An anthropological investigation on academic performance of grade 12 learners: selected schools in King William’s Town, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Stuart, Sinaed
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54816 , vital:47910
- Description: The Eastern Cape is one of the poorest provinces in South Africa. The level of poverty, and lack of basic resources has given way to inadequacies in many of the services available to communities. From improper infrastructure, to a flawed or lacking public education system. Past and future research into the inadequacies and inequity that exists in the public education system need to act as a catalyst to policy changes, and intervention implementations to solve the issues that continue to persist. This study focuses on the factors that influence the academic performance of learners in matric in King Williams Town. The importance of this research is to investigate the issues that negatively impact on the performance of Grade 12 learners at Breidbach High School. Further, the importance of this study is to share the findings of the research with community members as well as the Department of Basic Education with the view and hope that they will address these issues. The research question is: What are the factors influencing academic performance of Grade 12 learners at Breidbach High School in Breidbach outside King Williams Town? The research objectives are as follows: to investigate and highlight factors associated with poor academic performance in the participating high school at Breidbach in King Williams Town, to contribute within the anthropology of education, adding to an already existing body of knowledge, with specific reference to the participating high school in King William’s Town and to come up with the recommendations with the view of addressing some of the challenges faced by the participating high school in King Williams Town. The study followed a qualitative approach which included various techniques and ethical compliance was adhered to. For the proposed study, the researcher will use ‘academic performance’ as a guideline for the conceptual framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Stuart, Sinaed
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54816 , vital:47910
- Description: The Eastern Cape is one of the poorest provinces in South Africa. The level of poverty, and lack of basic resources has given way to inadequacies in many of the services available to communities. From improper infrastructure, to a flawed or lacking public education system. Past and future research into the inadequacies and inequity that exists in the public education system need to act as a catalyst to policy changes, and intervention implementations to solve the issues that continue to persist. This study focuses on the factors that influence the academic performance of learners in matric in King Williams Town. The importance of this research is to investigate the issues that negatively impact on the performance of Grade 12 learners at Breidbach High School. Further, the importance of this study is to share the findings of the research with community members as well as the Department of Basic Education with the view and hope that they will address these issues. The research question is: What are the factors influencing academic performance of Grade 12 learners at Breidbach High School in Breidbach outside King Williams Town? The research objectives are as follows: to investigate and highlight factors associated with poor academic performance in the participating high school at Breidbach in King Williams Town, to contribute within the anthropology of education, adding to an already existing body of knowledge, with specific reference to the participating high school in King William’s Town and to come up with the recommendations with the view of addressing some of the challenges faced by the participating high school in King Williams Town. The study followed a qualitative approach which included various techniques and ethical compliance was adhered to. For the proposed study, the researcher will use ‘academic performance’ as a guideline for the conceptual framework. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An assessment of different methods for measuring mammal diversity in two Southern African arid ecosystems.
- Authors: Burt, Chloe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52338 , vital:43591
- Description: A current critical environmental problem is the loss of biodiversity. To allow for adaptive management and effective conservation interventions, reliable data needs to be readily available and effectively collected. To gather reliable data, the most appropriate method must be used. The aim of this thesis was to compare the effectiveness and efficiency of different mammal diversity sampling techniques, including discussing specificities and complementarity of each. I also assessed the limitation of methods in terms of the influence of species traits on detectability. I used standard mammal field methods such as block transects, camera traps, track plates, spotlight surveys, mist nets, acoustic surveys, and live traps for a wide range of mammal taxa, and also included the use of local knowledge in the comparison. I assessed the cost-efficiency of each method by determining the cost per species. The efficiency of each method was assessed by observing when the species accumulation curve reached an asymptote. The effectiveness was determined by the species richness and the taxonomic groups the method detected. My results indicated that block transects were the most efficient and effective method to assess species richness. However, a combination of methods allowed for a more comprehensive survey and my results indicate that block transects and live traps were the best combination. It is important to note, not only the effectiveness and efficiency of methods be assessed, but also their limitations. I therefore also assessed the influence of species traits on the detectability of five methods. The species traits that I tested were body size, diet, activity, and if they lived in groups. On both study areas, body size was the main trait that influenced detectability with most field methods. Diet and activity had varying influence on detectability depending on the method. Group living did not significantly influence detectability. Based on my results, I provide guidelines for choosing the most appropriate survey method for targeted studies on mammals in arid ecosystems as well as guidelines for choosing the most appropriate methods for a terrestrial mammal inventory. Survey methods selection and guidelines provided here can allow for effective monitoring and therefore effective and adaptive management and having reliable and repeatable outcomes from surveys. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Burt, Chloe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52338 , vital:43591
- Description: A current critical environmental problem is the loss of biodiversity. To allow for adaptive management and effective conservation interventions, reliable data needs to be readily available and effectively collected. To gather reliable data, the most appropriate method must be used. The aim of this thesis was to compare the effectiveness and efficiency of different mammal diversity sampling techniques, including discussing specificities and complementarity of each. I also assessed the limitation of methods in terms of the influence of species traits on detectability. I used standard mammal field methods such as block transects, camera traps, track plates, spotlight surveys, mist nets, acoustic surveys, and live traps for a wide range of mammal taxa, and also included the use of local knowledge in the comparison. I assessed the cost-efficiency of each method by determining the cost per species. The efficiency of each method was assessed by observing when the species accumulation curve reached an asymptote. The effectiveness was determined by the species richness and the taxonomic groups the method detected. My results indicated that block transects were the most efficient and effective method to assess species richness. However, a combination of methods allowed for a more comprehensive survey and my results indicate that block transects and live traps were the best combination. It is important to note, not only the effectiveness and efficiency of methods be assessed, but also their limitations. I therefore also assessed the influence of species traits on the detectability of five methods. The species traits that I tested were body size, diet, activity, and if they lived in groups. On both study areas, body size was the main trait that influenced detectability with most field methods. Diet and activity had varying influence on detectability depending on the method. Group living did not significantly influence detectability. Based on my results, I provide guidelines for choosing the most appropriate survey method for targeted studies on mammals in arid ecosystems as well as guidelines for choosing the most appropriate methods for a terrestrial mammal inventory. Survey methods selection and guidelines provided here can allow for effective monitoring and therefore effective and adaptive management and having reliable and repeatable outcomes from surveys. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An assessment of risk management in a State-Owned Enterprise (SOE): a case of Transnet engineering
- Authors: Mnyiphika, Aphiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53009 , vital:44868
- Description: State-owned enterprises are facing several challenges. The challenges are associated with several risks in the business environment. Risk management has become increasingly important in the day to operations of any enterprise. This study is conducted to assess risk management implementation and execution within a state-owned enterprise (SOE). The main reason behind this research is that very little is known about risk management in the SOE sector in South Africa, as can be seen by the perpetual failure of these organisations. Therefore, this research focused on assessing the implementation and execution of risk management at Transnet Engineering because it continues to suffer losses as a result of “state capture”. The study sought to find out the role of organisational culture on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. the main objectives of the research focused on the impact of commitment on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; the function of implementation on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; and the impact of monitoring on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. A qualitative research methodology was utilised to attain results for these research objectives.The areas focused on Transnet Engineering with it regions and excluded other subdivisions of Transnet such as Transnet National Ports Authority, Freight rail, Port Terminals Pipelines and Properties. Convenience sampling was used to select 10 appropriate participants who were willing to provide the needed information to furnish the study’s findings. Interviews were utilised to collect data for this study. The data that was collected in this study was analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings of this study show that the organisational culture of Transnet Engineering is not enhancing the adoption and implementation of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mnyiphika, Aphiwe
