A strategy towards an it governance-focused implementation of Egovernment initiatives in the Eastern Cape provincial government
- Authors: Magade, Siyabonga
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Government communication systems , Public administration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68725 , vital:77085
- Description: ICT plays a very important role in transforming organisations as well as governments around the world through eGovernment. A good implementation of eGovernment promises to transform and enhance the provision of services to citizens. The benefits of eGovernment will enable the transparency of government and engender the trust of its citizens therein. Citizens will have access to online government services that will minimise the long queues that citizens need to endure to access government services. eGovernment implementation requires ICT technologies, however, dependency on the implementation of ICT technologies to drive eGovernment initiatives will not alone succeed in transforming the delivery of services in government. Therefore, the implementation of ICT technologies in government must be focused on good IT governance principles. Such principles enable the executive council and management to direct and control the application both now and in the future of use of ICT in government. Therefore, this study develops a strategy artefact that is focused on good IT governance principles to assist in the execution of eGovernment programs in the Eastern Cape Provincial Government. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Magade, Siyabonga
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Internet in public administration , Government communication systems , Public administration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68725 , vital:77085
- Description: ICT plays a very important role in transforming organisations as well as governments around the world through eGovernment. A good implementation of eGovernment promises to transform and enhance the provision of services to citizens. The benefits of eGovernment will enable the transparency of government and engender the trust of its citizens therein. Citizens will have access to online government services that will minimise the long queues that citizens need to endure to access government services. eGovernment implementation requires ICT technologies, however, dependency on the implementation of ICT technologies to drive eGovernment initiatives will not alone succeed in transforming the delivery of services in government. Therefore, the implementation of ICT technologies in government must be focused on good IT governance principles. Such principles enable the executive council and management to direct and control the application both now and in the future of use of ICT in government. Therefore, this study develops a strategy artefact that is focused on good IT governance principles to assist in the execution of eGovernment programs in the Eastern Cape Provincial Government. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
The lived experiences of final-year undergraduate diagnostic radiography students applying radiation protection measures during clinical practice
- Authors: Campbell, Sydney Samuel
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Radiographers , College students -- South Africa , Experiential learning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68311 , vital:76973
- Description: Radiographers use ionising radiation to produce radiographic images and the use of ionising radiation in healthcare has both benefits and risks for patients and healthcare professionals. It is therefore important that radiographers mitigate the risks associated with ionising radiation. It is for this reason that radiation protection measures are applied to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the public. Furthermore, radiographers are also responsible for mentoring radiography students and inculcate the use of radiation protection measures when students undergo their workplace learning. This mentoring takes place in the clinical setting with its characteristics that may or may not advance the application of radiation protection measures. The aim of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of final-year undergraduate radiography students applying radiation protection measures in the clinical setting and to propose strategies to foster the integration of radiation protection theory into clinical practice. This study was located in the interpretivist paradigm using phenomenology as a research method and theoretical framework to achieve the stated aim. The target population for this qualitative study included all registered final-year undergraduate radiography students at the local university who perform their WPL at the accredited training hospitals in the Eastern Cape Province as this cohort of students have more clinical experience than the first-, second- and third-year students. The target population comprised 28 students. Purposive sampling was employed to select the group of radiography students to interview. The study used phenomenological interviews as a data collection tool and the collected data was explicated using a self-developed method. The trustworthiness of the study was ensured by applying Guba’s model of trustworthiness that includes credibility, transferability, confirmability, dependability and authenticity and was further enhanced by reflecting on the balanced integration, openness, concreteness, and resonance of the study. This study employed an ethical framework referred to as principlism that includes the notions of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice.Data explication was conducted using three cycles of explication. Cycle one produced interpretive profiles for each participant. The interpretive profiles revealed the life histories of each participant as well as the utterances of participants related to the three sub-questions. Cycle two produced four themes. Theme one described participants’ being with others such as radiographers, clinical supervisors, medical doctors, and patients and revealed the tension between participants’ belonging and being unwanted. Theme two characterised the clinical setting as a place where several factors flow together to provide participants with their individualised experiences. Theme two revealed the emotional distress; the learning through trial-and-error; the independent learning; learning that is coupled with humiliation as experienced by participants. The clinical space was also characterised as a place to be survived, a place where students have to be inconspicuous and understand the acceptable levels of engagement with others. It is also a place where theory and practice at times is in alignment at other times not in alignment. The clinical setting could also be a place of self-doubt and insecurity, a place of personal growth, and a place where historical events are significant. Theme three disclosed the unspoken lessons that were conveyed through the actions and behaviours of individuals in the clinical environment. Unintended lesson one is that radiation protection measures are not important. Lesson two suggest that classroom teaching about radiation protection is not valid in the clinical setting, and finally that incivility towards radiography students is acceptable. Theme four revealed the difficulties experienced by radiography students when navigating ethical dilemmas. The theme revealed radiographers’ and radiologists’ indifference towards radiation protection, the non-application of radiation protection measures, and the inconsistency and apathy towards radiation protection measures. Cycle three viewed the experiences of participants through the lens of Dasein’s disclosedness. This revealed the exclusive language used by participants, the largely negative mood and participants’ disconnection from the imaging department.Finally, the study presented new and important insights by probing the topic of radiation protection in a novel way by using phenomenology to focus on the lived experiences of final-year undergraduate students applying radiation protection measures in the clinical setting. The findings of the study also allowed for the development of Enhancement strategies that could be used by institutions of higher education to promote the integration of the theory and practice of radiation protection measures in the clinical setting. It is recommended, though, that a study that includes all South African institutions of higher learning offering radiography be conducted using phenomenology. Furthermore, the views of South African radiographers and clinical supervisors should also be elicited to corroborate the views of participants in this study. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Secondary Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Campbell, Sydney Samuel
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Radiographers , College students -- South Africa , Experiential learning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68311 , vital:76973
- Description: Radiographers use ionising radiation to produce radiographic images and the use of ionising radiation in healthcare has both benefits and risks for patients and healthcare professionals. It is therefore important that radiographers mitigate the risks associated with ionising radiation. It is for this reason that radiation protection measures are applied to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the public. Furthermore, radiographers are also responsible for mentoring radiography students and inculcate the use of radiation protection measures when students undergo their workplace learning. This mentoring takes place in the clinical setting with its characteristics that may or may not advance the application of radiation protection measures. The aim of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of final-year undergraduate radiography students applying radiation protection measures in the clinical setting and to propose strategies to foster the integration of radiation protection theory into clinical practice. This study was located in the interpretivist paradigm using phenomenology as a research method and theoretical framework to achieve the stated aim. The target population for this qualitative study included all registered final-year undergraduate radiography students at the local university who perform their WPL at the accredited training hospitals in the Eastern Cape Province as this cohort of students have more clinical experience than the first-, second- and third-year students. The target population comprised 28 students. Purposive sampling was employed to select the group of radiography students to interview. The study used phenomenological interviews as a data collection tool and the collected data was explicated using a self-developed method. The trustworthiness of the study was ensured by applying Guba’s model of trustworthiness that includes credibility, transferability, confirmability, dependability and authenticity and was further enhanced by reflecting on the balanced integration, openness, concreteness, and resonance of the study. This study employed an ethical framework referred to as principlism that includes the notions of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice.Data explication was conducted using three cycles of explication. Cycle one produced interpretive profiles for each participant. The interpretive profiles revealed the life histories of each participant as well as the utterances of participants related to the three sub-questions. Cycle two produced four themes. Theme one described participants’ being with others such as radiographers, clinical supervisors, medical doctors, and patients and revealed the tension between participants’ belonging and being unwanted. Theme two characterised the clinical setting as a place where several factors flow together to provide participants with their individualised experiences. Theme two revealed the emotional distress; the learning through trial-and-error; the independent learning; learning that is coupled with humiliation as experienced by participants. The clinical space was also characterised as a place to be survived, a place where students have to be inconspicuous and understand the acceptable levels of engagement with others. It is also a place where theory and practice at times is in alignment at other times not in alignment. The clinical setting could also be a place of self-doubt and insecurity, a place of personal growth, and a place where historical events are significant. Theme three disclosed the unspoken lessons that were conveyed through the actions and behaviours of individuals in the clinical environment. Unintended lesson one is that radiation protection measures are not important. Lesson two suggest that classroom teaching about radiation protection is not valid in the clinical setting, and finally that incivility towards radiography students is acceptable. Theme four revealed the difficulties experienced by radiography students when navigating ethical dilemmas. The theme revealed radiographers’ and radiologists’ indifference towards radiation protection, the non-application of radiation protection measures, and the inconsistency and apathy towards radiation protection measures. Cycle three viewed the experiences of participants through the lens of Dasein’s disclosedness. This revealed the exclusive language used by participants, the largely negative mood and participants’ disconnection from the imaging department.Finally, the study presented new and important insights by probing the topic of radiation protection in a novel way by using phenomenology to focus on the lived experiences of final-year undergraduate students applying radiation protection measures in the clinical setting. The findings of the study also allowed for the development of Enhancement strategies that could be used by institutions of higher education to promote the integration of the theory and practice of radiation protection measures in the clinical setting. It is recommended, though, that a study that includes all South African institutions of higher learning offering radiography be conducted using phenomenology. Furthermore, the views of South African radiographers and clinical supervisors should also be elicited to corroborate the views of participants in this study. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Education, School of Secondary Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Student teacher's experiences of teaching mathematics using isiXhosa in foundation phase classrooms during teaching practice
