Faculty of Management Sciences

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Academics perceptions of community engagement at a selected University of Technology in South Africa
(2021-09) Patchappan, Terslina; Govender, Ivan Gunass
The South African society is unambiguously in a flux, plagued with wicked challenges such as increased levels of poverty, youth unemployment and an extensive public health crisis, which have become the societal norm. Increased prominence exists for university programmes to alleviate these challenges and sustain the South African landscape. This study aimed to investigate the perceptions of community engagement amongst academics at a selected University of Technology, namely the Durban University of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Academics’ perceptions towards community engagement are significant for the institutionalisation of engagement at the university. Against this backdrop, the main objectives of this study were to evaluate academics’ understanding of community engagement; assess the extent of their initiatives; determine their enablers and constraints to undertake such initiatives; and recommend strategies that could lead to an improved community engagement experience. The research design adopted was the quantitative paradigm, which entailed the distribution of a structured open and closed-ended questionnaire to the respondents. Against a Five-Point Likert Scale, the questionnaire comprised of six sections, each under a specific main theme related to the research topic. The simple random sampling technique achieved a sample size of 80 respondents from a target population of 102 academics. The sample respondents returned seventy-four questionnaires. This represented a high response rate of 93%, through the attribution of a personal method of data collection. Furthermore, the data collected was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 24.0 for Windows. Upon completion, the entire dissertation was verified against plagiarism through the Turnitin programme and achieved a 10% rating. The study found that workload demand and time are main inhibitors of community engagement. The researcher recommended that DUT should consider offering rigid empowerment and support structures for academics. Lastly, the research project concluded with directions for future research based on the insights of academics into community engagement in South African higher education.
Addressing gender-based violence in Umlazi, Ward 83 Durban
(2023) Khuzwayo, Zanele Maureen; Hamlall, Vijay
Extensive research has pointed to ongoing and increasing gender-based violence internationally and in South Africa. The rampant escalation of gender-based violence in many South African townships is of particular concern. The main focus of this study was to investigate the experiences, perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs regarding gender-based violence of a sample of men and women living in Ward 83 in the township of Umlazi, in KwaZulu-Natal. This study looked beyond the dichotomy of women as victims and men as perpetrators, with a focus on understanding how society constrains and enables individual agency around gender-based violence and decision-making and how behaviour is affected by social norms and expectations. This study identified the sources of the attitudes and beliefs expressed by the chosen sample of community members in Umlazi using a participatory action research approach and implemented a programme of action aimed at preventing and reducing the prevalence of gender-based violence in the township through behaviour and attitudinal change. Men play an active role in shaping women's identities and controlling their behaviour. For this reason, the study included men living in the area. This study is situated in the social constructionist framework since the researcher was interested in understanding the experiences, perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs of a sample of men and women as described by them. This framework allows for the interpretation of gender, culture and social factors that shape identities and actions. The choice of a small sample is based on the intention to produce rich, in-depth qualitative data. The participants consisted of seven females and five males ranging in age from twentyone to fifty years old, since this study focused on the experiences of the adult community of Umlazi. The two main research methods employed were individual semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The results were interpreted and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study revealed that gender-based violence in this community manifested itself in various forms. However, I classified the consequences of gender based violence into two broad categories: physical and psychological. Scholars of gender and violence argue that there is no single factor that causes gender-based violence but rather an array of factors that raises the likelihood that a man in a particular setting may act violently towards a woman. Significantly, it emerged in this study that the main causes of gendered violent behaviour were associated with social norms, substance abuse and constructions of masculinity. The effects of gender-based violence were acute and immediate physical injuries and psychological trauma. The women mentioned feelings of depression and anxiety and suicidal thoughts. The abuse also impacted their self-worth and self-esteem. This study recommends an integrated comprehensive approach of all stakeholders in the form of community based intervention programmes towards the eradication gender-based violence.
