β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine is a developmental neurotoxin
- Authors: Scott, Laura Louise
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Neurotoxic agents , Nervous system -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43633 , vital:36949
- Description: β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the development of the neurodegenerative diseases Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), but to date no animal model has adequately substantiated this link at environmentally relevant or even exaggerated BMAA exposure levels. The resulting controversy over a possible role for BMAA in neurodegenerative diseases was further hampered by a lack of evidence for mechanistic explanation for the disease pathology associated with these diseases However, the different responses to BMAA that have been observed in neonatal compared to adult rats, together with the findings of epidemiological studies that exposure to environmental factors in utero or in the early stages of life may be important for the development of ALS several years later, suggested that age of exposure might be the determining factor of BMAA neurotoxicity. This study therefore specifically addresses the developmental nature of BMAA as a neurotoxin, and investigates the pathology and progressive nature of that pathology after exposure to the toxin at the most susceptible age. This study demonstrated the importance of BMAA exposure age over total BMAA dose by showing that the administration of a single neonatal dose of BMAA to rodents on postnatal day (PND) 3, 4 and 5, and not prenatally or on PND 6, 7 and 10, caused behavioural, locomotor, emotional and long-term cognitive deficits, clinical symptoms of neurodegeneration as well as pathological hallmarks of AD, PD and ALS in the central nervous system. Furthermore, the observed behavioural deficits and distribution of neuronal loss and proteinopathies in the rodent central nervous system following exposure to BMAA on PND 3, 4 and 5 (corresponding to the developing age of an infant during the third trimester of pregnancy) is consistent with that typically associated with the disruption of normal dopamine and/or serotonin signaling in the brain and the consequent alteration in normal hippocampal and striatal neurogenesis that is modulated, in part, by dopamine. The pattern of spread and rate of propagation of pathology in this neonatal rat BMAA model provided further evidence that BMAA potentially exerts its effect by acting on neurotransmitter signaling. The observed late onset of typical ALS symptoms and pathology suggest that in this BMAA model AD and/or PD related symptoms develop first, followed by the start of ALS symptoms only after the AD and/or PD neuropathological deficits have severely progressed. This study also demonstrated that BMAA exposure at different doses and at different developmental ages resulted in the development of different combinations of either AD and/or PD and/or ALS pathology and/or symptoms in rats, and it is therefore feasible that in humans the age and/or frequency of exposure as well as the BMAA dose might similarly be a major determinant of the variant of AD, PD and/or ALS that might develop in adulthood. Based on the low BMAA dose that was able to cause AD and/or PD-like neuropathological abnormalities in rats in this study, it is feasible that a pregnant human could over the course of her pregnancy, and specifically during the third trimester of pregnancy, consume sufficient BMAA to result in her unborn child developing AD and/or PD and/or ALS up to 30-50 years later. This neonatal BMAA model is the only non-transgenic rodent model that reproduces the behavioural deficits, neuropathology and clinical symptoms that are typically associated with AD, PD and ALS in humans and that, more importantly, mimics the delayed onset of disease symptoms and typical slow progression of these neurodegenerative diseases with age. It now seems very likely that BMAA is a developmental neurotoxin that, as a result of perinatal, but probably prenatal exposure, causes or contributes significantly to the development of neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Scott, Laura Louise
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Neurotoxic agents , Nervous system -- Diseases
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/43633 , vital:36949
- Description: β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the development of the neurodegenerative diseases Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), but to date no animal model has adequately substantiated this link at environmentally relevant or even exaggerated BMAA exposure levels. The resulting controversy over a possible role for BMAA in neurodegenerative diseases was further hampered by a lack of evidence for mechanistic explanation for the disease pathology associated with these diseases However, the different responses to BMAA that have been observed in neonatal compared to adult rats, together with the findings of epidemiological studies that exposure to environmental factors in utero or in the early stages of life may be important for the development of ALS several years later, suggested that age of exposure might be the determining factor of BMAA neurotoxicity. This study therefore specifically addresses the developmental nature of BMAA as a neurotoxin, and investigates the pathology and progressive nature of that pathology after exposure to the toxin at the most susceptible age. This study demonstrated the importance of BMAA exposure age over total BMAA dose by showing that the administration of a single neonatal dose of BMAA to rodents on postnatal day (PND) 3, 4 and 5, and not prenatally or on PND 6, 7 and 10, caused behavioural, locomotor, emotional and long-term cognitive deficits, clinical symptoms of neurodegeneration as well as pathological hallmarks of AD, PD and ALS in the central nervous system. Furthermore, the observed behavioural deficits and distribution of neuronal loss and proteinopathies in the rodent central nervous system following exposure to BMAA on PND 3, 4 and 5 (corresponding to the developing age of an infant during the third trimester of pregnancy) is consistent with that typically associated with the disruption of normal dopamine and/or serotonin signaling in the brain and the consequent alteration in normal hippocampal and striatal neurogenesis that is modulated, in part, by dopamine. The pattern of spread and rate of propagation of pathology in this neonatal rat BMAA model provided further evidence that BMAA potentially exerts its effect by acting on neurotransmitter signaling. The observed late onset of typical ALS symptoms and pathology suggest that in this BMAA model AD and/or PD related symptoms develop first, followed by the start of ALS symptoms only after the AD and/or PD neuropathological deficits have severely progressed. This study also demonstrated that BMAA exposure at different doses and at different developmental ages resulted in the development of different combinations of either AD and/or PD and/or ALS pathology and/or symptoms in rats, and it is therefore feasible that in humans the age and/or frequency of exposure as well as the BMAA dose might similarly be a major determinant of the variant of AD, PD and/or ALS that might develop in adulthood. Based on the low BMAA dose that was able to cause AD and/or PD-like neuropathological abnormalities in rats in this study, it is feasible that a pregnant human could over the course of her pregnancy, and specifically during the third trimester of pregnancy, consume sufficient BMAA to result in her unborn child developing AD and/or PD and/or ALS up to 30-50 years later. This neonatal BMAA model is the only non-transgenic rodent model that reproduces the behavioural deficits, neuropathology and clinical symptoms that are typically associated with AD, PD and ALS in humans and that, more importantly, mimics the delayed onset of disease symptoms and typical slow progression of these neurodegenerative diseases with age. It now seems very likely that BMAA is a developmental neurotoxin that, as a result of perinatal, but probably prenatal exposure, causes or contributes significantly to the development of neurodegenerative diseases in humans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Young adults' experiences of romantic love relationships in virtual space
- Authors: Lambert, Tania
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Online dating , Intimacy (Psychology) , Young adults
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7577 , vital:21930
- Description: The arena for finding an intimate partner has changed significantly in the 21st century with online love relationships becoming more prevalent. Research indicates that individuals do experience meaningful online romantic love relationships and that these relationships often lead to face to face (FTF) relationships. However, limited research has been done on exploring the experiences of those who are/were involved in online romantic love relationships. Furthermore, research conducted on online love romantic relationships generally fails to investigate how people experience passion online, hereby ignoring this integral component of romantic love. The primary aim of the research study was to explore young adults’ experiences of romantic love relationships in virtual space. More specifically, the study explored how young adults experienced intimacy and passion as elements of romantic love online. The study was viewed from an interpretative paradigm and made use of a qualitative approach. The researcher conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with seven participants which were transcribed, and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Four superordinate themes were identified, namely, Online Intimacy, Online Romance and Passion, Online Love, and Social Exchange Online. The participants experienced romantic love online and reported that these relationships were very significant, real and impacted on their psychological well-being. The study created a heuristic base that will provide impetus for this emerging field in research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lambert, Tania
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Online dating , Intimacy (Psychology) , Young adults
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7577 , vital:21930
- Description: The arena for finding an intimate partner has changed significantly in the 21st century with online love relationships becoming more prevalent. Research indicates that individuals do experience meaningful online romantic love relationships and that these relationships often lead to face to face (FTF) relationships. However, limited research has been done on exploring the experiences of those who are/were involved in online romantic love relationships. Furthermore, research conducted on online love romantic relationships generally fails to investigate how people experience passion online, hereby ignoring this integral component of romantic love. The primary aim of the research study was to explore young adults’ experiences of romantic love relationships in virtual space. More specifically, the study explored how young adults experienced intimacy and passion as elements of romantic love online. The study was viewed from an interpretative paradigm and made use of a qualitative approach. The researcher conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with seven participants which were transcribed, and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Four superordinate themes were identified, namely, Online Intimacy, Online Romance and Passion, Online Love, and Social Exchange Online. The participants experienced romantic love online and reported that these relationships were very significant, real and impacted on their psychological well-being. The study created a heuristic base that will provide impetus for this emerging field in research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Whither South Africa – neoliberalism or an embodied communitarian indigenous ethic?
