Theses and dissertations (Management Sciences)

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Analysing rural tourism motivation factors and ICT adoption with specific reference to Malealea Lodge in Lesotho
(2015) Tsephe, Neo Puleng; Mnguni, Erasmus M.; Eyono Obono, Seraphin Desire
Tourism can be classified either as urban tourism or as rural tourism, and it is one of the fastest growing industries globally. Rural tourism is usually associated with rural development because it has strong linkages to rural resources; but it remains underdeveloped compared to urban tourism. This underdevelopment of rural tourism serves as a motivation for this study whose aim is to examine the factors affecting the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists especially in this digital world where Information Communication and Technology (ICTs) is pervasive. In fact, ICT has transformed the travel industry in a remarkable way. The objectives of this study were: I) to select suitable theories that can explain the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists; ii) to design a conceptual model of the factors affecting the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists; iii) to empirically test the planned conceptual model of the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists, and, iv) to recommend measures to be taken for the improvement of the satisfaction levels of rural tourists to the point where they can significantly contribute to the full development of rural tourism. These objectives were achieved using content analysis of existing literature on rural tourism satisfaction and through a survey of tourists from the Malealea Lodge which is located in the Mafeteng District, in the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho. The results of this study are the following: I) the push and pull motivation theory was selected to explain the perceived satisfaction of rural tourists; ii) rural tourism demographics, their push and pull motivation, and their level of ICT adoption were hypothesized as the factors that affect tourists satisfaction with their rural tourism experiences; iii) the satisfaction of rural tourists with their rural tourism experience is affected by their occupations (demographic factor), by their level of ICT adoption, and by their pull motivation; and this satisfaction is not affected by other demographic attributes nor by the push motivation of rural tourists; iv) it is recommended that rural tourism marketing be increased in order to attract clients from other regions besides Africa and Europe and other age groups apart from young Africans which were found by xiii this study to be the biggest rural tourism clientele group, and that peace and security be maintained in rural tourism destinations as these two attributes were found to have an effect on the perceived satisfaction of rural tourism. Finally, more research should be conducted on the effect of ICT adoption on rural tourism satisfaction.
An analysis of attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of water use within urban households in the city of Durban
(2023) Banoo, Ismail; Dorasamy, Nirmala
South Africa is facing increasing water demands to meet the needs of a rapidly growing and urbanising population, including an urgent need for sustained economic growth. At the same time, climate change is driving the country towards a warmer and drier climatic future, with predicted longer droughts and intense floods. Climate change will result in reduced water availability to meet South Africa’s water demands of the future. This study addresses the urban water demand management challenge by focussing on the attitudes, behaviour and perceptions of urban households towards their water consumption, in a search for ways in which domestic demand for water may be substantially reduced. The analysis reflects the attitudes and perceptions of City of Durban urban dwellers in a period when water use restrictions are common across the country. Several national, provincial and local government calls have been made for immediate researched solutions for reducing urban water demand in South Africa (SA). The research study has brought to fore the complexity of competing forces shaping water demand and water use in the context of the socio-demographic composition of households living within different kinds of dwellings, as well as cultural, behavioural and attitudinal aspects of water consumption in City of Durban. In so doing, it aimed to inform public management policy and planning on effective ways to reduce water consumption and identify alternative and complimentary solutions towards effective water demand management. The essential questions the research addressed was to what extent do two key dimensions of urban structure - built form and the socio-behavioural characteristics of household behaviour, influence the pattern of water consumption across the Durban metropolitan area. Additionally, the study also investigated the extent to which people understood water-saving as an environmental concept and the need to conserve the natural resource, including what urban water users believed were the most effective water-saving habits, technology interventions and communication methods with water services authorities.
An analysis of policy impact and stream water quality practices on knowledge, attitudes and behaviour toward stream restoration practices in Umlazi Township, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
(2022-05) Xaba, Ntokozo Amanda; Mgutshini, Tennyson
Background: Environmental knowledge and environmental policies influence behaviour change towards environmental-policies adherence. Rivers in Umlazi are one of the most polluted rivers in South Africa which results in reports of death resulting from illegal dumping. There is limited understanding of how policy and stream water quality influence people’s environmental knowledge, attitude and behavioural practice. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine policy impact on knowledge, attitudes and behaviour toward stream restoration practices in Umlazi Township, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa Methodology: A sequential mixed method design was used in this study. Interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from the municipality and community organisations under exploratory design. A survey on community members of Umlazi validates the interview and focus group findings. Results: Altering physical and natural environment as part of Social Ecological Model (SEM) and improving living conditions of the citizens can be conducted by the government to yield better public health outcomes. Beta coefficients (0.168) for policies findings suggest policy impact has biggest influence in predicting behavioural change towards stream restoration and in decision making than attitude and knowledge. Even though there was lack of proper knowledge on stream water quality testing, poor attitude towards stream restoration practice was highlighted throughout the study. Citizens’ behaviour and attitude instead highlighted social disapproval towards clean stream management and 76.3% highlighted concerns of children being more vulnerable to health and safety risks. Key Contributions Made by the Study: The study proposes a model that suggests that sustainable management of river ecosystems requires a stronger inter-disciplinary approach and reclaiming the ‘water sector’ from the margins to the centre of policymaking.
