Factors affecting the impact of BEE strategies in enhancing previously disadvantaged beneficiaries in Manquma Local Municipality
- Authors: Bota, Patrick Mziwoxolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- South Africa , Blacks -- South Africa -- Economic conditions , Municipal government -- South Africa , Economic development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9174 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020115
- Description: This research project is about the “Factors Affecting the impact of Black Economic Empowerment strategies in enhancing previously disadvantaged beneficiaries in Mnquma Local Municipality.” The purpose is to examine the challenges faced by previously disadvantaged beneficiaries so as to emerge with new innovative BEE mechanisms that can be implemented to improve the situation faced by beneficiaries for the better. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to study the iterature of “Black Economic Empowerment” which is part of the Local Economic Development initiatives. In order to attain the main objective of the study and also to address the research problem face to face interviews were conducted with previously disadvantaged beneficiaries, Local Economic Development officials and councillors from five different wards of Mnquma Local Municipality. The literature review and the interviews helped one to come up with the recommendations to be adopted in order to remedy the situation of the beneficiaries. These recommendations will, hopefully, be of assistance to Mnquma Local Municipality. Findings of this study indicate that challenges faced by previously disadvantaged beneficiaries include: fronting, lack of finance, skills shortage like technical, management, budgeting and saving skills, absence of training workshops, and lack of support on SMMEs development as well as poor implementation of BEE policy by Local Economic Development Unit. The aforesaid challenges have negative effects on the implementation of BEE strategies which adversely affect the beneficiaries. Here are some of the recommendations made in this regard: support and assistance for previously disadvantaged beneficiaries like financial assistance, Khula financial schemes, bank loans, training and workshops, establishment of agricultural projects as well as assistance on coordination of co-operatives initiatives. Other recommendations provide possible solutions to these problems: corruption, nepotism and cadreship deployment. In order to act against these transgressions the following suggestions have been made in the study: containment of fronting, development of heritage and historical sites for tourists’ purposes, recommendation on BEE management strategies and also recommendation on business registration and licensing. The study concludes that if the Mnquma Local Municipality can execute all the proposed recommendations, all the factors raised as the stumbling block towards the success and beneficiary of the previously disadvantaged beneficiaries would be resolved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Female education breaks the cycle of poverty : a case study of Chikomba rural district, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Zulu, Lilly Tendai
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Women in development -- Zimbabwe , Women -- Education -- Zimbabwe , Rural women -- Employment -- Zimbabwe , Women in economic development -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9139 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018691
- Description: The research which forms the basis of this thesis describes rural women’s perceptions of how Camfed education and skills development programmes have improved their lives in the Chikomba rural district in Chivhu, Zimbabwe. The researcher was motivated to carry out this study mainly due to the fact that in most rural societies in Zimbabwe, women are found suffering from social, cultural and political biases in the traditional male dominated society of Zimbabwe. Compared to their male counterparts, women have limited access to educational and employment opportunities and also have less social and political power than men. Being heads of households, women have to carry out the full traditional roles with the added responsibility of household and production management. The purpose of this study was to inform those investing and interested in women’s education about whether, how and the conditions under which women’s education directly improves women’s own lives and decreases poverty in the family and society. Camfed is an organization that advocates for female education particularly in the marginalized and poor parts of the country where poverty remains a barrier to girl’s education. It provides financial resources and establishes innovative education and training programs in order to break the poverty cycle in rural communities and empower women. A quantitative approach was employed in this study using a descriptive survey design, with the emphasis on collecting primary data from the research participants as well as consulting secondary data sources such as books, academic journals, completed and unpublished post-graduate research dissertations and theses. Findings of this study revealed that financial constraints, early marriage, proximity to school, death of parents as well as domestic chores were factors identified by the women that prevented them from completing school and pursuing further studies. The women also describe their perceptions of how education has led to better opportunities and an improved standard of living as they can now afford the basic goods and services. Moreover the participants mentioned how education has provided them with the basic skills to pursue a livelihood which will enable them to enjoy a decent standard of living. The research also found that education is an important determinant of women’s decision making in terms of finances and thereby improves their sense of empowerment. The women talked extensively about how education has raised their self-esteem and how it has enhanced their economic and social independence. At the end of the study and using the acquired information, several recommendations are made for the expansion and increase of programmes that offer incentives to keep girls in school, especially at secondary level where returns for girls are substantially greater in-terms of reducing poverty and improving the wellbeing of individuals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Foreign direct investment and socio-economic development : the South African example
