Design, implementation and evaluation of a directly water cooled photovoltaic- thermal system
- Authors: Mtunzi, Busiso
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sensitivity analysis -- Photovoltaic thermal system (PV/T) , Solar utilization -- Carbon emission
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Physics)
- Identifier: vital:11597 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016198 , Sensitivity analysis -- Photovoltaic thermal system (PV/T) , Solar utilization -- Carbon emission
- Description: This research project was based on the Design, Implementation and Evaluation of a Photovoltaic Water heating system in South Africa, Eastern Cape Province. The purpose of the study was to design and investigate the scientific and economic contribution of direct water cooling on the photovoltaic module. The method involved performance comparison of two photovoltaic modules, one naturally cooled (M1) and the other, direct water cooled module (M2). Module M2 was used to produce warm water and electricity, hence, a hybrid system. The study focused on comparing the modules’ efficiency, power output and their performance. The temperatures attained by water through cooling the module were monitored as well as the electrical energy generated. A data logger and a low cost I/V characteristic system were used for data collection for a full year. The data were then used for performance analysis of the modules. The results of the study revealed that the directly water cooled module could operate at a higher electrical efficiency for 87% of the day and initially produced 3.63% more electrical energy each day. This was found to be true for the first three months after installation. In the remaining months to the end of the year M2 was found to have more losses as compared to M1 as evidenced by the modules’ performance ratios. The directly water cooled module also showed an energy saving efficiency of 61%. A solar utilization of 47.93% was found for M2 while 8.77% was found for M1. Economically, the project was found to be viable and the payback period of the directly cooled module (M2) system was found to be 9.8 years. Energy economics showed that the system was more sensitive to the price changes and to the energy output as compared to other inputs such as operation and maintenance and years of operation. A generation cost of R0.84/kWh from the system was found and when compared to the potential revenue of R1.18 per kWh, the system was found to enable households to make a profit of 40.5 %. Use of such a system was also found to be able to contribute 9.55% towards carbon emission reduction each year. From these results, it was concluded that a directly cooled photovoltaic/thermal heating (PV/T) system is possible and that it can be of much help in terms of warm water and electricity provision.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Mtunzi, Busiso
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sensitivity analysis -- Photovoltaic thermal system (PV/T) , Solar utilization -- Carbon emission
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD (Physics)
- Identifier: vital:11597 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016198 , Sensitivity analysis -- Photovoltaic thermal system (PV/T) , Solar utilization -- Carbon emission
- Description: This research project was based on the Design, Implementation and Evaluation of a Photovoltaic Water heating system in South Africa, Eastern Cape Province. The purpose of the study was to design and investigate the scientific and economic contribution of direct water cooling on the photovoltaic module. The method involved performance comparison of two photovoltaic modules, one naturally cooled (M1) and the other, direct water cooled module (M2). Module M2 was used to produce warm water and electricity, hence, a hybrid system. The study focused on comparing the modules’ efficiency, power output and their performance. The temperatures attained by water through cooling the module were monitored as well as the electrical energy generated. A data logger and a low cost I/V characteristic system were used for data collection for a full year. The data were then used for performance analysis of the modules. The results of the study revealed that the directly water cooled module could operate at a higher electrical efficiency for 87% of the day and initially produced 3.63% more electrical energy each day. This was found to be true for the first three months after installation. In the remaining months to the end of the year M2 was found to have more losses as compared to M1 as evidenced by the modules’ performance ratios. The directly water cooled module also showed an energy saving efficiency of 61%. A solar utilization of 47.93% was found for M2 while 8.77% was found for M1. Economically, the project was found to be viable and the payback period of the directly cooled module (M2) system was found to be 9.8 years. Energy economics showed that the system was more sensitive to the price changes and to the energy output as compared to other inputs such as operation and maintenance and years of operation. A generation cost of R0.84/kWh from the system was found and when compared to the potential revenue of R1.18 per kWh, the system was found to enable households to make a profit of 40.5 %. Use of such a system was also found to be able to contribute 9.55% towards carbon emission reduction each year. From these results, it was concluded that a directly cooled photovoltaic/thermal heating (PV/T) system is possible and that it can be of much help in terms of warm water and electricity provision.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An assessment of the implementation of peer academic support programmes at higher education institutions in South Africa: a case study of one university
- Authors: Tangwe, Magdaline Nji
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Peer teaching -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016084 , Peer teaching -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the study was to assess the implementation of peer academic support programmes which are Language and Writing Advancement and Supplemental Instruction programmes in one University in South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative approach that used face-to-face interviews, focus group interviews and document analysis to collect data. Purposive sampling was used to select those who participated in the study. The participants were two coordinators of the programmes, ten facilitators working in the programmes for in-depth interviews and ten students who have been receiving services from the programmes for two focus group discussions. The study revealed that there was a general trend whereby peer facilitators of the programmes were recruited and trained. However, it was found that some facilitators abandoned the position immediately after the training which made it difficult for coordinators and Human Resource Staff (HR) to start the process of recruitment and retraining. In this regard, Teaching and Learning Centre, (TLC) and HR simply appointed other untrained facilitators to replace those who had deserted the positions. Also, some facilitators were unable to attend some of the regular trainings because of clashes with their classes. All these have a negative impact on the implementation of the programmes. The results also reveal that some of the facilitators were frustrated with students’ poor attendance in the sessions, and even those who attended their sessions, did not participate much in the discussions. It was found that most lecturers and students did not know the differences between supplemental instruction (SI) and tutorials. Neither did lecturers encourage their students to seek help from the TLC services. Reviewing of assignments from different disciplines by TLC facilitators was another burning issue that came up. Some facilitators reviewed assignments from different disciplines, because the disciplines were not represented and this is because they want to claim for more hours, which affects the quality of the programmes. The findings also show that some students did not like to take their assignment to the TLC for review because facilitators make unnecessary and harsh comments. On the contrary, some students acknowledged that they were fine with the way facilitators review assignments because it involves one-on-one consultation, and they always pass the assignments reviewed by PASS facilitators. The study also revealed that the coordinators monitored and evaluated facilitators through observation and the checking of attendance registers. Coordinators ware also monitored by senior colleagues of the department such as the manager of the TLC. Furthermore TLC has instituted a mentorship programme whereby senior facilitators mentor newly recruited facilitators. However not every facilitator had a mentor. The study also exposed the fact that the TLC venue was usually closed during examination periods to allow facilitators to prepare for their examinations. The findings show that some departments were not represented by facilitators and to remedy this situation, it is recommended that all departments be represented and lecturers encourage the students to get help from TLC. Most facilitators were undergraduate students, but they needed to be replaced by post graduates who did not have course work that will clash with PASS activities. The strategies used by facilitators were fairly good but more should be done to encourage students to participate in sessions. Finally, the monitoring and support mechanisms put in place were very functional but the TLC should make sure every facilitator is being monitored especially concerning the review of assignments. The significance of the findings of this study cannot be overemphasised. The strengths and challenges regarding the implementation of these programmes at this particular university have been revealed. Through the recommendations, it is hoped that the institution and the TLC would effect some changes in the implementation of these peer academic support programmes in order to better serve the students so as to achieve satisfactory throughput and retention rates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Tangwe, Magdaline Nji
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Peer teaching -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Ed
- Identifier: vital:16203 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016084 , Peer teaching -- South Africa , Education, Higher -- South Africa
- Description: The purpose of the study was to assess the implementation of peer academic support programmes which are Language and Writing Advancement and Supplemental Instruction programmes in one University in South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative approach that used face-to-face interviews, focus group interviews and document analysis to collect data. Purposive sampling was used to select those who participated in the study. The participants were two coordinators of the programmes, ten facilitators working in the programmes for in-depth interviews and ten students who have been receiving services from the programmes for two focus group discussions. The study revealed that there was a general trend whereby peer facilitators of the programmes were recruited and trained. However, it was found that some facilitators abandoned the position immediately after the training which made it difficult for coordinators and Human Resource Staff (HR) to start the process of recruitment and retraining. In this regard, Teaching and Learning Centre, (TLC) and HR simply appointed other untrained facilitators to replace those who had deserted the positions. Also, some facilitators were unable to attend some of the regular trainings because of clashes with their classes. All these have a negative impact on the implementation of the programmes. The results also reveal that some of the facilitators were frustrated with students’ poor attendance in the sessions, and even those who attended their sessions, did not participate much in the discussions. It was found that most lecturers and students did not know the differences between supplemental instruction (SI) and tutorials. Neither did lecturers encourage their students to seek help from the TLC services. Reviewing of assignments from different disciplines by TLC facilitators was another burning issue that came up. Some facilitators reviewed assignments from different disciplines, because the disciplines were not represented and this is because they want to claim for more hours, which affects the quality of the programmes. The findings also show that some students did not like to take their assignment to the TLC for review because facilitators make unnecessary and harsh comments. On the contrary, some students acknowledged that they were fine with the way facilitators review assignments because it involves one-on-one consultation, and they always pass the assignments reviewed by PASS facilitators. The study also revealed that the coordinators monitored and evaluated facilitators through observation and the checking of attendance registers. Coordinators ware also monitored by senior colleagues of the department such as the manager of the TLC. Furthermore TLC has instituted a mentorship programme whereby senior facilitators mentor newly recruited facilitators. However not every facilitator had a mentor. The study also exposed the fact that the TLC venue was usually closed during examination periods to allow facilitators to prepare for their examinations. The findings show that some departments were not represented by facilitators and to remedy this situation, it is recommended that all departments be represented and lecturers encourage the students to get help from TLC. Most facilitators were undergraduate students, but they needed to be replaced by post graduates who did not have course work that will clash with PASS activities. The strategies used by facilitators were fairly good but more should be done to encourage students to participate in sessions. Finally, the monitoring and support mechanisms put in place were very functional but the TLC should make sure every facilitator is being monitored especially concerning the review of assignments. The significance of the findings of this study cannot be overemphasised. The strengths and challenges regarding the implementation of these programmes at this particular university have been revealed. Through the recommendations, it is hoped that the institution and the TLC would effect some changes in the implementation of these peer academic support programmes in order to better serve the students so as to achieve satisfactory throughput and retention rates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Incidence of Staphylococcus species in bovine milk: their antimicrobial sensitivity in selected antibiotics and Usnea barbata lichen extracts
