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Co-generating a people-centred approach to addressing student hunger at a South African university

  • Authors: Mansvelt, Natalie
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Food security -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51309 , vital:43262
  • Description: While considerable progress has been made regarding access to higher education in South Africa for previously excluded and disadvantaged students, great challenges are experienced in terms of student well-being. One of the key factors contributing to students’ ability to complete their studies successfully is food-related challenges. Various programmes have been introduced at institutions of higher education to assist and support students who lack funds for food. However, these programmes are characteristic of the welfarist model, as it is often based on needs, short-term by nature, and dependent on external resources. Furthermore, it reduces students to the role of passive beneficiaries. This research answers the question of how student hunger can be addressed through co-generating a people-centred approach at one higher education institution in South Africa. The study was underpinned by Sen’s capabilities approach to enable a theoretical understanding of the issue of student hunger. Additionally, Korten’s people-centred development provided the value base of the study to place students at the centre of the problem-solving process. An approach to student hunger that would be participative, student-centred, and enhancing nutritional capabilities was invited. Situated within the critical paradigm, I employed the participatory action research design to facilitate a process whereby students critically questioned the issue of hunger and took action to address the issue. Eight students from various study fields volunteered to co-research the issue of student hunger. Over the period of one year, we generated data using different methods (including photovoice, community self-survey, workshops, purposeful group discussions, focus group discussions, and my reflective notes). We applied cyclical processes to plan, implement, and reflect on actions intended to address student hunger. Through a combination of collaborative and individual processes of data analysis, we responded to four subquestions through four phases, which culminated in the co-construction of a people-centred approach to student hunger. Students’ conceptualisations of student hunger revealed two types: hunger of the stomach and hunger of the mind. The cyclical relationship between the two types infers that nutritional well-being is not achieved adequately when students have the means to acquire food. Choices regarding the utilisation of the available means also need consideration. The findings revealed that students apply the conscientisation framework in the ways that they plan to address student hunger. Applying value-driven processes, actions entailed physical dialogues with groups of people. The approach developed in this study offers strategies for the stakeholders who attend to student hunger, to collaborate and make contributions towards comprehensively resolving the complex issue. It primarily could be useful to institutions of higher education as the suggested coordinators of a collaborative structure. A second part of the developed approach puts forward a strategy to address the financial capabilities of students. The study contributes a consideration to constraints that stem from students’ mindsets and adoption of a prevailing culture that maintains student hunger. This demonstrates that resolutions to addressing student hunger might be more effective and sustainable if the context, views and participation of people experiencing the hunger are considered. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Customer perceptions on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and its possible influence on Revenue Management (RM) at a selected water board in South Africa

  • Authors: Manyonganise, Joshua Anesu
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Customer relations -- Management , Revenue management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Water-supply -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Amatola Water (Utility) , South Africa. National Water Act, 1998
  • Language: English
  • Type: thesis , text , Masters , MCom
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177214 , vital:42800
  • Description: The primary activity of water boards is to provide water services (bulk portable, and bulk wastewater) to other water services institutions within its respective service areas. They may perform other activities under conditions set out in the Water Services Act of 1997. Water boards’ revenues come from the municipalities they deliver services to. Not all municipalities have been paying for the services delivered to them, which led to the aim of this study being to gauge the perceptions of Water Board X and Water Board X’s customers of selected Customer Relationship Management (CRM) factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) that may possibly influence Revenue Management (RM). This could possibly assist Water Board X in the future to improve its revenue and debt collection. This thesis employed an interpretivist qualitative research methodology to explore its research aims and objectives. Open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants from Water Board X and four municipalities which Water Board X provides services. The data collected from the interviews were analysed manually through thematic analysis. The outcome of the interviews noted that an organisation that delivered high levels of service quality to its customers, could possibly improve its RM as the customers are of the opinion that their needs and requirements have been met and would be willing to pay for the services rendered. It was furthermore found that an organisation that involves its customers could possibly improve its RM as the organisation constantly communicates with its customers during, for example, the different stages of a project to ensure that the organisation does not deliver a project that does not meet the customers’ requirements at the end of the project life cycle. In addition the use of information technology played a pivotal in an organisation as the use of information technology assisted to develop effective methods in customer relationship management such as, data management, improving communication within the organisation, and with the customers, and the decision making. Furthermore, this study suggested the importance for an organisation to add value to the services that they deliver and for an organisation’s management to be committed to ensure that their customers’ expectations and requirements are met. The findings of the study suggest that CRM factors (service quality, customer involvement, customer value, information technology, and management commitment) could influence RM, and it is suggested that Water Board X adopts CRM strategies accordingly to improve its RM. Some of these strategies include adopting a coherent and sustainable revenue strategy through the use of appropriate tariff structures that are simple, equitable, affordable, financially sustainable, and transparent for all; showing commitment by prioritising water loss management and by properly auditing water supplies and water treatment revenue while increasing efficiency in supply and revenue recovery as this allowed Water Board X to better serve its customers, improve its financial standing, and allocate funding for water infrastructure upgrades and to adopt technologies that are on the market as these technologies can detect leakages, manage payments, control water flow and transmit data. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Commerce, Department of Management, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Factors affecting the well-being of the science faculty academic employees at a public university in the Eastern Cape Province