- Authors: Konik, Inga
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Neoliberalism -- South Africa Communitarianism , Literature and society South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21656 , vital:29729
- Description: This thesis offers a critique of neoliberal transformation in South Africa, which process results in growing social inequality and political apathy among citizens. Many scholars have made political-economic and historical analyses of the neoliberal transition, emphasizing structural changes at work at a ‘macro’ level. However, little attention has been paid to changes that have taken place in South Africa at the ‘micro’ level – changes to individual subjectivity and gender codes. That said, the thesis opens by summarizing the above mentioned political-economic accounts of neoliberalism in South Africa, because such works are indispensable to understanding how the regime is embedded within and buttressed by major global institutions. Yet, to achieve a holistic grasp of ‘neoliberal South Africa,’ more is needed. A sociological investigation into the impact of neoliberalism on ordinary people’s self-identification uncovers deep cultural reasons for the continued perpetuation of this unjust political-economic system. Only if it can be understood why people comply with the system in the face of suffering, can effective counter-measures be proposed and implemented over time. This thesis is inherently transdisciplinary. The approach rejects the privileging of one discipline over others, and likewise cautions against collapsing or dissolving disciplines into one another. Instead, recognizing the valuable contribution that each discipline can make to critical scrutiny of a particular issue, a form of methodological transversalism is used to bring different disciplines into dialogue with one another. Following this interplay of structural and subjective analysis, the thesis uncovers the role that consumerism plays in the political neutralization of South Africans. Consumer culture, tied as it is to profitable accumulation, instigates the neoliberal ‘values’ of economistic calculation, competition, and social atomization. This ethos is inculcated in individuals, both at work and during leisure hours. Moreover, consumerism derives much of its power from its ‘sexual sell,’ the creation of fashionable and ‘exemplary’ models of masculinity and femininity. In South Africa, these hegemonic gender models serve to instill competitive individualism while derogating indigenous values. The thesis proposes that in order to counter neoliberal hegemony in South Africa, and begin reclaiming the cultural autonomy of its peoples, it is important to invigorate indigenous communitarian practices and norms. The original contribution of this thesis consists in placing the African ethos of ubuntu in transversal dialogue with global ecological feminist voices. Both political perspectives reinforce a liberatory alternative vision for a future based on principles of embodied relationality, care giving and protection of community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Konik, Inga
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Neoliberalism -- South Africa Communitarianism , Literature and society South Africa -- Politics and government -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21656 , vital:29729
- Description: This thesis offers a critique of neoliberal transformation in South Africa, which process results in growing social inequality and political apathy among citizens. Many scholars have made political-economic and historical analyses of the neoliberal transition, emphasizing structural changes at work at a ‘macro’ level. However, little attention has been paid to changes that have taken place in South Africa at the ‘micro’ level – changes to individual subjectivity and gender codes. That said, the thesis opens by summarizing the above mentioned political-economic accounts of neoliberalism in South Africa, because such works are indispensable to understanding how the regime is embedded within and buttressed by major global institutions. Yet, to achieve a holistic grasp of ‘neoliberal South Africa,’ more is needed. A sociological investigation into the impact of neoliberalism on ordinary people’s self-identification uncovers deep cultural reasons for the continued perpetuation of this unjust political-economic system. Only if it can be understood why people comply with the system in the face of suffering, can effective counter-measures be proposed and implemented over time. This thesis is inherently transdisciplinary. The approach rejects the privileging of one discipline over others, and likewise cautions against collapsing or dissolving disciplines into one another. Instead, recognizing the valuable contribution that each discipline can make to critical scrutiny of a particular issue, a form of methodological transversalism is used to bring different disciplines into dialogue with one another. Following this interplay of structural and subjective analysis, the thesis uncovers the role that consumerism plays in the political neutralization of South Africans. Consumer culture, tied as it is to profitable accumulation, instigates the neoliberal ‘values’ of economistic calculation, competition, and social atomization. This ethos is inculcated in individuals, both at work and during leisure hours. Moreover, consumerism derives much of its power from its ‘sexual sell,’ the creation of fashionable and ‘exemplary’ models of masculinity and femininity. In South Africa, these hegemonic gender models serve to instill competitive individualism while derogating indigenous values. The thesis proposes that in order to counter neoliberal hegemony in South Africa, and begin reclaiming the cultural autonomy of its peoples, it is important to invigorate indigenous communitarian practices and norms. The original contribution of this thesis consists in placing the African ethos of ubuntu in transversal dialogue with global ecological feminist voices. Both political perspectives reinforce a liberatory alternative vision for a future based on principles of embodied relationality, care giving and protection of community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
White women writing white : a study of identity and representation in (post-)apartheid literatures of South Africa
- Authors: West, Mary Eileen
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8443 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/442 , South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Description: This thesis examines aspects of identity and representation using contemporary theories and definitions emerging out of a growing body of work known as whiteness studies. The condition of whiteness as it continues to inform identity politics in post-apartheid South Africa is explored in an analysis of selected texts written by white women, to demonstrate the ways in which whiteness continues to suggest normativity. In reading a representative selection of literatures produced in contemporary South Africa by white women writers, this study aims to illustrate the ambivalence apparent in the interstitial manifestations of emergent reconciliatory gestures that are at odds with residual traces of superiority. A sampling of disparate texts is examined to explore the representations of race and belonging in post-apartheid South Africa in the light of contemporary theories of whiteness which posit it as a powerful and invisible identification. The analysis attempts to plot a continuum from writers who are least, through to those who are most, aware of whiteness as a cultural construct and of their own positionality in relation to the discursive dynamics that inform South African racial politics. A contextualising overview of the terrain of whiteness studies is provided in Chapter One, marking the ideological and theoretical affiliations of this project, and foregrounding the construction of whiteness as an imagined identity in contemporary cultural criticism. It also provides a justification for the selection of the textual material under scrutiny. Chapter Two explores a genre that has been identified as a growing trend in South African fiction: the production of pulp fiction written by white middle-class women. Two such texts are the focus of this chapter, namely, Pamela Jooste’s People like Ourselves (2004) and Susan Mann’s One Tongue Singing (2005), and the complicities and clichés that are characteristic of popular literature are examined. Antjie Krog’s A Change of Tongue (2003) is the focus of Chapter Three. It is examined as a book offering the writer’s personal response to the difficulties of transformation within the first decade of South African democracy. Krog confronts her own defensiveness, her sense of normalcy, and her sense of alienation in relation to multiple encounters with different people. Chapter Four focuses on the journalism of Marianne Thamm. Her role as columnist for the popular women’s magazine, Fairlady is explored, particularly in relation to the inclusion of a contending voice writing against the general tenets of Fairlady. Thamm’s critique of the mores governing bourgeois white womanhood is read in relation to her role as officially sanctioned Court Jester. Her Fairlady columns have been collected in Mental Floss (2002) but the analysis includes selected columns from 2003 to 2005. Echo Location: A Guide to Sea Point for Residents and Visitors (1998) by Karen Press is the focus of Chapter Five. Her work is read as examining a white South African crisis of belonging in relation to the implications of mapping the co-ordinates of whiteness in South Africa. Chapter Six offers a reading of four short stories, written by Nadine Gordimer and Marlene van Niekerk. These stories are juxtaposed to trace an anxious impasse in white responses to suburbia, the place of enactment of white bourgeois mores, which both writers interrogate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: West, Mary Eileen
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8443 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/442 , South African fiction (English) -- History and criticism , Identity (Psychology)
- Description: This thesis examines aspects of identity and representation using contemporary theories and definitions emerging out of a growing body of work known as whiteness studies. The condition of whiteness as it continues to inform identity politics in post-apartheid South Africa is explored in an analysis of selected texts written by white women, to demonstrate the ways in which whiteness continues to suggest normativity. In reading a representative selection of literatures produced in contemporary South Africa by white women writers, this study aims to illustrate the ambivalence apparent in the interstitial manifestations of emergent reconciliatory gestures that are at odds with residual traces of superiority. A sampling of disparate texts is examined to explore the representations of race and belonging in post-apartheid South Africa in the light of contemporary theories of whiteness which posit it as a powerful and invisible identification. The analysis attempts to plot a continuum from writers who are least, through to those who are most, aware of whiteness as a cultural construct and of their own positionality in relation to the discursive dynamics that inform South African racial politics. A contextualising overview of the terrain of whiteness studies is provided in Chapter One, marking the ideological and theoretical affiliations of this project, and foregrounding the construction of whiteness as an imagined identity in contemporary cultural criticism. It also provides a justification for the selection of the textual material under scrutiny. Chapter Two explores a genre that has been identified as a growing trend in South African fiction: the production of pulp fiction written by white middle-class women. Two such texts are the focus of this chapter, namely, Pamela Jooste’s People like Ourselves (2004) and Susan Mann’s One Tongue Singing (2005), and the complicities and clichés that are characteristic of popular literature are examined. Antjie Krog’s A Change of Tongue (2003) is the focus of Chapter Three. It is examined as a book offering the writer’s personal response to the difficulties of transformation within the first decade of South African democracy. Krog confronts her own defensiveness, her sense of normalcy, and her sense of alienation in relation to multiple encounters with different people. Chapter Four focuses on the journalism of Marianne Thamm. Her role as columnist for the popular women’s magazine, Fairlady is explored, particularly in relation to the inclusion of a contending voice writing against the general tenets of Fairlady. Thamm’s critique of the mores governing bourgeois white womanhood is read in relation to her role as officially sanctioned Court Jester. Her Fairlady columns have been collected in Mental Floss (2002) but the analysis includes selected columns from 2003 to 2005. Echo Location: A Guide to Sea Point for Residents and Visitors (1998) by Karen Press is the focus of Chapter Five. Her work is read as examining a white South African crisis of belonging in relation to the implications of mapping the co-ordinates of whiteness in South Africa. Chapter Six offers a reading of four short stories, written by Nadine Gordimer and Marlene van Niekerk. These stories are juxtaposed to trace an anxious impasse in white responses to suburbia, the place of enactment of white bourgeois mores, which both writers interrogate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Water balance processes in indigenous and introduced spaces three production system in the Southern Cape region of South Africa
- Authors: Mapeto, Tatenda
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Hydrology -- Research -- South Africa , Groundwater -- Research -- South Africa Trees -- Breeding Sustainable forestry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49325 , vital:41621
- Description: Forests and trees are important modulators of water flow and their position in the landscape impacts the spatial and temporal availability of ground water and surface water resources. As such, the global extent of natural forests is linked to the availability of water. In the circumstances where tree production systems have been introduced and are managed in landscapes previously populated with other forms of vegetation, it is necessary to understand their hydrological impact so as to ensure that the benefits derived from these tree systems do not outweigh the costs of water availability for sustaining human and environmental water requirements.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mapeto, Tatenda
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Hydrology -- Research -- South Africa , Groundwater -- Research -- South Africa Trees -- Breeding Sustainable forestry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49325 , vital:41621
- Description: Forests and trees are important modulators of water flow and their position in the landscape impacts the spatial and temporal availability of ground water and surface water resources. As such, the global extent of natural forests is linked to the availability of water. In the circumstances where tree production systems have been introduced and are managed in landscapes previously populated with other forms of vegetation, it is necessary to understand their hydrological impact so as to ensure that the benefits derived from these tree systems do not outweigh the costs of water availability for sustaining human and environmental water requirements.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2020
Virtuous living towards an African theology of wisdom in the context of the African renaissance
- Nkesiga, Reverend Solomon Basabose
