Using spatial explicit capture-recapture model to investigate the demography and spatial dynamics of lion prides in Pilanesberg National Park
- Authors: Bettings, Isabella Aletta
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Lions--Behavior--South Africa , Animals tracks -- Pilanesberg National Park -- North West
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59655 , vital:62318
- Description: Lions are apex predators that play a vital role in the ecosystem. They regulate prey species through predation and other non-consumptive means. Factors that have influenced the decline of lion populations across Africa in the last half century, are loss of habitat, human wildlife conflict and the depletion of prey species. Extensive reintroductions of lions have been conducted across South Africa in order to restore their numbers in protected areas. The Pilanesberg National Park (PNP) was one of many protected areas that reintroduced lions. Their numbers were well documented by management until 2005 where they lost track of the population numbers. During this unfortunate period, there was an observed decline in prey numbers. The aim of this dissertation was to estimate the abundance, movement, and sex ratio of lions, in PNP. Abundance, movement, and sex ratio were determined by a three-month intensive lion survey. The location of each lion encounter was recorded on a mobile device which had an application installed called Cybertracker (v3). Photographs were taken of each Lion to build identification kits. For the data analysis, I used the Bayesian spatial explicit capture-recapture (SECR) model. This model takes time, space, and the robustness of an individual lion into account. Robustness is the measure of how well a lion maintains their functionality, when various stressors are applied (Harmsen, Foster, & Quigley, 2020). The estimated lion population in PNP was 44 lions (>1 year) with a density of 8.8 lions per 100 km2 . The estimated mean home range size of male lions was 279 km2 with a highest probability density (HPD) range of 179 – 385 km2 . The estimated mean home range of female lions was 191 km2 with a HPD range of 135 – 262 km2 . The larger home range size for male lions and smaller home range size for females is found v throughout the African continent in protected areas. The estimated sex ratio was 0.9♀:1♂, which is unexpected as PNP sex ratios between male and female lions is usually 2♀:1♂. A future sampling design for PNP was produced from the completed lion survey dataset. I drove a total of 7350 km and evaluated the influence of varied sampling efforts (i.e., kms driven) on precision estimates and relative bias for abundance, movement, and sex ratio. I found that a minimum of 4 000 km was needed to adequately estimate the lion abundance, movement, and sex ratio in this small fenced protected area. These findings can be used to help guide management to the most cost-effective sampling method and still obtain accurate estimates for monitoring lions. By showing management what is required for appropriate lion surveys this might help improve future monitoring. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-12
Older persons’ perceptions of services that support positive ageing in the Khayelitsha and Gugulethu districts of the Western cape
- Authors: Tshefu-Mavimbela, Siphokazi
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: Aging -- Western Cape , Older people -- Western Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60389 , vital:64705
- Description: Globally people are growing older, and nearly every country is experiencing an increase in their ageing populace. In 1960 older people made up 5 % of the world population, while in 2018, they were about 9% of the overall population. Projections are that in 2050 people over the age of 65 will make up 16% of the overall population. To respond to an ageing population, a government must ensure that its policy framework can respond to the needs of its citizens. A society that supports a positive ageing environment improves older people’s well-being. In our complex society, each person is dependent on others in various ways, and social, emotional and practical interdependence is a feature of the human social condition. This means that older people do not function well in isolation but need support for positive ageing. This research project focused on older people’s perceptions of services that support their positive ageing in the Khayelitsha and Gugulethu districts of the Western Cape, South Africa. The theoretical framework employed in the study is Systems Theory. The research approach utilised in the study is qualitative with an explorative and descriptive research design. A non-probability purposive, criterion-based sampling technique was employed. The researcher recruited eleven older persons aged sixty years and above in the Khayelitsha and Gugulethu areas. An NGO that works with older persons’ served as gatekeepers. Semi-structured telephonic interviews were conducted. The data collected was analysed using thematic data analysis. The trustworthiness of the research process was enhanced using Guba’s model. Ethical principles as set out in the Belmont report were also adhered to. The key findings of the current study indicated that in Khayelitsha and Gugulethu areas, there are available services that support positive ageing, such as clubs, excursions and social grants. Environmental aspects challenging positive ageing included unfavourable home conditions such as financial burden and ill-treatment, poverty and unemployment, health problems, and COVID-19 effects. Older people mentioned that there are available but inadequate services such as municipal services and care facilities. Thus, they recommended that there should be poverty alleviation schemes, community development projects such as crafting, gardening, sewing, and more institutions and home-based care for older people. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-11
A case study on the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres in the commercially produced South African wool clip 2010 – 2017
- Authors: Zietsman, Jolandrie
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55445 , vital:52002
