An anatomical investigation of jointed cactus (Opuntia aurantiaca, Lindley) with germination tests, and observations on the movements of the stomata
- Authors: Archibald, E E A
- Date: 1936
- Subjects: Cactus -- Anatomy , Opuntia , Stomata , Germination
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4264 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013444
- Description: From Introduction: In 1934 the Government started an active campaign on the eradiction of Jointed Cactus. This plant was causing considerable damage to the farms and commonages of the Eastern Province, and was spreading at an alarming rate. The Officer in Charge of eradication, Mr E. du Toit, was stationed at Grahamstown which is fairly centrally situated in the infested area. In 1935 Dr A. Leemann of the Division of Plant Industry made his headquarters at Rhodes University College.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1936
- Authors: Archibald, E E A
- Date: 1936
- Subjects: Cactus -- Anatomy , Opuntia , Stomata , Germination
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4264 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013444
- Description: From Introduction: In 1934 the Government started an active campaign on the eradiction of Jointed Cactus. This plant was causing considerable damage to the farms and commonages of the Eastern Province, and was spreading at an alarming rate. The Officer in Charge of eradication, Mr E. du Toit, was stationed at Grahamstown which is fairly centrally situated in the infested area. In 1935 Dr A. Leemann of the Division of Plant Industry made his headquarters at Rhodes University College.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1936
An investigation into the circumstances relating to the cattle-killing delusion in Kaffraria, 1856-1857
- Authors: Dowsley, Eileen D'Altera
- Date: 1932
- Subjects: Cattle Killing, 1856-1857 , Cape of Good Hope (South Africa) -- History -- 1853-1871 , Xhosa (African people) -- History , Grey, George, Sir, 1812-1898 , Nongqawuse, 1841-1898 , Mhlakaza -- Xhosa seer -- 1800?-1857 , Sarhili -- Xhosa paramount chief -- ca.1814-1892
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002390
- Description: Introductory: If the relations existing between the Native chiefs and the Colony which Sir George Grey found on his arrival are to be fully understood, a brief consideration of Cathcart’s policy and Frontier settlement is necessary. When Cathcart came out as Governor in 1852, he found the rebel chief Sandile, with associate chieftans’ and large bands of followers, still occupying their locations in the Amatola ranges. From this haunt no force had as yet been able to drive them. During the series of skirmishes known as the Eighth Kaffir War, their first crop of Indian corn was destroyed so early in the season as to allow of a second crop springing up. This unusual phenomenon inspired prophet Umlangeni to claim that he had worked a miracle. Fortunately later reverses and the expulsion of Sanailli from his mountain fastness discredited this thoughtful opportunist. Sandilli, as paramount chief of the Gaikas, might have held and influential position in the councils of the Kaffrarian chiefs, that he did not hold such a position, was due, in Charles Brownlee’s opinion, to his timid and suspicious nature and to the fact that his mental capacity was ‘hardly above mediocrity’. He was unable to fight owing to lameness, and he lacked ‘sufficient’ resciution and strength of mind to resist the evil influence of the bad advisers, nevertheless he could be obstinate and he never, to the end of his life, gave up on the idea of getting back to this old locations in the Amatolas. Macomo with some three thousand followers had likewise evaded all attempts to turn him out of this haunts in the mountain range. He, together with his associate the Tambookie chief Quesha, and diverse rebel Hotttentots, indulged in the frequent marauding forays into the surrounding country. Macomo was the eldest of Gaika’s sons and was “allowed by all to be the greatest politician and best warrior in Kaffraria’. During the minority of Sandilli Macomo had acted as his regent and had attained great influence over the tribe; this he afterwards lost for he moved to the neighbourhood of Fort Beaufort, where in a state of intoxication most of this time was passed. He had in Brownlee’s opinion, done more mischief in the war than any other chief. Great jealously was felt between Macomo and Sandilli, especially on the part of the former; this was shown through the cattle killing period in his efforts to involve Sandilli, while attempting to keep on the right side of the Government himself. Further south, indeed within the Colony itself, such petty chiefs as Seyolo and Botman, lurking in the Fish River bush, and the Keiskamma kloofs, rendered the main road dangerous, and even succeeded, for a time, in completely cutting the ling of communication between Kingwilliamstown and Grahamstown.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1932
- Authors: Dowsley, Eileen D'Altera
- Date: 1932
- Subjects: Cattle Killing, 1856-1857 , Cape of Good Hope (South Africa) -- History -- 1853-1871 , Xhosa (African people) -- History , Grey, George, Sir, 1812-1898 , Nongqawuse, 1841-1898 , Mhlakaza -- Xhosa seer -- 1800?-1857 , Sarhili -- Xhosa paramount chief -- ca.1814-1892
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002390
- Description: Introductory: If the relations existing between the Native chiefs and the Colony which Sir George Grey found on his arrival are to be fully understood, a brief consideration of Cathcart’s policy and Frontier settlement is necessary. When Cathcart came out as Governor in 1852, he found the rebel chief Sandile, with associate chieftans’ and large bands of followers, still occupying their locations in the Amatola ranges. From this haunt no force had as yet been able to drive them. During the series of skirmishes known as the Eighth Kaffir War, their first crop of Indian corn was destroyed so early in the season as to allow of a second crop springing up. This unusual phenomenon inspired prophet Umlangeni to claim that he had worked a miracle. Fortunately later reverses and the expulsion of Sanailli from his mountain fastness discredited this thoughtful opportunist. Sandilli, as paramount chief of the Gaikas, might have held and influential position in the councils of the Kaffrarian chiefs, that he did not hold such a position, was due, in Charles Brownlee’s opinion, to his timid and suspicious nature and to the fact that his mental capacity was ‘hardly above mediocrity’. He was unable to fight owing to lameness, and he lacked ‘sufficient’ resciution and strength of mind to resist the evil influence of the bad advisers, nevertheless he could be obstinate and he never, to the end of his life, gave up on the idea of getting back to this old locations in the Amatolas. Macomo with some three thousand followers had likewise evaded all attempts to turn him out of this haunts in the mountain range. He, together with his associate the Tambookie chief Quesha, and diverse rebel Hotttentots, indulged in the frequent marauding forays into the surrounding country. Macomo was the eldest of Gaika’s sons and was “allowed by all to be the greatest politician and best warrior in Kaffraria’. During the minority of Sandilli Macomo had acted as his regent and had attained great influence over the tribe; this he afterwards lost for he moved to the neighbourhood of Fort Beaufort, where in a state of intoxication most of this time was passed. He had in Brownlee’s opinion, done more mischief in the war than any other chief. Great jealously was felt between Macomo and Sandilli, especially on the part of the former; this was shown through the cattle killing period in his efforts to involve Sandilli, while attempting to keep on the right side of the Government himself. Further south, indeed within the Colony itself, such petty chiefs as Seyolo and Botman, lurking in the Fish River bush, and the Keiskamma kloofs, rendered the main road dangerous, and even succeeded, for a time, in completely cutting the ling of communication between Kingwilliamstown and Grahamstown.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1932
East London: its foundation and early development as a port
- Authors: Gordon, B C
- Date: 1932
- Subjects: Smith, Harry George Wakelyn, Sir, 1788-1860 D'Urban, Benjamin, Sir, 1777-1849 Harbors -- South Africa -- East London East London (South Africa) -- History -- 1836-1866
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2606 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012046
- Description: The flourishing city of East London has received but scant attention from historians. Its importance has been overshadowed by that of Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, each with a foundation bordering on the romantic. The introduction to this thesis indicates traces of the existence of primitive man in these parts. The historical survey will commence with notices taken of the region by nautical and land expeditions in search of either shipwrecked sailors, or news of native races. The first serious notice of East London taken by the white people came in the time of Sir Benjamin D'Urban who sought a seaport for his new province of Queen Adelaide. Our port was opened in 1836 under the appellation of Port Rex, but faded into temporary insignificance, almost oblivion, with the reversal of Sir. B. D'Urban's frontier policy by Lord Glenelg and the abandonment of the new province in 1837. It was not destined to remain forgotten, for Sir Harry Smith at the end of 1847, saw in the mouth of the Buffalo River the same possibilities as had struck the advisers of Sir B. D'Urban. To him it was the future London of the East, and the connecting link between British Kaffraria and the world outside. From that time East London has grown steadily, and of recent years very rapidly. It is not proposed to carry this survey much beyond 1866 in which year British Kaffraria was annexed to the Cape Colony.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1932
- Authors: Gordon, B C
- Date: 1932
- Subjects: Smith, Harry George Wakelyn, Sir, 1788-1860 D'Urban, Benjamin, Sir, 1777-1849 Harbors -- South Africa -- East London East London (South Africa) -- History -- 1836-1866
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2606 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1012046
- Description: The flourishing city of East London has received but scant attention from historians. Its importance has been overshadowed by that of Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, each with a foundation bordering on the romantic. The introduction to this thesis indicates traces of the existence of primitive man in these parts. The historical survey will commence with notices taken of the region by nautical and land expeditions in search of either shipwrecked sailors, or news of native races. The first serious notice of East London taken by the white people came in the time of Sir Benjamin D'Urban who sought a seaport for his new province of Queen Adelaide. Our port was opened in 1836 under the appellation of Port Rex, but faded into temporary insignificance, almost oblivion, with the reversal of Sir. B. D'Urban's frontier policy by Lord Glenelg and the abandonment of the new province in 1837. It was not destined to remain forgotten, for Sir Harry Smith at the end of 1847, saw in the mouth of the Buffalo River the same possibilities as had struck the advisers of Sir B. D'Urban. To him it was the future London of the East, and the connecting link between British Kaffraria and the world outside. From that time East London has grown steadily, and of recent years very rapidly. It is not proposed to carry this survey much beyond 1866 in which year British Kaffraria was annexed to the Cape Colony.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1932
Crocidolite in the districts of Prieska and Hay
- Authors: Schoeman, H E
- Date: 1930
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6539 , vital:21133
- Description: From Introduction: The belt of hilly country extending from the southern extremity of the Doornbergen, through Prieska, Niekerkshoop, Griquatown and Kuruman, to a point far north or the latter, constitutes a region or great scientific and economic interest. Spoken of generally as the “Blue Asbestos Belt”, it has ramifications stretching in north, and north-westerly directions from Prieska. In the south it is known as the Doornbergen, passing into the “Asbestos Mountains” north of the Orange River, while farther north it becomes the Kuruman Hills. This large area is unique in that enormous deposits of fibrous crocido1ite or "blue asbestos" are known to occur scattered more or less irregularly over the entire belt. The mineral, often accompanied by some or all of its variations and alteration products, has been reported from nearly every farm, excepting only that portion covered by Ongeluk Volcanics, and the UPPER BEDS OF THE LOWER GRIQUATOWN SERIES, which thus form the only interruption to an otherwise unbroken extension of crocidolite bearing strata.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1930
