The role of African theology and spirituality in bereavement among Xhosa children
- Authors: Diniso Patrick Mncedisi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Bereavement in children -- Religious aspects Black theology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17839 , vital:41374
- Description: The background to this study highlights the fact that Xhosa children are not being taken care of during bereavement. There is no theological guidance applied to them, to say the least. There are devotions that are usually conducted by lay preachers (Preachers that are not trained as Pastors/Therapists) who do their utmost best to support bereaved families, and this is done out of love. The challenge, however, is that the language mostly used by these preachers does not seem to accommodate children, as there are expressions that do not make any sense to children such as: tutwini, imela igobele esandleni. These are good and relevant concepts as they underpin the reality of death and the need for comfort during bereavement. However, these need to be communicated in a language that can be understood by children. Due to this identified problem, the researcher deemed it necessary to undertake this study. This study comprises five (5) chapters. In chapter one (1), the researcher focused on the research background and introduction. Chapter two (2) dealt with the literature review of this study. The chapter comprises three sections: generic literature review section, theory base section and primary literature review section. In chapter three (3), the focus is on research methodology and its components. Concepts such as sampling procedures, research instrument and research design are dealt with. In chapter four (4), the researcher dealt with concepts such as data analysis, interpretation and presentation of findings. Chapter five dealt with the research recommendations as per the role of the church (Free Church in Southern Africa [FSA]). The researcher is convinced that this work has done justice in addressing the identified gap in care giving for bereaved Xhosa children. The need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children has been highlighted; findings and practical recommendations have also been presented to meet such a need. These confirmed the need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children. The next section contains the appendix list, namely: appendix one (1), two (2) and three (3).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Diniso Patrick Mncedisi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Bereavement in children -- Religious aspects Black theology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17839 , vital:41374
- Description: The background to this study highlights the fact that Xhosa children are not being taken care of during bereavement. There is no theological guidance applied to them, to say the least. There are devotions that are usually conducted by lay preachers (Preachers that are not trained as Pastors/Therapists) who do their utmost best to support bereaved families, and this is done out of love. The challenge, however, is that the language mostly used by these preachers does not seem to accommodate children, as there are expressions that do not make any sense to children such as: tutwini, imela igobele esandleni. These are good and relevant concepts as they underpin the reality of death and the need for comfort during bereavement. However, these need to be communicated in a language that can be understood by children. Due to this identified problem, the researcher deemed it necessary to undertake this study. This study comprises five (5) chapters. In chapter one (1), the researcher focused on the research background and introduction. Chapter two (2) dealt with the literature review of this study. The chapter comprises three sections: generic literature review section, theory base section and primary literature review section. In chapter three (3), the focus is on research methodology and its components. Concepts such as sampling procedures, research instrument and research design are dealt with. In chapter four (4), the researcher dealt with concepts such as data analysis, interpretation and presentation of findings. Chapter five dealt with the research recommendations as per the role of the church (Free Church in Southern Africa [FSA]). The researcher is convinced that this work has done justice in addressing the identified gap in care giving for bereaved Xhosa children. The need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children has been highlighted; findings and practical recommendations have also been presented to meet such a need. These confirmed the need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children. The next section contains the appendix list, namely: appendix one (1), two (2) and three (3).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Empowerment of women victicms of domestic violence in Ntabethemba ,Tsolwana Municipality:an ecclesiastical function of Evangelical Presbyterian church of South Africa
- Authors: Mraji, Thomakazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Church work with abused women - - South Africa Abused women -- Pastoral counseling of Family violence -- Religious aspects -- Christianity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10382 , vital:35443
- Description: This research study investigated the empowerment of women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba, Tsolwana Municipality: An Ecclesiastical Function of Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to examine the intervention and involvement of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa in social development of women victims of domestic violence; and (ii) to investigate whether there are any available programs within the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa to empower women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba. This study used a qualitative paradigm and an exploratory research approach. It also employed in-depth one-on-one interviews complemented by focus group discussions as a method of data collection. The study used non-probability sampling, specifically purposive sampling technique. 32 participants were sampled, including: participants from Focus Group Discussions, which consisted of 7 clergy members, 7 members of Association of Presbyterian Women Executive Committee, 6 members of Men’s Christian Guild Executive Committee, 7 members of Imanyano Yee-Ntombi ZamaRabe Avangelayo Executive Committee, 5 members of Presbytery Council and 65 participants from Focused Group Discussions. These 65 participants derive from four congregations, namely; Trinity congregation, St. James congregation, St. Phillips congregation and Calvin congregation and from three associations, namely; APW, IYZA and MCG. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis which used the interpretative approach and textual presentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mraji, Thomakazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Church work with abused women - - South Africa Abused women -- Pastoral counseling of Family violence -- Religious aspects -- Christianity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10382 , vital:35443
- Description: This research study investigated the empowerment of women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba, Tsolwana Municipality: An Ecclesiastical Function of Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to examine the intervention and involvement of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa in social development of women victims of domestic violence; and (ii) to investigate whether there are any available programs within the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa to empower women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba. This study used a qualitative paradigm and an exploratory research approach. It also employed in-depth one-on-one interviews complemented by focus group discussions as a method of data collection. The study used non-probability sampling, specifically purposive sampling technique. 32 participants were sampled, including: participants from Focus Group Discussions, which consisted of 7 clergy members, 7 members of Association of Presbyterian Women Executive Committee, 6 members of Men’s Christian Guild Executive Committee, 7 members of Imanyano Yee-Ntombi ZamaRabe Avangelayo Executive Committee, 5 members of Presbytery Council and 65 participants from Focused Group Discussions. These 65 participants derive from four congregations, namely; Trinity congregation, St. James congregation, St. Phillips congregation and Calvin congregation and from three associations, namely; APW, IYZA and MCG. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis which used the interpretative approach and textual presentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring psycho-social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges : a case study of Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre Queenstown Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Fulani, Anathi Simnikiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social case work Behavior modification Behaviorism (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9853 , vital:35072
- Description: This research study explored and examined the psycho-social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges, at Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre, in the Eastern Cape Province. The study was premised by four objectives, firstly to investigate the effects of behaviour modification programmes on children, secondly to investigate the challenges faced by children who are on behaviour modification programmes, thirdly examine the support systems available from the social networks of the children, and lastly, to examine the intervention strategies provided by professionals. The researcher adopted a qualitative research method as it provides for an in-depth understanding of the research topic furthermore qualitative research provides for a more thick, descriptive, and detailed, interpersonal research findings which perfectly aliens with the psycho-social understandings and human centred research findings as compared to the more numerical and statistic producing results of a more quantitative study. The study employed an array of qualitative research methods including but not limited to in-depth interviews, open ended questions group discussions and sessions and observations. The study has been underpinned by both the social learning and behavioural theory respectively. The population in this study was made up of fifteen participants. The participants come from different towns in the Eastern Cape. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method specifically purposive technique. The data was analysed using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way. A collection of psycho - social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges in Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre were the study outcomes.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Fulani, Anathi Simnikiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social case work Behavior modification Behaviorism (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9853 , vital:35072
- Description: This research study explored and examined the psycho-social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges, at Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre, in the Eastern Cape Province. The study was premised by four objectives, firstly to investigate the effects of behaviour modification programmes on children, secondly to investigate the challenges faced by children who are on behaviour modification programmes, thirdly examine the support systems available from the social networks of the children, and lastly, to examine the intervention strategies provided by professionals. The researcher adopted a qualitative research method as it provides for an in-depth understanding of the research topic furthermore qualitative research provides for a more thick, descriptive, and detailed, interpersonal research findings which perfectly aliens with the psycho-social understandings and human centred research findings as compared to the more numerical and statistic producing results of a more quantitative study. The study employed an array of qualitative research methods including but not limited to in-depth interviews, open ended questions group discussions and sessions and observations. The study has been underpinned by both the social learning and behavioural theory respectively. The population in this study was made up of fifteen participants. The participants come from different towns in the Eastern Cape. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method specifically purposive technique. The data was analysed using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way. A collection of psycho - social effects of behaviour modification programmes on children with behavioural challenges in Gali Thembani Child and Youth Care Centre were the study outcomes.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
Richard Charles Nicholas Branson : a psychobiographical study
- Authors: Preston, Amanda Lorraine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Branson, Richard Charles Nicholas, -- 1950- Businessmen -- Great Britain -- Biography Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5543 , vital:29318
