of Prosopis in South Africa
- Authors: Van Staden, Gretha
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434998 , vital:73122
- Description: Prosopis spp. are non-native species present in the arid parts of southern Africa. These trees originated in the Americas and were first introduced as a source of fodder, shade, and wood, but have become invasive, negatively impacting local biodiversity, and disrupting the delivery of ecosystem services. Some species of Prosopis hybridise freely, complicating identification and subsequent control. The control of Prosopis in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa is still contentious, because of the perceived benefits to some landowners. The effectiveness of biological control agents to control the spread of Prosopis has been quantified, more damaging agents have been considered in recent years because of the continued increase in Prosopis density. Research into the establishment of a Community of Practice (CoP) to address the differences in perceptions regarding the control of Prosopis in the Northern Cape Province is considered an appropriate starting point to conceptualise the challenges to the successful integrated management of Prosopis. As farmers are the main stakeholders involved with Prosopis control, understanding the role of farmers and the functioning of farming enterprises in the Northern Cape is imperative for the development of both a CoP as well as the appropriate management of Prosopis. To foster engagement with as many stakeholders as possible, workshops dealing with biological control as part on an integrated approach to the control of Prosopis were held in towns in the Northern Cape Province: Groblershoop, Brandvlei, Kenhardt, Upington, Prieska and Williston. Some of the main concerns of the landusers include the host specificity of the released biocontrol agents, as well as increased transparency and communication. This is especially in regards to the research on present and future biological control agents that will possibly improve the perceptions of stakeholders. The mechanical harvesting and use of biomass as a control method was supported, especially where farmers were removing Prosopis from their properties, leaving large amounts of biomass in the veld. Continued research into Prosopis in the Northern Cape needs to consider the possibility of secondary invasions, especially in areas where native bush encroachment is already a concern. The impact of clearing in terms of natural grazing and animal improvement needs to be quantified, to conceptualise the importance of maintaining better veld quality versus using Prosopis for fodder. Biological control targeting not only the reproductive output of the trees, but also the standing biomass has support from the majority of the land users in the Northern Cape Province following these workshops and this study shows the importance of a socio-ecological approach to the control of landscape scale invasion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Van Staden, Gretha
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434998 , vital:73122
- Description: Prosopis spp. are non-native species present in the arid parts of southern Africa. These trees originated in the Americas and were first introduced as a source of fodder, shade, and wood, but have become invasive, negatively impacting local biodiversity, and disrupting the delivery of ecosystem services. Some species of Prosopis hybridise freely, complicating identification and subsequent control. The control of Prosopis in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa is still contentious, because of the perceived benefits to some landowners. The effectiveness of biological control agents to control the spread of Prosopis has been quantified, more damaging agents have been considered in recent years because of the continued increase in Prosopis density. Research into the establishment of a Community of Practice (CoP) to address the differences in perceptions regarding the control of Prosopis in the Northern Cape Province is considered an appropriate starting point to conceptualise the challenges to the successful integrated management of Prosopis. As farmers are the main stakeholders involved with Prosopis control, understanding the role of farmers and the functioning of farming enterprises in the Northern Cape is imperative for the development of both a CoP as well as the appropriate management of Prosopis. To foster engagement with as many stakeholders as possible, workshops dealing with biological control as part on an integrated approach to the control of Prosopis were held in towns in the Northern Cape Province: Groblershoop, Brandvlei, Kenhardt, Upington, Prieska and Williston. Some of the main concerns of the landusers include the host specificity of the released biocontrol agents, as well as increased transparency and communication. This is especially in regards to the research on present and future biological control agents that will possibly improve the perceptions of stakeholders. The mechanical harvesting and use of biomass as a control method was supported, especially where farmers were removing Prosopis from their properties, leaving large amounts of biomass in the veld. Continued research into Prosopis in the Northern Cape needs to consider the possibility of secondary invasions, especially in areas where native bush encroachment is already a concern. The impact of clearing in terms of natural grazing and animal improvement needs to be quantified, to conceptualise the importance of maintaining better veld quality versus using Prosopis for fodder. Biological control targeting not only the reproductive output of the trees, but also the standing biomass has support from the majority of the land users in the Northern Cape Province following these workshops and this study shows the importance of a socio-ecological approach to the control of landscape scale invasion. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Functional significance of mixed-species groups for zebra (Equus quagga) in savanna habitats
- Corry-Roberts, Carys Alexandra
- Authors: Corry-Roberts, Carys Alexandra
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434925 , vital:73116
- Description: Globally, herbivore populations are facing decline, which threatens their crucial role within the ecosystems they inhabit. Herbivores are essential to ecosystem structure and function because they act as prey for higher trophic levels, cycle soil nutrients, and alter vegetation structure. Understanding the drivers that shape herbivore habitat use and selection are therefore critical for making informed conservation and management decisions. Like all prey species, herbivores must balance a trade-off between acquiring resources and avoiding predation which is influenced by a number of species-specific intrinsic traits and various ecological drivers. Herbivores can also track risk over space and time, and certain habitat structures and landscape features can influence risk perception; this is termed the landscape of fear. To mitigate the risk-reward trade-off, herbivores employ a suite of behavioural responses. Group formation is likely the most well-documented of these responses. However, grouping results in the information-competition trade-off, wherein group members may obtain valuable information regarding the location of resources and/or the risk of predation, but may suffer from increased competition, especially among larger group sizes. Mixed-species groups—an assemblage of two or more species in close spatial association—have the potential to mitigate some of the competitive costs of larger conspecific groups and enhance the anti-predator and/or foraging benefits of grouping. African savannas provide a particularly useful natural laboratory to study mixed-species groups, due to the high diversity of prey species and habitat heterogeneity present. Previous studies have investigated the mixed-species effect within these systems, but have yet to quantify some of the identity-dependent costs and benefits associated with mixed-species herding. Thus, the overall aim of my study was to quantify the functional significance of mixed-species groups for zebra (Equus quagga) herding with two of their most common herding partners, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus). My study was conducted at multiple spatial scales in the southern portion of the Kruger National Park, South Africa between 2021 and 2022. I found that mixed-species herding altered zebra landscape use, resulting in a quantifiable intensification of habitat use compared to when they herd with conspecifics. I did not observe significant habitat expansion for zebra in mixed-species herds compared to single-species herds, likely because the anti-predator benefits of mixed-species herding convey enhanced foraging opportunities in already-safe habitats. Zebra foraging with impala achieved greater foraging success and experienced lower levels of competition, compared to zebra foraging with wildebeest. However, compared to foraging with conspecifics, the levelled landscape of fear zebra experienced when foraging with wildebeest resulted in increased foraging success across the landscape. My findings highlight the context-dependency of the costs and benefits associated with different herding partners for zebra, and suggest that in mixed-species herds with wildebeest, zebra experience increased potential fitness benefits compared to herding with impala or conspecifics. Overall, the findings of my study suggest that mixed-species herding is an important tool in the suite of anti-predator behaviours employed by prey species, and one with significant implications for survivorship, habitat use, and ultimately, community level interactions. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Corry-Roberts, Carys Alexandra
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434925 , vital:73116
- Description: Globally, herbivore populations are facing decline, which threatens their crucial role within the ecosystems they inhabit. Herbivores are essential to ecosystem structure and function because they act as prey for higher trophic levels, cycle soil nutrients, and alter vegetation structure. Understanding the drivers that shape herbivore habitat use and selection are therefore critical for making informed conservation and management decisions. Like all prey species, herbivores must balance a trade-off between acquiring resources and avoiding predation which is influenced by a number of species-specific intrinsic traits and various ecological drivers. Herbivores can also track risk over space and time, and certain habitat structures and landscape features can influence risk perception; this is termed the landscape of fear. To mitigate the risk-reward trade-off, herbivores employ a suite of behavioural responses. Group formation is likely the most well-documented of these responses. However, grouping results in the information-competition trade-off, wherein group members may obtain valuable information regarding the location of resources and/or the risk of predation, but may suffer from increased competition, especially among larger group sizes. Mixed-species groups—an assemblage of two or more species in close spatial association—have the potential to mitigate some of the competitive costs of larger conspecific groups and enhance the anti-predator and/or foraging benefits of grouping. African savannas provide a particularly useful natural laboratory to study mixed-species groups, due to the high diversity of prey species and habitat heterogeneity present. Previous studies have investigated the mixed-species effect within these systems, but