- Idamokoro, Emrobowansan Monday
- Authors: Idamokoro, Emrobowansan Monday
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Staphylococcus , Microbial sensitivity tests , Traditional medicine , Lichens -- Analysis , Mastitis , Antibiotics in agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11829 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016193 , Staphylococcus , Microbial sensitivity tests , Traditional medicine , Lichens -- Analysis , Mastitis , Antibiotics in agriculture
- Description: This study was done in order to assess the incidence of Staphylococcus species from milk of cows with subclinical mastitis and their antimicrobial sensitivity in some selected antibiotics and Usnea barbata lichen extracts. The study was conducted in two different commercial dairy farms. Staphylococcus species isolates were identified using several biochemical tests which included Gram’s staining test, catalase test and oxidase test. A commercial API® staph kit (bioMerieux, France) was used to confirm the bacterial organisms to their species level. The antimicrobial sensitivity of individual species was determined according to the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) for the selected antibiotics. Agar well diffusion method and the broth micro-dilution technique were used to determine the sensitivity of Staphylococcus species in U. barbata extracts. A total of 467 milk samples were screened for bacterial identification from the two farms. Fifteen different Staphylococcus species isolates were identified from all milk samples that were examined. The most frequently isolated species included Staphylococcus xylosus (54.34%), Staphylococcus hominis (24.78%), Staphylococcus aureus (16.38%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (16.12%) and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (11.63%). Most Staphylococcus species were resistant to Penicillin (75.35%), Nalidixic acid (72.55%) and Ampicillin (63%). Furthermore, the bacterial sensitivity evaluation of U. barbata lichen extracted with methanol and ethyl-acetate against selected Staphylococcus species isolates showed 92.31% and 53.85% susceptibility, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the methanol and ethyl-acetate extracts ranged between 0.0390 to 10 mg/ml. There was a relatively high incidence of Staphylococcus species identified in milk of cows with subclinical mastitis from both farms. Conversely, Staphylococcus species isolates were resistant to antibiotics (mostly penicillin and ampicillin) commonly used in the farms. Furthermore, the study investigated the antimicrobial sensitivity of U. barbata extract in-vitro which may validate its use in traditional medicine for treatment of cows with mastitis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Idamokoro, Emrobowansan Monday
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Staphylococcus , Microbial sensitivity tests , Traditional medicine , Lichens -- Analysis , Mastitis , Antibiotics in agriculture
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Animal Science)
- Identifier: vital:11829 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/d1016193 , Staphylococcus , Microbial sensitivity tests , Traditional medicine , Lichens -- Analysis , Mastitis , Antibiotics in agriculture
- Description: This study was done in order to assess the incidence of Staphylococcus species from milk of cows with subclinical mastitis and their antimicrobial sensitivity in some selected antibiotics and Usnea barbata lichen extracts. The study was conducted in two different commercial dairy farms. Staphylococcus species isolates were identified using several biochemical tests which included Gram’s staining test, catalase test and oxidase test. A commercial API® staph kit (bioMerieux, France) was used to confirm the bacterial organisms to their species level. The antimicrobial sensitivity of individual species was determined according to the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) for the selected antibiotics. Agar well diffusion method and the broth micro-dilution technique were used to determine the sensitivity of Staphylococcus species in U. barbata extracts. A total of 467 milk samples were screened for bacterial identification from the two farms. Fifteen different Staphylococcus species isolates were identified from all milk samples that were examined. The most frequently isolated species included Staphylococcus xylosus (54.34%), Staphylococcus hominis (24.78%), Staphylococcus aureus (16.38%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (16.12%) and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (11.63%). Most Staphylococcus species were resistant to Penicillin (75.35%), Nalidixic acid (72.55%) and Ampicillin (63%). Furthermore, the bacterial sensitivity evaluation of U. barbata lichen extracted with methanol and ethyl-acetate against selected Staphylococcus species isolates showed 92.31% and 53.85% susceptibility, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the methanol and ethyl-acetate extracts ranged between 0.0390 to 10 mg/ml. There was a relatively high incidence of Staphylococcus species identified in milk of cows with subclinical mastitis from both farms. Conversely, Staphylococcus species isolates were resistant to antibiotics (mostly penicillin and ampicillin) commonly used in the farms. Furthermore, the study investigated the antimicrobial sensitivity of U. barbata extract in-vitro which may validate its use in traditional medicine for treatment of cows with mastitis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A social realist account of the tutorial system at the University of Johannesburg
- Authors: Layton, Delia Melanie
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg Education, Higher -- South Africa Tutors and tutoring -- South Africa College teaching -- South Africa Archer, Margaret Scotford College student development programs -- South Africa Social realism , Tutorial system
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1314 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001621
- Description: Using Margaret Archer’s social realist methodology, this study critically examines the construction of the tutorial system in several departments and faculties at the Auckland Park campus of the University of Johannesburg. The purpose of the study is to investigate the extent to which tutorials support the acquisition of programme and disciplinary epistemologies. Social realism calls for analytical dualism of ‘the people’ (agents) from ‘the parts’ (structure and culture). This requires the separate consideration of structures (social systems, rules, roles, practices, policies, institutions, and organisational structures like committees, units, departments, faculties), culture (ideologies, theories, beliefs and values as evidenced in discourses), and agency (people and their ability to act within and upon their own world in terms of their social roles and positions dependent on their ability to activate their emergent properties and powers). Through this investigation, an understanding was gained into how the emergent properties and powers contained within the material, ideational and agential elements helped to generate certain events and practices in the tutorial system. These generative mechanisms were examined to explore whether they enabled or constrained the construction of the tutorial system to provide epistemological access. The study shows that while many official policy documents construct the tutorial system as being an intervention to support academic success, particularly for first-years, there are some tensions within the document discourses, where, on the one hand, student success is constructed in terms of throughput numbers, or, on the other hand, as being about becoming a particular kind of person who is able to access and add to powerful knowledge. Furthermore, the study found that policies are not being consistently implemented. While certain key agents and actors, in the form of management, academics and tutors, were found to be able to overcome constraints and introduce innovative ways of enhancing access to target epistemologies, there is a need for consideration of structural and cultural constraints. For example, structures in the form of funding, venues and timetabling were found to constrain the tutorial system as did some of the discourses in the cultural domain: for example, in the form of certain dominant discourses around teaching and learning, beliefs about the purpose of the tutorial and the relationship between academics and the tutorial system. The study also found that the ontological aspects of ‘learning to be’ were not fore-grounded to any great extent in the ways in which the tutorial system was constructed. There needs to be more consideration of the ontological as well as the epistemological aspects of first-year study so as to take cognisance of the different learning needs of an increasingly diverse student body and to encourage the development of the student agency necessary for a deep engagement with the disciplinary epistemologies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Layton, Delia Melanie
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: University of Johannesburg Education, Higher -- South Africa Tutors and tutoring -- South Africa College teaching -- South Africa Archer, Margaret Scotford College student development programs -- South Africa Social realism , Tutorial system
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:1314 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001621
- Description: Using Margaret Archer’s social realist methodology, this study critically examines the construction of the tutorial system in several departments and faculties at the Auckland Park campus of the University of Johannesburg. The purpose of the study is to investigate the extent to which tutorials support the acquisition of programme and disciplinary epistemologies. Social realism calls for analytical dualism of ‘the people’ (agents) from ‘the parts’ (structure and culture). This requires the separate consideration of structures (social systems, rules, roles, practices, policies, institutions, and organisational structures like committees, units, departments, faculties), culture (ideologies, theories, beliefs and values as evidenced in discourses), and agency (people and their ability to act within and upon their own world in terms of their social roles and positions dependent on their ability to activate their emergent properties and powers). Through this investigation, an understanding was gained into how the emergent properties and powers contained within the material, ideational and agential elements helped to generate certain events and practices in the tutorial system. These generative mechanisms were examined to explore whether they enabled or constrained the construction of the tutorial system to provide epistemological access. The study shows that while many official policy documents construct the tutorial system as being an intervention to support academic success, particularly for first-years, there are some tensions within the document discourses, where, on the one hand, student success is constructed in terms of throughput numbers, or, on the other hand, as being about becoming a particular kind of person who is able to access and add to powerful knowledge. Furthermore, the study found that policies are not being consistently implemented. While certain key agents and actors, in the form of management, academics and tutors, were found to be able to overcome constraints and introduce innovative ways of enhancing access to target epistemologies, there is a need for consideration of structural and cultural constraints. For example, structures in the form of funding, venues and timetabling were found to constrain the tutorial system as did some of the discourses in the cultural domain: for example, in the form of certain dominant discourses around teaching and learning, beliefs about the purpose of the tutorial and the relationship between academics and the tutorial system. The study also found that the ontological aspects of ‘learning to be’ were not fore-grounded to any great extent in the ways in which the tutorial system was constructed. There needs to be more consideration of the ontological as well as the epistemological aspects of first-year study so as to take cognisance of the different learning needs of an increasingly diverse student body and to encourage the development of the student agency necessary for a deep engagement with the disciplinary epistemologies.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Employees' perception of engagement and its influence on critical success factors
- Authors: Gardner, Kevin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Soft drink industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- Employee participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020826
