A Combined Experimental and Computational Study of Hydridospirophosphorane Ligand Systems Featuring Halogenated Mandelic Acids
- Authors: Maritz, Marius Johann
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Organic compounds -- Synthesis , Heterocyclic compounds , catalysis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62096 , vital:71911
- Description: The search for new stereoselective catalysts remains important for the isolation of enantiomeric products from racemic mixtures. The need exists for these catalysts to be more efficient, to be more cost effective as well as be stable over time without undergoing changes in molecular structure and selectivity. The purpose of this research project was to experimentally synthesise and characterise asymmetric catalysts for the use in enantioselective synthesis. The catalysts consisted of the main group element phosphorous as central atom, with the phenyl rings of mandelic acid ligands monosubstituted with halogen atoms fluorine, chlorine and bromine in different configurations. Ligand binding resulted in the formation of hydridospirophosphorane structures, from which the molecular properties and binding geometry of these molecules could be explained by the theory of apicophilicity. Characterization was performed by NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as diffraction studies that provided the experimental crystal structures. The structural, energetic and spectroscopy results were compared to the theoretically obtained molecular properties using DFT analysis. Various interand intramolecular interactions that existed between molecules found in crystal packing environments were discussed. Additional properties that were investigated included modelling solvation effects, molecular orbital analysis, Hirshfeld surfaces, orbital and atomic energy and population analysis as well as ESP energy calculations with the optimized crystal structures as input. Molecular overlay comparisons were also performed between the experimental and optimized structures where the effectiveness of various DFT functionals and basis sets could be determined. The method with the best overall cost-to-accuracy ratio was found to be the triple-zeta def2-tzvp basis set with B3LYP functional theory and the addition of Grimme’s dispersion correction. Results indicated differences in crystal packing depending largely on the given halogen atoms present in the substituted phenyl rings, with differences observed in electronegativity and steric effects. One of the crystal systems showed additional interactions with solvent molecules, giving the impression that obtaining crystal void formation was possible. Alterations in the transition state activation energies between the isomers of each molecule were found to be present and supported the theory behind the mechanism of stereochemical induction. The studied compounds were therefore effective in isolating different enantiomeric ligands by means of energy differences between conformers and displayed unique catalytic properties resulting from the phosphorous main group element. The hydridospirophosphoranes conformers responsible for the lowest theoretically calculated activation energy induced crystallization as was seen by diffraction results for all compounds. Even as an intriguing observation, crystallization will largely depend on solubility rather than a specific conformer’s amount in solution. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Maritz, Marius Johann
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Organic compounds -- Synthesis , Heterocyclic compounds , catalysis -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/62096 , vital:71911
- Description: The search for new stereoselective catalysts remains important for the isolation of enantiomeric products from racemic mixtures. The need exists for these catalysts to be more efficient, to be more cost effective as well as be stable over time without undergoing changes in molecular structure and selectivity. The purpose of this research project was to experimentally synthesise and characterise asymmetric catalysts for the use in enantioselective synthesis. The catalysts consisted of the main group element phosphorous as central atom, with the phenyl rings of mandelic acid ligands monosubstituted with halogen atoms fluorine, chlorine and bromine in different configurations. Ligand binding resulted in the formation of hydridospirophosphorane structures, from which the molecular properties and binding geometry of these molecules could be explained by the theory of apicophilicity. Characterization was performed by NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as diffraction studies that provided the experimental crystal structures. The structural, energetic and spectroscopy results were compared to the theoretically obtained molecular properties using DFT analysis. Various interand intramolecular interactions that existed between molecules found in crystal packing environments were discussed. Additional properties that were investigated included modelling solvation effects, molecular orbital analysis, Hirshfeld surfaces, orbital and atomic energy and population analysis as well as ESP energy calculations with the optimized crystal structures as input. Molecular overlay comparisons were also performed between the experimental and optimized structures where the effectiveness of various DFT functionals and basis sets could be determined. The method with the best overall cost-to-accuracy ratio was found to be the triple-zeta def2-tzvp basis set with B3LYP functional theory and the addition of Grimme’s dispersion correction. Results indicated differences in crystal packing depending largely on the given halogen atoms present in the substituted phenyl rings, with differences observed in electronegativity and steric effects. One of the crystal systems showed additional interactions with solvent molecules, giving the impression that obtaining crystal void formation was possible. Alterations in the transition state activation energies between the isomers of each molecule were found to be present and supported the theory behind the mechanism of stereochemical induction. The studied compounds were therefore effective in isolating different enantiomeric ligands by means of energy differences between conformers and displayed unique catalytic properties resulting from the phosphorous main group element. The hydridospirophosphoranes conformers responsible for the lowest theoretically calculated activation energy induced crystallization as was seen by diffraction results for all compounds. Even as an intriguing observation, crystallization will largely depend on solubility rather than a specific conformer’s amount in solution. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
A critical analysis of the criteria applied in South Africa to distinguish an independent contractor from an employee for income tax purposes
- Authors: Mkhoma, Londekile Nosipho
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Independent contractor , Common law tests , Income tax
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61702 , vital:71827
- Description: The study set out to critically analyse the criteria used by South Africa to determine the distinction between independent contractors and employees. Comparisons are also drawn with the criteria used in the United Kingdom(UK) and New Zealand (NZ) to assess whether there are new ideas that can be drawn from these and help improve the criteria used in South Africa. This was motivated by the ongoing debates around this issue and the desire to make a contribution that might bring some new insights and clarity. Under South African tax legislation employers are only obliged to deduct income tax from persons identified as employees while on the other hand, they cannot deduct tax contributions from the money paid to independent contractors for services rendered. Furthermore, there is no statutory definition for the term “independent contractor” in the Income Tax Act of South Africa nor in the country’s labour legislation. The definition of this term has largely been established by the labour courts in instances where disputes have arisen around these matters. Using a doctrinal research method (including a comparative legal research), which is a qualitative research approach, articles, statutes, judgements, explanatory memoranda, and policy documents on the subject under investigation were analysed. It is submitted that the criteria used in the two countries used in the comparison are similar to the ones used in South Africa, with some variations. All three countries use similar tests to make their determinations and a survey of the UK and NZ’s case law indicates that the most preferred criteria are the multifactoral approach to determine the true nature of the relationship between employers and their employees. This approach has been found to be more flexible which allows it to accommodate the changes that are occurring in the world of work. In the South African context, the labour court has adopted a substance-over-form approach in making their determinations, arguing that the nature of the working relationship between employer and employee is a more important indicator than the mere contents of a written contract. The labour court has also used labour legislation mainly to assist in the interpretation of the distinction between independent contractors and employees. The study established that the criteria used in the UK is a bit more complex because workers are put in three different categories and the definition of employee is not 4 uniform in all the available statutes. In New Zealand the multiple factor approach is preferred just like in South Africa. In conclusion is submitted that the study established that there is nothing, other than the UK’s Mutuality of Obligation Test, that would assist in further clarifying the criteria used to classify employees or independent contractors in South Africa , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mkhoma, Londekile Nosipho
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Independent contractor , Common law tests , Income tax
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61702 , vital:71827
- Description: The study set out to critically analyse the criteria used by South Africa to determine the distinction between independent contractors and employees. Comparisons are also drawn with the criteria used in the United Kingdom(UK) and New Zealand (NZ) to assess whether there are new ideas that can be drawn from these and help improve the criteria used in South Africa. This was motivated by the ongoing debates around this issue and the desire to make a contribution that might bring some new insights and clarity. Under South African tax legislation employers are only obliged to deduct income tax from persons identified as employees while on the other hand, they cannot deduct tax contributions from the money paid to independent contractors for services rendered. Furthermore, there is no statutory definition for the term “independent contractor” in the Income Tax Act of South Africa nor in the country’s labour legislation. The definition of this term has largely been established by the labour courts in instances where disputes have arisen around these matters. Using a doctrinal research method (including a comparative legal research), which is a qualitative research approach, articles, statutes, judgements, explanatory memoranda, and policy documents on the subject under investigation were analysed. It is submitted that the criteria used in the two countries used in the comparison are similar to the ones used in South Africa, with some variations. All three countries use similar tests to make their determinations and a survey of the UK and NZ’s case law indicates that the most preferred criteria are the multifactoral approach to determine the true nature of the relationship between employers and their employees. This approach has been found to be more flexible which allows it to accommodate the changes that are occurring in the world of work. In the South African context, the labour court has adopted a substance-over-form approach in making their determinations, arguing that the nature of the working relationship between employer and employee is a more important indicator than the mere contents of a written contract. The labour court has also used labour legislation mainly to assist in the interpretation of the distinction between independent contractors and employees. The study established that the criteria used in the UK is a bit more complex because workers are put in three different categories and the definition of employee is not 4 uniform in all the available statutes. In New Zealand the multiple factor approach is preferred just like in South Africa. In conclusion is submitted that the study established that there is nothing, other than the UK’s Mutuality of Obligation Test, that would assist in further clarifying the criteria used to classify employees or independent contractors in South Africa , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A fraud investigation skills self-assessment framework for internal audit practitioners
- Authors: Labuschagne, Mario
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: fraud investigation , Auditing, Internal
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61465 , vital:70660
- Description: Globally incidents of fraud are on the increase, resulting in an expectation from users of internal audit services that internal auditors should accept responsibility for conducting fraud investigations. This expectation exists even though limited guidance pronouncements on how to conduct fraud investigations being available from the Institute of internal auditors (IIA) and internal auditors not always being equipped to conduct fraud investigations. This expectation also stretches beyond the current pronounced role and responsibilities of internal audit practitioners, according to the IIAs International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) (hereafter, referred to as the Standards). Conducting fraud investigations without possessing the relevant knowledge and skills, introduces the risk that evidence collected may be considered inadmissible in a court of law. The research problem is stated as, “a dearth of adequate guidance pronouncements for internal audit practitioners exists, in respect of fraud investigations.” In response to the expectation, risk, and research problem, underpinned by the policeman theory and theory of inspired confidence, the primary research objective of the study was to develop a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework for use by internal audit practitioners who are expected to conduct fraud investigations. The study’s research objectives were achieved by making use of an interpretivist research paradigm and a qualitative methodological approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from authoritative internal auditors on the membership database of the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA). Findings confirmed the existence of an expectation gap and the lack of guidance contained in IIA guidance pronouncements and Standards. Developed from the findings, the thesis proposes a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. The proposed self-assessment framework lists 14 fraud investigation knowledge and skills measures in the form of statements that internal audit practitioners should use to assess their personal level of proficiency for conducting a fraud investigation. The results from the self-assessment should then be Page | vii used to guide an internal audit practitioner on whether to accept the responsibility for conducting a fraud investigation or to defer the investigation to a more proficient fraud investigator. The decision for accepting the responsibility to conduct a fraud investigation ultimately resides with the internal audit practitioner. The study concluded that an expectation from organisations exists for internal audit practitioners to conduct fraud investigations, even though limited guidance pronouncements are available to internal audit practitioners from the IIA for conducting fraud investigations. The study identified that the most prominent risk associated with a fraud investigation being conducted by a person lacking the required fraud investigation knowledge and skills was that of collected evidence being dismissed in a court of law and not being able to use the evidence against a perpetrator. It can, therefore, be recommended that internal audit practitioners should not conduct a fraud investigation if they lacked any of the proficiencies required. The study provides support for the development and use of the proposed fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Labuschagne, Mario