- Authors: Nkesiga, Reverend Solomon Basabose
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Wisdom -- Religious aspects , Ethics -- Africa -- Religious aspects , Black theology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011900 , Wisdom -- Religious aspects , Ethics -- Africa -- Religious aspects , Black theology
- Description: The structure of this study is a complex inter-relationship of a variety of sources in a theological work, namely, personal experience, African social and politico-economic context, philosophical reflection, wisdom traditions and Christian theology. These sources form a coherent inter-relationship which is foundational for an African theology of wisdom. The introduction gives an overview of my moral and theological formation. This is intended to provide a perspective through which the issue of moral orientation in African context has been approached. It is therefore entitled: Moral formation and the shaping of a theological mind. The first chapter answers the question: Why is Africa in need of a wisdom theology that addresses the issue of moral regeneration? This question is posed in the broader context of the current African Renaissance debates. The links between the Italian (European) and African Renaissance indicate that moral regeneration is a crucial part of the socio-political, intellectual and economic re-birth of Africa. This “socio-historical” source gives the context and urgency of a wisdom theology. It is therefore entitled: A contextual analysis: The European and African Renaissance. The second chapter re-asserts the rise of virtue ethics as an alternative ethical theory to the predominant deontological and utilitarian traditions. This is achieved through analysing Alisdair MacIntyre’s earlier work, After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory (1981), set in the context of Iris Murdoch and Elizabeth Anscombe, the modern initiators of a virtue ethic. This “philosophical” source gives the theoretical framework that addresses the question of moral formation. It is therefore entitled: A philosophical analysis: The rise of virtue ethics as alternative ethical theory. The third chapter is devoted to two related “wisdom” themes: Firstly, the seven traditional virtues are briefly described highlighting the virtue of wisdom as foundational. Secondly, the idea of wisdom is further developed via three wisdom traditions, namely: wisdom in the Hellenistic, Judeo-Christian and African traditions. This “sapiential” source gives this African theology of wisdom its most important building blocks. This chapter is therefore entitled: A sapiential analysis: Wisdom as foundation for virtue ethics in Africa. The last chapter brings the previous sources together under a specific theological perspective. It draws on aspects of recent African theologians’ work, notably: Kwame Gyekye and Benezet Bujo who engage with and bring together Western and African theological traditions. I answer a pertinent question, “What does such a ‘theological’ perspective entail?” I draw on Scripture and its Trinitarian tradition to demonstrate how African wisdom, reinforced by the framework of virtue theory, and developed in the context of present-day Africa by an African student of theology, has the potential to contribute to the moral transformation of Africa. This more overt “theological” source is the distinctive Christian enterprise of an African wisdom theology. The chapter title is aligned with the overall title of this study: A theological analysis: Toward an African virtue ethics? To this end, this study achieves its attempt to construct an inter-related framework from which an African theology of wisdom may emerge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
- Authors: Nkesiga, Reverend Solomon Basabose
- Date: 2005
- Subjects: Wisdom -- Religious aspects , Ethics -- Africa -- Religious aspects , Black theology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8414 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011900 , Wisdom -- Religious aspects , Ethics -- Africa -- Religious aspects , Black theology
- Description: The structure of this study is a complex inter-relationship of a variety of sources in a theological work, namely, personal experience, African social and politico-economic context, philosophical reflection, wisdom traditions and Christian theology. These sources form a coherent inter-relationship which is foundational for an African theology of wisdom. The introduction gives an overview of my moral and theological formation. This is intended to provide a perspective through which the issue of moral orientation in African context has been approached. It is therefore entitled: Moral formation and the shaping of a theological mind. The first chapter answers the question: Why is Africa in need of a wisdom theology that addresses the issue of moral regeneration? This question is posed in the broader context of the current African Renaissance debates. The links between the Italian (European) and African Renaissance indicate that moral regeneration is a crucial part of the socio-political, intellectual and economic re-birth of Africa. This “socio-historical” source gives the context and urgency of a wisdom theology. It is therefore entitled: A contextual analysis: The European and African Renaissance. The second chapter re-asserts the rise of virtue ethics as an alternative ethical theory to the predominant deontological and utilitarian traditions. This is achieved through analysing Alisdair MacIntyre’s earlier work, After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory (1981), set in the context of Iris Murdoch and Elizabeth Anscombe, the modern initiators of a virtue ethic. This “philosophical” source gives the theoretical framework that addresses the question of moral formation. It is therefore entitled: A philosophical analysis: The rise of virtue ethics as alternative ethical theory. The third chapter is devoted to two related “wisdom” themes: Firstly, the seven traditional virtues are briefly described highlighting the virtue of wisdom as foundational. Secondly, the idea of wisdom is further developed via three wisdom traditions, namely: wisdom in the Hellenistic, Judeo-Christian and African traditions. This “sapiential” source gives this African theology of wisdom its most important building blocks. This chapter is therefore entitled: A sapiential analysis: Wisdom as foundation for virtue ethics in Africa. The last chapter brings the previous sources together under a specific theological perspective. It draws on aspects of recent African theologians’ work, notably: Kwame Gyekye and Benezet Bujo who engage with and bring together Western and African theological traditions. I answer a pertinent question, “What does such a ‘theological’ perspective entail?” I draw on Scripture and its Trinitarian tradition to demonstrate how African wisdom, reinforced by the framework of virtue theory, and developed in the context of present-day Africa by an African student of theology, has the potential to contribute to the moral transformation of Africa. This more overt “theological” source is the distinctive Christian enterprise of an African wisdom theology. The chapter title is aligned with the overall title of this study: A theological analysis: Toward an African virtue ethics? To this end, this study achieves its attempt to construct an inter-related framework from which an African theology of wisdom may emerge.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2005
Video games as “play assemblages”: applying philosophical concepts from deleuze and guattari to create a novel approach to video games
- Authors: Du Plessis, Corné
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Video games Video games -- Research , Video games -- History and criticism Video games -- Analysis, appreciation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16119 , vital:28322
- Description: The phenomena that we collectively refer to as “play” form a significant part of life at numerous levels. According to the play scholar, Johan Huizinga, play has not only been part of all human societies, it is also at the root of the development of numerous cultural activities, including structured games and sports, certain judicial and legal activities, war, and numerous forms of art. Despite its importance, play, with its various manifestations, is often relegated to being a children’s activity or an occasion of pure waste, and is a surprisingly marginalized topic in academic scholarship. In part to remedy this deficit, my aim in this thesis is to explore the comparatively new phenomenon of video games as a particular form of play. While there are undoubtedly many philosophical approaches that can respond to different aspects of the “problem” of video games, I propose that Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari’s philosophy of “difference” and “becoming” is particularly useful. On the one hand, Deleuze and Guattari’s philosophy provides a viable framework through which to determine the limitations of the current prominent theories in the field of video game studies, which include “narratology”, “ludology”, and the more recent “hybrid approach”. On the other hand, their philosophy enables one to extend the creative and transformative potential that is inherent to a philosophical “problem”, in this case the “problem” of video games. By adapting selected Deleuzian and Deleuzoguattarian philosophical concepts, including “assemblage”, “percept”, “affect”, “transversal becoming”, and “becoming-imperceptible”, I aim to establish a philosophical framework through which different forms of play, and different video games, can be analyzed in terms of their capacity to generate “difference” and “becoming”. More specifically, I argue that video games can be understood as particular kinds of “play assemblages” that can potentially open the player to “transversal becomings”. The video games that I analyze as play assemblages that can generate “transversal becomings” are Thatgamecompany’s Flower (2009) and Journey (2012). Importantly, “transversal becomings”, understood in this instance as the “becoming-other” of human individuals, have the potential to contribute to the individual’s capacity for creative thought and action. Therefore, I argue that video games, far from being activities of pure waste, can potentially open the player to various forms of “becoming-other”, which can, in turn, increase the player’s capacity to think differently, to become different and to create differences. Ultimately, I aim to promote the value of play and video games on the one hand, and the value of Deleuze and Guattari’s philosophy on the other hand, for the aim of extending the questioning power of life, and increasing our capacity to effectively respond to a continuously changing world of problems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Du Plessis, Corné
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Video games Video games -- Research , Video games -- History and criticism Video games -- Analysis, appreciation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16119 , vital:28322
- Description: The phenomena that we collectively refer to as “play” form a significant part of life at numerous levels. According to the play scholar, Johan Huizinga, play has not only been part of all human societies, it is also at the root of the development of numerous cultural activities, including structured games and sports, certain judicial and legal activities, war, and numerous forms of art. Despite its importance, play, with its various manifestations, is often relegated to being a children’s activity or an occasion of pure waste, and is a surprisingly marginalized topic in academic scholarship. In part to remedy this deficit, my aim in this thesis is to explore the comparatively new phenomenon of video games as a particular form of play. While there are undoubtedly many philosophical approaches that can respond to different aspects of the “problem” of video games, I propose that Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari’s philosophy of “difference” and “becoming” is particularly useful. On the one hand, Deleuze and Guattari’s philosophy provides a viable framework through which to determine the limitations of the current prominent theories in the field of video game studies, which include “narratology”, “ludology”, and the more recent “hybrid approach”. On the other hand, their philosophy enables one to extend the creative and transformative potential that is inherent to a philosophical “problem”, in this case the “problem” of video games. By adapting selected Deleuzian and Deleuzoguattarian philosophical concepts, including “assemblage”, “percept”, “affect”, “transversal becoming”, and “becoming-imperceptible”, I aim to establish a philosophical framework through which different forms of play, and different video games, can be analyzed in terms of their capacity to generate “difference” and “becoming”. More specifically, I argue that video games can be understood as particular kinds of “play assemblages” that can potentially open the player to “transversal becomings”. The video games that I analyze as play assemblages that can generate “transversal becomings” are Thatgamecompany’s Flower (2009) and Journey (2012). Importantly, “transversal becomings”, understood in this instance as the “becoming-other” of human individuals, have the potential to contribute to the individual’s capacity for creative thought and action. Therefore, I argue that video games, far from being activities of pure waste, can potentially open the player to various forms of “becoming-other”, which can, in turn, increase the player’s capacity to think differently, to become different and to create differences. Ultimately, I aim to promote the value of play and video games on the one hand, and the value of Deleuze and Guattari’s philosophy on the other hand, for the aim of extending the questioning power of life, and increasing our capacity to effectively respond to a continuously changing world of problems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Utility of the cognitive assessment system (CAS) to predict reading proficiency in grade 1
- Authors: Hüttenrauch, Maria Eleonore
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Das-Naglieri Cognitive Assessment System , Intelligence tests for preliterates , Cognition in children , Reading disability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9839 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/965 , Das-Naglieri Cognitive Assessment System , Intelligence tests for preliterates , Cognition in children , Reading disability
