Technology adoption in South African call centres
- Authors: Jonker, Yvette
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Call centers -- Technological innovations , Telecommunication , Call centers -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72783 , vital:79261
- Description: Technology adoption is important in the evolution of call centres, where the focus is on automation with minimal human intervention. This study explores the key drivers influencing the adoption of technology in South African call centres. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, the research analyses the constructs of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions. It also looks at specifically the call centre environment, concentrating on the challenges and opportunities available due to technological integration. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to call centre employees, yielding a sample of 141 for statistical analysis. Exploratory factor analysis and multivariate techniques were used to identify relationships between the independent factors and the behavioural intention to adopt new technologies. The findings show that performance expectancy and perceived usefulness are the most significant drivers of technology adoption, followed by effort expectancy and facilitating conditions. Social influence appeared as an important mediator, specifically in environments where management plays a dominant role in driving technology adoption. The study's results contribute to theoretical and practical fields. Theoretically, it extends the application of UTAUT by incorporating insights into the unique behavioural and infrastructural challenges of developing economies. Practically, the research gives recommendations for call centre managers, including specific training, increased technical support and strategies to address resistance to change. These insights are relevant for call centres wanting to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction and customer service through effective technological integration. This study supplements existing literature on technology adoption, focusing on the call centre industry. It provides a foundation for future studies and offers a guideline for companies seeking to optimise adopting and implementing new technologies in call centres. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Jonker, Yvette
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Call centers -- Technological innovations , Telecommunication , Call centers -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72783 , vital:79261
- Description: Technology adoption is important in the evolution of call centres, where the focus is on automation with minimal human intervention. This study explores the key drivers influencing the adoption of technology in South African call centres. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, the research analyses the constructs of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions. It also looks at specifically the call centre environment, concentrating on the challenges and opportunities available due to technological integration. Data were collected through an online questionnaire distributed to call centre employees, yielding a sample of 141 for statistical analysis. Exploratory factor analysis and multivariate techniques were used to identify relationships between the independent factors and the behavioural intention to adopt new technologies. The findings show that performance expectancy and perceived usefulness are the most significant drivers of technology adoption, followed by effort expectancy and facilitating conditions. Social influence appeared as an important mediator, specifically in environments where management plays a dominant role in driving technology adoption. The study's results contribute to theoretical and practical fields. Theoretically, it extends the application of UTAUT by incorporating insights into the unique behavioural and infrastructural challenges of developing economies. Practically, the research gives recommendations for call centre managers, including specific training, increased technical support and strategies to address resistance to change. These insights are relevant for call centres wanting to improve efficiency, employee satisfaction and customer service through effective technological integration. This study supplements existing literature on technology adoption, focusing on the call centre industry. It provides a foundation for future studies and offers a guideline for companies seeking to optimise adopting and implementing new technologies in call centres. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Technology and employment in the alternative banking sector of South Africa
- Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Labor supply -- South Africa -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72821 , vital:79266
- Description: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Labor supply -- South Africa -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Labor market -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72821 , vital:79266
- Description: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Technology and employment in the alternative banking sector of South Africa
- Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- Data processing , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72819 , vital:79267
- Description: Introduction: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. Setting: The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. Aim: The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. Method: The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Results: Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. Conclusion: The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Kahlane, Yamkela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Banks and banking -- Technological innovations , Banks and banking -- Data processing , Banks and banking -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72819 , vital:79267
- Description: Introduction: Technology is advancing and evolving worldwide, and the financial sector, as an economic development engine, is highly impacted on by financial technology. Setting: The study was conducted through an online survey targeting alternative banks in South Africa, involving Corporate Financial Institutions (CFIs), Development Banks (DBs), and Cooperative Banks (CBs. Aim: The study aims to assess the impact of technological advancements on employment in the South African financial sector. Despite the positive contributions made by FinTech in the financial system through improving performance, competitiveness, and efficiencies, continuous investment in technology is believed to have ramifications for employment and job security in the labour market. Method: The study uses theoretical and empirical literature to give insight and background of the phenomenon and provide recommendations to the alternative banking sector for skills enhancement and training required to retain workers. Additionally, the study follows a qualitative method approach in data collection and analysis where, in addition to secondary data, surveys are conducted to assess the severity of automation and job security. Data analysis consists of qualitative data analysed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Results: Data suggests that the institutions adopted basic technology to improve efficiency but have not fully embraced automation or online services. This approach may limit their ability to compete with other financial institutions that offer more technologically advanced services. Conclusion: The study's findings reveal that technology has a small impact on ABS, and organizations provide training to improve employee skills. Adapting to these technological developments remains a challenge for some, while others are evolving. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Temas en tendense in die poësie van Clinton v. du Plessis
- Authors: Milborrow, Selwyn
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 20th century , Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century , Afrikaans literature
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72377 , vital:79217
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore themes and trends in the poetry of Clinton V. du Plessis, with specific focus on selected texts. Du Plessis, a coloured Afrikaans poet, is known for his disapproval of the Afrikaans mainstream publishing industry, and his critical attitude towards the Afrikaans literary canon. This positioning serves as an essential starting point for understanding his work. His debut collection, Geloofsbelydenis van ’n kluisenaar, was published by Perskor in 1984. His self-publications include Flitse (2012), Rangeer (2013), Woorde roes in die water (2014), Verslag (2019), 60 op 60 (2022) and Kaartjies, asseblief (2024). Du Plessis states that a sense of estrangement set in after his debut with Perskor. He reveals to Pearce (2012) that he decided to publish his own work due to the maintenance of a “master narrative” by the Afrikaans literary establishment. He began to self-publish. Nowadays, he posts his poems on Facebook, a social media platform. This shift has gradually led to a movement away from his marginal status. In an interview with Janse Van Rensburg (2018), he confesses that an outsider status holds its own appeal for him, but that it will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Despite his status as a marginal figure, he has crossed the threshold of the canon four times. These paradoxes in Du Plessis’ career cannot be overlooked. While he deliberately adopted the role of a marginal figure, he has received increasing recognition for his poetry over the past decade, including awards, exposure to a broader readership on social media, as well as publications with mainstream publishers. This context creates a canvas on which the themes and trends in Du Plessis’ poetry will be explored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Milborrow, Selwyn
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Afrikaans poetry -- 20th century , Afrikaans poetry -- 21st century , Afrikaans literature
- Language: Afrikaans
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72377 , vital:79217
