Modelling the performance of a calorifier installed at a university residence intended to be retrofited by an air source heat pump
- Mzolo, Noluthando Precious Duduzile
- Authors: Mzolo, Noluthando Precious Duduzile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Caloric engines Heat pumps
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4660 , vital:28485
- Description: Sanitary hot water production contributes significantly to the electrical energy consumption in the university campus. An in-depth understanding of the current hot water technology, number of students, capacity of water used per student, time of use of hot water, total volume of hot water consumed and the total energy used on an average weekday in a university residence are very crucial in opting for energy efficient technology like an air source heat pump (ASHP) water heater. The study focused on quantitative and qualitative analysis of data collected for the hot water profiles in one of the university residences (Elitheini 1) from the conduction of experiment and questionnaires. The results revealed that 94% of the 75 students used hot water during the Eskom morning peak and 61% during the Eskom evening peak. In addition, the average daily energy consumption of the 12 kW Calorifier was 139.49 kWh, while the measured volume of hot water usage was 1950 L which is in strong agreement with the total volume (1945 L) of hot water consumption from the questionnaires. The p-value of the average volume of hot water usage measured by experiment and questionnaires was 0.7 and is of no mean significant difference. The monthly energy consumption for the week days was projected to be 2929.31 kWh. By retrofitting of calorifier with an ASHP unit, the energy consumption could reduce to 976.43 kWh based on its consecutive coefficient of performance of 3. Finally, from the energy consumption reduction analysis and the current Eskom tariffs, it can be alluded that the payback period of the proposedASHP unit as a retrofit to the calorifier is going to be less than 2 years and is worthy to invest into such technology under this study due to its favourable payback period and the reliability and lifespan of the ASHP unit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mzolo, Noluthando Precious Duduzile
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Caloric engines Heat pumps
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4660 , vital:28485
- Description: Sanitary hot water production contributes significantly to the electrical energy consumption in the university campus. An in-depth understanding of the current hot water technology, number of students, capacity of water used per student, time of use of hot water, total volume of hot water consumed and the total energy used on an average weekday in a university residence are very crucial in opting for energy efficient technology like an air source heat pump (ASHP) water heater. The study focused on quantitative and qualitative analysis of data collected for the hot water profiles in one of the university residences (Elitheini 1) from the conduction of experiment and questionnaires. The results revealed that 94% of the 75 students used hot water during the Eskom morning peak and 61% during the Eskom evening peak. In addition, the average daily energy consumption of the 12 kW Calorifier was 139.49 kWh, while the measured volume of hot water usage was 1950 L which is in strong agreement with the total volume (1945 L) of hot water consumption from the questionnaires. The p-value of the average volume of hot water usage measured by experiment and questionnaires was 0.7 and is of no mean significant difference. The monthly energy consumption for the week days was projected to be 2929.31 kWh. By retrofitting of calorifier with an ASHP unit, the energy consumption could reduce to 976.43 kWh based on its consecutive coefficient of performance of 3. Finally, from the energy consumption reduction analysis and the current Eskom tariffs, it can be alluded that the payback period of the proposedASHP unit as a retrofit to the calorifier is going to be less than 2 years and is worthy to invest into such technology under this study due to its favourable payback period and the reliability and lifespan of the ASHP unit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Smallholder farmer's climate change knowledge in Ngqushwa Local Municipality, Eastern Cape : implications on coping and adaptation
- Authors: Shoko, Witness Alvis
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6480 , vital:29744
- Description: Lack of knowledge about climate change poses a greater risk to human development in general. This study emerges from the premise that agriculture, and more specifically smallholder farmers, are the most affected by climate variability due to the type of assets they hold. Among other factors, climate change can directly and adversely impact the ability of smallholder farmers to sustain their livelihoods. Taking into consideration spatial differences across Ngqushwa Local Municipality, smallholder farmers in different areas have to understand the constraints they face that emanate from climate change. The study aimed to explore the knowledge that smallholder farmers in Ngqushwa local municipality have on climate change, strategies they utilise to cope and minimise the detrimental effects of climate change. The study also focused on climate change information sources namely, meteorological and Indigenous Knowledge (IK) that smallholder farmers have at their disposal for coping and adaptation to climate change. Furthermore, the study analyses comprehensiveness and usefulness of information that the resource-poor farmers possess. The findings of this study show that smallholder farmers in Ngqushwa local municipality access climate change information through televisions, newspapers and listening to the radio. Their knowledge of the behaviour of birds, moon, wind, and insects is also an important source of forecasting weather patterns. Recommendations from this study include the following: enhancing and widening the sources of climate change information, education encompassing the nature of climate change, networking of smallholder farmers, linking meteorological and indigenous knowledge and supplementing natural water supply.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Shoko, Witness Alvis
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Climatic changes -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Farms, Small -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6480 , vital:29744
- Description: Lack of knowledge about climate change poses a greater risk to human development in general. This study emerges from the premise that agriculture, and more specifically smallholder farmers, are the most affected by climate variability due to the type of assets they hold. Among other factors, climate change can directly and adversely impact the ability of smallholder farmers to sustain their livelihoods. Taking into consideration spatial differences across Ngqushwa Local Municipality, smallholder farmers in different areas have to understand the constraints they face that emanate from climate change. The study aimed to explore the knowledge that smallholder farmers in Ngqushwa local municipality have on climate change, strategies they utilise to cope and minimise the detrimental effects of climate change. The study also focused on climate change information sources namely, meteorological and Indigenous Knowledge (IK) that smallholder farmers have at their disposal for coping and adaptation to climate change. Furthermore, the study analyses comprehensiveness and usefulness of information that the resource-poor farmers possess. The findings of this study show that smallholder farmers in Ngqushwa local municipality access climate change information through televisions, newspapers and listening to the radio. Their knowledge of the behaviour of birds, moon, wind, and insects is also an important source of forecasting weather patterns. Recommendations from this study include the following: enhancing and widening the sources of climate change information, education encompassing the nature of climate change, networking of smallholder farmers, linking meteorological and indigenous knowledge and supplementing natural water supply.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effects of different grazing system on forage production and seasonal parasite loads in beef cattle
- Rapiya, Monde, Mupangwa, John
- Authors: Rapiya, Monde , Mupangwa, John
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grazing Forage plants Forage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MSc) Pasture Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9253 , vital:34314
- Description: The objectives of the study were to determine the effects of grazing systems on rangeland biomass yield and nutritional composition, tick and faecal egg counts in beef cattle across seasons. The study was conducted at Merino Walk farm located in Matatiele in the northern part of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The farm was divided into three experimental plots of 3.5 ha each. Thereafter, three grazing treatments namely, Holistic Planned Grazing (HPG paddocks), Four-camp rotation (FCR) and continuous grazing (CG), were randomly allocated to the experimental plots. In the FCR system, the 3.5ha was subdivided into four 0.875-ha paddocks, while the HPG system was subdivided into ninety (90) 0.039-ha paddocks. Common forages were hand-clipped at a grazing height of (5cm) in the wet and dry season from six quadrats (0.25m2) placed in each plot and evaluated for biomass yield and nutritional composition. Thirty (30) steers of the same age 12-month old of similar weight were randomly allocated to three grazing treatments (10/treatments). Tick counts were recorded for each steer in the hot-wet, hot-dry, post-rainy and cold dry seasons. Faecal samples were collected per-rectum every in four seasons and analysed for faecal egg counts using the modified McMaster method. The data were analysed using PROC Generalized Linear Model of SAS (2012) to determine the effects of grazing system on rangeland biomass yield, nutritional composition, tick and faecal egg counts. The common grass species in all grazing system across season were Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis chloromelus, Eragrostis plana, Fescuta and Themeda triandra. The FCR system in the wet season had significant the lowest (P<0.05) biomass yield of 62605,33kg/ha compared to other treatments which had mean values of 62625,97 and 62625,89kg/ha for HPG and CG, respectively (P<0.05). Crude protein content was higher (P<0.05) in HPG (9.41percentCP) and FCR (9.22percentCP) systems in the wet season compared to CG across seasons. Forage from HPG system, irrespective of season had significant lower starch content than other treatments (P<0.05). Forage from HPG system, irrespective of season had the lower (P<0.05) starch content than other treatments. Regardless of season, CG had higher (P<0.05) NDF (72.51 and 72.50) and ADF (41.93 and 40.45) contents than FCR and HPG treatments. Overall, HPG system regardless of season and FCR in the wet season had higher (P<0.05) in vitro digestibility at 24 and 48hrs (0.38 and 0.66) incubation periods. The tick species identified were Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus, Hyalomma spp and Amblyomma hebreaum with respective prevalence’s of 32percent, 29percent, 20percent and 19percent. Unidentified roundworms (URW), had the highest faecal egg counts (81.2percent) followed by Coccidia (16.4percent), Nematodirus (1.2percent) and Strongyles (1.2percent). Overall, steers on the CG system during hot-wet season had the highest individual and total tick counts (17.0) whilst those on FCR during the cold-dry season had the lowest counts (6.0). Holistic Planned Grazing had the lowest worm egg counts regardless of season, while CG had the highest counts in the hot wet season (P<0.05). The findings showed that relative to other treatments, the HPG system in wet season had a higher biomass yield and better nutritional composition (high CP, low fibre and high digestibility) with low forage production and quality under CG system during the cold-dry season. Whilst, CG during hot-wet season had the highest total tick and worm egg counts and least counts under HPG during the cold-dry. Based on relatively higher forage production and low parasite loads, HPG could be a better grazing management system than CG and FCR, especially in the wet season. It may be important to evaluate the effect of HPG on animal production, product quality and profitability prior to recommending it for use by farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rapiya, Monde , Mupangwa, John
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Grazing Forage plants Forage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , (MSc) Pasture Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9253 , vital:34314
- Description: The objectives of the study were to determine the effects of grazing systems on rangeland biomass yield and nutritional composition, tick and faecal egg counts in beef cattle across seasons. The study was conducted at Merino Walk farm located in Matatiele in the northern part of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The farm was divided into three experimental plots of 3.5 ha each. Thereafter, three grazing treatments namely, Holistic Planned Grazing (HPG paddocks), Four-camp rotation (FCR) and continuous grazing (CG), were randomly allocated to the experimental plots. In the FCR system, the 3.5ha was subdivided into four 0.875-ha paddocks, while the HPG system was subdivided into ninety (90) 0.039-ha paddocks. Common forages were hand-clipped at a grazing height of (5cm) in the wet and dry season from six quadrats (0.25m2) placed in each plot and evaluated for biomass yield and nutritional composition. Thirty (30) steers of the same age 12-month old of similar weight were randomly allocated to three grazing treatments (10/treatments). Tick counts were recorded for each steer in the hot-wet, hot-dry, post-rainy and cold dry seasons. Faecal samples were collected per-rectum every in four seasons and analysed for faecal egg counts using the modified McMaster method. The data were analysed using PROC Generalized Linear Model of SAS (2012) to determine the effects of grazing system on rangeland biomass yield, nutritional composition, tick and faecal egg counts. The common grass species in all grazing system across season were Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis chloromelus, Eragrostis plana, Fescuta and Themeda triandra. The FCR system in the wet season had significant the lowest (P<0.05) biomass yield of 62605,33kg/ha compared to other treatments which had mean values of 62625,97 and 62625,89kg/ha for HPG and CG, respectively (P<0.05). Crude protein content was higher (P<0.05) in HPG (9.41percentCP) and FCR (9.22percentCP) systems in the wet season compared to CG across seasons. Forage from HPG system, irrespective of season had significant lower starch content than other treatments (P<0.05). Forage from HPG system, irrespective of season had the lower (P<0.05) starch content than other treatments. Regardless of season, CG had higher (P<0.05) NDF (72.51 and 72.50) and ADF (41.93 and 40.45) contents than FCR and HPG treatments. Overall, HPG system regardless of season and FCR in the wet season had higher (P<0.05) in vitro digestibility at 24 and 48hrs (0.38 and 0.66) incubation periods. The tick species identified were Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus, Hyalomma spp and Amblyomma hebreaum with respective prevalence’s of 32percent, 29percent, 20percent and 19percent. Unidentified roundworms (URW), had the highest faecal egg counts (81.2percent) followed by Coccidia (16.4percent), Nematodirus (1.2percent) and Strongyles (1.2percent). Overall, steers on the CG system during hot-wet season had the highest individual and total tick counts (17.0) whilst those on FCR during the cold-dry season had the lowest counts (6.0). Holistic Planned Grazing had the lowest worm egg counts regardless of season, while CG had the highest counts in the hot wet season (P<0.05). The findings showed that relative to other treatments, the HPG system in wet season had a higher biomass yield and better nutritional composition (high CP, low fibre and high digestibility) with low forage production and quality under CG system during the cold-dry season. Whilst, CG during hot-wet season had the highest total tick and worm egg counts and least counts under HPG during the cold-dry. Based on relatively higher forage production and low parasite loads, HPG could be a better grazing management system than CG and FCR, especially in the wet season. It may be important to evaluate the effect of HPG on animal production, product quality and profitability prior to recommending it for use by farmers.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Psychological capital as a moderator on the relationship between work-life balance and turnover intentions amongst selected bank employees in the Amathole district, Eastern Cape province
