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An Assessment of the Effect of Rotenone on Selected Non-Target Aquatic Fauna: Reflections on Henri Lefebre, Urban Theory and the Politics of Scale

  • Authors: Dalu, Tatenda , Wasserman, Ryan J , Jordaan, Martine , Froneman, Pierre William
  • Date: 2015
  • Language: English
  • Type: text , article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/70425 , vital:29654 , https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0142140
  • Description: Rotenone, a naturally occurring ketone, is widely employed for the management of invasive fish species. The use of rotenone poses serious challenges to conservation practitioners due to its impacts on non-target organisms including amphibians and macroinvertebrates. Using laboratory studies, we investigated the effects of different rotenone concentrations (0,12.5, 25, 37.5, 50, 100 μg L-1) on selected invertebrate groups; Aeshnidae, Belostomatids, Decapods, Ephemeroptera, Pulmonata and zooplankton over a period of 18 hours. Based on field observations and body size, we hypothesized that Ephemeropterans and zooplankton would be more susceptible to rotenone than Decapods, Belostomatids and snails. Experimental results supported this hypothesis and mortality and behaviour effects varied considerably between taxa, ranging from no effect (crab Potamonuates sidneyi) to 100% mortality (Daphnia pulex and Paradiaptomus lamellatus). Planktonic invertebrates were particularly sensitive to rotenone even at very low concentrations. Future research should investigate the recovery time of invertebrate communities after the application of rotenone and conduct field assessments assessing the longer term effects of rotenone exposure on the population dynamics of those less sensitive organisms.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the effectiveness of school governing bodies in implementing school policy: a case study of Xengxe Junior Secondary School in King William's Town district

  • Authors: Ngcuka, Zimkhita Zenith
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School administrators -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , M Admin
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1719 , vital:27552
  • Description: This study looks at School Governing Bodies and its role and their effectiveness in school management. In terms of the South African Schools Act, all schools are now required to have School Government Bodies to compliment the formal school administrative structures. The research looks at how these bodies have functioned in a rural context. The empirical evidence, supported by other research evidence show that even though these bodies are sometimes dutifully constituted in schools, their functionality and effectiveness remains limited due to a number of reasons. This research study has shown that the ineffectiveness of SGBs in a rural context is attributed to that following key issues- firstly, there is limited knowledge of the functions of SGB, which can be traced to the lack of training on the body member; secondly, there is a inadequate framework in many public schools to engage with the SGBs; and finally there is a lack of school resources to make effective use of these bodies.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the implementation of employment equity: Department of Transport in the province of the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Mqingwana, Phelo Zolisa
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11335 , vital:26912
  • Description: During the apartheid era black people were systematically excluded from all positions of influence in the state and civil society. The majority of senior posts in government were held by whites, in particular, white males. Women and people with disabilities were similarly disadvantaged and marginalised, particularly those from black communities. With the new post-apartheid dispensation, the democratic government took a conscious decision to change that situation. It is against this background that that the Employment Equity Act (EEA) was introduced in 1998. The two main aims of the Act are: to achieve employment equity by promoting equal opportunity and fair treatment in employment through the elimination of unfair discrimination; and to implement the affirmative action measures, to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups in order to ensure their equitable representation in all occupational categories and levels in the workforce. The implement of EEA in the Eastern Cape Department of Transport (ECDOT) has so far not been very successful as the Department still has not managed to meet the set targets. According to their Employment Equity Plan (EEP), the senior management level (SMS) is still dominated by males. Although the situation is slightly better at the middle management level, it is still far from being ideal. The lower ranks are dominated by females. With regard to people with disabilities (PWDs) the Department is still far from meeting their 2% target. The purpose of this research was to determine if the ECDOT has been able to implement the dictates of the EEA. It aims to look at ways in which the EEA can best be implemented in order to ensure that the desired results are achieved. This study was prompted by the fact that the ECDOT has not managed to reach the EEA targets in hiring people with disabilities (PDWs) and elevating women to senior positions. The study explored the views of the employees of the Department regarding the implementation of EE. It was conducted using the quantitative approach. 90 employees were asked to respond to a structured questionnaire designed by the researcher. The findings of the study indicate that although in some areas the Department has been able to successfully implement EE, issues of racial equity, diversity, infrastructure conducive for people with disabilities, recruitment practices, and management commitment still need to be improved on. The study recommends, amongst others, that managers should provide leadership in the implementation process, more recruitment sources should be explored, suitable infrastructure must be provided, diversity issues must be addressed through workshops and training sessions, employee participation needs to be ensured, and that feedback must always be provided to EE beneficiaries in order to keep make sure they remain within the organisation and continue to improve.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the in vitro neuroprotective potential of selected Algerian and South African medicinal plant extracts