Adjustment experiences of first-year students in South Africa
(2020) Dlamini, Bongani Innocent; Tom, Reyagalaletsa Felicity; Nel, Kathryn Anne; Zogli, Luther-King Junior
Background and Objective: For most students, adjusting to both social and academic life entails engenders a modicum of stress and emotional challenges for most students, resulting in risks of students drop-out. The current study sought insight and understanding into the adjustment experiences of first-year students at a previously disadvantaged tertiary institution of Higher learning in South Africa. Materials and Method: Qualitative research was conducted to establish the lived experiences of the participants. Four focus with eighteen first-year participants from different departments were utilised for data collection. Data were gathered via semi-structured interviews, which allowed probing. Thematic Content Analysis was employed to gather themes from the data. Results: The main results indicated that first-year students found life was different, many old familiar and predictable relationships disintegrating. However, they also found independence and the resilience to adapt to change. Positive adjustment experiences and coping mechanisms included working hard, interacting with lecturing staff and attending religious events, while negative ones included drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana. Conclusions: The study recommended that orientation for first-year students is imperative and should incorporate a programme that helped first-year students understand the challenges they are likely to face in this new phase of their academic and social development.
Analysing the influence of operations management as an approach to sustaining effective corporate governance in the public health sector : a case study of the provincial department of health
(2023-05) Mthembu, Nozipho Elsie; Dlamini, Bongani Innocent
Operations management has gained considerable attention in the corporate world and establishment due to its perceived benefits. It assists in the effective management function of controlling and supervising of services and people. With efficient operations management, people such as nurses, physicians and other healthcare personnel can provide attentive services. In light of the effect of operations management, the objectives of the study were to determine whether executives and health representatives can engage in planning that creates the highest level of efficiency within the organisation; establish if the management exercises control that can promote rational decisions; determine whether, through the operational skills and exposure, the management can direct operational resources towards achieving the best efficiency; establish whether the executives and their subordinates can recognise the factors hampering OM and their method of corporate governance, and assess the extent to which health representatives can expedite the efforts of OM to implement effective corporate governance. For this study, simple random sampling was applied to select required respondents from the KwaZulu-Natal health care units and centres. The 259 responses received were accepted as the sample size of this study. Data collected were captured and analysed on Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) v26.0 to yield descriptive and inferential statistics. The most important outcome of the study was that the healthcare workers referred to the fact that the management function of planning, organising, controlling, supervising, staffing, coordinating and leading were all very valuable in setting up and operating a successful business. The issue that surfaced from the respondents was that the operatives were not committed to the ethical code that direct their operations, even though some of them did endeavour to embrace transparency, accountability, fairness, teamwork, risk management and integrity in their line operations and mode of governance. The main recommendation that is made here is that healthcare leaders and operatives must be enlightened with the importance of an ethical code to maintain effective corporate governance. This could also be a path for further research.
An analysis of communication tools employed for HIV/AIDS education by student support services at universities in KwaZulu-Natal
(2018) Nchabeleng, Ntheno Lentsu; Rampersad, Renitha; Dorasamy, Nirmala
HIV/AIDS remains a global health crisis. In sub-Saharan Africa, young people continue to be disproportionally affected by HIV/AIDS. While access to antiretroviral (ARVs) is an important factor in the success of HIV/AIDS treatment, socio-cultural factors continue to exacerbate the spread of HIV/AIDS particularly among young people. This has necessitated the need for comprehensive strategies to be designed in order to address contextual factors that undermine HIV/AIDS prevention efforts for young people. The Higher Education HIV and AIDS Programme (HEAIDS) exists to address HIV/AIDS related challenges and to manage HIV/AIDS programmes in Higher Education institutions (HEIs) in South Africa. Despite efforts to mitigate the spread of HIV/ADS among university students, students continue to engage in risky sexual behaviour. Using the Interactive Model of Communication, Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) and the Health Belief Model (HBM), this study analysed the communication tools employed for HIV/AIDS education by student services at four public universities in KwaZulu-Natal. A mixed method approach, consisting of a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were employed to obtain data from 474 university students and 24 health care providers to assess the communication tools utilised in HIV/AIDS education at HEIs. Findings revealed that university students are well informed about HIV/AIDS; however, students’ health seeking behaviour remains poor. Key findings highlighted that students’ reception and interpretation of HIV/AIDS messages are embedded in their autobiographical and socio-cultural circumstances. Thus, in order for HIV/AIDS communication strategies to be effective in influencing positive sexual behaviour among university students, there is need for an assessment of their autobiographical and socio-cultural circumstances in order to understand how students receive and interpret HIV/AIDS messages.
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.
