Research Publications (Management Sciences)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://ir-dev.dut.ac.za/handle/10321/217

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 548

Higher education and its contribution to economies of African countries : move towards competence-based and skills demand-driven standards in collaboration with industry
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2024) Kikasu, Eustache Tanzala; Doba, Yunus Goolam; Pillay, Strinivasan Soondrasan; Kankisingi, Gustave Mungeni
This study explores the ecosystemic impacts of higher education (HE) on the economies of African countries, emphasizing the need for competence-based, and skills-demand-driven standards in collaboration with industry. HE is vital for equipping individuals with essential knowledge and skills for socio-economic transformation. However, in Africa, this role has weakened, with industry assuming a leading position. Curricula in HE institutions are slow to adapt to the skills needed by industries, leading to a range of challenges such as outdated curriculum delivery, desertion of technical and vocational training, inadequate research resources, insufficient collaboration frameworks between HE and industries, minimal support for entrepreneurship, and poor infrastructure. Aligning HE curricula with industry skills requirements is crucial for enhancing African economic development and competitiveness. Unfortunately, there is a notable lack of partnerships and practical mechanisms for curriculum integration among African HE institutions, which results in graduates possessing skills that do not meet industry demands. This paper reviews the extensive literature on HE's role in African economies, advocating for in-depth collaboration between HE and industry in order to tackle skills mismatches. Accordingly, establishing a healthy partnership between HE institutions and industries could facilitate work-integrated learning, encourage industry-led curriculum development, and prepare graduates with applicable skills and relevant knowledge for the job market. Thus, developing a proactive framework that can facilitate and enforce collaboration between higher education and industries could be critical in addressing the challenges faced by African economic development.
Attitude of undergraduate students toward leisure activities
(Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 2024) Muzindutsi, Paul-Francois; Masango-Muzindutsi, Zandile
The purpose of this study was to explore the attitude of undergraduate students towards leisure activities focussing on first-year and senior (2nd and 3rd year) students. A sample of 427 students enrolled in a South African University was selected to meet the analytical needs of the study. The instrument used is based on the Leisure Attitude Scale developed by Beard and Ragheb (1982). The results indicated that, overall, the study subjects are associated with positive attitudes towards leisure activities. One-way ANOVA procedure revealed a statistically significant difference between junior and senior students in overall leisure attitude and within cognitive and behavioural subscales. Pearson’s Correlation Analysis showed a significant positive correlation between the overall LAS and different sub-scales.
Common challenges of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic
(Learning Gate, 2025) Nkwanyana, Nokulunga Nokwethemba; Fagbadebo, Omololu
The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic has not only led to devastated economies but has also affected education systems globally. The unpredictability of this pandemic and its restrictions have necessitated the adoption of a multi-modal approach involving both contact and online learning platforms by Higher Education Institutions. Thus, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions shifted to online learning platforms. The study employed qualitative methodology within a case study design. Data was collected using pure qualitative semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. The researchers interviewed selected students and lecturers from the ML Sultan Campus of the Durban University of Technology. The study employed a purposive sampling technique under the non-probability method. The findings of this study indicate that the implementation of the tools used for online learning and teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic has been scattered across different platforms. An exciting finding was demonstrated by a high percentage of the selected participants among the DUT staff members and students who showed a wavering response, somewhat agreeing that although the tools used for online learning and teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted lives, they successfully assisted both the lecturers and students. The study results revealed that the most popular tools used by learners throughout the pandemic were Microsoft Teams, Modular Objective-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle), Queens, Zoom, and Learn Wise. The thematic analysis method was used to analyze data using Nvivo. The data captured from both sessions (interviews and focus group discussions) were deductively coded using software (Nvivo version 12). In this process, the transcribed interview data were divided into different meaningful codes. The codes were developed based on the differences, similarities, and meanings from the transcribed data. This process allows the researcher to fine-tune data into convenient themes and subthemes. During the analysis phase, information gathered from structured interviews was verbatim transcribed, and pertinent quotes from this data were used to support the discussion on themes. The study does not disclose the identities of the main informants to protect their anonymity.