  • Authors: Fewell, William
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Medicinal plants -- South Africa , Nervous system -- Alternative treatment -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8608 , vital:26411
  • Description: It is estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO) that by 2040 neurodegenerative disorders will collectively surpass cancer as the primary cause of death in industrialised countries (WHO,2006). Natural flora represents one of the most important therapeutic sources in modern drug discovery, however only a limited number of plant species have been screened for their neuroprotective value. The neuroprotective potential of eleven Algerian and two South African medicinal plant extracts were assessed in this study, aiming to identify promising candidates for future research. Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease are characterised by distinct biochemical features, including protein misfolding/-aggregation, excessive oxidative stress and apoptotic cell death. As such, medicinal plant extracts were screened for biological properties directly relevant to neurodegeneration. The capacity to induce autophagy was also investigated as mounting evidence suggests that activation of this pathway may reduce abnormal protein aggregation and promote neuronal survival.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the management of the quality of Education and its impact on Learners’ academic performance in selected Schools in Mthatha, South Africa

  • Authors: Kariyana, Israel
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Quality education -- Schools -- South Africa Academic performance -- Learners -- South Africa -- Mthatha School management – Teaching and learning School management team (SMT)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D Ed
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/11260/1302 , vital:30800
  • Description: The study sought to assess the impact on learners‘ academic performance of the management of the quality of education in South African schools. The study was conducted in ten independent and ten public schools in Mthatha. The study elicited information for quantitative data from 60 school management team (SMT) members, 200 educators and 400 learners who were randomly sampled from the participating purposively sampled schools. Qualitative data and document analysis were used to triangulate quantitative findings. Data collected was coded and analysed thematically. Quantitative data were analysed with the aid of the SPSS version 22 and qualitative data were analysed through content analysis. Quantitative data were presented through a blend of both descriptive and inferential statistics using tables and graphs. The study found that school management teams (SMTs) and educators were more aware than learners that there are national and provincial legislation mandates that guide the management of quality in education. However, stakeholders were of the view that schools did not use relevant national, provincial and school-based policies and procedures to guide the provision and management of quality in education. It also emerged that learners did not conduct themselves in a manner that promoted the provision of quality education. Participants were, nevertheless agreeable on the indicators of high-quality education. SMTs and educators held stronger views than learners about schools having clear vision and mission statements (VMS) in place but neither were displayed for all to see nor were they well known to and supported by the ii SMTs, educators and learners, thus they were not implemented. The study also established that respondents were aware of the educator-centred, SMT-centred as well as learner-centred factors that affected the quality of education and that factors that promote high-quality education were largely absent in schools. Stakeholders also agreed about the effects of factors that affected the quality of education on learner performance such as poor training and development of educators. It emerged that there were positive SMT-centred factors such as promoting professional development of staff; educator-centred factors including maintaining exceptional lesson planning standards and presentation skills; learner-centred factors being geared towards school work while high parental involvement in school activities emerged as the overriding home-based factor noted to have a strong, positive impact on the provision of quality education and learner performance. It also emerged from the study that inter-alia, stakeholders viewed performance measurement and management as important and holding SMTs and educators accountable for poor school performance as an imperative measure for the provision of quality education. Recommendations for practice and for further research were made with a view to improving the management of the quality of education in schools. In light of that, a model for the management of the quality of education and learner performance was proposed.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the municipal infrastructure and systems and their implications on the small town revitalisation strategy at Engcobo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape

  • Authors: Xuba, Zibele
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal finance -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2888 , vital:28121
  • Description: This study was conducted at Engcobo Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province to assess the role of municipal structures and systems in the implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. From onset, it highlights that numerous attempts to implement small town revitalisation have failed because of lack of institutional capacity. In addressing this problem, the study outlined the following objectives. To assess role played by municipal structures and systems on implementation of small town revitalisation. To identify institutional challenges experienced during implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. To propose alternative institutional measures that can lead to effective implementation of small town revitalisation. In achieving the study’s objectives; literature from both developed and developing countries was reviewed and it was learnt that institutional capacity is important for efficient implementation of the strategy. Systems theory was also reviewed so as to provide conceptual basis that underpins this study. Data was collected through primary methods and secondary sources. Research participants were chosen by random sampling from councillors, managers, business and traditional leaders. Research findings revealed that there were institutional problems which hinder implementation of the strategy such as lack of competent human resources, insufficient budget and shortages of machinery. Through analysis of findings, the research proposed that small town revitalisation strategy should be reformulated and role of municipal structures be clearly defined. Both councillors and officials should be capacitated. The study further recommended that local people and stakeholders should be involved in the conception and implementation of small town revitalisation strategy. Areas for further research were proposed at the end.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of the records management system with reference to the Amathole District Municipality

