The role of South Africa as a hegemonic' power in the maintenance of peace and stability in the SADC region
- Authors: Sibanda, Nkosiyaphi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community Peace-building -- South Africa Conflict management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6491 , vital:29824
- Description: This study investigates South Africa’s role as a hegemonic power in maintaining peace and stability in the SADC region. Using qualitative and secondary data supplemented with primary data, the study examines not only South Africa’s hegemonic role in the SADC region but also the challenges and critiques of South Africa’s hegemonic role in the region. The study implores the hegemonic stability theory and explores the features that qualify South Africa to be a regional hegemonic power. These include South Africa’s economic power, military power and strategic location. This study reveals that South Africa’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the region is informed by its foreign policy and its pursuit of national interest and protection of its borders. The study also found out that the motive behind South Africa being active in peacekeeping missions is that it avoids being surrounded by failed states which might have spillover effects into its territorial boundaries. The study notes that there are numerous shortcomings which taint South Africa’s hegemonic status. They include violent protests, xenophobia, racism, crime and corruption. The study recommends that South Africa needs to be proactive in solving the challenges within its domestic terrain as these shortcomings taint its hegemonic status.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Sibanda, Nkosiyaphi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Southern African Development Community Peace-building -- South Africa Conflict management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/6491 , vital:29824
- Description: This study investigates South Africa’s role as a hegemonic power in maintaining peace and stability in the SADC region. Using qualitative and secondary data supplemented with primary data, the study examines not only South Africa’s hegemonic role in the SADC region but also the challenges and critiques of South Africa’s hegemonic role in the region. The study implores the hegemonic stability theory and explores the features that qualify South Africa to be a regional hegemonic power. These include South Africa’s economic power, military power and strategic location. This study reveals that South Africa’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the region is informed by its foreign policy and its pursuit of national interest and protection of its borders. The study also found out that the motive behind South Africa being active in peacekeeping missions is that it avoids being surrounded by failed states which might have spillover effects into its territorial boundaries. The study notes that there are numerous shortcomings which taint South Africa’s hegemonic status. They include violent protests, xenophobia, racism, crime and corruption. The study recommends that South Africa needs to be proactive in solving the challenges within its domestic terrain as these shortcomings taint its hegemonic status.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of school governing bodies in promoting good-governance in schools: a case of circuit 9 in Qumbu District Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mdudo, Mzuvukile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4627 , vital:28468
- Description: The main purpose of the study was to investigate on how a School Governing Body SGB can impact on the challenges of school governance in the Eastern Cape Province, particularly in Circuit 9 schools of Qumbu district. That was done firstly by identifying and explaining the three main themes namely; (i) the role of SGB components, (ii) the effectiveness of a SGB and (iii) the competency of a SGB. The study used the qualitative approach, particularly a constructive interpretative paradigm to collect and analyse data. A desk top study was used as the main design and was implemented to identify information rich data for the study. Desk top research was employed as the main data collection technique and was confirmed, corroborated and augmented by and document analysis, particularly during data analysis. The researcher inductively segmented and coded the data into three main themes which served as the main empirical research findings. Such findings indicated that school governance is influenced by both the SGB and the stakeholders. It was recommended that setting up key strategies, but specific to school governance, will reduce the challenges schools face in terms of governance as there will be full personal responsibility from the SGB.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mdudo, Mzuvukile
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Educational change -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School boards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape School management and organization -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Degree
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4627 , vital:28468
- Description: The main purpose of the study was to investigate on how a School Governing Body SGB can impact on the challenges of school governance in the Eastern Cape Province, particularly in Circuit 9 schools of Qumbu district. That was done firstly by identifying and explaining the three main themes namely; (i) the role of SGB components, (ii) the effectiveness of a SGB and (iii) the competency of a SGB. The study used the qualitative approach, particularly a constructive interpretative paradigm to collect and analyse data. A desk top study was used as the main design and was implemented to identify information rich data for the study. Desk top research was employed as the main data collection technique and was confirmed, corroborated and augmented by and document analysis, particularly during data analysis. The researcher inductively segmented and coded the data into three main themes which served as the main empirical research findings. Such findings indicated that school governance is influenced by both the SGB and the stakeholders. It was recommended that setting up key strategies, but specific to school governance, will reduce the challenges schools face in terms of governance as there will be full personal responsibility from the SGB.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of public relations practitioners in state owned entities
- Rampjapedi, Mahlatse Christina
- Authors: Rampjapedi, Mahlatse Christina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Public relations -- South Africa , Government business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5432 , vital:20844
- Description: Purpose of Paper: the role of public relations practitioners in state owned entities is under-researched in South Africa. This limits the practitioners in the industry to address relevant issues and opportunities about their discipline; specifically in the public sector which are widely perceived in a negative light. The aim of this paper was to explore the role of public relations practitioners in state owned entities in South Africa. Methodology: The study was qualitative in nature. It was constructed to answer the research questions using an interview schedule as a research instrument. The population comprised of the PR and communication practitioners that work in the State Owned Entities of South Africa. Findings: It was found that PR practitioners are the agents of relationship building between the SOEs and their stakeholders. It was also proved that PR practitioners have excellent skills and expertise however those are limited by the unsatisfying devaluation of communications by management and political interference in SOEs. Furthermore, negative reputation of SOEs was not mere shortfalls of PR practitioner but senior management instability. Research limitations: Due to lack of availability and co-operation of practitioners, time constrains and lack of finances, study was not able to attain the desired number of respondents (12 respondents instead of 15). Responses were not always substantial, however, the researcher attempted to achieve the most accurate results possible. Value or significance of paper: the study aimed to provide academic framework on the roles of PR practitioners in South Africa’s public sector and enhance existing knowledge on the challenges that practitioners face in different organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Rampjapedi, Mahlatse Christina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Public relations -- South Africa , Government business enterprises -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5432 , vital:20844
- Description: Purpose of Paper: the role of public relations practitioners in state owned entities is under-researched in South Africa. This limits the practitioners in the industry to address relevant issues and opportunities about their discipline; specifically in the public sector which are widely perceived in a negative light. The aim of this paper was to explore the role of public relations practitioners in state owned entities in South Africa. Methodology: The study was qualitative in nature. It was constructed to answer the research questions using an interview schedule as a research instrument. The population comprised of the PR and communication practitioners that work in the State Owned Entities of South Africa. Findings: It was found that PR practitioners are the agents of relationship building between the SOEs and their stakeholders. It was also proved that PR practitioners have excellent skills and expertise however those are limited by the unsatisfying devaluation of communications by management and political interference in SOEs. Furthermore, negative reputation of SOEs was not mere shortfalls of PR practitioner but senior management instability. Research limitations: Due to lack of availability and co-operation of practitioners, time constrains and lack of finances, study was not able to attain the desired number of respondents (12 respondents instead of 15). Responses were not always substantial, however, the researcher attempted to achieve the most accurate results possible. Value or significance of paper: the study aimed to provide academic framework on the roles of PR practitioners in South Africa’s public sector and enhance existing knowledge on the challenges that practitioners face in different organisations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of local economic development strategies for the informal sector in Buffalo City
- Authors: Nomoyi, Lungiswa Patricia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Small business -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12339 , vital:27056
- Description: The informal economic sector is a very important part of the economy for any developing country; it is a growing employment sector for the less skilled people living in both rural and urban areas. Organizing the informal sector and reorganizing its role as a profitable activity may contribute to local economic development. This can also build the capacity of the informal workers to meet their basic needs by increasing their incomes and strengthening their legal status. Municipal support for the informal business sector may play an important role in achieving these objectives. The problem statement of this research report highlights the problems of poverty and unemployment in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which has resulted in the growth of informal business sector. In order to improve economic development, local authorities are expected to give support to any sector that provides employment and incomes for the poor, including the informal sector. The overall aim and objectives of the research were to investigate the role of Local Economic Development strategies in the informal sector in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. To discover whether there is any support programme employed by Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Local Economic Development Unit to boost the informal sector economy. To, assess the impact of the informal sector, in generating income for the unemployed. To identify Local Economic strategies employed in the area to develop the local economy. An overview of the literature on the informal sector provided a basis for the research into the problems facing street traders in Mdantsane, a large township adjacent to East London in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods have been used in the study. The use of data collection tools such as interviews, questionnaires and observation helped to solicit the required information. An analysis of the findings confirmed that the informal sector plays an important role in in generating an income for the unemployed particularly for unemployed women. It appears that the informal traders have some basic requirements that would make a difference to their survival and working conditions, but that minimal support is received from the municipality. These findings recommend that in the absence of formal job opportunities in Buffalo City, the Municipality should develop strategies to support the informal sector participants to survive and thrive in difficult economic times.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nomoyi, Lungiswa Patricia
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Informal sector (Economics) -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Small business -- South Africa -- Buffalo City
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12339 , vital:27056
- Description: The informal economic sector is a very important part of the economy for any developing country; it is a growing employment sector for the less skilled people living in both rural and urban areas. Organizing the informal sector and reorganizing its role as a profitable activity may contribute to local economic development. This can also build the capacity of the informal workers to meet their basic needs by increasing their incomes and strengthening their legal status. Municipal support for the informal business sector may play an important role in achieving these objectives. The problem statement of this research report highlights the problems of poverty and unemployment in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which has resulted in the growth of informal business sector. In order to improve economic development, local authorities are expected to give support to any sector that provides employment and incomes for the poor, including the informal sector. The overall aim and objectives of the research were to investigate the role of Local Economic Development strategies in the informal sector in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. To discover whether there is any support programme employed by Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Local Economic Development Unit to boost the informal sector economy. To, assess the impact of the informal sector, in generating income for the unemployed. To identify Local Economic strategies employed in the area to develop the local economy. An overview of the literature on the informal sector provided a basis for the research into the problems facing street traders in Mdantsane, a large township adjacent to East London in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods have been used in the study. The use of data collection tools such as interviews, questionnaires and observation helped to solicit the required information. An analysis of the findings confirmed that the informal sector plays an important role in in generating an income for the unemployed particularly for unemployed women. It appears that the informal traders have some basic requirements that would make a difference to their survival and working conditions, but that minimal support is received from the municipality. These findings recommend that in the absence of formal job opportunities in Buffalo City, the Municipality should develop strategies to support the informal sector participants to survive and thrive in difficult economic times.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of leadership in shaping organisational culture in a school in Namibia.