- Authors: Nyahwema, Cloudious
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee competitive behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human capital -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13556 , vital:39679
- Description: Globalisation has facilitated high mobility among 21st century employees allowing brain circulation to occur. However, high employee mobility also means organisations are losing employees to competitors some of which are global business moguls with better resources leaving emerging businesses at a disadvantage. Lately, the South African banking sector has also been affected with high employee turnover requiring the need for investigation. For these reasons, the main objective of the study was to investigate whether psychological capital significantly moderates the relationship between work-life balance and turnover intentions among selected bank employees in Amathole district, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study also examined if there is a positive and significant relationship between psychological capital and work-life balance among selected bank employees. In addition, the study sought to examine if there is a positive and significant relationship between psychological capital and turnover intention among selected bank employees. The study followed a quantitative research approach. Therefore, survey questionnaires were used as means of data collection and data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Research results indicated that psychological capital significantly moderates the relationship between work-life balance and turnover intentions among selected bank employees. A significantly positive relationship between psychological capital (PsyCap) and work-life balance among selected bank employees was found. The results also revealed that there is no significant relationship between psychological capital and turnover intentions among selected bank employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nyahwema, Cloudious
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Employee competitive behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Employee motivation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Human capital -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13556 , vital:39679
- Description: Globalisation has facilitated high mobility among 21st century employees allowing brain circulation to occur. However, high employee mobility also means organisations are losing employees to competitors some of which are global business moguls with better resources leaving emerging businesses at a disadvantage. Lately, the South African banking sector has also been affected with high employee turnover requiring the need for investigation. For these reasons, the main objective of the study was to investigate whether psychological capital significantly moderates the relationship between work-life balance and turnover intentions among selected bank employees in Amathole district, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study also examined if there is a positive and significant relationship between psychological capital and work-life balance among selected bank employees. In addition, the study sought to examine if there is a positive and significant relationship between psychological capital and turnover intention among selected bank employees. The study followed a quantitative research approach. Therefore, survey questionnaires were used as means of data collection and data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Research results indicated that psychological capital significantly moderates the relationship between work-life balance and turnover intentions among selected bank employees. A significantly positive relationship between psychological capital (PsyCap) and work-life balance among selected bank employees was found. The results also revealed that there is no significant relationship between psychological capital and turnover intentions among selected bank employees.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the South African banking industry
- Authors: Gavaza, Bramwell Kundishora
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa Social media -- South Africa Customer loyalty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12903 , vital:39389
- Description: The advent of the Internet during the past two decades has changed the way in which businesses operate. Social media networks such as Facebook have become an essential communication element for businesses to interact with clients. The impact and growth rates of Facebook and other forms of social media have made it imperative for all businesses to ensure they have social media strategies in place. Following social media business trends, banks across the world have included social media to market their services. Banks are now emphasising the offering of high client service quality in order to retain clients in this highly competitive environment. Thus, South African banks, as is the case with global banks, need to continuously assess the quality of the services offered to their clients in order to sustainably maintain or grow their market share or to fully utilise its commercial opportunities. This study determined the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The primary objective was to examine the extent to which social media service quality influence client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The study also determined if social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, and privacy has influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, the study examined the relationship between overall service quality and client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study used a quantitative research approach to collect and analyse the data, and a descriptive research design was utilised for the purpose of this study. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources of data. An online survey was conducted through Survey Monkey, via a Facebook page titled: Social media service quality in the South African banking industry. An online questionnaire was administered via the Facebook page. The study used a sample of 377 respondents who are Facebook users of the five major banks in South Africa. Analysis and interpretation of findings was done using both the descriptive and inferential statistical measures, with the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) 24 and Lisrel (version 9). The electronic social media service quality (E-S-SERVQUAL) scale which consist of five constructs, namely; social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, privacy and overall service quality; and client loyalty intentions were the scales that were adopted for this study. All the scales used in this study were found to be reliable and valid. Findings of the research study proved that social media system availability, fulfilment, and privacy has a significant influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, findings of the research revealed that social media efficiency does not significantly influence overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. Furthermore, findings of the research also proved that the overall service quality of social media positively influences client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study recommended that managers and marketers should constantly evaluate, monitor, and improve the overall service quality of social media offered to their clients, as it leads to a corresponding increase in overall client satisfaction, which in turn leads to client loyalty in the South African banking industry. However, further research studies may be conducted in other developing countries to gain a wider understanding on the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the banking industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gavaza, Bramwell Kundishora
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- South Africa Social media -- South Africa Customer loyalty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/12903 , vital:39389
- Description: The advent of the Internet during the past two decades has changed the way in which businesses operate. Social media networks such as Facebook have become an essential communication element for businesses to interact with clients. The impact and growth rates of Facebook and other forms of social media have made it imperative for all businesses to ensure they have social media strategies in place. Following social media business trends, banks across the world have included social media to market their services. Banks are now emphasising the offering of high client service quality in order to retain clients in this highly competitive environment. Thus, South African banks, as is the case with global banks, need to continuously assess the quality of the services offered to their clients in order to sustainably maintain or grow their market share or to fully utilise its commercial opportunities. This study determined the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The primary objective was to examine the extent to which social media service quality influence client loyalty in the South African banking industry. The study also determined if social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, and privacy has influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, the study examined the relationship between overall service quality and client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study used a quantitative research approach to collect and analyse the data, and a descriptive research design was utilised for the purpose of this study. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources of data. An online survey was conducted through Survey Monkey, via a Facebook page titled: Social media service quality in the South African banking industry. An online questionnaire was administered via the Facebook page. The study used a sample of 377 respondents who are Facebook users of the five major banks in South Africa. Analysis and interpretation of findings was done using both the descriptive and inferential statistical measures, with the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) 24 and Lisrel (version 9). The electronic social media service quality (E-S-SERVQUAL) scale which consist of five constructs, namely; social media system availability, efficiency, fulfilment, privacy and overall service quality; and client loyalty intentions were the scales that were adopted for this study. All the scales used in this study were found to be reliable and valid. Findings of the research study proved that social media system availability, fulfilment, and privacy has a significant influence on the overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. In addition, findings of the research revealed that social media efficiency does not significantly influence overall service quality of social media in the South African banking industry. Furthermore, findings of the research also proved that the overall service quality of social media positively influences client loyalty intention in the South African banking industry. The study recommended that managers and marketers should constantly evaluate, monitor, and improve the overall service quality of social media offered to their clients, as it leads to a corresponding increase in overall client satisfaction, which in turn leads to client loyalty in the South African banking industry. However, further research studies may be conducted in other developing countries to gain a wider understanding on the influence of social media service quality on client loyalty in the banking industry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The role of African theology and spirituality in bereavement among Xhosa children
- Authors: Diniso Patrick Mncedisi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Bereavement in children -- Religious aspects Black theology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17839 , vital:41374