- Authors: Schoeman, H E
- Date: 1930
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/6539 , vital:21133
- Description: From Introduction: The belt of hilly country extending from the southern extremity of the Doornbergen, through Prieska, Niekerkshoop, Griquatown and Kuruman, to a point far north or the latter, constitutes a region or great scientific and economic interest. Spoken of generally as the “Blue Asbestos Belt”, it has ramifications stretching in north, and north-westerly directions from Prieska. In the south it is known as the Doornbergen, passing into the “Asbestos Mountains” north of the Orange River, while farther north it becomes the Kuruman Hills. This large area is unique in that enormous deposits of fibrous crocido1ite or "blue asbestos" are known to occur scattered more or less irregularly over the entire belt. The mineral, often accompanied by some or all of its variations and alteration products, has been reported from nearly every farm, excepting only that portion covered by Ongeluk Volcanics, and the UPPER BEDS OF THE LOWER GRIQUATOWN SERIES, which thus form the only interruption to an otherwise unbroken extension of crocidolite bearing strata.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1930
Clays derived from the Lower Dwyka Shales, occurring in the vicinity of Grahamstown
- Authors: Blignaut, J J G
- Date: 1928
- Subjects: Clay -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Clay -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Geology -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4935 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005547
- Description: The Lower Dwyka Shales in South Africa oocur south of latitude 32⁰; resting conformably upon the Witteberg quartzites, which extend as coastal mountain rangee along the length of the South Coast. The shales, being less resistant to weathering than the quartzites below, and the Dwyka Tillite immediately above, are consequently found in valleys between these two formations. In one of these valleys Grahamstown is situated; where the Lower Dwyka Shales have been eroded by the various rivulets forming the eource of the Blaauwkrantz River. A geological map of the country round Grahamstown was prepared in eome detail, showing all the various rock formations occurring in the area, the full extent of the Lower Dwyka Shales being mapped with the Dwyka Tillite and the Witteberg Quartzite along its margins. The map includes an area of about six miles by three, with the Cathedral spire occupying an approximately central position, and is prepared on a scale of 5.65 inches to one mile. Traversing was done by means of prismatic compass and pacing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1928
- Authors: Blignaut, J J G
- Date: 1928
- Subjects: Clay -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Clay -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Geology -- South Africa -- Grahamstown Mineralogy -- South Africa -- Grahamstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4935 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005547
- Description: The Lower Dwyka Shales in South Africa oocur south of latitude 32⁰; resting conformably upon the Witteberg quartzites, which extend as coastal mountain rangee along the length of the South Coast. The shales, being less resistant to weathering than the quartzites below, and the Dwyka Tillite immediately above, are consequently found in valleys between these two formations. In one of these valleys Grahamstown is situated; where the Lower Dwyka Shales have been eroded by the various rivulets forming the eource of the Blaauwkrantz River. A geological map of the country round Grahamstown was prepared in eome detail, showing all the various rock formations occurring in the area, the full extent of the Lower Dwyka Shales being mapped with the Dwyka Tillite and the Witteberg Quartzite along its margins. The map includes an area of about six miles by three, with the Cathedral spire occupying an approximately central position, and is prepared on a scale of 5.65 inches to one mile. Traversing was done by means of prismatic compass and pacing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1928
A case study of industrial relations climate in Zimbabwean mining company
- Authors: Chabaya, Blessing
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- Zimbabwe , Collective bargaining -- Mining industry -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9435 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020863
- Description: Research problem: Various factors which influence industrial relations climate can be classified as input variables (Dastmalchian, Adamason and Blyton, 1991). The industrial relations climate (IRC) in turn has the potential to positive or negatively influence and be influenced by the industrial relations outcomes of the organisation such as labour turnover, industrial action and productivity. Management therefore need to be aware of the prevailing IRC as well as the factors influencing the prevailing industrial relations climate so as to take the necessary and relevant measures and steps to improve the labour-management relations. Research objectives: The research objectives for addressing the research problem were mainly to ascertain the prevailing labour relations climate within the selected mine. The second objective was to identify the factors that shape labour relations climate and thirdly to establish the impact of the prevailing industrial relations climate within the mine Research questions: Research questions for the study were developed and were; What is the overall labour relations climate? What is the contribution of each of the five dimensions to the overall labour relations climate? What is the relationship between the subgroups, distinguished by union affiliation and occupational level? What is the relationship between the sub-groups, distinguished by gender, age, race years in organization, full-time or part-time, union affiliation, years in union, union status, occupational level, educational level and the five dimensions of the labour relations climate? What are the factors that shape the industrial relations climate with particular reference to the following factors such as the organisational context and background, the structure of the organisation, the Human Resources context, the Industrial Relations context and Industrial relations outcomes? Research design: The study was descriptive research and both qualitative and quantitative methods were used in order to address the objectives of the study. A self-administered survey questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data and in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews were also used to collect data relating to the IRC and the factors influencing the industrial relations climate. Human Resources records and reports were also used to provide secondary data for industrial relations outcomes. Major findings: The results from the study revealed that overall a negative IRC prevailed within the mine. This also applied to the five dimensions of climate that were measured. It was found that there was agreement between the unionised and the non-unionised employees’ perceptions of the industrial relations climate and similarly, when the miners’ perception of climate was compared with the more managerial group. The only really significant difference in perception was that management felt that the climate was fairer than did the miners. The results also revealed that the organisational environment and structure and the human resources and industrial relations contexts were consistent with the literature descriptions of an organisational environment that would inhibit a positive industrial relations climate. The results for the organisational outcomes, in particular absenteeism and turnover were also found to be consistent with those of organisations were the prevailing industrial relations climate was negative. The results also revealed that organisational age, size, ownership, structure, formalisation, decision-making, labour market, union-management consultation, communication were influenced and shaped the prevailing IRC. It also revealed that the prevailing IRC had impact on the levels of absenteeism and labour turnover.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Chabaya, Blessing
- Subjects: Industrial relations -- Zimbabwe , Collective bargaining -- Mining industry -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9435 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020863
- Description: Research problem: Various factors which influence industrial relations climate can be classified as input variables (Dastmalchian, Adamason and Blyton, 1991). The industrial relations climate (IRC) in turn has the potential to positive or negatively influence and be influenced by the industrial relations outcomes of the organisation such as labour turnover, industrial action and productivity. Management therefore need to be aware of the prevailing IRC as well as the factors influencing the prevailing industrial relations climate so as to take the necessary and relevant measures and steps to improve the labour-management relations. Research objectives: The research objectives for addressing the research problem were mainly to ascertain the prevailing labour relations climate within the selected mine. The second objective was to identify the factors that shape labour relations climate and thirdly to establish the impact of the prevailing industrial relations climate within the mine Research questions: Research questions for the study were developed and were; What is the overall labour relations climate? What is the contribution of each of the five dimensions to the overall labour relations climate? What is the relationship between the subgroups, distinguished by union affiliation and occupational level? What is the relationship between the sub-groups, distinguished by gender, age, race years in organization, full-time or part-time, union affiliation, years in union, union status, occupational level, educational level and the five dimensions of the labour relations climate? What are the factors that shape the industrial relations climate with particular reference to the following factors such as the organisational context and background, the structure of the organisation, the Human Resources context, the Industrial Relations context and Industrial relations outcomes? Research design: The study was descriptive research and both qualitative and quantitative methods were used in order to address the objectives of the study. A self-administered survey questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data and in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews were also used to collect data relating to the IRC and the factors influencing the industrial relations climate. Human Resources records and reports were also used to provide secondary data for industrial relations outcomes. Major findings: The results from the study revealed that overall a negative IRC prevailed within the mine. This also applied to the five dimensions of climate that were measured. It was found that there was agreement between the unionised and the non-unionised employees’ perceptions of the industrial relations climate and similarly, when the miners’ perception of climate was compared with the more managerial group. The only really significant difference in perception was that management felt that the climate was fairer than did the miners. The results also revealed that the organisational environment and structure and the human resources and industrial relations contexts were consistent with the literature descriptions of an organisational environment that would inhibit a positive industrial relations climate. The results for the organisational outcomes, in particular absenteeism and turnover were also found to be consistent with those of organisations were the prevailing industrial relations climate was negative. The results also revealed that organisational age, size, ownership, structure, formalisation, decision-making, labour market, union-management consultation, communication were influenced and shaped the prevailing IRC. It also revealed that the prevailing IRC had impact on the levels of absenteeism and labour turnover.
