Donor funds and economic dependence: an investigation of community-driven development in the Eastern Cape, Chris Hani District Municipality
- Authors: Roto, Khanyile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Flow of funds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19982 , vital:29017
- Description: This research focused mainly on the progress of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-driven development projects (CDDs) in assisting the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) community. The research identified the main types of CDDs that are found in the CHDM as agricultural, caregivers, manufacturing, tourism, performing arts, and education services. Thirty-eight NGOs participated in this project with two participants representing each NGO. These NGOs were looked at from a thematic perspective. Three main themes emerged, namely; a) the quality of life in CHDM or specifically in the areas of operation of the NGOs, b) operations of the NGOs where the name and main objectives CDDs were identified, and c) challenges, funding and impact of the CDDs. This research set out to ask the following questions: What is the nature and origin of projects operational in Chris Hani District? What is the impact and sustainability of donor-aided projects on CDD in the Chris Hani District? Can NGO projects be sustained without donor aid? Are there any alternative forms of funding apart from donor funds? To answer these questions, a number of qualitative methods and techniques were used to collect and analyse data. These included focus group discussions with project beneficiaries, observations of projects, activities and individual project participants, and key informant interviews with different categories of respondents depending on their roles and level of involvement in the implementation of projects as well as their experience in the implementation of donor-aided programmes. These discussions were guided by different interview schedules with respective respondents. Random and snowball sampling methods were used to choose the respondents as well as groups that participated in the study. The research also focused on assessing the survivability of donor-aided NGO projects if the donor funds were discontinued for any reason. It sought to determine the continuity and feasibility of developmental projects and their impact on the socio- economic welfare of the rural poor in the Chris Hani District without donations. This research found evidence indicating that, by and large, NGOs in the Chris Hani District play a crucial role in CDD. Be that as it may, this research established that on average, 98 per cent of NGOs had been economically and socially affected by the donor-funded projects. It was established that, on average, the donor dependency ratio was 74 per cent. It was also seen that most donor-funded projects could only survive for 12 days if the funding was withdrawn. However, this hypothetical withdrawal of funds does not cause much concern because of the security found in the funding types of the NGOs in the Chris Hani District. In practical terms, these community-driven projects are likely to continue for decades ceteris paribus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Roto, Khanyile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economic assistance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Flow of funds -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape South Africa -- Economic conditions -- 21st century South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19982 , vital:29017
- Description: This research focused mainly on the progress of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-driven development projects (CDDs) in assisting the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) community. The research identified the main types of CDDs that are found in the CHDM as agricultural, caregivers, manufacturing, tourism, performing arts, and education services. Thirty-eight NGOs participated in this project with two participants representing each NGO. These NGOs were looked at from a thematic perspective. Three main themes emerged, namely; a) the quality of life in CHDM or specifically in the areas of operation of the NGOs, b) operations of the NGOs where the name and main objectives CDDs were identified, and c) challenges, funding and impact of the CDDs. This research set out to ask the following questions: What is the nature and origin of projects operational in Chris Hani District? What is the impact and sustainability of donor-aided projects on CDD in the Chris Hani District? Can NGO projects be sustained without donor aid? Are there any alternative forms of funding apart from donor funds? To answer these questions, a number of qualitative methods and techniques were used to collect and analyse data. These included focus group discussions with project beneficiaries, observations of projects, activities and individual project participants, and key informant interviews with different categories of respondents depending on their roles and level of involvement in the implementation of projects as well as their experience in the implementation of donor-aided programmes. These discussions were guided by different interview schedules with respective respondents. Random and snowball sampling methods were used to choose the respondents as well as groups that participated in the study. The research also focused on assessing the survivability of donor-aided NGO projects if the donor funds were discontinued for any reason. It sought to determine the continuity and feasibility of developmental projects and their impact on the socio- economic welfare of the rural poor in the Chris Hani District without donations. This research found evidence indicating that, by and large, NGOs in the Chris Hani District play a crucial role in CDD. Be that as it may, this research established that on average, 98 per cent of NGOs had been economically and socially affected by the donor-funded projects. It was established that, on average, the donor dependency ratio was 74 per cent. It was also seen that most donor-funded projects could only survive for 12 days if the funding was withdrawn. However, this hypothetical withdrawal of funds does not cause much concern because of the security found in the funding types of the NGOs in the Chris Hani District. In practical terms, these community-driven projects are likely to continue for decades ceteris paribus.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Earth stewardship in prepress:a model for Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University graphic design lectures
- Authors: Lottering,John Barry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Curriculum planning--South Africa-- Port Elizabeth Graphic arts--Study and teaching--South africa-- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44471 , vital:37842
- Description: A lack of prepress understanding is responsible for a great deal of wasted resources in the graphic design and printing industries in Nelson Mandela Bay. As the term “prepress” extends to such a vast range of design activities, it is quite difficult to ascertain where prepress begins or ends. Asking the question “What is prepress?” is like asking “How long is a piece of string?” Defining the scope of prepress can present a formidable challenge for any graphic design lecturer hoping to equip students with the necessary prepress understanding and skills required by the graphic design industry. Also, even if the academic has a sound knowledge of prepress theory and practice, how does one guarantee that all of the required knowledge is covered during the course of the student’s graphic design education, and that it is done so in a manner that meets the needs of the graphic design industry? Added to this, educators have a responsibility to consider the environmental consequences of sending graduating designers, without industry required prepress knowledge, into the design industry, an industry that has grown accustomed to training junior designers in prepress practice through trial and error. Such trial and error equates to mistakes and wasted resources, as a result this learning curve comes at the expense of the environment. The intention of this research is to provide an accessible resource for graphic design lecturers, by way of a list of prepress best practice topics, required for inclusion in the graphic design syllabus at NMMU, such that earth stewardship and sustainable design-for-print are an implicit component. This list of topics is a product of research which drew on local industry experts in Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lottering,John Barry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Curriculum planning--South Africa-- Port Elizabeth Graphic arts--Study and teaching--South africa-- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44471 , vital:37842
- Description: A lack of prepress understanding is responsible for a great deal of wasted resources in the graphic design and printing industries in Nelson Mandela Bay. As the term “prepress” extends to such a vast range of design activities, it is quite difficult to ascertain where prepress begins or ends. Asking the question “What is prepress?” is like asking “How long is a piece of string?” Defining the scope of prepress can present a formidable challenge for any graphic design lecturer hoping to equip students with the necessary prepress understanding and skills required by the graphic design industry. Also, even if the academic has a sound knowledge of prepress theory and practice, how does one guarantee that all of the required knowledge is covered during the course of the student’s graphic design education, and that it is done so in a manner that meets the needs of the graphic design industry? Added to this, educators have a responsibility to consider the environmental consequences of sending graduating designers, without industry required prepress knowledge, into the design industry, an industry that has grown accustomed to training junior designers in prepress practice through trial and error. Such trial and error equates to mistakes and wasted resources, as a result this learning curve comes at the expense of the environment. The intention of this research is to provide an accessible resource for graphic design lecturers, by way of a list of prepress best practice topics, required for inclusion in the graphic design syllabus at NMMU, such that earth stewardship and sustainable design-for-print are an implicit component. This list of topics is a product of research which drew on local industry experts in Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of performance management and development system, Amathole District Municipality
- Authors: Dlelaphantsi, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Performance -- Management Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15522 , vital:28266
