Unfair discrimination and affirmative action in the workplace
- Authors: Motona, Johannes
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa Affirmative action programs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32300 , vital:32007
- Description: South Africa enacted the following legislation, the Constitution, the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000 and the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995. In terms of the Constitution a notion of substantive equality was incorporated in the Bill of Rights. Section 9 of the Constitution specifically provides that no person may be discriminated against and provides a list of grounds which are specifically prohibited. Furthermore, the Constitution affirms the values of equality, dignity and freedom. The Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000 aims at eliminating social and economic inequalities which were created by apartheid. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 is similar to the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act and takes into consideration the inequalities in employment, occupation and income which exist as a result of apartheid. In maintaining the objective of this treatise, section 6(2) of the EEA must be seen as an extension of and read in light of section 9(2) of the Constitution which provides that equality includes the full and equal enjoyment of all rights and freedoms and permits the use of legislative and other measures, designed to protect or advance persons or categories of persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination in the past for the purpose of achieving substantive equality. Therefore, section 6(2)(a) of the EEA may be considered the statutory equivalent of section 9(2) of the Constitution. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 has a key and crucial commitment to substantive equality and to correct the imbalances of the past and to create a less divided society in which the constitutional democracy can be advanced. The Constitution identifies human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms as some of the basic values upon which South Africa is founded. The Constitution restraints the state and any person from unfairly discriminating on grounds that adversely impacts upon dignity. It further empowers the state to take legislative and other measures to advance persons previously disadvantaged by unfair discrimination. This treatise covers the test for affirmative action as in the Harksen Test, Minister of Finance v Van Heerden and recently strengthened in Solidarity obo Barnard v SA Police Services. It also deals with the Barnard trilogy. Of significance is that the Constitutional Court judgment in Barnard is the first Constitutional Court judgment dealing with affirmative action and its application in terms of the EEA. The judgment strengthens the Constitutional Court finding in Van Heerden in that a restitutionary measure such as affirmative action is not presumed unfair unless it complies with the section 9(2) “internal test”. The Post Barnard Judgment is also discussed in this treatise with reference to the following cases: Mgolozeli v Gauteng Department of Finance and Another, Solidarity and the Department of Correctional Services, South Africa Police Service v the Public Service Association of South Africa: Captain Munsamy and another and Solidarity v the Minister of Safety and Security and others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Motona, Johannes
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Discrimination in employment -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Unfair labor practices -- South Africa Affirmative action programs -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , LLM
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32300 , vital:32007
- Description: South Africa enacted the following legislation, the Constitution, the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000 and the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995. In terms of the Constitution a notion of substantive equality was incorporated in the Bill of Rights. Section 9 of the Constitution specifically provides that no person may be discriminated against and provides a list of grounds which are specifically prohibited. Furthermore, the Constitution affirms the values of equality, dignity and freedom. The Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 4 of 2000 aims at eliminating social and economic inequalities which were created by apartheid. The Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 is similar to the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act and takes into consideration the inequalities in employment, occupation and income which exist as a result of apartheid. In maintaining the objective of this treatise, section 6(2) of the EEA must be seen as an extension of and read in light of section 9(2) of the Constitution which provides that equality includes the full and equal enjoyment of all rights and freedoms and permits the use of legislative and other measures, designed to protect or advance persons or categories of persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination in the past for the purpose of achieving substantive equality. Therefore, section 6(2)(a) of the EEA may be considered the statutory equivalent of section 9(2) of the Constitution. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 has a key and crucial commitment to substantive equality and to correct the imbalances of the past and to create a less divided society in which the constitutional democracy can be advanced. The Constitution identifies human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms as some of the basic values upon which South Africa is founded. The Constitution restraints the state and any person from unfairly discriminating on grounds that adversely impacts upon dignity. It further empowers the state to take legislative and other measures to advance persons previously disadvantaged by unfair discrimination. This treatise covers the test for affirmative action as in the Harksen Test, Minister of Finance v Van Heerden and recently strengthened in Solidarity obo Barnard v SA Police Services. It also deals with the Barnard trilogy. Of significance is that the Constitutional Court judgment in Barnard is the first Constitutional Court judgment dealing with affirmative action and its application in terms of the EEA. The judgment strengthens the Constitutional Court finding in Van Heerden in that a restitutionary measure such as affirmative action is not presumed unfair unless it complies with the section 9(2) “internal test”. The Post Barnard Judgment is also discussed in this treatise with reference to the following cases: Mgolozeli v Gauteng Department of Finance and Another, Solidarity and the Department of Correctional Services, South Africa Police Service v the Public Service Association of South Africa: Captain Munsamy and another and Solidarity v the Minister of Safety and Security and others.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Underutilisation of information communication and technology in the building construction industry case study: Department of Public Works in the Amathole district in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Camngca, Vuyokazi Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Information technology , Construction industry -- Data processing Information technology Communication and technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50632 , vital:42280
- Description: This study investigated the causes and effects of the underutilisation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the building section of the Amathole Region. The construction industry’s daily processes demand both heavy usages of data and data communication between project participants to meet client requirements. This industry is characterised by inaccurate and untimely communications that often result in costly delays and extensions of the project timeframe. ICT is a potential solution to this problem. The objectives of the study are, therefore, to determine why the above, a technically skilled occupational government institution in the Eastern Cape, does not employ ICT efficiently and optimally during this time of the looming global fourth industrial revolution. The literature review detailed the causes of and impact level of ICT’s utilisation and its potential benefits. For data collection, the researcher held unstructured interviews with a Chief Quantity Surveyor, Chief Architect, Engineer, Building Inspectors, and a Quantity Surveyor who dealt directly with construction projects. The key findings revealed that a lack of understanding of existing and newly available ICT software and hardware technology existed amongst certain senior officials within the building technology. The previously alluded, combined with the fear of the inability to learn and apply such new technology, has led to a culture of resistance to change from these more senior officials to utilise applications such as AutoCAD. The above-mentioned resistance, has also triggered the prevention of access to and lack of ICT resources, training, and inadequate funding, thereby eventually resulting in the underutilisation of ICT within the whole building section. This change also adversely affects all officials, especially the junior officials who have graduated using the most recent ICT technology during their studies. The researcher deduced, from the above findings, that adequate change management and continuous development, combined with the allocation of proper resources, would be necessary for all staff members. It was also determined that investments had to be made in the ICT equipment through the provision of a sufficient budget in the building section at AR.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Camngca, Vuyokazi Precious
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Information technology , Construction industry -- Data processing Information technology Communication and technology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50632 , vital:42280
- Description: This study investigated the causes and effects of the underutilisation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the building section of the Amathole Region. The construction industry’s daily processes demand both heavy usages of data and data communication between project participants to meet client requirements. This industry is characterised by inaccurate and untimely communications that often result in costly delays and extensions of the project timeframe. ICT is a potential solution to this problem. The objectives of the study are, therefore, to determine why the above, a technically skilled occupational government institution in the Eastern Cape, does not employ ICT efficiently and optimally during this time of the looming global fourth industrial revolution. The literature review detailed the causes of and impact level of ICT’s utilisation and its potential benefits. For data collection, the researcher held unstructured interviews with a Chief Quantity Surveyor, Chief Architect, Engineer, Building Inspectors, and a Quantity Surveyor who dealt directly with construction projects. The key findings revealed that a lack of understanding of existing and newly available ICT software and hardware technology existed amongst certain senior officials within the building technology. The previously alluded, combined with the fear of the inability to learn and apply such new technology, has led to a culture of resistance to change from these more senior officials to utilise applications such as AutoCAD. The above-mentioned resistance, has also triggered the prevention of access to and lack of ICT resources, training, and inadequate funding, thereby eventually resulting in the underutilisation of ICT within the whole building section. This change also adversely affects all officials, especially the junior officials who have graduated using the most recent ICT technology during their studies. The researcher deduced, from the above findings, that adequate change management and continuous development, combined with the allocation of proper resources, would be necessary for all staff members. It was also determined that investments had to be made in the ICT equipment through the provision of a sufficient budget in the building section at AR.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Understanding the South African international investment position and the valuation effects: subtitle if needed. If no subtitle follow instructions in manual
- Authors: Hlati, Sisamnkelo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51534 , vital:43298
- Description: This study examines the relationship between the South African Net International Investment Positions and the valuation effects over a period of 47 years from 1970 to 2017. To investigate the long run relationship between NIIP and the determinants thereof, this current study made use of the bounds test technique and the results indicate that a long run relationship exist. In which case, the autoregressive distributed lag model to empirically investigate the impact of the current account balance, capital account balance and the valuation effects on the South African NIIP was conducted and this current study finds out that there is a long run positive relationship between the current account balance and the South African NIIP. However, the study noted that the impact of the current account balance is volatile and this could be due to the net investment income payments (in a form of interest and dividend) made to foreign investors, which constitute a proportionately large share of the South African current account deficit. The capital account balance exhibits a positive long run impact on the South African NIIP in line with theory. The valuation effects on the other hand indicate a relatively stable impact on the South African NIIP, while in the long run have a positive impact on NIIP. The positive impact of the valuation effects could be due to gains being relatively larger than losses in the long run. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Hlati, Sisamnkelo
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Investments, Foreign -- South Africa , South Africa -- Economic conditions , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51534 , vital:43298