- Full Text:
A comparative study of the Ugandan and South African labour dispute resolution systems
- Authors: Ninsiima, Diana
- Subjects: Labor disputes -- Uganda , Labor disputes -- South Africa , Labor -- Law and legislation -- Uganda , Labor -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- Uganda , Industrial relations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9437 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020908
- Description: The purpose of the study is to compare the dispute resolution systems of Uganda and South Africa. The historical developments of both systems were discussed so as to understand the factors that contributed to their growth or demise. From the study, it is clear to see that the Ugandan system’s development has been greatly affected with every regime change, between 1894 to the present. The developments that were tackled are closely related to various historical and political phases through which Uganda has passed and these significant periods are 1894- 1962 (pre-independence), 1962-1971 (Obote 1), 1971-1979 (Amin), 1980-1985 (Obote II), 1986- 2006 (NRM) and 2006 to the present Multi-party system. The South African system on the other hand is divided into four eras with the first one beginning from 1870 to 1948, the second era from 1948 to 1979, the third from 1979-1994 and the last era from 1994 to the present date. The South African system has been greatly influenced by the past government’s move to create a dual system of labour relations that was eventually removed. The two systems were compared using a framework created basing on literature by ILO (2013), Brand, Lotter, Mischke, & Steadman (1997) and Thompson (2010). The framework for comparison outlines the elements of a dispute resolution which include the nature of the dispute, coverage, processes, avenues and human resources. It further presents the criteria and possible indicators to evaluate the performance of the system which are legitimacy, efficiency, informality, affordability, accessibility, a full range of services, accountability and resources. The comparison highlighted the various differences between both countries. The study established differences in the nature of disputes as the Ugandan system does not differentiate between the different types of dispute unlike the South African system which differentiates them and has different avenues for their settlement, the fact that the South African system has a number of avenues to cater to the different types of disputes unlike the Ugandan system which only has one route beginning with the Labour officers and the Industrial court if unresolved. An evaluation of the performance of both systems brought to light the number of changes the Ugandan system has to undergo so as to meet the expectations of the International Labour Organisation and have an effective system. The South African system proves to be more legitimate, efficient, informal, affordable, and accessible than the Ugandan system. Further still the South African system provides a full range of services is more accountable and has enough resources when compared with the Ugandan system. Recommendations have been proposed at the end of the study, mainly for the Ugandan system as the South African system appears to be more advanced and more effective in dispute resolution by international standards. The recommendations suggested are creating an independent dispute resolution system, mass sensitisation on labour rights, accreditation of private agencies, create a separate dispute resolution system for the informal sector, proper routing of disputes, creation of an independent body to monitor the national system, encouraging the creation of more democratic workplaces, re-establish the industrial court and finally, employing and training more labour officers.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ninsiima, Diana
- Subjects: Labor disputes -- Uganda , Labor disputes -- South Africa , Labor -- Law and legislation -- Uganda , Labor -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Industrial relations -- Uganda , Industrial relations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9437 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020908
- Description: The purpose of the study is to compare the dispute resolution systems of Uganda and South Africa. The historical developments of both systems were discussed so as to understand the factors that contributed to their growth or demise. From the study, it is clear to see that the Ugandan system’s development has been greatly affected with every regime change, between 1894 to the present. The developments that were tackled are closely related to various historical and political phases through which Uganda has passed and these significant periods are 1894- 1962 (pre-independence), 1962-1971 (Obote 1), 1971-1979 (Amin), 1980-1985 (Obote II), 1986- 2006 (NRM) and 2006 to the present Multi-party system. The South African system on the other hand is divided into four eras with the first one beginning from 1870 to 1948, the second era from 1948 to 1979, the third from 1979-1994 and the last era from 1994 to the present date. The South African system has been greatly influenced by the past government’s move to create a dual system of labour relations that was eventually removed. The two systems were compared using a framework created basing on literature by ILO (2013), Brand, Lotter, Mischke, & Steadman (1997) and Thompson (2010). The framework for comparison outlines the elements of a dispute resolution which include the nature of the dispute, coverage, processes, avenues and human resources. It further presents the criteria and possible indicators to evaluate the performance of the system which are legitimacy, efficiency, informality, affordability, accessibility, a full range of services, accountability and resources. The comparison highlighted the various differences between both countries. The study established differences in the nature of disputes as the Ugandan system does not differentiate between the different types of dispute unlike the South African system which differentiates them and has different avenues for their settlement, the fact that the South African system has a number of avenues to cater to the different types of disputes unlike the Ugandan system which only has one route beginning with the Labour officers and the Industrial court if unresolved. An evaluation of the performance of both systems brought to light the number of changes the Ugandan system has to undergo so as to meet the expectations of the International Labour Organisation and have an effective system. The South African system proves to be more legitimate, efficient, informal, affordable, and accessible than the Ugandan system. Further still the South African system provides a full range of services is more accountable and has enough resources when compared with the Ugandan system. Recommendations have been proposed at the end of the study, mainly for the Ugandan system as the South African system appears to be more advanced and more effective in dispute resolution by international standards. The recommendations suggested are creating an independent dispute resolution system, mass sensitisation on labour rights, accreditation of private agencies, create a separate dispute resolution system for the informal sector, proper routing of disputes, creation of an independent body to monitor the national system, encouraging the creation of more democratic workplaces, re-establish the industrial court and finally, employing and training more labour officers.
- Full Text:
A flexible vehicle measurement system for modern automobile production
- Authors: Lichtenberg, Thilo
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- Quality control -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/546 , Automobile industry and trade -- Quality control -- South Africa
- Description: To stay competitive and to be able to sell high-class products in the modern automobile production it is absolutely necessary to check the quality standard of a manufactured vehicle. The normal measurement strategy to check the quality standard of a completely assembled car is through a complex measurement strategy whilst the vehicle is in the actual series production. This is an immensely time and money consuming process. Furthermore, measurement systems are fixed within a certain position and the flexible measurement of a produced vehicle is very difficult to realize. This project presents a measurement system compliant to all quality guidelines, with which it is possible to measure any mounted component from a completely assembled vehicle wherever and whenever required. For the first time it is possible to measure the vehicle quality and dimensional standard from the first body in white prototype assembled in production up to the completely assembled vehicle delivered to the customer. The result of this project is a measurement system that consists of a hardware tool and a specially programmed software add-on. The complete system could easily be carried to the vehicle that must be analysed. This gives a lot of advantages. Furthermore it is possible to use this developed technology for the whole Volkswagen Company including the other brands like Audi, Skoda and Seat.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lichtenberg, Thilo
- Subjects: Automobile industry and trade -- Quality control -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9632 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/546 , Automobile industry and trade -- Quality control -- South Africa
- Description: To stay competitive and to be able to sell high-class products in the modern automobile production it is absolutely necessary to check the quality standard of a manufactured vehicle. The normal measurement strategy to check the quality standard of a completely assembled car is through a complex measurement strategy whilst the vehicle is in the actual series production. This is an immensely time and money consuming process. Furthermore, measurement systems are fixed within a certain position and the flexible measurement of a produced vehicle is very difficult to realize. This project presents a measurement system compliant to all quality guidelines, with which it is possible to measure any mounted component from a completely assembled vehicle wherever and whenever required. For the first time it is possible to measure the vehicle quality and dimensional standard from the first body in white prototype assembled in production up to the completely assembled vehicle delivered to the customer. The result of this project is a measurement system that consists of a hardware tool and a specially programmed software add-on. The complete system could easily be carried to the vehicle that must be analysed. This gives a lot of advantages. Furthermore it is possible to use this developed technology for the whole Volkswagen Company including the other brands like Audi, Skoda and Seat.
