Hydrothermal liquefaction of scenedesmus obliquus in a continuous reactor system
- Authors: Kaufmann, Gideon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Biomass chemicals Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Supercritical fluids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47878 , vital:40393
- Description: In 2009 InnoVenton, a research institute at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) set out to establish a technological concept of micro-algae to fuel, at which point an algae farm was established. The overall research strategy is envisaged to focus on a number of potential uses of algae biomass and related processes such as water treatment can take place, the binding of the biomass to coal fines to create briquettes are possible, and bio crude production from direct liquefaction. This project will focus on the latter. In 2010 a partnership between NMMU and the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Department of Chemical Engineering was established to design, construct and commission a test unit that could convert the algae biomass into a pumpable bio crude by the liquefaction process. During the initial operation of this test unit, flow problems of the reaction product were observed. As such, the aim of this study is to investigate a number of process conditions and develop strategies to minimise or alleviate this problem. As part of this study, UCT will replicate the NMMU test unit in Cape Town in order to start focussing on finding relevant solutions to the problems which exist. Presently continuous reactor systems are not used for the liquefaction of micro-algae. According to Toor, et al(2011)¹ Other feedstocks have been placed in continuous reactor systems with good end results. They continue to write in their review that batch systems were used in most experiments. If micro-algae are to become a competitive alternative to crude oil then batch systems are not the way forward. From a commercial and efficiency standpoint, there are significant advantages to move from typical batch reactors to continuous reactors, specifically in terms of downtime and loading/unloading of vessels. From the evidence gathered in Port Elizabeth, the nature of the reaction product caused typical plugflow reactor systems to block. The aim of this study is to investigate possible solutions to the problem of the reactor system blockage and thus pave the way for the implementation of a continuous reactor system. There are many variables which can be manipulated to achieve success for example the use of catalysts, co-feeding of reactant gases like hydrogen, residence time, temperature or pressure. Manipulating these variable can help to change conversion and/or product spectrum. The results of this study will be compared to results obtained by typical batch experimentation conducted at NMMU. This research varied temperature only. This variation was effective enough to find solutions to the obstacles that were present. Once the algae feedstock was being diverted to the vent pot via the safety relief valve, it was understood that something was blocked. Once the reactor was cooled and removed, it was apparent that the reactor was not blocking up however the exit line to the product catch pot was. To solve this problem a new heated zone was created. This heated the exit line and the top of the product catch pot to around 50°C below the reaction temperature. This upgrade to the system made the oil liquor less vicous and flow easier. The exit line never blocked up again during the research. Energy values of the product were comparable to that of coal. Higher reaction temperatures favoured the production of paraffins and olefins while lower reaction temperatures favoured the production of oxygenates. An ampoule sampler was introduced to take samples of the gas exit line. The comprehensive gas chromatography analysis of the gas in the ampoules revealed that eventhough the concentration of the products present were low, there were significant quantities of paraffins present in the gas stream. More research and the variation of variables discussed previously need to be conducted. It is also apparent that the test unit needs to be upgraded to a bigger reactor and possibly to use materials of construction which do not corrode easily. A computer model could be developed in conjunction with the current test unit and then a bigger reactor might not be needed. The reducing of the oxygen content in the final bio crude also needs to be investigated. Overall the research is very promising in the fact that the final bio crude that was produced is comparable to coal. With further research it will be possible to create a product that is comparable to fossil crude oil and then could be used as a supplement to crude oil.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kaufmann, Gideon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Biomass chemicals Microalgae -- Biotechnology , Supercritical fluids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTech
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/47878 , vital:40393
- Description: In 2009 InnoVenton, a research institute at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) set out to establish a technological concept of micro-algae to fuel, at which point an algae farm was established. The overall research strategy is envisaged to focus on a number of potential uses of algae biomass and related processes such as water treatment can take place, the binding of the biomass to coal fines to create briquettes are possible, and bio crude production from direct liquefaction. This project will focus on the latter. In 2010 a partnership between NMMU and the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Department of Chemical Engineering was established to design, construct and commission a test unit that could convert the algae biomass into a pumpable bio crude by the liquefaction process. During the initial operation of this test unit, flow problems of the reaction product were observed. As such, the aim of this study is to investigate a number of process conditions and develop strategies to minimise or alleviate this problem. As part of this study, UCT will replicate the NMMU test unit in Cape Town in order to start focussing on finding relevant solutions to the problems which exist. Presently continuous reactor systems are not used for the liquefaction of micro-algae. According to Toor, et al(2011)¹ Other feedstocks have been placed in continuous reactor systems with good end results. They continue to write in their review that batch systems were used in most experiments. If micro-algae are to become a competitive alternative to crude oil then batch systems are not the way forward. From a commercial and efficiency standpoint, there are significant advantages to move from typical batch reactors to continuous reactors, specifically in terms of downtime and loading/unloading of vessels. From the evidence gathered in Port Elizabeth, the nature of the reaction product caused typical plugflow reactor systems to block. The aim of this study is to investigate possible solutions to the problem of the reactor system blockage and thus pave the way for the implementation of a continuous reactor system. There are many variables which can be manipulated to achieve success for example the use of catalysts, co-feeding of reactant gases like hydrogen, residence time, temperature or pressure. Manipulating these variable can help to change conversion and/or product spectrum. The results of this study will be compared to results obtained by typical batch experimentation conducted at NMMU. This research varied temperature only. This variation was effective enough to find solutions to the obstacles that were present. Once the algae feedstock was being diverted to the vent pot via the safety relief valve, it was understood that something was blocked. Once the reactor was cooled and removed, it was apparent that the reactor was not blocking up however the exit line to the product catch pot was. To solve this problem a new heated zone was created. This heated the exit line and the top of the product catch pot to around 50°C below the reaction temperature. This upgrade to the system made the oil liquor less vicous and flow easier. The exit line never blocked up again during the research. Energy values of the product were comparable to that of coal. Higher reaction temperatures favoured the production of paraffins and olefins while lower reaction temperatures favoured the production of oxygenates. An ampoule sampler was introduced to take samples of the gas exit line. The comprehensive gas chromatography analysis of the gas in the ampoules revealed that eventhough the concentration of the products present were low, there were significant quantities of paraffins present in the gas stream. More research and the variation of variables discussed previously need to be conducted. It is also apparent that the test unit needs to be upgraded to a bigger reactor and possibly to use materials of construction which do not corrode easily. A computer model could be developed in conjunction with the current test unit and then a bigger reactor might not be needed. The reducing of the oxygen content in the final bio crude also needs to be investigated. Overall the research is very promising in the fact that the final bio crude that was produced is comparable to coal. With further research it will be possible to create a product that is comparable to fossil crude oil and then could be used as a supplement to crude oil.
