A longitudinal investigation into employability : student transition and experiences from tertiary education into the labour market
- Authors: Harry, Tinashe Timothy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employability Graduate students Labor market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11053 , vital:37015
- Description: Orientation: Several policies have been formulated by the government to redress the inequalities of apartheid. However, the policies have not yielded any positive results as many graduates from Historically Disadvantaged Institutes (HDIs) continue to struggle in the open labour market as compared to graduates from Historically Advantaged Institutes (HAIs). This has been mainly attributed to the legacy of apartheid in several previous studies. As a result, most of these previously disadvantaged individuals (mostly Black Africans) struggle to make the transition from higher education into the world of work. Research Purpose: This study thus explores the journeys of these Black African students from HDIs to understand the transition and experiences from tertiary education into the labour market. Further, the research sought to understand how these transitions and experiences manifest in a context of high unemployment. Finally, the resolution tactics used by students in such a context are given attention. Research approach, design and method: A longitudinal qualitative approach was deemed appropriate for the study as the aim was to understand the changes that occurred over time. The data was collected over a two-year period. A narrative inquiry was utilized as it allowed the participants to share their perceptions without limitations. A total of 30 participants partook in the study. The participants were selected using a purposive sampling to ensure the right participants were involved in the study. The main criteria for selection to participate was that the participants had to be enrolled with a HDI. Main findings: The narratives of the participants led to the formulation of six main themes that were regarded as affecting the transitions and experiences of the Black graduates from HDIs; namely, (1) socio-economic background, (2) education system, (3) labour market experiences, (4) geographical location, (5) social capital and (6) student resolutions to the challenges of employability. A previously disadvantaged background resulted in the participants being recipients of poor education quality, no social networks or information to navigate the labour market and limited access to the labour market due to secluded residential areas. Subsequently, most participants were unable to take responsibility of enhancing their own employability. Contribution: It is not the sole responsibility of the higher education institutes to produce employable graduates, but it's a process that should also involve government, students and employers. As long as the social inequality remains an issue in the country all the efforts to improve employability and transition into the open labour market will be in vain. Furthermore, employers must work together with higher education institutes by offering programs such as internships and career expos to enhance the employability of the graduates. A Graduate Transition Model (GTM) is suggested based on the findings of this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Harry, Tinashe Timothy
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employability Graduate students Labor market
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11053 , vital:37015
- Description: Orientation: Several policies have been formulated by the government to redress the inequalities of apartheid. However, the policies have not yielded any positive results as many graduates from Historically Disadvantaged Institutes (HDIs) continue to struggle in the open labour market as compared to graduates from Historically Advantaged Institutes (HAIs). This has been mainly attributed to the legacy of apartheid in several previous studies. As a result, most of these previously disadvantaged individuals (mostly Black Africans) struggle to make the transition from higher education into the world of work. Research Purpose: This study thus explores the journeys of these Black African students from HDIs to understand the transition and experiences from tertiary education into the labour market. Further, the research sought to understand how these transitions and experiences manifest in a context of high unemployment. Finally, the resolution tactics used by students in such a context are given attention. Research approach, design and method: A longitudinal qualitative approach was deemed appropriate for the study as the aim was to understand the changes that occurred over time. The data was collected over a two-year period. A narrative inquiry was utilized as it allowed the participants to share their perceptions without limitations. A total of 30 participants partook in the study. The participants were selected using a purposive sampling to ensure the right participants were involved in the study. The main criteria for selection to participate was that the participants had to be enrolled with a HDI. Main findings: The narratives of the participants led to the formulation of six main themes that were regarded as affecting the transitions and experiences of the Black graduates from HDIs; namely, (1) socio-economic background, (2) education system, (3) labour market experiences, (4) geographical location, (5) social capital and (6) student resolutions to the challenges of employability. A previously disadvantaged background resulted in the participants being recipients of poor education quality, no social networks or information to navigate the labour market and limited access to the labour market due to secluded residential areas. Subsequently, most participants were unable to take responsibility of enhancing their own employability. Contribution: It is not the sole responsibility of the higher education institutes to produce employable graduates, but it's a process that should also involve government, students and employers. As long as the social inequality remains an issue in the country all the efforts to improve employability and transition into the open labour market will be in vain. Furthermore, employers must work together with higher education institutes by offering programs such as internships and career expos to enhance the employability of the graduates. A Graduate Transition Model (GTM) is suggested based on the findings of this research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An exploratory study of control and oversight measures for ethical conduct in supply chain management : the case of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Zindi, Beauty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10415 , vital:35459
- Description: Unethical conduct takes root and largely flourishes in environments devoid of compliance with SCM laws, regulations and sound corporate governance values and principles. Ethical conduct is a prerequisite of good governance and sound municipal financial management. Unethical conduct in SCM leads to a loss of public trust and confidence in the management of public affairs. Despite the existence of control and oversight structures and processes for monitoring compliance with ethical standards, norms and regulations in SCM, procurement and contract management processes, BCMM still flouts SCM regulations. This leads to non-compliance with precincts of SCM policy regulations, the MFMA, as well as the Municipal Systems Act (MSA). Lack of adequate and effective control and oversight measures further exacerbates the problem, leading to poor management of procurement systems as well as inconsistencies in the disposal and delivery of services. Effective control and oversight often results in the reduction of waste, eradication of corruption and improvement of municipal financial performance, as well as improved ethical conduct, integrity, transparency and accountability. Qualitative approach was used to gather data using interviews and secondary sources in the form of official documents to explore the extent to which control and oversight measures for ethical conduct in Supply Chain Management are effective in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The data is to be analysed using content analysis and filtering techniques. Challenges that are affecting the effective management of Supply Chain in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality were brought forth and recommendations to improve Supply Chain Management in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality are examined in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Zindi, Beauty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Public administration -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Municipal services -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10415 , vital:35459
- Description: Unethical conduct takes root and largely flourishes in environments devoid of compliance with SCM laws, regulations and sound corporate governance values and principles. Ethical conduct is a prerequisite of good governance and sound municipal financial management. Unethical conduct in SCM leads to a loss of public trust and confidence in the management of public affairs. Despite the existence of control and oversight structures and processes for monitoring compliance with ethical standards, norms and regulations in SCM, procurement and contract management processes, BCMM still flouts SCM regulations. This leads to non-compliance with precincts of SCM policy regulations, the MFMA, as well as the Municipal Systems Act (MSA). Lack of adequate and effective control and oversight measures further exacerbates the problem, leading to poor management of procurement systems as well as inconsistencies in the disposal and delivery of services. Effective control and oversight often results in the reduction of waste, eradication of corruption and improvement of municipal financial performance, as well as improved ethical conduct, integrity, transparency and accountability. Qualitative approach was used to gather data using interviews and secondary sources in the form of official documents to explore the extent to which control and oversight measures for ethical conduct in Supply Chain Management are effective in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. The data is to be analysed using content analysis and filtering techniques. Challenges that are affecting the effective management of Supply Chain in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality were brought forth and recommendations to improve Supply Chain Management in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality are examined in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of the effects of leadership on performance : the case of selected schools in Mthatha district in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Ngunge, Lindiwe Esther
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School management and organization Educational leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14082 , vital:39803