- Authors: Mukosera, Precious Sipho
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , Investments, Foreign -- Government policy -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic policy , South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018760
- Description: It is widely accepted by governments of many developing countries that Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is crucial to the socio-economic development of their nations and have developed various policies in an effort to attract FDI, as a result. FDI is a crucial source of technology, capital and skills for developing countries for economic growth that may ultimately lead to poverty reduction, employment creation and modernisation. However, results from many studies have been inconclusive and have failed to find a direct link between the increase of FDI and the associated socio-economic development of recipient nations. South Africa is no exception to this debate as it seeks to turn its back on decades long apartheid, which has entrenched poverty in the majority of its population and exacerbated social tensions. The main socio-economic challenges that South Africa faces include high unemployment, skills shortages, poverty and high inequality, and the 2008/2009 global financial and economic crisis has exacerbated the crisis. Despite these challenges South Africa‘s macro-economic strategies have had a good reputation since 2000. The monetary policy has turned out to be more transparent and predictable, and a sound fiscal policy has sustained its framework. The study analyses the role that FDI plays in the socio-economic development of South Africa since 1995 by focusing on selected case studies: ABSA Bank, General Motors South Africa (GMSA) and the Mining Sector of South Africa. The research concludes that although ABSA Bank has implemented several corporate social responsibility (CSR), and various employee development programmes, there is hardly any evidence to suggest that Barclays Bank‘s takeover of ABSA Bank has positively impacted on these programmes. General Motors South Africa (GMSA), which came into South Africa many decades ago through a Greenfield Investment, has played a positive role in the economy of the Eastern Cape Province as well as that of South Africa, having created jobs directly and indirectly. The company has also designed and implemented various educational, housing as well as health and awareness programmes for its employees and for the communities. Mining companies that operate in South Africa formed partnerships in the communities in which they operate in an effort to improve the lives of people. While these various projects have been a source of employment, they have had a limited impact on the core causes of social problems surrounding the mines. Many of these root causes relate to core business practices of the mining companies, especially employee recruitment, wages and housing. These root causes where witnessed in the Lonmin tragedy and in other strikes that spread throughout the sector in 2012. The study concludes that although FDI does play a role in the socio-economic development of South Africa, especially Greenfield investment, the same argument could not be made on Mergers and acquisitions (M&As). Finally, the South African government needs to play a proactive role in ensuring that foreign companies that invest in the country need to be well aware of the socio-economic needs of South Africa, and be willing to play a positive role in that regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gaze behaviour of volleyball players during successful serve reception
- Authors: Ramphomane-Aandahl, Bonolo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Gaze -- Psychological aspects , Visual perception , Volleyball players
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:10113 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021007
- Description: The aim of this study was to identify and compare the gaze behaviour of both advancement levels (Advanced and Not Advanced) and genders (female and male) during successful serve reception. A quantitative, exploratory and quasi-experimental research design was used in which 50 ToppVolley Norway student athletes aged 16 to 19 years were sampled. The gaze behaviour of junior volleyball athletes was assesed as they received two types of serves (1 float and 1 top spin jump serve) and performed a forearm and/or overhead pass to a setter’s target while wearing an ASL mobile eye tracker. Gaze characteristics such as fixation number, fixation duration and areas of interest were used to achieve the aim of the study. The study found that Advanced participants differed from the Not Advanced athletes in employing fewer (9.70 ± 1.14 versus 10.77 ± 3.63 , p<.05, d>.20 ) fixations but for longer durations per fixations (1.64 ± 0.20 versus 1.60 ± 0.34, p<.05, d>.20 ) in receiving the float serve. Contrary, for the reception of the top spin jump serve, the Advanced athletes employed more fixations (12.11 ± 2.40 versus 11.83 ± 2.17, p<.05, d>.20 ) but for shorter durations per fixations (1.57 ± 0.26 versus 1.65 ± 0.34 sec, p<.05, d>.20 ) than the Not Advanced athletes. Male athletes in this study were more experienced than their female counterparts (5.97 ± 1.62 years versus 4.75 ± 1.59 years, p<.05, d>.20 ) with males employing more fixations than the females (11.02 ± 3.63 versus 9.19 ± 1.55 and 12.26 ± 2.46 versus 11.36 ± 1.69, p<.05, d>.20 ) for the float and top spin serves respectively but for shorter durations per fixation (1.62 ± 0.27 versus 1.76 ± 0.29 sec (float) and 1.56 ± 0.32 versus 1.73 ± 0.28 sec (top spin) p<.05, d>.20 ) than the female athletes. These results and findings suggests that Advanced athletes for both serves attended to the most appropriate visual information through the top-down approach, their knowledge and past experiences. For gender differences, the results show that the female athletes employed fewer fixation points in receiving float serves, however the employment of fewer fixation points during the top spin jump serves was due to receiving serves characterised by easily identifiable trajectories and lower speeds. The contradicting finding of the Advanced athletes employing more fixation points for the top spin jump serve may be due to task complexity demands. Thirteen areas of interests were also identified. The combined results for both gender and advancement levels suggest that the athletes fixated on similar areas of interests, primarily the upper body and secondary on the ball (flight), serve reception phase, arrival at target and contact point. The aim and objectives of this study were achieved in that both absolute and relative values for number of fixations, duration of fixations and areas of interest fixated on, were established. However the outcome of comparisons made, were not all expected particularly that of the Advanced group for the top spin jump serve. Possible explanations were offered, but further research is required in this regard.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gender equality in the employment of senior secondary schools managers in the district of Butterworth
- Authors: Bikitsha, Sakhiwo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational equalization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sex discrimination in education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , School management and organization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8489 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020005
- Description: In terms of Section 9 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, Chapter Two, the Bill of Rights, there should be gender equality amongst other things. In terms of Section15 (i) of the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998), there should be equal representation of suitably qualified people from the designated groups (blacks, women and people with disabilities) in all occupational categories and levels in the workforce. Section 15 (ii)provides that an employer who employs more than 50 employees must conduct a gender audit and make a gender equity plan and implement it when new employees are employed. In the Department of Education in the District of Butterworth, there is no gender equality in the number of senior secondary school managers. Men constituted 65 percent and women constituted 35 percent. The study investigated reasons for unequal representation of men and women as senior secondary school managers. The study was qualitative in design. The participants in the study were the Assistant Director of the Human Resource Section of the Department of Education and school governing body members, who were parents and educators. Interviews were used to collect data from the participants The study found that, amongst other things, gender equity was not considered when senior secondary schools managers were employed. That was why there was unequal representation of men and women in senior secondary schools’ management positions. This implied that those involved in the employment of secondary school managers in the district of Butterworth did not consider the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998) as a guide when employing senior secondary school managers in order to be able to achieve gender equality in this position. That was why there was unequal representation of men and women in senior secondary schools’ management positions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Gendered roles and social behaviour towards women in marginalised communities: the case of Newlands location in East London
- Authors: Jilingisi, Ntombodidi
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Equality -- South Africa -- East London , Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa -- East London , Interpersonal relations -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9163 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020038
- Description: This research study aims to investigate the impact of gender roles and social behaviour towards women in marginalised communities in Newlands Location. The researcher used a qualitative research method to conduct the study through interviews. The study has five chapters: Chapter 1 focuses on the introduction and the background of the study; Chapter 2 is the literature review, where it clarifies the meaning of gender inequality and discusses gender inequality in education, economic growth and violence against women; Chapter 3 is the description of the methods used in assessing the impact of gender inequality in Newlands Location and outlines the processes followed in the study'; Chapter 4 are the findings and the achievements of aim and objectives of the study; Lastly, Chapter 5 focuses on the Conclusion, Limitations and Recommendations of the study. Newlands location need a serious intermediation to address the gender inequality issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
How community participation influences the success and sustainability of the Ilitha farming project
- Authors: Nsanzya, Brenda Monde Kabika
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- Citizen participation , Economic development projects , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9208 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020622