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53009 , vital:44868
- Description: State-owned enterprises are facing several challenges. The challenges are associated with several risks in the business environment. Risk management has become increasingly important in the day to operations of any enterprise. This study is conducted to assess risk management implementation and execution within a state-owned enterprise (SOE). The main reason behind this research is that very little is known about risk management in the SOE sector in South Africa, as can be seen by the perpetual failure of these organisations. Therefore, this research focused on assessing the implementation and execution of risk management at Transnet Engineering because it continues to suffer losses as a result of “state capture”. The study sought to find out the role of organisational culture on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. the main objectives of the research focused on the impact of commitment on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; the function of implementation on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise; and the impact of monitoring on the adoption of risk management in a state-owned enterprise. A qualitative research methodology was utilised to attain results for these research objectives.The areas focused on Transnet Engineering with it regions and excluded other subdivisions of Transnet such as Transnet National Ports Authority, Freight rail, Port Terminals Pipelines and Properties. Convenience sampling was used to select 10 appropriate participants who were willing to provide the needed information to furnish the study’s findings. Interviews were utilised to collect data for this study. The data that was collected in this study was analysed using thematic analysis. The main findings of this study show that the organisational culture of Transnet Engineering is not enhancing the adoption and implementation of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An assessment of the key factors that may impact the future demand for red meat in South Africa
- Authors: Pearce, Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53019 , vital:44887
- Description: The global human population is estimated to be in excess of nine billion by the year 2050, and the added population is expected to put further pressure on already over- extended resources such as food and water. Increased demand, positive growth and record high prices should be encouraging for the red meat industry. Despite all the positives such as the growth in the world population and the consumer’s ability to spend, the popularity of red meat around the world and in South Africa is continually declining in favour of white meat and other non-meat proteins. Although red meat will often be the most expensive component of any diet, the nutritional value that red meat offers as part of a healthy and balanced eating plan, should not be understated. This study intends to identify and assess factors that may impact on the future sustainable demand for red meat. Sixty-two adults were surveyed through an electronic questionnaire to assess their views on red meat consumption in South Africa. A set of 52 questions were deduced from the main focus and objectives. The data was analysed and conclusions derived from it. The results show that the demand for red meat is sustainable if outlets selling red meat are accessible and the preference for red meat remains, even with stiff competition from substitutes like pork, chicken and vegetables. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Pearce, Nathan
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53019 , vital:44887
- Description: The global human population is estimated to be in excess of nine billion by the year 2050, and the added population is expected to put further pressure on already over- extended resources such as food and water. Increased demand, positive growth and record high prices should be encouraging for the red meat industry. Despite all the positives such as the growth in the world population and the consumer’s ability to spend, the popularity of red meat around the world and in South Africa is continually declining in favour of white meat and other non-meat proteins. Although red meat will often be the most expensive component of any diet, the nutritional value that red meat offers as part of a healthy and balanced eating plan, should not be understated. This study intends to identify and assess factors that may impact on the future sustainable demand for red meat. Sixty-two adults were surveyed through an electronic questionnaire to assess their views on red meat consumption in South Africa. A set of 52 questions were deduced from the main focus and objectives. The data was analysed and conclusions derived from it. The results show that the demand for red meat is sustainable if outlets selling red meat are accessible and the preference for red meat remains, even with stiff competition from substitutes like pork, chicken and vegetables. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An educational intervention on the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections in haemodialysis patients in Eswatini
- Authors: Simelane, Delisile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Catheterization -- Complications -- Eswatini , Infection Control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51906 , vital:43383
- Description: Nurses are health care professionals whose duty it is to protect patients from acquiring infections while hospitalised in a health care setup. By maintaining an infection-free environment, it is expected that the patient's recovery will be promoted, and high-quality nursing care will be delivered. This also applies to the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) in haemodialysis patients. As nurses spend most of their nursing time with patients, they should have a good level of understanding of infection prevention and control in health care setups. In Eswatini, central venous catheters (CVCs) are commonly used for vascular access in patients who require haemodialysis. From the latest data available in the country's three largest regional hospitals, the proportion of haemodialysis patients with CVCs hospitalised for CRBSIs was 27% (64/239) January to December 2020. Further, it is unclear whether professional nurses have knowledge on the prevention of CRBSIs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of an educational intervention, based on the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines, on professional nurses' knowledge regarding the prevention of CRBSIs in haemodialysis patients in hospitals in Eswatini (previously known as Swaziland). The study used a convenience sample including all professional nurses and nurse managers (N=99) employed at the renal and intensive care units (ICUs) at the five hospitals (Hospitals A-E) in Eswatini where haemolysis is conducted. The study is underpinned by Florence Nightingale's Theory and the Knowledge-to-Action Framework. The research study followed a positivistic, quantitative research paradigm, using a quasi-experimental, one-group, pre-post-test design with an interventional research approach, to be conducted in three phases. The first phase was the distribution of a pre-test questionnaire to all professional nurses and nurse managers working in renal units and those in ICUs that are also managing CVCs in order to assess their knowledge regarding the prevention of CRBSIs in haemodialysis patients. The second phase included the educational intervention, which was developed, reviewed and presented by the researcher to professional nurses. The third phase included the distribution of a post-test questionnaire to the professional nurses to assess the effect of the educational intervention on their knowledge.The pre-and post-test questionnaires were developed by the researcher, in line with the educational intervention (and informed based on the pre-test findings), reviewed by six experts and pilot tested to ascertain its validity and reliability. The researcher captured the data using Microsoft Excel and, with the assistance of a statistician, who performed statistical analyses using Cronbach's alpha, One-sample t-tests, Cohen's Kappa, Cohen's D, and Chi-square test. Ethical principles, according to the Belmont Report, including autonomy, beneficence and justice, and appropriate standards of rigour were maintained throughout the research study. In this study the overall knowledge was good with a mean score of 75.05 ±8.74 for the pre-test and 77.75±9.55 for the post-test. The knowledge scores for the factor infection prevention was higher (pre-test: 83.33±9.28 versus post-test: 85.14±8.28) compared to the factor catheter care (pre-test: 66.76±13.13 versus post-test: 70.38±14.27). The factor catheter care and age was significantly related in the pre-test with a p-value of .043 between groups. The factor infection prevention and how long practising in the unit were significantly related in the pre-test, with a p-value of .029 between groups. The factor infection prevention in the pre-test had a medium significant difference between >1 year and >5 years practicing in the unit (Scheffé p .048 and Cohen's d 0.77). The study is the first in the field of nursing in Eswatini. The educational intervention can be used by nurses in renal units and ICUs to close knowledge-practice gaps that can put patients at higher risk for CRBSIs, but requires further development and testing. , Thesis (MN) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Simelane, Delisile
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Grahamstown (South Africa) , Catheterization -- Complications -- Eswatini , Infection Control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51906 , vital:43383