- Bangiso, Innocentia Queen Zintle
- Authors: Bangiso, Innocentia Queen Zintle
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching , Native language and education -- Africa , African languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68297 , vital:76972
- Description: In South Africa, learning in the Foundation Phase happens in a child’s home language, thus all eleven official languages, nine of them being African languages, must and are used as languages of teaching and learning in this phase. Teacher training, however, does not happen in all eleven official languages. The dominant language of training teachers across the country is English, even in classroom contexts where the language of learning and teaching may be an African language. This raises concerns about whether student teachers trained in English can translate mathematics content knowledge into an African language. This is particularly concerning given the country’s consistent underperformance in mathematics and literacy. Against this backdrop, this qualitative study aimed to explore Foundation Phase student teachers’ perspectives on their experiences of teaching mathematics using isiXhosa during teaching practice. The question that this study sought to answer was: what are student teachers’ perspectives on their experiences of teaching mathematics in isiXhosa during teaching practice? Drawing upon classroom observations and semi-structured individual interviews as the primary methods of data collection, the study explored the mediation of mathematics learning using isiXhosa, the pedagogical challenges encountered by student teachers, the strategies employed to address these challenges, and the influence of university training on their preparation. Findings reveal a significant discrepancy between the language of instruction used in university training which is English, and the language required for teaching practice which is isiXhosa. Student teachers expressed struggles in translating theoretical knowledge into practical application, leading to diminished confidence and pedagogical inefficacy. However, participants also demonstrated resilience through innovative strategies such as code-switching, visual aids, and collaborative learning approaches. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive language support and pedagogical training programmes to bridge the gap between theory and practice in isiXhosa-medium mathematics instruction. Recommendations are provided for educational institutions, especially the case study university, to enhance the preparation of student teachers and promote effective mathematics education in multilingual contexts. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Primary School Education: Foundation Phase, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Bangiso, Innocentia Queen Zintle
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching , Native language and education -- Africa , African languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68297 , vital:76972
- Description: In South Africa, learning in the Foundation Phase happens in a child’s home language, thus all eleven official languages, nine of them being African languages, must and are used as languages of teaching and learning in this phase. Teacher training, however, does not happen in all eleven official languages. The dominant language of training teachers across the country is English, even in classroom contexts where the language of learning and teaching may be an African language. This raises concerns about whether student teachers trained in English can translate mathematics content knowledge into an African language. This is particularly concerning given the country’s consistent underperformance in mathematics and literacy. Against this backdrop, this qualitative study aimed to explore Foundation Phase student teachers’ perspectives on their experiences of teaching mathematics using isiXhosa during teaching practice. The question that this study sought to answer was: what are student teachers’ perspectives on their experiences of teaching mathematics in isiXhosa during teaching practice? Drawing upon classroom observations and semi-structured individual interviews as the primary methods of data collection, the study explored the mediation of mathematics learning using isiXhosa, the pedagogical challenges encountered by student teachers, the strategies employed to address these challenges, and the influence of university training on their preparation. Findings reveal a significant discrepancy between the language of instruction used in university training which is English, and the language required for teaching practice which is isiXhosa. Student teachers expressed struggles in translating theoretical knowledge into practical application, leading to diminished confidence and pedagogical inefficacy. However, participants also demonstrated resilience through innovative strategies such as code-switching, visual aids, and collaborative learning approaches. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive language support and pedagogical training programmes to bridge the gap between theory and practice in isiXhosa-medium mathematics instruction. Recommendations are provided for educational institutions, especially the case study university, to enhance the preparation of student teachers and promote effective mathematics education in multilingual contexts. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Primary School Education: Foundation Phase, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Prevalence and correlates of sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers in the Bukedi region of eastern Uganda
- Authors: Majwala,Henry
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Employees -- Mental health , Psychology, Industrial , Industrial psychiatry
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68355 , vital:76989
- Description: Education is regarded as one of the main cornerstones for sustainable development, especially if the majority of the global citizenry manage to achieve it at secondary school level. The efficaciousness thereof, however, almost entirely depends on the productivity and performance of teachers meant to instill various skill sets among secondary school learners. Sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers has previously emerged and gained attention as the single most important antagonist of secondary school productivity. However, it has been reported to be increasing in magnitude as absenteeism has gradually decreased over the years. The aim of the study was to establish the prevalence and correlates of sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers in the Bukedi region in Eastern Uganda. The study adopted a pragmatic philosophy and a sequential explanatory mixed methods design targeting 433 secondary school teachers in the Bukedi sub region of Eastern Uganda. The schools were stratified by district first and then each district was stratified by ownership. Simple random sampling was used to sample half the number of schools per stratum, simple random sampling was used to sample the teachers. Key informants such as principals and teachers were purposively sampled and engaged in key informant semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data emerging from an analysis of the questionnaires was analyzed in SPSS version 25 using the log-binomial model, while the qualitative data from the semi-structured interviews was analyzed thematically. This study disclosed that the majority (68.3%) of the teachers engaged in sickness presenteeism. Moon lighting, egocentrism and heavy workload were the significant intrapersonal correlates of sickness presenteeism, while under staffing was a prominent institutional correlate. This study confirms findings from global research that staff working in people-based service sectors are most likely to engage in sickness presenteeism. The recommendations include the following: MoES to formulate a comprehensive policy on sickness presenteeism for teachers, DEOs to make follow ups to address the prevalent sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers, the school administration to set up a special committee dealing with teachers’ welfare regarding ill health and work, and teachers are to be educated, sensitized about the dangers associated with sickness presenteeism and how to handle it with the school administration. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Education, School of Post Schooling, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Majwala,Henry
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Employees -- Mental health , Psychology, Industrial , Industrial psychiatry
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68355 , vital:76989
- Description: Education is regarded as one of the main cornerstones for sustainable development, especially if the majority of the global citizenry manage to achieve it at secondary school level. The efficaciousness thereof, however, almost entirely depends on the productivity and performance of teachers meant to instill various skill sets among secondary school learners. Sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers has previously emerged and gained attention as the single most important antagonist of secondary school productivity. However, it has been reported to be increasing in magnitude as absenteeism has gradually decreased over the years. The aim of the study was to establish the prevalence and correlates of sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers in the Bukedi region in Eastern Uganda. The study adopted a pragmatic philosophy and a sequential explanatory mixed methods design targeting 433 secondary school teachers in the Bukedi sub region of Eastern Uganda. The schools were stratified by district first and then each district was stratified by ownership. Simple random sampling was used to sample half the number of schools per stratum, simple random sampling was used to sample the teachers. Key informants such as principals and teachers were purposively sampled and engaged in key informant semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data emerging from an analysis of the questionnaires was analyzed in SPSS version 25 using the log-binomial model, while the qualitative data from the semi-structured interviews was analyzed thematically. This study disclosed that the majority (68.3%) of the teachers engaged in sickness presenteeism. Moon lighting, egocentrism and heavy workload were the significant intrapersonal correlates of sickness presenteeism, while under staffing was a prominent institutional correlate. This study confirms findings from global research that staff working in people-based service sectors are most likely to engage in sickness presenteeism. The recommendations include the following: MoES to formulate a comprehensive policy on sickness presenteeism for teachers, DEOs to make follow ups to address the prevalent sickness presenteeism among secondary school teachers, the school administration to set up a special committee dealing with teachers’ welfare regarding ill health and work, and teachers are to be educated, sensitized about the dangers associated with sickness presenteeism and how to handle it with the school administration. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Education, School of Post Schooling, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Co-generated learnings from hopes-an NRF grant funded university engagement project
- Authors: Quvile, Xola Bulumko
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: National Research Foundation (South Africa) , Research grants -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68366 , vital:76990
- Description: The study had sought to understand the systemic and individual factors that facilitated or inhibited the NRF grant-funded HOPES Project. HOPES collaborated with the Centre for the Community School in the Faculty of Education, and various communities of practice (COPs) in existing school communities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The project applied a critical participatory action research work to develop a framework for school improvement and in the process contribute to making schools beacons of hope. This research provides insights into how an NRF community engagement grant project team (HOPES) navigated external and internal factors such as COVID-19, rules regulating the grant, and multiple realities of the stakeholders at play. The study was qualitative and used the critical participatory action research design. The study purposively and conveniently sampled seven HOPES Project team members to collect data via focus groups and individual interviews and collected secondary data from NRF HOPES annual project reports. The study findings improved the participants' understanding of their journey, and the co-generated knowledge shed light on how NFR and community engagement grant funders could promote enabling conditions towards achieving individual scholars and collective project outcomes. The study findings provide learnings for the Faculty of Education and the Nelson Mandela University on how extrinsic and intrinsic enablers and barriers can be addressed to optimise a project of this nature. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Quvile, Xola Bulumko