Diaspora vote : relationship and power of the legislature in political leadership in Nigeria
(Informa UK Limited, 2025-02) Oluwasanmi, Olaolu Peter; Fagbadebo, Omololu Michael
This study examined the factors hindering the inadequate legislative framework for legitimate diaspora voting in Nigeria. Given the large number of Nigerians living abroad and the recent adoption of elec tronic voting in Nigeria, it is plausible that diaspora voting could become a part of Nigeria’s electoral process. The paper aimed to identify the necessary instruments for incorporating the diaspora vote law into Nigeria. Using institutionalism as a framework of ana lysis, the patron-client relationship between the executive and legis lative branches was examined, suggesting that the chief executive may influence the legislature. The study employed a qualitative approach to elucidate why Nigeria’s diaspora voting law remains elusive and offers potential solutions. It was found that, despite its crucial role in a democratic system, the legislature has not fully met expectations for enacting diaspora voting in Nigeria. The lack of synergy between the 1999 constitution (as amended) and the elec toral law constitutes a major barrier to enacting the diaspora voting law. The study also revealed the need for constitutional amendment and electoral reform to guarantee the right of Nigerians living abroad to participate in any election in Nigeria. We then recommend a constitutional amendment to facilitate diaspora voting in Nigeria.
AI-driven self-service for enhanced customer experience outcomes in the banking sector
(Informa UK Limited, 2025-01-12) Zungu, Nkululeko PraiseGod; Amegbe, Hayford; Hanu, Charles; Asamoah, Emmanuel Selase
this study examines the influencing value factors of artificial intelligence (ai)-based self-service technology delivery, self-service customer experience, and outcomes based on customer value theory and trust-commitment theory. this study adopted a quantitative research approach. Four hundred and twenty-two bank customers who use ai-based self-service technology were sampled for the study. structural equation modelling was employed to analyse the data. the study reveals that personalisation influences ai-based self-service customer experience, and convenience significantly and positively predicts ai-based self-service customer experience. time spent, and ai-based self-service customer experience yielded significantly positive results. ai-based customer trust and self-service customer brands also had a significant positive relationship. however, the study did not find support for aesthetic and ai-based self-service customer experience. this study’s novelty is identifying the customer value factors that influence ai-based self-service experience in an emerging country using the customer Value theory (cVt) and trust-commitment theory (tct) frameworks.
Exploring the role of entrepreneurship education in boosting innovation among students : a case study of two KwaZulu-Natal universities
(Noyam Publishers, 2024-01) Mtshali Thabo Wonder; Mashau, Pfano; Gamede, Vangeli Wiseman
The South African unemployment rate currently is at 32.9%. The labour market is struggling to create opportunities and failing to counteract unemployment with relevant skills. The covid-19 pandemic resulted in more people losing jobs which then contributed to the increase in unemployment. There have been calls for the government to implement strategies that would reduce poverty which include developing innovative entrepreneurs at the tertiary level. The article therefore focused on how to expand entrepreneurship education in South African universities to strengthen the economy and create job opportunities in the country. The research paper utilised a mixed-method approach. The quantitative data was collected using questionnaires on postgraduate students, whereas the qualitative data was collected from academics. The findings were analysed using the latest version of SPSS. The sample was made up of 368 postgraduate students, 4 academic staff from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, 346 postgraduate students, and 4 academic staff from the University of Zululand. The findings revealed that expanding entrepreneurship education will stimulate entrepreneurial mindset and innovation in students. However, students argued that universities do not have adequate infrastructure and resources to support innovation and entrepreneurship education. On the other hand, academic staff believed that higher education must have an active role in introducing and promoting entrepreneurship education. The paper recommends entrepreneurship education must be introduced across all colleges, this was noted from the contribution made by academic staff and postgraduate students. This paper provides strategies for stakeholder engagement in encouraging entrepreneurship to curb the increasing unemployment rate in South Africa.