have yet to quantify some of the identity-dependent costs and benefits associated with mixed-species herding. Thus, the overall aim of my study was to quantify the functional significance of mixed-species groups for zebra (Equus quagga) herding with two of their most common herding partners, impala (Aepyceros melampus) and wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus). My study was conducted at multiple spatial scales in the southern portion of the Kruger National Park, South Africa between 2021 and 2022. I found that mixed-species herding altered zebra landscape use, resulting in a quantifiable intensification of habitat use compared to when they herd with conspecifics. I did not observe significant habitat expansion for zebra in mixed-species herds compared to single-species herds, likely because the anti-predator benefits of mixed-species herding convey enhanced foraging opportunities in already-safe habitats. Zebra foraging with impala achieved greater foraging success and experienced lower levels of competition, compared to zebra foraging with wildebeest. However, compared to foraging with conspecifics, the levelled landscape of fear zebra experienced when foraging with wildebeest resulted in increased foraging success across the landscape. My findings highlight the context-dependency of the costs and benefits associated with different herding partners for zebra, and suggest that in mixed-species herds with wildebeest, zebra experience increased potential fitness benefits compared to herding with impala or conspecifics. Overall, the findings of my study suggest that mixed-species herding is an important tool in the suite of anti-predator behaviours employed by prey species, and one with significant implications for survivorship, habitat use, and ultimately, community level interactions. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
High-altitude temporary systems and macroinvertebrate composition in La Nina cycle, Maloti-Drakensberg
- Authors: Moyo, Sibusisiwe
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434963 , vital:73119
- Description: The Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain is an important water catchment area for South Africa and Lesotho. It is rich in biodiversity in terms of endemic flora and fauna and has a high density of temporary wetlands in the form of Afromontane tarns and rock pools. There is, however, limited information on the distribution of macroinvertebrates in these ecosystems and environmental factors that drives their composition. To that end, this study investigated macroinvertebrate diversity and the effect of environmental factors on community assemblage in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain temporary wetlands, specifically tarns and rock pools. The main aims were to describe the abundance, diversity, and distribution of macroinvertebrates in temporary wetlands in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain. Furthermore, it aimed to investigate the effect of environmental variables on habitat structuring, spatial variations, and macroinvertebrate community composition in tarns and rockpools in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain. Seventy temporary wetlands (29 tarns and 41 rock pools) were surveyed over a once-off sampling (3 March – 7 April 2022). The wetlands were from 3 provinces including Eastern Cape, Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal. 15278 individual macroinvertebrates from 13 orders, 35 families, and 46 genera were collected and identified. Species accumulation curves incorporating both tarns and rock pools showed that observed results were significantly lower than Chao 1 and Chao 2 estimates meaning that the sampled sites were not enough to provide a comprehensive picture of the biodiversity in the region. This was also observed for rock pools when the temporary wetlands were analysed separately, however, the Chao 1 and Chao 2 values for tarns were almost equal to the observed values implying that sampled sites were enough to give a detailed picture of macroinvertebrate composition in tarns. Tarns and rock pools were significantly different in terms of species richness and Shannon-Wiener diversity index but showed no significant differences for relative abundance and Pielou’s evenness. Of the 35 families identified, 19 were considered core taxa with Dytiscidae and Corixidae being the most dominant. Additionally, there was moderate Nestedness metric based on Overlap and Decreasing Fill (NODF) value of 33.05369, with 32 out of 35 families being idiosyncratic. Predators were the dominant feeding group with omnivores being the least common. Non-Metric multi-Dimensional Scaling (NMDS) and PERMANOVA results showed that tarns and rock pools supported distinctly different macroinvertebrate communities per wetland type and location respectively. Physicochemically, tarns and rock pools were significantly different in terms of water temperature, depth, area, and chlorophyll-a concentration with tarns exhibiting higher values. Temporary wetlands in the sampled localities differed in terms of pH, EC, DO, water temperature, altitude, and phosphate. Principal Component Analysis showed that tarns were positively associated with area and depth whereas rock pools with phosphate. Akaike’s Information Criterion (AICc) selection showed that area, pH, and water temperature were significantly influencing community assemblage in temporary wetlands. Furthermore, area significantly influenced all four measured biodiversity indices: relative abundance, species richness, Pielou’s evenness and Shannon-Wiener Index, with water temperature also influencing relative abundance and altitude, species richness. Overall, the species composition showed that the sites were sampled later in the hydroperiod as evidenced by the dominance of active dispersers. The extended distribution of Prosthetops gladiator in the Eastern Cape highlights the need for extensive surveys to provide valuable insight into the distribution patterns of macroinvertebrates in the region. Furthermore, the interplay between physicochemical variables and biodiversity indices emphasized area, water temperature and pH as significant factors. However, their limited explanatory power suggests that obscure factors also influence the diversity cementing the need for further exploration of these enigmatic systems. Taxonomic challenges, especially regarding large branchiopods, hindered precise species distribution and conservation status determination. This study is the first to provide a comprehensive list of macroinvertebrates from temporary wetlands in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain. These results establish a valuable baseline for future biological monitoring studies, particularly in assessing species composition and responses to anthropogenic activities. It is a timeous study considering the sensitivity of these systems to climate change as they act as sentinel sites hence the need for foundational data on which to make future projections. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Moyo, Sibusisiwe
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434963 , vital:73119
- Description: The Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain is an important water catchment area for South Africa and Lesotho. It is rich in biodiversity in terms of endemic flora and fauna and has a high density of temporary wetlands in the form of Afromontane tarns and rock pools. There is, however, limited information on the distribution of macroinvertebrates in these ecosystems and environmental factors that drives their composition. To that end, this study investigated macroinvertebrate diversity and the effect of environmental factors on community assemblage in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain temporary wetlands, specifically tarns and rock pools. The main aims were to describe the abundance, diversity, and distribution of macroinvertebrates in temporary wetlands in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain. Furthermore, it aimed to investigate the effect of environmental variables on habitat structuring, spatial variations, and macroinvertebrate community composition in tarns and rockpools in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain. Seventy temporary wetlands (29 tarns and 41 rock pools) were surveyed over a once-off sampling (3 March – 7 April 2022). The wetlands were from 3 provinces including Eastern Cape, Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal. 15278 individual macroinvertebrates from 13 orders, 35 families, and 46 genera were collected and identified. Species accumulation curves incorporating both tarns and rock pools showed that observed results were significantly lower than Chao 1 and Chao 2 estimates meaning that the sampled sites were not enough to provide a comprehensive picture of the biodiversity in the region. This was also observed for rock pools when the temporary wetlands were analysed separately, however, the Chao 1 and Chao 2 values for tarns were almost equal to the observed values implying that sampled sites were enough to give a detailed picture of macroinvertebrate composition in tarns. Tarns and rock pools were significantly different in terms of species richness and Shannon-Wiener diversity index but showed no significant differences for relative abundance and Pielou’s evenness. Of the 35 families identified, 19 were considered core taxa with Dytiscidae and Corixidae being the most dominant. Additionally, there was moderate Nestedness metric based on Overlap and Decreasing Fill (NODF) value of 33.05369, with 32 out of 35 families being idiosyncratic. Predators were the dominant feeding group with omnivores being the least common. Non-Metric multi-Dimensional Scaling (NMDS) and PERMANOVA results showed that tarns and rock pools supported distinctly different macroinvertebrate communities per wetland type and location respectively. Physicochemically, tarns and rock pools were significantly different in terms of water temperature, depth, area, and chlorophyll-a concentration with tarns exhibiting higher values. Temporary wetlands in the sampled localities differed in terms of pH, EC, DO, water temperature, altitude, and phosphate. Principal Component Analysis showed that tarns were positively associated with area and depth whereas rock pools with phosphate. Akaike’s Information Criterion (AICc) selection showed that area, pH, and water temperature were significantly influencing community assemblage in temporary wetlands. Furthermore, area significantly influenced all four measured biodiversity indices: relative abundance, species richness, Pielou’s evenness and Shannon-Wiener Index, with water temperature also influencing relative abundance and altitude, species richness. Overall, the species composition showed that the sites were sampled later in the hydroperiod as evidenced by the dominance of active dispersers. The extended distribution of Prosthetops gladiator in the Eastern Cape highlights the need for extensive surveys to provide valuable insight into the distribution patterns of macroinvertebrates in the region. Furthermore, the interplay between physicochemical variables and biodiversity indices emphasized area, water temperature and pH as significant factors. However, their limited explanatory power suggests that obscure factors also influence the diversity cementing the need for further exploration of these enigmatic systems. Taxonomic challenges, especially regarding large branchiopods, hindered precise species distribution and conservation status determination. This study is the first to provide a comprehensive list of macroinvertebrates from temporary wetlands in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountain. These results establish a valuable baseline for future biological monitoring studies, particularly in assessing species composition and responses to anthropogenic activities. It is a timeous study considering the sensitivity of these systems to climate change as they act as sentinel sites hence the need for foundational data on which to make future projections. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Insights: elucidation of squalene monooxygenase inhibitors for lowering cholesterol in cardiovascular diseases