- Description: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the Performance Management System, since its inception and to date, with regards to the advancement of organisational goals and objectives through employee development, as well as resource allocation for service delivery to the residents of the Amathole District Municipality (ADM). The concept of performance management is key for achieving organisational goals and objectives, since it seeks to develop employees by identifying areas of strengths and weakness. The study is based on the assumption that although municipalities are different, and their approach to performance management particularly individual performance differs. This study therefore is based on the assumption that, levels of poor service delivery, and the consequent service delivery protests experienced in the ADM, can be ascribed to a poor linkage between annual performance planning and the assessment of municipal officials. Annual organisational performance, and individual performance planning and output, is not commensurate. Furthermore, a lack of correlation between these variables has led to the poor implementation of basic services and good governance, which has resulted in low levels of citizen satisfaction with the ADM. The empirical survey and research methodology used in the study is described and explained and followed by the data collection in a form of questionnaires. The research findings from the empirical survey are then analysed and reported accordingly. Recommendations are presented in the last chapter based on the empirical survey findings through the respondent’s inputs in the questionnaire. Recommendations are therefore also presented on how Amathole District Municipality can improve its business to achieve the objectives performance management. The key recommendation that came from the study is that ADM planning should be executed in collaboration with other government departments, government agencies, municipalities, private sector and NGOs, in order to maximize chances of achieving effective and efficient service delivery in communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Dlelaphantsi, Vuyokazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Performance -- Management Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa -- Amathole District Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15522 , vital:28266
- Description: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the Performance Management System, since its inception and to date, with regards to the advancement of organisational goals and objectives through employee development, as well as resource allocation for service delivery to the residents of the Amathole District Municipality (ADM). The concept of performance management is key for achieving organisational goals and objectives, since it seeks to develop employees by identifying areas of strengths and weakness. The study is based on the assumption that although municipalities are different, and their approach to performance management particularly individual performance differs. This study therefore is based on the assumption that, levels of poor service delivery, and the consequent service delivery protests experienced in the ADM, can be ascribed to a poor linkage between annual performance planning and the assessment of municipal officials. Annual organisational performance, and individual performance planning and output, is not commensurate. Furthermore, a lack of correlation between these variables has led to the poor implementation of basic services and good governance, which has resulted in low levels of citizen satisfaction with the ADM. The empirical survey and research methodology used in the study is described and explained and followed by the data collection in a form of questionnaires. The research findings from the empirical survey are then analysed and reported accordingly. Recommendations are presented in the last chapter based on the empirical survey findings through the respondent’s inputs in the questionnaire. Recommendations are therefore also presented on how Amathole District Municipality can improve its business to achieve the objectives performance management. The key recommendation that came from the study is that ADM planning should be executed in collaboration with other government departments, government agencies, municipalities, private sector and NGOs, in order to maximize chances of achieving effective and efficient service delivery in communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring best practices for crisis communication
- Authors: Hlela, Nomfundo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communication in organizations Corporations -- Public relations , Crisis management Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15060 , vital:28118
- Description: In the past few decades, corporate crises have received high media attention and revealed the impact that a disaster can have on a company’s reputation. A breadth of scholarly literature has already analysed crisis communications and key elements of an effective response. In this study I examine crisis communications strategies of two companies (British Petroleum and Domino’s Pizza) who responded differently when faced with a crisis. The study will explore the companies’ actions and various media materials including public statements, press releases and social media platforms. This information will be presented alongside corresponding news coverage to reveal how the media translated these actions. Results show that by accepting responsibility and marketing efforts to stop the disaster, a corporation can transform its communication strategy and recover its reputation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Hlela, Nomfundo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communication in organizations Corporations -- Public relations , Crisis management Communication in management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15060 , vital:28118
- Description: In the past few decades, corporate crises have received high media attention and revealed the impact that a disaster can have on a company’s reputation. A breadth of scholarly literature has already analysed crisis communications and key elements of an effective response. In this study I examine crisis communications strategies of two companies (British Petroleum and Domino’s Pizza) who responded differently when faced with a crisis. The study will explore the companies’ actions and various media materials including public statements, press releases and social media platforms. This information will be presented alongside corresponding news coverage to reveal how the media translated these actions. Results show that by accepting responsibility and marketing efforts to stop the disaster, a corporation can transform its communication strategy and recover its reputation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Fans of film franchises - the online alien universe: a study of online participation as a catalyst for fan-created objects that expand the film universe
- Vermaak, Janelle Leigh, Moodley, Subeshini
- Authors: Vermaak, Janelle Leigh , Moodley, Subeshini
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Motion picture audiences Fans (Persons) Motion picture industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13938 , vital:27359
- Description: This thesis will analyse the ways in which fan participation and creation in online communities extends the film world beyond the film object, and the extent to which fandom influences identity within the fan group. The study will seek to determine the ways in which fans become part of the franchise through online engagement, as well as the manner in which they appropriate the franchise identity through their creations. The central hypothesis of the study is that online participation and creation amplifies fan connection with the film franchise, and increases the sense of identification with the world and characters of the films. By being or becoming fans, and engaging with other fans in online and real spaces, they are joining a larger community of people who seem to have blurred the lines between fiction and reality by engaging in a fictional, virtual space as a source of real personal entertainment, based on an anchor media product. This appropriation is enabled through digital communities which expand and extend the reach of fan interaction and further develop the identity of the individual as ‘fan’. Thus, the study will reflect on the implications of fan engagement with the film franchise in the digital space.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Vermaak, Janelle Leigh , Moodley, Subeshini
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Motion picture audiences Fans (Persons) Motion picture industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13938 , vital:27359
- Description: This thesis will analyse the ways in which fan participation and creation in online communities extends the film world beyond the film object, and the extent to which fandom influences identity within the fan group. The study will seek to determine the ways in which fans become part of the franchise through online engagement, as well as the manner in which they appropriate the franchise identity through their creations. The central hypothesis of the study is that online participation and creation amplifies fan connection with the film franchise, and increases the sense of identification with the world and characters of the films. By being or becoming fans, and engaging with other fans in online and real spaces, they are joining a larger community of people who seem to have blurred the lines between fiction and reality by engaging in a fictional, virtual space as a source of real personal entertainment, based on an anchor media product. This appropriation is enabled through digital communities which expand and extend the reach of fan interaction and further develop the identity of the individual as ‘fan’. Thus, the study will reflect on the implications of fan engagement with the film franchise in the digital space.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Imagining the promised land: an intermestic analysis of Zimbabwean political crisis, 2000-2013
- Authors: Mupondiwa, Primrose
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Political aspects -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19320 , vital:28850
- Description: The main aim of the analysis is to investigate the intermestic factors that led to political decay in Zimbabwe. By thoroughly assessing the dynamics of political development, one is then able to identify the factors that drive a state towards political decay. The study commences by delineating the domestic factors that contributed to the crisis in Zimbabwe. One unravels how the absence of democracy leads states to political decay. Democracy structured on effective institutions, good governance, transparency and a good relationship between civil society and the state are identified as being key factors that contribute towards political development. By assessing these factors meticulously, one is able to identify how disregarding them leads to political decay as evident in the case study. The study also explores how failed government policies can lead to political decay. Thus, ESAPs, the chaotic land reform program and corruption are discussed as being key contributing factors of political decay in Zimbabwe. The study makes use of interviews with 15 participants. The main objective of interviews in this study is to be able to compare the lived experiences of Zimbabweans vis a vis the information gathered from secondary sources. Also, by using thematic analysis on the gathered data, one will be able to unravel the participants’ perceptions regarding factors that led to stunted political development in the country. Contrastingly, the study seeks to explore whether domestic factors alone can be blamed for the crisis. One begins to question if external factors were also responsible for the crisis in the country. A closer look at the topic of discussion reveals that the AU, SADC and the EU also contributed to the crisis in Zimbabwe. Through the use of discourse analysis, one explores the reactions of the SADC and AU and how quiet diplomacy and the lack of a sterner response towards Mugabe led to an exacerbation of the crisis. Leaders who blatantly disregard the principles of democracy ought to be punished accordingly and not appeased, as in this case study. The EU sanctions on the country are also critically analysed and identified as being key contributors to the crisis. One ponders on whether they can be identified as a selfish response to protect EU interests in the country and punish Mugabe. By the end of the analysis it should be clear that both internal and external factors contributed to the political decay in Zimbabwe, as no country can live in complete isolation from other states in this global era.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mupondiwa, Primrose