- Description: The aim of this study is to explore themes and trends in the poetry of Clinton V. du Plessis, with specific focus on selected texts. Du Plessis, a coloured Afrikaans poet, is known for his disapproval of the Afrikaans mainstream publishing industry, and his critical attitude towards the Afrikaans literary canon. This positioning serves as an essential starting point for understanding his work. His debut collection, Geloofsbelydenis van ’n kluisenaar, was published by Perskor in 1984. His self-publications include Flitse (2012), Rangeer (2013), Woorde roes in die water (2014), Verslag (2019), 60 op 60 (2022) and Kaartjies, asseblief (2024). Du Plessis states that a sense of estrangement set in after his debut with Perskor. He reveals to Pearce (2012) that he decided to publish his own work due to the maintenance of a “master narrative” by the Afrikaans literary establishment. He began to self-publish. Nowadays, he posts his poems on Facebook, a social media platform. This shift has gradually led to a movement away from his marginal status. In an interview with Janse Van Rensburg (2018), he confesses that an outsider status holds its own appeal for him, but that it will become increasingly difficult to maintain. Despite his status as a marginal figure, he has crossed the threshold of the canon four times. These paradoxes in Du Plessis’ career cannot be overlooked. While he deliberately adopted the role of a marginal figure, he has received increasing recognition for his poetry over the past decade, including awards, exposure to a broader readership on social media, as well as publications with mainstream publishers. This context creates a canvas on which the themes and trends in Du Plessis’ poetry will be explored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communication, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The 4IR influence on business performance and customer satisfaction in the South African retail industry
- Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
- Authors: Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Performance , Business -- Evaluation , Industrial revolution
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71970 , vital:79162
- Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping global business landscapes by introducing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics. In the context of the South African retail industry, understanding how 4IR influences business performance and customer satisfaction (CS) is essential for maintaining competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth. This study investigates the impact of 4IR on business performance, and customer satisfaction, using digital marketing strategies (DMS), and customer experience (CX) as intervening variables. A mixed-method approach was employed to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to customers, enabling the measurement of relationships among 4IR, DMS, and CX. Qualitative data, derived from semi-structured interviews with industry experts, provided a deeper contextual understanding of how 4IR and DMS influence business performance and CS in real-world retail environments. The findings reveal that 4IR technologies significantly contribute to operational efficiency, supply chain management, and the generation of data-driven insights, thereby enhancing both business performance and customer satisfaction. A strong positive relationship emerged between 4IR and DMS, indicating that the integration of advanced tools, such as AI-driven personalisation, substantially improves DMS efficiency. However, 4IR’s direct influence on CX was not found to be significant, suggesting that while technologies like tap-to-pay and IoT improve convenience, they do not alone elevate the overall CX. Furthermore, DMS demonstrated no significant direct effect on CX, implying that its benefits must be combined with service quality for meaningful improvements. In contrast, DMS had a pronounced positive impact on business performance by boosting customer acquisition, retention, and revenue. Finally, the study showed that enhanced CX, marked by seamless navigation and personalisation, significantly drives CS and brand loyalty. Building on these insights, the study developed a strategic framework for retail digital transformation, providing a structured approach for retailers to integrate 4IR technologies effectively. This framework emphasises the need for a balanced combination of technology adoption and integration, human capital development, process optimisation, ethical and strategic governance, evaluation and continous improvement and collaborative ecosystem development to maximise business performance and long-term customer engagement. This research highlights the crucial role of 4IR in shaping modern retail practices in South Africa as the adoption of advanced 4IR technologies and effective DMS can substantially improve operational processes and financial outcomes. However, to translate these advancements into memorable CXs, retailers must align technological innovations with high service quality and personalisation efforts. These findings bear significant implications for retail managers, policymakers, and marketers, as they highlight the necessity of strategic investments in both technology and customer-centric practices. Future studies could explore cross-cultural contexts and longitudinal assessments to further validate the influence of 4IR-driven retail strategies on business performance and customer satisfaction. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Badaru, Sefeoluwa Oluwarotimi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Performance , Business -- Evaluation , Industrial revolution
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71970 , vital:79162
- Description: The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping global business landscapes by introducing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics. In the context of the South African retail industry, understanding how 4IR influences business performance and customer satisfaction (CS) is essential for maintaining competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth. This study investigates the impact of 4IR on business performance, and customer satisfaction, using digital marketing strategies (DMS), and customer experience (CX) as intervening variables. A mixed-method approach was employed to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to customers, enabling the measurement of relationships among 4IR, DMS, and CX. Qualitative data, derived from semi-structured interviews with industry experts, provided a deeper contextual understanding of how 4IR and DMS influence business performance and CS in real-world retail environments. The findings reveal that 4IR technologies significantly contribute to operational efficiency, supply chain management, and the generation of data-driven insights, thereby enhancing both business performance and customer satisfaction. A strong positive relationship emerged between 4IR and DMS, indicating that the integration of advanced tools, such as AI-driven personalisation, substantially improves DMS efficiency. However, 4IR’s direct influence on CX was not found to be significant, suggesting that while technologies like tap-to-pay and IoT improve convenience, they do not alone elevate the overall CX. Furthermore, DMS demonstrated no significant direct effect on CX, implying that its benefits must be combined with service quality for meaningful improvements. In contrast, DMS had a pronounced positive impact on business performance by boosting customer acquisition, retention, and revenue. Finally, the study showed that enhanced CX, marked by seamless navigation and personalisation, significantly drives CS and brand loyalty. Building on these insights, the study developed a strategic framework for retail digital transformation, providing a structured approach for retailers to integrate 4IR technologies effectively. This framework emphasises the need for a balanced combination of technology adoption and integration, human capital development, process optimisation, ethical and strategic governance, evaluation and continous improvement and collaborative ecosystem development to maximise business performance and long-term customer engagement. This research highlights the crucial role of 4IR in shaping modern retail practices in South Africa as the adoption of advanced 4IR technologies and effective DMS can substantially improve operational processes and financial outcomes. However, to translate these advancements into memorable CXs, retailers must align technological innovations with high service quality and personalisation efforts. These findings bear significant implications for retail managers, policymakers, and marketers, as they highlight the necessity of strategic investments in both technology and customer-centric practices. Future studies could explore cross-cultural contexts and longitudinal assessments to further validate the influence of 4IR-driven retail strategies on business performance and customer satisfaction. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The application of section 197 of the labour relations act 66 of 1995 on termination of service-level agreements
- Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
- Authors: Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72168 , vital:79194
- Description: Striking a balance between the rights of employees to fair labour practices, the primary objective of the Labour Relations Act1 to advance economic development which essentially entails ensuring job security versus employers’ rights to fair labour practices has caused a significant hurdle in the employment and industrial law arena. In an endeavour to bridge this gap, section 197 of the LRA was legislated to ensure the job security of the employees during the transfer of businesses by one employer to another, whilst also ensuring smooth transfer and stability of businesses during such transfers. Section 197 of the LRA suggests that employees are automatically transferred to a new employer in the event of a business being transferred as a going concern in accordance with section 197 of the LRA.2 1 66 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mthembu-Luthuli, Nomzamo Vuyiswa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Employees -- Dismissal of -- South Africa , Labor laws and legislation -- South Africa , Labor disputes -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72168 , vital:79194
- Description: Striking a balance between the rights of employees to fair labour practices, the primary objective of the Labour Relations Act1 to advance economic development which essentially entails ensuring job security versus employers’ rights to fair labour practices has caused a significant hurdle in the employment and industrial law arena. In an endeavour to bridge this gap, section 197 of the LRA was legislated to ensure the job security of the employees during the transfer of businesses by one employer to another, whilst also ensuring smooth transfer and stability of businesses during such transfers. Section 197 of the LRA suggests that employees are automatically transferred to a new employer in the event of a business being transferred as a going concern in accordance with section 197 of the LRA.2 1 66 , Thesis (LLM) -- Faculty of Law, School of Mercantile Law, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The asymmetric relationship between credit cycle and business cycle in South Africa