- Description: No formal study on the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres has been performed in South Africa. The purpose of this research project was to investigate the validity of the claims that there has been an increase in the production of wool contaminated with medullated and coloured fibres. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to determine whether the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres in the South African wool clip have changed over time. Secondly, the study aimed to determine whether the incidence and extent of medullated and coloured fibres have a distinct geographic distribution. This study explored eight years of wool production records (2010 to 2017) obtained from BKB, the largest wool broker in South Africa. For the purpose of this research, the wool-producing areas of South Africa were divided into 6 regions, according to average annual rainfall, vegetation type and major farming practices applied in the area. Statistical analysis of the data included descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and post-hoc tests, as well as regression analyses. This study succeeded in quantifying the extent and prevalence of contamination with medullated and coloured fibres in the South African wool clip. The overarching conclusions were: • Floating kemp is the most important contaminant of wool in South Africa, with the incidence of harsh kemp and coloured fibres being very low. • Generally, the most important areas that need attention in combatting contamination in the South African wool clip, are the Mixed Farming Summer Rainfall Region, the Semi-Arid Grassveld and the High Rainfall Grassland. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
A critical analysis of a taxpayer’s rights relating to a request by sars for relevant material in respect of an audit
- Authors: Luff, Stephen Gary
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Taxpayers , Value-Added Tax , Tax administration and procedure -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57711 , vital:58223
- Description: This treatise aimed to critically analyse a taxpayer’s rights relating to a request by SARS for relevant material, in respect of an audit (including information requested for the audit of prescribed tax periods). The study also considers whether such a request for relevant material infringes or threatens a taxpayer’s constitutional rights to privacy, information and just administrative action that is lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair. The research considered the information-gathering powers awarded to SARS in terms sections 3(2), 40 and 46 of the TAA versus a taxpayer’s rights to privacy, information and just administrative action in terms of the Constitution. The reasonable and justifiable limitation of taxpayers’ rights, in terms of the general limitation clause contained in section 36(1) of the Constitution, was also considered. The research method consisted of a literature review of various articles, journals, publications, books, statutes and related commentary, judicial decisions and comments of experts. The study revealed the following: • The definition of ‘relevant material’ allows SARS alone to subjectively determine what information is ‘foreseeably relevant’ for the ‘administration of a tax Act’, in respect of an audit. The threshold of what documentation is ‘foreseeably relevant’, is low, and the application of what is foreseeably relevant follows very broad grounds. • SARS’s discretion cannot be easily challenged as the provisions of section 46 of the TAA are peremptory and give rise to mandatory obligations, unless the taxpayer has ‘just cause’ for not providing the relevant material to SARS. • SARS must meet all the jurisdictional requirements of section 3(2) of the TAA to justify that the selection of a taxpayer for an audit or the request for relevant material is necessary for the purposes of the ‘administration of a tax Act’ and is not related to a ‘fishing expedition’ or some other ‘ulterior purpose’. • A taxpayer should evaluate the scope of the information requested to determine if it is ‘frivolous, over-zealous or patently irrelevant’ and falls outside the provisions of section 3(2). It is submitted that a taxpayer could resist such requests to information, to which SARS is not lawfully entitled, to ensure that its constitutional rights are not violated. • A taxpayer is not entitled to the information that SARS used to select it for an audit or SARS’s internal guidelines or policy manuals that are used by its assessors. The risk x indicators and red flags used by SARS to select a taxpayer for an audit constitute ‘SARS confidential information’ and a taxpayer does not have any legal right to specific reasons as to why his tax return has been selected for an audit. • SARS’s decision to request relevant material (or to conduct an audit) is a preliminary or initial step of a process and does not constitute ‘administrative action’ in terms of the PAJA, as it does not adversely affect a taxpayer’s rights nor have a direct external legal effect. A taxpayer therefore cannot rely on the PAJA to refuse such a request. • Even non-administrative action is subject to the broad constitutional ‘principle of legality’, which is an aspect of the rule of law implicit in the Constitution and provides a safety net when the PAJA does not apply. SARS must act within the scope of section 46 and the information requested must constitute ‘relevant material’ and must be ‘foreseeably relevant’ for the purposes of ‘administration of a tax Act’. SARS may not exercise its discretionary investigative powers in an arbitrary or irrational manner and its requests for information must be based on sound, rational decision-making. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A Model for Recommending Related Research Papers: A Natural Language Processing Approach
- Authors: Van Heerden, Juandre Anton
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Electronic information resources , Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58495 , vital:59651
- Description: The volume of information generated lately has led to information overload, which has impacted researchers’ decision-making capabilities. Researchers have access to a variety of digital libraries to retrieve information. Digital libraries often offer access to a number of journal articles and books. Although digital libraries have search mechanisms it still takes much time to find related research papers. The main aim of this study was to develop a model that uses machine learning techniques to recommend related research papers. The conceptual model was informed by literature on recommender systems in other domains. Furthermore, a literature survey on machine learning techniques helped to identify candidate techniques that could be used. The model comprises four phases. These phases are completed twice, the first time for learning from the data and the second time when a recommendation is sought. The four phases are: (1) identify and remove stopwords, (2) stemming the data, (3) identify the topics for the model, and (4) measuring similarity between documents. The model is implemented and demonstrated using a prototype to recommend research papers using a natural language processing approach. The prototype underwent three iterations. The first iteration focused on understanding the problem domain by exploring how recommender systems and related techniques work. The second iteration focused on pre-processing techniques, topic modeling and similarity measures of two probability distributions. The third iteration focused on refining the prototype, and documenting the lessons learned throughout the process. Practical lessons were learned while finalising the model and constructing the prototype. These practical lessons should help to identify opportunities for future research. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A model for recommending related research papers: A natural language processing approach
