A baseline study of land tenure rights and livelihoods in the Amatole District in the context of proposed shale gas development
- Authors: Mmtsila, Mkhuseli
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52969 , vital:44869
- Description: Shale Gas Exploration (SGE) is one among various means that are seen as a solution to the energy crisis of the 21st century. In many first world countries, especially in America, Shale Gas Exploration (SGE) has been one of the energy sources that has been utilised along with other energy sources like coal as a means of moving towards a cleaner and more sustainable renewable energy source to reduce carbon emissions as it burns cleaner than coal. Shale Gas Development (SGD) is now gaining momentum around the world, including in the African continent and in particular, South Africa, which has shown potential for exploration. The recently discovered shale gas deposits in the Karoo region have drawn significant attention across the entire central region of the interior, including the Amathole District of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, a region often neglected in the discussion surrounding SGD as it falls within the far eastern corner of the existing areas under application for exploration. In the District, as in the Province as a whole, this has brought discussions around potential for development for the area and the country at large. Since the discovery of shale gas extracts in the Karoo, there has also been a heated debate in looking at Shale Gas Development (SGD) as one of the alternatives to coal within the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to be a part of a mixed resource plan for the country. The heated debate is based on anticipated environmental short run effects together with long-run impacts in comparison with the economic benefits that could bring about economic growth and development in the Eastern Cape and South Africa at large. The concerns around Shale Gas Development (SGD) make it difficult to exploit the resource due to scepticism of residents of the Amathole District Municipality, environmental organisations, NGOs and civil society, including land tenure rights as there is an unresolved land question in South Africa. The debate around the land question in South Africa is based on redressing the socio-economic imbalances that were caused by the historical land dispossessions and the apartheid system that disallowed the indigenous black majority land rights. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Department of Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mmtsila, Mkhuseli
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52969 , vital:44869
- Description: Shale Gas Exploration (SGE) is one among various means that are seen as a solution to the energy crisis of the 21st century. In many first world countries, especially in America, Shale Gas Exploration (SGE) has been one of the energy sources that has been utilised along with other energy sources like coal as a means of moving towards a cleaner and more sustainable renewable energy source to reduce carbon emissions as it burns cleaner than coal. Shale Gas Development (SGD) is now gaining momentum around the world, including in the African continent and in particular, South Africa, which has shown potential for exploration. The recently discovered shale gas deposits in the Karoo region have drawn significant attention across the entire central region of the interior, including the Amathole District of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, a region often neglected in the discussion surrounding SGD as it falls within the far eastern corner of the existing areas under application for exploration. In the District, as in the Province as a whole, this has brought discussions around potential for development for the area and the country at large. Since the discovery of shale gas extracts in the Karoo, there has also been a heated debate in looking at Shale Gas Development (SGD) as one of the alternatives to coal within the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to be a part of a mixed resource plan for the country. The heated debate is based on anticipated environmental short run effects together with long-run impacts in comparison with the economic benefits that could bring about economic growth and development in the Eastern Cape and South Africa at large. The concerns around Shale Gas Development (SGD) make it difficult to exploit the resource due to scepticism of residents of the Amathole District Municipality, environmental organisations, NGOs and civil society, including land tenure rights as there is an unresolved land question in South Africa. The debate around the land question in South Africa is based on redressing the socio-economic imbalances that were caused by the historical land dispossessions and the apartheid system that disallowed the indigenous black majority land rights. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Department of Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A behaviour of South Africa’s economy towards inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI) from BRICs economies
- Authors: Dingela, Siyasanga
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- Developing countries , South Africa -- Economic conditions , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51141 , vital:43212
- Description: This study investigated a behaviour of South Africa’s economy towards inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI) from Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICs) economies, during the period 1997 to 2016. The BRICs bloc was coined in 2001 by then chairperson of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Jim O’Neil. According to Goldman Sach (2001), the BRICs group was collectively expected to overtake the major economic powers over the span of a few decades. Their growth is expected to shape a new economic order and replace the currently dominant advanced economies. South Africa joined the BRICs bloc in 2010 as the jeweler of the world and as a gateway to Africa. It joined the BRICs group at the time when economic growth was at a sluggish rate, and the savings and investment were at the lowest rate. The country had a high unemployment rate, high levels of poverty and income inequality. On the other hand, the BRICs economies had limited intra-BRICs flows amongst themselves. It is against this background that this study investigated the long run impact of BRICs FDI inflows on South Africa’s economic growth, and the causality relationship between South Africa’s economic growth and BRICs FDI inflows. This study contributes to the body of knowledge of economics in South Africa and the literature on foreign direct investment and economic growth in South Africa. The study employed two cointegration methods to investigate the behaviour of South Africa’s economy towards inflows of foreign direct investment from BRICs economies. These are fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS). For granger causality, the study employed Stacked and Dumistrescu Hurlin tests. All the models used time series annual data from 1997 to 2016. The Unit root test results confirmed that the variables were stationary at first difference using panel Im, Pesaran, Shin (IPS) and Levin, Lin, Chu (LLC). The research employs four regressions, first, Economic growth and foreign direct investment (i.e. private sector, banking sector and both sectors), human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land; Second, Employment and foreign direct investment, human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land; third, Economic complexity and foreign direct investment, human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land; finally, Unemployment and foreign direct investment, human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land. The cointegration results for private FDI and economic growth, employment, economic complexity, and unemployment. The results show only economic complexity has significant effect on foreign direct investment and other variables show insignificant results. However, this effect is smaller compared to other growth determinants which are included in the regressions. The cointegration results for bank FDI. These results show more similarities with private FDI results and few differences. However, this effect is smaller compared to other growth determinants included in the regressions. These growth determinants, however, show a positive effect of human capital and household consumption on economic growth which is expected. Other interesting results are exports being positively related with economic growth and unemployment but negative with employment and insignificant with economic complexity. Another one is government spending negatively influence economic growth, employment and positively influence unemployment. But insignificant for economic complexity. Total FDI results and other variables. These results are also similar to private and bank FDI results discussed above. Economic complexity shows significant effect with foreign direct investment, yet other variables are insignificant. . Further results show human capital positively related with economic growth, which is expected. However, physical capital and household consumption negatively affects growth. Another one exports show positive influence on economic growth but negatively related with employment. Yet, insignificant with economic complexity and unemployment. Other results government spending shows negative influence with employment but insignificant with economic growth, economic complexity and unemployment. The results for nonlinearity between the variables under review. The results that employment and economic complexity are nonlinear with foreign direct investment and no nonlinearity between unemployment, economic growth and foreign direct investment. For employment, low levels of foreign direct investment (LFDI_private) adversely affects employment but at higher levels (FDI_private_SQ) is insignificant. For economic complexity, low levels of foreign direct investment are insignificant for economic complexity but at higher levels there is a positive effect of squared foreign direct investment on economic complexity. Further results show that economic growth and employment are nonlinear with human capital, physical capital, household consumption and exports. Physical capital and household consumption adversely affect economic growth, yet positively affects employment. Human capital positively affects economic growth, employment, and unemployment. Exports positively affect economic growth, but negatively affect employment. Further results show nonlinearity between employment and government expenditure. Government expenditure adversely affects employment. Also, economic growth and unemployment show nonlinearity with arable land. Arable land adversely affects economic growth but positively affects unemployment. Nonlinear results for economic growth and economic complexity with foreign direct investment but no nonlinearity in other remaining variables. For economic growth, low levels of foreign direct investment there is a positive effect of foreign direct investment on economic growth, however, at higher levels foreign direct investment are insignificant. For economic complexity, low levels of foreign direct investment are insignificant, yet, higher levels of foreign direct investment there is a positive influence of foreign direct investment on economic complexity. Further results show economic growth and employment that are nonlinear with human capital, physical capital, and household consumption. Human capital positively affects both economic growth and employment. Physical capital and household consumption are adversely affecting economic growth, yet positively affects employment. Further results show nonlinearity between economic growth and government expenditure. Government expenditure adversely affects employment. More results, employment, and unemployment show nonlinearity results with exports. Exports adversely affect employment but positively affects unemployment. Results show economic growth and unemployment that are nonlinear with arable land. Arable land adversely affects economic growth, but positively affect unemployment. Nonlinear results for economic complexity only and other variables show no nonlinearity in the regressions. For economic complexity, low levels of foreign direct investment are insignificant, but at higher levels of foreign direct investment there is positive effect of foreign direct investment on economic complexity. More results show economic growth and employment that are nonlinear with human capital, physical capital, household consumption and exports. Human capital and exports positively affect economic growth, employment, and unemployment. Whereas, physical capital and household consumption adversely affects economic growth and unemployment, yet positively affects employment. Further results show nonlinearity between employment and government expenditure. Government spending adversely affects employment. Further results show nonlinearity between economic growth and unemployment with arable land. Arable land positively affects unemployment, yet adversely affects economic growth. The following section discusses granger causality results. This study also employed granger causality tests. The causality results between economic growth, employment, economic complexity, unemployment, and private foreign direct investment. The causality results show that there is granger causality between economic growth and economic complexity with private foreign direct investment. Whereas, between bank foreign direct investment and other variables there is no granger causality. However, between total foreign direct investment and economic growth and employment there is granger causality. There are a number of policy recommendations that can be drawn from the study. The study results in overall revealed that BRICs (private and bank) FDI inflows had a positive impact on South Africa’s economic growth between 1997 and 2016. The study results suggest that the policy makers should focus the attention on lobbying foreign direct investment from BRICs economies, since this study shows positive impact and relationship between South Africa’s economic growth and BRICs FDI inflows. The BRICs economies should focus on enhancing investment partnership, preventing protectionism, and promoting intra-BRICS flows. In addition, South Africa should eliminate barriers affecting business with BRICs countries. Policy makers should promote the building of new companies (for example Greenfield Investment) so that the economy of South Africa could grow and create employment. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Dingela, Siyasanga