- Description: Nurses are health care professionals whose duty it is to protect patients from acquiring infections while hospitalised in a health care setup. By maintaining an infection-free environment, it is expected that the patient's recovery will be promoted, and high-quality nursing care will be delivered. This also applies to the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) in haemodialysis patients. As nurses spend most of their nursing time with patients, they should have a good level of understanding of infection prevention and control in health care setups. In Eswatini, central venous catheters (CVCs) are commonly used for vascular access in patients who require haemodialysis. From the latest data available in the country's three largest regional hospitals, the proportion of haemodialysis patients with CVCs hospitalised for CRBSIs was 27% (64/239) January to December 2020. Further, it is unclear whether professional nurses have knowledge on the prevention of CRBSIs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of an educational intervention, based on the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines, on professional nurses' knowledge regarding the prevention of CRBSIs in haemodialysis patients in hospitals in Eswatini (previously known as Swaziland). The study used a convenience sample including all professional nurses and nurse managers (N=99) employed at the renal and intensive care units (ICUs) at the five hospitals (Hospitals A-E) in Eswatini where haemolysis is conducted. The study is underpinned by Florence Nightingale's Theory and the Knowledge-to-Action Framework. The research study followed a positivistic, quantitative research paradigm, using a quasi-experimental, one-group, pre-post-test design with an interventional research approach, to be conducted in three phases. The first phase was the distribution of a pre-test questionnaire to all professional nurses and nurse managers working in renal units and those in ICUs that are also managing CVCs in order to assess their knowledge regarding the prevention of CRBSIs in haemodialysis patients. The second phase included the educational intervention, which was developed, reviewed and presented by the researcher to professional nurses. The third phase included the distribution of a post-test questionnaire to the professional nurses to assess the effect of the educational intervention on their knowledge.The pre-and post-test questionnaires were developed by the researcher, in line with the educational intervention (and informed based on the pre-test findings), reviewed by six experts and pilot tested to ascertain its validity and reliability. The researcher captured the data using Microsoft Excel and, with the assistance of a statistician, who performed statistical analyses using Cronbach's alpha, One-sample t-tests, Cohen's Kappa, Cohen's D, and Chi-square test. Ethical principles, according to the Belmont Report, including autonomy, beneficence and justice, and appropriate standards of rigour were maintained throughout the research study. In this study the overall knowledge was good with a mean score of 75.05 ±8.74 for the pre-test and 77.75±9.55 for the post-test. The knowledge scores for the factor infection prevention was higher (pre-test: 83.33±9.28 versus post-test: 85.14±8.28) compared to the factor catheter care (pre-test: 66.76±13.13 versus post-test: 70.38±14.27). The factor catheter care and age was significantly related in the pre-test with a p-value of .043 between groups. The factor infection prevention and how long practising in the unit were significantly related in the pre-test, with a p-value of .029 between groups. The factor infection prevention in the pre-test had a medium significant difference between >1 year and >5 years practicing in the unit (Scheffé p .048 and Cohen's d 0.77). The study is the first in the field of nursing in Eswatini. The educational intervention can be used by nurses in renal units and ICUs to close knowledge-practice gaps that can put patients at higher risk for CRBSIs, but requires further development and testing. , Thesis (MN) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An exploration into an ESD-based teaching strategy to improve the critical thinking and problem-solving skills amongst development studies students at Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Abrahams, André John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Problem solving -- Study and teaching , Divergent thinking -- Study and teaching , Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Environmental education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50907 , vital:43148
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Abrahams, André John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Problem solving -- Study and teaching , Divergent thinking -- Study and teaching , Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Environmental education
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50907 , vital:43148
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An exploration into an ESD-based teaching strategy to improve the critical thinking and problem-solving skills amongst development studies students at Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Abrahams, Andre John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Universities and colleges -- South Africa , Critical thinking
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50906 , vital:43149
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Abrahams, Andre John
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Study and teaching , Universities and colleges -- South Africa , Critical thinking
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50906 , vital:43149
- Description: In recent years, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) has been a significant focus for research pertaining to teacher education and transformative approaches to teaching and learning. However, there has been less specific focus on the implementation of ESD in the context of higher education. This study, therefore, explored the use of an ESD-based teaching and learning approach in an undergraduate Development Studies programme. The focus was on developing a teaching approach that was informed by the principles of ESD and which could assist Development Studies lecturers in creating a more transformative, student-centred environment. This study was a qualitative undertaking, conducted at the Nelson Mandela University’s (NMU) Development Studies undergraduate programme. The ESD-based approach was implemented by two participating lecturers who utilised the approach across four undergraduate classes. Qualitative data were generated through a systematic literature analysis (SLA), exploratory interviews, student exercises and assessments, focus group discussions, and reflective journal entries. The gathered data were then analysed using a framework analysis rubric adapted from the theoretical framework utilised in the study. In addition, the data were coded using the six coding techniques promoted by Saldaña (2013). The findings suggest that the ESD-based approach developed in the study could effectively contribute towards promoting ESD in the Development Studies programme. The findings also suggest that, when properly implemented, the ESD-based approach could assist lecturers in creating a more transformative learning environment where students have greater control over their learning experience. In addition, this study found that students in the selected Development Studies undergraduate programme could benefit from continued exposure to the teaching methods and techniques adopted in the approach. The implementation of the approach also uncovered some of the inhibiting factors that may prevent an ESD-based approach being mainstreamed into the context of higher education. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Studies, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An exploration of attrition of sexual crime cases of child victims from the perspectives of the police officers, prosecutors and advocates in Kouga District, Eastern Cape (SA)
- Authors: Calitz, Karen
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sex crimes -- Investigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Criminal justice, Administration of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51010 , vital:43200
- Description: The successful prosecution of a sex crime case is dependent on the testimony of the victim. Due to the concealed nature of a sexual crime, it is notoriously difficult to prosecute effectively. With child victims, a number of additional obstacles present themselves when it comes to children giving evidence. Attrition is the rate at which cases do not proceed to court. Statistics in South Africa has revealed that rape has one of the lowest conviction rates of all serious crimes. This study is aimed at analysing the factors that cause attrition during the investigation stage in cases where children were victims of any form of sexual crime. In order to obtain the unscripted view of the investigation process, the qualitative study comprises of interviews with investigating officers who investigate these cases and the prosecutors who present these cases to court. The multi-disciplinary team-approach during investigation and its varying limits and challenges, were the main focus. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was utilised, focusing on the Kouga district municipality of the Eastern Cape. Through this study, the factors causing attrition were analysed and presented in such a manner so that change can be conceptualised in order to strive for the rights of children to receive justice for crimes committed against them. Key findings of the study yielded three significant factors which plague the progress of these cases. A significant finding illuminated the lack of required capacity professionals have in working and understanding children throughout the criminal justice process. A further vital finding is the complexities of inter-departmental functioning on implementation level, indicating challenges in collaboration. An integral finding is the measure of time taken to investigate cases of child victims, which the criminal process flow is delayed to its own detriment in aiming for convictions. In general it was found that services to child victims are neglected. Collaborative approaches which are already in place are to be strengthened through capacity building and collaborative knowledge integration in all sectors of professionals. Victim services legislation must include specialized services for the child victim. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Calitz, Karen
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Sex crimes -- Investigation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Criminal justice, Administration of -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51010 , vital:43200
- Description: The successful prosecution of a sex crime case is dependent on the testimony of the victim. Due to the concealed nature of a sexual crime, it is notoriously difficult to prosecute effectively. With child victims, a number of additional obstacles present themselves when it comes to children giving evidence. Attrition is the rate at which cases do not proceed to court. Statistics in South Africa has revealed that rape has one of the lowest conviction rates of all serious crimes. This study is aimed at analysing the factors that cause attrition during the investigation stage in cases where children were victims of any form of sexual crime. In order to obtain the unscripted view of the investigation process, the qualitative study comprises of interviews with investigating officers who investigate these cases and the prosecutors who present these cases to court. The multi-disciplinary team-approach during investigation and its varying limits and challenges, were the main focus. A purposive non-probability sampling technique was utilised, focusing on the Kouga district municipality of the Eastern Cape. Through this study, the factors causing attrition were analysed and presented in such a manner so that change can be conceptualised in order to strive for the rights of children to receive justice for crimes committed against them. Key findings of the study yielded three significant factors which plague the progress of these cases. A significant finding illuminated the lack of required capacity professionals have in working and understanding children throughout the criminal justice process. A further vital finding is the complexities of inter-departmental functioning on implementation level, indicating challenges in collaboration. An integral finding is the measure of time taken to investigate cases of child victims, which the criminal process flow is delayed to its own detriment in aiming for convictions. In general it was found that services to child victims are neglected. Collaborative approaches which are already in place are to be strengthened through capacity building and collaborative knowledge integration in all sectors of professionals. Victim services legislation must include specialized services for the child victim. , Thesis (MSW) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An exploration of spirit possession and psychological praxis in South Africa: implications for a culturally competent psychological practice
