An analysis of factors affecting media freedom at the South African Broadcasting Corporation
- Authors: Mawandu, Charity Lufuno
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Mass media – Censorship – South Africa , Freedom of the press --South Africa – History
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59337 , vital:62065
- Description: This research sought to analyse factors that affect media freedom at the South African Broadcasting Corporation using a descriptive research design and qualitative research methodology. Studies and media reports show that the South African Broadcasting Corporation is facing a myriad of challenges including woes related to media freedom hampering its mandate to inform, educate and entertain the public of South Africa. There is a dearth of studies conducted to understand the media freedom challenges at the South African Broadcasting Corporation. A qualitative approach was used in data collection, and in-depth interviews were utilised as instruments to collect data from participants. Non-probability sampling in particular purposive sampling method was used to select 4 directors, 4 editors and 4 journalists at the South African Broadcasting Corporation. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that challenges facing the South African Broadcasting Corporation include poor legal environment as the broadcaster lacks support from government to implement effective policies to protect employees and create a media freedom environment to allow workers to carry out their work independently. The study found that the political environment in the South African Broadcasting Corporation at affects media freedom. Some political 0rganisations, influential individuals and entities are meddling in the operation of the broadcaster by trying to influence the narrative of the content broadcasted. The finding revealed that economic environment at the broadcaster is affects media freedom. The broadcaster is struggling financially resulting in poor income for employees, retrenchments, and inability to run approved programmes. In the context of constitution and policies, there is need for the South African Broadcasting Corporation to develop strategies that will specifically address both internal and external political, economic, and legal challenges it is facing if it is to be a high performing, financially sustainable, digitised national public broadcaster that provides compelling, informative, educational, and entertaining content via all platforms. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities , School of language Media and Communications, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mawandu, Charity Lufuno
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Mass media – Censorship – South Africa , Freedom of the press --South Africa – History
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59337 , vital:62065
- Description: This research sought to analyse factors that affect media freedom at the South African Broadcasting Corporation using a descriptive research design and qualitative research methodology. Studies and media reports show that the South African Broadcasting Corporation is facing a myriad of challenges including woes related to media freedom hampering its mandate to inform, educate and entertain the public of South Africa. There is a dearth of studies conducted to understand the media freedom challenges at the South African Broadcasting Corporation. A qualitative approach was used in data collection, and in-depth interviews were utilised as instruments to collect data from participants. Non-probability sampling in particular purposive sampling method was used to select 4 directors, 4 editors and 4 journalists at the South African Broadcasting Corporation. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings show that challenges facing the South African Broadcasting Corporation include poor legal environment as the broadcaster lacks support from government to implement effective policies to protect employees and create a media freedom environment to allow workers to carry out their work independently. The study found that the political environment in the South African Broadcasting Corporation at affects media freedom. Some political 0rganisations, influential individuals and entities are meddling in the operation of the broadcaster by trying to influence the narrative of the content broadcasted. The finding revealed that economic environment at the broadcaster is affects media freedom. The broadcaster is struggling financially resulting in poor income for employees, retrenchments, and inability to run approved programmes. In the context of constitution and policies, there is need for the South African Broadcasting Corporation to develop strategies that will specifically address both internal and external political, economic, and legal challenges it is facing if it is to be a high performing, financially sustainable, digitised national public broadcaster that provides compelling, informative, educational, and entertaining content via all platforms. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities , School of language Media and Communications, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Strategic architecture for quantity surveying Firms in South Africa
- Mokonenyane, Mofumahatsana Dibuseng
- Authors: Mokonenyane, Mofumahatsana Dibuseng
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sustainable architecture , Quantity surveyors
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59521 , vital:62149
- Description: Quantity surveying firms are a crucial part of the construction industry because they are involved in the financial aspects of the projects, and their role and benefits have been documented across various studies. Furthermore, they provide services such as estimating, cost control and feasibility studies in numerous industries and these services are not limited to the construction industry. They are crucial in ensuring that the project proceeds according to budget, quality and time. Despite the noted benefits of quantity surveying firms, there has been a noticeable decline in the survival rate of the firms over the past ten years. It has been documented that several external and internal environmental factors affect the firms and thus have caused a decline in the survival rate. The volatility of internal and external forces that affect the industry has formed the basis of this study. Previous studies have failed to highlight the strategies to reduce threats and utilise opportunities. This study aims to establish common internal and external environmental factors affecting quantity surveying firms and determine these firms’ strategic architecture. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews to assess the internal and external environment and strategic nature of Quantity surveying firms. In addition, a thematic analysis was administered to identify themes. The themes that arose from the external business environment were technology, political instability, tendering irregularities, lack of availability of work and the practice of green building. The technology theme highlighted the respondents’ views of the technological environment and the role of BIM and other software. Tendering irregularities threatened prospective tenderpreneurs as the respondents viewed the process as flawed and requiring better regulation. Lack of work was highlighted as a further factor. Although not many respondents mentioned this theme, green building is an emerging theme within the South African market. Two main themes were identified in the internal business environment: fee discounting and human resources. Fee discounting refers to the reduction of fees to secure work, while human resources were highlighted as an important factor and are regarded as the fuel that keeps the organisation running. Owing to the varying nature of factors within the external and internal business environment, it was concluded that there is no formal generic strategy that can be utilised to mitigate internal and external environmental factors. The client relationships were highlighted as an important factor, while client relationships were discussed under the balanced scorecard section of the study. The two main themes derived from the balanced scorecard were the financial perspective and client relationships under customer. Increased revenue per customer and venturing into new markets were the main themes mentioned within the financial perspective. The importance of nurturing client relationships was identified as an important factor under the customer section of the balanced scorecard. iii | P a g e The findings of this study will assist the stakeholders within the built environment in determining common internal and external environmental issues facing the industry. The recommendation will assist stakeholders in establishing probable solutions that can be implemented to overcome these challenges. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mokonenyane, Mofumahatsana Dibuseng
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Sustainable architecture , Quantity surveyors
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59521 , vital:62149
- Description: Quantity surveying firms are a crucial part of the construction industry because they are involved in the financial aspects of the projects, and their role and benefits have been documented across various studies. Furthermore, they provide services such as estimating, cost control and feasibility studies in numerous industries and these services are not limited to the construction industry. They are crucial in ensuring that the project proceeds according to budget, quality and time. Despite the noted benefits of quantity surveying firms, there has been a noticeable decline in the survival rate of the firms over the past ten years. It has been documented that several external and internal environmental factors affect the firms and thus have caused a decline in the survival rate. The volatility of internal and external forces that affect the industry has formed the basis of this study. Previous studies have failed to highlight the strategies to reduce threats and utilise opportunities. This study aims to establish common internal and external environmental factors affecting quantity surveying firms and determine these firms’ strategic architecture. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews to assess the internal and external environment and strategic nature of Quantity surveying firms. In addition, a thematic analysis was administered to identify themes. The themes that arose from the external business environment were technology, political instability, tendering irregularities, lack of availability of work and the practice of green building. The technology theme highlighted the respondents’ views of the technological environment and the role of BIM and other software. Tendering irregularities threatened prospective tenderpreneurs as the respondents viewed the process as flawed and requiring better regulation. Lack of work was highlighted as a further factor. Although not many respondents mentioned this theme, green building is an emerging theme within the South African market. Two main themes were identified in the internal business environment: fee discounting and human resources. Fee discounting refers to the reduction of fees to secure work, while human resources were highlighted as an important factor and are regarded as the fuel that keeps the organisation running. Owing to the varying nature of factors within the external and internal business environment, it was concluded that there is no formal generic strategy that can be utilised to mitigate internal and external environmental factors. The client relationships were highlighted as an important factor, while client relationships were discussed under the balanced scorecard section of the study. The two main themes derived from the balanced scorecard were the financial perspective and client relationships under customer. Increased revenue per customer and venturing into new markets were the main themes mentioned within the financial perspective. The importance of nurturing client relationships was identified as an important factor under the customer section of the balanced scorecard. iii | P a g e The findings of this study will assist the stakeholders within the built environment in determining common internal and external environmental issues facing the industry. The recommendation will assist stakeholders in establishing probable solutions that can be implemented to overcome these challenges. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Assessing Diabetes distress amongst type 2 Diabetic patients at the Mhlontlo sub-district healthcare clinics in the OR Tambo health District
- Authors: Mboniso, Veronica
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Diabetes , Medical care , Primary health care -- OR Tambo Health District
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60111 , vital:63096