- Description: Unique individuals are fascinating as we all want to be successful. There is thus a need to understand, unpack and share the psychological development and traits that allow some people to become sui generis, and to learn from them. Psychobiographical research is a qualitative approach that can be utilised to uncover the story of such an individual life, resulting in greater understanding of the psychological concepts underpinning the person. This form of study is invaluable, and involves applying psychological theory to lives completed or unfinished, enabling the development and testing of developmental theories. Richard Branson (1950-present), an entrepreneur, adventurer, philanthropist and family man is the single psychological subject chosen in this study. Branson was selected based on interest value, his uniqueness and the lack of a specifically academic and psychologically focused case study on his life. The primary aim was to explore and describe Branson’s personality development across his life, to date. This was achieved by applying both Maslow’s (1954, 1970) theory of optimal development and Adler’s (1929, 1956) Individual Psychology theory to provide a comprehensive idiographic interpretation of the development of Branson. To achieve this, the case study utilised the systematic and consistent collection, analysis and interpretation of life history materials, highlighting three areas of development, namely Childhood, Adolescence and Adulthood. The theoretical frameworks were used to discern, transform and reconstruct his life into a coherent and illuminating narrative of his psychological movement through life. Alexander’s (1988; 1990) model of identifying salient themes was used to analyse data for analytical generalisation (Yin, 2009). The conceptual framework derived from the theoretical perspective was constructed to organize, integrate data, and guide the presentation and discussion of findings of the study in an integrative and comprehensive manner. The findings suggest both Maslow’s and Adler’s theories considered the biopsychosocial context in Branson’s personality development and, at least to some extent, supported concepts indicative of progression toward optimality through having met the needs of the ego actualisation of his self, toward transcending selfishness and attaining altruism and social interest. The study of Branson’s personality development has provided a positive demonstration of the value of Maslow’s (1970a) and Adler’s (1929, 1956) theories to understand the process of development. It has further highlighted the unique trajectory of an individual’s life, contextualized, as well as the possibility of being agents in our own lives and despite challenges, able to become our own idiosyncratic best. The study also highlights the need, at a macro level, for governments to assist those unable to satisfy basic needs such as food, shelter and safety, to set an imperative, to aid those who struggle if a country and its people are to be uplifted. In terms of Adlerian theory, the study highlights the importance of family and early experiences in supporting the earliest years of children to assist them to develop an identity that is healthy and socially useful. Finally, recommendations were made for future research utilising a psychobiographical research design to uncover, illuminate and reconstruct the lives of outstanding and interesting individuals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Preston, Amanda Lorraine
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Branson, Richard Charles Nicholas, -- 1950- Businessmen -- Great Britain -- Biography Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5543 , vital:29318
- Description: Unique individuals are fascinating as we all want to be successful. There is thus a need to understand, unpack and share the psychological development and traits that allow some people to become sui generis, and to learn from them. Psychobiographical research is a qualitative approach that can be utilised to uncover the story of such an individual life, resulting in greater understanding of the psychological concepts underpinning the person. This form of study is invaluable, and involves applying psychological theory to lives completed or unfinished, enabling the development and testing of developmental theories. Richard Branson (1950-present), an entrepreneur, adventurer, philanthropist and family man is the single psychological subject chosen in this study. Branson was selected based on interest value, his uniqueness and the lack of a specifically academic and psychologically focused case study on his life. The primary aim was to explore and describe Branson’s personality development across his life, to date. This was achieved by applying both Maslow’s (1954, 1970) theory of optimal development and Adler’s (1929, 1956) Individual Psychology theory to provide a comprehensive idiographic interpretation of the development of Branson. To achieve this, the case study utilised the systematic and consistent collection, analysis and interpretation of life history materials, highlighting three areas of development, namely Childhood, Adolescence and Adulthood. The theoretical frameworks were used to discern, transform and reconstruct his life into a coherent and illuminating narrative of his psychological movement through life. Alexander’s (1988; 1990) model of identifying salient themes was used to analyse data for analytical generalisation (Yin, 2009). The conceptual framework derived from the theoretical perspective was constructed to organize, integrate data, and guide the presentation and discussion of findings of the study in an integrative and comprehensive manner. The findings suggest both Maslow’s and Adler’s theories considered the biopsychosocial context in Branson’s personality development and, at least to some extent, supported concepts indicative of progression toward optimality through having met the needs of the ego actualisation of his self, toward transcending selfishness and attaining altruism and social interest. The study of Branson’s personality development has provided a positive demonstration of the value of Maslow’s (1970a) and Adler’s (1929, 1956) theories to understand the process of development. It has further highlighted the unique trajectory of an individual’s life, contextualized, as well as the possibility of being agents in our own lives and despite challenges, able to become our own idiosyncratic best. The study also highlights the need, at a macro level, for governments to assist those unable to satisfy basic needs such as food, shelter and safety, to set an imperative, to aid those who struggle if a country and its people are to be uplifted. In terms of Adlerian theory, the study highlights the importance of family and early experiences in supporting the earliest years of children to assist them to develop an identity that is healthy and socially useful. Finally, recommendations were made for future research utilising a psychobiographical research design to uncover, illuminate and reconstruct the lives of outstanding and interesting individuals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Gang and gang related incidents in selected correctional centres in the Eastern Cape : a behaviour analysis
- Authors: Fitz, Lincoln Gustav
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Prison gangs -- South Africa Corrections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Prisons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9297 , vital:34319
- Description: Institutional gangs, also known as the numbers gangs, have become a serious threat to the effective administration of correctional facilities in South Africa. Prior the 1980s, these gangs were active only in correctional centres, but due to modern trends in criminal activity and the gangs’ extensive drug operations, they have become active within communities too. The numbers gangs have a national network that controls activities in all correctional centres across South Africa; this network operates effectively and independently of geographical areas. The numbers gangs contribute a large proportion of all disciplinary offences (e.g., assault, smuggling, escape, sodomy, etc.) that take place in South African correctional centres. The purpose of this study was to explore the social and cultural dynamics of selected correctional centres, in order to understand the extent to which institutional gangs control and manipulate the correctional environment. The study also focussed on the individual-level characteristics of inmates as a contributing factor for deviant behaviour. The social processes that manifest in institutional misconduct and violence in correctional centres have been explained in the literature according to three theoretical perspectives; namely, the importation, deprivation and situational contextual perspectives. To develop a better understanding of the phenomenon of gang activities in correctional centres, this study is grounded in the Social Structure and Social Learning theory to explore the individual, social and cultural dynamics of the centre, making reference to these three perspectives. A mixed research design, comprising both qualitative and quantitative aspects, characterised the methodology used in this study. The data informing the study consisted of primary data (observations, interviews and questionnaires) and secondary data (source documents), with 151 inmates and several centre officials in three Eastern Cape correctional centres participating. This study was substantial for several reasons. It confirmed the findings of prior studies with respect to personal and social characteristics that inmates import into correctional centres, and, in addition, it expanded the existing literature with respect to how and why inmates import their deviant behaviour into correctional centres. It further brought a new element to the field of criminology, in identifying the demographic characteristics of inmates that contribute towards institutional gang membership and violence in correctional centres. The study also expanded upon prior findings regarding risk factors associated with institutional gang membership by developing a prediction model to predict possible gang membership prior to and after incarceration. Finally, this is the first known empirical study to examine the social and cultural contexts of gang membership in correctional centres in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Fitz, Lincoln Gustav
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Prison gangs -- South Africa Corrections -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Prisons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9297 , vital:34319
- Description: Institutional gangs, also known as the numbers gangs, have become a serious threat to the effective administration of correctional facilities in South Africa. Prior the 1980s, these gangs were active only in correctional centres, but due to modern trends in criminal activity and the gangs’ extensive drug operations, they have become active within communities too. The numbers gangs have a national network that controls activities in all correctional centres across South Africa; this network operates effectively and independently of geographical areas. The numbers gangs contribute a large proportion of all disciplinary offences (e.g., assault, smuggling, escape, sodomy, etc.) that take place in South African correctional centres. The purpose of this study was to explore the social and cultural dynamics of selected correctional centres, in order to understand the extent to which institutional gangs control and manipulate the correctional environment. The study also focussed on the individual-level characteristics of inmates as a contributing factor for deviant behaviour. The social processes that manifest in institutional misconduct and violence in correctional centres have been explained in the literature according to three theoretical perspectives; namely, the importation, deprivation and situational contextual perspectives. To develop a better understanding of the phenomenon of gang activities in correctional centres, this study is grounded in the Social Structure and Social Learning theory to explore the individual, social and cultural dynamics of the centre, making reference to these three perspectives. A mixed research design, comprising both qualitative and quantitative aspects, characterised the methodology used in this study. The data informing the study consisted of primary data (observations, interviews and questionnaires) and secondary data (source documents), with 151 inmates and several centre officials in three Eastern Cape correctional centres participating. This study was substantial for several reasons. It confirmed the findings of prior studies with respect to personal and social characteristics that inmates import into correctional centres, and, in addition, it expanded the existing literature with respect to how and why inmates import their deviant behaviour into correctional centres. It further brought a new element to the field of criminology, in identifying the demographic characteristics of inmates that contribute towards institutional gang membership and violence in correctional centres. The study also expanded upon prior findings regarding risk factors associated with institutional gang membership by developing a prediction model to predict possible gang membership prior to and after incarceration. Finally, this is the first known empirical study to examine the social and cultural contexts of gang membership in correctional centres in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Inter-role conflict and coping strategies of employed mothers : a study of selected private schools in the Mthatha area of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Tegbe, Dzigbordi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Role conflict Working mothers Women -- Employment , Children of working mothers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7830 , vital:30768