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: National Research Foundation (South Africa) , Research grants -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68366 , vital:76990
- Description: The study had sought to understand the systemic and individual factors that facilitated or inhibited the NRF grant-funded HOPES Project. HOPES collaborated with the Centre for the Community School in the Faculty of Education, and various communities of practice (COPs) in existing school communities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The project applied a critical participatory action research work to develop a framework for school improvement and in the process contribute to making schools beacons of hope. This research provides insights into how an NRF community engagement grant project team (HOPES) navigated external and internal factors such as COVID-19, rules regulating the grant, and multiple realities of the stakeholders at play. The study was qualitative and used the critical participatory action research design. The study purposively and conveniently sampled seven HOPES Project team members to collect data via focus groups and individual interviews and collected secondary data from NRF HOPES annual project reports. The study findings improved the participants' understanding of their journey, and the co-generated knowledge shed light on how NFR and community engagement grant funders could promote enabling conditions towards achieving individual scholars and collective project outcomes. The study findings provide learnings for the Faculty of Education and the Nelson Mandela University on how extrinsic and intrinsic enablers and barriers can be addressed to optimise a project of this nature. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School of Postgraduate Education, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Causative factors for poor contractor performance in schools infrastructure projects
- Authors: Baba, Vuyiseka
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Project management , Project management -- Evaluation , School facilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68703 , vital:77083
- Description: The public sector infrastructure departments in South Africa rely on construction companies as the major stakeholders in the implementation and maintenance of infrastructure facilities including schools. The Limpopo Province is faced with a serious challenge of underperforming contractors. This in turn affects the Provincial Government’s effective delivery of the much-needed quality infrastructure and facilities. A significant number of schools in the province are faced with infrastructure challenges including sanitation facilities, deteriorating school buildings, storm damage, inadequate infrastructure for special schools, water provision, and general maintenance. This study sought to understand the challenges faced by contractors and further explored whether the effective application of project management methodologies can have a positive impact on improving the current underperformance. Due to the nature of the study, a qualitative research method was employed to collect data. An interpretivist paradigm was adopted as the research philosophy, as it allowed for a flexible and in-depth investigation approach. The study utilized an exploratory research design. The targeted population for the study was carefully selected to obtain relevant and reliable data, and a purposive sampling technique was chosen. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as the primary data collection method, enabling the collection of first-hand information. To ensure accuracy and prevent loss of information, the research process involved recording and transcribing the interviews, using an inductive analysis approach. Eighteen out of the twenty targeted participants were successfully interviewed, resulting in a response rate of 90%. The findings of the study revealed that poor planning, inadequate financial management, inexperienced staff, interference from stakeholders, and a misunderstanding of project scope were among the many factors contributing to poor contractor performance. Furthermore, contractors, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), faced serious challenges during project implementation, including a lack of proper training, budget constraints, and delayed payments from clients. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended that contractors invest in planning and cost management software, including project management methodologies such as Agile, Waterfall, and MS Project. Further, contractors are encouraged to employ adequately skilled and qualified site personnel. Clients should also consider supporting underperforming contractors by pairing them with proven-performing ones to encourage mentorship and other forms of capacity building. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Building and Human Settlements Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Baba, Vuyiseka
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Project management , Project management -- Evaluation , School facilities -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68703 , vital:77083
- Description: The public sector infrastructure departments in South Africa rely on construction companies as the major stakeholders in the implementation and maintenance of infrastructure facilities including schools. The Limpopo Province is faced with a serious challenge of underperforming contractors. This in turn affects the Provincial Government’s effective delivery of the much-needed quality infrastructure and facilities. A significant number of schools in the province are faced with infrastructure challenges including sanitation facilities, deteriorating school buildings, storm damage, inadequate infrastructure for special schools, water provision, and general maintenance. This study sought to understand the challenges faced by contractors and further explored whether the effective application of project management methodologies can have a positive impact on improving the current underperformance. Due to the nature of the study, a qualitative research method was employed to collect data. An interpretivist paradigm was adopted as the research philosophy, as it allowed for a flexible and in-depth investigation approach. The study utilized an exploratory research design. The targeted population for the study was carefully selected to obtain relevant and reliable data, and a purposive sampling technique was chosen. Semi-structured interviews were conducted as the primary data collection method, enabling the collection of first-hand information. To ensure accuracy and prevent loss of information, the research process involved recording and transcribing the interviews, using an inductive analysis approach. Eighteen out of the twenty targeted participants were successfully interviewed, resulting in a response rate of 90%. The findings of the study revealed that poor planning, inadequate financial management, inexperienced staff, interference from stakeholders, and a misunderstanding of project scope were among the many factors contributing to poor contractor performance. Furthermore, contractors, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), faced serious challenges during project implementation, including a lack of proper training, budget constraints, and delayed payments from clients. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended that contractors invest in planning and cost management software, including project management methodologies such as Agile, Waterfall, and MS Project. Further, contractors are encouraged to employ adequately skilled and qualified site personnel. Clients should also consider supporting underperforming contractors by pairing them with proven-performing ones to encourage mentorship and other forms of capacity building. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Building and Human Settlements Management, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
The legality of euthanasia conducted by medical practitioners
- Authors: Davids, Sesam Isipho
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Euthanasia -- Law and legislation , Assisted suicide -- Law and legislation , Euthanasia -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68681 , vital:77081
- Description: Euthanasia remains a contentious subject of debate in countries around the world and in South Africa. The South African court system has been faced with requests for the decriminalisation of euthanasia. However, it remains illegal to practice euthanasia in South Africa. This is set by common law as there is no legislation formally regulating euthanasia. Euthanasia provides relief from suffering for patients with terminal illnesses that cause severe suffering and a decrease in their quality of life. Individual autonomy is recognised as patients are given the ability to choose how to end their lives once they make the decision to terminate their lives. In this study, an examination on physician-assisted euthanasia and its current legal position in South Africa will be conducted. Key terms are defined, such as euthanasia - distinguishing active and passive euthanasia as well as physician-assisted suicide. South African law permits the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments which may be viewed as passive euthanasia. This is done with the consent of the patient and the medical practitioners involved are not held criminally liable should the withholding of treatment cause the death of the patient. Relevant constitutional rights will be examined to make a case for the legalisation of physician-assisted euthanasia. These rights include the right to dignity, the right to life, the right to equality, the right to freedom of religion, belief and opinion, and the limitation clause. Common law, case law and statutory law will also be considered. The recommendations of the South African Law Commission in its report (project 86) will be examined as well. An analysis will be conducted on how foreign jurisdictions have accepted physician-assisted euthanasia and implemented legislative measures to safeguard and regulate how medical practitioners practice it. Canada is an example of such a jurisdiction and an analysis has been conducted on how courts in Canada have made a case for the decriminalisation of physician-assisted euthanasia. Canadian courts relied on rights such as the right to life and freedom of opinion. viii When arguing for or against the legalisation of euthanasia, the ethical perspectives of both arguments must be considered. The ‘slippery slope’ will be discussed to demonstrate an ethical argument against euthanasia. The ethical framework of utilitarianism will be discussed as an argument for euthanasia. In line with the title of this research, the physician’s role in the process of euthanasia will also be discussed. After weighing the key arguments, this research concludes that physician-assisted euthanasia ought to be legalised in South Africa. Recommendations are further suggested on how euthanasia ought to be regulated should it be legalised. The recommendations serve as a means of addressing the possibility of abuse and illegal conduct from medical practitioners and the public. Through this study, the aim is to contribute to the debate on physician-assisted euthanasia and to advance the development of a euthanasia-related legislation in South Africa. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Criminal and Procedural Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Davids, Sesam Isipho
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Euthanasia -- Law and legislation , Assisted suicide -- Law and legislation , Euthanasia -- Moral and ethical aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68681 , vital:77081