- Description: Reading disability, as the most commonly diagnosed learning disability, continues to pose a tenacious problem to teachers, practitioners and researchers. In an effort to understand the causes of reading disability, voluminous research has been undertaken over the past decades to pinpoint its causes or developmental stumbling blocks. One approach, the Planning, Attention, Simultaneous, and Successive processing (PASS) model, combines neuropsychological theory with elements from cognitive psychology. Based on this model, the Cognitive Assessment System (CAS), as well as methods of intervention for reading disability were developed. Although many studies have been conducted that investigated reading disability in terms of PASS cognitive processes, the final version of the CAS and its predictive utility with respect to reading disability has not been explored to date. The present study aimed to investigate the utility of the CAS, administered at the beginning of grade 1, to predict reading proficiency at the end of grade 1. The sample was comprised of 119 “average” (i.e., belonging to the general population) grade 1 students from schools of the Calgary Board of Education (CBE). The Basic Battery of the CAS was administered to the children in the sample at the beginning of grade 1, as well as four reading subtests of the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement – Third Edition (WJ-III ACH) at the end of grade 1. The WJ-III ACH yielded a cluster score for basic reading and one for reading comprehension. Correlational and regression analyses were used to address the first aim of this study, namely to explore the relationship between students’ scores on the CAS and their later reading proficiency. To this end, the children’s CAS Full Scale scores and WJ-III ACH cluster scores were subjected to a hierarchical regression analysis, whereby age, gender, and - xviii - SES were kept constant by entering them first in the equation. Next, the relationship between students’ PASS scale scores and the CAS subtest scores respectively and scores on the WJ-III ACH Basic Reading and Reading Comprehension Cluster scores was explored by means of stepwise regression analysis. To improve on the generalizability of results, the regression analyses were conducted on a randomly drawn analysis sample consisting of 80% of the sample, and cross-validated on the remaining 20% of the sample. The second aim of the present study was to ascertain whether clusters could be identified on the basis of CAS performance as well as levels of reading proficiency. To this end, the children’s CAS FS scores, PASS scale scores, and CAS subtest scores were subjected to cluster analyses. The investigation of aim 1 yielded some encouraging results, in that it was found that, together with the covariates: • The CAS FS emerged as a moderately strong predictor of both basic reading and reading comprehension; • Successive processing, in particular the Word Series subtest, significantly predicted basic reading skills; • Successive and simultaneous processing, particularly the Nonverbal Matrices and Sentence Repetition subtests, were significant predictors of reading comprehension; The second aim, which explored the relationship between patterns of CAS cognitive processes and their relationship with reading proficiency, yielded: • Two clusters with distinctly different PASS scale scores and with significant differences between their levels of reading proficiency. Higher PASS scales scores, particularly on the Attention and Planning scales, were associated with higher reading proficiency scores. • Four clusters with distinctly different CAS subtest scores that were also associated with distinctly different levels of reading performance. Good - xix - reading proficiency was associated with good CAS performance, whereas weaker reading proficiency was linked to weaker CAS performance. Biographical variables, such as age and SES were found to be related to performance on the CAS and reading proficiency, while gender did not emerge as an important predictor variable. The present study demonstrated the usefulness of the CAS, particularly its Successive and Simultaneous scales, as potential early predictor of reading disability. An exploration of the relationship between patterns of CAS cognitive processes and later reading proficiency also yielded encouraging and interesting results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Hüttenrauch, Maria Eleonore
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: Das-Naglieri Cognitive Assessment System , Intelligence tests for preliterates , Cognition in children , Reading disability
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9839 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/965 , Das-Naglieri Cognitive Assessment System , Intelligence tests for preliterates , Cognition in children , Reading disability
- Description: Reading disability, as the most commonly diagnosed learning disability, continues to pose a tenacious problem to teachers, practitioners and researchers. In an effort to understand the causes of reading disability, voluminous research has been undertaken over the past decades to pinpoint its causes or developmental stumbling blocks. One approach, the Planning, Attention, Simultaneous, and Successive processing (PASS) model, combines neuropsychological theory with elements from cognitive psychology. Based on this model, the Cognitive Assessment System (CAS), as well as methods of intervention for reading disability were developed. Although many studies have been conducted that investigated reading disability in terms of PASS cognitive processes, the final version of the CAS and its predictive utility with respect to reading disability has not been explored to date. The present study aimed to investigate the utility of the CAS, administered at the beginning of grade 1, to predict reading proficiency at the end of grade 1. The sample was comprised of 119 “average” (i.e., belonging to the general population) grade 1 students from schools of the Calgary Board of Education (CBE). The Basic Battery of the CAS was administered to the children in the sample at the beginning of grade 1, as well as four reading subtests of the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement – Third Edition (WJ-III ACH) at the end of grade 1. The WJ-III ACH yielded a cluster score for basic reading and one for reading comprehension. Correlational and regression analyses were used to address the first aim of this study, namely to explore the relationship between students’ scores on the CAS and their later reading proficiency. To this end, the children’s CAS Full Scale scores and WJ-III ACH cluster scores were subjected to a hierarchical regression analysis, whereby age, gender, and - xviii - SES were kept constant by entering them first in the equation. Next, the relationship between students’ PASS scale scores and the CAS subtest scores respectively and scores on the WJ-III ACH Basic Reading and Reading Comprehension Cluster scores was explored by means of stepwise regression analysis. To improve on the generalizability of results, the regression analyses were conducted on a randomly drawn analysis sample consisting of 80% of the sample, and cross-validated on the remaining 20% of the sample. The second aim of the present study was to ascertain whether clusters could be identified on the basis of CAS performance as well as levels of reading proficiency. To this end, the children’s CAS FS scores, PASS scale scores, and CAS subtest scores were subjected to cluster analyses. The investigation of aim 1 yielded some encouraging results, in that it was found that, together with the covariates: • The CAS FS emerged as a moderately strong predictor of both basic reading and reading comprehension; • Successive processing, in particular the Word Series subtest, significantly predicted basic reading skills; • Successive and simultaneous processing, particularly the Nonverbal Matrices and Sentence Repetition subtests, were significant predictors of reading comprehension; The second aim, which explored the relationship between patterns of CAS cognitive processes and their relationship with reading proficiency, yielded: • Two clusters with distinctly different PASS scale scores and with significant differences between their levels of reading proficiency. Higher PASS scales scores, particularly on the Attention and Planning scales, were associated with higher reading proficiency scores. • Four clusters with distinctly different CAS subtest scores that were also associated with distinctly different levels of reading performance. Good - xix - reading proficiency was associated with good CAS performance, whereas weaker reading proficiency was linked to weaker CAS performance. Biographical variables, such as age and SES were found to be related to performance on the CAS and reading proficiency, while gender did not emerge as an important predictor variable. The present study demonstrated the usefulness of the CAS, particularly its Successive and Simultaneous scales, as potential early predictor of reading disability. An exploration of the relationship between patterns of CAS cognitive processes and later reading proficiency also yielded encouraging and interesting results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Using ambient noise tomography to image the Eastern Cape-Karoo and Karoo regions, South Africa
- Bezuidenhout, Lucian John-Ross
- Authors: Bezuidenhout, Lucian John-Ross
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Geometric tomography -- South Africa , Geobiology Geology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23602 , vital:30585
- Description: The primary aim of this thesis was to explore the use of ambient seismic noise as a tool to map the subsurface of the Cape-Karoo and Karoo region of South Africa. The Karoo is an ideal laboratory to use ambient seismic signal to map the shallow subsurface, as it is a quiet and pristine environment with a relatively well known geology. Ambient seismic signals were continuously recorded at three independent networks (ArrayA, ArrayB and ArrayC). ArrayA and ArrayB comprised 17 temporary stand-alone seismic stations each and recorded ambient noise wavefields for a ten week period between August and October 2015. ArrayC comprised 19 temporary stand-alone seismic stations, recording ambient seismic noise for a period of six weeks between June and July 2016. ArrayA and ArrayB were installed in the south-eastern Cape-Karoo region, near the town of Jansenville and ArrayC was installed near the Cradock-Tarkastad region of South Africa. This thesis is made up of two separate studies. Firstly, the retrieval and coherency of Rayleigh surface waves extracted from the vertical component recordings. For the first time in the south-eastern Cape-Karoo and Karoo area, estimates of Green’s function from cross-correlating ambient noise data between stations pairs were reconstructed and shown, which can be successfully used to image the subsurface. The stacked cross-correlations between all station pairs show clear arrivals of the Rayleigh surface waves. The group velocities of the Rayleigh waves in the 2 to 7 seconds period range were picked and inverted to compute the 2-D group velocity maps. For ArrayA and ArrayB, the resulting 2-D group velocity maps at different periods resulted in a group velocity model from approximately 2 to 7 km depth, which generally show a high velocity anomaly in the north of the study area, most likely imaging the denser, thick sedimentary basin of the Karoo (Carboniferous-Permian). To the south, the low velocity anomaly likely corresponds to the overlying Jurassic- Cretaceous sequences of the younger Algoa Basin (Uitenhage Group). For ArrayC, the group velocity maps showed high velocity regions, which is consistent with the dolerite sill intrusions in the Karoo and the low velocity structures, which was interpreted as the Karoo sediments. Secondly, the study comprised of characterizing the ambient seismic noise source. The first order analysis of the symmetry of the cross-correlation function showed that, although the ambient noise sources are relatively homogeneously distributed in the study area, most (energetic) of the ambient seismic noise propagates from the coast of South Africa. This was verified by analyzing the azimuthal distribution of the ambient seismic noise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Bezuidenhout, Lucian John-Ross
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Geometric tomography -- South Africa , Geobiology Geology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23602 , vital:30585
- Description: The primary aim of this thesis was to explore the use of ambient seismic noise as a tool to map the subsurface of the Cape-Karoo and Karoo region of South Africa. The Karoo is an ideal laboratory to use ambient seismic signal to map the shallow subsurface, as it is a quiet and pristine environment with a relatively well known geology. Ambient seismic signals were continuously recorded at three independent networks (ArrayA, ArrayB and ArrayC). ArrayA and ArrayB comprised 17 temporary stand-alone seismic stations each and recorded ambient noise wavefields for a ten week period between August and October 2015. ArrayC comprised 19 temporary stand-alone seismic stations, recording ambient seismic noise for a period of six weeks between June and July 2016. ArrayA and ArrayB were installed in the south-eastern Cape-Karoo region, near the town of Jansenville and ArrayC was installed near the Cradock-Tarkastad region of South Africa. This thesis is made up of two separate studies. Firstly, the retrieval and coherency of Rayleigh surface waves extracted from the vertical component recordings. For the first time in the south-eastern Cape-Karoo and Karoo area, estimates of Green’s function from cross-correlating ambient noise data between stations pairs were reconstructed and shown, which can be successfully used to image the subsurface. The stacked cross-correlations between all station pairs show clear arrivals of the Rayleigh surface waves. The group velocities of the Rayleigh waves in the 2 to 7 seconds period range were picked and inverted to compute the 2-D group velocity maps. For ArrayA and ArrayB, the resulting 2-D group velocity maps at different periods resulted in a group velocity model from approximately 2 to 7 km depth, which generally show a high velocity anomaly in the north of the study area, most likely imaging the denser, thick sedimentary basin of the Karoo (Carboniferous-Permian). To the south, the low velocity anomaly likely corresponds to the overlying Jurassic- Cretaceous sequences of the younger Algoa Basin (Uitenhage Group). For ArrayC, the group velocity maps showed high velocity regions, which is consistent with the dolerite sill intrusions in the Karoo and the low velocity structures, which was interpreted as the Karoo sediments. Secondly, the study comprised of characterizing the ambient seismic noise source. The first order analysis of the symmetry of the cross-correlation function showed that, although the ambient noise sources are relatively homogeneously distributed in the study area, most (energetic) of the ambient seismic noise propagates from the coast of South Africa. This was verified by analyzing the azimuthal distribution of the ambient seismic noise.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Uphononongo lwemiba yentlalo inkcubeko noburharha ephembelela ababhali kuthiyo lwabalinganiswa kwiincwadi zedrama zesiXhosa ezichongiweyo
- Authors: Kapa, Nompumelelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Characters and characteristics in literature Xhosa drama
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8440 , vital:32795
- Description: Olu phando luzakuqwalasela iimeko abathi bazilandele ababhali xa bathiya abalinganiswa phantsi kweemeko zenkcubeko noburharha, kwakunye nokubaluleka kwalo gabalala. Oku kuzakwenziwa kuboniswa nenxaxheba elithi liyidlale ebomini. Kuza kuhlalutywa ezi ncwadi zilandelayo:Amaza ngokubhalwe ngu-Z.S. Qangule, Buzani kuBawo ngu-W.K.Tamsanqa Akwaba ng-T.Ntwana, Iziphumo Zodendo ngu-L.E.Menze, Emgxobhozweni ngu-B.B.Mkonto, Yeha Mfazi Obulala Indoda ngu-L.L.Ngewu, Hay’Ukuzenza ngu-C.F.Jaji. Kwezi ncwadi kuzakuhlalutywa iimeko ezilandelwa ngababhali xa bethiya abalinganiswa kunye nendima edlalwa ligama lo mlinganiswa ngamnye ebalini, oku kuza kubonisa indlela ekuthiywa ngayo ekuhlaleni kwakunye nokubaluleka kwegama kumnini lo. Isahluko sokuqala sizakunika amagqabantshintshi ngolu phando. Esi sahlukosiqulathe oku kulandelayo:Ingabula zigcawu ngophando• Imvelaphi ngentsusa yokuthiywa kwegama• Iinjongo zolu phando• Okunye okufunyenweyo kolu phando• Indlela oluza kuqhutywa ngayo olu phando• Iingxaki zolu phando• Imibuzo yolu phando• Amagqabantshintshi ngezahluko zoluphando Isahluko sesibini siqwalasele ithiyori ezakuthi isetyenziswe kolu phando . Oku kwenziwa ngokuthi kuqwalaselwe ukuba bathini abanye ababhali ngothiyo. Isahluko sesithathu luphononongo lwabalinganiswa kwincwadi nganye kwezichongiweyo, kulandelwa inkcubeko neemeko zasekuhlaleni . Isahluko sesine sijonge ubugcisa boburharha obulandelwe ngababhali xa bathiya abalinganiswa, kwiincwadi ezichongiweyo, kwakunye nendima ethi edlalwe ngabalinganiswa ebalini. Isahluko sesihlanu nesisesokugqibela, siveza ulwazi oluthe lwafumaneka kuthiyo ngqo, luthelekisa nothiyo ezincwadini,sishwankathela iziphumo zophando.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Kapa, Nompumelelo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Characters and characteristics in literature Xhosa drama