- Description: This study examines the relationship between the South African Net International Investment Positions and the valuation effects over a period of 47 years from 1970 to 2017. To investigate the long run relationship between NIIP and the determinants thereof, this current study made use of the bounds test technique and the results indicate that a long run relationship exist. In which case, the autoregressive distributed lag model to empirically investigate the impact of the current account balance, capital account balance and the valuation effects on the South African NIIP was conducted and this current study finds out that there is a long run positive relationship between the current account balance and the South African NIIP. However, the study noted that the impact of the current account balance is volatile and this could be due to the net investment income payments (in a form of interest and dividend) made to foreign investors, which constitute a proportionately large share of the South African current account deficit. The capital account balance exhibits a positive long run impact on the South African NIIP in line with theory. The valuation effects on the other hand indicate a relatively stable impact on the South African NIIP, while in the long run have a positive impact on NIIP. The positive impact of the valuation effects could be due to gains being relatively larger than losses in the long run. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Economics, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Understanding the relationship between mangrove composition, stand dynamics and resource use in the Ntafufu estuary, Eastern Cape, as basis for sustainable resource use
- Mvakade, Monica, Rajkaran, Anusha
- Authors: Mvakade, Monica , Rajkaran, Anusha
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Aquatic ecology , Marine sciences , Fresh water
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49215 , vital:41611
- Description: Traditionally, coastal communities along the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape, used mangrove forests for their livelihoods and socio-economic needs. Mangroves along the Eastern Cape coast are threatened by both natural and human factors. The wood obtained from the mangroves by rural households was used as poles for house and fence construction, firewood, and traditional medicine. This is a threat to the status of several mangrove species in this and surrounding areas. The harvesting of mangrove trees will have a direct and indirect effect on the other biotic and abiotic components of the mangrove ecosystems. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) (currently the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, or DEFF), through the National Forest Act no 84 of 1998, was directly responsible for the wellbeing of the national forests in South Africa. This also includes the mangroves as a specific national forest type. Several estuaries with mangroves occur within state forests. The harvesting and clear-felling of trees for timber and land conversion and associated waste of harvested mangrove poles and laths causes the many changes in mangrove forests. The aim of this study was to develop a framework for sustainable management of the mangroves for the Mtambalala forest management unit. This was done in relation to the requirements of the current legislation, policy guidelines and business plan of the management authority. The aim was pursued through two specific objectives. The first objective was to understand the variation in the composition in different parts of the Ntafufu Estuary, and the population dynamics of the main mangrove species, as basis for the development of sustainable resource use practices. Plots along transects were used to measure seedling to adult ratios, population structure and abiotic characteristics. The second objective was to understand the community use and requirements of mangrove wood from the Ntafufu Estuary. A participatory approach was followed to collect demographic data from each community, the requirements of mangrove poles and behaviour of harvesters. This was used to set up a framework to guide the sustainable management of mangroves based on the current status and stand dynamics of the mangrove communities. There are three mangrove species found in the Ntafufu Estuary: Bruguiera gymnorhiza (black mangrove) regenerates under the mangrove canopy and forms layers of even-aged stands. Avicennia marina (white mangrove) does not regenerate under a mangrove canopy i.e. the seedlings establish outside the canopy. A few Rhizophora mucronata (red mangrove) trees exist in the lower intertidal zone and form multiple stems on stilt roots. The mangrove associate, Hibiscus tiliaceus (wild cotton tree- mangrove associate), forms dense clusters of scrambling stems. Some of the Avicennia individuals show signs of mangrove bleeding and one individual of Bruguiera showed indications of disease. Mngazana and Ntafufu Estuaries had the highest tree densities of 2594 and 1402 trees ha-1 respectively, typical of riverine mangrove forest. The seedling to adult ratio was high in this study: 12.8 for B. gymnorrhiza and 24.3 for A. marina. Abandoned cut stems and laths were found during the study. Bark harvested for traditional medicine and cattle feeding in mangroves was also prevalent and expected to reduce the health of the forest. Mangroves in the Ntafufu Estuary are expanding, and the population structure of the three mangrove species showed a healthy balance between young and mature stems. The harvesting of Black mangrove (B. gymnorrhiza) poles for mainly roof construction is relatively limited. As part of the functions of the DAFF, the use of the mangrove resources has to be balanced with the resource availability from the mangroves, and this should result in a healthy functioning mangrove forest. Development of a participatory forest management (PFM) plan for a forest estate and its forest management unit, require an understanding of the mangrove communities and their dynamics, and the current level of resource use associated with the mangroves. The study recommended that a Mangrove Pole Harvesters Group is needed to practice silviculture through guidance of relevant governmental personnel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mvakade, Monica , Rajkaran, Anusha
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Estuarine ecology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Aquatic ecology , Marine sciences , Fresh water
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/49215 , vital:41611
- Description: Traditionally, coastal communities along the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape, used mangrove forests for their livelihoods and socio-economic needs. Mangroves along the Eastern Cape coast are threatened by both natural and human factors. The wood obtained from the mangroves by rural households was used as poles for house and fence construction, firewood, and traditional medicine. This is a threat to the status of several mangrove species in this and surrounding areas. The harvesting of mangrove trees will have a direct and indirect effect on the other biotic and abiotic components of the mangrove ecosystems. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) (currently the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, or DEFF), through the National Forest Act no 84 of 1998, was directly responsible for the wellbeing of the national forests in South Africa. This also includes the mangroves as a specific national forest type. Several estuaries with mangroves occur within state forests. The harvesting and clear-felling of trees for timber and land conversion and associated waste of harvested mangrove poles and laths causes the many changes in mangrove forests. The aim of this study was to develop a framework for sustainable management of the mangroves for the Mtambalala forest management unit. This was done in relation to the requirements of the current legislation, policy guidelines and business plan of the management authority. The aim was pursued through two specific objectives. The first objective was to understand the variation in the composition in different parts of the Ntafufu Estuary, and the population dynamics of the main mangrove species, as basis for the development of sustainable resource use practices. Plots along transects were used to measure seedling to adult ratios, population structure and abiotic characteristics. The second objective was to understand the community use and requirements of mangrove wood from the Ntafufu Estuary. A participatory approach was followed to collect demographic data from each community, the requirements of mangrove poles and behaviour of harvesters. This was used to set up a framework to guide the sustainable management of mangroves based on the current status and stand dynamics of the mangrove communities. There are three mangrove species found in the Ntafufu Estuary: Bruguiera gymnorhiza (black mangrove) regenerates under the mangrove canopy and forms layers of even-aged stands. Avicennia marina (white mangrove) does not regenerate under a mangrove canopy i.e. the seedlings establish outside the canopy. A few Rhizophora mucronata (red mangrove) trees exist in the lower intertidal zone and form multiple stems on stilt roots. The mangrove associate, Hibiscus tiliaceus (wild cotton tree- mangrove associate), forms dense clusters of scrambling stems. Some of the Avicennia individuals show signs of mangrove bleeding and one individual of Bruguiera showed indications of disease. Mngazana and Ntafufu Estuaries had the highest tree densities of 2594 and 1402 trees ha-1 respectively, typical of riverine mangrove forest. The seedling to adult ratio was high in this study: 12.8 for B. gymnorrhiza and 24.3 for A. marina. Abandoned cut stems and laths were found during the study. Bark harvested for traditional medicine and cattle feeding in mangroves was also prevalent and expected to reduce the health of the forest. Mangroves in the Ntafufu Estuary are expanding, and the population structure of the three mangrove species showed a healthy balance between young and mature stems. The harvesting of Black mangrove (B. gymnorrhiza) poles for mainly roof construction is relatively limited. As part of the functions of the DAFF, the use of the mangrove resources has to be balanced with the resource availability from the mangroves, and this should result in a healthy functioning mangrove forest. Development of a participatory forest management (PFM) plan for a forest estate and its forest management unit, require an understanding of the mangrove communities and their dynamics, and the current level of resource use associated with the mangroves. The study recommended that a Mangrove Pole Harvesters Group is needed to practice silviculture through guidance of relevant governmental personnel.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Understanding the impacts of foliar insect pests on eucalyptus species growth and the development of appropriate management strategies
- Dlamini, Lindokuhle Sithembiso
- Authors: Dlamini, Lindokuhle Sithembiso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Eucalyptus -- South Africa , Trees -- Breeding Wood-pulp industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29962 , vital:30801
- Description: Within South Africa (SA), eucalypts contribute significantly to the commercial production of pulpwood, treated poles, wood chips and saw timber. Due to their rapid growth and desirable timber properties, 47% of the afforested area within SA is planted with various eucalypts and their hybrid combinations. Biotic and abiotic factors pose a risk to the productivity of eucalypts, with the most significant risk currently associated with the increased impacts of foliar insect pests on tree productivity, for example Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae); Gonipterus scutellatus Gyllenhal (Coleoptera; Curculionidae); Thaumastocoris peregrinus Carpintero and Dellape (Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae); Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) etc. Past and current research has focused more on the individual components of biological, cultural and chemical control, with limited research conducted on the practical integration of these management strategies. Although the combination of biological and cultural control methods for long-term management would be preferred, the use of environmentally acceptable insecticides can contribute to the short-term management of insect pests where necessary. Environmental constraints (associated with forest certification) around the use of insecticides, means that there are currently few insecticides available for controlling foliar insect pests of eucalypts within the SA forest industry. Due to the recent increased introduction of insect pests, there is also a lack of data related to their impacts on tree growth, as well as the success of any management methods used. To improve our understanding regarding these components, three groups of trials (five in total) were implemented in the summer rainfall region of SA to quantify the impacts of insect pests on eucalypt growth, test integrated management practices (chemical and cultural management), and test environmentally acceptable insecticides. In 2010, two insect exclusion trials were established at Palm Ridge and Teza plantations in KwaZulu-Natal to quantify the impact of insect pests on two Eucalyptus hybrids. The trial locations were selected adjacent to compartments for which the pests Gonipterus spp. and Thaumastocoris peregrinus were present. Each trial had an insecticide treatment with an active ingredient of alpha-cypermethrin at a rate of 100 g l-1 and a control treatment where trees were not sprayed. Insect pests were collected after every spraying event. A greater number of insect pests were collected from the Palm Ridge site. Gonipterus spp. were the predominant insect pests collected. No significant growth differences were recorded between treated and untreated trees at Teza. Measurements taken at Palm Ridge indicated that insecticide-treated trees had significantly greater tree growth than untreated trees. Final measurements showed a v 25% reduction in volume for the control treatment compared to the insecticide treatment. Results of this study indicate that timing and duration of insecticide application could hold larger and additive benefits for insect exclusion. Due to the lack of non-hazardous registered insecticides, and the susceptibility of many of the eucalypts grown within SA to L. invasa, a trial was initiated in 2011 in Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal). A 3 x 4 x 4 factorial combination of 48 treatments were replicated 3 trials and arranged in a split-split-plot design. The factors included insecticide type as the whole plot (fenvalerate, azadirachtin and imidacloprid), timing of insecticide application as a sub-plot (0, 3, 6 and 9 months) and type of hybrid as the sub-sub-plot (a susceptible and tolerant E. grandis x E. camaldulensis hybrid (GC_s and GC_t) and a susceptible and tolerant E. grandis x E. urophylla hybrid (GU_s and