- Description: The research investigated the impact of leadership on performance in the case of selected schools in Mthatha district in the Eastern Cape. The research used a mixed method methodology combining qualitative and quantitative methods. The sample size was N=60 using purposive sampling. The dependant variable in the research was the school performance and the independent variable is the good leadership. The questionnaire was analysed quantitatively from a total key respondent of 45 leaders in the different schools.15 school educational leaders were interviewed and analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis. Research findings indicated that there is still male domination in school leadership positions over females. The leadership composition is 53percent males and 47percent females in Eastern Cape. School leadership positions are, in general, held by long serving members who are former teachers with a higher degree of seniority than the young school leaders. This is typical of traditional Xhosa societies dominated by elders in decision making. 73percent of the responses show a democratic leadership style when investigating how school leaders manage schools. The second most common leadership style is situational at 66percent, and the least prevalent management style is autocratic, which includes less than 10percent of the respondents. 60percent of the schools are performing and 40percent are underperforming, but overall there is good leadership in schools despite very poor results evidenced in the past 5 years. The research shows a strong correlation between the schools that had good performance and those that had good leadership in which the dominant leadership style was 'bureaucratic' and 'situational'. The schools that had poor results that were underperforming also showed trends of poor leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ngunge, Lindiwe Esther
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: School management and organization Educational leadership
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14082 , vital:39803
- Description: The research investigated the impact of leadership on performance in the case of selected schools in Mthatha district in the Eastern Cape. The research used a mixed method methodology combining qualitative and quantitative methods. The sample size was N=60 using purposive sampling. The dependant variable in the research was the school performance and the independent variable is the good leadership. The questionnaire was analysed quantitatively from a total key respondent of 45 leaders in the different schools.15 school educational leaders were interviewed and analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis. Research findings indicated that there is still male domination in school leadership positions over females. The leadership composition is 53percent males and 47percent females in Eastern Cape. School leadership positions are, in general, held by long serving members who are former teachers with a higher degree of seniority than the young school leaders. This is typical of traditional Xhosa societies dominated by elders in decision making. 73percent of the responses show a democratic leadership style when investigating how school leaders manage schools. The second most common leadership style is situational at 66percent, and the least prevalent management style is autocratic, which includes less than 10percent of the respondents. 60percent of the schools are performing and 40percent are underperforming, but overall there is good leadership in schools despite very poor results evidenced in the past 5 years. The research shows a strong correlation between the schools that had good performance and those that had good leadership in which the dominant leadership style was 'bureaucratic' and 'situational'. The schools that had poor results that were underperforming also showed trends of poor leadership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of challenges of reporting by TVET collages to the department of Higher Education and Training using a web-based monitoring and evaluation instrument : the case of two selected TVET colleges in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Siwa, Monwabisi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Automatic control -- Data processing TVET Colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17305 , vital:40936
- Description: The effective and efficient functioning of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges is pertinent to the development of critical and scares skills for the South African labour market. In this research, I examined the challenges facing the reporting by TVET colleges to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) using a web-based M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges. I presented what was the form of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET before the introduction of M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges in 2015.To this end, M&E and reporting is pivotal in the effective and efficient running of these institutions. In this research, I presented the evolution of the TVET Sector and reviewed literature on monitoring and evaluation, challenges of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET and the role of professional support needed to be given to the sector on monitoring and evaluation. Qualitative method and a case study methodology was used to investigate the challenges of reporting to DHET by TVET colleges. I used semi-structured interview with 4 participants from two selected colleges in the Eastern Cape. I employed interpretive paradigm and content analysis in interpreting and analysing data collected. I presented summary, findings, recommendations and conclusion. The topics for further research were also sponsored in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Siwa, Monwabisi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Automatic control -- Data processing TVET Colleges
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17305 , vital:40936
- Description: The effective and efficient functioning of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges is pertinent to the development of critical and scares skills for the South African labour market. In this research, I examined the challenges facing the reporting by TVET colleges to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) using a web-based M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges. I presented what was the form of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET before the introduction of M&E and reporting framework for TVET colleges in 2015.To this end, M&E and reporting is pivotal in the effective and efficient running of these institutions. In this research, I presented the evolution of the TVET Sector and reviewed literature on monitoring and evaluation, challenges of reporting by TVET colleges to DHET and the role of professional support needed to be given to the sector on monitoring and evaluation. Qualitative method and a case study methodology was used to investigate the challenges of reporting to DHET by TVET colleges. I used semi-structured interview with 4 participants from two selected colleges in the Eastern Cape. I employed interpretive paradigm and content analysis in interpreting and analysing data collected. I presented summary, findings, recommendations and conclusion. The topics for further research were also sponsored in this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Macro-prudential banking regulation, interest rate spread and the conduct of monetary policy in South Africa
- Shayanewako,Varaidzo Batsirai
- Authors: Shayanewako,Varaidzo Batsirai
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Monetary policy Economic stabilization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D.Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14093 , vital:39843
- Description: The joint implementation of macro-prudential regulatory and monetary policies is necessary for modern banking systems not only to achieve optimal interest rate spread but to cushion the economy against the catastrophic effects of systemic risk. Therefore, the understanding of the interconnection between macroprudential regulation, interest rate spread and monetary policy, supported with empirical evidence, enables economies to build health and sound financial systems and achieve desirable growth rates. Thus, this study utilises the Vector Error Correction (VEC) mechanism to empirically investigate the interconnection between macro-prudential regulation, interest rate spread and monetary policy in South Africa. Quarterly time series data for the period from 1994 to 2016 was employed with the New Keynesian Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (NKDSGE) model as the framework for analysis. The findings of this study suggest that a negative relationship exists between interest rate spread, macro-prudential regulation and monetary policy in South Africa. Moreover, the systems equation provided evidence that a short run causality running from macroprudential regulation to monetary policy is prevalent in South Africa. The empirical model of the study was found to be desirable as evidence of no serial correlation, no ARCH effect and non-normality in residuals was detected. Evidence from this study further suggest that interest rate spread has a dampening effect on monetary policy, but in the long-run this effect seems reversible in South Africa. As a result, this study recommends that caution should be taken on the appropriate selection of measures of macro-prudential regulation and its tool-kit as it can be used to disguise the symptoms of a lax monetary policy. This implies that the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) should sternly supervise and regulate the extension of credit by commercial banks in line with its inflation targeting monetary policy rule in order to achieve financial stability and ensure optimal interest rate spread that can stimulate the economy to growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Shayanewako,Varaidzo Batsirai
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Monetary policy Economic stabilization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , D.Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14093 , vital:39843
- Description: The joint implementation of macro-prudential regulatory and monetary policies is necessary for modern banking systems not only to achieve optimal interest rate spread but to cushion the economy against the catastrophic effects of systemic risk. Therefore, the understanding of the interconnection between macroprudential regulation, interest rate spread and monetary policy, supported with empirical evidence, enables economies to build health and sound financial systems and achieve desirable growth rates. Thus, this study utilises the Vector Error Correction (VEC) mechanism to empirically investigate the interconnection between macro-prudential regulation, interest rate spread and monetary policy in South Africa. Quarterly time series data for the period from 1994 to 2016 was employed with the New Keynesian Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (NKDSGE) model as the framework for analysis. The findings of this study suggest that a negative relationship exists between interest rate spread, macro-prudential regulation and monetary policy in South Africa. Moreover, the systems equation provided evidence that a short run causality running from macroprudential regulation to monetary policy is prevalent in South Africa. The empirical model of the study was found to be desirable as evidence of no serial correlation, no ARCH effect and non-normality in residuals was detected. Evidence from this study further suggest that interest rate spread has a dampening effect on monetary policy, but in the long-run this effect seems reversible in South Africa. As a result, this study recommends that caution should be taken on the appropriate selection of measures of macro-prudential regulation and its tool-kit as it can be used to disguise the symptoms of a lax monetary policy. This implies that the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) should sternly supervise and regulate the extension of credit by commercial banks in line with its inflation targeting monetary policy rule in order to achieve financial stability and ensure optimal interest rate spread that can stimulate the economy to growth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Assessing the Contribution of SMMEs to Job creation in the Eastern Cape South Africa
- Authors: Mbambo, William Bongile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD ( Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13675 , vital:39690