- 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
- 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
Identification of the determinants of customer satisfaction with services provided by a selected pension fund agency
- Authors: Mayekiso, Pumza
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa , Customer relations -- Management , Trust companies -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021059
- Description: Understanding customers’ views on service quality is important for any business providing service and interested in making sure that they are being responsive to customers. Continuous evaluation of customer satisfaction is an important factor in the service sector. To date, most attempts have focused on what determines customer satisfaction in services rendered by organisations. The primary objective of the current study was to identify the determinants of customer satisfaction with services at Government Employees Pension Fund. The study investigated how customer satisfaction (the dependent variable) is influenced by the different elements, namely service quality, perceived value, and customer expectations, which represented the independent variables. The significance of the study hinges on three area i.e. management, policy makers and stakeholders. The study will also provide a justifiably valid and reliable guide to designing workable service delivery improvement strategies for creating and delivering customer value, achieving customer satisfaction and achieving sustainable business growth of Government Employees Pension Fund. The data collection was made using the questionnaire. A total of 150 questionnaires was distributed and 108 were completed and returned. This translated to a response rate of 72 percent. The empirical results showed that service quality and perceived value have a positive impact on customer satisfaction. On the other hand, the results revealed that customer expectations do not have a positive influence on customer satisfaction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mayekiso, Pumza
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Consumer satisfaction -- South Africa , Customer relations -- Management , Trust companies -- Customer services
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8913 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021059
- Description: Understanding customers’ views on service quality is important for any business providing service and interested in making sure that they are being responsive to customers. Continuous evaluation of customer satisfaction is an important factor in the service sector. To date, most attempts have focused on what determines customer satisfaction in services rendered by organisations. The primary objective of the current study was to identify the determinants of customer satisfaction with services at Government Employees Pension Fund. The study investigated how customer satisfaction (the dependent variable) is influenced by the different elements, namely service quality, perceived value, and customer expectations, which represented the independent variables. The significance of the study hinges on three area i.e. management, policy makers and stakeholders. The study will also provide a justifiably valid and reliable guide to designing workable service delivery improvement strategies for creating and delivering customer value, achieving customer satisfaction and achieving sustainable business growth of Government Employees Pension Fund. The data collection was made using the questionnaire. A total of 150 questionnaires was distributed and 108 were completed and returned. This translated to a response rate of 72 percent. The empirical results showed that service quality and perceived value have a positive impact on customer satisfaction. On the other hand, the results revealed that customer expectations do not have a positive influence on customer satisfaction.
- 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
- 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
Identifying drivers of corporate social responsibility for community involvement
- Authors: Gwama, Mzwandile Sebastian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business , Corporate governance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6597 , vital:21124
- Description: Organisations operate under unpredictable business environments. These business environments can be classified into internal and external environments. The decision taken by organisations to allocate resources for CSR depends on business environments. Organisations have no control of external business environments. Global financial crisis is an example of an external business environment of which organisations have no control over. The event in the business environments can influence the organisation to review its CSR operations. The beneficiaries of the organisation's CSR program get affected by such decision reviews and face even bigger challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gwama, Mzwandile Sebastian
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Social responsibility of business , Corporate governance
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6597 , vital:21124
- Description: Organisations operate under unpredictable business environments. These business environments can be classified into internal and external environments. The decision taken by organisations to allocate resources for CSR depends on business environments. Organisations have no control of external business environments. Global financial crisis is an example of an external business environment of which organisations have no control over. The event in the business environments can influence the organisation to review its CSR operations. The beneficiaries of the organisation's CSR program get affected by such decision reviews and face even bigger challenges.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Impact and implication of future mobility on the South African automotive industry
- Mnyaka, Mtutuzeli Bennett Basil
- Authors: Mnyaka, Mtutuzeli Bennett Basil
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Motor Industry Development Programme , Motor vehicle industry -- South Africa , Subsidies -- South Africa , Incentives in industry -- South Africa , Competition -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020891
- Description: The South African Automotive industry has been one that has enjoyed the subsidies schemes like the Motor Industry Development Program (MIDP), and in the near future the Automotive Production Development Program (APDP). There are however different schools of thought when it comes to subsidies for an industry. One is that there should be no incentives when others are for the schemes, which one is best for the growing economy of a young democratic and highly unemployed nation? Looking at the next planned incentive scheme to be introduced to replace the MIDP, the APDP is it better than the MIDP? How are these schemes going to benefit the country in the future and will they exist for as long as we have the Auto industry in South Africa? The objective is to prompt those in political power and positions capable of influencing infrastructure changes to think long term when making decisions today that will affect future generations. Future generations should be able to benefit from future technologies of the day and not be hindered by the lack of improved and capable infrastructure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mnyaka, Mtutuzeli Bennett Basil
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Motor Industry Development Programme , Motor vehicle industry -- South Africa , Subsidies -- South Africa , Incentives in industry -- South Africa , Competition -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8894 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020891
- Description: The South African Automotive industry has been one that has enjoyed the subsidies schemes like the Motor Industry Development Program (MIDP), and in the near future the Automotive Production Development Program (APDP). There are however different schools of thought when it comes to subsidies for an industry. One is that there should be no incentives when others are for the schemes, which one is best for the growing economy of a young democratic and highly unemployed nation? Looking at the next planned incentive scheme to be introduced to replace the MIDP, the APDP is it better than the MIDP? How are these schemes going to benefit the country in the future and will they exist for as long as we have the Auto industry in South Africa? The objective is to prompt those in political power and positions capable of influencing infrastructure changes to think long term when making decisions today that will affect future generations. Future generations should be able to benefit from future technologies of the day and not be hindered by the lack of improved and capable infrastructure.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Impact of an increase of the local content quota on radio broadcasters
- Authors: Maqina, Bandile Chumani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Radio broadcasting -- South Africa , Broadcasting -- South Africa , Radio and music
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020594
- Description: With the ever growing disenfranchisement of musicians and artist in the in ability of government entities to enforce stricter and favourable music quota which aim to increase the consumption of local music by increasing the current music quota as it stands from 25 percent to at least 60 percent for commercial radio, with more and more musicians calling for an increase in the current quota. In an open letter to the then Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Pallo Jordan from the South African Music Quota Committee (SAMQC) (Oct 2007) they voiced their concerns: “The SA content quota of 25 percent for commercial radio is not only too low, it is also often meaningless, because The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) allows stations to include gig guides, interviews and promotions as part of their local quota. You state, and we agree, that “cultural industries are serious business”. The structures protecting the national interest in iron, minerals, fishing, sport and many other areas are strongly enforced and defended here in South Africa. Why not our music?” More initiatives such as the “Play Local of Die” campaign whose aim is to urge commercial broadcasters to increase their local content with regards to commercial radios stations playlist was launched by South African Hip Hop artist commonly known as JR (Real Name: JR Bogopa) to further exhibit the South African musicians plight in how pivotal it is to their careers and overall financial well-being that the current quota be raised significantly. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of local content quota on domestic radio broadcasters in South Africa. The population for this study included 100 radio station which broadcast in the republic of South Africa. The response rate for the e-mail questionnaire was 100 percent of the 100 respondents. A Likert-type scale instrument consisted of 39 questions divided into two sections: Section one looked at the demographic profile of the respondents and section two focused on getting responses on the factors impacting local content quotaand domestic broadcasters, namely local content quota, implications for domestic broadcasters, revenue streams, impact on local musicians, governments role in local content quota, success factors, globalisation and piracy. In order to realise the purpose of this study, the following research design was used: Step 1 A literature review was conducted to determine the various factors impacting local artists, local broadcasters and local content quota. Step 2 A questionnaire was composed according to the principles and guidelines in steps 1. Step 3 Empirical data was obtained with the aid of an e-mail survey. Step 4 The results of the data were analysed and interpreted. Step 5 The empirical results were integrated with Step 3. Step 6 Conclusions and recommendations were completed. The main findings from the study were: The study revealed that the radio industry is not unanimous in the call from artists for government to increase the local content quota and thus prefer that the current status quo continue. That local content quota are not the only way to curb the South African music industry‟s woes, artists should seek to maximise their revenue by exploiting the infinite avenues for revenue that globalisation avails.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Maqina, Bandile Chumani