- Description: The background to this study highlights the fact that Xhosa children are not being taken care of during bereavement. There is no theological guidance applied to them, to say the least. There are devotions that are usually conducted by lay preachers (Preachers that are not trained as Pastors/Therapists) who do their utmost best to support bereaved families, and this is done out of love. The challenge, however, is that the language mostly used by these preachers does not seem to accommodate children, as there are expressions that do not make any sense to children such as: tutwini, imela igobele esandleni. These are good and relevant concepts as they underpin the reality of death and the need for comfort during bereavement. However, these need to be communicated in a language that can be understood by children. Due to this identified problem, the researcher deemed it necessary to undertake this study. This study comprises five (5) chapters. In chapter one (1), the researcher focused on the research background and introduction. Chapter two (2) dealt with the literature review of this study. The chapter comprises three sections: generic literature review section, theory base section and primary literature review section. In chapter three (3), the focus is on research methodology and its components. Concepts such as sampling procedures, research instrument and research design are dealt with. In chapter four (4), the researcher dealt with concepts such as data analysis, interpretation and presentation of findings. Chapter five dealt with the research recommendations as per the role of the church (Free Church in Southern Africa [FSA]). The researcher is convinced that this work has done justice in addressing the identified gap in care giving for bereaved Xhosa children. The need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children has been highlighted; findings and practical recommendations have also been presented to meet such a need. These confirmed the need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children. The next section contains the appendix list, namely: appendix one (1), two (2) and three (3).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Diniso Patrick Mncedisi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Bereavement in children -- Religious aspects Black theology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/17839 , vital:41374
- Description: The background to this study highlights the fact that Xhosa children are not being taken care of during bereavement. There is no theological guidance applied to them, to say the least. There are devotions that are usually conducted by lay preachers (Preachers that are not trained as Pastors/Therapists) who do their utmost best to support bereaved families, and this is done out of love. The challenge, however, is that the language mostly used by these preachers does not seem to accommodate children, as there are expressions that do not make any sense to children such as: tutwini, imela igobele esandleni. These are good and relevant concepts as they underpin the reality of death and the need for comfort during bereavement. However, these need to be communicated in a language that can be understood by children. Due to this identified problem, the researcher deemed it necessary to undertake this study. This study comprises five (5) chapters. In chapter one (1), the researcher focused on the research background and introduction. Chapter two (2) dealt with the literature review of this study. The chapter comprises three sections: generic literature review section, theory base section and primary literature review section. In chapter three (3), the focus is on research methodology and its components. Concepts such as sampling procedures, research instrument and research design are dealt with. In chapter four (4), the researcher dealt with concepts such as data analysis, interpretation and presentation of findings. Chapter five dealt with the research recommendations as per the role of the church (Free Church in Southern Africa [FSA]). The researcher is convinced that this work has done justice in addressing the identified gap in care giving for bereaved Xhosa children. The need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children has been highlighted; findings and practical recommendations have also been presented to meet such a need. These confirmed the need for theological guidance for bereaved Xhosa children. The next section contains the appendix list, namely: appendix one (1), two (2) and three (3).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
The WTO agreement on technical barriers to trade : a critical appraisal of its implementation within the Southern African Development Community
- Authors: Chimeri, Vongai
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Tariff -- Law and legislation Non-tariff trade barriers -- Law and legislation Foreign trade regulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2855 , vital:28108
- Description: The World Trade Organisation Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement) was crafted with the aim of ensuring that technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment procedure do not constitute unnecessary obstacles to international trade. Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries have since ratified this Agreement and took a step further to incorporate its principles into the Technical Barriers to Trade Annex to the SADC Protocol on Trade. Despite this effort, SADC countries are still grappling with implementing the TBT Agreement in their domestic frameworks. Consequently, technical barriers to trade have become impediments to both regional and international trade. It is in this context that this study aims to examine the implementation of the TBT Agreement within the SADC. The study answers the question what are the challenges facing SADC Member states to fully implement the TBT Agreement? The study demonstrates that SADC Member face challenges which include of lack adequate resources, technical expertise and enforcement mechanisms to effectively implement the TBT Agreement. In the finality, the study recommends SADC Member states to deepen regional integration in order to collaborate on matters relating to technical barriers to trade within the region. Member states should also share information and learn from the experiences of other countries on how to effectively implement the TBT Agreement. Further, government officials should be educated on trade-friendly regulations that do not compromise on the principles of the TBT Agreement. To this end, regulatory impact assessments should be established in order to assess the trade effects of both new and old regulations. Effective enforcement mechanisms should also be introduced in order to coerce Member states to comply with their regional obligations. By effecting these recommendations, SADC states have the opportunity to eradicate technical barriers to trade thereby increasing both regional and international trade.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Chimeri, Vongai
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Tariff -- Law and legislation Non-tariff trade barriers -- Law and legislation Foreign trade regulation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2855 , vital:28108
- Description: The World Trade Organisation Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT Agreement) was crafted with the aim of ensuring that technical regulations, standards and conformity assessment procedure do not constitute unnecessary obstacles to international trade. Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries have since ratified this Agreement and took a step further to incorporate its principles into the Technical Barriers to Trade Annex to the SADC Protocol on Trade. Despite this effort, SADC countries are still grappling with implementing the TBT Agreement in their domestic frameworks. Consequently, technical barriers to trade have become impediments to both regional and international trade. It is in this context that this study aims to examine the implementation of the TBT Agreement within the SADC. The study answers the question what are the challenges facing SADC Member states to fully implement the TBT Agreement? The study demonstrates that SADC Member face challenges which include of lack adequate resources, technical expertise and enforcement mechanisms to effectively implement the TBT Agreement. In the finality, the study recommends SADC Member states to deepen regional integration in order to collaborate on matters relating to technical barriers to trade within the region. Member states should also share information and learn from the experiences of other countries on how to effectively implement the TBT Agreement. Further, government officials should be educated on trade-friendly regulations that do not compromise on the principles of the TBT Agreement. To this end, regulatory impact assessments should be established in order to assess the trade effects of both new and old regulations. Effective enforcement mechanisms should also be introduced in order to coerce Member states to comply with their regional obligations. By effecting these recommendations, SADC states have the opportunity to eradicate technical barriers to trade thereby increasing both regional and international trade.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring the importance of the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration : a case study at Worcester female correctional centre
- Authors: Zill, Lizelle Jessie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mother and child Children of women prisoners--Effect of imprisonment on Mother-Child Relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16058 , vital:40660
- Description: The intention of this research was to explore and discuss the importance of the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration for aiding a successful reunificationupon release. The Department of Correctional Services is committed to providing a needs-based approach to all offenders including female offenders, who are recognised as special category offenders. The study made use of a qualitative approach and the research design was based on a case study. Data was gathered by means of in-depth interviews with nineteen participants at the Worcester Female Correctional Centre. A literature study was conducted on the importance of strengthening and supporting the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration, and the challenges experienced in maintaining the mother/child relationship. Thereafter, an empirical exploration was done and the results were purposefully processed and analysed. Through processing and analysing the results, the researcher was able to derive certain conclusions and make recommendations, which are presented in Chapter Five of this thesis. The most important conclusion resulting from the research study is the importance of the maintenance of the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration. The study made various recommendations that the Department of Correctional Services can utilise to improve its services to female offenders, especially those with children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Zill, Lizelle Jessie
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mother and child Children of women prisoners--Effect of imprisonment on Mother-Child Relations
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Social Work
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/16058 , vital:40660
- Description: The intention of this research was to explore and discuss the importance of the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration for aiding a successful reunificationupon release. The Department of Correctional Services is committed to providing a needs-based approach to all offenders including female offenders, who are recognised as special category offenders. The study made use of a qualitative approach and the research design was based on a case study. Data was gathered by means of in-depth interviews with nineteen participants at the Worcester Female Correctional Centre. A literature study was conducted on the importance of strengthening and supporting the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration, and the challenges experienced in maintaining the mother/child relationship. Thereafter, an empirical exploration was done and the results were purposefully processed and analysed. Through processing and analysing the results, the researcher was able to derive certain conclusions and make recommendations, which are presented in Chapter Five of this thesis. The most important conclusion resulting from the research study is the importance of the maintenance of the mother/child relationship during maternal incarceration. The study made various recommendations that the Department of Correctional Services can utilise to improve its services to female offenders, especially those with children.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 as a vehicle for expanding financial inclusion in South Africa
- Authors: Wazvaremhaka, Tinashe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa. -- National Credit Act, 2005 Credit -- Law and legislation Financial institutions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9045 , vital:34221
- Description: The advancement of financial inclusion is at the top of the international development agenda for policy makers and development institutions. Empirical evidence indicates that households that participate in the mainstream financial services sector can start and grow businesses, manage risk, invest in education, save and absorb financial shocks. National Treasury recently recognised financial inclusion as a policy priority and emphasised the need to enhance it under the new twin peaks system of regulation. This study submits that a conducive legal and regulatory framework is an important key to unlocking the benefits of financial inclusion. More pointedly, it demonstrates that the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) plays a central role in promoting financial inclusion since access to unsafe and exploitative credit can lead the poor to pay more, and thereby affecting their ability to access credit and other financial services. Although financial inclusion has been improving in South Africa, over-indebtedness remains pervasive. Access to credit has been exacerbating the financial exclusion of many historically disadvantaged and low income consumers in spite of the NCA. Therefore, this study undertakes a critical assessment of selected aspects of the NCA with a view to determining whether the Act is up to the task of expanding financial inclusion in South Africa. Arguments and suggestions have been made in this study to refine the NCA (and other related laws) such that it promotes access to safe and affordable credit for previously disadvantaged and low income population groups, encourages responsible lending and provides effective debt relief mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Wazvaremhaka, Tinashe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: South Africa. -- National Credit Act, 2005 Credit -- Law and legislation Financial institutions -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9045 , vital:34221