- Authors: Van Heerden, Juandre Anton
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Machine learning , Artificial intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55668 , vital:53405
- Description: The volume of information generated lately has led to information overload, which has impacted researchers’ decision-making capabilities. Researchers have access to a variety of digital libraries to retrieve information. Digital libraries often offer access to a number of journal articles and books. Although digital libraries have search mechanisms it still takes much time to find related research papers. The main aim of this study was to develop a model that uses machine learning techniques to recommend related research papers. The conceptual model was informed by literature on recommender systems in other domains. Furthermore, a literature survey on machine learning techniques helped to identify candidate techniques that could be used. The model comprises four phases. These phases are completed twice, the first time for learning from the data and the second time when a recommendation is sought. The four phases are: (1) identify and remove stopwords, (2) stemming the data, (3) identify the topics for the model, and (4) measuring similarity between documents. The model is implemented and demonstrated using a prototype to recommend research papers using a natural language processing approach. The prototype underwent three iterations. The first iteration focused on understanding the problem domain by exploring how recommender systems and related techniques work. The second iteration focused on pre-processing techniques, topic modeling and similarity measures of two probability distributions. The third iteration focused on refining the prototype, and documenting the lessons learned throughout the process. Practical lessons were learned while finalising the model and constructing the prototype. These practical lessons should help to identify opportunities for future research. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering the Built Environment and Technology, Information Technology, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
A reasonably practicable health and safety programme for micro contractors in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Munnoo, Sanjay
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Industrial safety -- South Africa , Construction industry -- Safety measures , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58418 , vital:59198
- Description: Micro contractors (MCs) in construction are pivotal to the growth of the South African economy. The South African construction industry has world-class H&S legislation and regulation; however, frequent accidents occur at an alarmingly high level. Accident statistics presented in this thesis paint a worrying picture of a vicious cycle of recurrent accidents and injuries in the South African construction industry. Whilst governments planned National Development Programme will provide opportunities for MCs, in hindsight there’s dire need to have solid foundation of H&S development prior to MCs expanding operations into small and medium sized enterprises. The grouping of very small contractors into MCs under the definition of Schedule 1 of the National Small Business Act (NSBA) may result in fewer Health & Safety (H&S) initiatives aimed at the MCs, given the turnover limit has a maximum of R10 million per annum. The topic incorporated ’reasonably practicable’, to identify what MCs currently know, and ought to know, about the hazards or risks on construction sites, and then develop a pragmatic framework to eliminate or minimise risk. MCs generally did not understand H&S regulations hence carried out tasks for the sake of compliance. Punitive measures and enforcement of H&S regulations have done little to reduce the number of accidents. The study provided context for management and employees at MCs to approach H&S in a logical approach without circumventing H&S regulations. The challenges affecting MCs determined that there’s need for specialised H&S legislation and regulation to be developed for MCs that factors socio-economic challenges of literacy, skills, affordability, and poverty. Consequently, structured methods of support by stakeholders in the form of support and mentorship would result in a significant improvement of MCs’ H&S performance. Standards such as the ISO 45001:2018 state that it can be implemented for all size of construction firms. Whilst this standard may be suitable for MCs in developed countries there exists a vacuum in terms of its applicability to MCs in South Africa. The main objective was to develop a framework for MCs that will help to reduce accidents while simultaneously improving sustainability and service delivery. ii The research adopted an interpretivism philosophical position, which is reliant on people's views and conduct. The research applied deductive reasoning by survey technique and to construct a theory of H&S issues and corrective measures through research questions. The study adopted a mixed method research approach using a survey sent to the members of the South African Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Saiosh), persons registered with the South African South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP), and members of the Association of Construction Health and Safety Management (ACHSAM), and using the thematic analysis of data from 16 interviews representatives of member organisations, H&S consultants, and PCs. Accident statistics obtained from the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance (FEM) were also analysed. The study findings indicate that a reasonably practicable H&S programme must be developed for MCs due to the ‘onerous’ requirements arising from the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) and Construction