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: fraud investigation , Auditing, Internal
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61465 , vital:70660
- Description: Globally incidents of fraud are on the increase, resulting in an expectation from users of internal audit services that internal auditors should accept responsibility for conducting fraud investigations. This expectation exists even though limited guidance pronouncements on how to conduct fraud investigations being available from the Institute of internal auditors (IIA) and internal auditors not always being equipped to conduct fraud investigations. This expectation also stretches beyond the current pronounced role and responsibilities of internal audit practitioners, according to the IIAs International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) (hereafter, referred to as the Standards). Conducting fraud investigations without possessing the relevant knowledge and skills, introduces the risk that evidence collected may be considered inadmissible in a court of law. The research problem is stated as, “a dearth of adequate guidance pronouncements for internal audit practitioners exists, in respect of fraud investigations.” In response to the expectation, risk, and research problem, underpinned by the policeman theory and theory of inspired confidence, the primary research objective of the study was to develop a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework for use by internal audit practitioners who are expected to conduct fraud investigations. The study’s research objectives were achieved by making use of an interpretivist research paradigm and a qualitative methodological approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from authoritative internal auditors on the membership database of the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA). Findings confirmed the existence of an expectation gap and the lack of guidance contained in IIA guidance pronouncements and Standards. Developed from the findings, the thesis proposes a fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. The proposed self-assessment framework lists 14 fraud investigation knowledge and skills measures in the form of statements that internal audit practitioners should use to assess their personal level of proficiency for conducting a fraud investigation. The results from the self-assessment should then be Page | vii used to guide an internal audit practitioner on whether to accept the responsibility for conducting a fraud investigation or to defer the investigation to a more proficient fraud investigator. The decision for accepting the responsibility to conduct a fraud investigation ultimately resides with the internal audit practitioner. The study concluded that an expectation from organisations exists for internal audit practitioners to conduct fraud investigations, even though limited guidance pronouncements are available to internal audit practitioners from the IIA for conducting fraud investigations. The study identified that the most prominent risk associated with a fraud investigation being conducted by a person lacking the required fraud investigation knowledge and skills was that of collected evidence being dismissed in a court of law and not being able to use the evidence against a perpetrator. It can, therefore, be recommended that internal audit practitioners should not conduct a fraud investigation if they lacked any of the proficiencies required. The study provides support for the development and use of the proposed fraud investigation proficiency self-assessment framework. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A Literacy Project with community members: Designing translanguaging storybooks for a multilingual community
- Authors: Senekal, Ischke
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Literacy programs , Translanguaging (Linguistics) -- children's book , Multilingual -– society
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60916 , vital:69225
- Description: The purpose of this study was to establish a community-based literacy project that would design translingual storybooks accessible to all children and community members in terms of language, contextual relevance, and age appropriateness for a rural community in the Eastern Cape. Although multiple studies have been done worldwide, more research was needed on the impact community members thought it could have in South African society. This study's theoretical framework was drawn from Cen Williams's (1980) translanguaging. Williams (1980) viewed translanguaging as receiving information in one language (input) and relaying it in another language (output) to expand the competency of the two languages as well as ensure that deeper learning takes place (Wright & Baker, 2017). Translanguaging has evolved throughout the centuries. García and Wei (2014) describe it as a single repertoire that is being used since students integrate their languages and create a new language that they use to function in the world. A qualitative approach was used to answer the research question: "How can a translingual pedagogy enhance communicative repertories in designing community translingual storybooks?" A CPAR design was used to answer the research questions. Through workshops, focus groups, storyboards, and draw-and-talk, the researcher aimed to discover how a translingual pedagogy could enhance communicative repertoires by designing translingual storybooks. Lincoln and Guba's (1985) model of trustworthiness was used to guarantee trustworthiness by concentrating on credibility, transferability, dependability, confirmability, and reflexivity. Three main themes materialised from the data: using the mother tongue, isiXhosa, foundation to improve additional languages, interactive and structure-based strategies, and assets and drawbacks while creating resources with community members. The findings of this study indicated that multiple community members sometimes used their mother tongue to aid in the development of understanding additional languages, English and Afrikaans. They needed to learn the crucial roles they played in students' language development since they were the ones that could make those vital connections. The research participants needed an idea of the methods that could be used to design their translingual storybooks. They indicated that they wanted to work with other community members and wanted steps to follow to design these storybooks. The researcher had to present them with ideas of methods that fit their needs. The researcher knew that every study has assets and drawbacks depending on their view, the study's iii aims and goals, and the research question. It was found that the assets outweighed the drawbacks since the participants were an eager group of individuals. The research participants in this study come with a wide variety of knowledge about the needs of their community based on their experiences. They all have different job descriptions, but what brings them together is their desire to improve the community reading resources to improve their linguistic knowledge. The research participants designed the translingual storybooks at home and shared the data via WhatsApp. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School for initial Teacher Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Senekal, Ischke
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Literacy programs , Translanguaging (Linguistics) -- children's book , Multilingual -– society
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60916 , vital:69225
- Description: The purpose of this study was to establish a community-based literacy project that would design translingual storybooks accessible to all children and community members in terms of language, contextual relevance, and age appropriateness for a rural community in the Eastern Cape. Although multiple studies have been done worldwide, more research was needed on the impact community members thought it could have in South African society. This study's theoretical framework was drawn from Cen Williams's (1980) translanguaging. Williams (1980) viewed translanguaging as receiving information in one language (input) and relaying it in another language (output) to expand the competency of the two languages as well as ensure that deeper learning takes place (Wright & Baker, 2017). Translanguaging has evolved throughout the centuries. García and Wei (2014) describe it as a single repertoire that is being used since students integrate their languages and create a new language that they use to function in the world. A qualitative approach was used to answer the research question: "How can a translingual pedagogy enhance communicative repertories in designing community translingual storybooks?" A CPAR design was used to answer the research questions. Through workshops, focus groups, storyboards, and draw-and-talk, the researcher aimed to discover how a translingual pedagogy could enhance communicative repertoires by designing translingual storybooks. Lincoln and Guba's (1985) model of trustworthiness was used to guarantee trustworthiness by concentrating on credibility, transferability, dependability, confirmability, and reflexivity. Three main themes materialised from the data: using the mother tongue, isiXhosa, foundation to improve additional languages, interactive and structure-based strategies, and assets and drawbacks while creating resources with community members. The findings of this study indicated that multiple community members sometimes used their mother tongue to aid in the development of understanding additional languages, English and Afrikaans. They needed to learn the crucial roles they played in students' language development since they were the ones that could make those vital connections. The research participants needed an idea of the methods that could be used to design their translingual storybooks. They indicated that they wanted to work with other community members and wanted steps to follow to design these storybooks. The researcher had to present them with ideas of methods that fit their needs. The researcher knew that every study has assets and drawbacks depending on their view, the study's iii aims and goals, and the research question. It was found that the assets outweighed the drawbacks since the participants were an eager group of individuals. The research participants in this study come with a wide variety of knowledge about the needs of their community based on their experiences. They all have different job descriptions, but what brings them together is their desire to improve the community reading resources to improve their linguistic knowledge. The research participants designed the translingual storybooks at home and shared the data via WhatsApp. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, School for initial Teacher Education, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A model for integrating user experience into Agile software development
- Authors: Manakaza, Mpile
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Customer satisfaction , Agile development (Computer science) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60949 , vital:69295
- Description: The Agile software development methodology has progressed over time and has become the most popularly used methodology for many projects owing to its adaptable and advanced nature. Agile is an iterative and incremental method that supports project teams to maintain the growing demands of present-day organisations. In software development, it is imperative to build software that ensures a holistic user experience and meets requirements. Software Developers and User Experience Designers focus on users’ preferences and requirements while navigating an application through an approach called user-centred design (UCD). The purpose of Agile user-experience (UX) methods is to build user-centric software solutions using the Agile methodology. Literature indicates a scarcity of Agile-UX models to integrate user experience design processes effectively within Agile software development. Hence, the motivation for this study was to create a practical model for integrating user experience design processes into Agile software development for implementation by software development teams. Initially, the study defines the problem that formed the basis for the initiation of this research, followed by the research questions and objectives that are the fundamental portion of the development of this study. This study highlights the benefits and challenges of Agile-UX methods through a case study of Agile software development teams in South Africa. Furthermore, additional best practices are recommended. A survey questionnaire was distributed to software development teams to identify the various factors that lead to implementing Agile-UX methods. The distribution of the survey questionnaire supported the theoretical perspective of this study. Furthermore, Agile development (AD) and UCD are not easy to combine as UCD aims to understand users before software product development, and no activities are performed before development starts in AD. Lastly, a significant benefit is that user-centred software systems create and promote team collaboration and communication and, ultimately, successful software projects. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information and Communication Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Manakaza, Mpile
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Customer satisfaction , Agile development (Computer science) , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60949 , vital:69295
- Description: The Agile software development methodology has progressed over time and has become the most popularly used methodology for many projects owing to its adaptable and advanced nature. Agile is an iterative and incremental method that supports project teams to maintain the growing demands of present-day organisations. In software development, it is imperative to build software that ensures a holistic user experience and meets requirements. Software Developers and User Experience Designers focus on users’ preferences and requirements while navigating an application through an approach called user-centred design (UCD). The purpose of Agile user-experience (UX) methods is to build user-centric software solutions using the Agile methodology. Literature indicates a scarcity of Agile-UX models to integrate user experience design processes effectively within Agile software development. Hence, the motivation for this study was to create a practical model for integrating user experience design processes into Agile software development for implementation by software development teams. Initially, the study defines the problem that formed the basis for the initiation of this research, followed by the research questions and objectives that are the fundamental portion of the development of this study. This study highlights the benefits and challenges of Agile-UX methods through a case study of Agile software development teams in South Africa. Furthermore, additional best practices are recommended. A survey questionnaire was distributed to software development teams to identify the various factors that lead to implementing Agile-UX methods. The distribution of the survey questionnaire supported the theoretical perspective of this study. Furthermore, Agile development (AD) and UCD are not easy to combine as UCD aims to understand users before software product development, and no activities are performed before development starts in AD. Lastly, a significant benefit is that user-centred software systems create and promote team collaboration and communication and, ultimately, successful software projects. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information and Communication Technology, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A Protection of Personal Information Act Compliance Framework for the City of Tshwane’s Fresh Produce Market.
