Evaluating innovation in transdisciplinary sustainability education: TRANSECTS’ international learning labs
- Rosenberg, Eureta, Cockburn, Jessica J, Reed, Maureen G, James, Wendy, Gengelbach, Jana, Walk, Heike
- Authors: Rosenberg, Eureta , Cockburn, Jessica J , Reed, Maureen G , James, Wendy , Gengelbach, Jana , Walk, Heike
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480451 , vital:78443 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajsci-v120-n9-a21
- Description: Evaluative research can advance sustainability education through the learning it can enable, at micro and systems levels. This proposition is explored by examining evaluation practice in a 6-year international programme entitled Transdisciplinary Education Collaboration for Transformations in Sustainability involving universities and biosphere reserves/regions in Germany, South Africa and Canada. A Transdisciplinary International Learning Lab (TILL) was evaluated using a theory-based evaluation approach and interviews, focus groups and questionnaires that yielded qualitative data. Through metareflection, we concluded that our TILL had elements of a Field School, rather than a Learning Lab, and that our curriculum required more explicit deliberation among programme developers and implementers towards a deeper and shared understanding of pedagogical assumptions and more congruent practice of transdisciplinary and transformative sustainability education. The reflective, theory-based approach enabled learning from evaluation and was captured in a shared refinement of the theory of change, which makes it explicit that learning from pedagogical innovations is not only for students but also for academics. The paper is an invitation to other innovators in sustainability science, education and evaluation in higher education, to share related findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Rosenberg, Eureta , Cockburn, Jessica J , Reed, Maureen G , James, Wendy , Gengelbach, Jana , Walk, Heike
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480451 , vital:78443 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajsci-v120-n9-a21
- Description: Evaluative research can advance sustainability education through the learning it can enable, at micro and systems levels. This proposition is explored by examining evaluation practice in a 6-year international programme entitled Transdisciplinary Education Collaboration for Transformations in Sustainability involving universities and biosphere reserves/regions in Germany, South Africa and Canada. A Transdisciplinary International Learning Lab (TILL) was evaluated using a theory-based evaluation approach and interviews, focus groups and questionnaires that yielded qualitative data. Through metareflection, we concluded that our TILL had elements of a Field School, rather than a Learning Lab, and that our curriculum required more explicit deliberation among programme developers and implementers towards a deeper and shared understanding of pedagogical assumptions and more congruent practice of transdisciplinary and transformative sustainability education. The reflective, theory-based approach enabled learning from evaluation and was captured in a shared refinement of the theory of change, which makes it explicit that learning from pedagogical innovations is not only for students but also for academics. The paper is an invitation to other innovators in sustainability science, education and evaluation in higher education, to share related findings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Experiences of Rural Secondary School Teachers in the Integration of Technology during Emergency Remote Teaching during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Namibia: An Exploratory Study’
- Munyanyo, Johanna, Simuja, Clement
- Authors: Munyanyo, Johanna , Simuja, Clement
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/483728 , vital:78791 , https://doi.org/10.1080/18146627.2024.2319610
- Description: This study explored the experiences of rural secondary school teachers in Namibia during emergency remote teaching (ERT) owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The TPACK framework and sociocultural theory were used. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 26 rural teachers revealed that despite the availability of technological tools such as laptops, smartphones, and radio and television channels, integrating these into the teaching process posed significant challenges. A lack of technological knowledge among teachers coupled with infrastructure issues and inadequate institutional support hampered the smooth execution of ERT. Despite these challenges, teachers employed innovative methods to engage their students remotely. However, the findings underline the need for increased digital literacy, better ICT resource allocation, and adequate teacher training to successfully navigate a technology-driven teaching environment. This study provides insights into educational practice, policy initiatives, and future research toward a resilient and technology-enhanced educational system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Munyanyo, Johanna , Simuja, Clement
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/483728 , vital:78791 , https://doi.org/10.1080/18146627.2024.2319610
- Description: This study explored the experiences of rural secondary school teachers in Namibia during emergency remote teaching (ERT) owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The TPACK framework and sociocultural theory were used. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 26 rural teachers revealed that despite the availability of technological tools such as laptops, smartphones, and radio and television channels, integrating these into the teaching process posed significant challenges. A lack of technological knowledge among teachers coupled with infrastructure issues and inadequate institutional support hampered the smooth execution of ERT. Despite these challenges, teachers employed innovative methods to engage their students remotely. However, the findings underline the need for increased digital literacy, better ICT resource allocation, and adequate teacher training to successfully navigate a technology-driven teaching environment. This study provides insights into educational practice, policy initiatives, and future research toward a resilient and technology-enhanced educational system.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Exzentrische Hermeneutik und die Artikulation von Geschichte im kolonialen Klangarchiv
- Authors: Fourie, William
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/484372 , vital:78900 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.14361/zfmw-2024-160208"