  • Authors: Maqungo, Akhona
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Employees -- Psychological aspects , Universities and colleges -- Employee , Well-being
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master'stheses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51852 , vital:43378
  • Description: Academia is faced with several challenges apart from attracting and retaining a high calibre of academics. As the main driving force in universities, academic employees are confronted with challenges such as increased workloads, emotional and physical exhaustion, bullying, job insecurity, violent and disruptive protest actions, uncompetitive salary scales, and poor working conditions. These aspects threaten the attractiveness of the academic profession as well as the well-being of academic employees. The ever-changing academic work environment requires universities to comprehend the impact of workplace aspects on employee’s well-being. Understanding the work aspects that affect the well-being of academics could help universities create a conducive working environment that enables employees to flourish, be resilient, manage everyday life stresses, and subsequently improve the well-being of its most valuable resource. An empirical study consisting of an online survey was conducted to gather and analyse data among 113 science faculty academic employees at the public university. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between work aspects such as employee recognition, job insecurity, working conditions, protest actions, workplace health and safety and well-being. Furthermore, this study determined the well-being needs and challenges experienced by the academic employees. The key findings indicated a significant relationship between the selected workplace aspects and well-being. The need for workplace conflict resolution strategies, financial management skills, improved employment relations, handling abuse of authority and bullying were found to be significant in improving the employees’ well-being. Workplace safety, lack of employee recognition, work overload, lack of management support, sexual misconduct, work-life balance, racial tensions, and a disregard for employee well-being were identified as some of the challenges experienced by the academic employees at the public university. Recommendations were made to enhance the well-being of the academics and pro-actively address the well-being needs and challenges of the science faculty academic employees. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

An analysis of intrasemiotic and intersemiotic relations of textual and visual modes in Namibian school science textbooks

  • Authors: Mateus, Venasius
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Science -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Namibia , Semiotics , Force and energy , Visual learning , Verbal learning , Functionalism (Linguistics) , Science -- Textbooks
  • Language: English
  • Type: thesis , text , Masters , MEd
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177203 , vital:42799
  • Description: Although science education in Namibia receives much attention, learners’ performance is low in subjects such as Physical Sciences. The topic of Forces is among the topics in Physical Sciences where learners perform poorly. The provision of basic education in Namibia faces many challenges. One of these is that many teachers are not fully qualified for teaching the subjects they currently teach. Another (possibly related) challenge is that the majority of teachers in Namibian schools rely heavily on school textbooks when planning their lessons. In addition, learners use school textbooks as learning aids. The textbooks are developed and published in the private sector and based on the national curriculum statements. Quality of education has been amongst the major goals of education in Namibia. For quality assurance purposes, school science textbooks have to undergo a formal evaluation process. School textbooks, especially science textbooks, are multimodal. This means that they are designed with various modes, such as the textual and visual, often used in expressing scientific meanings. Literature reveals the textual and visual as individual modes having their own affordances, however, when integrated in school science textbooks contribute to strengthened meanings. No study published was found in Namibia or elsewhere that focused on analysing the intrasemiotic and intersemiotic sense relations of the textual and visual modes in Namibian school Physical Sciences textbooks. This study therefore aimed at contributing to filling this knowledge gap. The research is a qualitative case study and employed the interpretive paradigm. The selected Physical Sciences textbooks that constitute the data in this study were explored in depth via document analysis. Related textual and visual modes in the Physical Sciences textbooks were analysed in order to help answer the research questions of the study. Systemic Functional Linguistics was employed as the theoretical underpinning for this study. In this study, the sense relations were explored in terms of the sense relation themes which were coded and developed from common features of scientific discourse. The results reveal that scientific knowledge within the textual mode in the topic of Forces is communicated mostly through synonymy and repetition while within the visual mode it is mostly through antonymy, collocation, and synonymy. This contributed to meaning potential in the topic of Forces for the three Physical Sciences textbooks. The results further indicated that the overall cohesion within the textual and visual modes in the topic of Forces is achieved since repetition, which is the most direct form of lexical cohesion together with synonymy, collocation, and antonymy which are aspects of cohesion, occurred most frequently within these modes. This result further indicates that meaning potential in the topic of Forces in the three Physical Sciences textbooks were strengthened. While some sense relations occurred most frequently within individual modes, they were less frequent in other modes and vice versa. This indicates that different modes have different affordances. Finally, it was found that combining the textual and visual modes in the topic of Forces contributes to intersemiotic complementarity being achieved through the sense relations of collocation, hyponymy, and meronymy. , Thesis (MEd) -- Education, Education, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Does the Transkei population of Haliotis Midae at the eastern edge of its distributional range have a higher thermal tolerance than those in more temperate waters?