- Description: Working women are finding it increasingly challenging to establish a balance between work and family life. This often results in work-family conflicts which affect women teachers’ well-being. The current study utilised role theory to investigate the effect of work-family conflicts on work related income, using the Mthatha community as case study. The study explored the impact of inter-role conflict on stress related illness and the coping strategies working women can adopt to create work-family balance. The motivation of the study is based on limited research regarding the impact of work-family on South African working mothers, where feminisation of labour force is compelling women to devote more time to their work roles thus neglecting their traditional roles as mothers. The research design used a cross section survey, and the sampling procedure applied a multi-stage concept of data collection, where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to delve into the issues of inter-role conflict and coping strategies of employed mother-teachers, to establish causal relationships geared towards explaining the phenomena. The population consisted of working mothers in Mthatha private schools, where data was collected using a work-family conflict questionnaire. The results of the study established a positive relationship between the multi-tasking of mother-teachers and inter-role conflicts, and also confirmed that work roles/tasks have become overwhelming. Consequently, working women families are neglected, while support from extended families is not coming or is insufficient to alleviate the burdens of role conflicts. The conflicts lead to stress-related illnesses and individually, women are not interested in consulting psychologists to manage their stress. The women suffer ailments such as headaches, general pains, sleep dysfunction, high or low blood pressure, heart diseases, and become moody and tearful, expressing low self-esteem. Women teachers in Mthatha were of the view that proper strategies are needed to mitigate their stress. Some of these coping strategies involve a good condition of service at school, refraining from applying medication to solve stress, taking part in exercise and rest, and having a relaxing time with family and friends. The findings of this study can help through suggesting useful strategies that can be utilised by working teachers who are mothers to mitigate their inter-role conflict. It will also lead to more insight into role theories.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Tegbe, Dzigbordi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Role conflict Working mothers Women -- Employment , Children of working mothers
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7830 , vital:30768
- Description: Working women are finding it increasingly challenging to establish a balance between work and family life. This often results in work-family conflicts which affect women teachers’ well-being. The current study utilised role theory to investigate the effect of work-family conflicts on work related income, using the Mthatha community as case study. The study explored the impact of inter-role conflict on stress related illness and the coping strategies working women can adopt to create work-family balance. The motivation of the study is based on limited research regarding the impact of work-family on South African working mothers, where feminisation of labour force is compelling women to devote more time to their work roles thus neglecting their traditional roles as mothers. The research design used a cross section survey, and the sampling procedure applied a multi-stage concept of data collection, where both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to delve into the issues of inter-role conflict and coping strategies of employed mother-teachers, to establish causal relationships geared towards explaining the phenomena. The population consisted of working mothers in Mthatha private schools, where data was collected using a work-family conflict questionnaire. The results of the study established a positive relationship between the multi-tasking of mother-teachers and inter-role conflicts, and also confirmed that work roles/tasks have become overwhelming. Consequently, working women families are neglected, while support from extended families is not coming or is insufficient to alleviate the burdens of role conflicts. The conflicts lead to stress-related illnesses and individually, women are not interested in consulting psychologists to manage their stress. The women suffer ailments such as headaches, general pains, sleep dysfunction, high or low blood pressure, heart diseases, and become moody and tearful, expressing low self-esteem. Women teachers in Mthatha were of the view that proper strategies are needed to mitigate their stress. Some of these coping strategies involve a good condition of service at school, refraining from applying medication to solve stress, taking part in exercise and rest, and having a relaxing time with family and friends. The findings of this study can help through suggesting useful strategies that can be utilised by working teachers who are mothers to mitigate their inter-role conflict. It will also lead to more insight into role theories.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The 'failure-success' dichotomy in migration discourse and practice : revisiting reverse migration deterrents for South Africa based Zimbabwean skilled migrants
- Authors: Nzima, Divane
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Return migration -- Zimbabwe Return migration -- South Africa Zimbabwe -- Emigration and immigration -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5434 , vital:29243
- Description: The study was conceptualised against the background that leading migration theories explain return migration based on failure and success alone. The neo-classical economics theory of migration perceives return migration as a by-product of a failed migration experience while the new economics of labour migration perceives return as occurring after successful achievement of migration objectives. This study questions these theoretical positions through an exploration of the factors that deter South Africa-based Zimbabwean skilled migrants from returning home permanently notwithstanding a successful or failed migration experience. Furtive economic factors in Zimbabwe and South Africa that dissuade skilled migrants from returning home permanently are explored. Social factors in Zimbabwe and in South Africa that influence return migration decision making are also examined. Furthermore, the study analysed whether and how Zimbabwean skilled migrants are forced into a permanent settlement in South Africa as a result of what this study calls the ‘diaspora trap’. This ‘diaspora trap’ framework argues that Zimbabwean skilled migrants in South Africa do not return following their experiences of failure and success in South Africa. Central to the absence of return is the social construction of migrants as successful in Zimbabwe. Skilled migrants are deterred from returning due to their failure to meet family and communal expectations of success. In addition, return migration is deferred as a means to hide poverty in South Africa. Moreover, new diaspora family ties weaken attachments with Zimbabwe and contribute to deferred return migration. Skilled migrants are thus entrapped in South Africa by their failure to live up to the success social construct and the inability to mitigate adversities in the host country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nzima, Divane
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Return migration -- Zimbabwe Return migration -- South Africa Zimbabwe -- Emigration and immigration -- Economic aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5434 , vital:29243
- Description: The study was conceptualised against the background that leading migration theories explain return migration based on failure and success alone. The neo-classical economics theory of migration perceives return migration as a by-product of a failed migration experience while the new economics of labour migration perceives return as occurring after successful achievement of migration objectives. This study questions these theoretical positions through an exploration of the factors that deter South Africa-based Zimbabwean skilled migrants from returning home permanently notwithstanding a successful or failed migration experience. Furtive economic factors in Zimbabwe and South Africa that dissuade skilled migrants from returning home permanently are explored. Social factors in Zimbabwe and in South Africa that influence return migration decision making are also examined. Furthermore, the study analysed whether and how Zimbabwean skilled migrants are forced into a permanent settlement in South Africa as a result of what this study calls the ‘diaspora trap’. This ‘diaspora trap’ framework argues that Zimbabwean skilled migrants in South Africa do not return following their experiences of failure and success in South Africa. Central to the absence of return is the social construction of migrants as successful in Zimbabwe. Skilled migrants are deterred from returning due to their failure to meet family and communal expectations of success. In addition, return migration is deferred as a means to hide poverty in South Africa. Moreover, new diaspora family ties weaken attachments with Zimbabwe and contribute to deferred return migration. Skilled migrants are thus entrapped in South Africa by their failure to live up to the success social construct and the inability to mitigate adversities in the host country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Informal urbanism : an appraisal of socio-legal and economic dynamics in East London, South Africa
- Authors: Sibanda, Phaxenda Maxwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Street vendors -- Legal status, laws, etc Informal sector (Economics) -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5763 , vital:29381
- Description: Many cities and towns in the Global South continue to experience the growth of the informal sector. There are a number of reasons which explain the growth of the informal sector. These include formal sector retrenchments, shortage of jobs in the formal sector and lack of skills. Street vendors are the most visible traders in the informal sector as compared to other kind of traders. In many cities, the spaces in which vendors conduct their trading is not allocated to them legally as they are seen as a nuisance or obstruction to commerce and the free flow of traffic. Against this background, this study examines the contestation for vending in the East London Central Business District (CBD) Eastern Cape, South Africa. It specifically explores social processes and vendor decision making when it comes to choosing (or claiming) a particular vending space, the legal instruments (by-laws) that either promote or constrain informal trading activities. Furthermore, it investigates the extent to which street vending contributes to the traders‟ income generation and sustainable livelihoods. This study uses a qualitative research design. Purposive sampling was used to select thirty informal traders. In-depth semi structured interviews were conducted with all thirty respondents In addition to the thirty respondents, five key informants were interviewed. The study found that street vending plays a major role in providing BCMM people with livelihood opportunities. Trading space in the CBD is strictly competitive and the spaces they acquire are too small for their businesses to expand to another level. Vendors face a lot of challenges but at the epitome of their challenges is the vending by- laws which the vendors view as a major constraint when it comes to operating smoothly in the streets. The study suggested that vending polices and by- laws be reviewed in order to derive a better socio- economic and functional environment for vendors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sibanda, Phaxenda Maxwell
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Street vendors -- Legal status, laws, etc Informal sector (Economics) -- Law and legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5763 , vital:29381
- Description: Many cities and towns in the Global South continue to experience the growth of the informal sector. There are a number of reasons which explain the growth of the informal sector. These include formal sector retrenchments, shortage of jobs in the formal sector and lack of skills. Street vendors are the most visible traders in the informal sector as compared to other kind of traders. In many cities, the spaces in which vendors conduct their trading is not allocated to them legally as they are seen as a nuisance or obstruction to commerce and the free flow of traffic. Against this background, this study examines the contestation for vending in the East London Central Business District (CBD) Eastern Cape, South Africa. It specifically explores social processes and vendor decision making when it comes to choosing (or claiming) a particular vending space, the legal instruments (by-laws) that either promote or constrain informal trading activities. Furthermore, it investigates the extent to which street vending contributes to the traders‟ income generation and sustainable livelihoods. This study uses a qualitative research design. Purposive sampling was used to select thirty informal traders. In-depth semi structured interviews were conducted with all thirty respondents In addition to the thirty respondents, five key informants were interviewed. The study found that street vending plays a major role in providing BCMM people with livelihood opportunities. Trading space in the CBD is strictly competitive and the spaces they acquire are too small for their businesses to expand to another level. Vendors face a lot of challenges but at the epitome of their challenges is the vending by- laws which the vendors view as a major constraint when it comes to operating smoothly in the streets. The study suggested that vending polices and by- laws be reviewed in order to derive a better socio- economic and functional environment for vendors.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