- Authors: Malepeng, Pheah Harold
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Personal data protection , Agricultural marketing –- South Africa, City of Tshwane
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61213 , vital:69804
- Description: The Protection of Personal Information Act of 2013 (POPIA) is a law drafted to regulate the processing of personal information in South Africa. Its provisions include but are not limited to the usage of personal information for marketing purposes. While it was announced that enforcement of the law would commence in July 2021, many organisations are still in the process of reorganising themselves to comply with this important piece of legislation. Although the Information Regulator’s guideline document is available for utilization, organisations are struggling to develop POPIA compliance frameworks tailored to their operational requirements. As stated in section 6.2.1 of the Information Regulator’s guideline document, the act calls for the appointment of the an Information Officer by organisations who is required to develop, implement, monitor and maintain a POPIA compliance, framework. With that stated, this study aims to reports about developing a POPIA compliance framework for the City of Tshwane’s Fresh Produce Market. The study’s primary objective was to develop a POPIA compliance framework for the City of Tshwane’s Fresh Produce Market (TFPM) as a collector and processor of personal information. The study had three sub-objectives which were achieved using three research methods, namely literature review, content analysis and semi-structured interviews. Through a literature review, conditions that should be adhered to in relation to collecting and processing personal information were identified. Shifting the focus to the second sub-objective, a vigorous content analysis was performed to investigate the TFPM’s current method of collecting and processing personal information. The process involved evaluating the TFPM’s SOPs, Service Level Agreement, License Agreement, and the city of Tshwane’s Information Communication Technology Framework using the Nexia POPIA checklist. The evaluation results revealed a huge non-compliance gap with regard iii to POPIA and personal information conditions. Post development of the POPIA framework the study embarked on an expert review process with the top management of the TFPM to assess their view on the developed POPIA compliance framework. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Malepeng, Pheah Harold
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Personal data protection , Agricultural marketing –- South Africa, City of Tshwane
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61213 , vital:69804
- Description: The Protection of Personal Information Act of 2013 (POPIA) is a law drafted to regulate the processing of personal information in South Africa. Its provisions include but are not limited to the usage of personal information for marketing purposes. While it was announced that enforcement of the law would commence in July 2021, many organisations are still in the process of reorganising themselves to comply with this important piece of legislation. Although the Information Regulator’s guideline document is available for utilization, organisations are struggling to develop POPIA compliance frameworks tailored to their operational requirements. As stated in section 6.2.1 of the Information Regulator’s guideline document, the act calls for the appointment of the an Information Officer by organisations who is required to develop, implement, monitor and maintain a POPIA compliance, framework. With that stated, this study aims to reports about developing a POPIA compliance framework for the City of Tshwane’s Fresh Produce Market. The study’s primary objective was to develop a POPIA compliance framework for the City of Tshwane’s Fresh Produce Market (TFPM) as a collector and processor of personal information. The study had three sub-objectives which were achieved using three research methods, namely literature review, content analysis and semi-structured interviews. Through a literature review, conditions that should be adhered to in relation to collecting and processing personal information were identified. Shifting the focus to the second sub-objective, a vigorous content analysis was performed to investigate the TFPM’s current method of collecting and processing personal information. The process involved evaluating the TFPM’s SOPs, Service Level Agreement, License Agreement, and the city of Tshwane’s Information Communication Technology Framework using the Nexia POPIA checklist. The evaluation results revealed a huge non-compliance gap with regard iii to POPIA and personal information conditions. Post development of the POPIA framework the study embarked on an expert review process with the top management of the TFPM to assess their view on the developed POPIA compliance framework. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
A reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process
- Authors: Kinsman, Jasmine Estonia
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Business enterprises--Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61442 , vital:70648
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kinsman, Jasmine Estonia
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Financial planning industry , Business enterprises--Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61442 , vital:70648
- Description: The globally applied six-step financial planning process which is used by CFP® professionals to provide financial advice is designed to ensure that the financial advice is suitable, based on the needs of the consumer. However, given the diverse cultures in South Africa, this study argues that the six-step financial planning process (as it is currently applied) may not be suitable, as it requires contextualisation based on the unique needs of South African consumers. The various population groups in South Africa have their own sets of beliefs, values and cultural practices, and thus view aspects such as wealth (the creation, preservation and transference thereof), marriage, death and retirement, differently. Thus, financial planners who are not knowledgeable about different cultures, diverse financial needs, or the provisions of customary law, may not be able to provide suitable advice. The primary objective of the study is thus to reconceptualise the six-step financial planning process to be more inclusive, in order to better serve the financial planning needs of South African consumers. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to provide the context and framework within which the reconceptualisation of the six-step financial planning process could be approached. An investigation of the financial planning environment and the financial planning process was completed to determine how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied in the South African context. Further, an investigation of culture and the cultural dimensions – power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, masculinity, timeorientation and indulgence – was conducted, as it was clear that these cultural dimensions cannot be generalised to all South African consumers, due to the large degree of diversity within the population. It was also determined that there are various factors that contribute towards the cultural diversity of South African consumers, which may influence their financial needs and the type of financial advice that is required. These factors include race and ethnicity, marital regimes, procreation and family structures. To further illustrate the diversity of financial needs of South African consumers, a discussion of Black households and the application of financial planning legislation and customary law was provided. Black households are considered to be under-serviced, historically financially excluded, have low levels of financial literacy, and are mostly collectivist in nature. It is for these reasons that Black households are the focus of the study. Some of the financial needs that vi are common among Black households include land and property ownership, family wealth, family homesteads, lobola capital and ‘black tax’ expenditure. Given that the literature review established how the six-step financial planning process is currently applied, an interpretivist research philosophy was adopted in order to gain a deeper understanding of how the six-step financial planning process should be applied in a South African context. Further, the research approach in the context of this study is an inductive one, as the six-step financial planning process is an existing theory that was reconceptualised by considering the perceptions and experiences of 16 CFP® professionals and 14 Black South African households. A mono-method qualitative research methodology was used, with a single qualitative method of data collection (semi-structured interviews), and a single qualitative method of data analysis (latent content analysis). The findings of the study were used to provide a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which takes into consideration the fact that the image of a financial planner plays an important role when trying to establish a professional relationship with a client. The findings reveal that Black consumers in particular, generally have a negative image of a financial planner, which is influenced not only by their perceptions of a financial planner, but also by their self-perception of their own financial situation. The reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process also incorporates the finding that discussions around personal finances are considered impolite and taboo among the Black African community, which influences their ability to talk about these topics, trust a financial planner, and establish a professional relationship with them. The findings also reveal that a racial and gender bias exists among Black consumers – they prefer interacting with a White male financial planner, as they perceive them to be more competent and have more experience with finances and wealth accumulation. It was also found that CFP® professionals believe that having cultural awareness and cultural intelligence can reduce bias in the way that questions are asked, so as not to offend the client. Thus, cultural awareness was also incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process. It was also noted that it is important to ascertain clients’ level of financial literacy during the information gathering stage. Black consumers opined that in this regard, it is the role of the financial planner to both ascertain and ensure their clients’ financial literacy, and to offer financial education to ensure client understanding. vii Although the premise of the study is that South African consumers have unique financial needs due to the high degree of diversity among the population, it was the opinion of CFP® professionals that Black consumers, in particular, do not have unique financial needs – instead, they define their needs differently, have different exposures to financial resources to address their financial needs, and also prioritise and satisfy their needs differently. The prioritised financial needs of Black households (sub-themes) that emerged from both participant groups include the need to make provision for black tax, estate planning, funerals, and property ownership. Black household participants mentioned (to a greater extent than CFP® professionals did) the need to make provision for lobola and initiation schools, as these form part of several traditional ceremonies. The need to make provision for a family home was mentioned by Black household participants but not by CFP® professionals. It was discovered from Black household participants that stokvels are the most common micro-finance tool used by Black consumers, for various reasons. In fact for some, stokvels are preferred over formal financial products because they perceive that they yield a higher return, and others use them successfully to supplement their current provisions. These findings (among others) were incorporated into the reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process which is presented in this study. This study has made a contribution to the financial planning body of knowledge by presenting a reconceptualised perspective of the six-step financial planning process, and providing new knowledge on each of the associated six steps and their suitability in a South African context. This study also provides justification and evidence for the inclusion of aspects within the sixstep financial planning process that enhance the understanding of cultural diversity and needs of Black households in particular. Justification has also been provided for the inclusion of cultural aspects and diverse needs of Black consumers the in the academic curriculum of FPI and FSCA recognised qualifications, as well as the facilitation and learning outcomes of business and product-specific training that FSPs are required to provide to their representatives. The study findings also have implications for the development of the academic curriculum and assessment materials for CFP® professionals by recognised education providers, the FSCA regulatory examination, and the FPI professional competency examination. In addition, the study has provided evidence for the need to develop financial products, or customise existing financial products, that address the viii needs of Black households – especially culture-specific financial needs such as black tax, lobola and funding for initiation schools. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Affirmative action and people with disabilities in the work place
- Authors: Mpambani, Ntombizodwa Rose
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation , People with disabilities , Work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60685 , vital:66321