- Authors: Sotashe, Mlibo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Credit -- South Africa , Business cycles -- South Africa , Financial literacy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73709 , vital:79497
- Description: Understanding the relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa is essential due to their significant impact on economic growth, financial stability, and employment. Given the country's history of financial volatility and structural economic challenges, analysing how private and public sector credit fluctuations influence business cycles provides crucial insights for policy formulation, risk management, and sustainable economic development. This study investigates the asymmetric relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa, focusing on both private and public sector credit. The objective is to understand how credit dynamics interact with business cycles and inform monetary and fiscal policies aimed at mitigating procyclicality and enhancing macroeconomic stability. To achieve this objective, this study used quarterly data from 1980Q1 to 2024Q1 from the South African Reserve Bank and employed the Linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL), Non-linear ARDL (NARDL), and Three-Regime Threshold ARDL (TARDL) models to analyse both long- and short-run dynamics. Stationarity tests, the Hodrick-Prescott filter for cyclical components, and the Brock-Dechert-Scheinkman (BDS) test for nonlinearity were also applied. The key findings are that a strong long- and short-term relationship exists between credit and the business cycle in South Africa. Private sector credit significantly drives business cycle fluctuations, but its impact is temporary. Credit expansions are procyclical, boosting growth during upswings, while contractions deepen downturns. Public sector credit has a limited influence, with occasional countercyclical effects. Bidirectional causality between credit and the business cycle underscores the need for policy interventions to manage credit-driven volatility. The procyclical relationship between credit and business cycles amplifies economic vulnerabilities, threatening financial stability by creating feedback loops that may lead to defaults, liquidity crises, and widening income inequality as vulnerable groups face restricted access to credit. To mitigate these risks, policymakers must adopt countercyclical measures, such as tightening credit during booms and providing stimulus during recessions, while reinforcing regulatory frameworks to safeguard financial stability. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing South Africa’s economic and financial stability by addressing procyclical credit cycles. Key measures include strengthening countercyclical capital buffers for banks, establishing fiscal stabilization funds, and investing in advanced financial monitoring systems for timely interventions. Additionally, promoting financial literacy can help reduce over-indebtedness, encourage responsible borrowing, and foster long-term stability and inclusive growth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sotashe, Mlibo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Credit -- South Africa , Business cycles -- South Africa , Financial literacy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73709 , vital:79497
- Description: Understanding the relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa is essential due to their significant impact on economic growth, financial stability, and employment. Given the country's history of financial volatility and structural economic challenges, analysing how private and public sector credit fluctuations influence business cycles provides crucial insights for policy formulation, risk management, and sustainable economic development. This study investigates the asymmetric relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa, focusing on both private and public sector credit. The objective is to understand how credit dynamics interact with business cycles and inform monetary and fiscal policies aimed at mitigating procyclicality and enhancing macroeconomic stability. To achieve this objective, this study used quarterly data from 1980Q1 to 2024Q1 from the South African Reserve Bank and employed the Linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL), Non-linear ARDL (NARDL), and Three-Regime Threshold ARDL (TARDL) models to analyse both long- and short-run dynamics. Stationarity tests, the Hodrick-Prescott filter for cyclical components, and the Brock-Dechert-Scheinkman (BDS) test for nonlinearity were also applied. The key findings are that a strong long- and short-term relationship exists between credit and the business cycle in South Africa. Private sector credit significantly drives business cycle fluctuations, but its impact is temporary. Credit expansions are procyclical, boosting growth during upswings, while contractions deepen downturns. Public sector credit has a limited influence, with occasional countercyclical effects. Bidirectional causality between credit and the business cycle underscores the need for policy interventions to manage credit-driven volatility. The procyclical relationship between credit and business cycles amplifies economic vulnerabilities, threatening financial stability by creating feedback loops that may lead to defaults, liquidity crises, and widening income inequality as vulnerable groups face restricted access to credit. To mitigate these risks, policymakers must adopt countercyclical measures, such as tightening credit during booms and providing stimulus during recessions, while reinforcing regulatory frameworks to safeguard financial stability. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing South Africa’s economic and financial stability by addressing procyclical credit cycles. Key measures include strengthening countercyclical capital buffers for banks, establishing fiscal stabilization funds, and investing in advanced financial monitoring systems for timely interventions. Additionally, promoting financial literacy can help reduce over-indebtedness, encourage responsible borrowing, and foster long-term stability and inclusive growth. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The asymmetric relationship between credit cycle and business cycle in South Africa
- Authors: Sotashe, Mlibo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Business cycles -- South Africa , Credit , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73710 , vital:79496
- Description: Understanding the relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa is essential due to their significant impact on economic growth, financial stability, and employment. Given the country's history of financial volatility and structural economic challenges, analysing how private and public sector credit fluctuations influence business cycles provides crucial insights for policy formulation, risk management, and sustainable economic development. This study investigates the asymmetric relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa, focusing on both private and public sector credit. The objective is to understand how credit dynamics interact with business cycles and inform monetary and fiscal policies aimed at mitigating procyclicality and enhancing macroeconomic stability. To achieve this objective, this study used quarterly data from 1980Q1 to 2024Q1 from the South African Reserve Bank and employed the Linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL), Non-linear ARDL (NARDL), and Three-Regime Threshold ARDL (TARDL) models to analyse both long- and short-run dynamics. Stationarity tests, the Hodrick-Prescott filter for cyclical components, and the Brock-Dechert-Scheinkman (BDS) test for nonlinearity were also applied. The key findings are: 1) A strong long- and short-term relationship exists between credit and the business cycle in South Africa. 2) Private sector credit significantly drives business cycle fluctuations, but its impact is temporary. 3) Credit expansions are procyclical, boosting growth during upswings, while contractions deepen downturns. 4) Public sector credit has a limited influence, with occasional countercyclical effects. 5) Bidirectional causality between credit and the business cycle underscores the need for policy interventions to manage credit-driven volatility. The procyclical relationship between credit and business cycles amplifies economic vulnerabilities, threatening financial stability by creating feedback loops that may lead to defaults, liquidity crises, and widening income inequality as vulnerable groups face restricted access to credit. To mitigate these risks, policymakers must adopt countercyclical measures, such as tightening credit during booms and providing stimulus during recessions, while reinforcing regulatory frameworks to safeguard financial stability. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing South Africa’s economic and financial stability by addressing procyclical credit cycles. Key measures include strengthening countercyclical capital buffers for banks, establishing fiscal stabilization funds, and investing in advanced financial monitoring systems for timely interventions. Additionally, promoting , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sotashe, Mlibo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Business cycles -- South Africa , Credit , Economics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73710 , vital:79496