- Authors: Leoma, Mofeli Benedict
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434861 , vital:73111
- Description: Statins have been used to lower high cholesterol levels in the past few decades. However, several studies have shown that some people taking statins experience side effects over time, especially elderly patients, women of childbirth possibility, and children. Several studies have shown that the majority of people with underlying cardiovascular complications caused by high cholesterol are at a greater risk of fatality due to COVID-19, regardless of age and sex. The literature suggests that antimycotic squalene monooxygenase inhibitors, terbinafine and its derivatives, and anticholesterolemic squalene monooxygenase (SM) inhibitors could be another option and a safer remedy for lowering cholesterol in mammals. Molecular docking calculations, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA) calculations, quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics calculations (QM/MM), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used in this study. An early stage in drug discovery, in which small molecular hits from high- throughput screening (HTS) are evaluated and undergo limited optimization to identify promising lead compounds, is referred to as lead generation. To address the first step of lead generation, the number of compounds to be tested was narrowed down, and the hit compounds that could be taken for further tests were obtained. Thus, the molecular docking technique was taken advantage of, which assisted us in identifying the antimycotic ligand SDZ 18, which had a good binding affinity of about -8,4 kcal mol−1. Another widely employed strategy, the molecular mechanics-generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA), was used to investigate the binding free energies of the protein-ligand complexes to validate the binding affinities obtained from molecular docking. Despite the excellent docking results, it must be emphasized that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket must be investigated. To address this, the protein-ligand complexes were then taken through molecular dynamics for 100 ns simulations calculations which showed that the inhibitors stayed in the binding pocket with the RMSD values below 3.5 Å for most systems. This provided insight into a realistic model because the docked complexes were placed in conditions closer to the physiological environment at 300 K and 1.01325 bar, and in an explicitly solvated dynamic environment. Density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LPY level of theory using the standard 6-31G(d,p) basis set was used to assess the reactivity and other properties of the SM inhibitors. ONIOM calculations were performed to explain what was happening at the microscopic level by calculating the total energy of the complex. The aim of this project was to efficiently uncover the non-physical aspects of SM inhibitors with the help of computational techniques to identify new drugs that can lower high cholesterol levels. From a theoretical perspective, the results obtained from docking indicated that the antimycotic ligands SDZ SBA 586 18 and TNSA 84 (trisnor-squalene alcohol ) have good binding affinities, and the MM-GBSA method provided free energy calculations. MD results indicated that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket was achieved during the 100 ns simulations. The HOMO-LUMO energy gaps obtained from DFT calculations provided information on the reactivity of the ligands. Other insights into the protein-ligand complexes were obtained from a hybrid ONIOM QM/MM study. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Leoma, Mofeli Benedict
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434861 , vital:73111
- Description: Statins have been used to lower high cholesterol levels in the past few decades. However, several studies have shown that some people taking statins experience side effects over time, especially elderly patients, women of childbirth possibility, and children. Several studies have shown that the majority of people with underlying cardiovascular complications caused by high cholesterol are at a greater risk of fatality due to COVID-19, regardless of age and sex. The literature suggests that antimycotic squalene monooxygenase inhibitors, terbinafine and its derivatives, and anticholesterolemic squalene monooxygenase (SM) inhibitors could be another option and a safer remedy for lowering cholesterol in mammals. Molecular docking calculations, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA) calculations, quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics calculations (QM/MM), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used in this study. An early stage in drug discovery, in which small molecular hits from high- throughput screening (HTS) are evaluated and undergo limited optimization to identify promising lead compounds, is referred to as lead generation. To address the first step of lead generation, the number of compounds to be tested was narrowed down, and the hit compounds that could be taken for further tests were obtained. Thus, the molecular docking technique was taken advantage of, which assisted us in identifying the antimycotic ligand SDZ 18, which had a good binding affinity of about -8,4 kcal mol−1. Another widely employed strategy, the molecular mechanics-generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA), was used to investigate the binding free energies of the protein-ligand complexes to validate the binding affinities obtained from molecular docking. Despite the excellent docking results, it must be emphasized that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket must be investigated. To address this, the protein-ligand complexes were then taken through molecular dynamics for 100 ns simulations calculations which showed that the inhibitors stayed in the binding pocket with the RMSD values below 3.5 Å for most systems. This provided insight into a realistic model because the docked complexes were placed in conditions closer to the physiological environment at 300 K and 1.01325 bar, and in an explicitly solvated dynamic environment. Density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LPY level of theory using the standard 6-31G(d,p) basis set was used to assess the reactivity and other properties of the SM inhibitors. ONIOM calculations were performed to explain what was happening at the microscopic level by calculating the total energy of the complex. The aim of this project was to efficiently uncover the non-physical aspects of SM inhibitors with the help of computational techniques to identify new drugs that can lower high cholesterol levels. From a theoretical perspective, the results obtained from docking indicated that the antimycotic ligands SDZ SBA 586 18 and TNSA 84 (trisnor-squalene alcohol ) have good binding affinities, and the MM-GBSA method provided free energy calculations. MD results indicated that the stability of the ligand in the binding pocket was achieved during the 100 ns simulations. The HOMO-LUMO energy gaps obtained from DFT calculations provided information on the reactivity of the ligands. Other insights into the protein-ligand complexes were obtained from a hybrid ONIOM QM/MM study. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Managing releases of Anagyrus vladimiri (Triapitsyn) to augment biocontrol of the citrus mealybug Planococcus citri (Risso) in South African citrus orchards
- Authors: Mommsen, Wayne Trevor
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434952 , vital:73118
- Description: In May 2019, South Korean inspectors rejected numerous grapefruit consignments from Letsitele, Hoedspruit and Onderberg in South Arica, because of live mealybug found on fruit. Growers expressed deep concern as mealybug management to a phytosanitary level was almost unattainable. Regular spray interventions for control of citrus black spot fungus, Phyllosticta citricarpa, and citrus thrips, Scirtothrips aurantii, cause repercussions in mealybug populations because they undermine the naturally occurring biocontrol complex. As part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, release of commercially produced parasitoids is common practice, to augment the naturally occurring beneficial insect populations. Prior knowledge of the harmful effects of insecticides on parasitoids is essential to IPM planning and the success of the biocontrol component in such a programme. Timing of augmentative releases to coincide with the phenology of citrus and the mealybug pest is also considered important for the successful establishment and control. Consequently, field trials were conducted to compare efficacy of early vs. late releases of Anagyrus vladimiri (Triapitsyn), an effective parasitoid of the citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Risso). Semi-field bioassays were conducted concurrently to determine the impact of various thripicides on A. vladimiri. The impact of sulfoxaflor, spinetoram, spirotetramat and prothiofos were rated harmless, as A. vladimiri mortality was lower than 25% after coming into contact with aged residues between 7 and 14 days old. October and November releases of A. vladimiri resulted in early parasitism and lowered peak-infestation of mealybug. January releases are possibly too late in grapefruit and lemon, open field, orchards, considering parasitism by A. vladimiri peaked in February. In mandarin orchards under net, percentage parasitism of 3rd instar mealybug increased a month later. Notably, at harvest, the difference in efficacy between treatments was not clear. This could be explained by high levels of natural parasitism observed in the treated and untreated orchards, which emphasises the importance of conservation biocontrol. In a second season, the proportion of hyperparasitoids captured (61%) from samples of mealybug-infested fruit was larger than the proportion of primary parasitoids, Anagyrus vladimiri, Coccidoxenoides perminutus (Girault) and Leptomastix dactylopii (Howard) (39%), which was far lower than the captures of eclosing primary parasitoids the previous season, which was 60%. The new discovery of Pseudaphycus sp. in citrus orchards in South Africa could be a key in explaining the uncontrollable levels of mealybug experienced and has drawn attention to a need for further understanding of ecological factors that influence biological control in citrus. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Mommsen, Wayne Trevor
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434952 , vital:73118