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Zimbabwe -- Political aspects -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19320 , vital:28850
- Description: The main aim of the analysis is to investigate the intermestic factors that led to political decay in Zimbabwe. By thoroughly assessing the dynamics of political development, one is then able to identify the factors that drive a state towards political decay. The study commences by delineating the domestic factors that contributed to the crisis in Zimbabwe. One unravels how the absence of democracy leads states to political decay. Democracy structured on effective institutions, good governance, transparency and a good relationship between civil society and the state are identified as being key factors that contribute towards political development. By assessing these factors meticulously, one is able to identify how disregarding them leads to political decay as evident in the case study. The study also explores how failed government policies can lead to political decay. Thus, ESAPs, the chaotic land reform program and corruption are discussed as being key contributing factors of political decay in Zimbabwe. The study makes use of interviews with 15 participants. The main objective of interviews in this study is to be able to compare the lived experiences of Zimbabweans vis a vis the information gathered from secondary sources. Also, by using thematic analysis on the gathered data, one will be able to unravel the participants’ perceptions regarding factors that led to stunted political development in the country. Contrastingly, the study seeks to explore whether domestic factors alone can be blamed for the crisis. One begins to question if external factors were also responsible for the crisis in the country. A closer look at the topic of discussion reveals that the AU, SADC and the EU also contributed to the crisis in Zimbabwe. Through the use of discourse analysis, one explores the reactions of the SADC and AU and how quiet diplomacy and the lack of a sterner response towards Mugabe led to an exacerbation of the crisis. Leaders who blatantly disregard the principles of democracy ought to be punished accordingly and not appeased, as in this case study. The EU sanctions on the country are also critically analysed and identified as being key contributors to the crisis. One ponders on whether they can be identified as a selfish response to protect EU interests in the country and punish Mugabe. By the end of the analysis it should be clear that both internal and external factors contributed to the political decay in Zimbabwe, as no country can live in complete isolation from other states in this global era.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Intimate strangers: encountering the foreign in urban spaces
- Authors: Seshoka, Thabo Jerry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Urbanization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- History , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- History Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Cultural property -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13746 , vital:27304
- Description: The year 2015 marked a significant year in South African History and it ignited a deep desire in the hearts of locals in Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan to question and engage with the city’s ambivalent heritage landscape and heritage discourse. The year 2015 was the year in which the country witnessed the rise community movements that called for the removal of Victorian and Apartheid era heritages across the country. The year also saw a rise in violent service delivery protests and a rise in the amount of xenophobic attacks across the county, including Port Elizabeth. In this thesis, positioned within the field of heritage studies (Anthropology) and employing the concept of the ubuhlanti (Kraal) as a tool to understand the former within a heritage framework. The thesis unpacks and demonstrate how the city centre of Port Elizabeth can be likened to the concept of the ubuhlanti. The ubuhlanti: an intimate community space, which has the potential to double up as an exclusionary space, excluding those who do not possess the necessary social capital to enter its centre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Seshoka, Thabo Jerry
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Urbanization -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- History , Cities and towns -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- History Architecture -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Cultural property -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13746 , vital:27304
- Description: The year 2015 marked a significant year in South African History and it ignited a deep desire in the hearts of locals in Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan to question and engage with the city’s ambivalent heritage landscape and heritage discourse. The year 2015 was the year in which the country witnessed the rise community movements that called for the removal of Victorian and Apartheid era heritages across the country. The year also saw a rise in violent service delivery protests and a rise in the amount of xenophobic attacks across the county, including Port Elizabeth. In this thesis, positioned within the field of heritage studies (Anthropology) and employing the concept of the ubuhlanti (Kraal) as a tool to understand the former within a heritage framework. The thesis unpacks and demonstrate how the city centre of Port Elizabeth can be likened to the concept of the ubuhlanti. The ubuhlanti: an intimate community space, which has the potential to double up as an exclusionary space, excluding those who do not possess the necessary social capital to enter its centre.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Investigating public participation strategies in the provision of low-income housing in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Batyi, Thomas
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14543 , vital:27749
- Description: This study investigates the public participation strategies in the provision of low –income housing. The purpose is to look at the effectiveness of the public participation strategies. In order to achieve this goal, it was necessary to review literature on public participation to advance the argument that public participation is an integral part of local government and the community at large. Currently, public participation permeates all legislation, impacting on local government in South Africa. It enhances individual and group esteem and enables municipal functionaries to understand crucial issues that serve as an impetus for policymaking. A supportive objective was to identify challenges that may be experienced by the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality with public participation in low-cost houses. The study adopted qualitative data collection instruments, which were used to collect data. The face-to-face interviews with the total sample of this study consisted of fourteen (14) participants comprising six (6) municipal officials, (3 officials from each of the Public Participation and the Integrated Development Units) and four (4) ward councillors and committee members, one (1) each from wards 1, 6, 46 and 47. For the purpose of this study, purposive (non-probability) or judgemental sampling was used. The qualitative data was analysed thematically using coding and categorising data into themes. The findings of this study revealed that there is a lack of public participation by the local communities in development projects. Also, ward committees do not have a platform to participate at the representative forums and during the IDP/budget hearings. In this regard, the study made recommendations on the participation strategies in order to tackle the challenges faced in the provision of low-income housing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Batyi, Thomas
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Citizen participation Low-income housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public housing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14543 , vital:27749
- Description: This study investigates the public participation strategies in the provision of low –income housing. The purpose is to look at the effectiveness of the public participation strategies. In order to achieve this goal, it was necessary to review literature on public participation to advance the argument that public participation is an integral part of local government and the community at large. Currently, public participation permeates all legislation, impacting on local government in South Africa. It enhances individual and group esteem and enables municipal functionaries to understand crucial issues that serve as an impetus for policymaking. A supportive objective was to identify challenges that may be experienced by the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality with public participation in low-cost houses. The study adopted qualitative data collection instruments, which were used to collect data. The face-to-face interviews with the total sample of this study consisted of fourteen (14) participants comprising six (6) municipal officials, (3 officials from each of the Public Participation and the Integrated Development Units) and four (4) ward councillors and committee members, one (1) each from wards 1, 6, 46 and 47. For the purpose of this study, purposive (non-probability) or judgemental sampling was used. The qualitative data was analysed thematically using coding and categorising data into themes. The findings of this study revealed that there is a lack of public participation by the local communities in development projects. Also, ward committees do not have a platform to participate at the representative forums and during the IDP/budget hearings. In this regard, the study made recommendations on the participation strategies in order to tackle the challenges faced in the provision of low-income housing.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Investigating the perceptions of the relationship between vocational education and the labour market: a case study of FET college students
- Authors: Sibiya, Anthony Tolika
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Vocational education -- South Africa Training needs -- South Africa -- Students , School-to-work transition -- South Africa Labor market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20406 , vital:29280