"A sociological investigation of the influence of regular school feeding scheme on learners' academic performance at Ngqele Primary School in Nkonkobe municipality, Eastern Cape"
- Authors: James, Ntombovuyo Gloria
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School children--Health and hygiene Nutrition--South Africa--Eastern Cape School attendance--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Sociology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11516 , vital:39079
- Description: This study sought to examine a sociological approach of the influence of regular provision of school feeding scheme on learners’ academic performance at Ngqele Primary School, Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study explored the views of teachers and parents pertaining to regular provision of school feeding scheme on learners’ academic performance. In addition, the study examined the impact of regular provision of school feeding scheme on school attendance and the sustainability of the regular provision of school feeding scheme. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative research methods in the form of in-depth interviews, and a survey method. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling and cluster sampling to generate the targeted participants of the study. The findings of the study have shown that the school feeding scheme has got an impact on learner’s academic performance due to the fact that learners are able to listen and pay attention to the teacher if they are fed, the SFS has a positive impact on learners’ attendance and high enrolment. However, the study has also shown that, despite the positive impact of the school feeding Scheme, there were some challenges that also impacted negatively on learners, the school and the implementation of the programme. Such challenges include irregular supply of food, food shortages and poor quality of food.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: James, Ntombovuyo Gloria
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School children--Health and hygiene Nutrition--South Africa--Eastern Cape School attendance--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Sociology
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11516 , vital:39079
- Description: This study sought to examine a sociological approach of the influence of regular provision of school feeding scheme on learners’ academic performance at Ngqele Primary School, Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The study explored the views of teachers and parents pertaining to regular provision of school feeding scheme on learners’ academic performance. In addition, the study examined the impact of regular provision of school feeding scheme on school attendance and the sustainability of the regular provision of school feeding scheme. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative research methods in the form of in-depth interviews, and a survey method. The process was made possible through the use of purposive sampling and cluster sampling to generate the targeted participants of the study. The findings of the study have shown that the school feeding scheme has got an impact on learner’s academic performance due to the fact that learners are able to listen and pay attention to the teacher if they are fed, the SFS has a positive impact on learners’ attendance and high enrolment. However, the study has also shown that, despite the positive impact of the school feeding Scheme, there were some challenges that also impacted negatively on learners, the school and the implementation of the programme. Such challenges include irregular supply of food, food shortages and poor quality of food.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating the effects of foster care placement on childhood development : a study of Berlin location, Buffalo City municipality
- Authors: Mbonda, Mamela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Foster home care Orphans Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15343 , vital:40399
- Description: The number of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa is drastically increasing which leads to most children being put in a foster care system. Yet there are great lacunae within its implementation; facilitation and monitoring which effectively affect the children involved. This evoked interest to the researcher on evaluating the effects of foster placement on childhood development; a study of Berlin Location, Buffalo City Municipality. The study intended to fulfil the following objectives: 1. To document environments that challenges foster care placement as an intervention of child placement; 2. To understand the negative impacts of foster care on a child’s psychosocial development; 3. To explore the impact of host parent’s culture to the child’s adaptation; 4. To establish the strengths and weaknesses of the South African child protection system. The study utilized qualitative paradigms guided by the qualitative research approach by adopting a case study cum phenomenological design. It employed in-depth interviews, focus groups, key informants as data collection methods. The study used both non-probability and probability sampling methods of which purposive and simple random sampling technique was utilised. The population of study was made up of twenty (20) participants who were incorporated of five (5) foster parents, five (5) key informants and ten (10) foster children. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following findings: (i) challenges pertaining to adjustment to home milieu, (ii) lack of knowledge on foster parents’ rights and responsibilities, (iii) inadequateness of foster grant, (iv) cultural deviance, (v) prevalence of drug use and teenage pregnancy, (vi) dire lack of awareness raising sessions for the foster parents and their children, (vii) identity crisis disposition displayed by foster children, (viii) lack of individualizing cases of foster care placement by the social workers, (ix) efficiency of alternative care in comparison to residential care, (x) internalization of emotions by foster children, (xi) continued void for the biological mother’s love and affection,(xii) paucity of monitoring services to children, (xiii) information sharing and capacity building workshops for social workers a prerequisite, (xiv) Effectiveness of authoritative parenting a successful method and difficulty with telling foster children about their background. The study findings made the following recommendations: Strengthening inter-sectoral relationships and capacitate different stakeholders; Emphasis on early intervention and preventative programmes; Enforcement of punishment measure for incompliance; Implementation of training for foster parents and children; Foster care process made a specialization for social workers, Government to invest on psychosocial support and capacitating workshops for social workers. The researcher, therefore, hopes to have fulfilled the study objectives and further explored all the requirements of the study during data collection. More-so, fulfilment of objectives will assist the government and relevant stakeholders in bridging the gaps that exist with child protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mbonda, Mamela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Foster home care Orphans Child development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15343 , vital:40399
- Description: The number of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa is drastically increasing which leads to most children being put in a foster care system. Yet there are great lacunae within its implementation; facilitation and monitoring which effectively affect the children involved. This evoked interest to the researcher on evaluating the effects of foster placement on childhood development; a study of Berlin Location, Buffalo City Municipality. The study intended to fulfil the following objectives: 1. To document environments that challenges foster care placement as an intervention of child placement; 2. To understand the negative impacts of foster care on a child’s psychosocial development; 3. To explore the impact of host parent’s culture to the child’s adaptation; 4. To establish the strengths and weaknesses of the South African child protection system. The study utilized qualitative paradigms guided by the qualitative research approach by adopting a case study cum phenomenological design. It employed in-depth interviews, focus groups, key informants as data collection methods. The study used both non-probability and probability sampling methods of which purposive and simple random sampling technique was utilised. The population of study was made up of twenty (20) participants who were incorporated of five (5) foster parents, five (5) key informants and ten (10) foster children. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis. The study revealed the following findings: (i) challenges pertaining to adjustment to home milieu, (ii) lack of knowledge on foster parents’ rights and responsibilities, (iii) inadequateness of foster grant, (iv) cultural deviance, (v) prevalence of drug use and teenage pregnancy, (vi) dire lack of awareness raising sessions for the foster parents and their children, (vii) identity crisis disposition displayed by foster children, (viii) lack of individualizing cases of foster care placement by the social workers, (ix) efficiency of alternative care in comparison to residential care, (x) internalization of emotions by foster children, (xi) continued void for the biological mother’s love and affection,(xii) paucity of monitoring services to children, (xiii) information sharing and capacity building workshops for social workers a prerequisite, (xiv) Effectiveness of authoritative parenting a successful method and difficulty with telling foster children about their background. The study findings made the following recommendations: Strengthening inter-sectoral relationships and capacitate different stakeholders; Emphasis on early intervention and preventative programmes; Enforcement of punishment measure for incompliance; Implementation of training for foster parents and children; Foster care process made a specialization for social workers, Government to invest on psychosocial support and capacitating workshops for social workers. The researcher, therefore, hopes to have fulfilled the study objectives and further explored all the requirements of the study during data collection. More-so, fulfilment of objectives will assist the government and relevant stakeholders in bridging the gaps that exist with child protection.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Eco-tourism and sustainable rural livelihoods in Hogsback, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Pikirai, Kelvin Tinashe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Ecotourism -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5510 , vital:29298
- Description: This study investigates the livelihoods impacts of eco-tourism in Hogsback, the extent to which local community members are effectively participating in eco-tourism activities as well as the negative implications of ecotourism in Hogsback. A qualitative research methodology was employed in order to have a deeper understanding of the issues under study. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to select respondents. In-depth semi structured interviews were used to collect data from 40 respondents and 6 key informants. The study established that eco-tourism activities help mainly individuals rather than the whole community at large and those who benefit; it improves their lives as well as benefiting the economy of the country. This study also found out that the government plays a role to promote development of ecotourism in the community, this is through infrastructure development and providing services for tourism. Lastly the study found out that there are conflicts over ownership of eco-tourism activities, limited funds in promotion of eco-tourism activities and that there is no eco-tourism development strategy. The study recommends that the government of South Africa should design and implement a comprehensive eco-tourism development strategy that puts people at the core.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Pikirai, Kelvin Tinashe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Ecotourism -- Economic aspects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5510 , vital:29298