- Description: In May 2019, South Korean inspectors rejected numerous grapefruit consignments from Letsitele, Hoedspruit and Onderberg in South Arica, because of live mealybug found on fruit. Growers expressed deep concern as mealybug management to a phytosanitary level was almost unattainable. Regular spray interventions for control of citrus black spot fungus, Phyllosticta citricarpa, and citrus thrips, Scirtothrips aurantii, cause repercussions in mealybug populations because they undermine the naturally occurring biocontrol complex. As part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, release of commercially produced parasitoids is common practice, to augment the naturally occurring beneficial insect populations. Prior knowledge of the harmful effects of insecticides on parasitoids is essential to IPM planning and the success of the biocontrol component in such a programme. Timing of augmentative releases to coincide with the phenology of citrus and the mealybug pest is also considered important for the successful establishment and control. Consequently, field trials were conducted to compare efficacy of early vs. late releases of Anagyrus vladimiri (Triapitsyn), an effective parasitoid of the citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Risso). Semi-field bioassays were conducted concurrently to determine the impact of various thripicides on A. vladimiri. The impact of sulfoxaflor, spinetoram, spirotetramat and prothiofos were rated harmless, as A. vladimiri mortality was lower than 25% after coming into contact with aged residues between 7 and 14 days old. October and November releases of A. vladimiri resulted in early parasitism and lowered peak-infestation of mealybug. January releases are possibly too late in grapefruit and lemon, open field, orchards, considering parasitism by A. vladimiri peaked in February. In mandarin orchards under net, percentage parasitism of 3rd instar mealybug increased a month later. Notably, at harvest, the difference in efficacy between treatments was not clear. This could be explained by high levels of natural parasitism observed in the treated and untreated orchards, which emphasises the importance of conservation biocontrol. In a second season, the proportion of hyperparasitoids captured (61%) from samples of mealybug-infested fruit was larger than the proportion of primary parasitoids, Anagyrus vladimiri, Coccidoxenoides perminutus (Girault) and Leptomastix dactylopii (Howard) (39%), which was far lower than the captures of eclosing primary parasitoids the previous season, which was 60%. The new discovery of Pseudaphycus sp. in citrus orchards in South Africa could be a key in explaining the uncontrollable levels of mealybug experienced and has drawn attention to a need for further understanding of ecological factors that influence biological control in citrus. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The use of gabions as a tool for ecological engineering
- Authors: Seath, Jessica Lauren
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434987 , vital:73121
- Description: Anthropogenic activities are centred in coastal ecosystems, including the development of harbours and/or marinas. The artificial structures used in coastal development typically has a different composition, orientation and level of complexity to that of natural ecosystems contributing to loss of biodiversity and increased incidence of invasive species. Ecological engineering research is attempting to identify different types of structures and materials that can increase species diversity and target species of conservation concern in coastal systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of gabions (rock filled structures) as an ecological engineering tool by comparing community structure on these structures with pre-existing seawall structures within a small harbour and marina in South Africa (Knysna Harbour). The objectives of the study were to compare the differences in; 1) fish and; 2) colonising organisms’ diversity and composition between two artificial structures. Thirteen gabion boxes were deployed in Knysna Harbour and together with corresponding seawalls, monitored quarterly over a period of 12 months (August 2020 – August 2021) to assess taxon and functional richness, diversity, abundance and composition of fish, invertebrate and algal species. Physico-chemical characteristics of the water body were also monitored quarterly. Remote underwater video systems were used to quantify MaxN (maximum number of a fish species in the frame at any one time during each set that gives an indication of relative abundance) and identify fish species. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabion habitats recruited greater numbers and more types of fish species and from more functional groups than the seawalls, especially omnivorous and carnivorous fish. Additionally, photoquadrats were used to quantify percentage cover, counts and to identify colonising taxa. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabions hosted greater numbers of species resulting in a higher overall diversity and abundance of colonising organisms than seawalls. By contrast, the seawalls supported more types of functional groups of colonising organisms than gabions, largely due to abundances of different algal species. The results from the crossed PERMANOVAs indicated that the composition of fish and colonising organisms were vastly different from one another, and that each habitat was supporting very different functional groups. Results indicate that whilst both gabions and seawalls contain several alien species, that the ratio of native to alien species is higher in gabion habitats. Additionally, this research observed that gabion structures hosted four species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This study has highlighted that the use of gabions (with their natural increased complexity) could be important to consider for the future of urban coastal development in harbours such as in Knysna Harbour. Ecological engineering projects using gabions have the potential to be used in South Africa in projects that aim at increasing biodiversity in urban coastal environments. As well as increasing the settlement and abundance of habitat-forming ecosystem engineers to ensure the long-term stability of these ecosystems. They can be used both in the development of new costal development projects as well as in an ad-hoc fashion where they can be interspersed on seawalls in harbours. Additionally, gabions have the potential to be used in projects that target species of conservation concern such as the endangered Knysna Seahorse (Hippocampus capensis). It is, however, important to monitor the invasion by non-native species in future ecological engineering projects in South Africa as well as their potential for creating ecological traps (a situation in which an organism may be convinced to settle in a low-quality habitat) for certain species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Seath, Jessica Lauren
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434987 , vital:73121
- Description: Anthropogenic activities are centred in coastal ecosystems, including the development of harbours and/or marinas. The artificial structures used in coastal development typically has a different composition, orientation and level of complexity to that of natural ecosystems contributing to loss of biodiversity and increased incidence of invasive species. Ecological engineering research is attempting to identify different types of structures and materials that can increase species diversity and target species of conservation concern in coastal systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of gabions (rock filled structures) as an ecological engineering tool by comparing community structure on these structures with pre-existing seawall structures within a small harbour and marina in South Africa (Knysna Harbour). The objectives of the study were to compare the differences in; 1) fish and; 2) colonising organisms’ diversity and composition between two artificial structures. Thirteen gabion boxes were deployed in Knysna Harbour and together with corresponding seawalls, monitored quarterly over a period of 12 months (August 2020 – August 2021) to assess taxon and functional richness, diversity, abundance and composition of fish, invertebrate and algal species. Physico-chemical characteristics of the water body were also monitored quarterly. Remote underwater video systems were used to quantify MaxN (maximum number of a fish species in the frame at any one time during each set that gives an indication of relative abundance) and identify fish species. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabion habitats recruited greater numbers and more types of fish species and from more functional groups than the seawalls, especially omnivorous and carnivorous fish. Additionally, photoquadrats were used to quantify percentage cover, counts and to identify colonising taxa. The results of the two-way crossed ANOVAs indicated that gabions hosted greater numbers of species resulting in a higher overall diversity and abundance of colonising organisms than seawalls. By contrast, the seawalls supported more types of functional groups of colonising organisms than gabions, largely due to abundances of different algal species. The results from the crossed PERMANOVAs indicated that the composition of fish and colonising organisms were vastly different from one another, and that each habitat was supporting very different functional groups. Results indicate that whilst both gabions and seawalls contain several alien species, that the ratio of native to alien species is higher in gabion habitats. Additionally, this research observed that gabion structures hosted four species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This study has highlighted that the use of gabions (with their natural increased complexity) could be important to consider for the future of urban coastal development in harbours such as in Knysna Harbour. Ecological engineering projects using gabions have the potential to be used in South Africa in projects that aim at increasing biodiversity in urban coastal environments. As well as increasing the settlement and abundance of habitat-forming ecosystem engineers to ensure the long-term stability of these ecosystems. They can be used both in the development of new costal development projects as well as in an ad-hoc fashion where they can be interspersed on seawalls in harbours. Additionally, gabions have the potential to be used in projects that target species of conservation concern such as the endangered Knysna Seahorse (Hippocampus capensis). It is, however, important to monitor the invasion by non-native species in future ecological engineering projects in South Africa as well as their potential for creating ecological traps (a situation in which an organism may be convinced to settle in a low-quality habitat) for certain species. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Zoology and Entomology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
The “Inadequately Married”: extending the putative marriage doctrine to assist vulnerable parties in invalid customary marriages
- Authors: Mavindidze, Tafadzwa Naomi
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434839 , vital:73109
- Description: This thesis considers whether the putative marriage doctrine can be developed to assist parties that find themselves in invalid customary marriages. The thesis focuses on situations where a customary marriage is considered invalid in circumstances where a party does not meet specific legislative or customary requirements. In most instances, these women are left without protection and regulation of the proprietary consequences of the so-called marital estate. The research considers the putative marriage doctrine as a remedy to this challenge. The doctrine is utilised where one or both parties believe in good faith that their marriage is valid when, in fact, one or more of the material requirements for marriage have not been met. Currently, the judgment of Zulu v Zulu 2008 (4) SA 12 (D) impedes the doctrine’s application in polygamous customary marriages and thus impedes its use by women who are found in invalid customary marriages. The research carries out a comparative analysis of Californian and Namibian family law, in order to consider how other jurisdictions deal with similar situations. The thesis further proposes a framework to develop the putative marriage doctrine in a way that ensures the protection of customary wives in subsequent marriages that are declared invalid. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Mavindidze, Tafadzwa Naomi