- Description: Job creation through support to Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) is one of the South African government’s priorities in the Eastern Cape Vision 2030 Provincial Development Plan, to overcome the chronic unemployment situation faced by millions of South Africans. The Eastern Cape Province is amongst one of the areas challenged by high levels of unemployment in South Africa. In order to assess whether SMMEs had the capacity to create employment opportunities in the Eastern Cape Province. This study investigate on how SMMEs plans to provide employment opportunities, also examine whether SMMEs has created any employment opportunities thus far in the Eastern Cape Province. The study used David Birch (1979 and 1981) Kerr, Wittenberg and Arrow (2013), theories to assess whether SMMEs had the capacity to create employment opportunities in the Province. The study adopted a mixed methods approach in order to assess SMMEs as a tool for employment creation in its various dimensions. The results of the study reveal that Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises do not necessarily generate substantial employment. Therefore, the study recommends that the government should provide more financial support for SMMEs, organize entrepreneurship workshops, seminars and training workshops, which could improve their business operating skills as well as provide easy access to loans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mbambo, William Bongile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Job creation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD ( Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13675 , vital:39690
- Description: Job creation through support to Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) is one of the South African government’s priorities in the Eastern Cape Vision 2030 Provincial Development Plan, to overcome the chronic unemployment situation faced by millions of South Africans. The Eastern Cape Province is amongst one of the areas challenged by high levels of unemployment in South Africa. In order to assess whether SMMEs had the capacity to create employment opportunities in the Eastern Cape Province. This study investigate on how SMMEs plans to provide employment opportunities, also examine whether SMMEs has created any employment opportunities thus far in the Eastern Cape Province. The study used David Birch (1979 and 1981) Kerr, Wittenberg and Arrow (2013), theories to assess whether SMMEs had the capacity to create employment opportunities in the Province. The study adopted a mixed methods approach in order to assess SMMEs as a tool for employment creation in its various dimensions. The results of the study reveal that Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises do not necessarily generate substantial employment. Therefore, the study recommends that the government should provide more financial support for SMMEs, organize entrepreneurship workshops, seminars and training workshops, which could improve their business operating skills as well as provide easy access to loans.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The influence of technology factors on turnover intentions amongst a sample of government employees in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mahlasela, Samkelisiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Work -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13535 , vital:39677
- Description: Orientation: Technology affects organisations both positively and negatively and in some instances technology factors can result in turnover intentions for certain employees of organisations. Research purpose: The main objective of the study was to investigate how technology-based job autonomy, technology-based job overload and technologybased job monitoring impact turnover intentions of employees. Motivation of the study: Exploring and understanding the relationship between technology factors and turnover intention amongst government employees to determine whether these factors affect government as much as they affect the private sector. Research design, approach and method: This research used a quantitative research approach. It drew a convenience sample of 182 employees (N= 182) from the South African Government. Main findings: The three main findings of the study were: Technology-based job autonomy was positively related to turnover intention. Technology-based job overload was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Finally, technology-based monitoring was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Practical/managerial implications: If organisations do not address the issue of monitoring and overload they are likely to experience many turnover intentions amongst the employees. Furthermore, the organisations with less autonomy are likely to lose their employees which means they will lose the resources that have been serving the organisation for a long time. This will also contribute to the organisation losing many funds as they would constantly have to train new employees. Contribution/value-add: The research adds value to the knowledge about the effects of technology factors on turnover intention by pointing out the reasons that lead to turnover intention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mahlasela, Samkelisiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Work -- Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Industrial Psychology)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13535 , vital:39677
- Description: Orientation: Technology affects organisations both positively and negatively and in some instances technology factors can result in turnover intentions for certain employees of organisations. Research purpose: The main objective of the study was to investigate how technology-based job autonomy, technology-based job overload and technologybased job monitoring impact turnover intentions of employees. Motivation of the study: Exploring and understanding the relationship between technology factors and turnover intention amongst government employees to determine whether these factors affect government as much as they affect the private sector. Research design, approach and method: This research used a quantitative research approach. It drew a convenience sample of 182 employees (N= 182) from the South African Government. Main findings: The three main findings of the study were: Technology-based job autonomy was positively related to turnover intention. Technology-based job overload was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Finally, technology-based monitoring was found to be positively related to turnover intention. Practical/managerial implications: If organisations do not address the issue of monitoring and overload they are likely to experience many turnover intentions amongst the employees. Furthermore, the organisations with less autonomy are likely to lose their employees which means they will lose the resources that have been serving the organisation for a long time. This will also contribute to the organisation losing many funds as they would constantly have to train new employees. Contribution/value-add: The research adds value to the knowledge about the effects of technology factors on turnover intention by pointing out the reasons that lead to turnover intention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Non-farm enterprises and rural development in South Africa : a case of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Dapira, Clarah
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rural development--South Africa--Eastern Cape--Case studies Rural development--South Africa South Africa--Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Development Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15463 , vital:40410
- Description: There is growing recognition that the limited success in rural development policies in many developing countries, including South Africa, is mainly a result of the failure to conceptualize such interventions beyond agriculture and incorporate non-farm enterprises into the mix. Non-farm enterprises are increasingly viewed as having the potential to become one of the drivers of rural development. However, it is an area that remains poorly documented and dimly understood as it has received limited scholarly attention in recent years. The study was carried out in the rural areas of Port St John’s Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was premised on the assumption that non-farm enterprises have the potential to become one of the drivers of rural development in terms of employment creation, income generation and diversification of the rural economy. The thesis demonstrates that the hope that non-farm enterprises can add value to the rural economy in terms of creating the much needed employment opportunities is still a goal to be realised. Nevertheless, the income generated by these enterprises is contributing immensely to household welfare, especially improving accessibility to food by poor households. The study recommends the implementation of tailor made capacity building and training programmes aimed at enhancing the skills of rural artisans. This is an area that requires state-mediated intervention to augment the rural economy in order to redress the uneven development of the past.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dapira, Clarah
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Rural development--South Africa--Eastern Cape--Case studies Rural development--South Africa South Africa--Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Development Studies
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15463 , vital:40410
- Description: There is growing recognition that the limited success in rural development policies in many developing countries, including South Africa, is mainly a result of the failure to conceptualize such interventions beyond agriculture and incorporate non-farm enterprises into the mix. Non-farm enterprises are increasingly viewed as having the potential to become one of the drivers of rural development. However, it is an area that remains poorly documented and dimly understood as it has received limited scholarly attention in recent years. The study was carried out in the rural areas of Port St John’s Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was premised on the assumption that non-farm enterprises have the potential to become one of the drivers of rural development in terms of employment creation, income generation and diversification of the rural economy. The thesis demonstrates that the hope that non-farm enterprises can add value to the rural economy in terms of creating the much needed employment opportunities is still a goal to be realised. Nevertheless, the income generated by these enterprises is contributing immensely to household welfare, especially improving accessibility to food by poor households. The study recommends the implementation of tailor made capacity building and training programmes aimed at enhancing the skills of rural artisans. This is an area that requires state-mediated intervention to augment the rural economy in order to redress the uneven development of the past.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of IDP implementation and sustainable development : the case of the housing sector in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality
- Authors: Mwatenga, John
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: City planning Sustainable development Housing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13447 , vital:39667