- Description: The advancement of financial inclusion is at the top of the international development agenda for policy makers and development institutions. Empirical evidence indicates that households that participate in the mainstream financial services sector can start and grow businesses, manage risk, invest in education, save and absorb financial shocks. National Treasury recently recognised financial inclusion as a policy priority and emphasised the need to enhance it under the new twin peaks system of regulation. This study submits that a conducive legal and regulatory framework is an important key to unlocking the benefits of financial inclusion. More pointedly, it demonstrates that the National Credit Act 34 of 2005 (NCA) plays a central role in promoting financial inclusion since access to unsafe and exploitative credit can lead the poor to pay more, and thereby affecting their ability to access credit and other financial services. Although financial inclusion has been improving in South Africa, over-indebtedness remains pervasive. Access to credit has been exacerbating the financial exclusion of many historically disadvantaged and low income consumers in spite of the NCA. Therefore, this study undertakes a critical assessment of selected aspects of the NCA with a view to determining whether the Act is up to the task of expanding financial inclusion in South Africa. Arguments and suggestions have been made in this study to refine the NCA (and other related laws) such that it promotes access to safe and affordable credit for previously disadvantaged and low income population groups, encourages responsible lending and provides effective debt relief mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Exploring fathers' role in supporting their children's learning : a case of selected primary schools in the East London District
- Authors: Pampila, Siyabulela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Father and child -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Home and school -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4915 , vital:28755
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore fathers’ role in supporting their children’s learning in selected urban primary schools in the East London Education District. Epstein parental involvement theory informed the study. The study was located in the interpretivist research paradigm and it qualitative in nature. It followed a case study research design. Participants were selected through the use of purposive sampling. A total of fifty two (52) participants were selected and these included school teachers, fathers and learners. Semi-structured interviews (for school teachers and fathers) and focus group interviews (for learners) were used in the four selected primary schools. The data was coded and thematic content analysis was used. The findings from the research indicated that fathers’ and teachers had a very limited understanding of fathers’ support in children’s learning. They generally thought that it was confined to activities done at school such as payment of school fees and levies, providing labour for the construction or renovation of school buildings and providing teaching/learning resources. Participants confirmed that the majority of fathers were too poor and with low education to be meaningfully involved in their children’s learning. However, there were a few fathers who believed that their socio-economic status did not prevent them from participating in their children’s learning. They actually indicated useful ways in which they could be involved. It was found that a minority group of fathers who were unemployed spent time helping their children in their learning whilst, those working worked long hours and had no time to help their children. Among the significant findings of the study was the fact that educated fathers were too involved in their children’s learning and even reserved time on weekend to be part of their children’s life and learning. The research also revealed that fathers and teachers had wrong perceptions about themselves and each other in connection with limited fathers’ support in their schools. The study recommends, among other issues, enhanced school/parent partnership with emphasis on the involvement of fathers in academic activities meant to improve their children’s learning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Pampila, Siyabulela
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Education -- Parent participation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Father and child -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Home and school -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4915 , vital:28755
- Description: The aim of this study was to explore fathers’ role in supporting their children’s learning in selected urban primary schools in the East London Education District. Epstein parental involvement theory informed the study. The study was located in the interpretivist research paradigm and it qualitative in nature. It followed a case study research design. Participants were selected through the use of purposive sampling. A total of fifty two (52) participants were selected and these included school teachers, fathers and learners. Semi-structured interviews (for school teachers and fathers) and focus group interviews (for learners) were used in the four selected primary schools. The data was coded and thematic content analysis was used. The findings from the research indicated that fathers’ and teachers had a very limited understanding of fathers’ support in children’s learning. They generally thought that it was confined to activities done at school such as payment of school fees and levies, providing labour for the construction or renovation of school buildings and providing teaching/learning resources. Participants confirmed that the majority of fathers were too poor and with low education to be meaningfully involved in their children’s learning. However, there were a few fathers who believed that their socio-economic status did not prevent them from participating in their children’s learning. They actually indicated useful ways in which they could be involved. It was found that a minority group of fathers who were unemployed spent time helping their children in their learning whilst, those working worked long hours and had no time to help their children. Among the significant findings of the study was the fact that educated fathers were too involved in their children’s learning and even reserved time on weekend to be part of their children’s life and learning. The research also revealed that fathers and teachers had wrong perceptions about themselves and each other in connection with limited fathers’ support in their schools. The study recommends, among other issues, enhanced school/parent partnership with emphasis on the involvement of fathers in academic activities meant to improve their children’s learning.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Implementation of the policy on religious equity in public schools in the East London Education District : towards a framework for religious diversity
- Makasi, Cordelia Noma-Abysinia
- Authors: Makasi, Cordelia Noma-Abysinia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Religious education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Religion and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Christianity and politics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5014 , vital:28935
- Description: The study sought to establish the implementation of the policy on religious equity in public schools in the East London Education district in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Underpinned by Van Meter and Van Horn (2015) with implementation and conceptual theory and also a theory on opportunity to learn and school performance by Van Der Grift and Houtveen(2006), the study was located in the pragmatist research paradigm and followed a mixed methods approach and concurrent triangulation design. The research sampling technique was random for high school learners in selected schools and purposeful for principals, heads of departments, teachers and provincial education officials. Three methods were employed to collect data from selected public schools and from the provincial office namely; semi-structured interviews, individual interviews and observation. Quantitative data were analysed statistically and presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using the thematic content analysis technique. Major findings of the study are that teachers and principals understood the concept religious equity and had a fair understanding of the policy on religious equity. Schools were predominantly Christian-oriented in terms of religious practices and there were no recorded cases of religious conflict. Learners of minority religions were not compelled to attend Christian religious functions in schools and were allowed to attend their own religious functions outside school. This was established from the fact that participants cited freedom of religion as being exercised in schools. However, it was further established that there was no strategic monitoring and support for teachers in the implementation of religious equity. There were also no deliberate measures and strategies for the implementation of religious equity suggesting challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy. While there were notable challenges in the implementation of the policy, due to resistance of stakeholders to change, schools had great opportunities which could be utilized to enhance the implementation of the policy on religious equity. The study concludes by noting that, while key policy implementers had an understanding of religious equity, the situation on the ground revealed challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy which resulted in a Christian-dominated school environment at the expense of minority religions The study recommends, among other things, that that religious equity be adhered to as enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa of 1996 and the South African Schools Act of 1996. The teaching and learning environment should include Religion Education as per prescription by National Policy on Religion Education of 2003, that monitoring and support of teachers be done, and that community involvement with policy development be considered crucial as well as moral education teaching in schools. A framework for enhancing implementation of the policy on religious equity is also proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Makasi, Cordelia Noma-Abysinia
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Religious education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Religion and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Christianity and politics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/5014 , vital:28935
- Description: The study sought to establish the implementation of the policy on religious equity in public schools in the East London Education district in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Underpinned by Van Meter and Van Horn (2015) with implementation and conceptual theory and also a theory on opportunity to learn and school performance by Van Der Grift and Houtveen(2006), the study was located in the pragmatist research paradigm and followed a mixed methods approach and concurrent triangulation design. The research sampling technique was random for high school learners in selected schools and purposeful for principals, heads of departments, teachers and provincial education officials. Three methods were employed to collect data from selected public schools and from the provincial office namely; semi-structured interviews, individual interviews and observation. Quantitative data were analysed statistically and presented in the form of descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using the thematic content analysis technique. Major findings of the study are that teachers and principals understood the concept religious equity and had a fair understanding of the policy on religious equity. Schools were predominantly Christian-oriented in terms of religious practices and there were no recorded cases of religious conflict. Learners of minority religions were not compelled to attend Christian religious functions in schools and were allowed to attend their own religious functions outside school. This was established from the fact that participants cited freedom of religion as being exercised in schools. However, it was further established that there was no strategic monitoring and support for teachers in the implementation of religious equity. There were also no deliberate measures and strategies for the implementation of religious equity suggesting challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy. While there were notable challenges in the implementation of the policy, due to resistance of stakeholders to change, schools had great opportunities which could be utilized to enhance the implementation of the policy on religious equity. The study concludes by noting that, while key policy implementers had an understanding of religious equity, the situation on the ground revealed challenges and inconsistencies in the implementation of the policy which resulted in a Christian-dominated school environment at the expense of minority religions The study recommends, among other things, that that religious equity be adhered to as enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa of 1996 and the South African Schools Act of 1996. The teaching and learning environment should include Religion Education as per prescription by National Policy on Religion Education of 2003, that monitoring and support of teachers be done, and that community involvement with policy development be considered crucial as well as moral education teaching in schools. A framework for enhancing implementation of the policy on religious equity is also proposed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Perceptions of rural households about the role and effect of biogas production on rural household income in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality
- Authors: Ngcobo, Lindiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Biomass energy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Renewable energy sources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable living -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4694 , vital:28494