  • Authors: Ncamani, Nomsa
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Records -- Management Information resources management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Filing systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11353 , vital:26914
  • Description: Section 13 of the Eastern Cape Provincial Archives and Records Act, 2003 requires the Amathole District Municipality to manage its records in a well-structured record-keeping system, and to put the necessary policies and procedures in place to ensure that record- keeping and records management practices comply with the requirements of the Act. The study investigated the interventions that can be made to improve and promote the best system (centralised versus a decentralised records system) in terms of space resources through greater co-ordination of information management and storage systems with reference to the Amathole District Municipality. A quantitative research methodology was employed to collect data. The empirical component of the treatise utilised self-administered questionnaires. Purposive sampling was used to identify the target population at the ADM. The researcher specifically selected the users of records, namely; senior manager, mid-managers, supervisors and administration assistants. The need for training, workshops and awareness were identified as the main challenges to records management and to the employees’ understanding of the system in place at the ADM. The findings recommended that the municipality should select the records management system that best supports the conduct of business in an orderly, efficient, and accountable manner. The system should ensure that documents provide evidence of business and contribute to the cultural identity and collective memory of the ADM. Further research on the existing records management system is recommended for the Amathole District Municipality.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An assessment of vegetation condition of small, ephemeral wetlands ecosystem in a conserved and non-conserved area of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole

  • Authors: Dlamini, Mandla E
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Wetland conservation -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Wetland ecology -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Remote sensing -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/4653 , vital:20626
  • Description: Wetlands in South Africa are increasingly coming under threat from agriculture and urban development and rapidly disappearing, especially small, ephemeral wetlands. In response to the many threats to wetlands, South Africa has seen an increased interest in wetland research, which has introduced many methods to help standardize the approach to research, management and conservation of wetlands. Remote sensing can be a powerful tool to monitor changes in wetland vegetation and degradation leading to losses in wetlands. However, research into wetland ecosystems has focused on large systems (> 8 ha). Small wetlands (< 2 ha), by contrast, are often overlooked and unprotected due to the lack of detailed inventories at a scale that is appropriate for their inclusion. The main aim of this study was to determine if remote sensing (RS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) techniques could detect changes in small, ephemeral wetlands within areas under different management regimes in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole (NMBM) at different time intervals. Further, to explore the potential of hyperspectral remote sensing for the discrimination between plant species and to see if differences could be detected in the same species within two areas different management regimes. Four SPOT satellite images taken within a 6-year period (2006-2012) were analysed to detect land cover land changes. Supervised classification to classify land cover classes and post-classification change detection was used. Proportions of dense vegetation were higher in the conservation area and bare surface was higher outside that conservation area in the metropolitan open space area. Statistical tests were performed to compare the spectral responses of the four individual wetland sites using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and red edge position (REP) .REP results for conserved sites showed significant differences (P < 0.05), as opposed to non-conserved ones. By implication, wetland vegetation that is in less degraded condition can be spectrally discriminated, than the one that is most degraded. Field spectroscopy and multi-temporal imagery can be useful in studying small wetlands.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An empirical study on staff turnover and retention within Eskom : Eastern Cape Operating Unit

  • Authors: Chibba, Rajesh Chagan
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Eskom (Firm) , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Employee retention -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Job satisfaction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Career development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: vital:847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017514
  • Description: This research paper is broken up into three sections, namely an evaluation report, a literature review and a description of the research methodology. The evaluation report section is an assessment of the factors that could contribute to staff leaving the organisation and why staff would choose to remain with the organisation. The Distribution Division of Eskom is divided into nine separate Operating Units (OU's), in line with the nine Provinces. According to an Eskom Human Resource Manager (Mjali, 2013), as at March 2012 there were 2231 employees in the Easter Cape Operating Unit, while the staff turnover for the same period was 4.53%. Of the 101 staff that had resigned for the period 01 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, there were 27 transfers, 26 resignations and 30 retirements. The balance of 18 staff that left was due to dismissals and deaths. While the statistics suggest a healthy level of staff turnover at present, given the current pressures that Eskom employees are under, it is important to investigate their future intentions and to see what Eskom can do to continue to retain their services. The literature relating to staff turnover and retention was examined to determine the meaning of the terms retention and turnover and to review the relevant turnover topics that were emerging from the exit interview data. The research conducted was quantitative in nature, and a questionnaire was distributed to all managerial staff within the Eastern Cape Operating Unit of Eskom. The questionnaire was sent electronically to the participants via email with the link to the questionnaire. Participants were requested to respond on questions relating to factors on turnover and retention, and the responses were used to assess employee's intention to either remain with the organisation or to leave. The feedback received was analysed with the use of data analysis in Microsoft Excel (2010). The results of the research showed that there were two distinct themes related to employees' intention to remain with the organisation, namely job satisfaction and career development. On the other end of the scale, themes which would cause staff to want to leave the organisation were the performance management system of the organisation, not being listened to (i.e. to the ideas and views of staff) and leadership (i.e. the way the organisation was being led). Recommendations are made to management. The study also recommends future research that can be done to get greater insight into factors relating to staff turnover and retention. A detailed review of the literature is included in Section two of the report. Only essential components of the literature are included in Section one of report. Section three of the report provided a detailed description of the research design and the research procedure that was followed.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An enabling environment for independent power producers in renewable electricity