- Description: This research study assessed the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan and sustainable development in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: i) to identify factors affecting the provision of dwelling units in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and their effect on sustainable development in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality; to assess the perceptions of the municipality and the community on the role of the IDP as a tool for development; iii) to suggest strategies that can be adopted to improve IDP implementation for sustainable development in the area. The literature reviewed in the study was drawn from several researchers. The sustainable development theory, the incremental planning model and the rational planning model underpinned the study. Although three theories were used, the sustainable development theory was the major theory adopted in this study. The mixed research methods are used to collect the primary data for this study. The use of both quantitative and qualitative methods is deemed most appropriate for this research study, as most researchers regard them as best methods in answering the research questions. The use of mixed methods has the assumption that both approaches can complement each other and help in avoiding unnecessary shortcomings. Since the study collected both quantitative and qualitative data, an interview guide and questionnaires were used. Interviews were conducted with three (3) municipal officials as well as (2) councillors from Mangaung metropolitan municipality (MMM), whereas questionnaires were distributed to (90) community members. The analysis of the study made the following conclusions about the IDP implementation and sustainable development in Mangaung metropolitan municipality. Firstly, there is satisfactory majority understanding among the participants regarding Integrated Development Plan and its related processes. The respondents have a common view that the IDP is a key tool that buoys development and that continued implementation challenges halt every form of development within the municipal area. Secondly, there is implementation of the IDP in Mangaung metropolitan municipality (MMM); nevertheless, the extent of implementation has not had the anticipated effect on the general populace in communities, given the ineffectiveness and inefficiencies in resource utilisation. Thirdly, it was also discovered that the municipality currently has serious housing backlogs that have brought auxiliary challenges thus impeding developmental efforts of MMM. Fourthly, the study also concluded that the causes of housing backlogs are: apartheid legacy, influx of foreign nationals, lack of oversight monitoring, heightened poverty, corruption, poor governance, insufficient budget, ineffective IDP implementation, urbanisation, natural population; unemployment and lack of capacity and skills can be regarded as the major contributors to housing shortages currently plaguing MMM. Thus the study recommended that an oversight, monitoring and evaluation policy, good governance, public participation, utilisation of PPPs and implementation of environmental management policy will go a long way in enhancing IDP implementation towards attaining sustainable development in the Mangaung metropolitan municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mwatenga, John
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: City planning Sustainable development Housing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13447 , vital:39667
- Description: This research study assessed the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan and sustainable development in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: i) to identify factors affecting the provision of dwelling units in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and their effect on sustainable development in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality; to assess the perceptions of the municipality and the community on the role of the IDP as a tool for development; iii) to suggest strategies that can be adopted to improve IDP implementation for sustainable development in the area. The literature reviewed in the study was drawn from several researchers. The sustainable development theory, the incremental planning model and the rational planning model underpinned the study. Although three theories were used, the sustainable development theory was the major theory adopted in this study. The mixed research methods are used to collect the primary data for this study. The use of both quantitative and qualitative methods is deemed most appropriate for this research study, as most researchers regard them as best methods in answering the research questions. The use of mixed methods has the assumption that both approaches can complement each other and help in avoiding unnecessary shortcomings. Since the study collected both quantitative and qualitative data, an interview guide and questionnaires were used. Interviews were conducted with three (3) municipal officials as well as (2) councillors from Mangaung metropolitan municipality (MMM), whereas questionnaires were distributed to (90) community members. The analysis of the study made the following conclusions about the IDP implementation and sustainable development in Mangaung metropolitan municipality. Firstly, there is satisfactory majority understanding among the participants regarding Integrated Development Plan and its related processes. The respondents have a common view that the IDP is a key tool that buoys development and that continued implementation challenges halt every form of development within the municipal area. Secondly, there is implementation of the IDP in Mangaung metropolitan municipality (MMM); nevertheless, the extent of implementation has not had the anticipated effect on the general populace in communities, given the ineffectiveness and inefficiencies in resource utilisation. Thirdly, it was also discovered that the municipality currently has serious housing backlogs that have brought auxiliary challenges thus impeding developmental efforts of MMM. Fourthly, the study also concluded that the causes of housing backlogs are: apartheid legacy, influx of foreign nationals, lack of oversight monitoring, heightened poverty, corruption, poor governance, insufficient budget, ineffective IDP implementation, urbanisation, natural population; unemployment and lack of capacity and skills can be regarded as the major contributors to housing shortages currently plaguing MMM. Thus the study recommended that an oversight, monitoring and evaluation policy, good governance, public participation, utilisation of PPPs and implementation of environmental management policy will go a long way in enhancing IDP implementation towards attaining sustainable development in the Mangaung metropolitan municipality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The moderating role of occupational self-efficacy and organisational justice in the relationship between perceived job insecurity and counterproductive work behaviour among bank employees in Nigeria
- Authors: Oluwole, Olugbenga Joseph
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Job security Self-efficacy Bank employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12665 , vital:39297
- Description: The unstable global economy and the drive by every organisation to remain in business and be competitive has led to many organisational downsizing, which in turn poses concerns towards identifying behaviours of the survivors’. These behaviours constitute the components of employees’ job performance which include task performance, organisational citizenship behaviour and counterproductive work behaviour (CWB). One of the major behavioural concerns facing organisations globally, in particular in Nigeria, is CWB, which previous studies identified as an attitudinal reaction of perceived job insecurity. Very few empirical studies in Nigeria have attempted to examine the relationship as well as the variables that can moderate the negative effect of job insecurity-CWB. This study, therefore, explores the moderating effects of occupational self-efficacy (OSE) and organisational justice on the job insecurity–CWB relationship among bank employees in Nigeria. Four theories provided the framework for the study, while a descriptive research design which utilized a cross-sectional survey was used. The multi-stage sampling procedure and purposive technique were employed to select the two participating banking organisations from the 22 licensed commercial banks in Nigeria. Using the convenience sampling technique, a total of 380 Nigerian bank employees who gave their personal consent participated through a structured questionnaire. The reliability coefficient of all the instruments are as follows: counterproductive work behaviour (α = .92), perceived job insecurity (α = .65), occupational self-efficacy (α = .82), organisational justice (α = .93) were used for data collection. The sample was taken from branches of the two selected banking organisations that cut across Lagos State, Nigeria, a cosmopolitan and Nigeria business hub. Six hypotheses were tested using descriptive statistics, zero-order correlation and hierarchical multiple regression at 0.05 level of significance. A significant positive relationship existed between: job insecurity and CWB (r = .14); job insecurity and sabotage (r = .23), job insecurity and withdrawal (r = .14) and job insecurity and abuse (r = .20) of sub-dimensions of CWB. Also, a significant relationship existed between OSE and CWB (r = .12); OSE and withdrawal (r = .27) and OSE and abuse (r = .12) of the sub-dimensions of CWB. And lastly, a significant positive relationship existed between organisational justice and CWB (r = .11); distributive justice and CWB (r = .13), procedural justice and CWB (r = .17); organisational justice and withdrawal (r = .35), and a negative relationship between organisational justice and production deviance (r = -.12) of the sub-dimensions of CWB. Also, a significant positive relationship existed on distributive justice and withdrawal behaviour (r = .22) and distributive justice and abuse (r = .12); procedural justice and sabotage (r = .17); procedural justice and withdrawal (r = .44); Interactional justice and withdrawal (r = .29) and a significant negative relationship existed on interactional justice and sabotage. Furthermore, there were significant moderator effects of OSE on job insecurity- CWB relationship (β = .11, p<.05); significant moderator effects of OSE on job insecurity-abuse behaviour (β = .13, p<.05) of sub-dimension of CWB. Also, there was significant moderator effects of organisational justice in job insecurity-CWB relationship (β = -.10, p<.05), interaction effect of procedural justice in job insecurity-withdrawal behaviour relationship (β = .24, p<.01) and interaction effect of interactional justice in job insecurity-abuse behaviour relationship (β = -.39, p<.001). And lastly, there was no significant joint moderator effects of OSE and organisational justice in job insecurity and CWB relationship (β = .00, ns), while there was significant moderator effect of joint OSE and organisational justice on job insecurity – sabotage relationshi0p (β = .17, p<.01) and job insecurity – withdrawal behaviour (β = .14, p<.01) The findings of this study pointed to the significance of employees’ cognitive sense as important and stable resources which organisational practitioners need to take into consideration during organisational change approach. Also, the banking organisation must clearly state the procedure and implementations of downsizing policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Oluwole, Olugbenga Joseph
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Job security Self-efficacy Bank employees
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12665 , vital:39297