- Description: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic endocrine condition that requires lifestyle changes and a commitment to its management to ensure patient well-being, although this can be challenging for various reasons. In addition, diabetes is a behavioural and emotionally demanding condition that could affect the psychosocial well-being of a patient. Diabetes distress is quite common in people living with diabetes, as they lose hope easily, especially when their diabetes is uncontrolled. The research study identified and described factors contributing to diabetes distress amongst type 2 diabetic patients at Mhlontlo Sub-District healthcare clinics in the OR Tambo Health District. Probability sampling was used to select patients who were 18 years and older after approval from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and relevant authorisation was obtained. The study was conducted between August and October 2021, using a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive research design. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which had been adapted from the Diabetes Distress Scale-17 (DDS-17) created by Polonsky et al. (2005). A total of 136 diabetic patients completed the questionnaire, which comprised three sections: demographic information (Section A); the DDS-17 (Section B); and contributing factors to diabetes distress in diabetic patients at Mhlontlo Sub-District healthcare clinics (Section C). The researcher conducted a pilot study in one of the clinics to check the feasibility of the questionnaire. After the data were collected, it was statistically analysed with the assistance of a statistician to generate descriptive and inferential statistics. The analysed data revealed that most of the diabetic patients indicated that they found travelling far to fetch medication and standing in long queues at the clinic distressing. Therefore, they wanted the Central Chronic Medicine Dispensing and Distribution (CCMDD) programme to be rolled out to bring medication to them. The results also revealed that the patients' diabetes distress was exacerbated by them having to travel to clinics in search of medication when their usual clinic had no adequate v stocks of medication. Another factor contributing to the patients’ diabetes distress was the lack of a doctor on site. The patients indicated that doctors should be available at the clinics, even periodically, to address problems that cannot be solved by nurses. The absence of haemoglucotest (HGT machines at clinics was another contributing factor to diabetes distress. Most of the patients in the study felt that they would manage their diabetes better if the government supplied these machines. The results informed various recommendations that might help the management of OR Tambo Health District to make changes and thus minimise the diabetes distress reported by its patients. However, the study had limitations, although it observed the principles of reliability and validity. Moreover, ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont Report, and the study adhered to the principles of informed consent, respect for persons, anonymity, confidentiality, beneficence, nonmaleficence and distributive justice. , Thesis (MNur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Lifestyle Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mboniso, Veronica
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Diabetes , Medical care , Primary health care -- OR Tambo Health District
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60111 , vital:63096
- Description: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic endocrine condition that requires lifestyle changes and a commitment to its management to ensure patient well-being, although this can be challenging for various reasons. In addition, diabetes is a behavioural and emotionally demanding condition that could affect the psychosocial well-being of a patient. Diabetes distress is quite common in people living with diabetes, as they lose hope easily, especially when their diabetes is uncontrolled. The research study identified and described factors contributing to diabetes distress amongst type 2 diabetic patients at Mhlontlo Sub-District healthcare clinics in the OR Tambo Health District. Probability sampling was used to select patients who were 18 years and older after approval from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and relevant authorisation was obtained. The study was conducted between August and October 2021, using a quantitative, exploratory and descriptive research design. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which had been adapted from the Diabetes Distress Scale-17 (DDS-17) created by Polonsky et al. (2005). A total of 136 diabetic patients completed the questionnaire, which comprised three sections: demographic information (Section A); the DDS-17 (Section B); and contributing factors to diabetes distress in diabetic patients at Mhlontlo Sub-District healthcare clinics (Section C). The researcher conducted a pilot study in one of the clinics to check the feasibility of the questionnaire. After the data were collected, it was statistically analysed with the assistance of a statistician to generate descriptive and inferential statistics. The analysed data revealed that most of the diabetic patients indicated that they found travelling far to fetch medication and standing in long queues at the clinic distressing. Therefore, they wanted the Central Chronic Medicine Dispensing and Distribution (CCMDD) programme to be rolled out to bring medication to them. The results also revealed that the patients' diabetes distress was exacerbated by them having to travel to clinics in search of medication when their usual clinic had no adequate v stocks of medication. Another factor contributing to the patients’ diabetes distress was the lack of a doctor on site. The patients indicated that doctors should be available at the clinics, even periodically, to address problems that cannot be solved by nurses. The absence of haemoglucotest (HGT machines at clinics was another contributing factor to diabetes distress. Most of the patients in the study felt that they would manage their diabetes better if the government supplied these machines. The results informed various recommendations that might help the management of OR Tambo Health District to make changes and thus minimise the diabetes distress reported by its patients. However, the study had limitations, although it observed the principles of reliability and validity. Moreover, ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont Report, and the study adhered to the principles of informed consent, respect for persons, anonymity, confidentiality, beneficence, nonmaleficence and distributive justice. , Thesis (MNur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Lifestyle Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Improving governance and service delivery in Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality: a quest for a clean audit opinion
- Ntsundwana, Kanyisa Zime Dadewabobonke
- Authors: Ntsundwana, Kanyisa Zime Dadewabobonke
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Service delivery -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal finance--Auditing--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59644 , vital:62297
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate how Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) can improve its governance and service delivery to obtain a clean audit outcome. In addition, the study explored the role of auditing in the functioning and performance of municipalities. NMBMM public officials and political office-bearers are expected in terms of Chapter 7 of the Constitution of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 to promote the general welfare of the community by meeting its needs, expectations and demands. The qualitative (non-empirical) research methodology followed in the study was based on a desktop approach. The annual documents reviewed to answer the research objectives were the Consolidated General Reports on the Local Government Audit Outcome and the Reports of the Auditor-General to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature and the council on the NMBMM and its municipal entity for the financial period 2015/2016 to 2019/2020. The problem was that the NMBMM did not obtain a clean audit opinion during this period. The study findings indicated that the main contributing factors that prevented the NMBMM from improving governance, service delivery and obtaining a clean audit outcome were as follows: poor management of accounting practices (financial management); inadequate financial statements and performance reports; a lack of adherence to predetermined objectives and legislation; and unauthorised, fruitless, wasteful and irregular expenditure. To attain a clean audit outcome, NMBMM municipal officials and political officebearers need to perform their mandated duties diligently and overcome the challenges that have barred them from obtaining an unqualified audit opinion. Such an endeavour would be consistent with the Operation Clean Audit (OPCA) campaign, which was introduced by the former Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sicelo Shiceka, in 2009. In other words, the NMBMM must improve its governance and service delivery because a municipality without good governance lacks accountability, which has a direct negative impact on the delivery of services to its communities. Hence, it is recommended inter alia that the NMBMM seeks advice from iii the Auditor-General on strategies to improve its audit outcomes, maintains infrastructure, addresses criminal activities and improves its internal controls. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ntsundwana, Kanyisa Zime Dadewabobonke
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Service delivery -- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality -- Port Elizabeth , Municipal finance--Auditing--Law and legislation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59644 , vital:62297
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate how Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM) can improve its governance and service delivery to obtain a clean audit outcome. In addition, the study explored the role of auditing in the functioning and performance of municipalities. NMBMM public officials and political office-bearers are expected in terms of Chapter 7 of the Constitution of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 to promote the general welfare of the community by meeting its needs, expectations and demands. The qualitative (non-empirical) research methodology followed in the study was based on a desktop approach. The annual documents reviewed to answer the research objectives were the Consolidated General Reports on the Local Government Audit Outcome and the Reports of the Auditor-General to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature and the council on the NMBMM and its municipal entity for the financial period 2015/2016 to 2019/2020. The problem was that the NMBMM did not obtain a clean audit opinion during this period. The study findings indicated that the main contributing factors that prevented the NMBMM from improving governance, service delivery and obtaining a clean audit outcome were as follows: poor management of accounting practices (financial management); inadequate financial statements and performance reports; a lack of adherence to predetermined objectives and legislation; and unauthorised, fruitless, wasteful and irregular expenditure. To attain a clean audit outcome, NMBMM municipal officials and political officebearers need to perform their mandated duties diligently and overcome the challenges that have barred them from obtaining an unqualified audit opinion. Such an endeavour would be consistent with the Operation Clean Audit (OPCA) campaign, which was introduced by the former Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sicelo Shiceka, in 2009. In other words, the NMBMM must improve its governance and service delivery because a municipality without good governance lacks accountability, which has a direct negative impact on the delivery of services to its communities. Hence, it is recommended inter alia that the NMBMM seeks advice from iii the Auditor-General on strategies to improve its audit outcomes, maintains infrastructure, addresses criminal activities and improves its internal controls. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Representation of history in Tsitsi Dangarembga’s trilogy – nervous conditions, the book of not and this mournable body
- Authors: Mutsambi, Tinoten
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Women and literature --Zimbabwe--History --20th century , Identification (Psychology) in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59446 , vital:62116
- Description: This dissertation analyses Tsitsi Dangarembga’s novels Nervous Conditions (1988), The Book of Not (2006) and This Mournable Body (2018). The three novels under study capture a great deal of Zimbabwe’s history, spanning from the colonial era as depicted in Nervous Conditions, through the period before and after independence in The Book of Not, to the contemporary post independence Zimbabwe in This Mournable Body. Reading these three novels and analysing their depiction of historic events is important as they cover significant and contested epochs in Zimbabwean history, making it possible for us to examine the intersection between history and literature. Moreover, since most Zimbabwean narratives that depict the country’s history have been male authored, Dangarembga’s novels offer an interesting opportunity to study the depiction of history from a female perspective , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mutsambi, Tinoten
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Women and literature --Zimbabwe--History --20th century , Identification (Psychology) in literature
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59446 , vital:62116
- Description: This dissertation analyses Tsitsi Dangarembga’s novels Nervous Conditions (1988), The Book of Not (2006) and This Mournable Body (2018). The three novels under study capture a great deal of Zimbabwe’s history, spanning from the colonial era as depicted in Nervous Conditions, through the period before and after independence in The Book of Not, to the contemporary post independence Zimbabwe in This Mournable Body. Reading these three novels and analysing their depiction of historic events is important as they cover significant and contested epochs in Zimbabwean history, making it possible for us to examine the intersection between history and literature. Moreover, since most Zimbabwean narratives that depict the country’s history have been male authored, Dangarembga’s novels offer an interesting opportunity to study the depiction of history from a female perspective , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Termination of employment in the public service sector: the constitutionality of the deeming provisions
- Authors: Mbewana, Inga
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: unfair labor practices--South Africa , labor law and legislation--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60080 , vital:62940
- Description: In terms of the South African Public Service Act,1 an employee who absents him- /herself from official duties without permission of his or her head of department, office or institution for a period exceeding one calendar month is deemed to have been discharged by operation of law. A similar provision can also be found in section 14 of the Employment of Educators Act,2 which expressly refers to fourteen (14) consecutive day’s unauthorised absence as opposed to thirty (30) days. Employees whose services have been terminated by operation of law are deprived an opportunity to defend themselves prior to the dismissal as prescribed by the Labour Relations Act3 (LRA). South African courts have grappled with several cases relating to dismissal by operation of law in the public service. The nature of these provisions is such that employees in the public sector are discharged from their duties without any hearing to offer them the opportunity to state their side and/or give a reasonable explanation for their absence. These provisions will thus be referred to herein as “the deeming provisions”. The deeming provisions provide that the discharge / dismissal is “on account of misconduct” however, it does not provide for a pre-dismissal procedure that is to be followed when dismissal is on account of misconduct, as prescribed by the LRA. It has been settled in our law that dismissal by operation of law is not dismissal for the purposes of the LRA. The employees dismissed by operation of law are regarded as if they are not entitled to a hearing. The right to fair labour practices protects everyone including public sector employees, 4 and such right is given effect to by way of enactment of the LRA. The LRA serves to protect public sector employees except where the exclusion is specified. This treatise seeks to challenge the necessity and constitutionality of the deeming provisions on the basis of its contravention of the constitutional right to fair labour practices. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mbewana, Inga