- Description: Worldwide and in South Africa, affirmative action has been extensively used both as a policy instrument and a means of social reparation and reform. This study focuses on compliance and monitoring for affirmative action for persons with disabilities in the South African workplace. Affirmative action is a transitory method of advancing equality. Constitutionally, it is acknowledged in South Africa that affirmative action in the form of substantive equality. This study explores whether or not employers utilize affirmative action in accordance with the Employment Equity Act. It also aims to evaluate how the Department of Employment and Labour and the courts implement affirmative action. The study considers the relevant literature available, statutes, and employment equality policies, as well as an evaluation of case law. In South Africa, individuals who have disabilities are one of the groups that the Employment Equity Act attempts to protect. People with disabilities are disadvantaged in the work arena, which has substantial psychological, social, and economic consequences. The government established the numerical target that employers must strive to achieve in the workplace. Consequently, it is essential to investigate further the obstacles that impede the employment of persons with disabilities including the physical accessibility of the environment and information, transportation, the attitudes of others (such as employers and co-employees), and the extra expenditures associated with managing a disability. The delivery, nature, and structure of an individual's education is one of the first determinants of socialization into society. There is a delicate relationship between poverty, disability, and social assistance programs that may have a substantial effect on the employment and job search of persons with disabilities. Interestingly, South Africa combines significant unemployment rates with effective social assistance programs. There are compelling economic, social, psychological, and political arguments for boosting the employment of those with disabilities. The policy of affirmative action is effective, but the study notes that the objectives have not yet been realized. The situation in South Africa is compounded by a variety of confusing circumstances, including substantial unemployment, strong social assistance, and disabled individuals with poor skill levels. The survey concluded that the majority of firms do not execute affirmative action appropriately and that enforcement is minimal. It is recommended that disabled workers and labour unions confront employers that do not comply with the Employment Equity Act. To guarantee that persons with disabilities are completely integrated into the workforce, proactive and constructive strategies must be used. It is the morally just and virtuous thing to do, not just for disabled people but for all people. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of School: Mercantile Law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Mpambani, Ntombizodwa Rose
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation , People with disabilities , Work environment
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60685 , vital:66321
- Description: Worldwide and in South Africa, affirmative action has been extensively used both as a policy instrument and a means of social reparation and reform. This study focuses on compliance and monitoring for affirmative action for persons with disabilities in the South African workplace. Affirmative action is a transitory method of advancing equality. Constitutionally, it is acknowledged in South Africa that affirmative action in the form of substantive equality. This study explores whether or not employers utilize affirmative action in accordance with the Employment Equity Act. It also aims to evaluate how the Department of Employment and Labour and the courts implement affirmative action. The study considers the relevant literature available, statutes, and employment equality policies, as well as an evaluation of case law. In South Africa, individuals who have disabilities are one of the groups that the Employment Equity Act attempts to protect. People with disabilities are disadvantaged in the work arena, which has substantial psychological, social, and economic consequences. The government established the numerical target that employers must strive to achieve in the workplace. Consequently, it is essential to investigate further the obstacles that impede the employment of persons with disabilities including the physical accessibility of the environment and information, transportation, the attitudes of others (such as employers and co-employees), and the extra expenditures associated with managing a disability. The delivery, nature, and structure of an individual's education is one of the first determinants of socialization into society. There is a delicate relationship between poverty, disability, and social assistance programs that may have a substantial effect on the employment and job search of persons with disabilities. Interestingly, South Africa combines significant unemployment rates with effective social assistance programs. There are compelling economic, social, psychological, and political arguments for boosting the employment of those with disabilities. The policy of affirmative action is effective, but the study notes that the objectives have not yet been realized. The situation in South Africa is compounded by a variety of confusing circumstances, including substantial unemployment, strong social assistance, and disabled individuals with poor skill levels. The survey concluded that the majority of firms do not execute affirmative action appropriately and that enforcement is minimal. It is recommended that disabled workers and labour unions confront employers that do not comply with the Employment Equity Act. To guarantee that persons with disabilities are completely integrated into the workforce, proactive and constructive strategies must be used. It is the morally just and virtuous thing to do, not just for disabled people but for all people. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of School: Mercantile Law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An Analysis of the Impact of Platinum mining strikes on the South African Economy and exchange rate volatility
- Authors: Malusi, Zintle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Platinum group Industry , South African economy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61648 , vital:71822
- Description: The platinum group metals (PGM) mining sector is the largest component of the South African mining sector based on its contribution to GDP, employment and its overall contribution to the South African economy. Over the past decades South African production of PGMs has been declining, but post global financial crisis the country’s production growth has reduced due to the significant labour disruptions the industry has faced since late 2010. This paper aims to analyse the impact of these industrial strikes on the South African economy for the period 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2016 given the availability of data and significant strikes in that period. An examination of the impact strikes has had on the South African economy by running regressions using the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) technique. The study also looked at economic variables such as exchange rate, interest rate and the platinum index to determine the effect on the platinum mining sector. Regression equations are tested to prove the effects strikes have on theses variables and the economy at large , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Malusi, Zintle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Platinum group Industry , South African economy
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61648 , vital:71822
- Description: The platinum group metals (PGM) mining sector is the largest component of the South African mining sector based on its contribution to GDP, employment and its overall contribution to the South African economy. Over the past decades South African production of PGMs has been declining, but post global financial crisis the country’s production growth has reduced due to the significant labour disruptions the industry has faced since late 2010. This paper aims to analyse the impact of these industrial strikes on the South African economy for the period 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2016 given the availability of data and significant strikes in that period. An examination of the impact strikes has had on the South African economy by running regressions using the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) technique. The study also looked at economic variables such as exchange rate, interest rate and the platinum index to determine the effect on the platinum mining sector. Regression equations are tested to prove the effects strikes have on theses variables and the economy at large , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the effectiveness of area-based conservation intervention in avoiding biodiversity loss in South Africa
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Van Straten, Maurice Oswald
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Soil conservation -- South Africa , Livestock farms – South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61132 , vital:69765
- Description: Habitat degradation, livestock farming, crop cultivation, rangeland overutilization and veld mismanagement are among the factors causing biodiversity loss worldwide. Rangelands in arid and semi-arid environments are no exception, as they are under stress from conversion into cropland and pressure from livestock farming. In these arid areas, rainfall is unpredictable and plant recruitment levels low, resulting in veld rehabilitation being a potentially expensive and time-consuming undertaking for landowners. Landowners implement different rehabilitation methods to increase overall vegetation cover and prevent further soil and vegetation degradation. These rehabilitation methods may include the creation of micro-catchments, mulching, brushpacking, ripping, geotextiles, stone cobbling and erosion control fences, individually or in combination with the addition of reseeding, replanting, and use of manure or fertilizer to supplement land rehabilitation. This study investigated the significance of three rehabilitation methods (hollows, brush packing and a combination of these two methods) on water infiltration rates, soil moisture content, and vegetation canopy cover with associated growth form canopy cover over a period of 17 months (March 2021 to August 2022). This study showed that rehabilitation methods implemented had no significant impact on water infiltration rates and vegetation canopy cover. However, rehabilitation methods had a significant impact on soil moisture content. The use of a hollows is recommended when attempting to increase the soil moisture content percentage when performing rehabilitation. Overall vegetation canopy cover is influenced more by seasonal changes than by the rehabilitation methods implemented. This study indicated that the creation of micro-catchments is an effective rehabilitation method to use in an arid area, as it promotes vegetation establishment and growth. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Natural Resource Science and Management , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to reduce unemployment in South Africa
- Authors: Daniel, Nwabisa Nandipha
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Unemployment--South Africa , unemployment Statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61086 , vital:69739
- Description: This study evaluated South Africa’s legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to determine its effectiveness in reducing unemployment. The study is primarily driven by South Africa’s persistent challenge of unemployment with Statistics South Africa estimating the unemployment rate at 35.5 per cent or 7.9 million labourers. Persistently high levels of unemployment harm the socio-economy as unemployment increases poverty and contributes to inequality. For the government an increase in expenditure on social relief programmes, while offering some relief, decreases revenue collection. In order to mitigate this imbalance, the South African government identified public infrastructure investment as a stimulus for economic growth and create employment, such as in the Expanded Public Works Programme initiative. The legislative framework is an important aspect of study as policy is legitimised and implemented through the legislative framework. Previous studies have focused on the effect of fiscal policy on economic growth and employment creation. These studies have also used quantitative data analysis to explain the relationship between fiscal policy, economic growth, and unemployment. Other studies have focused on public policy planning and implementation, and some of the policies that have been implemented to address unemployment. This study focused on public infrastructure investments specifically rather than fiscal policy in general. The study also examined the legislative framework to determine whether it is effective in reducing unemployment through public infrastructure investment. The study made used qualitative data analysis as the researcher undertook a document analysis of publicly available documents which were sampled using a purposive sampling technique and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were that the legislative framework supported employment creation through public infrastructure investment through the establishment of a public institution to support the construction industry, the use of local content as inputs and labour-intensive technologies in the infrastructure delivery process. The legislative framework was not effective in supporting the policy, which is demonstrated by the perpetually high unemployment rate despite unemployment alleviating initiatives being implemented in the early and mid-2000s , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Daniel, Nwabisa Nandipha