GU_t)). To determine insecticide efficacy, plots of untreated clones were included as control treatments within each replicate. The incidence and magnitude of L. invasa damage and tree performance were assessed for up to 5.5 years of age. L. invasa damage recorded over the trial period indicated that irrespective of treatment, damage was lower in the GU clones than the GC clones resulting in a 63.9 m3 ha-1 volume difference at 5.5 years. In addition, the difference between the GU_s and GU_t clones (3.2 m3 ha-1) was marginal when compared to the GC_s and GC_t clones (37.2 m3 ha-1). A decrease in GC stocking correlated with the period when there was a high damage incidence recorded for L. invasa. Although the three insecticides tested delayed the onset of L. invasa damage, they did not result in improved tree performance at 5.5 years. Results indicate that the planting of a tolerant species (hybrid in this trial) was the most viable option for the management of L. invasa. Two trials were implemented in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands in October 2016 (at Ingwe and Balgowan plantations), to test the efficacy of eight different insecticides (synthetic and organic) for the management of foliar insect pests. The Ingwe trial was planted with Eucalyptus dunnii and the Balgowan trial was planted with Eucalyptus badjensis. The insecticides tested were azadirachtin, deltamethrin, imidacloprid (liquid and tablet), Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus thuringiensis, potassium silicate and a combination of plant oil extracts (garlic oil, soybean oil and capsicum oleoresin extract). The imidacloprid tablet, deltamethrin and an untreated control were implemented as additional treatments. The insecticides were tested at the recommended rate (single rate) and at double the recommended rate (double rate), except for the insecticides in the additional treatments which were only tested at the single rate. These insecticides were applied three times over a period of four months, and tree growth measurements (Gld/Dbh and Ht) were taken four times over a period of seven months. Gonipterus spp. vi was the only insect pest found in both these trials, thus the insecticides were tested for their efficacy in managing this specific insect pest. A higher population and damage of Gonipterus spp. was found in the E. dunnii trial and very little to no damage was observed in the E. badjensis trial. All insecticides tested were not effective in managing Gonipterus spp. in these specific sites. A low population of insect pests and incorrect timing and method of application of some of the insecticides could offer a plausible explanation of results. Results from these trials indicate that where foliar insect pests occur in high abundance, significant tree-growth reduction occurs. Although insecticides (deltamethrin - for G. scutellatus; imidacloprid for L. invasa) can be used for the short-term control of these insects, their commercial benefits may be reduced due to the number of repeat applications required and/or with high levels of infestation. Of the eight environmentally acceptable insecticides tested for foliar insect control, the low abundance of insect pests present in the trials meant that their efficacy could not be quantified. If an alternative insecticide were to be found, its application would need to be linked to the environmentally stimulated outbreaks of specific insects. Of the treatments implemented, the selection and planting of eucalypts with known resistance to specific insect pests currently remains the most viable management strategy. Breeding for increased tolerance within resistant eucalypts may also provide additional benefits. Although the above research showed the negative impacts of foliar insect pests on tree growth, it also indicated that no single control method is viable for all insect pests. Future research should look at the integration of different management methods while incorporating more insect pests and different seasons in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Dlamini, Lindokuhle Sithembiso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Eucalyptus -- South Africa , Trees -- Breeding Wood-pulp industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29962 , vital:30801
- Description: Within South Africa (SA), eucalypts contribute significantly to the commercial production of pulpwood, treated poles, wood chips and saw timber. Due to their rapid growth and desirable timber properties, 47% of the afforested area within SA is planted with various eucalypts and their hybrid combinations. Biotic and abiotic factors pose a risk to the productivity of eucalypts, with the most significant risk currently associated with the increased impacts of foliar insect pests on tree productivity, for example Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae); Gonipterus scutellatus Gyllenhal (Coleoptera; Curculionidae); Thaumastocoris peregrinus Carpintero and Dellape (Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae); Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) etc. Past and current research has focused more on the individual components of biological, cultural and chemical control, with limited research conducted on the practical integration of these management strategies. Although the combination of biological and cultural control methods for long-term management would be preferred, the use of environmentally acceptable insecticides can contribute to the short-term management of insect pests where necessary. Environmental constraints (associated with forest certification) around the use of insecticides, means that there are currently few insecticides available for controlling foliar insect pests of eucalypts within the SA forest industry. Due to the recent increased introduction of insect pests, there is also a lack of data related to their impacts on tree growth, as well as the success of any management methods used. To improve our understanding regarding these components, three groups of trials (five in total) were implemented in the summer rainfall region of SA to quantify the impacts of insect pests on eucalypt growth, test integrated management practices (chemical and cultural management), and test environmentally acceptable insecticides. In 2010, two insect exclusion trials were established at Palm Ridge and Teza plantations in KwaZulu-Natal to quantify the impact of insect pests on two Eucalyptus hybrids. The trial locations were selected adjacent to compartments for which the pests Gonipterus spp. and Thaumastocoris peregrinus were present. Each trial had an insecticide treatment with an active ingredient of alpha-cypermethrin at a rate of 100 g l-1 and a control treatment where trees were not sprayed. Insect pests were collected after every spraying event. A greater number of insect pests were collected from the Palm Ridge site. Gonipterus spp. were the predominant insect pests collected. No significant growth differences were recorded between treated and untreated trees at Teza. Measurements taken at Palm Ridge indicated that insecticide-treated trees had significantly greater tree growth than untreated trees. Final measurements showed a v 25% reduction in volume for the control treatment compared to the insecticide treatment. Results of this study indicate that timing and duration of insecticide application could hold larger and additive benefits for insect exclusion. Due to the lack of non-hazardous registered insecticides, and the susceptibility of many of the eucalypts grown within SA to L. invasa, a trial was initiated in 2011 in Zululand (KwaZulu-Natal). A 3 x 4 x 4 factorial combination of 48 treatments were replicated 3 trials and arranged in a split-split-plot design. The factors included insecticide type as the whole plot (fenvalerate, azadirachtin and imidacloprid), timing of insecticide application as a sub-plot (0, 3, 6 and 9 months) and type of hybrid as the sub-sub-plot (a susceptible and tolerant E. grandis x E. camaldulensis hybrid (GC_s and GC_t) and a susceptible and tolerant E. grandis x E. urophylla hybrid (GU_s and GU_t)). To determine insecticide efficacy, plots of untreated clones were included as control treatments within each replicate. The incidence and magnitude of L. invasa damage and tree performance were assessed for up to 5.5 years of age. L. invasa damage recorded over the trial period indicated that irrespective of treatment, damage was lower in the GU clones than the GC clones resulting in a 63.9 m3 ha-1 volume difference at 5.5 years. In addition, the difference between the GU_s and GU_t clones (3.2 m3 ha-1) was marginal when compared to the GC_s and GC_t clones (37.2 m3 ha-1). A decrease in GC stocking correlated with the period when there was a high damage incidence recorded for L. invasa. Although the three insecticides tested delayed the onset of L. invasa damage, they did not result in improved tree performance at 5.5 years. Results indicate that the planting of a tolerant species (hybrid in this trial) was the most viable option for the management of L. invasa. Two trials were implemented in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands in October 2016 (at Ingwe and Balgowan plantations), to test the efficacy of eight different insecticides (synthetic and organic) for the management of foliar insect pests. The Ingwe trial was planted with Eucalyptus dunnii and the Balgowan trial was planted with Eucalyptus badjensis. The insecticides tested were azadirachtin, deltamethrin, imidacloprid (liquid and tablet), Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus thuringiensis, potassium silicate and a combination of plant oil extracts (garlic oil, soybean oil and capsicum oleoresin extract). The imidacloprid tablet, deltamethrin and an untreated control were implemented as additional treatments. The insecticides were tested at the recommended rate (single rate) and at double the recommended rate (double rate), except for the insecticides in the additional treatments which were only tested at the single rate. These insecticides were applied three times over a period of four months, and tree growth measurements (Gld/Dbh and Ht) were taken four times over a period of seven months. Gonipterus spp. vi was the only insect pest found in both these trials, thus the insecticides were tested for their efficacy in managing this specific insect pest. A higher population and damage of Gonipterus spp. was found in the E. dunnii trial and very little to no damage was observed in the E. badjensis trial. All insecticides tested were not effective in managing Gonipterus spp. in these specific sites. A low population of insect pests and incorrect timing and method of application of some of the insecticides could offer a plausible explanation of results. Results from these trials indicate that where foliar insect pests occur in high abundance, significant tree-growth reduction occurs. Although insecticides (deltamethrin - for G. scutellatus; imidacloprid for L. invasa) can be used for the short-term control of these insects, their commercial benefits may be reduced due to the number of repeat applications required and/or with high levels of infestation. Of the eight environmentally acceptable insecticides tested for foliar insect control, the low abundance of insect pests present in the trials meant that their efficacy could not be quantified. If an alternative insecticide were to be found, its application would need to be linked to the environmentally stimulated outbreaks of specific insects. Of the treatments implemented, the selection and planting of eucalypts with known resistance to specific insect pests currently remains the most viable management strategy. Breeding for increased tolerance within resistant eucalypts may also provide additional benefits. Although the above research showed the negative impacts of foliar insect pests on tree growth, it also indicated that no single control method is viable for all insect pests. Future research should look at the integration of different management methods while incorporating more insect pests and different seasons in the study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Understanding the factors that influence employee engagement
- Authors: Dengana, Xolla Olwethu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Employees -- Attitudes , Management -- Employee participation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51118 , vital:43210
- Description: Employee engagement is essential in elevating the possibility of any business success. This study investigated and sought to understand the influence of certain factors on employee engagement in a Fast-Moving Consumer Goods firm in Gauteng, South Africa. Employees play a crucial role in assisting any firm to deliver a service or product of high quality to the end users or customers. The existing literature suggests a correlation between engaged employees and commitment and staff turnover which has a direct impact on company performance. This study investigated some of the key factors that influence employee engagement with a focus on the impact of departmental culture, two-way communication, leadership, recognition, and training development. For the purposes of this study, the moderating variable was employee’s attitude which ultimately may influence the level of engagement that employees have. To answer the research questions, a quantitative approach was selected for the purposes of this research. This is more especially as quantitative research is ideal to find statistical relationships between variables and outcomes Quantitative research will therefore be used to determine the relationships between the variables under study. A convenience sampling method was chosen for this study. Research instruments adopted for the study were extracted from several articles which adopted similar constructs. These research instruments were then contextualised for the purposes of understanding the factors that influence employee engagement within an FMCG environment. The researcher ensured that all research instruments adopted for the study, were validated, and have a Cronbach-alpha score of more than 0.7 which is an ideal unit of measure for research-instruments internal consistency. The data collected was subjected to correlation and regression analysis to satisfy the objective of the study. Based on the results, suitable suggestions were given to which factors to focus on more which could influence employee engagement the most. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Dengana, Xolla Olwethu
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Employee motivation , Employees -- Attitudes , Management -- Employee participation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/51118 , vital:43210