- Authors: Yew-Siong, Lauren Cindy
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Spirit possession -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Cultural competence -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52394 , vital:43635
- Description: Spirit possession has been documented in human history and evidence of it, still exists globally. In South Africa, spirit possession experiences are not uncommon; in some instances, culturally, they can be expressed as ‘amafufunyana’, while religiously, the term demonic/spirit possession holds true. The symptoms of a spirit possession state, should be of interest to psychology, given the similarity of its symptoms with those that are often typical of a psychological diagnosis, such as dissociation, hallucinations and delusions. While much attention has been given to patient experiences of spirit possession, little attention has been focused on the cultural competence required in working with patients with diverse worldviews. This study explores psychologists perceived cultural competence in working with patients who present with the experience of being possessed by a spirit. This exploration becomes more interesting, given that little to no attention in the literature has focused on the role and influence of psychologists religious and cultural belief systems and how these may influence (if at all), the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of a patient who believes that they are possessed. The researcher employed a qualitative method and design. Participants were recruited through use of a purposive sampling technique. Twelve psychologists agreed to participate in the study and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, by following a data analysis method by Braun and Clarke (2006). Four themes were identified namely, 1) Psychologists’ understanding and treatment of dissociative disorders/states, 2) Psychologists’ understanding of spirit possession; 3) Spirit possession experiences versus psychological disturbances; and 4) Cultural acknowledgement versus cultural considerations-implications for cultural competence. Findings from the study suggest that it is not only cultural considerations that is Running Head: An Exploration of Spirit Possession and Psychological Praxis in South Africa: Implications for a Culturally Competent Psychological Practice. xv needed within psychological practice, but that a sense of cultural acknowledgement is needed in order to bring about potential holistic healing, and more specifically, aid cultural competence within psychological practice. This, according to the findings of the study, can be done through collaboration between various professionals or practitioners- furthermore creating a platform for the inclusion of pluralism within mental healthcare services. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Yew-Siong, Lauren Cindy
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Spirit possession -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Cultural competence -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52394 , vital:43635
- Description: Spirit possession has been documented in human history and evidence of it, still exists globally. In South Africa, spirit possession experiences are not uncommon; in some instances, culturally, they can be expressed as ‘amafufunyana’, while religiously, the term demonic/spirit possession holds true. The symptoms of a spirit possession state, should be of interest to psychology, given the similarity of its symptoms with those that are often typical of a psychological diagnosis, such as dissociation, hallucinations and delusions. While much attention has been given to patient experiences of spirit possession, little attention has been focused on the cultural competence required in working with patients with diverse worldviews. This study explores psychologists perceived cultural competence in working with patients who present with the experience of being possessed by a spirit. This exploration becomes more interesting, given that little to no attention in the literature has focused on the role and influence of psychologists religious and cultural belief systems and how these may influence (if at all), the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of a patient who believes that they are possessed. The researcher employed a qualitative method and design. Participants were recruited through use of a purposive sampling technique. Twelve psychologists agreed to participate in the study and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, by following a data analysis method by Braun and Clarke (2006). Four themes were identified namely, 1) Psychologists’ understanding and treatment of dissociative disorders/states, 2) Psychologists’ understanding of spirit possession; 3) Spirit possession experiences versus psychological disturbances; and 4) Cultural acknowledgement versus cultural considerations-implications for cultural competence. Findings from the study suggest that it is not only cultural considerations that is Running Head: An Exploration of Spirit Possession and Psychological Praxis in South Africa: Implications for a Culturally Competent Psychological Practice. xv needed within psychological practice, but that a sense of cultural acknowledgement is needed in order to bring about potential holistic healing, and more specifically, aid cultural competence within psychological practice. This, according to the findings of the study, can be done through collaboration between various professionals or practitioners- furthermore creating a platform for the inclusion of pluralism within mental healthcare services. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation into the use of a consumer incentive to encourage recycling in South Africa
- Authors: Conway, John Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects , Consumption (Economics) -- South Africa , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51096 , vital:43208
- Description: The focus of this study is the factors that influence recycling behaviours, particularly whether incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. Africa is said to become the most polluted continent within a few decades. Three of the largest metropoles in South African are likely to run out of landfill space within the next ten years. Waste streams provide considerable opportunity if waste can be safely collected and either reused, recycled, or recovered, but extracting value from the waste streams is costly and difficult. Consumers need to separate waste at source to improve the efficacy of the recycling stream, yet South Africans do not separate waste at source as a norm. The question that arises then is would an incentive improve South Africans’ willingness to recycle? This study tried to determine if incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. It explored the relationship between factors that influence recycling behaviours grounded in Taylor and Todd's (1995) extension of Ajzen's (1991) Theory Of Planned Behaviour. A quantitative survey design, using both online and face to face questionnaires, was used to collect data from a cross section of randomly selected consumers. The research determines that the call to address waste management infrastructure and facilities, is indeed correct. It further confirms previous research findings that an incentive alone is not enough to change recycling behaviours as it will not negate other environmental factors. Lower income groups are more conscientious about recycling and may be enticed to participate in the recycling industry through an incentive to improve their income. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Conway, John Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Recycling (Waste, etc.) -- Economic aspects , Consumption (Economics) -- South Africa , Consumer behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51096 , vital:43208
- Description: The focus of this study is the factors that influence recycling behaviours, particularly whether incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. Africa is said to become the most polluted continent within a few decades. Three of the largest metropoles in South African are likely to run out of landfill space within the next ten years. Waste streams provide considerable opportunity if waste can be safely collected and either reused, recycled, or recovered, but extracting value from the waste streams is costly and difficult. Consumers need to separate waste at source to improve the efficacy of the recycling stream, yet South Africans do not separate waste at source as a norm. The question that arises then is would an incentive improve South Africans’ willingness to recycle? This study tried to determine if incentives are likely to change consumers’ recycling behaviours in South Africa. It explored the relationship between factors that influence recycling behaviours grounded in Taylor and Todd's (1995) extension of Ajzen's (1991) Theory Of Planned Behaviour. A quantitative survey design, using both online and face to face questionnaires, was used to collect data from a cross section of randomly selected consumers. The research determines that the call to address waste management infrastructure and facilities, is indeed correct. It further confirms previous research findings that an incentive alone is not enough to change recycling behaviours as it will not negate other environmental factors. Lower income groups are more conscientious about recycling and may be enticed to participate in the recycling industry through an incentive to improve their income. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
An investigation of the views of Catholic Church musicians in the Diocese of Port Elizabeth on the use of the pipe organ in the liturgy
- Authors: Mowatt, Simon Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Church musicians -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Catholic Church
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53500 , vital:45168
- Description: As an organist and Catholic musician, I have an interest in exploring the role of, as well as attitudes towards, the pipe organ in the liturgy in the Catholic parishes in South Africa. Among both Christian and secular newspapers, headlines paint a picture of a decline in the use of the organ in churches and the number of organists in the world today (The Canadian Press, 2012). By conducting this study, my goal was to better understand this phenomenon in the context of my local diocese of Port Elizabeth. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Mowatt, Simon Charles
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Church musicians -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth -- Catholic Church
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53500 , vital:45168