- Description: The unstable global economy and the drive by every organisation to remain in business and be competitive has led to many organisational downsizing, which in turn poses concerns towards identifying behaviours of the survivors’. These behaviours constitute the components of employees’ job performance which include task performance, organisational citizenship behaviour and counterproductive work behaviour (CWB). One of the major behavioural concerns facing organisations globally, in particular in Nigeria, is CWB, which previous studies identified as an attitudinal reaction of perceived job insecurity. Very few empirical studies in Nigeria have attempted to examine the relationship as well as the variables that can moderate the negative effect of job insecurity-CWB. This study, therefore, explores the moderating effects of occupational self-efficacy (OSE) and organisational justice on the job insecurity–CWB relationship among bank employees in Nigeria. Four theories provided the framework for the study, while a descriptive research design which utilized a cross-sectional survey was used. The multi-stage sampling procedure and purposive technique were employed to select the two participating banking organisations from the 22 licensed commercial banks in Nigeria. Using the convenience sampling technique, a total of 380 Nigerian bank employees who gave their personal consent participated through a structured questionnaire. The reliability coefficient of all the instruments are as follows: counterproductive work behaviour (α = .92), perceived job insecurity (α = .65), occupational self-efficacy (α = .82), organisational justice (α = .93) were used for data collection. The sample was taken from branches of the two selected banking organisations that cut across Lagos State, Nigeria, a cosmopolitan and Nigeria business hub. Six hypotheses were tested using descriptive statistics, zero-order correlation and hierarchical multiple regression at 0.05 level of significance. A significant positive relationship existed between: job insecurity and CWB (r = .14); job insecurity and sabotage (r = .23), job insecurity and withdrawal (r = .14) and job insecurity and abuse (r = .20) of sub-dimensions of CWB. Also, a significant relationship existed between OSE and CWB (r = .12); OSE and withdrawal (r = .27) and OSE and abuse (r = .12) of the sub-dimensions of CWB. And lastly, a significant positive relationship existed between organisational justice and CWB (r = .11); distributive justice and CWB (r = .13), procedural justice and CWB (r = .17); organisational justice and withdrawal (r = .35), and a negative relationship between organisational justice and production deviance (r = -.12) of the sub-dimensions of CWB. Also, a significant positive relationship existed on distributive justice and withdrawal behaviour (r = .22) and distributive justice and abuse (r = .12); procedural justice and sabotage (r = .17); procedural justice and withdrawal (r = .44); Interactional justice and withdrawal (r = .29) and a significant negative relationship existed on interactional justice and sabotage. Furthermore, there were significant moderator effects of OSE on job insecurity- CWB relationship (β = .11, p<.05); significant moderator effects of OSE on job insecurity-abuse behaviour (β = .13, p<.05) of sub-dimension of CWB. Also, there was significant moderator effects of organisational justice in job insecurity-CWB relationship (β = -.10, p<.05), interaction effect of procedural justice in job insecurity-withdrawal behaviour relationship (β = .24, p<.01) and interaction effect of interactional justice in job insecurity-abuse behaviour relationship (β = -.39, p<.001). And lastly, there was no significant joint moderator effects of OSE and organisational justice in job insecurity and CWB relationship (β = .00, ns), while there was significant moderator effect of joint OSE and organisational justice on job insecurity – sabotage relationshi0p (β = .17, p<.01) and job insecurity – withdrawal behaviour (β = .14, p<.01) The findings of this study pointed to the significance of employees’ cognitive sense as important and stable resources which organisational practitioners need to take into consideration during organisational change approach. Also, the banking organisation must clearly state the procedure and implementations of downsizing policies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa
- Authors: Terera, Sharon Ruvimbo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa Nurses--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Industrial Psychology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17727 , vital:41188
- Description: This study explored the impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of human resources practices (HR) on nurse retention in public hospitals; investigate the influence of HR practices on organizational commitment of nurses, and retention and to make recommendations to the hospitals on possible ways to improve the organisational commitment and employee retention of nurses based on the research findings. The study utilized a quantitative research design and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised of 150 nurses and the data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings revealed that the effective use of sound human resources practices reduces nurse turnover whilst nurse organisational commitment and retention improves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Terera, Sharon Ruvimbo
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Employee retention--South Africa Nurses--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Industrial Psychology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17727 , vital:41188
- Description: This study explored the impact of human resource practices on employee commitment and retention among nurses in Amathole District, South Africa. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of human resources practices (HR) on nurse retention in public hospitals; investigate the influence of HR practices on organizational commitment of nurses, and retention and to make recommendations to the hospitals on possible ways to improve the organisational commitment and employee retention of nurses based on the research findings. The study utilized a quantitative research design and questionnaires were used to collect data. The sample comprised of 150 nurses and the data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Research findings revealed that the effective use of sound human resources practices reduces nurse turnover whilst nurse organisational commitment and retention improves.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The role of ward committees in the local government sector: a case study of Enoch Mgijima local municipality of Eastern Cape (2012 – 2016)
- Authors: Mteyise, Nomapa Pretty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public administration--Citizen participation. , Community development. , Public administration.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22143 , vital:51987
- Description: Public participation is a vital aspect of developmental local government. A ward committee system was introduced in South Africa, as a channel for driving public participation programmes. This study set out to examine the experiences of ward committee members in Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (EMLM). The aim was to assess the ward committee system as a vehicle for meaningful public participation in the integrated development planning processes. In 1995 the government formulated the White Paper on the Transformation of the Public Service. It indicated the importance of service delivery, and the aim was to transform the South African public service, as the key machinery of the government to equalize service delivery to all citizens. In 1996, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa anchored the Bill of Rights as the cornerstone of democracy that enshrines the rights of all people and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom. The South African government has developed a wide array of legislation that ensures that communities are consulted on an unremitting basis with regard to how services need to be rendered. Communities have a right to be consulted and to give input into issues affecting them. Public consultation as envisaged in the South African legislation has, nevertheless, not yielded the desired results, which is evident in the spate of service delivery protests over poor or non-service delivery. Section 152(1) (e) of the Constitution promotes involvement of communities and community organisations in the matters of local government. Section 73 of the Municipal Structures Act (Act 117 of 1998) also requires municipalities to establish ward committees in a manner that seeks to enhance participatory democracy at the local level. This study set out to explore the experiences of ward committee members in EMLM. The intention was to evaluate the role of ward committees in the local government sector. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mteyise, Nomapa Pretty
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public administration--Citizen participation. , Community development. , Public administration.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22143 , vital:51987
- Description: Public participation is a vital aspect of developmental local government. A ward committee system was introduced in South Africa, as a channel for driving public participation programmes. This study set out to examine the experiences of ward committee members in Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (EMLM). The aim was to assess the ward committee system as a vehicle for meaningful public participation in the integrated development planning processes. In 1995 the government formulated the White Paper on the Transformation of the Public Service. It indicated the importance of service delivery, and the aim was to transform the South African public service, as the key machinery of the government to equalize service delivery to all citizens. In 1996, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa anchored the Bill of Rights as the cornerstone of democracy that enshrines the rights of all people and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom. The South African government has developed a wide array of legislation that ensures that communities are consulted on an unremitting basis with regard to how services need to be rendered. Communities have a right to be consulted and to give input into issues affecting them. Public consultation as envisaged in the South African legislation has, nevertheless, not yielded the desired results, which is evident in the spate of service delivery protests over poor or non-service delivery. Section 152(1) (e) of the Constitution promotes involvement of communities and community organisations in the matters of local government. Section 73 of the Municipal Structures Act (Act 117 of 1998) also requires municipalities to establish ward committees in a manner that seeks to enhance participatory democracy at the local level. This study set out to explore the experiences of ward committee members in EMLM. The intention was to evaluate the role of ward committees in the local government sector. , Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Monetary policy credibility, exchange rate pass through and inflation in South Africa
- Authors: Bom, Sandisiwe Abongile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Monetary policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13303 , vital:39632