- Description: Increasing competition within the non-alcoholic, ready to drink market (NARTD) in South Africa has intensified the need for soft drink producers to identify ways in which to enhance their competitiveness. One of the most important challenges for organisations operating in this industry is to produce quality products while meeting the needs of customers, at the lowest possible cost. While a number of competitors may rely on various competitive strategies such as lower priced products, it could become increasingly challenging for others to adopt similar approaches without comprising on the quality of their products. In order to remain competitive, organisations may be required to shift their focus onto their employees as a source of competitive advantage. Research has shown that employees provide organisations with sustainable competitive advantage, more specifically, it has shown that engaged employees outperform disengaged employees. The differentiating factor for organisations in the pursuit of competitive advantage would therefore be an engaged workforce. The primary research objective of this study was to investigate employees’ perceptions of engagement within the logistics function at Coca-Cola Fortune Port Elizabeth, as well as its impact on critical success factors. A theoretical overview was conducted to appraise various definitions, engagement models, factors influencing engagement and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. The research highlighted a number of common themes of engagement which includes a reciprocal relationship between the organisation and employees, enthusiasm, involvement and motivation. This research revealed that engaged employees make positive contributions to key business outcomes such as financial performance, productivity and customer satisfaction.An empirical study was conducted by means of a survey with a questionnaire as data collecting tool. The purpose of the structured questionnaire was to validate the findings obtained from the theoretical overview and to assess employees’ perceptions of engagement, engagement factors and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. A sample comprising 112 employees was identified by means of a stratified sampling technique. A 93 per cent response rate was obtained. The key findings of the study indicated that management and employee perceptions of engagement were comparable. It also indicated that corporate communication, employee involvement strategies, relationships with management and HR policies and procedures did influence employee engagement. Furthermore, the study validated the existence of a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction, employee attendance and productivity – as was found between employee engagement and business success at CCF. The theoretical overview in conjunction with the empirical findings yielded a hypothesised model of employee engagement as presented in Chapter One. This model could provide direction in the organisation’s attempt to improve engagement levels and ultimately in the pursuit of competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Gardner, Kevin
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Soft drink industry -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Strategic planning -- Employee participation -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8891 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020826
- Description: Increasing competition within the non-alcoholic, ready to drink market (NARTD) in South Africa has intensified the need for soft drink producers to identify ways in which to enhance their competitiveness. One of the most important challenges for organisations operating in this industry is to produce quality products while meeting the needs of customers, at the lowest possible cost. While a number of competitors may rely on various competitive strategies such as lower priced products, it could become increasingly challenging for others to adopt similar approaches without comprising on the quality of their products. In order to remain competitive, organisations may be required to shift their focus onto their employees as a source of competitive advantage. Research has shown that employees provide organisations with sustainable competitive advantage, more specifically, it has shown that engaged employees outperform disengaged employees. The differentiating factor for organisations in the pursuit of competitive advantage would therefore be an engaged workforce. The primary research objective of this study was to investigate employees’ perceptions of engagement within the logistics function at Coca-Cola Fortune Port Elizabeth, as well as its impact on critical success factors. A theoretical overview was conducted to appraise various definitions, engagement models, factors influencing engagement and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. The research highlighted a number of common themes of engagement which includes a reciprocal relationship between the organisation and employees, enthusiasm, involvement and motivation. This research revealed that engaged employees make positive contributions to key business outcomes such as financial performance, productivity and customer satisfaction.An empirical study was conducted by means of a survey with a questionnaire as data collecting tool. The purpose of the structured questionnaire was to validate the findings obtained from the theoretical overview and to assess employees’ perceptions of engagement, engagement factors and the impact of engagement on critical success factors. A sample comprising 112 employees was identified by means of a stratified sampling technique. A 93 per cent response rate was obtained. The key findings of the study indicated that management and employee perceptions of engagement were comparable. It also indicated that corporate communication, employee involvement strategies, relationships with management and HR policies and procedures did influence employee engagement. Furthermore, the study validated the existence of a strong positive relationship between customer satisfaction, employee attendance and productivity – as was found between employee engagement and business success at CCF. The theoretical overview in conjunction with the empirical findings yielded a hypothesised model of employee engagement as presented in Chapter One. This model could provide direction in the organisation’s attempt to improve engagement levels and ultimately in the pursuit of competitive advantage.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Species and spatio-temporal variation in the yield, nutritive value and in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics of selected grass species from two communal grazing lands of the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Kwaza, Ayanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/987 , vital:26515
- Description: Communal rangelands sustain a large proportion of the livestock in South Africa. A few dominant grass species contribute to the bulk of the livestock forage in these rangelands. Little is known on the chemical composition and in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics of grass species grazed by ruminants in the communal grazing lands of Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The objectives of this study were therefore to investigate seasonal and altitudinal variations in biomass yield, chemical composition, and in vitro ruminal degradability and cumulative gas production of selected (dominant) grass species. The grass species were collected over four seasons (summer, autumn, winter and spring) from three altitudes/landscape gradients (upland, gentle sloppy and bottomlands) across two communal areas (Hala in highland (Highveld) and Gqumashe in lowland (Lowveld)) of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa. In each altitude, three 50 m x 20 m plots, which served as replicates were marked to collect vegetation samples. A 5 x 4 x 3 factorial experiment in a randomised complete block design was used with season, altitude and grass species being the main factors, and with the plots within altitudes serving as blocks (replicates). Data analysis was done separately for the two communal study areas using the General Linear Models (GLM) procedure of SAS to test differences between species, seasons and altitudes. The common grass species in both grazing lands were Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis chloromelus, Eragrostis plana, Sporobolus africanus and Themeda triandra. When the DM yield of all the grasses was combined, the results showed a generally low forage dry matter yield during the dry season. There was no significant (P>0.05) interaction between any of the main factors. Macro and micro mineral content of plant samples collected from the two communal grazing lands showed great variations (P<0.05) between species, seasons and altitude. In the Highveld, CP ranged from 3.9 to 6.5% DM being significantly highest (P<0.05) in Cynodon dactylon and lowest in E. plana. When all species were combined, higher CP was recorded for samples harvested in summer (5.5%) followed by spring and autumn, and lowest in winter (3.8%). In the Lowveld, Eragrostis chloromelus had higher (P<0.05) CP level followed by C. dactylon and T. Triandra. When all species were pooled, forage samples harvested in summer had a significantly higher (P<0.05) CP followed by spring, autumn and winter. In summary, CP content of all grasses was below the critical maintenance level for livestock especially during late dry seasons. In both areas, the highest NDF level was measured for Eragrostis plana and lowest for Themeda triandra. As for altitudinal differences, samples collected from the upland areas had generally the lowest (P<0.05) CP and highest ADF contents. For grasses harvested from the Highveld, C. dactylon produced the most (P<0.05) gas after 48 h of fermentation (794.6 ml/g DM) and also had the highest 48h DMD (415.1 g kg-1). Themeda triandra produced least (P<0.05) gas (742 ml/g DM) 48h post-incubation. The least (P<0.05) degradable species after 48 h was E. chloromelus (372.9 g kg-1). For grasses harvested from Lowveld, the 48h cumulative gas production was highest (822.7 ml/g DM) in E. plana and lowest (742.8 ml/g DM) in E. chloromelus, while S. africanus had least 48h DMD (327.9 kg-1). In both the Highveld and Lowveld, gas production and DMD were highest in the autumn season. It was concluded most grasses were deficient in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Therefore, it is recommended that mineral supplements should be offered to animals to improve animal productivity throughout the year. Findings of this study suggested that addition of protein and energy sources may be desirable in both grazing areas to meet the maintenance/production requirements of the grazing ruminants throughout the year. Key words: Forage yield, chemical composition, landscape gradient; seasonal variations; in vitro ruminal gas production; dry matter degradability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kwaza, Ayanda
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc Agric (Pasture Science)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/987 , vital:26515
- Description: Communal rangelands sustain a large proportion of the livestock in South Africa. A few dominant grass species contribute to the bulk of the livestock forage in these rangelands. Little is known on the chemical composition and in vitro ruminal fermentation characteristics of grass species grazed by ruminants in the communal grazing lands of Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The objectives of this study were therefore to investigate seasonal and altitudinal variations in biomass yield, chemical composition, and in vitro ruminal degradability and cumulative gas production of selected (dominant) grass species. The grass species were collected over four seasons (summer, autumn, winter and spring) from three altitudes/landscape gradients (upland, gentle sloppy and bottomlands) across two communal areas (Hala in highland (Highveld) and Gqumashe in lowland (Lowveld)) of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa. In each altitude, three 50 m x 20 m plots, which served as replicates were marked to collect vegetation samples. A 5 x 4 x 3 factorial experiment in a randomised complete block design was used with season, altitude and grass species being the main factors, and with the plots within altitudes serving as blocks (replicates). Data analysis was done separately for the two communal study areas using the General Linear Models (GLM) procedure of SAS to test differences between species, seasons and altitudes. The common grass species in both grazing lands were Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis chloromelus, Eragrostis plana, Sporobolus africanus and Themeda triandra. When the DM yield of all the grasses was combined, the results showed a generally low forage dry matter yield during the dry season. There was no significant (P>0.05) interaction between any of the main factors. Macro and micro mineral content of plant samples collected from the two communal grazing lands showed great variations (P<0.05) between species, seasons and altitude. In the Highveld, CP ranged from 3.9 to 6.5% DM being significantly highest (P<0.05) in Cynodon dactylon and lowest in E. plana. When all species were combined, higher CP was recorded for samples harvested in summer (5.5%) followed by spring and autumn, and lowest in winter (3.8%). In the Lowveld, Eragrostis chloromelus had higher (P<0.05) CP level followed by C. dactylon and T. Triandra. When all species were pooled, forage samples harvested in summer had a significantly higher (P<0.05) CP followed by spring, autumn and winter. In summary, CP content of all grasses was below the critical maintenance level for livestock especially during late dry seasons. In both areas, the highest NDF level was measured for Eragrostis plana and lowest for Themeda triandra. As for altitudinal differences, samples collected from the upland areas had generally the lowest (P<0.05) CP and highest ADF contents. For grasses harvested from the Highveld, C. dactylon produced the most (P<0.05) gas after 48 h of fermentation (794.6 ml/g DM) and also had the highest 48h DMD (415.1 g kg-1). Themeda triandra produced least (P<0.05) gas (742 ml/g DM) 48h post-incubation. The least (P<0.05) degradable species after 48 h was E. chloromelus (372.9 g kg-1). For grasses harvested from Lowveld, the 48h cumulative gas production was highest (822.7 ml/g DM) in E. plana and lowest (742.8 ml/g DM) in E. chloromelus, while S. africanus had least 48h DMD (327.9 kg-1). In both the Highveld and Lowveld, gas production and DMD were highest in the autumn season. It was concluded most grasses were deficient in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Therefore, it is recommended that mineral supplements should be offered to animals to improve animal productivity throughout the year. Findings of this study suggested that addition of protein and energy sources may be desirable in both grazing areas to meet the maintenance/production requirements of the grazing ruminants throughout the year. Key words: Forage yield, chemical composition, landscape gradient; seasonal variations; in vitro ruminal gas production; dry matter degradability.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Financial structure and economic growth nexus: comparisons of banks, financial markets and economic growth in South Africa
- Authors: Godza, Praise G
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/921 , vital:26509