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- Developing countries , South Africa -- Economic conditions , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51141 , vital:43212
- Description: This study investigated a behaviour of South Africa’s economy towards inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI) from Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICs) economies, during the period 1997 to 2016. The BRICs bloc was coined in 2001 by then chairperson of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Jim O’Neil. According to Goldman Sach (2001), the BRICs group was collectively expected to overtake the major economic powers over the span of a few decades. Their growth is expected to shape a new economic order and replace the currently dominant advanced economies. South Africa joined the BRICs bloc in 2010 as the jeweler of the world and as a gateway to Africa. It joined the BRICs group at the time when economic growth was at a sluggish rate, and the savings and investment were at the lowest rate. The country had a high unemployment rate, high levels of poverty and income inequality. On the other hand, the BRICs economies had limited intra-BRICs flows amongst themselves. It is against this background that this study investigated the long run impact of BRICs FDI inflows on South Africa’s economic growth, and the causality relationship between South Africa’s economic growth and BRICs FDI inflows. This study contributes to the body of knowledge of economics in South Africa and the literature on foreign direct investment and economic growth in South Africa. The study employed two cointegration methods to investigate the behaviour of South Africa’s economy towards inflows of foreign direct investment from BRICs economies. These are fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS). For granger causality, the study employed Stacked and Dumistrescu Hurlin tests. All the models used time series annual data from 1997 to 2016. The Unit root test results confirmed that the variables were stationary at first difference using panel Im, Pesaran, Shin (IPS) and Levin, Lin, Chu (LLC). The research employs four regressions, first, Economic growth and foreign direct investment (i.e. private sector, banking sector and both sectors), human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land; Second, Employment and foreign direct investment, human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land; third, Economic complexity and foreign direct investment, human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land; finally, Unemployment and foreign direct investment, human capital, physical capital, household consumption, government expenditure, exports, and arable land. The cointegration results for private FDI and economic growth, employment, economic complexity, and unemployment. The results show only economic complexity has significant effect on foreign direct investment and other variables show insignificant results. However, this effect is smaller compared to other growth determinants which are included in the regressions. The cointegration results for bank FDI. These results show more similarities with private FDI results and few differences. However, this effect is smaller compared to other growth determinants included in the regressions. These growth determinants, however, show a positive effect of human capital and household consumption on economic growth which is expected. Other interesting results are exports being positively related with economic growth and unemployment but negative with employment and insignificant with economic complexity. Another one is government spending negatively influence economic growth, employment and positively influence unemployment. But insignificant for economic complexity. Total FDI results and other variables. These results are also similar to private and bank FDI results discussed above. Economic complexity shows significant effect with foreign direct investment, yet other variables are insignificant. . Further results show human capital positively related with economic growth, which is expected. However, physical capital and household consumption negatively affects growth. Another one exports show positive influence on economic growth but negatively related with employment. Yet, insignificant with economic complexity and unemployment. Other results government spending shows negative influence with employment but insignificant with economic growth, economic complexity and unemployment. The results for nonlinearity between the variables under review. The results that employment and economic complexity are nonlinear with foreign direct investment and no nonlinearity between unemployment, economic growth and foreign direct investment. For employment, low levels of foreign direct investment (LFDI_private) adversely affects employment but at higher levels (FDI_private_SQ) is insignificant. For economic complexity, low levels of foreign direct investment are insignificant for economic complexity but at higher levels there is a positive effect of squared foreign direct investment on economic complexity. Further results show that economic growth and employment are nonlinear with human capital, physical capital, household consumption and exports. Physical capital and household consumption adversely affect economic growth, yet positively affects employment. Human capital positively affects economic growth, employment, and unemployment. Exports positively affect economic growth, but negatively affect employment. Further results show nonlinearity between employment and government expenditure. Government expenditure adversely affects employment. Also, economic growth and unemployment show nonlinearity with arable land. Arable land adversely affects economic growth but positively affects unemployment. Nonlinear results for economic growth and economic complexity with foreign direct investment but no nonlinearity in other remaining variables. For economic growth, low levels of foreign direct investment there is a positive effect of foreign direct investment on economic growth, however, at higher levels foreign direct investment are insignificant. For economic complexity, low levels of foreign direct investment are insignificant, yet, higher levels of foreign direct investment there is a positive influence of foreign direct investment on economic complexity. Further results show economic growth and employment that are nonlinear with human capital, physical capital, and household consumption. Human capital positively affects both economic growth and employment. Physical capital and household consumption are adversely affecting economic growth, yet positively affects employment. Further results show nonlinearity between economic growth and government expenditure. Government expenditure adversely affects employment. More results, employment, and unemployment show nonlinearity results with exports. Exports adversely affect employment but positively affects unemployment. Results show economic growth and unemployment that are nonlinear with arable land. Arable land adversely affects economic growth, but positively affect unemployment. Nonlinear results for economic complexity only and other variables show no nonlinearity in the regressions. For economic complexity, low levels of foreign direct investment are insignificant, but at higher levels of foreign direct investment there is positive effect of foreign direct investment on economic complexity. More results show economic growth and employment that are nonlinear with human capital, physical capital, household consumption and exports. Human capital and exports positively affect economic growth, employment, and unemployment. Whereas, physical capital and household consumption adversely affects economic growth and unemployment, yet positively affects employment. Further results show nonlinearity between employment and government expenditure. Government spending adversely affects employment. Further results show nonlinearity between economic growth and unemployment with arable land. Arable land positively affects unemployment, yet adversely affects economic growth. The following section discusses granger causality results. This study also employed granger causality tests. The causality results between economic growth, employment, economic complexity, unemployment, and private foreign direct investment. The causality results show that there is granger causality between economic growth and economic complexity with private foreign direct investment. Whereas, between bank foreign direct investment and other variables there is no granger causality. However, between total foreign direct investment and economic growth and employment there is granger causality. There are a number of policy recommendations that can be drawn from the study. The study results in overall revealed that BRICs (private and bank) FDI inflows had a positive impact on South Africa’s economic growth between 1997 and 2016. The study results suggest that the policy makers should focus the attention on lobbying foreign direct investment from BRICs economies, since this study shows positive impact and relationship between South Africa’s economic growth and BRICs FDI inflows. The BRICs economies should focus on enhancing investment partnership, preventing protectionism, and promoting intra-BRICS flows. In addition, South Africa should eliminate barriers affecting business with BRICs countries. Policy makers should promote the building of new companies (for example Greenfield Investment) so that the economy of South Africa could grow and create employment. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A causal analysis to investigate low production efficiency in the tyre manufacturing industry in South Africa
- Authors: Bruinders, Bramwill Bertram
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Industrial efficiency , Production management , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50977 , vital:43177
- Description: The evolution of tyre manufacturing in South Africa went back to the early 1930s and matured technologically, becoming automated in the 1960s. The tyre industry in South Africa is worth approximately R30bn per annum and is one of the major supporting industries for domestic vehicle manufacturers. The local industry manufactures only 11 million tyres but can manufacture 18 million tyres per annum. The tyre industry thus plays a crucial role in South Africa’s economic development. Consumers are opting to buy cheaper imported tyres even though tyres are essential purchases. Therefore, the major tyre manufacturers must compete against an estimated 200 importers of various brands, most from China and Japan. The excess local capacity and increasing volume of imports put the local tyre manufacturers under severe pressure to grow their market share, reduce operational cost and achieve economies of scale. The study’s general objective was to conduct a root cause analysis of South African tyre manufacturers’ underlying issues resulting in low production efficiencies. This study used critical manufacturing principles such as traceability, knowledge of lean principles, lean implementation challenges, Total Quality Management, organisational buy-in, waste and rework and maintenance planning that constitute tools of lean practices. These principles provided an opportunity to adopt efficient manufacturing practices in tyre manufacturing companies and help organisations identify improvement areas. A questionnaire was developed and distributed electronically to 93 respondents employed in the tyre manufacturing industry in South Africa. The study addressed product traceability, investigated the quality measures in place, and examined the influence of the workforce’s attitude and morale on productivity, and determined management’s influence on decision-making. The key findings indicated that traceability, lean implementation challenges and organisational buy-in played a significant role in improving production efficiency. Recommendations were made to management to ensure that they lead by example and enhance these key constructs to foster their growth. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration , 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Bruinders, Bramwill Bertram