- Description: Die Geschichte der Lautarchive ist eng mit dem Kolonialismus verbunden. Die frühesten Lautarchive wurden in Europa vor dem Hintergrund kon-servatorischer Ängste, wie sie typisch sind für eine Anthropologie, die mit dem Aussterben von Völkern rechnet, zu Forschungszwecken eingerichtet und wurden als laborähnliche Institutionen schnell Stützen europäischer Kolonialmissionen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Fourie, William
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/484372 , vital:78900 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.14361/zfmw-2024-160208"
- Description: Die Geschichte der Lautarchive ist eng mit dem Kolonialismus verbunden. Die frühesten Lautarchive wurden in Europa vor dem Hintergrund kon-servatorischer Ängste, wie sie typisch sind für eine Anthropologie, die mit dem Aussterben von Völkern rechnet, zu Forschungszwecken eingerichtet und wurden als laborähnliche Institutionen schnell Stützen europäischer Kolonialmissionen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
FinTech developments and their heterogeneous effect on digital finance for SMEs and entrepreneurship: evidence from 47 African countries
- Sanga, Bahati, Aziakpono, Meshach J
- Authors: Sanga, Bahati , Aziakpono, Meshach J
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/469868 , vital:77302 , https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/jeee-09-2023-0379/full/html
- Description: Lack of access to finance is a major constraint to the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurship in developing countries. The recent proliferation of mobile phone services, access to the internet and emerging technologies has led to a surge in the use of FinTech in Africa and is transforming the financial sector. This paper aims to examine whether FinTech developments heterogeneously contribute to the growth of digital finance for SMEs and entrepreneurship in 47 African countries from 2013 to 2020. The paper uses a novel method of moments quantile regression, which deals with heterogeneity and endogeneity in diverse conditions for asymmetric and nonlinear models.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Sanga, Bahati , Aziakpono, Meshach J
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/469868 , vital:77302 , https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/jeee-09-2023-0379/full/html
- Description: Lack of access to finance is a major constraint to the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurship in developing countries. The recent proliferation of mobile phone services, access to the internet and emerging technologies has led to a surge in the use of FinTech in Africa and is transforming the financial sector. This paper aims to examine whether FinTech developments heterogeneously contribute to the growth of digital finance for SMEs and entrepreneurship in 47 African countries from 2013 to 2020. The paper uses a novel method of moments quantile regression, which deals with heterogeneity and endogeneity in diverse conditions for asymmetric and nonlinear models.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Garden bird ringing at 3 Florence Street, Oatlands, Mkhanda (Grahamstown): the closing chapter
- Authors: Craig, Adrian J F K
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/449836 , vital:74856 , https://doi.org/10.15641/bo.1500
- Description: This is the third and final report summarizing 42 years of bird ringing in a garden in Mkhanda. In total, 2036 birds of 59 species were ringed, of which 217 individuals (27 species) were recaptured at least once, and 34 birds (17 species) were recovered dead.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Craig, Adrian J F K
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/449836 , vital:74856 , https://doi.org/10.15641/bo.1500
- Description: This is the third and final report summarizing 42 years of bird ringing in a garden in Mkhanda. In total, 2036 birds of 59 species were ringed, of which 217 individuals (27 species) were recaptured at least once, and 34 birds (17 species) were recovered dead.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Gendered labour market outcomes among South African technical and vocational education and training (TVET) completers
- Friderichs, Tamaryn J, Rogan, Michael, Needham, Seamus
- Authors: Friderichs, Tamaryn J , Rogan, Michael , Needham, Seamus
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/470853 , vital:77401 , https://doi.org/10.14426/jovacet.v7i2.417
- Description: South Africa's post-school education and training (PSET) system plays an important role in addressing historical inequalities and preparing youth for the labour market. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges have seen rising female enrolment, including in traditionally male-dominated fields like Engineering. This study examines whether women's increased participation in TVET programmes translates into equal labour market opportunities. Using administrative enrolment data and a tracer study of TVET completers, findings show that female completers face significantly higher unemployment rates than men, unrelated to the over-representation in Business Studies or services programmes. Additionally, women earn 22% less than men, even after accounting for study choices and qualification levels. While challenges remain in ensuring gender parity, the increasing presence of women in male-dominated fields signals progress. Efforts must focus on translating these gains into equitable employment outcomes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Friderichs, Tamaryn J , Rogan, Michael , Needham, Seamus
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/470853 , vital:77401 , https://doi.org/10.14426/jovacet.v7i2.417
- Description: South Africa's post-school education and training (PSET) system plays an important role in addressing historical inequalities and preparing youth for the labour market. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges have seen rising female enrolment, including in traditionally male-dominated fields like Engineering. This study examines whether women's increased participation in TVET programmes translates into equal labour market opportunities. Using administrative enrolment data and a tracer study of TVET completers, findings show that female completers face significantly higher unemployment rates than men, unrelated to the over-representation in Business Studies or services programmes. Additionally, women earn 22% less than men, even after accounting for study choices and qualification levels. While challenges remain in ensuring gender parity, the increasing presence of women in male-dominated fields signals progress. Efforts must focus on translating these gains into equitable employment outcomes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Gukurahundi as a Cultural Event: Cultural Politics and the Culture of Violence in Matabeleland