- Description: The study sought to investigate the perceptions of TVET students regarding vocational education and its relation to the labour market. It hoped to illuminate connections or disconnections between vocational education and employment. The research emanated from the prevailing view that TVET education by its very nature is work-oriented and therefore those who enroll in TVET colleges are able to find employment. Furthermore, that conceptually the TVET curriculum was and continues to be regarded as skills-based for labour market demands thereby enhancing national competiveness and economic growth. Qualitative questionnaires, which are open-ended in nature, were used to gather facts about students’ beliefs and experiences regarding certain engineering programmes and services offered at TVET colleges. Non-probability sampling was used to select one hundred and thirteen (113) participants who voluntarily completed qualitative questionnaires, which were structured to elicit the required information, and the results reveal divergent views shared by students. There are those who feel very strongly that a TVET qualification, in engineering in particular, leads to employment due to its demand and the fact that the institution generally assists students through the placement unit makes it even easier to find employment. Other students firmly believed that whatever qualifications one attained, the world of work cannot accommodate them, as they do not have work experience. They felt this was unfair because they are unable to find employment without being properly monitored and trained by the very same industry that hopes to employ them in the near future. They argue that the only problem pertaining to unemployment is job scarcity, rather than skills scarcity. The research is framed within the human capital theory. Research findings reveal the fact that there is no link between vocational education and the labour market and as a result employment is not easy. There are personal skills required but they are not available in our educational curriculum, which focuses on educational aspirations. The research further posits five distinct but necessary interventions that students are suggesting in order to increase their lack of experience in the job market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sibiya, Anthony Tolika
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Vocational education -- South Africa Training needs -- South Africa -- Students , School-to-work transition -- South Africa Labor market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20406 , vital:29280
- Description: The study sought to investigate the perceptions of TVET students regarding vocational education and its relation to the labour market. It hoped to illuminate connections or disconnections between vocational education and employment. The research emanated from the prevailing view that TVET education by its very nature is work-oriented and therefore those who enroll in TVET colleges are able to find employment. Furthermore, that conceptually the TVET curriculum was and continues to be regarded as skills-based for labour market demands thereby enhancing national competiveness and economic growth. Qualitative questionnaires, which are open-ended in nature, were used to gather facts about students’ beliefs and experiences regarding certain engineering programmes and services offered at TVET colleges. Non-probability sampling was used to select one hundred and thirteen (113) participants who voluntarily completed qualitative questionnaires, which were structured to elicit the required information, and the results reveal divergent views shared by students. There are those who feel very strongly that a TVET qualification, in engineering in particular, leads to employment due to its demand and the fact that the institution generally assists students through the placement unit makes it even easier to find employment. Other students firmly believed that whatever qualifications one attained, the world of work cannot accommodate them, as they do not have work experience. They felt this was unfair because they are unable to find employment without being properly monitored and trained by the very same industry that hopes to employ them in the near future. They argue that the only problem pertaining to unemployment is job scarcity, rather than skills scarcity. The research is framed within the human capital theory. Research findings reveal the fact that there is no link between vocational education and the labour market and as a result employment is not easy. There are personal skills required but they are not available in our educational curriculum, which focuses on educational aspirations. The research further posits five distinct but necessary interventions that students are suggesting in order to increase their lack of experience in the job market.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Legislative prescriptions affecting persons with disabilities: a comparison of selected commonwealth countries
- Authors: Pillay, Sareesha
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: People with disabilities People with disabilities -- Government policy , Commonwealth countries -- Government policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14510 , vital:27670
- Description: Among the diverse citizenry that comprise Commonwealth countries are persons affected by disabilities and who remain vulnerable and under-represented. In light of the challenges of under-representation and the stigmatisation of persons with disabilities globally, the democratic principles of the Commonwealth of Nations have been placed under scrutiny. Thus the constitutionality and fairness of governmental policies and national legislation are criticised for their degree of reflection and representation of the social and political rights of persons with disabilities. This thesis will critically analyse the national legislative and policy frameworks affecting persons with disabilities in selected Commonwealth countries. Comparisons will be made between these selected countries, namely Canada, India, Kenya and South Africa. The Commonwealth and subscription to the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will serve as a standardised platform for comparisons. Comparisons of the legislative prescriptions of the respective countries will be instrumental highlighting the challenges in the representation of the rights and freedoms of persons with disabilities globally and in improving and strengthening legislative prescription affecting persons with disabilities. The varying levels of development amongst countries and the lack of appropriate infrastructure continue to be detrimental to the effective representation of persons with disabilities and the ability of national governments to develop strong and effective legislative and policy frameworks remains compromised. It is thus essential that attention is directed to the challenges facing countries so that appropriate actions and remediation can improve the vulnerabilities linked to persons with disabilities. This study adopts a theoretical and case law approach. It firstly provides a conceptual framework for disability. The conceptual framework comprises the perspectives on disability that have justified the approaches to persons with disabilities. Theories and values and the international legal framework relevant to persons with disabilities will be provided. The theories and values provide a traditional framework and play an instrumental role in guiding actions toward the effective development of public policy and prescription of legislation. The selected countries will be analysed as separate cases. The countries will be analysed individually prior to the comparative component to acknowledge the strengths, weaknesses and challenges facing each country in relation to its own structure and level of development. The findings are based on themes which emerge from the analysis of the legislation and policies affecting persons with disabilities in the selected countries. The findings are presented in a comparative format owing to the comparative nature of the study. Recommendations that flow from the comparative analysis and findings are proposed in the final chapter. The adoption of the proposed recommendations can strengthen legislative prescriptions affecting persons with disabilities both nationally and internationally and improve the representation of the rights and freedom of persons with disabilities in the global context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Pillay, Sareesha
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: People with disabilities People with disabilities -- Government policy , Commonwealth countries -- Government policy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14510 , vital:27670
- Description: Among the diverse citizenry that comprise Commonwealth countries are persons affected by disabilities and who remain vulnerable and under-represented. In light of the challenges of under-representation and the stigmatisation of persons with disabilities globally, the democratic principles of the Commonwealth of Nations have been placed under scrutiny. Thus the constitutionality and fairness of governmental policies and national legislation are criticised for their degree of reflection and representation of the social and political rights of persons with disabilities. This thesis will critically analyse the national legislative and policy frameworks affecting persons with disabilities in selected Commonwealth countries. Comparisons will be made between these selected countries, namely Canada, India, Kenya and South Africa. The Commonwealth and subscription to the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will serve as a standardised platform for comparisons. Comparisons of the legislative prescriptions of the respective countries will be instrumental highlighting the challenges in the representation of the rights and freedoms of persons with disabilities globally and in improving and strengthening legislative prescription affecting persons with disabilities. The varying levels of development amongst countries and the lack of appropriate infrastructure continue to be detrimental to the effective representation of persons with disabilities and the ability of national governments to develop strong and effective legislative and policy frameworks remains compromised. It is thus essential that attention is directed to the challenges facing countries so that appropriate actions and remediation can improve the vulnerabilities linked to persons with disabilities. This study adopts a theoretical and case law approach. It firstly provides a conceptual framework for disability. The conceptual framework comprises the perspectives on disability that have justified the approaches to persons with disabilities. Theories and values and the international legal framework relevant to persons with disabilities will be provided. The theories and values provide a traditional framework and play an instrumental role in guiding actions toward the effective development of public policy and prescription of legislation. The selected countries will be analysed as separate cases. The countries will be analysed individually prior to the comparative component to acknowledge the strengths, weaknesses and challenges facing each country in relation to its own structure and level of development. The findings are based on themes which emerge from the analysis of the legislation and policies affecting persons with disabilities in the selected countries. The findings are presented in a comparative format owing to the comparative nature of the study. Recommendations that flow from the comparative analysis and findings are proposed in the final chapter. The adoption of the proposed recommendations can strengthen legislative prescriptions affecting persons with disabilities both nationally and internationally and improve the representation of the rights and freedom of persons with disabilities in the global context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Local government budgetary reforms reconsidered: the case of Amatole District Municipality, province of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Hanabe, Lulamile Donacious
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal budgets -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local budgets -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15093 , vital:28122