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: unfair labor practices--South Africa , labor law and legislation--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60080 , vital:62940
- Description: In terms of the South African Public Service Act,1 an employee who absents him- /herself from official duties without permission of his or her head of department, office or institution for a period exceeding one calendar month is deemed to have been discharged by operation of law. A similar provision can also be found in section 14 of the Employment of Educators Act,2 which expressly refers to fourteen (14) consecutive day’s unauthorised absence as opposed to thirty (30) days. Employees whose services have been terminated by operation of law are deprived an opportunity to defend themselves prior to the dismissal as prescribed by the Labour Relations Act3 (LRA). South African courts have grappled with several cases relating to dismissal by operation of law in the public service. The nature of these provisions is such that employees in the public sector are discharged from their duties without any hearing to offer them the opportunity to state their side and/or give a reasonable explanation for their absence. These provisions will thus be referred to herein as “the deeming provisions”. The deeming provisions provide that the discharge / dismissal is “on account of misconduct” however, it does not provide for a pre-dismissal procedure that is to be followed when dismissal is on account of misconduct, as prescribed by the LRA. It has been settled in our law that dismissal by operation of law is not dismissal for the purposes of the LRA. The employees dismissed by operation of law are regarded as if they are not entitled to a hearing. The right to fair labour practices protects everyone including public sector employees, 4 and such right is given effect to by way of enactment of the LRA. The LRA serves to protect public sector employees except where the exclusion is specified. This treatise seeks to challenge the necessity and constitutionality of the deeming provisions on the basis of its contravention of the constitutional right to fair labour practices. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department of Mercantile law, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Inventory management decisions for effective inventory management in the South African automotive component manufacturing industry: pre-and since COVID-19
- Authors: Delport, Jason
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Inventory management , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Theses
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59511 , vital:62145
- Description: Globalisation has enabled the automotive industry to source various automotive products worldwide. It assisted in increasing the economic growth of countries as it allowed the flow of goods and capital between countries and created many employment opportunities locally. Emerging markets, especially Africa, forms a pivotal part of the global automotive industry. The South African automotive industry as the largest manufacturing and third largest economic sector in South Africa, has been acknowledged by government as a prime source of economic growth. The South African manufacturing businesses, in particular the automotive component manufactures (ACMs) are reliant on inventory for automotive manufacturing. In 2019, the world was hit by the Coronavirus virus outbreak known as COVID-19, which became a global health pandemic that significantly affected the global economy. The pandemic and lockdown measures implemented, seriously affected the automotive industry, in particular inventory management as it led to raw materials inventory shortages due to delivery delays. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the inventory management decisions influencing effective inventory management in the South African automotive component manufacturing (SAACM) industry prior to Covid-19 and whether and how it changed since the Covid-19 pandemic. The comprehensive literature review identified four inventory management decisions as independent variables (inventory forecasting, inventory storage, inventory control and inventory staff capabilities management) and effective inventory management as the dependent variable in the proposed hypothesised model. The model was tested to establish the influence of the identified four inventory management decisions on effective inventory management in ACMs prior to Covid-19 and then again since Covid-19. A quantitative research approach was followed to collect data required for the hypothesis testing. Nonprobability sampling in particular judgemental sampling was utilised for this study by selecting respondents employed by ACMs in South Africa as logistics managers, supply chain managers, production supervisors, master production schedulers, cycle count operators and warehouse staff. A selfadministered internet-based questionnaire was used to obtain the data from the target sample comprising 200 respondents, of which 162 were usable for further statistical analysis. Data was analysed first for prior to and then for since Covid-19 using Statistica Version 14 computer software. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to extract the variables and validate the measuring instrument. The Cronbach's alpha values for reliability were confirmed for each of the variables identified in the two sets of EFAs. All four independent variables (inventory v management decisions) and the dependent variable (effective inventory management) for prior to as well as since Covid-19 were found to be valid and reliable and retained for further analyses. The results of the Pearson product moment correlation coefficients reported mostly weak and moderate associations between variables for both prior to and since Covid-19. The results of the multiple regression analysis (MRA) for prior to Covid-19 found four statistically significant relationships between the four independent variables - inventory forecasting management, inventory storage management, inventory control management and inventory staff capabilities management and the dependent variable effective inventory management. The results of the MRA for since Covid-19 found two statistically significant relationships between two independent variables inventory forecasting management and inventory resource management and the dependent variable effective inventory management. The tested hypothesised model provides a framework for further testing in future ACM inventory management studies in other countries. Business managers and inventory management staff of global ACMs can use it as a guide for effective inventory management; on which specific inventory management decisions to always pay attention to and, which inventory management decisions to pay attention to when a long-lasting pandemic occurs such as Covid-19. It is recommended that regardless of the Covid-19 pandemic, inventory managers in ACMs in South Africa should consider inventory forecasting management methods such as demand forecasting, determining the economic order quantity (EOQ) for all inventory item orders and materials requirement planning (MRP). They should also use an inventory information sharing system and inventory replenishment procedure to ensure inventory is managed effectively. During a prolonged pandemic such as Covid-19, inventory managers in ACMs in South Africa should pay particular attention to inventory resource management specifically regarding re-order inventory levels and classifying all inventory items according to the importance of using ABC analysis. They should further offer employees inventory training to remain abreast of new inventory developments in the industry and for career advancement. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economics Science, School of Applied Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Delport, Jason
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Inventory management , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Theses
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59511 , vital:62145
- Description: Globalisation has enabled the automotive industry to source various automotive products worldwide. It assisted in increasing the economic growth of countries as it allowed the flow of goods and capital between countries and created many employment opportunities locally. Emerging markets, especially Africa, forms a pivotal part of the global automotive industry. The South African automotive industry as the largest manufacturing and third largest economic sector in South Africa, has been acknowledged by government as a prime source of economic growth. The South African manufacturing businesses, in particular the automotive component manufactures (ACMs) are reliant on inventory for automotive manufacturing. In 2019, the world was hit by the Coronavirus virus outbreak known as COVID-19, which became a global health pandemic that significantly affected the global economy. The pandemic and lockdown measures implemented, seriously affected the automotive industry, in particular inventory management as it led to raw materials inventory shortages due to delivery delays. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the inventory management decisions influencing effective inventory management in the South African automotive component manufacturing (SAACM) industry prior to Covid-19 and whether and how it changed since the Covid-19 pandemic. The comprehensive literature review identified four inventory management decisions as independent variables (inventory forecasting, inventory storage, inventory control and inventory staff capabilities management) and effective inventory management as the dependent variable in the proposed hypothesised model. The model was tested to establish the influence of the identified four inventory management decisions on effective inventory management in ACMs prior to Covid-19 and then again since Covid-19. A quantitative research approach was followed to collect data required for the hypothesis testing. Nonprobability sampling in particular judgemental sampling was utilised for this study by selecting respondents employed by ACMs in South Africa as logistics managers, supply chain managers, production supervisors, master production schedulers, cycle count operators and warehouse staff. A selfadministered internet-based questionnaire was used to obtain the data from the target sample comprising 200 respondents, of which 162 were usable for further statistical analysis. Data was analysed first for prior to and then for since Covid-19 using Statistica Version 14 computer software. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to extract the variables and validate the measuring instrument. The Cronbach's alpha values for reliability were confirmed for each of the variables identified in the two sets of EFAs. All four independent variables (inventory v management decisions) and the dependent variable (effective inventory management) for prior to as well as since Covid-19 were found to be valid and reliable and retained for further analyses. The results of the Pearson product moment correlation coefficients reported mostly weak and moderate associations between variables for both prior to and since Covid-19. The results of the multiple regression analysis (MRA) for prior to Covid-19 found four statistically significant relationships between the four independent variables - inventory forecasting management, inventory storage management, inventory control management and inventory staff capabilities management and the dependent variable effective inventory management. The results of the MRA for since Covid-19 found two statistically significant relationships between two independent variables inventory forecasting management and inventory resource management and the dependent variable effective inventory management. The tested hypothesised model provides a framework for further testing in future ACM inventory management studies in other countries. Business managers and inventory management staff of global ACMs can use it as a guide for effective inventory management; on which specific inventory management decisions to always pay attention to and, which inventory management decisions to pay attention to when a long-lasting pandemic occurs such as Covid-19. It is recommended that regardless of the Covid-19 pandemic, inventory managers in ACMs in South Africa should consider inventory forecasting management methods such as demand forecasting, determining the economic order quantity (EOQ) for all inventory item orders and materials requirement planning (MRP). They should also use an inventory information sharing system and inventory replenishment procedure to ensure inventory is managed effectively. During a prolonged pandemic such as Covid-19, inventory managers in ACMs in South Africa should pay particular attention to inventory resource management specifically regarding re-order inventory levels and classifying all inventory items according to the importance of using ABC analysis. They should further offer employees inventory training to remain abreast of new inventory developments in the industry and for career advancement. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economics Science, School of Applied Accounting, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Perceptions of Kwazulu-Natal radiographers regarding the role of professional development in clinical practice
- Authors: Zulu Anelisa
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Radiography -- KwaZulu Natal , radiographers regarding
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60290 , vital:64292