- Authors: Sibanda, Nkululeko
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/469623 , vital:77273 , https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8040147
- Description: The desire of Gukurahundi survivors for cultural platforms that enable them to discuss, mourn, and commemorate their loved ones is now very loud in Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland and Midlands provinces. While community-based organisations have provided platforms for Gukurahundi survivors, the children of survivors, and academics to interface and interact, the government’s gatekeeping processes remain a challenge for the community-wide memorialisation and documentation of the genocide. In this conceptual paper, I frame Gukurahundi as a meteorological event within a general Zimbabwean cultural context, foregrounding the desecration of the Ndebele people’s cultural practices, rituals, and ceremonies. Drawing from the documented legacies of this cultural violence within Matabeleland and south-western parts of the Midlands, through videos and the literature, I argue that this cultural violence resulted in the silencing of the remembrance of Gukurahundi, which remains critical to the resolution of the stand-off between the ZANU-PF government and the communities. In this paper, I further argue that this ecological symbolism provided a justification and legitimated direct brutal violence on presumed ZAPU and ex-ZPRA veterans who were largely Ndebele-speaking or of ethnic descent. Finally, I argue that it is not that the absence of alternative narratives but the sociopolitical and cultural environment that constrains these from being available and implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Sibanda, Nkululeko
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/469623 , vital:77273 , https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8040147
- Description: The desire of Gukurahundi survivors for cultural platforms that enable them to discuss, mourn, and commemorate their loved ones is now very loud in Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland and Midlands provinces. While community-based organisations have provided platforms for Gukurahundi survivors, the children of survivors, and academics to interface and interact, the government’s gatekeeping processes remain a challenge for the community-wide memorialisation and documentation of the genocide. In this conceptual paper, I frame Gukurahundi as a meteorological event within a general Zimbabwean cultural context, foregrounding the desecration of the Ndebele people’s cultural practices, rituals, and ceremonies. Drawing from the documented legacies of this cultural violence within Matabeleland and south-western parts of the Midlands, through videos and the literature, I argue that this cultural violence resulted in the silencing of the remembrance of Gukurahundi, which remains critical to the resolution of the stand-off between the ZANU-PF government and the communities. In this paper, I further argue that this ecological symbolism provided a justification and legitimated direct brutal violence on presumed ZAPU and ex-ZPRA veterans who were largely Ndebele-speaking or of ethnic descent. Finally, I argue that it is not that the absence of alternative narratives but the sociopolitical and cultural environment that constrains these from being available and implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Holding a mirror up to Academic Development through the HELTASA (un) conferencing methodology
- Williams, Sandra, Adams, Anthea, Geduld-van Wyk, Charlene, Muhuro, Patricia
- Authors: Williams, Sandra , Adams, Anthea , Geduld-van Wyk, Charlene , Muhuro, Patricia
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425705 , vital:72277 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.14426/cristal.v12iSI1.2117"
- Description: We, Academic Development (AD) practitioners, question whether AD's objective in South Africa (SA) as a'liberatory educational and social movement'to enhance educational quality for all students, is effectively pursued. AD practitioners often work on the fringes of the academy, fighting for relevance and legitimacy within an increasingly performative and managerialist academic culture. Despite innovative AD initiatives AD work is criticised for being unresponsive, unreflexive, conformist, and lacking theoretical, scholarly, and critical engagement. We use critical pedagogical praxis, particularly the constructs of critique, reflexivity, power, and self-reflection, to interrogate the continuous tension between AD intention and practice. Through (un) conference methodology, this auto-ethnographic account of individual and collective engagements, using the" holding the mirror up" metaphor, critically questioned the tension and misalignments between the AD mandate and practices. Although in a SA higher education context, this research could be beneficial to HE contexts globally, given the ubiquity of AD work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Williams, Sandra , Adams, Anthea , Geduld-van Wyk, Charlene , Muhuro, Patricia
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/425705 , vital:72277 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.14426/cristal.v12iSI1.2117"
- Description: We, Academic Development (AD) practitioners, question whether AD's objective in South Africa (SA) as a'liberatory educational and social movement'to enhance educational quality for all students, is effectively pursued. AD practitioners often work on the fringes of the academy, fighting for relevance and legitimacy within an increasingly performative and managerialist academic culture. Despite innovative AD initiatives AD work is criticised for being unresponsive, unreflexive, conformist, and lacking theoretical, scholarly, and critical engagement. We use critical pedagogical praxis, particularly the constructs of critique, reflexivity, power, and self-reflection, to interrogate the continuous tension between AD intention and practice. Through (un) conference methodology, this auto-ethnographic account of individual and collective engagements, using the" holding the mirror up" metaphor, critically questioned the tension and misalignments between the AD mandate and practices. Although in a SA higher education context, this research could be beneficial to HE contexts globally, given the ubiquity of AD work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Human–crocodile interactions in the western Solomon Islands: the importance of local data for reducing attacks on people
- Aswani, Shankar, Matanzima, Joshua
- Authors: Aswani, Shankar , Matanzima, Joshua
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/439922 , vital:73720 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1017/S003060532300176X"