- Description: As an organist and Catholic musician, I have an interest in exploring the role of, as well as attitudes towards, the pipe organ in the liturgy in the Catholic parishes in South Africa. Among both Christian and secular newspapers, headlines paint a picture of a decline in the use of the organ in churches and the number of organists in the world today (The Canadian Press, 2012). By conducting this study, my goal was to better understand this phenomenon in the context of my local diocese of Port Elizabeth. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles on Cryptococcus species
- Authors: Roman, Nasstasja
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Cryptococcus
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52089 , vital:43445
- Description: Cryptococcus neoformans is responsible for cryptococcal infections, which have become a great concern particularly in immunocompromised patients. This pulmonary disease causes damage to lung tissue and is presumed to be responsible for approximately 650,000 deaths annually. There is a major need for novel antimicrobial agents to avoid the emergence of resistant strains due to extended use of known antifungal drugs. Silver has become an important antimicrobial agent used in medical devices, cosmetics and even house-hold or clothing products. It is highly toxic and has a reduced risk of resistance. Silver nanoparticles have been broadly explored as an antimicrobial agent due to its high reactivity, large surface area and small size. They have been reported to display antimicrobial activity towards bacteria, viruses and fungi. C. neoformans is a pathogenic microorganism that possesses a number of virulence factors which increases the infectivity of the microorganism in immunocompromised individuals. Some of these include the presence of a polysaccharide capsule, melanin, urease and phospholipase production. Owing to limited availability of antifungal drugs and the possibility of drug resistance, this study focused on an alternative antimicrobial agent, namely silver nanoparticles, and the effects that silver nanoparticles had on fungal β-glucan, chitin and urease, phospholipase and melanin virulence factors. Results from our study show that silver nanoparticles inhibited the growth of C. neoformans at concentrations between 3.125 ƒM and 25 ƒM. Both 26.4 nm and 28.4 nm nanoparticles displayed growth inhibition, but were unable to kill the organism at concentrations of 200 ƒM and above. The silver nanoparticles caused a reduction in βglucan content. There was also an accumulation of intracellular ROS, and phospholipase activity, was reduced. In contrast, the organism displayed an increase in chitin content, melanin and urease activity upon exposure to the nanoparticles. This study shows that chemically synthesized silver nanoparticles are an effective antifungal alternative that greatly reduces or inhibits C. neoformans growth at very low concentrations (ƒM). For future studies it may be feasible to investigate the use of these nanoparticles in combination with known antifungal agents, to prevent the emergence of resistance and inhibit possible defense mechanisms displayed by the organism. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Roman, Nasstasja
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Cryptococcus
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52089 , vital:43445
- Description: Cryptococcus neoformans is responsible for cryptococcal infections, which have become a great concern particularly in immunocompromised patients. This pulmonary disease causes damage to lung tissue and is presumed to be responsible for approximately 650,000 deaths annually. There is a major need for novel antimicrobial agents to avoid the emergence of resistant strains due to extended use of known antifungal drugs. Silver has become an important antimicrobial agent used in medical devices, cosmetics and even house-hold or clothing products. It is highly toxic and has a reduced risk of resistance. Silver nanoparticles have been broadly explored as an antimicrobial agent due to its high reactivity, large surface area and small size. They have been reported to display antimicrobial activity towards bacteria, viruses and fungi. C. neoformans is a pathogenic microorganism that possesses a number of virulence factors which increases the infectivity of the microorganism in immunocompromised individuals. Some of these include the presence of a polysaccharide capsule, melanin, urease and phospholipase production. Owing to limited availability of antifungal drugs and the possibility of drug resistance, this study focused on an alternative antimicrobial agent, namely silver nanoparticles, and the effects that silver nanoparticles had on fungal β-glucan, chitin and urease, phospholipase and melanin virulence factors. Results from our study show that silver nanoparticles inhibited the growth of C. neoformans at concentrations between 3.125 ƒM and 25 ƒM. Both 26.4 nm and 28.4 nm nanoparticles displayed growth inhibition, but were unable to kill the organism at concentrations of 200 ƒM and above. The silver nanoparticles caused a reduction in βglucan content. There was also an accumulation of intracellular ROS, and phospholipase activity, was reduced. In contrast, the organism displayed an increase in chitin content, melanin and urease activity upon exposure to the nanoparticles. This study shows that chemically synthesized silver nanoparticles are an effective antifungal alternative that greatly reduces or inhibits C. neoformans growth at very low concentrations (ƒM). For future studies it may be feasible to investigate the use of these nanoparticles in combination with known antifungal agents, to prevent the emergence of resistance and inhibit possible defense mechanisms displayed by the organism. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Antiproliferative activity of novel rhenium complexes and medicinal plant extracts
- Oosthuizen, Kenneth Thomas, Venables, Luanne
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Kenneth Thomas , Venables, Luanne
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Medicinal plants -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52028 , vital:43441
- Description: Cancer is a complex, multifactorial disease that affects millions of individuals every year. The adverse side effects and escalating costs of current therapies coupled with the increased incidence of resistance to these therapies make it imperative that we explore novel treatments for the disease. This study investigated two avenues for novel drug design namely, novel synthetic compounds and medicinal plant extracts. The benzimidazole ring system has shown potential as a scaffold for designing novel anticancer agents. Conjugation of the metal rhenium to novel variants of this ring system open up the possibility of designing novel drugs that serve both a diagnostic and a therapeutic function. This study investigated the in vitro anticancer potential of ten such complexes against selected breast and cervical cancer cell lines. The selectivity of the complexes for cancer cells over normal cells was also investigated while the mechanism of action of effective complexes was determined by exploring cell cycle arrest, biochemical markers of apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane disruption. All ten complexes were screened against MCF7 breast and HeLa cervical cancer cell lines with four showing antiproliferative activity against both cancer cell lines and one showing cell line specific toxicity against MCF7 breast cancer cells. When looking at the SAR of the compounds it was noted that activity was higher in compounds which contain two potentially bidentate benzothiazole ligands, while compounds with potentially tridentate ligands show good activity, but only if the benzothiazole moiety is not involved in coordination. The complexes showed greater antiproliferative activity against the MCF7 breast cancer cells with IC50 values ranging from 3.2 to 7.0 µM versus a range of 7.6 to 24.4 µM being obtained on the HeLa cervical cancer cells. Antiproliferative complexes were tested against confluent and log phase Vero cells at their respective IC50 values to determine their effect on “normal” cells. Confluent Vero cells showed less cell death than those in log phase indicating that the complexes show preference for proliferating cells. The mechanism of action of the complexes was studied on both cancer cell lines via cell cycle analysis and apoptosis assays investigating phosphatidylserine translocation, caspase -3 and -8 activation and mitochondrial membrane potential with most complexes inducing cell cycle arrest followed by cell death via both the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of apoptosis. Since 1940, 49% of all the available anticancer drugs approved for cancer treatment were natural products or directly derived from natural products. Plants are an excellent source of secondary metabolites, many of which are unique chemical compounds that cannot be synthesized in a laboratory. Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in conjunction with Traditional Health Practitioners of the Mkuranga and Same districts in Tanzania identified 25 plants that are used for the treatment of cancer. Four of these plants (A. mossambicensis, C. adenocaule, C. pseudopulchelusis and R. natalensis) with ethnobotanically reported anticancer usage showed cytotoxic activity against brine shrimp and were selected for further in vitro anticancer studies. All four plants were found to have antiproliferative activity against HeLa cervical cancer cells with IC50 values ranging from 3.4 to 50.8 µg/mL. This study was also tasked with investigating the mechanism of action of C. pseudopulchelus on HeLa cervical cancer cells by exploring cell cycle arrest, biochemical markers of apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane x disruption. C. pseudopulchelus caused early M phase arrest followed by slippage and subsequent cell death via the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. In conclusion, this study showed that both novel complexes as well as medicinal plant extracts represent an interesting avenue for the development of novel anticancer drugs that are cheaper and produce less side effects than current therapies. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Oosthuizen, Kenneth Thomas , Venables, Luanne
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Medicinal plants -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52028 , vital:43441