  • Authors: Palmer, Vivian Julian
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Renewable energy sources -- South Africa , Independent power producers -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DBA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5868 , vital:21007
  • Description: The increasing demand for electricity, the rising price of energy from conventional sources and limited electricity supply are a global concern. The demand on electricity generation could be alleviated by diversifying the sources from which electricity is obtained to achieve the goals of long-term electricity supply. Diversification implies finding alternative sources of energy such as renewable energy for the production of electricity. The South African electricity system is under increased pressure to provide and maintain electricity supply to its users. Electricity production may be regarded as a key contributor to the social and economic development of South Africa. The challenges are so serious that it will gradually become increasingly difficult to extract sufficient resources to satisfy increasing electricity demand. Growth in the electricity and industrial sectors signifies profound changes in the entire energy industry. The South African power utility Eskom, supplies 94% of South Africa’s electricity but the risk of inadequate supply because of increasing electricity demand is mitigated through the employment of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) which supply to the grid. However, although a limited number of IPP entrepreneurs sell electricity to the Eskom grid, there is no enabling entrepreneurial environment in which they can thrive. There is no positive movement to inaugurate policies and processes. This has created an opportunity for Smart Grid access as a viable option to accommodate IPP entrepreneurs into the grid. Investing in renewable electricity sources may provide feasible alternatives for the electricity industry, it would alleviate pressure on current supply whilst creating an enabling entrepreneurial environment for IPP entrepreneurs and increase entrepreneurial activity. This study investigates a proposed model for an enabling entrepreneurial environment for IPPs in the RE sector that can be utilised to ensure increased entrepreneurial activity within the electricity industry. Establishing such an enabling environment would contribute positively to the alleviation of the electricity demand crisis, result in lower carbon emissions and create a sustainable, more diverse electricity generation mix. This proposed IPP industry model for an enabling entrepreneurial environment is presented to address the problems experienced at the different levels of the electricity industry. The model can be utilised to increase entrepreneurial activity while eradicating major electricity challenges at different levels in the South African electricity industry. The results indicate that that RE, in the form of solar and wind, has the potential to expand the South African electricity industry significantly. Therefore, in order to reform the South African electricity industry, stakeholders need to embrace entrepreneurship as IPP entrepreneurs. This can be done effectively by the incorporation of IPP entrepreneurs into the electricity network. However, an enabling entrepreneurial environment in which to operate must be ensured. In this study, five important variables support the establishment of an enabling entrepreneurial environment for IPP entrepreneurs. These have been identified as; Smart Grids, Entrepreneurship, Renewable electricity environment, SA policy and Stakeholder theory. An important contribution has been made towards Stakeholder Theory. This has proven to be instrumental within the RE sector of the electricity industry in South Africa, as the mentioned role players have a reciprocal role to play. Three surveys were conducted at three levels of the electricity industry, namely, at organisational, legislative and entrepreneurial levels and included Eskom Management, National Energy Regulator (NERSA) Management and Approved and Non-approved IPPs. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were utilised in this research study. The results indicate that SA Policy is instrumental in assisting stakeholders to facilitate the IPP process and feed the power from RE generation into the network. Most respondents were positive about the role of Smart Grids in future electricity generation and their contribution towards creating an enabling entrepreneurial environment for IPP entrepreneurs. Respondents indicated that by policy decisions, greater emphasis can be placed on the results of climate change and environmental challenges. Emphasis on the incorporation of stakeholders proved imperative to this group (IPPs). The results indicated that stakeholder management is a key factor contributing to the establishment of an enabling entrepreneurial environment. The major contribution of this study is a proposed entrepreneurial model that can improve future sustainability of the electricity supply.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An entrepreneurial framework for new venture property development projects