- Description: This research critically analysed the role, if any, that is played by the budgetary reforms in enhancing basic service delivery, with specific reference to the case of Amathole District Municipality. The main objectives of this study were to investigate and evaluate the causes of possible challenges encountered by the ADM in the implementation of local government budgetary reforms; to assess and determine the role played by budgetary reforms in promoting basic service delivery by the Amathole District Municipality; to analyse the extent to which budgetary reforms are used in the preparation of the municipal budget and the IDP; and to evaluate the level of ADM institutional capacity in delivering basic services to communities in terms of the municipality’s capital budget and financial plan. The study is premised on the fact that there is no guaranteed service delivery without a sound financial management and planning. In this study, it is acknowledged that municipalities in South Africa are struggling to implement the local government budgetary reforms; and as such, South African municipalities could succeed in rendering effective and efficient public services, provided the matters of governance are adhered to, as well as financial governance in particular. This research is solely based on the assumption that the Amathole District Municipality’s budgets and budget process, like other municipalities in South Africa, are done for the sake of compliance with the requirements of National Treasury and the MFMA – with less emphasis being placed on enhanced basic service delivery to communities. The study proposed to provide a brief literature review on the basic service delivery, with reference to the South African context, as well as a theoretical overview on the evolution of developmental local government budgetary reforms. The empirical survey and research methodology employed in the study are described, followed by the operationalization of the survey questionnaire used for gathering the field data. The research findings of the empirical survey are then statistically analysed, using statistical procedures. The qualitative data analysis involved thematic content analysis, being interpreted and reported on. The triangulation-research methodology was employed with the emphasis being on the quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The sample comprised councillors, officials and ward committee members. Questionnaires, with open and closed-ended questions, were employed for the councillors and the officials. Focus-group interviews were conducted with the ward committee members from the respective local municipalities.The findings strongly suggest that, the introduction of the budgetary reforms indeed resulted in a shift by municipalities from their core mandate – that is service delivery – to a more legislative-compliant mode of practice. Recommendations flowing from, inter alia, the results of the empirical study, are presented to improve financial governance and service delivery in the Amathole District Municipality, as well as in other municipalities in South Africa. If adopted, these recommendations should enable the Amathole District Municipality, as a development agent, to fulfil its developmental mandate, thereby addressing the matters of financial governance and service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Hanabe, Lulamile Donacious
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Municipal budgets -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Local budgets -- Political aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Local government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/15093 , vital:28122
- Description: This research critically analysed the role, if any, that is played by the budgetary reforms in enhancing basic service delivery, with specific reference to the case of Amathole District Municipality. The main objectives of this study were to investigate and evaluate the causes of possible challenges encountered by the ADM in the implementation of local government budgetary reforms; to assess and determine the role played by budgetary reforms in promoting basic service delivery by the Amathole District Municipality; to analyse the extent to which budgetary reforms are used in the preparation of the municipal budget and the IDP; and to evaluate the level of ADM institutional capacity in delivering basic services to communities in terms of the municipality’s capital budget and financial plan. The study is premised on the fact that there is no guaranteed service delivery without a sound financial management and planning. In this study, it is acknowledged that municipalities in South Africa are struggling to implement the local government budgetary reforms; and as such, South African municipalities could succeed in rendering effective and efficient public services, provided the matters of governance are adhered to, as well as financial governance in particular. This research is solely based on the assumption that the Amathole District Municipality’s budgets and budget process, like other municipalities in South Africa, are done for the sake of compliance with the requirements of National Treasury and the MFMA – with less emphasis being placed on enhanced basic service delivery to communities. The study proposed to provide a brief literature review on the basic service delivery, with reference to the South African context, as well as a theoretical overview on the evolution of developmental local government budgetary reforms. The empirical survey and research methodology employed in the study are described, followed by the operationalization of the survey questionnaire used for gathering the field data. The research findings of the empirical survey are then statistically analysed, using statistical procedures. The qualitative data analysis involved thematic content analysis, being interpreted and reported on. The triangulation-research methodology was employed with the emphasis being on the quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The sample comprised councillors, officials and ward committee members. Questionnaires, with open and closed-ended questions, were employed for the councillors and the officials. Focus-group interviews were conducted with the ward committee members from the respective local municipalities.The findings strongly suggest that, the introduction of the budgetary reforms indeed resulted in a shift by municipalities from their core mandate – that is service delivery – to a more legislative-compliant mode of practice. Recommendations flowing from, inter alia, the results of the empirical study, are presented to improve financial governance and service delivery in the Amathole District Municipality, as well as in other municipalities in South Africa. If adopted, these recommendations should enable the Amathole District Municipality, as a development agent, to fulfil its developmental mandate, thereby addressing the matters of financial governance and service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Millennium development goals: lessons from Brazil and Venezuela (2000-2015)
- Authors: Booi, Lusu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brazil -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Venezuela -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , Developing countries -- Economic conditions Sustainable development -- Brazil Sustainable development -- Venezuela Poverty -- Developing countries Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- International cooperation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14675 , vital:27818
- Description: This research looks at social policy making in Venezuela and Brazil with the objective of alleviating poverty, with special focus on meeting Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that were set in 2000. Considering the leftist democratic governments that have been established in Latin America since Hugo Chávez was elected president in 1998, and later with Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in 2002, the research seeks to understand and illustrate what nuances exist in strategy, ideas and implementation of social policy that would positively affect the underprivileged for a more equal and just society. The two countries have deep historical and structural inequalities from slavery, colonialism, imbalanced distribution of resources and like most developing nations of the Global South, have had to endure structural adjustments that have entrenched poverty levels further. Arguments in the past have been made for economic prosperity and economic growth as good indicators for development, however, the research takes a comparative analysis on how Venezuela (through Barrio Adentro and multiple state driven Missions) and Brazil (state supported Bolsa Familia and Universal Health System), have targeted health and education as the primary sectors not just to transform society but also because it is through these sectors that the most effective and efficient manner to measure human development which has thus far been neglected. The research also examines the leadership of the countries which speaks to the differing approaches adopted, style, rhetoric and political realities; and how they have been received not just domestically, but also internationally. The outcomes of the research illustrate a good link between literacy, education and health and a healthy level of state intervention that requires reciprocal social participation for programmes to succeed. Brazil and Venezuela have shown notable creativity and effectiveness in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Booi, Lusu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Brazil -- Economic conditions -- 21st century Venezuela -- Economic conditions -- 21st century , Developing countries -- Economic conditions Sustainable development -- Brazil Sustainable development -- Venezuela Poverty -- Developing countries Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- International cooperation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14675 , vital:27818
- Description: This research looks at social policy making in Venezuela and Brazil with the objective of alleviating poverty, with special focus on meeting Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that were set in 2000. Considering the leftist democratic governments that have been established in Latin America since Hugo Chávez was elected president in 1998, and later with Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in 2002, the research seeks to understand and illustrate what nuances exist in strategy, ideas and implementation of social policy that would positively affect the underprivileged for a more equal and just society. The two countries have deep historical and structural inequalities from slavery, colonialism, imbalanced distribution of resources and like most developing nations of the Global South, have had to endure structural adjustments that have entrenched poverty levels further. Arguments in the past have been made for economic prosperity and economic growth as good indicators for development, however, the research takes a comparative analysis on how Venezuela (through Barrio Adentro and multiple state driven Missions) and Brazil (state supported Bolsa Familia and Universal Health System), have targeted health and education as the primary sectors not just to transform society but also because it is through these sectors that the most effective and efficient manner to measure human development which has thus far been neglected. The research also examines the leadership of the countries which speaks to the differing approaches adopted, style, rhetoric and political realities; and how they have been received not just domestically, but also internationally. The outcomes of the research illustrate a good link between literacy, education and health and a healthy level of state intervention that requires reciprocal social participation for programmes to succeed. Brazil and Venezuela have shown notable creativity and effectiveness in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Musical expressivity in choral singing
- Authors: Agenbag, Gustel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Choral singing , Choirs (Music) , Music -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13614 , vital:27257