- Authors: Nangolo, Filemon
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2075 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021303
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of leadership in shaping the culture of a rural combined school in Oshikoto Region, northern Namibia. This school had previously performed poorly in terms of Grade 10 examination statistics for many years. However, after the appointment of a new Principal, the academic performance of the school has improved tremendously over for the past five years. Having been a teacher, Head of Department, Deputy Principal, Principal, and later an Inspector of Education, I had long held the view that the academic performance of the school depended entirely on the type of leadership the school had. Equally, I have always been aware of the negative impact of the past segregation and the discriminatory education provided by the colonial masters in South Africa and South West Africa/Namibia. The poor education provided to South Africans and the then South West Africa /Namibia posed a serious challenge to the leadership and management of schools as the majority of Principals, if not all, were poorly and inadequately trained to provide the necessary skills needed for one to be a successful Principal. Given this background, I tried to use a case study to explore the role of leadership in shaping the culture of the organisation. Research suggests that there is a strong relationship between organisational culture and school effectiveness. This study was guided by Schein’s three levels of organisational culture namely artifacts, espoused values and basic assumptions (Schein, 1992, p. 17). From these arise the following research questions: What do artifacts (symbols, structures, procedures and policies) reveal about the school culture? What are the espoused values shaping the school culture? What basic assumptions underpin the leadership of the school culture? How does leadership contribute to the creation and maintenance of a positive organisational culture at a school? The data was collected by using three different data collection methods namely, observation, document analysis and interviewing different people who hold leadership positions in the school. These were the Principal, a Head of Department, School Board chairperson, a teacher in the school management team (SMT) and a class monitor. With regard to data analysis, I first immersed myself in the data and I developed themes that formed the basis of my discussion with my research questions in mind. The analysis revealed that leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping the culture at the case study school. However, it emerged that despite the existence of a strong culture at the case study school, as with all other organisations, there are some challenges that limit the school to realise its goal of 100 % A-B symbols in all subjects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nangolo, Filemon
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: vital:2075 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021303
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of leadership in shaping the culture of a rural combined school in Oshikoto Region, northern Namibia. This school had previously performed poorly in terms of Grade 10 examination statistics for many years. However, after the appointment of a new Principal, the academic performance of the school has improved tremendously over for the past five years. Having been a teacher, Head of Department, Deputy Principal, Principal, and later an Inspector of Education, I had long held the view that the academic performance of the school depended entirely on the type of leadership the school had. Equally, I have always been aware of the negative impact of the past segregation and the discriminatory education provided by the colonial masters in South Africa and South West Africa/Namibia. The poor education provided to South Africans and the then South West Africa /Namibia posed a serious challenge to the leadership and management of schools as the majority of Principals, if not all, were poorly and inadequately trained to provide the necessary skills needed for one to be a successful Principal. Given this background, I tried to use a case study to explore the role of leadership in shaping the culture of the organisation. Research suggests that there is a strong relationship between organisational culture and school effectiveness. This study was guided by Schein’s three levels of organisational culture namely artifacts, espoused values and basic assumptions (Schein, 1992, p. 17). From these arise the following research questions: What do artifacts (symbols, structures, procedures and policies) reveal about the school culture? What are the espoused values shaping the school culture? What basic assumptions underpin the leadership of the school culture? How does leadership contribute to the creation and maintenance of a positive organisational culture at a school? The data was collected by using three different data collection methods namely, observation, document analysis and interviewing different people who hold leadership positions in the school. These were the Principal, a Head of Department, School Board chairperson, a teacher in the school management team (SMT) and a class monitor. With regard to data analysis, I first immersed myself in the data and I developed themes that formed the basis of my discussion with my research questions in mind. The analysis revealed that leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping the culture at the case study school. However, it emerged that despite the existence of a strong culture at the case study school, as with all other organisations, there are some challenges that limit the school to realise its goal of 100 % A-B symbols in all subjects.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of emotional awareness in the retirement transition
- Authors: Black, Beverley Mary
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Psychological aspects , Aging -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5645 , vital:20947
- Description: This study examines the role of emotional awareness in the retirement transition. Retirement is viewed as one of the transitions in later life and has psychological consequences. It is an objective development and social-psychological transformation that is related to physical and psychological well-being. Research has shown that emotional awareness can have an impact on the retirement transition. A correlational research survey design was used for this study to determine and establish the role of emotional awareness, preparation and emotional responses in the retirement transition. Using a five-point Likert Scale, respondents were asked to score their responses to twenty-eight items. The questionnaire was distributed to retirees on the data bases of two financial companies that manage retirement funds. The SurveyMonkey application was used to distribute the survey to one financial company’s data base, and email was used for the other. Statistics such as means, relationships between factors, Cronbach’s Alpha, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings of this study demonstrate inconclusive evidence of emotional awareness in retirement. In addition to this, there were no significant findings regarding preparation for retirement or emotional response to retirement which indicates a neutral attitude to preparation and retirement, on average. There is a need for further future studies that include a more balanced sample representation of men and women, a comparative study based on different cultures to determine if differences exist in the experience of emotions in the retirement transition, and a field study in retirement homes and villages to corroborate the findings of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Black, Beverley Mary
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Retirement -- Psychological aspects , Aging -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5645 , vital:20947
- Description: This study examines the role of emotional awareness in the retirement transition. Retirement is viewed as one of the transitions in later life and has psychological consequences. It is an objective development and social-psychological transformation that is related to physical and psychological well-being. Research has shown that emotional awareness can have an impact on the retirement transition. A correlational research survey design was used for this study to determine and establish the role of emotional awareness, preparation and emotional responses in the retirement transition. Using a five-point Likert Scale, respondents were asked to score their responses to twenty-eight items. The questionnaire was distributed to retirees on the data bases of two financial companies that manage retirement funds. The SurveyMonkey application was used to distribute the survey to one financial company’s data base, and email was used for the other. Statistics such as means, relationships between factors, Cronbach’s Alpha, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings of this study demonstrate inconclusive evidence of emotional awareness in retirement. In addition to this, there were no significant findings regarding preparation for retirement or emotional response to retirement which indicates a neutral attitude to preparation and retirement, on average. There is a need for further future studies that include a more balanced sample representation of men and women, a comparative study based on different cultures to determine if differences exist in the experience of emotions in the retirement transition, and a field study in retirement homes and villages to corroborate the findings of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of civil society organisations in land and agrarian reforms
- Authors: Mazula, Mkhululi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Civil society -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11382 , vital:26916
- Description: One of the actions introduced by government to address the effects of the past discriminatory land policies that created inequitable land ownership and denied the African majority access to land was the National Land Reform Programme. The democratic government that came into power in 1994 intended to replace all the discriminatory land policies with those that were aimed at redressing the skewed land ownership that was as a result of dispossession and past injustices. This study focused on land reform in the Eastern Cape with a specific reference to activities that were conducted by 6 community based organisations supported by the Multi Agency Grants Initiative. The research has been conducted through assessing their activities in the different municipalities that are helping land claimants to access land. This study was important in highlighting the role played by Community Based Organisations in land reforms as they are based in communities, easily reached when needed and they understand the challenges that confront community members, particularly those that relate to accessing land. The researcher had a relationship with the identified organisations as an employee of MAGI and focus group interviews were conducted in East London in one of the workshops that was attended by representatives of the CBO’s. These were conducted in isi-Xhosa and translated to English. As a result of this study the successes of the CBO’s were identified and highlighted. These included land claims that were settled through the beneficiaries being assisted by the CBO’s, claims made on people’s behalf and large numbers of people that were assisted successfully. Amongst the many challenges, we identified the lack of support from government and being unable to attract requisite skills due to lack of funding to be the most inhibiting. In view of the successes and identified challenges, the study provides recommendations to accelerate the land reform programme through providing support to the CBO’s who, through their programmes, have been able to contribute to changing people’s lives. Land reform in South Africa has been pursued under three broad approaches: restitution, redistribution and tenure reform. Land reform processes have faced challenges that have made it difficult for communities and civil society organisations (CSOs), to engage government to ensure that communities benefit as victims of past racial legislations. The Eastern Cape is one of the nine provinces located in the southeast of the country along the Indian Ocean. The area was the site of a prolonged struggle for land between the Dutch/Afrikaners and the British throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, which led to the defeat and subjugation of African people. The province covers an area of 169 875 square kilometers with 37 local municipalities and two metropolitan municipalities. The mid-year population estimates in 2013 estimated the population to be at 6 620 100 (Statistics South Africa: Mid-Year Population Estimates, 2013: 9). The Eastern Cape, being home to 6 620 100 people, is the third most populated province after Gauteng, which has 6.7 million people, and KwaZulu-Natal leading the statistics with 10.2 million people.as stated in the Socio-Economic Review of 2013 by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. The review further found that the female population is larger than the male population in Eastern Cape. This is attributed to the migration of males to bigger cities in search of better opportunities. The province is ranked top in the number of people that migrate, and this is proved by the fact that “241 758 people migrated from the Eastern Cape Province to other provinces between 2011 and 2016” (Statistics South Africa: Mid-year Population estimates, 2014:15).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mazula, Mkhululi