- Description: Professional development in the form of continuing education is associated with professional competence and good service delivery to the patient, and this understanding of professional development applies to the radiography profession. A manager may prompt participation in professional development, or the needs of a radiography department may influence it, or it may be driven by the personal and professional ambitions of the radiographer. Participation could also be due to regulatory body requirements, which require tracking and documentation as in the case of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) which may audit the professional’s continuing professional development (CPD) compliance. Professional development is a concept inclusive of all learning such as CPD; postgraduate qualifications; staff development; and reflective practice, pursued for the betterment of the radiographers’ professional expertise. Few if any qualitative studies have sought to explore South African radiographers’ perceptions of professional development as a concept inclusive of all learning. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions of KwaZulu-Natal radiographers regarding the role of professional development in clinical practice to make recommendations to radiography managers on how to optimise the participation of radiographers in professional development. Bandura’s social learning theory was used as the theoretical framework for a study of the perceptions of practising KZN radiographers regarding the role of professional development in clinical practice and exploring how people learn from one another, including concepts such as observational learning, imitation, and modelling. The target population for the study consisted of practising radiographers working in the public and private, rural and urban hospitals in KZN. Data were gathered using semi-structured one-on-one interviews and were coded using Tesch’s eight steps. The trustworthiness of this study was enhanced using Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) model of trustworthiness, namely: credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Zulu Anelisa
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Radiography -- KwaZulu Natal , radiographers regarding
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60290 , vital:64292
- Description: Professional development in the form of continuing education is associated with professional competence and good service delivery to the patient, and this understanding of professional development applies to the radiography profession. A manager may prompt participation in professional development, or the needs of a radiography department may influence it, or it may be driven by the personal and professional ambitions of the radiographer. Participation could also be due to regulatory body requirements, which require tracking and documentation as in the case of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) which may audit the professional’s continuing professional development (CPD) compliance. Professional development is a concept inclusive of all learning such as CPD; postgraduate qualifications; staff development; and reflective practice, pursued for the betterment of the radiographers’ professional expertise. Few if any qualitative studies have sought to explore South African radiographers’ perceptions of professional development as a concept inclusive of all learning. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceptions of KwaZulu-Natal radiographers regarding the role of professional development in clinical practice to make recommendations to radiography managers on how to optimise the participation of radiographers in professional development. Bandura’s social learning theory was used as the theoretical framework for a study of the perceptions of practising KZN radiographers regarding the role of professional development in clinical practice and exploring how people learn from one another, including concepts such as observational learning, imitation, and modelling. The target population for the study consisted of practising radiographers working in the public and private, rural and urban hospitals in KZN. Data were gathered using semi-structured one-on-one interviews and were coded using Tesch’s eight steps. The trustworthiness of this study was enhanced using Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) model of trustworthiness, namely: credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Beauty from Ashes:short term postfire regeneration of dune fynbos -thicket vegetation in the South Eastern Cape floristic region
- Authors: Gcina, Sinenjongo
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Fynbos ecology – Nelson Mandela University Campus Nature Reserve , Forest fires -- Prevention and control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59666 , vital:62319
- Description: Aim This study aims to provide an understanding and a description of the short-term postfire regeneration and ecology of the fynbos-thicket vegetation on a coastal dune system in the southeastern Cape Floristic Region. Another aim is to assess the recovery of the vegetation community by assessing the growth forms and the disturbance response across a range of species from thicket and fynbos communities and to provide a belowground bud bank classification for each of these species in the coastal dune systems. Location The study site was the Mandela University Reserve and the Noordhoek dune fields, situated in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, which is part of the south-eastern Cape Floristic Region. The study site hosts thicket-fynbos mosaic vegetation type that occurs in a Mediterranean-Climate Ecosystem (MCE). Methods Firstly, field observations and photographs of plant species were taken weekly to assess and identify the species that were emerging and persisting in the dune system in the first 12 months postfire. Phenological events of the species that emerged (e.g., flowering, fruiting, leaf growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf abscission) were also observed and reported on. Secondly, an excavation of 21 species (e.g., Jamesbrittenia microphylla, Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata) was conducted to classify the species into their belowground bud bank types. Results There was a rapid emergence of resprouters (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) in the first 12 months postfire. This was followed by their growth; primarily occurring after the rainfall events. The dominant resprouting species (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) entered the system two weeks after the fire. There was a significant difference in the time to the first emergence of the different regeneration groups postfire (P < 0.001): on average, obligate sprouters (OS) appeared 1 month after fire – two months earlier than facultative sprouters (FS) and four months earlier than non-sprouters (NS). There was no statistical evidence to suggest that the FS and non-sprouters NS emerged at different times postfire; however, most NS species were observed in the system 5 months after fire. 4 Exceptions were the NS species Pelargonium grossularoides and Mesembryanthemum aitonis, both annuals that emerged 1 month after fire. A wide range of OS species that appeared earlier in the system (e.g., Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata, and Lauridia tetragona) exhibit underground lateral growth with belowground bud banks (BBBs) from which they recover after disturbance. In total, six BBB types were recorded in this study, namely: bud-bearing root, rhizome, rhizophore, woody rhizome, stem tuber, and corms. The bud-bearing root from woody species was the dominant BBB in this system. Main conclusion The return of species that occurs in the first year after fire occurs rapidly in the first 2 months as resprouting species (primarily OS) appear in the system. Following this, the rate of return of species decreases as reseeding species (primarily NS) gradually reestablish and occupy the gaps in the dune fynbos-thicket vegetation. This study has shown that plant species in this ecosystem are adapted to fire disturbance as their populations are able to reestablish through various regeneration strategies, including resprouting from different types of BBB. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Gcina, Sinenjongo
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Fynbos ecology – Nelson Mandela University Campus Nature Reserve , Forest fires -- Prevention and control
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59666 , vital:62319
- Description: Aim This study aims to provide an understanding and a description of the short-term postfire regeneration and ecology of the fynbos-thicket vegetation on a coastal dune system in the southeastern Cape Floristic Region. Another aim is to assess the recovery of the vegetation community by assessing the growth forms and the disturbance response across a range of species from thicket and fynbos communities and to provide a belowground bud bank classification for each of these species in the coastal dune systems. Location The study site was the Mandela University Reserve and the Noordhoek dune fields, situated in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, which is part of the south-eastern Cape Floristic Region. The study site hosts thicket-fynbos mosaic vegetation type that occurs in a Mediterranean-Climate Ecosystem (MCE). Methods Firstly, field observations and photographs of plant species were taken weekly to assess and identify the species that were emerging and persisting in the dune system in the first 12 months postfire. Phenological events of the species that emerged (e.g., flowering, fruiting, leaf growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf abscission) were also observed and reported on. Secondly, an excavation of 21 species (e.g., Jamesbrittenia microphylla, Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata) was conducted to classify the species into their belowground bud bank types. Results There was a rapid emergence of resprouters (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) in the first 12 months postfire. This was followed by their growth; primarily occurring after the rainfall events. The dominant resprouting species (facultative resprouters and obligate resprouters) entered the system two weeks after the fire. There was a significant difference in the time to the first emergence of the different regeneration groups postfire (P < 0.001): on average, obligate sprouters (OS) appeared 1 month after fire – two months earlier than facultative sprouters (FS) and four months earlier than non-sprouters (NS). There was no statistical evidence to suggest that the FS and non-sprouters NS emerged at different times postfire; however, most NS species were observed in the system 5 months after fire. 4 Exceptions were the NS species Pelargonium grossularoides and Mesembryanthemum aitonis, both annuals that emerged 1 month after fire. A wide range of OS species that appeared earlier in the system (e.g., Euclea racemosa, Olea exasperata, Searsia laevigata, and Lauridia tetragona) exhibit underground lateral growth with belowground bud banks (BBBs) from which they recover after disturbance. In total, six BBB types were recorded in this study, namely: bud-bearing root, rhizome, rhizophore, woody rhizome, stem tuber, and corms. The bud-bearing root from woody species was the dominant BBB in this system. Main conclusion The return of species that occurs in the first year after fire occurs rapidly in the first 2 months as resprouting species (primarily OS) appear in the system. Following this, the rate of return of species decreases as reseeding species (primarily NS) gradually reestablish and occupy the gaps in the dune fynbos-thicket vegetation. This study has shown that plant species in this ecosystem are adapted to fire disturbance as their populations are able to reestablish through various regeneration strategies, including resprouting from different types of BBB. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Growth performance of three F1 Hybrid tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Cultivars grown in Peat moss and Sawdust
- Authors: Mondile, Landile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tomatoes – Irrigation – Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59853 , vital:62450
- Description: The tomato is one of the most important and commonly grown vegetable crops cultivated by subsistence as well as commercial farmers in South Africa. Even though hydroponic tomato production has gained popularity, tomato production in South Africa is mostly practised open field. This is because most South African households in rural communities depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Tomatoes are one of the “cash crops” − meaning cash in hand for many farmers. As a staple food for many rural communities and households, tomatoes are prepared as relish daily. Including tomatoes in the human diet provides the benefit of various important nutrients, such as Vitamin C, amongst others. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance − by assessing the number of leaves, stem diameter, plant height and number of flowers per plant − in three Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivars, namely: F1 hybrids Star9006, TF4009 and TF4011, grown in peat moss and sawdust respectively. In addition, the research aimed at investigating how peat moss and sawdust, as growing media, influenced the growth performance of the tomato cultivars under study. The study was conducted at the Döhne Agricultural Development Institute near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The experiment was laid out in a split randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which the growing media, namely: sawdust and peat moss, were assigned as main plots and the tomato cultivars to sub-plots, with three replicates. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Mondile, Landile
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Agricultural development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Tomatoes – Irrigation – Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59853 , vital:62450