Assessing successful land claims and the pursuit of co-management in protected areas : a case of Tala Private Game Reserve
(2017-08) Qwatekana, Zikho; Sibiya, Nozipho P.; Mnguni, Mzobanzi Erasmus
The government of South Africa has justifiable aims to address the injustices of the past, by calling on people who were dispossessed of their land rights through racially discriminatory laws since June 1913 to reclaim their land. Consequently, the Land Claims Commission has reported 150 claims in protected areas of South Africa. This has led to an agreement between the Ministers of Environmental Affairs and Land Affairs to facilitate a national approach for settlement of all claims within protected areas: co-management. This study sought to explore land claims in South Africa’s protected areas by assessing the co-management model used by the government to resolve these claims. This qualitative study was conducted to assess the appropriateness of co-management as the only strategy for resolving land claims within protected areas. The research was guided by four research objectives: (1) To explore the tourism potential of game reserves to derive economic benefits for claimant communities; (2) To determine community attitudes towards co-management agreements employed at reserves; (3) To ascertain the level of co-operation amongst stakeholders to ensure that the co-management agreements employed at reserves remains successful; (4) To establish the extent to which co-management agreements address and protect community land rights. The study employed a case-study approach, using a resolved land Claim at Tala Private Game Reserve. The game reserve is owned by the Nkumbuleni Community Trust, which represents the 211household removed from this land in the 1970s. Following the success of their claim in 2011 a co-management agreement was signed giving the community 70 percent ownership of the game reserve.A purposive sample was selected from the claimant community and a saturation sample from the game reserve’s management. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to provide in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under study. The findings reflect that co-management may be a logical approach to involving local communities in protected area management. It remains inconsistent and flawed, however, as a model to address land claims through reconciling the needs of conservation for tourism with land rights. This study argued that co- management may be a logical approach to involving the Nkumbuleni community in the administration of the game reserve. Recommendations arising from the study include but are not limited to the following: • Processes aimed at redressing past injustice in disputes over conservation land, regardless of the approach adopted, must bring with them a strong commitment to building institutional and leadership capacities within communities, and pay serious attention to the ways in which equity and social justice can be fostered after the settlement of a land claim. • Government must recognize that sufficient time and resources are fundamental to the success of co-management projects, and ensure that commitment to and funding for such projects are in place, including adequate support structures and training facilities; • Where the feasibility of the settlement option chosen is in doubt, there should be an option for a review of this option after a stipulated period; • Government must support all available settlement options, since in some cases alternatives, like lease-back or financial compensation, could provide better alternatives for communities; and • The community must be advised that co-management does not provide immediate benefits but involves risk-taking and benefit-sharing for all parties involved.
An assessment of the impact of supply chain risk management in food-aid distribution in Zimbabwe
(2020-09) Ngarize, Peter; Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni
The present study sought to investigate and interrogate supply chain risks prevalent in the humanitarian sector with reference to food-aid distribution and to also assess the impact of supply chain risk management as a strategy for cost- effective food-aid distribution operations in Zimbabwe. The global increase of disasters and their devastating effects has left communities vulnerable and in need of help from Donors, humanitarian agencies and the host governments. The damage by disasters notably droughts, floods and cyclones have caused various forms of vulnerability on populations living in disaster struck countries, including Zimbabwe. The natural disasters and catastrophes have inadvertently solicited for committed investment by both local and international governments to assist those unfortunate to have been struck by disasters and their impacts. Information on disaster impacts specifically related to food-aid distribution is gathered through an analysis of risks prevalent along the food and humanitarian aid supply chain network. This information will be used by government and various humanitarian stakeholders in the formulation of strategies to mitigate disaster and supply chain risks in humanitarian aid distribution. A mixed-method approach was employed to assess the impact of supply chain risk management in food-aid distribution in Zimbabwe. A sample size of 80 Humanitarian Aid stakeholders from the District Drought Relief Committee completed structured questionnaires. The Cronbach Alpha Test showed high reliability for the scales used in the study. Furthermore, the study used information from key informants, at least fifteen (15) members from the secretariat, namely, the District Administrators, the Social Welfare officers, as well as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) personnel who were readily available at their stations for one-on-one interviews. Five strategies, that include flexibility, collaborative, prepositioning, hedging, and governance were explored and their impact on distribution of food-aid analysed. Quantitative data was analysed using STATA (version 16). Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression was used to investigate the nature and magnitude of the relationship between food-aid distribution efficiency and supply chain risk factors, while also controlling for the effect of demographic variables and results were compared with those of the Tobit models as a test for robustness of the results. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis derived from observations and interviews and descriptive statistics presented in tables. This study tested the robustness of the five strategies used in food-aid distribution and noted that the most commonly used strategy is insurance, followed by governance, then collaboration, flexibility, prepositioning, and financing. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY It is expected that the study will assist the Government of Zimbabwe, other governments in Southern Africa, and humanitarian aid stakeholders in the formulation of policies for the humanitarian food and non-food-aid distribution. This will lead to improved efficiency in foodaid distribution. Policy recommendations highlight the need for synergistic relationships between WFP, the Meteorological Department, Department of Social Welfare, and the Civil Protection Department. The Government of Zimbabwe should therefore create an enabling environment for stakeholder partnerships in the Humanitarian Food -Aid supply chain that should cascade to the village and community levels. Disaster interventions should not only come from National Central Government but, where necessary and feasible, should be from local community to National, building a bottom up approach in disaster mitigation strategies.