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8440 , vital:32795
- Description: Olu phando luzakuqwalasela iimeko abathi bazilandele ababhali xa bathiya abalinganiswa phantsi kweemeko zenkcubeko noburharha, kwakunye nokubaluleka kwalo gabalala. Oku kuzakwenziwa kuboniswa nenxaxheba elithi liyidlale ebomini. Kuza kuhlalutywa ezi ncwadi zilandelayo:Amaza ngokubhalwe ngu-Z.S. Qangule, Buzani kuBawo ngu-W.K.Tamsanqa Akwaba ng-T.Ntwana, Iziphumo Zodendo ngu-L.E.Menze, Emgxobhozweni ngu-B.B.Mkonto, Yeha Mfazi Obulala Indoda ngu-L.L.Ngewu, Hay’Ukuzenza ngu-C.F.Jaji. Kwezi ncwadi kuzakuhlalutywa iimeko ezilandelwa ngababhali xa bethiya abalinganiswa kunye nendima edlalwa ligama lo mlinganiswa ngamnye ebalini, oku kuza kubonisa indlela ekuthiywa ngayo ekuhlaleni kwakunye nokubaluleka kwegama kumnini lo. Isahluko sokuqala sizakunika amagqabantshintshi ngolu phando. Esi sahlukosiqulathe oku kulandelayo:Ingabula zigcawu ngophando• Imvelaphi ngentsusa yokuthiywa kwegama• Iinjongo zolu phando• Okunye okufunyenweyo kolu phando• Indlela oluza kuqhutywa ngayo olu phando• Iingxaki zolu phando• Imibuzo yolu phando• Amagqabantshintshi ngezahluko zoluphando Isahluko sesibini siqwalasele ithiyori ezakuthi isetyenziswe kolu phando . Oku kwenziwa ngokuthi kuqwalaselwe ukuba bathini abanye ababhali ngothiyo. Isahluko sesithathu luphononongo lwabalinganiswa kwincwadi nganye kwezichongiweyo, kulandelwa inkcubeko neemeko zasekuhlaleni . Isahluko sesine sijonge ubugcisa boburharha obulandelwe ngababhali xa bathiya abalinganiswa, kwiincwadi ezichongiweyo, kwakunye nendima ethi edlalwe ngabalinganiswa ebalini. Isahluko sesihlanu nesisesokugqibela, siveza ulwazi oluthe lwafumaneka kuthiyo ngqo, luthelekisa nothiyo ezincwadini,sishwankathela iziphumo zophando.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Uphicotho nzulu lokusetyenziswa kwamandla eempawu zesimiyotiki kwiinoveli ezichongiweyo zesiXhosa
- Authors: Mvanyashe, Andiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Semiotics , Xhosa literature -- Research Folk literature, Xhosa
- Language: Isixhosa
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32916 , vital:32397
- Description: Olu phando lungesimiyotiki, oko ukutsho, ufundo-nzulu ngeempawu nemiqondiso. Le ngcingane yesimiyotiki ithi ixhaswe yingcingane yesemantiki, yesintaksi, neyepragmatiki kolu phando. Ezi ngcingane ziyahambisana kuba zonke zinento enye ezifana ngayo, ukushukuxa intsingiselo yeempawu nemiqondiso ngokwahlukana kwayo. Isimiyotiki ithi isetyenziswe ukuhlalutya ezi ncwadi zintathu zilandelayo zaba babhali: ekaJordan (1940) ethi Ingqumbo Yeminyanya, Ukuqhawuka kwembeleko nguD.M Jongilanga (1982) noUkuba ndandazile nguW.K Tamsanqa (1976). Uphando luthe lwahlulwa ngezihloko ezithandathu; isihloko sokuqala sinika ingcaciso yophando luphela; isihloko sesibini singena nzulu sicacise ingcingane esetyenzisiweyo yesimiyotiki kunye nezo ziyixhasayo; kwisihloko sesithathu kushukuxwa isimiyotiki nenkcubeko; kwisihloko sesine kushukuxwa isimiyotiki nemo yokumila; kwisihloko sesihlanu kushukuxwa isimiyotiki nepragmatiki; kwisihloko sesithandathu kushwankathelwa okanye kuququnjelwe yonke into - into ethe yaqhubeka kolu phando kunikwa neengcebiso eluntwini. Uphando luphela luzivelele iinkalo ezininzi zesimiyotiki kwaye lwaphendula nemibuzo yophando, lwafezekisa iinjongo zophando, lwafaka nomceli-mngeni kwabanye abaphandi abasaza kuphanda ngesimiyotiki. Kolu phando inkcubeko ibonakele kakhulu ukuba yinxenye yesimiyotiki kuba ibonisa imiqondiso neempawu ezinika intsingiselo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mvanyashe, Andiswa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Semiotics , Xhosa literature -- Research Folk literature, Xhosa
- Language: Isixhosa
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32916 , vital:32397
- Description: Olu phando lungesimiyotiki, oko ukutsho, ufundo-nzulu ngeempawu nemiqondiso. Le ngcingane yesimiyotiki ithi ixhaswe yingcingane yesemantiki, yesintaksi, neyepragmatiki kolu phando. Ezi ngcingane ziyahambisana kuba zonke zinento enye ezifana ngayo, ukushukuxa intsingiselo yeempawu nemiqondiso ngokwahlukana kwayo. Isimiyotiki ithi isetyenziswe ukuhlalutya ezi ncwadi zintathu zilandelayo zaba babhali: ekaJordan (1940) ethi Ingqumbo Yeminyanya, Ukuqhawuka kwembeleko nguD.M Jongilanga (1982) noUkuba ndandazile nguW.K Tamsanqa (1976). Uphando luthe lwahlulwa ngezihloko ezithandathu; isihloko sokuqala sinika ingcaciso yophando luphela; isihloko sesibini singena nzulu sicacise ingcingane esetyenzisiweyo yesimiyotiki kunye nezo ziyixhasayo; kwisihloko sesithathu kushukuxwa isimiyotiki nenkcubeko; kwisihloko sesine kushukuxwa isimiyotiki nemo yokumila; kwisihloko sesihlanu kushukuxwa isimiyotiki nepragmatiki; kwisihloko sesithandathu kushwankathelwa okanye kuququnjelwe yonke into - into ethe yaqhubeka kolu phando kunikwa neengcebiso eluntwini. Uphando luphela luzivelele iinkalo ezininzi zesimiyotiki kwaye lwaphendula nemibuzo yophando, lwafezekisa iinjongo zophando, lwafaka nomceli-mngeni kwabanye abaphandi abasaza kuphanda ngesimiyotiki. Kolu phando inkcubeko ibonakele kakhulu ukuba yinxenye yesimiyotiki kuba ibonisa imiqondiso neempawu ezinika intsingiselo.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Understanding suicide: a psychobiographical study of Ian Kevin Curtis
- Authors: Kitching, Philip Herman
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods Personality -- Research -- Methodology , Suicide Suicidal behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18178 , vital:28583
- Description: Psychobiography can be viewed as the re-writing of an individual‟s life story previously undetected. In general, it consists of a combination of two central elements: biography and psychological theory, which aim to explain the particular individual‟s psychological development. This particular study serves to explore the extraordinary life of renowned singer and songwriter, Ian Kevin Curtis (1956-1980), who died by suicide at the early age of 23. The basis for this investigation will take the form of notable biographical accounts of the subject‟s life, together with the application of Thomas Joiner‟s (2005) interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide which identifies factors that lead to suicidal ideation - in an attempt to understand the psychological circumstances that contributed to Curtis‟s suicide. In doing so, Adler‟s (1929) theory of Individual Psychology was applied to the life of Curtis in an attempt to build on Joiner‟s theory. This led to the concept of control being introduced and contributed to the development of an intake form to identify those at risk for suicide. It is hoped that exploring the psychological circumstances that contributed to Curtis‟s suicide and their interpretation by the subject will bring about an understanding of the risk factors that may induce suicide and, by extension, will highlight the relevance of this psychobiographical study as a tool for investigating and promoting preventative measures concerning suicide. The psychobiographical data collection and analysis for this research thesis will be guided by Yin‟s (2003) theory of „analytic generalisation‟ which uses a theoretical framework in selecting relevant data which develops a matrix as a descriptive framework for organising and integrating that data, and Alexander‟s (1988) analytical model which focuses on lifting out themes through principal identifiers of salience.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kitching, Philip Herman
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Psychology -- Biographical methods Personality -- Research -- Methodology , Suicide Suicidal behavior
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18178 , vital:28583
- Description: Psychobiography can be viewed as the re-writing of an individual‟s life story previously undetected. In general, it consists of a combination of two central elements: biography and psychological theory, which aim to explain the particular individual‟s psychological development. This particular study serves to explore the extraordinary life of renowned singer and songwriter, Ian Kevin Curtis (1956-1980), who died by suicide at the early age of 23. The basis for this investigation will take the form of notable biographical accounts of the subject‟s life, together with the application of Thomas Joiner‟s (2005) interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide which identifies factors that lead to suicidal ideation - in an attempt to understand the psychological circumstances that contributed to Curtis‟s suicide. In doing so, Adler‟s (1929) theory of Individual Psychology was applied to the life of Curtis in an attempt to build on Joiner‟s theory. This led to the concept of control being introduced and contributed to the development of an intake form to identify those at risk for suicide. It is hoped that exploring the psychological circumstances that contributed to Curtis‟s suicide and their interpretation by the subject will bring about an understanding of the risk factors that may induce suicide and, by extension, will highlight the relevance of this psychobiographical study as a tool for investigating and promoting preventative measures concerning suicide. The psychobiographical data collection and analysis for this research thesis will be guided by Yin‟s (2003) theory of „analytic generalisation‟ which uses a theoretical framework in selecting relevant data which develops a matrix as a descriptive framework for organising and integrating that data, and Alexander‟s (1988) analytical model which focuses on lifting out themes through principal identifiers of salience.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Understanding factors that influence the acceptance of electronic medical records by nurses in hospitals: a framework
- Authors: Makalima, Melissa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic records -- Management , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Management Medical records -- South Africa Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31488 , vital:31495
- Description: Globally, unlike in the past, it is rare for a patient to consult the same healthcare provider throughout his or her lifetime. However, this makes it difficult to maintain informational continuity of care. Researchers have confirmed that paper-based methods of record keeping do not meet the needs of informational continuity of care. As a result, the popularity of electronic means of recordkeeping, specifically, electronic medical records (EMRs), is growing. However, the implementation of EMRs in hospitals is not without challenges with these challenges playing a significant role in the failure of EMRs. One such challenge is a lack of user acceptance. Research reveals that nurses comprise the largest user group of EMRs in the hospital setting. However, there is inadequate literature that focuses on the factors contributing to EMR acceptance with nurses as the user group. Hence, the main problem addressed in this research study relates to the inadequate understanding of the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. In order to address this problem, a literature review and a case study were conducted to ascertain and investigate the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. A total of 39 factors were formulated. Subsequent to the formulation of these factors, knowledge on the impact of each factor on EMR acceptance was collected. Socio-technical Systems Theory (STS) was used as a theoretical lens through which to view the resulting factors. The STS dimension from which each factor originates as well as the STS dimension influenced by the factor were identified. The analysis of the different stages of acceptance as well as the STS analysis resulted in a framework that could play an important role in providing a better understanding of EMR acceptance by nurses in hospitals. It was anticipated that this study would contribute to a better understanding of the factors that hospitals should address in order to create a conducive environment for EMR acceptance by nurses within the hospitals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Makalima, Melissa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic records -- Management , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Management Medical records -- South Africa Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31488 , vital:31495
- Description: Globally, unlike in the past, it is rare for a patient to consult the same healthcare provider throughout his or her lifetime. However, this makes it difficult to maintain informational continuity of care. Researchers have confirmed that paper-based methods of record keeping do not meet the needs of informational continuity of care. As a result, the popularity of electronic means of recordkeeping, specifically, electronic medical records (EMRs), is growing. However, the implementation of EMRs in hospitals is not without challenges with these challenges playing a significant role in the failure of EMRs. One such challenge is a lack of user acceptance. Research reveals that nurses comprise the largest user group of EMRs in the hospital setting. However, there is inadequate literature that focuses on the factors contributing to EMR acceptance with nurses as the user group. Hence, the main problem addressed in this research study relates to the inadequate understanding of the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. In order to address this problem, a literature review and a case study were conducted to ascertain and investigate the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. A total of 39 factors were formulated. Subsequent to the formulation of these factors, knowledge on the impact of each factor on EMR acceptance was collected. Socio-technical Systems Theory (STS) was used as a theoretical lens through which to view the resulting factors. The STS dimension from which each factor originates as well as the STS dimension influenced by the factor were identified. The analysis of the different stages of acceptance as well as the STS analysis resulted in a framework that could play an important role in providing a better understanding of EMR acceptance by nurses in hospitals. It was anticipated that this study would contribute to a better understanding of the factors that hospitals should address in order to create a conducive environment for EMR acceptance by nurses within the hospitals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Ultra-high precision machining of contact lens polymers
- Authors: Olufayo, Oluwole Ayodeji
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Contact lenses , Polymers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3001 , vital:20385