- Description: Cancer is a complex, multifactorial disease that affects millions of individuals every year. The adverse side effects and escalating costs of current therapies coupled with the increased incidence of resistance to these therapies make it imperative that we explore novel treatments for the disease. This study investigated two avenues for novel drug design namely, novel synthetic compounds and medicinal plant extracts. The benzimidazole ring system has shown potential as a scaffold for designing novel anticancer agents. Conjugation of the metal rhenium to novel variants of this ring system open up the possibility of designing novel drugs that serve both a diagnostic and a therapeutic function. This study investigated the in vitro anticancer potential of ten such complexes against selected breast and cervical cancer cell lines. The selectivity of the complexes for cancer cells over normal cells was also investigated while the mechanism of action of effective complexes was determined by exploring cell cycle arrest, biochemical markers of apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane disruption. All ten complexes were screened against MCF7 breast and HeLa cervical cancer cell lines with four showing antiproliferative activity against both cancer cell lines and one showing cell line specific toxicity against MCF7 breast cancer cells. When looking at the SAR of the compounds it was noted that activity was higher in compounds which contain two potentially bidentate benzothiazole ligands, while compounds with potentially tridentate ligands show good activity, but only if the benzothiazole moiety is not involved in coordination. The complexes showed greater antiproliferative activity against the MCF7 breast cancer cells with IC50 values ranging from 3.2 to 7.0 µM versus a range of 7.6 to 24.4 µM being obtained on the HeLa cervical cancer cells. Antiproliferative complexes were tested against confluent and log phase Vero cells at their respective IC50 values to determine their effect on “normal” cells. Confluent Vero cells showed less cell death than those in log phase indicating that the complexes show preference for proliferating cells. The mechanism of action of the complexes was studied on both cancer cell lines via cell cycle analysis and apoptosis assays investigating phosphatidylserine translocation, caspase -3 and -8 activation and mitochondrial membrane potential with most complexes inducing cell cycle arrest followed by cell death via both the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of apoptosis. Since 1940, 49% of all the available anticancer drugs approved for cancer treatment were natural products or directly derived from natural products. Plants are an excellent source of secondary metabolites, many of which are unique chemical compounds that cannot be synthesized in a laboratory. Ethnobotanical surveys conducted in conjunction with Traditional Health Practitioners of the Mkuranga and Same districts in Tanzania identified 25 plants that are used for the treatment of cancer. Four of these plants (A. mossambicensis, C. adenocaule, C. pseudopulchelusis and R. natalensis) with ethnobotanically reported anticancer usage showed cytotoxic activity against brine shrimp and were selected for further in vitro anticancer studies. All four plants were found to have antiproliferative activity against HeLa cervical cancer cells with IC50 values ranging from 3.4 to 50.8 µg/mL. This study was also tasked with investigating the mechanism of action of C. pseudopulchelus on HeLa cervical cancer cells by exploring cell cycle arrest, biochemical markers of apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane x disruption. C. pseudopulchelus caused early M phase arrest followed by slippage and subsequent cell death via the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. In conclusion, this study showed that both novel complexes as well as medicinal plant extracts represent an interesting avenue for the development of novel anticancer drugs that are cheaper and produce less side effects than current therapies. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Assessing community engagement programmes to mitigate uncontrolled, deliberately ignited fires in forestry plantation-communal land interface, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Ramantswana, Nontethelelo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Forest fires -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52008 , vital:43439
- Description: Forestry plantations in South Africa are surrounded by poor local communities that normally depend on the forestry resources for subsistence. This interface area is faced with human induced uncontrolled fires. There is a lack of understanding regarding the reasons for deliberate ignition of uncontrolled fires. There is also lack of information on the success of community engagement programs (CEPs) as fire protection intervention and / or their implementation barriers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Ramantswana, Nontethelelo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Forest fires -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52008 , vital:43439
- Description: Forestry plantations in South Africa are surrounded by poor local communities that normally depend on the forestry resources for subsistence. This interface area is faced with human induced uncontrolled fires. There is a lack of understanding regarding the reasons for deliberate ignition of uncontrolled fires. There is also lack of information on the success of community engagement programs (CEPs) as fire protection intervention and / or their implementation barriers. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Management, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Assessing the employee talent retention strategy at the industrial development corporation
- Authors: Madondo, Lungile Sharon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Labor turnover -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51798 , vital:43373
- Description: Successful employee retention is essential to an organisation’s stability, growth and revenue. Without properly implemented employee retention strategies, the organisation may face high employee turnover rates. An increased longevity of an employee’s tenure is better for the organisation’s overall performance. This study sought to evaluate the factors affecting employee retention at the IDC. To enhance the success of the study, the research objective was to assess the relationship between five HR factors and employee retention within the IDC. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The sampling method used for this study was convenience sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The researcher cleansed and coded the data, whilst a statistician entered the collected data into STATISTICA. The data was analysed descriptively and also by means of inferential analysis method that is. The descriptive data was presented in the format of pie charts and tables with percentages, means and standard deviations as measures for distribution mechanisms. While inferential analysis presented the regression in table formats but with a clear indication of significant levels and adjusted R-square for all the independent variables. The sample that participated in this study consisted of 288 respondents from the IDC. Empirical findings revealed that the working environment, work-life balance, compensation and employee engagement positively influenced employee retention. Career development was not significantly related to employee retention. The study concluded and made recommendations to four stakeholders, namely the government to have roadshows and marketing activities to promote the Skills Development Act and skills Levies Act, IDC to review their employee retention strategy, Managers or Supervisors to support their employees by providing market related salary packages and provide session where they engage the employees in the organisations developments, and the HR Practitioners must ensure that the right fit of candidates are recruited to the organisation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Madondo, Lungile Sharon
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee retention -- South Africa , Labor turnover -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51798 , vital:43373
- Description: Successful employee retention is essential to an organisation’s stability, growth and revenue. Without properly implemented employee retention strategies, the organisation may face high employee turnover rates. An increased longevity of an employee’s tenure is better for the organisation’s overall performance. This study sought to evaluate the factors affecting employee retention at the IDC. To enhance the success of the study, the research objective was to assess the relationship between five HR factors and employee retention within the IDC. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The sampling method used for this study was convenience sampling. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The researcher cleansed and coded the data, whilst a statistician entered the collected data into STATISTICA. The data was analysed descriptively and also by means of inferential analysis method that is. The descriptive data was presented in the format of pie charts and tables with percentages, means and standard deviations as measures for distribution mechanisms. While inferential analysis presented the regression in table formats but with a clear indication of significant levels and adjusted R-square for all the independent variables. The sample that participated in this study consisted of 288 respondents from the IDC. Empirical findings revealed that the working environment, work-life balance, compensation and employee engagement positively influenced employee retention. Career development was not significantly related to employee retention. The study concluded and made recommendations to four stakeholders, namely the government to have roadshows and marketing activities to promote the Skills Development Act and skills Levies Act, IDC to review their employee retention strategy, Managers or Supervisors to support their employees by providing market related salary packages and provide session where they engage the employees in the organisations developments, and the HR Practitioners must ensure that the right fit of candidates are recruited to the organisation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Bayesian tolerance intervals and their application to ballistic grouping consistency in competitive shooting
- Authors: Gardiner, Marcell
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Bayesian statistical decision theory -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52456 , vital:43662
- Description: Competitive shooting has become immensely popular since the first modern Games held in 1896. Competitive shooting remains the fastest growing segment in the firearm industry, catering to individuals of all ages. Elite shooters are capable of reaching extreme levels of precision and accuracy, despite many factors existing that affect performance in Olympic shooting. One such factor is speed variability, which is dependent on the mass of the bullet, how constant is the lead being used, and, how constant the gunpowder is. The study focusses on the Bayesian simulation method proposed by Wolfinger (1998) for determining three kinds of tolerance intervals when applied to competitive shooting data, particularly examining speed variability. These tolerance intervals included the (𝛼𝛼,𝛿𝛿) tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the content and 𝛿𝛿 is the confidence), the 𝛼𝛼 - expectation tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the expected coverage of the interval) and the fixed-in advance tolerance interval in which the interval is held fixed and the proportion of process measurements it contains, is estimated. Speed measurements of individual shots fired were measured with either an Oeler 35P or Magneto Speed V3 chronograph and the data was fitted to a one-way random effects model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Gardiner, Marcell
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Bayesian statistical decision theory -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52456 , vital:43662