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Radio broadcasting -- South Africa , Broadcasting -- South Africa , Radio and music
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:9414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020594
- Description: With the ever growing disenfranchisement of musicians and artist in the in ability of government entities to enforce stricter and favourable music quota which aim to increase the consumption of local music by increasing the current music quota as it stands from 25 percent to at least 60 percent for commercial radio, with more and more musicians calling for an increase in the current quota. In an open letter to the then Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Pallo Jordan from the South African Music Quota Committee (SAMQC) (Oct 2007) they voiced their concerns: “The SA content quota of 25 percent for commercial radio is not only too low, it is also often meaningless, because The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) allows stations to include gig guides, interviews and promotions as part of their local quota. You state, and we agree, that “cultural industries are serious business”. The structures protecting the national interest in iron, minerals, fishing, sport and many other areas are strongly enforced and defended here in South Africa. Why not our music?” More initiatives such as the “Play Local of Die” campaign whose aim is to urge commercial broadcasters to increase their local content with regards to commercial radios stations playlist was launched by South African Hip Hop artist commonly known as JR (Real Name: JR Bogopa) to further exhibit the South African musicians plight in how pivotal it is to their careers and overall financial well-being that the current quota be raised significantly. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of local content quota on domestic radio broadcasters in South Africa. The population for this study included 100 radio station which broadcast in the republic of South Africa. The response rate for the e-mail questionnaire was 100 percent of the 100 respondents. A Likert-type scale instrument consisted of 39 questions divided into two sections: Section one looked at the demographic profile of the respondents and section two focused on getting responses on the factors impacting local content quotaand domestic broadcasters, namely local content quota, implications for domestic broadcasters, revenue streams, impact on local musicians, governments role in local content quota, success factors, globalisation and piracy. In order to realise the purpose of this study, the following research design was used: Step 1 A literature review was conducted to determine the various factors impacting local artists, local broadcasters and local content quota. Step 2 A questionnaire was composed according to the principles and guidelines in steps 1. Step 3 Empirical data was obtained with the aid of an e-mail survey. Step 4 The results of the data were analysed and interpreted. Step 5 The empirical results were integrated with Step 3. Step 6 Conclusions and recommendations were completed. The main findings from the study were: The study revealed that the radio industry is not unanimous in the call from artists for government to increase the local content quota and thus prefer that the current status quo continue. That local content quota are not the only way to curb the South African music industry‟s woes, artists should seek to maximise their revenue by exploiting the infinite avenues for revenue that globalisation avails.
- 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
- 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
Implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O.R Tambo district municipality
- Authors: Sotshongaye, Goodman
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Public administration -- South Africa -- Mthatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8356 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020920
- Description: This treatise investigates the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The treatise comprises five chapters. The study is based on the assumption that O R Tambo District Municipality, like any other municipality in South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape, is confronted with the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation. ORTDM has a performance-management system that is not fully implemented, and needs to put into context its challenges, in order to appropriately make those interventions relevant to the situation. The fact that the performance- management system has not yet been cascaded to the lower level employees creates difficulties in performance monitoring and evaluation. There has been a deep concern that municipalities are underperforming, and yet with no visible steps being taken to improve the situation. If the O R Tambo District Municipality is attempting to achieve the objectives of the local government, as stated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, it is then necessary to properly implement performance monitoring and evaluation, as mechanisms to accelerate service delivery. This has the potential to improve the quality of life of the citizens of O R Tambo District Municipality. This study provides the general background to the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation, the determinants of performance monitoring and evaluation, as well as the theories used in performance monitoring and evaluation will be addressed. The study presents the findings resulting from the analysis of the data provided by the respondents. Amongst the findings of the study there is a view that the O R Tambo District Municipality does not have monitoring and evaluation specialists who could ensure that performance is being periodically evaluated, in order to close policy gaps that might be in existence. Non-involvement or partial involvement of communities has the potential to cause stagnation, as people generally lack monitoring skills. Some of the recommendations include: the skills development of all the stakeholders, especially those with the mandate to deliver on behalf of government, that is, political office bearers, together with the technical support wing. Performance monitoring and evaluation under the proposed recommendations could be enhanced and positive changes could be realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Sotshongaye, Goodman
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Local government -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Public administration -- South Africa -- Mthatha
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8356 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020920
- Description: This treatise investigates the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The treatise comprises five chapters. The study is based on the assumption that O R Tambo District Municipality, like any other municipality in South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape, is confronted with the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation. ORTDM has a performance-management system that is not fully implemented, and needs to put into context its challenges, in order to appropriately make those interventions relevant to the situation. The fact that the performance- management system has not yet been cascaded to the lower level employees creates difficulties in performance monitoring and evaluation. There has been a deep concern that municipalities are underperforming, and yet with no visible steps being taken to improve the situation. If the O R Tambo District Municipality is attempting to achieve the objectives of the local government, as stated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, it is then necessary to properly implement performance monitoring and evaluation, as mechanisms to accelerate service delivery. This has the potential to improve the quality of life of the citizens of O R Tambo District Municipality. This study provides the general background to the implementation challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation in the O R Tambo District Municipality. The challenges of performance monitoring and evaluation, the determinants of performance monitoring and evaluation, as well as the theories used in performance monitoring and evaluation will be addressed. The study presents the findings resulting from the analysis of the data provided by the respondents. Amongst the findings of the study there is a view that the O R Tambo District Municipality does not have monitoring and evaluation specialists who could ensure that performance is being periodically evaluated, in order to close policy gaps that might be in existence. Non-involvement or partial involvement of communities has the potential to cause stagnation, as people generally lack monitoring skills. Some of the recommendations include: the skills development of all the stakeholders, especially those with the mandate to deliver on behalf of government, that is, political office bearers, together with the technical support wing. Performance monitoring and evaluation under the proposed recommendations could be enhanced and positive changes could be realised.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Improving decision making through analysing the economic impact of budget allocation at the city of Cape Town
- Authors: Kaiser, Gisela Noelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cape Town (South Africa) -- Politics and government , City planning -- South Africa --Cape Town , Budget -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Local government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9684 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008305 , Cape Town (South Africa) -- Politics and government , City planning -- South Africa --Cape Town , Budget -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Local government