  • Authors: Abrey, Mark Henry Shaw
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Real estate development -- South Africa , Entrepreneurship -- South Africa , Land subdivision -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: vital:9709 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020162
  • Description: The business of real estate is one of the largest suppliers of employment, and contributes significantly to the gross domestic product of numerous countries worldwide. It is, therefore, imperative that new real estate development entrepreneurs entering the market identify key competitiveness indicators in order to survive and ensure their success within an ever-changing market. However, property development is a complex process and considered to be 'too risky' Consequently, property development entrepreneurs lack the skills and expertise to effectively manage their business enterprises and the associated risks from project inception to completion, and commissioning. The study was conducted by means of a review of the related literature and by conducting an empirical study. The empirical study was conducted using a quantitative statistical approach by distributing research questionnaires to members falling within the sample population. The primary objective of the study was to develop an entrepreneurial framework for perceived success of new venture property development projects. A descriptive survey was conducted among professionals registered with the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) and property development practitioners within South Africa. The salient findings suggest that the following variables positively influence the perceived success of new venture property development projects: Entrepreneurial vision; Strategic management; Stakeholders‘ interests; Professional feasibility and viability reporting; Procurement; Communication; Consumer confidence; Risk management; Governance structures; Specialist advice; The entrepreneurial framework, and The project management body of knowledge (PMBOK). Furthermore, the following variables were identified in the empirical framework affecting the perceived success of new venture property development projects: Entrepreneurial Vision; Strategic Management; Stakeholders‘ Interest; Professional Feasibility and Viability Reporting; Procurement; Communication; Consumer Confidence; Risk Management; Governance Structures; Specialist Advice, and The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). This study contributed to the South African property development body of knowledge by addressing the challenges faced by inexperienced entrepreneurs entering the property development market. Furthermore, this study aimed to improve the framework utilised by emerging property developers.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An ergonomics intervention study into the physiological, perceptual and productivity effects of three citrus harvesting bag designs in the Eastern Cape of South Africa : a combined laboratory and field approach

  • Authors: Bassey-Duke, Elizabeth Misan
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Citrus -- Harvesting -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lifting and carrying -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Manual work -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Blue collar workers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Work -- Physiological aspects , Human mechanics
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: vital:5176 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018908
  • Description: Background: Agriculture plays a vital role in the economy of any industrially developing country, including South Africa. In the Eastern Cape of South Africa citrus farming is a significant contributor to the local economy (Johnson et al., 2005). The harvesting phase of citrus farming is performed manually and exposes workers to physical risks, which can lead to the development of musculoskeletal disorders. In particular, the standard harvesting bag comprises of a single shoulder strap and promotes asymmetrical load carriage which results in shoulder and lower back pain complaints. The current study compared the physiological (EMG), perceptual (RPE), usability (PUEU) and productivity effects of two new harvesting bag designs (a hip belt and a backpack bag design) to the standard harvesting bag design. This was performed in a laboratory as well as a field setting. Methods (Laboratory phase): 36 participants (12 males and 24 females) were assigned to one worker group. The “tall ladder worker” group was comprised of only males and the “step ladder worker” and “ground worker” group of females. Each participant was required to simulate a citrus harvesting task while utilizing each of the bag designs on different days. On each day/test session, participants performed three harvesting cycles. Muscle activity was measured throughout the entire testing session and RPE were recorded at the end of each cycle. Results (Laboratory phase): The EMG and RPE results indicate that the backpack design was the most ideal design to reduce asymmetry, while the standard harvesting bag design was the worst. Although not significant, there was greater muscle asymmetry (p=0.109) and a significantly higher perceived exertion when using the standard bag (p=0.0004), in comparison to using the backpack. Methods (Field phase): 17 Xhosa-speaking citrus harvesters (6 females and 11 males) participated in this study. Each harvester worked with one of the three bag designs on a different day. Productivity of each worker was assessed every hour by recording the number of bags filled with fruit and at the end of the shift. A Perceived Usefulness & Ease of Use questionnaire was presented to each participant to obtain feedback on worker acceptance to the new bag designs. Results (Field phase): A general trend in support of the hip belt bag design over the other two bag designs were found, even within the different worker demographic groups (age, sex and worker experience). The workers perceived less exertion (7.98 ± 1.86) and were more productive (9.90 ± 2.11 bags/hour) when using the hip belt design; they also found this bag the most useful (1.02 ± 0.09) and easy to use (1.07 ± 0.25). In contrast, the backpack bag design had significantly poorer responses when compared to the other two bag designs and this was evident in all the dependent variables assessed (RPE, productivity and PUEU). Conclusion: The results from the laboratory phase supported the expectation that the backpack bag design reduces asymmetry and hence, is more suitable than the standard harvesting bag. However, results from the field show that the hip belt bag design was the most preferred and the backpack was the least preferred. Bao & Shahnavaz (1989) highlight the need for ergonomics researcher to convey laboratory findings into the field context. However, as shown by the current study, there are numerous challenges associated with field work, making it difficult for laboratory findings to be successfully conveyed to the field. Limitations and Recommendations: For the laboratory phase of the project, no biomechanical and cardiovascular responses were assessed. However, for a holistic approach, these variables should be considered in future studies. Due to high variability from one harvesting cycle to another, more than three harvesting cycles should also be performed to accurately replicate the harvesting process as done in the field over extended durations of time. For the field phase, data should be collected from more than one citrus farm and thus a larger sample size could be obtained. This would improve the validity of the study. In addition to this, data should be collected for a full working day, especially if environmental conditions are not a hindrance, as well as for a whole season, since workloads vary, depending on the time of the harvesting season. , Name on Graduation Programme: Bassey-Duke, Elizabeth Missan
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of change communication in ensuring the sustainability of change at Barclays Africa's first "green" building