- Description: Employee engagement is essential in elevating the possibility of any business success. This study investigated and sought to understand the influence of certain factors on employee engagement in a Fast-Moving Consumer Goods firm in Gauteng, South Africa. Employees play a crucial role in assisting any firm to deliver a service or product of high quality to the end users or customers. The existing literature suggests a correlation between engaged employees and commitment and staff turnover which has a direct impact on company performance. This study investigated some of the key factors that influence employee engagement with a focus on the impact of departmental culture, two-way communication, leadership, recognition, and training development. For the purposes of this study, the moderating variable was employee’s attitude which ultimately may influence the level of engagement that employees have. To answer the research questions, a quantitative approach was selected for the purposes of this research. This is more especially as quantitative research is ideal to find statistical relationships between variables and outcomes Quantitative research will therefore be used to determine the relationships between the variables under study. A convenience sampling method was chosen for this study. Research instruments adopted for the study were extracted from several articles which adopted similar constructs. These research instruments were then contextualised for the purposes of understanding the factors that influence employee engagement within an FMCG environment. The researcher ensured that all research instruments adopted for the study, were validated, and have a Cronbach-alpha score of more than 0.7 which is an ideal unit of measure for research-instruments internal consistency. The data collected was subjected to correlation and regression analysis to satisfy the objective of the study. Based on the results, suitable suggestions were given to which factors to focus on more which could influence employee engagement the most. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business Administration, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Understanding the contribution of third space theory in the Masikhulisane reading programme
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Monique
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Literacy programs -- South Africa , Literacy -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Language arts -- South Africa , Reading promotion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18652 , vital:28699
- Description: The focus of this study is to understand the contribution third space theory makes to literacy practices in the Masikhulisane Reading Programme. The Masikhulisane Reading Programme is an in-school reading club involving reading stories for enjoyment. This study concentrated on the Grade Six participants in term three of the programme, where cross-age reading receives emphasis in service of cultivating reading for pleasure. An older (or more experienced) learner was paired with a younger (less competent) learner for the purpose of nurturing quality reading competencies and reading for enjoyment. The challenges of bilingual reading and developing reading practices without sufficient resources informed this study. The Masikhulisane Reading Programme seems to provide a solution to some of these challenges, offering reading material to learners and affording them agency in terms of their buddy system. Multiple data generation methods were used in order to gain a real understanding of what the Masikhulisane Reading Programme meant to the Grade Six learners, namely: observation of classroom practice, drawings with written and verbal descriptions, and two teacher interviews. The teachers corroborated what the learners said, supporting the idea that learners benefit from an abundance of opportunities to read, while taking ownership in their paired reading. The framework designed for data analysis provided a type of coding, and a way of recognising themes. The designed framework provided an overview and was applied to all the data as a means of drawing out patters to provide explanatory potential. One way to understanding this programme is through the, Third Space Theory, which recognises that in different spaces, participants can take up different positions, allowing for different ways of being. Each Grade Six learners became the teachers with one buddy, teaching and establishing a reading practice with their younger buddy. This gave them the chance to be responsible for developing a love for reading, which was empowering for both them and their buddy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Janse van Rensburg, Monique
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Literacy programs -- South Africa , Literacy -- Social aspects -- South Africa , Language arts -- South Africa , Reading promotion
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18652 , vital:28699
- Description: The focus of this study is to understand the contribution third space theory makes to literacy practices in the Masikhulisane Reading Programme. The Masikhulisane Reading Programme is an in-school reading club involving reading stories for enjoyment. This study concentrated on the Grade Six participants in term three of the programme, where cross-age reading receives emphasis in service of cultivating reading for pleasure. An older (or more experienced) learner was paired with a younger (less competent) learner for the purpose of nurturing quality reading competencies and reading for enjoyment. The challenges of bilingual reading and developing reading practices without sufficient resources informed this study. The Masikhulisane Reading Programme seems to provide a solution to some of these challenges, offering reading material to learners and affording them agency in terms of their buddy system. Multiple data generation methods were used in order to gain a real understanding of what the Masikhulisane Reading Programme meant to the Grade Six learners, namely: observation of classroom practice, drawings with written and verbal descriptions, and two teacher interviews. The teachers corroborated what the learners said, supporting the idea that learners benefit from an abundance of opportunities to read, while taking ownership in their paired reading. The framework designed for data analysis provided a type of coding, and a way of recognising themes. The designed framework provided an overview and was applied to all the data as a means of drawing out patters to provide explanatory potential. One way to understanding this programme is through the, Third Space Theory, which recognises that in different spaces, participants can take up different positions, allowing for different ways of being. Each Grade Six learners became the teachers with one buddy, teaching and establishing a reading practice with their younger buddy. This gave them the chance to be responsible for developing a love for reading, which was empowering for both them and their buddy.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Understanding rape perpetration: social origins and enactment
- Authors: Malahle, Bongani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rape -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa Women -- Crimes against -- South Africa Cognitive therapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40834 , vital:36241
- Description: In South Africa rates of rape perpetration remain high despite efforts to prevent such violence. Globally, violence (including rape perpetration) has been declared a public health concern by governments and policy makers. This provided impetus for large epidemiological studies that has documented a number of risk factors for perpetration. However, despite these efforts, there are still large gaps in our understanding of rape perpetration, because studies often focus on risk factors rather than the dynamics of rape perpetration. Despite the significant quantitative descriptions of perpetration, there are still aspects which are not well understood, such as the interplay of social constructions and other factors during the actual act of perpetration. It has been suggested that rape can only be understood by engaging perpetrators and that such investigations can inform positive interventions in dealing with rape perpetration. The present study explored and described the origins of reasons for perpetration (subjective meanings and social constructs) and how these reasons interplay with other factors during the enactment of rape in South Africa. The data was purposively collected from seven incarcerated rape perpetrators from a correctional facility close to a major metropolitan area using semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Social Cognitive Learning Theory was used as the main theoretical framework to contextualise the results. Some of the findings in the present study include solipsism and sexual solipsism as reasons, patriarchy and hegemonic masculinity as influential in the social origins, and moral dysregulation as a one of the tools to effect enactment of rape perpetration. Some of the recommendations include employing more psychological workers in the primary health care sector. Furthermore, continued engagement of males by NGO’s, NPO’s, school-based programmes, and community activism to combat the narratives that lead to moral disengagement is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Malahle, Bongani
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Rape -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa , Sex crimes -- Psychological aspects -- South Africa Women -- Crimes against -- South Africa Cognitive therapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/40834 , vital:36241
- Description: In South Africa rates of rape perpetration remain high despite efforts to prevent such violence. Globally, violence (including rape perpetration) has been declared a public health concern by governments and policy makers. This provided impetus for large epidemiological studies that has documented a number of risk factors for perpetration. However, despite these efforts, there are still large gaps in our understanding of rape perpetration, because studies often focus on risk factors rather than the dynamics of rape perpetration. Despite the significant quantitative descriptions of perpetration, there are still aspects which are not well understood, such as the interplay of social constructions and other factors during the actual act of perpetration. It has been suggested that rape can only be understood by engaging perpetrators and that such investigations can inform positive interventions in dealing with rape perpetration. The present study explored and described the origins of reasons for perpetration (subjective meanings and social constructs) and how these reasons interplay with other factors during the enactment of rape in South Africa. The data was purposively collected from seven incarcerated rape perpetrators from a correctional facility close to a major metropolitan area using semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Social Cognitive Learning Theory was used as the main theoretical framework to contextualise the results. Some of the findings in the present study include solipsism and sexual solipsism as reasons, patriarchy and hegemonic masculinity as influential in the social origins, and moral dysregulation as a one of the tools to effect enactment of rape perpetration. Some of the recommendations include employing more psychological workers in the primary health care sector. Furthermore, continued engagement of males by NGO’s, NPO’s, school-based programmes, and community activism to combat the narratives that lead to moral disengagement is recommended.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Understanding of business strategy at different levels of the organisation
- Authors: Ncuthushe, Mboneleli
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Business planning , Organisation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60122 , vital:63097
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that affect understanding of business strategy at different levels of the organisation. The investigation was done by looking at relationship between the business strategy (as a dependant variable) and the organisational structure, the employee level or position, skills, experience and education (as independent variables). These factors were investigated through the analysis of literature and empirical study. The results of this analysis were recorded through the last two chapters (chapter four and five). As in most organisations, there is sometimes different interpretations of business strategy by employees at different levels (or sometimes across) of the organisational structure. This study does not just seek to add value in the literature but also to equip managers tasked with enrolling out business strategies. The basis of the study emanates from corporate failures associated with the business strategies and the failure of implementation and this is discussed further in chapter one with reference to specific sources. The empirical study that was conducted attracted a good response, as there was more than 100 percent response rate, through the use of latest technology and social media. The main conclusions, managerial implications and theoretical framework that came through from the study, are clearly stated in the last chapter, chapter five and can help managers that formulate or implement to business strategies, to ensure that there is great understanding within their workplaces. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Ncuthushe, Mboneleli
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Business planning , Organisation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/60122 , vital:63097
- Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that affect understanding of business strategy at different levels of the organisation. The investigation was done by looking at relationship between the business strategy (as a dependant variable) and the organisational structure, the employee level or position, skills, experience and education (as independent variables). These factors were investigated through the analysis of literature and empirical study. The results of this analysis were recorded through the last two chapters (chapter four and five). As in most organisations, there is sometimes different interpretations of business strategy by employees at different levels (or sometimes across) of the organisational structure. This study does not just seek to add value in the literature but also to equip managers tasked with enrolling out business strategies. The basis of the study emanates from corporate failures associated with the business strategies and the failure of implementation and this is discussed further in chapter one with reference to specific sources. The empirical study that was conducted attracted a good response, as there was more than 100 percent response rate, through the use of latest technology and social media. The main conclusions, managerial implications and theoretical framework that came through from the study, are clearly stated in the last chapter, chapter five and can help managers that formulate or implement to business strategies, to ensure that there is great understanding within their workplaces. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Understanding factors that influence the acceptance of electronic medical records by nurses in hospitals: a framework
