Research Publications (Management Sciences)

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

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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.
The role of intellectual stimulation on students creativity improvement in higher education : a systematic literature review
(Bussecon International Academy, 2024) Chukwuma, Nonye; Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
In Higher Education, intellectual stimulation as a key aspect of transformational leadership, plays a vital role in fostering creativity and critical thinking among students. Several efforts have been made to improve students’ creativity in teaching and learning. Intellectual stimulation in Higher Education plays a significant role in fostering keen interest for learning and preparing students for future challenges. It creates a dynamic educational experience that benefits both the educators and students. However, there are still many institutions that have not optimized their students’ capacity development. For this reason, intellectual stimulation is considered as a strategic means for the improvement of creativity in education. All over the world, educational institutions encourage transformative teaching and learning skills design so as to implement a shift from the traditional pedagogy and be more creative with their teaching activities. Nevertheless, teaching and learning accomplishments in Higher Education are often faced with the challenge of resistance to change which slows down the improvement of students’ creativity improvement. This study comprises a systematic literature review using PRISMA approach to track related researches on the role of intellectual for the improvement of creativity in teaching and learning in Higher Education. The study defines the concept of intellectual stimulation and creativity in teaching and learning. The significance of intellectual stimulation in Higher Education is to enhance teaching strategies, influence policies and guide future research by providing a clear and impactful contribution through the promotion of active learning, encouraging student feedback on their thinking processes, directing funding towards innovative teaching methods and technologies that enhance intellectual stimulation in order to build supportive learning environments and finally, policy makers can use findings on intellectual stimulation to advocate for curricula that emphasizes problem solving, creativity and real world application .Results obtained indicate that intellectual stimulation plays a crucial role in improving students’ creativity. Findings from the study can be linked to potential policy changes for enhancing educational practices and improving education policies serving as advocates for inquiry-based learning and critical thinking skills. The potential contribution of this review study will prompt educators to encourage questioning, introduce diverse learning activities such as group projects and case studies, critical thinking exercises, foster a growth mindset in students, connect to real world issues.
The effective use of smartphones for teaching and learning among undergraduates in higher institutions
(Bussecon International Academy, 2024) Mbinda, Bukelwa; Usadolo, Sam Erevbenagie; Maome, Itumeleng Judith; Maome, Itumeleng
This study examines the efficacy of using smartphones for teaching and learning in higher education, with a particular emphasis on undergraduates and blended learning. It is vital to investigate how cellphones, favored by Generation Z and Millennials, might improve academic achievement because the COVID-19 epidemic required a change from traditional teaching approaches to accommodate remote and online learning. The scholarly article explores smartphones' potential as an effective teaching and learning aid by conducting a theoretical investigation. Understanding how these tools can promote learning outcomes is crucial given the prevalence of smartphones and our escalating reliance on digital technologies. This systematic literature review aims to shed light on the potential benefits and challenges associated with integrating smartphones into the educational process for undergraduate students within the Higher Institutional learning environment of the University of Technology (UoT). Drawing upon peer-reviewed articles and studies published from early 2020 to the present, the review critically examines the advantages and drawbacks of smartphone usage, investigates undergraduate preferences, and assesses the implications for teaching and learning methodologies. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the efficacy of smartphones in enhancing teaching and learning outcomes, emphasizing their positive impact on student engagement, academic achievement, and overall satisfaction within blended learning environments. The review offers practical recommendations for educators to promote greater student engagement by prioritizing individual needs and leveraging digital resources to foster creativity and innovation.
Digital intellectual property and privacy right in achieving the sustainable development goals using South Africa as a case study
(EDP Sciences, 2024) Aroba, Oluwasegun Julius; Ramchander, Manduth; du Preez, W.; Becker, T.; Modiba, R.; Chauke, H.; Dzogbewu, T.; Mostert, R.; Maringa, M.; Bissett, H.; Koen, W.; ter Haar, G.; van der Merwe, H.; Moema, J.; Botha, N.; Fisher, C.; Wang, H.