- Description: This study investigates the livelihoods impacts of eco-tourism in Hogsback, the extent to which local community members are effectively participating in eco-tourism activities as well as the negative implications of ecotourism in Hogsback. A qualitative research methodology was employed in order to have a deeper understanding of the issues under study. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to select respondents. In-depth semi structured interviews were used to collect data from 40 respondents and 6 key informants. The study established that eco-tourism activities help mainly individuals rather than the whole community at large and those who benefit; it improves their lives as well as benefiting the economy of the country. This study also found out that the government plays a role to promote development of ecotourism in the community, this is through infrastructure development and providing services for tourism. Lastly the study found out that there are conflicts over ownership of eco-tourism activities, limited funds in promotion of eco-tourism activities and that there is no eco-tourism development strategy. The study recommends that the government of South Africa should design and implement a comprehensive eco-tourism development strategy that puts people at the core.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exit strategies in social protection and the role of the social worker : a case study of exited households from the harmonised social cash transfers in Goromonzi District, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Muwoni, Leon
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social security -- Zimbabwe Social service -- Zimbabwe Households -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8364 , vital:32389
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the strategies utilised in exiting households from the Harmonised Social Cash Transfer in Zimbabwe and also the role of the social worker in facilitating and ensuring a smooth readjustment thereof. The study area was Goromonzi District, where the research sample and participants were drawn. The data were collected with semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. It emerged in the study that besides the financial constraints and general challenges characterising social protection in Zimbabwe, there have been some significant improvements in the livelihoods of the beneficiaries. For example the beneficiary households increased their food consumption in terms of quantity and quality, reduction of poverty among other positive outcomes. The study however noted that despite having registered some positive outcomes on the beneficiaries, the programme was designed without a clear cut exit/graduation strategy. Upon being exited from the HSCT, beneficiaries are supposed either to be supported to maintain their livelihoods or to be graduated into other social protection programmes so that the shock of being exited is minimised. In addition to the above, the study found that, graduation of social protection is hardly possible for the nature of HSCT programme beneficiaries, therefore ‘programme exit’ is the only most realistic thing to talk about in the programme. The study makes a case for curving a role for social workers in managing exit for beneficiaries of social protection programmes and helping families with the readjustment process post cash transfers. Furthermore, this study recommends that programmes should be designed either as ‘graduation’ focused programs or with a clear plan and road map of how beneficiary or programme exit would be handled. This will not only help in planning for the end-phase but also for the nature and approach for programme implementation. In addition, the study recommends that during implementation of social transfer programs, particularly cash, it is of essence to link the cash benefits with livelihood and asset building interventions to ensure sustainability. Families need to be encouraged through ‘soft messaging’ or supported to structure either group or individual savings and or investments in assets and livestock that will help cushion them in the event of sudden programme discontinuation or when faced with shocks and hazards.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Muwoni, Leon
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Social security -- Zimbabwe Social service -- Zimbabwe Households -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8364 , vital:32389
- Description: The aim of the study was to investigate the strategies utilised in exiting households from the Harmonised Social Cash Transfer in Zimbabwe and also the role of the social worker in facilitating and ensuring a smooth readjustment thereof. The study area was Goromonzi District, where the research sample and participants were drawn. The data were collected with semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. It emerged in the study that besides the financial constraints and general challenges characterising social protection in Zimbabwe, there have been some significant improvements in the livelihoods of the beneficiaries. For example the beneficiary households increased their food consumption in terms of quantity and quality, reduction of poverty among other positive outcomes. The study however noted that despite having registered some positive outcomes on the beneficiaries, the programme was designed without a clear cut exit/graduation strategy. Upon being exited from the HSCT, beneficiaries are supposed either to be supported to maintain their livelihoods or to be graduated into other social protection programmes so that the shock of being exited is minimised. In addition to the above, the study found that, graduation of social protection is hardly possible for the nature of HSCT programme beneficiaries, therefore ‘programme exit’ is the only most realistic thing to talk about in the programme. The study makes a case for curving a role for social workers in managing exit for beneficiaries of social protection programmes and helping families with the readjustment process post cash transfers. Furthermore, this study recommends that programmes should be designed either as ‘graduation’ focused programs or with a clear plan and road map of how beneficiary or programme exit would be handled. This will not only help in planning for the end-phase but also for the nature and approach for programme implementation. In addition, the study recommends that during implementation of social transfer programs, particularly cash, it is of essence to link the cash benefits with livelihood and asset building interventions to ensure sustainability. Families need to be encouraged through ‘soft messaging’ or supported to structure either group or individual savings and or investments in assets and livestock that will help cushion them in the event of sudden programme discontinuation or when faced with shocks and hazards.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A hermeneutic phenominological study of the understanding and treatment of Amafufunyana by traditional healers
- Authors: Gqibitole, Camagwini
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Traditional medicine Healers Mental illness -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5521 , vital:29313
- Description: Traditional healers have a different understanding of psychological illnesses to the western paradigm as well as a different way of diagnosing and treating psychological illnesses. Aims and Objectives. This study’s aim is to examine how traditional healers understand the causes of mental illness mainly focusing on amafufunyana and how this understanding informs treatments methods. Method. This has been done based on hermeneutic phenomenology by drawing from the lived experience of traditional healers through a focus group interview. Results. Upon analysis of the data it becomes clear that traditional healers understand the aetiology of amafufunyana to be supernatural forces. Amafufunyana present in overt and covert symptoms and the diagnostic process entails connecting with the ancestors for their guidance and confirmation of diagnosis, as well as guidance on which imithi to use. The treatment process is congruent with the diagnostic process as it also entails guidance from the ancestors on which imithi to use. Other valuable aspects of traditional healing were brought forward while conducting this study. The aspect of protection from the ancestors was emphasised. It became evident in the analysis of this study that the rituals that are performed in order to appease the ancestors facilitate the connection to the ancestors and through maintaining this connect one can be protected from an array of illnesses and misfortunes. Recommendations. It is recommended that recommended that more studies are conducted with traditional healers in order to give them an opportunity to elaborate on their lived experience of healing, as it was observed that a majority of literature speak on behalf of traditional healers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gqibitole, Camagwini
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Traditional medicine Healers Mental illness -- Treatment
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5521 , vital:29313
- Description: Traditional healers have a different understanding of psychological illnesses to the western paradigm as well as a different way of diagnosing and treating psychological illnesses. Aims and Objectives. This study’s aim is to examine how traditional healers understand the causes of mental illness mainly focusing on amafufunyana and how this understanding informs treatments methods. Method. This has been done based on hermeneutic phenomenology by drawing from the lived experience of traditional healers through a focus group interview. Results. Upon analysis of the data it becomes clear that traditional healers understand the aetiology of amafufunyana to be supernatural forces. Amafufunyana present in overt and covert symptoms and the diagnostic process entails connecting with the ancestors for their guidance and confirmation of diagnosis, as well as guidance on which imithi to use. The treatment process is congruent with the diagnostic process as it also entails guidance from the ancestors on which imithi to use. Other valuable aspects of traditional healing were brought forward while conducting this study. The aspect of protection from the ancestors was emphasised. It became evident in the analysis of this study that the rituals that are performed in order to appease the ancestors facilitate the connection to the ancestors and through maintaining this connect one can be protected from an array of illnesses and misfortunes. Recommendations. It is recommended that recommended that more studies are conducted with traditional healers in order to give them an opportunity to elaborate on their lived experience of healing, as it was observed that a majority of literature speak on behalf of traditional healers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The approaches of traditional healers in the treatment of HIV/ AIDS: the case of Chris Hani District Municipality, Cala, Tsengiwe, Eastern cape, South Africa
- Authors: Mati, Similo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: People with HIV and AIDS disease -- healers -- South Africa --Eastern Cape Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Healers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5249 , vital:29171
- Description: In South Africa, just like in any other country within the African continent, traditional healing remains an integral part of many communities and this is not just restricted to the rural communities only, as is sometimes assumed. The main aim of this research was to explore the approaches of traditional healers in the treatment of HIV/AIDS in the Chris Hani District Municipality, Eastern Cape. The following research objectives were followed regarding the approaches of traditional healers in the treatment of HIV/AIDS: (i) to assess how traditional healers and people living with HIV/AIDS in Tsengiwe village understand HIV/AIDS, (ii) to investigate the reasons people living with HIV/AIDS consult traditional healers in Tsengiwe village, (iii) to assess Tsengiwe village traditional healers’ treatment strategies for HIV/AIDS, (iv) to establish how traditional healers view their role in the treatment of HIV/AIDS in Tsengiwe village. A qualitative research design was utilized, using in-depth interviews with traditional healers and focus group discussions with caregivers and people living with HIV/AIDS respectively. A type of non-probability sampling known as purposive sampling was used. A total of sixteen (16) participants were interviewed. The findings in this research revealed the following themes: (i) HIV/AIDS is incurable and it is understood by symptoms, (ii) belief system entrenched in traditional healing, (iii) cleansing rituals and traditional medicinal remedies and, (iv) strengthening relations between stakeholders. While traditional healers expressed a willingness to work with biomedical professionals in the management of HIV/AIDS, caregivers and people living with HIV/AIDS preferred going to clinics and hospitals for treatment. Furthermore, people living with HIV/AIDS in this research never admitted to consulting traditional healers for their ailments, only saying that they choose to self-medicate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mati, Similo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: People with HIV and AIDS disease -- healers -- South Africa --Eastern Cape Traditional medicine -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Healers -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape HIV infections -- Treatment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5249 , vital:29171