- Description: Local government is at the forefront of engagement between the government and South Africa’s people, delivering basic services to communities. Following the transition to a democratic government in 1994, the country was demarcated in a manner that provides complete coverage by local government. Annually, managing the administration of service delivery implementation at local government level costs the country many billions. Much of the revenue used by local government in providing services is derived from income from sale of basic services and property rates, augmented by allocations from national and provincial government, equitably shared amongst municipalities. Local government has autonomy in its operations, but is strictly governed by a collection of cascading legislation, introduced to protect the interests of the people. The primary objective of the research was to investigate the efficacy of budget expenditure in local government, in particular the City of Cape Town as a metropolitan municipality. With an annual budget approaching R30 billion, the aim was to establish how the budget was determined and allocated to the service menu provided by the City, and to investigate whether better methods of allocating expenditure could be developed. A mixed research methodology was followed, relying on quantitative methods for analysing survey data statistically, while providing for detailed qualitative methods in interviewing and studying the specific case in detail. The theoretical perspective most suited to this research was found to be that of pragmatism, for its flexibility of interpretation, practicality and space for multiple perspectives. A constructivist epistemology was adopted to provide for the interplay between object and subject in constructing meaning. This research focused on examination of applicable legislation, secondary data in reports, and statistical analysis of opinion surveys of municipal officials involved in budgeting at different levels and interviews with key stakeholders. The findings indicate that budget allocation can be improved upon in a number of ways, despite complying with a myriad of restrictive and onerous regulations applicable to local government. It was found that the administration is fragmented in its operations and that the structure of necessity favours isolated service delivery rather than integration. Further, that compliance impacts negatively on time spent in planning and pursuit of strategic intent to the extent that Reporting often becomes a more important deliverable than basic services. The size of the City hinders common understanding, and introducing any change in political vision requires particular attention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kaiser, Gisela Noelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Cape Town (South Africa) -- Politics and government , City planning -- South Africa --Cape Town , Budget -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Local government
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:9684 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008305 , Cape Town (South Africa) -- Politics and government , City planning -- South Africa --Cape Town , Budget -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Local government
- Description: Local government is at the forefront of engagement between the government and South Africa’s people, delivering basic services to communities. Following the transition to a democratic government in 1994, the country was demarcated in a manner that provides complete coverage by local government. Annually, managing the administration of service delivery implementation at local government level costs the country many billions. Much of the revenue used by local government in providing services is derived from income from sale of basic services and property rates, augmented by allocations from national and provincial government, equitably shared amongst municipalities. Local government has autonomy in its operations, but is strictly governed by a collection of cascading legislation, introduced to protect the interests of the people. The primary objective of the research was to investigate the efficacy of budget expenditure in local government, in particular the City of Cape Town as a metropolitan municipality. With an annual budget approaching R30 billion, the aim was to establish how the budget was determined and allocated to the service menu provided by the City, and to investigate whether better methods of allocating expenditure could be developed. A mixed research methodology was followed, relying on quantitative methods for analysing survey data statistically, while providing for detailed qualitative methods in interviewing and studying the specific case in detail. The theoretical perspective most suited to this research was found to be that of pragmatism, for its flexibility of interpretation, practicality and space for multiple perspectives. A constructivist epistemology was adopted to provide for the interplay between object and subject in constructing meaning. This research focused on examination of applicable legislation, secondary data in reports, and statistical analysis of opinion surveys of municipal officials involved in budgeting at different levels and interviews with key stakeholders. The findings indicate that budget allocation can be improved upon in a number of ways, despite complying with a myriad of restrictive and onerous regulations applicable to local government. It was found that the administration is fragmented in its operations and that the structure of necessity favours isolated service delivery rather than integration. Further, that compliance impacts negatively on time spent in planning and pursuit of strategic intent to the extent that Reporting often becomes a more important deliverable than basic services. The size of the City hinders common understanding, and introducing any change in political vision requires particular attention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Improving procurement management practices in the public sector : a study of Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Xhala, Ncedo Cameron
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government purchasing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018640
- Description: The study explored lack of improvement of public procurement management practices in the public sector. The main themes which the study focused on are the following; causes of non-compliance of public procurement and contracts management procedures, factors influencing the selection of appropriate procurement management processes and the main factors for poor implementation of procurement management processes in the public sector. The study aimed to identify the causes of non-compliance; determine factors influencing selection of appropriate procurement management processes, and lastly examine, the main factors leading to poor implementation of monitoring and evaluation in the public sector. The study employed a qualitative design to investigate the problem using the exploratory method. The purposive sampling method was used to select interviewees from three departments, namely, Department of Local government and Traditional Affairs, Public Works and Office of the Premier with 15 participants as a selective sample of the study. The key findings of this study indicate three main problems which are: that lack of properly understood processes of public procurement leads to poor implementation of the system together with alternative strategies of implementing the system. Shortages of skills and lack of training amongst those who get hired within the supply chain management sections or in the procurement management sections of the departments who have little understanding of holistic public procurement management in general affect selection processes. Findings also indicate lack of adequate monitoring and evaluation on procurement management. The study recommends that people who get hired in the procurement management section of these departments should have proper procurement qualifications. Regulations and rules should be made clear to all those who work in the procurement management sections in the public sector, to enable the improvement of best management practices and also to improve public procurement management practices in the public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Xhala, Ncedo Cameron
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Government purchasing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:9704 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1018640
- Description: The study explored lack of improvement of public procurement management practices in the public sector. The main themes which the study focused on are the following; causes of non-compliance of public procurement and contracts management procedures, factors influencing the selection of appropriate procurement management processes and the main factors for poor implementation of procurement management processes in the public sector. The study aimed to identify the causes of non-compliance; determine factors influencing selection of appropriate procurement management processes, and lastly examine, the main factors leading to poor implementation of monitoring and evaluation in the public sector. The study employed a qualitative design to investigate the problem using the exploratory method. The purposive sampling method was used to select interviewees from three departments, namely, Department of Local government and Traditional Affairs, Public Works and Office of the Premier with 15 participants as a selective sample of the study. The key findings of this study indicate three main problems which are: that lack of properly understood processes of public procurement leads to poor implementation of the system together with alternative strategies of implementing the system. Shortages of skills and lack of training amongst those who get hired within the supply chain management sections or in the procurement management sections of the departments who have little understanding of holistic public procurement management in general affect selection processes. Findings also indicate lack of adequate monitoring and evaluation on procurement management. The study recommends that people who get hired in the procurement management section of these departments should have proper procurement qualifications. Regulations and rules should be made clear to all those who work in the procurement management sections in the public sector, to enable the improvement of best management practices and also to improve public procurement management practices in the public sector.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Improving psychological empowerment and employee engagement through the display of leadership empowering behaviours
- Authors: Webb, Jeanene Dunbar
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational behavior Leadership , Industrial sociology Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45838 , vital:39221