- Description: The importance of the financial structure system, which comprises the banking sector and financial markets, to the growth of a country’s economy cannot be underestimated. It is important to analyse comparatively the contribution of each sector to the economic growth of a country. This study, therefore, empirically examined the relationship between financial markets, banks and economic growth in South Africa using time series analysis for the period 1990 to 2011. The study used the Vector Error Correction model (VECM) based causality tests to establish the link between financial structure (represented by both banks and financial markets) and economic growth. Real GDP was used as a measure for economic growth, Bank credit to the private sector was used as a proxy for the banking system, turnover ratio and value of shares traded was used as a measure for the stock market and bond market capitalisation was used as a measure for the bond market. To determine the net effects of financial structure on long run growth in South Africa, one control variable was added which was the ratio of government expenditure to GDP to control for the government’s role in the economy. The Johansen co-integration technique was also employed to obtain a long run relationship. The results from the study revealed that the stock turnover ratio, bond market capitalisation, and government expenditure have a long run relationship with economic growth while bank credit to private sector and value of shares traded showed a negative relationship with economic growth. With granger causality all the variables proved to granger cause economic growth except for bond market capitalisation where economic growth prove to granger cause bond market development. The study recommended that measures to improve liquidity, transparency and accessibility of both the banking sector and financial markets instruments should be a priority for South African authorities. The authorities should, therefore, encourage stock market development through an appropriate mix of taxes, legal and regulatory policies to remove barriers to stock market operations and thus enhance their efficiency since stock markets in Africa are underdeveloped. Strong financial regulation and supervision in banks to ensure efficiency in credit allocation should be done to enable channelling of credits to capital development rather than consumption spending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Godza, Praise G
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Com
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/921 , vital:26509
- Description: The importance of the financial structure system, which comprises the banking sector and financial markets, to the growth of a country’s economy cannot be underestimated. It is important to analyse comparatively the contribution of each sector to the economic growth of a country. This study, therefore, empirically examined the relationship between financial markets, banks and economic growth in South Africa using time series analysis for the period 1990 to 2011. The study used the Vector Error Correction model (VECM) based causality tests to establish the link between financial structure (represented by both banks and financial markets) and economic growth. Real GDP was used as a measure for economic growth, Bank credit to the private sector was used as a proxy for the banking system, turnover ratio and value of shares traded was used as a measure for the stock market and bond market capitalisation was used as a measure for the bond market. To determine the net effects of financial structure on long run growth in South Africa, one control variable was added which was the ratio of government expenditure to GDP to control for the government’s role in the economy. The Johansen co-integration technique was also employed to obtain a long run relationship. The results from the study revealed that the stock turnover ratio, bond market capitalisation, and government expenditure have a long run relationship with economic growth while bank credit to private sector and value of shares traded showed a negative relationship with economic growth. With granger causality all the variables proved to granger cause economic growth except for bond market capitalisation where economic growth prove to granger cause bond market development. The study recommended that measures to improve liquidity, transparency and accessibility of both the banking sector and financial markets instruments should be a priority for South African authorities. The authorities should, therefore, encourage stock market development through an appropriate mix of taxes, legal and regulatory policies to remove barriers to stock market operations and thus enhance their efficiency since stock markets in Africa are underdeveloped. Strong financial regulation and supervision in banks to ensure efficiency in credit allocation should be done to enable channelling of credits to capital development rather than consumption spending.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The impact of staff educational levels in ensuring effective health programmes implementation : a comparative study of NPO's in the City of Tshwane
- Authors: Msomi, Sweetness Mbalenhle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Public health -- Evaluation , Public health personnel -- Education -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality , Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020139
- Description: This research study investigated the impact of staff education levels in ensuring implementation of effective health programmes: A comparative study of NPOs in City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The literature that was consulted explains the current level of education, worldwide and South Africa, challenges and reasons for lack of critical skills among health professionals and social workers. An exploratory approach was used in the study; by conducting a case study on two selected Non Profit Orgaisations (NPOs) namely, Hope for Life and Bophelong Life Community Hospice, both receiving funding from the Department of Health and Social Development and from the National Lotteries Distribution Trust (NLDTF) through the National Lotteries Board (NLB). Three methods of data collection were used to triangulate data, i.e. questionnaires, interviews and documentation reviews. Data was collected from staff members, NPO management and documentation from NPOs and Grant Funding System of the NLB. At the end of the study and using acquired information, a number of recommendations are made for the effective implementation of programmes for both NPOs and funding organisations such as NLB.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Msomi, Sweetness Mbalenhle
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Public health -- Evaluation , Public health personnel -- Education -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality , Nonprofit organizations -- South Africa -- City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:9178 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020139
- Description: This research study investigated the impact of staff education levels in ensuring implementation of effective health programmes: A comparative study of NPOs in City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The literature that was consulted explains the current level of education, worldwide and South Africa, challenges and reasons for lack of critical skills among health professionals and social workers. An exploratory approach was used in the study; by conducting a case study on two selected Non Profit Orgaisations (NPOs) namely, Hope for Life and Bophelong Life Community Hospice, both receiving funding from the Department of Health and Social Development and from the National Lotteries Distribution Trust (NLDTF) through the National Lotteries Board (NLB). Three methods of data collection were used to triangulate data, i.e. questionnaires, interviews and documentation reviews. Data was collected from staff members, NPO management and documentation from NPOs and Grant Funding System of the NLB. At the end of the study and using acquired information, a number of recommendations are made for the effective implementation of programmes for both NPOs and funding organisations such as NLB.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Morphology, patterns and processes in the Oyster Bay headland bypass dunefield, South Africa
- Authors: McConnachie, Lauren Bernyse
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sand dune conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sand dune ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Coastal ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sedimentation and deposition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Beach erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Shore protection -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001904
- Description: Studies of the dunefield systems crossing the Cape St. Francis headland in the Eastern Cape have focused on the role that wind plays in sediment transfer in coastal dunefield systems, with limited consideration of the role of water. The aim of this study was to improve understanding of the morphology, processes and patterns within the Oyster Bay HBD system, focussing particularly on surface water and groundwater interactions and the role of surface water in sediment transfer across the dunefield system. An extensive field survey was conducted, to collect related data, complimented by spatial and temporal analysis of the study area using GIS. The key findings from this research were the apparent differences between the western and eastern regions of the dunefield with regard to specific drivers and the respective processes and responses. Wind is the major driver of change up to and across the crest of the dunefield. In the eastern region water (ground water, surface water and the Sand River System) is the primary agent of sediment flux through processes of aggregation and slumping as well as episodic events including debris flows. This study has highlighted a need for further quantitative studies that investigate the movement of sediment through dunefield systems such as this (where water is at or near the land surface). The paradigm that sediment flux is entirely due to wind is almost certainly simplistic, and deeper understanding of these systems is needed , Maiden name: Elkington, Lauren
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: McConnachie, Lauren Bernyse
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Sand dune conservation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sand dune ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Coastal ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Sedimentation and deposition -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Beach erosion -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Shore protection -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4804 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001904
- Description: Studies of the dunefield systems crossing the Cape St. Francis headland in the Eastern Cape have focused on the role that wind plays in sediment transfer in coastal dunefield systems, with limited consideration of the role of water. The aim of this study was to improve understanding of the morphology, processes and patterns within the Oyster Bay HBD system, focussing particularly on surface water and groundwater interactions and the role of surface water in sediment transfer across the dunefield system. An extensive field survey was conducted, to collect related data, complimented by spatial and temporal analysis of the study area using GIS. The key findings from this research were the apparent differences between the western and eastern regions of the dunefield with regard to specific drivers and the respective processes and responses. Wind is the major driver of change up to and across the crest of the dunefield. In the eastern region water (ground water, surface water and the Sand River System) is the primary agent of sediment flux through processes of aggregation and slumping as well as episodic events including debris flows. This study has highlighted a need for further quantitative studies that investigate the movement of sediment through dunefield systems such as this (where water is at or near the land surface). The paradigm that sediment flux is entirely due to wind is almost certainly simplistic, and deeper understanding of these systems is needed , Maiden name: Elkington, Lauren
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The challenges of alleviating poverty through ecological restoration: Insights from South Africa's “working for water” program
- McConnachie, Matthew M, Cowling, Richard M, Shackleton, Charlie M, Knight, Andrew T
- Authors: McConnachie, Matthew M , Cowling, Richard M , Shackleton, Charlie M , Knight, Andrew T
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/181003 , vital:43680 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12038"
- Description: Public works programs have been posited as win–win solutions for achieving societal goals for ecological restoration and poverty alleviation. However, little is documented regarding the challenges of implementing such projects. A commonly cited example is South Africa's invasive alien plant control program “Working for Water” (WfW), which aims to create employment via restoring landscapes invaded with alien plants. Recent studies have raised questions over the effectiveness of this program in achieving both its restoration and poverty alleviation goals. This is the first study that we are aware of that synthesizes the knowledge of managers on both the poverty alleviation and environmental outcomes of a public works project. Herein, we sought to understand the challenges and constraints faced by 23 WfW managers in fulfilling the program's environmental and poverty alleviation objectives. We found that the challenges most frequently cited by managers related to the capacity and competence of managers and teams, followed by challenges relating to planning and coordination, specifically the challenges of being flexible and adaptive when constrained by operating procedures. In addition, the current focus on maximizing short-term employment was perceived by some as limiting the efficiency and long-term effectiveness of the WfW program in achieving its environmental and social goals. We suggest that improving the conditions and duration of employment could improve the effectiveness of invasive alien plant control and ecological outcomes. We also suggest that WfW measure the impacts of their interventions through an adaptive management approach so that it can learn and adapt to the challenges it faces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: McConnachie, Matthew M , Cowling, Richard M , Shackleton, Charlie M , Knight, Andrew T