- Description: Rural development efforts to reduce poverty and enhance food security and generally improve livelihoods in developing countries continue to be constrained by high energy cost. For that reason, renewable energy has been identified as a possible panacea to fill this gap. Renewable energy is cheaper, more accessible and environmentally sustainable and promotes inclusivity. Biogas is a renewable energy that is readily available and easy to use by poor rural households. The use of biogas digesters among households in rural areas of developing countries is a well-known technology. The potential for biogas in these areas has been demonstrated and a strong economic case has been made. However, its adoption and use have been lower than expectations possibly as result of non-economic considerations, including social issues about which rural people hold different perceptions. Perceptions of rural households are important because they influence the behaviour to a large extent. Since limited access to affordable energy in rural areas has encouraged government and private organisations to initiate biogas projects to overcome the challenge, it is important to ascertain the factors that affect attitudes towards the technology. The present study sought to explore perceptions of rural households about biogas production towards rural household income in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. Specifically, this research investigated the state of biogas project being implemented by the University of Fort Hare’s Institute of Technology (FHIT), the perceptions of respondents towards biogas production and determine the contribution of biogas consumption to rural income. The study also aimed to identify the factors affecting the adoption of biogas production in the study area. The study was carried out in Melani village in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and employed survey data obtained from 48 households who were enumerated to identify their perceptions on biogas production, with special emphasis on the role and effect contributed to rural income of Melani village. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and purposive sampling technique was used in data collection. Data were collected and captured in Excel and then analysed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) Version 24 Descriptive statistics was used to examine socio-economic characteristics of households and state of biogas production in the area, Bivariate correlation analysis was used to determine the relationships among the key elements of perceptions of household towards biogas adoption, binary logistic model was used to estimate factors influencing adoption of biogas technology by households. The results show that women were dominant for both adopters and non-adopters of biogas. The majority of households were young with mean age of 40 years while for non-adopters were 65 years old on average. The results showed high levels of literacy amongst household adopters. Majority of the households for both adopters and non-adopters of biogas technology were married and unemployed and household size ranged from one to five persons, with social grants being dominant source of income. The bivariate correlation analysis suggests a positive effect of green pepper production and livestock ownership on biogas technology adoption. Age and level of education were negatively correlated with adoption of biogas. The cross tabulation analysis suggests that water scarcity, lack of knowledge about biogas technology, cattle ownership, lack of maintenance and repairing, flooded biogas digesters during rainy season are negatively associated with the uptake of biogas technology. The empirical results from binary logistic model suggest that land size was the key determinant of adoption behaviour towards biogas technology while age of the household head, source of income and level of education may have a negative influence on adoption of biogas technology. Based on the findings highlighted above, the study recommends strategies to encourage households to adopt biogas technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ngcobo, Lindiwe
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Biomass energy -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Renewable energy sources -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sustainable living -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4694 , vital:28494
- Description: Rural development efforts to reduce poverty and enhance food security and generally improve livelihoods in developing countries continue to be constrained by high energy cost. For that reason, renewable energy has been identified as a possible panacea to fill this gap. Renewable energy is cheaper, more accessible and environmentally sustainable and promotes inclusivity. Biogas is a renewable energy that is readily available and easy to use by poor rural households. The use of biogas digesters among households in rural areas of developing countries is a well-known technology. The potential for biogas in these areas has been demonstrated and a strong economic case has been made. However, its adoption and use have been lower than expectations possibly as result of non-economic considerations, including social issues about which rural people hold different perceptions. Perceptions of rural households are important because they influence the behaviour to a large extent. Since limited access to affordable energy in rural areas has encouraged government and private organisations to initiate biogas projects to overcome the challenge, it is important to ascertain the factors that affect attitudes towards the technology. The present study sought to explore perceptions of rural households about biogas production towards rural household income in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. Specifically, this research investigated the state of biogas project being implemented by the University of Fort Hare’s Institute of Technology (FHIT), the perceptions of respondents towards biogas production and determine the contribution of biogas consumption to rural income. The study also aimed to identify the factors affecting the adoption of biogas production in the study area. The study was carried out in Melani village in Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and employed survey data obtained from 48 households who were enumerated to identify their perceptions on biogas production, with special emphasis on the role and effect contributed to rural income of Melani village. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and purposive sampling technique was used in data collection. Data were collected and captured in Excel and then analysed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) Version 24 Descriptive statistics was used to examine socio-economic characteristics of households and state of biogas production in the area, Bivariate correlation analysis was used to determine the relationships among the key elements of perceptions of household towards biogas adoption, binary logistic model was used to estimate factors influencing adoption of biogas technology by households. The results show that women were dominant for both adopters and non-adopters of biogas. The majority of households were young with mean age of 40 years while for non-adopters were 65 years old on average. The results showed high levels of literacy amongst household adopters. Majority of the households for both adopters and non-adopters of biogas technology were married and unemployed and household size ranged from one to five persons, with social grants being dominant source of income. The bivariate correlation analysis suggests a positive effect of green pepper production and livestock ownership on biogas technology adoption. Age and level of education were negatively correlated with adoption of biogas. The cross tabulation analysis suggests that water scarcity, lack of knowledge about biogas technology, cattle ownership, lack of maintenance and repairing, flooded biogas digesters during rainy season are negatively associated with the uptake of biogas technology. The empirical results from binary logistic model suggest that land size was the key determinant of adoption behaviour towards biogas technology while age of the household head, source of income and level of education may have a negative influence on adoption of biogas technology. Based on the findings highlighted above, the study recommends strategies to encourage households to adopt biogas technology.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Yield responses, mineral levels of forages and soil in old arable land planted to four legume pasture species in Lushington communal area, South Africa
- Authors: Gulwa, Unathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Minerals in animal nutrition Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2799 , vital:28091
- Description: This study was conducted in the old arable land located in Lushington communal area in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were to assess the effect of legume introduction on biomass yield, forage and soil mineral levels of the arable lands planted to four leguminous pastures in four seasons. Planting was done in March and October 2008 in Lushington. All legumes were subjected to grow under rain fed conditions. Trifolium vesiculosum (arrowleaf clover), Lespedeza cuneata (sericea lespedeza), Trifolium repens (white clover) and Lotus corniculatus (birdsfoot trefoil) are the four forage legume species that were sampled for the purposes of this study. The four legume species persisted out of the fourteen species that were initially tested for adaptability and persistence in the environmental conditions of Lushington communal area. The legumes, grasses and soils from these legume plots were sampled to determine the effect of legume introduction on the forage yield, mineral contents of the companion grasses and soils over four seasons. Plant and soil samples were collected once in spring (November) 2013, summer (February), autumn (March) and winter (May) 2014 for biomass production, macro and micronutrients determination. Results indicated that legume inclusion and season affected (P < 0.05) the total dry matter (TDM) yield production. Plots with Lespedeza cuneata had the highest TDM (1843 kg/ha) and control plots had the least dry matter production (1091 kg/ha). Summer season provided the highest (P < 0.05) TDM compared to the other seasons. Both legume and grass quality was also affected (P < 0.05) by legume inclusion in different seasons. Accordingly, grasses harvested from Trifolium repens plot showed higher CP level (10.90 percent) than those harvested from other plots whereas the lowest grass CP content (6.90 percent) was measured in the control treatment. L. cuneate had the highest (P < 0.05) CP level (11.00 percent) and T. repens had the least CP (6.63 percent) level. Grasses harvested in autumn had the highest (P < 0.05) CP level (12.50 percent) and those harvested in winter had the least CP level (4.60 percent). Similarly, all legume pastures harvested in spring had superior (P < 0.05) CP (10.80 percent) levels and those harvested in winter had the least CP (3.50 percent) level. Legume inclusion had an effect (P < 0.05) on both grass and legume macro nutrient contents. Trifolium repens plot had the highest grass K (1.07 percent), Ca (1.50 percent) and Mg (1.83 percent), whereas there were lower K (0.12 percent), Ca (1.25 percent) and Mg (1.08 percent) contents in grasses harvested from the control and T. vesiculosum plots, respectively. In legumes, macro nutrient concentrations: K (0.68 percent), Ca (1.75 percent) were superior in the T. vesiculosum plot in comparison to other plots. Season also affected (P < 0.05) both grass and legume macro nutrient content. There was higher K (0.90 percent), Ca (1.30 percent) and Mg (0.94 percent) content in grasses harvested in autumn whereas there were lower levels in winter harvests. In legumes, superior K (0.74 percent) and Mg (1.87 percent) content were attained during spring while the least were measured in winter (0.07 percent) and autumn (0.75 percent), respectively. Likewise, both legume inclusion and season had an significant effect (P < 0.05) on the forages micronutrient levels. During spring, there was superior soil P content (36.28 mg/kg) while during autumn; there was less P (22.58 mg/kg) content. The highest SOC level (1.49 percent) was measured in the T. repens plot whereas the lowest SOC (1.15 percent) was attained in the control plot. The results of this study showed that grass legume mixtures produced forages with high nutrient content and herbage yield. Legume planting in the old arable lands has a potential to improve soil quality parameters such as soil P and SOC content.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gulwa, Unathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Forage plants -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Minerals in animal nutrition Communal rangelands -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2799 , vital:28091
- Description: This study was conducted in the old arable land located in Lushington communal area in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The objectives of the study were to assess the effect of legume introduction on biomass yield, forage and soil mineral levels of the arable lands planted to four leguminous pastures in four seasons. Planting was done in March and October 2008 in Lushington. All legumes were subjected to grow under rain fed conditions. Trifolium vesiculosum (arrowleaf clover), Lespedeza cuneata (sericea lespedeza), Trifolium repens (white clover) and Lotus corniculatus (birdsfoot trefoil) are the four forage legume species that were sampled for the purposes of this study. The four legume species persisted out of the fourteen species that were initially tested for adaptability and persistence in the environmental conditions of Lushington communal area. The legumes, grasses and soils from these legume plots were sampled to determine the effect of legume introduction on the forage yield, mineral contents of the companion grasses and soils over four seasons. Plant and soil samples were collected once in spring (November) 2013, summer (February), autumn (March) and winter (May) 2014 for biomass production, macro and micronutrients determination. Results indicated that legume inclusion and season affected (P < 0.05) the total dry matter (TDM) yield production. Plots with Lespedeza cuneata had the highest TDM (1843 kg/ha) and control plots had the least dry matter production (1091 kg/ha). Summer season provided the highest (P < 0.05) TDM compared to the other seasons. Both legume and grass quality was also affected (P < 0.05) by legume inclusion in different seasons. Accordingly, grasses harvested from Trifolium repens plot showed higher CP level (10.90 percent) than those harvested from other plots whereas the lowest grass CP content (6.90 percent) was measured in the control treatment. L. cuneate had the highest (P < 0.05) CP level (11.00 percent) and T. repens had the least CP (6.63 percent) level. Grasses harvested in autumn had the highest (P < 0.05) CP level (12.50 percent) and those harvested in winter had the least CP level (4.60 percent). Similarly, all legume pastures harvested in spring had superior (P < 0.05) CP (10.80 percent) levels and those harvested in winter had the least CP (3.50 percent) level. Legume inclusion had an effect (P < 0.05) on both grass and legume macro nutrient contents. Trifolium repens plot had the highest grass K (1.07 percent), Ca (1.50 percent) and Mg (1.83 percent), whereas there were lower K (0.12 percent), Ca (1.25 percent) and Mg (1.08 percent) contents in grasses harvested from the control and T. vesiculosum plots, respectively. In legumes, macro nutrient concentrations: K (0.68 percent), Ca (1.75 percent) were superior in the T. vesiculosum plot in comparison to other plots. Season also affected (P < 0.05) both grass and legume macro nutrient content. There was higher K (0.90 percent), Ca (1.30 percent) and Mg (0.94 percent) content in grasses harvested in autumn whereas there were lower levels in winter harvests. In legumes, superior K (0.74 percent) and Mg (1.87 percent) content were attained during spring while the least were measured in winter (0.07 percent) and autumn (0.75 percent), respectively. Likewise, both legume inclusion and season had an significant effect (P < 0.05) on the forages micronutrient levels. During spring, there was superior soil P content (36.28 mg/kg) while during autumn; there was less P (22.58 mg/kg) content. The highest SOC level (1.49 percent) was measured in the T. repens plot whereas the lowest SOC (1.15 percent) was attained in the control plot. The results of this study showed that grass legume mixtures produced forages with high nutrient content and herbage yield. Legume planting in the old arable lands has a potential to improve soil quality parameters such as soil P and SOC content.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A strategic framework for managing and implementation of the intergovernmental relations policy in selected Eastern Cape municipalities