- Description: Euthanasia remains a contentious subject of debate in countries around the world and in South Africa. The South African court system has been faced with requests for the decriminalisation of euthanasia. However, it remains illegal to practice euthanasia in South Africa. This is set by common law as there is no legislation formally regulating euthanasia. Euthanasia provides relief from suffering for patients with terminal illnesses that cause severe suffering and a decrease in their quality of life. Individual autonomy is recognised as patients are given the ability to choose how to end their lives once they make the decision to terminate their lives. In this study, an examination on physician-assisted euthanasia and its current legal position in South Africa will be conducted. Key terms are defined, such as euthanasia - distinguishing active and passive euthanasia as well as physician-assisted suicide. South African law permits the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments which may be viewed as passive euthanasia. This is done with the consent of the patient and the medical practitioners involved are not held criminally liable should the withholding of treatment cause the death of the patient. Relevant constitutional rights will be examined to make a case for the legalisation of physician-assisted euthanasia. These rights include the right to dignity, the right to life, the right to equality, the right to freedom of religion, belief and opinion, and the limitation clause. Common law, case law and statutory law will also be considered. The recommendations of the South African Law Commission in its report (project 86) will be examined as well. An analysis will be conducted on how foreign jurisdictions have accepted physician-assisted euthanasia and implemented legislative measures to safeguard and regulate how medical practitioners practice it. Canada is an example of such a jurisdiction and an analysis has been conducted on how courts in Canada have made a case for the decriminalisation of physician-assisted euthanasia. Canadian courts relied on rights such as the right to life and freedom of opinion. viii When arguing for or against the legalisation of euthanasia, the ethical perspectives of both arguments must be considered. The ‘slippery slope’ will be discussed to demonstrate an ethical argument against euthanasia. The ethical framework of utilitarianism will be discussed as an argument for euthanasia. In line with the title of this research, the physician’s role in the process of euthanasia will also be discussed. After weighing the key arguments, this research concludes that physician-assisted euthanasia ought to be legalised in South Africa. Recommendations are further suggested on how euthanasia ought to be regulated should it be legalised. The recommendations serve as a means of addressing the possibility of abuse and illegal conduct from medical practitioners and the public. Through this study, the aim is to contribute to the debate on physician-assisted euthanasia and to advance the development of a euthanasia-related legislation in South Africa. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Criminal and Procedural Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Ammendments to the labour law relations act 66 of 1995 to addressing violent and intractable strikes
- Authors: Gavu, Siphelele
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Strikes and lockouts -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68692 , vital:77082
- Description: The main research question for this treatise is to determine whether the South African legal framework provides effective regulations in curbing violent and intractable strikes. To answer the research question, the research explored the evolution of the right to strike in South Africa, analysing its socio-economic impact and the transition from a repressive regime to a democratic one. The study assessed international, regional, and national legal frameworks, focusing on the right to strike and its regulation. Amendments to the LRA, including introducing rules for picketing, mandatory secret ballots for strikes, and advisory arbitration for dysfunctional strikes, were evaluated. The findings indicate that while these amendments represent a significant step in addressing the issues of violent strikes in an employment context, their effectiveness is limited. Persistent challenges include the frequent disregard by trade unions and their members for legal measures. This reflects the deeper socio- economic and political issues. The study suggests that the effectiveness of these legislative changes is hindered by ongoing social and economic inequalities, highlighting the need for broader socio-political solutions beyond legislative amendments. This comprehensive analysis explains the complexities surrounding strike actions in South Africa and the balance between upholding labour rights and maintaining workplace discipline and order. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Ammendments to the labour law relations act 66 of 1995 to addressing violent and intractable strikes
- Authors: Gavu, Siphelele
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Strikes and lockouts -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68692 , vital:77082
- Description: The main research question for this treatise is to determine whether the South African legal framework provides effective regulations in curbing violent and intractable strikes. To answer the research question, the research explored the evolution of the right to strike in South Africa, analysing its socio-economic impact and the transition from a repressive regime to a democratic one. The study assessed international, regional, and national legal frameworks, focusing on the right to strike and its regulation. Amendments to the LRA, including introducing rules for picketing, mandatory secret ballots for strikes, and advisory arbitration for dysfunctional strikes, were evaluated. The findings indicate that while these amendments represent a significant step in addressing the issues of violent strikes in an employment context, their effectiveness is limited. Persistent challenges include the frequent disregard by trade unions and their members for legal measures. This reflects the deeper socio- economic and political issues. The study suggests that the effectiveness of these legislative changes is hindered by ongoing social and economic inequalities, highlighting the need for broader socio-political solutions beyond legislative amendments. This comprehensive analysis explains the complexities surrounding strike actions in South Africa and the balance between upholding labour rights and maintaining workplace discipline and order. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
The review of a disciplinary finding or sanction in terms of section 158(1)(h) of the labour relations act 66 of 1995
- Authors: August, Joshua Cliff
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Labor discipline , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa.-- Labour Relations Act, 1995
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68670 , vital:77080
- Description: When an employer subjects an employee to a formal disciplinary process, the employer appoints a presiding officer to whom it cedes either wholly or partly its decision-making powers. Wholly in that the presiding officer would render a finding and impose a sanction. Partly, in that the presiding officer would render a finding and only provide the employer with a recommendation on sanction, which the employer would either accept or reject. The State in its capacity as employer has been afforded the ability to utilise section 158(1)(h) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (LRA) to review the decisions of presiding officers appointed over internal disciplinary proceedings. Despite the wording of section 158(1)(h), the courts have restricted its use by employees employed by the State. The courts have held that a State employee would have to utilise the ordinary dispute resolution pathways made available in the LRA to challenge the decisions the State takes in its capacity as an employer. When exercising the prerogative to discipline, all employers, including the State, must primarily comply with the substantive and procedural requirements outlined in Schedule 8 of the LRA. Notwithstanding the primary measure of fairness, the employer’s decision to discipline and dismiss would also be pitched and measured against its adopted internal disciplinary code and procedure document. It has been questioned in a Labour Court judgement whether the State should continue to be afforded the benefit of the section 158(1)(h) review. The Labour Court judgement ventures into the consequences the use of section 158(1)(h) would have on the unfair dismissal dispute resolution pathway afforded by the LRA and proposed that it would be ideal for the State to utilise alternatives when attempting to alter the sanction or finding of its internal presiding officers. The alternatives proposed include the internal review of findings or sanctions, the unilateral substitution of sanctions, increasing sanctions on appeal and the practice of subjecting the employee to a second hearing. Applying the alternatives to the current circumstances and collective bargaining agreements applicable in the public service, the State would not be able to utilise the alternatives, save for subjecting the employee to a second hearing in exceptional circumstances. In all other instances, including convening an internal review, increasing a sanction during an appeal, or unilaterally substituting the sanction would conflict with the prevailing internal disciplinary code and procedure in the public service. In as much as the Labour Court judgment attempts to put into perspective the consequences the use of section 158(1)(h) would have on the subsequent dispute resolution pathways, the State should not be unduly bound by irrational findings or sanctions imposed by presiding officers appointed to preside over its internal disciplinary hearings. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: August, Joshua Cliff
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Labor discipline , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , South Africa.-- Labour Relations Act, 1995
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/68670 , vital:77080
- Description: When an employer subjects an employee to a formal disciplinary process, the employer appoints a presiding officer to whom it cedes either wholly or partly its decision-making powers. Wholly in that the presiding officer would render a finding and impose a sanction. Partly, in that the presiding officer would render a finding and only provide the employer with a recommendation on sanction, which the employer would either accept or reject. The State in its capacity as employer has been afforded the ability to utilise section 158(1)(h) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (LRA) to review the decisions of presiding officers appointed over internal disciplinary proceedings. Despite the wording of section 158(1)(h), the courts have restricted its use by employees employed by the State. The courts have held that a State employee would have to utilise the ordinary dispute resolution pathways made available in the LRA to challenge the decisions the State takes in its capacity as an employer. When exercising the prerogative to discipline, all employers, including the State, must primarily comply with the substantive and procedural requirements outlined in Schedule 8 of the LRA. Notwithstanding the primary measure of fairness, the employer’s decision to discipline and dismiss would also be pitched and measured against its adopted internal disciplinary code and procedure document. It has been questioned in a Labour Court judgement whether the State should continue to be afforded the benefit of the section 158(1)(h) review. The Labour Court judgement ventures into the consequences the use of section 158(1)(h) would have on the unfair dismissal dispute resolution pathway afforded by the LRA and proposed that it would be ideal for the State to utilise alternatives when attempting to alter the sanction or finding of its internal presiding officers. The alternatives proposed include the internal review of findings or sanctions, the unilateral substitution of sanctions, increasing sanctions on appeal and the practice of subjecting the employee to a second hearing. Applying the alternatives to the current circumstances and collective bargaining agreements applicable in the public service, the State would not be able to utilise the alternatives, save for subjecting the employee to a second hearing in exceptional circumstances. In all other instances, including convening an internal review, increasing a sanction during an appeal, or unilaterally substituting the sanction would conflict with the prevailing internal disciplinary code and procedure in the public service. In as much as the Labour Court judgment attempts to put into perspective the consequences the use of section 158(1)(h) would have on the subsequent dispute resolution pathways, the State should not be unduly bound by irrational findings or sanctions imposed by presiding officers appointed to preside over its internal disciplinary hearings. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Extending psychological praxis within South Africa: exploring healers’ perceptions of treatment plurality
- Authors: Yew-Siong, Lauren
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa , Psychology -- Africa , Clinical health psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69771 , vital:78032