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434839 , vital:73109
- Description: This thesis considers whether the putative marriage doctrine can be developed to assist parties that find themselves in invalid customary marriages. The thesis focuses on situations where a customary marriage is considered invalid in circumstances where a party does not meet specific legislative or customary requirements. In most instances, these women are left without protection and regulation of the proprietary consequences of the so-called marital estate. The research considers the putative marriage doctrine as a remedy to this challenge. The doctrine is utilised where one or both parties believe in good faith that their marriage is valid when, in fact, one or more of the material requirements for marriage have not been met. Currently, the judgment of Zulu v Zulu 2008 (4) SA 12 (D) impedes the doctrine’s application in polygamous customary marriages and thus impedes its use by women who are found in invalid customary marriages. The research carries out a comparative analysis of Californian and Namibian family law, in order to consider how other jurisdictions deal with similar situations. The thesis further proposes a framework to develop the putative marriage doctrine in a way that ensures the protection of customary wives in subsequent marriages that are declared invalid. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
Towards a possible future solution against Multidrug Resistance: An in silico exploration of the Multidrug and Toxic compound Extrusion (MATE) transporter proteins as potential antimicrobial drug targets
- Authors: Damji, Amira Mahamood
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435009 , vital:73123
- Description: The rise of multidrug resistance (MDR) has become a pressing global issue, hindering the treatment of cancers and infectious diseases, and imposing a burden on healthcare systems and the economy. The Multidrug and Toxic compound Extrusion (MATE) superfamily of membrane efflux transporters is one of the key players contributing to MDR due to their ability to export a wide range of cationic and hydrophilic xenobiotics, including treatment drugs, from cells, diminishing their efficacy. Targeting MATE transporters holds great promise in achieving some cellular control over MDR, but first, a deeper understanding of their structure-function-dynamics link is required. This study aimed to explore the MATE transporters as potential antimicrobial drug targets using a two-fold in silico approach. First, virtual screening of compounds from the South African Natural Compounds Database (SANCDB) was performed to identify prospective lead inhibitory compounds against the MATE transporters using molecular docking, and top hits were selected based on their binding energy and interaction with the active site on the N-lobe of the protein. Second, to investigate the molecular-level dynamics of their extrusion mechanism, the MATE transporter structures were embedded in a POPC membrane bilayer using the CHARMM-GUI online tool and then subjected to MD simulations for 100 ns with the CHARMM 36m force field using GROMACS. The resulting trajectories were evaluated using three standard metrics – RMSD, RMSF, and Rg; significant global structural changes were observed and key functional regions in both membrane- and non-membrane transmembrane (TM) segments were identified, containing more dynamic and flexible residues than other regions. Furthermore, the MATE transporters showed more of a loosely-packed structure, providing flexibility to allow for conformational switching during their substrate-transport cycle, which is typical for proteins whose secondary structures are composed of all α-helices. The scope of this study lied in the preliminary stages of the computer-aided drug design process, and provided insights that can be used to guide the development of strategies aimed at regulating or inhibiting the function of the MATE transporters, offering a possible future solution to the growing challenge of MDR. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
- Authors: Damji, Amira Mahamood
- Date: 2024-04-04
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/435009 , vital:73123
- Description: The rise of multidrug resistance (MDR) has become a pressing global issue, hindering the treatment of cancers and infectious diseases, and imposing a burden on healthcare systems and the economy. The Multidrug and Toxic compound Extrusion (MATE) superfamily of membrane efflux transporters is one of the key players contributing to MDR due to their ability to export a wide range of cationic and hydrophilic xenobiotics, including treatment drugs, from cells, diminishing their efficacy. Targeting MATE transporters holds great promise in achieving some cellular control over MDR, but first, a deeper understanding of their structure-function-dynamics link is required. This study aimed to explore the MATE transporters as potential antimicrobial drug targets using a two-fold in silico approach. First, virtual screening of compounds from the South African Natural Compounds Database (SANCDB) was performed to identify prospective lead inhibitory compounds against the MATE transporters using molecular docking, and top hits were selected based on their binding energy and interaction with the active site on the N-lobe of the protein. Second, to investigate the molecular-level dynamics of their extrusion mechanism, the MATE transporter structures were embedded in a POPC membrane bilayer using the CHARMM-GUI online tool and then subjected to MD simulations for 100 ns with the CHARMM 36m force field using GROMACS. The resulting trajectories were evaluated using three standard metrics – RMSD, RMSF, and Rg; significant global structural changes were observed and key functional regions in both membrane- and non-membrane transmembrane (TM) segments were identified, containing more dynamic and flexible residues than other regions. Furthermore, the MATE transporters showed more of a loosely-packed structure, providing flexibility to allow for conformational switching during their substrate-transport cycle, which is typical for proteins whose secondary structures are composed of all α-helices. The scope of this study lied in the preliminary stages of the computer-aided drug design process, and provided insights that can be used to guide the development of strategies aimed at regulating or inhibiting the function of the MATE transporters, offering a possible future solution to the growing challenge of MDR. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-04
A comparative analysis of land, labour and gender in a communal area and fast track farm in Zvimba Rural District, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Chinomona, Perpetua
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434612 , vital:73089 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434612
- Description: This thesis provides a comparative analysis of gender, land, and labour between two different types of farming sites in rural Zimbabwe, namely long-established communal areas and the more recent Al fast track land reform resettlement areas. More specifically, the focus is on Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track resettlement farm respectively, located in Zvimba District in Mashonaland West Province. The study focuses on the period from the year 2000, the year in which the fast track resettlement programme was launched by the government. The thesis examines in particular the status and experience of women with regard to land acquisition, access and security as well as the division of labour (including assets, inputs and labour-time) in the spheres of production (i.e., agriculture) and social reproduction (i.e., the domestic sphere). This includes highlighting the power relations existing between men and women in both spheres, in the light of prevailing systems of patriarchy. Analytically, the thesis is framed in terms of feminism, drawing upon the complementary insights of Third World feminism and socialist feminism. In seeking to capture the perspectives and practices of men and women in the two sites, the fieldwork for the study entails a qualitative methodology. The findings of the research demonstrate the existence and relevance of patriarchal systems with respect to land and labour in Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm, with key commonalities appearing across the two sites with reference to the multiple ways in which women are disadvantaged and disempowered. Therefore, gender bias and inequality in land and labour are exhibited by the fact that men have, for instance, easier access to land, less involvement in labouring activities, control over a higher proportion of household income and a disproportionate level of power in the household. At the same time, there are certain differences between Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm around questions of gender, land and labour, but these are differences in degree rather than kind. Perhaps more important in explaining the differences between the two sites, and indeed differences within each site, are other variables. These variables include marital status, form or marriage (for example, customary or civil marriages), age and gender. By considering these variables as well, the thesis shows the importance of unpacking the notion of ‘woman’ to reveal the variegated and differential experiences of different categories of women in rural Zimbabwe. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Chinomona, Perpetua
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434612 , vital:73089 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434612
- Description: This thesis provides a comparative analysis of gender, land, and labour between two different types of farming sites in rural Zimbabwe, namely long-established communal areas and the more recent Al fast track land reform resettlement areas. More specifically, the focus is on Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track resettlement farm respectively, located in Zvimba District in Mashonaland West Province. The study focuses on the period from the year 2000, the year in which the fast track resettlement programme was launched by the government. The thesis examines in particular the status and experience of women with regard to land acquisition, access and security as well as the division of labour (including assets, inputs and labour-time) in the spheres of production (i.e., agriculture) and social reproduction (i.e., the domestic sphere). This includes highlighting the power relations existing between men and women in both spheres, in the light of prevailing systems of patriarchy. Analytically, the thesis is framed in terms of feminism, drawing upon the complementary insights of Third World feminism and socialist feminism. In seeking to capture the perspectives and practices of men and women in the two sites, the fieldwork for the study entails a qualitative methodology. The findings of the research demonstrate the existence and relevance of patriarchal systems with respect to land and labour in Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm, with key commonalities appearing across the two sites with reference to the multiple ways in which women are disadvantaged and disempowered. Therefore, gender bias and inequality in land and labour are exhibited by the fact that men have, for instance, easier access to land, less involvement in labouring activities, control over a higher proportion of household income and a disproportionate level of power in the household. At the same time, there are certain differences between Kanzou Village and Stratford fast track farm around questions of gender, land and labour, but these are differences in degree rather than kind. Perhaps more important in explaining the differences between the two sites, and indeed differences within each site, are other variables. These variables include marital status, form or marriage (for example, customary or civil marriages), age and gender. By considering these variables as well, the thesis shows the importance of unpacking the notion of ‘woman’ to reveal the variegated and differential experiences of different categories of women in rural Zimbabwe. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