  • Authors: Mathebula, Surprise
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Haliotis midae -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Abalones -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Effect of temperature on -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Physiology -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Adaptation -- South Africa -- Indian Coast , Haliotis midae -- Growth -- South Africa -- Indian Coast
  • Language: English
  • Type: thesis , text , Masters , MSc
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177360 , vital:42814
  • Description: The South African perlemoen abalone (Haliotis midae) may be vulnerable to rising temperatures on the East coast of South Africa due to climate change. H. midae is South Africa’s most valuable aquaculture species, and it is thus important to understand its physiological ability to adapt to the expected changes and to identify possible management measures to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures. This project aimed to understand thermal tolerance and growth rates of offspring from two H. midae populations originating from the warm-temperate Central region (Port Elizabeth) and warmer Eastern edge of the species’ distribution in the Transkei region. To determine the effects of temperature on the physiological performance of the two abalone populations, growth rates, oxygen consumption rates and critical thermal maxima (CTM) were compared. A laboratory growth trial was conducted at three controlled temperatures, visibly, the ‘optimal’ temperature for H. midae growth (18 - 20℃), ‘pejus’ (stressful) temperature (21 - 22℃) and ‘critical’ temperature (23 - 24℃). Oxygen consumption rates were recorded at optimum (20℃), pejus (22℃) and critical (24℃) temperature using a respirometer. In addition, a farm growth trial with simultaneously spawned cohorts of abalone from the two populations was conducted at ambient temperature (19.5 and 20.0℃). The laboratory growth trial revealed no significant differences in growth rate between the two populations at the three temperature treatments (ANOVA, P > 0.05; df = 2). However, mortalities were high and growth rates low, indicating that the rearing conditions were sub-optimal, possibly masking genetic differences. No significant differences were observed in oxygen consumption rates (ANOVA, P = 0.18; df = 2), and CTM (t-Test, P = 0.31; df = 3) between the two populations. The CTM for both populations was between 29 - 30℃. The farm trial yielded no significant differences in growth rate during the Nursery phase (t-Test, P = 0.25; df = 2), however significant differences in growth rate were observed during the grow out phase with the Central region abalone offspring growing faster than the Eastern edge population (t-Test, P = 0.04; df = 4) indicating the possibility of a genetic difference between the two populations. Further experiments will be required to determine whether the differences observed in the growth trial were genetically or environmentally induced. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Ichthyology and Fisheries Science, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The role of traditional leaders in service delivery challenges in rural areas in Kwa-Thoyana district: Ethekwini Municipality

  • Authors: Mathonsi, N M
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Chiefdoms -- South Africa -- eThekwini Municipality Metropolitan , Community leadership -- South Africa -- eThekwini Municipality Metropolitan
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53444 , vital:45154
  • Description: The study investigated the role of traditional leaders (Amakhosi) in service delivery challenges in rural areas in Kwa-Thoyana District, within Ethekwini Municipality. The research study is comprised of five chapters. The research assumes that traditional leaders are not playing significant roles in service delivery within the municipality, despite the fact that the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act No. 117 of 1998, states that they should be represented. In addition, the study identified the service delivery challenges within this district, including the tension between local government and traditional leadership. The research is based on the assumption that the role of traditional leaders in municipal service delivery challenges is not clearly defined. Therefore, the research study provided a brief historical background on the role of traditional leaders in South Africa with specific reference to the inequalities and service delivery challenges that exist within rural areas. The research study adopted a qualitative approach using secondary data and an intense literature review. The literature included official municipal documents, newspaper reports and relevant legislative frameworks. Furthermore, the theoretical framework utilised in this study is the Dialectical Modernisation Theory. Various recommendations are put forth in this study, based on the findings of the literature review. It is suggested that should these recommendations be adopted within the municipality, the inclusion of the traditional leaders in municipal matters, will result in a more efficient and effective delivery of services within rural areas. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The impact of financial inclusion and institutional quality on economic growth in the BRICS and MINT countries

  • Authors: Matiso, Sibahle
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: BRIC countries , BRIC countries -- Foreign economic relations. , Economic development -- Developing countries
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51873 , vital:43380
  • Description: The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between Financial Inclusion, institutional quality, and economic growth in the Brics and Mint emerging economies. Taking six different indicators of financial availability, accessibility and usability, this paper constructed a single financial inclusion index using an approach developed by Sarma (2008). Similarly, taking six governance indicators and five economic freedom indicators we constructed a single Institutional quality index using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. Thus, using data that spans from 2004 to 2018 we tested the relationship between these two indexes and Economic growth using the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) econometric model. The empirical results showed that there is indeed a positive and significant simultaneous effect of financial Inclusion and Institutional quality on Economic growth in the Brics and Mint emerging economies. This positive relationship between these variables suggests that government agents and policymakers in the Brics and Mint countries need to come up with strategies that will help build efficient state institutions and enhance financial inclusion as these are suitable instruments for the promotion of sustainable future growth and the upliftment of the welfare of their citizens. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The effects of foreign direct investment on economic growth and human capital in vista countries