- Full Text:
A linear model for valuating preferences of freshwater inflows into forty selected estuaries along the South African coastline
- Authors: Smith, Melnick Jurgen
- Subjects: Estuaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematical statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020916
- Description: According to the National Water Act of 1998, an estuary is an enclosed body of water that is either periodically or permanently open to the ocean. Within an estuary, the seawater is diluted to a measurable degree, creating a unique aquatic environment for animals and plants. Estuaries are environmental and economic assets to the population. The health status of our local estuaries, however, is being compromized due to a steady decrease in the freshwater inflow and supply. Tides and climatic conditions do have an impact upon the dynamics of an estuary, but these factors remain relatively constant throughout each year. The freshwater inflow and supply, however, are highly variable and are directly influenced by human involvement. Upstream abstraction for industrial and domestic use, for example, could lead to mouth closure where the ocean meets the river. The National Water Act of 1998 was established to address the lack of research and predominant mismanagement of freshwater inflow into South Africa’s estuaries (Allanson and Baird, 1999). To ensure proper water resource management, different water allocation costs and benefits need to be compared and analyzed to secure an optimum solution (Mlangeni, 2007). Like many environmental services yielded to man, estuary services are not traded in any markets. Alternative markets are thus sought to allow the estimation of the values of such services. Among the available valuation techniques are the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), Travel Cost Method (TCM) and Hedonic Pricing Method (HPM). The involved benefits of water allocations are predicted in this study by use of the CVM which elicits respondents’ willingness to pay (WTP) towards predetermined changes in freshwater inflow into estuaries. The CVM was applied throughout the Water Research Commission’s (WRC) Project K5/1413 from 2000 to 2008 (Hosking, 2010). Each individual study employed specialized surveys which ideally created a close correspondence between the answers provided by respondents to the supposed scenarios and their voluntary exchanges in markets should money actually have been handled (Mlangeni, 2007). Much criticism has been directed towards the CVM, but careful use and application of the method has been shown to produce significant and satisfactory results (Hosking, 2010). The primary aim of this study was to collectively analyze the collated data provided by the WRC and compare the results with the findings of previous studies. Each variable was analyzed separately in order to reveal any discrepancies between the respective findings. A supplementary objective of this study was to add to the body of knowledge pertaining to South Africa’s estuaries and guide management in the distribution of freshwater towards proficient levels (Du Preez and Hosking, 2010). The associated change in the cumulative consumer surplus with an increased freshwater supply into forty selected estuaries was therefore investigated. The subsequent benefits due to a superior freshwater supply are therefore reflected (Du Preez and Hosking, 2010). The data gathered by each of the individual researchers throughout their studies (supported by the WRC) were combined to form a single dataset including all recorded information supplied by the corresponding respondents. As the investigation progressed, improvements were made upon the questionnaires posed to the considered estuary populations. Consequently, some of the data in the combined dataset were “missing”, since previous studies did not include certain questions, while later studies omitted others. Data imputation was employed to create an imputed dataset, enabling the modeling of the public’s WTP through regression techniques. A linear model was utilized in this study, also incorporating interaction between the predictor variables. The double-log functional form was implemented to estimate the public’s WTP. The population’s total willingness to pay (TWTP) was further estimated by aggregation. A summary of the respective results is displayed in in Table 1.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Smith, Melnick Jurgen
- Subjects: Estuaries -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Mathematical statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10581 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020916
- Description: According to the National Water Act of 1998, an estuary is an enclosed body of water that is either periodically or permanently open to the ocean. Within an estuary, the seawater is diluted to a measurable degree, creating a unique aquatic environment for animals and plants. Estuaries are environmental and economic assets to the population. The health status of our local estuaries, however, is being compromized due to a steady decrease in the freshwater inflow and supply. Tides and climatic conditions do have an impact upon the dynamics of an estuary, but these factors remain relatively constant throughout each year. The freshwater inflow and supply, however, are highly variable and are directly influenced by human involvement. Upstream abstraction for industrial and domestic use, for example, could lead to mouth closure where the ocean meets the river. The National Water Act of 1998 was established to address the lack of research and predominant mismanagement of freshwater inflow into South Africa’s estuaries (Allanson and Baird, 1999). To ensure proper water resource management, different water allocation costs and benefits need to be compared and analyzed to secure an optimum solution (Mlangeni, 2007). Like many environmental services yielded to man, estuary services are not traded in any markets. Alternative markets are thus sought to allow the estimation of the values of such services. Among the available valuation techniques are the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), Travel Cost Method (TCM) and Hedonic Pricing Method (HPM). The involved benefits of water allocations are predicted in this study by use of the CVM which elicits respondents’ willingness to pay (WTP) towards predetermined changes in freshwater inflow into estuaries. The CVM was applied throughout the Water Research Commission’s (WRC) Project K5/1413 from 2000 to 2008 (Hosking, 2010). Each individual study employed specialized surveys which ideally created a close correspondence between the answers provided by respondents to the supposed scenarios and their voluntary exchanges in markets should money actually have been handled (Mlangeni, 2007). Much criticism has been directed towards the CVM, but careful use and application of the method has been shown to produce significant and satisfactory results (Hosking, 2010). The primary aim of this study was to collectively analyze the collated data provided by the WRC and compare the results with the findings of previous studies. Each variable was analyzed separately in order to reveal any discrepancies between the respective findings. A supplementary objective of this study was to add to the body of knowledge pertaining to South Africa’s estuaries and guide management in the distribution of freshwater towards proficient levels (Du Preez and Hosking, 2010). The associated change in the cumulative consumer surplus with an increased freshwater supply into forty selected estuaries was therefore investigated. The subsequent benefits due to a superior freshwater supply are therefore reflected (Du Preez and Hosking, 2010). The data gathered by each of the individual researchers throughout their studies (supported by the WRC) were combined to form a single dataset including all recorded information supplied by the corresponding respondents. As the investigation progressed, improvements were made upon the questionnaires posed to the considered estuary populations. Consequently, some of the data in the combined dataset were “missing”, since previous studies did not include certain questions, while later studies omitted others. Data imputation was employed to create an imputed dataset, enabling the modeling of the public’s WTP through regression techniques. A linear model was utilized in this study, also incorporating interaction between the predictor variables. The double-log functional form was implemented to estimate the public’s WTP. The population’s total willingness to pay (TWTP) was further estimated by aggregation. A summary of the respective results is displayed in in Table 1.
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An assessment of the attitudes influencing employees' intention to quit in two Port Elizabeth public sector hospitals
- Authors: Odeyemi, Hannah Olubunmi
- Subjects: Employees -- Attitudes , Employees -- Resignation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9433 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020432
- Description: Research problem: The Port Elizabeth hospital complex is faced with many staff-related challenges including the difficulty of retaining staff. Factors such as salaries, work environment, work injury, work related stress, personal growth and development opportunities, advancement and promotion opportunities, relationships with supervisor(s), are among the issues that contribute and have been found to be some of the factors affecting employees’ perceptions and attitudes towards their work and ultimately to their intentions to stay or leave. Research objectives: To address the research problem, research objectives and questions were established. The main objective of the research was to investigate the perceptions and attitudes influencing the employees’ intention to quit their jobs within the hospital complex. The key perceptions and attitudes that were measured were; job satisfaction, perceived organisational support and organisational commitment. The secondary objective of the study was to determine, from a list of predetermined factors, which were related to job satisfaction, perceived organisational support and organisational commitment and the intention to quit. Research questions: Four research questions were established and these were: What are the employee perceptions and attitudes towards the organisation and their work in the organisation? In particular how satisfied are the employees with their jobs (job satisfaction), how committed are they to the organisation (organisational commitment), how do they perceive the support within the organisation (perceived organisational support) and do they intend to remain with the organisation (intention to quit measured as the intention to stay). What are the most important factors contributing to job satisfaction, perceived organisational support, organisational commitment and intention to quit? (Measured as the intention to stay). What is the relationship between the sub-groups, identified as gender, race, nationality, occupational level, age, hospital, and length of tenure and job satisfaction, perceived organisational support and organisational commitment? What is the relationship between the sub-groups, identified as gender, race, nationality, occupational level, age, hospital, and length of tenure and intention to quit (measured as the intention to stay)? Research design: The nature of this research was a descriptive study collecting quantitative data. A self-administered survey questionnaire was used to collect information regarding employee perceptions and attitudes towards various aspects of their working conditions, their perceptions and attitudes towards the organisation and their intention to remain with the organisation. Major findings: The result of the survey showed that organisational commitment and positive organizational support are practically significantly positively correlated with the intention to stay. However, it was discovered that job satisfaction was statistically significantly positively correlated to intention to stay. The nine factors that were measured were found to be antecedents for all the three constructs of job satisfaction, organizational commitment and perceived organizational support. However, the factors that were also correlated with the intention to stay were promotion opportunities, nature of the work, communication and leader-member exchange.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Odeyemi, Hannah Olubunmi
- Subjects: Employees -- Attitudes , Employees -- Resignation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Organizational commitment -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9433 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020432
- Description: Research problem: The Port Elizabeth hospital complex is faced with many staff-related challenges including the difficulty of retaining staff. Factors such as salaries, work environment, work injury, work related stress, personal growth and development opportunities, advancement and promotion opportunities, relationships with supervisor(s), are among the issues that contribute and have been found to be some of the factors affecting employees’ perceptions and attitudes towards their work and ultimately to their intentions to stay or leave. Research objectives: To address the research problem, research objectives and questions were established. The main objective of the research was to investigate the perceptions and attitudes influencing the employees’ intention to quit their jobs within the hospital complex. The key perceptions and attitudes that were measured were; job satisfaction, perceived organisational support and organisational commitment. The secondary objective of the study was to determine, from a list of predetermined factors, which were related to job satisfaction, perceived organisational support and organisational commitment and the intention to quit. Research questions: Four research questions were established and these were: What are the employee perceptions and attitudes towards the organisation and their work in the organisation? In particular how satisfied are the employees with their jobs (job satisfaction), how committed are they to the organisation (organisational commitment), how do they perceive the support within the organisation (perceived organisational support) and do they intend to remain with the organisation (intention to quit measured as the intention to stay). What are the most important factors contributing to job satisfaction, perceived organisational support, organisational commitment and intention to quit? (Measured as the intention to stay). What is the relationship between the sub-groups, identified as gender, race, nationality, occupational level, age, hospital, and length of tenure and job satisfaction, perceived organisational support and organisational commitment? What is the relationship between the sub-groups, identified as gender, race, nationality, occupational level, age, hospital, and length of tenure and intention to quit (measured as the intention to stay)? Research design: The nature of this research was a descriptive study collecting quantitative data. A self-administered survey questionnaire was used to collect information regarding employee perceptions and attitudes towards various aspects of their working conditions, their perceptions and attitudes towards the organisation and their intention to remain with the organisation. Major findings: The result of the survey showed that organisational commitment and positive organizational support are practically significantly positively correlated with the intention to stay. However, it was discovered that job satisfaction was statistically significantly positively correlated to intention to stay. The nine factors that were measured were found to be antecedents for all the three constructs of job satisfaction, organizational commitment and perceived organizational support. However, the factors that were also correlated with the intention to stay were promotion opportunities, nature of the work, communication and leader-member exchange.