- Description: Contact lens manufacture requires a high level of accuracy and surface integrity in the range of a few nanometres. Amidst numerous optical manufacturing techniques, single-point diamond turning is widely employed in the making of contact lenses due to its capability of producing optical surfaces of complex shapes and nanometric accuracy. For process optimisation, it is ideal to assess the effects of various conditions and also establish their relationships with the surface finish. Presently, there is little information available on the performance of single point diamond turning when machining contact lens polymers. Therefore, the research work undertaken herewith is aimed at testing known facts in contact lens diamond turning and investigating the performance of ultra-high precision manufacturing of contact lens polymers. Experimental tests were conducted on Roflufocon E, which is a commercially available contact lens polymer and on Precitech Nanoform Ultra-grind 250 precision machining. Tests were performed at varying cutting feeds, speed and depth of cut. Initial experimental tests investigated the influence of process factors affecting surface finish in the UHPM of lenses. The acquired data were statistically analysed using Response Surface Method (RSM) to create a model of the process. Subsequently, a model which uses Runge-Kutta’s fourth order non-linear finite series scheme was developed and adapted to deduce the force occurring at the tool tip. These forces were also statistically analysed and modelled to also predict the effects process factors have on cutting force. Further experimental tests were aimed at establishing the presence of the triboelectric wear phenomena occurring during polymer machining and identifying the most influential process factors. Results indicate that feed rate is a significant factor in the generation of high optical surface quality. In addition, the depth of cut was identified as a significant factor in the generation of low surface roughness in lenses. The influence some of these process factors had was notably linked to triboelectric effects. This tribological effect was generated from the continuous rubbing action of magnetised chips on the cutting tool. This further stresses the presence of high static charging during cutting. Moderately humid cutting conditions presented an adequate means for static charge control and displayed improved surface finishes. In all experimental tests, the feed rate was identified as the most significant factor within the range of cutting parameters employed. Hence, the results validated the fact that feed rate had a high influence in polymer machining. The work also established the relationship on how surface roughness of an optical lens responded to monitoring signals and parameters such as force, feed, speed and depth of cut during machining and it generated models for prediction of surface finishes and appropriate selection of parameters. Furthermore, the study provides a molecular simulation analysis for validating observed conditions occurring at the nanometric scale in polymer machining. This is novel in molecular polymer modelling. The outcome of this research has contributed significantly to the body of knowledge and has provided basic information in the area of precision manufacturing of optical components of high surface integrity such as contact lenses. The application of the research findings presented here cuts across various fields such as medicine, semi-conductors, aerospace, defence, telecom, lasers, instrumentation and life sciences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Olufayo, Oluwole Ayodeji
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Contact lenses , Polymers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3001 , vital:20385
- Description: Contact lens manufacture requires a high level of accuracy and surface integrity in the range of a few nanometres. Amidst numerous optical manufacturing techniques, single-point diamond turning is widely employed in the making of contact lenses due to its capability of producing optical surfaces of complex shapes and nanometric accuracy. For process optimisation, it is ideal to assess the effects of various conditions and also establish their relationships with the surface finish. Presently, there is little information available on the performance of single point diamond turning when machining contact lens polymers. Therefore, the research work undertaken herewith is aimed at testing known facts in contact lens diamond turning and investigating the performance of ultra-high precision manufacturing of contact lens polymers. Experimental tests were conducted on Roflufocon E, which is a commercially available contact lens polymer and on Precitech Nanoform Ultra-grind 250 precision machining. Tests were performed at varying cutting feeds, speed and depth of cut. Initial experimental tests investigated the influence of process factors affecting surface finish in the UHPM of lenses. The acquired data were statistically analysed using Response Surface Method (RSM) to create a model of the process. Subsequently, a model which uses Runge-Kutta’s fourth order non-linear finite series scheme was developed and adapted to deduce the force occurring at the tool tip. These forces were also statistically analysed and modelled to also predict the effects process factors have on cutting force. Further experimental tests were aimed at establishing the presence of the triboelectric wear phenomena occurring during polymer machining and identifying the most influential process factors. Results indicate that feed rate is a significant factor in the generation of high optical surface quality. In addition, the depth of cut was identified as a significant factor in the generation of low surface roughness in lenses. The influence some of these process factors had was notably linked to triboelectric effects. This tribological effect was generated from the continuous rubbing action of magnetised chips on the cutting tool. This further stresses the presence of high static charging during cutting. Moderately humid cutting conditions presented an adequate means for static charge control and displayed improved surface finishes. In all experimental tests, the feed rate was identified as the most significant factor within the range of cutting parameters employed. Hence, the results validated the fact that feed rate had a high influence in polymer machining. The work also established the relationship on how surface roughness of an optical lens responded to monitoring signals and parameters such as force, feed, speed and depth of cut during machining and it generated models for prediction of surface finishes and appropriate selection of parameters. Furthermore, the study provides a molecular simulation analysis for validating observed conditions occurring at the nanometric scale in polymer machining. This is novel in molecular polymer modelling. The outcome of this research has contributed significantly to the body of knowledge and has provided basic information in the area of precision manufacturing of optical components of high surface integrity such as contact lenses. The application of the research findings presented here cuts across various fields such as medicine, semi-conductors, aerospace, defence, telecom, lasers, instrumentation and life sciences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Triggering physics lecturers' reflections on the instructional affordance of their use of representations: a design-based study
- Authors: Lombard, Elsa Helena
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Physics -- Study and teaching , Physics -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2899 , vital:20361
- Description: There is growing awareness in the physics education research community about the importance of using representations in physics teaching and the need for lecturers to reflect on their practice. This research study adopted a design-based research approach in an attempt to design a reliable, valid and practically useful artefact (framework/strategy) that could be used to trigger introductory physics lecturers’ reflections on their instructional use of representations. The artefact, which was instantiated with physics lecturers, comprised an observation protocol, an accompanying definitions key, a communication platform, and an instrument to assess the outcome (the levels of reflection). The video-data of lecturer practice were analysed using a priori codes to generate profiles of teaching practice. The resulting profiles were used to trigger individual video-stimulated reflection. The levels of reflection were assessed using a purpose-designed ‘Expectations of Reflection’ taxonomy. Thereafter a set of design guidelines and design principles were generated to guide further similar design-based educational studies. The process was validated via interview data but, while it was deemed a valid and reliable solution to the research problem, there were varying levels of perceived value of the artefact among the participating lecturers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Lombard, Elsa Helena
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Physics -- Study and teaching , Physics -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/2899 , vital:20361
- Description: There is growing awareness in the physics education research community about the importance of using representations in physics teaching and the need for lecturers to reflect on their practice. This research study adopted a design-based research approach in an attempt to design a reliable, valid and practically useful artefact (framework/strategy) that could be used to trigger introductory physics lecturers’ reflections on their instructional use of representations. The artefact, which was instantiated with physics lecturers, comprised an observation protocol, an accompanying definitions key, a communication platform, and an instrument to assess the outcome (the levels of reflection). The video-data of lecturer practice were analysed using a priori codes to generate profiles of teaching practice. The resulting profiles were used to trigger individual video-stimulated reflection. The levels of reflection were assessed using a purpose-designed ‘Expectations of Reflection’ taxonomy. Thereafter a set of design guidelines and design principles were generated to guide further similar design-based educational studies. The process was validated via interview data but, while it was deemed a valid and reliable solution to the research problem, there were varying levels of perceived value of the artefact among the participating lecturers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Transformative potential of social protection in fragile contexts : a case study of the social cash transfer pilot scheme on child wellbeing in Bomi County of Liberia
- Authors: Ngwerume, Christopher
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development -- Social aspects Political development -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13631 , vital:39686
- Description: The topic of social cash transfers is often viewed with scepticism. In the context of fragile states, questions of misuse, inaccessibility of social services, dependency and sustainability are often raised. This study sought to examine the transformative potential of social cash transfers on child wellbeing in fragile contexts through a case study of the social cash transfer pilot scheme in Bomi County of Liberia. The study specifically set out to to assess the relevance of cash transfers in the context of child wellbeing; determine how the wellbeing of child recipients of cash transfers had transformed; and analyse the determinants of the transformative effects of cash transfers on child wellbeing. The study adopted a quasi-experimental, mixed method, and cross-sectional research design. It utilised existing household survey datasets of the mid term and end term evaluations of the Bomi County pilot social cash transfer scheme conducted in Liberia in 2012 and 2015 respectively. A sample size of 224 (about 12percent of the sample frame) was used where Confidence Level was 95percent and P=0.5. This sample size was divided equally between households receiving cash (experimental group) and households with the same characteristics although not receiving cash transfers (control group). For the qualitative method, 66 participants were purposively sampled. A total of 34 participants participated in the indepth interviews, 32 children were sampled for focus group discussions. These were divided into 16 children from the experimental group and 16 children from the control group. Quantitative data sets were analysed in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), and qualitative data was analysed through thematic analysis. The findings from the study provide a persuasive case for the transformative potential of social protection in fragile contexts. The study confirms the relevance of social cash transfers in promoting child wellbeing through empowering families to address children‘s physical and dependency-related vulnerabilities and institutional disadvantage. The study also confirms the transformative effects of social cash transfers on child health, food consumption, education, housing conditions, household assets, and child labour. In addition, the results indicate that social cash transfers mitigated gender based institutionalised disadvantage, created safe and protective environments for children and positively impacted on the local economy. However, the study also showed that, to a limited extent, social cash transfers had unintended impacts, particularly increase in child labour, where children were requested to sell in family petty businesses, and instances in which recipients misused the cash. The transformative effects of social cash transfers on child wellbeing were dependent on the size of the transfer, priorities in the use of cash, decision-making dynamics, and fairness of the selection process. The study proffers a Child Sensitive Transformative Social Cash Transfer Model based on the determinants of the impact of social cash transfer. The study ends by highlighting the critical role of social protection in infusing a transformative dimension to social work practice in fragile contexts, with a view to addressing equity, gender equality and child rights through confronting child vulnerabilities and institutionalised disadvantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ngwerume, Christopher
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Economic development -- Social aspects Political development -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13631 , vital:39686