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/181003 , vital:43680 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12038"
- Description: Public works programs have been posited as win–win solutions for achieving societal goals for ecological restoration and poverty alleviation. However, little is documented regarding the challenges of implementing such projects. A commonly cited example is South Africa's invasive alien plant control program “Working for Water” (WfW), which aims to create employment via restoring landscapes invaded with alien plants. Recent studies have raised questions over the effectiveness of this program in achieving both its restoration and poverty alleviation goals. This is the first study that we are aware of that synthesizes the knowledge of managers on both the poverty alleviation and environmental outcomes of a public works project. Herein, we sought to understand the challenges and constraints faced by 23 WfW managers in fulfilling the program's environmental and poverty alleviation objectives. We found that the challenges most frequently cited by managers related to the capacity and competence of managers and teams, followed by challenges relating to planning and coordination, specifically the challenges of being flexible and adaptive when constrained by operating procedures. In addition, the current focus on maximizing short-term employment was perceived by some as limiting the efficiency and long-term effectiveness of the WfW program in achieving its environmental and social goals. We suggest that improving the conditions and duration of employment could improve the effectiveness of invasive alien plant control and ecological outcomes. We also suggest that WfW measure the impacts of their interventions through an adaptive management approach so that it can learn and adapt to the challenges it faces.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A marine chemical ecology study of the sea hare, Bursatella leachii in South Africa
- Authors: D'Souza, Nicole
- Date: 2013 , 2013-03-22
- Subjects: Sea hares (Mollusks) -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Defenses -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4283 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002952 , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Defenses -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Description: The large cosmopolitan sea hare Bursatella leachii is a common resident in Eastern Cape river mouths during summer and late autumn where they congregate in beds of Zostera capensis to breed. In this thesis, the previously known toxic formamide marine secondary metabolite (-)-bursatellin (2.2), which may deter predators of South African specimens of the globally distributed sea hare Bursatella leachii, was isolated and identified (Chapter 2). There have been no previous chemical ecology studies of B. leachii and the latter half of this thesis is devoted to chemical ecology studies of this organism. Interestingly, the isolation of the (-)-diastereomer of 2.2 from specimens of B. leachii collected from the Kariega River mouth (near Kenton-on-Sea) suggests that the South African specimens of this species are similar to specimens collected from Puerto Rico and from the Mediterranean Sea. Two different chromatographic techniques for isolating 2.2 were compared in order to maximize the amount of 2.2 isolated from the Kariega River mouth sea hares. The doubling of selected resonances observed in both the ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectra of the bursatellin isolated in this study suggest one of three possibilities; either firstly, the presence of closely related compound(s), secondly, the presence of diastereomers or thirdly the presence of rotamers. Through NMR kinetic studies, we were able to establish that the presence of rotamers was very unlikely due to no change in the relative ratio (3:1) of the ¹H NMR signals with an increase in temperature. Although the attempted synthesis of the acetate derivative (2.28), as a means of separating a diastereomeric mixture was successful, the chromatographic separation of the proposed acetylated diastereomers was not successful. Preparation of the camphanate ester derivatives (e.g. 2.30) proved to be unsuccessful. Five B. leachii specimens were dissected, their organs separated and individually extracted with methanol. The methanol extracts were individually chromatographed on HP-20 media, and the distribution of bursatellin determined by isolation and NMR. It was evident from this investigation that the distribution of 2.2 within individual B. leachii specimens was found to be highest within the B. leachii ink gland. The lower amounts of 2.2 contained in the digestive system, relative to other organs, was hypothesized to occur because 2.2 is sequestered from the diet of the sea hare and efficiently moved from the gut to various organs around the body where it is stored. The absence of 2.2 from the skin was surprising and may be a result of a smaller mass of skin relative to other organs coupled with the limitations of the chromatographic separation techniques employed. Surprisingly, no bursatellin was found within juvenile sea hares. Chapter three discusses the isolation of ilimaquinone (3.1) and pelorol (3.19) from the sponge Hippospongia metachroma and the structure elucidation of each compound using computer modeling to illustrate the conformation. It was deemed necessary to isolate these well known and abundant bioactive marine natural products from a sponge as standard compounds in the bioassays given the paucity of 2.2 available for this study. Chapter four describes the assays used to test the biological activity of the bursatellin 2.2 compared to the generally bioactive ilimaquinone and the structurally related and commercially available broad spectrum antibiotic chloramphenicol. B. leachii, a shell-less marine mollusc inhabits a variety of intertidal habitats and, therefore, is exposed to several different predators, yet does not appear to have any specific predators. Potential predators of this sea hare in the Kariega Estuary could be fish and amphipods which are found in close proximity to these sea hares. Results of the assays showed that at roughly natural concentrations, (calculated from the isolated chromatographic yield) feeding was deterred by the fish and amphipods, which implied that 2.2 may confer a defensive role within the organism. The relatively high concentration present within the ink gland of B. leachii may support this hypothesis. Surprisingly, given its structural similarity to chloramphenicol, 2.3 did not show any antimicrobial action against five of the six bacterial strains against which it was screened [chloramphenicol inhibited the growth of all the bacterial strains at very low concentrations (0.25 mg/mL)]. Bursatellin was found to be only active against Staphylococus aureus at high concentrations ca. 2 mg/mL when compared to chloramphenicol. Neither bursatellin nor chloramphenicol showed anti-fungal activity. Although this study suggests that the sea hares may use chemical defences in addition to opaline ink to defend themselves, they also live within the seagrass Z. capensis, which possibly provides the sea hare with a cryptic form of physical defence against several predators that are unable to swim freely within the weed beds in the littoral zone of the estuary. , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: D'Souza, Nicole
- Date: 2013 , 2013-03-22
- Subjects: Sea hares (Mollusks) -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Defenses -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4283 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002952 , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Ecology -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea , Sea hares (Mollusks) -- Defenses -- Behavior -- South Africa -- Kenton-on-Sea
- Description: The large cosmopolitan sea hare Bursatella leachii is a common resident in Eastern Cape river mouths during summer and late autumn where they congregate in beds of Zostera capensis to breed. In this thesis, the previously known toxic formamide marine secondary metabolite (-)-bursatellin (2.2), which may deter predators of South African specimens of the globally distributed sea hare Bursatella leachii, was isolated and identified (Chapter 2). There have been no previous chemical ecology studies of B. leachii and the latter half of this thesis is devoted to chemical ecology studies of this organism. Interestingly, the isolation of the (-)-diastereomer of 2.2 from specimens of B. leachii collected from the Kariega River mouth (near Kenton-on-Sea) suggests that the South African specimens of this species are similar to specimens collected from Puerto Rico and from the Mediterranean Sea. Two different chromatographic techniques for isolating 2.2 were compared in order to maximize the amount of 2.2 isolated from the Kariega River mouth sea hares. The doubling of selected resonances observed in both the ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectra of the bursatellin isolated in this study suggest one of three possibilities; either firstly, the presence of closely related compound(s), secondly, the presence of diastereomers or thirdly the presence of rotamers. Through NMR kinetic studies, we were able to establish that the presence of rotamers was very unlikely due to no change in the relative ratio (3:1) of the ¹H NMR signals with an increase in temperature. Although the attempted synthesis of the acetate derivative (2.28), as a means of separating a diastereomeric mixture was successful, the chromatographic separation of the proposed acetylated diastereomers was not successful. Preparation of the camphanate ester derivatives (e.g. 2.30) proved to be unsuccessful. Five B. leachii specimens were dissected, their organs separated and individually extracted with methanol. The methanol extracts were individually chromatographed on HP-20 media, and the distribution of bursatellin determined by isolation and NMR. It was evident from this investigation that the distribution of 2.2 within individual B. leachii specimens was found to be highest within the B. leachii ink gland. The lower amounts of 2.2 contained in the digestive system, relative to other organs, was hypothesized to occur because 2.2 is sequestered from the diet of the sea hare and efficiently moved from the gut to various organs around the body where it is stored. The absence of 2.2 from the skin was surprising and may be a result of a smaller mass of skin relative to other organs coupled with the limitations of the chromatographic separation techniques employed. Surprisingly, no bursatellin was found within juvenile sea hares. Chapter three discusses the isolation of ilimaquinone (3.1) and pelorol (3.19) from the sponge Hippospongia metachroma and the structure elucidation of each compound using computer modeling to illustrate the conformation. It was deemed necessary to isolate these well known and abundant bioactive marine natural products from a sponge as standard compounds in the bioassays given the paucity of 2.2 available for this study. Chapter four describes the assays used to test the biological activity of the bursatellin 2.2 compared to the generally bioactive ilimaquinone and the structurally related and commercially available broad spectrum antibiotic chloramphenicol. B. leachii, a shell-less marine mollusc inhabits a variety of intertidal habitats and, therefore, is exposed to several different predators, yet does not appear to have any specific predators. Potential predators of this sea hare in the Kariega Estuary could be fish and amphipods which are found in close proximity to these sea hares. Results of the assays showed that at roughly natural concentrations, (calculated from the isolated chromatographic yield) feeding was deterred by the fish and amphipods, which implied that 2.2 may confer a defensive role within the organism. The relatively high concentration present within the ink gland of B. leachii may support this hypothesis. Surprisingly, given its structural similarity to chloramphenicol, 2.3 did not show any antimicrobial action against five of the six bacterial strains against which it was screened [chloramphenicol inhibited the growth of all the bacterial strains at very low concentrations (0.25 mg/mL)]. Bursatellin was found to be only active against Staphylococus aureus at high concentrations ca. 2 mg/mL when compared to chloramphenicol. Neither bursatellin nor chloramphenicol showed anti-fungal activity. Although this study suggests that the sea hares may use chemical defences in addition to opaline ink to defend themselves, they also live within the seagrass Z. capensis, which possibly provides the sea hare with a cryptic form of physical defence against several predators that are unable to swim freely within the weed beds in the littoral zone of the estuary. , Adobe Acrobat 9.53 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The role of conflict management in maintenance of discipline : the case of Kenya's public secondary schools
- Authors: Kibui, Agnes Wanja
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline -- Kenya , Discipline of children -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:16151 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020074