- Description: This qualitative mini-treatise explores Musical expressivity in choral singing with reference to three High School choirs in the Port Elizabeth area. Singing with emotions is not only a facial expression of some sort. There are so many more aspects which could be applied in order for the choral performance to be of an outstanding nature and not merely a performance. The researcher questioned the possibility of introducing expressiveness into rehearsals and performance through the application of more expressive conducting techniques, more detailed musical aspects and a general sense of unity within the group. The choral conductor plays a primary role and should therefore be considered as the most important link between choir and excellence. Focus is put on specific warm up exercises and suggestions are put forward regarding the development of your own, personalized exercises which suits your own unique setup. Data was collected through open-ended interviewees of the three school choir conductors as well as data from current and past studies on various topics. The perceptions of these conductors were noted and the manner in which they apply Musical knowledge during their rehearsals. Research findings indicate that not enough emphasis is put on expressive singing during rehearsals. More research done by the conductors and attending workshops are recommended for personal growth and development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Agenbag, Gustel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Choral singing , Choirs (Music) , Music -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13614 , vital:27257
- Description: This qualitative mini-treatise explores Musical expressivity in choral singing with reference to three High School choirs in the Port Elizabeth area. Singing with emotions is not only a facial expression of some sort. There are so many more aspects which could be applied in order for the choral performance to be of an outstanding nature and not merely a performance. The researcher questioned the possibility of introducing expressiveness into rehearsals and performance through the application of more expressive conducting techniques, more detailed musical aspects and a general sense of unity within the group. The choral conductor plays a primary role and should therefore be considered as the most important link between choir and excellence. Focus is put on specific warm up exercises and suggestions are put forward regarding the development of your own, personalized exercises which suits your own unique setup. Data was collected through open-ended interviewees of the three school choir conductors as well as data from current and past studies on various topics. The perceptions of these conductors were noted and the manner in which they apply Musical knowledge during their rehearsals. Research findings indicate that not enough emphasis is put on expressive singing during rehearsals. More research done by the conductors and attending workshops are recommended for personal growth and development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Our turn to eat?: an Interrogation of South African media discourse on allocation of value through cadre deployment
- Authors: Mpapela, Vuyo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mass media -- Political aspects -- South Africa Democracy -- South Africa -- Communication , Communication in politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19179 , vital:28781
- Description: South Africa‟s liberal democratic constitution allows for political competition for office, enhanced by the media‟s involvement or role, as both stakeholder and facilitator for debate between the public and political parties. The role of the media becomes a sensitive one as it entails perspectives on the political process and, as a consequence, certain perceptions of the political class, structures and electoral process will emerge. In previous elections the media has been cited for abdicating its objective stance in the narrative on political competition in view of candidate lists, party coalitions and allocation of value through cadre deployment, a term used for political appointments within party structures to positions of leadership in public office. Accordingly, it provokes intense debates in which the rationality of liberal-objective-observer to democratic process is criticized by thinking which argues that such rationality remains trapped by a devotion to „liberalist rituals‟, rituals detached from embedded meanings specific to South Africa‟s socio-political dynamics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mpapela, Vuyo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mass media -- Political aspects -- South Africa Democracy -- South Africa -- Communication , Communication in politics -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19179 , vital:28781
- Description: South Africa‟s liberal democratic constitution allows for political competition for office, enhanced by the media‟s involvement or role, as both stakeholder and facilitator for debate between the public and political parties. The role of the media becomes a sensitive one as it entails perspectives on the political process and, as a consequence, certain perceptions of the political class, structures and electoral process will emerge. In previous elections the media has been cited for abdicating its objective stance in the narrative on political competition in view of candidate lists, party coalitions and allocation of value through cadre deployment, a term used for political appointments within party structures to positions of leadership in public office. Accordingly, it provokes intense debates in which the rationality of liberal-objective-observer to democratic process is criticized by thinking which argues that such rationality remains trapped by a devotion to „liberalist rituals‟, rituals detached from embedded meanings specific to South Africa‟s socio-political dynamics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Preventive diplomacy and conflict provention in Africa
- Authors: Mandela, Siyabulela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Diplomatic negotiations in international disputes Conflict management -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13435 , vital:27185
- Description: South Africa‟s participation in international peace missions is guided by the White Paper of 1998 and premised specifically on the country‟s foreign policy objectives based on its vision of “a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world”. South Africa recognises itself as an integral part of the African continent and therefore sees its national interests as being intrinsically linked to Africa‟s stability, unity and prosperity. Since 1994, South Africa has placed itself at the forefront of Africa's peace and security endeavours, trying to transform itself from international villain during apartheid years to Pan-Africanist peacemaker. The country has played an instrumental role in both shaping and setting the normative agenda of the African Union and Southern African Development Community. South Africa‟s participation in conflict resolution and peace missions in Africa is informed by an understanding of the nexus that exists between peace, security and sustainable development. This research focuses on South Africa‟s diplomatic and peacekeeping engagement in Lesotho, covering the constitutional and electoral crises from 1994 - 2015 constitutional crisis. The author shows the importance and way forward to resolve conflicts before they become escalated and deadly. The study calls for a „timely‟ reaction to disputes and conflicts on the African continent via preventive diplomacy, conflict provention and addressing of underlying issues that give rise to disputes and conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mandela, Siyabulela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Diplomatic negotiations in international disputes Conflict management -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13435 , vital:27185
- Description: South Africa‟s participation in international peace missions is guided by the White Paper of 1998 and premised specifically on the country‟s foreign policy objectives based on its vision of “a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world”. South Africa recognises itself as an integral part of the African continent and therefore sees its national interests as being intrinsically linked to Africa‟s stability, unity and prosperity. Since 1994, South Africa has placed itself at the forefront of Africa's peace and security endeavours, trying to transform itself from international villain during apartheid years to Pan-Africanist peacemaker. The country has played an instrumental role in both shaping and setting the normative agenda of the African Union and Southern African Development Community. South Africa‟s participation in conflict resolution and peace missions in Africa is informed by an understanding of the nexus that exists between peace, security and sustainable development. This research focuses on South Africa‟s diplomatic and peacekeeping engagement in Lesotho, covering the constitutional and electoral crises from 1994 - 2015 constitutional crisis. The author shows the importance and way forward to resolve conflicts before they become escalated and deadly. The study calls for a „timely‟ reaction to disputes and conflicts on the African continent via preventive diplomacy, conflict provention and addressing of underlying issues that give rise to disputes and conflict.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
School libraries in former model c high schools – the case of the Framesby high school media centre
- Authors: Olivier, Charleine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School libraries -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Instructional materials centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Multicultural education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19795 , vital:28969
- Description: The study explored the changing role of libraries/media centres at ex-Model C (now Section 21) high schools in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM), focussing on a case study of the Framesby High School (FHS) media centre in Port Elizabeth. Model C schools originated in the 1990s, just before the transition to democratic rule in 1994, when White, or House of Assembly schools were given a choice of three school governing models, namely, fully-private Model A schools, Model B state schools and semi-private Model C schools. Model C schools would receive state subsidies of about 50%, with the balance raised through school fees. A major research purpose was to present a comprehensive description of the current ex- Model C school library context and how these influenced the service orientation and intended core functions of school librarians, such as teaching information literacy, providing academic support and promoting general literacy and reading. The FHS media centre service was further described with an aim of providing functional library/media centre management guidelines, applicable to high school libraries/media centres in similar ex-Model C school situations, or any libraries that could find such guidelines useful. This qualitative FHS media centre case study was based on the FHS media centre manager’s personal observation as participative action researcher and further supported by literature, an interview and questionnaire feedback from FHS educators and respondents from selected NMM ex-Model C high school libraries. By comparing historical and existing national and provincial school library issues, conclusions were reached regarding macro- and micro-school library contexts, for example, the effect of having no national policy, the support roles of school management and governing bodies, the influence of digital media and the position of school librarians. School librarian concerns, including their roles, qualifications, service conditions and professional status, especially within Section 21 schools, were considered with the high school library and librarian’s contribution towards curriculum outcomes and life-long learning. With specific reference to ex-Model C schools, the absence of a library policy also resulted in diverse levels of school management and school governing body recognition of the school library/media centre. This impacted on the school librarian’s role in curriculum support and information literacy teaching as well as the availability of funds, infrastructure and resources. It is recommended that government should address the supply of library facilities, services and posts for school librarians and assistants. Lack of governmental action is maintaining the growing divide between ex-Model C schools and disadvantaged schools, while the lack of school library services also has a negative influence on literacy and pass rates, especially in poorer regions, like the Eastern Cape. In the light of the vast difference between the results of ex-Model C schools and other schools in the Eastern Cape, these schools and their library services could provide a benchmark towards improving educational contexts in the province.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Olivier, Charleine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School libraries -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth Instructional materials centers -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Multicultural education -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19795 , vital:28969