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
An analysis of the academic support policies and strategies for underperforming students at Limpopo universities
- Lavhelani, Nyawasedza Phellecy
- Authors: Lavhelani, Nyawasedza Phellecy
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education--South Africa--Limpopo Universities and colleges--South Africa--Limpopo Support services (Management)--South Africa--Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11784 , vital:39106
- Description: The study sought to investigate academic support policies and strategies for underperforming students at Limpopo universities. By focusing on the University of Venda and that of Limpopo (which are located in rural settings), this study will contribute to the body of knowledge addressing the learning needs of underperforming students in resource constrained universities in South Africa. Qualitative research methodology was considered most appropriate in the present study. The researcher used various research instruments as the fact finding strategies. These comprised tools for data collection. The researcher used questionnaires and the survey of secondary sources for data collection. The researcher chose these instruments because this also means discussing the advantages of using questionnaires and reading, for example gaining an in-depth perspective regarding the actual experiences of students who underperform in their studies. The study focused on first year underperforming students, academic support policies and academic support programmes. Permission was sought from the two universities’ Research Departments to conduct this study. Once permission was granted, the questionnaire was sent out to prospective participants. In addition, the researcher involved intra-group despondence analysis. Since the bulk of the data from the questionnaires was qualitative, thematic analysis was utilised. This involved identifying patterns and emerging themes out of the differences and similarities from the despondences’ views. This study was conducted in the Limpopo Province, South Africa, where the two universities are situated.The study population were students, academics, Information Management Officer, CHETL staff and relevant personnel at the Limpopo. Universities. As envisaged, a total of 136 participants were chosen to participate in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Lavhelani, Nyawasedza Phellecy
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Compensatory education--South Africa--Limpopo Universities and colleges--South Africa--Limpopo Support services (Management)--South Africa--Limpopo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Public Administration
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11784 , vital:39106
- Description: The study sought to investigate academic support policies and strategies for underperforming students at Limpopo universities. By focusing on the University of Venda and that of Limpopo (which are located in rural settings), this study will contribute to the body of knowledge addressing the learning needs of underperforming students in resource constrained universities in South Africa. Qualitative research methodology was considered most appropriate in the present study. The researcher used various research instruments as the fact finding strategies. These comprised tools for data collection. The researcher used questionnaires and the survey of secondary sources for data collection. The researcher chose these instruments because this also means discussing the advantages of using questionnaires and reading, for example gaining an in-depth perspective regarding the actual experiences of students who underperform in their studies. The study focused on first year underperforming students, academic support policies and academic support programmes. Permission was sought from the two universities’ Research Departments to conduct this study. Once permission was granted, the questionnaire was sent out to prospective participants. In addition, the researcher involved intra-group despondence analysis. Since the bulk of the data from the questionnaires was qualitative, thematic analysis was utilised. This involved identifying patterns and emerging themes out of the differences and similarities from the despondences’ views. This study was conducted in the Limpopo Province, South Africa, where the two universities are situated.The study population were students, academics, Information Management Officer, CHETL staff and relevant personnel at the Limpopo. Universities. As envisaged, a total of 136 participants were chosen to participate in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Perceptions of school stakeholders towards the use of English as a language of learning and teaching (LoLT) in grade 9 Social Sciences
- Authors: Soya, Nongesiba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching English language -- Usage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6447 , vital:29720
- Description: The dawn of democracy in South Africa led to the development of Language in Education Policy (LiEP) as one of the pieces of legislations that promote languages in schools where parents, learners, who have come of age may choose a language for instruction. LiEP, together with the Constitution of South Africa, promote equal value of all eleven official languages spoken in this country. The promotion of language policies clearly shows that language is the bedrock of the academic development of every child. Unfortunately, Spaull, Van der Berg, Wills, Gustafsson and Kotzè (2016) found that South African Foundation Phase learners lack the most basic skill needed for academic achievement, reading for meaning. Spaull et.al (2016) findings show that language problems start during the early years of schooling. This study aimed at finding out the perceptions of school stakeholders about the use of English as LoLT in Grade 9 Social Sciences, and it is located in the Interpretivist Paradigm. In this study, stakeholders are learners because they are central to learning, parents, as they have the responsibility of choosing LoLT for their children and assist them in their schooling career. Lastly, teachers are stakeholders because of their critical role of imparting knowledge and skills during classroom interaction. The researcher uses a Qualitative approach to identify data-collecting tools suitable for this research, and chooses semi-structured interviews and observations. Semi-structured interviews are flexible and allow deeper probing during the interview. The sample consists of nine Grade 9 learners, three teachers of Grade 9 Social Sciences and six parents from the School Governing Body (SGB). The aim of conducting observations was to find out the language used by learners and teachers during classroom interaction. This study found out that most participants prefer learning Social Sciences in English than in isiXhosa. They are aware of the challenges experienced in the classroom when learning in English but they still choose it. From the sample used, participants clearly indicate that learning in English causes some barriers in the learning and teaching process. However, it also became clear that the benefits associated with learning in English make it difficult to put it at the same level as other languages and participants do not link mother tongue to career opportunities. It is also evident that English will enjoy its hegemony until such time that all stakeholders in Education view the mother tongue as a foundation for learning other languages and as a resource as well so that they can use it in the classroom to understand the content. Policy developers must look deeply into the question of LoLT so that learners receive instruction in a language that will assist them in improved academic performance. Teachers must be equipped with adequate skills to assist learners in developing reading and comprehension skills in the classroom. There is a dire need to develop the culture of reading in rural school learners; and teachers must expose learners to a variety of English reading material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Soya, Nongesiba
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching English language -- Usage
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6447 , vital:29720
- Description: The dawn of democracy in South Africa led to the development of Language in Education Policy (LiEP) as one of the pieces of legislations that promote languages in schools where parents, learners, who have come of age may choose a language for instruction. LiEP, together with the Constitution of South Africa, promote equal value of all eleven official languages spoken in this country. The promotion of language policies clearly shows that language is the bedrock of the academic development of every child. Unfortunately, Spaull, Van der Berg, Wills, Gustafsson and Kotzè (2016) found that South African Foundation Phase learners lack the most basic skill needed for academic achievement, reading for meaning. Spaull et.al (2016) findings show that language problems start during the early years of schooling. This study aimed at finding out the perceptions of school stakeholders about the use of English as LoLT in Grade 9 Social Sciences, and it is located in the Interpretivist Paradigm. In this study, stakeholders are learners because they are central to learning, parents, as they have the responsibility of choosing LoLT for their children and assist them in their schooling career. Lastly, teachers are stakeholders because of their critical role of imparting knowledge and skills during classroom interaction. The researcher uses a Qualitative approach to identify data-collecting tools suitable for this research, and chooses semi-structured interviews and observations. Semi-structured interviews are flexible and allow deeper probing during the interview. The sample consists of nine Grade 9 learners, three teachers of Grade 9 Social Sciences and six parents from the School Governing Body (SGB). The aim of conducting observations was to find out the language used by learners and teachers during classroom interaction. This study found out that most participants prefer learning Social Sciences in English than in isiXhosa. They are aware of the challenges experienced in the classroom when learning in English but they still choose it. From the sample used, participants clearly indicate that learning in English causes some barriers in the learning and teaching process. However, it also became clear that the benefits associated with learning in English make it difficult to put it at the same level as other languages and participants do not link mother tongue to career opportunities. It is also evident that English will enjoy its hegemony until such time that all stakeholders in Education view the mother tongue as a foundation for learning other languages and as a resource as well so that they can use it in the classroom to understand the content. Policy developers must look deeply into the question of LoLT so that learners receive instruction in a language that will assist them in improved academic performance. Teachers must be equipped with adequate skills to assist learners in developing reading and comprehension skills in the classroom. There is a dire need to develop the culture of reading in rural school learners; and teachers must expose learners to a variety of English reading material.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Psychological well-being of institutionalised and non-institutionalised isiXhosa and English ethnic speaking elderly south African residing within the Buffalo City area
- Authors: Ntozini, Anathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Self-actualization (Psychology) in old age Older people -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6368 , vital:29593
- Description: Background: International research has clearly indicated that the world’s population is ageing: almost all countries in the world are experiencing a significant growth in the proportion of older persons in their population. This is also true for developing countries such as South Africa that are beginning to show signs and symptoms of an ageing population. Among Southern African Development Communities (SADC), South Africa has the highest number of ‘senior citizens’. Population reports indicate that the population of old people rose from paltry 2.8 million in 1996 to more than 4 million in 2011 and this is expected to skyrocket to seven million by 2030. In spite of the increasing number of senior citizens in socio-structural landscapes in South Africa, there is still lack of adequate, workable and effective policy frameworks for the wellbeing of the elderly. There is also paucity of psychological data of the elderly, especially along racial divides to determine whether the after-effects of apartheid still hold sway or not in post-apartheid South Africa. This study was conceived to investigate the psychological well-being of the elderly in Buffalo City, Eastern Cape, South Africa between two racial-ethnic elderly groups. The specific objectives of the study were to explore the relationship between the socio-demographic characteristics and psychological well-being of the black (Xhosa) and white (English) elderly in Buffalo City, South Africa and second, to validate the relationship between psychological well-being and physical activity, loneliness, spirituality/religiosity as well as ageism among the sampled population. The set-point theory, selective optimisation compensation theory (SOCT) as well as the continuity theory were employed to guide the conduct of the study. Method: Psychological measuring instruments were deployed to collect data for the study from a total of 301 elderly respondents in retirement and private individual homes (191 isiXhosa and 110 English speaking elderly). Both simple random sampling (SRS) and purposive sampling procedures were used to select the respondents. The measuring instruments included the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-being (RSPWB), Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), Assessment of Spiritual and Religious Sentiments Scale (ASPIRES), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, the Palmore Ageism Survey scale and a biographical questionnaire. Data was analysed using MANOVA, One-way variance analysis and regression coefficient. The racial differences logically influenced the selection of the respondents for the study. Results: The study revealed a significant statistical relationship between physical activity (PA) and psychological well-being