A key barrier to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is the intersection of intellectual property (IP) rights and privacy concerns, especially as reliance on digital technologies grows for economic and social progress. One of the critical ethical trade-offs in IP rights in IT in South Africa is the tension between protecting the interests of creators and promoting access to Information and knowledge, particularly in the context of the digital divide. This article, with a focus on South Africa, examines how digital IP and privacy rights impact SDG 9, 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Loopholes, copyright protection is not always compatible with I.T. technology. Through legal analysis, policy evaluation, and case studies, it explores how IP protection can spur economic growth, ensure fair competition, and promote innovation while addressing privacy threats. The study also assesses existing policies' effectiveness in advancing SDG 9, 16, protecting privacy, and fostering innovation across vital industries. The study's conclusions advance knowledge of the intricate relationships between digital intellectual property, private property rights, and sustainable development. Particularly in the context of South Africa, the analysis provides insights into policy recommendations and best practices for practitioners, stakeholders, and policy makers to effectively exploit digital technologies while protecting individual rights and achieving the 9th and 16th SDGs.
E-learning of mathematics and students’ perceptions in public secondary school, Oyo State, Nigeria
(Springer International Publishing, 2023) Kayode, A. E.; Anwana, E. O.
Purpose: Integration of e-learning in classroom-based with mathematics courses/modules is recognized in all secondary schools, because mathematics subject have ability helps students to perform well in other subjects. Design/Methodology/Approach: Descriptive survey research design with quantitative data approach through structured questionnaire. The reliability confirmed the Cronbach’s Alpha and the coefficient was 0.78. 120 students were purposively selected from 36 secondary schools in Ibadan North, a local government area of Ibadan, capital of Oyo State in Nigeria. At a significance threshold of 0.05, four research questions and two hypotheses were developed. Findings: The findings showed that e-learning platforms are not maximally utilized in mathematics among students in secondary school in Oyo State due to restrictions and difficulty of use as well as the students’ preference for traditional learning. Implications/Research Limitations: The study showed that there was a significant relationship between e-learning and students’ perceptions of mathematics learning, though with weak correlation. The study was limited to only secondary school in Oyo State and therefore, could not be generalized to all other secondary schools in Nigeria. Practical Implication: e-learning method serves as alternative to support teaching and learning using blended learning tools to support the classroom-based education, especially during this Post-COVID-19 pandemic. Social Implication: This research study will encourage both teacher and students to embrace technological tool in teaching and learning for the improvement on students’ academic performance. Originality/Value: This study encouraged that mathematics teachers should make an effort to maximize the benefit of e-learning in mathematics to create a greater impact in teaching and learning. And also, students should use the opportunity to improve on their self-pace studies using asynchronous method of online.
The benefits of the use of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic
(EnPress Publisher, 2024-11) Nkwanyana, Nokulunga Nokwethemba; Fagbadebo, Omololu
The COVID-19 pandemic occasioned significant changes in many aspects of human life. The education system is one of the most impacted sectors during the pandemic. With the contagious nature of the disease, governments around the world encouraged social distancing between individuals to prevent the spread of the virus. This led to the shutdown of many academic institutions, to avoid mass gatherings and overcrowded places. Developed and developing countries either postponed their academic activities or used digital technologies to reach learners remotely. The study examined the benefits of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants for the study consist of 5 lecturers and 30 students from the ML Sultan Campus of the Durban University of Technology, South Africa. Data was collected using open-ended interviews. Content analysis was applied to analyze the data collected. Data was collected until it was saturated. Different ways were implemented to make online learning and teaching successful. The findings identified that the benefits of online learning were that it promotes independent learning, flexible learning adaptability and others.
Beyond the bin : the influence of motivation, opportunity, and ability on food waste behavior in households
(Wiley, 2024-03) Heidig, Wibke; Dobbelstein, Thomas; Mason, Roger Bruce
ABSTRACT This study examined household food waste behavior building upon a framework that integrates the motivation‐opportunity‐ability model (MOA), the theory of planned behavior (TPB), and norm activation model (NAM) enriched with insights from social practices theory (SPT). Using a dual‐country sample (Germany and South Africa), an online survey (n = 1065) measured how motivation, opportunity, and ability drive self‐reported food waste behavior. The results show that the ability to reduce food waste, that is, habits and perceived and actual knowledge, unfold a strong influence on reported food waste behavior. Quite surprisingly, motivation to engage in food waste reduction, due to attitude, values, and ascription of responsibility, has the lowest impact on reported food waste behavior. Our findings enhance the current understanding of food waste drivers and highlight the significance of socio‐psychological determinants of behavior, specifically ability and habits. The implications for both research and practical applications are discussed.