- Description: The study explored the changing role of libraries/media centres at ex-Model C (now Section 21) high schools in the Nelson Mandela Metropole (NMM), focussing on a case study of the Framesby High School (FHS) media centre in Port Elizabeth. Model C schools originated in the 1990s, just before the transition to democratic rule in 1994, when White, or House of Assembly schools were given a choice of three school governing models, namely, fully-private Model A schools, Model B state schools and semi-private Model C schools. Model C schools would receive state subsidies of about 50%, with the balance raised through school fees. A major research purpose was to present a comprehensive description of the current ex- Model C school library context and how these influenced the service orientation and intended core functions of school librarians, such as teaching information literacy, providing academic support and promoting general literacy and reading. The FHS media centre service was further described with an aim of providing functional library/media centre management guidelines, applicable to high school libraries/media centres in similar ex-Model C school situations, or any libraries that could find such guidelines useful. This qualitative FHS media centre case study was based on the FHS media centre manager’s personal observation as participative action researcher and further supported by literature, an interview and questionnaire feedback from FHS educators and respondents from selected NMM ex-Model C high school libraries. By comparing historical and existing national and provincial school library issues, conclusions were reached regarding macro- and micro-school library contexts, for example, the effect of having no national policy, the support roles of school management and governing bodies, the influence of digital media and the position of school librarians. School librarian concerns, including their roles, qualifications, service conditions and professional status, especially within Section 21 schools, were considered with the high school library and librarian’s contribution towards curriculum outcomes and life-long learning. With specific reference to ex-Model C schools, the absence of a library policy also resulted in diverse levels of school management and school governing body recognition of the school library/media centre. This impacted on the school librarian’s role in curriculum support and information literacy teaching as well as the availability of funds, infrastructure and resources. It is recommended that government should address the supply of library facilities, services and posts for school librarians and assistants. Lack of governmental action is maintaining the growing divide between ex-Model C schools and disadvantaged schools, while the lack of school library services also has a negative influence on literacy and pass rates, especially in poorer regions, like the Eastern Cape. In the light of the vast difference between the results of ex-Model C schools and other schools in the Eastern Cape, these schools and their library services could provide a benchmark towards improving educational contexts in the province.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Service delivery protest actions: a case study for Alfred Nzo District Municipality
- Authors: Ngomani, Babalwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Protest movements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20053 , vital:29071
- Description: The study focused on the causes of service delivery protests in Alfred Nzo District Municipality. The aim of the study was to identify the challenges and the concerns of protestors and to highlight the underlying reasons behind the protests. This study started by reviewing the constitutional basis for basic service delivery, the legislative framework, background to Alfred Nzo District Municipality, the structural set- up of municipalities and related studies on service delivery protests. Thereafter, the candidate undertook original research on a valid focus group interview consisting of ward committees sampled from the areas considered as “hotspots” in the district of Alfred Nzo District Municipality. The researcher adopted a qualitative methodology for the analysis upon which conclusions were drawn. The study describes the respondents concerns, challenges and reasons for service delivery causes. This study provides evidence that the current challenges confronting the people of Alfred Nzo District Municipality and many citizens of South Africa are the result not only of historical factors, but also “crisis of service delivery”, which in turn is as a result of poor management, corruption, political interference in administration, cadre-deployment, demarcation issues, non- accountability of political and administrative leadership and insufficient funding by the donors and treasury. Furthermore, the results show that the majority of the respondents believe the protests are a result of anger and frustration. In conclusion the study proposes that the South African government must go back to the “Batho Pele” principles as they are regarded as the solution to address the impatience and violent protests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ngomani, Babalwa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Protest movements -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20053 , vital:29071
- Description: The study focused on the causes of service delivery protests in Alfred Nzo District Municipality. The aim of the study was to identify the challenges and the concerns of protestors and to highlight the underlying reasons behind the protests. This study started by reviewing the constitutional basis for basic service delivery, the legislative framework, background to Alfred Nzo District Municipality, the structural set- up of municipalities and related studies on service delivery protests. Thereafter, the candidate undertook original research on a valid focus group interview consisting of ward committees sampled from the areas considered as “hotspots” in the district of Alfred Nzo District Municipality. The researcher adopted a qualitative methodology for the analysis upon which conclusions were drawn. The study describes the respondents concerns, challenges and reasons for service delivery causes. This study provides evidence that the current challenges confronting the people of Alfred Nzo District Municipality and many citizens of South Africa are the result not only of historical factors, but also “crisis of service delivery”, which in turn is as a result of poor management, corruption, political interference in administration, cadre-deployment, demarcation issues, non- accountability of political and administrative leadership and insufficient funding by the donors and treasury. Furthermore, the results show that the majority of the respondents believe the protests are a result of anger and frustration. In conclusion the study proposes that the South African government must go back to the “Batho Pele” principles as they are regarded as the solution to address the impatience and violent protests.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Social media and development in the rural areas :an overview of the possible effects of socila media on the Thembu youth
- Matsheke, Masande Siyakudumisa
- Authors: Matsheke, Masande Siyakudumisa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rural youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tembu (African people) -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45355 , vital:38573
- Description: the possible impact on the Thembu through the introduction of information communication technologies (ICTs) as a development tool is the main concern. This is done by unpacking the model of Ubuntu as the foundation of the Thembu’s value system and juxtaposing its values to those found on social media. As Ubuntu is the basis of the Thembu cultural identity, the possible effects of ICTs, more specifically social media, on the cultural identity of the Thembu is a key concept in the treatise. The treatise begins by exploring Ubuntu in different guises so as to understand the concept holistically. This is done by examining the works of Mogobe Ramose and others in unpacking Ubuntu as a way of living. The manifestations of Ubuntu in Thembu culture are also explored so as to appreciate the relevance of Ubuntu in Thembu culture. As ICTs are introduced to the rural Thembu as part of the government’s development efforts, the treatise explores the development policies of South Africa from the RDP to GEAR in order to understand the development stance of the country. The role of ICTs in the development is also looked at. The clashing values and other contradictory factors between social media and Ubuntu are looked at in order to support the main argument of the treatise –that of social media having a negative impact on the Thembu cultural identity through inherent values found therein.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Matsheke, Masande Siyakudumisa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Rural youth -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Social media -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tembu (African people) -- History
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45355 , vital:38573