- Description: In recent decades, development thinking has shifted from mainstream development strategies to more alternative development approaches incorporating various aspects of development such as equity, gender, sustainability, and participation. In South Africa, a country emerging from a past of injustice, community participation has become a central theme in social development as a way of addressing past inequalities. However, despite its popularity, there are concerns that its benefits are less visible. The literature on community participation shows that there are a number of factors why community participation in development projects has not been successful in many communities. On the other hand, literature on participatory development also shows that there are benefits of participation in development projects; community participation can be successful when the community has genuine participation in the process. However, there is evidence that even where participatory development has been successful, is not necessarily easy to replicate in other areas. This study sought to evaluate participation and how this affects the sustainability and success of the Ilitha farming project. Using the qualitative and quantitative indicators of participation by Oakley et al. (1991), which were adapted from various sources, I have shown that there was a high level of participation by members of this project who started on a small-scale basis, with minimal contributions in order to address the problem of unemployment, lack of skills and income opportunities, and growing poverty in the Ilitha community. The study has shown that success in participation is linked to the success and sustainability of the Ilitha farming project. This project is a success because it has achieved its initial objectives and has potential for expansion. In addition, the expansion of project activities has increased and sustains the project income throughout the year, benefiting not only project members but other members of the Ilitha community including the old age home, the HIV Aids awareness centre and households with patients needing assistance. Project success can be sustained on a long-term basis with a high level of participation through commitment, hard work, quality leadership, consultation, team work and respect for each project member as an equal partner irrespective of differences in age, gender and length of membership in the project. The level of internal sustainability i.e. the ability for the project to maintain its own developmental momentum is evidently high. The executive has led the project from its inception in 2003 to date with a clear vision and long-term commitment. However, there is a need for a succession plan in order to ensure continuity of the project as the current executive may not be able to continue due to old age. Secondary partnerships in the Ilitha farming project have had a significant impact on the level of success and sustainability of the project through the provision of funds, training and technical assistance.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Human capital: workforce level of education in non-profit organisations operating in South Africa; a comparative study of civil societies in Cape Town
- Authors: Dominic, Mario-Princewill Patrick
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Human capital -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9230 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021000
- Description: A descriptive research with quantitative approach examined human capital in Non-profit organisations with three objectives: to ascertain the qualifications and skills essential in the non-profit sector; to determine if Non-profit organisations provide training and education support for its workforce and to describe formal education level of NPO workforce in South Africa. The study population were employees of Non-Profit organisation (NPO’s) operating in Cape Town. In order to evaluate human capital, workforce level of education of the non-profit organisations in South Africa, significant to addressing most Non-profit organisations challenges in recent time, a survey has been conducted among the South Africa non-profits, identified on the basis of the simple random sampling. 300 questionnaires were sent out, and 147 valid responses received. Empirical results from the selected civil society organisation seem to suggest and concluded that Non-profit organisations workforce are educated up to Honours degree level on average. However, that education may not be priority for the workforce, rather passion for the job and that satisfactory human capital management reduces turnover, in order word attract and enable retention of productive workforce for non-profit organisation effectiveness.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
ICT and education in a less privileged school of NMBA
- Authors: Mahleza, Nomfundo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Educational technology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Educational innovations -- Technological innovations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Communication -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6237 , vital:21058
- Description: Today’s society requires citizens to have a greater knowledge of information technology (IT) than in previous decades. Strategy programs at a national level define the skill needed in an information society and encourage people to learn these skills (Ministry of Education, 2004). In order for everybody to have the opportunity to learn the basics of the new technology, computer science should be included in general education. The development of technology, like Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has turned the world into a global village (Hashem, 2006). The key instrument in this globalisation is the personal computer. Computer–mediated communication is increasingly becoming the dominant means of communication, particularly in the developed and in some developing countries (Adebisi, 2008). In a developing country, ICT is one of the prime ingredients for development. This generally means improvement of people’s lifestyle through improved education, income, skills development and employment. Development should now also be viewed as a multidimensional process