- Description: Understanding the relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa is essential due to their significant impact on economic growth, financial stability, and employment. Given the country's history of financial volatility and structural economic challenges, analysing how private and public sector credit fluctuations influence business cycles provides crucial insights for policy formulation, risk management, and sustainable economic development. This study investigates the asymmetric relationship between credit cycles and business cycles in South Africa, focusing on both private and public sector credit. The objective is to understand how credit dynamics interact with business cycles and inform monetary and fiscal policies aimed at mitigating procyclicality and enhancing macroeconomic stability. To achieve this objective, this study used quarterly data from 1980Q1 to 2024Q1 from the South African Reserve Bank and employed the Linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL), Non-linear ARDL (NARDL), and Three-Regime Threshold ARDL (TARDL) models to analyse both long- and short-run dynamics. Stationarity tests, the Hodrick-Prescott filter for cyclical components, and the Brock-Dechert-Scheinkman (BDS) test for nonlinearity were also applied. The key findings are: 1) A strong long- and short-term relationship exists between credit and the business cycle in South Africa. 2) Private sector credit significantly drives business cycle fluctuations, but its impact is temporary. 3) Credit expansions are procyclical, boosting growth during upswings, while contractions deepen downturns. 4) Public sector credit has a limited influence, with occasional countercyclical effects. 5) Bidirectional causality between credit and the business cycle underscores the need for policy interventions to manage credit-driven volatility. The procyclical relationship between credit and business cycles amplifies economic vulnerabilities, threatening financial stability by creating feedback loops that may lead to defaults, liquidity crises, and widening income inequality as vulnerable groups face restricted access to credit. To mitigate these risks, policymakers must adopt countercyclical measures, such as tightening credit during booms and providing stimulus during recessions, while reinforcing regulatory frameworks to safeguard financial stability. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing South Africa’s economic and financial stability by addressing procyclical credit cycles. Key measures include strengthening countercyclical capital buffers for banks, establishing fiscal stabilization funds, and investing in advanced financial monitoring systems for timely interventions. Additionally, promoting , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The career development of Walt Disney: a psychobiography
- Authors: Singh, Romisha
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Disney, Walt, -- 1901-1966 , Animators -- United States -- Biography , Career development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73673 , vital:79493
- Description: The concept of career development has evolved over the years. This evolution has brought about multiple theoretical frameworks that share characteristics that were designed to achieve the same purpose. In an attempt to alleviate the use of multiple theoretical frameworks, especially stage-based frameworks, that serve the same purpose, the Career Development Framework was created. The Career Development Framework is a synthesised theoretical framework created from the developmental tasks and the career development views from three existing frameworks. Through the application of the psychobiographical approach, the Career Development Framework lens was utilised to explore, describe and interpret Walt Disney’s career development. Disney was noted to have engaged in multiple jobs, roles, and responsibilities throughout his career, some of which were engaged in simultaneously. He was also noted to have aggressively committed to career goal attainment even at the expense of his health and relationships. The findings demonstrated the complex career of an entrepreneur who spent the majority of his life forging a career that garnered recognition and respect from the entertainment industry as well as the world. Even though Disney began working in his late teens, he only attained success, respect and recognition after the success of Disneyland in 1955. However, his joy and satisfaction were short-lived as he succumbed to lung cancer at the age of 65. In his quest for greatness, Disney faced many challenges and overcame many obstacles. As a result, his career behaviours reflected an individual who engaged in numerous developmental tasks across multiple phases consistently and simultaneously. This finding therefore suggested that his career developed in a non-linear manner. Despite several challenges, the study yielded valuable findings. Through the use of the Career Development Framework, the psychobiographical study on Disney’s career development inferred that career is a unique experience for each individual and therefore develops in a unique manner. It also alluded to the finding that a set number of tasks and a rigid view on career development can fail to illustrate the career development of an individual holistically. Moreover, the study found that individuals engage in behaviours that are shaped by their experiences, thus not all tasks are relevant to every individual. Therefore, it is inferred that incomplete tasks and tasks not attempted, do not necessarily have negative outcomes. Likewise, the successful completion of tasks does not necessarily result in positive outcomes. Thus, through the use of the Career Development Framework, Disney’s career behaviours and development allude to his legacy and his status as an extraordinary individual who impacted the lives of many. While this is the first psychobiographical study to use the Career Development Framework, the study supports the view that a synthesised framework is more beneficial. Therefore, the researcher recommends further use of the theoretical framework on various extraordinary individuals, across an array of careers. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Singh, Romisha
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Disney, Walt, -- 1901-1966 , Animators -- United States -- Biography , Career development
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73673 , vital:79493
- Description: The concept of career development has evolved over the years. This evolution has brought about multiple theoretical frameworks that share characteristics that were designed to achieve the same purpose. In an attempt to alleviate the use of multiple theoretical frameworks, especially stage-based frameworks, that serve the same purpose, the Career Development Framework was created. The Career Development Framework is a synthesised theoretical framework created from the developmental tasks and the career development views from three existing frameworks. Through the application of the psychobiographical approach, the Career Development Framework lens was utilised to explore, describe and interpret Walt Disney’s career development. Disney was noted to have engaged in multiple jobs, roles, and responsibilities throughout his career, some of which were engaged in simultaneously. He was also noted to have aggressively committed to career goal attainment even at the expense of his health and relationships. The findings demonstrated the complex career of an entrepreneur who spent the majority of his life forging a career that garnered recognition and respect from the entertainment industry as well as the world. Even though Disney began working in his late teens, he only attained success, respect and recognition after the success of Disneyland in 1955. However, his joy and satisfaction were short-lived as he succumbed to lung cancer at the age of 65. In his quest for greatness, Disney faced many challenges and overcame many obstacles. As a result, his career behaviours reflected an individual who engaged in numerous developmental tasks across multiple phases consistently and simultaneously. This finding therefore suggested that his career developed in a non-linear manner. Despite several challenges, the study yielded valuable findings. Through the use of the Career Development Framework, the psychobiographical study on Disney’s career development inferred that career is a unique experience for each individual and therefore develops in a unique manner. It also alluded to the finding that a set number of tasks and a rigid view on career development can fail to illustrate the career development of an individual holistically. Moreover, the study found that individuals engage in behaviours that are shaped by their experiences, thus not all tasks are relevant to every individual. Therefore, it is inferred that incomplete tasks and tasks not attempted, do not necessarily have negative outcomes. Likewise, the successful completion of tasks does not necessarily result in positive outcomes. Thus, through the use of the Career Development Framework, Disney’s career behaviours and development allude to his legacy and his status as an extraordinary individual who impacted the lives of many. While this is the first psychobiographical study to use the Career Development Framework, the study supports the view that a synthesised framework is more beneficial. Therefore, the researcher recommends further use of the theoretical framework on various extraordinary individuals, across an array of careers. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The contribution of gender bonds towards women’s economic empowerment in South Africa
- Authors: Klaas, Avuyonke
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Women -- Economic conditions , Women -- Employment , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72857 , vital:79272
- Description: Gender inequalities in developing countries continue to hinder the potential of women globally. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated gender inequalities in developing countries. The United Nations emphasises the need to empower women and girls by providing economic resources to achieve sustainable development. Because gender bonds are still in their early stages of development, there is no primary data on them in South Africa, hence a secondary data approach was used. The primary goal of this research was to explore the impact of gender bonds on women's economic empowerment in South Africa. Data were acquired from two impact reports, eight International Capital Markets Association frameworks, two country reports, seven YouTube success stories, two second-party opinion reports, two disbursement reports, three issuance toolkits, two external reviewers' reports, and academic articles which were utilised to analyse the outcomes, outputs and impacts of the gender bonds. The analysis revealed that gender bonds contribute towards women’s economic empowerment. Furthermore, South Africa should consider issuing a gender bond that prioritises rural women, working in productive sectors, coupled with technical skills development, and should consider the South African context when considering borrowers by business size and borrowers by age, and bond issuers should collaborate on social impact investing. This study showed that gender bonds contribute not just to SDG 5 (gender equality), but to many other SDGs such as SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality basic education), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption). The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on gender bonds and women’s economic empowerment in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Klaas, Avuyonke
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Women -- Economic conditions , Women -- Employment , Economic development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72857 , vital:79272