Service quality of public technical vocational education and training colleges in South Africa : customer expectations and perceptions
(AMH International Conferences and Seminars Organizing LLC, 2018) Zungu, Nkululeko PraiseGod; Lekhanya, Lawrence Mpele
The focus of this survey is to seek the amount of the customers’ expectations levels of service quality in the public Technical Vocational Education and Training (PTVET) sector. The aim of this study was to examine and determine the expectations and perceptions levels of service quality provided by PTVET colleges, in order to achieve desired outcomes, and the survey followed SERQUAL model. Questionnaires were distributed to the 403 participants from selected PTVET in the Kwa-Zulu- Natal province. The study used a mix approach of systematic and quota sampling techniques. SPSS (25.0) version was employed for data analysis. The results of this study discovered that customers had higher service quality expectations (0,908 Cronbach's Alpha) compared to the service quality perceptions (0,923 Cronbach's Alpha) at the selected PTVET colleges, on all five service quality dimensions that were used to evaluate the expectations of service quality. This survey will benefit Rectors/Campus Managers for TVET colleges and to those who want to open their TVET colleges, because it will be used as a guide tool for them on how they can improve service quality strategy to differentiate themselves from their competitors. The findings are limited by the study’s exploratory, quantitative nature and small sample. Generalisation should be done with care and further research, with a large sample and consideration of other provinces, it therefore recommended.
The vampire effect : the role of humour and involvement level in advertisement recall and recognition
(EconJournals, 2025-01) Dobbelstein, Thomas; Oberluggauer, Teresa; Mason, Roger Bruce
The effect of humour on brand and product recall and recognition in advertising, and the consumer’s level of involvement, were studied by examining the “vampire effect,” wherein factors, such as humour, draw attention away from an advertising message. A descriptive, cross-sectional quantitative online survey using convenience and snowball sampling recruited 443 participants, who assessed the humorousness of six advertisements, were asked to recall the advertisements without prompts, and then to identify those recognized from a list of brand names. The study showed that humour in an advertisement negatively influenced brand recall and recognition and also reduced product recall and recognition. In both cases, respondents were less able to remember the products and brands in the humorous advertisements. Furthermore, people with low involvement in the advertised product category were more affected by the vampire effect and so were less likely to remember the product or brand. Finally, recommendations are provided for when humour in advertising is appropriate and when not. The study is important because, although there is much research on effectiveness of advertisements, especially recall and recognition, there is relatively little research on the vampire effect, and almost nothing on the vampire effect of humour in advertising.
Rural community perceptions on land use change and its effects on their agricultural practices in Vulindlela Traditional Area, KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa
(2023-11-01) Zondi, Nkululeko E.
This study assessed the level of awareness among the Vulindlela rural community regarding land use and land cover changes occurring in their community. Additionally, this study sought to examine the effects of these land use and land cover changes on the agricultural practices of the Vulindlela rural community. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Secondary data from Statistics South Africa and the Msunduzi Local Municipality were used to determine the relationship between population growth and housing unit expansion. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews to capture the community’s perceptions of land use change and its impacts on agricultural activities. The study results indicated a strong relationship (r = 0.81, t = 2.39, df = 3, p = 0.10) between population growth and an increase in housing units. Respondents also noted that land use and cover change has occurred in Vulindlela. The driver of this change is an increase in residential housing units built on land designated for agriculture (crop and pastoral fields). Residential development on agricultural fields is a result of the de-agrarianisation by the local community. De-agrarianisation drivers in Vulindlela include a lack of agricultural equipment, high costs (time and money) associated with agriculture, inadequate government support, increased dependence on government grants and lack of interest in the younger generation in agriculture.
The effect of performance appraisal on employee performance at the University of KwaZulu-Natal
(2024-02-01) Fulufhelo, Mulidzwi; Vajeth, Taahir Akbar; Mashau, Pfano
Performance appraisal (PA) is commonly used to manage as well as to measure employees’ performance at various organisations. Large or small organisations are always seeking much better ways to effectively enhance and improve employee performance thus maximising profit. The main aim of the study was to investigate the effect of PA on employee performance at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). The hypothesis for this study was that the PA process will have a positive impact on employee performance at the UKZN while the null hypothesis was that the PA process will not have any impact on employee performance at the UKZN. The study employed a quantitative research method. The study also used a descriptive research design to help the researcher describe the characteristics of the population in an accurate and systematic approach. A stratified random sampling technique was employed, employees were divided and categorised into groups representing departments or schools they belong to, and then a simple random sampling in each group was applied. The sample size was determined to be 225 academic and support staff. Findings showed that PA has a positive impact on employee performance at UKZN. The study recommends that managers and supervisors must continue to set clear work goals and work targets for their employees as it is noted that employees are more effective and highly motivated when they know what is required from them and their work target. Appraisers must give frequent feedback to employees and help them improve in areas where they are lacking.