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Industrial efficiency , Production management , Lean manufacturing -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50977 , vital:43177
- Description: The evolution of tyre manufacturing in South Africa went back to the early 1930s and matured technologically, becoming automated in the 1960s. The tyre industry in South Africa is worth approximately R30bn per annum and is one of the major supporting industries for domestic vehicle manufacturers. The local industry manufactures only 11 million tyres but can manufacture 18 million tyres per annum. The tyre industry thus plays a crucial role in South Africa’s economic development. Consumers are opting to buy cheaper imported tyres even though tyres are essential purchases. Therefore, the major tyre manufacturers must compete against an estimated 200 importers of various brands, most from China and Japan. The excess local capacity and increasing volume of imports put the local tyre manufacturers under severe pressure to grow their market share, reduce operational cost and achieve economies of scale. The study’s general objective was to conduct a root cause analysis of South African tyre manufacturers’ underlying issues resulting in low production efficiencies. This study used critical manufacturing principles such as traceability, knowledge of lean principles, lean implementation challenges, Total Quality Management, organisational buy-in, waste and rework and maintenance planning that constitute tools of lean practices. These principles provided an opportunity to adopt efficient manufacturing practices in tyre manufacturing companies and help organisations identify improvement areas. A questionnaire was developed and distributed electronically to 93 respondents employed in the tyre manufacturing industry in South Africa. The study addressed product traceability, investigated the quality measures in place, and examined the influence of the workforce’s attitude and morale on productivity, and determined management’s influence on decision-making. The key findings indicated that traceability, lean implementation challenges and organisational buy-in played a significant role in improving production efficiency. Recommendations were made to management to ensure that they lead by example and enhance these key constructs to foster their growth. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration , 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A comparative analysis of the taxation of lease transactions in South Africa, Australia, and Nigeria
- Authors: Galada, Khayalethu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Tax accounting -- South Africa , Tax accounting -- Australia , Tax accounting -- Nigeria , Taxation -- South Africa Taxation -- Australia Taxation -- Nigeria Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51428 , vital:43274
- Description: This treatise compared the tax treatment of lease transactions in South Africa, Australia, and Nigeria from both the lessor and lessee perspective. The analysis revealed that there are similarities and differences in the tax treatment of lease transactions between South Africa, Australia, and Nigeria. In particular, one major difference was that unlike Nigeria, South Africa and Australia have not aligned the income tax treatment of lease transactions with the accounting treatment of lease transactions in terms of IFRS 16. Consequently, the research concludes that certain parts of the tax treatment of lease transactions in South Africa may be deemed to be inadequate as a result of the misalignment between the income tax and accounting treatment of lease transactions and the inconsistency between the income tax and VAT treatment of lease transactions. This research proposes that the South African income tax treatment of lease transactions be revised by aligning the income tax treatment of lease transactions with the accounting treatment of lease transactions for simplicity purposes, and that the inconsistency between the income tax treatment and the value-added tax of lease transactions be eliminated. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A comparative analysis of the taxation of lease transactions in South Africa, Australia, and Nigeria
- Authors: Galada, Khayalethu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Tax accounting -- South Africa , Tax accounting -- Australia , Tax accounting -- Nigeria , Taxation -- South Africa Taxation -- Australia Taxation -- Nigeria Accounting
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51428 , vital:43274
- Description: This treatise compared the tax treatment of lease transactions in South Africa, Australia, and Nigeria from both the lessor and lessee perspective. The analysis revealed that there are similarities and differences in the tax treatment of lease transactions between South Africa, Australia, and Nigeria. In particular, one major difference was that unlike Nigeria, South Africa and Australia have not aligned the income tax treatment of lease transactions with the accounting treatment of lease transactions in terms of IFRS 16. Consequently, the research concludes that certain parts of the tax treatment of lease transactions in South Africa may be deemed to be inadequate as a result of the misalignment between the income tax and accounting treatment of lease transactions and the inconsistency between the income tax and VAT treatment of lease transactions. This research proposes that the South African income tax treatment of lease transactions be revised by aligning the income tax treatment of lease transactions with the accounting treatment of lease transactions for simplicity purposes, and that the inconsistency between the income tax treatment and the value-added tax of lease transactions be eliminated. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A framework for an integrated transport system towards improving public transport efficiency in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Dlepu, Anele Lunga
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Intelligent transportation systems , Transportation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Transportation -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51165 , vital:43214
- Description: The main objective of this study was to develop a framework for an Integrated Transport System towards improving public transport efficiency in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study was conducted against a background of a noticeably disjointed transport system in the BCMM. Among several others, the key attributing factors include rapid urban expansion, urbanization and sharp rise in the volume of traffic. The preliminary chapter of this study presented objectives which sought to address the economic and social costs associated with the disintegrated transport system. This study has been divided into seven chapters, with three of them comprising of literature review. The first chapter gives a background about the South African public transport system, covering transport regulations and legislation including an overview of the public transport system in the BCMM. The second chapter provided an overview of the transport system in South Africa, including the profile and comparison with other countries. In the third chapter, literature on transport integration has been explored, touching on the nodes and corridor development concepts, together with the integrated transit systems. Importantly, the literature analysis section discusses challenges inhibiting transport integration and the effective strategies for improving integration efforts. For the research methodology the interpretivist paradigm has been followed, necessitating the adoption of a qualitative research approach. This research used the qualitative data collection method, together with thematic analysis. Primary Data was collected by means of an unstructured questionnaire distributed to respondents electronically and the views captured in this study were from respondents in the Traffic Department, Traffic Police Department, the Local Municipality and Taxi Associations. The research leads to the findings that there is a need for a review of the urban transport policy, the reconstruction of urban roads and an investment in appropriate transport integration technology. This study also articulates that the urban sprawl in Buffalo City Metro is a serious cause for concern with regard to transport management. It further recommends that there must be a better coordination between the various transport management departments. Finally a recommendation is made that mini-bus taxis be done away with, as means of transport. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Dlepu, Anele Lunga
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Intelligent transportation systems , Transportation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Transportation -- Planning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51165 , vital:43214
- Description: The main objective of this study was to develop a framework for an Integrated Transport System towards improving public transport efficiency in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The study was conducted against a background of a noticeably disjointed transport system in the BCMM. Among several others, the key attributing factors include rapid urban expansion, urbanization and sharp rise in the volume of traffic. The preliminary chapter of this study presented objectives which sought to address the economic and social costs associated with the disintegrated transport system. This study has been divided into seven chapters, with three of them comprising of literature review. The first chapter gives a background about the South African public transport system, covering transport regulations and legislation including an overview of the public transport system in the BCMM. The second chapter provided an overview of the transport system in South Africa, including the profile and comparison with other countries. In the third chapter, literature on transport integration has been explored, touching on the nodes and corridor development concepts, together with the integrated transit systems. Importantly, the literature analysis section discusses challenges inhibiting transport integration and the effective strategies for improving integration efforts. For the research methodology the interpretivist paradigm has been followed, necessitating the adoption of a qualitative research approach. This research used the qualitative data collection method, together with thematic analysis. Primary Data was collected by means of an unstructured questionnaire distributed to respondents electronically and the views captured in this study were from respondents in the Traffic Department, Traffic Police Department, the Local Municipality and Taxi Associations. The research leads to the findings that there is a need for a review of the urban transport policy, the reconstruction of urban roads and an investment in appropriate transport integration technology. This study also articulates that the urban sprawl in Buffalo City Metro is a serious cause for concern with regard to transport management. It further recommends that there must be a better coordination between the various transport management departments. Finally a recommendation is made that mini-bus taxis be done away with, as means of transport. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A framework for public infrastructure financing in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Kapesa, Tonderai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- Accounting -- Standards , Accounting -- Standards , Finance -- Zimbabwe , Infrastructure (Economics) -- Zimbabwe -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51688 , vital:43363