- Description: The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) implemented inflation targeting as a monetary policy framework in 2000 with the aim of achieving low and stable price associated with economic growth. However, the period in which the framework was implemented is characterised by periods of price instability and low economic growth. This contradicts the view of different views in the literature that indicates that inflation targeting ensures low inflation rates. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the nexus between monetary policy credibility, exchange rate pass-through and inflation in South Africa. The study employed the Johansen co-integration test, Vector error correction modelling (VECM) techniques, impulse response and variance decomposition for the period from 2000 to 2017 using quarterly data. The Johansen cointegration indicated that there was a long-term relationship between the variables of interest. The VECM was estimated together with the impulse response and variance decomposition. The empirical results indicated that the variables utilised in the study are positively related. Impulse response functions also proved that in the long run, changes in consumer prices are a result of fluctuations in oil prices and the repo rate. It is evident that consumer prices (inflation) are positively related to changes in exchange rates and monetary policy credibility. Thus, the study recommends that changes in the exchange rate must be considered when implementing the monetary policy as the prices move in the same direction as changes in the NEER. Further, the lack of monetary policy credibility seems to be an issue for monetary authorities as there is supposed to be an inverse relationship among the CPI and MPCRED, which is opposed by the study. Additionally, the results also indicate that the repo rate is positively related to the consumer price and this opposes previous literature. Thus, recommending that the SARB needs to evaluate the monetary policy or the inflation targeting framework to ensure they achieve credibility
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Bom, Sandisiwe Abongile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates -- South Africa Monetary policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Economics)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13303 , vital:39632
- Description: The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) implemented inflation targeting as a monetary policy framework in 2000 with the aim of achieving low and stable price associated with economic growth. However, the period in which the framework was implemented is characterised by periods of price instability and low economic growth. This contradicts the view of different views in the literature that indicates that inflation targeting ensures low inflation rates. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the nexus between monetary policy credibility, exchange rate pass-through and inflation in South Africa. The study employed the Johansen co-integration test, Vector error correction modelling (VECM) techniques, impulse response and variance decomposition for the period from 2000 to 2017 using quarterly data. The Johansen cointegration indicated that there was a long-term relationship between the variables of interest. The VECM was estimated together with the impulse response and variance decomposition. The empirical results indicated that the variables utilised in the study are positively related. Impulse response functions also proved that in the long run, changes in consumer prices are a result of fluctuations in oil prices and the repo rate. It is evident that consumer prices (inflation) are positively related to changes in exchange rates and monetary policy credibility. Thus, the study recommends that changes in the exchange rate must be considered when implementing the monetary policy as the prices move in the same direction as changes in the NEER. Further, the lack of monetary policy credibility seems to be an issue for monetary authorities as there is supposed to be an inverse relationship among the CPI and MPCRED, which is opposed by the study. Additionally, the results also indicate that the repo rate is positively related to the consumer price and this opposes previous literature. Thus, recommending that the SARB needs to evaluate the monetary policy or the inflation targeting framework to ensure they achieve credibility
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Artisanal mining and its contribution to sustainable rural livelihoods : a case of Esigodini area, Umzingwane rural district, Matabeleland South Province of Zimbabwe
- Authors: Nkala, Khayelihle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mineral industries Rural poor Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15551 , vital:40458
- Description: This study examined the contribution of artisanal mining to the livelihoods of rural communities. Artisanal mining has over the past decade been taken up by rural communities as an alternative of sustaining their livelihoods due to the collapse of agriculture due to the successive droughts, economic meltdown and the general failure of the fast track land reform program. Hence this study sought to fill this knowledge gap using Esigodini as a case. The study made use of focus group discussions, interviews and documents review to gather information on how artisanal mining activities have contributed to the livelihoods of rural communities. Although artisanal mining has its negative impacts to the environment it does contribute to the livelihoods of communities, as the findings of the study reveal that the Esigodini community has benefited from improved socio-economic activities as a result of the practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nkala, Khayelihle
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mineral industries Rural poor Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15551 , vital:40458
- Description: This study examined the contribution of artisanal mining to the livelihoods of rural communities. Artisanal mining has over the past decade been taken up by rural communities as an alternative of sustaining their livelihoods due to the collapse of agriculture due to the successive droughts, economic meltdown and the general failure of the fast track land reform program. Hence this study sought to fill this knowledge gap using Esigodini as a case. The study made use of focus group discussions, interviews and documents review to gather information on how artisanal mining activities have contributed to the livelihoods of rural communities. Although artisanal mining has its negative impacts to the environment it does contribute to the livelihoods of communities, as the findings of the study reveal that the Esigodini community has benefited from improved socio-economic activities as a result of the practice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Effects of absorptive capacity and knowledge management on innovation capabilities in small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs)
- Authors: Gwena, Courage
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Absorptive capacity (Economics) Knowledge management Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Business Management
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11839 , vital:39111
- Description: Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are increasingly becoming an influential factor behind economic growth. On the other hand, knowledge management is credited with being critical to the success of modern business enterprises. Consequently, researchers have a growing interest in understanding knowledge management and its effects on various phenomena within an enterprise. Although SMMEs are tipped to be major providers of employment, innovations and economic growth, it is important that they be investigated in light of factors that influence their sustainability and growth. Notably there is evident lack of research exploring the relationship among absorptive capacity, knowledge management and innovation capabilities from a South African perspective as many of the related studies are concentrated in the developed world. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of knowledge management on innovation capabilities in SMMEs with focus on the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. South African SMMEs are experiencing worrying failure rates, whilst on the other hand; knowledge management is credited with organisational success. This trend has presented an opportunity to test how knowledge management affects South African SMMEs innovation capabilities. Above this, the increasing value being attached to SMMEs in solving problems, such as unemployment and trade imbalance have attracted interest as a subject of research. A quantitative research approach was followed in carrying out this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to answer the research questions of the study. The respondents (n=280) were SMMEs representatives for SMMEs operating in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Findings of the study revealed that absorptive capacity exerts positive a effect on the innovative capabilities of SMMEs the same way knowledge acquisition and knowledge sharing were found to have positive statistically significant on the innovation capabilities of SMMEs. The findings also show that knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition exerts a positive effect on SMMEs innovative capabilities. Findings from the study could assist various practitioners directly or indirectly involved in business development to develop strategies that improve SMMEs growth and sustainability. These practitioners include strategic management researchers, policy makers, SMME owners, managers, and lecturers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Gwena, Courage
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Absorptive capacity (Economics) Knowledge management Small business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Business Management
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11839 , vital:39111
- Description: Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are increasingly becoming an influential factor behind economic growth. On the other hand, knowledge management is credited with being critical to the success of modern business enterprises. Consequently, researchers have a growing interest in understanding knowledge management and its effects on various phenomena within an enterprise. Although SMMEs are tipped to be major providers of employment, innovations and economic growth, it is important that they be investigated in light of factors that influence their sustainability and growth. Notably there is evident lack of research exploring the relationship among absorptive capacity, knowledge management and innovation capabilities from a South African perspective as many of the related studies are concentrated in the developed world. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of knowledge management on innovation capabilities in SMMEs with focus on the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. South African SMMEs are experiencing worrying failure rates, whilst on the other hand; knowledge management is credited with organisational success. This trend has presented an opportunity to test how knowledge management affects South African SMMEs innovation capabilities. Above this, the increasing value being attached to SMMEs in solving problems, such as unemployment and trade imbalance have attracted interest as a subject of research. A quantitative research approach was followed in carrying out this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to answer the research questions of the study. The respondents (n=280) were SMMEs representatives for SMMEs operating in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Findings of the study revealed that absorptive capacity exerts positive a effect on the innovative capabilities of SMMEs the same way knowledge acquisition and knowledge sharing were found to have positive statistically significant on the innovation capabilities of SMMEs. The findings also show that knowledge sharing and knowledge acquisition exerts a positive effect on SMMEs innovative capabilities. Findings from the study could assist various practitioners directly or indirectly involved in business development to develop strategies that improve SMMEs growth and sustainability. These practitioners include strategic management researchers, policy makers, SMME owners, managers, and lecturers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Assessment of the Eastern Cape Provincial Public Service Commission in promoting public service ethics