- Description: The prevailing psychological praxis in South Africa predominantly follows western paradigms for defining, classifying, and diagnosing health and illness; falling short in encompassing the diverse mental healthcare reality. Scarce resources, inadequate infrastructure, and the interplay of religio-cultural beliefs intersect, shaping how psychological disturbances are perceived and how treatment is sought- especially for patients who do not ascribe to one treatment modality, or one paradigm. Therefore, this study explored ideas and notions surrounding treatment plurality held by healers (that being psychologists, psychiatrists, and traditional healers), within the South African context. The research utilised a qualitative exploratory-descriptive research methodology with a phenomenological research design. The researcher then employed purposive and snowball sampling to recruit participants. Thereafter, the researcher conducted online semi-structured interviews, and applied Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis to analyse the data. The following themes were then unpacked: 1) Healers’ perceptions of treatment plurality; 2) The need for collaboration between various disciplines; 3) Education as a key factor in pluralism; 4) Healer ethics and malpractice; 5) The lack of governmental funding and resources. The results suggest the need for a pluralistic mental healthcare approach in South Africa, bridging western and traditional practices. Yet, challenges stemming from inadequate governmental funding, resources, policies, and ethical guidelines hinder its development and implementation. Therefore, it would take more than one set of guidelines to implement pluralistic treatment within South African mental healthcare. For this purpose, the researcher decided to create a blueprint for various developments that is needed to make a pluralistic approach a reality in South Africa. These findings encouraged the researcher to develop: 1) Guidelines for the Provision of Collaborative Care in Mental Healthcare Services; 2) Guidelines for South African governmental policy that foster pluralism and collaborative care in the mental healthcare system; 3) A pluralistic medical aid scheme; 4) A module blueprint that could potentially be included in a professional master’s programme, as well as the inclusion of a theory the researcher has developed, named the Pluralism-oriented Mental Healthcare Theory. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Yew-Siong, Lauren
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Traditional medicine -- South Africa , Psychology -- Africa , Clinical health psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69771 , vital:78032
- Description: The prevailing psychological praxis in South Africa predominantly follows western paradigms for defining, classifying, and diagnosing health and illness; falling short in encompassing the diverse mental healthcare reality. Scarce resources, inadequate infrastructure, and the interplay of religio-cultural beliefs intersect, shaping how psychological disturbances are perceived and how treatment is sought- especially for patients who do not ascribe to one treatment modality, or one paradigm. Therefore, this study explored ideas and notions surrounding treatment plurality held by healers (that being psychologists, psychiatrists, and traditional healers), within the South African context. The research utilised a qualitative exploratory-descriptive research methodology with a phenomenological research design. The researcher then employed purposive and snowball sampling to recruit participants. Thereafter, the researcher conducted online semi-structured interviews, and applied Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis to analyse the data. The following themes were then unpacked: 1) Healers’ perceptions of treatment plurality; 2) The need for collaboration between various disciplines; 3) Education as a key factor in pluralism; 4) Healer ethics and malpractice; 5) The lack of governmental funding and resources. The results suggest the need for a pluralistic mental healthcare approach in South Africa, bridging western and traditional practices. Yet, challenges stemming from inadequate governmental funding, resources, policies, and ethical guidelines hinder its development and implementation. Therefore, it would take more than one set of guidelines to implement pluralistic treatment within South African mental healthcare. For this purpose, the researcher decided to create a blueprint for various developments that is needed to make a pluralistic approach a reality in South Africa. These findings encouraged the researcher to develop: 1) Guidelines for the Provision of Collaborative Care in Mental Healthcare Services; 2) Guidelines for South African governmental policy that foster pluralism and collaborative care in the mental healthcare system; 3) A pluralistic medical aid scheme; 4) A module blueprint that could potentially be included in a professional master’s programme, as well as the inclusion of a theory the researcher has developed, named the Pluralism-oriented Mental Healthcare Theory. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Exploring resilience in undergraduate nursing students at a nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Blatti, Jenny
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychology , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Nursing schools -- Faculty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69805 , vital:78036
- Description: Undergraduate nursing students worldwide experience stress and anxiety due to the demands of nursing education, which include challenges related to academic workloads and the clinical environment. This, in turn, may impede programme completion and continuation in nursing careers. Resilience is recognised as an effective attribute for nursing students in adapting to stressors and has been found to have a beneficial impact on learning experiences, academic performance, and professional practice. Despite numerous research studies conducted on resilience in the health professions, there remains little empirical work that has explored undergraduate nursing students' understanding and experience of their resilience. The purpose of this study was thus to explore undergraduate nursing students’ perceptions of their resilience at a nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and to compile recommendations for a resilience training programme in undergraduate nursing education. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual research design was implemented, with the study underpinned by the Resilience Ecological Stress Model. Third and fourth-year nursing students were recruited by purposive sampling, following which data was collected online by means of eleven individual semi-structured interviews conducted and recorded on the Microsoft (MS) Teams platform. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six steps of reflexive thematic analysis, generating codes and themes. The following themes were identified: participants’ perceptions of their challenges while studying nursing, participants’ understanding and experience of resilience, and participants’ views on the unique requirements of the degree in nursing. Findings indicated that nursing students perceive resilience as a beneficial attribute in mitigating the stress and anxiety evoked by their diverse challenges. Recommendations for nursing education were formulated based on the theoretical framework constructs and the findings of the study. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Blatti, Jenny
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape -- Psychology , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Nursing schools -- Faculty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69805 , vital:78036
- Description: Undergraduate nursing students worldwide experience stress and anxiety due to the demands of nursing education, which include challenges related to academic workloads and the clinical environment. This, in turn, may impede programme completion and continuation in nursing careers. Resilience is recognised as an effective attribute for nursing students in adapting to stressors and has been found to have a beneficial impact on learning experiences, academic performance, and professional practice. Despite numerous research studies conducted on resilience in the health professions, there remains little empirical work that has explored undergraduate nursing students' understanding and experience of their resilience. The purpose of this study was thus to explore undergraduate nursing students’ perceptions of their resilience at a nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and to compile recommendations for a resilience training programme in undergraduate nursing education. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive, and contextual research design was implemented, with the study underpinned by the Resilience Ecological Stress Model. Third and fourth-year nursing students were recruited by purposive sampling, following which data was collected online by means of eleven individual semi-structured interviews conducted and recorded on the Microsoft (MS) Teams platform. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six steps of reflexive thematic analysis, generating codes and themes. The following themes were identified: participants’ perceptions of their challenges while studying nursing, participants’ understanding and experience of resilience, and participants’ views on the unique requirements of the degree in nursing. Findings indicated that nursing students perceive resilience as a beneficial attribute in mitigating the stress and anxiety evoked by their diverse challenges. Recommendations for nursing education were formulated based on the theoretical framework constructs and the findings of the study. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
A relevant intervention on nutrition transition among Isixhosa speaking people in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Fordjour Afriyie, Vera
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Nutrition -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Nutrition -- Social aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- Nutrition
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69760 , vital:78026
- Description: The nutrition transition, characterised by a shift from traditional, nutrient-dense diets to Westernised, energy-dense, and nutrient-poor diets, has significant health implications globally. In South Africa (SA), particularly among the isiXhosa-speaking population in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB), this transition has led to the dual burden of undernutrition and overnutrition, increasing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes. Despite the prevalence of this nutrition phenomenon, limited research has explored the perceptions of nutrition transition among South African communities, although there is literature about the transition itself. Most studies on the research subject were undertaken in Asian and European countries and America. Generally, studies regarding the nutrition transition emphasise the importance of early public health interventions to prevent the transition from reaching critical levels. This research study aimed to answer the question: How do isiXhosa-speaking people in NMB perceive nutritional transition, and what are their knowledge and practices concerning traditional foods? This study’s primary aim was to identify and evaluate the NMB isiXhosa-speaking population’s perceptions regarding nutrition transition and their knowledge and practices concerning traditional foods. Subsequently, the study aimed to develop and test an educational intervention to promote traditional African diets and mitigate the adverse effects of nutrition transition. The researcher employed a multi-method approach, encompassing quantitative and qualitative methods and an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approach to enhance the research design. Ethical principles guided the study, including autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice. The study comprised two phases. Participants were selected through a stratified, clustered sampling technique. In the first phase, data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), a 24-hour dietary recall questionnaire, and a knowledge and practices The participants were isiXhosa-speaking NMB residents older than 18 years of age. The second phase utilised the first-phase findings to develop an intervention programme. The intervention was implemented, and its efficacy was evaluated through post-intervention surveys, sensory evaluation, and a three-month telephonic follow-up. The findings indicated a significant decline in traditional food knowledge (TFK) and practices among the participants, with a marked shift towards Westernised diets. The primary factors driving this transition were urbanisation, economic constraints, and a lack of awareness about the nutritional benefits of traditional foods. The intervention programme, which included educational workshops and a sensory evaluation using indigenous crops, resulted in improved knowledge and practices regarding indigenous crops among the participants. Post-intervention data showed increased dietary diversity and a greater inclusion of traditional foods in daily diets. The study concluded that nutrition transition poses a significant challenge to the health and well-being of isiXhosa-speaking individuals in NMB. However, targeted interventions that promote traditional African diets can effectively address this issue. The study recommends that policymakers and public health practitioners incorporate culturally relevant and community-driven strategies to promote traditional food consumption. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of such interventions and explore scalable models for broader implementation. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
A relevant intervention on nutrition transition among Isixhosa speaking people in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Fordjour Afriyie, Vera
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Nutrition -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Nutrition -- Social aspects , Xhosa (African people) -- Nutrition
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69760 , vital:78026