- Description: Organisations are constantly searching for ways to improve performance and deliver profitable returns in a sustainable manner. In the financial services industry, a large portion of an organisations ability to meet its performance targets rests on the shoulders of the employees positioned at the client interface or front line. In order for these employees to perform and deliver on the organisations goals, theory (and experience) indicates the need for good leadership. Leaders who have the ability to empower and engage their employees are sought after for this role. A review of literature on the topics of psychological empowerment and employee engagement corroborate the benefits of an empowered and engaged workforce on the organisation’s performance and its ability to sustain its performance. To improve psychological empowerment and employee engagement in an organisation, leaders therefore have a role to play as the influencers of employee perceptions on both empowerment and engagement levels in the workplace. In just what way leaders can influence psychological empowerment and employee engagement in the workplace, shifts the potential to create an empowered and engaged workforce into the hands of the leaders in the organisation. Leaders therefore have the potential to display certain leadership empowering behaviours, which would in turn, influence psychological empowerment or employee engagement. This treatise intends to solve the research problem to improve psychological empowerment and employee engagement through the display of leadership empowering behaviours within the organisation. The following steps outline the manner in which this study was conducted: A literature review was embarked upon to introduce, describe and interpret the concepts of psychological empowerment, employee engagement and the influencing leadership empowering behaviours. Statistical analysis of the identified constructs to identify specific leadership empowering behaviours. Further research analysis was conducted, to investigate the impact of leadership empowering behaviours on psychological empowerment and on employee engagement. The literature was then revisited to design and test a new conceptual model of leadership empowering behaviours which influenced psychological empowerment and employee engagement. The way in which leaders execute the organisation’s communication strategy as well as the empowerment climate that leaders can create through their valuesbased interactions with employees showed a significant influence on psychological empowerment in the organisation studied. Employee engagement was significantly influenced by leaders who were supporting self-leadership amongst their employees as well as those who showed concern and interacted with their teams in a respectful, people-centred manner. These key insights into which leadership empowering behaviours influence employee’s perceptions of psychological empowerment and employee engagement offer leaders in the business with opportunities to reflect on their own behaviours. Leaders have the choice then to reinforce or adapt their behaviour, in order to empower and to engage their frontline employees more. These learning’s thus empower leaders with knowledge to empower and engaged their workforce. The display of leadership empowering behaviours was found to positively influence both psychological empowerment and employee engagement. By increasing empowerment and engagement, leaders can influence their organisation’s performance in a positive manner, which in turn has further potential to deliver a competitive advantage to the organisation, should these behaviours be embedded in the organisations culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Webb, Jeanene Dunbar
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Organizational behavior Leadership , Industrial sociology Employee motivation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/45838 , vital:39221
- Description: Organisations are constantly searching for ways to improve performance and deliver profitable returns in a sustainable manner. In the financial services industry, a large portion of an organisations ability to meet its performance targets rests on the shoulders of the employees positioned at the client interface or front line. In order for these employees to perform and deliver on the organisations goals, theory (and experience) indicates the need for good leadership. Leaders who have the ability to empower and engage their employees are sought after for this role. A review of literature on the topics of psychological empowerment and employee engagement corroborate the benefits of an empowered and engaged workforce on the organisation’s performance and its ability to sustain its performance. To improve psychological empowerment and employee engagement in an organisation, leaders therefore have a role to play as the influencers of employee perceptions on both empowerment and engagement levels in the workplace. In just what way leaders can influence psychological empowerment and employee engagement in the workplace, shifts the potential to create an empowered and engaged workforce into the hands of the leaders in the organisation. Leaders therefore have the potential to display certain leadership empowering behaviours, which would in turn, influence psychological empowerment or employee engagement. This treatise intends to solve the research problem to improve psychological empowerment and employee engagement through the display of leadership empowering behaviours within the organisation. The following steps outline the manner in which this study was conducted: A literature review was embarked upon to introduce, describe and interpret the concepts of psychological empowerment, employee engagement and the influencing leadership empowering behaviours. Statistical analysis of the identified constructs to identify specific leadership empowering behaviours. Further research analysis was conducted, to investigate the impact of leadership empowering behaviours on psychological empowerment and on employee engagement. The literature was then revisited to design and test a new conceptual model of leadership empowering behaviours which influenced psychological empowerment and employee engagement. The way in which leaders execute the organisation’s communication strategy as well as the empowerment climate that leaders can create through their valuesbased interactions with employees showed a significant influence on psychological empowerment in the organisation studied. Employee engagement was significantly influenced by leaders who were supporting self-leadership amongst their employees as well as those who showed concern and interacted with their teams in a respectful, people-centred manner. These key insights into which leadership empowering behaviours influence employee’s perceptions of psychological empowerment and employee engagement offer leaders in the business with opportunities to reflect on their own behaviours. Leaders have the choice then to reinforce or adapt their behaviour, in order to empower and to engage their frontline employees more. These learning’s thus empower leaders with knowledge to empower and engaged their workforce. The display of leadership empowering behaviours was found to positively influence both psychological empowerment and employee engagement. By increasing empowerment and engagement, leaders can influence their organisation’s performance in a positive manner, which in turn has further potential to deliver a competitive advantage to the organisation, should these behaviours be embedded in the organisations culture.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Improving service quality at automotive dealerships
- Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi Anneline
- Authors: Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi Anneline
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Customer services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017204
- Description: The highly competitive landscape of the automotive industry places increasing pressure on automotive dealerships to continually improve the quality of services rendered to customers. Understanding customer expectations and customer perceptions is key to making improvements in areas that matter most to the customer. It is against this background that this study was conducted. The aim of this research was to measure service quality at automotive dealerships. The literature review focused on the gaps model which resulted in the SERVQUAL measuring tool. The SERVQUAL instrument is supported by literature as the optimal instrument for measuring service quality. The 22-item questionnaire was adapted and used to solicit feedback from customers on their expectations and perceptions of the service rendered by dealerships across the five SERVQUAL dimensions; namely, tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, empathy and assurance. Gaps between customer expectations and perceptions were calculated as an indication of areas where customer expectations were met, unmet or exceeded. In order to identify priorities for improvement, each of the SERVQUAL dimensions was ranked in order of importance by the customer. Convenience sampling was used as a sampling technique. A total of 142 Volkswagen owners who had their vehicles serviced or repaired at a franchised dealership were surveyed. The reliability of the SERVQUAL questionnaire was tested by calculating the Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient for each of the five dimensions. The calculation yielded an average coefficient of 0.83, indicating a high reliability of the measuring instrument and the data collected. The overall gap score of -0.7 indicates that customer expectations exceeded customer perceptions. The lowest customer perceptions and the largest gaps were reported in the reliability and responsiveness dimensions. These two dimensions were also rated as the most important dimensions customers use for evaluating service quality. This formed the basis for recommending that dealership employees and management focus most of their efforts on improving the reliability and responsiveness dimensions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Lekhelebana, Vuyokazi Anneline
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa , Customer services -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1017204
- Description: The highly competitive landscape of the automotive industry places increasing pressure on automotive dealerships to continually improve the quality of services rendered to customers. Understanding customer expectations and customer perceptions is key to making improvements in areas that matter most to the customer. It is against this background that this study was conducted. The aim of this research was to measure service quality at automotive dealerships. The literature review focused on the gaps model which resulted in the SERVQUAL measuring tool. The SERVQUAL instrument is supported by literature as the optimal instrument for measuring service quality. The 22-item questionnaire was adapted and used to solicit feedback from customers on their expectations and perceptions of the service rendered by dealerships across the five SERVQUAL dimensions; namely, tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, empathy and assurance. Gaps between customer expectations and perceptions were calculated as an indication of areas where customer expectations were met, unmet or exceeded. In order to identify priorities for improvement, each of the SERVQUAL dimensions was ranked in order of importance by the customer. Convenience sampling was used as a sampling technique. A total of 142 Volkswagen owners who had their vehicles serviced or repaired at a franchised dealership were surveyed. The reliability of the SERVQUAL questionnaire was tested by calculating the Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient for each of the five dimensions. The calculation yielded an average coefficient of 0.83, indicating a high reliability of the measuring instrument and the data collected. The overall gap score of -0.7 indicates that customer expectations exceeded customer perceptions. The lowest customer perceptions and the largest gaps were reported in the reliability and responsiveness dimensions. These two dimensions were also rated as the most important dimensions customers use for evaluating service quality. This formed the basis for recommending that dealership employees and management focus most of their efforts on improving the reliability and responsiveness dimensions.