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Land reform -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Civil society -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11382 , vital:26916
- Description: One of the actions introduced by government to address the effects of the past discriminatory land policies that created inequitable land ownership and denied the African majority access to land was the National Land Reform Programme. The democratic government that came into power in 1994 intended to replace all the discriminatory land policies with those that were aimed at redressing the skewed land ownership that was as a result of dispossession and past injustices. This study focused on land reform in the Eastern Cape with a specific reference to activities that were conducted by 6 community based organisations supported by the Multi Agency Grants Initiative. The research has been conducted through assessing their activities in the different municipalities that are helping land claimants to access land. This study was important in highlighting the role played by Community Based Organisations in land reforms as they are based in communities, easily reached when needed and they understand the challenges that confront community members, particularly those that relate to accessing land. The researcher had a relationship with the identified organisations as an employee of MAGI and focus group interviews were conducted in East London in one of the workshops that was attended by representatives of the CBO’s. These were conducted in isi-Xhosa and translated to English. As a result of this study the successes of the CBO’s were identified and highlighted. These included land claims that were settled through the beneficiaries being assisted by the CBO’s, claims made on people’s behalf and large numbers of people that were assisted successfully. Amongst the many challenges, we identified the lack of support from government and being unable to attract requisite skills due to lack of funding to be the most inhibiting. In view of the successes and identified challenges, the study provides recommendations to accelerate the land reform programme through providing support to the CBO’s who, through their programmes, have been able to contribute to changing people’s lives. Land reform in South Africa has been pursued under three broad approaches: restitution, redistribution and tenure reform. Land reform processes have faced challenges that have made it difficult for communities and civil society organisations (CSOs), to engage government to ensure that communities benefit as victims of past racial legislations. The Eastern Cape is one of the nine provinces located in the southeast of the country along the Indian Ocean. The area was the site of a prolonged struggle for land between the Dutch/Afrikaners and the British throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, which led to the defeat and subjugation of African people. The province covers an area of 169 875 square kilometers with 37 local municipalities and two metropolitan municipalities. The mid-year population estimates in 2013 estimated the population to be at 6 620 100 (Statistics South Africa: Mid-Year Population Estimates, 2013: 9). The Eastern Cape, being home to 6 620 100 people, is the third most populated province after Gauteng, which has 6.7 million people, and KwaZulu-Natal leading the statistics with 10.2 million people.as stated in the Socio-Economic Review of 2013 by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. The review further found that the female population is larger than the male population in Eastern Cape. This is attributed to the migration of males to bigger cities in search of better opportunities. The province is ranked top in the number of people that migrate, and this is proved by the fact that “241 758 people migrated from the Eastern Cape Province to other provinces between 2011 and 2016” (Statistics South Africa: Mid-year Population estimates, 2014:15).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of cancer procoagulant on the MTOR pathway
- Authors: Chiuswa, Chengetanai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Cancer -- Research , Neovascularization , Biochemistry , Blood coagulation factors -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7303 , vital:21316
- Description: Cancer procoagulant (CP) is a cysteine protease found in tumour cells and amnion chorion membranes. The main function of CP is not yet known, but it has potential roles in tumour growth and metastasis. Initially, CP was believed to increase coagulation in cancer patients; however, research has shown that increase in CP concentration does not correlate with an increase in coagulation. The location of CP in amnion chorion membranes and tumour cells only led to the hypothesis that CP might be involved in inducing blood vessel and or lymph vessel formation. CP was shown to induce lymphangiogenesis (lymph vessel formation) in human telomerase reverse transcriptase-human dermal endothelial cells (hTERT-HDLEC) (Tshaka, 2011). CP-induced tube formation was inhibited by rapamycin; indicating that CP may be signalling via the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CP on the mTOR signalling pathway using human umbilical endothelial vein cells (HUVECs) as a model. CP was isolated from amnion chorion membranes and purified using two anion exchange chromatography steps. Purified CP (2 μg/ml) was used to induce tube formation in endothelial cells (HUVECs) seeded on growth factor reduced (GFR) Matrigel. In addition, the 2 μg/ml CP was used to treat cultured HUVECs. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and western blotting were used to determine phosphorylation levels of protein kinase B (Akt) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K). CP was successfully isolated and purified using anion exchange chromatography. The effect of CP on tube formation was not significant relative to the control in the HUVEC cell line. The role of CP on Akt and S6K phosphorylation still needs to be verified by using sensitive methods of quantification such as enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The levels of CP activity were shown to be higher in early tumour growth than in advanced cancer suggesting that certain physiological factors could be increasing CP activity during early tumour growth. This study investigated the effect of cobalt chloride on CP activity in breast cancer cell lines. Cobalt chloride reduced CP activity in MCF-7 and promoted CP activity in MDA-MB-231.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Chiuswa, Chengetanai
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Cancer -- Research , Neovascularization , Biochemistry , Blood coagulation factors -- Biotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7303 , vital:21316
- Description: Cancer procoagulant (CP) is a cysteine protease found in tumour cells and amnion chorion membranes. The main function of CP is not yet known, but it has potential roles in tumour growth and metastasis. Initially, CP was believed to increase coagulation in cancer patients; however, research has shown that increase in CP concentration does not correlate with an increase in coagulation. The location of CP in amnion chorion membranes and tumour cells only led to the hypothesis that CP might be involved in inducing blood vessel and or lymph vessel formation. CP was shown to induce lymphangiogenesis (lymph vessel formation) in human telomerase reverse transcriptase-human dermal endothelial cells (hTERT-HDLEC) (Tshaka, 2011). CP-induced tube formation was inhibited by rapamycin; indicating that CP may be signalling via the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CP on the mTOR signalling pathway using human umbilical endothelial vein cells (HUVECs) as a model. CP was isolated from amnion chorion membranes and purified using two anion exchange chromatography steps. Purified CP (2 μg/ml) was used to induce tube formation in endothelial cells (HUVECs) seeded on growth factor reduced (GFR) Matrigel. In addition, the 2 μg/ml CP was used to treat cultured HUVECs. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and western blotting were used to determine phosphorylation levels of protein kinase B (Akt) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K). CP was successfully isolated and purified using anion exchange chromatography. The effect of CP on tube formation was not significant relative to the control in the HUVEC cell line. The role of CP on Akt and S6K phosphorylation still needs to be verified by using sensitive methods of quantification such as enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The levels of CP activity were shown to be higher in early tumour growth than in advanced cancer suggesting that certain physiological factors could be increasing CP activity during early tumour growth. This study investigated the effect of cobalt chloride on CP activity in breast cancer cell lines. Cobalt chloride reduced CP activity in MCF-7 and promoted CP activity in MDA-MB-231.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The role of assessments in enhancing midwifery programme outcomes at a public nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Njikija, Vuyelwa Francina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Maternity nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Midwifery -- Study and teaching Community health nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11597 , vital:26941
- Description: The substandard care noted and reported on in midwifery practice at level one midwifery care institutions in South Africa raises a concern about the effectiveness of the assessment strategies used at nursing institutions in enhancing midwifery programme outcomes. The concern is mainly directed particularly at the performance of the newly qualified professional nurses as they are the ones that practise at level one institutions, had just gone through training and been found to be competent practitioners. The success of any training programme and specifically midwifery practice as in the content of this study is dependent on the effectiveness of the assessment techniques or strategies used; hence assessment is considered integral to monitoring the quality of the midwifery care programme. The current study used a quantitative research design to explore and describe the role of assessments in enhancing midwifery programme outcomes at a public nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape Province. Recommendations to enhance the role of assessments for the benefit of midwifery programme outcomes at a public nursing education institution that were made were guided by the findings of the study. Participants were non-randomly selected and were personally provided with a self-developed questionnaire to complete. 134 participants returned fully completed questionnaires while approximately 25% of the selected sample did not return theirs. Data was captured on an excel spread sheet and analysed using Cronbach’s alpha programme under the guidance of the statistician and supervisor. Findings of the study were that: • the participants perceived the role of assessments as positively enhancing the midwifery programme outcomes, • though they also agreed and strongly agreed that there were major factors that prevented enhancement of midwifery programme outcomes. Ethical considerations were autonomy, beneficence, justice and non-maleficence. The validity and reliability of the data- collection instrument was ensured. Furthermore, recommendations were made for nursing education, clinical practice and future research. The study was conducted during the period of July 2014 to January 2016.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Njikija, Vuyelwa Francina
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Maternity nursing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Midwifery -- Study and teaching Community health nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11597 , vital:26941