- Description: This study set out to establish the role of conflict Management in Maintenance of Discipline in Kenya’s Public Secondary Schools. The study formulated 6 objectives as follows: examine the nature of Conflict experienced in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya; establish how teachers and students perceive conflict in secondary schools; determine how teachers and students experience conflict in Secondary Schools; investigate the effectiveness of conflict Management Programmes used in Secondary Schools; discover suitable conflict management programmes to address present and future conflict in secondary schools; generate findings based on a theoretical approach for understanding and managing conflict in secondary schools with particular reference to schools in Kenya. The research was conducted in the form of a descriptive survey design with a mixed methods approach which combined qualitative research design and quantitative research technique. A sample of 649 Students, 16 secondary school head teachers, and 16 secondary school guidance and counseling officers from 4 provinces in Kenya was used to obtain data for the study. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data was collected using questionnaires and structured interviews. Descriptive statistics such as mean, percentages, standard deviation, and frequencies was used to discuss the research findings. The study also used inferential statistics, particularly chi-square to test the significant statistical differences on the nature of conflict in schools, how students and teachers experience and perceive conflict in different categories of schools. From the findings, students witness conflict in form of theft, 51.7%, bullying, 29 percent, rumours and fights. Results from males and females indicate that drugs are abused in secondary schools (males (26.8%) and females (13.6 percent). All the respondents revealed that students take drugs to please their peers, and to release stress, and for adventure. On the effectiveness of conflict management programmes, a majority of students accept punishment when they break the school rules (80.0%) as they feel that punishments improve their behaviour. Most of the teachers had not had proper training in conflict management and some of them do not understand the role of peer mediation as they lack such programmes in their schools. The study concluded that failure to train teachers in conflict management skills, and to involve students in decision making causes conflict in schools. The study recommended that life skills, and peace keeping lessons should be taught in schools. In addition, head teachers and teachers should go for a refresher course in conflict management. Also, the study recommends that a comparative study should be done in a wider scope in secondary schools that experience conflict and those that do not, so as to get an insight of the suitable strategies needed to manage conflict in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Kibui, Agnes Wanja
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: School discipline -- Kenya , Discipline of children -- Kenya
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:16151 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020074
- Description: This study set out to establish the role of conflict Management in Maintenance of Discipline in Kenya’s Public Secondary Schools. The study formulated 6 objectives as follows: examine the nature of Conflict experienced in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya; establish how teachers and students perceive conflict in secondary schools; determine how teachers and students experience conflict in Secondary Schools; investigate the effectiveness of conflict Management Programmes used in Secondary Schools; discover suitable conflict management programmes to address present and future conflict in secondary schools; generate findings based on a theoretical approach for understanding and managing conflict in secondary schools with particular reference to schools in Kenya. The research was conducted in the form of a descriptive survey design with a mixed methods approach which combined qualitative research design and quantitative research technique. A sample of 649 Students, 16 secondary school head teachers, and 16 secondary school guidance and counseling officers from 4 provinces in Kenya was used to obtain data for the study. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used. Data was collected using questionnaires and structured interviews. Descriptive statistics such as mean, percentages, standard deviation, and frequencies was used to discuss the research findings. The study also used inferential statistics, particularly chi-square to test the significant statistical differences on the nature of conflict in schools, how students and teachers experience and perceive conflict in different categories of schools. From the findings, students witness conflict in form of theft, 51.7%, bullying, 29 percent, rumours and fights. Results from males and females indicate that drugs are abused in secondary schools (males (26.8%) and females (13.6 percent). All the respondents revealed that students take drugs to please their peers, and to release stress, and for adventure. On the effectiveness of conflict management programmes, a majority of students accept punishment when they break the school rules (80.0%) as they feel that punishments improve their behaviour. Most of the teachers had not had proper training in conflict management and some of them do not understand the role of peer mediation as they lack such programmes in their schools. The study concluded that failure to train teachers in conflict management skills, and to involve students in decision making causes conflict in schools. The study recommended that life skills, and peace keeping lessons should be taught in schools. In addition, head teachers and teachers should go for a refresher course in conflict management. Also, the study recommends that a comparative study should be done in a wider scope in secondary schools that experience conflict and those that do not, so as to get an insight of the suitable strategies needed to manage conflict in schools.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Isocyanide complexes of rhenium
- Authors: Schoultz, Xandri
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Isocyanides , Rhenium , Complex compounds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021069
- Description: This study investigates the synthesis of rhenium(III)-isocyanide complexes with potentially bidentate ligands, as well as the reactivity of isocyanide ligands toward rhenium(I) and (V). The crystal structures of all the complexes have been determined by X-ray diffraction methods. The coordination behaviour of trans-[ReIIICl3(t-BuNC)(PPh3)2] with aniline and its derivatives were investigated. The isocyanide-containing rhenium(V) complexes [ReCl3(t-BuNC)(L)(PPh3)] were isolated, with the ligands H2L (aniline, o-phenylenediamine and anthranilic acid). In all these complexes the dianionic ligands L are coordinated monodentately as the imide. However, with 2-aminophenol the complexes [ReVCl2(t-BuNC)(L)(PPh3)2](ReO4) and [ReIIICl2(t-BuNC)(ibq)(PPh3)2] (ibq- = 2-iminobenzoquinonate) were identified as the products. [ReCl2(t-BuNC)(L)(PPh3)2](ReO4) is the product of a disproportionation reaction from Re(III) to Re(VII) and Re(V). All the above complexes show a distorted octahedral geometry around the rhenium. The products of the reaction of the Re(I) complex [Re(CO)5Cl] with isocyanides (tert-butyl- and cyclohexylisocyanide) are reported. Rhenium(I) tricarbonyl complexes of the form [Re(CO)3(CNR)2Cl] were isolated and they were characterized structurally and spectroscopically. The tricarbonyls are coordinated in the typical facial-fashion, whereas the isocyanides are coordinated cis to each other. The reaction of [Re(CO)3(t-BuNC)2Cl] with H2O led to the formation of the rhenium(I) complex [Re(CO)3(t-BuNC)2(OH2)] in which the aquo ligand can readily be substituted by a more complex ligand. The reaction of the rhenium(V) complexes cis-[ReO2I(PPh3)2] and mer-[ReOCl3(SMe2)(OPPh3)] with isocyanides were studied. The seven-coordinate trigonal prismatic, square faced monocapped rhenium(III) complex [ReI3(t-BuNC)3(PPh3)] was surprisingly isolated upon reacting cis-[ReO2I(PPh3)2] with tert-butyl isocyanide. The dimeric complex (μ-O)[ReOCl2(CNC6H11)2]2 was obtained from the reaction of mer-[ReOCl3(SMe2)(OPPh3)] with cyclohexyl isocyanide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Schoultz, Xandri
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Isocyanides , Rhenium , Complex compounds
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:10360 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021069
- Description: This study investigates the synthesis of rhenium(III)-isocyanide complexes with potentially bidentate ligands, as well as the reactivity of isocyanide ligands toward rhenium(I) and (V). The crystal structures of all the complexes have been determined by X-ray diffraction methods. The coordination behaviour of trans-[ReIIICl3(t-BuNC)(PPh3)2] with aniline and its derivatives were investigated. The isocyanide-containing rhenium(V) complexes [ReCl3(t-BuNC)(L)(PPh3)] were isolated, with the ligands H2L (aniline, o-phenylenediamine and anthranilic acid). In all these complexes the dianionic ligands L are coordinated monodentately as the imide. However, with 2-aminophenol the complexes [ReVCl2(t-BuNC)(L)(PPh3)2](ReO4) and [ReIIICl2(t-BuNC)(ibq)(PPh3)2] (ibq- = 2-iminobenzoquinonate) were identified as the products. [ReCl2(t-BuNC)(L)(PPh3)2](ReO4) is the product of a disproportionation reaction from Re(III) to Re(VII) and Re(V). All the above complexes show a distorted octahedral geometry around the rhenium. The products of the reaction of the Re(I) complex [Re(CO)5Cl] with isocyanides (tert-butyl- and cyclohexylisocyanide) are reported. Rhenium(I) tricarbonyl complexes of the form [Re(CO)3(CNR)2Cl] were isolated and they were characterized structurally and spectroscopically. The tricarbonyls are coordinated in the typical facial-fashion, whereas the isocyanides are coordinated cis to each other. The reaction of [Re(CO)3(t-BuNC)2Cl] with H2O led to the formation of the rhenium(I) complex [Re(CO)3(t-BuNC)2(OH2)] in which the aquo ligand can readily be substituted by a more complex ligand. The reaction of the rhenium(V) complexes cis-[ReO2I(PPh3)2] and mer-[ReOCl3(SMe2)(OPPh3)] with isocyanides were studied. The seven-coordinate trigonal prismatic, square faced monocapped rhenium(III) complex [ReI3(t-BuNC)3(PPh3)] was surprisingly isolated upon reacting cis-[ReO2I(PPh3)2] with tert-butyl isocyanide. The dimeric complex (μ-O)[ReOCl2(CNC6H11)2]2 was obtained from the reaction of mer-[ReOCl3(SMe2)(OPPh3)] with cyclohexyl isocyanide.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Assessment of local economic development in the O.R. Tambo District Municipality: agriculture and food production
- Nongogo, Mbuyiselo Theophilus
- Authors: Nongogo, Mbuyiselo Theophilus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- O.R. Tambo District Municipality , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020761
- Description: Local economic development (LED) is a government policy tool that seeks to build the economic capacity of a local area to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. Partnerships between the public sector and the private sector are considered to be an important foundation for successful LED planning and implementation. The aim of the study was to assess whether the LED interventions, with specific emphasis on agriculture and food production programmes, are improving the livelihoods of the poor communities within the OR Tambo District Municipality. The researcher used the qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect the data through interviews and questionnaires respectively. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to identify the research sample from the target population. The researcher sampled the OR Tambo District Municipality as well as all the local municipalities therein. The target population consisted of LED directors, LED and IDP managers as well as LED councillors as respondents. Furthermore, the researcher also sampled other stakeholders that are crucial in LED, namely the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and Transformation, the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, the Department of Social Development and Special Programmes as well as the Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency. Budgetary constraints and agricultural infrastructure backlogs were identified as the main challenges facing the district. These challenges hinder the effectiveness of implementing sound LED programmes. Consequently, LED benefits are minimal. It is recommended that the municipality develop strategies for income generation to boost its financial viability in order to strengthen its financial capacity, embark on vigorous infrastructure rollout which will have a positive economic impact and open employment opportunities for the local communities. This can be achieved by the strengthening of partnerships and the attraction of private investors in order for the municipality to implement the LED programmes effectively and change the lives of the people in the local area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Nongogo, Mbuyiselo Theophilus
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Economic development projects -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- O.R. Tambo District Municipality , Municipal government -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Agriculture and state -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: vital:8344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020761
- Description: Local economic development (LED) is a government policy tool that seeks to build the economic capacity of a local area to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. Partnerships between the public sector and the private sector are considered to be an important foundation for successful LED planning and implementation. The aim of the study was to assess whether the LED interventions, with specific emphasis on agriculture and food production programmes, are improving the livelihoods of the poor communities within the OR Tambo District Municipality. The researcher used the qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect the data through interviews and questionnaires respectively. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to identify the research sample from the target population. The researcher sampled the OR Tambo District Municipality as well as all the local municipalities therein. The target population consisted of LED directors, LED and IDP managers as well as LED councillors as respondents. Furthermore, the researcher also sampled other stakeholders that are crucial in LED, namely the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and Transformation, the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, the Department of Social Development and Special Programmes as well as the Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency. Budgetary constraints and agricultural infrastructure backlogs were identified as the main challenges facing the district. These challenges hinder the effectiveness of implementing sound LED programmes. Consequently, LED benefits are minimal. It is recommended that the municipality develop strategies for income generation to boost its financial viability in order to strengthen its financial capacity, embark on vigorous infrastructure rollout which will have a positive economic impact and open employment opportunities for the local communities. This can be achieved by the strengthening of partnerships and the attraction of private investors in order for the municipality to implement the LED programmes effectively and change the lives of the people in the local area.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The Scope and content of the rights to ‘Basic Education’ and its implementation in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Johannes, Warren Dewald