A critical analysis of the factors influencing knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa
- Authors: Sha, Shafeek
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434817 , vital:73107 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434817
- Description: It is commonly believed that family businesses have formed the backbone of many economies around the globe and that they have been the predominant form of enterprise that has given rise to some of the most famous multinational enterprises. Family businesses contribute to the wealth creation in most economies and conservative estimates suggest that 65% to 80% of all businesses worldwide are owned and managed by families. In South Africa, Indian family owned businesses contribute more to employment than any other family business. There is a general perception amongst South Africans that Indian family owned businesses are more successful and that this success is continued from one generation to the next. Intrigued by this “phenomenon” for many years, the researcher decided to investigate it. The perspective adopted for this research was to look at the research problem from a knowledge management discipline viewpoint, in general, with a specific focus on knowledge sharing and Indian family owned businesses. The purpose of this study is to critically analyse the factors that influence the effectiveness of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. So the research answered the question: How do Indian family owned businesses in South Africa share their knowledge to ensure the continued success of their businesses through succeeding generations? A positivist research paradigm and philosophy was adopted for this research together with a quantitative research approach using survey research as the research strategy of choice. After conducting an extensive literature review, the next step was to develop and formulate a theoretical model, and flowing from the model and prior research, a research instrument was developed and administered to a qualifying sample of Indian family owned businesses in South Africa. Structural equation modelling was used as the principal mode of statistical analysis to measure the relationships amongst the variables in the model proposed in this study. After analysing the empirical data, the following key factors were identified as statistically significant in being determinants of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa: organisational culture, learning organisation, and leadership. These findings serve to contribute to the existing literature within the fields of knowledge management and family business. This study will richly contribute to research-based evidence of the factors that influence knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. The outcomes will allow existing and emerging family businesses to ensure the future success of their enterprises from one generation to the next by embracing the empirical findings of this research and thus ultimately contribute to the future success of the family business as a whole. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Sha, Shafeek
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434817 , vital:73107 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434817
- Description: It is commonly believed that family businesses have formed the backbone of many economies around the globe and that they have been the predominant form of enterprise that has given rise to some of the most famous multinational enterprises. Family businesses contribute to the wealth creation in most economies and conservative estimates suggest that 65% to 80% of all businesses worldwide are owned and managed by families. In South Africa, Indian family owned businesses contribute more to employment than any other family business. There is a general perception amongst South Africans that Indian family owned businesses are more successful and that this success is continued from one generation to the next. Intrigued by this “phenomenon” for many years, the researcher decided to investigate it. The perspective adopted for this research was to look at the research problem from a knowledge management discipline viewpoint, in general, with a specific focus on knowledge sharing and Indian family owned businesses. The purpose of this study is to critically analyse the factors that influence the effectiveness of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. So the research answered the question: How do Indian family owned businesses in South Africa share their knowledge to ensure the continued success of their businesses through succeeding generations? A positivist research paradigm and philosophy was adopted for this research together with a quantitative research approach using survey research as the research strategy of choice. After conducting an extensive literature review, the next step was to develop and formulate a theoretical model, and flowing from the model and prior research, a research instrument was developed and administered to a qualifying sample of Indian family owned businesses in South Africa. Structural equation modelling was used as the principal mode of statistical analysis to measure the relationships amongst the variables in the model proposed in this study. After analysing the empirical data, the following key factors were identified as statistically significant in being determinants of knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses in South Africa: organisational culture, learning organisation, and leadership. These findings serve to contribute to the existing literature within the fields of knowledge management and family business. This study will richly contribute to research-based evidence of the factors that influence knowledge sharing in Indian family owned businesses. The outcomes will allow existing and emerging family businesses to ensure the future success of their enterprises from one generation to the next by embracing the empirical findings of this research and thus ultimately contribute to the future success of the family business as a whole. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
An exploratory study of leadership and organisational change through the lens of organisational behaviour: a secondary school in Makhanda
- Authors: Yedwa, Sesonasipho
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434595 , vital:73088
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2025. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Yedwa, Sesonasipho
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434595 , vital:73088
- Description: Access restricted. Expected release in 2025. , Thesis (MSocSci) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Capital mobility and economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Dhlamini, Nonceba Michelle
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434712 , vital:73098
- Description: The South African current account balance has been deteriorating over the years. An investigation of the correlation between capital mobility and economic growth is of interest as South Africa is heavily reliant on capital inflows to finance the current account deficit. This research topic is of importance as there is need to devise policies that maximise the benefits the nation derives from capital mobility. The benefits that capital flows provide economies, theoretically outweigh the disadvantages, provided that capital flows are absorbed productively. The topic is also of interest in the light of the magnitude of shocks to the South African economy such as the rand crisis, dotcom bubble, stock market bubble, inflation targeting, commodity super cycle, global financial crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic and Russo-Ukrainian War, as these shocks have translated to slower economic growth and higher levels of inflation. These shocks have equally revealed that countries need to have sound macroeconomic policies in order to survive the impact of any crises. The vision 2030 secretariat has identified capital markets as the key providers of capital required for achieving social economic blueprint. The empirical evidence locally is limited in comparison to the empirical evidence from outside of South Africa. This topic is of importance as South African studies on this topic are not as recent and this study aims to bridge that gap. Data were obtained from the South African Reserve Bank Quarterly Bulletin and the World Bank database for the period 1990 to 2022. The Autoregressive Distribution Lag model was employed in order to determine the relationship. This study relied on the supply-leading theory which posits capital markets may positively or negatively affect key indicators of economic growth. The study found that there is a positive long run relationship between net capital flows, saving-investment ratio and economic growth and a negative long run relationship between the degree of trade openness and economic growth. The findings will allow opportunity to address capital flow surges and in turn boost investor confidence. Capital flow management measures can help manage destabilizing exchange rate movements and capital flows coupled with macroprudential tools helping reduce the domestic buildup of vulnerabilities. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Dhlamini, Nonceba Michelle
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434712 , vital:73098