- Description: The topic of social cash transfers is often viewed with scepticism. In the context of fragile states, questions of misuse, inaccessibility of social services, dependency and sustainability are often raised. This study sought to examine the transformative potential of social cash transfers on child wellbeing in fragile contexts through a case study of the social cash transfer pilot scheme in Bomi County of Liberia. The study specifically set out to to assess the relevance of cash transfers in the context of child wellbeing; determine how the wellbeing of child recipients of cash transfers had transformed; and analyse the determinants of the transformative effects of cash transfers on child wellbeing. The study adopted a quasi-experimental, mixed method, and cross-sectional research design. It utilised existing household survey datasets of the mid term and end term evaluations of the Bomi County pilot social cash transfer scheme conducted in Liberia in 2012 and 2015 respectively. A sample size of 224 (about 12percent of the sample frame) was used where Confidence Level was 95percent and P=0.5. This sample size was divided equally between households receiving cash (experimental group) and households with the same characteristics although not receiving cash transfers (control group). For the qualitative method, 66 participants were purposively sampled. A total of 34 participants participated in the indepth interviews, 32 children were sampled for focus group discussions. These were divided into 16 children from the experimental group and 16 children from the control group. Quantitative data sets were analysed in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), and qualitative data was analysed through thematic analysis. The findings from the study provide a persuasive case for the transformative potential of social protection in fragile contexts. The study confirms the relevance of social cash transfers in promoting child wellbeing through empowering families to address children‘s physical and dependency-related vulnerabilities and institutional disadvantage. The study also confirms the transformative effects of social cash transfers on child health, food consumption, education, housing conditions, household assets, and child labour. In addition, the results indicate that social cash transfers mitigated gender based institutionalised disadvantage, created safe and protective environments for children and positively impacted on the local economy. However, the study also showed that, to a limited extent, social cash transfers had unintended impacts, particularly increase in child labour, where children were requested to sell in family petty businesses, and instances in which recipients misused the cash. The transformative effects of social cash transfers on child wellbeing were dependent on the size of the transfer, priorities in the use of cash, decision-making dynamics, and fairness of the selection process. The study proffers a Child Sensitive Transformative Social Cash Transfer Model based on the determinants of the impact of social cash transfer. The study ends by highlighting the critical role of social protection in infusing a transformative dimension to social work practice in fragile contexts, with a view to addressing equity, gender equality and child rights through confronting child vulnerabilities and institutionalised disadvantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Track-one diplomacy and post-conflict reconstruction : Kenya's mediation of Somali conflict and strategic intervention avenues
- Mwanika, Philip Arthur Njuguna
- Authors: Mwanika, Philip Arthur Njuguna
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mediation -- Somalia , Mediation -- Kenya , Diplomacy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8338 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020628
- Description: This study focuses on the Kenyan mediation of the Somali conflict and strategic intervention engagement between 2002 and 2012. The core aim of the study was to establish and evaluate the role and effects of track-one diplomacy on conflict management and post-conflict reconstruction as pertains to the Somali conflict and on the basis of the Kenyan experience. A qualitative approach was followed in this study. It employed a descriptive, explanatory and analytical case-study method. The data were collected through interviews and documentary analysis. The twenty-two participants in the study were drawn from the Kenyan Foreign Ministry, the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA), the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC), the East African Standby Force Co-ordination Mechanism (EASFCOM), the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), the United Nations Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS), the African Peace Forum Organization (APFO), and selected respondents representing the Somali people. The documents comprised policy treatises, protocols, treaties, and communiqués highlighting the actions of the Kenyan government and other track-one actors in the Somali peace endeavour. Other scholarly research on official diplomacy, soft-power and conflict management by small States – in particular African case studies – were also utilised. The study revealed that Kenya’s diplomatic and stabilisation efforts had their own dynamics and challenges. This is especially so with regard to the preferred policy option of exercising diplomacy that utilises soft-power resources. This diplomacy had to contend with the challenges of dealing with sensitive aspects of the process. These sensitive aspects involved a recognition of and complicated engagement with the Somali conflict-constituencies, and a complex mapping of various actors and their respective interests. Contrary to the expected outcomes, interests and issues 17 proliferated, and the original peace-making agenda was consistently slowed down and complicated. The study also revealed that Kenya ought to have exercised a non-directive role in dealing with the different Somali conflict players. This role provides that such an “interested mediator” ought to exercise some considerable influence over the mediation environment. It also emerged from the study that as pertains to the current peace-making developments in Somalia that began in 2005 onwards to 2012, it is important that different intermediary co-operative roles be recognized and utilised. Towards this end, the study recommends that Kenya’s diplomacy should adopt a strategy of co-operation with those regional regimes that it helped to establish. A case in reference is the diplomatic opportunity of utilising regional arms control and disarmament diplomacy. This is Kenya’s intermediary co-operative role with RECSA, which is mandated to support arms control and disarmament implementation efforts in the East African region. The study also recommends that strategic foreign policy and regional actions by Kenya should be taken up given its new lease of engagement, noting that it was officially integrated into AMISOM in 2012. The study posited that in the ongoing engagement environment there would be a ‘revisiting’ of the experiences and complexities of the first phase of engagement (2002-2004). It is, therefore, recommended that Kenya should seize this opportunity and continue with its ‘facilitative and enabling role’ in its peace diplomacy, while utilising the lessons learnt in past engagements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mwanika, Philip Arthur Njuguna
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Mediation -- Somalia , Mediation -- Kenya , Diplomacy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:8338 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020628
- Description: This study focuses on the Kenyan mediation of the Somali conflict and strategic intervention engagement between 2002 and 2012. The core aim of the study was to establish and evaluate the role and effects of track-one diplomacy on conflict management and post-conflict reconstruction as pertains to the Somali conflict and on the basis of the Kenyan experience. A qualitative approach was followed in this study. It employed a descriptive, explanatory and analytical case-study method. The data were collected through interviews and documentary analysis. The twenty-two participants in the study were drawn from the Kenyan Foreign Ministry, the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA), the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC), the East African Standby Force Co-ordination Mechanism (EASFCOM), the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), the United Nations Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS), the African Peace Forum Organization (APFO), and selected respondents representing the Somali people. The documents comprised policy treatises, protocols, treaties, and communiqués highlighting the actions of the Kenyan government and other track-one actors in the Somali peace endeavour. Other scholarly research on official diplomacy, soft-power and conflict management by small States – in particular African case studies – were also utilised. The study revealed that Kenya’s diplomatic and stabilisation efforts had their own dynamics and challenges. This is especially so with regard to the preferred policy option of exercising diplomacy that utilises soft-power resources. This diplomacy had to contend with the challenges of dealing with sensitive aspects of the process. These sensitive aspects involved a recognition of and complicated engagement with the Somali conflict-constituencies, and a complex mapping of various actors and their respective interests. Contrary to the expected outcomes, interests and issues 17 proliferated, and the original peace-making agenda was consistently slowed down and complicated. The study also revealed that Kenya ought to have exercised a non-directive role in dealing with the different Somali conflict players. This role provides that such an “interested mediator” ought to exercise some considerable influence over the mediation environment. It also emerged from the study that as pertains to the current peace-making developments in Somalia that began in 2005 onwards to 2012, it is important that different intermediary co-operative roles be recognized and utilised. Towards this end, the study recommends that Kenya’s diplomacy should adopt a strategy of co-operation with those regional regimes that it helped to establish. A case in reference is the diplomatic opportunity of utilising regional arms control and disarmament diplomacy. This is Kenya’s intermediary co-operative role with RECSA, which is mandated to support arms control and disarmament implementation efforts in the East African region. The study also recommends that strategic foreign policy and regional actions by Kenya should be taken up given its new lease of engagement, noting that it was officially integrated into AMISOM in 2012. The study posited that in the ongoing engagement environment there would be a ‘revisiting’ of the experiences and complexities of the first phase of engagement (2002-2004). It is, therefore, recommended that Kenya should seize this opportunity and continue with its ‘facilitative and enabling role’ in its peace diplomacy, while utilising the lessons learnt in past engagements.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Towards theorizing human resource development in South Africa: a critical analysis and the development of a tool to facilitate improved understanding and practice
- Authors: Anderson, Amber Cristal
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16130 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/469 , Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Description: The primary objective of this study is to generate pathways to understanding Human Resources Development (HRD) by developing a tool which enables and enhances a shared and common understanding of HRD in South Africa (SA). To achieve this objective, this research explores the nature and importance of HRD and articulates and aggregates these thoughts and practices into a tool which facilitates an understanding of HRD with the overarching aim of improving HRD thoughts and practices in South Africa. While there is substantial international and local literature on HRD, the existing body of research on the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa is skeletal. National HRD concepts and practices are fragmented, and are as diverse as the number of stakeholders and partners that it serves. In addition, theory-building in HRD is disconnected and removed from practice. In order to address this problem, a qualitative, interpretive, theory-building social constructionist research strategy was embarked upon. The research strategy was executed in an iterative, cyclical manner, using theoretical sampling and content analysis rigorously executed within a coding paradigm informed by open, axial and selective coding techniques with local and international literature and informal reviews as the units of analysis. Qualitative and quantitative findings of the South African Qualifications Authority ground-breaking, world-first longitudinal study was analyzed and used to find relevance and corroborate the international literature available on HRD. Informal reviews were conducted with 7 human resources (HR) practitioners and 54 internationally-based HR colleagues of the researcher in order to ensure as appropriate a degree of integration between theory and practice as was possible. This process culminated in the most significant contribution of this research, which is a tool consisting of six pathways, that facilitates an understanding of the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa. The development of the tool enabled the articulation and aggregation of a thorough and coherent description, explanation and representation of HRD. The research highlights the need for HRD scholars and practitioners to channel their energies and effort on all the catalytic aspects of organizational life, namely uniqueness, social complexity, knowledge, and path dependency, by acquiring critical insight into the profound value of HRD which will allow the realization and sustainability of competitive advantage in a rich and dynamic global economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Anderson, Amber Cristal
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:16130 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/469 , Manpower planning -- South Africa
- Description: The primary objective of this study is to generate pathways to understanding Human Resources Development (HRD) by developing a tool which enables and enhances a shared and common understanding of HRD in South Africa (SA). To achieve this objective, this research explores the nature and importance of HRD and articulates and aggregates these thoughts and practices into a tool which facilitates an understanding of HRD with the overarching aim of improving HRD thoughts and practices in South Africa. While there is substantial international and local literature on HRD, the existing body of research on the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa is skeletal. National HRD concepts and practices are fragmented, and are as diverse as the number of stakeholders and partners that it serves. In addition, theory-building in HRD is disconnected and removed from practice. In order to address this problem, a qualitative, interpretive, theory-building social constructionist research strategy was embarked upon. The research strategy was executed in an iterative, cyclical manner, using theoretical sampling and content analysis rigorously executed within a coding paradigm informed by open, axial and selective coding techniques with local and international literature and informal reviews as the units of analysis. Qualitative and quantitative findings of the South African Qualifications Authority ground-breaking, world-first longitudinal study was analyzed and used to find relevance and corroborate the international literature available on HRD. Informal reviews were conducted with 7 human resources (HR) practitioners and 54 internationally-based HR colleagues of the researcher in order to ensure as appropriate a degree of integration between theory and practice as was possible. This process culminated in the most significant contribution of this research, which is a tool consisting of six pathways, that facilitates an understanding of the nature and importance of HRD in South Africa. The development of the tool enabled the articulation and aggregation of a thorough and coherent description, explanation and representation of HRD. The research highlights the need for HRD scholars and practitioners to channel their energies and effort on all the catalytic aspects of organizational life, namely uniqueness, social complexity, knowledge, and path dependency, by acquiring critical insight into the profound value of HRD which will allow the realization and sustainability of competitive advantage in a rich and dynamic global economy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Towards community environmental education using current institutional resources, GIS and remote sensing, and local knowledge: a case of the Nandi Hills and Nandi Forests, Western Kenya
- Authors: Tanui, Julius Gordon
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Kenya -- Western Province , Community-based conservation -- Kenya -- Western Province , Conservation of natural resources -- Kenya -- Western Province