- Description: The nutrition transition, characterised by a shift from traditional, nutrient-dense diets to Westernised, energy-dense, and nutrient-poor diets, has significant health implications globally. In South Africa (SA), particularly among the isiXhosa-speaking population in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB), this transition has led to the dual burden of undernutrition and overnutrition, increasing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes. Despite the prevalence of this nutrition phenomenon, limited research has explored the perceptions of nutrition transition among South African communities, although there is literature about the transition itself. Most studies on the research subject were undertaken in Asian and European countries and America. Generally, studies regarding the nutrition transition emphasise the importance of early public health interventions to prevent the transition from reaching critical levels. This research study aimed to answer the question: How do isiXhosa-speaking people in NMB perceive nutritional transition, and what are their knowledge and practices concerning traditional foods? This study’s primary aim was to identify and evaluate the NMB isiXhosa-speaking population’s perceptions regarding nutrition transition and their knowledge and practices concerning traditional foods. Subsequently, the study aimed to develop and test an educational intervention to promote traditional African diets and mitigate the adverse effects of nutrition transition. The researcher employed a multi-method approach, encompassing quantitative and qualitative methods and an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approach to enhance the research design. Ethical principles guided the study, including autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice. The study comprised two phases. Participants were selected through a stratified, clustered sampling technique. In the first phase, data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), a 24-hour dietary recall questionnaire, and a knowledge and practices The participants were isiXhosa-speaking NMB residents older than 18 years of age. The second phase utilised the first-phase findings to develop an intervention programme. The intervention was implemented, and its efficacy was evaluated through post-intervention surveys, sensory evaluation, and a three-month telephonic follow-up. The findings indicated a significant decline in traditional food knowledge (TFK) and practices among the participants, with a marked shift towards Westernised diets. The primary factors driving this transition were urbanisation, economic constraints, and a lack of awareness about the nutritional benefits of traditional foods. The intervention programme, which included educational workshops and a sensory evaluation using indigenous crops, resulted in improved knowledge and practices regarding indigenous crops among the participants. Post-intervention data showed increased dietary diversity and a greater inclusion of traditional foods in daily diets. The study concluded that nutrition transition poses a significant challenge to the health and well-being of isiXhosa-speaking individuals in NMB. However, targeted interventions that promote traditional African diets can effectively address this issue. The study recommends that policymakers and public health practitioners incorporate culturally relevant and community-driven strategies to promote traditional food consumption. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of such interventions and explore scalable models for broader implementation. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality
- Authors: Wabane, Malibongwe
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor (Obstetrics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69782 , vital:78034
- Description: Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units.Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Wabane, Malibongwe
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Midwifery -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Labor (Obstetrics) -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Hospital care -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69782 , vital:78034
- Description: Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units.Midwifery is a health science profession that deals with women in their confinement period, including the caring of new-borns. Historically, the midwifery profession has evolved from being a female-dominated profession to an occupation followed by both males and females. However, accoucheurs working in public maternity units face various challenges, such as a lack of support and discrimination from their female counterparts and women during confinement. These challenges are based mainly on tradition, religion, and the history of midwifery, a female-dominant profession. The potential effects of these challenges can be seen when women during confinement refuse maternal care from accoucheurs. As a result of this prejudice, accoucheurs may be unable to practice their midwifery skills and may choose other disciplines involving less intimate care. Such acts of refusal of care by women during confinement and these various challenges faced by accoucheurs in public maternity units are common in rural areas. The O.R. Tambo District Municipality (ORTDM) comprises predominantly of rural areas where culture and tradition play an essential role in the community’s life. This study employed a qualitative research design with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual approach to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of accoucheurs caring for women during confinement in public maternity units in the ORTDM to make recommendations to nursing managers regarding the provision of optimal support to accoucheurs working in the rural Eastern Cape. The target population of the study was all accoucheurs working in public maternity units in the ORTDM. Snowball sampling, a non-probability sampling method, was used to select participants who met the inclusion criteria and were voluntarily willing to participate in the study. The data collection method used was one-on-one semistructured interviews, which were also captured using a digital voice recorder. Field notes were used during data collection to enhance the researcher’s understanding of accoucheurs’ nonverbal experiences. The sample size, which was 12 accoucheurs, was determined by data saturation. Data was transcribed verbatim, and Braun and Clark’s (2006) steps of reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) were used as a framework for data analysis. Lincoln and Guba’s model of trustworthiness was used to maintain the quality of the study by employing credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability (Lincoln and Guba, 1985). The ethical principles that guided this study with human participants were the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice as outlined in the Belmont Report and its application (2015:14) Three main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: • Theme 1: Accoucheurs experienced specific factors that enabled them to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 2: Accoucheurs identified barriers that disabled them in caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. • Theme 3: Recommendations for nurse managers by accoucheurs to optimize their ability to care for women during confinement in public maternity units. Direct quotations from the raw data and relevant literature supported the research study results and were discussed in-depth in Chapter Four. Various recommendations were discussed in Chapter Five of this study that present options for nurse managers to optimize the support for accoucheurs who were caring for women during confinement in public maternity units. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Undergraduate bachelor of nursing students’ learning experiences of the operating room environment in public and private hospitals in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: de Vega, Jaunita Martina
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Operating room nurses -- South Africa , Operating rooms -- South Africa , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69794 , vital:78035
- Description: As per the regulations outlined by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), nursing students must fulfil a specified number of clinical hours to become registered practitioners. Regulation R425 and R174 mandates that undergraduate nursing students complete clinical hours in General Nursing Science (GNS), including a component in the operating room (OR) as part of their specialization. However, the educational experiences of Bachelor of Nursing (BON) students in the OR setting are not always positive. The intensity and urgency of perioperative activities in the OR can sometimes leave nursing students feeling threatened and overwhelmed, hindering their ability to view the OR as a conducive clinical learning environment (CLE). The purpose of the study was to gain an understanding of undergraduate nursing students’ learning experiences of the OR environment in public and private hospitals while achieving the learning objectives for course completion. The study followed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. Undergraduate nursing students based at a higher education institution (HEI) undergoing a four-year BON degree and who had exposure to the OR environment were invited to participate in the study. Data collection involved interviewing 20 participants using focus group discussions. Data was transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using Tesch’s method of analysis. Vygotsky’s theory of sociocultural learning was used as a lens to explore the OR learning experiences of the nursing students placed at both public and private hospitals. An adapted version of the AGREE II tool was used as a framework to develop recommendations to optimise the learning experiences of nursing students in the OR environment. The analysis yielded three overarching themes and nine related sub-themes. It was evident that these students encountered challenges when adapting to the OR environment. These challenges were attributed to factors such as the reception and support they received in the CLE, their level of preparedness for OR procedures, and the numerous factors influencing their learning opportunities within the OR. The findings propose that enhancing nursing students’ preparation, along with implementing a structured induction programme, could lead to a more favourable experience in the OR and optimise learning outcomes. Additionally, fostering supportive mentorship programmes with OR professional nurses or staff trained to introduce nursing students to the OR, promoting professional communication between nursing education institutions (NEIs) and hospital OR management, are pivotal measures for maximizing learning opportunities and nurturing the professional growth of nursing students within the OR environment. Recommendations were developed using an adapted version of the AGREE II tool as a framework to optimise the learning experiences of nursing students in the OR environment. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: de Vega, Jaunita Martina
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Operating room nurses -- South Africa , Operating rooms -- South Africa , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69794 , vital:78035
- Description: As per the regulations outlined by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), nursing students must fulfil a specified number of clinical hours to become registered practitioners. Regulation R425 and R174 mandates that undergraduate nursing students complete clinical hours in General Nursing Science (GNS), including a component in the operating room (OR) as part of their specialization. However, the educational experiences of Bachelor of Nursing (BON) students in the OR setting are not always positive. The intensity and urgency of perioperative activities in the OR can sometimes leave nursing students feeling threatened and overwhelmed, hindering their ability to view the OR as a conducive clinical learning environment (CLE). The purpose of the study was to gain an understanding of undergraduate nursing students’ learning experiences of the OR environment in public and private hospitals while achieving the learning objectives for course completion. The study followed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. Undergraduate nursing students based at a higher education institution (HEI) undergoing a four-year BON degree and who had exposure to the OR environment were invited to participate in the study. Data collection involved interviewing 20 participants using focus group discussions. Data was transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using Tesch’s method of analysis. Vygotsky’s theory of sociocultural learning was used as a lens to explore the OR learning experiences of the nursing students placed at both public and private hospitals. An adapted version of the AGREE II tool was used as a framework to develop recommendations to optimise the learning experiences of nursing students in the OR environment. The analysis yielded three overarching themes and nine related sub-themes. It was evident that these students encountered challenges when adapting to the OR environment. These challenges were attributed to factors such as the reception and support they received in the CLE, their level of preparedness for OR procedures, and the numerous factors influencing their learning opportunities within the OR. The findings propose that enhancing nursing students’ preparation, along with implementing a structured induction programme, could lead to a more favourable experience in the OR and optimise learning outcomes. Additionally, fostering supportive mentorship programmes with OR professional nurses or staff trained to introduce nursing students to the OR, promoting professional communication between nursing education institutions (NEIs) and hospital OR management, are pivotal measures for maximizing learning opportunities and nurturing the professional growth of nursing students within the OR environment. Recommendations were developed using an adapted version of the AGREE II tool as a framework to optimise the learning experiences of nursing students in the OR environment. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Factors affecting the selection of customs brokerage service providers in the automotive manufacturing industry of South Africa