- Authors: Makalima, Melissa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic records -- Management , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Management Medical records -- South Africa Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31488 , vital:31495
- Description: Globally, unlike in the past, it is rare for a patient to consult the same healthcare provider throughout his or her lifetime. However, this makes it difficult to maintain informational continuity of care. Researchers have confirmed that paper-based methods of record keeping do not meet the needs of informational continuity of care. As a result, the popularity of electronic means of recordkeeping, specifically, electronic medical records (EMRs), is growing. However, the implementation of EMRs in hospitals is not without challenges with these challenges playing a significant role in the failure of EMRs. One such challenge is a lack of user acceptance. Research reveals that nurses comprise the largest user group of EMRs in the hospital setting. However, there is inadequate literature that focuses on the factors contributing to EMR acceptance with nurses as the user group. Hence, the main problem addressed in this research study relates to the inadequate understanding of the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. In order to address this problem, a literature review and a case study were conducted to ascertain and investigate the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. A total of 39 factors were formulated. Subsequent to the formulation of these factors, knowledge on the impact of each factor on EMR acceptance was collected. Socio-technical Systems Theory (STS) was used as a theoretical lens through which to view the resulting factors. The STS dimension from which each factor originates as well as the STS dimension influenced by the factor were identified. The analysis of the different stages of acceptance as well as the STS analysis resulted in a framework that could play an important role in providing a better understanding of EMR acceptance by nurses in hospitals. It was anticipated that this study would contribute to a better understanding of the factors that hospitals should address in order to create a conducive environment for EMR acceptance by nurses within the hospitals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Makalima, Melissa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electronic records -- Management , Information storage and retrieval systems -- Management Medical records -- South Africa Medical records -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31488 , vital:31495
- Description: Globally, unlike in the past, it is rare for a patient to consult the same healthcare provider throughout his or her lifetime. However, this makes it difficult to maintain informational continuity of care. Researchers have confirmed that paper-based methods of record keeping do not meet the needs of informational continuity of care. As a result, the popularity of electronic means of recordkeeping, specifically, electronic medical records (EMRs), is growing. However, the implementation of EMRs in hospitals is not without challenges with these challenges playing a significant role in the failure of EMRs. One such challenge is a lack of user acceptance. Research reveals that nurses comprise the largest user group of EMRs in the hospital setting. However, there is inadequate literature that focuses on the factors contributing to EMR acceptance with nurses as the user group. Hence, the main problem addressed in this research study relates to the inadequate understanding of the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. In order to address this problem, a literature review and a case study were conducted to ascertain and investigate the factors that influence the acceptance of EMRs by nurses. A total of 39 factors were formulated. Subsequent to the formulation of these factors, knowledge on the impact of each factor on EMR acceptance was collected. Socio-technical Systems Theory (STS) was used as a theoretical lens through which to view the resulting factors. The STS dimension from which each factor originates as well as the STS dimension influenced by the factor were identified. The analysis of the different stages of acceptance as well as the STS analysis resulted in a framework that could play an important role in providing a better understanding of EMR acceptance by nurses in hospitals. It was anticipated that this study would contribute to a better understanding of the factors that hospitals should address in order to create a conducive environment for EMR acceptance by nurses within the hospitals.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Uncwadi lwemveli njengovimba wokukhulisa ulwimi lwesiXhosa
- Hela -Gxanyana, Honjiswa Erica
- Authors: Hela -Gxanyana, Honjiswa Erica
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Xhosa literature -- Research Folk literature, Xhosa , Semiotics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59304 , vital:62029
- Description: Umphandi kolu phando uza kugxila ekuphononongeni imiba yolwimi evela kuncwadi lwemveli lwesiXhosa nengqina ukuba olu ncwadi lunguvimba wokukhulisa ulwimi. Uncwadi lwemveli ke luquka iintsomi, iimbali, izibongo, iingoma, izaci namaqhalo, amaqhina, intlalo yakwaNtu ebandakanya iintetho, izifungo, iintsikelelo, iziqhulo, imizobo, izixhobo ezisetyenziswayo nako konke okungqonge intlalo. Apha kolu phando umphandi uza kuqwalasela iintsomi, iimbali, iziqhulo, izaci, amaqhalo nezentlalo yamaXhosa njengovimba wokukhulisa ulwimi lwesiXhosa. Olu ncwadi lunguvimba nomthombo apho amaXhosa angaziphakulela ezidaphela kulwimi oluteketeke kuba xa siqwalasela isixhobo sothiyomagama ezintsomini (onomastics), izibhebhelele zamagama ambaxa akunika umfanekiso ntelekelelo ocace gca wento okanye umntu ekuthethwa ngaye ungakungqina oku. Olu ncwadi lwemveli lwesiXhosa luzibalula ngokwandisa iintetho eziveza iintsingiselo ezahlukileyo zisandisa zikhulisa olu lwimi kude kuyokuthi ga ngokusungulwa kwentethwana ezizizithethantonye ngaloo ndlela lukhule ulwimi lwesiXhosa. Umphandi kolu phando uza kugqoloda kolu ncwadi lwemveli eluveza njengovimba, isisele sokudimbaza ulwimi lwesiXhosa , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of language and Communications, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
- Authors: Hela -Gxanyana, Honjiswa Erica
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Xhosa literature -- Research Folk literature, Xhosa , Semiotics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/59304 , vital:62029
- Description: Umphandi kolu phando uza kugxila ekuphononongeni imiba yolwimi evela kuncwadi lwemveli lwesiXhosa nengqina ukuba olu ncwadi lunguvimba wokukhulisa ulwimi. Uncwadi lwemveli ke luquka iintsomi, iimbali, izibongo, iingoma, izaci namaqhalo, amaqhina, intlalo yakwaNtu ebandakanya iintetho, izifungo, iintsikelelo, iziqhulo, imizobo, izixhobo ezisetyenziswayo nako konke okungqonge intlalo. Apha kolu phando umphandi uza kuqwalasela iintsomi, iimbali, iziqhulo, izaci, amaqhalo nezentlalo yamaXhosa njengovimba wokukhulisa ulwimi lwesiXhosa. Olu ncwadi lunguvimba nomthombo apho amaXhosa angaziphakulela ezidaphela kulwimi oluteketeke kuba xa siqwalasela isixhobo sothiyomagama ezintsomini (onomastics), izibhebhelele zamagama ambaxa akunika umfanekiso ntelekelelo ocace gca wento okanye umntu ekuthethwa ngaye ungakungqina oku. Olu ncwadi lwemveli lwesiXhosa luzibalula ngokwandisa iintetho eziveza iintsingiselo ezahlukileyo zisandisa zikhulisa olu lwimi kude kuyokuthi ga ngokusungulwa kwentethwana ezizizithethantonye ngaloo ndlela lukhule ulwimi lwesiXhosa. Umphandi kolu phando uza kugqoloda kolu ncwadi lwemveli eluveza njengovimba, isisele sokudimbaza ulwimi lwesiXhosa , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of language and Communications, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2022-12
Unaccompanied refugee children's experiences in migration to South Africa
- Nthako, Matsedeso Emily Delle
- Authors: Nthako, Matsedeso Emily Delle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Refugee children -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Refugee children -- South Africa -- Social conditions Emigration and immigration -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42738 , vital:36686
- Description: An increasing number of children from countries as far as Zimbabwe, Somalia, Democratic of Congo are migrating across South African's borders in the absence of their parents, relatives or care givers. Such children face a myraid of life-threatening experiences that are different from those of adult refugees in migration. While a great deal of research covered the experiences of adult refugees, those unaccompanied refugee children generally understudied. Valuable lessons can be derived from conducting studies to gain insight into their subjective experiences. This study explores and describes psychological experiences of URC in migration to South Africa. This is a qualitative study that follows an exploratory-descriptive research design. Purposive non-probability selection of participants. Data collection is derived from individual, semi-structured interviews and is analysed using thematic analysis. The findings are an exploration of the URC's experiences include detaching from the environment, family separation and loss, psychological challenges and coping mechanisms dealing with the inner being and children's perceptions of migration.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Nthako, Matsedeso Emily Delle
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Refugee children -- South Africa -- Psychological aspects , Refugee children -- South Africa -- Social conditions Emigration and immigration -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/42738 , vital:36686
- Description: An increasing number of children from countries as far as Zimbabwe, Somalia, Democratic of Congo are migrating across South African's borders in the absence of their parents, relatives or care givers. Such children face a myraid of life-threatening experiences that are different from those of adult refugees in migration. While a great deal of research covered the experiences of adult refugees, those unaccompanied refugee children generally understudied. Valuable lessons can be derived from conducting studies to gain insight into their subjective experiences. This study explores and describes psychological experiences of URC in migration to South Africa. This is a qualitative study that follows an exploratory-descriptive research design. Purposive non-probability selection of participants. Data collection is derived from individual, semi-structured interviews and is analysed using thematic analysis. The findings are an exploration of the URC's experiences include detaching from the environment, family separation and loss, psychological challenges and coping mechanisms dealing with the inner being and children's perceptions of migration.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2019
Ultraprecision Diamond Turning of Monocrystalline Germanium
- Authors: Adeleke, Adeniyi Kehinde
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Precision , Diamond Turning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44453 , vital:37835
- Description: Infrared lens production demands a surface with a high degree of accuracy and integrity. Surface roughness is a critical index of the measure of any product’s surface integrity. As a result of this, ultra-high machining technology has enjoyed extensive application, due to the continuous request for components within the range of 1 – 10nm roughness value. This technology has brought about the increased productivity and manufacture of quality products with a top-notch surface finish. Brittle materials such as germanium are hard to machine through the conventional processes such as lapping and polishing. Hence, the ultra-precision machining technology based on single point diamond turning (SPDT), is now been applied to machine germanium in the ductile mode, where material chip removal occurs by plastic deformation instead of a brittle fracture. During machining, selecting the optimal cutting conditions which includes cutting parameters and tool geometry, will not only improve productivity but ensure the minimisation of operating cost. In this research work, SPDT operation was used to conduct two experiments on a (monocrystalline germanium) workpiece. The first experiment was carried out using a diamond tool with a 1.5 mm nose radius, while the second experiment employed the use of a tool having a nose radius of 1.0 mm. A combination of machining parameters for each of the experimental runs were derived from a Box-Behnken method of design and the surface roughness was measured at each interval for both experiments with the aid of a Taylor Hopson PGI Dimension XL profilometer. Acoustic emission (AE) was also used as a quality sensing and tool-monitoring technique, to acquire signals and give indications of the expected surface roughness. Predictive models based on response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN), were developed for determining surface roughness. Optimisation was performed using RSM to determine the optimal set of machining factors, which results in optimal condition of the output response. Further investigations on the acquired signals were carried out using signal-processing techniques. Time-domain and time-frequency domain features acquired from the AE signals, together with the process parameters, were employed as input variables in the neural network design, having shown a good association with the surface roughness. ix Conclusively, it can be observed that the predictive model results and the experimental roughness measurements are in good agreement with each other. For accuracy and cost of computation, the RSM and ANN developed models for single-crystal germanium are compared using mean absolute error (MAE). , Thesis (M.Eng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the built environment & Information Technology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