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An investigation : Cala Bakery as regards to the income sustainability of 8 project members
- Dingiswayo, Nomkhitha Mfuskazi
- Authors: Dingiswayo, Nomkhitha Mfuskazi
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8829 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019763
- Description: This research report investigated the effects of a poverty alleviation project, the Cala bakery, on the community members of the Sakhisizwe Municipality in the Eastern Cape. This chapter provides a background to the study and also provides an introduction to the research report by discussing the relevance and problem statement, the research questions, sample and setting, research design and methodology and finally considers the ethical implications of the investigation. May 1997 described South Africa as being a developing nation with the majority of households in poverty, and having unequal distribution of income and wealth. Due to this, the democratic government of 1994 had adopted pro poor policy that focused on social services which its budget increases every year. Within this realm, poverty alleviation projects remained an important component of the government‟s challenge of tackling poverty (May, 1997). After almost 16 years of democracy in South Africa, poverty and unemployment remained a major challenge facing government in provision of basic services (Shasha, 2004). South Africa continued to be characterised by a large scale of unemployment and poverty in the formal sector of the economy in both rural and urban areas (Shasha & Liesle, 2004).Although there was poverty throughout South Africa, poverty was distributed unevenly among the nine provinces of the country. The Eastern Cape, Limpopo and Free State provinces have the highest poverty rates especially among the rural areas (DOS, 2009). The only people who survived poverty in the South African country were people that were well to do, people that could be able to make economic gains. Those people who were unemployed found themselves in debt, as it had been identified that a majority of homes and people do not save. This was due to being a country depending on social welfare services which resulted to disserving of people and to unsustainable levels of household debts. These debts were usually based on social, economic and psychological problems (Shasha & Liesle, 2004). In response, the South African government introduced community based projects whose operation was limited to a particular neighbourhood, and were run and managed by the local members of a community. The white paper for social welfare 1997 had encouraged the establishment of income generating projects which were run and managed by the group of community members who were predominantly unemployed people. The Department of Social Development (DOS, 2004) had further emphasised that these people had to include unemployed youth and that the project beneficiaries would not come from the same household to ensure that the initiative was touching a number of households within the community(DOS, 2004). Furthermore, these government intervention programmes aimed to reduce unemployment and poverty in South Africa by encouraging people to reduce poverty by themselves (Shasha, 2004). An example of one of these programmes was the Cala Development Project. The Cala community‟s youth had a business idea of producing baked products for the community and the surrounding areas. The purpose was to bring people together in order to reduce poverty and unemployment, specifically targeting young people who were household heads. The project has 8 beneficiaries that were committed to working together in this project, with the aim of producing baked foods.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dingiswayo, Nomkhitha Mfuskazi
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Finance , Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8829 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019763
- Description: This research report investigated the effects of a poverty alleviation project, the Cala bakery, on the community members of the Sakhisizwe Municipality in the Eastern Cape. This chapter provides a background to the study and also provides an introduction to the research report by discussing the relevance and problem statement, the research questions, sample and setting, research design and methodology and finally considers the ethical implications of the investigation. May 1997 described South Africa as being a developing nation with the majority of households in poverty, and having unequal distribution of income and wealth. Due to this, the democratic government of 1994 had adopted pro poor policy that focused on social services which its budget increases every year. Within this realm, poverty alleviation projects remained an important component of the government‟s challenge of tackling poverty (May, 1997). After almost 16 years of democracy in South Africa, poverty and unemployment remained a major challenge facing government in provision of basic services (Shasha, 2004). South Africa continued to be characterised by a large scale of unemployment and poverty in the formal sector of the economy in both rural and urban areas (Shasha & Liesle, 2004).Although there was poverty throughout South Africa, poverty was distributed unevenly among the nine provinces of the country. The Eastern Cape, Limpopo and Free State provinces have the highest poverty rates especially among the rural areas (DOS, 2009). The only people who survived poverty in the South African country were people that were well to do, people that could be able to make economic gains. Those people who were unemployed found themselves in debt, as it had been identified that a majority of homes and people do not save. This was due to being a country depending on social welfare services which resulted to disserving of people and to unsustainable levels of household debts. These debts were usually based on social, economic and psychological problems (Shasha & Liesle, 2004). In response, the South African government introduced community based projects whose operation was limited to a particular neighbourhood, and were run and managed by the local members of a community. The white paper for social welfare 1997 had encouraged the establishment of income generating projects which were run and managed by the group of community members who were predominantly unemployed people. The Department of Social Development (DOS, 2004) had further emphasised that these people had to include unemployed youth and that the project beneficiaries would not come from the same household to ensure that the initiative was touching a number of households within the community(DOS, 2004). Furthermore, these government intervention programmes aimed to reduce unemployment and poverty in South Africa by encouraging people to reduce poverty by themselves (Shasha, 2004). An example of one of these programmes was the Cala Development Project. The Cala community‟s youth had a business idea of producing baked products for the community and the surrounding areas. The purpose was to bring people together in order to reduce poverty and unemployment, specifically targeting young people who were household heads. The project has 8 beneficiaries that were committed to working together in this project, with the aim of producing baked foods.
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An investigation into the factors in the Chinese market that influence wine imports from South Africa
- Authors: Xiaobin, Li
- Subjects: Wine industry -- Marketing , Wine industry -- South Africa , Economic assistance, Chinese
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1177 , Wine industry -- Marketing , Wine industry -- South Africa , Economic assistance, Chinese
- Description: As an important part of a nation’s history and culture, South African wine industry contributes vastly towards South Africa’s economy and job creation. However, under the influence of the widespread globalisation, South African wineries have to face many new issues and challenges. How to expand their overseas markets and obtain a sustainable development mode has drawn more attention from South African entrepreneurs in this field. Due to the rapid economic development and the huge population, China can provide a market with enormous potential to South African wineries. The fast growing trade between the two countries can also bring opportunities to South African entrepreneurs to explore the Chinese market. Therefore, it is necessary and vital for South African wineries to understand the Chinese market and the factors that influence wine imports from South Africa before they enter the wine market in China. The research problem addressed in this study was to investigate the factors in the Chinese market that influence wine imports from South Africa. To achieve this objective, a literature study was undertaken to probe the various aspects of the wine market in China, including the characteristics, the status quo and the development trends of this market. The driving factors that attribute to a great increase in wine consumption in China were also explored and discussed. Based on the literature study, a survey questionnaire was developed to obtain the empirical data. By means of comparison and integration of the findings of the empirical survey with the literature study, the results were obtained for solving the research problems. In addition, conclusions and recommendations iii were drawn to assist South African wineries and other marketers in choosing appropriate marketing strategies and avoiding potential risks.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Xiaobin, Li
- Subjects: Wine industry -- Marketing , Wine industry -- South Africa , Economic assistance, Chinese
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9343 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1177 , Wine industry -- Marketing , Wine industry -- South Africa , Economic assistance, Chinese
- Description: As an important part of a nation’s history and culture, South African wine industry contributes vastly towards South Africa’s economy and job creation. However, under the influence of the widespread globalisation, South African wineries have to face many new issues and challenges. How to expand their overseas markets and obtain a sustainable development mode has drawn more attention from South African entrepreneurs in this field. Due to the rapid economic development and the huge population, China can provide a market with enormous potential to South African wineries. The fast growing trade between the two countries can also bring opportunities to South African entrepreneurs to explore the Chinese market. Therefore, it is necessary and vital for South African wineries to understand the Chinese market and the factors that influence wine imports from South Africa before they enter the wine market in China. The research problem addressed in this study was to investigate the factors in the Chinese market that influence wine imports from South Africa. To achieve this objective, a literature study was undertaken to probe the various aspects of the wine market in China, including the characteristics, the status quo and the development trends of this market. The driving factors that attribute to a great increase in wine consumption in China were also explored and discussed. Based on the literature study, a survey questionnaire was developed to obtain the empirical data. By means of comparison and integration of the findings of the empirical survey with the literature study, the results were obtained for solving the research problems. In addition, conclusions and recommendations iii were drawn to assist South African wineries and other marketers in choosing appropriate marketing strategies and avoiding potential risks.