Regulations (CR). The study determined that it would be unaffordable for MCs to implement and maintain the ISO 45001:2018 standard. H&S practices at MCs under guidance of a H&S practitioner can be deemed to be undertaken frequently, as opposed to infrequently, however, new entrant MCs struggled to comply with H&S legislation and regulations and that has resulted in a H&S culture being generally non-existent or difficult to establish. The significance of this study lies in the recommendations that are proposed. Effective H&S in MCs require greater support from the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL), member organisations and the PCs in construction. The study proposes that a national H&S logbook be set up to record H&S compliance and accidents at MCs. Furthermore, a phased approach should be instituted for improving H&S. These phases should include phase one, for new entrant MCs from zero to three years, phase two for MCs during the development and growth phase from three to five years, and MCs deemed competent with H&S should be encouraged or required to train and mentor new entrant MCs. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
A reverse logistics competitiveness framework for fast-moving consumer goods retailers in Pretoria
- Authors: Makaleng, Mpho Sharon Makgedi
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Consumer goods , Logistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57798 , vital:58265
- Description: The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector contributes significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) growth of the country. It is however regarded as one of the unpredictable sectors due to rapid technological advancements, new regulations, and intense competition. This has therefore led to the growth in importance of reverse logistics (RL) since the FMCG sector cannot avoid RL. This is because FMCG can be damaged in transit, recalled, returned due to unsatisfied customers, defects, or scrap material, amongst others. It is therefore important for the sector to implement RL practices and strategies that can lead to the firm’s competitiveness. This will further assist in recapturing the value of the products. Recently, RL has gained a lot of attention in both research and in practice. Nevertheless, not so much research has been done in the FMCG sector in SA. Through the implementation of RL practices, strategies and an effective RL management system, this sector will achieve many goals as well as lead to the firm’s competitiveness. The current study mainly sought to develop an RL competitiveness framework to help guide FMCG retailers. The study also investigated the RL practices, best practices, critical success factors (CSFs), strategies and their influence on the firm’s competitiveness. A positivist research philosophy, which combined descriptive and explanatory research was employed. Data was collected through two close-ended questionnaires, via SurveyMonkey, from 418 FMCG retailers and consumers. The descriptive results from the Statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 showed that FMCG retailers to a great extent implement the recalling of products. The results also revealed that FMCG retailers have centralised returns centres, and they share information and collaborate with suppliers for effective remanufacturing of products that have reached their end of shelf life, as highly implemented RL best practice, amongst others. Little understanding of the importance of RL, high costs associated with adopting RL practices, lack of top management support on RL initiatives, high cost of RL technology and customers’ unwillingness to pay extra for any RL practices and initiatives were identified as the key RL challenges faced by FMCG retailers. The descriptive results further cited financial resources, employment of skilled personnel to handle RL, having knowledge on RL and technology as the extremely critical factors in the successful v implementation of RL among FMCG retailers. The following RL strategies were identified as the highly implemented among FMCG retailers: integration of forward logistics (FL) and RL, the implementation of new technology, the adherence to environmental policies and regulations, knowledge management, eco-compatibility, and strategic alliances The structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis conducted using AMOS version 27, revealed that RL practices have a positive and significant influence on RL strategies. The results also revealed that RL strategies have a positive and significant influence on the firm’s competitiveness. The mediation results revealed that RL strategies fully mediate the relationship between the firm’s competitiveness and RL practices. Based on the empirical results and reviewed literature, a conceptual model and an RL competitiveness framework were developed and suggested. Moreover, the study recommended that the managers increase customer awareness of RL practices implemented by FMCG retail firms, train and educate their personnel on RL, enhance RL strategies to improve RL practices implementation success, and enforce RL formal policies. This study significantly contributes towards the development of future studies in RL and firm competitiveness through new insight and contribution to the body of knowledge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
A structural model for sustainable growth of the south African business process outsourcing sector
- Authors: Chinhamo, Edmore
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Outsourcing sector , Contracting out -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58306 , vital:58970
- Description: he total size of the South African Business Process Outsourcing sector is not growing as quickly as other global BPO locations like the Philippines and India. The sector has been identified by the South African government as a key sector for economic growth and for reducing unemployment. Reviewed frameworks are not exhaustive in providing a framework that is suitable for countries with an apartheid history like South Africa, so, the main aim of this study has been, therefore, to develop a structural model for sustainable growth of the South African BPO sector. The research was two phased: Firstly, it interrogated existing theories and models on BPO growth to identify variables for BPO growth. The variables were identified as talent pool, infrastructure, accessibility, lower costs, and legislative framework. The relationships between variables were hypothesised. The reviewed literature discussed the global economy and traced the origins of outsourcing as rooted in the advent of Information Technology and computer-enabled