involving major changes in social structures, popular attitudes and a national progression of life from unsatisfactory to satisfactory (Servaes, 1999). Since one of the goals of education is to prepare students for work and citizenship, schools are attempting to change their policies, practices and a curriculum to meet the challenge of making pupils ready for a future quite different than the immediate past (Turker & Codding, 1998). The integration of ICT into the teaching and learning environment in secondary education in Port Elizabeth could change learning and teaching attitudes of learners and teachers and help to prepare them for future challenges. However, the success of this integration will depend on how the learners and teachers adapt to the changes and whether they can make ICT technologies part of their daily life. As it is, there is little or no information available regarding the extent of current ICT usage and access in these secondary schools. The research focuses on the availability, usage and the impact of ICT in education, particularly at a secondary school in the poverty-stricken area of Zwide in Port Elizabeth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Identifying and evaluating risk factors that predict traumatic stress severity in South Africa
- Authors: Van Wyk, Rozelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Risk factors , Medical personnel -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9968 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020937
- Description: Background: This study identified, addressed and validated risk factors that can be measured in the peri-traumatic period which may eventually be used in predicting the development of traumatic stress. Many people in South Africa possibly suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if we consider the extent of trauma exposures that is apparent within the South African population. Traumatised individuals are at risk but may remain undiagnosed and untreated. It makes sense for first line and primary health care practitioners (i.e., not highly qualified psychological practitioners) to screen for risk since they have the initial contact with trauma individuals. A relatively easy screening instrument that can be administered time efficiently would be useful in this regard. The principles of this instrument are that it needs to be objectively measurable, quick and easy to administer. No consistent measure geared towards identifying risk factors in such a manner immediately post trauma currently exists in South Africa. Objectives: The overall aim was to start a process of designing a psychometric instrument that is valid in predicting the development of traumatic stress. Since this is the initial stage of constructing a new measure, content validity was of utmost importance. It became imperative to ensure that items were not only relevant and appropriate, but also accurate and capable in identifying at-risk individuals. The proposed end goal is to develop effective identification strategies in South Africa geared towards helping victims of traumatic events. Method: A pilot psychometric questionnaire was compiled using three major international reviews, South African research on known risk factors, and literature on PTSD risk assessment considerations. This preliminary assembled item pool was used as a departure point and evaluated quantitatively as well as qualitatively by expert reviewers who have research and/or clinical experience with PTSD in a South African context. Their feedback resulted in either the omission or the modification of certain items; for some items, further exploration was recommended. The questionnaire was further scrutinised and modified accordingly after qualitative interviews with and critical feedback from the intended administrators or primary health care professionals, namely Registered Counsellors (RCs) and/or nursing staff from a participating general government hospital and a non-government organisation. Findings: Expert reviewers did not agree consistently across all the items. At times they rated certain items as relevant according to the necessity of the information rather than with regards to the relevance of the content of the item – in terms of prediction of PTSD. It was also observed that intended administrators did not always agree with expert reviewers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Impact of Chinese small business on sustainable livelihoods in Port Elizabeth after 1994
- Authors: Pang, Jing
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic assistance, Chinese , Small business , Entrepreneurship , South Africa -- Politics and government --1994-
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020983
- Description: Since the advent of democracy in April 1994, the issues of economic empowerment and growth have been high on the agenda of the Government of National Unity of South Africa. In order to achieve social-economic growth, resolve wealth and asset gaps between rich and poor, decrease unemployment and meet the Millennium Development Goals, government has sought efficient mechanisms of transformation. The formation of SMMEs was put forward as a solution to solve the above problems. SMMEs play a vital role in economic development and livelihoods uplifting. The purpose of this study is to examine how Chinese SMMEs have impacted on sustainable livelihoods in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan District. The study has identified the challenges of local livelihoods in the district. The findings on the effects of Chinese SMMEs were that: (1) They have provided affordable goods and services to local people, improving livelihoods by means of reducing living costs of the local population and thus providing relief on their financial capital; (2) The vast extent of their services in the district has enlarged their network of offerings in urban, suburban and even rural settings; (3) They have enabled the poor’s access to the economic markets and services; (4) They have contributed positively to employment by providing local jobseekers with gainful employment and access to financial capital; (5) They have empowered the local employee base through training and skills transfer; (6) They have promoted knowledge and skills that have enriched local human capital and positively contributed to livelihoods; and (7) They have made a contribution to GDP and tax revenues. Revenues fed to government have helped fund welfare and public services, including in the areas of education, health care, pensions, unemployment benefits, public transportation, infrastructure and housing. These benefits have collectively contributed to the improvement of local livelihoods in the district.