of the elderly, regardless of the sociodemographic variables. PA showed a significant relationship with psychological wellbeing of the elderly. The study also discovered that loneliness correlates significantly with all four of the psychological well-being scales. It shows that the higher the levels of loneliness experienced by the elderly, socio-demographic variables controlled, the lower the levels of psychological well-being in terms of autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. However, with the exception of the relationship between loneliness and purpose in life, ethnic affiliation moderates autonomy, environmental mastery and self-acceptance. English elderly constantly experienced higher levels of autonomy than the isiXhosa elderly do with an increase in loneliness. The study also found a positive relationship between ageism and psychological well- being. However, with low levels of ageism, the English elderly, in comparison with the isiXhosa elderly, is likely to show higher levels of autonomy. In addition, a significant statistical relationship between ageism and environmental mastery and purpose in life was found among the isiXhosa elderly. Although, with an increase in ageism, there is a slight increase in autonomy in both groups, the English elderly throughout showed higher levels of autonomy than the isiXhosa elderly showed. The study found a positive relationship between religiosity/spirituality and psychological well-being of the elderly. However, race could moderate the relationship between prayer fulfillment and psychological well-being at all four levels (autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and self-acceptance). With an increase in prayer fulfillment, the autonomy of the English elderly increases fairly quickly, while the autonomy of the isiXhosa elderly decreases slightly. Comparatively, the study found that isiXhosa elderly reported lower levels of psychological well-being than the English elderly. Conclusion/Recommendation: The study concludes that there is the need to develop a solid national data bases on needs and use of services, and process of ageing in order to access research data to assist planning, dissemination, delivery and evaluation of effective service delivery for the elderly population in South Africa, especially along racial divides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ntozini, Anathi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Self-actualization (Psychology) in old age Older people -- Institutional care -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6368 , vital:29593
- Description: Background: International research has clearly indicated that the world’s population is ageing: almost all countries in the world are experiencing a significant growth in the proportion of older persons in their population. This is also true for developing countries such as South Africa that are beginning to show signs and symptoms of an ageing population. Among Southern African Development Communities (SADC), South Africa has the highest number of ‘senior citizens’. Population reports indicate that the population of old people rose from paltry 2.8 million in 1996 to more than 4 million in 2011 and this is expected to skyrocket to seven million by 2030. In spite of the increasing number of senior citizens in socio-structural landscapes in South Africa, there is still lack of adequate, workable and effective policy frameworks for the wellbeing of the elderly. There is also paucity of psychological data of the elderly, especially along racial divides to determine whether the after-effects of apartheid still hold sway or not in post-apartheid South Africa. This study was conceived to investigate the psychological well-being of the elderly in Buffalo City, Eastern Cape, South Africa between two racial-ethnic elderly groups. The specific objectives of the study were to explore the relationship between the socio-demographic characteristics and psychological well-being of the black (Xhosa) and white (English) elderly in Buffalo City, South Africa and second, to validate the relationship between psychological well-being and physical activity, loneliness, spirituality/religiosity as well as ageism among the sampled population. The set-point theory, selective optimisation compensation theory (SOCT) as well as the continuity theory were employed to guide the conduct of the study. Method: Psychological measuring instruments were deployed to collect data for the study from a total of 301 elderly respondents in retirement and private individual homes (191 isiXhosa and 110 English speaking elderly). Both simple random sampling (SRS) and purposive sampling procedures were used to select the respondents. The measuring instruments included the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-being (RSPWB), Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), Assessment of Spiritual and Religious Sentiments Scale (ASPIRES), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, the Palmore Ageism Survey scale and a biographical questionnaire. Data was analysed using MANOVA, One-way variance analysis and regression coefficient. The racial differences logically influenced the selection of the respondents for the study. Results: The study revealed a significant statistical relationship between physical activity (PA) and psychological well-being of the elderly, regardless of the sociodemographic variables. PA showed a significant relationship with psychological wellbeing of the elderly. The study also discovered that loneliness correlates significantly with all four of the psychological well-being scales. It shows that the higher the levels of loneliness experienced by the elderly, socio-demographic variables controlled, the lower the levels of psychological well-being in terms of autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and self-acceptance. However, with the exception of the relationship between loneliness and purpose in life, ethnic affiliation moderates autonomy, environmental mastery and self-acceptance. English elderly constantly experienced higher levels of autonomy than the isiXhosa elderly do with an increase in loneliness. The study also found a positive relationship between ageism and psychological well- being. However, with low levels of ageism, the English elderly, in comparison with the isiXhosa elderly, is likely to show higher levels of autonomy. In addition, a significant statistical relationship between ageism and environmental mastery and purpose in life was found among the isiXhosa elderly. Although, with an increase in ageism, there is a slight increase in autonomy in both groups, the English elderly throughout showed higher levels of autonomy than the isiXhosa elderly showed. The study found a positive relationship between religiosity/spirituality and psychological well-being of the elderly. However, race could moderate the relationship between prayer fulfillment and psychological well-being at all four levels (autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and self-acceptance). With an increase in prayer fulfillment, the autonomy of the English elderly increases fairly quickly, while the autonomy of the isiXhosa elderly decreases slightly. Comparatively, the study found that isiXhosa elderly reported lower levels of psychological well-being than the English elderly. Conclusion/Recommendation: The study concludes that there is the need to develop a solid national data bases on needs and use of services, and process of ageing in order to access research data to assist planning, dissemination, delivery and evaluation of effective service delivery for the elderly population in South Africa, especially along racial divides.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Local versus international celebrity endorsement credibility and consumer purchase intentions in the cosmetic industry
- Authors: Nyamakanga,Nyarai Faith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Purchasing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13891 , vital:39724
- Description: In order for a firm to create and improve the image of its product or services, celebrity endorsement is considered to be a highly effective tool which can influence consumer behaviour. This is evident in the increasing number of marketers who are harnessing the power of celebrities to endorse their products. However, for endorsement to be successful the celebrity endorsers must be viewed as credible by consumers. It has been shown that there are three dimensions that determine the level of credibility in celebrity endorsements: trustworthiness, expertise and attractiveness. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effect of the credibility of local versus international celebrity endorsement in advertising on consumers’ intention to purchase cosmetic products in a South African (SA) context. This study focused on the cosmetic industry as it is an industry that relies heavily on endorsement to advertise and attract consumers to purchase products. Firms in this industry need to be aware of the criteria when selecting celebrity endorsers such as whether to hire an international or local celebrity as brand representatives. Thus, the researcher aimed to determine whether there is a difference in terms of credibility between local and international celebrity endorsers as viewed by SA consumers with respect to the cosmetic industry. The credibility of the celebrities was rated using the credibility scale developed by Ohanian (1990). The credibility scale rates the credibility of celebrities using the three factors of attractiveness, trustworthiness and expertise. Two models were proposed for the study, one testing the credibility of local endorsers whilst the other testing the credibility of international endorsers. These dimensions were hypothetically by the researcher to determine their effect on consumer purchase intention. To hypothetically test the dimensions, a quantitative approach and design were used as methods of gathering and analysing data. A total of 237 selfadministered questionnaires were distributed at a University in the Eastern Cape (EC). Analysis and interpretation of findings was done using the descriptive statistical measures with the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists. The inferential statistics were analysed using the multiple regression analysis. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyse the statistical significance of the model, which was found to be statistically significant for both models. The regression coefficients where then used to determine the strength of the relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable for each model. iii The study concluded that consumers perceive both local and international celebrity endorsers as credible and are influenced to purchase cosmetics products because of perceived credibility. The data analysis showed that local celebrity endorsers are perceived as more credible than international celebrity endorsers within the context of marketing cosmetic products in the South African industry. This means that consumers can be easily persuaded to purchase cosmetics products when marketed using locally based celebrity endorsers. The outcome of the research informatively helps managers to carefully select the endorser that will be able to create awareness, attract and retain loyal consumers through the advertisement. Inasmuch as marketers have to endorse local celebrities, it is also safe for them to consider international celebrity endorsers as their credibility to a lesser extent influences consumers to purchase products. However, marketers need to define and determine the target market, and select an endorser that aligns with the characteristics of the market. One of the study’s objectives was to test which of the three dimensions mentioned earlier had a stronger impact on consumer’s intention to purchase for both local and international endorsers. The attractiveness dimension indicated a much stronger influence on consumer purchase intention in comparison to the other dimensions for local celebrities and was found to be statistically significant. As the cosmetic industry is a beauty industry, it is recommended that firms in the industry use local attractive endorsers to market the cosmetic products. However, the endorser must also be trustworthy as it ranks second in terms of influence to intention to purchase. On the other hand the expertise dimension in international celebrities had the highest coefficient score indicating a greater strength and influence on consumer purchase intention and was the only dimension statistically significant. It is recommended that marketers in the cosmetic industry could employ international celebrities as endorsers by considering their level of expertise and experience in the cosmetics and other industries such the fashion industry, as well as previous advertisements they would have endorsed. The trend is often for marketers to consider, select and endorse the most attractive celebrities especially in the cosmetic industry, but this research has indicated that attractiveness is not the most important dimension that marketers should be using in selecting international celebrity endorsers. If marketers within a firm have adopted international celebrity endorsement, it is recommended they use it within a target market that is less price-sensitive whereby the high prices charged can cover the endorsement costs. It was also suggested that marketers can use international celebrity endorsers with expertise when introducing new products as consumers would need a iv lot of information on the product. Local celebrity endorsers would then be used when the product has been established
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Nyamakanga,Nyarai Faith
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Consumer behavior -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Purchasing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom (Business Management)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13891 , vital:39724