- 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
- 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
Improving technological entrepreneurship of first-year students at universities
- Khohliso, Sylvester Mziwonke
- Authors: Khohliso, Sylvester Mziwonke
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Entrepreneurship , Technical education , Business enterprises -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6476 , vital:21095
- Description: A challenge facing higher education institutions is the level of technological entrepreneurship of first-year students in the field of technological programmes. This challenge has put pressure on management of higher education institutions to introduce an entrepreneurial mindset and encourage innovation. According to Development Policy Research Unit (2007:18), 23 percent of students choose qualifications mainly for the employment opportunities. According to Shein, Crous, and Schepers (2010:1), not only in growing economies such as South Africa‟s, entrepreneurship contributes to a national growth and contributes to job creation. Shein, et al. (2010:1), further claim that recent studies have shown a shift towards studying entrepreneurship in an attempt to uncover its fundamentals and its importance in adding to the well-being of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Khohliso, Sylvester Mziwonke
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Technological innovations -- Economic aspects , Entrepreneurship , Technical education , Business enterprises -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6476 , vital:21095
- Description: A challenge facing higher education institutions is the level of technological entrepreneurship of first-year students in the field of technological programmes. This challenge has put pressure on management of higher education institutions to introduce an entrepreneurial mindset and encourage innovation. According to Development Policy Research Unit (2007:18), 23 percent of students choose qualifications mainly for the employment opportunities. According to Shein, Crous, and Schepers (2010:1), not only in growing economies such as South Africa‟s, entrepreneurship contributes to a national growth and contributes to job creation. Shein, et al. (2010:1), further claim that recent studies have shown a shift towards studying entrepreneurship in an attempt to uncover its fundamentals and its importance in adding to the well-being of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Improving waste management within selected South African municipalities
- Authors: Saaiman, Lizelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Waste minimization -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Refuse disposal industry -- South Africa , Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- South Africa , Source reduction (Waste management) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8790 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014736
- Description: The essentiality for waste reduction in society is prompted by the depletion of natural resources. Internationally, five waste management strategies have been identified, namely reduction of waste (waste prevention), re-use of waste, recycling of waste, recovery of energy and disposal to landfill. In Polokwane Declaration of September 2001, South Africa’s Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism committed itself to achieve a 50 percent reduction in the volume of waste generated by 2012 and to be landfilled and have a zero waste plan implemented by 2022. Through the National Waste Management Act, No. 59 of 2008, the South African government also committed itself to provide protection of health, well-being and the environment through measures to avoid and minimise the generation of waste. Even though several policies and legislative documents are available that address waste minimisation and recycling, individual community members are however still reluctant to participate in these activities. This study therefore investigated the current levels of understanding, education and commitment to recycling and waste minimisation in a selected South African community. The target respondents of the study were members of a local church who are representative of the various peoples that reside in the communities serviced by the selected municipality. A convenience sample of 70 participants from that church was selected to complete the questionnaires. Seventy (70) questionnaires were distributed, and all 70 questionnaires were returned. Interviews were also conducted with two managers from the Waste Management Department of the selected municipality. The data analyses conducted, included descriptive statistics and content analysis of the interview transcripts. The empirical results revealed among others that: (1) recycling removal service is limited to pre-selected recyclables; (2) the municipality contributes to local entrepreneurial opportunities; (3) public participation is a pre-requisite in the success of the programmes; (4) participation is determined by convenience; (5) enforcement of legislation assists with compliance; (6) environmental sustainability is supported by environmental concerned consumers; (7) mismatch of opinions around separation at source of generation and (8) continuous education is instrumental in waste management. The main recommendations of the study include: (1) municipalities need to provide exciting and innovative recycling and waste minimisation programmes, continuously; (2) positive attitude and behaviour of all the stakeholders determines the success of waste minimisation and recycling; and (3) society, industry and government need to join forces in ensuring success in waste management. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders in this field of interest will go a long way in improving waste management in South Africa communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Saaiman, Lizelle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Waste minimization -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Refuse disposal industry -- South Africa , Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- South Africa , Source reduction (Waste management) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8790 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1014736
- Description: The essentiality for waste reduction in society is prompted by the depletion of natural resources. Internationally, five waste management strategies have been identified, namely reduction of waste (waste prevention), re-use of waste, recycling of waste, recovery of energy and disposal to landfill. In Polokwane Declaration of September 2001, South Africa’s Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism committed itself to achieve a 50 percent reduction in the volume of waste generated by 2012 and to be landfilled and have a zero waste plan implemented by 2022. Through the National Waste Management Act, No. 59 of 2008, the South African government also committed itself to provide protection of health, well-being and the environment through measures to avoid and minimise the generation of waste. Even though several policies and legislative documents are available that address waste minimisation and recycling, individual community members are however still reluctant to participate in these activities. This study therefore investigated the current levels of understanding, education and commitment to recycling and waste minimisation in a selected South African community. The target respondents of the study were members of a local church who are representative of the various peoples that reside in the communities serviced by the selected municipality. A convenience sample of 70 participants from that church was selected to complete the questionnaires. Seventy (70) questionnaires were distributed, and all 70 questionnaires were returned. Interviews were also conducted with two managers from the Waste Management Department of the selected municipality. The data analyses conducted, included descriptive statistics and content analysis of the interview transcripts. The empirical results revealed among others that: (1) recycling removal service is limited to pre-selected recyclables; (2) the municipality contributes to local entrepreneurial opportunities; (3) public participation is a pre-requisite in the success of the programmes; (4) participation is determined by convenience; (5) enforcement of legislation assists with compliance; (6) environmental sustainability is supported by environmental concerned consumers; (7) mismatch of opinions around separation at source of generation and (8) continuous education is instrumental in waste management. The main recommendations of the study include: (1) municipalities need to provide exciting and innovative recycling and waste minimisation programmes, continuously; (2) positive attitude and behaviour of all the stakeholders determines the success of waste minimisation and recycling; and (3) society, industry and government need to join forces in ensuring success in waste management. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders in this field of interest will go a long way in improving waste management in South Africa communities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
In silico and in vitro screening of marrubiin and marrubiin derivatives for antidiabetic activity on PTP1ß, C2C12 myocytes, chang liver hepatocytes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes
- Authors: Nicholas, Rudi Berto
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Hypoglycemic agents , Diabetes -- Treatment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10347 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020638
- Description: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a life changing disease which affects a large portion of the population and the economy through high medical costs and loss of productivity. Marrubiin (MAR), a diterpenoid isolated from Leonotis leonurus, a plant indigenous to Southern Africa, is used by traditional healers to alleviate DM symptoms. This study aims to screen the inhibitory potential of MAR and MAR derivatives on PTP1β and glucose uptake properties of Chang liver, C2C12 and 3T3-L1 cells. Marrubiin and 19 of its derivatives were tested to determine the inhibition constants for PTP1β. A Ki of 21 μM and 0.047 μM was detected for oleanolic acid in silico and in vitro, respectively. All other diterpene derivatives did not display substantial levels of inhibition of PTP1β. Treatment of Chang liver cells with the various MAR derivatives (10 μM) did not significantly increase glucose uptake beyond metformin, a known antidiabetic drug. The various treatments showed a protective/proliferative effect on the C2C12 muscle cells with two MAR treatments (DC16 and DC18) significantly increasing glucose uptake as compared to metformin in C2C12 muscle cells. It was noted that DC17, DC18 and MAR significantly increased glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, relative to the control. Contrary to cytotoxicity studies with Chang liver and C2C12 muscle cells, adipocytes displayed no cytotoxicity to treatments while a significant increase in cell viability was seen for DC9 and DC15. To unravel the mechanism of action, Western blotting analysis was completed and an increased expression of PTP1β was observed for treatments with DC17 and DC6 was seen in adipocytes, while DC18 and metformin decreased expression significantly. This correlated with a significant decrease of Ser 612 phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate (IRS1) for DC17. Real time qPCR of IRS1 and GLUT4 highlighted that DC17 and MAR were able to significantly increase expression of IRS1 and GLUT4, respectively. The results show that MAR and the selected derivatives (DC6, DC17, DC18) have been found to increase glucose uptake in peripheral tissue types with IRS1, GLUT4 and PTP1β being associated with the mechanism of action. However, a complete understanding of the mechanisms is yet to be established.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nicholas, Rudi Berto
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Hypoglycemic agents , Diabetes -- Treatment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10347 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020638
- Description: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a life changing disease which affects a large portion of the population and the economy through high medical costs and loss of productivity. Marrubiin (MAR), a diterpenoid isolated from Leonotis leonurus, a plant indigenous to Southern Africa, is used by traditional healers to alleviate DM symptoms. This study aims to screen the inhibitory potential of MAR and MAR derivatives on PTP1β and glucose uptake properties of Chang liver, C2C12 and 3T3-L1 cells. Marrubiin and 19 of its derivatives were tested to determine the inhibition constants for PTP1β. A Ki of 21 μM and 0.047 μM was detected for oleanolic acid in silico and in vitro, respectively. All other diterpene derivatives did not display substantial levels of inhibition of PTP1β. Treatment of Chang liver cells with the various MAR derivatives (10 μM) did not significantly increase glucose uptake beyond metformin, a known antidiabetic drug. The various treatments showed a protective/proliferative effect on the C2C12 muscle cells with two MAR treatments (DC16 and DC18) significantly increasing glucose uptake as compared to metformin in C2C12 muscle cells. It was noted that DC17, DC18 and MAR significantly increased glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, relative to the control. Contrary to cytotoxicity studies with Chang liver and C2C12 muscle cells, adipocytes displayed no cytotoxicity to treatments while a significant increase in cell viability was seen for DC9 and DC15. To unravel the mechanism of action, Western blotting analysis was completed and an increased expression of PTP1β was observed for treatments with DC17 and DC6 was seen in adipocytes, while DC18 and metformin decreased expression significantly. This correlated with a significant decrease of Ser 612 phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate (IRS1) for DC17. Real time qPCR of IRS1 and GLUT4 highlighted that DC17 and MAR were able to significantly increase expression of IRS1 and GLUT4, respectively. The results show that MAR and the selected derivatives (DC6, DC17, DC18) have been found to increase glucose uptake in peripheral tissue types with IRS1, GLUT4 and PTP1β being associated with the mechanism of action. However, a complete understanding of the mechanisms is yet to be established.