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Improving strategies of food security in the face of environmental degradation in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Authors: Qoboshiyane, Vatiswa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Environmental degradation -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Agricultural development projects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9206 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020537
- Description: This research study examines the food security strategies adopted in the face of environmental degradation in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM), South Africa. The NMBM is the only metropolitan municipality in the Eastern Cape Province. Over time, this area has experienced significant environmental degradation that has greatly affected food security. The municipality has responded by launching livelihood activities to promote food security and protect the environment. These include local food production projects and urban agricultural projects. This research study investigates whether or not the food security strategies adopted by the NMBM are sustainable and whether more needs to be done to enable the municipality to achieve its objectives. The study employed a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods, using interviews and questionnaires as the main tools for data collection. A sample of 20 participants was selected from the NMBM. The participants included municipal workers, private consultants, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and an engineering firm working in the field of environmental sustainability. Their inputs are analyzed and discussed in order to arrive at the findings. Critical amongst the findings is that the NMBM should improve education on environmental issues. This should be geared towards building resilience to climate change which is the greatest environmental threat to food security.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Influence of change on organisational culture in a private healthcare organisation of South Africa
- Authors: Dlova, Babalwa Peggy
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Corporate culture -- South Africa , Hospitals, Proprietary -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9415 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020855
- Description: The study set out to explore the influences of change on organisational culture in a private healthcare organisation of South Africa. The research was conducted at Life Healthcare, the largest private hospital group in South Africa. A survey questionnaire was constructed and used as a means of collecting data for the purpose of this study. The data was collected from a sample of 189 respondent managers using stratified probability sampling technique. Data analysis was conducted by applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Investigating modernisation in Iran in relation to the changing fifth news filter of Herman and Chomsky's 'Propaganda Model'
- Authors: Godfrey, Lianne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social change -- Iran , Propaganda, Anti-communist -- Iran
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8432 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020828
- Description: The focus of this dissertation falls on the transformation of the fifth news filter of the propaganda model identified by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky in their Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media. This transformation entails a shift from an anti-communist orientation, to an anti-Islamic orientation, and while this shift has been alluded to by several theorists, in what follows it will be dealt with more systematically. In this regard, it will be traced from its roots, in the tension between modernisation theory – as espoused by figures such as Daniel Lerner – and the anti-modernisation theory of Iranian scholars such as Ahmad Fardid, Jalal al-e Ahmad and Ali Shari’ati. Following this, the development of the anti-Islamic orientation of the fifth news filter, in the wake of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, and the ensuing Iranian hostage crisis, will be explored. This will be done as a precursor to examining the continued reflection of the related tropes and stereotypes in US mainstream film, with particular focus falling on Ben Affleck’s Argo (2012). Finally, this dissertation will conclude with a consideration of the possible effects of such representations on the tensions between the US and Iran over the latter’s nuclear ambitions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Investigating the relationship between discipline and student performance in the schools of Kwanobuhle township: 'The discipline factor'
- Authors: Vaaltein, Lawana David
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8310 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020035