- Description: In order for a firm to create and improve the image of its product or services, celebrity endorsement is considered to be a highly effective tool which can influence consumer behaviour. This is evident in the increasing number of marketers who are harnessing the power of celebrities to endorse their products. However, for endorsement to be successful the celebrity endorsers must be viewed as credible by consumers. It has been shown that there are three dimensions that determine the level of credibility in celebrity endorsements: trustworthiness, expertise and attractiveness. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effect of the credibility of local versus international celebrity endorsement in advertising on consumers’ intention to purchase cosmetic products in a South African (SA) context. This study focused on the cosmetic industry as it is an industry that relies heavily on endorsement to advertise and attract consumers to purchase products. Firms in this industry need to be aware of the criteria when selecting celebrity endorsers such as whether to hire an international or local celebrity as brand representatives. Thus, the researcher aimed to determine whether there is a difference in terms of credibility between local and international celebrity endorsers as viewed by SA consumers with respect to the cosmetic industry. The credibility of the celebrities was rated using the credibility scale developed by Ohanian (1990). The credibility scale rates the credibility of celebrities using the three factors of attractiveness, trustworthiness and expertise. Two models were proposed for the study, one testing the credibility of local endorsers whilst the other testing the credibility of international endorsers. These dimensions were hypothetically by the researcher to determine their effect on consumer purchase intention. To hypothetically test the dimensions, a quantitative approach and design were used as methods of gathering and analysing data. A total of 237 selfadministered questionnaires were distributed at a University in the Eastern Cape (EC). Analysis and interpretation of findings was done using the descriptive statistical measures with the help of Statistical Package for Social Scientists. The inferential statistics were analysed using the multiple regression analysis. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyse the statistical significance of the model, which was found to be statistically significant for both models. The regression coefficients where then used to determine the strength of the relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable for each model. iii The study concluded that consumers perceive both local and international celebrity endorsers as credible and are influenced to purchase cosmetics products because of perceived credibility. The data analysis showed that local celebrity endorsers are perceived as more credible than international celebrity endorsers within the context of marketing cosmetic products in the South African industry. This means that consumers can be easily persuaded to purchase cosmetics products when marketed using locally based celebrity endorsers. The outcome of the research informatively helps managers to carefully select the endorser that will be able to create awareness, attract and retain loyal consumers through the advertisement. Inasmuch as marketers have to endorse local celebrities, it is also safe for them to consider international celebrity endorsers as their credibility to a lesser extent influences consumers to purchase products. However, marketers need to define and determine the target market, and select an endorser that aligns with the characteristics of the market. One of the study’s objectives was to test which of the three dimensions mentioned earlier had a stronger impact on consumer’s intention to purchase for both local and international endorsers. The attractiveness dimension indicated a much stronger influence on consumer purchase intention in comparison to the other dimensions for local celebrities and was found to be statistically significant. As the cosmetic industry is a beauty industry, it is recommended that firms in the industry use local attractive endorsers to market the cosmetic products. However, the endorser must also be trustworthy as it ranks second in terms of influence to intention to purchase. On the other hand the expertise dimension in international celebrities had the highest coefficient score indicating a greater strength and influence on consumer purchase intention and was the only dimension statistically significant. It is recommended that marketers in the cosmetic industry could employ international celebrities as endorsers by considering their level of expertise and experience in the cosmetics and other industries such the fashion industry, as well as previous advertisements they would have endorsed. The trend is often for marketers to consider, select and endorse the most attractive celebrities especially in the cosmetic industry, but this research has indicated that attractiveness is not the most important dimension that marketers should be using in selecting international celebrity endorsers. If marketers within a firm have adopted international celebrity endorsement, it is recommended they use it within a target market that is less price-sensitive whereby the high prices charged can cover the endorsement costs. It was also suggested that marketers can use international celebrity endorsers with expertise when introducing new products as consumers would need a iv lot of information on the product. Local celebrity endorsers would then be used when the product has been established
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Empowerment of women victicms of domestic violence in Ntabethemba ,Tsolwana Municipality:an ecclesiastical function of Evangelical Presbyterian church of South Africa
- Authors: Mraji, Thomakazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Church work with abused women - - South Africa Abused women -- Pastoral counseling of Family violence -- Religious aspects -- Christianity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10382 , vital:35443
- Description: This research study investigated the empowerment of women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba, Tsolwana Municipality: An Ecclesiastical Function of Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to examine the intervention and involvement of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa in social development of women victims of domestic violence; and (ii) to investigate whether there are any available programs within the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa to empower women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba. This study used a qualitative paradigm and an exploratory research approach. It also employed in-depth one-on-one interviews complemented by focus group discussions as a method of data collection. The study used non-probability sampling, specifically purposive sampling technique. 32 participants were sampled, including: participants from Focus Group Discussions, which consisted of 7 clergy members, 7 members of Association of Presbyterian Women Executive Committee, 6 members of Men’s Christian Guild Executive Committee, 7 members of Imanyano Yee-Ntombi ZamaRabe Avangelayo Executive Committee, 5 members of Presbytery Council and 65 participants from Focused Group Discussions. These 65 participants derive from four congregations, namely; Trinity congregation, St. James congregation, St. Phillips congregation and Calvin congregation and from three associations, namely; APW, IYZA and MCG. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis which used the interpretative approach and textual presentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mraji, Thomakazi
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Church work with abused women - - South Africa Abused women -- Pastoral counseling of Family violence -- Religious aspects -- Christianity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10382 , vital:35443
- Description: This research study investigated the empowerment of women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba, Tsolwana Municipality: An Ecclesiastical Function of Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to examine the intervention and involvement of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa in social development of women victims of domestic violence; and (ii) to investigate whether there are any available programs within the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of South Africa to empower women victims of domestic violence in Ntabethemba. This study used a qualitative paradigm and an exploratory research approach. It also employed in-depth one-on-one interviews complemented by focus group discussions as a method of data collection. The study used non-probability sampling, specifically purposive sampling technique. 32 participants were sampled, including: participants from Focus Group Discussions, which consisted of 7 clergy members, 7 members of Association of Presbyterian Women Executive Committee, 6 members of Men’s Christian Guild Executive Committee, 7 members of Imanyano Yee-Ntombi ZamaRabe Avangelayo Executive Committee, 5 members of Presbytery Council and 65 participants from Focused Group Discussions. These 65 participants derive from four congregations, namely; Trinity congregation, St. James congregation, St. Phillips congregation and Calvin congregation and from three associations, namely; APW, IYZA and MCG. The data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis which used the interpretative approach and textual presentation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A Critical analysis of trade facilitation practices of Zimbabwe customs administration
- Authors: Ntuli, Ferdinand Everest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade blocs International economic integration Border stations -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10636 , vital:35648
- Description: Trade facilitation practices are an attempt to eradicate non-tariff barriers. Barriers to trade may be encountered before goods reach the border, at the border or after goods reach the border. This study is concerned with processes that occur at the border. This suggests that trade facilitation is viewed within the context of customs procedures and operations at the border posts that have been identified. This study undertakes an analysis of trade facilitation practices in the Zimbabwe customs administration. The study endeavours to identify bottlenecks in the movement of goods across borders. The study tries to establish the extent to which trade facilitation practices in Zimbabwe conform to international best practice. The study also attempts to establish opportunities and threats for trade facilitation in the current arrangements. The researcher establishes that the following areas require improvement through further study; simplicity of procedures, transparency of processes, cooperation of stakeholders, standardisation of processes harmonisation of processes and predictability of processes .The research problem lies in the delays and increased trade transaction costs that have been reported by traders. This ultimately leads to traders who are not competitive on the international scene. It also makes it difficult for small to medium enterprises since they are affected more by high trade transaction costs due to lower profits and turnover. The Zimbabwean economy is dominated by small to medium enterprises which contribute significantly to the economy. The assumption of the study is that if trade facilitation practices are implemented trade volumes will increase leading to a vibrant national economy. The research problem is examined through an assessment of the perception of traders, clearing agents and customs officials on the effectiveness of trade facilitation practices that are currently in place. A mixture of qualitative and quantitative methodologies was used. The major tool used was a self-administered questionnaire issued to traders. Focus group discussions and secondary data from documents were important, especially for qualitative data. The conclusions of the research are premised on the responses by the respondents. The study takes a particular interest in trade facilitation measures prescribed by regional, multilateral and plurilateral organisations. The study examines the extent of conformity to trade facilitation measures prescribed by international organisations. The recommendations presented in the study are derived from the input and responses provided by the participants. Recommendations presented are aimed at bringing about solutions to the shortcomings in trade facilitation practices. The study has identified areas that need to be addressed so as to ensure facilitation of trade. However there are still some areas that require further studies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ntuli, Ferdinand Everest
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Trade blocs International economic integration Border stations -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD(Public Administration)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10636 , vital:35648
- Description: Trade facilitation practices are an attempt to eradicate non-tariff barriers. Barriers to trade may be encountered before goods reach the border, at the border or after goods reach the border. This study is concerned with processes that occur at the border. This suggests that trade facilitation is viewed within the context of customs procedures and operations at the border posts that have been identified. This study undertakes an analysis of trade facilitation practices in the Zimbabwe customs administration. The study endeavours to identify bottlenecks in the movement of goods across borders. The study tries to establish the extent to which trade facilitation practices in Zimbabwe conform to international best practice. The study also attempts to establish opportunities and threats for trade facilitation in the current arrangements. The researcher establishes that the following areas require improvement through further study; simplicity of procedures, transparency of processes, cooperation of stakeholders, standardisation of processes harmonisation of processes and predictability of processes .The research problem lies in the delays and increased trade transaction costs that have been reported by traders. This ultimately leads to traders who are not competitive on the international scene. It also makes it difficult for small to medium enterprises since they are affected more by high trade transaction costs due to lower profits and turnover. The Zimbabwean economy is dominated by small to medium enterprises which contribute significantly to the economy. The assumption of the study is that if trade facilitation practices are implemented trade volumes will increase leading to a vibrant national economy. The research problem is examined through an assessment of the perception of traders, clearing agents and customs officials on the effectiveness of trade facilitation practices that are currently in place. A mixture of qualitative and quantitative methodologies was used. The major tool used was a self-administered questionnaire issued to traders. Focus group discussions and secondary data from documents were important, especially for qualitative data. The conclusions of the research are premised on the responses by the respondents. The study takes a particular interest in trade facilitation measures prescribed by regional, multilateral and plurilateral organisations. The study examines the extent of conformity to trade facilitation measures prescribed by international organisations. The recommendations presented in the study are derived from the input and responses provided by the participants. Recommendations presented are aimed at bringing about solutions to the shortcomings in trade facilitation practices. The study has identified areas that need to be addressed so as to ensure facilitation of trade. However there are still some areas that require further studies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017