  • Authors: Magubane, Nokuzola
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Barclays Bank , Sustainable buildings -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Organizational change -- South Africa -- Johannesburg , Communication in organizations
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: vital:849 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017517
  • Description: The purpose of the study was to conduct an evaluation on the effectiveness of the change communications distributed to the occupants of Barclays Towers West, Barclays Africa‟s first green building, in ensuring the sustainability of the change after the move into the building. In addition, recommendations are made to improve the change communications directed towards the building occupants to ensure the sustainability of the change and for future moves to green buildings. The research paper is made up of the following three distinct sections: Section One – Evaluation Research Report: this section outlines the organisational and research context for the study, the objectives of the research and rationale for conducting the research. A brief overview of the key theories and models on change communication that were utilised in the study are discussed, and definitions of important terms are presented. The research methodology is also described which includes an explanation on the evaluation research approach utilised as well as the use of both qualitative and quantitative data in the study. In addition, the results from the research conducted are presented, based on three data collection methods utilised: document analysis, semi-structured interviews and a survey. The results are then analysed and discussed in relation to the literature reviewed on change communication. Recommendations are made on improvements that can be made to the change communications to ensure the sustainability of the change. Section Two – Literature Review: the literature, theories and important concept definitions of organisational change management, change sustainability, change communication and green buildings which are relevant for the research topic and have been used as the theoretical base of the study are explored in this section. A key component of the literature review is the description of the change communication theories and models: communication theory, Armenakis, Harris and Field (2007) Model, and the Barrett (2002) Model. An understanding of the theories and models is imperative, as the effectiveness of the change communications after the move into Barclays Towers West is assessed based on the elements of the change communication theories and models. Section Three – Research Methodology: the research methodology for the study is described in this section. Specifically, the research aims and objectives, the research paradigm, the population and sampling, data collection, data analysis and ethical considerations are outlined. A key component of the section is the explanation on how the data was collected and analysed in the study and the sequence. The post move communications and artefacts and meeting presentations were collected first. The qualitative data was analysed and used to determine the questions for the semi structured interviews. Semi-structured one on one interviews were then conducted. The qualitative data and the change communication theories and models used in this study were used to determine the questions for the online survey. An online survey tool was used to administer a predominantly five point Likert scale questionnaire with an invitation to participate emailed to the building occupants. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. Research Findings: The key research findings revealed that the messages communicated to the occupants after the move into the building have been mainly focused on operational matters and rarely on educating occupants on the green aspects of the building. A large majority of the survey respondents were aware of the building facilities, details and required behaviour. However it was found that the occupants, Line Managers and Senior Management are not displaying the required behaviour for a green building and do not know how to use some of the building facilities. A major gap was found in communicating with people moving into the building. In addition it was found that some of the information communicated to occupants is outdated. Written communications are used extensively and face to face communication is rarely used to communicate with the occupants. As a result, a number of changes are required to improve the effectiveness of the change communications to the occupants of Barclays Towers West. The improvements include communicating to new occupants; utilising additional communication channels; focusing communication messages on educating occupants on the strategic objectives for the building; rationale for building features and facilities; how to use the facilities and the impact of their behaviour on the building objectives being achieved.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of intervention strategies into gangsterism in the Helenvale area

  • Authors: Jonas, Branton
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Gang members -- Rehabilitation -- South Africa Social work with youth -- South Africa Juvenile delinquency -- South Africa -- Prevention , Problem youth -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/10890 , vital:26833
  • Description: The impact of intervention strategies to reduce gang related violence by Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the community at large has so far not attracted much attention or support from provincial and national authorities. Helenvale and its surrounding areas plays an integral part of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality as the economic-hub of the Eastern Cape Province. But its gang problem has evolved over decades of socio-economic difficulties and struggle for a better life in the predominantly Coloured community. In order for this problem to be overcome a more strategically focused intervention strategy is required by local, provincial, and national authorities. This research study evaluates the gang intervention strategies in the Helenvale area and seeks to provide a primary research base from which key policies and strategies could be developed to address this challenge in an effort to bring about peace and stability in this community and other affected areas within close proximity of the area of study. At the heart of providing possible solutions to practices of gangsterism amongst mostly the youth, should be a well-coordinated intergovernmental high impact intervention strategy in partnership with NGO’s, civil society and other sectors of the community. Further solutions are the investment by authorities in rehabilitation centres, with skills development and job-creation opportunities as a key exit strategy for those involved in gangs. Acknowledgement that the enhancement and development of mediation skills of community based structures through the sharing of critical conflict theory and mediation practices, could make a substantial contribution to greater peace and stability in our communities.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of knowledge sharing as a knowledge management mechanism in public libraries in Cape Town, Western Cape Province , South Africa