- Description: Competitive shooting has become immensely popular since the first modern Games held in 1896. Competitive shooting remains the fastest growing segment in the firearm industry, catering to individuals of all ages. Elite shooters are capable of reaching extreme levels of precision and accuracy, despite many factors existing that affect performance in Olympic shooting. One such factor is speed variability, which is dependent on the mass of the bullet, how constant is the lead being used, and, how constant the gunpowder is. The study focusses on the Bayesian simulation method proposed by Wolfinger (1998) for determining three kinds of tolerance intervals when applied to competitive shooting data, particularly examining speed variability. These tolerance intervals included the (𝛼𝛼,𝛿𝛿) tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the content and 𝛿𝛿 is the confidence), the 𝛼𝛼 - expectation tolerance interval (where 𝛼𝛼 is the expected coverage of the interval) and the fixed-in advance tolerance interval in which the interval is held fixed and the proportion of process measurements it contains, is estimated. Speed measurements of individual shots fired were measured with either an Oeler 35P or Magneto Speed V3 chronograph and the data was fitted to a one-way random effects model. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Benthic habitat mapping using marine geophysics and machine learning on the continental shelf of South Africa
- Authors: Pillay, Talicia
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Marine geophysics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52061 , vital:43452
- Description: A method to map seafloor substrates using machine learning, based primarily on hydroacoustic data including multibeam bathymetry, backscatter, and side-scan sonar, has been developed. The aim was to produce a customdesigned benthic habitat classification method that digitally integrates marine geophysics and biological science data, with relevance to all elements of the local substrate, and this was the first time it was attempted in a South African context. The algorithm developed is able to produce bio-physical benthic habitat maps and this can be extended along the continental shelf of South Africa as new data setsare collected and the algorithm is supplemented. At the outset, this work has focused on broad categories of rock and detailed categories of sediment. Four study sites with varying substrate were selected to holistically build the algorithm that followed a tiered approach of machine learning: Table Bay, Clifton, Koeberg Harbour and Cape St Francis. Table Bay was used to develop a new method of physical seafloor classification, by comparing and contrasting a number of statistical algorithms and software programs. Clifton was used to test the developed clustering algorithm, and Koeberg which is 35 km to the north was used to validate the algorithm because sediment samples, along with drop camera footage, were integrated to better define the results. The resultant verified algorithm was tested at Cape St Francis, where Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) footage was acquired in addition to hydroacoustic data. In the first phase of the process towards developing an algorithm, a customised tool was created within ArcGIS using python scripting language to classify seafloor bathymetry, which can be applied to any area of seafloor whatsoever. The tool was based on pioneering work done by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on a benthic terrain modelling toolbox and adapted to include side-scan sonar data. In the second phase of work, multibeam bathymetry, backscatter and side-scan sonar data that were processed using Qimera, Fledermaus Geocoder Toolbox, and Navlog processing software, were classified using different machine learning techniques including Decision Trees, Random Forests, and k-means clustering computer algorithms. The results from these algorithms were compared to manually-digitised polygons which were created to classify the seafloor substrate distribution by identification of different textures. Integrating all results facilitated a quantitative comparison that illuminated advantages and disadvantages of each machine learning technique and ultimately the k-means clustering techniques were found to be the simplest to implement and understand and worked most efficiently based on their seafloor segmentation capabilities in Table Bay, against all three hydroacoustic data sets (multibeam bathymetry, backscatter and side-scan sonar). In the third phase of work, ground-truthed seafloor characterisation maps were produced for the two study areas of Clifton and Koeberg Harbour. This applied multibeam bathymetry and backscatter data that were collected and processed with machine learning clustering techniques. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ocean Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Pillay, Talicia
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Marine geophysics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52061 , vital:43452
- Description: A method to map seafloor substrates using machine learning, based primarily on hydroacoustic data including multibeam bathymetry, backscatter, and side-scan sonar, has been developed. The aim was to produce a customdesigned benthic habitat classification method that digitally integrates marine geophysics and biological science data, with relevance to all elements of the local substrate, and this was the first time it was attempted in a South African context. The algorithm developed is able to produce bio-physical benthic habitat maps and this can be extended along the continental shelf of South Africa as new data setsare collected and the algorithm is supplemented. At the outset, this work has focused on broad categories of rock and detailed categories of sediment. Four study sites with varying substrate were selected to holistically build the algorithm that followed a tiered approach of machine learning: Table Bay, Clifton, Koeberg Harbour and Cape St Francis. Table Bay was used to develop a new method of physical seafloor classification, by comparing and contrasting a number of statistical algorithms and software programs. Clifton was used to test the developed clustering algorithm, and Koeberg which is 35 km to the north was used to validate the algorithm because sediment samples, along with drop camera footage, were integrated to better define the results. The resultant verified algorithm was tested at Cape St Francis, where Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) footage was acquired in addition to hydroacoustic data. In the first phase of the process towards developing an algorithm, a customised tool was created within ArcGIS using python scripting language to classify seafloor bathymetry, which can be applied to any area of seafloor whatsoever. The tool was based on pioneering work done by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on a benthic terrain modelling toolbox and adapted to include side-scan sonar data. In the second phase of work, multibeam bathymetry, backscatter and side-scan sonar data that were processed using Qimera, Fledermaus Geocoder Toolbox, and Navlog processing software, were classified using different machine learning techniques including Decision Trees, Random Forests, and k-means clustering computer algorithms. The results from these algorithms were compared to manually-digitised polygons which were created to classify the seafloor substrate distribution by identification of different textures. Integrating all results facilitated a quantitative comparison that illuminated advantages and disadvantages of each machine learning technique and ultimately the k-means clustering techniques were found to be the simplest to implement and understand and worked most efficiently based on their seafloor segmentation capabilities in Table Bay, against all three hydroacoustic data sets (multibeam bathymetry, backscatter and side-scan sonar). In the third phase of work, ground-truthed seafloor characterisation maps were produced for the two study areas of Clifton and Koeberg Harbour. This applied multibeam bathymetry and backscatter data that were collected and processed with machine learning clustering techniques. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ocean Sciences, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples in the Talensi and Nabdam districts of Ghana experiencing infertility
- Authors: Kuug, Anthony Kolsabilik
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Infertility -- Ghana , Couples -- Infertility -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51264 , vital:43258
- Description: Infertility remains a major clinical and social problem, affecting approximately one in every ten couples. The implications of infertility range from physical abuse to denial of family property, divorce, psychological problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety and depression to social isolation, scorn, rejection and stigmatisation. The health of infertile couples needs holistic attention because, while their medical and surgical needs are addressed to correct physical and physiological barriers of infertility, their psychological and emotive needs, which constitute the psychosocial aspects of infertility, need to be addressed as well. The current study explored and described the experiences of couples with infertility and primary caregivers who rendered care to couples. The study aimed to develop a best practice psychosocial-cultural care guideline for primary caregivers to enhance the management of couples experiencing infertility in Talensi and Nabdam districts of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The study followed a qualitative design while making use of explorative, descriptive contextual and interpretive ethnographic approaches. The research populations comprised couples experiencing infertility and the primary caregivers who cared for them, consisting of public health nurses and midwives. The research study comprised three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews, narrative sketching and storytelling were used to collect data on experiences of couples with infertility while semi-structured interviews were used to explore and describe the experiences of primary caregivers who cared for them. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis to make sense of the data collected. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to the Lincoln and Guba’s approach to trustworthiness by using an independent coder to validate the researcher’s coding. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted to identify previous guidelines and systematic reviews regarding psychosocial–cultural care of infertility. Relevant guidelines and reviews were selected and critically appraised. Data were extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. An independent appraiser critically appraised relevant guidelines to ensure trustworthiness. In phase 3, the findings of Phases 1 and 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. The guideline was reviewed by a six-member expert panel and modified based on their recommendations, suggestions and comments leading to the finalisation of the best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples experiencing infertility in the Talensi and Nabdam districts in Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Kuug, Anthony Kolsabilik