A critical analysis of the implementation of e-learning platforms at selected public universities in Zimbabwe
(2021-10) Munyanyi, Richard; Balkaran, Rishidaw; Rawjee, Veena P.
This research study set out to critically analyse the implementation of e-learning platforms in the teaching and learning processes at selected public universities in Zimbabwe. A questionnaire premised on ten major e-learning constructs was administered to Heads of Departments (HODs) and students regarding the implementation of e-learning initiatives. The constructs were: attitudes towards e- learning, commitment to the use of e-learning platform, complexity of the e-learning platform, user training, strategy on e-learning implementation, trialability, support and use of ICT resources by students, impact of e-learning, management commitment on e-learning use and its implementation, level of satisfaction, and barriers to e-learning. The questionnaire was administered to 100 HODs and 400 students at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) and the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU). In addition, the researcher carried out in-depth face-to-face interviews with the directors of the Information and Communications Technology departments in the two public institutions. The researcher therefore utilized quantitative and qualitative methods by using both questionnaires and interviews. Responses were collated to form a dataset in SPSS from the closed-ended structured questions contained in the questionnaires. The data set was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS) version 24 for Windows and R 3.6.3. Several statistical approaches were employed to answer the objectives of the study. The following were the major statistical analysis techniques that were utilized: frequency tables, confirmatory factor analysis, explanatory factor analysis, descriptive statistics, t-tests, regression analysis and non-parametric tests (Kendall’s coefficient of concordance). Frequency tables and descriptive statistics were used to generalize the responses of the participants concerning the use and implementation of e-learning platforms in local universities. Descriptive statistics such as correlation analysis were based on the calculated aggregated scores of the constructs of the study. The major findings of the study were that public universities in Zimbabwe have made great strides in implementing e-learning platforms in the teaching and learning ecosystem. The research, however, noted certain factors that were affecting the effective rollout of e-learning in the two public institutions under study. Major barriers to the implementation of e-learning platforms were identified as: inadequate ICT infrastructure, shortage of foreign currency to upgrade the hardware and software, digital skills gap and general attitude and resistance to change. The study revealed that generally, students were more prepared to use technology than their lecturers. Younger lecturers expressed more enthusiasm to infuse technology into the teaching and learning value chain compared to their older counterparts. Other findings were that most lecturers practicing in universities had not undergone basic training on pedagogy and webagogy; lecturers had not produced enough content to migrate 100% of their course content and delivery to online platforms; some students and lecturers still did not trust online learning and preferred blended learning as an alternative. The study found that there was no policy and rollout plan for e-learning implementation in the two public universities. The researcher recommended that public universities should invest more in ICT infrastructure in terms of its acquisition, development and upgrading, enhance digital skills literacy for both lecturers and students, incentivize online teaching and content development, encourage collaboration among public universities as a way of cutting costs, reskill and upskill lecturers, and establish digital transformation centres dedicated to overseeing e-learning content development. Universities were urged to collaborate in the e-learning field so as to share knowledge, software and experience. A call was made for universities to share ICT infrastructure and apply for a free operating internet license and special spectrum for e-learning from the regulator Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) so as improve internet access and affordability.
Disaster risk management in local government : a case study of Foreman and Kennedy Road informal settlements, eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal
(2011) Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni; Wallis, Malcolm Alan Henworth; Dorasamy, Nirmala
Disasters have inflicted a heavy cost on human, materials and physical resources, and degradation to the environment. Furthermore, disasters have negative physical impacts (which include casualities and property damage) and social impacts (which include psych-osocial, socio-demographic, socioeconomic, and socio-political). A comprehensive review of the literature has revealed that the development of disaster management strategies must be undertaken before the event strikes. Moreover, disaster management requires effective community-based strategies which will include programmes and measures to prevent, prepare, mitigate and recover from the impacts of disasters. The purpose of the study is to contribute to the formulation of a robust disaster management framework and plan including the creation of a fully equipped disaster management centre within the eThekwini Municipality. Moreover, to enable the disaster management department within the eThekwini Municipality to function effectively and efficiently by applying new systematic strategies in disaster risk reduction. Futhermore, to add value to the body of knowledge in South Africa as there are limited number of research on disaster management, and to add value to policy, protmote investment and protect vulnerable communities by implementing disaster prevention, preparedness and mitigation. The research was undertaken at Foreman and Kennedy Road informal settlements located in Clare Estate within Ward 25. A disaster management survey was self-administered to the population size of 220 respondents from which 140 respondents completed the questionnaires thereby generating a response rate of 63.6%. Interveiws were also conducted amongst eThekwini Municipality officials dealing mainly with disaster reduction. The dimensions of the study are disaster preparedness, prevention, response, recovery and rehabilitation, financial implications and future expectations. The data was analysed using Statistical Packages for Social Scientists (SPSS). Associations between variables were determined using Pearson chi-square. This study presents the research findings on disaster management by using frequency iv tables, graphs and cross-tabulations tables which have been compiled for each question. Analysis of the data revealed significant differences between the biographical variables (age, gender, marital status, education, occupation, income, number of children, number of dependants, race and tenure) and the five dimensions (disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, recovery and rehabilitation, financial implications and future expectations) respectively. Interpretation of results indicated that there exists significant relationships amongst the key variables of the study relating to disaster management. This study contributes to various academic disciplines, local government and society at large as it suggests strategies and recommendations that may be implemented to overcome disaster management challenges and attain disaster risk reduction. The study recommends that eThekwini Municipality should comply with the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 which requires the establishment of a disaster management centre, disaster management framework and the plan. Furthermore, the study recommended that the council should develop a system to classify hazard mitigation strategies in terms of five categories which are hazard source control, community protection works, land-use practices, building construction practices and building contents protection. The study recommends that the eThekwini Municipality should recognise recovery period mitigation and incorporate this objective into recovery planning. On the financial implications aspect, the study recommends that eThekwini Municipality should provide financial assistance on the disaster management prevention and preparedness strategies.