- Description: Interactions between people and the saltwater crocodile Crocodylus porosus frequently occur on islands and in coastal regions. Saltwater crocodiles impact people's lives and livelihoods by attacking them, resulting in minor or serious injuries, and by interfering in people's foraging activities. Retaliation may include killing the crocodiles involved. To reduce such human–crocodile interactions, data about the occurrence of incidents are required. We present data on encounters with crocodiles and attacks on people in the Roviana Lagoon, Solomon Islands. Data includes time of incident, gender, age and activity of the victim, water conditions and what happened to the crocodile after the incident. We used a questionnaire to capture the details of incidents that occurred during 2000–2020 in the villages of Dunde, Baraulu, Nusa Hope and Kozou. Most incidents were in the evening, mostly involving women, and most victims were aged 20–39 years or ≥ 60 years. In all cases people were attacked while gleaning for shellfish in the mangroves. Attacks occurred irrespective of whether the water was clear or murky, and in all cases the crocodiles were not killed. Such site-specific data will facilitate the formulation of strategies for reducing negative interactions between people and crocodiles in this particular location. Although the saltwater crocodile is categorized as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, research such as this provides data that can be used for promoting coexistence with and conservation of this species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Aswani, Shankar , Matanzima, Joshua
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/439922 , vital:73720 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1017/S003060532300176X"
- Description: Interactions between people and the saltwater crocodile Crocodylus porosus frequently occur on islands and in coastal regions. Saltwater crocodiles impact people's lives and livelihoods by attacking them, resulting in minor or serious injuries, and by interfering in people's foraging activities. Retaliation may include killing the crocodiles involved. To reduce such human–crocodile interactions, data about the occurrence of incidents are required. We present data on encounters with crocodiles and attacks on people in the Roviana Lagoon, Solomon Islands. Data includes time of incident, gender, age and activity of the victim, water conditions and what happened to the crocodile after the incident. We used a questionnaire to capture the details of incidents that occurred during 2000–2020 in the villages of Dunde, Baraulu, Nusa Hope and Kozou. Most incidents were in the evening, mostly involving women, and most victims were aged 20–39 years or ≥ 60 years. In all cases people were attacked while gleaning for shellfish in the mangroves. Attacks occurred irrespective of whether the water was clear or murky, and in all cases the crocodiles were not killed. Such site-specific data will facilitate the formulation of strategies for reducing negative interactions between people and crocodiles in this particular location. Although the saltwater crocodile is categorized as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, research such as this provides data that can be used for promoting coexistence with and conservation of this species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Improving access to evidence-based interventions for trauma-exposed adults in low-and middle-income countries
- Kaminer, Debra, Booysen, Duane D, Ellis, Kate, Kristensen, Christian H, Patel, Anushka R, Robjant, Katy, Sardana, Srishti
- Authors: Kaminer, Debra , Booysen, Duane D , Ellis, Kate , Kristensen, Christian H , Patel, Anushka R , Robjant, Katy , Sardana, Srishti
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/454095 , vital:75309 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.23031"
- Description: In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the mental health consequences of trauma exposure pose a substantial personal, societal, and economic burden. Yet, the significant need for evidence-based mental health treatment remains largely unmet. To unlock the potential for mental health care for trauma survivors in lower-resource contexts, it is critical to map treatment barriers and identify strategies to improve access to evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and scalable interventions. This review, based on an International Society for Traumatic Stress (ISTSS) briefing paper, describes the treatment gap facing adults with traumatic stress in LMICs and identifies the barriers that contribute to this gap. We then highlight strategies for enhancing access to effective treatments for these populations, including task-sharing, the use of culturally adapted and multiproblem interventions, and digital tools to scale access to appropriate care. Finally, we offer recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and service providers to guide an agenda for action to close the treatment gap for trauma survivors in LMICs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Kaminer, Debra , Booysen, Duane D , Ellis, Kate , Kristensen, Christian H , Patel, Anushka R , Robjant, Katy , Sardana, Srishti
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/454095 , vital:75309 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.23031"
- Description: In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the mental health consequences of trauma exposure pose a substantial personal, societal, and economic burden. Yet, the significant need for evidence-based mental health treatment remains largely unmet. To unlock the potential for mental health care for trauma survivors in lower-resource contexts, it is critical to map treatment barriers and identify strategies to improve access to evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and scalable interventions. This review, based on an International Society for Traumatic Stress (ISTSS) briefing paper, describes the treatment gap facing adults with traumatic stress in LMICs and identifies the barriers that contribute to this gap. We then highlight strategies for enhancing access to effective treatments for these populations, including task-sharing, the use of culturally adapted and multiproblem interventions, and digital tools to scale access to appropriate care. Finally, we offer recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and service providers to guide an agenda for action to close the treatment gap for trauma survivors in LMICs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Indigenous African language media: practices and processes: Phillip Mpofu, Israel Ayinla Fadipe and Thulani Tshabangu (eds). 2023: Book review
- Authors: Aiseng, Kealeboga