- Description: In South Africa, just like in any other country within the African continent, traditional healing remains an integral part of many communities and this is not just restricted to the rural communities only, as is sometimes assumed. The main aim of this research was to explore the approaches of traditional healers in the treatment of HIV/AIDS in the Chris Hani District Municipality, Eastern Cape. The following research objectives were followed regarding the approaches of traditional healers in the treatment of HIV/AIDS: (i) to assess how traditional healers and people living with HIV/AIDS in Tsengiwe village understand HIV/AIDS, (ii) to investigate the reasons people living with HIV/AIDS consult traditional healers in Tsengiwe village, (iii) to assess Tsengiwe village traditional healers’ treatment strategies for HIV/AIDS, (iv) to establish how traditional healers view their role in the treatment of HIV/AIDS in Tsengiwe village. A qualitative research design was utilized, using in-depth interviews with traditional healers and focus group discussions with caregivers and people living with HIV/AIDS respectively. A type of non-probability sampling known as purposive sampling was used. A total of sixteen (16) participants were interviewed. The findings in this research revealed the following themes: (i) HIV/AIDS is incurable and it is understood by symptoms, (ii) belief system entrenched in traditional healing, (iii) cleansing rituals and traditional medicinal remedies and, (iv) strengthening relations between stakeholders. While traditional healers expressed a willingness to work with biomedical professionals in the management of HIV/AIDS, caregivers and people living with HIV/AIDS preferred going to clinics and hospitals for treatment. Furthermore, people living with HIV/AIDS in this research never admitted to consulting traditional healers for their ailments, only saying that they choose to self-medicate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Financial decision-making of fathers with social grants in Nkonkobe municipality, Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Ketani, Nolubabalo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Decision making Dependency Public welfare
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11773 , vital:39105
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine the role of fathers receiving social grants in family decision-making processes within households in Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province. The study also investigated how money from social grants is utilised by fathers, taking into consideration, the impact of such decisions on the well-being of family members. A methodological triangulation approach was adopted for data collection. One hundred and seventy questionnaires were administered to beneficiaries of social grants, selected using multi stage sampling. The data was then coded on Microsoft excel package and run using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software for analysis. These yielded quantitative results which were then complemented by qualitative results obtained from 25 in-depth interviews conducted with caregivers residing with respondents. The major findings of the study revealed that most fathers earning social grants, made family decisions with their partners. Co-operative bargaining, resulting in the distribution of power in the decision-making process is relatively more prominent in most poor rural households. The effect of bargaining power emphasises the importance of gender empowerment in family decision-making processes. On the other hand, it is established that economic factors (such as income and employment status and age as a social factor) play a critical role in positioning other household members in decision-making within the family. As a result, children and unemployed household members have very limited decision power. The findings also revealed that social grants are the main source of income, if not, the only source of income in most households. Beneficiaries spend the money received on basic needs such as food, school fees, clothing and health, thus reducing hunger and suffering among beneficiaries. Therefore, social grants play a significant role in improving food security among poor households. Additionally, social grants are not only used for meeting individual needs of target groups of people in the household but for the entire needs of the household. The poverty gap been on the decline and such drop has been significant among poorest of the poor. Consequently, they impact positively beyond individual recipients and thus, strengthening intergenerational relations within poor families. Furthermore, it is established from the study that the role of male caregivers is an important one, and it is anticipated that many fathers will be involved in caregiving in the future. This is due to a variety of social demographic factors such as divorce, substance abuse, incarceration of parents, child abuse and neglect, health problems and death. Consequently, fathers receiving social grants, represent an important resource for poor households, especially for children. In a nutshell, with high incidences of poverty, coupled with HIV/AIDS epidemic, economic hardships, high rate of unemployment, absent parents and orphan crisis; the experiences and contributions of social grant earning fathers in caregiving, need to be acknowledged as they play a significant and benevolent role in well-being of family members, especially in the lives of children from vulnerable and poor homes. It is recommended that government should focus on promoting developmental policies that will contribute to poverty alleviation and reduce income inequalities in rural communities. Intervention plans should seek to develop exit programmes that capacitate households and communities to empower themselves. On the other hand, the development of support for male caregivers in private, public and community initiatives are commended to build capacity and empower fathers to cope with challenges associated with parenting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ketani, Nolubabalo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Decision making Dependency Public welfare
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11773 , vital:39105
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine the role of fathers receiving social grants in family decision-making processes within households in Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape Province. The study also investigated how money from social grants is utilised by fathers, taking into consideration, the impact of such decisions on the well-being of family members. A methodological triangulation approach was adopted for data collection. One hundred and seventy questionnaires were administered to beneficiaries of social grants, selected using multi stage sampling. The data was then coded on Microsoft excel package and run using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software for analysis. These yielded quantitative results which were then complemented by qualitative results obtained from 25 in-depth interviews conducted with caregivers residing with respondents. The major findings of the study revealed that most fathers earning social grants, made family decisions with their partners. Co-operative bargaining, resulting in the distribution of power in the decision-making process is relatively more prominent in most poor rural households. The effect of bargaining power emphasises the importance of gender empowerment in family decision-making processes. On the other hand, it is established that economic factors (such as income and employment status and age as a social factor) play a critical role in positioning other household members in decision-making within the family. As a result, children and unemployed household members have very limited decision power. The findings also revealed that social grants are the main source of income, if not, the only source of income in most households. Beneficiaries spend the money received on basic needs such as food, school fees, clothing and health, thus reducing hunger and suffering among beneficiaries. Therefore, social grants play a significant role in improving food security among poor households. Additionally, social grants are not only used for meeting individual needs of target groups of people in the household but for the entire needs of the household. The poverty gap been on the decline and such drop has been significant among poorest of the poor. Consequently, they impact positively beyond individual recipients and thus, strengthening intergenerational relations within poor families. Furthermore, it is established from the study that the role of male caregivers is an important one, and it is anticipated that many fathers will be involved in caregiving in the future. This is due to a variety of social demographic factors such as divorce, substance abuse, incarceration of parents, child abuse and neglect, health problems and death. Consequently, fathers receiving social grants, represent an important resource for poor households, especially for children. In a nutshell, with high incidences of poverty, coupled with HIV/AIDS epidemic, economic hardships, high rate of unemployment, absent parents and orphan crisis; the experiences and contributions of social grant earning fathers in caregiving, need to be acknowledged as they play a significant and benevolent role in well-being of family members, especially in the lives of children from vulnerable and poor homes. It is recommended that government should focus on promoting developmental policies that will contribute to poverty alleviation and reduce income inequalities in rural communities. Intervention plans should seek to develop exit programmes that capacitate households and communities to empower themselves. On the other hand, the development of support for male caregivers in private, public and community initiatives are commended to build capacity and empower fathers to cope with challenges associated with parenting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Development communication for water conservation in rural and peri-urban communities : a study of three district municipalities in Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Onyenankeya, Kevin Uwaecheghi
- Authors: Onyenankeya, Kevin Uwaecheghi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communication in rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Water conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8397 , vital:32562
- Description: South Africa continues to ramp up public campaigns to rein in escalating water demand amid dwindling and erratic supply. One of the objectives of the campaign is to reduce water demand in urban areas to 15 precent by 2030 through water conservation and water demand management strategies. While the water conservation drive continue to gain traction among commercial and urban water users, it does not appear to resonate with rural and peri-urban residents. Using the pragmatic convergent parallel mixed methods approach consisting of the quantitative and qualitative methods such as survey, focus groups, and indepth-interviews and observation, this study explored the water conservation attitudes, behaviour and intentions of rural and peri-urban respondents in four Eastern Cape communities in South Africa, and to determine if any factors influence their attitudes and behaviour. The study also attempted to determine whether a dialogic approach to communication about water conservation is likely to lead to positive change in attitude and behaviour. The questionnaires were distributed personally by researcher and trained assistants but respondents were left to complete the questionnaires at their convenience and in their own pace but within a negotiated period of five working days. The collected data were analysed using both parametric and non-parametric methods. The nonparametric methods used include thematic analysis. Transcripts of focus group and individual interviews were coded using Nvivo, while quantitative data was analysed in SPSS and presented in simple frequency and cross tabulation. Regression analysis was used to establish the influence of attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control on water conservation intention. Results revealed respondents consider water conservation important and are favourably disposed to conserving water. Although peri-urban and rural residents considered water important and would want to make effort to conserve water in the future, not all considered water conservation an overarching social priority and, as a result, are generally passive or indifferent to water conservation. The indifference appears to be underpinned by residents’ beliefs about water. Further analysis showed that peri-urban residents have stronger positive attitude towards water conservation and greater intent and commitment towards water conservation than their rural counterpart. Attitude, subjective norm and behavioural control emerged as significant factors influencing water conservation intentions of respondents. The findings suggest that water curtailment behaviours were the prevalent water conservation activities rural and peri-urban residents engaged in, while water efficiency behaviours was very poor among the population. Factors such as cost, need, knowledge and locus of control had significant influence on residents’ water conservation behaviour and intentions, especially in purchasing or installing water efficient appliances. The study found no significant relationship between sociodemographic such as age, level of education and home tenure on resident’s water conservation behaviour or intentions. The findings indicate that many rural and peri-urban communities do not have adequate information on water conservation, what to do, how to do it and why it should be done and this affects their water conservation behaviour. It was also found that engaging residents through participatory dialogue is effective in raising awareness and stimulating interest in water saving activities. The study concludes that rural and peri-urban residents are yet to develop a social ethic of water conservation. The study highlights the need for concerted education and awareness campaign around water issues so as to build community knowledge and support for water conservation. But to encourage residents to make adjustment in deep-rooted “beliefs, habits, or practices” and change to a sustainable water use behaviour in the face of scarce water supplies and increasing demand, requires not just communication to inform and persuade, but also development communication to foster mutual understanding and collective action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Onyenankeya, Kevin Uwaecheghi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Communication in rural development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Water conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8397 , vital:32562