The emergence of creativity and innovation from a quality perspective
(2014-05-28) Dohery-Bigara, Francis; Singh, Shalini; Naidoo, R.
Creativity and innovation drive organisational progress and is being heralded as the next competitive frontier for organisations. This study was initiated by current research which showed that the soft (infrastructure) quality management practices which focuses on people and culture had a greater effect on the pursuit of quality and innovation than the hard (core) quality management practices which focuses on techniques and methodology. Adopting a culture of innovation and creativity in quality instead of mere compliance, should drive the corporate quality strategy. This study made use of qualitative and quantitative research techniques by reviewing national and international related literature and used a questionnaire to investigate 54 ISO 9001 accredited South African organisations, respectively. It also investigated the degree to which creativity and innovation are practiced in these organisations, thereby exploring the gap between the importance of a factor to an organisation and the practice of the same factor. Results from Chapter 4 show that implementing innovation, the role of management and the role of government in encouraging innovation are very important but insufficiently practiced. The questionnaire revealed that hard/core factors are sufficiently practiced in quality but that the soft/infrastructure factors, which are important to innovation, are not. The respondents indicated that pursuing both quality and innovation simultaneously is an important goal and that the external and internal environment impact on innovation as much as the characteristics of the individual does. A model which attempts to consider all the factors that impact on innovation and quality is proposed. The model, called the Qic Model, consolidates previous research on innovation and quality through the Composite Model of Innovation and Quality and then proposes a tool called the Qic Assessment Matrix which can be used to strategically position an organisation or assess effort in innovation and quality.
Enhancing the ecotourist experience at Shongweni Reserve through the use of appropriate interpretive strategies
(2011) Foley, Jonathan; Baijnath, Himansu; Ramsingh, R.
The current biodiversity and extinction crisis has ignited global concern for human and planetary well-being, culminating in the declaration by the United Nations of 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity. Concomitant with these developments has been the steady ascent of the ecotourism industry, a subset of the travel and tourism industry that holds some promise for the conservation and enhancement of natural areas. A third strand that may be added that weaves them all together for mutual benefit, is the use of interpretation as a communication strategy that enhances the travel experience for the visitor, stimulating interest and enriching their knowledge of local natural resources. This study examines the role of interpretation within one of the largest protected areas in the Durban area, Shongweni Reserve. Rich in faunal and floral diversity, the reserve hosts a range of active and passive recreational pursuits for local and international visitors. This study examines the range of natural, historic and cultural resources within the Shongweni Reserve and then develops appropriate themes for interpretive print material to effectively provoke and stimulate visitor interest in local biodiversity. Print samples were attractively designed to showcase interesting facets of plant and animal wildlife in the reserve. The samples integrated aspects of floral and faunal conservation status together with Zulu cultural use in the narrative and text. Findings from the survey revealed that most visitors were interested in learning more about local biodiversity and found the interpretation material to have a high degree of personal relevance. This has significance in terms of encouraging reserve management to communicate effectively with their visitors using interpretive media as a vehicle and stimulus for biodiversity conservation.