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/455257 , vital:75416 , https://doi.org/10.1080/02572117.2024.2324032
- Description: Research on indigenous African language media is ongoing (see Chibuwe and Salawu, 2020; Chikaipa and Gunde, 2020; Aiseng, 2022). Scholars constantly embark on this fascinating journey encompassing various topics, including lan-guage preservation, cultural representation, media policy and audience reception. Research has proven that media products in indigenous African languages are growing exponentially, with media creatives continuing to see the need to produce content in these languages. Films, songs, soap operas and digital media tools increasingly endorse African indigenous languages as their primary mode of de-livery, challenging and unsettling the monopoly that Indo-european languages have enjoyed in these spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Aiseng, Kealeboga
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/455257 , vital:75416 , https://doi.org/10.1080/02572117.2024.2324032
- Description: Research on indigenous African language media is ongoing (see Chibuwe and Salawu, 2020; Chikaipa and Gunde, 2020; Aiseng, 2022). Scholars constantly embark on this fascinating journey encompassing various topics, including lan-guage preservation, cultural representation, media policy and audience reception. Research has proven that media products in indigenous African languages are growing exponentially, with media creatives continuing to see the need to produce content in these languages. Films, songs, soap operas and digital media tools increasingly endorse African indigenous languages as their primary mode of de-livery, challenging and unsettling the monopoly that Indo-european languages have enjoyed in these spaces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Indigenous knowledge systems and science education
- Authors: Blackie, Margaret A L
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480462 , vital:78444 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajsci-v120-n5-a5
- Description: The inclusion of indigenous knowledge into the curricula of natural science courses remains contentious. In this paper I use critical realism to show the relationship between these two forms of knowledge. An engagement with both knowledge structures could afford better pedagogy and assessment. In addition, the engagement with indigenous knowledge allows for the development of 'knower awareness' in the practice of science. Meaningful engagement with indigenous knowledge could therefore enhance science education, whilst making visible the socio-cultural relevance to students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Blackie, Margaret A L
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480462 , vital:78444 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajsci-v120-n5-a5
- Description: The inclusion of indigenous knowledge into the curricula of natural science courses remains contentious. In this paper I use critical realism to show the relationship between these two forms of knowledge. An engagement with both knowledge structures could afford better pedagogy and assessment. In addition, the engagement with indigenous knowledge allows for the development of 'knower awareness' in the practice of science. Meaningful engagement with indigenous knowledge could therefore enhance science education, whilst making visible the socio-cultural relevance to students.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Inhibitory effects of selected cannabinoids against dipeptidyl peptidase IV, an enzyme linked to type 2 diabetes
- Mkabayi, Lithalethu, Viljoen, Zenobia, Krause, Rui W M, Lobb, Kevin A, Pletschke, Brett I, Frost, Carminita L
- Authors: Mkabayi, Lithalethu , Viljoen, Zenobia , Krause, Rui W M , Lobb, Kevin A , Pletschke, Brett I , Frost, Carminita L
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/452760 , vital:75168 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23289"
- Description: Ethnopharmacological relevance: In recent times the decriminalisation of cannabis globally has increased its use as an alternative medication. Where it has been used in modern medicinal practises since the 1800s, there is limited scientific investigation to understand the biological activities of this plant. Aim of the study: Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) plays a key role in regulating glucose homeostasis, and inhibition of this enzyme has been used as a therapeutic approach to treat type 2 diabetes. However, some of the synthetic inhibitors for this enzyme available on the market may cause undesirable side effects. Therefore, it is important to identify new inhibitors of DPP-IV and to understand their interaction with this enzyme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Mkabayi, Lithalethu , Viljoen, Zenobia , Krause, Rui W M , Lobb, Kevin A , Pletschke, Brett I , Frost, Carminita L
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/452760 , vital:75168 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23289"
- Description: Ethnopharmacological relevance: In recent times the decriminalisation of cannabis globally has increased its use as an alternative medication. Where it has been used in modern medicinal practises since the 1800s, there is limited scientific investigation to understand the biological activities of this plant. Aim of the study: Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) plays a key role in regulating glucose homeostasis, and inhibition of this enzyme has been used as a therapeutic approach to treat type 2 diabetes. However, some of the synthetic inhibitors for this enzyme available on the market may cause undesirable side effects. Therefore, it is important to identify new inhibitors of DPP-IV and to understand their interaction with this enzyme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Interrelated transformative process dynamics in the face of resource nexus challenges an invitation towards cross case analysis
- Lotz-Sisitka, Heila, Pahl-Wostl, Claudia, Meissner, Richard, Scholz, Geeske, Cockburn, Jessica J, Jalasi, Experencia M, Stuart-Hill, Sabine, Palmer, Carolyn G
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Pahl-Wostl, Claudia , Meissner, Richard , Scholz, Geeske , Cockburn, Jessica J , Jalasi, Experencia M , Stuart-Hill, Sabine , Palmer, Carolyn G
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/482626 , vital:78672 , https://doi.org/10.1080/26395916.2023.2297707