- Description: South Africa continues to ramp up public campaigns to rein in escalating water demand amid dwindling and erratic supply. One of the objectives of the campaign is to reduce water demand in urban areas to 15 precent by 2030 through water conservation and water demand management strategies. While the water conservation drive continue to gain traction among commercial and urban water users, it does not appear to resonate with rural and peri-urban residents. Using the pragmatic convergent parallel mixed methods approach consisting of the quantitative and qualitative methods such as survey, focus groups, and indepth-interviews and observation, this study explored the water conservation attitudes, behaviour and intentions of rural and peri-urban respondents in four Eastern Cape communities in South Africa, and to determine if any factors influence their attitudes and behaviour. The study also attempted to determine whether a dialogic approach to communication about water conservation is likely to lead to positive change in attitude and behaviour. The questionnaires were distributed personally by researcher and trained assistants but respondents were left to complete the questionnaires at their convenience and in their own pace but within a negotiated period of five working days. The collected data were analysed using both parametric and non-parametric methods. The nonparametric methods used include thematic analysis. Transcripts of focus group and individual interviews were coded using Nvivo, while quantitative data was analysed in SPSS and presented in simple frequency and cross tabulation. Regression analysis was used to establish the influence of attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control on water conservation intention. Results revealed respondents consider water conservation important and are favourably disposed to conserving water. Although peri-urban and rural residents considered water important and would want to make effort to conserve water in the future, not all considered water conservation an overarching social priority and, as a result, are generally passive or indifferent to water conservation. The indifference appears to be underpinned by residents’ beliefs about water. Further analysis showed that peri-urban residents have stronger positive attitude towards water conservation and greater intent and commitment towards water conservation than their rural counterpart. Attitude, subjective norm and behavioural control emerged as significant factors influencing water conservation intentions of respondents. The findings suggest that water curtailment behaviours were the prevalent water conservation activities rural and peri-urban residents engaged in, while water efficiency behaviours was very poor among the population. Factors such as cost, need, knowledge and locus of control had significant influence on residents’ water conservation behaviour and intentions, especially in purchasing or installing water efficient appliances. The study found no significant relationship between sociodemographic such as age, level of education and home tenure on resident’s water conservation behaviour or intentions. The findings indicate that many rural and peri-urban communities do not have adequate information on water conservation, what to do, how to do it and why it should be done and this affects their water conservation behaviour. It was also found that engaging residents through participatory dialogue is effective in raising awareness and stimulating interest in water saving activities. The study concludes that rural and peri-urban residents are yet to develop a social ethic of water conservation. The study highlights the need for concerted education and awareness campaign around water issues so as to build community knowledge and support for water conservation. But to encourage residents to make adjustment in deep-rooted “beliefs, habits, or practices” and change to a sustainable water use behaviour in the face of scarce water supplies and increasing demand, requires not just communication to inform and persuade, but also development communication to foster mutual understanding and collective action.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A systematic review and document analysis on the prevention of mother-to-child programmes to prevent vertical transmission of human immuno-deficiency virus
- Authors: Sobetwa, Nwabisa Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) in pregnancy Maternal health services HIV infections -- Children -- Transmission -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7957 , vital:31282
- Description: Background: The National Strategic Plan 2012-2016 is advocating for zero new infections due to vertical transmission. This goal has not yet been achieved. This study evaluated whether the prevention of mother-to-child vertical transmission (PMTCT) of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) programmes in South Africa are based on evidence. Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature comparing PMTCT antiretroviral regimens published between the years 2000 to 2015 and to do a document analysis of the current implemented PMTCT programme to evaluate if it is based on best evidence. Rational: The rational of the systematic review and the document analysis were to assess whether the latest PMTCT policy was based on evidence and to critically analyse published articles that addressed aspects related to efficacy and efficiency of PMTCT programmes to reduce transmission of HIV from mothers to their infants. Methods: Overall 25 randomised controlled trials and primary studies that assessed efficacy of ARV regimens to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the HIV during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal periods were systematically reviewed. In 1997 the first trial began and the last one ended in 2012. Twelve guidelines referring to PMTCT were sampled and they were published by WHO and Department of Health South Africa from 2001 to 2015. The document analysis was only based on National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April, 2015. Findings: The systematic review illustrated that significantly fewer infants tested HIV-positive when exposed to a longer ARV regime although there was no significant difference once the infants reached six months of age. Different ARVs have a similar Preamble effect on maternal deaths; however, a double or triple combination of ARVs is superior to monotherapy to decrease infant deaths. Common maternal adverse reactions to ARVs include anaemia, bronchopneumonia, and maculopapular rash. Infant adverse events included septicaemia, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, fever and maculopapular rash. The document analysis has shown that the PMTCT policy is mainly based on evidence from randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews. Occasionally some statements are still based on lower categories of evidence such as non-experimental descriptive studies. Conclusion: The systematic review showed that double and triple ARV therapy is superior to monotherapy and that the longer the mother and her infant are exposed to ARV therapy the better the results are to prevent MTCT. Adverse events are always posing a challenge and as with any other medication, caregivers must be aware of potential adverse reactions. The National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April 2015 is based on evidence, but the policy itself does not include any reference to evidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Sobetwa, Nwabisa Nokuzola
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: AIDS (Disease) in pregnancy Maternal health services HIV infections -- Children -- Transmission -- Prevention
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7957 , vital:31282
- Description: Background: The National Strategic Plan 2012-2016 is advocating for zero new infections due to vertical transmission. This goal has not yet been achieved. This study evaluated whether the prevention of mother-to-child vertical transmission (PMTCT) of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) programmes in South Africa are based on evidence. Aim: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the available literature comparing PMTCT antiretroviral regimens published between the years 2000 to 2015 and to do a document analysis of the current implemented PMTCT programme to evaluate if it is based on best evidence. Rational: The rational of the systematic review and the document analysis were to assess whether the latest PMTCT policy was based on evidence and to critically analyse published articles that addressed aspects related to efficacy and efficiency of PMTCT programmes to reduce transmission of HIV from mothers to their infants. Methods: Overall 25 randomised controlled trials and primary studies that assessed efficacy of ARV regimens to prevent mother-to-child transmission of the HIV during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal periods were systematically reviewed. In 1997 the first trial began and the last one ended in 2012. Twelve guidelines referring to PMTCT were sampled and they were published by WHO and Department of Health South Africa from 2001 to 2015. The document analysis was only based on National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April, 2015. Findings: The systematic review illustrated that significantly fewer infants tested HIV-positive when exposed to a longer ARV regime although there was no significant difference once the infants reached six months of age. Different ARVs have a similar Preamble effect on maternal deaths; however, a double or triple combination of ARVs is superior to monotherapy to decrease infant deaths. Common maternal adverse reactions to ARVs include anaemia, bronchopneumonia, and maculopapular rash. Infant adverse events included septicaemia, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, fever and maculopapular rash. The document analysis has shown that the PMTCT policy is mainly based on evidence from randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews. Occasionally some statements are still based on lower categories of evidence such as non-experimental descriptive studies. Conclusion: The systematic review showed that double and triple ARV therapy is superior to monotherapy and that the longer the mother and her infant are exposed to ARV therapy the better the results are to prevent MTCT. Adverse events are always posing a challenge and as with any other medication, caregivers must be aware of potential adverse reactions. The National consolidated guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) and the management of HIV in children, adolescents and adults April 2015 is based on evidence, but the policy itself does not include any reference to evidence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring the contributions of youth development programme as a poverty eradication strategy: The case study of the National Youth Development Agency in Ezibeleni Township; Queenstown
- Authors: Vazi, Thembelani
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Youth -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6502 , vital:30137
- Description: Youth development programmes in South Africa stirs a lot of debates on whether youth development programmes reach all the young people of South Africa even the rural youth. The youth involved in these programmes argue that even though these youth development programmes were created for all the young people of South Africa, some of them do not get the opportunity to be part of such programmes and they are not getting the proper skills that they need in order to create employment opportunities for themselves. Therefore, this study is aimed at exploring the contributions of the youth development programme as a poverty eradication strategy. The data in the study was collected qualitatively through interviews in which the youth, Social Workers, the ward Councillors and NYDA officials were interviewed. The total sample size in the study was 26 participants. The study established that the lack of youth skills is one of the causes of youth unemployment and poverty. Generally, the quality of these youth development programmes are not up to standard for assisting young people, most importantly these youth programmes lack resources. The study revealed that, even though the youth programmes are available, they do not cater for all the young people of Ezibeleni Township and they do not alleviate poverty for all the youth of Ezibeleni Township. Furthermore, those that are part of these youth programmes further complain about the lack of skills within the staff employed in these youth development programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Vazi, Thembelani