- Authors: Adeleke, Adeniyi Kehinde
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Precision , Diamond Turning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , Thesis
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44453 , vital:37835
- Description: Infrared lens production demands a surface with a high degree of accuracy and integrity. Surface roughness is a critical index of the measure of any product’s surface integrity. As a result of this, ultra-high machining technology has enjoyed extensive application, due to the continuous request for components within the range of 1 – 10nm roughness value. This technology has brought about the increased productivity and manufacture of quality products with a top-notch surface finish. Brittle materials such as germanium are hard to machine through the conventional processes such as lapping and polishing. Hence, the ultra-precision machining technology based on single point diamond turning (SPDT), is now been applied to machine germanium in the ductile mode, where material chip removal occurs by plastic deformation instead of a brittle fracture. During machining, selecting the optimal cutting conditions which includes cutting parameters and tool geometry, will not only improve productivity but ensure the minimisation of operating cost. In this research work, SPDT operation was used to conduct two experiments on a (monocrystalline germanium) workpiece. The first experiment was carried out using a diamond tool with a 1.5 mm nose radius, while the second experiment employed the use of a tool having a nose radius of 1.0 mm. A combination of machining parameters for each of the experimental runs were derived from a Box-Behnken method of design and the surface roughness was measured at each interval for both experiments with the aid of a Taylor Hopson PGI Dimension XL profilometer. Acoustic emission (AE) was also used as a quality sensing and tool-monitoring technique, to acquire signals and give indications of the expected surface roughness. Predictive models based on response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN), were developed for determining surface roughness. Optimisation was performed using RSM to determine the optimal set of machining factors, which results in optimal condition of the output response. Further investigations on the acquired signals were carried out using signal-processing techniques. Time-domain and time-frequency domain features acquired from the AE signals, together with the process parameters, were employed as input variables in the neural network design, having shown a good association with the surface roughness. ix Conclusively, it can be observed that the predictive model results and the experimental roughness measurements are in good agreement with each other. For accuracy and cost of computation, the RSM and ANN developed models for single-crystal germanium are compared using mean absolute error (MAE). , Thesis (M.Eng) -- Faculty of Engineering, the built environment & Information Technology, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-04
Ultra-high precision manufacturing
- Authors: Abou-El-Hossein, Khaled
- Subjects: Machining , Diamond turning , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20878 , vital:29410
- Description: One of the engineering areas focusing on the research and development of highvalue components and manufacturing technologies is precision engineering. Precision engineering represents a variety of engineering and science disciplines ranging from areas such as mechanical, electronics and industrial engineering to chemistry, physics, optics and materials science. This paper aims at familiarising the reader with the recent advances in ultra-high precision manufacturing technologies and their applications for the production of various critical components employed in different sectors of the industry. In this paper, the principles of ultra-high precision manufacturing will be discussed followed by examples of its use in various industrial applications. The status of ultra-high precision manufacturing in terms of current research issues and future trends will be discussed. In addition, research activities and projects in the area of precision manufacturing that are currently conducted at the NMMU will be also highlighted. Finally, the author looks forward to presenting herewith comprehensive information that could be useful to the reader and easy to understand by the bigger NMMU’s community.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Abou-El-Hossein, Khaled
- Subjects: Machining , Diamond turning , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/20878 , vital:29410
- Description: One of the engineering areas focusing on the research and development of highvalue components and manufacturing technologies is precision engineering. Precision engineering represents a variety of engineering and science disciplines ranging from areas such as mechanical, electronics and industrial engineering to chemistry, physics, optics and materials science. This paper aims at familiarising the reader with the recent advances in ultra-high precision manufacturing technologies and their applications for the production of various critical components employed in different sectors of the industry. In this paper, the principles of ultra-high precision manufacturing will be discussed followed by examples of its use in various industrial applications. The status of ultra-high precision manufacturing in terms of current research issues and future trends will be discussed. In addition, research activities and projects in the area of precision manufacturing that are currently conducted at the NMMU will be also highlighted. Finally, the author looks forward to presenting herewith comprehensive information that could be useful to the reader and easy to understand by the bigger NMMU’s community.
- Full Text:
Ultra-high precision machining of rapidly solidified aluminium (RSA) alloys for optics
- Authors: Odedeyi, Peter Babatunde
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Mechatronics Surface roughness -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55921 , vital:54400
- Description: The advancement of ultra-precision is one of the most adaptable machining processes in the manufacturing of very complex and high-quality surface structures for optics, industrial, medical, aerospace and communication applications. Studies have shown that single-point diamond turning has an outstanding ability to machine high-quality optical components at a nanometric scale. However, in a responsive cutting process, the nanometric machinability of these optical components can easily be affected by several factors. The call for increasing needs of optical systems has recently led to the development of newly modified aluminium grades of non-ferrous alloys characterized by finer microstructures, defined mechanical and physical properties. To date, there has been a lack of sufficient research into these new aluminium alloys. In modern ultra-precision machining, the high demands for smart and inexpensive cutting tools are becoming more relevant in recent precision machines. In monitoring and predicting high-quality surface, cutting forces in single point diamond turning are believed to be as critical as other machining processes due to their potential effects on the quality of surface roughness. Undermining such an important factor is a compromise between the machining process's efficiency and the increased cost of production. Therefore, a comprehensive scientific understanding of the Nano-cutting mechanics is critical, particularly on modelling and analysis of cutting force, surface roughness, chip vii formation, acoustic emission, material removal rates, and molecular dynamic simulation of the rapidly solidified aluminium alloys to bridge the gap between fundamentals and industrial-scale application. The study is divided into three essential sections. First, the development of a force sensor. Secondly, investigation of the effect of cutting parameters (i.e., cutting speed, feed rate, and cutting depth) on cutting force, acoustic emission (AE), material removal rate (MRR), chip formation, Nose radius, and surface roughness (Ra), which play a leading role in the determination of machine productivity and efficiency of single-point diamond turning of rapidly solidified aluminium alloys. Thirdly, a 3-D molecular dynamic (MD) simulation of RSA 6061 is also carried out to further understand the nanometric mechanism and characterization of the alloy. The experiment was mainly conducted using Precitech Nanoform ultra-grind 250 lathe machines on three different advanced optical aluminium alloys materials; these are RSA 443, RSA 905, and RSA 6061. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology, School of Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
- Authors: Odedeyi, Peter Babatunde
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Mechatronics Surface roughness -- Measurement
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/55921 , vital:54400
- Description: The advancement of ultra-precision is one of the most adaptable machining processes in the manufacturing of very complex and high-quality surface structures for optics, industrial, medical, aerospace and communication applications. Studies have shown that single-point diamond turning has an outstanding ability to machine high-quality optical components at a nanometric scale. However, in a responsive cutting process, the nanometric machinability of these optical components can easily be affected by several factors. The call for increasing needs of optical systems has recently led to the development of newly modified aluminium grades of non-ferrous alloys characterized by finer microstructures, defined mechanical and physical properties. To date, there has been a lack of sufficient research into these new aluminium alloys. In modern ultra-precision machining, the high demands for smart and inexpensive cutting tools are becoming more relevant in recent precision machines. In monitoring and predicting high-quality surface, cutting forces in single point diamond turning are believed to be as critical as other machining processes due to their potential effects on the quality of surface roughness. Undermining such an important factor is a compromise between the machining process's efficiency and the increased cost of production. Therefore, a comprehensive scientific understanding of the Nano-cutting mechanics is critical, particularly on modelling and analysis of cutting force, surface roughness, chip vii formation, acoustic emission, material removal rates, and molecular dynamic simulation of the rapidly solidified aluminium alloys to bridge the gap between fundamentals and industrial-scale application. The study is divided into three essential sections. First, the development of a force sensor. Secondly, investigation of the effect of cutting parameters (i.e., cutting speed, feed rate, and cutting depth) on cutting force, acoustic emission (AE), material removal rate (MRR), chip formation, Nose radius, and surface roughness (Ra), which play a leading role in the determination of machine productivity and efficiency of single-point diamond turning of rapidly solidified aluminium alloys. Thirdly, a 3-D molecular dynamic (MD) simulation of RSA 6061 is also carried out to further understand the nanometric mechanism and characterization of the alloy. The experiment was mainly conducted using Precitech Nanoform ultra-grind 250 lathe machines on three different advanced optical aluminium alloys materials; these are RSA 443, RSA 905, and RSA 6061. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology, School of Engineering, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-12
Ultra-high precision diamond turning of advanced contact lens polymers
- Authors: Liman, Muhammad Mukhtar
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Contact lenses , Electrostatic lenses Lenses -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46108 , vital:39496
- Description: Contact lens polymer-based materials are extensively used in the optical industry owing to their excellent corrosion resistance, the possibility of mass production and their ability to be processed without external lubrication. Owing to the fast growth in optical industries, contact lens (CL) requires high accuracy and a high surface quality. The demand for high-accuracy and minimal surface roughness drives the development of ultra-high precision machining technology with regard to single point diamond turning (SPDT). Ultra-high precision diamond turning is an advanced manufacturing technique employed in the machining of CLs owing to its capability of producing high optical surfaces with complex shapes and nanometric accuracy. Yet, even with the advances in ultra-high precision machining (UHPM), it is not continuously easy to achieve a highquality surface finish during polymers machining as the adhesion of the tool chip around the tool dictates the presence of electrostatic charges. The electrostatic charges encountered by a cutting tool when turning advanced CLs are important as they reflect the quality and condition of the tool, machine, fixture, and sometimes even the finished surface, which is responsible for tool wear and poor surface quality. This study investigates the role of cutting parameters, namely cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut on surface roughness (Ra), electrostatic charge (ESC) and material removal rate (MRR), which determines machine economics and the quality of machining contact lens polymers. The experiments were mainly conducted on two different advanced polymeric materials: polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and Optimum Extreme (Roflufocon E) CLs. Experimentation was carried out on the Nanoform 250 ultra-grind turning machine with a monocrystalline diamond-cutting tool for machining the PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers, covering a wide range of machining parameters. Before conducting the experiments, a design of experiment was conducted according to the response surface methodology (RSM) that is based on the Box-Behnken Design (BBD). In addition, the research study focused on the determination of the optimum cutting conditions leading to minimum Ra and ESC as well as maximum productivity in the SPDT of the PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers, using a monocrystalline diamondcutting tool. The optimization was based on RSM together with the desirability function approach. In addition, a mathematical model was developed for Ra, ESC and MRR using a RSM regression analysis for PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers by means of Design Expert software. RSM allowed for the optimization of the cutting conditions for minimal Ra and ESC as well as maximal MRR, which provides an effective knowledge base for process parameters to enhance process performance in the SPDT of CL polymers. Furthermore, this study also deals with the development of Ra, ESC and MRR prediction models for the diamond turning of PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers, using the fuzzy logic based artificial intelligence (AI) method. The fuzzy logic model has been developed in terms of machining parameters for the prediction of Ra, ESC and MRR. To judge the accuracy and ability of the fuzzy logic model, an average percentage error was used. The comparative evaluation of experiments and the fuzzy logic approach suggested that the obtained average errors of Ra, ESC and MRR using the fuzzy logic system were in agreement with the experimental results. Hence, the developed fuzzy logic rules can be effectively utilized to predict the ESC, Ra and MRR of PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers in automated optical manufacturing environments for high accuracy and a reduction of computational cost. Moreover, owing to the brittle nature of optical polymers, the Roflufocon E CL polymer requires ductile-mode machining for improved surface quality. Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation methods are thus applied to investigate the atomistic reaction at the tool/workpiece surface to clearly study and observe conditions occurring at nanometric scale in polymer machining. This research study is particularly concerned with the comparative analysis of experiments and a MD study of the Roflufocon E optical polymer nano cutting approach to the atomistic visualization of the plastic material flow at the tool/workpiece interface during cutting. The simulated MD acting force, machine stresses, and the temperature at the cutting region were evaluated to access the accuracy of the model. Hence, the nanomachining simulations were found to have a correlation to the experimental machining results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Liman, Muhammad Mukhtar
