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    The implications of grassroots soccer development and management for socio-economic development within the eThekwini Municipal area : KwaZulu-Natal
    (2021-10) Sihamba, Taurayi; Parker, Kudayja Mahommed
    This study aimed to determine the implications of grassroots soccer development for socio-economic development within the eThekwini Municipal Area in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. The study employed a mixed research approach. Quantitative data was collected from 218 players at 11 grassroots soccer academies, using a survey questionnaire. While qualitative data was collected from four government officials and 11 representatives (management and coaches) from the grassroots soccer academies, using semi-structured interviews. The study found that grassroots soccer development influences youth developmental aspects of emotional development and social behaviour. The study further found that in line with both local and international studies, while the initial intent of grassroots soccer development programmes is to benefit the players involved, the benefits extend beyond individual development to benefit the society at large. For example, reduced crime as a result of sport contributes to safer communities. Study participants believed that policy implementation by the Department of Sport and Recreation is ineffective as far as grassroots soccer development is concerned. Lack of policy effectiveness is due to the absence of proper policy implementation caused by the confusion amongst key stakeholders in terms of their roles and functions as well as lack of budgetary support in line with the existing policies. Political influence was also highlighted as a serious problem from an administrative point of view. Pertaining to the extent to which grassroots soccer contribute towards the development of elite football, the study found that grassroots soccer development academies have the potential to play an important role in moulding young players to be successful professional soccer players. However, lack of funding poses a challenge that hampers policy implementation across all key stakeholders. The problem is more pronounced at the club level as they are the final implementers of such programmes. The study also found that sports participation was limited due to the lack of critical resources such as the soccer regalia and the finances required, especially when teams have to compete at tournaments
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    Business modelling for the quality control and commercialisation of engineered nano-materials
    (2021-08) Hezekiah, Oladimeji; Singh, Shalini
    Nanotechnology is viewed by many as the technology that will create new opportunities for wealth and job creation. Meanwhile, despite nanotechnology’s shuddering of the global economy, breaking into the markets have been increasingly onerous for many reasons. This study investigates emerging applications and the commercialisation of nanotechnology materials. It also deals with the opportunities and challenges associated with the possible acceleration of the commercialisation of applications of nanotechnology materials. Significant factors influencing the acceleration of nanotechnology materials onto the markets were identified through a series of literature reviews and surveys conducted with nanotechnology researchers. Common characteristics for the achievement of the successful commercialisation of nano-induced products were identified. This study adopted a purposive sampling technique. The study population for the survey was made up of active researchers. The reliability test of the survey items was internally consistent with a Cronbach's alpha index of α = 0.926. Qualitative analyses entailed the researchers in nanotechnology who were interviewed through the Delphi technique. Quantitative results were obtained in the study through a hybrid technique of the Analytical Hierarchy Process and the Data Envelopment Analysis (AHP/DEA). This research identified and evaluated several critical factors for the effective commercialisation of nanotechnology and engineered nano-materials (ENMs) through a review of recent and current literature, as well as suggestions of academic experts in nanotechnology through the Delphi method. Thirty-four (34) critical factors grouped into ten (10) dimensions were identified and evaluated for importance and subsequently for priority scaling. The framework for this research used a hybrid approach of the Analytical Hierarchy Process and the Data Envelopment Analysis (AHP/DEA) The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique was implemented in the evaluation of these critical factors for effective nanotechnology commercialisation decision-making. Furthermore, the DEA was suitably used in validating the AHP priority model obtained. This analytical approach provided support for quality control and the commercialisation of the decision-making process. The study concluded by proposing a framework to provide scientific knowledge that will help researchers, technology investors and managers in the commercialisation process of nanotechnology and engineered nanomaterials. A strong recommendation was made for robust fundamental research for viable commercial production and improvement for the enhancement of a nano ethic.