- Description: Indiscipline in schools has been so pervasive that in many instances, learning and teaching have become difficult, if not impossible. There are so many reports of indiscipline in schools that school authorities are continuously trying to find solutions to this catastrophic phenomenon. It is believed that the lack of discipline in schools is a major contributing factor to the failure rate and poor performance of learners. The purpose of the study is to investigate whether indiscipline in township schools has a negative impact on the performance of learners in those schools. There are reports that there is an unacceptable and ruinous level of indiscipline therein. The targeted participants in the research are principals and educators from five senior secondary schools of KwaNobuhle Township, Uitenhage. The participants were purposely selected because of their many years of teaching experience and working with learners. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to collect data from participants. Data collection instruments consisted of interviews done with participants and questionnaires filled in by the aforementioned stakeholders. This evidence showed that there are many learning and teaching hours lost due to direct indiscipline and dealing with discipline. This subsequently renders learning and teaching ineffective. It is obvious that, once teaching and learning is ineffective, this will, definitely result in the poor performance of learners and high rate of failure. The study recommends that serious and urgent steps must be taken to minimize or eradicate the menace of indiscipline in these schools as soon as possible. Indiscipline cannot be ignored or taken lightly because there are already so many other structural misfortunes in the education system that are stumbling blocks to the academic achievements of township learners, namely, socio-economic conditions, crime, drugs, alcohol and unemployment. As long as discipline is a problem in the township schools, learners will perpetuate to perform poorly and the failure rate in these schools will rise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Language policy implementation towards community participation in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Peter, Zola Welcome
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Political participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth. , Language policy -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth.
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9212 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020789
- Description: This research investigated the impact of language policy implementation towards the enhancement of community participation in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality (NMMM).The NMMM is an organisation tasked with ensuring equal distribution of services to local communities. This municipality was chosen on the basis of its commitment to communicate effectively with the community and in turn encourage the community to participate fully in municipal activities. The study is conducted within the parameters of the Constitution of South Africa (1996) which states that in order to ensure language equity, all official languages must be used for the promotion of multilingualism and advancement of communities. The study therefore investigated the language policy of the NMMM and its implementation with regard to the use of all three official languages of the region, namely English, isiXhosa and Afrikaans for organisational communication. Gaps in the implementation of the municipal language policy were identified by acquiring information from selected officials responsible for service delivery and selected members of the communities who receive the services. A literature survey was conducted to investigate and conceptualise the nature of language policy development and to determine the responsibilities for policy implementation. A descriptive approach was used in the study, with the data collection coming from primary sources, such as NMMM officials and members of the community; and secondary sources, such as municipal records. A number of recommendations regarding the improvement of language policy implementation by the municipality’s Language Unit were made. It is envisaged that these changes could impact positively in encouraging community participation and ultimately improve service delivery.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Long-term marital relationships : a male perspective
- Authors: Kew, Wesley
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Married people , Interpersonal relationships
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9960 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020066
- Description: Research indicates that determinants such as commitment, communication and attachment facilitate long-term marriages. The present study seeks to understand these and other possible determinants that facilitate enduring relationships. Furthermore, the research focuses exclusively on the determinants that males believe facilitate long-term relationships. Bader and Pearson's transposition of Mahler's Model of Separation Individuation onto adult relationships was used as a theoretical point of departure. Bader and Pearson posit that couples evolve through stages which resemble Mahler's Model of Childhood Development. A qualitative approach using semistructured interviews aided in creating a non-threatening environment whilst collecting data. Purposive non-random sampling was used to identify participants and thereafter participants were obtained via snowball sampling. Tesch's thematic analysis was used to analyse results. The research findings highlight the understanding of what determinants males deem essential to facilitate long-term relationships.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students' perceptions of celebrity endorsement and product placement within music videos
- Authors: Haldane, Jayne
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Product placement in mass media -- South Africa , Endorsements in advertising -- South Africa , Music videos -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8431 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020294