- Description: The substandard care noted and reported on in midwifery practice at level one midwifery care institutions in South Africa raises a concern about the effectiveness of the assessment strategies used at nursing institutions in enhancing midwifery programme outcomes. The concern is mainly directed particularly at the performance of the newly qualified professional nurses as they are the ones that practise at level one institutions, had just gone through training and been found to be competent practitioners. The success of any training programme and specifically midwifery practice as in the content of this study is dependent on the effectiveness of the assessment techniques or strategies used; hence assessment is considered integral to monitoring the quality of the midwifery care programme. The current study used a quantitative research design to explore and describe the role of assessments in enhancing midwifery programme outcomes at a public nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape Province. Recommendations to enhance the role of assessments for the benefit of midwifery programme outcomes at a public nursing education institution that were made were guided by the findings of the study. Participants were non-randomly selected and were personally provided with a self-developed questionnaire to complete. 134 participants returned fully completed questionnaires while approximately 25% of the selected sample did not return theirs. Data was captured on an excel spread sheet and analysed using Cronbach’s alpha programme under the guidance of the statistician and supervisor. Findings of the study were that: • the participants perceived the role of assessments as positively enhancing the midwifery programme outcomes, • though they also agreed and strongly agreed that there were major factors that prevented enhancement of midwifery programme outcomes. Ethical considerations were autonomy, beneficence, justice and non-maleficence. The validity and reliability of the data- collection instrument was ensured. Furthermore, recommendations were made for nursing education, clinical practice and future research. The study was conducted during the period of July 2014 to January 2016.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The Rights of victims of crime in South Africa
- Nkukwana , Zingisile Wiseman
- Authors: Nkukwana , Zingisile Wiseman
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Victims of crimes -- South Africa Victims of crimes -- Civil rights -- South Africa Crime -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12627 , vital:27100
- Description: There is a perception among victims of crime, and people in general, in South Africa that the country’s laws favour and protect offenders. These people believe that offenders have more rights than victims which are derived from the Constitution of the country, and other legislative Acts of parliament. This view may sometimes lead to vigilantism and a total disregard of the law. The study will show that victims do have rights in the country’s legislations. The study briefly explains the sources of such laws, like the Constitution, the Victims Charter and selected provisions of some Acts of parliament. It is a fact that the section 35 of the Constitution provides in detail, the rights of the arrested, detained and accused. It is also submitted persons that there is no specific provision that talks about the rights of the victims of crime. However, that does not mean that such victims do not have rights in terms of the constitution. The rights of victims of crime are seen during the courts’ interpretation and application of rights mentioned in the Bill of Rights. The use of words like “everyone” and “any person” in the Bill of Rights also refers to victims of crime. Therefore, the Constitution is not victim-biased and offender-friendly. The Constitution protects everybody because it seeks to uphold the values of human dignity, equality, freedom and the African concept of ubuntu. The study discusses briefly the rights of victims as adopted by the Victims’ Charter. The Charter lists these rights, but does not explain how such rights are to be achieved. South Africa also developed a document called the Minimum Standards for Services for Victims of Crime which indicates how each right is to be achieved. The study also shows that South Africa had developed some Acts of parliament even before the adoption of the Victims Charter. South Africa claims that the Victims’ Charter is compliant with the Constitution and the United Nations Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice Abuse of Power of 1985. It is submitted that this statement is not entirely correct, especially with regards to the provision that deals with compensation. South Africa did not define compensation as defined by the United Nations Declaration. This can be seen as a dismal failure by South Africa to abide by the United Nations Declaration and this has resulted in more harm suffered by victims of crime. The study also discusses how rape victims benefit through the use of Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act of 2007. This begins with the changing of the definition of rape. The Act also deals with how rape victims can access antiretroviral drugs to prevent HIV/Aids infection. It explains limitations on the right to privacy of the accused, especially to compel him or her to undergo an HIV test. The HIV positive status of the accused can be used as an aggravating factor during sentencing in terms of UNAIDS policies. S v Nyalungu 2005 (JOL) 13254 (T) is a leading case in South Africa showing compliance with UNAIDS policies. Restorative justice mechanisms have been discussed to show positive movement by South Africa from a retributive justice system to a restorative justice system. The advantages of such mechanisms for victims have been discussed. The study also describes briefly some selected provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 and how these provisions benefit victims of crime. These include sections 153, 170A, 297, 299A, 300 and 301. The study highlights some challenges that still exist and what innovations can be made. This includes recommendations which can be made to benefit victims of crime further. For example, an apology can be used as one of the important principles in the restorative justice system. It is submitted and recommended that truth and apology go hand in glove and the basic elements of forgiveness. South Africa can pride itself with regards to this approach especially during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which was established in post-apartheid South Africa. The study concludes by saying that South Africa should set up a victim-compensation scheme. It is submitted that South Africa can afford such a scheme despite the problems identified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nkukwana , Zingisile Wiseman
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Victims of crimes -- South Africa Victims of crimes -- Civil rights -- South Africa Crime -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12627 , vital:27100
- Description: There is a perception among victims of crime, and people in general, in South Africa that the country’s laws favour and protect offenders. These people believe that offenders have more rights than victims which are derived from the Constitution of the country, and other legislative Acts of parliament. This view may sometimes lead to vigilantism and a total disregard of the law. The study will show that victims do have rights in the country’s legislations. The study briefly explains the sources of such laws, like the Constitution, the Victims Charter and selected provisions of some Acts of parliament. It is a fact that the section 35 of the Constitution provides in detail, the rights of the arrested, detained and accused. It is also submitted persons that there is no specific provision that talks about the rights of the victims of crime. However, that does not mean that such victims do not have rights in terms of the constitution. The rights of victims of crime are seen during the courts’ interpretation and application of rights mentioned in the Bill of Rights. The use of words like “everyone” and “any person” in the Bill of Rights also refers to victims of crime. Therefore, the Constitution is not victim-biased and offender-friendly. The Constitution protects everybody because it seeks to uphold the values of human dignity, equality, freedom and the African concept of ubuntu. The study discusses briefly the rights of victims as adopted by the Victims’ Charter. The Charter lists these rights, but does not explain how such rights are to be achieved. South Africa also developed a document called the Minimum Standards for Services for Victims of Crime which indicates how each right is to be achieved. The study also shows that South Africa had developed some Acts of parliament even before the adoption of the Victims Charter. South Africa claims that the Victims’ Charter is compliant with the Constitution and the United Nations Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice Abuse of Power of 1985. It is submitted that this statement is not entirely correct, especially with regards to the provision that deals with compensation. South Africa did not define compensation as defined by the United Nations Declaration. This can be seen as a dismal failure by South Africa to abide by the United Nations Declaration and this has resulted in more harm suffered by victims of crime. The study also discusses how rape victims benefit through the use of Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act of 2007. This begins with the changing of the definition of rape. The Act also deals with how rape victims can access antiretroviral drugs to prevent HIV/Aids infection. It explains limitations on the right to privacy of the accused, especially to compel him or her to undergo an HIV test. The HIV positive status of the accused can be used as an aggravating factor during sentencing in terms of UNAIDS policies. S v Nyalungu 2005 (JOL) 13254 (T) is a leading case in South Africa showing compliance with UNAIDS policies. Restorative justice mechanisms have been discussed to show positive movement by South Africa from a retributive justice system to a restorative justice system. The advantages of such mechanisms for victims have been discussed. The study also describes briefly some selected provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 and how these provisions benefit victims of crime. These include sections 153, 170A, 297, 299A, 300 and 301. The study highlights some challenges that still exist and what innovations can be made. This includes recommendations which can be made to benefit victims of crime further. For example, an apology can be used as one of the important principles in the restorative justice system. It is submitted and recommended that truth and apology go hand in glove and the basic elements of forgiveness. South Africa can pride itself with regards to this approach especially during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which was established in post-apartheid South Africa. The study concludes by saying that South Africa should set up a victim-compensation scheme. It is submitted that South Africa can afford such a scheme despite the problems identified.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The Representation of Adult Family Members in Selected Children’s Books by Roald Dahl
- Authors: Kerford, Justine
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2387 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021254
- Description: This thesis focuses on the representation of the five adult family members (mothers, fathers, grandmothers, grandfathers and aunts) that are present in a specialised corpus of Roald Dahl’s children’s literature. Children’s fiction provides insight into how society views childhood as it reflects the dominant ideologies in society (Larkin-Lieffers 2010).The family is “central to most children’s literature” (Alston 2008: 2) which makes the analysis of the family in children’s fiction important. Society favours particular representations of the family, as well as men and women, and these representations are also reflected in the fiction available to readers. I have used Critical Discourse Analysis and Corpus Linguistics in order to establish how adult family members are represented in Dahl’s fiction. The physical description and the verbs of speech that collocate significantly with the different tagged characters are analysed to establish patterns in representation. Verbs of speech give the reader information that allows them to establish the emotion and attitude of the character and this helps the reader make judgements with regards to the positive or negative perception of the character. The repeated use of particular descriptions and verbs of speech primes the reader to associate particular features with certain characters and the evaluation provided by these features bleeds over onto the characters. There is evidence of a continuum of verbs of speech moving from verbs of speech with low pitch and low volume like ‘said’ to ones with a high pitch and high volume like ‘shrieked’. The tagged characters are discussed according to the continuum to establish any patterns the verb of speech use. Women were found to collocate with verbs of speech like ‘shrieked, ‘screamed’ and ‘wailed’ which suggests that women are more hysterically emotional while men collocate with verbs of speech like ‘shouted’ and ‘yelled’ which were less hysterical and suggest aggression. Aunts were the exception to this pattern as they collocated with more masculine verbs of speech, like ‘shouted’. These patterns help establish whether or not the representations follow the dominant ideologies of women being emotional and home bound and men being aggressive and more active in the public sphere.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Kerford, Justine