- Authors: Butana, Vulikhaya
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public administration -- Moral and ethical aspects Civil service ethics Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10295 , vital:35391
- Description: After the fall of the apartheid government with discriminatory laws and the rise and dawn of democracy in South Africa (SA), the government had to restructure the Public Service (PS). The creation and development of PS legislations and policies to regulate the PS took place. The PSC in 1999 was developed to monitor and steer the operation of the PS. The main objective of this study is to assess the Public Service Commission (PSC) in promoting the professional and ethical environment in the Public Service (PS). The PSC is an independent and impartial body or institution which is mandated by the Republic of South African Constitution of 1996 (Act No.108 of 1996), Public Service Commission Act and the Public Service Act. Chapter ten of the Constitution gives PSC a mandate to ensure that the egalitarian values and principles governing public administration are maintained by government departments, organizations, parastatals and administrations providing the PS, where in this study focus on the promotion of ethics. The methodology used in this study is qualitative research methodology. The study used desktop research where by a data was collected using books, journal articles, academic papers, online information and media reports. The findings of this study highlighted that non-compliance to rules and regulations, lack of policy implementation, limited financial and human resources are still the major problems facing the South African Public Service (SAPS). However, the study recommends that, the PSC must work closely with government departments, promotion of ethics workshops and conferences. In a nutshell, the PSC could improve by developing and regularly reviewing policies, procedures, practices and institutions influencing ethical conduct in the public service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Butana, Vulikhaya
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Public administration -- Moral and ethical aspects Civil service ethics Public administration
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10295 , vital:35391
- Description: After the fall of the apartheid government with discriminatory laws and the rise and dawn of democracy in South Africa (SA), the government had to restructure the Public Service (PS). The creation and development of PS legislations and policies to regulate the PS took place. The PSC in 1999 was developed to monitor and steer the operation of the PS. The main objective of this study is to assess the Public Service Commission (PSC) in promoting the professional and ethical environment in the Public Service (PS). The PSC is an independent and impartial body or institution which is mandated by the Republic of South African Constitution of 1996 (Act No.108 of 1996), Public Service Commission Act and the Public Service Act. Chapter ten of the Constitution gives PSC a mandate to ensure that the egalitarian values and principles governing public administration are maintained by government departments, organizations, parastatals and administrations providing the PS, where in this study focus on the promotion of ethics. The methodology used in this study is qualitative research methodology. The study used desktop research where by a data was collected using books, journal articles, academic papers, online information and media reports. The findings of this study highlighted that non-compliance to rules and regulations, lack of policy implementation, limited financial and human resources are still the major problems facing the South African Public Service (SAPS). However, the study recommends that, the PSC must work closely with government departments, promotion of ethics workshops and conferences. In a nutshell, the PSC could improve by developing and regularly reviewing policies, procedures, practices and institutions influencing ethical conduct in the public service.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
An assessment of the implementation of small, medium and micro enterprise strategy : a case of Amathole Municipality
- Authors: Oyelana, Akeem Adewale
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Small business--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15171 , vital:40193
- Description: The implementation of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) strategy are not well understood and have rarely been addressed all nationally. The objectives of this study are, therefore, to establish a base level of understanding in order to assess the implementation of SMME strategy used by the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) Local Economic Development (LED) managers in disseminating information; analyse the structure for implementing SMME strategy used by the ADM LED managers; examine the challenges confronting the ADM LED managers in implementing SMME strategy; examine the skills needed by the ADM LED managers to adequately formulate and implement SMME strategy; and make recommendations to the municipality on how best the implementation of SMME strategy can support growth and development in the ADM. The study used a qualitative research design that involves a systematic review of documents. Data was collected through the review and analysis of available existing documents. Data analysis included using the documentary analysis derived from the journals, and books as well as reviewing the various data analysis done in relation to an assessment of the implementation of SMME strategy: A Case of Amathole District Municipality. Findings from previous literature revealed that there are constraints faced by the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) Local Economic Development (LED) Managers in implementing SMME strategy. The study confirmed some of the operational challenges were due to incompetency among the municipal managers, and lack of clear understanding of the implementation of SMME strategy used to support grow and development of SMME in the Amathole District. This study provides effective solutions to the identified challenges and impact as well as strategies to be adopted in order to alleviate poverty and provide job opportunities to the local communities. The implications of the findings are that unless the barriers named above are resolved, poverty and unemployment will continues escalating, communities will continue receiving and experiencing poor service delivery in the ADM and thus, would undoubtedly lead to poor economic growth and development. Management of the municipality must ensure that qualified ADM Managers are permanently employed and allowed to partake in the implementation of SMME strategy and community participation should be well encouraged as well as embarking on effective implementation of SMME strategy that would create an enabling and conducive environment for the small firm enterprises.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Oyelana, Akeem Adewale
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Small business--South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15171 , vital:40193
- Description: The implementation of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) strategy are not well understood and have rarely been addressed all nationally. The objectives of this study are, therefore, to establish a base level of understanding in order to assess the implementation of SMME strategy used by the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) Local Economic Development (LED) managers in disseminating information; analyse the structure for implementing SMME strategy used by the ADM LED managers; examine the challenges confronting the ADM LED managers in implementing SMME strategy; examine the skills needed by the ADM LED managers to adequately formulate and implement SMME strategy; and make recommendations to the municipality on how best the implementation of SMME strategy can support growth and development in the ADM. The study used a qualitative research design that involves a systematic review of documents. Data was collected through the review and analysis of available existing documents. Data analysis included using the documentary analysis derived from the journals, and books as well as reviewing the various data analysis done in relation to an assessment of the implementation of SMME strategy: A Case of Amathole District Municipality. Findings from previous literature revealed that there are constraints faced by the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) Local Economic Development (LED) Managers in implementing SMME strategy. The study confirmed some of the operational challenges were due to incompetency among the municipal managers, and lack of clear understanding of the implementation of SMME strategy used to support grow and development of SMME in the Amathole District. This study provides effective solutions to the identified challenges and impact as well as strategies to be adopted in order to alleviate poverty and provide job opportunities to the local communities. The implications of the findings are that unless the barriers named above are resolved, poverty and unemployment will continues escalating, communities will continue receiving and experiencing poor service delivery in the ADM and thus, would undoubtedly lead to poor economic growth and development. Management of the municipality must ensure that qualified ADM Managers are permanently employed and allowed to partake in the implementation of SMME strategy and community participation should be well encouraged as well as embarking on effective implementation of SMME strategy that would create an enabling and conducive environment for the small firm enterprises.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A trust based model for enhanced adoption of diabetes self-management mobile applications
- Authors: Mainoti, Ganizani Fidelis
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medical records -- Data processing Medical records -- Management Mobile communication systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11041 , vital:37011
- Description: Information technology (IT) trust is an important concept as people today rely more on IT to perform their tasks than before. Extensive research in Information Systems (IS) has explored trust and how it affects clients’ selection of different IT artefacts. Literature found trust to be a key determinant of technology use and an accelerator of understanding user perceptions regarding technology. Users’ perception of a technology’s characteristics influences their initial decision to adopt it; they are less likely to try the technology once they perceive significant risk linked to the technology exploration. The study focused on trust in relation to adoption of mobile applications (apps) for self-management of diabetic treatment regimens. The aim was to identify factors that should be incorporated in these apps to positively influence user perception of trustworthiness for enhanced adoption. According to extant literature, there are a myriad of apps which are available and ready for use, but diabetic patients are not maximising these opportunities to actively participate in managing their conditions. This is in spite of the numerous benefits accruable from using these apps to aid treatment regimens away from clinical settings or with minimal involvement of health personnel. This work is a qualitative study that investigated the reasons behind the low levels of trust in mobile applications for self-management of diabetes. The research design involved a survey and the study employed interviews for primary data collection. Twenty participants were engaged in the intervention. Some of these respondents were diabetic patients on treatment and others were health staff specialising in diabetes treatment. The participants were asked to download and try, for one month or more, the Diabetes:M app from Google play store for android devices or from iTunes for IOS devices. Thereafter, interviews were held with the participants to investigate their perceptions of the diabetes management app. Based on the outcome of the investigation, the researcher put forward a model proposing the attributes of trustworthiness of diabetes self-management mobile apps for enhanced adoption. Research findings showed that the apps for diabetes self-management should be usable, possess sufficient functionalities, give accurate information for decision-making, be reliable, and secure in order to enhance the trust of diabetic patients.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mainoti, Ganizani Fidelis