- Description: Gender inequalities in developing countries continue to hinder the potential of women globally. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated gender inequalities in developing countries. The United Nations emphasises the need to empower women and girls by providing economic resources to achieve sustainable development. Because gender bonds are still in their early stages of development, there is no primary data on them in South Africa, hence a secondary data approach was used. The primary goal of this research was to explore the impact of gender bonds on women's economic empowerment in South Africa. Data were acquired from two impact reports, eight International Capital Markets Association frameworks, two country reports, seven YouTube success stories, two second-party opinion reports, two disbursement reports, three issuance toolkits, two external reviewers' reports, and academic articles which were utilised to analyse the outcomes, outputs and impacts of the gender bonds. The analysis revealed that gender bonds contribute towards women’s economic empowerment. Furthermore, South Africa should consider issuing a gender bond that prioritises rural women, working in productive sectors, coupled with technical skills development, and should consider the South African context when considering borrowers by business size and borrowers by age, and bond issuers should collaborate on social impact investing. This study showed that gender bonds contribute not just to SDG 5 (gender equality), but to many other SDGs such as SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 4 (quality basic education), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption). The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on gender bonds and women’s economic empowerment in South Africa. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The contribution of the expanded public works programme infrastructure sector to alleviate conditions of poverty
- Authors: Jacobs, Andrew
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: South Africa -- Expanded Public Works Programme , Public works -- South Africa , Poverty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:79254
- Description: Almost 30 years after the end of apartheid South Africa continues to experience the highest rates of unemployment, poverty and inequality in the world. This has the potential to result in massive socio-economic instability. Renewed interest has been identified in public works programmes, which has the potential to contribute towards reducing the triple burden of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The protection and creation of jobs through public employment programmes, including the creation of jobs through the traditional Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), has become an important part of South Africa’s strategy for economic growth and stability. The aim of this study was to contribute to a deeper insight into the capacity of the EPWP to contribute towards reducing unemployment and poverty to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities and set out to: - Explore how employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP has contributed to the household income of the beneficiaries. Explore how the income received from employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP is used within the households. Identify and explore the skills the beneficiaries have developed by participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. Explore the perceived experiences of the beneficiaries’ participation in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. A qualitative case study design was employed to explore the insights and experiences of the beneficiaries participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM). Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the current and former EPWP beneficiaries in BCM to understand the experiential lens of the participants. The findings indicated that income received from EPWP employment is a valuable supplement to household income, enabling households to manage under conditions of increasing costs of living. Key shortcomings of the EPWP include the temporary nature of benefits, low income levels, inadequate training and inability to improve future employability. The study revealed the importance of income relief provided through short-term employment under EPWP for those unemployed beneficiaries living in conditions of poverty. Despite its shortcomings, the potential of EPWP as a policy tool to assist low-skilled unemployed workers to cope with economic shocks in the short term cannot be ignored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Jacobs, Andrew
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: South Africa -- Expanded Public Works Programme , Public works -- South Africa , Poverty -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:79254
- Description: Almost 30 years after the end of apartheid South Africa continues to experience the highest rates of unemployment, poverty and inequality in the world. This has the potential to result in massive socio-economic instability. Renewed interest has been identified in public works programmes, which has the potential to contribute towards reducing the triple burden of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The protection and creation of jobs through public employment programmes, including the creation of jobs through the traditional Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), has become an important part of South Africa’s strategy for economic growth and stability. The aim of this study was to contribute to a deeper insight into the capacity of the EPWP to contribute towards reducing unemployment and poverty to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities and set out to: - Explore how employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP has contributed to the household income of the beneficiaries. Explore how the income received from employment under the infrastructure sector of EPWP is used within the households. Identify and explore the skills the beneficiaries have developed by participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. Explore the perceived experiences of the beneficiaries’ participation in the infrastructure sector of EPWP. A qualitative case study design was employed to explore the insights and experiences of the beneficiaries participating in the infrastructure sector of EPWP in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM). Data was collected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews with the current and former EPWP beneficiaries in BCM to understand the experiential lens of the participants. The findings indicated that income received from EPWP employment is a valuable supplement to household income, enabling households to manage under conditions of increasing costs of living. Key shortcomings of the EPWP include the temporary nature of benefits, low income levels, inadequate training and inability to improve future employability. The study revealed the importance of income relief provided through short-term employment under EPWP for those unemployed beneficiaries living in conditions of poverty. Despite its shortcomings, the potential of EPWP as a policy tool to assist low-skilled unemployed workers to cope with economic shocks in the short term cannot be ignored. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The dangers of neglecting indigenous games: the case of Zimbane village
- Authors: Sobantu, Zizo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Indigenous peoples--Games , Games -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Culture -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70415 , vital:78349
- Description: This study is significant as it delves into the neglect of Indigenous games in the Zimbane Village in Mthatha. Its objectives are to investigate the challenges facing these games and contribute to the Anthropology of Sport, particularly regarding the Zimbane Village in the Eastern Cape. Furthermore, this study aims to provide recommendations to address the challenges related to these games, thereby contributing to the preservation of the cultural heritage. The study follows a qualitative approach, incorporating interviews, semi-structured interviews, and participant observations. To supplement these data techniques, relevant secondary data, including scholarly texts and journals, were used to validate indigenous game issues. The researcher adhered to the ethical protocol from the start to the end of this research project. Cultural preservation was used as a conceptual framework to understand the perspectives of the participants in Zimbane Village. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sobantu, Zizo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Indigenous peoples--Games , Games -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Culture -- Research -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/70415 , vital:78349
- Description: This study is significant as it delves into the neglect of Indigenous games in the Zimbane Village in Mthatha. Its objectives are to investigate the challenges facing these games and contribute to the Anthropology of Sport, particularly regarding the Zimbane Village in the Eastern Cape. Furthermore, this study aims to provide recommendations to address the challenges related to these games, thereby contributing to the preservation of the cultural heritage. The study follows a qualitative approach, incorporating interviews, semi-structured interviews, and participant observations. To supplement these data techniques, relevant secondary data, including scholarly texts and journals, were used to validate indigenous game issues. The researcher adhered to the ethical protocol from the start to the end of this research project. Cultural preservation was used as a conceptual framework to understand the perspectives of the participants in Zimbane Village. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The economic empowerment of women in rural arts and crafts making: the case of Cegcuwana village
- Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and craft movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72519 , vital:79234
- Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Science, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and craft movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72519 , vital:79234
- Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Science, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The economic empowerment of women in rural arts and crafts making: the case of Cegcuwana village
- Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and crafts movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Artists -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72514 , vital:79233
- Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sitoto, Khanyisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Empowerment -- Women , Arts and crafts movement -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Artists -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72514 , vital:79233
- Description: This study focuses on the contribution of arts and crafts projects to the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The key research questions are as follows: Which challenges are women facing with regard to arts and crafts projects in Cengcuwana? What is the relationship between these projects and women's empowerment in the village? How do women make sense of these projects, and how do they respond to the fact that they work in a space dominated by men? In this study, the data were collected using a qualitative research method. This involved conducting interviews with 15 participants from the Cegcuwana Village in Umtata, in the Eastern Cape. The interviews were conducted physically; with the researcher going into the field to interact with the participants to observe and engage them while they were creating their products. The data were recorded in IsiXhosa and transcribed into English. The conceptual framework is used to understand the challenges facing women in the Cegcuwana Village regarding gender inequality. Finally, the study reveals that these arts and crafts projects provide them with economic freedom; they also assist them in preserving and promoting their heritage to maintain their identity. It is recommended that further research is necessary to investigate the challenges facing these projects. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effect of business banking on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises in the city of Cape Town
- Authors: Tshongweni, Siviwe
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Small business -- Finance , Banks and banking -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73766 , vital:79531
- Description: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) serve as the backbone of economies in developed and developing countries, significantly contributing to job creation, innovation, and economic growth. However, many SMEs encounter challenges in accessing sufficient financial resources, which limits their potential for sustainable development. This study examined the effect of business banking on the financial performance of SMEs in the manufacturing sector of Cape Town. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 29.0 was used for quantitative data analysis. A self-administered five-point Likert scale questionnaire was distributed to 184 participants, resulting in a 72% response rate and 132 valid responses. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed using Cronbach’s α, yielding an overall value of 0.760, which is deemed acceptable for exploratory research and close to the threshold for excellent reliability. The findings indicate that BFS and BBS had the strongest positive influence on the financial performance of SMEs, with regression analysis showing significant predictive power for BFS (β = 0.287, p = 0.001) and BBS (β = 0.177, p = 0.032). Additionally, CR (β = 0.245, p = 0.004) demonstrated a notable relationship, though its restrictive nature posed challenges for SMEs. FIA indicated a marginal direct effect on the financial performance of SMEs but revealed potential when coupled with financial literacy programmes and digital tools. Correlation analysis confirmed moderate to high associations between BFS and BBS with financial performance. A one-way ANOVA indicated significant group differences based on financial access and the utilisation of banking services. Homogeneity testing further validated the robustness of the ANOVA results, ensuring reliable findings. The study recommends revising collateral policies to incorporate alternative security options, increasing access to flexible financing solutions, and enhancing tailored banking services for SMEs. It also emphasises the importance of financial literacy initiatives and the integration of digital tools to maximise the utility of FIA. It is suggested that, in future research, sample sizes should be expanded for greater generalisability, and the study should be replicated in other South African provinces to capture regional differences. A mixed methods approach could be adopted to integrate qualitative insights. Incorporating these suggestions in future research would enhance understanding and support targeted interventions. This study highlights the critical role of business banking in SME development, providing actionable insights and strategies to address financial challenges and support SMEs in achieving sustainable growth in the evolving economic landscape of Cape Town. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Tshongweni, Siviwe
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Small business -- Finance , Banks and banking -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73766 , vital:79531
- Description: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) serve as the backbone of economies in developed and developing countries, significantly contributing to job creation, innovation, and economic growth. However, many SMEs encounter challenges in accessing sufficient financial resources, which limits their potential for sustainable development. This study examined the effect of business banking on the financial performance of SMEs in the manufacturing sector of Cape Town. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 29.0 was used for quantitative data analysis. A self-administered five-point Likert scale questionnaire was distributed to 184 participants, resulting in a 72% response rate and 132 valid responses. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed using Cronbach’s α, yielding an overall value of 0.760, which is deemed acceptable for exploratory research and close to the threshold for excellent reliability. The findings indicate that BFS and BBS had the strongest positive influence on the financial performance of SMEs, with regression analysis showing significant predictive power for BFS (β = 0.287, p = 0.001) and BBS (β = 0.177, p = 0.032). Additionally, CR (β = 0.245, p = 0.004) demonstrated a notable relationship, though its restrictive nature posed challenges for SMEs. FIA indicated a marginal direct effect on the financial performance of SMEs but revealed potential when coupled with financial literacy programmes and digital tools. Correlation analysis confirmed moderate to high associations between BFS and BBS with financial performance. A one-way ANOVA indicated significant group differences based on financial access and the utilisation of banking services. Homogeneity testing further validated the robustness of the ANOVA results, ensuring reliable findings. The study recommends revising collateral policies to incorporate alternative security options, increasing access to flexible financing solutions, and enhancing tailored banking services for SMEs. It also emphasises the importance of financial literacy initiatives and the integration of digital tools to maximise the utility of FIA. It is suggested that, in future research, sample sizes should be expanded for greater generalisability, and the study should be replicated in other South African provinces to capture regional differences. A mixed methods approach could be adopted to integrate qualitative insights. Incorporating these suggestions in future research would enhance understanding and support targeted interventions. This study highlights the critical role of business banking in SME development, providing actionable insights and strategies to address financial challenges and support SMEs in achieving sustainable growth in the evolving economic landscape of Cape Town. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effect of language policy on language experiences of students in higher education micro spaces
- Authors: Dani, Zizipho Paillis
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Language and education -- South Africa , Language planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72240 , vital:79201
- Description: This study explored how the implementation of language policies or lack thereof within micro spaces in educational institutions can affect the language experience of the students in these spaces. The micro spaces that this study refers to are classrooms, social spaces, and residences in institutions of higher education and learning. Institutions of higher education and training have developed language policies that are in place, but these policies concentrate more on the corporate and pedagogical side of the institutions, excluding the micro spaces, although they still exist in the institution. In addition, the study explored matters about language policy in the academic spaces of Basic and Higher Education Institutions. It investigated the effect of the implementation of the institutional language policies of South African higher education institutions on the micro spaces that form part of the institution and how it has affected students living in these spaces who have experienced it. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide evidence of the growing need for research focused on language in these spaces. The participants of the study were aged from 18–65, because the age range covered both the lecturers who teach using English as the main mode of instruction, as per their institutional language policies, and the students who are taught using English as a Second or First Additional Language. The questionnaire was disseminated via social media outlets, garnering responses from 70 participants, while those interviewed consisted of 18 participants comprising nine lecturers and nine students. The study uses belonging as a lens through which the language experiences are analysed of South African students in educational spaces. The findings of this study indicate that the National Language Policy, which was formulated to promote multilingualism, advocates for equality of all the official languages and upholds the redress measures that are set out in the Constitution of South Africa, has not been implemented, monitored and evaluated effectively within Higher Education. This lack of implementation can be attributed to the lack of monitoring and evaluation, resources and knowledge surrounding the policies. The concept of multilingualism under the guidelines taken from the policies of different higher education institutions and the DHET language policy is discussed as a possible solution or gateway to bridging what many may refer to as an identified gap. Multilingual tools such as translanguaging, code-switching and code-meshing are already being utilised in some classrooms and spaces but cannot be utilised as the only solution in the long run. The study has also identified the need for language policies that are specific to domestic and social spaces in the institutions as means to mitigate confusion, bullying, esteem issues and the risks that may arise from having one dominant language in such spaces. Some learners are of the belief that their academic journey would have had a more positive impact if they had been able to express themselves better in English or if they had been taught in their native language. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communications, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Dani, Zizipho Paillis