production which enabled fragmented processes which could be in any part of the world. The literature showed that competition for markets, coupled with a glut of products on the market, forced creativity which resulted in companies seeking operations in low-cost locations. The first popular locations for BPO operations were India and the Philippines, with emerging locations, like South Africa, positioning themselves to tap into this global development. Secondly, a quantitative study was performed using a web-based questionnaire which was sent to a sample of BPO executives in the BPO value chain in South Africa to test relationships among between variables. The results of the study showed statistically significant relationships between talent pool, infrastructure, lower costs, accessibility and legislative framework with BPO growth, albeit with varying degrees of strength. Contrary to popular belief, lower costs are no longer the most important driver of BPO location choice. Accessibility and legislative framework have also been confirmed by data as variables affecting BPO growth. After the computation of the relationships, the research concluded that the model developed is a good fit for BPO growth. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
A survey of food safety practices and microbial risk related to ready-to-eat chicken food outlets from a university campus in South Africa
- Authors: Michau, Willem P
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Microbial exopolysaccharides -- South Africa , Food -- Safety measures
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58925 , vital:60248
- Description: A survey of food safety practices and microbial risk related to ready-to-eat chicken in food outlets from a university campus in South Africa was investigated. The objective of the study was to determine the food safety practices and hygiene knowledge of food handlers in food outlets at a South African university campus. Six food outlets out of the thirteen university food outlets that were similar in type were selected for the study. These six food outlets were selected based on establish criteria but did not comply with HACCP principles. To assess the possible contamination risk related to hygiene practices and processing of ready-to-eat chicken, Total Viable Count, Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus counts were determined using standard methods. A validated questionnaire was used to assess the educational levels of each of the 27 participating food handlers; as well as the determination of the food handlers’ personal and general hygiene. Microbial levels of each food handler hand, aprons, as well as the microbial contamination levels of direct food contact surfaces, and ready-to-eat chicken at each facility were evaluated using standard methods. Several risky non-conforming personal and general hygiene practices were detected during the study. Appropriate corrective actions such as an intensive food hygiene training programme accompanied by a food management system should be implemented in all food facilities. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
A Sustainable development lens to understanding community participation in rural development: a case of Malamule Village, Mpumalanga Province
- Authors: Mathabela, Queen
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Rural development -- South Africa , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57874 , vital:58300
- Description: The study sought to explore the nature and extent to which community participation takes place for sustainable rural development at Malamule village, to better understand how to accelerate participation at both a regional and local level leading to sustainable development. The study further investigated how community members participate and involve themselves in sustainable rural development processes and at the same time, it identified approaches used to encourage community participation and sustainability of rural development. A qualitative research methodology was adopted where semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with community members and project managers from two NGOs in Malamule village. A thematic analysis was adopted in this study as it drew on a few thoughts introduced from the hypothetical framework supporting this investigation. There were four main findings of the study: 1) that community members of Malamule consider participation as a tool of emancipation and that they are not just development beneficiaries but influencers; 2) that the existence of NGOs brings about significant relief to the community of Malamule, while too much dependency on them could cause long term problems if the community does not learn to be self-sufficient; 3) that only a small amount of resources, or support, is needed to set up something sustainable; and 4) that the community of Malamule is undergoing many challenges, which results in class disputes that eventually translate into lack of unity. The following is recommended: that NGOs prioritise full involvement of the target communities to promote participation; that NGOs must continue to create awareness in Malamule through consistently training and equipping community members; and that there is a need for the community members and NGOs to continue working together so that sustainable development can be achieved. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
A Talent Retention Framework for the South African Information Technology Sector
- Authors: Swart, Jean-pierre
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Information Technology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58212 , vital:58728
- Description: The South African Information Technology (IT) sector is experiencing a chronic skills shortage, and the skills gap is widening. South African organisations try to retain existing skilled IT professionals in order to compete on a global platform, whilst simultaneously competing against international organisations who poach IT professionals from South Africa in what is referred to as “brain drain”. The South African IT sector is an increasingly important contributor to South Africa’s GDP, with several international corporates investing and creating opportunities in South Arica, including IBM, Dell, Microsoft and Intel. The retention of skilled IT professionals in South Africa is complex and costly due to the high demand for these professionals. An overview of the literature was provided that commenced with a broad analysis of strategic talent management frameworks in order to present a holistic view of talent management. From this broad analysis, the literature review narrowed the focus to the retention of