Analysis of the perceptions of crime against tourists in Florida Road, Durban
(2018) Phori, Madiseng Messiah; Mbali, Charlotte
The goal of this study was to investigate the perceptions of crime on tourists eating out at Florida Road in Durban. According to Visser and Rogerson (2004 cited in Goerge and Booyens 2014: 450), although South Africa has been classified as a relatively safe tourist destination, high levels of crime threaten the country’s tourism growth prospects. Crime Stats Simplified (2014) indicates that Durban central is one of the top ten worst precincts in South Africa with high crime rate at 10.9% after Mitchells Plain and Cape Town Central with 17% and 12.2% respectively. Therefore the study focused at the Florida Road since Durban has been a destination of choice for many visitors (Durban Experience 2015), with the aim of analysing the perceptions of crime on tourists eating out at Florida Road. Safety and security are regarded as pillars for tourism growth and destination competitiveness. The main objectives of this research were; to investigate the perceptions of crime on tourists in Florida Road; to determine whether the stakeholders such as police and businesses are doing anything to tackle the issues of crime against tourists; to investigate the stakeholders’ observation about behaviour of tourists in general in relation to safety and security in the area; to what extent does crime affects restaurant businesses that are serving tourists in the area; to make recommendations to what further can be done to prevent crimes against tourists in Florida Road and the province at large. The triangulation methodology was used by employing both quantitative and qualitative methods through descriptive research approach by means of self- administered questionnaires with 42 hospitality workers, UIP security guards & taxi drivers and 10 law-enforcement agencies and interviews and focus group discussions with 5 key informants respectively. The data collected was processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences [SPSS] and NVivo software programmes. The results were analysed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and a thematic analysis. There is a perception that the number of tourists has decreased in the last three years due to the crime and the area is currently experiencing high level of theft of motor vehicles and theft out of motor vehicles. There was a perception of safety and poor visitor experience due to vagrants who poses as car guards to commit crimes. There is a perception that visitors do not make return visits once they become victims of crime and some businesses do closes down or relocate, it is also perceived that businesses experience financial losses due to crime in the study area.
The application of space technology and the challenges of managing water infrastructure in a selected South African municipality
(2023-04) Mokgobu, Matlou Lesley; Mason, Roger Bruce
The installation of water infrastructure in cities poses a challenge to communities, municipalities, and installation contractors. These challenges range from the inaccessibility of streets, the community’s limited access to homes, traffic jams, deep trenches with few or no barricades, leaking water pipes, water supply cut-offs, electricity supply cut-offs, vandalism, and theft of water pipes and accessories. The research problem, therefore, revolves around a better understanding of these water infrastructural problems, how to mitigate such problems caused by inadequate planning, leading, organising, controlling, and coordination by management, arising from various technical aspects of water infrastructure. The need for this study arises from the inconvenience and dangers experienced by communities with heaps of materials lying around causing disturbances to traffic flow, open hazardous trenches becoming dangerous to children playing in their vicinity, vehicle accidents because of the trenches, and damaged kerbs. The study aimed to investigate the challenges of managing water infrastructure in a selected South African municipality to find possible ways to resolve such challenges with the help of space technology. The study achieved the objectives, namely, to identify the challenges experienced by the municipality during and after the installation of water infrastructure; to rank the importance of the experienced challenges; to explore the root causes of the challenges experienced during the installation of water infrastructure; to identify how space technology can help with the management of water infrastructure; to develop a framework of the challenges and the causes; and, to explore water management strategies with the effort of finding possible ways to resolve the challenges. The study was exploratory and applied mixed methods research methodology. Data was collected via a survey (402 City of Tshwane residents), in-depth interviews (20 City of Tshwane managers of the Water Division), and two focus groups (7 participants per group of City of Tshwane contractor managers and contractor employees) through the convergent parallel design method. The quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 27), and the qualitative data was analysed using NVivo version 27, charts, tables, and themes. The results from the three sets of participants indicated multiple challenges related to skills deficits, management deficits, political interference, and inexperienced staff in the water infrastructure division. The findings indicated knowledge, ability and performance gaps in human resources, management, technical skills, financial management, socio-politics, and legal frameworks. The study contributed new knowledge to systems theory regarding the policies, systems, installation and maintenance of water infrastructure, and communication, and these aspects are supported by the findings. The application of space technology on a large scale can help the City of Tshwane fight criminal acts of vandalism and theft of infrastructure. This study found that space technology is still in its infancy in the city, and that the application of this technology requires an elevated level of education, experience and specialised technical skills to operate. This study recommended extensive investment in space technology. The study further recommended that the City of Tshwane improve human resources, training, culture, finance, operations, and control measures. The study recommended further research on the proper use of funds, the causes of community violence against the contractors doing maintenance, investigation of the delays in the procurement of services, turnaround time for the various water infrastructure activities, relationship management between the city employees and the contractors, the impact of lack of reporting by the managers and employees to the superiors in the water infrastructure division, and clearer definition of roles between municipal employees and politicians. More academic research into water infrastructure, based on the use of and relationship between water infrastructure and space technology, is warranted.