  • Authors: Tatana, Vuyokazi
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Knowledge management Information services Organizational learning
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5138 , vital:29090
  • Description: This study aimed to investigate into knowledge sharing as a mechanism for managing knowledge in the City of Cape Town public libraries, Western Cape, South Africa. The study sought to achieve the following objectives: To find out the extent to which knowledge sharing takes place in the City of Cape Town public libraries; To establish how knowledge is shared between the less experienced and the more experienced librarians; To explore the influence of knowledge sharing on service delivery in the City of Cape Town public libraries; To identify and discuss the impediments to knowledge sharing the City of Cape Town public libraries; The findings of the study would provide insight useful in addressing the challenges that confront public libraries as far as knowledge sharing and is concerned. This study would assist to maintain the best practices of knowledge sharing in the City of Cape Town public libraries.This study would also help the City of Cape Town policy makers and library management to come up with knowledge‐sharing/ knowledge management intervention measures from an informed point of view.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of security issues in cloud-based file sharing technologies

  • Authors: Fana, Akhona
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Cloud computing -- Security measures Computer networks -- Security measures Computer security
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/1841 , vital:27565
  • Description: Cloud computing is one of the most promising technologies for backup and data storage that provides flexible access to data. Cloud computing plays a vital role in remote backup. It is so unfortunate that this computing technique has flaws that thrilled and edgy end users in implementing it effectively. These flaws include factors like lack of integrity, confidentiality and privacy to information. A secure cloud is impossible unless the computer-generated environment is appropriately secured. In any form of technology it is always advisable that security challenges must be prior identified and fixed before the implementation of that particular technology. Primarily, this study will focus on finding security issues in cloud computing with the objective of finding concerns like credential theft and session management in the ―Cloud‖. Main arguments like HTTP banner disclosure, Bash ―ShellShock‖ Injection and password issues were discovered during the stages of study implementation. These challenges may provide information that will permit hackers in manipulating and exploiting cloud environment. Identifying credential theft and session management in cloud-based file sharing technologies a mixed method approach was implemented throughout the course of the study due to the nature of study and unity of analysis. Penetration tests were performed as security testing technique. Prevention and guideline of security threats leads to a friendly and authentic world of technology.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of the effectiveness of organisational communication : a case of student-directed communication strategies at University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus

  • Authors: Ncube, Sizalobuhle
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Communication in organizations--South Africa--Eastern Cape
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , Communication
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17395 , vital:40964
  • Description: Organisational communication entails the interaction that the management has with its stakeholders. Communication is never complete if the message sent has not been fully understood by the receiver. Hence, for communication to be effective, the sender has to provide two-way open channels of communication as it allows dialogue which stimulates reaching a consensus. Thus, this study was done to find out about the effectiveness of organisational communication in relation to the student-directed communication strategies at University of Fort hare, Alice campus. Data were collected from the participants through four focus groups consisting of ten randomly picked students, and in-depth interviews with five SRC members and five University management staff. A qualitative methodological approach was therefore used in this study for data collection and analysis. Furthermore, the data analysed were categorised into different themes. The findings of this study indicate that the right communication messages and channel must always be used by organisations when communicating with stakeholders. The study also found out that communication will be effective if messages are received as intended by the sender. Conclusively, the study notes that stakeholders should be included in decision making processes in the organisation and that if their needs are also catered for, this will make them to be fully involved in understanding organisational concerns positively.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of the implementation of education training and development policy in the Eastern Cape: the case of Cacadu health district

  • Authors: Feni, Monde Ludick
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Employees -- Training of -- Evaluation , Manpower policy -- South Africa , Personnel management -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/8261 , vital:26317
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy of the Eastern Cape Department of Health: A Case Study of Cacadu District. The Cacadu Health District as with all Districts is the Eastern Cape Department of Health experiences a few challenges with the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy. Through observation these problems seem to be stalling progress in the implementation of this policy. The study seeks to investigate whether there can be an improvement in the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy. The focus of the study will be the Cacadu Health District. Provision of Education, Training and Development is key to any organisation especially if performance of employees needs to be of high standard. If the performance of employees is of high standard service delivery will improve. Chapter one provided an introduction which gave a brief overview of the study, problem statement, research objectives and questions, preliminary literature review and research methodology to be employed by the study. Chapter two provided a literature review of education, training and development framework and legislative framework for guiding the development and provision of education, training and development in an organisation. The chapter also looked into mentoring and mentoring strategies. Chapter three looked into detail on the training evaluation strategies and what training evaluation entails. It looked at the different approaches that can be used in evaluating training in an organisation. Chapter four provides proposals for the approaches and strategies to improve the implementation of the Education, Training and Development Policy of the Eastern Cape Department of Health in the Cacadu District. The chapter will also provide an analysis of participants’ responses from the questionnaire. Chapter five will give a summary with concluding remarks and recommendations. This chapter came up with conclusions about the study and gave recommendations and way forward on how best to improve the implementation of the education, training and development policy in the Eastern Cape Department of Health: Cacadu District.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of the implementation of Mercedes Benz production system (MPS) and the employee change readiness at Mercedes Benz commercial vehicles South Africa