talent. This section focused on the impact of organisational culture and employee engagement, whilst considering the critical roles that managers and leaders play in culture and employee engagement pertinent to the South African IT sector. The research paradigm adopted for this research was interpretivist and the methodology was qualitative research. The empirical data was collected through conducting semi-structured interviews with six IT professionals with extensive experience in the sector, and who directly play a role in the management and retention of skilled IT professionals. Various themes were developed from the interviews, with a focus on the extent of the skills gap and considerations regarding organisational culture, employee engagement and expectations from leaders and managers detailed in the themes. Finally, a talent retention framework for the South African IT sector was developed from the emerging themes. The themes included culture and the work environment, remuneration and benefits, continuous growth and employee engagement. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
Acceleration of Climate Change and the Impact on the Built Environment
- Authors: Van Rooyen, Mauritz Kenneth
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Climatic changes , Natural disasters
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/58532 , vital:59751
- Description: Climate change is widely acknowledged as one of humanity's most pressing problems in the twenty-first century. The emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) has changed the earth's normal climate cycle by raising the earth's surface temperature. The severity and frequency of various natural catastrophes, such as storms, floods, heat waves, and droughts, have increased as the earth's surface temperature has risen. These events have a devastating effect on populated areas; contaminating clean drinking water, leading to uncontrollable wildfires, damaging properties and infrastructure, environmental pollution, and loss of life. The increase in GHG emissions is largely contributed to by the built environment and the human activities within these areas. This research aimed to investigate the current state of climate change and the impact on the built environment. Furthermore, a quantitative approach was taken with regards to the research and a descriptive survey was conducted among professionals that work within the built environment, namely architects, project managers, construction managers, and electrical and mechanical engineers. The salient findings are: very few participants actively participate in activities to enhance their knowledge of climate change; most participants have a good understanding of what climate change is, although they make no extra effort to implement mitigating strategies on their projects other than what is required by the local council; most participants are unsure with respect to the impact that climate change has on the built environment, and most participants are unaware of global initiatives that South Africa has contributed to, to reduce GHG emissions. Governments and organisations around the world have implemented rules and regulations to regulate and decrease GHGs in the atmosphere, but it is still increasing at an accelerated rate. The increase of GHG emissions is devastating on all sectors of the built environment and will only intensify over time. As advancements are made to reduce GHG emissions progress has also been made to adapt to an ever-changing climate, specifically in the construction industry. Architecture and building processes have evolved to not only reduce the harmful effects on the environment but also to be more efficient and sustainable. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-04
African feminism(s) as it informs the experiences of African women leaders at universities in South Africa
- Authors: Tau, Siphokazi
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Feminisms--Africa , Leadership in women , Higher education -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59991 , vital:62731
- Description: The South African higher education geography is one that is met with contesting ideas. The establishment of the university in Africa was a project to mimic the exclusionary nature of the western university. Of centering a particular knowledge and way of being, leaving African women and other marginalised groups outside of the culture of the space and away from the possibility of being knowledge producers. The end of Apartheid, signaled an opportunity for new policies that address racial, gendered and various other lines of oppression and marginalisation. Universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges with different histories were merged to make way for the new South Africa. Access to institutions of higher education opened up across geographies, making way for a multicultural student and staff demographic. This transformation has also led to the transformation of the leadership structures of such spaces, with currently only five institutions being led by female and women, out of twenty-six in the country. The aim of this study is to understand the experiences of African women who are leaders in universities, focusing on how they negotiate a history of being excluded in the space with the present context of being able to influence the future of higher education. Using an African feminist lens, I draw on five individual interviews and secondary data from previous studies to excavate phenomenological experiences. The findings reveal that feminist traits of equality of social justice are integral in how the participants perform their leadership. The findings also show experiences of belonging in the culture of the university cause a great deal of tension of which the leaders are constantly working to change, to establish different cultures of being and existing in the South African university. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of governmental science and social sciences, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
An aesthetic exploration of skin as the abject other
- Authors: Knickelbein, Jonel , Wentzel, Andrieta
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55341 , vital:51913