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Contact lenses , Electrostatic lenses Lenses -- Design and construction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46108 , vital:39496
- Description: Contact lens polymer-based materials are extensively used in the optical industry owing to their excellent corrosion resistance, the possibility of mass production and their ability to be processed without external lubrication. Owing to the fast growth in optical industries, contact lens (CL) requires high accuracy and a high surface quality. The demand for high-accuracy and minimal surface roughness drives the development of ultra-high precision machining technology with regard to single point diamond turning (SPDT). Ultra-high precision diamond turning is an advanced manufacturing technique employed in the machining of CLs owing to its capability of producing high optical surfaces with complex shapes and nanometric accuracy. Yet, even with the advances in ultra-high precision machining (UHPM), it is not continuously easy to achieve a highquality surface finish during polymers machining as the adhesion of the tool chip around the tool dictates the presence of electrostatic charges. The electrostatic charges encountered by a cutting tool when turning advanced CLs are important as they reflect the quality and condition of the tool, machine, fixture, and sometimes even the finished surface, which is responsible for tool wear and poor surface quality. This study investigates the role of cutting parameters, namely cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut on surface roughness (Ra), electrostatic charge (ESC) and material removal rate (MRR), which determines machine economics and the quality of machining contact lens polymers. The experiments were mainly conducted on two different advanced polymeric materials: polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and Optimum Extreme (Roflufocon E) CLs. Experimentation was carried out on the Nanoform 250 ultra-grind turning machine with a monocrystalline diamond-cutting tool for machining the PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers, covering a wide range of machining parameters. Before conducting the experiments, a design of experiment was conducted according to the response surface methodology (RSM) that is based on the Box-Behnken Design (BBD). In addition, the research study focused on the determination of the optimum cutting conditions leading to minimum Ra and ESC as well as maximum productivity in the SPDT of the PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers, using a monocrystalline diamondcutting tool. The optimization was based on RSM together with the desirability function approach. In addition, a mathematical model was developed for Ra, ESC and MRR using a RSM regression analysis for PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers by means of Design Expert software. RSM allowed for the optimization of the cutting conditions for minimal Ra and ESC as well as maximal MRR, which provides an effective knowledge base for process parameters to enhance process performance in the SPDT of CL polymers. Furthermore, this study also deals with the development of Ra, ESC and MRR prediction models for the diamond turning of PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers, using the fuzzy logic based artificial intelligence (AI) method. The fuzzy logic model has been developed in terms of machining parameters for the prediction of Ra, ESC and MRR. To judge the accuracy and ability of the fuzzy logic model, an average percentage error was used. The comparative evaluation of experiments and the fuzzy logic approach suggested that the obtained average errors of Ra, ESC and MRR using the fuzzy logic system were in agreement with the experimental results. Hence, the developed fuzzy logic rules can be effectively utilized to predict the ESC, Ra and MRR of PMMA and Roflufocon E CL polymers in automated optical manufacturing environments for high accuracy and a reduction of computational cost. Moreover, owing to the brittle nature of optical polymers, the Roflufocon E CL polymer requires ductile-mode machining for improved surface quality. Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation methods are thus applied to investigate the atomistic reaction at the tool/workpiece surface to clearly study and observe conditions occurring at nanometric scale in polymer machining. This research study is particularly concerned with the comparative analysis of experiments and a MD study of the Roflufocon E optical polymer nano cutting approach to the atomistic visualization of the plastic material flow at the tool/workpiece interface during cutting. The simulated MD acting force, machine stresses, and the temperature at the cutting region were evaluated to access the accuracy of the model. Hence, the nanomachining simulations were found to have a correlation to the experimental machining results.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Uhlalutyo-nzulu kusetyenziso lolwimi kwiincwadi ezikhethiweyo
- Mnwana-Qutywa, Noluyolo Beatrice
- Authors: Mnwana-Qutywa, Noluyolo Beatrice
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Xhosa language -- Grammar , Xhosa language -- Research Linguistic analysis (Linguistics) Computational linguistics
- Language: Isixhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41986 , vital:36615
- Description: Olu phando lujolise ekubetheleleni ingcamango yokuba ulwazi lwegrama yolwimi nobunjojeli kulwimi ngokubanzi kubalulekile kakhulu ekuphuculeni isakhono sokuthetha ulwimi ngokukuko nokulubhala ngokusemgangathweni. Kukho ingxaki nesihlava esiye sisendela sokungasetyenziswa ngokukuko kolwimi nkqu nangababhali boncwadi, nto leyo edala inkxalabo kuba ukuphela nokuphanza kolwimi kukuphela kwesizwe. Xa kuthethwa ngetekisi kuthethwa ngentsingiselo yayo, ntsingiselo leyo idula ngokuhlalutywa, kunikwe ingqwalasela emandla kwiintsingiselo eziziswa ngamagama ngokwendlela asetyenziswe ngayo. Kuyinto eyaziwayo ukuba igama, alaneli nje ukunika intsingiselo njengoko lisetyenzisiwe entethweni koko nendawo elimi kuyo ngokokuma kwamagama kwintetho okanye kwisivakalisi kunegalelo elinzulu ekuphuhliseni oko kujoliswe kuko ngokwentetho leyo, nokuba iyintetho yomlomo okanye ebhaliweyo. Xa kuchazwa ubuni bolwimi njengesixhobo sonxibelelwano ayinakusingelwa phantsi injongo yokusetyenziswa kwalo. Yiva xa ezi ngcali zigalela ngelithi: “Language offers a window into cognitive function, providing insights into the nature, structure and organisation of thoughts and ideas”. Ngokwalo mhlomlo wezi ngcali ungentla kucaca cace ukubaluleka kolwimi njengesixhobo sokunxibelelana nokusingqongileyo kanti nokuvakalisa iingcamango nezimvo. Ikakhulu ababhali xa bebhala iincwadi zabo kusoloko kukho udaba abanqwenela ukwabelana ngalo nabanye abantu. Olo nxibelelwano luphuhliseka ngakumbi xa ubani enolwazi olunzulu lolwimi. Kolu phando, kuza kuqanyelwa ngesiThako sobuNzululwazi beNgxoxo-Buciko (Critical Discourse Analysis) kuba sona sibethelela ukuhlalutywa kucubungulwe indlela ulwimi olusetyenziswe ngayo kwiitekisi ezibhaliweyo kanti nakwintetho yomlomo, kwaye sikwaphanda nzulu ngeenjongo zokusetyenziswa kolwimi.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Mnwana-Qutywa, Noluyolo Beatrice
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Xhosa language -- Grammar , Xhosa language -- Research Linguistic analysis (Linguistics) Computational linguistics
- Language: Isixhosa
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/41986 , vital:36615
- Description: Olu phando lujolise ekubetheleleni ingcamango yokuba ulwazi lwegrama yolwimi nobunjojeli kulwimi ngokubanzi kubalulekile kakhulu ekuphuculeni isakhono sokuthetha ulwimi ngokukuko nokulubhala ngokusemgangathweni. Kukho ingxaki nesihlava esiye sisendela sokungasetyenziswa ngokukuko kolwimi nkqu nangababhali boncwadi, nto leyo edala inkxalabo kuba ukuphela nokuphanza kolwimi kukuphela kwesizwe. Xa kuthethwa ngetekisi kuthethwa ngentsingiselo yayo, ntsingiselo leyo idula ngokuhlalutywa, kunikwe ingqwalasela emandla kwiintsingiselo eziziswa ngamagama ngokwendlela asetyenziswe ngayo. Kuyinto eyaziwayo ukuba igama, alaneli nje ukunika intsingiselo njengoko lisetyenzisiwe entethweni koko nendawo elimi kuyo ngokokuma kwamagama kwintetho okanye kwisivakalisi kunegalelo elinzulu ekuphuhliseni oko kujoliswe kuko ngokwentetho leyo, nokuba iyintetho yomlomo okanye ebhaliweyo. Xa kuchazwa ubuni bolwimi njengesixhobo sonxibelelwano ayinakusingelwa phantsi injongo yokusetyenziswa kwalo. Yiva xa ezi ngcali zigalela ngelithi: “Language offers a window into cognitive function, providing insights into the nature, structure and organisation of thoughts and ideas”. Ngokwalo mhlomlo wezi ngcali ungentla kucaca cace ukubaluleka kolwimi njengesixhobo sokunxibelelana nokusingqongileyo kanti nokuvakalisa iingcamango nezimvo. Ikakhulu ababhali xa bebhala iincwadi zabo kusoloko kukho udaba abanqwenela ukwabelana ngalo nabanye abantu. Olo nxibelelwano luphuhliseka ngakumbi xa ubani enolwazi olunzulu lolwimi. Kolu phando, kuza kuqanyelwa ngesiThako sobuNzululwazi beNgxoxo-Buciko (Critical Discourse Analysis) kuba sona sibethelela ukuhlalutywa kucubungulwe indlela ulwimi olusetyenziswe ngayo kwiitekisi ezibhaliweyo kanti nakwintetho yomlomo, kwaye sikwaphanda nzulu ngeenjongo zokusetyenziswa kolwimi.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Ubuntu: linking indigenous values with efforts in building a reconciled South Africa: the case of NMMU
- Authors: Pezisa, Lindiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Postcolonialism -- South Africa , South Africa -- Historiography -- Social aspects , Reparations for historical injustices -- South Africa , Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14477 , vital:27657
- Description: This thesis investigates the role that African indigenous value systems, Ubuntu in particular, could play in building a reconciled South Africa. In doing so a discourse analysis on Ubuntu is conducted and its potential in facilitating social cohesion in the quest for nation building. Specific focus is drawn on higher education an important task if we are to consider the accusation that higher education like its society, is still undergoing transformation and is under pressure to provide quality education for all people whilst also considering the large numbers of cultures that exist. For much needs to be done in redressing the imbalances caused by the apartheid education system which was organized according to racial lines. In doing so, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University is utilised as a case study with narrative presentations of how students perceive this traditional African value and its applicability to reconciliation in a post conflict society. For seemingly, there is something inherently important about this value in that it has been invoked and referred to in many important instances in South African history.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Pezisa, Lindiswa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Postcolonialism -- South Africa , South Africa -- Historiography -- Social aspects , Reparations for historical injustices -- South Africa , Xhosa (African people) -- Social life and customs
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/14477 , vital:27657
- Description: This thesis investigates the role that African indigenous value systems, Ubuntu in particular, could play in building a reconciled South Africa. In doing so a discourse analysis on Ubuntu is conducted and its potential in facilitating social cohesion in the quest for nation building. Specific focus is drawn on higher education an important task if we are to consider the accusation that higher education like its society, is still undergoing transformation and is under pressure to provide quality education for all people whilst also considering the large numbers of cultures that exist. For much needs to be done in redressing the imbalances caused by the apartheid education system which was organized according to racial lines. In doing so, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University is utilised as a case study with narrative presentations of how students perceive this traditional African value and its applicability to reconciliation in a post conflict society. For seemingly, there is something inherently important about this value in that it has been invoked and referred to in many important instances in South African history.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Two decades of curriculum transformation: what have we learnt and where do we go from here?