The influence of labour legislation on job creation and job sustainability in South Africa
(AOSIS, 2020) Womack, Catharina Anna Johanna
This scholarly book focuses on the issue of high unemployment and the challenges related thereto in South Africa. It demonstrates the urgent need for research into the contribution of job creation to poverty alleviation and economic growth. This research is relevant from a legal, economic and social sciences point of view. The main thesis of the book is to explore the influence of labour legislation on job creation. It investigates sustainability regarding employment relationships through the lens of the two primary participants: business and organised labour. This book adds value to the social justice context from both a societal and business point of view. It provides business and unionised labour a voice from which the influence of labour legislation on job creation and job sustainability can be addressed
The role of social media in employee recruitment : a case study of a private tertiary institution in Durban, South Africa
(The International Institute of Knowledge Management, 2023) Bangura, Samuel
Recruitment and selection are one of the most significant aspects of human resource management practices in an organization. Taking into consideration the preceding assertion it is now evident that organizations are now deviating from the traditional approach of recruitment and selection to using social media. However, there have been limited studies on the usage of social media in recruitment and selection. Therefore, this study analyses the role of social media in employee recruitment at a private tertiary institution in Durban South Africa. The study is premised on the qualitative research approach with an interview research strategy used for data collection. For sampling the purposive sampling method was used including a thematic data analysis process use for data analysis. Findings revealed that businesses can benefit by taking advantage offered by social media such benefits include competitive advantage, a positive effect on organizational attractiveness and a constant and compliant recruitment process, however, the concern regarding job seeker limitation should be considered. The practical implication of this study is that social media is a sensitive tool that managers and recruiters should handle with caution. Ensuring the privacy of candidates by refraining from disclosing personal information can be a challenging responsibility. Additionally, implementing a well-defined policy that regulates the use of social media during the recruitment and selection process will help address any potential legal and privacy concerns that may emerge.
Firm size and enterprise productivity in Nigeria : evidence from firm-level data
(Informa UK Limited, 2024) Omeje, Ambrose Nnaemeka; Mba, Augustine Jideofor; Rena, Ravinder
Anchored on the economies of scale of production theory, this study utilized Nigeria’s firm-level enterprise survey data of the World Bank collected through stratified random sampling of 2 676 firms and face-to-face interviews with the application of the multinomial logit model to examine how enterprise productivity influences the size of firms in Nigeria. It was found that raising enterprise productivity relates to about 0.0009261 insignificant fall in the relative log odds of running micro-sized firms, about 0.010299 significant rise in relative log odds of having medium-sized firms, and about 0.0201428 significant encouragement in relative log odds of running large-sized enterprises/firms when related with small-sized enterprises/firms. It is recommended that governments at all levels (state, federal, and local), should encourage micro-sized firms in a bid to make them increase their productivity level. This encouragement can come in the form of providing increased access to credit, the provision of raw material inputs, and constant electricity supplies. The original contribution of this research work is hinged on its empirical contribution in the study area since there is dearth of literature in the study area as no study has looked at firm size and enterprise productivity in Nigeria using evidence from firm-level data.
A comprehensive study on pre-retirement planning amongst Botswana public officers
(Educational Research Multimedia & Publication, 2023-10-20) Rena, Ravinder; Theo, Tshukudu T.
Purpose: The main purpose of this paper was to comprehensively assess the level of knowledge of pre-retirement planning for public officers in the Central District Council of Botswana. Specifically, the paper assessed the pre-retirement planning awareness of public officers by looking at the variables of financial education and retirement investment. In addition, the paper gauged the retirement preparedness of employees nearing retirement by assessing the psychosocial aspects of attitude towards retirement and retirement counselling preparedness. Methodology: the paper adopted a descriptive research design. Using a random sampling method which targeted 100 respondents, a population paper on 62 respondents was conducted, translating to a 62% response rate. The Questionnaires were used for data collection and the results were analysed using description statistics which included frequency tables, pie charts and graphs. Findings revealed that most public officers are aware of retirement planning and those employees falling within retirement age brackets of 45 years old and above, tend to have positive attitudes towards retirement planning. Implications: the paper concluded by observing that majority of public servants does not plan well for their retirement. Therefore, the concept of retirement planning should be introduced in the initial part of public officers’ work life. Originality this paper strategically provides and impetus for the retirement planning and investment among pubic officers in Botswana. The paper assessed pre-retirement planning in the concept of financial retirement planning, as well as the psycho-social aspect of retirement planning.

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