- 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
- 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
Influence of predicted sea-level rise on the salt marsh of the Swartkops, Kromme and Knysna estuaries
- Authors: Schmidt, Jadon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sea-level -- South Africa , Salt marshes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3765 , vital:20462
- Description: Salt marshes are coastal wetlands that are highly productive and biologically diverse ecosystems. These systems are under threat from rising sea levels which are predicted to accelerate in the future. Salt marsh habitats of the Swartkops, Kromme and Knysna estuaries were examined to determine their structure along an elevation gradient and how this structure has changed over the past six decades, what the primary drivers of this structure were and whether the salt marsh surface is stable, rising or declining relative to predicted sea level rise. During this study the following main hypothesis was tested: The environmental drivers of salt marsh zonation are elevation above mean sea level (AMSL), soil moisture and soil salinity, all of which will be impacted by the predicted rise in sea level of 1.48 mm.y-1, unless the salt marshes are able to accrete at a rate such that surface elevation gain is sufficient to offset the rate of sea level rise. The results showed that the salt marsh vegetation structure followed a predictable pattern down the elevation gradient with distinct supratidal, intertidal and subtidal habitats identified for each estuary. These three zones occurred between elevations around Mean Sea Level of -0.86 to 2.42 AMSL for Swartkops, -0.3 to 2.95 m AMSL for Kromme and -0.48 to 3.14 m AMSL for Knysna. A floodplain component was also identified in the Swartkops estuary, which was restricted to the upper reaches. During the last 60 years, losses of intertidal and supratidal salt marsh for Swartkops were 74.31 ha and 30.23 ha respectively, 17.01 ha of intertidal and supratidal salt marsh was lost in Kromme while intertidal salt marsh in Knysna has diminished by 168 ha. These losses were mainly attributed to developmental pressure, although there are indications that rising sea levels are becoming more influential in the lower reaches. The main environmental drivers for salt marsh structure in the Swartkops were shown to be soil moisture content and elevation, soil moisture and organic content for Kromme while elevation and soil redox potential were dominant in Knysna. In a comparison of all three systems, soil moisture content and redox potential were found to be the most important drivers of vegetation distribution. Elevation dictates tidal inundation periodicity and frequency, and thus acts to influence all edaphic factors driving vegetation distribution. Results indicated that the salt marsh surface elevation of the lower and middle sections of the Swartkops, Kromme and Knysna estuaries are generally declining relative to current sea level rise. Where increases in surface elevation (relative to current sea level rise) were recorded, the majority of the accretion occurred after episodic flooding in winter 2011. These increases typically occurred in the upper reaches and were attributed to the deposition of fluvial sediments as a result of these floods. Results for Knysna indicate that while a majority of the salt marsh surface is accreting vertically, only three areas are increasing their elevation at a rate at least equal to current sea level rise. In these areas, developmental pressures will prevent a landward transgression of the salt marsh, forming an artificial “coastal squeeze”. Geomorphological limitations (steep hills adjacent to the salt marsh) will prevent any transgression in the upper reaches of the Kromme Estuary. Supratidal habitat in the upper reaches of the Swartkops estuary, if undeveloped, will provide the only viable habitat for the salt marsh to migrate into, given sufficient surface elevation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Schmidt, Jadon
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sea-level -- South Africa , Salt marshes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3765 , vital:20462
- Description: Salt marshes are coastal wetlands that are highly productive and biologically diverse ecosystems. These systems are under threat from rising sea levels which are predicted to accelerate in the future. Salt marsh habitats of the Swartkops, Kromme and Knysna estuaries were examined to determine their structure along an elevation gradient and how this structure has changed over the past six decades, what the primary drivers of this structure were and whether the salt marsh surface is stable, rising or declining relative to predicted sea level rise. During this study the following main hypothesis was tested: The environmental drivers of salt marsh zonation are elevation above mean sea level (AMSL), soil moisture and soil salinity, all of which will be impacted by the predicted rise in sea level of 1.48 mm.y-1, unless the salt marshes are able to accrete at a rate such that surface elevation gain is sufficient to offset the rate of sea level rise. The results showed that the salt marsh vegetation structure followed a predictable pattern down the elevation gradient with distinct supratidal, intertidal and subtidal habitats identified for each estuary. These three zones occurred between elevations around Mean Sea Level of -0.86 to 2.42 AMSL for Swartkops, -0.3 to 2.95 m AMSL for Kromme and -0.48 to 3.14 m AMSL for Knysna. A floodplain component was also identified in the Swartkops estuary, which was restricted to the upper reaches. During the last 60 years, losses of intertidal and supratidal salt marsh for Swartkops were 74.31 ha and 30.23 ha respectively, 17.01 ha of intertidal and supratidal salt marsh was lost in Kromme while intertidal salt marsh in Knysna has diminished by 168 ha. These losses were mainly attributed to developmental pressure, although there are indications that rising sea levels are becoming more influential in the lower reaches. The main environmental drivers for salt marsh structure in the Swartkops were shown to be soil moisture content and elevation, soil moisture and organic content for Kromme while elevation and soil redox potential were dominant in Knysna. In a comparison of all three systems, soil moisture content and redox potential were found to be the most important drivers of vegetation distribution. Elevation dictates tidal inundation periodicity and frequency, and thus acts to influence all edaphic factors driving vegetation distribution. Results indicated that the salt marsh surface elevation of the lower and middle sections of the Swartkops, Kromme and Knysna estuaries are generally declining relative to current sea level rise. Where increases in surface elevation (relative to current sea level rise) were recorded, the majority of the accretion occurred after episodic flooding in winter 2011. These increases typically occurred in the upper reaches and were attributed to the deposition of fluvial sediments as a result of these floods. Results for Knysna indicate that while a majority of the salt marsh surface is accreting vertically, only three areas are increasing their elevation at a rate at least equal to current sea level rise. In these areas, developmental pressures will prevent a landward transgression of the salt marsh, forming an artificial “coastal squeeze”. Geomorphological limitations (steep hills adjacent to the salt marsh) will prevent any transgression in the upper reaches of the Kromme Estuary. Supratidal habitat in the upper reaches of the Swartkops estuary, if undeveloped, will provide the only viable habitat for the salt marsh to migrate into, given sufficient surface elevation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Integration of values into management of learners' discipline in Ugandan schools
- Authors: Sekiwu, Denis
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Uganda , School discipline -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9583 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020814