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Unemployment--South Africa , unemployment Statistics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61086 , vital:69739
- Description: This study evaluated South Africa’s legislative framework for public infrastructure investment to determine its effectiveness in reducing unemployment. The study is primarily driven by South Africa’s persistent challenge of unemployment with Statistics South Africa estimating the unemployment rate at 35.5 per cent or 7.9 million labourers. Persistently high levels of unemployment harm the socio-economy as unemployment increases poverty and contributes to inequality. For the government an increase in expenditure on social relief programmes, while offering some relief, decreases revenue collection. In order to mitigate this imbalance, the South African government identified public infrastructure investment as a stimulus for economic growth and create employment, such as in the Expanded Public Works Programme initiative. The legislative framework is an important aspect of study as policy is legitimised and implemented through the legislative framework. Previous studies have focused on the effect of fiscal policy on economic growth and employment creation. These studies have also used quantitative data analysis to explain the relationship between fiscal policy, economic growth, and unemployment. Other studies have focused on public policy planning and implementation, and some of the policies that have been implemented to address unemployment. This study focused on public infrastructure investments specifically rather than fiscal policy in general. The study also examined the legislative framework to determine whether it is effective in reducing unemployment through public infrastructure investment. The study made used qualitative data analysis as the researcher undertook a document analysis of publicly available documents which were sampled using a purposive sampling technique and analysed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of the study were that the legislative framework supported employment creation through public infrastructure investment through the establishment of a public institution to support the construction industry, the use of local content as inputs and labour-intensive technologies in the infrastructure delivery process. The legislative framework was not effective in supporting the policy, which is demonstrated by the perpetually high unemployment rate despite unemployment alleviating initiatives being implemented in the early and mid-2000s , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of business and economic sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An evaluation of the national minimum wage dispensation
- Authors: Masenya, Mogodi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Evaluation , Minimum wage -- distribution , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60807 , vital:67833
- Description: After South Africa became a democratic country, there was a shift in the labour and employment sector. This led to introduction of new labour laws which would be in harmony with the constitutional dream and objectives. As such, the BCEA was introduced to bring about change to the basic conditions of employment. As a result of this, new minimum wages policies and laws were enacted. The wages were to be determined by the following means: first way was by means of bargaining council agreements, the second way by means of statutory council agreements, and the third way by means of sectoral determinations. The sectoral determinations policy was introduced through the BCEA. The BCEA through the ECC promulgated sectoral determinations which was aimed to establish minimum wages and conditions of employment for workers in the sectors deemed to be vulnerable. A minimum wage was firstly adopted in New Zealand and in European countries as early as the 19th century. This policy was then widely adopted after the establishment of the International Labour Organisation. The purpose or aim of a minimum wage is to protect workers against exploitatively low pay and to ensure a just and equitable share of the profits of work, thus creating a minimum living wage for all those that are employed and in need of such protection. Minimum wages are also often used as a policy tool to reduce poverty and inequality, including between men and women, by advocating for equal pay for work of equal value. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No 135 are the key international conventions that determine minimum wage fixing. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No. 135 seek to ensure that the minimum wage is set at a certain level that allows workers and their families to meet their needs. Article 4 of Convention No. 131 requires the creation and maintenance of machinery adapted to national conditions and requirements whereby minimum wages for groups of wage earners covered under article 1 can be fixed and adjusted from time to time. However, the situation of minimum wages differs between developed and developing countries. This raises a concern, more particularly, whether developing countries can be able to adopt the minimum wage policy. This research makes investigate the adoption of iv minimum wage policy in developed and developing countries, and how it affected their socio-economic status. On about 2018, South Africa enacted the National Minimum Wage Act. This Act was aimed at establishing a floor of minimum wage for all employees. This Act was intended to promote and protect vulnerable workers who were left out from the previous wage policies. The long-term aim of a minimum wage was to remove the problem of poverty pay, which exists when the earnings from paid work do not result in a living minimum wage and fail to push people out of poverty. When this Act was enacted, the national minimum wage floor was set at R20 per hour. However, in EPWP, Domestic Worker, and Farm workers had lower rates because they were regulated by other laws. Furthermore, there were challenges of non-compliance by employers. The national minimum wage policy as a socio-economic tool has had an impact on several levels of the economy. This policy has contributed to either alleviation or elevation of poverty and unemployment. Therefore, this study looks at the impact the minimum wage has had on these 2 aspects of life. The research provides a specific asymmetric data of the impact of the policy in all sectors throughout the time since this policy was adopted. It further shows how the minimum wage policy intervention has been affected by covid 19 pandemic. This empirical evidence is provided by way of charts and graphs to demonstrate the changes that has occurred. At the end of the treatise a conclusion on how this policy has affected the South African economy is reached. Furthermore, recommendations on how economic risks posed by the minimum wage policy can be reduced. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Masenya, Mogodi
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Evaluation , Minimum wage -- distribution , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60807 , vital:67833
- Description: After South Africa became a democratic country, there was a shift in the labour and employment sector. This led to introduction of new labour laws which would be in harmony with the constitutional dream and objectives. As such, the BCEA was introduced to bring about change to the basic conditions of employment. As a result of this, new minimum wages policies and laws were enacted. The wages were to be determined by the following means: first way was by means of bargaining council agreements, the second way by means of statutory council agreements, and the third way by means of sectoral determinations. The sectoral determinations policy was introduced through the BCEA. The BCEA through the ECC promulgated sectoral determinations which was aimed to establish minimum wages and conditions of employment for workers in the sectors deemed to be vulnerable. A minimum wage was firstly adopted in New Zealand and in European countries as early as the 19th century. This policy was then widely adopted after the establishment of the International Labour Organisation. The purpose or aim of a minimum wage is to protect workers against exploitatively low pay and to ensure a just and equitable share of the profits of work, thus creating a minimum living wage for all those that are employed and in need of such protection. Minimum wages are also often used as a policy tool to reduce poverty and inequality, including between men and women, by advocating for equal pay for work of equal value. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No 135 are the key international conventions that determine minimum wage fixing. Convention No. 131 and Recommendation No. 135 seek to ensure that the minimum wage is set at a certain level that allows workers and their families to meet their needs. Article 4 of Convention No. 131 requires the creation and maintenance of machinery adapted to national conditions and requirements whereby minimum wages for groups of wage earners covered under article 1 can be fixed and adjusted from time to time. However, the situation of minimum wages differs between developed and developing countries. This raises a concern, more particularly, whether developing countries can be able to adopt the minimum wage policy. This research makes investigate the adoption of iv minimum wage policy in developed and developing countries, and how it affected their socio-economic status. On about 2018, South Africa enacted the National Minimum Wage Act. This Act was aimed at establishing a floor of minimum wage for all employees. This Act was intended to promote and protect vulnerable workers who were left out from the previous wage policies. The long-term aim of a minimum wage was to remove the problem of poverty pay, which exists when the earnings from paid work do not result in a living minimum wage and fail to push people out of poverty. When this Act was enacted, the national minimum wage floor was set at R20 per hour. However, in EPWP, Domestic Worker, and Farm workers had lower rates because they were regulated by other laws. Furthermore, there were challenges of non-compliance by employers. The national minimum wage policy as a socio-economic tool has had an impact on several levels of the economy. This policy has contributed to either alleviation or elevation of poverty and unemployment. Therefore, this study looks at the impact the minimum wage has had on these 2 aspects of life. The research provides a specific asymmetric data of the impact of the policy in all sectors throughout the time since this policy was adopted. It further shows how the minimum wage policy intervention has been affected by covid 19 pandemic. This empirical evidence is provided by way of charts and graphs to demonstrate the changes that has occurred. At the end of the treatise a conclusion on how this policy has affected the South African economy is reached. Furthermore, recommendations on how economic risks posed by the minimum wage policy can be reduced. , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile law, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An explorative study into the introduction of sugar tax in the sugar industry: A case of Illovo
- Authors: Jacobs, Nomfundo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Sugar Trade , Maple sugar industry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61350 , vital:70421
- Description: An explorative study into the introduction of sugar tax in the sugar industry: A case of Illovo. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry, Illovo Sugar in particular. This tax was introduced in 2018 and it only affected the beverage industry, with its effects being concentrated on industrial sales. The government's intention was to reduce the rising levels of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases, in response to the increased sugar consumption in the country. In addition, the introduction of this tax was expected to reduce sugar consumption in the country, thereby improving public health. Ultimately, the government wanted to encourage citizens to adjust their lifestyles by reducing their sugar intake. To this end, the sugar tax was implemented with the expectation that it would lead to a decrease in sugar consumption in South Africa. The researcher made use of the qualitative research method to collect the data. This enabled a comprehensive understanding of the research topic, as the participants chosen had been working in the sugar industry for a number of years and could give detailed accounts of the implications of the tax on the industry and the communities. Furthermore, the researcher conducted in-depth interviews with the participants to better understand their perceptions on how the tax had impacted their businesses. The data collected was then analysed according to thematic content analysis, and this produced factual, reliable, and valid results. The findings of this study revealed that the sugar tax had a negative impact on Illovo's business operations. Despite this, Illovo was able to leverage its resources and expertise to devise strategies for mitigating the impact of the sugar tax, allowing them to remain competitive in their industry. This included focusing on independent stores and restructuring staff and resources to manage the lower sugar demand. Additionally, Illovo also looked at selling sugar to more profitable customers, helping to reduce costs and associated risk. Despite the strategies adopted, further research is recommended in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding into the phenomenon using a large sample size. This v would allow for further insights into the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry and whether any changes need to be made in order to ensure that it continues to remain competitive in the industry. Furthermore, research should also be conducted into the implications of the sugar tax on other sectors of the economy, as policy makers may need to consider the possible effects on other industries and even on the government itself versus the possible benefits to the public. Additionally, this research could also be extended to include a longitudinal study in order to capture any changes that take place in the years to come. These changes may include further price adjustments, changes in consumer behaviour, and any possible implications on public health. This would allow for a greater understanding of the implications of this tax for both the industry and society. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Jacobs, Nomfundo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Sugar Trade , Maple sugar industry