- Description: The Government of Zimbabwe is operating using the mantra: ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’. The notion of opening for business requires robust supporting economic infrastructure for enhanced productivity, in the form of reliable supply of electricity, accessible road/railway transport networks and availability of contemporary Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure. The aim of the study was to develop a framework for making financing decisions for public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. The objectives of the study are to: determine the main sources of public infrastructure financing in Zimbabwe; establish innovative finance’s capacity to close the public infrastructure financing gap in Zimbabwe; assess the role played by public-sector accounting in attracting appropriate and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe; and ultimately to develop and recommend a framework for selecting suitable and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. According to literature reviewed, public infrastructure is broadly financed by public sector entities using their own resources (internally financed) or through private sector investments and innovative financing instruments (externally financed). When infrastructure is internally financed, the study is theoretically guided by the Public Goods Theory and the Theory of Public Finance and Public Policy. When externally financed, the Risk Return and Pecking Order theories are important. There are many instruments used to finance public infrastructure and one project may be financed using one or more instruments. Therefore, considerations are given to the need for a framework that helps improve the efficiency of the financing decision. The study was designed as a multiple case study that focused on four sectors of economic infrastructure, that is, transport, energy (electricity), ICT as well as water and sanitation. The research used synchronous mixed methods to achieve the objectives of the study. Qualitative research methods addressed the following objectives: a) to determine the main sources of public infrastructure financing in Zimbabwe; b) to establish innovative finance’s capacity to close the public infrastructure financing gap in Zimbabwe; and c) to assess the role played by public-sector accounting in attracting appropriate and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. Whilst to develop and recommend a framework for selecting suitable and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe the study combined qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative data was collected through interviews conducted with officials and staff from government ministries, government departments, as well as parastatal enterprises dealing with the four infrastructure types. The same respondents were asked to complete a survey questionnaire used to address part of the objective that developed a framework for public infrastructure financing. Interview data were triangulated using secondary data extracted from reports and financial statements. Some of the secondary data was collected from the World Bank’s development indicators online repository. Qualitative data analysis was done using RQDA, an open-source computer-aided data analysis software. Findings from the study revealed that the main sources of finance for public infrastructure in Zimbabwe are the government through budget appropriations, and concessionary loans from the China Export-Import Bank. There was also finance obtained from multilateral financial institutions such as the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the African Export-Import Bank. The study revealed that there is currently very limited use of innovative financing instruments such as PPPs in financing public infrastructure in Zimbabwe, despite the country having legislation to support such financing arrangements. The innovations in financing observed in the study entail the use of conventional financing mechanisms in unconventional ways. However, there is scope for improving the financing of public infrastructure using innovative financing mechanisms and significantly mitigate the financing gap. Public sector accountants in Zimbabwe are mainly active in financial reporting, although the financial statements for most ministries, government departments and parastatal enterprises had qualified audit opinions from the Auditor General’s office. Public sector accountants are not active in financial management and cost and management accounting responsibilities. As a result, public sector accountants are not adding value to public money through offering advisory services in the efficient investment of public money, as well as financing public infrastructure assets using the most efficient financing mechanism. There is no uniformly applied framework when making financing decisions for public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. Therefore, a framework was developed and is recommended for use by this study. The developed framework entails eight steps that are interrelated and interconnected. Use of the proposed framework requires availability of data about infrastructure projects that have been done in the past. The study recommends that Zimbabwe should ensure a robust framework for protecting private sector investments, which can be achieved by ensuring policy consistency; creating and implementing a legal framework that protects private capital; and having economically viable infrastructure sectors, that are liberalised to allow private sector participation. The Government of Zimbabwe must take deliberate actions that ensure variety of financing options at the disposal of the public sector to lower costs of financing public infrastructure. It is also important to fully operationalise the legislation and policies designed to facilitate the participation of the private sector in financing public sector projects. Such operationalisation entails a decentralisation of the regulations and policies to the provincial and municipal levels. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kapesa, Tonderai
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Finance, Public -- Accounting -- Standards , Accounting -- Standards , Finance -- Zimbabwe , Infrastructure (Economics) -- Zimbabwe -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51688 , vital:43363
- Description: The Government of Zimbabwe is operating using the mantra: ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’. The notion of opening for business requires robust supporting economic infrastructure for enhanced productivity, in the form of reliable supply of electricity, accessible road/railway transport networks and availability of contemporary Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure. The aim of the study was to develop a framework for making financing decisions for public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. The objectives of the study are to: determine the main sources of public infrastructure financing in Zimbabwe; establish innovative finance’s capacity to close the public infrastructure financing gap in Zimbabwe; assess the role played by public-sector accounting in attracting appropriate and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe; and ultimately to develop and recommend a framework for selecting suitable and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. According to literature reviewed, public infrastructure is broadly financed by public sector entities using their own resources (internally financed) or through private sector investments and innovative financing instruments (externally financed). When infrastructure is internally financed, the study is theoretically guided by the Public Goods Theory and the Theory of Public Finance and Public Policy. When externally financed, the Risk Return and Pecking Order theories are important. There are many instruments used to finance public infrastructure and one project may be financed using one or more instruments. Therefore, considerations are given to the need for a framework that helps improve the efficiency of the financing decision. The study was designed as a multiple case study that focused on four sectors of economic infrastructure, that is, transport, energy (electricity), ICT as well as water and sanitation. The research used synchronous mixed methods to achieve the objectives of the study. Qualitative research methods addressed the following objectives: a) to determine the main sources of public infrastructure financing in Zimbabwe; b) to establish innovative finance’s capacity to close the public infrastructure financing gap in Zimbabwe; and c) to assess the role played by public-sector accounting in attracting appropriate and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. Whilst to develop and recommend a framework for selecting suitable and efficient mechanisms to finance public infrastructure in Zimbabwe the study combined qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative data was collected through interviews conducted with officials and staff from government ministries, government departments, as well as parastatal enterprises dealing with the four infrastructure types. The same respondents were asked to complete a survey questionnaire used to address part of the objective that developed a framework for public infrastructure financing. Interview data were triangulated using secondary data extracted from reports and financial statements. Some of the secondary data was collected from the World Bank’s development indicators online repository. Qualitative data analysis was done using RQDA, an open-source computer-aided data analysis software. Findings from the study revealed that the main sources of finance for public infrastructure in Zimbabwe are the government through budget appropriations, and concessionary loans from the China Export-Import Bank. There was also finance obtained from multilateral financial institutions such as the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the African Export-Import Bank. The study revealed that there is currently very limited use of innovative financing instruments such as PPPs in financing public infrastructure in Zimbabwe, despite the country having legislation to support such financing arrangements. The innovations in financing observed in the study entail the use of conventional financing mechanisms in unconventional ways. However, there is scope for improving the financing of public infrastructure using innovative financing mechanisms and significantly mitigate the financing gap. Public sector accountants in Zimbabwe are mainly active in financial reporting, although the financial statements for most ministries, government departments and parastatal enterprises had qualified audit opinions from the Auditor General’s office. Public sector accountants are not active in financial management and cost and management accounting responsibilities. As a result, public sector accountants are not adding value to public money through offering advisory services in the efficient investment of public money, as well as financing public infrastructure assets using the most efficient financing mechanism. There is no uniformly applied framework when making financing decisions for public infrastructure in Zimbabwe. Therefore, a framework was developed and is recommended for use by this study. The developed framework entails eight steps that are interrelated and interconnected. Use of the proposed framework requires availability of data about infrastructure projects that have been done in the past. The study recommends that Zimbabwe should ensure a robust framework for protecting private sector investments, which can be achieved by ensuring policy consistency; creating and implementing a legal framework that protects private capital; and having economically viable infrastructure sectors, that are liberalised to allow private sector participation. The Government of Zimbabwe must take deliberate actions that ensure variety of financing options at the disposal of the public sector to lower costs of financing public infrastructure. It is also important to fully operationalise the legislation and policies designed to facilitate the participation of the private sector in financing public sector projects. Such operationalisation entails a decentralisation of the regulations and policies to the provincial and municipal levels. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Accounting, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A framework for the successful management of the service suppliers in the public sector in South Africa
- Authors: Fudu, Anele George
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Management , Business logistics , Government business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51411 , vital:43272
- Description: The Public sector outsources the service to the private service suppliers through tendering and the awarding of contracts to the successful service providers. There is a lot of money budgeted and spent on service providers; therefore, there is a great need to manage the service providers successfully, in order to deliver a reliable service to the community; and to reduce the cost thereof. The study focused on the successful management of the service suppliers, in order to deliver contract deliverables. Poor performance of the service providers might well lead to schedule overruns, contract over-expenditure and contract cancellations. Inadequate performance management causes service suppliers not to perform at their optimum level. The study aimed to contribute to the development of the framework for performance management of the service suppliers in the public sector in South Africa. The primary objectives of the study were to investigate and develop a framework for managing and enhancing the performance of the service suppliers in the public sector. More specifically, the study investigated the influence of scope of work, a contract strategy, performance management, risk management and change management. The study sought to formulate a structured and practical approach on how to manage service suppliers to the public sector. The study will seek to understand what influences the success for the win-win approach in the Public Sector and Services Suppliers – so that both parties can see themselves as partners in the delivery of the services. The sample consists of 70 employees across all the public sector in South Africa, which consists of national government, provincial municipalities, district municipalities, local government and State-owned companies. The study targeted those respondents involved in the management of the service suppliers to the public study. The empirical results show that the management of the service providers’ performance in the public sector is critical to the service delivery and the management of the final cost. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Fudu, Anele George
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Management , Business logistics , Government business enterprises -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51411 , vital:43272