- Description: To make education a profitable enterprise and contributor to social development requires that schools infuse values into schooling as part of the ethical construction of learners and citizenship building. This research used Kampala district as the case study to conduct a qualitative inquiry with grounded theory to examine the integration of values into the management of learners’ discipline in Ugandan schools. Using a sample of 60 participants, the researcher gathered data using personal interviews, focus group interviews, and documentary analysis. Through the analysis of this data, the researcher established that the School Governing Body (SGB), government, educators, missionaries and the community are stakeholders highly involved in directing the process of values integration into learners’ discipline. He also discerned that different schools impart moral, spiritual, academic, aesthetic, social and universal values into the learners. However with the 1963 Castle Report on Education that led to the nationalization and secularization of schools, denominational schools strongly felt that government robbed them of their powers to control and manage schools through the “principle of subsidiarity”. This seems to have led to the gradual erosion of values and breakdown of discipline in the denominational schools as well as the others. The central argument of this thesis is that integrating values into school discipline in Uganda would result into an inclusive education system that supports both theist and atheist attitudes towards formal schooling. Some respondents argued that values should be directly integrated into learners’ discipline while others opposed values integration. Those who supported values integration into school discipline pointed out that it is an integral part of life-education. On the other hand, those who oppose integrating values argued that values integration might be misused to impose secular influences on the learners. The existing avenues of optimal integration of values into school discipline include use of physical punishment and restorative justice, although custodial methods are widely condemned by human rights activists for being too harsh, punitive and retaliatory. Restorative justice methods used include the use of religious and social clubs as well as counseling and guidance. Collective stakeholder participation in school management is also widely used where school management, government, parents and the community take on a collaborative role in empowering and creating an environment for positive discipline. Finally, missionary educators play a significant role in learners’ behavioural modification. The challenges of values integration into school discipline, on the other hand, are policy-related; including poor school administrative styles, failure to define which values to emphasize in disciplinary management, lack of staff motivation and educators’ unethical behaviour. The classroom-related challenges were an over emphasis on academic values that, consequently, turn education into a theoretical rather than a practical exercise. This is compounded by the poor teaching methodologies used like rote-learning due to the problem of dealing with large classes especially in UPE and USE schools and the strict emphasis on an examination-centered syllabus. The social-related challenge observed was the negative influence of the media on young people’s life styles, consequently, leading to permissiveness, aggressive, violent and militant behaviours now common in schools. The study underscored the need to emphasise stakeholder responsibility in school disciplinary management, and the necessity to offer visionary and collegial leadership, identify a common set of values critical to the promotion of life-long learning, promotion of life-education to ensure formation of morally upright learners, and encourage inclusive education (UBUNTUISM). Government should draft a national education philosophy to guide schools in integration of values education, emphasizing secular, moral and religious values, as well as the need for restorative justice, and employing more pragmatic teaching methodologies. There is also the need to create role-models and staff motivation. All these are cardinal remedies in ensuring constructive school discipline. Finally, the central theory that explains the integration is an Integrated Values Framework (IVF) for Positive Discipline (PD). It advocates that discipline is a process of nurturing learners through the provision of inclusive education, life-long learning and citizenship building.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Sekiwu, Denis
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School management and organization -- Uganda , School discipline -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9583 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020814
- Description: To make education a profitable enterprise and contributor to social development requires that schools infuse values into schooling as part of the ethical construction of learners and citizenship building. This research used Kampala district as the case study to conduct a qualitative inquiry with grounded theory to examine the integration of values into the management of learners’ discipline in Ugandan schools. Using a sample of 60 participants, the researcher gathered data using personal interviews, focus group interviews, and documentary analysis. Through the analysis of this data, the researcher established that the School Governing Body (SGB), government, educators, missionaries and the community are stakeholders highly involved in directing the process of values integration into learners’ discipline. He also discerned that different schools impart moral, spiritual, academic, aesthetic, social and universal values into the learners. However with the 1963 Castle Report on Education that led to the nationalization and secularization of schools, denominational schools strongly felt that government robbed them of their powers to control and manage schools through the “principle of subsidiarity”. This seems to have led to the gradual erosion of values and breakdown of discipline in the denominational schools as well as the others. The central argument of this thesis is that integrating values into school discipline in Uganda would result into an inclusive education system that supports both theist and atheist attitudes towards formal schooling. Some respondents argued that values should be directly integrated into learners’ discipline while others opposed values integration. Those who supported values integration into school discipline pointed out that it is an integral part of life-education. On the other hand, those who oppose integrating values argued that values integration might be misused to impose secular influences on the learners. The existing avenues of optimal integration of values into school discipline include use of physical punishment and restorative justice, although custodial methods are widely condemned by human rights activists for being too harsh, punitive and retaliatory. Restorative justice methods used include the use of religious and social clubs as well as counseling and guidance. Collective stakeholder participation in school management is also widely used where school management, government, parents and the community take on a collaborative role in empowering and creating an environment for positive discipline. Finally, missionary educators play a significant role in learners’ behavioural modification. The challenges of values integration into school discipline, on the other hand, are policy-related; including poor school administrative styles, failure to define which values to emphasize in disciplinary management, lack of staff motivation and educators’ unethical behaviour. The classroom-related challenges were an over emphasis on academic values that, consequently, turn education into a theoretical rather than a practical exercise. This is compounded by the poor teaching methodologies used like rote-learning due to the problem of dealing with large classes especially in UPE and USE schools and the strict emphasis on an examination-centered syllabus. The social-related challenge observed was the negative influence of the media on young people’s life styles, consequently, leading to permissiveness, aggressive, violent and militant behaviours now common in schools. The study underscored the need to emphasise stakeholder responsibility in school disciplinary management, and the necessity to offer visionary and collegial leadership, identify a common set of values critical to the promotion of life-long learning, promotion of life-education to ensure formation of morally upright learners, and encourage inclusive education (UBUNTUISM). Government should draft a national education philosophy to guide schools in integration of values education, emphasizing secular, moral and religious values, as well as the need for restorative justice, and employing more pragmatic teaching methodologies. There is also the need to create role-models and staff motivation. All these are cardinal remedies in ensuring constructive school discipline. Finally, the central theory that explains the integration is an Integrated Values Framework (IVF) for Positive Discipline (PD). It advocates that discipline is a process of nurturing learners through the provision of inclusive education, life-long learning and citizenship building.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013