  • Authors: Matitiba, Sandisiwe
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Investments, Foreign , Economic development , Economics
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51989 , vital:43410
  • Description: The study examines the effects of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on economic growth and human capital in VISTA countries using time series and panel data analysis for the period 1990 to 2017. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bound approach was applied in this study to examine the long-term relationships. The findings posited that there is a long-run relationship between economic growth, FDI, trade openness, capital formation, primary school enrolment, inflation over the period 1990 to 2017. The investigation of the long run and short run estimates results between FDI and economic growth indicated that FDI exhibited a positive effect on economic growth in Indonesia, while in Vietnam, South Africa, Turkey, and Argentina a negative relationship was established. Moreover, the findings of the panel data analysis showed that VISTA countries have been actively promoting policies and strategies that attract FDI to enhance economic growth. The study further incorporated the human capital results which indicated that FDI has a positive long-run relationship on human capital except for South Africa and Turkey. In the long run the results suggest that FDI has a negative effect on human capital only in Vietnam and Indonesia. Whereas, in the short run the results suggest that FDI has a negative effect on human capital only in Vietnam. The findings of the panel regression model carried out demonstrated that FDI exerts a positive and significant effect on human capital. It is evident that VISTA countries have made efforts to reform over the years, however, the spill over benefits of FDI are different from one country to another. Based on the empirical results acquired, even though it is advised that policy makers should intensify policies aimed at attracting FDI, policy makers must also give attention to other growth-enhancing factors such as human capital. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Media reporting and student self-representation: a Comparison of the 2015 #FeesMustFall campaign at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University by The Herald and #FeesMustFall

  • Authors: Matrose, T L
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Mass media -- South Africa -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality , Universities and colleges -- South Africa -- Finance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53456 , vital:45155
  • Description: South Africa’s higher education system was deeply disrupted in October 2015 by the #FeesMustFall student-led movement which affected almost every student from most South African universities. As student movements called for a national shutdown of tertiary institutions, students in their numbers gravitated to social media, mainly Twitter and Facebook, where they mobilised, and held discussions pertaining to the protest movement. Whilst, most studies on mainstream media coverage of protest movements have shown that protests around the world are typically portrayed in a negative and delegitimising manner, scholars have declared social media to be very useful in helping protesters counter the negative mainstream media coverage towards them by telling their side of the story to the public, and in a manner in which they want to be perceived. Considering these nuances, this study focuses on The Herald, a Port Elizabeth based newspaper, and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University 2015 #FeesMustFall student protest movement. Through a content analysis, this study aims to, firstly, to explore the mainstream media’s representation and students’ social media self-representations of the #FeesMustFall student protest movement, and secondly; to identify the purpose(s) for which students utilised social media during the #FeesMustFall student protest movement. The results showed that The Herald coverage was predominantly positive and pro-student, and that students represented themselves and the movement in a positive and legitimising manner on their #FeesMustFall social media platforms. The results also showed that the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University students did not only use social media to communicate, organise and coordinate, debate, build and maintain unity during the course of #FeesMustFall movement, but also as a channel to attract mainstream media coverage for their movement, and to further shape the narrative in the coverage. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

An analysis of the countervailing measures used to address the anti-competitive effects of Government subsidies in the African Continental Free Trade Area

  • Authors: Matsimbi, Rhulani Shaun
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Subsidies -- Law and legislation -- Africa , Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (1994 April 15) , Trade regulation -- Africa , World Trade Organization , Antitrust law -- Africa , Restraint of trade -- Africa , African Continental Free Trade (AfCFTA) Agreement
  • Language: English
  • Type: thesis , text , Masters , LLM
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/178330 , vital:42930
  • Description: Government subsidies are becoming more prevalent on the African continent. Subsidies allow the government to intervene in markets to incentivise more investment into nascent and struggling industries by improving the efficiency of firms in such industries. As such, subsidies form an essential part of some African countries’ industrialisation policies. However, the use of subsidies faces a challenge because of the prohibition contained in the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM Agreement). The SCM Agreement prohibits the granting of subsidies that are contingent on export performance or the use of domestic over imported content. While African countries have not faced challenges in the WTO for their use of these subsidies, this may change with the operation of the African Continental Free Trade (AfCFTA) Agreement. This is because the AfCFTA Agreement localises the WTO’s rules on subsidisation. This study critically examines the provisions in the AfCFTA Guidelines on the Implementation of Trade Remedies that regulate the use of export subsidies and subsidies contingent on the use of domestic content. It discusses how the absolute prohibition of these subsidies in the AfCFTA Agreement is not the most effective way to regulate their anti-competitive effects in the African continent. Specifically, this study discusses the role that competition policy might play in ensuring that export subsidies and local content subsidies are regulated in a manner that suits Africa’s context. Ultimately, this study concludes and recommends that the AfCFTA must develop unique rules to regulate subsidies in a way that caters to the needs of the continent. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Law, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The effect of transport infrastructure investment on economic growth in South Africa