Environmental vulnerability and the economic implications of climate change for tourism development in the Central Drakensberg Region [CDR] of KwaZulu-Natal
(2021-09) Ngxongo, Nduduzo Andrias; Chili, Nsizwazikhona Simon; Green, Paul
BACKGROUND AND AIM: In spite of the substantial amount of research that has been conducted in the last decade, misconceptions about the impacts particularly at a local level still abound. This study aimed to determine the extent to which climate change affected the environmental and economic facets of the Central Drakensberg Region [CDR] and the potential impacts these changes have had on the tourism industry. The tourism industry and the activities associated with it are highly weather-dependent and by extension, climate-dependent. Hence in recent times, there has been a growing concern over the impacts of climate change on the development of tourism. In South Africa, climate change is becoming more evident, causing flooding and extreme temperature and weather patterns. Likewise, Africa is widely considered to be highly vulnerable to climate change mainly because of its strong economic dependency on climate-related activities, destitute climate literacy and low adaptive capacity. The CDR, which is an increasingly popular tourist destination, is particularly vulnerable to the long-term impacts of climate change. METHODOLOGY: The spatial setting of this research was the CDR, located in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The study fused two sampling techniques under the auspices of the non-probability sample method, namely: purposive and convenience sampling. The study's target population was N=450, thus a sample size of n=350 was determined appropriate. The respondents were categorized into two groups: namely experts [local municipality and tourism authorities] and stakeholders [tourists and/or visitors]. A quantitative research approach was employed with an exploratory paradigm design. The data collected was analysed using the latest Statistical Package for the Social Science (Version 25.0) at the time. RESULTS: The primary findings revealed that the tourism industry in the CDR is at tremendous risk, particularly sensitive, significantly exposed, with minimal mitigation and adaptation mechanisms. Likewise, climate change in the area has a substantial impact on investment opportunities, long-term sustainability of protected species, habitats, and the tourism industry. In the absence of adaptation and mitigation, climate change is already having a detrimental economic impact on the region’s growth and development prospects. CONCLUSION: An integrated model was developed based on the aforementioned findings and is expected to be beneficial to tourism organizations and/or authorities in dealing with the devastating effects of climate change. Therefore, it is imperative that necessary provisions for impact adaptations and mitigations are implemented promptly, and that endeavors to develop a robust and multi-purpose adaptation strategy are prioritised. RECOMMENDATIONS: Future research is recommended on the implementation of a Climate Services (CS) Framework, which is a technique that can be applied to strengthen decision-making processes to better prepare and acclimatize to the risks and impacts of changing climatic conditions. Likewise, the study recommends swift remedial actions and/or corrective measures in the form of climate change adaptation and mitigation models, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), and climate change education and awareness.
Exploring public-private partnerships for enhancing border security through space technology in South Africa
(2021-11-12) Nkhoma, Moses Thabo Katjisa; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The failure of the South African border security authorities to provide effective border security continues to be a grave national security problem. Their inability to provide effective border security is due to certain factors. These factors include a fragmented approach to border security management, as well as other socio-technical factors of border security, such as the absence of physical barriers in many parts of the country’s land borders; the shortage of physical and human resources; and ineffective methods of controlling and monitoring South Africa’s land borders. Given this, the aim of this research was to examine the practicability of employing space technology to address the identified border security challenges. It further sought to explore the opportunities of forming effective partnerships between the public sector and the private space technology sector to address the identified challenges through the application of space technology. Space technology is being embraced by many developed and developing countries as an alternative to the conventional methods of controlling and monitoring land borders. Furthermore, public-private partnerships are becoming an important feature in addressing national security and public safety challenges, as well as in the delivery of various space technology projects, in some countries. The study was qualitative in nature and the primary data was collected using documentary sources and semi-structured interviews. The findings of this research revealed that South Africa was experiencing significant challenges in controlling and monitoring its land borders. Consequently, cross-border criminal activities, consisting of amongst others, border jumping, human smuggling, stock theft, wildlife poaching and smuggling, as well as the smuggling of goods and stolen vehicles, continue unabated. To address the identified problem, this research proposes the integration of various space technologies with other socio-technical solutions to control and monitor South Africa’s international land borders. It further proposes the formation of effective partnerships among border security authorities, other government departments, the private space technology sector, and other private partners for the development and collaborative operation of space technologies for border security and for other societal applications.
Investigating the imperatives of research transformation at a University of Technology in South Africa
(2022) Jinabhai, Chandrakala Daya; Bodhanya, Shamim
This case study investigated the imperative of research transformation amongst academics at the selected Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) in South Africa, considering its low ranking of research output amongst 26 public higher education institutions (HEIs) by the South African Department of Higher Education and Training. The research problem for this case study was designed to investigate the main mitigating factors and barriers that inhibited academic careers of staff at this institution to transform to become productive researchers from a system dynamics perspective. Hence, the significance of this study was to address one of the three pillars of HEIs in terms of its research transformation and research productivity at this institution. Furthermore, this case study established how environmental dynamics holistically influenced academic staff to engage or not engage in research transformation. This was despite lucrative financial benefits offered, namely, research funding and study leave including other concrete incentives associated with research transformation. This was initiated for academic staff to inter alia, improving staff qualifications towards Master’s and Doctoral qualifications, conference presentations, technology transfer and knowledge production, and publications in accredited journals to produce the anticipated measured research output. Whilst there are a few prolific researchers within a few departments, it is alarmingly short in its endeavour towards attaining DHET research output goals and research transformation holistically at MUT. The aim of this study was to explore and develop an original system dynamics causal loop model with various components underscored by critical systems thinking and its impact of the holistic study per se. The research design for this study adopted a qualitative interpretative paradigm linked to system dynamics and the variables of the Causal Loop Diagram Model with an Interviewing Schedule. Thus, data was collected using a semi-structured interviewing schedule with open-ended questions in sync with a qualitative research design. Individual interviews were conducted with five academic staff members from each of the three faculties. Additionally, interviews with a focus group of six participants with similar interests were also included for the interviews. The key variables of the Causal Loop Model were tabulated and linked to research transformation from the participants at MUT. The data analysis collected from the interviews and policy documents were analysed under each of the research questions. Both participants’ reflections and institutional factors were also assimilated for the data analysis, vis-à-vis, research transformation at MUT. The findings revealed several individual and institutional factors contributing to low research transformation at this institution, namely, a small number of academic staff with PhDs, an uneven staff to student ratio, heavy workloads on teaching staff with limited time to engage in research productivity, unawareness of available incentives, lack of retention strategies of talented staff, poaching of academic staff, the interpretation of sabbatical leave and mentoring and supervision support initiatives. Furthermore, the study found several enablers aligned to research capacity building initiatives and critical factors to support a research culture at this institution. The main recommendations suggested were, inter-alia a buy-into research transformation by Executive Management and academic staff, improvement of vertical qualifications, supplementing academic support staff and tutors, employment of additional retired research professors, offering of structured mentoring and supervision assistance, specific training related to research productivity, review of the teaching workloads, implementation of sabbatical leave and retention policies. Finally, this case study has shown empirical evidence for further research opportunities related to research transformation in the higher education sector that could interface with the perceptions of research productivity and accelerate research outputs in peer reviewed accredited journals.