- Description: The tomato is one of the most important and commonly grown vegetable crops cultivated by subsistence as well as commercial farmers in South Africa. Even though hydroponic tomato production has gained popularity, tomato production in South Africa is mostly practised open field. This is because most South African households in rural communities depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Tomatoes are one of the “cash crops” − meaning cash in hand for many farmers. As a staple food for many rural communities and households, tomatoes are prepared as relish daily. Including tomatoes in the human diet provides the benefit of various important nutrients, such as Vitamin C, amongst others. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance − by assessing the number of leaves, stem diameter, plant height and number of flowers per plant − in three Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivars, namely: F1 hybrids Star9006, TF4009 and TF4011, grown in peat moss and sawdust respectively. In addition, the research aimed at investigating how peat moss and sawdust, as growing media, influenced the growth performance of the tomato cultivars under study. The study was conducted at the Döhne Agricultural Development Institute near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. The experiment was laid out in a split randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which the growing media, namely: sawdust and peat moss, were assigned as main plots and the tomato cultivars to sub-plots, with three replicates. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Evaluation of the mesozooplankton functional diversity indices in Algoa Bay as proxies to assess the stability of the food chain leading to the African penguin (Spheniscus demersus)
- Authors: Rukuni, Praxedes Vimbai
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Marine zooplankton --South Africa -- Algoa bay , Penguins -- South Africa -- Conservation , Fishes -- Predators of -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59956 , vital:62698
- Description: Current unprecedented environmental changes threaten food web and ecosystem stability, which is particularly concerning in areas with vulnerable species such as the endangered African penguin Spheniscus demersus. In this study I adopted a holistic approach integrating many ecosystem levels to better understand African penguin behavioural ecology and food web stability. I investigated interplay between physico-chemical parameters and zooplankton functional diversity at various temporal and spatial scales in Algoa Bay. The study further investigated the applicability of zooplankton functional diversity (FD) in inferring African penguin food web stability by comparing the FD of zooplankton found in anchovies regurgitated from African penguins and the ones found in the Bay PELTER Stations. Gut contents of anchovies regurgitated from Bird Island and St Croix penguins were also evaluated using Frequency of Occurrence and Dominance methods and compared between colonies. Zooplankton FD in Algoa Bay varied over time but not at spatial scales with chlorophyll-a, Sea Surface Temperature (SST), turbidity and salinity being potential drivers of zooplankton FD. Chlorophyll-a and salinity were positively correlated with FD, meanwhile FD was inversely correlated to turbidity and SST. The study also observed minor differences in the physico-chemical parameters associated with African penguin foraging grounds, though different dietary preferences were found between the anchovies regurgitated from penguins from the two colonies. Anchovies regurgitated by penguins from Bird Island targeted large sized groups such as Decapods, meanwhile anchovies from the St Croix penguin colony targeted small sized Ostracods and Cirripedia. This study therefore, provides insight on the influence of fluctuations in physico-chemical parameters in shaping zooplankton communities in Algoa Bay. The study also emphasises anchovy dietary plasticity, switching from selective feeding to opportunistic feeding in instances of prey shortages which contributes to a stable African penguin food web in the face of climate change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Rukuni, Praxedes Vimbai
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Marine zooplankton --South Africa -- Algoa bay , Penguins -- South Africa -- Conservation , Fishes -- Predators of -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59956 , vital:62698
- Description: Current unprecedented environmental changes threaten food web and ecosystem stability, which is particularly concerning in areas with vulnerable species such as the endangered African penguin Spheniscus demersus. In this study I adopted a holistic approach integrating many ecosystem levels to better understand African penguin behavioural ecology and food web stability. I investigated interplay between physico-chemical parameters and zooplankton functional diversity at various temporal and spatial scales in Algoa Bay. The study further investigated the applicability of zooplankton functional diversity (FD) in inferring African penguin food web stability by comparing the FD of zooplankton found in anchovies regurgitated from African penguins and the ones found in the Bay PELTER Stations. Gut contents of anchovies regurgitated from Bird Island and St Croix penguins were also evaluated using Frequency of Occurrence and Dominance methods and compared between colonies. Zooplankton FD in Algoa Bay varied over time but not at spatial scales with chlorophyll-a, Sea Surface Temperature (SST), turbidity and salinity being potential drivers of zooplankton FD. Chlorophyll-a and salinity were positively correlated with FD, meanwhile FD was inversely correlated to turbidity and SST. The study also observed minor differences in the physico-chemical parameters associated with African penguin foraging grounds, though different dietary preferences were found between the anchovies regurgitated from penguins from the two colonies. Anchovies regurgitated by penguins from Bird Island targeted large sized groups such as Decapods, meanwhile anchovies from the St Croix penguin colony targeted small sized Ostracods and Cirripedia. This study therefore, provides insight on the influence of fluctuations in physico-chemical parameters in shaping zooplankton communities in Algoa Bay. The study also emphasises anchovy dietary plasticity, switching from selective feeding to opportunistic feeding in instances of prey shortages which contributes to a stable African penguin food web in the face of climate change. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Knowledge, attitude and perceptions of pre-hospital emergency care providers concerning pre-hospital clinical practice guidelines in the Mangaung Metropolitan area, Free State, South Africa
- Ramoshaba, Mapule Petronella
- Authors: Ramoshaba, Mapule Petronella
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Emergency medical services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27220 , vital:66471
- Description: Background and Introduction. Pre-hospital emergency care provided in a timeous and efficient manner is a pivotal component in improved patient prognosis, after a life altering situation has occurred. This management of patients is rendered prior to arrival at a medical facility. This service is provided by pre-hospital emergency care providers who apply life saving techniques and knowledge within their scopes of practice and then transporting patients to appropriate medical facilities for definitive care. Pre-hospital emergency care providers of all levels of care, namely: Basic life support, Intermediate life support and Advanced life support render emergency care services to patients with a main goal of seeing patients return back to normal life living. For this to be achieved, the providers must be empowered with the best knowledge, appropriate skills and adequate equipment at their disposal. Clinical practice guidelines are recommendations that are based on evidence in order to support beneficial clinical practices. These were introduced in the pre-hospital setting in South Africa in 2018 to review the scopes of practice of all levels of care, and make appropriate changes and additions for the betterment of the patient and the upskilling of pre-hospital emergency care providers. Since the providers are the end users of these guidelines, and are expected to apply them on patients, they are the best candidates to provide clarity on their perceptions, experiences and challenges which leads to the research questions being: What are the perceptions of the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers on the Pre-hospital Clinical Practice in the Guidelines? And What are the challenges experienced by the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers with regards to the implementation of the Pre-hospital Clinical Practice Guidelines in the application of Pre-hospital emergency medicine? The aim of the study was to explore the perceptions of the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers using the implemented Pre-hospital Clinical Practice Guidelines. Methods The study adopted a qualitative research approach with a purposive sampling method used to select the participants. This type of non-probability technique was suitable in the study as it is based on the researcher’s judgement of the participants being knowledgeable on the questions asked. An interview guide was utilised to collect data through semi-structured one on one interviews during which participants perceptions on the Clinical practice guidelines were shared. The data analysis process brought forth themes and sub themes that were aligned to the research findings which yielded the results. Results/findings The results encompassed the participants’ perceptions about pre-hospital clinical Practice Guidelines, as well as their knowledge, attitude, challenges, suggestions and recommendations. These results unearthed some of the reasons for the pre-hospital emergency care providers perceptions towards the guidelines. The majority of PECPS have a positive attitude towards the pre-hospital clinical practice guidelines, but have challenges with the availability of equipment and drugs which is caused by the lack of due diligence in complying with the implementation of the guidelines. Conclusion The recommendations and suggestions from the participants and researcher come with divisive strategies to the implementation of the guidelines and activities to be applied for the smooth implementation of the pre-hospital clinical practice guidelines. The basis for these recommendations and suggestions were the results as per the research findings. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ramoshaba, Mapule Petronella
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Emergency medical services
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27220 , vital:66471
- Description: Background and Introduction. Pre-hospital emergency care provided in a timeous and efficient manner is a pivotal component in improved patient prognosis, after a life altering situation has occurred. This management of patients is rendered prior to arrival at a medical facility. This service is provided by pre-hospital emergency care providers who apply life saving techniques and knowledge within their scopes of practice and then transporting patients to appropriate medical facilities for definitive care. Pre-hospital emergency care providers of all levels of care, namely: Basic life support, Intermediate life support and Advanced life support render emergency care services to patients with a main goal of seeing patients return back to normal life living. For this to be achieved, the providers must be empowered with the best knowledge, appropriate skills and adequate equipment at their disposal. Clinical practice guidelines are recommendations that are based on evidence in order to support beneficial clinical practices. These were introduced in the pre-hospital setting in South Africa in 2018 to review the scopes of practice of all levels of care, and make appropriate changes and additions for the betterment of the patient and the upskilling of pre-hospital emergency care providers. Since the providers are the end users of these guidelines, and are expected to apply them on patients, they are the best candidates to provide clarity on their perceptions, experiences and challenges which leads to the research questions being: What are the perceptions of the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers on the Pre-hospital Clinical Practice in the Guidelines? And What are the challenges experienced by the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers with regards to the implementation of the Pre-hospital Clinical Practice Guidelines in the application of Pre-hospital emergency medicine? The aim of the study was to explore the perceptions of the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Providers using the implemented Pre-hospital Clinical Practice Guidelines. Methods The study adopted a qualitative research approach with a purposive sampling method used to select the participants. This type of non-probability technique was suitable in the study as it is based on the researcher’s judgement of the participants being knowledgeable on the questions asked. An interview guide was utilised to collect data through semi-structured one on one interviews during which participants perceptions on the Clinical practice guidelines were shared. The data analysis process brought forth themes and sub themes that were aligned to the research findings which yielded the results. Results/findings The results encompassed the participants’ perceptions about pre-hospital clinical Practice Guidelines, as well as their knowledge, attitude, challenges, suggestions and recommendations. These results unearthed some of the reasons for the pre-hospital emergency care providers perceptions towards the guidelines. The majority of PECPS have a positive attitude towards the pre-hospital clinical practice guidelines, but have challenges with the availability of equipment and drugs which is caused by the lack of due diligence in complying with the implementation of the guidelines. Conclusion The recommendations and suggestions from the participants and researcher come with divisive strategies to the implementation of the guidelines and activities to be applied for the smooth implementation of the pre-hospital clinical practice guidelines. The basis for these recommendations and suggestions were the results as per the research findings. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Challenges faced by healthcare professionals in reporting near miss incidents in a hospital, at the Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ntlanganiso, Lindiwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Industrial accidents , Accident investigation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27094 , vital:66276