  • Authors: Matsolo, Khanya
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Transportation -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51699 , vital:43364
  • Description: The objective of the study was to examine the effect of transport infrastructure investment on economic growth of South Africa. The time series data that covered the period from 2001-2019 using converted quarterly data was used. The study applied autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) to analyse the relationship between transport infrastructure investment and economic growth in South Africa. The empirical results shows that there is positive relationship between these two variables both in the short run and long run. Thus, it is recommended that policy makers should develop strategies that are aligned with effective and efficient transport infrastructure investment to enhance economic growth in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Development Finance, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

A critical analysis of how the potential of Dynamic Geometry Software as a visualisation tool may enhance the teaching of Mathematics

  • Authors: Mavani, Beena Deepak
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Mathematics -- Computer-assisted instruction , Geometry -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Manipulatives (Education) -- South Africa -- Mthatha , Information visualization , Mathematics teachers -- Training of -- South Africa -- Mthatha , GeoGebra Literacy Initiative Project (GLIP) , Dynamic Geometry Software (DGS)
  • Language: English
  • Type: thesis , text , Doctoral , PhD
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/177192 , vital:42798 , 10.21504/10962/177192
  • Description: Visualisation in the mathematics classroom has its own pedagogical value and plays a significant role in developing mathematical intuition, thought and ideas. Dynamic visualisation possibilities of current digital technologies afford new ways of teaching and learning mathematics. The freely available GeoGebra software package is highly interactive and makes use of powerful features to create objects that are dynamic, and which can be moved around on the computer screen for mathematical exploration. This research study was conceptualised within the GeoGebra Literacy Initiative Project (GLIP) – an ICT teacher development project in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The focus of this study was on how GeoGebra could be used as a teaching tool by harnessing its powerful visualisation capacity. In the study, selected GLIP teachers collaboratively developed GeoGebra applets, then implemented and evaluated them. The research methodology took the form of action research cycles in which the design, implementation and evaluation of successive applets determined the data gathering and analysis process. My data consisted mainly of recorded observations and reflective interviews. The underlying theoretical foundation of this study lies in constructivism, which aligned well with the conceptual and analytical framework of Kilpatrick et al.’s (2001) description of teaching proficiency. An in-depth analysis of my classroom observations resulted in multiple narratives that illuminated how teachers harnessed the visualisation capabilities inherent in the software. My findings showed that dynamic visualisation and interactivity afforded by the use of technology are key enabling factors for teachers to enhance the visualisation of mathematical concepts. My analysis across participants also showed that technical difficulties often compromised the use of technology in the teaching of mathematics. The significance of this research is its contribution to the ongoing deliberations of visualisation and utilisation of technological resources, particularly through the empowerment of a community of teachers. The findings recognised that the integration of technology required appropriate training, proper planning and continuous support and resources for the teaching of mathematics. This action research provided insightful information on integrating Dynamic Geometry Software (DGS) tools in mathematics classrooms that could be useful to teachers and curriculum planners. , Thesis (PhD) -- Education, Education, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Flash floods prediction in South African urban areas: Jukskei river catchment as case study

  • Authors: Mawasha, Tshepo Sylvester
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , Geographic information systems
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52059 , vital:43429
  • Description: This study explored the change relation of multi-temporal land-use/land-cover (LULC) conditions in order to determine how they contribute to change in surface runoff volumes and peak discharge, in an effort to predict flash flooding within the Jukskei River catchment. The research is divided into three main parts: (1) LULC change modeling, (2) rainfall-runoff modeling, and (3) flash floods prediction. Three multi-temporal satellite images of Landsat-5 MMS (1987), Landsat-5 TM (2001) and Landsat-8 OLI (2015) were used for LULC modeling. The analysis of the LULC model revealed that there is a continuous increment in built-up area, from 37.7% to 56.2%, in the expense of other LULC classes for the 28-years preceding this study (i.e., 1987 to 2015). Rainfall-runoff model output results revealed that, for these 28 years, there has been an increase in surface runoff due to change in LULC by 21.5%, 32.9% and 45.5% for 1987, 2001 and 2015, respectively. Due to an increase in surface runoff volume and impervious surface over time, the analysis of HEC-RAS/GeoRAS showed that floodplain extent, flood depth, flood velocity, depth-velocity and the level of damage increases especially in low elevation areas and areas at closed proximity to the Jukskei River. Thus, the building structures and infrastructures are at risk of being affected by flash floods during the rainy season. The findings of this study are expected to be used as basic data for the identification of causative factors of flash floods, areas that generate high surface runoff volume, and the prediction of flash floods within the catchment in future. The flood damage maps developed in this study will be useful to policy-makers and the relevant authorities, as well as to local residents, in finding suitable measures for residential development along the floodplain while reducing flood risk in the study area. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Uphononongo nzulu lwendlela yokuphila nokusetyenziswa kwamasiko nenkcubeko kantu njengesixhobo sokulwa ingcinezelo ngokudandalaziswa ngu-A.C. Jordan kwinoveli yakhe ethi, Ingqumbo yeminyanya