The nature of dive tourism in KwaZulu-Natal and its impact on environmental sustainability
(2022-10) Naidu, Trimeira; Sucheran, Reshma
Any form of diving if not properly managed can cause considerable damage to the marine ecosystem. Dive tourism aims to encourage conservation, generate revenue, and support the development of local neighbourhoods. Understanding its connections with ecological factors are vital in the perspective of sustainability. Dive sites are threatened by the impacts of diving, and constant research is necessary to evaluate diving impacts, diver behaviour and environmental awareness of such sites. The aim of this study is to delve into the profile of dive tourists in KwaZulu-Natal, and to examine the impacts of dive tourism on the sustainability of the environment. The human perception in understanding what types of strategies need implementation in dive management to ensure future sustainability is extremely vital. This study will therefore be highly valuable towards the improvement and reinforcement of dive rules and regulations and will advance the need for environmental education and awareness towards achieving sustainability among current and future divers. A mixed method approach will be used in the study, and the use of interviews and questionnaires will allow for quantitative and qualitative data to be collected. The target population for the study includes divers, dive instructors and dive site owners. The study found that most respondents said they were mindful of the negative environmental impacts of specific diving methods. Divers were also aware of the most common dive practices that help sustain the marine environment whilst diving. Recommendations were made in terms of the sustainability of the industry based on the responses from the data collected.
A participatory action research study of junior youth-led community action in Durban, South Africa
(2017) Varjavandi, Roya; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas
Informed by Bronfenbrenner’s theory of social ecosystems and embedded in the Freirean pedagogy of participatory and critical praxis, this youth-led participatory action research (YPAR) study aims to highlight the power and potential of young people as peacebuilders. Bringing attention to the powerful capacity young people have in transforming society, the entire process was guided by the following meta-question: “how can YPAR assist young people to become active agents in the construction of peace?” Approximately 20 young people aged between 13 and 17 from a low-income high-density neighbourhood in central Durban became co-researcher volunteers in the program. Their participation in a six phases process involved exploration and identification of the social needs of the community, followed by planning, implementing and evaluating a peacebuilding intervention. The data itself is comprised of the activities that constituted the YPAR program, including drama skits, mapping and photo story posters. The data was collected using research diaries, video and audio recording and photography. Through the involvement of participants in research and action as “peace leaders,” the findings highlight the potential of YPAR in the peacebuilding field.
Perceptions of beachgoers and beach managers on the Blue Flag Award : the case of KwaZulu-Natal beaches
(2020-11) Mukaronda, Lesleen Chenesai; Sucheran, Reshma
The tourism industry has faced a massive growth in the previous years with the beach ecosystem being the most popular scene of leisure and recreation. With this growth comes undisputed environmental impacts such as solid waste, noise and air pollution, unattractive landscapes and erosion on the beach ecosystem. It is to this effect that the Blue Flag certification has been adopted by many coastal municipalities to mitigate the negative environmental impacts that tourism and recreation expose. KwaZuluNatal has a minimal number of beaches with the award and literature has proved that the awareness and knowledge of the award among beach users is sparse. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive examination of the Blue Flag status of KwaZuluNatal from a sustainable development perspective. Moreover, the study aims to assess the attitudes, awareness and the knowledge of the Blue Flag award amongst beachgoers and municipality managers as well the barriers facing the adoption of the Blue Flag in KwaZulu-Natal. A mixed method approach was used in this study and data was collected by means of structured self-administered questionnaires and semi structured interviews. The results indicated that the knowledge on the Blue Flag award by beachgoers is sparse. It was also evident that the award come with both benefits and challenges but when challenges are combated it leads to benefits. It is therefore recommended that municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal attain the award to ensure conservation and economic benefits. The research conducted is anticipated to be highly beneficial towards the improvement and reinforcement of the Blue Flag award in the country and it will perpetrate the need for environmental education and awareness of the award among beachgoers.
Planning for airports and logistics : case of Dube Tradeport
(2020-10) Hansmann, Robynne Jean; Dorasamy, Nirmala; McCarthy, J.J.