- Description: The need for more attention to the social and human dimensions in global change sciences and natural resources management requires in-depth understandings of transformative approaches and processes. More inclusive and systemic approaches are needed that embrace complexity and support transformative learning, shifts in power relations, collective and relational agency and structural transformations for adaptive and innovative governance. Scientific understanding of how such change can be brought about is still limited. In this paper, which sets the scene for this Special Issue, we develop a conceptual framework for analyzing transformative processes across a range of diverse cases. Aspects of the conceptual framework are applied, tested and elaborated in three following papers in the Special Issue, deepening understanding of how transformative change in complex social-ecological systems may originate at nexus boundary zones such as that portrayed by the water-food-energy nexus. Specifically, the paper conceptually elaborates four iteratively related dynamics of transformative learning, transforming power relations, transformative agency and transforming structures which intersect in transformation processes. The perspectives offer tools for cross case analysis in the longer term, but also tools for supporting co-engaged, generative research processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila , Pahl-Wostl, Claudia , Meissner, Richard , Scholz, Geeske , Cockburn, Jessica J , Jalasi, Experencia M , Stuart-Hill, Sabine , Palmer, Carolyn G
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/482626 , vital:78672 , https://doi.org/10.1080/26395916.2023.2297707
- Description: The need for more attention to the social and human dimensions in global change sciences and natural resources management requires in-depth understandings of transformative approaches and processes. More inclusive and systemic approaches are needed that embrace complexity and support transformative learning, shifts in power relations, collective and relational agency and structural transformations for adaptive and innovative governance. Scientific understanding of how such change can be brought about is still limited. In this paper, which sets the scene for this Special Issue, we develop a conceptual framework for analyzing transformative processes across a range of diverse cases. Aspects of the conceptual framework are applied, tested and elaborated in three following papers in the Special Issue, deepening understanding of how transformative change in complex social-ecological systems may originate at nexus boundary zones such as that portrayed by the water-food-energy nexus. Specifically, the paper conceptually elaborates four iteratively related dynamics of transformative learning, transforming power relations, transformative agency and transforming structures which intersect in transformation processes. The perspectives offer tools for cross case analysis in the longer term, but also tools for supporting co-engaged, generative research processes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Issues with corpus planning in Zimbabwe’s previously marginalised languages in Matabeleland
- Nhongo, Raphael, Nkomo, Dion
- Authors: Nhongo, Raphael , Nkomo, Dion
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/468001 , vital:76999 , https://doi.org/10.1080/01434632.2024.2323166
- Description: The promulgation of Zimbabwe’s current constitution amendment number 20, in 2013, brought hope to the previously marginalised languages in the country. In the founding provisions of the amendment, it is stated that 16 of the languages of Zimbabwe are officially recognised. Prior to the current constitution, only English, Ndebele and Shona were recognised. The paper scrutinises corpus planning activities that have taken place in the previously marginalised languages that are found in Matabeleland region. The analysis of corpus planning activities in these languages was done through a qualitative phenomenological design. Two members from each of the associations of these languages were interviewed. The results of the study indicate that the accomplishment of success in corpus planning is hampered by approaches that are asynchronous with modern day linguistic realities. Realistic language practices that are not influenced by prescriptivism, selfishness and mere recognition of the language need to be adopted in contemplation for successful corpus planning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Nhongo, Raphael , Nkomo, Dion
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/468001 , vital:76999 , https://doi.org/10.1080/01434632.2024.2323166
- Description: The promulgation of Zimbabwe’s current constitution amendment number 20, in 2013, brought hope to the previously marginalised languages in the country. In the founding provisions of the amendment, it is stated that 16 of the languages of Zimbabwe are officially recognised. Prior to the current constitution, only English, Ndebele and Shona were recognised. The paper scrutinises corpus planning activities that have taken place in the previously marginalised languages that are found in Matabeleland region. The analysis of corpus planning activities in these languages was done through a qualitative phenomenological design. Two members from each of the associations of these languages were interviewed. The results of the study indicate that the accomplishment of success in corpus planning is hampered by approaches that are asynchronous with modern day linguistic realities. Realistic language practices that are not influenced by prescriptivism, selfishness and mere recognition of the language need to be adopted in contemplation for successful corpus planning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Leachates from pyroplastics alter the behaviour of a key ecosystem engineer
- Zardi, Gerardo I, Seuront, Laurent, Spilmont, Niolas, Froneman, P William, Nicastro, Katy R
- Authors: Zardi, Gerardo I , Seuront, Laurent , Spilmont, Niolas , Froneman, P William , Nicastro, Katy R
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/479264 , vital:78280 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecss.2024.108740
- Description: As plastic pollution is increasing rapidly, novel forms of plastic litter have been lately described. One of most recently described type of plastic litter is pyroplastic, i.e. an amorphous matrix derived from the burning of manufactured plastics. We surveyed 12 locations along northern French shores where mussel reefs are a predominant feature. We recorded pyroplastic items at six sites (average weight of 3.34g) mainly made of polyethylene. We then tested the effects of exposure to raw and beached pyroplastic leachates on adaptive behavioural traits of the mussel Mytilus edulis, a key ecosystem engineer. The ability of mussels to move and aggregate were significantly affected by pyroplastic leachates, particularly those from beached pyroplastics. Additionally, the strength of the effects was polymer-dependent, with PE having a more pronounced effects than PP. Our results provide the first evidence that pyroplastics have more severe impacts on living organisms than those triggered by non-burnt plastics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Zardi, Gerardo I , Seuront, Laurent , Spilmont, Niolas , Froneman, P William , Nicastro, Katy R