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9568 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016074
- Description: The Nandi Hills and Nandi Forests in Nandi County, Kenya are major water catchments for Lake Victoria. However, these resources have faced significant decline and degradation in recent times, thereby impacting the hydrological quality and quantity in the Lake Victoria Basin. This study was informed by the observed degradation of the Nandi Hills and Nandi Forests, epitomized by the receding forest cover, drying up of previously permanent streams, instances of mudslides and rock falls, and downstream flooding. The study therefore sought to interrogate the current institutional environmental and educational arrangements and practices which are pertinent to the sustainable management of the Nandi Hills Forests, the perceptions and understandings of the local population in terms of forest resources and land use, and the information that can be provided by GIS and Remote Sensing data, in order to produce a heuristic for planning community environmental education in the Nandi County. To achieve this, a mixed methodological design which incorporated both qualitative and quantitative data was embraced. The mixed method approaches used in this study were the concurrent triangulation and nested/embedded designs. A four-tier analysis was carried out once all the data had been coded and grouped. The analysis covered three categories of the population in the study area; namely the households, institutions and community groups, and analysis of Landsat images for change detection. The study reveals that there are several state and non-state institutions that are involved in the management of the Nandi Hills Forests and that their efforts have seen an improvement in the perceptions of the local population in terms of the importance of environmental management of the forests. Analysis of the Landsat images has revealed receding natural forest cover. The contribution of informal, local and indigenous knowledge to sustainable management of the Nandi Hills Forest was notable (85 percent of the population attribute their knowledge on forests and forestry to informal knowledge sources). These results informed the development of a heuristic to enable the adoption of strategies using readily accessible, though loosely applicable, information for problem solving in developing and implementing community environmental education practices for effective forest management and conservation practices that are responsive to the needs of the Nandi Forest community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Tanui, Julius Gordon
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Environmental education -- Kenya -- Western Province , Community-based conservation -- Kenya -- Western Province , Conservation of natural resources -- Kenya -- Western Province
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: vital:9568 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1016074
- Description: The Nandi Hills and Nandi Forests in Nandi County, Kenya are major water catchments for Lake Victoria. However, these resources have faced significant decline and degradation in recent times, thereby impacting the hydrological quality and quantity in the Lake Victoria Basin. This study was informed by the observed degradation of the Nandi Hills and Nandi Forests, epitomized by the receding forest cover, drying up of previously permanent streams, instances of mudslides and rock falls, and downstream flooding. The study therefore sought to interrogate the current institutional environmental and educational arrangements and practices which are pertinent to the sustainable management of the Nandi Hills Forests, the perceptions and understandings of the local population in terms of forest resources and land use, and the information that can be provided by GIS and Remote Sensing data, in order to produce a heuristic for planning community environmental education in the Nandi County. To achieve this, a mixed methodological design which incorporated both qualitative and quantitative data was embraced. The mixed method approaches used in this study were the concurrent triangulation and nested/embedded designs. A four-tier analysis was carried out once all the data had been coded and grouped. The analysis covered three categories of the population in the study area; namely the households, institutions and community groups, and analysis of Landsat images for change detection. The study reveals that there are several state and non-state institutions that are involved in the management of the Nandi Hills Forests and that their efforts have seen an improvement in the perceptions of the local population in terms of the importance of environmental management of the forests. Analysis of the Landsat images has revealed receding natural forest cover. The contribution of informal, local and indigenous knowledge to sustainable management of the Nandi Hills Forest was notable (85 percent of the population attribute their knowledge on forests and forestry to informal knowledge sources). These results informed the development of a heuristic to enable the adoption of strategies using readily accessible, though loosely applicable, information for problem solving in developing and implementing community environmental education practices for effective forest management and conservation practices that are responsive to the needs of the Nandi Forest community.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Towards a community based conservation strategy for wetlands in Uganda
- Authors: Barakagira, Alex
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Conservation of natural resources , Wetland conservation -- Uganda Wetlands -- Uganda -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23902 , vital:30640
- Description: Conservation of natural resources in Uganda focuses primarily on protected areas, including savannah national parks, mainly for conserving big game and forests, for controlling the harvest of commercially valuable timber resources, with less concern for wetlands. Later, policies and legislation in Uganda favoured agricultural production rather than the conservation of wetlands, a situation that culminated in their degradation. In a bid to counter the effects of wetlands degradation, Wetland Management Agencies were created. These agencies excluded the input of members of the local communities who reside in the wetlands environs. Local communities were not consulted on matters concerning management and conservation strategies, a situation that may have escalated the problem of wetlands degradation. Local knowledge is needed for the effective management and conservation of the wetlands and it is essential that local communities are included in decision making. This research study is more of an initiative for providing information that may be essential for the formulation of a community based conservation strategy for wetlands in Uganda. The study aimed to identify and characterize activities carried out by members of the local communities in wetlands found in central and western Uganda that are responsible for their progressive degradation; to assess the performance of existing Wetlands Management Institutions towards protection and conservation of wetlands in Uganda; to ascertain whether the acts and policies that have been promulgated for the protection of wetlands in Uganda have been adhered to by members of the local communities and to evaluate three community based conservation case studies with two vastly different outcomes in order to come up with the community-based conservation principles Ugandan communities may need to adopt to achieve sustainable utilisation and conservation of wetland resources. To achieve the objectives stated above, the researcher used a multi-disciplinary methodology that required several areas of expertise and sources of information. Hence, to accomplish the study, primary sources of data that included quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the study participants by means of a questionnaire survey, key informant interviews and direct observations. Secondary sources of data centred on published Ugandan acts and policies; textbooks; case study articles and journal articles. The study revealed a host of activities in which members of the local community are involved that have led to the degradation of the wetlands in Uganda. These include but are not limited to crop cultivation, dairy farming and unsustainable wetland resource harvesting. A number of other reasons for the degradation of the wetlands include unclear ownership of the wetlands, unclear wetland boundaries and a lack of awareness of the indirect benefits wetlands provide for members of the local communities. The study disclosed that wetlands management institutions have not been effective in the protection and conservation of wetlands in Uganda, mainly due to political interference and inadequate funding for the institutions’ conservation activities. The acts and policies that were promulgated for the protection and conservation of wetlands have been selectively implemented in some places and in others completely ignored, culminating in the degradation of the wetlands. The study revealed that effective community based conservation of wetlands in Uganda includes: initiation of the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of all wetlands activities being borne by members of the local community; government introducing alternative income-generating activities aimed to reduce over-reliance on wetland resources and education of the local communities regarding the community-based projects’ objectives in order to garner their support. Recommendations emanating from this study are that the Land Act should be amended to specify a particular land tenure system, preferably freehold, which may promote the conservation of wetlands in Uganda; fertilizers (organic) should be introduced in the study area to fertilize the uplands that have reportedly become infertile in order to reduce the pressure the local community members are exerting on the wetlands for agriculture; wetlands management institutions should be empowered financially and political interference in activities aimed at conservation of wetlands in Uganda must cease. There should be uniform implementation of the rules and regulations stipulated in the acts and policies for all members of the public concerning wetlands protection. Lastly, essential community based conservation principles, as stated above, need to be applied carefully and adhered to if effective implementation of community-based conservation of wetlands is to be achieved in Uganda.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Barakagira, Alex
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Conservation of natural resources , Wetland conservation -- Uganda Wetlands -- Uganda -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/23902 , vital:30640
- Description: Conservation of natural resources in Uganda focuses primarily on protected areas, including savannah national parks, mainly for conserving big game and forests, for controlling the harvest of commercially valuable timber resources, with less concern for wetlands. Later, policies and legislation in Uganda favoured agricultural production rather than the conservation of wetlands, a situation that culminated in their degradation. In a bid to counter the effects of wetlands degradation, Wetland Management Agencies were created. These agencies excluded the input of members of the local communities who reside in the wetlands environs. Local communities were not consulted on matters concerning management and conservation strategies, a situation that may have escalated the problem of wetlands degradation. Local knowledge is needed for the effective management and conservation of the wetlands and it is essential that local communities are included in decision making. This research study is more of an initiative for providing information that may be essential for the formulation of a community based conservation strategy for wetlands in Uganda. The study aimed to identify and characterize activities carried out by members of the local communities in wetlands found in central and western Uganda that are responsible for their progressive degradation; to assess the performance of existing Wetlands Management Institutions towards protection and conservation of wetlands in Uganda; to ascertain whether the acts and policies that have been promulgated for the protection of wetlands in Uganda have been adhered to by members of the local communities and to evaluate three community based conservation case studies with two vastly different outcomes in order to come up with the community-based conservation principles Ugandan communities may need to adopt to achieve sustainable utilisation and conservation of wetland resources. To achieve the objectives stated above, the researcher used a multi-disciplinary methodology that required several areas of expertise and sources of information. Hence, to accomplish the study, primary sources of data that included quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the study participants by means of a questionnaire survey, key informant interviews and direct observations. Secondary sources of data centred on published Ugandan acts and policies; textbooks; case study articles and journal articles. The study revealed a host of activities in which members of the local community are involved that have led to the degradation of the wetlands in Uganda. These include but are not limited to crop cultivation, dairy farming and unsustainable wetland resource harvesting. A number of other reasons for the degradation of the wetlands include unclear ownership of the wetlands, unclear wetland boundaries and a lack of awareness of the indirect benefits wetlands provide for members of the local communities. The study disclosed that wetlands management institutions have not been effective in the protection and conservation of wetlands in Uganda, mainly due to political interference and inadequate funding for the institutions’ conservation activities. The acts and policies that were promulgated for the protection and conservation of wetlands have been selectively implemented in some places and in others completely ignored, culminating in the degradation of the wetlands. The study revealed that effective community based conservation of wetlands in Uganda includes: initiation of the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of all wetlands activities being borne by members of the local community; government introducing alternative income-generating activities aimed to reduce over-reliance on wetland resources and education of the local communities regarding the community-based projects’ objectives in order to garner their support. Recommendations emanating from this study are that the Land Act should be amended to specify a particular land tenure system, preferably freehold, which may promote the conservation of wetlands in Uganda; fertilizers (organic) should be introduced in the study area to fertilize the uplands that have reportedly become infertile in order to reduce the pressure the local community members are exerting on the wetlands for agriculture; wetlands management institutions should be empowered financially and political interference in activities aimed at conservation of wetlands in Uganda must cease. There should be uniform implementation of the rules and regulations stipulated in the acts and policies for all members of the public concerning wetlands protection. Lastly, essential community based conservation principles, as stated above, need to be applied carefully and adhered to if effective implementation of community-based conservation of wetlands is to be achieved in Uganda.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018