- Description: The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the notion of skin, its functions, and dysfunctions as the basis for the conceptual as well as theoretical output of this work. The problem statement aims to establish whether cathartic relief can be achieved through the process of visualizing skin as the abject other. Every human and animal is born with skin. The epidermis is the outermost of three layers that make up the skin. This layer provides a barrier to infection from environmental pathogens and regulates the amount of water released from the body into the atmosphere through trans epidermal water loss (Bouwstra, 2003:34). Although the human skin serves as a protective barrier, the skin itself can be a source of physical as well as emotional pain. I was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and genetic skin condition that results in extensive blistering and wounding of the skin caused by mechanical trauma. The process of friction, wounding and healing has been a part of my physical being and daily affairs since I can remember. According to Cervero, ―Pain is our most powerful emotion, an essential learning tool, a major factor in our relationship with the world, and the source of much of our social behavior‖ (2012:34).I believe that my personal experience with EB has affected how I view the functions and importance of skin. In this study I explore the purposes and functions of skin through both a physical and psychological lense I also investigate the role skin plays in forming identity. The works of artists such as Frida Kahlo, Eva Hesse and Alina Szapocznikow are carefully considered in understanding different approaches and mediums used in engaging with the experience of catharsis. Investigations are made into theories on Abjection, the Skin-Ego, Materiality and Catharsis in order to sufficiently inform and shape the outcomes of the creative process. The creative and research processes have resulted in the body of artwork, entitled Skin- deep: transforming dysfunction into function, which is presented as a narrative installation and exhibition of abstract sculptural work. Ultimately, the body of work and research attempts to validate that the notion of skin (as the abject other skin) can be artistically explored to achieve cathartic relief. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
An Antrhrological investigation of the Motherwell township community members regarding academic drop-outs
- Authors: Veyi, Gcina Merise
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: College dropouts --Gqeberha-Motherwell , Unemployment--Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Maps
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55595 , vital:53360
- Description: This research study investigated the Motherwell Township community members regarding academic drop out. The Motherwell Township is located in the city of Port Elizabeth and it is one of the largest townships in South Africa. The current outlook of South Africa’s education system has many challenges which is greatly impacted by poverty, insufficient resources and inequalities in terms of schooling, race and class. South Africa is one of the many countries with a high number of students who do not complete their university studies. This influences the young people’s future as it reduces the chances of employment. To understand the factors that contribute to academic drop out, this research study explored factors that causes female and male students to drop out. The community members provided the following reasons; lack of financial stability to sustain their academic tuition, poor performance, peer pressure, consumption of harmful substances such as alcohol and drugs, pregnancy, rape and illnesses. These factors suggested three underlying themes that influence students to remain in school namely, improvement of health facilities, better financial policies e.g. university scholarships and reduction of poverty. The objectives of this study are as follows: to investigate the causes of academic drop outs in Motherwell Township, to contribute with the anthropology of education particularly with reference to Motherwell Township in the Eastern Cape Province and to come up with recommendations with the view to address some of the challenges faced by the people who are affected. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Sociology and Anthropology, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
An assessment of broadband infrastructure investment as a primer for inclusive growth in South Africa
- Authors: Dhlamini, James Tapiwa
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Investment -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/57623 , vital:58187
- Description: This study investigated the impact in the telecommunication and broadband sectors on growth, employment creation, and poverty alleviation. It employs micro-simulation techniques and an economy-wide Leontief-based social accounting matric multiplier model to assess empirically the influence that fiscal injection into these sectors has in achieving South Africa's macroeconomic objectives. The study found positive but declining trends in output multipliers in the telecommunication sector over the past recession period (2009-18), signifying the enervation of the intersectoral multiplier effect over the post-recession period. Fiscal injection into the telecommunication and broadband sectors led to poverty reduction and to job creation in South Africa. However, the overall findings of this study highlight gender biases, spatial imbalances between urban and non-urban, an age gulf between young people and adults and further imbalance between formal and informal employment. The study commends that the government follows a priorities- weighted state spending policy which concurrently targets projects generating high gross value added and employment multipliers and with high capacity to address the disparity caused by the legacy of aparthied , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic science, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
An employer's ability to substitute a disciplinary hearing sanction
- Authors: Hlwatika, Siphile
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Employees--Dismissal of--Law and legislation , Labor discipline--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55690 , vital:53407