  • Authors: Mbangwa, Cingiswa Norah
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Xhosa (African people) -- Politics and government , Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs -- Biography
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52402 , vital:43636
  • Description: This project scrutinises and examines the important role played by A.C. Jordan in the struggle for liberation of the African people in South Africa. The main objective of this research is to unveil and expatiate the extent to which A.C. Jordan used the African custom and culture to fight the oppression of blacks by whites in his novel, Ingqumbo Yeminyanya. In this book he highlights the conflict between Western Culture and Education, and African customs and tradition. Whilst at the same time showing the superiority of the African culture over the Western values and tradition. This raises the ire of the white folks like Shepherd, the editor. It led to Shepherd's refusal to publish this novel, causing a two- year delay in the publication of this book. The book was supposed to have been published in 1938, but was published in 1940. Literary experts in all aspects of literature generally, have commented extensively on the book of A.C. Jordan, Ingqumbo Yeminyanya, analysing the book from its original isiXhosa version, to its English, Afrikaans and other translations. To a great extent, past and current research by literary experts puts special emphasis on Jordan as a well renowned writer of note and well acclaimed academic who has made tremendous contribution in the development of African literature. However, very few of these experts delve into Jordan's political activity and involvement in the fight against oppression and liberation of the Black's in South Africa and abroad. Mda (1991:1) concurs with this notion. His (Jordan’s) contribution in the literacy and educational fields have, I venture to say, been adequately portrayed. It is his political life that has not been fully addressed Mda says that literature does enough to portray Jordan in many aspects in which he excelled but not enough is done in the political aspect. Therefore, this research endeavours to contribute to the few already made about Jordan's political activism and the valuable contribution he has made in the fight for liberation of the African people. The methodology used in the study is descriptive, investigative, interpretative and analytic with the aim of illustrating the views of the author on the book in question. This makes it easy for the researcher to elucidate her objectives of the study on the theme of Jordan’s novel. Marxist theory as developed by Antonio Gramsci, and other theories related to it have been employed as the framework of this study. This theory has been chosen since it proved to be more relevant to the objectives of the study. The findings of the study reveal that A.C. Jordan has been very much vocal in addressing political issues of South Africa during his time, using both African custom and culture in his novel. The findings also indicate the vital role played by Jordan in the struggle for the freedom of South Africa. Recommendations are that Jordan deserves to be awarded like any other politician of his calibre, who displayed commitment and loyalty in the liberation struggle. In the hope that this piece of work might get to the relevant authorities who can take this view into consideration. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

An anthropological enquiry on the perceptions of adults on female sterilisation: a case of Gunguluza township

  • Authors: Mbanjwa, Mpho
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/54859 , vital:48085
  • Description: The purpose of the study was to make an enquiry on the perceptions on female sterilisation adult participants, residing in Gunguluza Township, Uitenhage had. A qualitative research approach was used to collect the responses of 10 participants. These included eight women, one man and one traditional healer registered within the Traditional Healers Association of South Africa. The interviews had been semistructured with open-ended questions pre-set to help the researcher guide the conversation. Conversation analysis was the technique used to transform the information into research data that would attempt to answer the research question. The question this research attempted to answer was to form an understanding of how information and education resources provided by both Western and Traditional sources, including their availability and accessibility with regards to female sterilisation, as a form of contraception, have been understood, received and interpreted by adults residing in the research area of Gunguluza township. Gunguluza forms part of the area formally known as the Kwanobuhle 10 and Kwanobuhle 11 respectively. Some limitations, including limiting resources that resulted in only 10 participants being interviewed. The results had shown that participants had shown interest in acquiring more knowledge about female sterilisation and other reproductive health issues, in order to make informed decisions about their bodies, with contraceptive choice and use in particular. Most felt the need to engage with their partners about the choice of sterilisation largely due to the support they would need. With regard to traditional health as an alternative or interchangeable method of contraception, participants had very little knowledge of, with some expressing some importance and relevance in acquiring such knowledge, in a modern context. These findings came with sets of recommendations which placed an emphasis on the building of indigenous knowledge and its inclusion in formal spaces for open engagement and discussion. Traditional knowledge needed to be transferred from an oral to being documented into literature for future preservation and to eliminate any distortion. There was a gap for formal western medicine to collaborate or accommodate traditional medicine. The study made use of female sterilisation as a conceptual framework, with time and more future research could build and produce new theoretical understandings of the concept, from an Afrocentric context in particular. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