- Authors: Blignaut, Sylvan
- Subjects: Curriculum change -- South Africa , Education -- South Africa , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16076 , vital:28318
- Description: In this lecture, I will revisit the implementation of a new curriculum in South Africa’s schooling system and provide a brief overview of why curriculum change is so complex and fraught with difficulties. I will argue that an important reason for the failure of curriculum implementation could be ascribed to a relative neglect by policymakers of “teacher landscapes” or the beliefs teachers have about teaching. I will argue that it “matters what teachers think and do” and if policymakers do not take account of this reality, successful curriculum implementation will remain a challenge.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Blignaut, Sylvan
- Subjects: Curriculum change -- South Africa , Education -- South Africa , f-sa
- Language: English
- Type: text , Lectures
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/16076 , vital:28318
- Description: In this lecture, I will revisit the implementation of a new curriculum in South Africa’s schooling system and provide a brief overview of why curriculum change is so complex and fraught with difficulties. I will argue that an important reason for the failure of curriculum implementation could be ascribed to a relative neglect by policymakers of “teacher landscapes” or the beliefs teachers have about teaching. I will argue that it “matters what teachers think and do” and if policymakers do not take account of this reality, successful curriculum implementation will remain a challenge.
- Full Text:
Triggering biodegradation of low-density polyethylene films containing biobased additives for ecological applications
- Authors: Gada, Abongile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal , Plastics industry and trade -- Waste disposal Polyethylene Polyurethanes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39796 , vital:35460
- Description: The aims of the present study are focused on the investigation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films that contain biobased pro-oxidizing additives (CSIR1% and CSIR3% (w/w)) for environmental degradation in different abiotic and biotic conditions in comparison to non-biodegradable commercially available Pick n Pay (PnP) PE grocery bags. In this project, a biobased pro-oxidant additive master batch was prepared in a heat kneader mixer. A mixture of biobased radical reaction initiators and natural polymers were melt processed as a master batch. The biobased pro-oxidant additive master batch CSIR1% and CSIR3% and LDPE components were melt-extruded to form biobased pro-oxidant additive LDPE pellets using a twin screw melt extruder. The pelletized biobased pro-oxidant additive LDPE was blown into a 25 -27 μm thick film using a melt blower machine. The LDPE containing biobased pro-oxidant additive CSIR 1% and 3% test samples and the PnP polyethylene carrier bags were submitted to thermal oxidizing test conditions in a 70°C air ventilated oven and direct sunlight (photo oxidation) for a period of six months (180 days). The thermal and photo-oxidized LDPE film test samples were further subjected to biotic degradation tests in aqueous, soil and compost environments for varying periods of 180 days to 263 days in biodegradation evaluation studies. The oxidation degradation rates of the test samples were monitored and determined by evaluating carbonyl index (COi) using FT-IR spectroscopy; molecular weight determination and distribution of the test materials were analyzed by Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC); compounds analysis was done by GC-MS; percentage crystallinity (Xc%) was quantified by DSC; thermal stability by TGA and morphological surfaces were examined by SEM analytical techniques. Biodegradation tests simulating marine salt water, burial in soil and compost conditioning methods were used to determine the “potential biodegradability” of the thermally and photo-oxidized test samples after the oxidation period. The oxidation extent and rate of LDPE films containing CSIR3% biobased additives was higher than that of LDPE films containing CSIR1% biobased additives. GPC molecular weight determination and distribution results showed a decrease for all the test samples exposed to oxidation. The molecular weight of LDPE films containing CSIR1% biobased additives decreased from 404K Mw to 111K Mw for sunlight oxidized samples and to 16KMw for the thermally oxidized LDPE samples after 200 days of oxidation exposure. Molecular weight of LDPE films containing CSIR3% biobased additives showed the most reduction from 293K Mw to 22K Mw for sunlight oxidized samples and to 2K Mw for thermally oxidized samples after 100 days of oxidation exposure. DSC analysis showed that crystallinity degree decreased after exposure to thermal and photo-oxidation. TGA results showed a reduction of initial degradation temperature by almost half compared to zero-days untreated CSIR3% samples, with higher degree temperatures observed in samples exposed to thermal oxidation than those exposed to photo-oxidation. GC-MS revealed peaks of carbonyls such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic and anionic acids, and very short chain alkenes and alkanes. The SEM showed heterogeneous morphological modifications in surfaces of samples even though they were not severe. After 172 days the oxidized LDPE samples containing CSIR3% biobased additives, were investigated for potential biodegradation in aqueous, soil and composting environments. Thermally oxidized and photo-oxidized CSIR3% samples showed a mineralization degree of 10.4% and 10.7% respectively, when oxidized in 181 days aqueous biodegradation, 20% and 7.7% respectively, when oxidized in 233 days of soil burial, and 52.6% and 62% respectively, oxidized in 263 days of compost. The obtained results confirmed the abiotic oxidation step as the initiation step for PE degradation, succeeded by assimilation, by action of microorganisms (ultimate biodegradation), of lower weight molecular compounds of oxidized LDPE samples in aqueous medium, soil and composting conditions to final end products of CO2, H2O and new microbial cell biomass.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Gada, Abongile
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal , Plastics industry and trade -- Waste disposal Polyethylene Polyurethanes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/39796 , vital:35460
- Description: The aims of the present study are focused on the investigation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films that contain biobased pro-oxidizing additives (CSIR1% and CSIR3% (w/w)) for environmental degradation in different abiotic and biotic conditions in comparison to non-biodegradable commercially available Pick n Pay (PnP) PE grocery bags. In this project, a biobased pro-oxidant additive master batch was prepared in a heat kneader mixer. A mixture of biobased radical reaction initiators and natural polymers were melt processed as a master batch. The biobased pro-oxidant additive master batch CSIR1% and CSIR3% and LDPE components were melt-extruded to form biobased pro-oxidant additive LDPE pellets using a twin screw melt extruder. The pelletized biobased pro-oxidant additive LDPE was blown into a 25 -27 μm thick film using a melt blower machine. The LDPE containing biobased pro-oxidant additive CSIR 1% and 3% test samples and the PnP polyethylene carrier bags were submitted to thermal oxidizing test conditions in a 70°C air ventilated oven and direct sunlight (photo oxidation) for a period of six months (180 days). The thermal and photo-oxidized LDPE film test samples were further subjected to biotic degradation tests in aqueous, soil and compost environments for varying periods of 180 days to 263 days in biodegradation evaluation studies. The oxidation degradation rates of the test samples were monitored and determined by evaluating carbonyl index (COi) using FT-IR spectroscopy; molecular weight determination and distribution of the test materials were analyzed by Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC); compounds analysis was done by GC-MS; percentage crystallinity (Xc%) was quantified by DSC; thermal stability by TGA and morphological surfaces were examined by SEM analytical techniques. Biodegradation tests simulating marine salt water, burial in soil and compost conditioning methods were used to determine the “potential biodegradability” of the thermally and photo-oxidized test samples after the oxidation period. The oxidation extent and rate of LDPE films containing CSIR3% biobased additives was higher than that of LDPE films containing CSIR1% biobased additives. GPC molecular weight determination and distribution results showed a decrease for all the test samples exposed to oxidation. The molecular weight of LDPE films containing CSIR1% biobased additives decreased from 404K Mw to 111K Mw for sunlight oxidized samples and to 16KMw for the thermally oxidized LDPE samples after 200 days of oxidation exposure. Molecular weight of LDPE films containing CSIR3% biobased additives showed the most reduction from 293K Mw to 22K Mw for sunlight oxidized samples and to 2K Mw for thermally oxidized samples after 100 days of oxidation exposure. DSC analysis showed that crystallinity degree decreased after exposure to thermal and photo-oxidation. TGA results showed a reduction of initial degradation temperature by almost half compared to zero-days untreated CSIR3% samples, with higher degree temperatures observed in samples exposed to thermal oxidation than those exposed to photo-oxidation. GC-MS revealed peaks of carbonyls such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic and anionic acids, and very short chain alkenes and alkanes. The SEM showed heterogeneous morphological modifications in surfaces of samples even though they were not severe. After 172 days the oxidized LDPE samples containing CSIR3% biobased additives, were investigated for potential biodegradation in aqueous, soil and composting environments. Thermally oxidized and photo-oxidized CSIR3% samples showed a mineralization degree of 10.4% and 10.7% respectively, when oxidized in 181 days aqueous biodegradation, 20% and 7.7% respectively, when oxidized in 233 days of soil burial, and 52.6% and 62% respectively, oxidized in 263 days of compost. The obtained results confirmed the abiotic oxidation step as the initiation step for PE degradation, succeeded by assimilation, by action of microorganisms (ultimate biodegradation), of lower weight molecular compounds of oxidized LDPE samples in aqueous medium, soil and composting conditions to final end products of CO2, H2O and new microbial cell biomass.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019