- Date: 2016
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:2387 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1021254
- Description: This thesis focuses on the representation of the five adult family members (mothers, fathers, grandmothers, grandfathers and aunts) that are present in a specialised corpus of Roald Dahl’s children’s literature. Children’s fiction provides insight into how society views childhood as it reflects the dominant ideologies in society (Larkin-Lieffers 2010).The family is “central to most children’s literature” (Alston 2008: 2) which makes the analysis of the family in children’s fiction important. Society favours particular representations of the family, as well as men and women, and these representations are also reflected in the fiction available to readers. I have used Critical Discourse Analysis and Corpus Linguistics in order to establish how adult family members are represented in Dahl’s fiction. The physical description and the verbs of speech that collocate significantly with the different tagged characters are analysed to establish patterns in representation. Verbs of speech give the reader information that allows them to establish the emotion and attitude of the character and this helps the reader make judgements with regards to the positive or negative perception of the character. The repeated use of particular descriptions and verbs of speech primes the reader to associate particular features with certain characters and the evaluation provided by these features bleeds over onto the characters. There is evidence of a continuum of verbs of speech moving from verbs of speech with low pitch and low volume like ‘said’ to ones with a high pitch and high volume like ‘shrieked’. The tagged characters are discussed according to the continuum to establish any patterns the verb of speech use. Women were found to collocate with verbs of speech like ‘shrieked, ‘screamed’ and ‘wailed’ which suggests that women are more hysterically emotional while men collocate with verbs of speech like ‘shouted’ and ‘yelled’ which were less hysterical and suggest aggression. Aunts were the exception to this pattern as they collocated with more masculine verbs of speech, like ‘shouted’. These patterns help establish whether or not the representations follow the dominant ideologies of women being emotional and home bound and men being aggressive and more active in the public sphere.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between the alcohol use patterns and cognitive and symptomatic functioning of Rhodes University students
- Authors: Mayson, Tamara Ann
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Drinking of alcholic beverages -- South Africa , Rhodes University -- Students -- Alcohol use , Alcohol -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3270 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020327
- Description: Introduction: Studies reveal differential cognitive effects of alcohol use, with moderate to heavy alcohol having some beneficial effects in older adults, whereas in young adulthood, heavier alcohol use produces deficits. The aim of the research was to investigate the relationship between patterns of alcohol use and the cognitive and symptomatic functioning of university students over one year, and to discern which demographic, clinical and alcohol factors might moderate cognitive outcomes. Method: The sample included undergraduate Psychology students from a South African University, aged 18 to 23 years (n = 86). The sample was divided into two alcohol use groups based on four categories from the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) (Babor et al., 2001), including a lighter drinking group (Safe/Hazardous, n = 74) and a heavier drinking group (Harmful/Dependent, n = 12). The two drinking groups were statistically equivalent for distribution of age, gender, English first language, race groups, history of neurological or psychiatric vulnerability, a measure of initial intelligence/cognitive reserve (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test: PPVT-4) (Dunn & Dunn, 2007) and for a measure of test-taking validity (Immediate Postconcussion Assessment and Cognitive Test: ImPACT Impulse Control) (p = < 0.05 in all instances). Participants were tested on the computerized ImPACT battery (ImPACT, 2007) at three intervals over an academic year (May, August, October 2012). Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to investigate cognitive and symptomatic differences between the two alcohol use groups, in association with moderating factors. Results: The heavier drinking group revealed: (i) poorer performance on ImPACT Visual Motor Speed, Reaction Time and Cognitive Efficiency Index scores, including less ability to benefit from practice over time; (ii) symptom reports of severe Numbness/Tingling, Balance problems and Dizziness. Deleterious cognitive outcome was exacerbated by longer lifetime duration of alcohol use, passing out monthly, beer or wine drinking, smoking or substance use. Conclusion: Deleterious cognitive and symptomatic effects of heavy alcohol use are in evidence for undergraduate university students implicating current and/or cumulative alcohol induced brain impairment. The results of the study are of concern for optimal academic performance of students at an early stage of university level study, who engage in heavier (Harmful/Dependent) drinking patterns, with negative implications for future career attainment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mayson, Tamara Ann
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Drinking of alcholic beverages -- South Africa , Rhodes University -- Students -- Alcohol use , Alcohol -- Physiological effect
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: vital:3270 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020327
- Description: Introduction: Studies reveal differential cognitive effects of alcohol use, with moderate to heavy alcohol having some beneficial effects in older adults, whereas in young adulthood, heavier alcohol use produces deficits. The aim of the research was to investigate the relationship between patterns of alcohol use and the cognitive and symptomatic functioning of university students over one year, and to discern which demographic, clinical and alcohol factors might moderate cognitive outcomes. Method: The sample included undergraduate Psychology students from a South African University, aged 18 to 23 years (n = 86). The sample was divided into two alcohol use groups based on four categories from the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) (Babor et al., 2001), including a lighter drinking group (Safe/Hazardous, n = 74) and a heavier drinking group (Harmful/Dependent, n = 12). The two drinking groups were statistically equivalent for distribution of age, gender, English first language, race groups, history of neurological or psychiatric vulnerability, a measure of initial intelligence/cognitive reserve (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test: PPVT-4) (Dunn & Dunn, 2007) and for a measure of test-taking validity (Immediate Postconcussion Assessment and Cognitive Test: ImPACT Impulse Control) (p = < 0.05 in all instances). Participants were tested on the computerized ImPACT battery (ImPACT, 2007) at three intervals over an academic year (May, August, October 2012). Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to investigate cognitive and symptomatic differences between the two alcohol use groups, in association with moderating factors. Results: The heavier drinking group revealed: (i) poorer performance on ImPACT Visual Motor Speed, Reaction Time and Cognitive Efficiency Index scores, including less ability to benefit from practice over time; (ii) symptom reports of severe Numbness/Tingling, Balance problems and Dizziness. Deleterious cognitive outcome was exacerbated by longer lifetime duration of alcohol use, passing out monthly, beer or wine drinking, smoking or substance use. Conclusion: Deleterious cognitive and symptomatic effects of heavy alcohol use are in evidence for undergraduate university students implicating current and/or cumulative alcohol induced brain impairment. The results of the study are of concern for optimal academic performance of students at an early stage of university level study, who engage in heavier (Harmful/Dependent) drinking patterns, with negative implications for future career attainment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between stock market development and savings mobilization in South Africa
- Authors: Katsande, Tamuka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Stock exchanges Saving and investment Financial services industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Economics
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11762 , vital:39104
- Description: South Africa has a well-developed financial sector, particularly the stock market, which performs better than those of other developed countries. However, it is interesting to note that irrespective of the advancement in the financial sector, the country has low levels of savings. Given this background, the study empirically examined the relationship between stock market development and savings mobilization in South Africa. Employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) cointegration test for the period 1990 to 2012, using quarterly time series data. Based on the McKinnon-Shaw hypothesis, which advocates that the stock market development promotes the growth rate of savings, a model linking the savings and their determinants was specified. The empirical results revealed that there is a long-term relationship between savings and the other variables including rate of interest, income, age, M3 as a percentage of GDP, bank credit to the private sector as a percentage of GDP, and stock market used in the model. It was also established that the stock market plays a positive role in mobilizing savings in South Africa. In addition, it was also found that the financial sector development has a positive relation with savings, although the interest rate was found to be negatively related to savings. The empirical results indicate that the stock market has a positive effect on savings; however, given the extent to which the financial sector is developed, South Africans in general have access to different financial products which in a way may negatively impact savings as they are net borrowers rather than savers. It is crucially important, therefore, for the general public to be advised on the use of financial products. These empirical results are supported by findings of Mavrotas and Santillana (1999), Kelly and Mavrotas (2003) Odhiambo (2006), Sahoo and Dash (2013), Kapingura and Alagidede (2014), who concluded that the stock market as one of the indicators of financial development positively influences savings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Katsande, Tamuka
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Stock exchanges Saving and investment Financial services industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Economics
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/11762 , vital:39104