- Description: The South African current account balance has been deteriorating over the years. An investigation of the correlation between capital mobility and economic growth is of interest as South Africa is heavily reliant on capital inflows to finance the current account deficit. This research topic is of importance as there is need to devise policies that maximise the benefits the nation derives from capital mobility. The benefits that capital flows provide economies, theoretically outweigh the disadvantages, provided that capital flows are absorbed productively. The topic is also of interest in the light of the magnitude of shocks to the South African economy such as the rand crisis, dotcom bubble, stock market bubble, inflation targeting, commodity super cycle, global financial crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic and Russo-Ukrainian War, as these shocks have translated to slower economic growth and higher levels of inflation. These shocks have equally revealed that countries need to have sound macroeconomic policies in order to survive the impact of any crises. The vision 2030 secretariat has identified capital markets as the key providers of capital required for achieving social economic blueprint. The empirical evidence locally is limited in comparison to the empirical evidence from outside of South Africa. This topic is of importance as South African studies on this topic are not as recent and this study aims to bridge that gap. Data were obtained from the South African Reserve Bank Quarterly Bulletin and the World Bank database for the period 1990 to 2022. The Autoregressive Distribution Lag model was employed in order to determine the relationship. This study relied on the supply-leading theory which posits capital markets may positively or negatively affect key indicators of economic growth. The study found that there is a positive long run relationship between net capital flows, saving-investment ratio and economic growth and a negative long run relationship between the degree of trade openness and economic growth. The findings will allow opportunity to address capital flow surges and in turn boost investor confidence. Capital flow management measures can help manage destabilizing exchange rate movements and capital flows coupled with macroprudential tools helping reduce the domestic buildup of vulnerabilities. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Dictionaries as pedagogic tools: a case study of selected schools in Makhanda, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Wababa, Zola Richman
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434651 , vital:73093 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434656
- Description: The importance of dictionaries in society has been confirmed in relevant literature while their specific role in education is underlined by several studies focused on the use of dictionaries in teaching and learning. This study focuses on mother-tongue or first language (L1) isiXhosa learners and their use of dictionaries across subjects in the Intermediate Phase of primary schooling. The research sought to examine how dictionaries are used in teaching and learning and how they could be used more effectively in the teaching and learning processes, with a focus on isiXhosa L1 learners in the Makhanda area of the Sarah Baartman District of education, Eastern Cape. The general aim of this study was to improve the process and practice of using and producing Language for General Purpose (LGP) and Language for Specific Purpose (LSP) dictionaries across subjects. The study also sought to contribute to improving the functional value and user-friendliness of teaching support materials, such as dictionaries. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) policy document states that dictionaries are essential in teaching and learning of both language and content subjects. In relation to language subjects, the CAPS is explicit about the use of dictionaries in the acquisition of vocabulary, meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar, among other types of information that are integral in language attainment and learning. Nonetheless, the CAPS document does not clearly articulate the use of dictionaries in content subjects. The study draws on two branches of lexicography – namely, dictionary user research and dictionary criticism – to examine the extent to which dictionaries are problem-solving tools which assist users to meet their cognitive and communicative needs. Thus, the study seeks to influence policy and practice of the use of dictionaries as teaching and learning resource materials that could help teachers and learners better understand key concepts across subjects. A mixed-method approach was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a variety of data collection instruments, viz., observation schedules, questionnaires, and interviews. The study found that although teachers were aware of dictionaries, they did not use them as a resource in teaching. Furthermore, teachers lacked skills in the use of dictionaries, therefore, they were not able to effectively integrate dictionaries in their lessons. The research also found that learners had little awareness of dictionaries and did not fully understand their role in language acquisition or content. Lastly, the study offered some insights on how dictionaries could be integrated in teaching and learning, and how their use could address some communicative and cognitive problems faced by non-mother tongue English speakers in a context where English dominates teaching and learning at the expense of learners’ L1. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Wababa, Zola Richman
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434651 , vital:73093 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434656
- Description: The importance of dictionaries in society has been confirmed in relevant literature while their specific role in education is underlined by several studies focused on the use of dictionaries in teaching and learning. This study focuses on mother-tongue or first language (L1) isiXhosa learners and their use of dictionaries across subjects in the Intermediate Phase of primary schooling. The research sought to examine how dictionaries are used in teaching and learning and how they could be used more effectively in the teaching and learning processes, with a focus on isiXhosa L1 learners in the Makhanda area of the Sarah Baartman District of education, Eastern Cape. The general aim of this study was to improve the process and practice of using and producing Language for General Purpose (LGP) and Language for Specific Purpose (LSP) dictionaries across subjects. The study also sought to contribute to improving the functional value and user-friendliness of teaching support materials, such as dictionaries. The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) policy document states that dictionaries are essential in teaching and learning of both language and content subjects. In relation to language subjects, the CAPS is explicit about the use of dictionaries in the acquisition of vocabulary, meaning, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar, among other types of information that are integral in language attainment and learning. Nonetheless, the CAPS document does not clearly articulate the use of dictionaries in content subjects. The study draws on two branches of lexicography – namely, dictionary user research and dictionary criticism – to examine the extent to which dictionaries are problem-solving tools which assist users to meet their cognitive and communicative needs. Thus, the study seeks to influence policy and practice of the use of dictionaries as teaching and learning resource materials that could help teachers and learners better understand key concepts across subjects. A mixed-method approach was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a variety of data collection instruments, viz., observation schedules, questionnaires, and interviews. The study found that although teachers were aware of dictionaries, they did not use them as a resource in teaching. Furthermore, teachers lacked skills in the use of dictionaries, therefore, they were not able to effectively integrate dictionaries in their lessons. The research also found that learners had little awareness of dictionaries and did not fully understand their role in language acquisition or content. Lastly, the study offered some insights on how dictionaries could be integrated in teaching and learning, and how their use could address some communicative and cognitive problems faced by non-mother tongue English speakers in a context where English dominates teaching and learning at the expense of learners’ L1. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Languages and Literatures, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Effects of household debt on economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Bwalya, Rachael Mulenga
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434766 , vital:73103
- Description: South Africa’s household debt relative to GDP has risen rapidly over the past decade. There is concern that high levels of household debt may decrease spending in the future and hence in the long run slow down economic growth. Thus, this study investigates the impact of household debt on growth in South Africa from 1987Q3 to 2022Q1. The research draws upon first-generation theories which include the absolute income hypothesis, life cycle hypothesis, and permanent income hypothesis, and second-generation theories which include the neo-Kaleckian model, the Super multiplier model, and the Steindl model. The impact of this relationship is assessed using a Vector Autoregressive (VAR) model, with a Toda-Yamamoto modification for some regressions. It is discovered that household debt has a positive short-term influence on economic growth, however, the influence is weak, and it decreases in the long run. Types of household debt such as credit card debt have shown to have a positive and strong influence on economic growth in South Africa from the short run to the long run, however, mortgage debt has shown weak positive influence on economic growth from the short 105 run to the long run. The study found that the growth maximizing ratios for household debt to 106 GDP ratio is 70 percent. The growth maximising credit card debt level is ZAR 72 403, in nominal terms and for mortgage debt is ZAR 5 980 000. The findings are expected to assist policymakers such as central banks and government authorities in formulating relevant policies to ensure economic sustainability through macro-prudential policy and strategies for household debt management. , Thesis (MEcon) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Bwalya, Rachael Mulenga
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434766 , vital:73103
- Description: South Africa’s household debt relative to GDP has risen rapidly over the past decade. There is concern that high levels of household debt may decrease spending in the future and hence in the long run slow down economic growth. Thus, this study investigates the impact of household debt on growth in South Africa from 1987Q3 to 2022Q1. The research draws upon first-generation theories which include the absolute income hypothesis, life cycle hypothesis, and permanent income hypothesis, and second-generation theories which include the neo-Kaleckian model, the Super multiplier model, and the Steindl model. The impact of this relationship is assessed using a Vector Autoregressive (VAR) model, with a Toda-Yamamoto modification for some regressions. It is discovered that household debt has a positive short-term influence on economic growth, however, the influence is weak, and it decreases in the long run. Types of household debt such as credit card debt have shown to have a positive and strong influence on economic growth in South Africa from the short run to the long run, however, mortgage debt has shown weak positive influence on economic growth from the short 105 run to the long run. The study found that the growth maximizing ratios for household debt to 106 GDP ratio is 70 percent. The growth maximising credit card debt level is ZAR 72 403, in nominal terms and for mortgage debt is ZAR 5 980 000. The findings are expected to assist policymakers such as central banks and government authorities in formulating relevant policies to ensure economic sustainability through macro-prudential policy and strategies for household debt management. , Thesis (MEcon) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Electricity demand and supply in South Africa: is nuclear energy a feasible alternative to coal for baseload energy supply in South Africa?