Fisher’s hypothesis from a disaggregated perspective for South Africa: an asymmetric approach

  • Authors: Mbekeni, Lutho
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52978 , vital:44863
  • Description: In this study, we re-examine Fisher’s hypothesis for the South African economy during the post-inflation targeting era of 2002:Q1 to 2019:Q4, and in doing so, we present four noteworthy empirical contributions. Firstly, we employ two nonlinear frameworks to carry out our empirical analysis, i.e. i) Flexible Fourier Function (FFF) unit root tests, and ii) Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag model (NARDL). Secondly, we take the disaggregated approach in examining Fisher’s hypothesis by making use of survey-based inflation expectations data for financial analysts, the business sector, trade unions representatives, and household participants. Thirdly, we capture our inflation expectations using three different forecast horizons (i.e. current, 12-month ahead, and 24-month ahead). Lastly, we conduct a sensitivity analysis. After employing our FFF based tests, the empirical results highlighted the Reserve Bank’s success of stabilizing real interest rates for periods subsequent to the 2008 Subprime crisis, as compared to periods before the crisis. Furthermore, after employing the NARDL model, we observed that nominal interest rates are more responsive to the falling inflation expectations across all economic agents except for trade unions during the pre-crisis period. On the other hand, nominal interest rates were found to be more responsive to rising expectations of all economic agents in the post-crisis period. Essentially, our findings have important policy implications for monetary policy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The implementation of tourism curriculum in secondary schools in Fort Beaufort Education District, Eastern Cape Province: implications for sustainable tourism

  • Authors: Mbilini-Kuze, Bukiwe Nomonde Constance
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Education, Secondary -- Curricula , Curriculum planning
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24728 , vital:63536
  • Description: This study examined the implementation of Tourism curriculum in Secondary Schools in Fort Beaufort Education District in the Eastern Cape. The study arose from a concern that despite the Government of the Eastern Cape organizing workshops to facilitate the implementation of Tourism curriculum for secondary school teachers, research has shown that teachers have not improved their classroom practice. It discussed the concept of Tourism curriculum implementation and highlighted problems militating against curriculum implementation at secondary school level. The researcher adopted the mixed method methodology which is embedded in the post-positivist research paradigm. The post-positivist research paradigm explains the way things are and views objectivity as an ideal that can never be achieved, however research should be conducted with greater awareness of subjectivity. By combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies, it assisted the researcher to strike a balance and avoid being subjective on issues of teacher capacity, teaching strategies and assessment, availability and use of resources and support and monitoring. The research methods used in this study include questionnaires, interviews, document analysis and observations. The findings of the study showed that there are limitations in the implementation of Tourism curriculum because of lack of capacity of School management Teams and teachers who are implementing NCS Tourism. Although the teaching strategies and assessment are stipulated in the curriculum document teachers are not using appropriate methods and assessment. Moreover, there are crucial resources and facilities provided by SMTs and the Department of Education to implement Tourism curriculum, inadequate compared to those provided for other subjects. Moreover there are limitations in terms of support (including training) and monitoring systems which are in place to enable the implementation of NCS Tourism. Possible areas for future research were highlighted and recommendations were made, for example the researcher recommends teachers to be trained adequately in order to effectively implement the Tourism curriculum. Teachers should be encouraged to use new learner-centred teaching strategies and resources should be provided in all secondary schools through the combined effort of the government, Fort Beaufort Education district and the School Management Teams (SMTs). Support and monitoring systems should be in place for proper implementation of Tourism curriculum. Tourism industries should contribute through provision of instructional materials and teachers as implementers of the curriculum should be involved in decision-making and curriculum planning. The government should employ enough teachers qualified to teach Tourism. On the other hand subject advisors should be adequately trained to enable them to provide relevant support to teachers in Fort Beaufort secondary schools. All stakeholders should be involved in fostering skills and capacities at local level to develop sustainable Tourism and local development in an integrated way. The study identified a possible an alternative model for the implementation of Tourism curriculum. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, 2012
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The readiness of embracing the fourth industrial revolution disruptive innovations: a case for an automotive assembler in the Nelson Mandela Metropole