- Description: South Africa has a well-developed financial sector, particularly the stock market, which performs better than those of other developed countries. However, it is interesting to note that irrespective of the advancement in the financial sector, the country has low levels of savings. Given this background, the study empirically examined the relationship between stock market development and savings mobilization in South Africa. Employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) cointegration test for the period 1990 to 2012, using quarterly time series data. Based on the McKinnon-Shaw hypothesis, which advocates that the stock market development promotes the growth rate of savings, a model linking the savings and their determinants was specified. The empirical results revealed that there is a long-term relationship between savings and the other variables including rate of interest, income, age, M3 as a percentage of GDP, bank credit to the private sector as a percentage of GDP, and stock market used in the model. It was also established that the stock market plays a positive role in mobilizing savings in South Africa. In addition, it was also found that the financial sector development has a positive relation with savings, although the interest rate was found to be negatively related to savings. The empirical results indicate that the stock market has a positive effect on savings; however, given the extent to which the financial sector is developed, South Africans in general have access to different financial products which in a way may negatively impact savings as they are net borrowers rather than savers. It is crucially important, therefore, for the general public to be advised on the use of financial products. These empirical results are supported by findings of Mavrotas and Santillana (1999), Kelly and Mavrotas (2003) Odhiambo (2006), Sahoo and Dash (2013), Kapingura and Alagidede (2014), who concluded that the stock market as one of the indicators of financial development positively influences savings.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between sales promotion techniques and consumer off-take and attitude within the SA non-alcoholic ready to drink market
- Authors: Mattheus, Jared Cameron
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sales promotion Consumer behavior Advertising
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11586 , vital:26940
- Description: Over the past decade there has been a shift in marketing spend from above the line advertising, to below the line advertising commonly referred to as promotions. This has been brought about by recessionary economic conditions, increased competition, rising media costs and long term profitability prospects. Many fast moving consumer goods’ (FMCG) companies are shifting a large portion of their marketing spend from advertising to sales promotion. This has occurred because of consumers becoming more prone to deals, declining brand loyalty and the growing power of major retail chains. Sales promotion spend can comprise of as much as 50% of the marketing budget in certain industries and the majority of the marketing budget for most FMCG companies. This has been heightened further by the global financial recession which has both direct and indirect effects on South Africa. Approximately 70% of purchasing decisions are made in store by understanding how these decisions are made and how to influence them is essential in developing an effective marketing strategy. Besides product characteristics, promotional techniques are among the most popular instruments used by marketers to influence this process. Global trends show that 83% of all senior marketers increase or maintain spend on promotional merchandise year on year. However, they had limited insight into how to best spend the funds or if they even achieved their intended purpose. Despite the rise in promotional activity, especially in the FMCG sector, limited research has been conducted on the influence and effectiveness in South Africa. The purpose of this treatise, then, is to examine addresses the paucity in research with regard to consumer sales promotions in the non-alcoholic ready to drink (NARTD) market, particularly within South Africa. By developing a relationship model to measure the influence and effectiveness of selected sales promotion techniques on consumer off-take and attitude. That can be used by organisations to retain consumers, grow market share, improve brand equity and achieve higher profitability. Equipping marketers with an improved understanding of the impact of sales promotion techniques and consumer buying patterns within the South African NARTD market and delivering value to consumers through targeted promotions. In order to achieve this goal a thorough literature review was performed which drew on both academic- and industry-based research. This led to the development of a conceptual relationship model which was tested using rigorous measures incorporating questionnaire-style, quantitative data collection and statistical analysis. The research revealed that sales promotion techniques are an important element of a successful marketing strategy and when correctly executed deliver positive business results. FMCG companies operating within the NARTD market need to ensure that they incorporate sampling and premiums into their marketing mix even if this requires them to reduce their spend on above the line marketing activities. Ultimately, sampling and premiums were found to be effective sales promotion techniques within the South African NARTD market and have the ability to positively influence consumer off-take, brand love and buying behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Mattheus, Jared Cameron
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Sales promotion Consumer behavior Advertising
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11586 , vital:26940
- Description: Over the past decade there has been a shift in marketing spend from above the line advertising, to below the line advertising commonly referred to as promotions. This has been brought about by recessionary economic conditions, increased competition, rising media costs and long term profitability prospects. Many fast moving consumer goods’ (FMCG) companies are shifting a large portion of their marketing spend from advertising to sales promotion. This has occurred because of consumers becoming more prone to deals, declining brand loyalty and the growing power of major retail chains. Sales promotion spend can comprise of as much as 50% of the marketing budget in certain industries and the majority of the marketing budget for most FMCG companies. This has been heightened further by the global financial recession which has both direct and indirect effects on South Africa. Approximately 70% of purchasing decisions are made in store by understanding how these decisions are made and how to influence them is essential in developing an effective marketing strategy. Besides product characteristics, promotional techniques are among the most popular instruments used by marketers to influence this process. Global trends show that 83% of all senior marketers increase or maintain spend on promotional merchandise year on year. However, they had limited insight into how to best spend the funds or if they even achieved their intended purpose. Despite the rise in promotional activity, especially in the FMCG sector, limited research has been conducted on the influence and effectiveness in South Africa. The purpose of this treatise, then, is to examine addresses the paucity in research with regard to consumer sales promotions in the non-alcoholic ready to drink (NARTD) market, particularly within South Africa. By developing a relationship model to measure the influence and effectiveness of selected sales promotion techniques on consumer off-take and attitude. That can be used by organisations to retain consumers, grow market share, improve brand equity and achieve higher profitability. Equipping marketers with an improved understanding of the impact of sales promotion techniques and consumer buying patterns within the South African NARTD market and delivering value to consumers through targeted promotions. In order to achieve this goal a thorough literature review was performed which drew on both academic- and industry-based research. This led to the development of a conceptual relationship model which was tested using rigorous measures incorporating questionnaire-style, quantitative data collection and statistical analysis. The research revealed that sales promotion techniques are an important element of a successful marketing strategy and when correctly executed deliver positive business results. FMCG companies operating within the NARTD market need to ensure that they incorporate sampling and premiums into their marketing mix even if this requires them to reduce their spend on above the line marketing activities. Ultimately, sampling and premiums were found to be effective sales promotion techniques within the South African NARTD market and have the ability to positively influence consumer off-take, brand love and buying behaviour.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between receiving an HIV test result and the traumatic stress symptoms of rape survivors
- Strydom, Yolandi Eloise, Elkonin, Diane
- Authors: Strydom, Yolandi Eloise , Elkonin, Diane
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of Sexual abuse victims
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12876 , vital:27130
- Description: Rape survivors often have two traumatic events to deal with. In addition to the actual rape experience, survivors commonly need to deal with hearing the results of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing (which is standard practice after rape in South Africa). The relationship between these two traumatic events in terms of the survivors specific traumatic stress symptoms have not been well explored in the literature. The primary aim of this study was therefore an exploration of the relationship between receiving an HIV test result and the traumatic stress symptoms of rape survivors. In order to contextualise the main aim, an exploration of the relationship between demographic variables, knowledge of HIV status and early traumatic stress symptoms was also completed. The initial sample consisted of 97 South African rape survivors, however, only 45 participants returned for the second part of the study. This quantitative study utilised an exploratory descriptive design using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire-Revised (HTQ-R) to measure the traumatic stress symptoms of rape survivors. The results of the first part of the study indicated that there was no significant difference between participants’ demographic factors in relation to their knowledge of HIV status or their overall traumatic stress symptom severity. Significant differences on individual traumatic stress symptoms indicated a relationship between not knowing one’s HIV status and dissociation after a rape incident, as well as a relationship between rape survivors who knew their HIV status is positive and emotional dysregulation. The results of the second part (and main analysis) of the study indicated that most participants presented with less severe overall traumatic stress severity after receiving their HIV test results (irrespective of their status before and after hearing their results). However, participants whose HIV status was unknown and who received a positive test result reported more severe overall traumatic stress compared to those whose HIV status was unknown and received a negative test result. Some inter-group differences on individual symptoms were HIV TEST RESULT TRAUMATIC STRESS RAPE SURVIVORS noted that highlight the possibility that dissociative and an intrusion/hyperarousal subtypes may be at work to explain some of the differences seen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Strydom, Yolandi Eloise , Elkonin, Diane
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Treatment HIV-positive persons -- Counseling of Sexual abuse victims
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12876 , vital:27130
- Description: Rape survivors often have two traumatic events to deal with. In addition to the actual rape experience, survivors commonly need to deal with hearing the results of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing (which is standard practice after rape in South Africa). The relationship between these two traumatic events in terms of the survivors specific traumatic stress symptoms have not been well explored in the literature. The primary aim of this study was therefore an exploration of the relationship between receiving an HIV test result and the traumatic stress symptoms of rape survivors. In order to contextualise the main aim, an exploration of the relationship between demographic variables, knowledge of HIV status and early traumatic stress symptoms was also completed. The initial sample consisted of 97 South African rape survivors, however, only 45 participants returned for the second part of the study. This quantitative study utilised an exploratory descriptive design using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire-Revised (HTQ-R) to measure the traumatic stress symptoms of rape survivors. The results of the first part of the study indicated that there was no significant difference between participants’ demographic factors in relation to their knowledge of HIV status or their overall traumatic stress symptom severity. Significant differences on individual traumatic stress symptoms indicated a relationship between not knowing one’s HIV status and dissociation after a rape incident, as well as a relationship between rape survivors who knew their HIV status is positive and emotional dysregulation. The results of the second part (and main analysis) of the study indicated that most participants presented with less severe overall traumatic stress severity after receiving their HIV test results (irrespective of their status before and after hearing their results). However, participants whose HIV status was unknown and who received a positive test result reported more severe overall traumatic stress compared to those whose HIV status was unknown and received a negative test result. Some inter-group differences on individual symptoms were HIV TEST RESULT TRAUMATIC STRESS RAPE SURVIVORS noted that highlight the possibility that dissociative and an intrusion/hyperarousal subtypes may be at work to explain some of the differences seen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation in private critical care units