- Authors: Maqanda, Vuyani
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434802 , vital:73106 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434802
- Description: Climate change mitigation has created pressure on the energy mix choices of all countries. Highly polluting energy sources are increasingly unpopular. Renewable energy options have emerged as preferred choices for the low-emissions transition. Proponents of nuclear power have promoted the technology as a low-emissions technology by focusing on the operational phase and ignoring the other polluting phases. South Africa generated about 83% of its electricity supply from coal in 2019 and was rated as the 12th most polluting country in the world. In addition to the high pollution levels, the ageing coal fleet suffered from poor maintenance that resulted in frequent power blackouts. One of the government’s energy plans from 2010 proposed the addition of 9 600 MW of nuclear capacity by 2030. However, this plan was not implemented. This study investigates why nuclear power historically never expanded beyond a single power facility in South Africa as well as the possible future role of nuclear power in alleviating South Africa’s current electricity supply constraints and emissions commitments in the period up to 2050. Qualitative analysis is used for this study with a focus on historical document analysis and interviews with energy experts. Two research methods, case studies, and expert opinions were used in this study with data sourced from policy documents, Statistics South Africa, the World Bank, and published articles from various platforms. The Hotelling model, focusing on the impact of price differentials on energy transitions, was used as a theoretical framework. The conclusion from applying the model was that nuclear power was more expensive than the other options even when internalisation of pollution externalities was considered and therefore nuclear power could not displace the cheaper alternatives like coal based on price factors alone. The Multi-Level Perspective, working through institutions, revealed that the institutional setting did not support a transition to nuclear energy. The lack of coordination of strategies derailed the transition. The comparative case study analysis of Germany, the UK, Australia, and India reaffirmed this as countries with better coordination succeeded in transitions. Energy experts offered differing views on the feasibility of nuclear power but many agreed that South Africa should focus on technologies it has better competencies in. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Maqanda, Vuyani
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434802 , vital:73106 , DOI 10.21504/10962/434802
- Description: Climate change mitigation has created pressure on the energy mix choices of all countries. Highly polluting energy sources are increasingly unpopular. Renewable energy options have emerged as preferred choices for the low-emissions transition. Proponents of nuclear power have promoted the technology as a low-emissions technology by focusing on the operational phase and ignoring the other polluting phases. South Africa generated about 83% of its electricity supply from coal in 2019 and was rated as the 12th most polluting country in the world. In addition to the high pollution levels, the ageing coal fleet suffered from poor maintenance that resulted in frequent power blackouts. One of the government’s energy plans from 2010 proposed the addition of 9 600 MW of nuclear capacity by 2030. However, this plan was not implemented. This study investigates why nuclear power historically never expanded beyond a single power facility in South Africa as well as the possible future role of nuclear power in alleviating South Africa’s current electricity supply constraints and emissions commitments in the period up to 2050. Qualitative analysis is used for this study with a focus on historical document analysis and interviews with energy experts. Two research methods, case studies, and expert opinions were used in this study with data sourced from policy documents, Statistics South Africa, the World Bank, and published articles from various platforms. The Hotelling model, focusing on the impact of price differentials on energy transitions, was used as a theoretical framework. The conclusion from applying the model was that nuclear power was more expensive than the other options even when internalisation of pollution externalities was considered and therefore nuclear power could not displace the cheaper alternatives like coal based on price factors alone. The Multi-Level Perspective, working through institutions, revealed that the institutional setting did not support a transition to nuclear energy. The lack of coordination of strategies derailed the transition. The comparative case study analysis of Germany, the UK, Australia, and India reaffirmed this as countries with better coordination succeeded in transitions. Energy experts offered differing views on the feasibility of nuclear power but many agreed that South Africa should focus on technologies it has better competencies in. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Commerce, Economics and Economic History, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Evaluating perceptions of co-management on small-scale fisheries in the Wild Coast of South Africa
- Authors: Mthombeni, Vusi Gedla
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434678 , vital:73095
- Description: Shared perceptions by stakeholders can improve the understanding of managing natural resources. This study aimed to evaluate stakeholders’ perceptions towards co-management of small-scale fisheries to improve the management of these resources. Eleven participants were purposively sampled from government agencies, non-profit organisations and community representatives from Coffee Bay, Port St Johns, Lusikisiki and Xolobeni on the Wild Coast of South Africa. Predetermined themes derived from the literature were used to develop the interview schedule. Semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were conducted to probe the participants’ understanding of the term “co-management” and its objectives, benefits, processes, and outcomes. Data were recorded and transcribed into text, and thematic analysis was used to detect themes that emerged from the data. The results indicated that all participants perceived co-management of Small-scale fisheries as beneficial. Securing access rights through fishing permits was a benefit that was exclusive to the fishers, whereas self-regulation, sharing of information, and mobilising and utilising the strengths of different stakeholders were the benefits noted by all stakeholder participants. Government representatives viewed the involvement of government in the co-management structures of SSF as necessary, whereas the other representatives’ views were that government should be excluded. Incorporating the traditional and government regulatory systems was recommended to manage fisheries resources effectively. The benefits of co-management exceeded costs, suggesting that co-management was viable for the Wild Coast. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Mthombeni, Vusi Gedla
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434678 , vital:73095
- Description: Shared perceptions by stakeholders can improve the understanding of managing natural resources. This study aimed to evaluate stakeholders’ perceptions towards co-management of small-scale fisheries to improve the management of these resources. Eleven participants were purposively sampled from government agencies, non-profit organisations and community representatives from Coffee Bay, Port St Johns, Lusikisiki and Xolobeni on the Wild Coast of South Africa. Predetermined themes derived from the literature were used to develop the interview schedule. Semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were conducted to probe the participants’ understanding of the term “co-management” and its objectives, benefits, processes, and outcomes. Data were recorded and transcribed into text, and thematic analysis was used to detect themes that emerged from the data. The results indicated that all participants perceived co-management of Small-scale fisheries as beneficial. Securing access rights through fishing permits was a benefit that was exclusive to the fishers, whereas self-regulation, sharing of information, and mobilising and utilising the strengths of different stakeholders were the benefits noted by all stakeholder participants. Government representatives viewed the involvement of government in the co-management structures of SSF as necessary, whereas the other representatives’ views were that government should be excluded. Incorporating the traditional and government regulatory systems was recommended to manage fisheries resources effectively. The benefits of co-management exceeded costs, suggesting that co-management was viable for the Wild Coast. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
Factors that influence the adoption and implementation of sustainable procurement: a case of a South African public university
- Authors: Mpapha, Sive
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434663 , vital:73094
- Description: Climate change and resource scarcity have become some of the world's most critical problems and are among the most significant megatrends influencing world leaders' agendas in decision- making (Rothkopf & Casey, 2014; International Social Security Association, 2014). Sustainable procurement has been identified as one of the strategic tools that can resolve these issues to help the world move towards a more sustainable and resilient future (World Bank, 2019). Through sustainable procurement practices, organisations can meet their demand and supply of goods and services while minimising environmental harm, maximising financial returns, and enhancing socioeconomic status (Villena & Gioa, 2020; Bonnemaison, Eldandsson, Ibach & Spiller, 2021). This qualitative research used an Eastern Cape-based higher education institution in South Africa as a case study to investigate factors that influence adopting and implementing sustainable procurement, with resilience as a theoretical foundation, in higher education. The research obtained approval from the participating university as a gatekeeper for the study; it began by drafting a research proposal and securing ethical clearance from Rhodes University. Semi-structured interviews were used with seven higher education procurement staff members to get the data working in procurement in higher education. The findings from the study revealed that managerial support and knowledge of sustainable procurement were determining factors for whether or not a university developed and implemented a strategy for sustainable procurement.Secondly, the participants mostly cited barriers as inadequate financial resources resulting in limitations for the university, therefore partially implementing sustainable practices. Thirdly, the data revealed that university staff in procurement had a basic understanding of sustainable procurement. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03
- Authors: Mpapha, Sive
- Date: 2024-04-03
- Subjects: Uncatalogued
- Language: English
- Type: Academic theses , Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/434663 , vital:73094
- Description: Climate change and resource scarcity have become some of the world's most critical problems and are among the most significant megatrends influencing world leaders' agendas in decision- making (Rothkopf & Casey, 2014; International Social Security Association, 2014). Sustainable procurement has been identified as one of the strategic tools that can resolve these issues to help the world move towards a more sustainable and resilient future (World Bank, 2019). Through sustainable procurement practices, organisations can meet their demand and supply of goods and services while minimising environmental harm, maximising financial returns, and enhancing socioeconomic status (Villena & Gioa, 2020; Bonnemaison, Eldandsson, Ibach & Spiller, 2021). This qualitative research used an Eastern Cape-based higher education institution in South Africa as a case study to investigate factors that influence adopting and implementing sustainable procurement, with resilience as a theoretical foundation, in higher education. The research obtained approval from the participating university as a gatekeeper for the study; it began by drafting a research proposal and securing ethical clearance from Rhodes University. Semi-structured interviews were used with seven higher education procurement staff members to get the data working in procurement in higher education. The findings from the study revealed that managerial support and knowledge of sustainable procurement were determining factors for whether or not a university developed and implemented a strategy for sustainable procurement.Secondly, the participants mostly cited barriers as inadequate financial resources resulting in limitations for the university, therefore partially implementing sustainable practices. Thirdly, the data revealed that university staff in procurement had a basic understanding of sustainable procurement. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Commerce, Rhodes Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-04-03