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61350 , vital:70421
- Description: An explorative study into the introduction of sugar tax in the sugar industry: A case of Illovo. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry, Illovo Sugar in particular. This tax was introduced in 2018 and it only affected the beverage industry, with its effects being concentrated on industrial sales. The government's intention was to reduce the rising levels of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and heart diseases, in response to the increased sugar consumption in the country. In addition, the introduction of this tax was expected to reduce sugar consumption in the country, thereby improving public health. Ultimately, the government wanted to encourage citizens to adjust their lifestyles by reducing their sugar intake. To this end, the sugar tax was implemented with the expectation that it would lead to a decrease in sugar consumption in South Africa. The researcher made use of the qualitative research method to collect the data. This enabled a comprehensive understanding of the research topic, as the participants chosen had been working in the sugar industry for a number of years and could give detailed accounts of the implications of the tax on the industry and the communities. Furthermore, the researcher conducted in-depth interviews with the participants to better understand their perceptions on how the tax had impacted their businesses. The data collected was then analysed according to thematic content analysis, and this produced factual, reliable, and valid results. The findings of this study revealed that the sugar tax had a negative impact on Illovo's business operations. Despite this, Illovo was able to leverage its resources and expertise to devise strategies for mitigating the impact of the sugar tax, allowing them to remain competitive in their industry. This included focusing on independent stores and restructuring staff and resources to manage the lower sugar demand. Additionally, Illovo also looked at selling sugar to more profitable customers, helping to reduce costs and associated risk. Despite the strategies adopted, further research is recommended in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding into the phenomenon using a large sample size. This v would allow for further insights into the impact of the sugar tax on the South African sugar industry and whether any changes need to be made in order to ensure that it continues to remain competitive in the industry. Furthermore, research should also be conducted into the implications of the sugar tax on other sectors of the economy, as policy makers may need to consider the possible effects on other industries and even on the government itself versus the possible benefits to the public. Additionally, this research could also be extended to include a longitudinal study in order to capture any changes that take place in the years to come. These changes may include further price adjustments, changes in consumer behaviour, and any possible implications on public health. This would allow for a greater understanding of the implications of this tax for both the industry and society. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An investigation into the cybersecurity skills gap in South Africa
- Authors: De Jager, Michael
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Criminal investigation , Information technology--Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60635 , vital:66247
- Description: The usage of the internet both in our daily lives and in the operations of organisations has grown significantly in modern society. However, there are also risks and vulnerabilities associated with this, thus cyber threats. Cybersecurity has been put in place to safeguard the internet from these cyber threats, yet there is an ever-growing concern regarding the implementation of cybersecurity, both globally and in South Africa. With the increase in cyber threats, there is a growing need and demand for IT professionals with the requisite cybersecurity skills and knowledge to combat and mitigate these threats. However, an ever-increasing cybersecurity skills gap has been identified both globally and in South Africa. Yet the specific cybersecurity skills demand, needs and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa are currently unknown. This study therefore investigated the cybersecurity skills demand, needs, and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa by reporting on IT professionals’ perceptions in this regard. An online questionnaire was used to gather information for this and was distributed to IT professionals using various online platforms. According to the findings of the study, there are several challenges such as lack of time, lack of funding and a lack of resources that South Africa must overcome in order to address the cybersecurity skills gap. From the survey results it was also found that neither tertiary institutions, nor organisations, nor the South African government are investing enough in cybersecurity skills development. Without the right cybersecurity skills set or investment in the development of cybersecurity skills, cyber threats will continue to increase and will potentially become more harmful to South African organisations and to the South African society at large. Furthermore, this study addresses the extent to which cybersecurity-related skills are required and currently used by IT professionals in South Africa to address the cybersecurity skills gap. Tertiary institutions, organisations and the South African government may benefit from this investigation as it could assist in the development of cybersecurity course work as well as national cybersecurity laws, legislations and policies. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: De Jager, Michael
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Criminal investigation , Information technology--Security measures -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60635 , vital:66247
- Description: The usage of the internet both in our daily lives and in the operations of organisations has grown significantly in modern society. However, there are also risks and vulnerabilities associated with this, thus cyber threats. Cybersecurity has been put in place to safeguard the internet from these cyber threats, yet there is an ever-growing concern regarding the implementation of cybersecurity, both globally and in South Africa. With the increase in cyber threats, there is a growing need and demand for IT professionals with the requisite cybersecurity skills and knowledge to combat and mitigate these threats. However, an ever-increasing cybersecurity skills gap has been identified both globally and in South Africa. Yet the specific cybersecurity skills demand, needs and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa are currently unknown. This study therefore investigated the cybersecurity skills demand, needs, and challenges of IT professionals in South Africa by reporting on IT professionals’ perceptions in this regard. An online questionnaire was used to gather information for this and was distributed to IT professionals using various online platforms. According to the findings of the study, there are several challenges such as lack of time, lack of funding and a lack of resources that South Africa must overcome in order to address the cybersecurity skills gap. From the survey results it was also found that neither tertiary institutions, nor organisations, nor the South African government are investing enough in cybersecurity skills development. Without the right cybersecurity skills set or investment in the development of cybersecurity skills, cyber threats will continue to increase and will potentially become more harmful to South African organisations and to the South African society at large. Furthermore, this study addresses the extent to which cybersecurity-related skills are required and currently used by IT professionals in South Africa to address the cybersecurity skills gap. Tertiary institutions, organisations and the South African government may benefit from this investigation as it could assist in the development of cybersecurity course work as well as national cybersecurity laws, legislations and policies. , Thesis (MIT) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
An investigation of alternative separation strategies for common chemical mixtures by means of host-guest chemistry protocols with host compounds N,N′- bis(5-phenyl-5-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11- dihydro-5-dibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine
- Authors: Barton, Danica Brione
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid -- South Africa , Enzymes –Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61176 , vital:69791
- Description: In this work, the selectivity behaviour of two host compounds, namely N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H1) and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11-dihydro-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H2), was assessed in mixtures of difficult-toseparate compounds, including the xylenes and ethylbenzene, pyridine and methylpyridines, and anisole and methylanisoles. These host compounds were synthesized using Grignard addition reactions with phenylmagnesium bromide on dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one and 10,11- dihydrodibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one, respectively. The resultant alcohols were treated with perchloric acid to form the corresponding perchlorate salts, which were then reacted with ethylenediamine to afford the required H1 and H2 host compounds. Yields were 95 ad 52% for this final step in each case. An investigation of the conformations, both from experiment (using single crystal X-ray diffractometry (SCXRD) on the apohost compound) and computational calculations was undertaken. Unfortunately, H1 always crystallized out as a powder unless this host compound formed a complex with a guest species, and so could not be subjected to SCXRD analysis as apohost alone. However, a single crystal structure for apohost H2 was successfully obtained and compared with computational data from a previous investigation. It was observed that the conformation of apohost H2 compared favourably with that of the lowest energy conformer from that work. In single solvent recrystallization experiments with o-, m-, p-xylene (o-Xy, m-Xy, p-Xy) and ethylbenzene (EB), both H1 and H2 formed complexes with only one of the four guest species, namely p-Xy and o-Xy, respectively. The host:guest (H:G) ratios were 1:1 for both of these complexes. In the equimolar guest/guest competition experiments, inclusion complexes only formed when p-Xy or o-Xy, respectively, were present in the mixtures; if p-Xy (for experiments with H1) or o-Xy (H2) was absent from these mixtures, only apohost was recovered from the glass vessels. Three selectivity profiles were constructed for each of these host compounds, in which each one was recrystallized from binary mixed guests in various proportions. These demonstrated an overwhelming preference of H1 for p-Xy and H2 for o-Xy, which concurred with the results from the equimolar experiments. Thermal analysis using H1∙p-Xy revealed that this complex was unstable at ambient conditions, while SCXRD explained this observation: this complex may be defined as a true clathrate since no host‧‧‧guest interactions were identified at all, and the guest was retained in the complex by means of steric factors alone. Furthermore, the guest molecules resided in wide open channels that may have facilitated the guest release process. H2∙o-Xy, on the other hand, was stable at room temperature, and the guest release event only commenced at 69.7 °C (Ton). This too was explained by SCXRD analyses in that interactions between host and guest species were observed in this case. Additionally, the guest molecules were housed in discrete cages, which made their escape more challenging compared with p-Xy in H1∙p-Xy. It was concluded that, in this guest series, both of the host compounds would be effective as separatory tools employing host-guest chemistry protocols due to their remarkable selectivities for p-Xy (H1) and o-Xy (H2). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Barton, Danica Brione
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid -- South Africa , Enzymes –Analysis
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61176 , vital:69791