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An investigation into the localization of peptide-gold nanoparticles in an in vitro and in vivo colorectal cancer model
- Authors: Cairncross, Lynn
- Subjects: Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer -- Treatment , Cancer -- Early detection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10351 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020921
- Description: Background: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and cause of related deaths worldwide. Early colorectal cancer diagnosis is vital in reducing incidence and mortality. There is a need for the development of non-invasive screening tools for enhancing the detection of the disease. Cancer specific peptides are useful cancer targeting agents that can be used to specifically improve early detection strategies. Several cancer targeting peptides have been identified. Previous work investigated the specific binding of three of these peptides (p.C, p.L and p.14) conjugated to quantum dots and were found to bind to colorectal cancer cell lines (HT-29 and Caco-2). However, their uptake, localization and biodistribution in an in vitro and in vivo colorectal cancer model have not been determined. This is essential in gaining an understanding for future diagnostic or therapeutic based applications. Primary Aim: The aim of this study was investigate the localization of three selected peptides p.C, p.L and p.14 conjugated to gold nanoparticles in an in vitro and in vivo colorectal cancer model using HRTEM. Methodology: The AuNP/peptide conjugates were characterized by HRTEM and DLS. For in vitro studies; HT-29, Caco-2 and C3A cells were exposed to the AuNP-p.C, AuNP-p.L and AuNP-p.14, collected and processed for HRTEM to assess targeting and localization. For in vivo studies; the establishment of a colorectal cancer model using the AOM/DSS model 1 and 2 was conducted. Wistar rats were assigned to 6 groups, five experimental and 1 control group. Group 1 received AOM/DSS method 1 and was treated with AuNP-p.L. Group 2 and 3 received AOM/DSS method 2 and were treated with AuNP-p.C and AuNP-p.14. Group 4 and 5 remained healthy and treated with AuNP-p.C and AuNP-p.14. Group 6 remained healthy receiving no nanoparticle treatment. After treatment, rats were sacrificed and tissue was processed for HRTEM. Tissue chosen for HRTEM analysis included: Group 1 (inflamed colon, rectum, pancreatic and kidney), Group 4 (kidney) and Group 5 (liver). Results: results obtained from nanoparticle characterization suggested that nanoparticles were conjugated to their respective peptides and were stable in dispersion. For in vitro studies, results suggested no AuNP targeting and localization in HT-29 cell lines. For in vivo studies, no colorectal cancer tumours were induced. TEM micrographs did not indicate the presence of nanoparticles in colon, rectum, pancreatic, kidney and liver tissue. However, AuNPs were found in the kidney tissue (group 4). Conclusion: Although the overall objectives were not met, this study provided insight into TEM cell preparation and optimization for future nanoparticle cell interaction research. This study also demonstrated the absence of AuNPs in healthy tissue and the presence of AuNPs in healthy kidney tissue through renal clearance, a favourable quality for diagnostic or therapeutic applications.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cairncross, Lynn
- Subjects: Colon (Anatomy) -- Cancer -- Treatment , Cancer -- Early detection
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10351 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020921
- Description: Background: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and cause of related deaths worldwide. Early colorectal cancer diagnosis is vital in reducing incidence and mortality. There is a need for the development of non-invasive screening tools for enhancing the detection of the disease. Cancer specific peptides are useful cancer targeting agents that can be used to specifically improve early detection strategies. Several cancer targeting peptides have been identified. Previous work investigated the specific binding of three of these peptides (p.C, p.L and p.14) conjugated to quantum dots and were found to bind to colorectal cancer cell lines (HT-29 and Caco-2). However, their uptake, localization and biodistribution in an in vitro and in vivo colorectal cancer model have not been determined. This is essential in gaining an understanding for future diagnostic or therapeutic based applications. Primary Aim: The aim of this study was investigate the localization of three selected peptides p.C, p.L and p.14 conjugated to gold nanoparticles in an in vitro and in vivo colorectal cancer model using HRTEM. Methodology: The AuNP/peptide conjugates were characterized by HRTEM and DLS. For in vitro studies; HT-29, Caco-2 and C3A cells were exposed to the AuNP-p.C, AuNP-p.L and AuNP-p.14, collected and processed for HRTEM to assess targeting and localization. For in vivo studies; the establishment of a colorectal cancer model using the AOM/DSS model 1 and 2 was conducted. Wistar rats were assigned to 6 groups, five experimental and 1 control group. Group 1 received AOM/DSS method 1 and was treated with AuNP-p.L. Group 2 and 3 received AOM/DSS method 2 and were treated with AuNP-p.C and AuNP-p.14. Group 4 and 5 remained healthy and treated with AuNP-p.C and AuNP-p.14. Group 6 remained healthy receiving no nanoparticle treatment. After treatment, rats were sacrificed and tissue was processed for HRTEM. Tissue chosen for HRTEM analysis included: Group 1 (inflamed colon, rectum, pancreatic and kidney), Group 4 (kidney) and Group 5 (liver). Results: results obtained from nanoparticle characterization suggested that nanoparticles were conjugated to their respective peptides and were stable in dispersion. For in vitro studies, results suggested no AuNP targeting and localization in HT-29 cell lines. For in vivo studies, no colorectal cancer tumours were induced. TEM micrographs did not indicate the presence of nanoparticles in colon, rectum, pancreatic, kidney and liver tissue. However, AuNPs were found in the kidney tissue (group 4). Conclusion: Although the overall objectives were not met, this study provided insight into TEM cell preparation and optimization for future nanoparticle cell interaction research. This study also demonstrated the absence of AuNPs in healthy tissue and the presence of AuNPs in healthy kidney tissue through renal clearance, a favourable quality for diagnostic or therapeutic applications.
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An investigation into the success of the extended programmes at Walter Sisulu University, with particular reference to throughput rate
- Authors: Solilo, Nikiwe Primrose
- Subjects: Walter Sisulu University for Technology & Science , College dropouts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , College attendance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8893 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020871
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the success of the Extended Programme at Walter Sisulu University, with particular reference to throughput rates. Programmes offered by the institution to students are intervention measures to assist in improving student retention. This research investigated the role of the university with regards to retaining engineering students at Buffalo City. Also discussed will be the impact of financial support or lack thereof to paying for academic education. Lastly, the discussion will focus on Extended Programme courses offered to students and their impact on retention of students. Through Tinto’s model, Koen discussed that institutions have a responsibility for integrating academic and social activities to create holistic competent students (2007:65). It was also discovered that the institution through the Centre for Learning and Teaching Development (CLTD), offers services that benefit both students and lecturers. Merriam found out that the key to understanding qualitative research is the idea that meaning is socially constructed by individuals in their interaction with the world, (2002:3). This study called for qualitative research to get meaning from each participant. The research was conducted using questionnaires to both students and lecturers. The investigation discovered that an education institution is not only about academic studies. Data was collected and analysed using qualitative methods which included coding and colouring of responses. Research deduced that lecturers and students conclusively complained about the poor infrastructure of the university. It has been found that students think about their educational development, their personal growth and development, their employability and their prospects for career preparation or change (Moxley 2001:39). When students have this kind of attitude it means they have the courage to get through the choice no matter what challenges they face (2004: 212). According to Moxley, members of staff who expand their roles into tutorials, independent studies and small group projects, could be a pivotal strategy of the institutional retention mission, (2001:39). This is supported by Coetzee who state that lecturers should provide students with feedback quickly, promote independent thinking, guide and motivate students (2001:31).
- Full Text:
- Authors: Solilo, Nikiwe Primrose
- Subjects: Walter Sisulu University for Technology & Science , College dropouts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , College attendance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Academic achievement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Education, Higher -- South Africa , Universities and colleges -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8893 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020871
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the success of the Extended Programme at Walter Sisulu University, with particular reference to throughput rates. Programmes offered by the institution to students are intervention measures to assist in improving student retention. This research investigated the role of the university with regards to retaining engineering students at Buffalo City. Also discussed will be the impact of financial support or lack thereof to paying for academic education. Lastly, the discussion will focus on Extended Programme courses offered to students and their impact on retention of students. Through Tinto’s model, Koen discussed that institutions have a responsibility for integrating academic and social activities to create holistic competent students (2007:65). It was also discovered that the institution through the Centre for Learning and Teaching Development (CLTD), offers services that benefit both students and lecturers. Merriam found out that the key to understanding qualitative research is the idea that meaning is socially constructed by individuals in their interaction with the world, (2002:3). This study called for qualitative research to get meaning from each participant. The research was conducted using questionnaires to both students and lecturers. The investigation discovered that an education institution is not only about academic studies. Data was collected and analysed using qualitative methods which included coding and colouring of responses. Research deduced that lecturers and students conclusively complained about the poor infrastructure of the university. It has been found that students think about their educational development, their personal growth and development, their employability and their prospects for career preparation or change (Moxley 2001:39). When students have this kind of attitude it means they have the courage to get through the choice no matter what challenges they face (2004: 212). According to Moxley, members of staff who expand their roles into tutorials, independent studies and small group projects, could be a pivotal strategy of the institutional retention mission, (2001:39). This is supported by Coetzee who state that lecturers should provide students with feedback quickly, promote independent thinking, guide and motivate students (2001:31).