- Flippies, Emirenthia Emogin Elouise, Venter, D J L
- Authors: Flippies, Emirenthia Emogin Elouise , Venter, D J L
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Medicine -- Practice -- Standards -- South Africa Medical care -- Standards , Intensive care units
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12583 , vital:27096
- Description: Clinical practice guidelines are one way of ensuring that healthcare is based on the evidence-based practices. In a dynamic unit, like the critical care unit, where sound decision-making and critical thinking are required in the care of critically ill patients, the implementation of such guidelines for care is of utmost importance. Guideline implementation is however not so simplistic, and various studies have proven that there are various barriers linked to guideline implementation. However, most the barriers have proven to be related to individual factors. Therefore, a greater focus has been placed on organisational contextual factors that might have an influence on clinical practice guideline implementation. The research study followed a positivistic, quantitative paradigm, where the hypothesised relationship between the organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation were investigated. A structured pre-existing questionnaire, namely the Alberta Context Tool, was used to collect data from 65 registered nurses in private critical care units. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that although the organisational contextual factors were prevalent in the private critical care units sampled, some factors like leadership and culture scored higher than the other factors. Positive relations were reported between the organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation. The results imply that the alternative hypothesis H1 is supported, and thus proved that there are significant relationships between organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation in private critical care units in the East London area.Recommendations were made on how to enhance organisational contextual factors in the implementation of clinical practice guidelines. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Flippies, Emirenthia Emogin Elouise , Venter, D J L
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Medicine -- Practice -- Standards -- South Africa Medical care -- Standards , Intensive care units
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12583 , vital:27096
- Description: Clinical practice guidelines are one way of ensuring that healthcare is based on the evidence-based practices. In a dynamic unit, like the critical care unit, where sound decision-making and critical thinking are required in the care of critically ill patients, the implementation of such guidelines for care is of utmost importance. Guideline implementation is however not so simplistic, and various studies have proven that there are various barriers linked to guideline implementation. However, most the barriers have proven to be related to individual factors. Therefore, a greater focus has been placed on organisational contextual factors that might have an influence on clinical practice guideline implementation. The research study followed a positivistic, quantitative paradigm, where the hypothesised relationship between the organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation were investigated. A structured pre-existing questionnaire, namely the Alberta Context Tool, was used to collect data from 65 registered nurses in private critical care units. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that although the organisational contextual factors were prevalent in the private critical care units sampled, some factors like leadership and culture scored higher than the other factors. Positive relations were reported between the organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation. The results imply that the alternative hypothesis H1 is supported, and thus proved that there are significant relationships between organisational contextual factors and clinical practice guideline implementation in private critical care units in the East London area.Recommendations were made on how to enhance organisational contextual factors in the implementation of clinical practice guidelines. Ethical principles were maintained throughout the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between organisational citizenship behaviour, workplace trust and workplace well-being in public and private hospitals in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
- Authors: Rautenbach, Leontine
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Nurses -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa , Health facilities -- Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5984 , vital:21022
- Description: Globally, there is a shortage of professional nurses, which compromises the rendering of Health Care performance worldwide. South Africa has the added challenge of a dual Health Care system where there is a large disparity in financial resources, service levels and workload between private and public hospitals, which leads to public hospitals in rural areas failing to attract and retain professional nurses. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationships between three variables from the Positive Organisational Scholarship paradigm namely Workplace Trust, Organisational Citizenship Behaviour and Workplace Well-being which is researched amongst professional nurses in the private and public sectors in both the rural and urban areas in two districts in the Eastern Cape Province. The ultimate aim of the study is to propose interventions of how hospitals can improve the work environment in order to attract and to retain professional nurses. It is also anticipated that the results of the research will contribute to the body of research about Positive Organisational Scholarship (POS). The Workplace Trust Survey (WTS), Organisational Citizenship Level Scale (OCLS) and the Workplace Well-being Questionnaire (WWQ) were integrated into a single selfadministered questionnaire to measure the existence of the variables. The questionnaire also included questions relating to demographic factors. In order to confirm the reliability of the measuring instruments, an Exploratory Analysis was done, a Scree test was applied and a Principal Axis Factor Analysis was conducted. Finally, an Item-reliability Analysis on each factor was administered. The WTS and WWQ revealed sound factorial validity and was considered to be compatible with a South African sample, but the OCLS indicated poor construct validity. Relationships between the variables were analysed by applying a Pearson Productmoment Correlation Analysis in SPSS. T-tests, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey HSD test was utilized to determine the potential influence of demographic characteristics on the variables. Several interesting relationships between variables and sub-variables were identified. The study concludes with proposed interventions needed to retain professional nurses in hospitals. The limitations of the study as well as recommendations for further research is briefly noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Rautenbach, Leontine
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa , Nurses -- Employment -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Organizational effectiveness -- South Africa , Health facilities -- Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5984 , vital:21022
- Description: Globally, there is a shortage of professional nurses, which compromises the rendering of Health Care performance worldwide. South Africa has the added challenge of a dual Health Care system where there is a large disparity in financial resources, service levels and workload between private and public hospitals, which leads to public hospitals in rural areas failing to attract and retain professional nurses. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationships between three variables from the Positive Organisational Scholarship paradigm namely Workplace Trust, Organisational Citizenship Behaviour and Workplace Well-being which is researched amongst professional nurses in the private and public sectors in both the rural and urban areas in two districts in the Eastern Cape Province. The ultimate aim of the study is to propose interventions of how hospitals can improve the work environment in order to attract and to retain professional nurses. It is also anticipated that the results of the research will contribute to the body of research about Positive Organisational Scholarship (POS). The Workplace Trust Survey (WTS), Organisational Citizenship Level Scale (OCLS) and the Workplace Well-being Questionnaire (WWQ) were integrated into a single selfadministered questionnaire to measure the existence of the variables. The questionnaire also included questions relating to demographic factors. In order to confirm the reliability of the measuring instruments, an Exploratory Analysis was done, a Scree test was applied and a Principal Axis Factor Analysis was conducted. Finally, an Item-reliability Analysis on each factor was administered. The WTS and WWQ revealed sound factorial validity and was considered to be compatible with a South African sample, but the OCLS indicated poor construct validity. Relationships between the variables were analysed by applying a Pearson Productmoment Correlation Analysis in SPSS. T-tests, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey HSD test was utilized to determine the potential influence of demographic characteristics on the variables. Several interesting relationships between variables and sub-variables were identified. The study concludes with proposed interventions needed to retain professional nurses in hospitals. The limitations of the study as well as recommendations for further research is briefly noted.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between intrinsic rewards, organisational commitment and organisational citizenship behaviours within an automotive manufacturer
- Authors: Weyers, Leandra
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Incentives in industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13235 , vital:27167