- Description: It has become conventional to use product placement in music videos. Big brands have started marketing themselves through product placement, for example, brands such as BMW, VitaminWater and Virgin Mobile. Placing products in music videos could be perceived as the brands linking themselves with celebrities. This product placement could either have a positive or negative effect on the celebrity and/or the brand. This research study aimed to provide the world of brands with insights into 18-28-year-olds’ perception of product placement in music videos, and whether placing their product in a music video where the audience is not partial to the celebrity, could be detrimental or not. This research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students) perceptions of the product placement of three specific brands (VitaminWater, BMW and Virgin) in three specific music videos, namely: Jessie J and David Guetta “Laserlight” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syxd2n8S4AE JLo’s “Get on the Floor” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4H_Zoh7G5A Lady Gaga and Beyoncé “Telephone” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ95z6ywcBY An electronic survey questionnaire was concluded with both closed and open-ended questions relating to the use of product placement in these three music videos. The survey questionnaire helped to determine what the selected sample’s perceptions were of each brand and celebrity, what they were after the respondents and seen the relationship between the brand and celebrity and finally, of product placement in general. A semiotic analysis of screen shots from each music video was conducted to determine what kind of nature the product placement occurred in in each music video.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students' perceptions of television advertisements for four SAB beer brands
- Authors: Tye, Robyn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Advertising -- Brewing industry , Advertising -- Alcoholic beverages , Television advertising -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8439 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021122
- Description: This research study aimed to provide the South African beer industry and their advertising representative with insights into 18-28-year-olds’ perceptions of the communicated messaged in beer advertisements. This included the use of social and cultural references to attract their attention and the suggestions made by the advertisements about the consumption of beer in certain contexts. This research study aimed to determine the selected sample’s (NMMU students) perceptions of four South African Breweries beer brands, namely Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label and Hansa Pilsener, in terms of their use of references to social and cultural identity of males and females in South Africa within their television advertisements. The survey questionnaire helped determine what the selected sample’s perceptions were of each advertisement, and whether they fully understood the desired communicated message. It also helped to understand whether each advertisement captured their attention. A semiotic analysis of each advertisement was conducted to deconstruct the advertisements and to determine if they do contain elements of social and cultural identity in an attempt to sell products to their target audiences, or to affect the perceptions of the brand and drinking beer in general. This was achieved by examining the signs and imagery in each advertisement, looking specifically at the representamen, interpretant and object using Pierce’s model of a sign. , Hierdie navorsingstudie is daarop gemik om die Suid-Afrikaanse bierbedryf en sy adverteerders ‘n beter begrip te gee van verbruikers tussen die ouderdomme van 18-28, se waarnemings van die boodskappe in bieradvertensies. Dit sluit in die gebruik van sosiale en kulturele verwysings, wat veronderstel is om die verbruikers se aandag te trek, asook die suggesties wat deur die advertensies gemaak word met betrekking tot die verbruik van bier in ‘n bepaalde konteks. Die studie moes ook die gekose monster (“selected sample”), nl. die NMMU-student se persepsies bepaal van vier handelsname van die South African Breweries, naamlik Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Carling Black Label en Hansa Pilsener, en in watter mate daar in bieradvertensies oor die televisie verwys word na die sosiale en kulturele identiteit van Suid-Afrikaanse mans en vroue. Die meningspeiling het die groep se waarnemings van elke advertensie, asook of die boodskap wat gekommunikeer is ten volle verstaan word, ondersoek. Die vraelys kon ook vasstel of die advertensies hulle aandag getrek het. ‘n Semiotiese ontleding van elke advertensie is gedoen, om die advertensies te dekodeer en sodoende vas te stel of die adverteerders elemente van sosiale en kulturele identiteit gebruik het om hul produkte aan die teikenmarkte te verkoop, of om die idees rondom die handelsnaam en bier oor die algemeen te beïnvloed. Aan die hand van Peirce se semiotiese model is die tekens en beelde in elke advertensie bestudeer.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students' perceptions of television advertisements for four SAB beer brands
- Authors: Tye, Robyn
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Television advertising -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Television -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:8426 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020040
- Description: South Africa's turbulant political and social history has meant that alchol consumption was a way for many to escape from the harsh realities in which people lived. Inder aparthied, prohibition laws dominated the drinking habits of many South Africans. the 1928 prohibition act, which was established to prevent the sale of European beer to Africans, effectively boosted the illicit black drinking culture in shebeens and socially in the townships. As people began to move from rural to urban areas in search of job; commual beer halls became places of connection and support for people who felt alienated and disconnected from their homes and famillies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013