  • Authors: Mbolekwa, Luvuyo
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/52988 , vital:44866
  • Description: Organisations and people find themselves in the era of what is known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Unlike the preceding revolutions, this revolution is characterised by technological advancements that lead to disruptive phenomena. These advancements are growing at an exponential rate. They have brought disruptive innovations that have either reshaped many industries, causing them to lose market share or exit altogether. Some organisations are keen to embrace disruptive innovation to ensure that they are sustainable into the future, while others are only inclined to use known technologies to leverage economies of scale. The 4IR has already been around for a while and is moving at a fast pace. The level of readiness for the automotive assembler, Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf), to take advantage of such technological changes brought by the 4IR, has not yet been measured. The primary objective of this study is to investigate IMSAf’s perceptions and readiness to embrace technological changes brought by the 4IR. The perceptions and readiness are assessed based on the technology embracing organisational framework of efficiencies, innovation, skills and re-training. This study is grounded in the philosophy of positivism and the related method used is a quantitative study to test the research questions in an objective manner. A questionnaire was the sole method of collecting first-hand data from the selected sample. The population size consisted of 139 respondents working in various business units within IMSAf. These individuals are occupying various roles and they have in depth, tacit, and multi-disciplinary knowledge of processes and would be the first to experience technological changes brought by the 4IR. A quantitative analysis technique is applied, such as descriptive and inferential statistics, to analyse data. A literature review on the topic was conducted as well as an empirical study. The results from both the literature review and the empirical study found that with the implementation of 4IR emerging technologies within an organisation, there is a significant improvement on efficiencies, innovation and skills and re-training. Furthermore, the level of awareness and understanding about the benefits of embracing 4IR emerging technologies within IMSAf is significant. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

The value of incubation to SMME in the financial services industry : the case of the infinitum initiative

  • Authors: Mboniswa, Unathi Sindisiwe
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Gqeberha (South Africa) , Eastern Cape (South Africa) , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/53027 , vital:44862
  • Description: Small, micro and medium businesses are regarded as the engine for achieving economic growth and reducing unemployment through unlocking the potential of young entrepreneurs. However, 80% of such young entrepreneurs operating SMMEs fail in their first years of existence. To respond to this challenge, Business Incubators (BI’s) have been established to nurture SMMEs to succeed. Numerous BI’s, such as Godisa, have been established in South Africa with many supported by the Department of Trade and Industry. However, there are still many potential entrepreneurs in need of such help. In this regard, Old Mutual initiated a programme similar to Godisa, called the Infinitum Incubation Programme (IIP). The IIP seeks to groom young, willing and educated entrepreneurs from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, with business skills to help them establish sustainable businesses. Their focus is on Financial Advisors and the programme has been running for two years offering all the support needed by young businesses. Against this background, this study endeavoured to assess whether the initiative has had the intended impact on the Incubatees. Using a qualitative and Interpretivism research approach and a sample of six incubatees, this study addressed its objectives. Questionnaires were sent out to all incubators and incubatees involved in the IIP and a response rate 60% was achieved. These responses were analysed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The results show that the IIP has been successful in identifying suitable incubatees and stakeholders. It also found that the IIP has been successful in equipping incubatees with theoretical business management skills. However, in terms of skills transfer, the programme was not successful. Both incubatees and stakeholders rated the programme poorly. Further, both stakeholders and incubatees perceive the programme to be a very good idea and see potential for success; however, they feel that would be achieved only after significant improvement. The study recommends that the programme improve on the following: gender balance, management and coordination of the programme, improved skills transfer, balance between practice, theory, and providing post-programme mentorship. The study ends by describing limitations and areas for further research. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, NMU Business School, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04

A model for smart ports in developing countries

  • Authors: Mcetywa, Kwazelela
  • Date: 2021-04
  • Subjects: Harbors --Design and construction , Harbors-- Economic aspects
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/56012 , vital:54632
  • Description: South African Ports have made a commendable effort in improving productivity through technology and they compete reasonably well with ports in other developing countries. However, sufficient research about the factors that affect the adoption of smart ports and associated benefits have not been adequately explored in South Africa and in other developing countries. The consequence is that ports are faced with high levels of inefficiency, deteriorating logistical performance, poor port productivity, high transport costs and truck congestion. Therefore, the study focuses on determining and evaluating factors that affect the adoption of the smart port’s concept in developing countries in order to improve port productivity and efficiency. A proposed conceptual Smart Port model was developed based on an in-depth review of literature on smart ports, covering both national and international research. The study follows a quantitative research approach and is based on positivism. The sampling frame of the study was limited to 1,350 employees and managers in South African ports. The data was collected from South African port’s employees via an email survey, using an embedded questionnaire. The data collected from a total number of 197 participants were analysed statistically. The confirmed model for smart ports in developing countries shows statistically and practically that a smart port is dependent on operations technology, environmental management, energy consumption, safety and security, integration, infrastructure and equipment and a skilled workforce. One of the key study learnings from the study is that ports should adopt the smart port targeted initiatives in order to transition into smart ports. The developed Smart Port model can be used as a broad guideline to inform ports in South Africa and in other developing countries about the fundamental elements of an ideal port in order to improve their efficiency, competitiveness and to stimulate their growth and profitability. The study is viewed as a success in that it provides the port industry in both developed and developing countries with a deliberate and clearly defined Smart Port model structure, which did not exist before. A follow-on longitudinal study to determine the impact of the changing technologies on the smart ports is recommended among others as a future research opportunity. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, NMU Business School, 2021
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  • Date Issued: 2021-04
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