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Rights to education -- Socio-economic rights , Children rights -- Bill of Rights , Inequality and marginalisation , Children’s Rights -- Eastern Cape , Department of Basic Education -- Transformation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (Human Rights)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/646 , vital:26484 , Rights to education -- Socio-economic rights , Children rights -- Bill of Rights , Inequality and marginalisation , Children’s Rights -- Eastern Cape , Department of Basic Education -- Transformation
- Description: In terms of Section 29 (1) of the Constitution, everyone has the right to basic education. This right is not subject to ‘reasonable legislative and other measures, available resources and progressive realisation.’ The right to basic, compulsory education is widely regarded as a fundamental human right. For example, this right is included in a number of international human rights treaties such as the ‘Universal Declaration of Human Rights’, the ‘International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights,’ the ‘African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child’, the ‘Convention on the Rights of the Child’, the ‘Dakar Framework for Action: Education for All’, and ‘UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education’. The South African Constitution, however, does not clarify the content and scope of the right to basic education. Consequently, the Constitution has given the state wide discretion to determine the scope, nature and content of this basic right. Apartheid left the South African education system fragmented and unequal. The South African educational system has gone through numerous curricula and institutional changes. The changes in the curriculum were part of the transformation process of the South African education system. In addition, the state has allocated substantial public funds towards basic education. However, the investment in basic education does not commensurate with the quality of teaching and learning in poor and marginalised schools. For example, several rural and farm schools in the Eastern Cape lacked toilet facilities; textbooks and other education support material; furniture; and other essential necessities. Education loses its transformative power when poor and marginalised schools continue to lack these essential services. Consequently, inequality is perpetuated and the poor and marginalised are unable to compete meaningfully in the social, economic and political life of South Africa. The mini dissertation concludes by recommending that the Department of Basic Education should ensure that all schools, especially those in rural communities and farms, have access to textbooks, qualified teachers, clean water and toilet facilities and other essential necessities needed for the delivery of quality basic education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Johannes, Warren Dewald
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Rights to education -- Socio-economic rights , Children rights -- Bill of Rights , Inequality and marginalisation , Children’s Rights -- Eastern Cape , Department of Basic Education -- Transformation
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA (Human Rights)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/646 , vital:26484 , Rights to education -- Socio-economic rights , Children rights -- Bill of Rights , Inequality and marginalisation , Children’s Rights -- Eastern Cape , Department of Basic Education -- Transformation
- Description: In terms of Section 29 (1) of the Constitution, everyone has the right to basic education. This right is not subject to ‘reasonable legislative and other measures, available resources and progressive realisation.’ The right to basic, compulsory education is widely regarded as a fundamental human right. For example, this right is included in a number of international human rights treaties such as the ‘Universal Declaration of Human Rights’, the ‘International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights,’ the ‘African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child’, the ‘Convention on the Rights of the Child’, the ‘Dakar Framework for Action: Education for All’, and ‘UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education’. The South African Constitution, however, does not clarify the content and scope of the right to basic education. Consequently, the Constitution has given the state wide discretion to determine the scope, nature and content of this basic right. Apartheid left the South African education system fragmented and unequal. The South African educational system has gone through numerous curricula and institutional changes. The changes in the curriculum were part of the transformation process of the South African education system. In addition, the state has allocated substantial public funds towards basic education. However, the investment in basic education does not commensurate with the quality of teaching and learning in poor and marginalised schools. For example, several rural and farm schools in the Eastern Cape lacked toilet facilities; textbooks and other education support material; furniture; and other essential necessities. Education loses its transformative power when poor and marginalised schools continue to lack these essential services. Consequently, inequality is perpetuated and the poor and marginalised are unable to compete meaningfully in the social, economic and political life of South Africa. The mini dissertation concludes by recommending that the Department of Basic Education should ensure that all schools, especially those in rural communities and farms, have access to textbooks, qualified teachers, clean water and toilet facilities and other essential necessities needed for the delivery of quality basic education.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Microsatellite and morphometric analysis of chokka squid (Loligo reynaudi) from different spawning aggregations around the South African coast
- Authors: Stonier, Terence Anthony
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006779
- Description: Accurate information on stock structure is very important to the effective management of any commercially exploited species (Angel et al. 1994), particularly in annual species like Loligo reynaudi. Previous molecular work on a number of fish and cephalopod species has shown that stock structuring may be more complex than originally believed and while much scientific work has been conducted on Loligo reynaudi to date, molecular work has been lacking and this species’ fishery is currently managed as a single stock. The primary aim of this project was to examine the population genetics of Loligo reynaudi on a molecular level, by looking at the levels of genetic variation between different spawning aggregations along the inshore distribution of the chokka squid, with particular attention being paid to any variation between Eastern Cape and Agulhas Bank groups. The secondary aim was to conduct a morphological analysis on samples from the same major areas in order to see if any genetic variation observed would be complemented by phenotypic variation. Two separate sample sets were collected; Genetic samples were collected from 6 different spawning sites along the South African Coast between April and July, 2006 and whole individuals for morphometric analysis were collected from 4 spawning sites between April and July 2007. Samples were screened for genetic variation between different spawning aggregations along the inshore distribution of chokka squid, from Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape, to the western Agulhas Bank. After this a morphometric analysis on samples from the same major areas, Eastern Cape, Agulhas Bank and Angola, was carried out. Genetic results showed significant variation between some of the sample groups. As expected, the Angolan outgroup consistently showed significant variation from other samples, while there was evidence of differentiation between the South African samples themselves. These results could have implications for the previously documented life cycle model of Loligo reynaudi and provide a basis for further study at a finer resolution into where exactly the boundaries of these different groupings can be found. This stock structuring has implications for the management of the species and warrants further genetic research with microsatellites proving to be a powerful tool in the explanation of stock structuring. Unfortunately, due to possible errors in taking measurements, morphometric analysis did not yield useful results which can be described and interpreted in this study. It is felt that further genetic study conducted on a finer scale, should be accompanied by a repeat of the morphometric analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Stonier, Terence Anthony
- Date: 2013
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5344 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006779
- Description: Accurate information on stock structure is very important to the effective management of any commercially exploited species (Angel et al. 1994), particularly in annual species like Loligo reynaudi. Previous molecular work on a number of fish and cephalopod species has shown that stock structuring may be more complex than originally believed and while much scientific work has been conducted on Loligo reynaudi to date, molecular work has been lacking and this species’ fishery is currently managed as a single stock. The primary aim of this project was to examine the population genetics of Loligo reynaudi on a molecular level, by looking at the levels of genetic variation between different spawning aggregations along the inshore distribution of the chokka squid, with particular attention being paid to any variation between Eastern Cape and Agulhas Bank groups. The secondary aim was to conduct a morphological analysis on samples from the same major areas in order to see if any genetic variation observed would be complemented by phenotypic variation. Two separate sample sets were collected; Genetic samples were collected from 6 different spawning sites along the South African Coast between April and July, 2006 and whole individuals for morphometric analysis were collected from 4 spawning sites between April and July 2007. Samples were screened for genetic variation between different spawning aggregations along the inshore distribution of chokka squid, from Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape, to the western Agulhas Bank. After this a morphometric analysis on samples from the same major areas, Eastern Cape, Agulhas Bank and Angola, was carried out. Genetic results showed significant variation between some of the sample groups. As expected, the Angolan outgroup consistently showed significant variation from other samples, while there was evidence of differentiation between the South African samples themselves. These results could have implications for the previously documented life cycle model of Loligo reynaudi and provide a basis for further study at a finer resolution into where exactly the boundaries of these different groupings can be found. This stock structuring has implications for the management of the species and warrants further genetic research with microsatellites proving to be a powerful tool in the explanation of stock structuring. Unfortunately, due to possible errors in taking measurements, morphometric analysis did not yield useful results which can be described and interpreted in this study. It is felt that further genetic study conducted on a finer scale, should be accompanied by a repeat of the morphometric analysis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
An intervention study to develop a male circumcision health promotion programme at Libode Rural Communities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Douglas, Mbuyiselo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Circumcision Health promotion Penis surgery South Africa -- Libode
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: vital:18476 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007187
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention health promotion programme to prevent circumcision related health problem such as sepsis, botched circumcision, dehydration, penile amputation and reduce the number of deaths. The intervention programme was aimed at promoting a safe male circumcision practice affecting boys aged 12-18 years at Libode rural communities in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was achieved through a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches utilizing sequential transformative strategy to allow for the convergence of multiple perspectives of the traditional male circumcision in Libode. The study was conducted in 22 schools of the rural communities of Libode because most of the participants are still attending school. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 1036 participants, AmaXhosa circumcised young men (abafana) and uncircumcised boys (amakhwenkwe) participated in the cross-sectional survey, quantitative phase of the study. Qualitative phase of this study was composed of 7 focus group discussions with a total of 84 circumcised and uncircumcised male participants and 10 key informants’ interviews were conducted. In analysis qualitative data, the researcher found the most descriptive words for each topic and turned them into categories or sub-themes. Topics that related to each other were then grouped in order to reduce the number of categories and to create themes. The similar categories of data were grouped and analysed using Tesch’s method. Findings indicated that traditional circumcision is performed during winter and summer holidays in order to cater for the boys who are attending schools. The circumcision age at Libode ranges from 12 and 18 years of age which is against the Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act (Act No. 6 of 2001). Although the participants were aware of the complications of male circumcision in Libode, there was a high preference for traditional circumcision (92.3% of participants) to hospital circumcision. The participants were of the view that the benefits of traditional circumcision outweigh the complications or challenges related to traditional circumcision. They wanted to be socially accepted and wanted to learn about manhood values in the traditional circumcision which are values that cannot be achieved through the hospital based circumcision. As male circumcision initiation is seasonal and the intervention programme needed to be approved by different stakeholders, the testing of intervention programme could not happen before the programme was approved by all the stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Douglas, Mbuyiselo