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Caregivers -- Infertility -- Ghana , Couples -- Infertility -- Ghana
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51264 , vital:43258
- Description: Infertility remains a major clinical and social problem, affecting approximately one in every ten couples. The implications of infertility range from physical abuse to denial of family property, divorce, psychological problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety and depression to social isolation, scorn, rejection and stigmatisation. The health of infertile couples needs holistic attention because, while their medical and surgical needs are addressed to correct physical and physiological barriers of infertility, their psychological and emotive needs, which constitute the psychosocial aspects of infertility, need to be addressed as well. The current study explored and described the experiences of couples with infertility and primary caregivers who rendered care to couples. The study aimed to develop a best practice psychosocial-cultural care guideline for primary caregivers to enhance the management of couples experiencing infertility in Talensi and Nabdam districts of the Upper East Region in Ghana. The study followed a qualitative design while making use of explorative, descriptive contextual and interpretive ethnographic approaches. The research populations comprised couples experiencing infertility and the primary caregivers who cared for them, consisting of public health nurses and midwives. The research study comprised three phases. In Phase 1, semi-structured interviews, narrative sketching and storytelling were used to collect data on experiences of couples with infertility while semi-structured interviews were used to explore and describe the experiences of primary caregivers who cared for them. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using Tesch’s eight steps of data analysis to make sense of the data collected. The researcher ensured the validity of the study by conforming to the Lincoln and Guba’s approach to trustworthiness by using an independent coder to validate the researcher’s coding. In Phase 2, an integrative literature review was conducted to identify previous guidelines and systematic reviews regarding psychosocial–cultural care of infertility. Relevant guidelines and reviews were selected and critically appraised. Data were extracted and synthesised for the development of a best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. An independent appraiser critically appraised relevant guidelines to ensure trustworthiness. In phase 3, the findings of Phases 1 and 2 were integrated to formulate a draft best practice guideline for psychosocial–cultural care of couples experiencing infertility. The guideline was reviewed by a six-member expert panel and modified based on their recommendations, suggestions and comments leading to the finalisation of the best practice psychosocial–cultural care guideline for primary caregivers of couples experiencing infertility in the Talensi and Nabdam districts in Ghana. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Bongani Ndodana-Breen’s compositional style and techniques: piano case study in Rituals for Forgotten Faces
- Authors: Julies, Jason
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Composers, Black -- South Africa , Hymns, Xhosa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52897 , vital:44320
- Description: Bongani Ndodana-Breen is a South African born Xhosa composer trained in Western Classical music and composition. His music is a reflection of his Xhosa heritage, and is internationally recognised. While there have been discussions of Ndodana-Breen’s individual works, the current available literature does not sufficiently investigate his compositional style. This treatise aims to address this. To determine Ndodana-Breen’s compositional style, the techniques and practices he uses in his works are investigated. This is achieved by deconstructing the compositional elements, and musical techniques and practices he employs in his compositions. They are then investigated through the use of thematic analysis and fragmentation, and are viewed through the lens of polystylism and postcolonialism. Ndodana-Breen’s composition Rituals for Forgotten Faces is used as a case study. The results of this investigation show that Ndodana-Breen, through the use of strong rhythms, light textures and simplicity in writing, creates a unique Africanness in his compositions. This Africanness overcomes the Eurocentric sound traditionally found in Western Classical composition. Furthermore, these findings suggest a hybridity of polystylistic elements found in Ndodana-Breen’s music, that could potentially be found in the works of other African musicians that are trained in Western Classical composition. On this basis, this study paves the way for further study of African composers and their works. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Julies, Jason
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Composers, Black -- South Africa , Hymns, Xhosa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52897 , vital:44320
- Description: Bongani Ndodana-Breen is a South African born Xhosa composer trained in Western Classical music and composition. His music is a reflection of his Xhosa heritage, and is internationally recognised. While there have been discussions of Ndodana-Breen’s individual works, the current available literature does not sufficiently investigate his compositional style. This treatise aims to address this. To determine Ndodana-Breen’s compositional style, the techniques and practices he uses in his works are investigated. This is achieved by deconstructing the compositional elements, and musical techniques and practices he employs in his compositions. They are then investigated through the use of thematic analysis and fragmentation, and are viewed through the lens of polystylism and postcolonialism. Ndodana-Breen’s composition Rituals for Forgotten Faces is used as a case study. The results of this investigation show that Ndodana-Breen, through the use of strong rhythms, light textures and simplicity in writing, creates a unique Africanness in his compositions. This Africanness overcomes the Eurocentric sound traditionally found in Western Classical composition. Furthermore, these findings suggest a hybridity of polystylistic elements found in Ndodana-Breen’s music, that could potentially be found in the works of other African musicians that are trained in Western Classical composition. On this basis, this study paves the way for further study of African composers and their works. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Challenges faced by state owned entities and economic development in South Africa
- Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Authors: Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52976 , vital:44907
- Description: Background: State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) play a vital role in government activities and the delivery of basic services to the people. The Government is active in the key sectors, such as, services, utilities, transportation and construction. Presumably, the distribution of basic resources and infrastructure development is to some extent dependent on SOEs. South Africa is inundated with challenges in SOE’s, such as, lack of service delivery, poor financial management, less growth, massive unemployment, corruption and low business confidence. These are a threat to economic and financial sustainability of a country. Twenty years into democracy, South Africa’s SOEs environment had many scandals in both private and public sectors. SOEs such as SABC, Eskom, and Transnet had their share of malpractice, fraud and corruption in management and at board level. These incidents call for interrogation at all levels as the impact undermines political, economic stability and growth prospects. One of today’s core challenges is to justify the existence of some of the SOEs in our economy. Looking at South Africa, most of the SOEs financial performances are severely deteriorating. Due to their financial constraints, they receive a bailout from government to enable them to continue to operate. Aim: This study identified specific governance challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa, over the period of 10 years (2014 - 2018). The study made recommendations to restore good governance in SOEs. Setting: This study reviewed articles and literature on the challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa. Primary sources for the document review took the form of newspapers, various official reports and ongoing records of SOEs activities, government departments, student transcripts, mission statements, annual reports, policy, manuals, student handbooks, and strategic plans, and press releases, theses from academic institutions, trade journals, business journals, government publications and business review publications. Secondary sources used were published books and journal articles. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Willie, Ntsikelelo Mike Mncedi
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52976 , vital:44907
- Description: Background: State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) play a vital role in government activities and the delivery of basic services to the people. The Government is active in the key sectors, such as, services, utilities, transportation and construction. Presumably, the distribution of basic resources and infrastructure development is to some extent dependent on SOEs. South Africa is inundated with challenges in SOE’s, such as, lack of service delivery, poor financial management, less growth, massive unemployment, corruption and low business confidence. These are a threat to economic and financial sustainability of a country. Twenty years into democracy, South Africa’s SOEs environment had many scandals in both private and public sectors. SOEs such as SABC, Eskom, and Transnet had their share of malpractice, fraud and corruption in management and at board level. These incidents call for interrogation at all levels as the impact undermines political, economic stability and growth prospects. One of today’s core challenges is to justify the existence of some of the SOEs in our economy. Looking at South Africa, most of the SOEs financial performances are severely deteriorating. Due to their financial constraints, they receive a bailout from government to enable them to continue to operate. Aim: This study identified specific governance challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa, over the period of 10 years (2014 - 2018). The study made recommendations to restore good governance in SOEs. Setting: This study reviewed articles and literature on the challenges faced by SOEs and economic development in South Africa. Primary sources for the document review took the form of newspapers, various official reports and ongoing records of SOEs activities, government departments, student transcripts, mission statements, annual reports, policy, manuals, student handbooks, and strategic plans, and press releases, theses from academic institutions, trade journals, business journals, government publications and business review publications. Secondary sources used were published books and journal articles. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences , School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2021-04