- Description: In this work, the selectivity behaviour of two host compounds, namely N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H1) and N,N’-bis(5-phenyl-10,11-dihydro-5- ibenzo[a,d]cycloheptenyl)ethylenediamine (H2), was assessed in mixtures of difficult-toseparate compounds, including the xylenes and ethylbenzene, pyridine and methylpyridines, and anisole and methylanisoles. These host compounds were synthesized using Grignard addition reactions with phenylmagnesium bromide on dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one and 10,11- dihydrodibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-one, respectively. The resultant alcohols were treated with perchloric acid to form the corresponding perchlorate salts, which were then reacted with ethylenediamine to afford the required H1 and H2 host compounds. Yields were 95 ad 52% for this final step in each case. An investigation of the conformations, both from experiment (using single crystal X-ray diffractometry (SCXRD) on the apohost compound) and computational calculations was undertaken. Unfortunately, H1 always crystallized out as a powder unless this host compound formed a complex with a guest species, and so could not be subjected to SCXRD analysis as apohost alone. However, a single crystal structure for apohost H2 was successfully obtained and compared with computational data from a previous investigation. It was observed that the conformation of apohost H2 compared favourably with that of the lowest energy conformer from that work. In single solvent recrystallization experiments with o-, m-, p-xylene (o-Xy, m-Xy, p-Xy) and ethylbenzene (EB), both H1 and H2 formed complexes with only one of the four guest species, namely p-Xy and o-Xy, respectively. The host:guest (H:G) ratios were 1:1 for both of these complexes. In the equimolar guest/guest competition experiments, inclusion complexes only formed when p-Xy or o-Xy, respectively, were present in the mixtures; if p-Xy (for experiments with H1) or o-Xy (H2) was absent from these mixtures, only apohost was recovered from the glass vessels. Three selectivity profiles were constructed for each of these host compounds, in which each one was recrystallized from binary mixed guests in various proportions. These demonstrated an overwhelming preference of H1 for p-Xy and H2 for o-Xy, which concurred with the results from the equimolar experiments. Thermal analysis using H1∙p-Xy revealed that this complex was unstable at ambient conditions, while SCXRD explained this observation: this complex may be defined as a true clathrate since no host‧‧‧guest interactions were identified at all, and the guest was retained in the complex by means of steric factors alone. Furthermore, the guest molecules resided in wide open channels that may have facilitated the guest release process. H2∙o-Xy, on the other hand, was stable at room temperature, and the guest release event only commenced at 69.7 °C (Ton). This too was explained by SCXRD analyses in that interactions between host and guest species were observed in this case. Additionally, the guest molecules were housed in discrete cages, which made their escape more challenging compared with p-Xy in H1∙p-Xy. It was concluded that, in this guest series, both of the host compounds would be effective as separatory tools employing host-guest chemistry protocols due to their remarkable selectivities for p-Xy (H1) and o-Xy (H2). , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular and Chemical Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing diatom community composition and structure in palaeosediments of a southern Cape coastal wetland
- Authors: Sepato, Tshiamo Tsholofelo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Diatoms --South Africa – Southern Cape , Paleoecology , Marine algae --South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61258 , vital:69847
- Description: Palaeoenvironmental studies are important as they aid in reconstructing histories of past landscapes and provide key long-term information for the conservation and management of ecosystems. The southern Cape coast is a focus area for palaeoenvironmental research due to its high botanical and climatic importance. A three-metre sediment core was retrieved from Whale Rock wetland (Plettenberg Bay, southern Cape Coast) and spanned ~8000 years – a large proportion of the Holocene epoch. Diatom data preserved in palaeosediments of the Whale Rock wetland are presented within this study. A total of 48 diatom species was identified. Based on the multivariate statistical analysis, the diatom assemblages were divided into three zones: Zone WR-1-A (~7200 – 6450 cal yr BP); Zone WR-1- B (~6450 – 6250 cal yr BP) and Zone WR-1-C (~250 cal yr BP – to present). Two diatom preservation hiatus periods were observed at ~8000 – 7200 cal yr BP and ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP. The results indicated that benthic diatom species were significantly dominant throughout the Whale Rock record. The diatom evidence revealed that the Whale Rock wetland system freshened over time as diatom species identified in Zone WR-1-A and Zone WR-1- B indicated marine influences whereas Zone WR-1-C displayed a dominance of species that thrive in freshwater conditions. A transitional phase occurred at ~6400 cal yr BP where abrupt changes began prior to the significant ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP diatom preservation hiatus period. Principal Component Analysis showed that salinity was the main environmental driver of change impacting the species abundance and diversity of diatom communities within the wetland system throughout the Holocene. When compared with regional palaeoenvironmental and palaeolimnological data, it is evident that several other wetland systems moved from a marine/brackish favoured system to a freshwater system with the transitional phase occurring at different periods within the Holocene. This study indicated that diatoms are powerful biological proxies of environmental change. It is recommended that the site be revisited to investigate further the hiatus phases to further explore the lack of diatom preservation for these periods and to also contribute more palaeoenvironmental proxy evidence as well as modern hydrological information. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Sepato, Tshiamo Tsholofelo
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Diatoms --South Africa – Southern Cape , Paleoecology , Marine algae --South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61258 , vital:69847
- Description: Palaeoenvironmental studies are important as they aid in reconstructing histories of past landscapes and provide key long-term information for the conservation and management of ecosystems. The southern Cape coast is a focus area for palaeoenvironmental research due to its high botanical and climatic importance. A three-metre sediment core was retrieved from Whale Rock wetland (Plettenberg Bay, southern Cape Coast) and spanned ~8000 years – a large proportion of the Holocene epoch. Diatom data preserved in palaeosediments of the Whale Rock wetland are presented within this study. A total of 48 diatom species was identified. Based on the multivariate statistical analysis, the diatom assemblages were divided into three zones: Zone WR-1-A (~7200 – 6450 cal yr BP); Zone WR-1- B (~6450 – 6250 cal yr BP) and Zone WR-1-C (~250 cal yr BP – to present). Two diatom preservation hiatus periods were observed at ~8000 – 7200 cal yr BP and ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP. The results indicated that benthic diatom species were significantly dominant throughout the Whale Rock record. The diatom evidence revealed that the Whale Rock wetland system freshened over time as diatom species identified in Zone WR-1-A and Zone WR-1- B indicated marine influences whereas Zone WR-1-C displayed a dominance of species that thrive in freshwater conditions. A transitional phase occurred at ~6400 cal yr BP where abrupt changes began prior to the significant ~6400 – 230 cal yr BP diatom preservation hiatus period. Principal Component Analysis showed that salinity was the main environmental driver of change impacting the species abundance and diversity of diatom communities within the wetland system throughout the Holocene. When compared with regional palaeoenvironmental and palaeolimnological data, it is evident that several other wetland systems moved from a marine/brackish favoured system to a freshwater system with the transitional phase occurring at different periods within the Holocene. This study indicated that diatoms are powerful biological proxies of environmental change. It is recommended that the site be revisited to investigate further the hiatus phases to further explore the lack of diatom preservation for these periods and to also contribute more palaeoenvironmental proxy evidence as well as modern hydrological information. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on South African organisation’s way of working: A Black Management Forum Perspective
- Authors: Koti, Sonwabo Mawethu
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease)-- South Africa , Black Management Forum
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61454 , vital:70653
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine impact of Covid-19 on organisation’s work environment in South Africa, based on Black Management Forum’s views. The outbreak of Covid-19 led to disruption on organisation’s ways of working, this was due to lockdown rules and regulations, restrictions imposed by Government to curb the spread of the virus. The study used quantitative method approach; online survey questionnaire was distributed to recruited Black Management Forum (BMF) members who were willing to voluntarily participate via an email and WhatsApp platform. These members were sampled using convenience and snowball non-probability sampling techniques. The concepts of the study were scientifically hypothesised to determine whether such associations exist within the context of the work environment and productivity within the different corporate sector of industries in South Africa. The study findings confirmed that most organisations were impacted, and they changed their ways of work by implementing mostly work partly from home (WPFH) hybrid work model. The study findings also revealed that, workload was more during the pandemic than before, as results of changed work environment. Other finding from the study indicated that most employees adapted well to changes, understood the need for change and they performed well. Most employees also felt more productive and well supported and respected by managers. Service sectors were more impacted than other sectors and they showed more productivity as well. Most respondents felt that the adopted ways of working would remain post-pandemic and that they prefer this hybrid model of working because it gave them an opportunity to manage their own time. vii The research is significant as it critically examined how a pandemic can create organisational changes and the extent to which organisations must adjust. The research also provides policy recommendations that could assist corporate organisations in adopting new ways of working. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Koti, Sonwabo Mawethu
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease)-- South Africa , Black Management Forum
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61454 , vital:70653
- Description: The aim of this study was to examine impact of Covid-19 on organisation’s work environment in South Africa, based on Black Management Forum’s views. The outbreak of Covid-19 led to disruption on organisation’s ways of working, this was due to lockdown rules and regulations, restrictions imposed by Government to curb the spread of the virus. The study used quantitative method approach; online survey questionnaire was distributed to recruited Black Management Forum (BMF) members who were willing to voluntarily participate via an email and WhatsApp platform. These members were sampled using convenience and snowball non-probability sampling techniques. The concepts of the study were scientifically hypothesised to determine whether such associations exist within the context of the work environment and productivity within the different corporate sector of industries in South Africa. The study findings confirmed that most organisations were impacted, and they changed their ways of work by implementing mostly work partly from home (WPFH) hybrid work model. The study findings also revealed that, workload was more during the pandemic than before, as results of changed work environment. Other finding from the study indicated that most employees adapted well to changes, understood the need for change and they performed well. Most employees also felt more productive and well supported and respected by managers. Service sectors were more impacted than other sectors and they showed more productivity as well. Most respondents felt that the adopted ways of working would remain post-pandemic and that they prefer this hybrid model of working because it gave them an opportunity to manage their own time. vii The research is significant as it critically examined how a pandemic can create organisational changes and the extent to which organisations must adjust. The research also provides policy recommendations that could assist corporate organisations in adopting new ways of working. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing the Role of Women on Small-Scale Agribusiness at Wincanton Estate in Kariega, South Africa
- Authors: Zalwango, Joanita
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Women in agriculture --Eastern Cape – Kariega , Climate change -- Kariega
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61054 , vital:69690