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/479264 , vital:78280 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecss.2024.108740
- Description: As plastic pollution is increasing rapidly, novel forms of plastic litter have been lately described. One of most recently described type of plastic litter is pyroplastic, i.e. an amorphous matrix derived from the burning of manufactured plastics. We surveyed 12 locations along northern French shores where mussel reefs are a predominant feature. We recorded pyroplastic items at six sites (average weight of 3.34g) mainly made of polyethylene. We then tested the effects of exposure to raw and beached pyroplastic leachates on adaptive behavioural traits of the mussel Mytilus edulis, a key ecosystem engineer. The ability of mussels to move and aggregate were significantly affected by pyroplastic leachates, particularly those from beached pyroplastics. Additionally, the strength of the effects was polymer-dependent, with PE having a more pronounced effects than PP. Our results provide the first evidence that pyroplastics have more severe impacts on living organisms than those triggered by non-burnt plastics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Local and national stakeholders collaborate to take on Prosopis invasions with biological control and biomass use in South Africa
- Ivey, Philip J, Van Staden, Gretha, Harding, Graham, Oosthuizen, Dirk, Hoft, Elmarie, Van Staden, Philip, Anthonissen, Eben, Weaver, Kim N, Hill, Martin P, Shackleton, Ross T
- Authors: Ivey, Philip J , Van Staden, Gretha , Harding, Graham , Oosthuizen, Dirk , Hoft, Elmarie , Van Staden, Philip , Anthonissen, Eben , Weaver, Kim N , Hill, Martin P , Shackleton, Ross T
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480506 , vital:78450 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajsci-v120-n9-a20
- Description: Research that directs the way stakeholders act and how they collaborate is essential when addressing complex environmental challenges in the field of sustainability science. For example, researchers attempting to manage Prosopis invasions through biological control in South Africa have historically faced challenges from stakeholders. In this study, we illustrate the impor tance of stakeholder engagement and social learning by outlining the collaborative effor ts of various stakeholders to promote effective, integrative and sustainable management of Prosopis invasions in the Nor thern Cape, South Africa. Through a community of practice approach, stakeholders worked together over the past half-decade in an attempt to develop a National Strategy for Prosopis management and improve its control. This strategy aimed not only to emphasise the need for integration of biomass use (aimed at offsetting the costs of mechanical clearing and necessary herbicide use) but also to underscore the significance of biocontrol alongside other management approaches. Stakeholders also identified that adequate farm-scale planning is necessary to provide a sense of purpose and assist in monitoring of progress. We worked alongside land managers and exper ts to develop such plans. The engagement of local champions played a crucial role in facilitating collaboration and learning among stakeholders, emphasising the significance of inclusive approaches in addressing complex sustainability challenges. In addition, we gained an understanding of how to develop the community of practice to enhance collaboration that ensures the implementation of plans to better manage Prosopis. Our findings underscore the necessity of meaningful stakeholder engagement and collaboration in effective invasive species management. By promoting understanding and involvement of diverse stakeholders, initiatives can have a greater impact in addressing broader sustainability issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Ivey, Philip J , Van Staden, Gretha , Harding, Graham , Oosthuizen, Dirk , Hoft, Elmarie , Van Staden, Philip , Anthonissen, Eben , Weaver, Kim N , Hill, Martin P , Shackleton, Ross T
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/480506 , vital:78450 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajsci-v120-n9-a20
- Description: Research that directs the way stakeholders act and how they collaborate is essential when addressing complex environmental challenges in the field of sustainability science. For example, researchers attempting to manage Prosopis invasions through biological control in South Africa have historically faced challenges from stakeholders. In this study, we illustrate the impor tance of stakeholder engagement and social learning by outlining the collaborative effor ts of various stakeholders to promote effective, integrative and sustainable management of Prosopis invasions in the Nor thern Cape, South Africa. Through a community of practice approach, stakeholders worked together over the past half-decade in an attempt to develop a National Strategy for Prosopis management and improve its control. This strategy aimed not only to emphasise the need for integration of biomass use (aimed at offsetting the costs of mechanical clearing and necessary herbicide use) but also to underscore the significance of biocontrol alongside other management approaches. Stakeholders also identified that adequate farm-scale planning is necessary to provide a sense of purpose and assist in monitoring of progress. We worked alongside land managers and exper ts to develop such plans. The engagement of local champions played a crucial role in facilitating collaboration and learning among stakeholders, emphasising the significance of inclusive approaches in addressing complex sustainability challenges. In addition, we gained an understanding of how to develop the community of practice to enhance collaboration that ensures the implementation of plans to better manage Prosopis. Our findings underscore the necessity of meaningful stakeholder engagement and collaboration in effective invasive species management. By promoting understanding and involvement of diverse stakeholders, initiatives can have a greater impact in addressing broader sustainability issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Macro-locational determinants of Chinese foreign direct investment in Cameroon
- Andangnui, Quintabella, Louw, Lynette, Cattaneo, Nicolette S
- Authors: Andangnui, Quintabella , Louw, Lynette , Cattaneo, Nicolette S
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/470199 , vital:77335 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajce_v27_n1_a5714