This study on planning for airports and logistics is concerned with how airports, as precincts containing specialised infrastructure and related uses, interact with the flow of goods distributed across multiple modes and transportation networks and land uses across local, regional, national and global scales. These flows indicate regional economic activity and have recursive relationships with transport infrastructure and industrial uses, including warehouses, logistics, business parks, and commercial uses. The research explores the role of airports to support the distribution of goods between global and regional economies and interrogates the integration of air cargo logistics in local production processes. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore the multi-scalar role of airports in the flow of goods in order to develop a normative framework for planning that integrates land use and transportation planning towards developmental outcomes. The international movements of goods originate and terminate in cities at either maritime port terminals or international airports, and these act as the nodes where international trade interfaces with regional and local trade flows. The complexity of these global and regional flows across multiple locations and modes of transportation impacts on cities, with challenges for better planning for the movement of goods around airports. Historically, the focus of international trade flows on urban development relates to ports. However, over the past two decades, air transportation has grown internationally and airports play a more critical role in the internationalisation and globalisation of trade, particularly related to the relative value of goods to volume of goods handled by air as opposed to maritime shipping. The integration of global flows with local city flows presents complexities for both the management of materials within the supply chain, as well as the dispersed distribution of goods between places of production and consumption and within multi-scalar production processes. Research on the movement of goods and freight distribution is recognised as a persistent gap within transportation geography; specifically the intersection between transportation planning and urban planning. The rationale for the study relates to the role of airports in the relationship between the flow of goods and urban development, drawing from the field of transport geography and developing new knowledge related to logistics in the planning. The impact of increased movements of people and goods by air is expressed in emerging airport related urban forms. Despite contested claims that airports are generators of regional economic growth, there a number of negative impacts resulting from the growth around airports. The literature points to sustainability concerns and externalities of airports, questioning the role of planning to act in the public interest The objectives of this study are firstly concerned with relationships between transportation infrastructure and urban development, specifically in the context where the state is pursuing an infrastructure led development path. Secondly, the relationships between airports and logistics are explored in order to understand how airports interact with the multi-scalar movement of specific goods; thirdly, the interaction between airports with ports, roads and rail infrastructures; and fourthly how airports relate to spaces of production and distribution within the context of the case study in order to propose a normative framework for the planning of airports and logistics. The case study of Dube TradePort development, incorporating the King Shaka International Airport, is approached from within a constructivist paradigm, while acknowledging the subjective nature of truth, and the concomitant fact that the role of multiple perspectives and sources of information are necessary to such a study. The qualitative case study is both the object of inquiry, bounded to the Dube TradePort site, as well as the study design, used to explore how the movement of goods through a purpose-built cargo terminal integrates with land use. Integration between modes of transport improve the overall cost and efficiency of moving goods and improved integration between transportation and land use planning, which has implications for overall efficiency of the urban economy. The study contributes to the body of knowledge emerging from a developmental context on how planning for airport and logistics provides a critical reflection on the practice of airports and logistics for the field of urban planning. It is recommended that a regional spatial development framework process is initiated within a normative framework of spatial transformation. The study points towards substantive issues for inclusion in plan-making processes related to how positionality in airfreight flows is important to understand the multimodal and multi-scalar connectivity between air transport, with road, rail and sea-based modalities and secondly to understand how planning for airports can be integrated with planning for productive land uses within the city structure. The implication being that the plan-making process requires a layered approach that considers horizontal integration in local economies and multiscalar approach to integrating with global economies in terms of investment flows and material flows.
The relationship between the activity and impact training approaches as used in selected South African food manufacturing companies implementing total quality management
(2000) Lourens, Melanie Elizabeth; Chetty, Gopalkrishna
The aim of this investigation is to establish the relationship between the Activity and Impact .training approaches in selective South African food manufacturing companies in order to establish which training approach makes the greatest contribution to a Total Quality Management implementation strategy. The main characteristics of these two training approaches are the following: In the Activity training approach the focus is on individual training requirements. Here the trainee and/or the line supervisor subjectively identify individual training requirements (training needs). Furthermore, this approach has no conclusive form of evaluation being conducted, especially to determine whether the knowledge and skills gained during the training course has been transferred to the trainee's working environment Impact training focuses on results-orientated training aimed at meeting the needs of the organisation by providing employees with relevant knowledge and skills to improve their performance. The work environment is seen as an extension of the training programme enabling both the Human Resources Department (Training and Development Department) and the line manager to work in joint collaboration when measuring the trainees' performance in a practical environment A self-designed questionnaire was used to determine whether the selected sample population (n=171) follows an Activity or an Impact training approach when implementing a Total Quality Management strategy. The research revealed three pertinent findings: Firstly, Total Quality Management programmes implemented within the South African food manufacturing industry characterise both the Activity and the Impact training approaches.