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Language policy -- South Africa , Language and education -- South Africa , Language planning -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72240 , vital:79201
- Description: This study explored how the implementation of language policies or lack thereof within micro spaces in educational institutions can affect the language experience of the students in these spaces. The micro spaces that this study refers to are classrooms, social spaces, and residences in institutions of higher education and learning. Institutions of higher education and training have developed language policies that are in place, but these policies concentrate more on the corporate and pedagogical side of the institutions, excluding the micro spaces, although they still exist in the institution. In addition, the study explored matters about language policy in the academic spaces of Basic and Higher Education Institutions. It investigated the effect of the implementation of the institutional language policies of South African higher education institutions on the micro spaces that form part of the institution and how it has affected students living in these spaces who have experienced it. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide evidence of the growing need for research focused on language in these spaces. The participants of the study were aged from 18–65, because the age range covered both the lecturers who teach using English as the main mode of instruction, as per their institutional language policies, and the students who are taught using English as a Second or First Additional Language. The questionnaire was disseminated via social media outlets, garnering responses from 70 participants, while those interviewed consisted of 18 participants comprising nine lecturers and nine students. The study uses belonging as a lens through which the language experiences are analysed of South African students in educational spaces. The findings of this study indicate that the National Language Policy, which was formulated to promote multilingualism, advocates for equality of all the official languages and upholds the redress measures that are set out in the Constitution of South Africa, has not been implemented, monitored and evaluated effectively within Higher Education. This lack of implementation can be attributed to the lack of monitoring and evaluation, resources and knowledge surrounding the policies. The concept of multilingualism under the guidelines taken from the policies of different higher education institutions and the DHET language policy is discussed as a possible solution or gateway to bridging what many may refer to as an identified gap. Multilingual tools such as translanguaging, code-switching and code-meshing are already being utilised in some classrooms and spaces but cannot be utilised as the only solution in the long run. The study has also identified the need for language policies that are specific to domestic and social spaces in the institutions as means to mitigate confusion, bullying, esteem issues and the risks that may arise from having one dominant language in such spaces. Some learners are of the belief that their academic journey would have had a more positive impact if they had been able to express themselves better in English or if they had been taught in their native language. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Language, Media and Communications, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effect of regional integration on socio-economic development in countries of the Southern African customs union: the case of South Africa and Botswana 2000-2020
- Authors: Liwela, Ncumisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Customs unions -- South Africa , Customs unions -- Botswana , Economic development -- Africa -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72298 , vital:79208
- Description: Globally, regional integration is becoming extensively important and significant, particularly in developing economies like those in Africa. The primary reason for its broad and wide adoption is its capacity to uphold and promote long-term improvements in economic productivity and living standards, boost economic growth, facilitate trade and enhance access to crucial and significant resources. Regional integration is an intrinsic aspect of developing economies and is considered a feasible policy alternative in modern literature for addressing various political, economic and sociological concerns. This study looks into the effect of regional integration in the context of socio- economic development in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), focusing on South Africa and Botswana from the year 2000 to 2020. Socio- economic development in this context refers to economic growth, employment levels, income distribution, poverty reduction and overall improvements in living standards. The research investigates how SACU’s regional integration framework- through trade policies, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and economic cooperation- has influenced these socio-economic indicators in the two countries. A quantitative research design is employed, utilising secondary data analysis to measure the impact of SACU’s policies on key socio-economic variables. Economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, trade flows and income disparities are analysed to assess the extent to which regional integration has contributed to sustainable development and economic convergence. The findings reveal that while SACU has facilitated trade and economic collaboration, persistent structural inequalities, policy misalignments and external economic challenges have and still constrains its effectiveness in fostering equitable socio-economic development. The study concludes with policy recommendations to enhance regional integration’s role in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth within SACU. This research contributes to the understanding of regional integration’s potential to drive socio-economic development in Southern Africa and offers insights for future policy directions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences,2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Liwela, Ncumisa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Customs unions -- South Africa , Customs unions -- Botswana , Economic development -- Africa -- 21st century
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72298 , vital:79208
- Description: Globally, regional integration is becoming extensively important and significant, particularly in developing economies like those in Africa. The primary reason for its broad and wide adoption is its capacity to uphold and promote long-term improvements in economic productivity and living standards, boost economic growth, facilitate trade and enhance access to crucial and significant resources. Regional integration is an intrinsic aspect of developing economies and is considered a feasible policy alternative in modern literature for addressing various political, economic and sociological concerns. This study looks into the effect of regional integration in the context of socio- economic development in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), focusing on South Africa and Botswana from the year 2000 to 2020. Socio- economic development in this context refers to economic growth, employment levels, income distribution, poverty reduction and overall improvements in living standards. The research investigates how SACU’s regional integration framework- through trade policies, revenue-sharing mechanisms, and economic cooperation- has influenced these socio-economic indicators in the two countries. A quantitative research design is employed, utilising secondary data analysis to measure the impact of SACU’s policies on key socio-economic variables. Economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, trade flows and income disparities are analysed to assess the extent to which regional integration has contributed to sustainable development and economic convergence. The findings reveal that while SACU has facilitated trade and economic collaboration, persistent structural inequalities, policy misalignments and external economic challenges have and still constrains its effectiveness in fostering equitable socio-economic development. The study concludes with policy recommendations to enhance regional integration’s role in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth within SACU. This research contributes to the understanding of regional integration’s potential to drive socio-economic development in Southern Africa and offers insights for future policy directions. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Humanities, School of Governmental and Social Sciences,2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies towards addressing output gaps in South Africa
- Authors: Gcadana, Nqabisa Mary
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fiscal policy -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72702 , vital:79249