- Description: Macro-locational determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) constitute a country’s comparative advantage in attracting FDI. Although literature identifies potential determinants of Chinese FDI, empirical studies reveal significant variation across countries, necessitating investigation of specific macro-locational factors in each context. Despite its abundant resources and reliance on FDI for development, Cameroon has experienced slow FDI growth. Efforts to enhance trade and investment relations between Cameroon and China make an understanding of Chinese FDI drivers crucial for policymakers. This study aims to ascertain the significance of macro-locational determinants in attracting Chinese FDI to Cameroon.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Andangnui, Quintabella , Louw, Lynette , Cattaneo, Nicolette S
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/470199 , vital:77335 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/ejc-sajce_v27_n1_a5714
- Description: Macro-locational determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) constitute a country’s comparative advantage in attracting FDI. Although literature identifies potential determinants of Chinese FDI, empirical studies reveal significant variation across countries, necessitating investigation of specific macro-locational factors in each context. Despite its abundant resources and reliance on FDI for development, Cameroon has experienced slow FDI growth. Efforts to enhance trade and investment relations between Cameroon and China make an understanding of Chinese FDI drivers crucial for policymakers. This study aims to ascertain the significance of macro-locational determinants in attracting Chinese FDI to Cameroon.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Maize seed variety identification model using image processing and deep learning
- Gebeyehu, Seffi, Shibeshi, Zelalem S
- Authors: Gebeyehu, Seffi , Shibeshi, Zelalem S
- Date: 2024
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/429191 , vital:72566 , DOI: 10.11591/ijeecs.v33.i2.pp990-9985
- Description: Maize is Ethiopia’s dominant cereal crop regarding area coverage and production level. There are different varieties of maize in Ethiopia. Maize varieties are classified based on morphological features such as shape and size. Due to the nature of maize seed and its rotation variant, studies are still needed to identify Ethiopian maize seed varieties. With expert eyes, identification of maize seed varieties is difficult due to their similar morphological features and visual similarities. We proposed a hybrid feature-based maize variety identification model to solve this problem. For training and testing the model, images of each maize variety were collected from the adet agriculture and research center (AARC), Ethiopia. A multi-class support vector machine (MCSVM) classifier was employed on a hybrid of handcrafted (ie, gabor and histogram of oriented gradients) and convolutional neural network (CNN)-based feature selection techniques and achieved an overall classification accuracy of 99%.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Gebeyehu, Seffi , Shibeshi, Zelalem S
- Date: 2024
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/429191 , vital:72566 , DOI: 10.11591/ijeecs.v33.i2.pp990-9985
- Description: Maize is Ethiopia’s dominant cereal crop regarding area coverage and production level. There are different varieties of maize in Ethiopia. Maize varieties are classified based on morphological features such as shape and size. Due to the nature of maize seed and its rotation variant, studies are still needed to identify Ethiopian maize seed varieties. With expert eyes, identification of maize seed varieties is difficult due to their similar morphological features and visual similarities. We proposed a hybrid feature-based maize variety identification model to solve this problem. For training and testing the model, images of each maize variety were collected from the adet agriculture and research center (AARC), Ethiopia. A multi-class support vector machine (MCSVM) classifier was employed on a hybrid of handcrafted (ie, gabor and histogram of oriented gradients) and convolutional neural network (CNN)-based feature selection techniques and achieved an overall classification accuracy of 99%.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
Measuring intra-industry trade and productivity in the South African pharmaceutical sector
- Malimba, Nwabisa, Mutambara, Tsitsi E, Marire, Juniours
- Authors: Malimba, Nwabisa , Mutambara, Tsitsi E , Marire, Juniours
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/470864 , vital:77402 , https://doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v27i1.5486
- Description: The South African pharmaceutical sector is Africa's largest and most advanced but heavily depends on imported products and active pharmaceutical ingredients to meet its demands. The status quo is due to low intra-industry trade, which is necessary to induce innovation and technological progress essential for accelerating local production, export growth and reducing dependence on imports. AIM: The primary objective of this article was to examine intra-industry trade in South Africa's pharmaceutical sector and subsequently, total factor productivity (TFP) as a key driver of intra-industry trade. Intra-industry trade was measured using data obtained from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development databases, while the TFP was measured using data from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) covering 2001-2021.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024
- Authors: Malimba, Nwabisa , Mutambara, Tsitsi E , Marire, Juniours
- Date: 2024
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/470864 , vital:77402 , https://doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v27i1.5486
- Description: The South African pharmaceutical sector is Africa's largest and most advanced but heavily depends on imported products and active pharmaceutical ingredients to meet its demands. The status quo is due to low intra-industry trade, which is necessary to induce innovation and technological progress essential for accelerating local production, export growth and reducing dependence on imports. AIM: The primary objective of this article was to examine intra-industry trade in South Africa's pharmaceutical sector and subsequently, total factor productivity (TFP) as a key driver of intra-industry trade. Intra-industry trade was measured using data obtained from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development databases, while the TFP was measured using data from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) covering 2001-2021.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024