Are higher education institutions positioned to reap the dividends of open education resources? : the case of Durban University of Technology
(The Clute Institute, 2013-09) Van der Merwe, Alexander Dawid
The potential benefits of open education resources (OERs) are well documented in the literature. These include cheaper education, improved equity in respect of educational prospects, greater access to higher education opportunities for non-traditional learners, encouraging new modes of collaborative learning and leveraging public funds by sharing knowledge. So compelling are these advantages that leading universities globally are currently experimenting with new business models calibrated to extract value from educational offerings that, increasingly, will be expected to include free content. In spite of the obvious merits of OERs, the open education movement faces challenges which are rooted significantly in educators' perceptions of these resources. This descriptive case study sought to examine the attitudes Durban University of Technology (DUT) faculty have towards OERs with the aim of gauging their capacity to be actively involved as developers and users of these materials. The study found that in spite of respondents' recognition of the advantages of OERs and even a degree of superficial employment of these instructional aids, there appears to be no real open education ethos at the institution. Evidence of this includes the relatively low level of sharing of content amongst faculty an d the consensus of respondents that there is no institutional support for OER initiatives. The study concludes that for the university to retain its relevance in an evolving educational landscape, it should create a framework that will not only create space for OER projects but should also address the very human need for recognition and acknowledgement that developers of free and open content have.
Artificial intelligence–based neural network for the diagnosis of diabetes and COVID
(Universidad Tecnica de Manabi, 2022-07-01) Roland, Gilbert; Kumar, Navin; Gururaj, Bharathi; Richa, Richa; Bobade, Sunil Devidas; Lourens, Melanie Elizabeth
In many nations, the prevalence of diabetes is rising, and its impact on national health cannot be overlooked. Smart medicine is a medical concept in which technology is used to aid in disease detection and treatment. The objective of this study is to take a gander at the information and look at changed diabetic mellitus forecasting algorithms. According to rising dismalness as of late, the quantity of diabetic patients worldwide will arrive at 642 million out of 2040, suggesting that one out of each 10persons would be affected. This worrisome figure, without a question, demands immediate attention. AI has been applied to an assortment of aspects of clinical wellbeing as a result of its rapid progress. To predict diabetes mellitus in this review, we utilized a choice tree, an arbitrary timberland, and a neural organization.
Assessing the effectiveness of an occupational health and safety system in a selected automotive assembly organisation in South Africa
(AOSIS, 2021-01-26) Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani
Background: It has been established that high levels of safety performance are achieved by strong and positive safety climates. Good safety, health and environmental practices reduce the cost of overall healthcare delivery while increasing general productivity. These sentiments underpin the concept of an occupational health and safety (OHS) system. Aim: This study assesses the effectiveness of an OHS in a selected automotive assembly organisation in South Africa. Settings: The automotive organisation that participated in the study has adopted an OHS system. Prior to its implementation, the company experienced an increase in the rate of occupational diseases and injuries. Methods: The study objectives were achieved by examining Health and Safety (H&S) related experiences in the company. The collection of data was carried out in two phases, namely the collection of pre-OHS and post-OHS results from company records for H&S compliance, occupational diseases, as well as workplace injury rates. The pre-OHS results were quarterly data reflecting the company’s H&S performance over the 3-year period prior to the implementation of the OHS system. This company operates in the eThekwini District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. Results: The OHS system has no influence on occupational diseases, or on the workplace injury frequency rates. However, H&S compliance plays a role in the maintenance of the OHS system. Conclusion: In order to maximise performance, a comprehensive OHS policy must be developed that aligns management commitment to the OHS system. Thus, the study uncovered the strengths and weaknesses of OHS in this automotive assembly organisation in South Africa.