Supply chain management in disaster response : achieving effectiveness in drought induced disasters in Zimbabwe
(2017) Mushanyuri, Bongani Edwin; Ngcamu, Bethuel Sibongiseni
Zimbabwe is a Sub-Saharan African country which is exposed to the El-Nino effect. The frequent occurrence of the El-Nino phenomenon results in reduced precipitation in Zimbabwe. In recent years, the country experienced frequent and severe food shortages due to the effects of drought disasters affecting hundreds of thousands of people. The World Bank in 2013 reported that weather related disasters will continue to afflict the country hence the need for the country to devise robust drought coping strategies. The Zimbabwean government and registered private voluntary organisations work together in providing food relief to drought stricken communities. When rendering food aid, there are factors such as culture, leadership attitudes, the economy, political environment and the disaster management policy that affects the effectiveness of drought relief supply chains. The primary objective of this study was to explore the role of supply chains on the effects of drought induced disasters in Zimbabwe. The study objectives were to assess the disaster management environment in Zimbabwe; investigate the current supply chain management strategies used in drought disaster response in Zimbabwe; determine the extent to which disaster supply chains performance is affected by culture, leadership attitudes, political state, economic state, legal framework and to explore the adequacy of the disaster management policy in dealing with drought induced disaster in Zimbabwe. The crunch and the disaster phase models were used as overarching theories on which the study is grounded. The study made use of a triangulated research design. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were applied. The research population comprised 200 participants in total, of which 26 were government officials and 174 were from Non- governmental organisations. Questionnaires and interviews were used to generate primary data. The data was analysed using Stata 13. The findings revealed that the identified factors were not enablers to drought relief response but exacerbated community vulnerability. Poor road network, lack of financial resources, poor stakeholder relations, poor communication and lack of information sharing affected the effectiveness of drought relief supply chains in Zimbabwe. The disaster management policy was also found to be reactive in posture and the Department of Civil Protection was not adequately resourced to effectively execute its mandate of coordinating and monitoring the activities of the different participants in drought disaster response. Another significant finding was that supply chain aspects such as transport costs and warehouse costs reduced because of the level of education and work experience of the participants. The major conclusions of the study were that culture, leadership attitudes, political state and the disaster management policy were not enablers of drought relief response in Zimbabwe except for economic state and the legal framework. It was also revealed that drought relief supply chains were affected by poor state of roads, political interference, lack of financial resources, poor communication and lack of information sharing among relief participants and that, the drought disaster management policy was not providing for drought logistics planning. The expected outcomes of the study are to help improve the effectiveness of drought disaster response in Zimbabwe. Fundamentally, the study anticipated to influence the drought disaster management policy so that there is an effective drought disaster management framework.
A systems' thinking approach to entrepreneurial leadership : an analysis of SMMES in the Gauteng Province
(2021-11-17) Mhlongo, Thabisile; Daya, Preeya
Despite the efforts of the South African Government to stimulate entrepreneurial opportunities through policies, strategies, and programmes, many Small, Medium and Micro Businesses remain unsustainable. However, SMMEs often experience various challenges and studies have shown that SMMEs in South Africa rarely survive in their first year of existence. One problem SMMEs face in South Africa is poor leadership. Further, insufficient financial resources, lack of business knowledge and management, and inadequate institutional support thwart sustainable growth and have a negative effect on the overall performance of SMMEs. Thus, having an understanding and insight into the various leadership problems and dynamics encountered by the SMMEs could foster the development of strategies to improve the performance of SMMEs. This study evaluated the application of entrepreneurial leadership capabilities to respond to uncertainty, challenges, and opportunities in the entrepreneurial system and understand how the systems thinking approach can be applied in entrepreneurial leadership to address the complex dynamics of the entrepreneurial ecosystems. Overall, the study identified the pathways to entrepreneurial leadership and deepened the current understanding of the concept of entrepreneurial leadership in selected SMMEs operating in the Gauteng province. This study adopted a holism model underpinned by methodological pluralism and mixed- method strategy. It used a pragmatist philosophical approach and mixed-method case study to achieve its objectives. A three-tier research plan was used comprising semi-structured interviews, causal loop diagrams, and simulation modelling to address the research aim and the objectives.
Tourist service quality management in the ecotourism accomodation sector of KwaZulu-Natal
(2012-10-12) Naidoo, Krishna Murthi; Penceliah, Soobramoney; Singh, Shalini
There is extensive focus on the practical performance of ecotourism in respect of environmentally invasive activities and the satisfaction of ecotourists in South Africa. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of quality management practices on service quality in the accommodation sector serving ecotourism destinations in KwaZulu-Natal. The study was conducted at 58 hotels within a 50 kilometre proximity to ecotourism development regions of KwaZulu-Natal province. Two separate self-administered questionnaires were designed for the hotel managers and for their guests. A quantitative approach and a census of 58 managers were conducted and the guest response of 587 was obtained using convenience sampling. The results revealed that there are mismatches in guests’ actual experience on the variables of interest for customer service quality and the importance they attach to each variable. The experience-importance findings show that most guests rated their experiences above the importance they attach to those experiences. Little attention has been paid to hotel service quality research pertaining specifically to quality-related performance. This study fills this gap by identifying congruent hotel service quality attributes and relating these to management performance by analysing the importance of these attributes for hotel-guests seeking experiences of the natural environment. The results of the study offer measures for ecotourism service quality enhancement for the ecotourists experience at the hotels and a starting point for hotel managers to optimise the service quality growth and development while protecting the resources on which they are based. Quality function deployment has emerged as a significant tool to guide hotel managers in ecotourism destinations to attain planned levels of guest service quality and formulate a well-informed and systematic framework that will advance strategies for service quality enhancement.