- Description: Intrinsic rewards, organisational commitment (OC) and organisational citizenship behaviours (OCBs) are all considered to be positive constructs in today's world of work, which could have a practically beneficial impact on the employee's career, development and success as well as the organisation's bottom line and overall effectiveness. The meaning and purpose provided by one's job combined with commitment to one's organisation as well as the display of positive, helping behaviours have all become constructs of considerable importance whilst at work. The primary objective of this research study was to investigate the relationship between the three constructs of intrinsic rewards, OC and OCBs amongst permanent employees of an automotive manufacturer in South Africa. An additional aim was to establish whether significant differences existed between the three constructs under study across various demographic variables. The researcher made use of a quantitative research method in order to conduct this study using a cross-sectional design. A composite questionnaire was used to gather the necessary data for the study, inclusive of the Intrinsic Work Rewards Scale (IWRS) which is a 25 item scale measuring the dimensions of meaningful work, varied work, flexible work, challenging work and enjoyable work; the Organisational Commitment Scale (OCS) which is an 18 item scale measuring the desire, need and obligation to remain employed by an organisation; the Organisational Citizenship Behaviour Scale (OCBS) which is consistent of 20 items measuring the behaviours of altruism, courtesy, conscientiousness, civic virtue and sportsmanship; as well as a short demographic section. The questionnaire was electronically administered to 700 employees; however, it was only completed by a sample of 250 employees with a response rate of 35.7 percent. The data was analysed by means of both descriptive and inferential statistics consistent of frequency tables, central tendency and dispersion, Cronbach's alpha testing, Pearson's Product Moment Correlations and analysis of variance. The quantitative findings indicated that all three of the measurement scales were reliably used, due to Cronbach's alpha coefficients exceeding the acceptable 0.60. Significant differences existed in terms of the demographic variables included in the study for OC and to a lesser degree for OCBs and intrinsic rewards. The most significant differences were related to job level. The results identified that strong statistically and practically significant and positive correlations are existent between the constructs of intrinsic rewards, OC and OCBs. The strongest correlations were existent between the dimensions of intrinsic rewards and OC in terms of the desire (affective commitment) and obligation (normative commitment) to remain employed by the organisation as well as the organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) dimensions of civic virtue and conscientiousness. The strongest correlations in terms of OCBs and OC were between the OCB dimensions of civic virtue and altruism with affective commitment. The findings of this research study contribute to the literature available in terms of the constructs of intrinsic rewards, OC and OCBs and also provide statistical and practical evidence of the positive correlations between the three constructs. Consequently, the results from this study provided the management of this automotive manufacturer with important information into the intrinsic nature of their employees' jobs, the levels of OC as well as the propensity of their employees to display OCBs at work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Weyers, Leandra
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Organizational behavior -- South Africa Automobile industry and trade -- South Africa Incentives in industry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/13235 , vital:27167
- Description: Intrinsic rewards, organisational commitment (OC) and organisational citizenship behaviours (OCBs) are all considered to be positive constructs in today's world of work, which could have a practically beneficial impact on the employee's career, development and success as well as the organisation's bottom line and overall effectiveness. The meaning and purpose provided by one's job combined with commitment to one's organisation as well as the display of positive, helping behaviours have all become constructs of considerable importance whilst at work. The primary objective of this research study was to investigate the relationship between the three constructs of intrinsic rewards, OC and OCBs amongst permanent employees of an automotive manufacturer in South Africa. An additional aim was to establish whether significant differences existed between the three constructs under study across various demographic variables. The researcher made use of a quantitative research method in order to conduct this study using a cross-sectional design. A composite questionnaire was used to gather the necessary data for the study, inclusive of the Intrinsic Work Rewards Scale (IWRS) which is a 25 item scale measuring the dimensions of meaningful work, varied work, flexible work, challenging work and enjoyable work; the Organisational Commitment Scale (OCS) which is an 18 item scale measuring the desire, need and obligation to remain employed by an organisation; the Organisational Citizenship Behaviour Scale (OCBS) which is consistent of 20 items measuring the behaviours of altruism, courtesy, conscientiousness, civic virtue and sportsmanship; as well as a short demographic section. The questionnaire was electronically administered to 700 employees; however, it was only completed by a sample of 250 employees with a response rate of 35.7 percent. The data was analysed by means of both descriptive and inferential statistics consistent of frequency tables, central tendency and dispersion, Cronbach's alpha testing, Pearson's Product Moment Correlations and analysis of variance. The quantitative findings indicated that all three of the measurement scales were reliably used, due to Cronbach's alpha coefficients exceeding the acceptable 0.60. Significant differences existed in terms of the demographic variables included in the study for OC and to a lesser degree for OCBs and intrinsic rewards. The most significant differences were related to job level. The results identified that strong statistically and practically significant and positive correlations are existent between the constructs of intrinsic rewards, OC and OCBs. The strongest correlations were existent between the dimensions of intrinsic rewards and OC in terms of the desire (affective commitment) and obligation (normative commitment) to remain employed by the organisation as well as the organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) dimensions of civic virtue and conscientiousness. The strongest correlations in terms of OCBs and OC were between the OCB dimensions of civic virtue and altruism with affective commitment. The findings of this research study contribute to the literature available in terms of the constructs of intrinsic rewards, OC and OCBs and also provide statistical and practical evidence of the positive correlations between the three constructs. Consequently, the results from this study provided the management of this automotive manufacturer with important information into the intrinsic nature of their employees' jobs, the levels of OC as well as the propensity of their employees to display OCBs at work.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between household debt and consumption spending in South Africa (1994 - 2013)
- Authors: Nkala, Patience
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Finance, Personal Financial services industry Consumption (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14022 , vital:39798
- Description: Consumption has been and remains the main contributor to gross domestic product (GDP) growth in South Africa. Household debt on the other side has remained high over the years. This study examined the relationship between household debt and consumption spending, for the period between 1994 and 2013. The Johansen cointegration technique and the Vector error correction model (VECM) were utilised to test the long run and short run relationships between the variables. The Granger causality test was also employed to test the direction of causality between the variables. Results from this study have revealed that a relationship exists between household debt and consumption spending in South Africa and they have also showed that this relationship flows from household debt to consumption spending. The implications of these results are that consumption spending may be increased through other measures rather than through increasing debt. The study therefore recommends that policy makers avail more investment opportunities for households and to also create employment in a bid to increase the income of households which can then be used to increase household consumption rather than the use of debt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Nkala, Patience
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: Finance, Personal Financial services industry Consumption (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/14022 , vital:39798
- Description: Consumption has been and remains the main contributor to gross domestic product (GDP) growth in South Africa. Household debt on the other side has remained high over the years. This study examined the relationship between household debt and consumption spending, for the period between 1994 and 2013. The Johansen cointegration technique and the Vector error correction model (VECM) were utilised to test the long run and short run relationships between the variables. The Granger causality test was also employed to test the direction of causality between the variables. Results from this study have revealed that a relationship exists between household debt and consumption spending in South Africa and they have also showed that this relationship flows from household debt to consumption spending. The implications of these results are that consumption spending may be increased through other measures rather than through increasing debt. The study therefore recommends that policy makers avail more investment opportunities for households and to also create employment in a bid to increase the income of households which can then be used to increase household consumption rather than the use of debt.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
The relationship between financial crises and South African bank lending activities
- Authors: Madikizela, Mfundo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African Reserve Bank Global Financial Crisis, 2008-2009 South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15398 , vital:40404
- Description: Financial assets, and particularly fiat money, play a critical role in the prosperity of an economy. Its health therefore becomes the cornerstone of an economy, as asserted by modern financial intermediation theory. Fundamentally, as established by literature, crises affect bank balance sheets and subsequently banks’ ability to provide credit, thereby restricting investment, capital and asset growth, aggregate output, and eventually national income. This study conclusively establishes the relationship between financial crises and the South African bank lending activities. It describes this relationship, concluding that crises and bank lending have a negative short run relationship and positive long run relationship. The study gives a brief background of recent crises that were experienced by different economies in the world. The study uses South African quarterly data for the period 1996 to 2015, where it employs a VECM model that gives empirics to the effect that lending is indeed negatively affected by financial crises, but only in the short run. This is due to the South African Reserve Bank, through its monetary policy, cushioning the banking sector against the detrimental effects of economic distress. The study recommends that given the indebtedness of South Africa relative to GDP growth, to avoid credit downgrades and disinvestment in the long run, government should focus on improving GDP growth rather than debt; and should establish a policy framework that centralises operational transactions in order to reduce the effect of crises on real output.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016
- Authors: Madikizela, Mfundo
- Date: 2016
- Subjects: South African Reserve Bank Global Financial Crisis, 2008-2009 South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCom
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15398 , vital:40404
- Description: Financial assets, and particularly fiat money, play a critical role in the prosperity of an economy. Its health therefore becomes the cornerstone of an economy, as asserted by modern financial intermediation theory. Fundamentally, as established by literature, crises affect bank balance sheets and subsequently banks’ ability to provide credit, thereby restricting investment, capital and asset growth, aggregate output, and eventually national income. This study conclusively establishes the relationship between financial crises and the South African bank lending activities. It describes this relationship, concluding that crises and bank lending have a negative short run relationship and positive long run relationship. The study gives a brief background of recent crises that were experienced by different economies in the world. The study uses South African quarterly data for the period 1996 to 2015, where it employs a VECM model that gives empirics to the effect that lending is indeed negatively affected by financial crises, but only in the short run. This is due to the South African Reserve Bank, through its monetary policy, cushioning the banking sector against the detrimental effects of economic distress. The study recommends that given the indebtedness of South Africa relative to GDP growth, to avoid credit downgrades and disinvestment in the long run, government should focus on improving GDP growth rather than debt; and should establish a policy framework that centralises operational transactions in order to reduce the effect of crises on real output.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2016