Assessing the implementation of the eThekwini Municipality’s military veterans policy
(2023) Zondi, Philani; Molokwane, Serathi
The study was premised on understanding the implementation of the eThekwini Municipal Military Veteran Policy in 2018. The Military Veterans Policy (MVP) aims to help improve the quality of life of Military Veterans and their dependents so that they may realize socio-economic advances years after their role in fighting for democracy ended. Hence, this study aimed to assess the implementation of the eThekwini Military Veterans Policy within the eThekwini Municipality. A qualitative research design based on an interpretive paradigm has been applied for this study using a Critical Theory approach. Arising from the analysed data, a significant discovery revealed insight into who a military veteran is, as well as insight into the issues affecting the implementation of the eThekwini Military Veterans Policy, including insights into who a military veteran is and furthermore, an understanding of the implementation of the eThekwini Military Veterans Policy in the eThekwini Municipality. Additionally, there has been deliberation on the areas of significant weaknesses and ways the eThekwini Municipality can improve their relationship with military veterans in the area. The study offered informed recommendations, prospects for future research, and some conclusions based on the study objectives.
An assessment of the efficiency and effectiveness of Supply Chain Management in the public sector : a case study of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in KwaZulu-Natal region
(2018-09) Nkwanyana, Nontuthuko S'lindile; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
The Supply Chain Management (SCM) concept emanated from the old purchasing models i.e. provisioning and procurement. This model, SCM, received a great deal of attention in both private and public sector organizations. The model was believed to conform to international best practice and thus it was believed to hold the promise of a better purchasing system in the public sector. In this context this research seeks to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of SCM in the public sector, with particular reference to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ and CD) in the KwaZulu Natal (KZN) Region. Research data was obtained by means of quantitative paradigm aided by a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. The questionnaire addressed specific themes pertaining to SCM as well as the objectives of the research project. A total of 129 members of the target population participated in the research. They were selected from various offices in KZN. A purposive sampling technique was applied to select the participants. The researcher was personally involved in the collection of the questionnaires from them. Prior to its administration, the questionnaire was pre-tested for accuracy and clarity. The data collected were analysed by means of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 for Windows, and the research report was evaluated for plagiarism with the use of the computer programme TURNITIN. The research revealed that SCM in the organization under study has contributed significantly to enhancing conformance to the principles of good governance and to service standards. However, challenges associated with capacity deficiencies such as a lack of manpower, information and skills were noted. Finally, in line with the research objectives, the researcher concludes by recommending structural re-engineering, the training and development of employees, supplier education, supply chain planning, and teamwork and partnerships among all stakeholders who contribute to the delivery of goods and services to end customers.
An assessment of the employee assistance programme related to substance abuse : a case study of a selected private hospital in KwaZulu-Natal
(2017) George, Tracy; Chetty, Gopalkrishna
The aim of this study was to assess the employee assistance programme related to substance abuse within a selected private hospital in KwaZulu Natal. A paucity of information within the South African context on how employees with substance abuse problems were being managed within the workplace provided the motivation for this study. The objective of this study was to evaluate existing employee assistance programmes, the line manager model and existing human resource policies and procedures within the selected private hospital. The research design adopted a mixed method approach using a questionnaire, followed by an interview based on findings of the questionnaires. The intended sample size was 185 out of 460 staff and the final return of questionnaires was 219. Of significance is the response rate of over a 40% which implies a margin error of 5%. The data was analysed using the computerised Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS version 22.0 for Windows). This study concluded with the findings that emerged from the research. The findings suggest that employees with substance abuse problems are not being effectively managed and that there are no awareness models apart from the employee wellness provider. The limit of the employee wellness provider is that it markets “employee wellness” rather than an emphasis on substance abuse. A suggestion is that the human resource department and the wellness provider partner in inspiring a substance abuse prevention and assistance campaign. Another recommendation highlights the training of all line managers in identification of recognising employees with substance abuse problems prior to work performance being affected. The study concluded with suggestions for future research in this field.
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.