- Description: The Public sector outsources the service to the private service suppliers through tendering and the awarding of contracts to the successful service providers. There is a lot of money budgeted and spent on service providers; therefore, there is a great need to manage the service providers successfully, in order to deliver a reliable service to the community; and to reduce the cost thereof. The study focused on the successful management of the service suppliers, in order to deliver contract deliverables. Poor performance of the service providers might well lead to schedule overruns, contract over-expenditure and contract cancellations. Inadequate performance management causes service suppliers not to perform at their optimum level. The study aimed to contribute to the development of the framework for performance management of the service suppliers in the public sector in South Africa. The primary objectives of the study were to investigate and develop a framework for managing and enhancing the performance of the service suppliers in the public sector. More specifically, the study investigated the influence of scope of work, a contract strategy, performance management, risk management and change management. The study sought to formulate a structured and practical approach on how to manage service suppliers to the public sector. The study will seek to understand what influences the success for the win-win approach in the Public Sector and Services Suppliers – so that both parties can see themselves as partners in the delivery of the services. The sample consists of 70 employees across all the public sector in South Africa, which consists of national government, provincial municipalities, district municipalities, local government and State-owned companies. The study targeted those respondents involved in the management of the service suppliers to the public study. The empirical results show that the management of the service providers’ performance in the public sector is critical to the service delivery and the management of the final cost. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A framework to integrate social entrepreneurship into development planning in South Africa
- Authors: Nwauche, Sokeibelemaye
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52982 , vital:44881
- Description: The thesis presents a framework to integrate social entrepreneurship (SE) into development planning in South Africa. Even though there is no consensus on a universally accepted definition of the term, there is concurrence that SE brings about social change that can influence the overall development of the community. In South Africa, SE is thus conceived of as one of the mechanisms for addressing the wicked and persistent socio-economic challenges that face the country. Social entrepreneurship occurs in areas such as education, health, skills development, youth programmes, rehabilitation, safety, food security, poverty, job creation, human rights activism, environmental issues, arts and culture, among others. However, it remains unclear how SE is integrated into the development planning and implementation processes. Questions of integrating SE into development planning are asked within the context of South Africa as a democratic developmental state that intervenes in the development process. It emphasises the mobilization of and engagement with all sectors towards the achievement of its development objectives as articulated in the national development plan (NDP). Also, government recognizes organizations in the social enterprise sector (such as NPOs and NPCs) as stakeholders and development partners who deliver relevant services towards the achievement of these development objectives. However, there is a lack of framework to mobilize and integrate the social enterprise sector and SE into the development planning process. Social entrepreneurship, therefore, tends to occur in insolation from other development programmes. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Nwauche, Sokeibelemaye
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52982 , vital:44881
- Description: The thesis presents a framework to integrate social entrepreneurship (SE) into development planning in South Africa. Even though there is no consensus on a universally accepted definition of the term, there is concurrence that SE brings about social change that can influence the overall development of the community. In South Africa, SE is thus conceived of as one of the mechanisms for addressing the wicked and persistent socio-economic challenges that face the country. Social entrepreneurship occurs in areas such as education, health, skills development, youth programmes, rehabilitation, safety, food security, poverty, job creation, human rights activism, environmental issues, arts and culture, among others. However, it remains unclear how SE is integrated into the development planning and implementation processes. Questions of integrating SE into development planning are asked within the context of South Africa as a democratic developmental state that intervenes in the development process. It emphasises the mobilization of and engagement with all sectors towards the achievement of its development objectives as articulated in the national development plan (NDP). Also, government recognizes organizations in the social enterprise sector (such as NPOs and NPCs) as stakeholders and development partners who deliver relevant services towards the achievement of these development objectives. However, there is a lack of framework to mobilize and integrate the social enterprise sector and SE into the development planning process. Social entrepreneurship, therefore, tends to occur in insolation from other development programmes. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A model for smart factories in the consumer health sector
- Authors: Nherera, Bruce
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52959 , vital:44879
- Description: The manufacturing sector, globally, is facing significant challenges due to current societal, economic, environmental, and technological developments. To overcome the challenges into the future, manufacturing organisations will need new capabilities to manage their end to end supply chains to make sure that it is responsive and agile. The Smart factories, as an element of Industry 4.0, drive efficient operations while at the same time ensure that employees are safe, and operations are environmentally sustainable. The ability to be flexible, to be reconfigured and to be connected to customers allows Smart factories to mass customise their customers’ orders and maintain the same efficiencies when compared to mass production operations. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) in Smart factories must be employed to further drive efficiencies, agility and ease of production by giving operations the capability to respond in real time to problems with machines and customer requests. Smart factory technology allows operational sustainability through the efficient use of resources. The Smart factory revolution is significantly changing the relationship between humans and machines. Based on the literature review conducted, a theoretical model was constructed which was tested at a Consumer Health Organisation to identify the relationship between the dependent and independent factors. The independent factors, specified in the model were job security, organisation culture, training and skills, trust, costs and resources, parent company and standards. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Nherera, Bruce
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52959 , vital:44879
- Description: The manufacturing sector, globally, is facing significant challenges due to current societal, economic, environmental, and technological developments. To overcome the challenges into the future, manufacturing organisations will need new capabilities to manage their end to end supply chains to make sure that it is responsive and agile. The Smart factories, as an element of Industry 4.0, drive efficient operations while at the same time ensure that employees are safe, and operations are environmentally sustainable. The ability to be flexible, to be reconfigured and to be connected to customers allows Smart factories to mass customise their customers’ orders and maintain the same efficiencies when compared to mass production operations. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) in Smart factories must be employed to further drive efficiencies, agility and ease of production by giving operations the capability to respond in real time to problems with machines and customer requests. Smart factory technology allows operational sustainability through the efficient use of resources. The Smart factory revolution is significantly changing the relationship between humans and machines. Based on the literature review conducted, a theoretical model was constructed which was tested at a Consumer Health Organisation to identify the relationship between the dependent and independent factors. The independent factors, specified in the model were job security, organisation culture, training and skills, trust, costs and resources, parent company and standards. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A model for smart ports in developing countries
- Authors: Mcetywa, Kwazelela
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Harbors --Design and construction , Harbors-- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/56012 , vital:54632
- Description: South African Ports have made a commendable effort in improving productivity through technology and they compete reasonably well with ports in other developing countries. However, sufficient research about the factors that affect the adoption of smart ports and associated benefits have not been adequately explored in South Africa and in other developing countries. The consequence is that ports are faced with high levels of inefficiency, deteriorating logistical performance, poor port productivity, high transport costs and truck congestion. Therefore, the study focuses on determining and evaluating factors that affect the adoption of the smart port’s concept in developing countries in order to improve port productivity and efficiency. A proposed conceptual Smart Port model was developed based on an in-depth review of literature on smart ports, covering both national and international research. The study follows a quantitative research approach and is based on positivism. The sampling frame of the study was limited to 1,350 employees and managers in South African ports. The data was collected from South African port’s employees via an email survey, using an embedded questionnaire. The data collected from a total number of 197 participants were analysed statistically. The confirmed model for smart ports in developing countries shows statistically and practically that a smart port is dependent on operations technology, environmental management, energy consumption, safety and security, integration, infrastructure and equipment and a skilled workforce. One of the key study learnings from the study is that ports should adopt the smart port targeted initiatives in order to transition into smart ports. The developed Smart Port model can be used as a broad guideline to inform ports in South Africa and in other developing countries about the fundamental elements of an ideal port in order to improve their efficiency, competitiveness and to stimulate their growth and profitability. The study is viewed as a success in that it provides the port industry in both developed and developing countries with a deliberate and clearly defined Smart Port model structure, which did not exist before. A follow-on longitudinal study to determine the impact of the changing technologies on the smart ports is recommended among others as a future research opportunity. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mcetywa, Kwazelela
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Harbors --Design and construction , Harbors-- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/56012 , vital:54632
- Description: South African Ports have made a commendable effort in improving productivity through technology and they compete reasonably well with ports in other developing countries. However, sufficient research about the factors that affect the adoption of smart ports and associated benefits have not been adequately explored in South Africa and in other developing countries. The consequence is that ports are faced with high levels of inefficiency, deteriorating logistical performance, poor port productivity, high transport costs and truck congestion. Therefore, the study focuses on determining and evaluating factors that affect the adoption of the smart port’s concept in developing countries in order to improve port productivity and efficiency. A proposed conceptual Smart Port model was developed based on an in-depth review of literature on smart ports, covering both national and international research. The study follows a quantitative research approach and is based on positivism. The sampling frame of the study was limited to 1,350 employees and managers in South African ports. The data was collected from South African port’s employees via an email survey, using an embedded questionnaire. The data collected from a total number of 197 participants were analysed statistically. The confirmed model for smart ports in developing countries shows statistically and practically that a smart port is dependent on operations technology, environmental management, energy consumption, safety and security, integration, infrastructure and equipment and a skilled workforce. One of the key study learnings from the study is that ports should adopt the smart port targeted initiatives in order to transition into smart ports. The developed Smart Port model can be used as a broad guideline to inform ports in South Africa and in other developing countries about the fundamental elements of an ideal port in order to improve their efficiency, competitiveness and to stimulate their growth and profitability. The study is viewed as a success in that it provides the port industry in both developed and developing countries with a deliberate and clearly defined Smart Port model structure, which did not exist before. A follow-on longitudinal study to determine the impact of the changing technologies on the smart ports is recommended among others as a future research opportunity. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
A systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa
- Authors: Watson, Storm Brandon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52995 , vital:44906
- Description: This study is set out to apply mixed methods approach to a systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa. Research into working capital management has primarily focused on the effect it has on a business’s profitability, liquidity and performance. There is, however, limited research on the topic working capital management in South Africa and, as such, the primary objective of this study is to review research outputs on working capital management in South Africa. The purpose is to identify research gaps in the current body of knowledge by means of the development of a recommendation’s framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Watson, Storm Brandon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52995 , vital:44906
- Description: This study is set out to apply mixed methods approach to a systematic review of research into working capital management in South Africa. Research into working capital management has primarily focused on the effect it has on a business’s profitability, liquidity and performance. There is, however, limited research on the topic working capital management in South Africa and, as such, the primary objective of this study is to review research outputs on working capital management in South Africa. The purpose is to identify research gaps in the current body of knowledge by means of the development of a recommendation’s framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An analysis of the employability of civil engineering graduate technicians
- Authors: Ikudayisi, Akinola Mayowa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Job hunting , Career development , Labor market
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51578 , vital:43312
- Description: In South Africa, a severe shortage of professional engineers exists compared to the international benchmark of an average population per engineer. This shortage is one of the major causes of poor service and utility delivery at the municipal level. In addition, there is an insufficient number of competent engineers available for ongoing projects. Hence, there is a critical shortage of experienced, engineering professionals, particularly mid-career engineers to be responsible for production works. As a result, Universities of Technology (UoT) were tasked and authorised to train engineering professionals. From research, it was discovered that most of the Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians (CEGT) failed to acquire and develop relevant and essential industry skills during their engineering programme. This makes it difficult for them to be employed in the engineering workplaces. The departments of civil engineering in some South African universities have not evaluated the quality of the education of their CEGT and their employability to work in the engineering industry. This research therefore aims to measure the employability and quality of education of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians from some South African universities by investigating the experiences of civil engineering alumni and employers of graduates in the engineering industry. This is to determine if the graduate technicians are provided and equipped with relevant industry competencies and skills set to meet the industry’s expectation. An online survey which contains 89 closed-ended questions was designed to allow alumni and their employers assess the standard of education of graduates and industry competence acquired during their engineering programmes. The Universal Resource Link (URL) to the online questionnaire was sent to a sample of 600 respondents using a web-based survey approach. Only seventeen percent of the targeted population completed the survey and that makes 102 respondents in this study. A conceptual model that measures the employability of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians was also developed. The data gathered was statistically analysed. Varying descriptive and inferential statistics were explored, such as frequency distributions, central measure, dispersion measure, the Cronbach alpha coefficient test, one-sample t-tests, Cohen’s d, Pearson’s product moment correlation, ANOVA, MANOVA, ranking indices and lastly, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). The EFA was employed to ensure the construct validity of the instrument and to identify items which should be removed. Each of these statistics cumulatively performs an empirical evaluation of the Civil Engineering Graduate Technician employability model. From the result of the data analysis, the hypothesised model identified the following factors as having an influence on the employability of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians: Knowledge Gained, Academic Staff Teaching, Engineering Design Ability, Individual and Teamwork Ability, Participation of each Student, Infrastructure Provided, Problem Solving Skills, Professional and Technical Communication Skills, Workplace Practices, Encouragement in School and Essentiality of Creativity and Innovation. These eleven independent factors from Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient were all found to possess good internal reliability. They all exert a significant positive effect on employability. Additionally, managerial recommendations, limitations to the study and a call for future research were discussed. If these recommendations are implemented, UoTs and employers in the civil engineering industry should be successful in producing work-ready civil engineering technicians. Having these recommendations implemented is fundamental to creating innovative and skilled technicians and engineers in the engineering industry, who can adapt to market changes. Of the competencies assessed, “Individual and Teamwork ability” received the highest and “Infrastructure provided” the lowest rating. Overall, the results indicate that employers are reasonably satisfied with the competencies of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians but point to the need for the strengthening of “Engineering design ability”, “Professional and technical communication skills” and “Infrastructure provided” competencies within the curriculum of the Diploma programme. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ikudayisi, Akinola Mayowa
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Job hunting , Career development , Labor market
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51578 , vital:43312
- Description: In South Africa, a severe shortage of professional engineers exists compared to the international benchmark of an average population per engineer. This shortage is one of the major causes of poor service and utility delivery at the municipal level. In addition, there is an insufficient number of competent engineers available for ongoing projects. Hence, there is a critical shortage of experienced, engineering professionals, particularly mid-career engineers to be responsible for production works. As a result, Universities of Technology (UoT) were tasked and authorised to train engineering professionals. From research, it was discovered that most of the Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians (CEGT) failed to acquire and develop relevant and essential industry skills during their engineering programme. This makes it difficult for them to be employed in the engineering workplaces. The departments of civil engineering in some South African universities have not evaluated the quality of the education of their CEGT and their employability to work in the engineering industry. This research therefore aims to measure the employability and quality of education of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians from some South African universities by investigating the experiences of civil engineering alumni and employers of graduates in the engineering industry. This is to determine if the graduate technicians are provided and equipped with relevant industry competencies and skills set to meet the industry’s expectation. An online survey which contains 89 closed-ended questions was designed to allow alumni and their employers assess the standard of education of graduates and industry competence acquired during their engineering programmes. The Universal Resource Link (URL) to the online questionnaire was sent to a sample of 600 respondents using a web-based survey approach. Only seventeen percent of the targeted population completed the survey and that makes 102 respondents in this study. A conceptual model that measures the employability of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians was also developed. The data gathered was statistically analysed. Varying descriptive and inferential statistics were explored, such as frequency distributions, central measure, dispersion measure, the Cronbach alpha coefficient test, one-sample t-tests, Cohen’s d, Pearson’s product moment correlation, ANOVA, MANOVA, ranking indices and lastly, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). The EFA was employed to ensure the construct validity of the instrument and to identify items which should be removed. Each of these statistics cumulatively performs an empirical evaluation of the Civil Engineering Graduate Technician employability model. From the result of the data analysis, the hypothesised model identified the following factors as having an influence on the employability of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians: Knowledge Gained, Academic Staff Teaching, Engineering Design Ability, Individual and Teamwork Ability, Participation of each Student, Infrastructure Provided, Problem Solving Skills, Professional and Technical Communication Skills, Workplace Practices, Encouragement in School and Essentiality of Creativity and Innovation. These eleven independent factors from Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient were all found to possess good internal reliability. They all exert a significant positive effect on employability. Additionally, managerial recommendations, limitations to the study and a call for future research were discussed. If these recommendations are implemented, UoTs and employers in the civil engineering industry should be successful in producing work-ready civil engineering technicians. Having these recommendations implemented is fundamental to creating innovative and skilled technicians and engineers in the engineering industry, who can adapt to market changes. Of the competencies assessed, “Individual and Teamwork ability” received the highest and “Infrastructure provided” the lowest rating. Overall, the results indicate that employers are reasonably satisfied with the competencies of Civil Engineering Graduate Technicians but point to the need for the strengthening of “Engineering design ability”, “Professional and technical communication skills” and “Infrastructure provided” competencies within the curriculum of the Diploma programme. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An assessment of risk management in a State-Owned Enterprise (SOE): a case of Transnet engineering
- Authors: Mnyiphika, Aphiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53009 , vital:44868
- Description: State-owned enterprises are facing several challenges. The challenges are associated with several risks in the business environment. Risk management has become increasingly important in the day to operations of any enterprise. This study is conducted to assess risk management implementation and execution within a state-owned enterprise (SOE). The main reason behind this research is that very little is known about risk management in the SOE sector in South Africa, as can be seen by the perpetual failure of these organisations. Therefore, this research focused on assessing the implementation and execution of risk management at Transnet Engineering because it continues to suffer losses as a result of “state capture”. The study sought to find out the role of organisational culture on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. the main objectives of the research focused on the impact of commitment on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; the function of implementation on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; and the impact of monitoring on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. A qualitative research methodology was utilised to attain results for these research objectives.The areas focused on Transnet Engineering with it regions and excluded other subdivisions of Transnet such as Transnet National Ports Authority, Freight rail, Port Terminals Pipelines and Properties. Convenience sampling was used to select 10 appropriate participants who were willing to provide the needed information to furnish the study’s findings. Interviews were utilised to collect data for this study. The data that was collected in this study was analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings of this study show that the organisational culture of Transnet Engineering is not enhancing the adoption and implementation of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mnyiphika, Aphiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53009 , vital:44868