Citizen-centric perspectives on election administration and democratic process in Nigeria's fourth republic
(2024-10-01) Kolawole, Egbewole Isiaka; Kazeem, Sanni Oluwole; Omololu, Fagbadebo; Tomilayo, Akindele Iyiola
Elections are inevitable for democratic nourishment and their processes are a pathway to ideal legitimate political leadership. The core intent of the paper is to appraise two decades (1999-2019) of the democratic process in Nigeria's elections administration vis-a-vis citizen-centric viewpoint with reference to Lagos State. This research relies on primary and secondary sources of data collection. It adopted participatory democratic theory, precisely Dahl Polyarchy as a theoretical foundation. The findings of the study revealed that the 2003, 2007, and 2011 general elections were marred with various irregularities, but the non-interference disposition in 2015 by incumbent governments and leadership of INEC projected the mandate with fairness through better technological innovations. It was also revealed that the 2019 general elections possessed a typical element of the 2011 general elections with the conspicuous low turnout as its climax. The paper recommended among others, that there is a need for more continuity of the technological initiative in election administration, electoral management system (EMS) research, Continuous updating of voters' registers, and adjustments of operational and administration of logistics to make INEC more trustworthy referees in future elections.
Job satisfaction and organisational commitment amongst employees in the South African department of education : issues and challenges
(Learning Gate, 2024-12-04) Ndaleni-Sibiya, Lindiwe-Memory; Fagbadebo, Omololu; Mbandlwa, Zamokuhle
It is common in the Umlazi and Pinetown districts of the Department of Education (DoE) that employees resign before their retirement age. Available data showed that 1,310 employees of the DoE in the two districts have resigned in the past five years. This is an indication of a sharp rise in staff turnover, with its impacts on the quality of education and service delivery. This study examined how the working environment of the districts influences job satisfaction. With 249 participants, using a mixed method, the study further examined the correlation between job satisfaction and employee turnover and how intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors influence job satisfaction at the districts. examines how the working environment of the Department’s districts influences job satisfaction. The study further examines the correlation between job satisfaction and employee turnover at the Department of Education, as well as how intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors influence job satisfaction. The findings of the study indicate that there is a correlation between job satisfaction and organisational commitment. The findings further indicate that due to lack of job satisfaction, employees are less committed and loyal to their organisation. The study further suggests further research on strategies that can be implemented to improve employee job satisfaction and employee commitment for the benefit of the organisations.
Effects of HR analytics on HRM practices : an integrative review
(Eurasian Publications, 2024-11-20) Bangura, Samuel
The current study investigates the impact of HR analytics on human resource management (HRM) practices. Based on a review of HRM literature, it is clear that HR analytics is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool that influences HRM practices, particularly in supporting strategic decision-making. The primary motivation for this study stems from a noticeable gap in research regarding the impact and adoption of HR analytics within organizations, especially in South Africa. A comprehensive analysis of academic journal articles from reputable databases revealed that HR analytics positively influences human resource management practices and enhances HRM efficiency by integrating various functions and enabling managers to make informed decisions. It is recommended that organizations consider key factors that contribute to the effective implementation of HR analytics to maximize its advantages and achieve a competitive edge. This study underscores the importance of utilizing HR analytics for South African organizations aiming to harness data-driven insights to improve HR processes, increase employee satisfaction, and boost overall business performance. Consequently, both employees and the organization stand to benefit significantly from this strategic approach.