Barriers to and determinants of funding sustainable development projects in developing countries : a case study of the eThekwini Municipality
(2017) Sangham, Anilrai I.; Msweli, Pumela
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the barriers to and the determinants of funding sustainable development through the implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism at the Bisasar Road and Mariannhill landfill sites. The Clean Development Mechanism is an economic construct, arising out of the Kyoto Protocol (UNFCCC 2004:10), and formulated to promote social and economic welfare by transferring technology in such a manner, that it promotes sustainable development and ecological renewal. The stated goal of CDM (UNFCCC: 10) is to reduce harmful emissions and thereafter, to produce sustainable development and ecological renewal. This research utilised the case study methodology as advocated by Eisenhardt (1989:538). The study employed multiple data collection methodologies which included face-face interviews, within case analysis, triangulation, field notes and photographs. An important component of the data collection methodology was to access financial records of revenue flows for the CDM implementation process from January 2009 to December 2015. The research found that there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that the Clean Development Mechanism, as implemented at Bisasar Road and Mariannhill, reduced carbon emissions. Further, the study found that the production of clean energy produced financial losses rather than revenues for funding sustainable development. The relevance and value of this research lies in the presentation and formatting of the Systematic Sequential Analysis Model. The purpose of the Systematic Sequential Analysis Model is to introduce a series of financial, macro-economic, micro-economic, and technical sustainability filters for the implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism in developing countries.
Brand preference for mobile phones among students at a selected higher education institution
(2017) Ndadziyira, Tafadzwa; Govender, Jeevarathnam Parthasarathy
It is widely evident that the mobile phone industry is facing rapid growth, with the increased introduction of cheaper mobile phones in South Africa intensifying competition between such companies. A number of studies have been conducted in other countries on brand preferences, but there remains a gap in knowledge with regard to the South African market. It was therefore warranted to academically research factors influencing consumer brand preferences when purchasing mobile phones, in order to understand these preferences, and what consumers consider when making such purchases. The rationale of the study was to provide new insights for local marketers into the factors consumers consider most when looking at mobile phone brands. The aim of this study was therefore to determine brand preferences for mobile phones amongst students at a selected higher educational institution in South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative research approach, where the data obtained was descriptive and cross-sectional in nature. The research population was made up of students studying at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), where convenience sampling was performed on a target population of 378 students. The sample size was selected by giving questionnaires to those students most available to the researcher. The results were then analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 24.0 software. Validity was ensured by conducting a pre-test of the questionnaire, and the study’s reliability was measured using Cronbach’s Co-efficient Alpha test. The study findings showed that brand popularity, prices, product attributes, social influences and marketing communications all affect mobile phone brand preferences amongst students. The study results also showed, however, that there were some product attributes and social influences that did not influence these preferences. Recommendations are given to industry players to increase their knowledge of these important factors, to aid with the improvement of their brands and increasing their market preference in this highly competitive industry.
Bridging work experience with academic qualifications to improve employability of business studies graduates in Gauteng
(2023-02) Nkomo, Vuyokazi; Agbenyegah, Albert Tchey
Unemployment is one of South Africa's biggest challenges. The unemployment rate for graduates and others with university degrees currently exceeds 30 percent. Lack of work experience is cited as one of the main reasons for unemployment. Despite the relevance of work experience, there is insufficient evidence in the literature that it is used as the main criterion for recruitment. Previous research has shown that recruiters make recruiting recommendations based on applicants' work experience, overlooking other factors. This thesis examines the association between employment experience and graduate employability. A quantitative approach was utilised, aided by a questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 265 business graduates from the Gauteng province. The questionnaire yielded 124 responses. The data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling. The main results showed that work experience had a positive, but statistically insignificant, impact on graduates' employability. These results suggest that work experience alone is not sufficient to make graduates employable. There are other aspects and skill sets such as behavioural skills, technical skills, strategic skills, and functional skills, which have a significant impact on graduate employability. Key stakeholders in higher education and labour markets should form meaningful partnerships in which they identify and prioritise the employability skills needed to seamlessly transition graduates into the industry. It is recommended that all students should be required to complete a workbased learning course or a structured internship as part of their studies, with students being required to work in the industry for a while before employment. In this way, they would be prepared to integrate into the industry after graduation, having already gained experience during work-based learning. A further recommendation is that employer involvement in course design and delivery could have a positive impact on graduate employability.