- Description: It is common practice for employers to appoint external disciplinary hearing chairpersons to preside over a disciplinary hearing which has been convened for purposes of investigating allegations of misconduct against an employee. The external chairperson is ordinarily mandated to decide on guilt, and to the extent that there is a guilty finding, to recommend or impose the appropriate disciplinary sanction. Employers often tend to have expectations that the external chairperson will, after having found the employee guilty of the alleged misconduct, impose a sanction of dismissal. The expected outcome of dismissal, however, does not always occur. An external chairperson may impose a sanction short of dismissal after considering an disciplinary sanction may result in the employer instituting an internal review process to review the external chairperson employers may resort to unilaterally substituting the external disciplinary sanction with a sanction of dismissal. or the collective agreement regulating the disciplinary procedure in the workplace may or may not make provision for the substitution of the disciplinary sanction. In circumstances where there is no provision for the substitution of the disciplinary sanction, t questions regarding the applicability of the double jeopardy principle which means, in an employment context, that an employee should not be subjected to more than one disciplinary hearing on disciplinary charges arising from the same set of facts. It is, however, a well-established principle that employers who are classified as organs of state can review their own decisions. This includes decisions of chairpersons who are appointed preside over disciplinary hearings and decide on the appropriate disciplinary sanction. In the latter case, and in circumstances where the organ of state is dissatisfied with the disciplinary sanction, it may institute review proceedings in the Labour available to organs of state and not private-sector employers. This research seeks to determine whether it is permissible for an employer to substitute an external , and, if so, the circumstances under which an employer is allowed to do so and the procedure which should be followed in such an instance. , Thesis (LMM) -- Faculty of Law, Mercantile Law, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
An evaluation of osteoarthritis rehabilitative practices within a South African multidisciplinary rehabilitation setting
- Authors: Gilchrist, Robynne Claire
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Osteoarthritis --Physical therapy --South Africa , Osteoarthritis –Patients--Treatment --South Africa , Medical rehabilitation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55278 , vital:51441
- Description: A multifaceted condition such as osteoarthritis is ideally suited in the realm of multidisciplinary management which focuses on holistic patient care. Literature has identified a bio-psycho-social approach to osteoarthritis management, however a lack of adherence to evidence-based guidelines is a concern previously found in the South African healthcare system. Aim: To evaluate and describe osteoarthritis rehabilitative practices among clinical and rehabilitative practitioners within a South African setting, thereby identifying current trends within a multidisciplinary rehabilitation landscape. Methods: A descriptive research methodology with a cross-sectional study design and a convenience sampling technique was used. The target population consisted of practitioners located within the South African public and private healthcare sectors. The professions included biokinetics, dietetics, general medicine, occupational therapy, personal training, pharmacy, physiotherapy, psychology and specialised medicine. A self-administered, online questionnaire surveyed practitioners’ management modalities, patient referral trends and views on multidisciplinary management. Descriptive data were presented as means (95 CIs) for categorical data and mean ± standard deviation for normally distributed data. Data were assessed for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Significant results Conclusion: Practitioners recognised the value of a multidisciplinary approach, however the implementation of such an approach was fragmented. This disjointed management was facilitated by referral systems that do not fit with the theory of a bio-psycho-social approach. Poor communication among the different healthcare professions and practitioners may have exacerbated disjointed management. This study aimed to contribute to the mutual appreciation of the different professions in the multidisciplinary team and prevent trespassing on the roles of other professions by disseminating guidelines to facilitate the translation of evidence-based recommendations into clinical practice for the benefit of the osteoarthritis patient. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, Human Movement Science, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04
An evolutionary algorithm approach to ecological optimal control problems
- Authors: Westcott, Amy-Rose
- Date: 2022-04
- Subjects: Mathematical optimization -- South africa , Evolutionary programming (Computer science)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55544 , vital:52812
- Description: There are several challenges associated with applying conventional (hereafter classic) optimal control (OC) methods to ecological optimal control problems (OCPs). Conditions required by these methods, including differentiability and convexity, for example, are not always met, and ecological problems do not always adhere to solvable OCP formulations. Moreover, mathematically optimal solutions do not always translate to optimal ecological strategies in practice. Despite this, alternative OC approaches are relatively under-explored. Evolutionary algorithms (EAs) circumvent many of the complex aspects of classic OC methods and have been successfully applied to diverse OCPs. Nevertheless, EAs have sel dom been applied to ecological OCPs. The viability of an EA approach to ecological OCPs was therefore investigated in the current study, facilitated by four case studies of increasing complexity and a genetic algorithm (GA) as a representative EA approach. To ascertain the accuracy of a GA approach, comparisons between a GA and classic OC methods were conducted in the first three case studies. The GA generated near-optima in these comparisons, comparable to the corresponding classical solutions, whilst avoiding non-trivial mathematical theory. Supported by these results, an unconventional OCP, that arguably cannot be solved using classic OC methods, was formulated in the fourth case study, and solved using a GA approach. The resulting solution was feasible and further conformed with strategies found to be successful in practice. Additionally, the GA approach was rela tively simple to apply in all case studies. These collective outcomes of demonstrated the viability of a GA as an OC method in eco logical OCPs, thereby supporting the use of an EA approach as an alternative to classic OC methods in ecological OCPs. The feasibility of an EA approach to atypical OCPs was further demonstrated, which may act to increase realism in OC applications. Further investigation in this regard is thus warranted by this study. , Thesis (MS) -- Faculty of Science, Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, 2022
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- Date Issued: 2022-04