- Full Text:
Assessing the implementation of the performance management system in the Malawian civil service : an application of the Burke and Liwin model
- Authors: Gunchi, Humphreys Kalele
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Malawi -- Evaluation , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020363
- Description: The research assessed the implementation of the Performance Management System (PMS) in the Malawian civil service using a change diagnostic model called ‘causal model of organisational performance change’ by Burke and Litwin (1992). The motivation for the research topic comes from a background of the Malawi Government’s goal of improving service delivery to the public. The government launched the performance management system as one of the change interventions that would assist in achieving its service provision goal. For the achievement of the service provision goals, the PMS had to be implemented effectively. Using an integrative approach, the research employed both qualitative and quantitative methods to obtain data that was structured around the organisational elements of the Burke-Litwin model. Using purposive sampling, 195 departments in the Malawian Civil Service formed the population from which the sample was drawn. Of the 195 departments, 69 departments, represented by an officer from each department, participated in the study. Three departments namely; The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), The Department of Human Resource Management and Development (DHRMD) and The Civil Service Commission (CSC) were included in the sample in addition to the 69 departments. These three departments were chosen due to their involvement in the formulation and implementation of the Performance Management System (PMS). Information from the three departments was obtained through interviews while questionnaires were administered to the remaining sample subjects. The research found that both the transformational and transactional factors were lacking in supporting the implementation of the PMS in Malawian civil service. Fundamental prerequisites like systems’ compatibility, assessment of enabling culture and amendments of relevant laws were not considered before the implementation of the system. Upon commencement of the implementation process the support from political leaders and donors declined and the evaluation process lacked inclusion of key stakeholders. The current research expands the application of the Burke-Litwin model in assessing the ‘post change intervention’ implementation processes. The findings could possibly provide valuable input in the form of the following recommendations: The government should consider working on the culture of the civil servants, the capacity of the implementing structure of PMS, the evaluation of the PMS and the prerequisites for the programme. The government should consider being inclusive when evaluating PMS and in assessing the performance of employees, and lastly, there is need to fully utilise technology and the functional position of stakeholders like the Civil Service Commission.
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- Authors: Gunchi, Humphreys Kalele
- Subjects: Organizational change -- Malawi -- Evaluation , Performance -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020363
- Description: The research assessed the implementation of the Performance Management System (PMS) in the Malawian civil service using a change diagnostic model called ‘causal model of organisational performance change’ by Burke and Litwin (1992). The motivation for the research topic comes from a background of the Malawi Government’s goal of improving service delivery to the public. The government launched the performance management system as one of the change interventions that would assist in achieving its service provision goal. For the achievement of the service provision goals, the PMS had to be implemented effectively. Using an integrative approach, the research employed both qualitative and quantitative methods to obtain data that was structured around the organisational elements of the Burke-Litwin model. Using purposive sampling, 195 departments in the Malawian Civil Service formed the population from which the sample was drawn. Of the 195 departments, 69 departments, represented by an officer from each department, participated in the study. Three departments namely; The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), The Department of Human Resource Management and Development (DHRMD) and The Civil Service Commission (CSC) were included in the sample in addition to the 69 departments. These three departments were chosen due to their involvement in the formulation and implementation of the Performance Management System (PMS). Information from the three departments was obtained through interviews while questionnaires were administered to the remaining sample subjects. The research found that both the transformational and transactional factors were lacking in supporting the implementation of the PMS in Malawian civil service. Fundamental prerequisites like systems’ compatibility, assessment of enabling culture and amendments of relevant laws were not considered before the implementation of the system. Upon commencement of the implementation process the support from political leaders and donors declined and the evaluation process lacked inclusion of key stakeholders. The current research expands the application of the Burke-Litwin model in assessing the ‘post change intervention’ implementation processes. The findings could possibly provide valuable input in the form of the following recommendations: The government should consider working on the culture of the civil servants, the capacity of the implementing structure of PMS, the evaluation of the PMS and the prerequisites for the programme. The government should consider being inclusive when evaluating PMS and in assessing the performance of employees, and lastly, there is need to fully utilise technology and the functional position of stakeholders like the Civil Service Commission.
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Causal layered analysis of South Africa's inclusion in BRICS
- Maliti, Viwe Anda Ntombikayise
- Authors: Maliti, Viwe Anda Ntombikayise
- Subjects: South Africa -- Foreign economic relations , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations , BRIC countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8922 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021123
- Description: This treatise is undertaken with the purpose of investigating, through the application of the critical futures technique, causal layered analysis (CLA), the case for South Africa’s inclusion in the BRICS alliance. CLA is explored as a technique that allows for the creation of transformative knowledge which contextualises our reality, enabling techniques for exploring different alternatives that lead to outcomes. In an attempt to understand the unique features that underscore these emerging economies and why they are considered the engines behind global economic growth, the member states’ economies are systematically deconstructed. By analysing key economic variables, strengths and weaknesses, CLA allows for the development of conclusive narratives regarding the legitimacy of all BRICS economies. This study discusses the motivation for the formation of this alliance and its role in the global economy. It demonstrates and sorts out the different views concerning its dreams and aspirations. The all-inclusive nature of CLA allows for the consideration of a wide range of perspectives that seek to clarify motives behind the convergence of the BRICS economies to form an alliance. South Africa’s membership is assessed, using both the economic and political schools of thought. On a balance of a number of dominant views, considered valid, that either support or reject the inclusion of South Africa, this study demonstrates that whether or not it belongs amongst the major emerging countries is an absurd question. It thus proposes that a pertinent question to ask is one that explores ways in which South Africa can effectively capitalise on its BRICS membership to drive its own economic growth.
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- Authors: Maliti, Viwe Anda Ntombikayise
- Subjects: South Africa -- Foreign economic relations , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations , BRIC countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8922 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021123
- Description: This treatise is undertaken with the purpose of investigating, through the application of the critical futures technique, causal layered analysis (CLA), the case for South Africa’s inclusion in the BRICS alliance. CLA is explored as a technique that allows for the creation of transformative knowledge which contextualises our reality, enabling techniques for exploring different alternatives that lead to outcomes. In an attempt to understand the unique features that underscore these emerging economies and why they are considered the engines behind global economic growth, the member states’ economies are systematically deconstructed. By analysing key economic variables, strengths and weaknesses, CLA allows for the development of conclusive narratives regarding the legitimacy of all BRICS economies. This study discusses the motivation for the formation of this alliance and its role in the global economy. It demonstrates and sorts out the different views concerning its dreams and aspirations. The all-inclusive nature of CLA allows for the consideration of a wide range of perspectives that seek to clarify motives behind the convergence of the BRICS economies to form an alliance. South Africa’s membership is assessed, using both the economic and political schools of thought. On a balance of a number of dominant views, considered valid, that either support or reject the inclusion of South Africa, this study demonstrates that whether or not it belongs amongst the major emerging countries is an absurd question. It thus proposes that a pertinent question to ask is one that explores ways in which South Africa can effectively capitalise on its BRICS membership to drive its own economic growth.
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Characterizing the influence of process variables in laser cladding Al-20WT%Si onto an Aluminium Substrate
- Authors: Von Wielligh, Louis George
- Subjects: Lasers -- Industrial applications , Metal cladding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9625 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/721 , Lasers -- Industrial applications , Metal cladding
- Description: The research investigated the application of continuous coaxial laser cladding by powder injection as a surface treatment or coating process. The investigation aimed to establish the relationship between a change in the main laser cladding process variables and the geometry and characteristics of an Al-20wt-Si single pass clad layer formed on an Al 1370-F substrate using a Nd:YAG laser. The main process variables considered were: laser power, laser scanning velocity and the powder feed rate. The relationship between a change in the main laser cladding process variables and the geometry and characteristics of the clad layer was established by statistically analysing the variation in the process response with a change in the main laser cladding process variables. The process variables were varied based on a full-factorial, experimentally optimized test matrix. The clad geometry which is mainly defined by: the clad height, width, clad aspect ratio, depth of alloy penetration, and the clad root angle/wetting angle was investigated. In addition to the clad geometry several clad characteristics were investigated such as the dilution of the clad layer in the substrate material, the Vickers microhardness and microstructure of the clad crosssection, the powder efficiency of the process and the amount of visible defects. The study successfully established the relationship between the main laser cladding process variables and the clad geometry and characteristics. The secondary objective of establishing a suitable processing window by considering the relationship mentioned above was only partially met since it is believed that further refinement of the experimental cladding test setup and therefore also the experimental variable test levels is required.
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- Authors: Von Wielligh, Louis George
- Subjects: Lasers -- Industrial applications , Metal cladding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: vital:9625 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/721 , Lasers -- Industrial applications , Metal cladding
- Description: The research investigated the application of continuous coaxial laser cladding by powder injection as a surface treatment or coating process. The investigation aimed to establish the relationship between a change in the main laser cladding process variables and the geometry and characteristics of an Al-20wt-Si single pass clad layer formed on an Al 1370-F substrate using a Nd:YAG laser. The main process variables considered were: laser power, laser scanning velocity and the powder feed rate. The relationship between a change in the main laser cladding process variables and the geometry and characteristics of the clad layer was established by statistically analysing the variation in the process response with a change in the main laser cladding process variables. The process variables were varied based on a full-factorial, experimentally optimized test matrix. The clad geometry which is mainly defined by: the clad height, width, clad aspect ratio, depth of alloy penetration, and the clad root angle/wetting angle was investigated. In addition to the clad geometry several clad characteristics were investigated such as the dilution of the clad layer in the substrate material, the Vickers microhardness and microstructure of the clad crosssection, the powder efficiency of the process and the amount of visible defects. The study successfully established the relationship between the main laser cladding process variables and the clad geometry and characteristics. The secondary objective of establishing a suitable processing window by considering the relationship mentioned above was only partially met since it is believed that further refinement of the experimental cladding test setup and therefore also the experimental variable test levels is required.