- Authors: Taai, Eric
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: International trade , Foreign trade regulation -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69902 , vital:78171
- Description: Any firm participating in the import and export of goods needs to be aware of the customs and tax implications of these activities. Few firms have internal staff who are qualified in this area; thus, they tend to outsource this function to external Customs Brokerage Service providers who can submit customs declarations on behalf of traders to Customs for their imported or exported goods. The main aim of this study was to identify how firms choose their preferred Customs Brokerage Service since these external service providers play a critical role in the efficient and effective functioning of firms relying on imports and exports as part of their logistics value chain. The study sought to identify which key factors influenced the selection of a customs broker. The main research question was: What are the factors that should be considered when selecting a customs brokerage service provider in the South African automotive manufacturing industry? Forty-one respondents participated in this study. This research study undertook positivistic research using quantitative methods of analysis based on the statistical examination of quantitative research data. The quantitative processes of this research study are comprehensively explored in Chapter 3. The main results of this study statistically identified the following independent factors influencing Customs Broker selection: Cost of Service, Relationship Orientation, Technological System, Key Performance Indicators, and Size, as each factor exhibits a significantly positive effect on Customs Broker selection. This study has surveyed, identified, and established these factors that the South African automotive manufacturers should consider when selecting a customs broker service provider. The number of customs experts, consultants, and specialists was firmly confirmed as an important aspect to consider under the factor Size of a Customs Broker. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Taai, Eric
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: International trade , Foreign trade regulation -- South Africa , Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69902 , vital:78171
- Description: Any firm participating in the import and export of goods needs to be aware of the customs and tax implications of these activities. Few firms have internal staff who are qualified in this area; thus, they tend to outsource this function to external Customs Brokerage Service providers who can submit customs declarations on behalf of traders to Customs for their imported or exported goods. The main aim of this study was to identify how firms choose their preferred Customs Brokerage Service since these external service providers play a critical role in the efficient and effective functioning of firms relying on imports and exports as part of their logistics value chain. The study sought to identify which key factors influenced the selection of a customs broker. The main research question was: What are the factors that should be considered when selecting a customs brokerage service provider in the South African automotive manufacturing industry? Forty-one respondents participated in this study. This research study undertook positivistic research using quantitative methods of analysis based on the statistical examination of quantitative research data. The quantitative processes of this research study are comprehensively explored in Chapter 3. The main results of this study statistically identified the following independent factors influencing Customs Broker selection: Cost of Service, Relationship Orientation, Technological System, Key Performance Indicators, and Size, as each factor exhibits a significantly positive effect on Customs Broker selection. This study has surveyed, identified, and established these factors that the South African automotive manufacturers should consider when selecting a customs broker service provider. The number of customs experts, consultants, and specialists was firmly confirmed as an important aspect to consider under the factor Size of a Customs Broker. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Effects of supply chain disruptions on alcohol consumption behaviour in a South African township
- Authors: Sipamla, Noluthando
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Business logistics , Inventory control , Alcoholism
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69913 , vital:78172
- Description: This study investigated the effect of supply chain disruptions on alcohol consumer consumption behaviour in the Eastern Cape Province, but with the specific reference to Mdantsane Township in the Buffalo City Municipality. A quantitative methodology was employed, and self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data. The results of the study revealed that: disruptions increase the risk of the company; disruptions have a significant negative impact on profitability; disruptions have a crippling effect on performance because firms take longer to recover from disruptions; and disruptions have a negative impact on stock price, profitability, and share price volatility across the board. The study recommends diversification of alcohol supply chains to mitigate the impact of disruptions, establish robust monitoring and surveillance systems to track changes in alcohol consumption patterns following supply chain disruptions and consider implementing price regulation and taxation policies to moderate alcohol consumption, particularly during periods of supply chain disruptions. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Sipamla, Noluthando
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Business logistics , Inventory control , Alcoholism
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69913 , vital:78172
- Description: This study investigated the effect of supply chain disruptions on alcohol consumer consumption behaviour in the Eastern Cape Province, but with the specific reference to Mdantsane Township in the Buffalo City Municipality. A quantitative methodology was employed, and self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data. The results of the study revealed that: disruptions increase the risk of the company; disruptions have a significant negative impact on profitability; disruptions have a crippling effect on performance because firms take longer to recover from disruptions; and disruptions have a negative impact on stock price, profitability, and share price volatility across the board. The study recommends diversification of alcohol supply chains to mitigate the impact of disruptions, establish robust monitoring and surveillance systems to track changes in alcohol consumption patterns following supply chain disruptions and consider implementing price regulation and taxation policies to moderate alcohol consumption, particularly during periods of supply chain disruptions. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
Conflict management mechanisms for workplace harassment: a case study of a provincial government department of basic education in Johannesburg, South Africa
- Authors: Monakali, Robin
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa , Bullying in the workplace , Harassment
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70353 , vital:78342
- Description: Workplace harassment remains a significant concern globally, affecting organizational culture and employee well-being. This study aims to develop an integrated conflict management framework to manage workplace harassment in a selected provincial government department in Johannesburg, Gauteng province. The theoretical frameworks guiding this study included organizational theory, socio-cultural theory, and intersectional feminism. Through a mixed methods approach, which involved combining qualitative and quantitative research methods, this research examines the mechanisms in place to deal with workplace harassment in a selected provincial government department. The qualitative research method that was used comprised online, semi-structured, individual interviews with four Human Resource managers, four departmental managers, four line managers and four non-management employees and the quantitative research method involved the completion of self-administered questionnaires by 153 employees from the provincial government department. The researcher used a purposive sampling design for the interviews and simple random sampling for the questionnaires. The findings reveal that the department has internal structures in place to address harassment, yet a gap that was identified was the implementation and application of the policy as many cases go underreported or unresolved. A novel, integrated conflict management framework was developed, which emphasizes both prevention and intervention strategies to deal with workplace harassment. This study adds to existing knowledge of workplace harassment and can also serve as a reference point for further research undertaken by individuals, policymakers, and scholars. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Monakali, Robin
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Conflict management -- South Africa , Bullying in the workplace , Harassment
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70353 , vital:78342
- Description: Workplace harassment remains a significant concern globally, affecting organizational culture and employee well-being. This study aims to develop an integrated conflict management framework to manage workplace harassment in a selected provincial government department in Johannesburg, Gauteng province. The theoretical frameworks guiding this study included organizational theory, socio-cultural theory, and intersectional feminism. Through a mixed methods approach, which involved combining qualitative and quantitative research methods, this research examines the mechanisms in place to deal with workplace harassment in a selected provincial government department. The qualitative research method that was used comprised online, semi-structured, individual interviews with four Human Resource managers, four departmental managers, four line managers and four non-management employees and the quantitative research method involved the completion of self-administered questionnaires by 153 employees from the provincial government department. The researcher used a purposive sampling design for the interviews and simple random sampling for the questionnaires. The findings reveal that the department has internal structures in place to address harassment, yet a gap that was identified was the implementation and application of the policy as many cases go underreported or unresolved. A novel, integrated conflict management framework was developed, which emphasizes both prevention and intervention strategies to deal with workplace harassment. This study adds to existing knowledge of workplace harassment and can also serve as a reference point for further research undertaken by individuals, policymakers, and scholars. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
An anthropological inquiry into intergenerational fashion influences on daughters/sons: selected cases in South Africa
- Maqhubu, Mantšeoane Elizabeth
- Authors: Maqhubu, Mantšeoane Elizabeth
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Clothing and dress -- Social aspects , Fashion -- Social aspects , Anthropology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70330 , vital:78340
- Description: Clothes are a nonverbal expressive tool that provides data for perceptions. They indicate information about a person’s age, sex, personality, socioeconomic status, values, and political ideologies. What someone wears may communicate complex information about who they are to others around them, even when they may not be trying to communicate. At the same time, clothes are an extension or accessory for self-representation. This research delves into an anthropological exploration of intergenerational fashion influences on daughters and sons, focusing on selected cases in South Africa. The aim was to address existing gaps in understanding how contemporary individuals choose to dress and the significance they attribute to their clothing. The study explored diverse factors influencing personal style choices. The study applied narrative analysis theory to scrutinise the gathered information using semi-structured interviews with 15 participants and employing participant observation as an additional data collection method. The outcomes highlight a discernible generational shift in clothing trends, revealing both changes and continuities. Interestingly, the study challenges traditional gendered distinctions in fashion, indicating that men and women often exhibit more similarities than differences. The findings advocate for a more inclusive societal acceptance of diverse fashion expressions, breaking down stereotypes and suggesting that fashion transcends the conventional boundaries separating men's and women's attire. The study's implications include societal recognition and acceptance of the diversity inherent in personal style choices, transcending generational boundaries. This not only contributes to the academic understanding of social and cultural anthropology but also holds practical implications for fostering inclusivity and dismantling rigid notions surrounding attire. In simple terms, this study sparks conversations about how cultural traditions are changing. It encourages people to be more open-minded and accepting of the diverse ways individuals express their identity through fashion. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Maqhubu, Mantšeoane Elizabeth