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Medical records -- Data processing Medical records -- Management Mobile communication systems
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11041 , vital:37011
- Description: Information technology (IT) trust is an important concept as people today rely more on IT to perform their tasks than before. Extensive research in Information Systems (IS) has explored trust and how it affects clients’ selection of different IT artefacts. Literature found trust to be a key determinant of technology use and an accelerator of understanding user perceptions regarding technology. Users’ perception of a technology’s characteristics influences their initial decision to adopt it; they are less likely to try the technology once they perceive significant risk linked to the technology exploration. The study focused on trust in relation to adoption of mobile applications (apps) for self-management of diabetic treatment regimens. The aim was to identify factors that should be incorporated in these apps to positively influence user perception of trustworthiness for enhanced adoption. According to extant literature, there are a myriad of apps which are available and ready for use, but diabetic patients are not maximising these opportunities to actively participate in managing their conditions. This is in spite of the numerous benefits accruable from using these apps to aid treatment regimens away from clinical settings or with minimal involvement of health personnel. This work is a qualitative study that investigated the reasons behind the low levels of trust in mobile applications for self-management of diabetes. The research design involved a survey and the study employed interviews for primary data collection. Twenty participants were engaged in the intervention. Some of these respondents were diabetic patients on treatment and others were health staff specialising in diabetes treatment. The participants were asked to download and try, for one month or more, the Diabetes:M app from Google play store for android devices or from iTunes for IOS devices. Thereafter, interviews were held with the participants to investigate their perceptions of the diabetes management app. Based on the outcome of the investigation, the researcher put forward a model proposing the attributes of trustworthiness of diabetes self-management mobile apps for enhanced adoption. Research findings showed that the apps for diabetes self-management should be usable, possess sufficient functionalities, give accurate information for decision-making, be reliable, and secure in order to enhance the trust of diabetic patients.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
A critical assessment of the performance management system and its effect on service delivery : a case study of the Eastern Cape Department of Education
- Authors: Nela, Nobelungu Diana
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance--Management Performance standards--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15133 , vital:40189
- Description: The study focused on a critical assessment of the performance management system and its impact on service delivery: a case study of the Eastern Cape Department of Education, South Africa. Significantly poor performance by the department is also experienced in different areas of the establishment. The theory employed is the Balanced Score Card. A Balanced Score Card is a strategic performance management tool in the form of a semi-structured report supported by tested design methods and tools that can be used by managers to keep track of execution of activities by the staff within their control. The research approach that was used in the study was a mixed method, which is a combination of the quantitative and qualitative methods. Mixed method is chosen because of its strength of drawing on both qualitative and quantitative research and minimizing the limitations of both approaches. The data collected was categorised into themes and it is from these themes and / or patterns that the main findings of the research study were formulated for the qualitative part of the research study. Quantitative data was analysed using inferential statistics and the interview guide was transcribed. Analytic induction was used as a method to analyse qualitative data. For interview guide semi – structured interview guide was used to study principal’s views and for the inferential statistics. For quantitative aspect of the questionnaire data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Three instruments were employed to collect data in the study, the questionnaire, semi-structured interview and document analysis. The research showed that the training failed to teach what successful performance is, as expected, among others. The study also indicated that EMS PMDS is not assessing employees’ performance accurately. The results showed that no discussion on ways of improving performance is made where performance has not met minimum standards. The study recommends education and adequate training of departmental employees as well as monitoring and evaluation of the process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Nela, Nobelungu Diana
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Performance--Management Performance standards--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15133 , vital:40189
- Description: The study focused on a critical assessment of the performance management system and its impact on service delivery: a case study of the Eastern Cape Department of Education, South Africa. Significantly poor performance by the department is also experienced in different areas of the establishment. The theory employed is the Balanced Score Card. A Balanced Score Card is a strategic performance management tool in the form of a semi-structured report supported by tested design methods and tools that can be used by managers to keep track of execution of activities by the staff within their control. The research approach that was used in the study was a mixed method, which is a combination of the quantitative and qualitative methods. Mixed method is chosen because of its strength of drawing on both qualitative and quantitative research and minimizing the limitations of both approaches. The data collected was categorised into themes and it is from these themes and / or patterns that the main findings of the research study were formulated for the qualitative part of the research study. Quantitative data was analysed using inferential statistics and the interview guide was transcribed. Analytic induction was used as a method to analyse qualitative data. For interview guide semi – structured interview guide was used to study principal’s views and for the inferential statistics. For quantitative aspect of the questionnaire data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Three instruments were employed to collect data in the study, the questionnaire, semi-structured interview and document analysis. The research showed that the training failed to teach what successful performance is, as expected, among others. The study also indicated that EMS PMDS is not assessing employees’ performance accurately. The results showed that no discussion on ways of improving performance is made where performance has not met minimum standards. The study recommends education and adequate training of departmental employees as well as monitoring and evaluation of the process.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
The nexus between savings, investment and foreign capital in South Africa : an application of the Feldstein-Horioka puzzle
- Authors: Mtolo, Inga
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa Saving and investment -- South Africa Capital movements -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8968 , vital:34177
- Description: This study investigates the relationship between savings, investment and foreign capital in South Africa, with special focus on the application of the Feldstein-Horioka theory. South Africa is a country that is still faced with relatively low saving levels. Given the low savings experienced by the country, available literature has alluded that foreign capital has played a greater role as the major driver of private investment expenditure in South Africa. Based on this background, the study empirically investigates the relationship between savings, investment and foreign capital utilising the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model estimation technique for the period 1965 to 2015. The empirical results revealed that there is a positive and significant relationship between savings and investment in South Africa. The empirical results also show that for the period 1995 to 2015, the different types of external financial flows utilized in the study and investment have a positive relationship. These results have been consistent with our apriori expectations and other prior studies. This suggests that, in the case of South Africa, apart from interest rates, there are other factors that determine investment. The positive relationship between investment and foreign capital flows suggest that policies which are aimed at attracting the different types of foreign financial flows should be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mtolo, Inga
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa Saving and investment -- South Africa Capital movements -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8968 , vital:34177
- Description: This study investigates the relationship between savings, investment and foreign capital in South Africa, with special focus on the application of the Feldstein-Horioka theory. South Africa is a country that is still faced with relatively low saving levels. Given the low savings experienced by the country, available literature has alluded that foreign capital has played a greater role as the major driver of private investment expenditure in South Africa. Based on this background, the study empirically investigates the relationship between savings, investment and foreign capital utilising the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model estimation technique for the period 1965 to 2015. The empirical results revealed that there is a positive and significant relationship between savings and investment in South Africa. The empirical results also show that for the period 1995 to 2015, the different types of external financial flows utilized in the study and investment have a positive relationship. These results have been consistent with our apriori expectations and other prior studies. This suggests that, in the case of South Africa, apart from interest rates, there are other factors that determine investment. The positive relationship between investment and foreign capital flows suggest that policies which are aimed at attracting the different types of foreign financial flows should be implemented.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018