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Clinical psychologists' perceived barriers to the provision of psychological services for people with first-episode schizophrenia in urban public health care settings
- Barnwell, Garret Christopher
- Authors: Barnwell, Garret Christopher
- Subjects: Clinical psychologists -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Schizophrenia -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Urban health -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Health facilities -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10083 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020304
- Description: This study explored and described the perception of clinical psychologists regarding thebarriers to the provision of psychological services in urban public health settings for people with first-episode schizophrenia. The qualitative research study utilised an explorative, descriptive interpretive research design. Purposive sampling was utilised to gain access to clinical psychologists, who had at least two years of public health experience working with people recently diagnosed with schizophrenia. Data was gathered from 11 participants from the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District of the Eastern Cape by means of in-depth interviews that were conducted in English by the researcher until data saturation had occurred. A computer-assisted qualitative thematic analysis of the collected data was conducted using NVIVO software. The findings have been categorised according to three broad domains: 1)contextual barriers 2)health care system-related barriers and 3)first-episode schizophrenia syndrome-related barriers. Several specific sub-themes were identified for each of these main domains allowing for recommendations and suggestions to be provided for attending to and overcoming these perceived barriers.
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- Authors: Barnwell, Garret Christopher
- Subjects: Clinical psychologists -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Schizophrenia -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Urban health -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Health facilities -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality -- Administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10083 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020304
- Description: This study explored and described the perception of clinical psychologists regarding thebarriers to the provision of psychological services in urban public health settings for people with first-episode schizophrenia. The qualitative research study utilised an explorative, descriptive interpretive research design. Purposive sampling was utilised to gain access to clinical psychologists, who had at least two years of public health experience working with people recently diagnosed with schizophrenia. Data was gathered from 11 participants from the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District of the Eastern Cape by means of in-depth interviews that were conducted in English by the researcher until data saturation had occurred. A computer-assisted qualitative thematic analysis of the collected data was conducted using NVIVO software. The findings have been categorised according to three broad domains: 1)contextual barriers 2)health care system-related barriers and 3)first-episode schizophrenia syndrome-related barriers. Several specific sub-themes were identified for each of these main domains allowing for recommendations and suggestions to be provided for attending to and overcoming these perceived barriers.
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Develoment of a navigation system for an autonomous guided vehicle using android technology
- Authors: Snyman, Christo Johannes
- Subjects: Automated guided vehicle systems , Global Positioning System
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering (Mechatronics)
- Identifier: vital:9660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020917
- Description: Modern cell phone hardware, due to its integrated peripherals, provides a low cost intelligent controller for use in the navigation of an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV). Most commercial AGV’s use proprietary hardware which is expensive to replace and also difficult to maintain. Using industrial hardware components combined with Android mobile platforms could provide a low-cost alternative. This would be easier to maintain, using existing in-house factory maintenance knowledge. A prototype AGV was designed and developed based on an integrated system between an industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and an Android operating system mobile platform. This system utilises the mobile platforms integrated Global Position System (GPS) or video camera as tools for navigation. Experimental tests were performed to determine whether the prototype can navigate a predefined course by making use of GPS and camera line following algorithms. The accuracy of the line following algorithm was influenced by the speed at which the research AGV moved. Mounting the Android camera higher above the ground improved the vision and therefore accuracy of the algorithm. The GPS algorithm successfully navigated to various waypoints. The accuracy of the implemented GPS unit on the Android device is its limitation. The research unit was only capable of reaching a waypoint consistently within a three-metre radius.
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- Authors: Snyman, Christo Johannes
- Subjects: Automated guided vehicle systems , Global Positioning System
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEngineering (Mechatronics)
- Identifier: vital:9660 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020917
- Description: Modern cell phone hardware, due to its integrated peripherals, provides a low cost intelligent controller for use in the navigation of an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV). Most commercial AGV’s use proprietary hardware which is expensive to replace and also difficult to maintain. Using industrial hardware components combined with Android mobile platforms could provide a low-cost alternative. This would be easier to maintain, using existing in-house factory maintenance knowledge. A prototype AGV was designed and developed based on an integrated system between an industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and an Android operating system mobile platform. This system utilises the mobile platforms integrated Global Position System (GPS) or video camera as tools for navigation. Experimental tests were performed to determine whether the prototype can navigate a predefined course by making use of GPS and camera line following algorithms. The accuracy of the line following algorithm was influenced by the speed at which the research AGV moved. Mounting the Android camera higher above the ground improved the vision and therefore accuracy of the algorithm. The GPS algorithm successfully navigated to various waypoints. The accuracy of the implemented GPS unit on the Android device is its limitation. The research unit was only capable of reaching a waypoint consistently within a three-metre radius.
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Employee attitudes in a South African metropole post-implementation of the 2010 wage curve collective agreement
- Authors: Somgede-Tshikila, Pateka
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Organizational commitment -- South Africa , Collective labor agreements -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9436 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020901
- Description: The study will investigate how the workers of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality in the Department of Roads and Stormwater (Eastern region) feel about their jobs in terms of job satisfaction. Furthermore, the study will investigate how they feel about commitment to the union, commitment to the organisation, and management satisfaction during and after the implementation of job task levels, which was the result of the wage curve agreement that was signed in 2010 and implemented in 2011.The first objective of the study is to describe the collective agreements that were signed in 2010 as a result of a need to categorise municipalities and evaluate jobs, and the consequences of the collective agreements on employees through the study of documents supplemented by interviews and questionnaires. The second objective is to investigate if there has been a change in attitudes of the employees in the Roads and Stormwater Department of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality after the implementation of the wage curve agreement. There are six research questions; two relate to the first objective, and these are (a) what was the nature of the wage curve and job evaluation collective agreement? and(b) what were the consequences of the implementation of the wage curve and job evaluation collective agreement of the employees of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality? The other four questions related to the second objective, which led to the following research questions related to the attitudes of the employees and the change in these attitudes after the implementation of the collective agreement. These four questions were (a) what was the change in employee attitudes post the introduction of the wage curve? in particular, the attitudes of organisational commitment, job satisfaction, management satisfaction and union commitment, (b) what is the relationship between the sub-groups and employee attitudes pre the wage curve agreement implementation?(c) what is the relationship between sub-groups and employee attitudes post the wage curve agreement implementation? (d) what is the relationship between the sub-groups and the change in employee attitudes pre and post the wage curve agreement implementation? Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used in the study to analyse the strike process and to understand and describe the attitudes of all the participants in relation to the four constructs provided by Chaulk and Brown (2008). Self-administered questionnaires will be given to participants, and there will be face-to-face interviews with the union officials and management. The findings relating to the first objective indicate that the employees were unhappy with the implementation of the wage curve collective agreement. The second objective showed that the changes in the attitudes of employees after the implementation of the job evaluation and wage curve collective agreement were negative and that there was a significant decrease in the level of organisational commitment, job satisfaction, union commitment and management satisfaction after the implementation.
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- Authors: Somgede-Tshikila, Pateka
- Subjects: Job satisfaction -- South Africa , Organizational commitment -- South Africa , Collective labor agreements -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9436 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020901
- Description: The study will investigate how the workers of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality in the Department of Roads and Stormwater (Eastern region) feel about their jobs in terms of job satisfaction. Furthermore, the study will investigate how they feel about commitment to the union, commitment to the organisation, and management satisfaction during and after the implementation of job task levels, which was the result of the wage curve agreement that was signed in 2010 and implemented in 2011.The first objective of the study is to describe the collective agreements that were signed in 2010 as a result of a need to categorise municipalities and evaluate jobs, and the consequences of the collective agreements on employees through the study of documents supplemented by interviews and questionnaires. The second objective is to investigate if there has been a change in attitudes of the employees in the Roads and Stormwater Department of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality after the implementation of the wage curve agreement. There are six research questions; two relate to the first objective, and these are (a) what was the nature of the wage curve and job evaluation collective agreement? and(b) what were the consequences of the implementation of the wage curve and job evaluation collective agreement of the employees of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality? The other four questions related to the second objective, which led to the following research questions related to the attitudes of the employees and the change in these attitudes after the implementation of the collective agreement. These four questions were (a) what was the change in employee attitudes post the introduction of the wage curve? in particular, the attitudes of organisational commitment, job satisfaction, management satisfaction and union commitment, (b) what is the relationship between the sub-groups and employee attitudes pre the wage curve agreement implementation?(c) what is the relationship between sub-groups and employee attitudes post the wage curve agreement implementation? (d) what is the relationship between the sub-groups and the change in employee attitudes pre and post the wage curve agreement implementation? Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used in the study to analyse the strike process and to understand and describe the attitudes of all the participants in relation to the four constructs provided by Chaulk and Brown (2008). Self-administered questionnaires will be given to participants, and there will be face-to-face interviews with the union officials and management. The findings relating to the first objective indicate that the employees were unhappy with the implementation of the wage curve collective agreement. The second objective showed that the changes in the attitudes of employees after the implementation of the job evaluation and wage curve collective agreement were negative and that there was a significant decrease in the level of organisational commitment, job satisfaction, union commitment and management satisfaction after the implementation.
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