Building peace through land access and food security in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda
(2017) Turyamureeba, Robert; Kaye, Sylvia; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas
This study was conducted between November 2015 and March 2016 in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, one of the oldest and largest refugee settlements in Africa. The objectives of the study were to determine the forms and causes of land conflicts in the refugee settlement; to establish the relationship between land conflicts and food security in the Settlement; to identify the strategies refugees adopt to cope with land shortage and food insecurity problems in the Settlement; to establish the residents’ perceptions of the effectiveness of interventions aimed at mitigating land conflicts and enhancing food security in the Settlement and its host communities. Interest in the study arose out of the reported persistence of food insecurity and land conflicts despite efforts to ensure food security and restore peace and security in the refugee settlement and the host communities. The study used exploratory, analytical and descriptive research designs to obtain qualitative primary data. Secondary data was obtained through documentary review. Primary data was collected using interviews, focus group discussion and observation. The study found that land conflicts involve the destruction of crops, livestock and even human lives and they sometimes culminate in costly legal battles in courts of law. They pit the Settlement Commandant against Ugandans in the Settlement, pastoralists against cultivators, pastoralists against pastoralists, cultivators against cultivators, refugees against Ugandans and refugees against refugees. The conflicts also oppose host communities against refugees, conservationists against encroachers on protected land and Ugandans in the Settlement against the government. The study also found the causes to be land-grabbing and fraudulent acquisition of, or claims on, land by unscrupulous people, encroachment on others’ land and protected land, high population growth, the presence of vacant land in the Settlement, competition over increasingly scarce land by cultivators and pastoralists, ambiguous settlement boundaries, contested land ownership, jealousy and antipathy. The study further established that there is a strong positive relationship between land conflicts and food insecurity. Violent land conflicts lead to the maiming and death of farmers, destruction of crops and livestock and deterrence of potential agricultural investors from investing in agriculture, thus lowering food production and increasing food insecurity. Land conflicts also render disputed land idle and therefore unproductive, leading to reduced food production; and, within families, land conflicts lead to land fragmentation which leads to reduced food production and increased food scarcity. Regarding refugee coping mechanisms, the study found that refugees in Nakivale resorted to both positive and negative coping mechanisms. Positive coping mechanisms include establishing small businesses, rural-urban migration, farming, education and resettlement, intermarriage, paid employment, and psychosocial support. Others were: borrowing money, casual labour, networking, remittances, spirituality and religion. Negative mechanisms include: cheating the system and self-integration, prostitution, early marriage, drug abuse, theft and robbery. The study also found that interventions in land conflicts in the Settlement were unsuccessful due to corruption and limited involvement of the beneficiaries. The challenges of implementing refugee policy in the Settlement were identified as limited funding, inadequate coordination and consultation between the district and settlement authorities, xenophobia and an increasing refugee population with insatiable demands. The study recommends the following: demarcation of the boundaries of the Settlement; relocation of some refugees to other settlements in the country; housing scheme for both refugees and nationals in the Settlement to enable everyone to live decently; affordable loans for both refugees and Nationals in the Settlement; introduction of plot numbers to resolve land conflicts among refugees; a structural plan for the Settlement; mechanization of agriculture in the Settlement and increased provision of farming inputs, such as fertilisers to all farmers in the Settlement; coordinated and participatory planning between settlement and district authorities, involving refugees and Nationals.
Capital expenditure, population growth and access to water services in South Africa
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2022-10) Murwirapachena, Genius
Access to sustainable and improved water services is a global concern. In South Africa, households should by law access water services within 200 m of their homes. However, many households still access water from sources more than 200 m away. This study examines the impact of capital expenditure and population growth on access to water services in South Africa. The study highlights access to water services in the country and how it is affected by capital expenditure and population growth. The fixed and random effects estimators are used to analyze panel data for 52 big municipalities during the period 2009 to 2018. Among other findings, the study reports that while capital expenditure improves access to water services, population growth is undoing municipal efforts. Thus, evidence-based planning backed by reliable population growth forecasts is essential for improved access to water services. Studies that quantify the impact of capital expenditure and population growth on access to water services are important as they aid policy formulation and implementation.