Enhancing service delivery via Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at uMzimkhulu Local Municipality, South Africa
(University of the Free State, 2024-07) Nkosi, Sikhona Cornelius; Mahlahla, Linah; Oparinde, Kunle
Municipalities in South Africa face numerous challenges that hinder efficient service delivery. One of these challenges is the lack of implementation of required services, leading to citizen dissatisfaction and protest actions. This study aims to investigate methods for improving service delivery in public institutions in South Africa through the implementation of work-integrated learning (WIL) programmes. Data for this study was collected from the uMzimkhulu local municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically from the Harry Gwala District. A total of 56 participants took part in the study, including 28 WIL students and 28 mentors. This ensured representation from all departments within the municipality. Two separate sets of questionnaires were used to collect data from these two groups. Data analysis was performed using the Statistics Packaging for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The study identified several challenges that currently hinder the effective implementation of WIL programmes within the municipality. As a result, it is recommended that the municipality provide training for WIL students and establish efficient monitoring and evaluation processes for the WIL programmes. Additionally, the municipality should involve students in WIL programmes in matters related to progressive initiatives and provide further support to enhance their ability to handle client services. It is also advised that the municipality prioritise the development of facilities and resources for WIL students to fully engage them in their work.
Assessing innovation and entrepreneurship transformations in two South African universities amidst the COVID-19 crisis
(EnPress Publisher, 2024-11) Ramabodu, Busisiwe; Mashau, Pfano; Farisani, Tshililo Ruddy
The purpose of the study is to contribute to an understanding of the role universities’ innovation and entrepreneurship transforming structures play during a crisis. To suggest the use of the adapted Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) model that will guide the interdepartmental and intradepartmental collaboration processes concerning innovation and entrepreneurship at the two universities during a crisis like the coronavirus pandemic 2019 (COVID-19). An inductive-deductive, mixed-method approach was adopted, entailing an online survey and semi-structured interviews. The population for the study included employees from two South African Universities, and random sampling and purposive sampling were applied, respectively, for the survey and semi-structured interviews. Survey data were analyzed using SPSS and semi-structured interview data were analyzed using Nvivo 12. The results show that both universities’ transforming structures need to improve their intra and inter-departmental collaborative approach to maximize innovation and entrepreneurship during a crisis like COVID-19. The contribution of this article is a suggested model that draws from the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework and Institutional Theory. The model is to guide the interdepartmental and intradepartmental collaboration processes to ensure university transforming structures lead through innovative and entrepreneurial solutions during crises.
Question on reality : rethinking the practice of decolonisation in African studies
(2023-09-01) Paimo, Oluwatunmise Taiwo; Fagbadebo, Omololu
Decolonisation, an occurrence that processes an idea, instills a new sense of belonging in people. In Africa, such occurrence is identified as a tool that sets the pace of marginalisation from the rest of the world. Knowledge colonisation still exists, with a gap between a few minorities (White/West) and the majority (Black/Rest). With a deeply rooted dichotomy at different societal levels, recognition is drawn to scholars in research and development. African scholars with the “West” have more hurdles to surmount, primarily to achieve acceptance with their fellow counterparts. As the debate on decolonisation gains prominence, African studies and scholars become important. This study addressed the gap of inconsistencies in relationships, discussions, and the research base of African studies and scholars. It investigates the significance of African studies, examines the practice of African theory, and examines the extent of decolonisation as a reality in African studies. With educational and innovative strategies, structures for the practice of African studies were explored. A descriptive design is adopted for the study; with data gathered using primary and secondary sources.
BRICS inbound and outbound tourism versus socio-economic indicators
(Asociatia de Geografie, Turism si Sport, 2023-06-30) Ventura, Rodrigo V.; Fernandes, Elton; Tshikovhi, Ndivhuho; Sucheran, Reshma
BRICS assemblies focus on politics and security, economics, and finance, and cultural and people-to-people exchange. Since these areas depend on global air transit and tourism, seamless movement is essential. Tourism fosters cultural proximity and human encounters, benefiting nations and businesses. This study aims to analyse tourism and socio-economic dynamics considering globalisation and socio-economic structural factors. The study examines economic growth, travel, and financial success in BRICS nations. The panel data regression method is applied to highlight the relations between tourism and socio-economic indicators among BRICS and G7 countries. Temporal and territorial aspects and all regression studies were performed using the statistical modelling programme EViews 11. The study found inbound and outward connections between globalisation, dynamic socio-economic indicators, and each country's structural indicators. These tripartite aspects explained BRICS inbound and outward travel, but both are in constant change over time. Results show that the actual globalisation paradigm favours developed nations in the tourism sector, emerging BRICS nations show hopeful socio-economic structures, however they need to find new unique strategies to achieve a fair share of the new emerging world middle class tourism market. The old one is already taken by developed countries and they will fight to expand it.