- Description: Background Recording and investigation of NMIs can provide valuable information on monitoring and enhancing patient safety in the healthcare facilities. This in turn, can reduce the likelihood of medico-legal claims. Regardless of attempts to establish efficient incident reporting systems across the entire healthcare industry, underreporting of errors persists worldwide. Therefore, not only do near miss incidents serve as early warning signs of impending potential failure in the healthcare system, but they also provide a chance for patient safety improvement. With that in mind, this study was undertaken to investigate challenges faced by health care professionals in reporting near miss incidents at a hospital in the Amathole District, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Aim The aim of the study was to develop recommendations for healthcare management and healthcare professionals on how to better manage NMIs, and by identifying the challenges faced by health care professionals and the impact they have on the quality of care at one state-funded district hospital. Setting The study was conducted with healthcare professionals at a district hospital in the Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Methods This study used a mixed method study design. Purposive and convenience sampling were used for participants’ selection for the study. Quantitative data was collected using the WHO Near-Miss Approach while individual and focus group interviews with healthcare professionals were carried out for collecting qualitative data. The maternity and neonatal intensive care units were identified as the two high-risk areas from which most medical negligence claims are lodged. The number of complications that occurred in each month of the year 2019 was determined by using components of the WHO near miss approach. The researcher adopted this approach to serve as a baseline assessment. Data was analysed using both Nvivo Version 10 and SPSS Version 20. Findings The challenges that healthcare professionals face in reporting near miss incidents at the study site included lack of knowledge about the reporting tool and system, inability to identify a near miss incident and healthcare professional attitudes and practices. The document review revealed that the NMIs are existent but not reported on the prescribed reporting system, a total of 210 actual incidents had occurred in the maternity and neonatal units of the hospital, which accounts for 62% of the 357 deliveries in the year 2019. Conclusion Based on the study result and findings, the healthcare system should shift towards a proactive rather than a reactive approach to medical and clinical errors. Continuously reducing the incidence of all patient safety incidents requires improved prevention strategies and effective strategies for recovery from possible medico-legal claims. The study further suggests that additional focus should be placed on NMI reporting and investigation so that operative improvement plans can be developed, implemented, monitored and evaluated. In essence, these improvement plans should be designed to progress patient care, reduce avoidable PSIs and reduce medico-legal claims. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ntlanganiso, Lindiwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Industrial accidents , Accident investigation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27094 , vital:66276
- Description: Background Recording and investigation of NMIs can provide valuable information on monitoring and enhancing patient safety in the healthcare facilities. This in turn, can reduce the likelihood of medico-legal claims. Regardless of attempts to establish efficient incident reporting systems across the entire healthcare industry, underreporting of errors persists worldwide. Therefore, not only do near miss incidents serve as early warning signs of impending potential failure in the healthcare system, but they also provide a chance for patient safety improvement. With that in mind, this study was undertaken to investigate challenges faced by health care professionals in reporting near miss incidents at a hospital in the Amathole District, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Aim The aim of the study was to develop recommendations for healthcare management and healthcare professionals on how to better manage NMIs, and by identifying the challenges faced by health care professionals and the impact they have on the quality of care at one state-funded district hospital. Setting The study was conducted with healthcare professionals at a district hospital in the Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Methods This study used a mixed method study design. Purposive and convenience sampling were used for participants’ selection for the study. Quantitative data was collected using the WHO Near-Miss Approach while individual and focus group interviews with healthcare professionals were carried out for collecting qualitative data. The maternity and neonatal intensive care units were identified as the two high-risk areas from which most medical negligence claims are lodged. The number of complications that occurred in each month of the year 2019 was determined by using components of the WHO near miss approach. The researcher adopted this approach to serve as a baseline assessment. Data was analysed using both Nvivo Version 10 and SPSS Version 20. Findings The challenges that healthcare professionals face in reporting near miss incidents at the study site included lack of knowledge about the reporting tool and system, inability to identify a near miss incident and healthcare professional attitudes and practices. The document review revealed that the NMIs are existent but not reported on the prescribed reporting system, a total of 210 actual incidents had occurred in the maternity and neonatal units of the hospital, which accounts for 62% of the 357 deliveries in the year 2019. Conclusion Based on the study result and findings, the healthcare system should shift towards a proactive rather than a reactive approach to medical and clinical errors. Continuously reducing the incidence of all patient safety incidents requires improved prevention strategies and effective strategies for recovery from possible medico-legal claims. The study further suggests that additional focus should be placed on NMI reporting and investigation so that operative improvement plans can be developed, implemented, monitored and evaluated. In essence, these improvement plans should be designed to progress patient care, reduce avoidable PSIs and reduce medico-legal claims. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age in the Nelson Mandela Bay Community Health Centres within Sub-district C
- Authors: Moss, Caryn Ruth
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Breastfeeding , Breastfeeding -- Complications
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60177 , vital:63212
- Description: Background: Infant feeding practices refers to the type of feeding methods that are used to provide nutrition to the infant. This includes breastfeeding, donor milk, formula milk, and complementary feeds. Globally, breastfeeding is the recommended infant feeding practice for infants under six months of age with the introduction of complementary feeds after six months of age (WHO, 2018a). The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age in Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher explored and described the different infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age. Method: A quantitative, descriptive study design was conducted and included 150 respondents, 18 years old and above, with infants under six months of age. Convenience sampling was used, and the respondents were from five Nelson Mandela Bay Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Sub-district C. Data were collected using a fieldworker employing a mask-to-mask approach to adhere to COVID-19 principles and a questionnaire with open-ended and closed-ended questions. Data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS®) software with the use of descriptive statistical analysis. Results: The results revealed that 63% (n=94) of the respondents had breastfed their infant while 37% (n=56) had never breastfed their infant. Most of the respondents, 85% (n=128) recorded that they received advice after birth. Of the respondents, 37% (n=56), gave their infant formula milk instead of breastfeeding. In addition, 33% (n=29) of the infants were given soft foods at two months old as well as 32% (n=32.3) were given liquids at the same age. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that most mothers with infants under six months of age in the Nelson Mandela Bay CHCs Sub-district C introduced complementary feeds before their infants turned six months old. The results also revealed that respondents introduced complementary feeds because the infant was still hungry. Family members, friends, and healthcare practitioners play an important role when a mother chooses a feeding practice for her infant. Recommendations are made to mothers to provide age-appropriate feeding practices. Furthermore, viii recommendations are made to nurse educators to include training regarding up-to-date infant feeding practices to undergraduate nursing students. Lastly, it is recommended that research comparing infant feeding practices in the three Sub-districts in Nelson Mandela Bay be conducted. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Moss, Caryn Ruth
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Breastfeeding , Breastfeeding -- Complications
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60177 , vital:63212
- Description: Background: Infant feeding practices refers to the type of feeding methods that are used to provide nutrition to the infant. This includes breastfeeding, donor milk, formula milk, and complementary feeds. Globally, breastfeeding is the recommended infant feeding practice for infants under six months of age with the introduction of complementary feeds after six months of age (WHO, 2018a). The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age in Nelson Mandela Bay. The researcher explored and described the different infant feeding practices of mothers with infants under six months of age. Method: A quantitative, descriptive study design was conducted and included 150 respondents, 18 years old and above, with infants under six months of age. Convenience sampling was used, and the respondents were from five Nelson Mandela Bay Community Health Centres (CHCs) in Sub-district C. Data were collected using a fieldworker employing a mask-to-mask approach to adhere to COVID-19 principles and a questionnaire with open-ended and closed-ended questions. Data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS®) software with the use of descriptive statistical analysis. Results: The results revealed that 63% (n=94) of the respondents had breastfed their infant while 37% (n=56) had never breastfed their infant. Most of the respondents, 85% (n=128) recorded that they received advice after birth. Of the respondents, 37% (n=56), gave their infant formula milk instead of breastfeeding. In addition, 33% (n=29) of the infants were given soft foods at two months old as well as 32% (n=32.3) were given liquids at the same age. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that most mothers with infants under six months of age in the Nelson Mandela Bay CHCs Sub-district C introduced complementary feeds before their infants turned six months old. The results also revealed that respondents introduced complementary feeds because the infant was still hungry. Family members, friends, and healthcare practitioners play an important role when a mother chooses a feeding practice for her infant. Recommendations are made to mothers to provide age-appropriate feeding practices. Furthermore, viii recommendations are made to nurse educators to include training regarding up-to-date infant feeding practices to undergraduate nursing students. Lastly, it is recommended that research comparing infant feeding practices in the three Sub-districts in Nelson Mandela Bay be conducted. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Comparison of in vitro activities of selected Ganoderma species in relation to skin diseases
- Authors: Van Aardt, Robin Kaylah
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Ganoderma diseases of plants -- South Africa , Macrophages
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61143 , vital:69766
- Description: Ganoderma species of macrofungi have been reported to have a multitude of medicinal properties, however, there is limited information on this genus in South Africa. The goal of this study was to compare biological activities of selected Ganoderma spp. in relation to skin diseases with emphasis on the antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic in vitro activities. Ethanolic and aqueous extracts prepared from six samples of G. lucidum [two commercial products (MG-LZ8 and Medi Mushroom Reishi extract), polar, antler, fruiting body and mycelium] and ten cultivated Ganoderma spp. were screened for bioactivities. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the 2-(4-iodophenyl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-5-phenyl-2H-tetrazolium (INT) assay against skin pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae). Cytotoxicity was determined using bisBenzamide H 33342 trihydrochloride/propidium iodide (Hoechst/ PI) staining on the B16F10 melanoma cell line. The 2,2-Diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assays were used to investigate antioxidant activity. Immune modulatory effects included detection of phagocytic activity and phenotypic changes of RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells. The phenotypic macrophage polarisation of the extracts on RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells was tested by treating the cells with the extracts and measuring the fluorescence of cell surface markers. CD86 was used as indicator for the M1 phenotype and CD206 as a general marker for M2 phenotypes. The commercially available and cultivated G. lucidum extracts did not show antibacterial activity within the 0-2mg/mL concentration range tested. The commercially available MG-LZ8 G. lucidum extract expressed cytotoxic activity with an IC50 value of 21.26 µg/mL while the ethanolic conk fruiting body and mycelial G. lucidum extract showed a significant reduction in live cells, indicating anti-proliferative activity. G. destructans mycelial ethanol extract displayed anti-proliferative activity at a concentration of 200 μg/mL which shows great potential as a mycelial extract. All the G. lucidum extracts exhibited free radical scavenging abilities with the Ganoderma spp. showing little to no measurable activity. G. lucidum and Ganoderma spp extracts had similar responses without inflammatory activity for the concentration ranges tested. The extracts did not increase macrophage phagocytic activity using the pHrodo™ Green E. coli iii BioParticles™ Conjugate. G. lucidum and Ganoderma spp. extracts induced macrophage polarisation toward the M2 phenotype, with the G. lucidum antler and conk fruiting body extracts displaying significant activity. This study illustrates one of the first investigations of the bioactivity of indigenous Ganoderma spp.; G. destructans type and G. eickeri, spp. nov. identified by Coeztee et al (2015). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Van Aardt, Robin Kaylah