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Youth development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Youth -- Political activity -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Poverty -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6502 , vital:30137
- Description: Youth development programmes in South Africa stirs a lot of debates on whether youth development programmes reach all the young people of South Africa even the rural youth. The youth involved in these programmes argue that even though these youth development programmes were created for all the young people of South Africa, some of them do not get the opportunity to be part of such programmes and they are not getting the proper skills that they need in order to create employment opportunities for themselves. Therefore, this study is aimed at exploring the contributions of the youth development programme as a poverty eradication strategy. The data in the study was collected qualitatively through interviews in which the youth, Social Workers, the ward Councillors and NYDA officials were interviewed. The total sample size in the study was 26 participants. The study established that the lack of youth skills is one of the causes of youth unemployment and poverty. Generally, the quality of these youth development programmes are not up to standard for assisting young people, most importantly these youth programmes lack resources. The study revealed that, even though the youth programmes are available, they do not cater for all the young people of Ezibeleni Township and they do not alleviate poverty for all the youth of Ezibeleni Township. Furthermore, those that are part of these youth programmes further complain about the lack of skills within the staff employed in these youth development programmes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Learners' experiences of school violence in Sarah Baartman District Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Hendricks, Eleanor Alvira
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School violence -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Violence in children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7841 , vital:30769
- Description: School-based violence amongst students in South Africa is a growing concern. Such violence is a great concern to all stakeholders involved in the school system. The more violence escalates; the more students are less likely to concentrate on their academic activities which then reduces their chances of success. There are weekly report broadcasts on the media on the death of students across the globe due school-based violence. School-based violence needs to be curbed and schools should be a safe environment where learning and teaching takes place not a battlefield where students live in fear of being the next victim. The aim of this study was to examine students’ experiences of school violence in Sarah Baartman District Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A qualitative approach and an exploratory research design were used in conducting this study as these approached allowed participants to share first hand experiences regarding the issue under investigation. A purposive sample was employed to select participants for the study. This technique allowed the researcher to select participants who displayed most of the characteristics of the larger population and who had sufficient knowledge on the issue under investigation. Forty participants were selected for the study as follows: 25 learners; 5 social Workers; 5 educators; and 5 members of the Representative Council of Learners from schools mostly affected by school-based violence. Data was obtained through semi-structured interviews; focus group discussions with students, social workers and educators; and observations. Data was analysed thematically and supported by the relevant literature. The findings revealed that there are high levels of school-based violence in Sarah Baartman District Municipality, however, the whole-school approach as a measure of combatting school violence, has proved to work in some parts of the Eastern Cape, the Western Cape and Kwazulu Natal provinces. Also, retributive forms of punishment show more positive results against corrective /corporal punishment. It is, therefore, recommended that the state should employ school and place social workers in schools in order to assist in addressing social issues within the school system. Stamping out inequalities among students will ultimately decrease school violence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Hendricks, Eleanor Alvira
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: School violence -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Violence in children -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7841 , vital:30769
- Description: School-based violence amongst students in South Africa is a growing concern. Such violence is a great concern to all stakeholders involved in the school system. The more violence escalates; the more students are less likely to concentrate on their academic activities which then reduces their chances of success. There are weekly report broadcasts on the media on the death of students across the globe due school-based violence. School-based violence needs to be curbed and schools should be a safe environment where learning and teaching takes place not a battlefield where students live in fear of being the next victim. The aim of this study was to examine students’ experiences of school violence in Sarah Baartman District Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A qualitative approach and an exploratory research design were used in conducting this study as these approached allowed participants to share first hand experiences regarding the issue under investigation. A purposive sample was employed to select participants for the study. This technique allowed the researcher to select participants who displayed most of the characteristics of the larger population and who had sufficient knowledge on the issue under investigation. Forty participants were selected for the study as follows: 25 learners; 5 social Workers; 5 educators; and 5 members of the Representative Council of Learners from schools mostly affected by school-based violence. Data was obtained through semi-structured interviews; focus group discussions with students, social workers and educators; and observations. Data was analysed thematically and supported by the relevant literature. The findings revealed that there are high levels of school-based violence in Sarah Baartman District Municipality, however, the whole-school approach as a measure of combatting school violence, has proved to work in some parts of the Eastern Cape, the Western Cape and Kwazulu Natal provinces. Also, retributive forms of punishment show more positive results against corrective /corporal punishment. It is, therefore, recommended that the state should employ school and place social workers in schools in order to assist in addressing social issues within the school system. Stamping out inequalities among students will ultimately decrease school violence.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Third sector intervention and sustainable development : an evaluation of selected non-governmental organization supported projects in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Moyo, Thokozani Patience
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5774 , vital:29389
- Description: This study evaluates the impact of Third Sector- supported rural development projects in three rural communities of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It focusses on how interventions driven by this sector – denoted by, among others, local and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) - impact the lives and livelihoods of the rural poor. This is against the background of an established discourse that views NGOs as effective agents in the alleviation of poverty. The thesis contends that praise for the Third Sector is driven mostly by advocacy than based on systematic scientific evidence of the real impact of NGO-sponsored rural development interventions. Rural agricultural development projects supported by two Eastern Cape-based NGOs (the one a local NGO, and the other international) were selected for the study. A mini survey was conducted in the communities where the projects are located. Survey data were complemented by qualitative data obtained through focus groups, semi-structured and in-depth interviews as well as key informant interviews. The study found that whereas the projects had been established by the state later went moribund, they were resuscitated by the NGOs through a largely ‘bottom-up’ model of rural development intermediation. In other words, the interventions were resuscitated through a relatively robust prior engagement with project beneficiaries. As a result, while originally lacking a meaningful sense of local empowerment, ownership, and commitment, the projects had become revived and now played an important role in the livelihoods of some community members – even though social grants remained the primary and main source of income for those community members. Even so, the narratives of community members revealed what may be termed a ‘transformation paradox’ in the way the projects were implemented. The NGOs seemed to have replaced one kind of lop-sidedness in rural development (the exclusion of women) with another (the exclusion of men), by focussing on community projects that were ‘culturally’ deemed as ’women jobs’. In this way, the interventions appeared like a systematic attempt to do away with the ‘feminisation of rural poverty’ and entrench the ‘feminisation of rural development interventions’. The study concludes from these and other findings, that the key to understanding the significance and impact of Third Sector-supported development interventions in the rural arena – especially in the Eastern Cape context – is to go beyond the proliferation of NGOs and NGO-supported projects – and the broad sweep of advocacy that underpins it – and pay equally robust attention to systematically studying how these projects resonate at the grassroots, especially from a beneficiary perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Moyo, Thokozani Patience
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Non-governmental organizations -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5774 , vital:29389
- Description: This study evaluates the impact of Third Sector- supported rural development projects in three rural communities of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. It focusses on how interventions driven by this sector – denoted by, among others, local and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) - impact the lives and livelihoods of the rural poor. This is against the background of an established discourse that views NGOs as effective agents in the alleviation of poverty. The thesis contends that praise for the Third Sector is driven mostly by advocacy than based on systematic scientific evidence of the real impact of NGO-sponsored rural development interventions. Rural agricultural development projects supported by two Eastern Cape-based NGOs (the one a local NGO, and the other international) were selected for the study. A mini survey was conducted in the communities where the projects are located. Survey data were complemented by qualitative data obtained through focus groups, semi-structured and in-depth interviews as well as key informant interviews. The study found that whereas the projects had been established by the state later went moribund, they were resuscitated by the NGOs through a largely ‘bottom-up’ model of rural development intermediation. In other words, the interventions were resuscitated through a relatively robust prior engagement with project beneficiaries. As a result, while originally lacking a meaningful sense of local empowerment, ownership, and commitment, the projects had become revived and now played an important role in the livelihoods of some community members – even though social grants remained the primary and main source of income for those community members. Even so, the narratives of community members revealed what may be termed a ‘transformation paradox’ in the way the projects were implemented. The NGOs seemed to have replaced one kind of lop-sidedness in rural development (the exclusion of women) with another (the exclusion of men), by focussing on community projects that were ‘culturally’ deemed as ’women jobs’. In this way, the interventions appeared like a systematic attempt to do away with the ‘feminisation of rural poverty’ and entrench the ‘feminisation of rural development interventions’. The study concludes from these and other findings, that the key to understanding the significance and impact of Third Sector-supported development interventions in the rural arena – especially in the Eastern Cape context – is to go beyond the proliferation of NGOs and NGO-supported projects – and the broad sweep of advocacy that underpins it – and pay equally robust attention to systematically studying how these projects resonate at the grassroots, especially from a beneficiary perspective.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017