- Description: the possible impact on the Thembu through the introduction of information communication technologies (ICTs) as a development tool is the main concern. This is done by unpacking the model of Ubuntu as the foundation of the Thembu’s value system and juxtaposing its values to those found on social media. As Ubuntu is the basis of the Thembu cultural identity, the possible effects of ICTs, more specifically social media, on the cultural identity of the Thembu is a key concept in the treatise. The treatise begins by exploring Ubuntu in different guises so as to understand the concept holistically. This is done by examining the works of Mogobe Ramose and others in unpacking Ubuntu as a way of living. The manifestations of Ubuntu in Thembu culture are also explored so as to appreciate the relevance of Ubuntu in Thembu culture. As ICTs are introduced to the rural Thembu as part of the government’s development efforts, the treatise explores the development policies of South Africa from the RDP to GEAR in order to understand the development stance of the country. The role of ICTs in the development is also looked at. The clashing values and other contradictory factors between social media and Ubuntu are looked at in order to support the main argument of the treatise –that of social media having a negative impact on the Thembu cultural identity through inherent values found therein.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Storytelling and social commentary in a comparison of Zakes Mda's Ways of Dying (1995) and Black Diamond (2009)
- Authors: Thackwray, Sarah
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South African literature (English) -- Black authors -- History and criticism , Politics in literature , Storytelling -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7149 , vital:21265
- Description: In a comparison of two novels, Ways of Dying (1995) and Black Diamond (2009), this dissertation examines Zakes Mda's ongoing use of fiction in presenting incisive social commentary in the post-apartheid literary context. Mda's debut novel is a complex magic realist tale of Toloki, the professional mourner, who journeys from the village to the urban township. It is markedly different from his post-millennial satire, which invokes the social realist form, constructing a rapidly unfolding plot of urban gangsters, crime and sex, in which the characters are more representational than well-developed. While Ways of Dying has been praised as Mda's thought-provoking novel of the transition, Black Diamond has sometimes been criticised as being less able to comment significantly on the state of post-millennial South Africa. Subsequently, this dissertation evaluates the potential of Mda's most recent fictional portrayal of post-apartheid society to provide a meaningful interpretation of and commentary on post-apartheid South Africa, alongside his earlier novel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Thackwray, Sarah
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South African literature (English) -- Black authors -- History and criticism , Politics in literature , Storytelling -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7149 , vital:21265
- Description: In a comparison of two novels, Ways of Dying (1995) and Black Diamond (2009), this dissertation examines Zakes Mda's ongoing use of fiction in presenting incisive social commentary in the post-apartheid literary context. Mda's debut novel is a complex magic realist tale of Toloki, the professional mourner, who journeys from the village to the urban township. It is markedly different from his post-millennial satire, which invokes the social realist form, constructing a rapidly unfolding plot of urban gangsters, crime and sex, in which the characters are more representational than well-developed. While Ways of Dying has been praised as Mda's thought-provoking novel of the transition, Black Diamond has sometimes been criticised as being less able to comment significantly on the state of post-millennial South Africa. Subsequently, this dissertation evaluates the potential of Mda's most recent fictional portrayal of post-apartheid society to provide a meaningful interpretation of and commentary on post-apartheid South Africa, alongside his earlier novel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Student discourses: influences on identity and agency
- Authors: Ackerdien, Raeesah
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Rhetoric -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Psychological aspects , Psychoanalysis and education Identity (Psychology) in youth Educational sociology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13625 , vital:27258
- Description: South Africa‟s racialised history dates back to a colonial period where South Africans were separated by race, language and laws which prevented people of colour from mixing with those who were termed White. 22 years after the end of apartheid, race and language remain a painful part of history and a topic which is always visible in our private and public discourses. Students, as of recent, have pointed to the challenges and legacies of apartheid they face in higher education and broader society. The lack of broader transformation and racial prejudice leave a great divide amongst different groups of students. Given this background, this study sought to examine how students were making sense of themselves and others. The participants of this study included 50 second year students from the Department of Language Studies at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. This research study focused on the identity development of students and how these factors impacted their identities taking into account aspects of race, language, sense of agency and those impacting their sense of agency and sense of self. This study used a qualitative research method which involves an interpretive approach to research as this method was best suited for this study‟s analysis of student narratives. This study is a case study of the single case of second year students. The research, furthermore, used a Poststructuralist approach as theoretical underpinning and Critical Discourse Analysis for analysis of the data. Relevant literature were read and reviewed to determine what studies were saying about factors impacting on youth identity. Student narratives were analysed in order to determine which factors impacted on their identity formation, as well as the perceptions of their own identities and those of others. The results of the findings showed that students‟ identity development was affected by factors such as cultural background, parents, death of loved ones, aesthetic interest, race and language. Socio-economic inequalities in South Africa, race and language strongly defined student identities. Identities were found to be multiple and dynamic. The impact on student agency was as a result of the influences of their parents but also because of the inequalities in society. The only commonality students identified as having with other students was study. Students revealed that they did not cross racial or language boundaries to socialise with other students. There were students who indicated that they resisted racial categorisations and spoke of the celebration of diversity in South Africa but these were in the minority. Unlike previous studies that showed students wanting to move on to a new unified South Africa while simultaneously using old apartheid discourses, this study showed that students remained rooted in these discourses but reverted to these discourses because of societal inequalities. They did not foresee any moves to a new unified South Africa if inequalities not addressed. They were more radical about what a new future looks like with the battle against privilege won. Language was identified as a barrier and the fallacies of English being linked to superior intelligence was pointed out. The divides between White and Black students were apparent in the data. The study therefore recommended that curriculation of modules be undertaken with teaching of fluidity of identities and providing of critical tools for students to deconstruct race and language. The South African context should be foregrounded in all faculty study areas so that students work to a public good that seeks to eradicate inequalities. Safe spaces need to be provided for debating of these issues as well as social spaces for interaction across racial divides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ackerdien, Raeesah
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Rhetoric -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Psychological aspects , Psychoanalysis and education Identity (Psychology) in youth Educational sociology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13625 , vital:27258
- Description: South Africa‟s racialised history dates back to a colonial period where South Africans were separated by race, language and laws which prevented people of colour from mixing with those who were termed White. 22 years after the end of apartheid, race and language remain a painful part of history and a topic which is always visible in our private and public discourses. Students, as of recent, have pointed to the challenges and legacies of apartheid they face in higher education and broader society. The lack of broader transformation and racial prejudice leave a great divide amongst different groups of students. Given this background, this study sought to examine how students were making sense of themselves and others. The participants of this study included 50 second year students from the Department of Language Studies at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. This research study focused on the identity development of students and how these factors impacted their identities taking into account aspects of race, language, sense of agency and those impacting their sense of agency and sense of self. This study used a qualitative research method which involves an interpretive approach to research as this method was best suited for this study‟s analysis of student narratives. This study is a case study of the single case of second year students. The research, furthermore, used a Poststructuralist approach as theoretical underpinning and Critical Discourse Analysis for analysis of the data. Relevant literature were read and reviewed to determine what studies were saying about factors impacting on youth identity. Student narratives were analysed in order to determine which factors impacted on their identity formation, as well as the perceptions of their own identities and those of others. The results of the findings showed that students‟ identity development was affected by factors such as cultural background, parents, death of loved ones, aesthetic interest, race and language. Socio-economic inequalities in South Africa, race and language strongly defined student identities. Identities were found to be multiple and dynamic. The impact on student agency was as a result of the influences of their parents but also because of the inequalities in society. The only commonality students identified as having with other students was study. Students revealed that they did not cross racial or language boundaries to socialise with other students. There were students who indicated that they resisted racial categorisations and spoke of the celebration of diversity in South Africa but these were in the minority. Unlike previous studies that showed students wanting to move on to a new unified South Africa while simultaneously using old apartheid discourses, this study showed that students remained rooted in these discourses but reverted to these discourses because of societal inequalities. They did not foresee any moves to a new unified South Africa if inequalities not addressed. They were more radical about what a new future looks like with the battle against privilege won. Language was identified as a barrier and the fallacies of English being linked to superior intelligence was pointed out. The divides between White and Black students were apparent in the data. The study therefore recommended that curriculation of modules be undertaken with teaching of fluidity of identities and providing of critical tools for students to deconstruct race and language. The South African context should be foregrounded in all faculty study areas so that students work to a public good that seeks to eradicate inequalities. Safe spaces need to be provided for debating of these issues as well as social spaces for interaction across racial divides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017