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Clothing and dress -- Social aspects , Fashion -- Social aspects , Anthropology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70330 , vital:78340
- Description: Clothes are a nonverbal expressive tool that provides data for perceptions. They indicate information about a person’s age, sex, personality, socioeconomic status, values, and political ideologies. What someone wears may communicate complex information about who they are to others around them, even when they may not be trying to communicate. At the same time, clothes are an extension or accessory for self-representation. This research delves into an anthropological exploration of intergenerational fashion influences on daughters and sons, focusing on selected cases in South Africa. The aim was to address existing gaps in understanding how contemporary individuals choose to dress and the significance they attribute to their clothing. The study explored diverse factors influencing personal style choices. The study applied narrative analysis theory to scrutinise the gathered information using semi-structured interviews with 15 participants and employing participant observation as an additional data collection method. The outcomes highlight a discernible generational shift in clothing trends, revealing both changes and continuities. Interestingly, the study challenges traditional gendered distinctions in fashion, indicating that men and women often exhibit more similarities than differences. The findings advocate for a more inclusive societal acceptance of diverse fashion expressions, breaking down stereotypes and suggesting that fashion transcends the conventional boundaries separating men's and women's attire. The study's implications include societal recognition and acceptance of the diversity inherent in personal style choices, transcending generational boundaries. This not only contributes to the academic understanding of social and cultural anthropology but also holds practical implications for fostering inclusivity and dismantling rigid notions surrounding attire. In simple terms, this study sparks conversations about how cultural traditions are changing. It encourages people to be more open-minded and accepting of the diverse ways individuals express their identity through fashion. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
A critical analysis of the music educator’s role in managing adolescent music performance anxiety
- Authors: McLachlan, Elanie
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Music -- Physiological aspects , Music -- Instruction and study -- Psychological aspects , Music -- Performance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70342 , vital:78341
- Description: Music performance anxiety (MPA hereafter) has been widely reported in adolescent musicians (Braden, Osborne & Wilson, 2015; Dempsey & Comeau, 2019; Fehm & Schmidt, 2006; Kenny & Osborne, 2006; Osborne & Kenny, 2008; Papageorgi, 2021; 2022; Patston & Osborne, 2016; Rae & McCambridge, 2004; Thomas & Nettelbeck, 2014). Even though adolescent musicians experience MPA, research indicates that music educators do not necessarily discuss MPA with them (Fehm & Schmidt, 2006; Gill, Osborne & McPherson, 2022; MacAfee & Comeau, 2022; Ryan, Boucher & Ryan, 2021). Music educators have also indicated that they are rarely taught about MPA in tertiary courses (Moura & Serra, 2021; Norton, 2016). However, adolescents have expressed wanting more assistance managing MPA from their music educators (Fehm & Schmidt, 2006). Since adolescents expressed the need for assistance from music educators in managing MPA, my interest grew in researching the music educator’s role as depicted in literature, hence the motivation for this research study. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to critically analyse the role of music educators in managing MPA in adolescent musicians. The role of music educators in managing adolescents’ MPA was addressed through the following primary research question: How does literature reflect the role of the music educator in managing adolescent MPA? In addition, the following sub-question was developed: Which coping strategies and treatments are mentioned in literature to assist music educators in managing adolescent MPA? An integrative literature review was chosen as the study’s methodology to critique and synthesise literature on the topic. Critical analysis and synthesis were used to identify aspects of adolescent MPA, music educators and MPA management that have been omitted or partially addressed in past research to form a new perspective. The critical analysis yielded areas in which new knowledge is needed. These results highlight the need for school music curriculums to contain guidelines regarding MPA and that music educators should be equipped with relevant knowledge to manage MPA effectively in adolescents. A research agenda was created to address the identified shortcomings. The research agenda demonstrates that information about MPA could be included in the school music curriculum in South Africa. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: McLachlan, Elanie
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Music -- Physiological aspects , Music -- Instruction and study -- Psychological aspects , Music -- Performance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70342 , vital:78341
- Description: Music performance anxiety (MPA hereafter) has been widely reported in adolescent musicians (Braden, Osborne & Wilson, 2015; Dempsey & Comeau, 2019; Fehm & Schmidt, 2006; Kenny & Osborne, 2006; Osborne & Kenny, 2008; Papageorgi, 2021; 2022; Patston & Osborne, 2016; Rae & McCambridge, 2004; Thomas & Nettelbeck, 2014). Even though adolescent musicians experience MPA, research indicates that music educators do not necessarily discuss MPA with them (Fehm & Schmidt, 2006; Gill, Osborne & McPherson, 2022; MacAfee & Comeau, 2022; Ryan, Boucher & Ryan, 2021). Music educators have also indicated that they are rarely taught about MPA in tertiary courses (Moura & Serra, 2021; Norton, 2016). However, adolescents have expressed wanting more assistance managing MPA from their music educators (Fehm & Schmidt, 2006). Since adolescents expressed the need for assistance from music educators in managing MPA, my interest grew in researching the music educator’s role as depicted in literature, hence the motivation for this research study. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to critically analyse the role of music educators in managing MPA in adolescent musicians. The role of music educators in managing adolescents’ MPA was addressed through the following primary research question: How does literature reflect the role of the music educator in managing adolescent MPA? In addition, the following sub-question was developed: Which coping strategies and treatments are mentioned in literature to assist music educators in managing adolescent MPA? An integrative literature review was chosen as the study’s methodology to critique and synthesise literature on the topic. Critical analysis and synthesis were used to identify aspects of adolescent MPA, music educators and MPA management that have been omitted or partially addressed in past research to form a new perspective. The critical analysis yielded areas in which new knowledge is needed. These results highlight the need for school music curriculums to contain guidelines regarding MPA and that music educators should be equipped with relevant knowledge to manage MPA effectively in adolescents. A research agenda was created to address the identified shortcomings. The research agenda demonstrates that information about MPA could be included in the school music curriculum in South Africa. , Thesis (MMus) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Visual and Performing Arts, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
The effect of the 2020 to 2021 alcohol ban on alcohol consumption and consumer preferences
- Authors: Dullabh, Curtis
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Drinking customs , Alcoholic beverages , Consumer behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69565 , vital:77714
- Description: This study examines the effect of the alcohol ban from 2020 to 2021 on consumer preferences and consumption habits. The COVID-19 virus was first detected in China, in 2019. The virus spread rapidly, crippling health care systems across the world. As the disease spread, countries began looking at ways to reduce the strain on the health care system caused by other factors (Gu, 2020). The first case in South Africa was recorded on 5 March 2020. South Africa reacted quickly and decided to implement a hard lockdown on alcohol, 22 days after the first case was recorded (Murhula & Nunlall, 2021). Due to the high number of trauma-related cases, which affected the healthcare system and South Africa’s reputation for being a country that consumes high volumes of alcohol, the government needed swift action. This alcohol ban sent shock waves across the country and alcohol consumers began to panic (BBC, 2020). In addition, the alcohol ban caused people to alter their consumption behaviours and some even resorted to homebrewing alcohol during the lockdown. Alcohol was available through the illicit market, which came at a premium price with limited options. This study originated from the alcohol ban, as consumers were exposed to brands, they otherwise would not have considered if all alcohol beverages were available. The scarcity of alcohol products, the excessive prices of alcohol and the effort it took to obtain alcohol, played a major role in altering drinking behaviours and brand preferences post the alcohol ban. Results from the study indicated that age and gender played no significant role in alcohol consumption, brand preference across categories were affected with two of nine alcohol categories experiencing a decline in consumption, from before to after the ban. During the ban, the majority of respondents consumed alcohol with some resorting to homebrewed alcohol, which showed a significant increase in consumption during the ban. The opportunity to further this study would be to investigate the increase in low alcoholic beverages and non-alcohol beverages as key avenues for organisations within the alcohol industry. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2024-12
- Authors: Dullabh, Curtis
- Date: 2024-12
- Subjects: Drinking customs , Alcoholic beverages , Consumer behavior -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/69565 , vital:77714
- Description: This study examines the effect of the alcohol ban from 2020 to 2021 on consumer preferences and consumption habits. The COVID-19 virus was first detected in China, in 2019. The virus spread rapidly, crippling health care systems across the world. As the disease spread, countries began looking at ways to reduce the strain on the health care system caused by other factors (Gu, 2020). The first case in South Africa was recorded on 5 March 2020. South Africa reacted quickly and decided to implement a hard lockdown on alcohol, 22 days after the first case was recorded (Murhula & Nunlall, 2021). Due to the high number of trauma-related cases, which affected the healthcare system and South Africa’s reputation for being a country that consumes high volumes of alcohol, the government needed swift action. This alcohol ban sent shock waves across the country and alcohol consumers began to panic (BBC, 2020). In addition, the alcohol ban caused people to alter their consumption behaviours and some even resorted to homebrewing alcohol during the lockdown. Alcohol was available through the illicit market, which came at a premium price with limited options. This study originated from the alcohol ban, as consumers were exposed to brands, they otherwise would not have considered if all alcohol beverages were available. The scarcity of alcohol products, the excessive prices of alcohol and the effort it took to obtain alcohol, played a major role in altering drinking behaviours and brand preferences post the alcohol ban. Results from the study indicated that age and gender played no significant role in alcohol consumption, brand preference across categories were affected with two of nine alcohol categories experiencing a decline in consumption, from before to after the ban. During the ban, the majority of respondents consumed alcohol with some resorting to homebrewed alcohol, which showed a significant increase in consumption during the ban. The opportunity to further this study would be to investigate the increase in low alcoholic beverages and non-alcohol beverages as key avenues for organisations within the alcohol industry. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2024
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- Date Issued: 2024-12