Business intelligence adoption among small apparel retailers in KwaZulu-Natal
(Center for Strategic Studies in Business and Finance SSBFNET, 2023-08) Mavutha, Winiswa; Kamwendo, Andrew; Corbishley, Karen
Business intelligence (BI) can assist businesses with the analysis of information to make better decisions to improve business performance; however, a lack of research with respect to the adoption of BI tools specifically in the SMME apparel sector has been observed. Developments in information technology (IT) have led to an increase in competitiveness among providers, resulting in a plethora of offerings for customers to choose from. As such, businesses are operating in evolving and complex environments where business intelligence systems (BIS) have become essential. The aim of this study was to establish the factors that influence the adoption of BI by micro-small apparel retailers in KwaZulu-Natal. The study was a cross-sectional survey that sampled 132 apparel business owners who were selected using purposive sampling. A survey questionnaire was used to collect the data. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 13.0. This study found that the main inhibitors to the adoption of BI systems among small apparel retailers are cost-related. However, an interesting finding was that although cost had a negative relationship to adoption in the results, most of the respondents still indicated that they were able to make financial plans to adopt BI. The study recommends that small apparel business owners prioritize the adoption of BI as a tool for business operations. The adoption of such tools would have a net positive effect on the operations of such businesses.
The effects of climate change on employee health and safety : evidence of existing studies
(Learning Gate, 2024) Bangura, Samuel
An escalation in carbon dioxide emissions has increased greenhouse gases, directly influenced climate change and subsequently impacted the health and safety of employees. The objective of this review is to analyse the effects of climate change on employee H&S and propose strategies to alleviate these impacts. In line with the preceding assertion, an integrative literature review was conducted across multiple online research databases to consolidate findings from various studies. Databases utilised included Web of Science, Emerald, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, SpringerLink, and ResearchGate. Key information gathered includes publication year, title, study purpose, sample size, and findings. The conclusions drawn were based on a comprehensive review of available evidence. The study found that climate change poses significant risks to the H&S of employees, particularly about climate-related illnesses. The research has also indicated that preventative actions can be implemented to minimise these impacts. This study underscores the significance of addressing climate change to safeguard the welfare of employees.
Has generative AI become of age
(Center for Strategic Studies in Business and Finance SSBFNET, 2024) Muzuva, Meshel; Zhou, Helper; Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa previously faced challenges due to limited resources, restricted access to technology, and the need to constantly adapt to a dynamic business environment. The introduction of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerged as a potential solution to these issues, promising to enhance operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. As a representative of developing economies, South Africa experienced a growing interest in AI technologies. This study was conducted to explore the impact of generative AI on SME productivity in South Africa, an area which had been underexplored. Employing a qualitative methodology, the study evaluated the current state and implications of generative AI in South African SMEs. It involved in-depth interviews to gather perceptions, experiences, challenges, and benefits from SME owners and managers regarding the adoption of generative AI technologies. The findings analysed via R Statistical Software revealed significant insights into the specific areas where generative AI substantially impacted SME productivity. It also identified the challenges and opportunities associated with the adoption of generative AI by SMEs, as well as the potential long-term implications. Key findings included notable improvements in data-driven decision-making, operational efficiencies, and market expansion strategies. However, the study also highlighted barriers such as the lack of technical expertise, initial setup costs, and concerns over data security. Overall, the impact of generative AI on SMEs in South Africa was found to be predominantly positive, paving the way for further technological advancements and adoption in the sector.

Browse

Recent Submissions