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Ganoderma diseases of plants -- South Africa , Macrophages
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61143 , vital:69766
- Description: Ganoderma species of macrofungi have been reported to have a multitude of medicinal properties, however, there is limited information on this genus in South Africa. The goal of this study was to compare biological activities of selected Ganoderma spp. in relation to skin diseases with emphasis on the antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic in vitro activities. Ethanolic and aqueous extracts prepared from six samples of G. lucidum [two commercial products (MG-LZ8 and Medi Mushroom Reishi extract), polar, antler, fruiting body and mycelium] and ten cultivated Ganoderma spp. were screened for bioactivities. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the 2-(4-iodophenyl)-3-(4-nitrophenyl)-5-phenyl-2H-tetrazolium (INT) assay against skin pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae). Cytotoxicity was determined using bisBenzamide H 33342 trihydrochloride/propidium iodide (Hoechst/ PI) staining on the B16F10 melanoma cell line. The 2,2-Diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assays were used to investigate antioxidant activity. Immune modulatory effects included detection of phagocytic activity and phenotypic changes of RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells. The phenotypic macrophage polarisation of the extracts on RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells was tested by treating the cells with the extracts and measuring the fluorescence of cell surface markers. CD86 was used as indicator for the M1 phenotype and CD206 as a general marker for M2 phenotypes. The commercially available and cultivated G. lucidum extracts did not show antibacterial activity within the 0-2mg/mL concentration range tested. The commercially available MG-LZ8 G. lucidum extract expressed cytotoxic activity with an IC50 value of 21.26 µg/mL while the ethanolic conk fruiting body and mycelial G. lucidum extract showed a significant reduction in live cells, indicating anti-proliferative activity. G. destructans mycelial ethanol extract displayed anti-proliferative activity at a concentration of 200 μg/mL which shows great potential as a mycelial extract. All the G. lucidum extracts exhibited free radical scavenging abilities with the Ganoderma spp. showing little to no measurable activity. G. lucidum and Ganoderma spp extracts had similar responses without inflammatory activity for the concentration ranges tested. The extracts did not increase macrophage phagocytic activity using the pHrodo™ Green E. coli iii BioParticles™ Conjugate. G. lucidum and Ganoderma spp. extracts induced macrophage polarisation toward the M2 phenotype, with the G. lucidum antler and conk fruiting body extracts displaying significant activity. This study illustrates one of the first investigations of the bioactivity of indigenous Ganoderma spp.; G. destructans type and G. eickeri, spp. nov. identified by Coeztee et al (2015). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Uptake and storage of nutrients by primary producers in the Swartkops Estuary
- Authors: Whitfield, Emily Cailyn
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology --South Africa --Swartkops River Estuary , Eutrophication—Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59611 , vital:62195
- Description: Estuaries occur at the interface between the terrestrial and marine environment and as such act as the last ‘filtering’ mechanism prior to nutrient pollution entering the adjacent ocean. This study focused on the Swartkops Estuary which is eutrophic and requires the removal of nutrients. The role of phytoplankton as nutrient filters and storage of nutrients by seagrass and salt marsh was investigated. This study found that phytoplankton temporarily took up a large percentage of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (max. 99%) and dissolved silica (max. 76%) and limited amounts of dissolved inorganic phosphorus (max. 18%). The amount of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus stored by the salt marsh species Spartina maritima and Salicornia tegetaria and the seagrass species Zostera capensis were determined. It was found that the salt marsh grass Spartina maritima stored the most nutrients (149.61 ± 16.59 N g m-2 ; 105.44 ± 13.41 P g m-2 ; 1690.52 ± 168.90 C g m-2 ), while for the salt marsh succulent Salicornia tegetaria less nutrients were stored (27.01 ± 4.17 N g m-2 ; 22.97 ± 3.21 P g m-2 ; 458.66 ± 69.43 C g m-2 ). Zostera capensis also acted as a nutrient store (22.17 ± 6.94 N g m-2 ; 23.75 ± 4.70 P g m-2 ; 221.10 ± 26.74 C g m-2 ). The macrophytes were able to store nutrients for longer periods and thus prevent these nutrients from being exported into the adjacent ocean. On the contrary, phytoplankton uptake was temporary as the nutrients are released once the bloom decays. Without intervention there will be an increase of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and fish kills in the eutrophic Swartkops Estuary. Nutrient input from upstream wastewater treatment works, canals and stormwater run-off must be reduced. Conservation and management of the seagrass and salt marsh habitats is needed to ensure the long-term storage of nutrients , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Whitfield, Emily Cailyn
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology --South Africa --Swartkops River Estuary , Eutrophication—Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59611 , vital:62195
- Description: Estuaries occur at the interface between the terrestrial and marine environment and as such act as the last ‘filtering’ mechanism prior to nutrient pollution entering the adjacent ocean. This study focused on the Swartkops Estuary which is eutrophic and requires the removal of nutrients. The role of phytoplankton as nutrient filters and storage of nutrients by seagrass and salt marsh was investigated. This study found that phytoplankton temporarily took up a large percentage of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (max. 99%) and dissolved silica (max. 76%) and limited amounts of dissolved inorganic phosphorus (max. 18%). The amount of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus stored by the salt marsh species Spartina maritima and Salicornia tegetaria and the seagrass species Zostera capensis were determined. It was found that the salt marsh grass Spartina maritima stored the most nutrients (149.61 ± 16.59 N g m-2 ; 105.44 ± 13.41 P g m-2 ; 1690.52 ± 168.90 C g m-2 ), while for the salt marsh succulent Salicornia tegetaria less nutrients were stored (27.01 ± 4.17 N g m-2 ; 22.97 ± 3.21 P g m-2 ; 458.66 ± 69.43 C g m-2 ). Zostera capensis also acted as a nutrient store (22.17 ± 6.94 N g m-2 ; 23.75 ± 4.70 P g m-2 ; 221.10 ± 26.74 C g m-2 ). The macrophytes were able to store nutrients for longer periods and thus prevent these nutrients from being exported into the adjacent ocean. On the contrary, phytoplankton uptake was temporary as the nutrients are released once the bloom decays. Without intervention there will be an increase of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and fish kills in the eutrophic Swartkops Estuary. Nutrient input from upstream wastewater treatment works, canals and stormwater run-off must be reduced. Conservation and management of the seagrass and salt marsh habitats is needed to ensure the long-term storage of nutrients , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
The influence of societal marketing on green products consumer awareness in Polokwane City, South Africa
- Authors: Kutama, Zwannda Norman
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Markets-Social aspects , green consumerism , Marketing, Polokwane City -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:62370
- Description: Rapid economic growth has resulted in excessive consumption of natural resources, which has intensified the deterioration of the ecological environment. There have been increasing public and consumer concerns about environmental issues, which has resulted in an increasing demand for green products. Despite these concerns, businesses in South Africa are not adequately utilising the societal marketing concept to influence consumer awareness of green products. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the influence of societal marketing on consumer awareness of green products in South Africa. A survey-based method was used to test a theoretically grounded set of hypotheses. Convenience sampling was used to select respondents for the study and data was collected using a 64-item online questionnaire issued to 410 respondents in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 26.0, was used to analyse data, through descriptive, spearman rank order correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis, independent sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The empirical results revealed that respondents’ perceptions of the items in the 6 P’s marketing scale and the consumer awareness five factor model were positive overall. Results of the reliability test revealed that all the reported Cronbach Alpha values (0.51 - 0.71) were above the recommended guideline value of 0.7, or at least, 0.5 in the early stages of research, an indication that the constructs were reliable. All the means of the constructs seemed reasonable. With the exception of product, the results of the spearman rank order correlation analysis revealed that the correlations between price, promotion, policy and partnership with consumer awareness of green products were practically significant (r = 0.50) and practically visible (0.30). Furthermore, with the exception of product, results of the regression analysis revealed a positive significant relationship between price, place, promotion, policy and partnerships with regard to consumer awareness of green products. This implies that price, promotion, policy and partnership significantly influence consumer awareness of green products. There was no significant difference between gender, age, area of residence and level of income with regard to consumer awareness of green products. With regard to the v level of education, results of the one-way ANOVA revealed a practically visible difference between the means of respondents with high school education and vocational education or its equivalent (d=39), a Bachelor’s (d=46) and Master’s degree or higher (d=42). This is an indication that consumers with vocational education or its equivalent, a Bachelor’s, Master's degree, or a higher qualification, were more aware of green products compared to those with a high school level of education. This research provides valuable insights into consumer awareness of green products in South Africa, with emphasis on the influence of societal marketing on consumer awareness of green products. Thus, there is a need for modern-day organisations to consider societal marketing as one of the organisation's competitive marketing strategies to influence society’s awareness of recent environmental challenges, and the benefits of consuming eco-friendly products. Recommendations with regard to areas for future research are provided in the study. , Thesis (MCOM) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Kutama, Zwannda Norman
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Markets-Social aspects , green consumerism , Marketing, Polokwane City -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:62370
- Description: Rapid economic growth has resulted in excessive consumption of natural resources, which has intensified the deterioration of the ecological environment. There have been increasing public and consumer concerns about environmental issues, which has resulted in an increasing demand for green products. Despite these concerns, businesses in South Africa are not adequately utilising the societal marketing concept to influence consumer awareness of green products. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the influence of societal marketing on consumer awareness of green products in South Africa. A survey-based method was used to test a theoretically grounded set of hypotheses. Convenience sampling was used to select respondents for the study and data was collected using a 64-item online questionnaire issued to 410 respondents in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 26.0, was used to analyse data, through descriptive, spearman rank order correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis, independent sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The empirical results revealed that respondents’ perceptions of the items in the 6 P’s marketing scale and the consumer awareness five factor model were positive overall. Results of the reliability test revealed that all the reported Cronbach Alpha values (0.51 - 0.71) were above the recommended guideline value of 0.7, or at least, 0.5 in the early stages of research, an indication that the constructs were reliable. All the means of the constructs seemed reasonable. With the exception of product, the results of the spearman rank order correlation analysis revealed that the correlations between price, promotion, policy and partnership with consumer awareness of green products were practically significant (r = 0.50) and practically visible (0.30). Furthermore, with the exception of product, results of the regression analysis revealed a positive significant relationship between price, place, promotion, policy and partnerships with regard to consumer awareness of green products. This implies that price, promotion, policy and partnership significantly influence consumer awareness of green products. There was no significant difference between gender, age, area of residence and level of income with regard to consumer awareness of green products. With regard to the v level of education, results of the one-way ANOVA revealed a practically visible difference between the means of respondents with high school education and vocational education or its equivalent (d=39), a Bachelor’s (d=46) and Master’s degree or higher (d=42). This is an indication that consumers with vocational education or its equivalent, a Bachelor’s, Master's degree, or a higher qualification, were more aware of green products compared to those with a high school level of education. This research provides valuable insights into consumer awareness of green products in South Africa, with emphasis on the influence of societal marketing on consumer awareness of green products. Thus, there is a need for modern-day organisations to consider societal marketing as one of the organisation's competitive marketing strategies to influence society’s awareness of recent environmental challenges, and the benefits of consuming eco-friendly products. Recommendations with regard to areas for future research are provided in the study. , Thesis (MCOM) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Science, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