- Description: State-owned enterprises are facing several challenges. The challenges are associated with several risks in the business environment. Risk management has become increasingly important in the day to operations of any enterprise. This study is conducted to assess risk management implementation and execution within a state-owned enterprise (SOE). The main reason behind this research is that very little is known about risk management in the SOE sector in South Africa, as can be seen by the perpetual failure of these organisations. Therefore, this research focused on assessing the implementation and execution of risk management at Transnet Engineering because it continues to suffer losses as a result of “state capture”. The study sought to find out the role of organisational culture on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. the main objectives of the research focused on the impact of commitment on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; the function of implementation on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; and the impact of monitoring on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. A qualitative research methodology was utilised to attain results for these research objectives.The areas focused on Transnet Engineering with it regions and excluded other subdivisions of Transnet such as Transnet National Ports Authority, Freight rail, Port Terminals Pipelines and Properties. Convenience sampling was used to select 10 appropriate participants who were willing to provide the needed information to furnish the study’s findings. Interviews were utilised to collect data for this study. The data that was collected in this study was analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings of this study show that the organisational culture of Transnet Engineering is not enhancing the adoption and implementation of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An assessment of the key factors that may impact the future demand for red meat in South Africa
- Authors: Pearce, Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53019 , vital:44887
- Description: The global human population is estimated to be in excess of nine billion by the year 2050, and the added population is expected to put further pressure on already over- extended resources such as food and water. Increased demand, positive growth and record high prices should be encouraging for the red meat industry. Despite all the positives such as the growth in the world population and the consumer’s ability to spend, the popularity of red meat around the world and in South Africa is continually declining in favour of white meat and other non-meat proteins. Although red meat will often be the most expensive component of any diet, the nutritional value that red meat offers as part of a healthy and balanced eating plan, should not be understated. This study intends to identify and assess factors that may impact on the future sustainable demand for red meat. Sixty-two adults were surveyed through an electronic questionnaire to assess their views on red meat consumption in South Africa. A set of 52 questions were deduced from the main focus and objectives. The data was analysed and conclusions derived from it. The results show that the demand for red meat is sustainable if outlets selling red meat are accessible and the preference for red meat remains, even with stiff competition from substitutes like pork, chicken and vegetables. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Pearce, Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53019 , vital:44887
- Description: The global human population is estimated to be in excess of nine billion by the year 2050, and the added population is expected to put further pressure on already over- extended resources such as food and water. Increased demand, positive growth and record high prices should be encouraging for the red meat industry. Despite all the positives such as the growth in the world population and the consumer’s ability to spend, the popularity of red meat around the world and in South Africa is continually declining in favour of white meat and other non-meat proteins. Although red meat will often be the most expensive component of any diet, the nutritional value that red meat offers as part of a healthy and balanced eating plan, should not be understated. This study intends to identify and assess factors that may impact on the future sustainable demand for red meat. Sixty-two adults were surveyed through an electronic questionnaire to assess their views on red meat consumption in South Africa. A set of 52 questions were deduced from the main focus and objectives. The data was analysed and conclusions derived from it. The results show that the demand for red meat is sustainable if outlets selling red meat are accessible and the preference for red meat remains, even with stiff competition from substitutes like pork, chicken and vegetables. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An exploration into an ESD-based teaching strategy to improve the critical thinking and problem-solving skills amongst development studies students at Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Abrahams, André John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Problem solving -- Study and teaching , Divergent thinking -- Study and teaching , Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Environmental education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50907 , vital:43148
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Abrahams, André John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Problem solving -- Study and teaching , Divergent thinking -- Study and teaching , Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Environmental education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50907 , vital:43148
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An exploration into an ESD-based teaching strategy to improve the critical thinking and problem-solving skills amongst development studies students at Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Abrahams, Andre John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Universities and colleges -- South Africa , Critical thinking
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50906 , vital:43149
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Abrahams, Andre John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Universities and colleges -- South Africa , Critical thinking
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50906 , vital:43149
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation into the use of a consumer incentive to encourage recycling in South Africa
- Authors: Conway, John Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects , Consumption (Economics) -- South Africa , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51096 , vital:43208
- Description: The focus of this study is the factors that influence recycling behaviours, particularly whether incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. Africa is said to become the most polluted continent within a few decades. Three of the largest metropoles in South African are likely to run out of landfill space within the next ten years. Waste streams provide considerable opportunity if waste can be safely collected and either reused, recycled, or recovered, but extracting value from the waste streams is costly and difficult. Consumers need to separate waste at source to improve the efficacy of the recycling stream, yet South Africans do not separate waste at source as a norm. The question that arises then is would an incentive improve South Africans’ willingness to recycle? This study tried to determine if incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. It explored the relationship between factors that influence recycling behaviours grounded in Taylor and Todd's (1995) extension of Ajzen's (1991) Theory Of Planned Behaviour. A quantitative survey design, using both online and face to face questionnaires, was used to collect data from a cross section of randomly selected consumers. The research determines that the call to address waste management infrastructure and facilities, is indeed correct. It further confirms previous research findings that an incentive alone is not enough to change recycling behaviours as it will not negate other environmental factors. Lower income groups are more conscientious about recycling and may be enticed to participate in the recycling industry through an incentive to improve their income. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Conway, John Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects , Consumption (Economics) -- South Africa , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51096 , vital:43208
- Description: The focus of this study is the factors that influence recycling behaviours, particularly whether incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. Africa is said to become the most polluted continent within a few decades. Three of the largest metropoles in South African are likely to run out of landfill space within the next ten years. Waste streams provide considerable opportunity if waste can be safely collected and either reused, recycled, or recovered, but extracting value from the waste streams is costly and difficult. Consumers need to separate waste at source to improve the efficacy of the recycling stream, yet South Africans do not separate waste at source as a norm. The question that arises then is would an incentive improve South Africans’ willingness to recycle? This study tried to determine if incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. It explored the relationship between factors that influence recycling behaviours grounded in Taylor and Todd's (1995) extension of Ajzen's (1991) Theory Of Planned Behaviour. A quantitative survey design, using both online and face to face questionnaires, was used to collect data from a cross section of randomly selected consumers. The research determines that the call to address waste management infrastructure and facilities, is indeed correct. It further confirms previous research findings that an incentive alone is not enough to change recycling behaviours as it will not negate other environmental factors. Lower income groups are more conscientious about recycling and may be enticed to participate in the recycling industry through an incentive to improve their income. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Assessing the employee talent retention strategy at the industrial development corporation
- Authors: Madondo, Lungile Sharon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Labor turnover -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51798 , vital:43373
- Description: Successful employee retention is essential to an organisation’s stability, growth and revenue. Without properly implemented employee retention strategies, the organisation may face high employee turnover rates. An increased longevity of an employee’s tenure is better for the organisation’s overall performance. This study sought to evaluate the factors affecting employee retention at the IDC. To enhance the success of the study, the research objective was to assess the relationship between five HR factors and employee retention within the IDC. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The sampling method used for this study was convenience sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The researcher cleansed and coded the data, whilst a statistician entered the collected data into STATISTICA. The data was analysed descriptively and also by means of inferential analysis method that is. The descriptive data was presented in the format of pie charts and tables with percentages, means and standard deviations as measures for distribution mechanisms. While inferential analysis presented the regression in table formats but with a clear indication of significant levels and adjusted R-square for all the independent variables. The sample that participated in this study consisted of 288 respondents from the IDC. Empirical findings revealed that the working environment, work-life balance, compensation and employee engagement positively influenced employee retention. Career development was not significantly related to employee retention. The study concluded and made recommendations to four stakeholders, namely the government to have roadshows and marketing activities to promote the Skills Development Act and skills Levies Act, IDC to review their employee retention strategy, Managers or Supervisors to support their employees by providing market related salary packages and provide session where they engage the employees in the organisations developments, and the HR Practitioners must ensure that the right fit of candidates are recruited to the organisation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madondo, Lungile Sharon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Labor turnover -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51798 , vital:43373