  • Authors: McAllister, Rozane Ronardo
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft , Organizational change -- South Africa , Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Employees -- Attitudes , Continuous improvement process -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
  • Identifier: vital:850 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017518
  • Description: The evaluation report section describes the evaluation of the implementation of Mercedes Benz Production System (MPS) at Mercedes Benz Commercial Vehicles, which is a division of Mercedes Benz South Africa’s manufacturing plant situated in East London. The section evaluates the changes the implementation of MPS brought to the Key Performance Indicators (KPI’S) of the division and evaluates the change readiness of the employees in the division prior to the change. The change implementation was initiated by the management of MBCV as a strategic organisational change to bring about continuous improvement to the KPI’s of the organisation. These KPI’s are Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and Morale (SQDCM). The reason behind the change at the time was deemed critical to MBCV in order to meet the annual KPI targets and remain cost competitive and sustainable. The evaluation report further describes the results of the change with regards to the organisational KPI’s and the level of employee change readiness which was conducted through a questionnaire survey. A brief literature review is included in the Evaluation Report under section one describing key concepts about Production Systems, Lean Manufacturing and Change Management. The evaluation section includes recommendations based on the results of the research findings and ends with a conclusion. The literature review section explores the literature that supports production systems, lean manufacturing and change management concepts, its definitions, importance and benefits. The literature review describes and critiques key concepts of the research such as productions systems, MPS in particular, lean manufacturing concepts and related change management topics relevant to the research. The literature review defines production systems and the concepts of lean manufacturing, highlighting the benefits of the concepts to enhance organisations’ manufacturing capabilities. An integrated part of lean manufacturing is people and the implementation of lean manufacturing into an organisation requires change management theories therefore key understanding in this particular research was to discuss change management concepts, in particular, employee change readiness. The literature will discuss different tools to assess employee change readiness and from this develop an employee change readiness tool. The change management concepts evaluated change readiness and the consequences if organisations are not ready for change. The research methodology section describes how that the research was conducted in two phases, one to evaluate the implementation of MPS with regards to the organisational KPI’s (SQDCM). This was assessed through reports from projects and presentations made by the project teams on improvements of the organisational KPI’s. The second phase evaluated the change readiness of the employees prior to the implementation of MPS. This phase of the research was intended to retrieve quantitative data with an adapted questionnaire which was distributed to employees. To evaluate the change readiness, a change model known as ADKAR was used as an evaluation instrument. The modified ADKAR questionnaire was distributed to employees in hard copies and completed during a weekly team meeting. The results were summarised and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the final results. Microsoft Excel (2010 version) was used to illustrate and display the graphs. Section three discussed the research methodology in more detail. The study shows that although there were some positive changes that came from the implementation of MPS in MBCV, especially to the following KPI’s (Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost), real consideration should be given to employee morale and the level of change readiness of MBCV employees.
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  • Date Issued: 2015

An evaluation of the Integrated Quality Management System at selected schools within the Lukhanji Circuit, Queenstown District

  • Authors: Gongqa, Mxolanisi Michael
  • Date: 2015
  • Subjects: Total quality management in education -- South Africa -- Queenstown
  • Language: English
  • Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3285 , vital:20420
  • Description: The study focused on the evaluation of the integrated management system (IQMS) at selected schools within the Queenstown Education District. A quantitative research method was used for the study and questionnaires were used as a research tool to collect data. The respondents were members of the school management teams (SMT) which comprised the principals, deputy principals, heads of departments, senior educators and educators. These are key role-players in the management and implementation of IQMS. The rationale was to obtain pertinent information which would address the research questions and objectives of the study. The primary objective of the study as outlined above was to evaluate the impact of IQMS implementation in the Queenstown district with specific reference to the Lukhanji Circuit, on the performance of the high schools selected. It was envisaged that the results of the study would contribute towards developing measures to ensure that IQMS implementation achieves the desired objectives. The research questions were: To what extent can IQMS implementation be used as a tool to measure and improve teaching and learning? What measures have been put in place by the district to support and build capacity of the educators to perform? What factors hinder the effective IQMS implementation? The key findings of the study reveal that IQMS as a tool to improve teaching and learning had the overwhelming support of the majority of the respondents. However, a reasonable percentage of the respondents were of the view that IQMS constituted an administrative burden to educators. There are educators who displayed a negative attitude towards the implementation of IQMS. The respondents also felt that the district office needs to provide more support for IQMS implementation so that its objectives can be fully realised. The study makes clear recommendations such as the de-linking of IQMS from salaries and pay progression, provision of more support by the district, to make IQMS more user-friendly to educators and additional budget and teacher training to enhance educators’ professional development.
  • Full Text:
  • Date Issued: 2015
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