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Circumcision Health promotion Penis surgery South Africa -- Libode
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , Ph D
- Identifier: vital:18476 , http://hdl.handle.net/11260/d1007187
- Description: The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention health promotion programme to prevent circumcision related health problem such as sepsis, botched circumcision, dehydration, penile amputation and reduce the number of deaths. The intervention programme was aimed at promoting a safe male circumcision practice affecting boys aged 12-18 years at Libode rural communities in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. This was achieved through a mixed method design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches utilizing sequential transformative strategy to allow for the convergence of multiple perspectives of the traditional male circumcision in Libode. The study was conducted in 22 schools of the rural communities of Libode because most of the participants are still attending school. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the quantitative data, utilizing the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A total of 1036 participants, AmaXhosa circumcised young men (abafana) and uncircumcised boys (amakhwenkwe) participated in the cross-sectional survey, quantitative phase of the study. Qualitative phase of this study was composed of 7 focus group discussions with a total of 84 circumcised and uncircumcised male participants and 10 key informants’ interviews were conducted. In analysis qualitative data, the researcher found the most descriptive words for each topic and turned them into categories or sub-themes. Topics that related to each other were then grouped in order to reduce the number of categories and to create themes. The similar categories of data were grouped and analysed using Tesch’s method. Findings indicated that traditional circumcision is performed during winter and summer holidays in order to cater for the boys who are attending schools. The circumcision age at Libode ranges from 12 and 18 years of age which is against the Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act (Act No. 6 of 2001). Although the participants were aware of the complications of male circumcision in Libode, there was a high preference for traditional circumcision (92.3% of participants) to hospital circumcision. The participants were of the view that the benefits of traditional circumcision outweigh the complications or challenges related to traditional circumcision. They wanted to be socially accepted and wanted to learn about manhood values in the traditional circumcision which are values that cannot be achieved through the hospital based circumcision. As male circumcision initiation is seasonal and the intervention programme needed to be approved by different stakeholders, the testing of intervention programme could not happen before the programme was approved by all the stakeholders.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Profiling for volatile compounds in the Kgalagadi desert truffle
- Authors: Bogopa, Juda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Desert plants -- Botswana -- Kgalagadi District Supercritical fluid extraction Gas chromatography Mass spectrometry Tuberaceae -- Analysis -- Botswana -- Kgalagadi District Truffles -- Analysis -- Botswana -- Kgalagadi District
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4280 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002006
- Description: The thesis focuses on ‘green’ sample preparation techniques that utilise minimal or no organic solvents thereby producing negligible volumes of organic waste, to ensure safety both to user and the environment. Volatile compounds were extracted and pre-concentrated from Kgalagadi desert truffles (kalaharituber) by headspace solid phase microextraction (HSSPME) and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). PHWE was employed for the extraction of amino acids and fatty acids. Subsequent analysis of volatile compounds was carried out by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Four types of HS-SPME fibers (PDMS 100 μm, PDMS 7 μm, Polyacrylate 85 μm, CAR/DVB/PDMS 50/30 μm) were evaluated. A total of 24 volatile compounds with a molecular weight range from 110 to 354, the most prominent peak being 2-t-Butyl-2,3-dimethyl-3-buten-1-ol (C₁₀H₂₀O, MW 156) were detected after sampling with a PDMS 100 μm fiber. Less volatile compounds were detected after SFE with CO2. A total of 16 amino acids were identified while 17 fatty acids (MW from 132.12 to 367.49) were also identified. The characteristic profile of the Kgalagadi desert truffle was found to contain mainly fatty acid methyl esters and unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons. The most prominent compound peaks identified were; 2-t-butyl-2,3-dimethyl- 3-buten-1-ol, disulfide, ethyl benzoic acid 2-4-dhydroxy-3,6-dimethyl-methyl ester, 8,11- octadecanoic acid methyl ester, benzoic acid, 2,4-dihydroxy-3,6-dimethyl-methyl ester, isoquinoline, 1 butyl-3,4-dihydro and 3-heptanone, 6 methyl. Optimization results indicated that fresh slices from the heart of truffles were the best to use for HS-SPME-GCMS volatile compound analysis as they showed a higher sensitivity
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bogopa, Juda
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Desert plants -- Botswana -- Kgalagadi District Supercritical fluid extraction Gas chromatography Mass spectrometry Tuberaceae -- Analysis -- Botswana -- Kgalagadi District Truffles -- Analysis -- Botswana -- Kgalagadi District
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4280 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002006
- Description: The thesis focuses on ‘green’ sample preparation techniques that utilise minimal or no organic solvents thereby producing negligible volumes of organic waste, to ensure safety both to user and the environment. Volatile compounds were extracted and pre-concentrated from Kgalagadi desert truffles (kalaharituber) by headspace solid phase microextraction (HSSPME) and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). PHWE was employed for the extraction of amino acids and fatty acids. Subsequent analysis of volatile compounds was carried out by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Four types of HS-SPME fibers (PDMS 100 μm, PDMS 7 μm, Polyacrylate 85 μm, CAR/DVB/PDMS 50/30 μm) were evaluated. A total of 24 volatile compounds with a molecular weight range from 110 to 354, the most prominent peak being 2-t-Butyl-2,3-dimethyl-3-buten-1-ol (C₁₀H₂₀O, MW 156) were detected after sampling with a PDMS 100 μm fiber. Less volatile compounds were detected after SFE with CO2. A total of 16 amino acids were identified while 17 fatty acids (MW from 132.12 to 367.49) were also identified. The characteristic profile of the Kgalagadi desert truffle was found to contain mainly fatty acid methyl esters and unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons. The most prominent compound peaks identified were; 2-t-butyl-2,3-dimethyl- 3-buten-1-ol, disulfide, ethyl benzoic acid 2-4-dhydroxy-3,6-dimethyl-methyl ester, 8,11- octadecanoic acid methyl ester, benzoic acid, 2,4-dihydroxy-3,6-dimethyl-methyl ester, isoquinoline, 1 butyl-3,4-dihydro and 3-heptanone, 6 methyl. Optimization results indicated that fresh slices from the heart of truffles were the best to use for HS-SPME-GCMS volatile compound analysis as they showed a higher sensitivity
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Assessing the municipal performance management system on service delivery : the case of Lukhanji Municipality
- Authors: Bam, Liseka Lindelwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Local officials and employees -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Public administration -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Local government -- South Africa -- Queenstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020140
- Description: The performance management system has been introduced in the South African public service with the intensions of monitoring, reviewing, assessing performance, developing underperformers and recognising and rewarding good performance. This study was undertaken as an attempt to assess whether the Lukhanji municipality performance management systems contribute to the improvement of service delivery and employee productivity. The literature review undertaken in this study, shows that there is a general poor understanding of performance management systems in Lukhanji municipality. The literature review further establishes that there are several challenges that hinder the effective implementation of a performance management system in the municipality. Other findings of the study include that there is a challenge in setting the unrealistic performance targets which are unrealisable by employees. These are the reasons why productivity levels are not always realised and targets not achieved by Lukhanji municipality. The main findings of the study are that, although performance management systems play a significant role in the improvement of service delivery, it has not contributed in the improvement of employee productivity of the Lukhanji municipality. The main recommendation on the basis of this finding is that there should be thorough and regular training of officials within the Lukhanji Municipality about the performance management system and how it influences productivity and service delivery. In conclusion, the Municipal Executive Mayoral Committee should demand verifiable evidence to justify a higher rating during quarterly assessments, and that punitive disciplinary measures be taken against those who do not comply with the provision of the performance management system framework, particularly failure to submit performance instruments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Bam, Liseka Lindelwa
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Performance -- Management , Local officials and employees -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Employees -- Rating of -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Public administration -- South Africa -- Queenstown , Local government -- South Africa -- Queenstown
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MPA
- Identifier: vital:8319 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020140
- Description: The performance management system has been introduced in the South African public service with the intensions of monitoring, reviewing, assessing performance, developing underperformers and recognising and rewarding good performance. This study was undertaken as an attempt to assess whether the Lukhanji municipality performance management systems contribute to the improvement of service delivery and employee productivity. The literature review undertaken in this study, shows that there is a general poor understanding of performance management systems in Lukhanji municipality. The literature review further establishes that there are several challenges that hinder the effective implementation of a performance management system in the municipality. Other findings of the study include that there is a challenge in setting the unrealistic performance targets which are unrealisable by employees. These are the reasons why productivity levels are not always realised and targets not achieved by Lukhanji municipality. The main findings of the study are that, although performance management systems play a significant role in the improvement of service delivery, it has not contributed in the improvement of employee productivity of the Lukhanji municipality. The main recommendation on the basis of this finding is that there should be thorough and regular training of officials within the Lukhanji Municipality about the performance management system and how it influences productivity and service delivery. In conclusion, the Municipal Executive Mayoral Committee should demand verifiable evidence to justify a higher rating during quarterly assessments, and that punitive disciplinary measures be taken against those who do not comply with the provision of the performance management system framework, particularly failure to submit performance instruments.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
A contribution to the theory of prime modules
- Authors: Ssevviiri, David
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Modules (Algebra) , Radical theory , Rings (Algebra)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10510 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019923
- Description: This thesis is aimed at generalizing notions of rings to modules. In par-ticular, notions of completely prime ideals, s-prime ideals, 2-primal rings and nilpotency of elements of rings are respectively generalized to completely prime submodules and classical completely prime submodules, s-prime submodules, 2-primal modules and nilpotency of elements of modules. Properties and rad-icals that arise from each of these notions are studied.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Ssevviiri, David
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Modules (Algebra) , Radical theory , Rings (Algebra)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10510 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1019923
- Description: This thesis is aimed at generalizing notions of rings to modules. In par-ticular, notions of completely prime ideals, s-prime ideals, 2-primal rings and nilpotency of elements of rings are respectively generalized to completely prime submodules and classical completely prime submodules, s-prime submodules, 2-primal modules and nilpotency of elements of modules. Properties and rad-icals that arise from each of these notions are studied.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013