- Description: Successful employee retention is essential to an organisation’s stability, growth and revenue. Without properly implemented employee retention strategies, the organisation may face high employee turnover rates. An increased longevity of an employee’s tenure is better for the organisation’s overall performance. This study sought to evaluate the factors affecting employee retention at the IDC. To enhance the success of the study, the research objective was to assess the relationship between five HR factors and employee retention within the IDC. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The sampling method used for this study was convenience sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The researcher cleansed and coded the data, whilst a statistician entered the collected data into STATISTICA. The data was analysed descriptively and also by means of inferential analysis method that is. The descriptive data was presented in the format of pie charts and tables with percentages, means and standard deviations as measures for distribution mechanisms. While inferential analysis presented the regression in table formats but with a clear indication of significant levels and adjusted R-square for all the independent variables. The sample that participated in this study consisted of 288 respondents from the IDC. Empirical findings revealed that the working environment, work-life balance, compensation and employee engagement positively influenced employee retention. Career development was not significantly related to employee retention. The study concluded and made recommendations to four stakeholders, namely the government to have roadshows and marketing activities to promote the Skills Development Act and skills Levies Act, IDC to review their employee retention strategy, Managers or Supervisors to support their employees by providing market related salary packages and provide session where they engage the employees in the organisations developments, and the HR Practitioners must ensure that the right fit of candidates are recruited to the organisation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Challenges faced by state owned entities and economic development in South Africa
- Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Authors: Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52976 , vital:44907
- Description: Background: State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) play a vital role in government activities and the delivery of basic services to the people. The Government is active in the key sectors, such as, services, utilities, transportation and construction. Presumably, the distribution of basic resources and infrastructure development is to some extent dependent on SOEs. South Africa is inundated with challenges in SOE’s, such as, lack of service delivery, poor financial management, less growth, massive unemployment, corruption and low business confidence. These are a threat to economic and financial sustainability of a country. Twenty years into democracy, South Africa’s SOEs environment had many scandals in both private and public sectors. SOEs such as SABC, Eskom, and Transnet had their share of malpractice, fraud and corruption in management and at board level. These incidents call for interrogation at all levels as the impact undermines political, economic stability and growth prospects. One of today’s core challenges is to justify the existence of some of the SOEs in our economy. Looking at South Africa, most of the SOEs financial performances are severely deteriorating. Due to their financial constraints, they receive a bailout from government to enable them to continue to operate. Aim: This study identified specific governance challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa, over the period of 10 years (2014 - 2018). The study made recommendations to restore good governance in SOEs. Setting: This study reviewed articles and literature on the challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa. Primary sources for the document review took the form of newspapers, various official reports and ongoing records of SOEs activities, government departments, student transcripts, mission statements, annual reports, policy, manuals, student handbooks, and strategic plans, and press releases, theses from academic institutions, trade journals, business journals, government publications and business review publications. Secondary sources used were published books and journal articles. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52976 , vital:44907
- Description: Background: State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) play a vital role in government activities and the delivery of basic services to the people. The Government is active in the key sectors, such as, services, utilities, transportation and construction. Presumably, the distribution of basic resources and infrastructure development is to some extent dependent on SOEs. South Africa is inundated with challenges in SOE’s, such as, lack of service delivery, poor financial management, less growth, massive unemployment, corruption and low business confidence. These are a threat to economic and financial sustainability of a country. Twenty years into democracy, South Africa’s SOEs environment had many scandals in both private and public sectors. SOEs such as SABC, Eskom, and Transnet had their share of malpractice, fraud and corruption in management and at board level. These incidents call for interrogation at all levels as the impact undermines political, economic stability and growth prospects. One of today’s core challenges is to justify the existence of some of the SOEs in our economy. Looking at South Africa, most of the SOEs financial performances are severely deteriorating. Due to their financial constraints, they receive a bailout from government to enable them to continue to operate. Aim: This study identified specific governance challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa, over the period of 10 years (2014 - 2018). The study made recommendations to restore good governance in SOEs. Setting: This study reviewed articles and literature on the challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa. Primary sources for the document review took the form of newspapers, various official reports and ongoing records of SOEs activities, government departments, student transcripts, mission statements, annual reports, policy, manuals, student handbooks, and strategic plans, and press releases, theses from academic institutions, trade journals, business journals, government publications and business review publications. Secondary sources used were published books and journal articles. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Community development and sustainable livelihoods: the Jeffrey’s Bay wind farm bee-keeping initiative, South Africa
- Authors: Phillip, Busisiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53033 , vital:44886
- Description: The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement (REIPPP) policy requirements set by the South Africa Government have shaped the responsibility of the socio-economic trajectory to include various stakeholders in the economy, such as the private sector companies that operate in and around areas affected by poverty and unemployment. The Eastern Cape is among the provinces of South Africa that are trapped in poverty (Edwards, 2003). The Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council (2019) reported that in the first quarter of 2019 the Eastern Cape had the highest unemployment rate (34.7%) in the country and that the youth unemployment rate was at 50.8%; a record high. The Kouga Municipality, which is where the Rooidraai community is situated in Ward 13, has a population of 98 558 people of which 38 412 are economically active and of these, 21.5% are unemployed (StatsSA, 2019). In view of this, there seems to be a problem addressing poverty in the Eastern Cape, especially in rural communities. The aim of this study was to investigate if the Jeffrey’s Bay Wind Farm (JBWF) can create initiatives aimed at sustainable community development. In doing so, the research question will be answered, which entails investigating ways that the leaders of the Jeffrey’s Bay Wind Farm project can employ to improve the beekeeping initiative’s outcomes and perhaps launch future initiatives that are aimed at developing communities. The Rooidraai community was the study’s area of research. This area was chosen because the beekeeping initiative is mainly situated in this community and also because the majority of the beneficiaries are situated in this area. The dearth of research on issues pertaining to community development and sustainable livelihoods through beekeeping was a motivating factor to conduct the study. The problem statement highlighted that private sector companies are not particularly well versed with regard to community development approaches that deal with beneficiaries of projects that are imposed upon them that result in undesired outcomes that could have been avoided had proper processes been followed. The study used the theories of community development and sustainable livelihoods to assist in the research problem statement as these theories deal with issues of human development which have proposed approaches such as bottom-up development, self-reliance and giving voice to people at grassroots level. The study employed the qualitative approach due to its non-emergent nature and also the ability to predetermine methods of data collection and analysis through which semi-structured interviews, observations and field notes were employed as data collection tools and a thematic analysis and SLF analysis approaches were used as approaches for analysing the data. The study employed purposive sampling to which eight members of the beekeeping project made the sample size. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Phillip, Busisiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53033 , vital:44886
- Description: The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement (REIPPP) policy requirements set by the South Africa Government have shaped the responsibility of the socio-economic trajectory to include various stakeholders in the economy, such as the private sector companies that operate in and around areas affected by poverty and unemployment. The Eastern Cape is among the provinces of South Africa that are trapped in poverty (Edwards, 2003). The Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council (2019) reported that in the first quarter of 2019 the Eastern Cape had the highest unemployment rate (34.7%) in the country and that the youth unemployment rate was at 50.8%; a record high. The Kouga Municipality, which is where the Rooidraai community is situated in Ward 13, has a population of 98 558 people of which 38 412 are economically active and of these, 21.5% are unemployed (StatsSA, 2019). In view of this, there seems to be a problem addressing poverty in the Eastern Cape, especially in rural communities. The aim of this study was to investigate if the Jeffrey’s Bay Wind Farm (JBWF) can create initiatives aimed at sustainable community development. In doing so, the research question will be answered, which entails investigating ways that the leaders of the Jeffrey’s Bay Wind Farm project can employ to improve the beekeeping initiative’s outcomes and perhaps launch future initiatives that are aimed at developing communities. The Rooidraai community was the study’s area of research. This area was chosen because the beekeeping initiative is mainly situated in this community and also because the majority of the beneficiaries are situated in this area. The dearth of research on issues pertaining to community development and sustainable livelihoods through beekeeping was a motivating factor to conduct the study. The problem statement highlighted that private sector companies are not particularly well versed with regard to community development approaches that deal with beneficiaries of projects that are imposed upon them that result in undesired outcomes that could have been avoided had proper processes been followed. The study used the theories of community development and sustainable livelihoods to assist in the research problem statement as these theories deal with issues of human development which have proposed approaches such as bottom-up development, self-reliance and giving voice to people at grassroots level. The study employed the qualitative approach due to its non-emergent nature and also the ability to predetermine methods of data collection and analysis through which semi-structured interviews, observations and field notes were employed as data collection tools and a thematic analysis and SLF analysis approaches were used as approaches for analysing the data. The study employed purposive sampling to which eight members of the beekeeping project made the sample size. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04