- Description: Agricultural development is a prerequisite for most economies to grow. Agricultural activities are key to food security and sustaining livelihoods globally. Within the African continent, more women are employed in agriculture and agribusiness activities than other sectors. As main contributors to the labour force in the agricultural sector, women get involved in many agricultural and agribusiness activities to sustain their families. With over 60% of women in Sub–Saharan Africa involved in agriculture, there is need to explore and assess the role they play in promoting agribusiness with special focus on Kariega, in South Africa. The identified participants in the study, as self-employed farmers, participate in agribusiness, thereby creating employment opportunities whilst generating personal incomes. Several benefits to female involvement in agribusiness were identified, including the ability to sustain families, stable cash flow, and empowerment. Several challenges were identified, including adequate capital, inaccessibility to private land, droughts, water scarcity, climate change effects and stigmatisation. Through a feminist qualitative methodology, the study utilised semi- structured interviews to collect data from 10 women involved in agribusiness around Kariega, Nelson Mandela Bay. Themes from the findings are analysed to highlight the important role played by women toward agribusiness, their achievements, government and private sector role and the hinderances still faced by these women in agricultural cooperatives. Discussion from the analysis included a framework of recommendations, for policy makers, development practitioners and future researchers. The study found that all stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector should work together for sustainable agricultural development and sustainable development goals to be achieved. Sustainability among women farmers can be achieved by (a) Increasing government intervention and support (b) Climate smart agriculture practices (c) Overcoming stigmatisation (d) Encouraging and involving the youth (e) Diversification and integration of farm businesses and (f) Using contract farming. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Assessing the Role of Women on Small-Scale Agribusiness at Wincanton Estate in Kariega, South Africa
- Authors: Zalwango, Joanita
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Leadership in women , Women in agriculture --Eastern Cape – Kariega , Climate change -- Kariega
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61054 , vital:69690
- Description: Agricultural development is a prerequisite for most economies to grow. Agricultural activities are key to food security and sustaining livelihoods globally. Within the African continent, more women are employed in agriculture and agribusiness activities than other sectors. As main contributors to the labour force in the agricultural sector, women get involved in many agricultural and agribusiness activities to sustain their families. With over 60% of women in Sub–Saharan Africa involved in agriculture, there is need to explore and assess the role they play in promoting agribusiness with special focus on Kariega, in South Africa. The identified participants in the study, as self-employed farmers, participate in agribusiness, thereby creating employment opportunities whilst generating personal incomes. Several benefits to female involvement in agribusiness were identified, including the ability to sustain families, stable cash flow, and empowerment. Several challenges were identified, including adequate capital, inaccessibility to private land, droughts, water scarcity, climate change effects and stigmatisation. Through a feminist qualitative methodology, the study utilised semi- structured interviews to collect data from 10 women involved in agribusiness around Kariega, Nelson Mandela Bay. Themes from the findings are analysed to highlight the important role played by women toward agribusiness, their achievements, government and private sector role and the hinderances still faced by these women in agricultural cooperatives. Discussion from the analysis included a framework of recommendations, for policy makers, development practitioners and future researchers. The study found that all stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector should work together for sustainable agricultural development and sustainable development goals to be achieved. Sustainability among women farmers can be achieved by (a) Increasing government intervention and support (b) Climate smart agriculture practices (c) Overcoming stigmatisation (d) Encouraging and involving the youth (e) Diversification and integration of farm businesses and (f) Using contract farming. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2023
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Challenges and opportunities of coastal and marine tourism in Swartkops river Estuary
- Authors: Nokela,Thembela
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Marine -- South Africa -- Swartkops River Estuary , Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality—Tourism , Estuarine pollution
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61316 , vital:70083
- Description: This study's goal was to pinpoint the challenges and untapped opportunities associated with Coastal and Marine Tourism (CMT) in the Swartkops River Estuary (SRE). CMT has become the biggest segment of the travel industry. Moreover, this form of alternative tourism is the most significant and fastest developing economic activity in the ocean. The objectives of this study were to identify the challenges that hinder the development of CMT in SRE, to determine opportunities for CMT in SRE, to evaluate NMBM’s efforts in creating and sustaining CMT in SRE and to evaluate the status of CMT in SRE in terms of CMT related development. This study fit within the interprevist paradigm and made use of a qualitative research approach and design as well as inductive reasoning. The qualitative research design consisted of data being collected through document and content analysis. Data was analysed using data analysis process of Miles and Herman (1994) as well as the coding and developing of specific themes that emerged from the data. The data in this phase was presented both in narrative format and tables. The document analysis used in this study was established based on the objectives of this study. The findings of this study revealed that key challenges that hinder the growth of CMT in Swartkops River Estuary are environmental impacts that include pollution, over enrichment, inappropriate development, overfishing, destruction of mudflats, limited freshwater inflow, destruction of vegetation and climate change. The findings also revealed that there are opportunities for CMT in SRE such as promoting SRE as a popular ecotourism destination by developing ecotourism nodes. These include environmental education at the Aloes Nature Reserve's and the Swartkops Estuary south-east section, sustainable ecolodges and conference centres. The study recommends that the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality should organize educational programmes to educate local people about the significance of conserving and safeguarding the environment for future generations. These findings also posed certain challenges linked to those identified in the analysis. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development & Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Nokela,Thembela
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Marine -- South Africa -- Swartkops River Estuary , Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality—Tourism , Estuarine pollution
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61316 , vital:70083
- Description: This study's goal was to pinpoint the challenges and untapped opportunities associated with Coastal and Marine Tourism (CMT) in the Swartkops River Estuary (SRE). CMT has become the biggest segment of the travel industry. Moreover, this form of alternative tourism is the most significant and fastest developing economic activity in the ocean. The objectives of this study were to identify the challenges that hinder the development of CMT in SRE, to determine opportunities for CMT in SRE, to evaluate NMBM’s efforts in creating and sustaining CMT in SRE and to evaluate the status of CMT in SRE in terms of CMT related development. This study fit within the interprevist paradigm and made use of a qualitative research approach and design as well as inductive reasoning. The qualitative research design consisted of data being collected through document and content analysis. Data was analysed using data analysis process of Miles and Herman (1994) as well as the coding and developing of specific themes that emerged from the data. The data in this phase was presented both in narrative format and tables. The document analysis used in this study was established based on the objectives of this study. The findings of this study revealed that key challenges that hinder the growth of CMT in Swartkops River Estuary are environmental impacts that include pollution, over enrichment, inappropriate development, overfishing, destruction of mudflats, limited freshwater inflow, destruction of vegetation and climate change. The findings also revealed that there are opportunities for CMT in SRE such as promoting SRE as a popular ecotourism destination by developing ecotourism nodes. These include environmental education at the Aloes Nature Reserve's and the Swartkops Estuary south-east section, sustainable ecolodges and conference centres. The study recommends that the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality should organize educational programmes to educate local people about the significance of conserving and safeguarding the environment for future generations. These findings also posed certain challenges linked to those identified in the analysis. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development & Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
Changing anthropocentric ideology through a children’s storybook, tales of the Turtle
- Authors: Kenny, Lara-Jayne
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Humanistic ethics , Children's picture books
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61589 , vital:71382
- Description: This research study aims to produce ‘ecological art’ in the form of a children’s wordless picture book, that can be distributed to many schools in South Africa, bringing awareness to ocean conservation and the effects of the environmental crisis. To do this, a theoretical study has been conducted, synthesising numerous theoretical frameworks, to gather information to create an appropriate children’s picture book. The study first considers environmental philosophy, such as that presented by Spinoza and Naess for instance. At this point, focus also falls on how prevailing societal practices, spurred on by neoliberal capitalism, prevents caring approaches to nature. Then, there is also a scientific side to the study. Research on the Benguela and Agulhas currents of South Africa are offered, as an entry point to seeing how and what is being affected by climate change, also looking at the aquatic animals and their fates. Additionally, an analysis is made regarding representation of different types of megafaunas through forms of media throughout the ages, which helps with selecting which charismatic animals to feature in Tales of the Turtle. Thereafter, research is laid out regarding the relationship between westernised and indigenous teaching approaches. Here specific focus falls on Kenneth Mlungisi Ngcoza’s ‘third space’ and Helio Manuel García-Campos’s ‘interdisciplinary space.’ Finally, the design and illustrative techniques, such as the rule of thirds, line strength, and colour contrasts, are observed to produce an appropriate wordless picture book. South Africans’ relationships with books, access to books, and the relationships that South Africans have with westernised teaching, were also taken into consideration. The overall study is capped by the actual children’s storybook, Tales of the Turtle. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Music, Art and Design, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04
- Authors: Kenny, Lara-Jayne
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Humanistic ethics , Children's picture books
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/61589 , vital:71382
- Description: This research study aims to produce ‘ecological art’ in the form of a children’s wordless picture book, that can be distributed to many schools in South Africa, bringing awareness to ocean conservation and the effects of the environmental crisis. To do this, a theoretical study has been conducted, synthesising numerous theoretical frameworks, to gather information to create an appropriate children’s picture book. The study first considers environmental philosophy, such as that presented by Spinoza and Naess for instance. At this point, focus also falls on how prevailing societal practices, spurred on by neoliberal capitalism, prevents caring approaches to nature. Then, there is also a scientific side to the study. Research on the Benguela and Agulhas currents of South Africa are offered, as an entry point to seeing how and what is being affected by climate change, also looking at the aquatic animals and their fates. Additionally, an analysis is made regarding representation of different types of megafaunas through forms of media throughout the ages, which helps with selecting which charismatic animals to feature in Tales of the Turtle. Thereafter, research is laid out regarding the relationship between westernised and indigenous teaching approaches. Here specific focus falls on Kenneth Mlungisi Ngcoza’s ‘third space’ and Helio Manuel García-Campos’s ‘interdisciplinary space.’ Finally, the design and illustrative techniques, such as the rule of thirds, line strength, and colour contrasts, are observed to produce an appropriate wordless picture book. South Africans’ relationships with books, access to books, and the relationships that South Africans have with westernised teaching, were also taken into consideration. The overall study is capped by the actual children’s storybook, Tales of the Turtle. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Music, Art and Design, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-04