An exploration of teachers’ views and experiences on the effects of community Violence on learners at Lusikisiki
- Authors: Gwarubana, Nolufefe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Kerr-Soltis model -- Lusikisiki , Posttraumatic Stress Disorder -- Lusikisiki
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60144 , vital:63206
- Description: A significant number of children in the South African context are exposed to community violence and become traumatised. In South Africa, many learners bring trauma histories into the classroom. To attend to this problem, it is important to understand how Exposure to Community Violence (ECV) affects learners, how this exposure is manifested in the classroom, and how teachers and schools can best support and mitigate adverse outcomes for trauma-impacted learners. The study aimed to understand teachers’ views and experiences on the effects of community violence on learners and the nature of the support that they offer to learners with trauma related to community violence. An exploratory design was used within which qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Data was gathered from Mkhankomo Full Service School, which is located in Lusikisiki. A maximum number of 10 teachers participated in the study and interviews were audio-recorded. Results of this study provide insight into the effects of community violence on the learners who were victims either directly or as witnesses. Based on thematic analysis, the results clearly showed that the effects of community violence were found to be mainly emotional, behavioural and psychological. All these effects were seen to affect the learners’ performance at school in the long run. In addition, the findings point to the teachers showing a willingness to support learners exposed to community violence, however, they felt ill-equipped to do so given that they had never worked with learners exposed to trauma. Also, in their attempts to support learners, teachers implemented support systems such as offering individual lessons to learners and additionally assuming supportive roles such as that of mentor and mother. Moreover, the findings indicated that teachers were not provided with any v training to help them work with learners exposed to trauma and their expectations for the Department of Basic Education to assist were not met. Consequently, the study provides an understanding of the effects of community violence on learners from the perspectives of teachers in the school. It also assists with information regarding teachers’ preparedness and ability to respond to learners’ chronic exposure to community violence. Furthermore, this study gives an understanding of teachers’ approach to supporting learners experiencing traumatic stress in the classroom. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Gwarubana, Nolufefe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Kerr-Soltis model -- Lusikisiki , Posttraumatic Stress Disorder -- Lusikisiki
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60144 , vital:63206
- Description: A significant number of children in the South African context are exposed to community violence and become traumatised. In South Africa, many learners bring trauma histories into the classroom. To attend to this problem, it is important to understand how Exposure to Community Violence (ECV) affects learners, how this exposure is manifested in the classroom, and how teachers and schools can best support and mitigate adverse outcomes for trauma-impacted learners. The study aimed to understand teachers’ views and experiences on the effects of community violence on learners and the nature of the support that they offer to learners with trauma related to community violence. An exploratory design was used within which qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Data was gathered from Mkhankomo Full Service School, which is located in Lusikisiki. A maximum number of 10 teachers participated in the study and interviews were audio-recorded. Results of this study provide insight into the effects of community violence on the learners who were victims either directly or as witnesses. Based on thematic analysis, the results clearly showed that the effects of community violence were found to be mainly emotional, behavioural and psychological. All these effects were seen to affect the learners’ performance at school in the long run. In addition, the findings point to the teachers showing a willingness to support learners exposed to community violence, however, they felt ill-equipped to do so given that they had never worked with learners exposed to trauma. Also, in their attempts to support learners, teachers implemented support systems such as offering individual lessons to learners and additionally assuming supportive roles such as that of mentor and mother. Moreover, the findings indicated that teachers were not provided with any v training to help them work with learners exposed to trauma and their expectations for the Department of Basic Education to assist were not met. Consequently, the study provides an understanding of the effects of community violence on learners from the perspectives of teachers in the school. It also assists with information regarding teachers’ preparedness and ability to respond to learners’ chronic exposure to community violence. Furthermore, this study gives an understanding of teachers’ approach to supporting learners experiencing traumatic stress in the classroom. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
The principle of fairness in South African criminal trials
- Authors: Ndude, Tembinkosi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Criminal law , Criminal law -- cases , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60090 , vital:62984
- Description: The purpose of this research is to determine the presence of the principle of fairness during criminal trials in South Africa. In determining the presence of the principle, this research will provide a short background on both the historical pre-constitution situation on the principle of fairness and the present situation on how courts in South Africa conduct themselves in the adjudication of criminal cases in ensuring fair criminal trials. The historical background partially highlights certain provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act in curtailing both the application of due processes and entrenchment of fairness during criminal trials. The arguments on the principle of fairness during criminal trials are discussed in tandem with the principle of the rule of law in the determination of the resolve our justice system has, and the use of designated legal instruments to assert the principle of fairness, for example, section 35(3) of the Constitution and the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977(herein referred "the Act") including the determination of the level of judicial interference, independence, and impartiality. The challenges of unfair trials are also explained against the concept of ubuntu which is a foundational element of fairness expressed and interpreted as such by the indigenous people living in South Africa. In the Port Elizabeth Municipality v Various Occupiers, the court describes the concept of ubuntu as part of a deep cultural heritage central to fairness and fair treatment of humans. The principle of fairness in our criminal trials is a transformative element shaped by our historical background. This is evident in S v Zuma which refers to section 25 of the Interim Constitution. The transformative element shaping principle of fairness is discussed in conjunction with section 35(3) of the new Constitution and case law. This research also notes the adversarial element of our criminal trials having considered some of the evidentiary burdens, for example, the onus of proof, rebuttal of evidence, proof beyond reasonable doubt, reverse onus, circumstantial evidence, presumption, and the adverse inference. However, these evidentiary burdens are addressed by section 35(3) of the Constitution and case law, for example the right to remain silent, the right to be presumed innocent, the right not to be compelled to give self-incriminating evidence, to be informed of the charge with sufficient detail to answer it, to choose, and be represented by a legal practitioner and to be informed of this right promptly. This work views the principle of fairness as a mechanism focussing on relegating unjustness and the ill treatment of accused persons during criminal trials to the dustbin of history. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department Criminal and Procedural Law, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ndude, Tembinkosi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Criminal law , Criminal law -- cases , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60090 , vital:62984
- Description: The purpose of this research is to determine the presence of the principle of fairness during criminal trials in South Africa. In determining the presence of the principle, this research will provide a short background on both the historical pre-constitution situation on the principle of fairness and the present situation on how courts in South Africa conduct themselves in the adjudication of criminal cases in ensuring fair criminal trials. The historical background partially highlights certain provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act in curtailing both the application of due processes and entrenchment of fairness during criminal trials. The arguments on the principle of fairness during criminal trials are discussed in tandem with the principle of the rule of law in the determination of the resolve our justice system has, and the use of designated legal instruments to assert the principle of fairness, for example, section 35(3) of the Constitution and the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977(herein referred "the Act") including the determination of the level of judicial interference, independence, and impartiality. The challenges of unfair trials are also explained against the concept of ubuntu which is a foundational element of fairness expressed and interpreted as such by the indigenous people living in South Africa. In the Port Elizabeth Municipality v Various Occupiers, the court describes the concept of ubuntu as part of a deep cultural heritage central to fairness and fair treatment of humans. The principle of fairness in our criminal trials is a transformative element shaped by our historical background. This is evident in S v Zuma which refers to section 25 of the Interim Constitution. The transformative element shaping principle of fairness is discussed in conjunction with section 35(3) of the new Constitution and case law. This research also notes the adversarial element of our criminal trials having considered some of the evidentiary burdens, for example, the onus of proof, rebuttal of evidence, proof beyond reasonable doubt, reverse onus, circumstantial evidence, presumption, and the adverse inference. However, these evidentiary burdens are addressed by section 35(3) of the Constitution and case law, for example the right to remain silent, the right to be presumed innocent, the right not to be compelled to give self-incriminating evidence, to be informed of the charge with sufficient detail to answer it, to choose, and be represented by a legal practitioner and to be informed of this right promptly. This work views the principle of fairness as a mechanism focussing on relegating unjustness and the ill treatment of accused persons during criminal trials to the dustbin of history. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, Department Criminal and Procedural Law, 2022
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Residential private property valuation accuracy in south Africa: A case study of Knysna in the Western Cape province
- Authors: Qusheka, Siphokazi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Real property -- Valuation -- Knysna , Right of property -- Knysna
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59876 , vital:62482
- Description: a Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong b Faculty of Built Environment, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Property valuation end-users generally rely on property value opinion provided by valuers in making informed real estate investment decisions. However, the inaccuracy of valuation estimates could be attributed to the adoption of inappropriate property valuation methods and such inaccurate estimates could mislead real estate investors and stakeholders. This could result in individual loss and national loss due to the importance of the real estate sector to the national economy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Qusheka, Siphokazi
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Real property -- Valuation -- Knysna , Right of property -- Knysna
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59876 , vital:62482
- Description: a Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong b Faculty of Built Environment, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Property valuation end-users generally rely on property value opinion provided by valuers in making informed real estate investment decisions. However, the inaccuracy of valuation estimates could be attributed to the adoption of inappropriate property valuation methods and such inaccurate estimates could mislead real estate investors and stakeholders. This could result in individual loss and national loss due to the importance of the real estate sector to the national economy. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12