- Description: The study examined fiscal and monetary policies' effectiveness in addressing the output gap in South Africa. The study used the HP filter formula on EViews to calculate the output gap values. Fiscal policy was measured by two proxies, government expenditure and government revenue, while monetary policy was also proxied by two variables: prime lending rate and money supply. The study employed two research techniques, NLADRL and SVAR, using data from the period 1980 to 2021. The theories that underpinned the study are Keynesian, monetarist, and business cycles. The NLARDL results show the countercyclical nature of fiscal policy via government expenditure and the positive cycle of government expenditure that exhibited a negative relationship and is statistically significant. However, in the short term, the positive cycle of government expenditure exhibited a negative relationship and are statistically significant association with the output gap, while the monetary policy, via the prime lending rate, exhibits a procyclical relationship. There is a positive relationship between the prime lending rate and the output gap, while the negative cycle of the prime lending rate that is significant statistically at 1 percent, thus, the positive cycle of the prime lending rate p-value 0.85 is statistically insignificant. The variance decomposition of the output gap variables in the SVAR analysis reveals significant differences in how the explanatory variables respond to shocks. Overall, the prime lending rate emerges as the most impactful shock affecting the South African economy during recessionary periods. Given the outcomes of the study showing that both the fiscal and monetary policies are not effective as opt to be, the study then suggest that structural reforms should be considered in South Africa and the matter of structural adjustment are discussed under the chapter of literature review. The study concludes that whilst both fiscal and monetary policies are essential tools to address output gaps in South Africa, structural constraints must be addressed. The study suggests that there is an urgent need for the implementation of structural reforms to sustain economic growth in South Africa. It is recommended that South African policymakers pay special attention to the structural constraints that continue to neutralise the effect of both fiscal and monetary policies in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Gcadana, Nqabisa Mary
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fiscal policy -- South Africa , Monetary policy -- South Africa , Economic indicators -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72702 , vital:79249
- Description: The study examined fiscal and monetary policies' effectiveness in addressing the output gap in South Africa. The study used the HP filter formula on EViews to calculate the output gap values. Fiscal policy was measured by two proxies, government expenditure and government revenue, while monetary policy was also proxied by two variables: prime lending rate and money supply. The study employed two research techniques, NLADRL and SVAR, using data from the period 1980 to 2021. The theories that underpinned the study are Keynesian, monetarist, and business cycles. The NLARDL results show the countercyclical nature of fiscal policy via government expenditure and the positive cycle of government expenditure that exhibited a negative relationship and is statistically significant. However, in the short term, the positive cycle of government expenditure exhibited a negative relationship and are statistically significant association with the output gap, while the monetary policy, via the prime lending rate, exhibits a procyclical relationship. There is a positive relationship between the prime lending rate and the output gap, while the negative cycle of the prime lending rate that is significant statistically at 1 percent, thus, the positive cycle of the prime lending rate p-value 0.85 is statistically insignificant. The variance decomposition of the output gap variables in the SVAR analysis reveals significant differences in how the explanatory variables respond to shocks. Overall, the prime lending rate emerges as the most impactful shock affecting the South African economy during recessionary periods. Given the outcomes of the study showing that both the fiscal and monetary policies are not effective as opt to be, the study then suggest that structural reforms should be considered in South Africa and the matter of structural adjustment are discussed under the chapter of literature review. The study concludes that whilst both fiscal and monetary policies are essential tools to address output gaps in South Africa, structural constraints must be addressed. The study suggests that there is an urgent need for the implementation of structural reforms to sustain economic growth in South Africa. It is recommended that South African policymakers pay special attention to the structural constraints that continue to neutralise the effect of both fiscal and monetary policies in South Africa. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effects of iloprost treatment on molecular and neurocognitive responses to inhibited il-4r alpha function in a mouse model of trypanosomiasis
- Authors: Olaolu, Oluwashola Samuel
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Neurobiology , Cognition , Human Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76155 , vital:80168
- Description: The development of neurological disorders following trypanosome brain infection has been recognized for over a century. However, a comprehensive understanding of the neurocognitive and neuropathological changes associated with such infection and their progression remains a work in progress. Concurrently, there is ongoing research aimed at identifying innovative and effective trypanocidal compounds. Current therapeutic strategies are shifting toward the pharmacological activation of classical macrophage type-2 (M2) phenotype induced by IL-4 or IL-13 anti-inflammatory cytokines. Unlike proinflammatory M1 macrophages, which contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, M2 macrophages exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, promoting healing and reducing pathological immune responses. Targeting M2 polarization has emerged as a promising strategy for treating inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and tissue injuries, by leveraging the body's innate mechanisms of immune modulation and repair. This study aims to investigate whether prostacyclin analogue (Iloprost) treatment against CNS Trypanosoma brucei infection would beneficially affect cognitive and anxiety-like behaviours in IL-4/IL-13-expressing mice, with the additional aim to understand whether trypanosome-induced pathological alterations in neurocognitive processes can be therapeutically reversed and to delineate the underpinned molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. A total of eighty male albino Swiss mice (8-10 weeks old) were used for the study, comprising sixteen mice for the pilot study and sixty-four mice for the main experiment. They were divided into two groups (n=32 per group); mice with pharmacologically inhibited interleukin 4 receptor (IL-4Rα┴) and their wild-type (WT) littermates. At day 4 (D4) post-infection with Trypanosoma brucei brucei, both WT and IL-4Rα┴ infected mice received repeated intraperitoneal injections of Iloprost (200μg/kg) for 3 days. Thereafter, the animals were assessed for locomotion, anxiety-like behaviour and reference memory using the open field test, elevated plus maze and novel object recognition task respectively. Blood samples were collected for parasitaemia and hemogram tests. The expression of target gene transcripts in the prefrontal cortices (PFC) and hippocampal (HPC) tissues was quantified using RT-PCR. Also, cytokine expression and methylation profiling were assessed using ELISA and EZ DNA methylation kits, respectively. IL-4R inhibition induced systemic inflammation in IL-4Rα┴ mice, whereas Iloprost treatment reversed this. Molecular analysis reveals downregulation of IL-4Rα genes in both the PFC and HPC of IL-4Rα┴ mice with IL-4 and IL-4Rα genes exhibiting decreased expression only in the HPC of IL-4Rα┴ infected mice, suggesting distinct regional responses to infection. Furthermore, IL-4Rα in synergy with Iloprost treatments not only reversed downregulated BDNF gene expression in the PFC but also attenuated the downregulation of TNF-α genes in both brain regions, while simultaneously suppressing the presence of trypanosome parasites in the CNS parenchyma by decreasing Pfr gene expression, NO, NF-κB and CXCL-10 levels in the PFC and HPC. The study further revealed hypomethylation within the promoter regions of IL-4, IL-4R, IL-13 and BDNF genes in both PFC and HPC of WT mice. In contrast, there was significant hypermethylation at xvi TNF-α, IL-4R, IL-4 and IL-13 promoter regions in the PFC and HPC of the Iloprost-treated infected groups for both WT and IL-4Rα┴ mice. Iloprost significantly (P<0.05) increased NF-kB levels but markedly decreased TNF-α in the HPC and PFC. This study revealed that Iloprost promotes angiogenesis and suppresses trypanosome-induced inflammation. IL-4 plays a role in cognitive learning, and prostacyclin is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, Iloprost treatment enhanced both IL-4 and IL-13 signalling, and contributed to the reversal of anxiety-like behaviours and cognitive deficits induced by CNS trypanosome infection. The findings suggest that Iloprost plays a significant role in suppressing neuroinflammation in trypanosome-infected mice and that activation of IL-4Rα pathway via upregulation of BDNF and IL-4 signalling, may contribute to the neuroprotective effects of Iloprost against cognitive challenge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Olaolu, Oluwashola Samuel
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Neurobiology , Cognition , Human Physiology
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76155 , vital:80168
- Description: The development of neurological disorders following trypanosome brain infection has been recognized for over a century. However, a comprehensive understanding of the neurocognitive and neuropathological changes associated with such infection and their progression remains a work in progress. Concurrently, there is ongoing research aimed at identifying innovative and effective trypanocidal compounds. Current therapeutic strategies are shifting toward the pharmacological activation of classical macrophage type-2 (M2) phenotype induced by IL-4 or IL-13 anti-inflammatory cytokines. Unlike proinflammatory M1 macrophages, which contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, M2 macrophages exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, promoting healing and reducing pathological immune responses. Targeting M2 polarization has emerged as a promising strategy for treating inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and tissue injuries, by leveraging the body's innate mechanisms of immune modulation and repair. This study aims to investigate whether prostacyclin analogue (Iloprost) treatment against CNS Trypanosoma brucei infection would beneficially affect cognitive and anxiety-like behaviours in IL-4/IL-13-expressing mice, with the additional aim to understand whether trypanosome-induced pathological alterations in neurocognitive processes can be therapeutically reversed and to delineate the underpinned molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. A total of eighty male albino Swiss mice (8-10 weeks old) were used for the study, comprising sixteen mice for the pilot study and sixty-four mice for the main experiment. They were divided into two groups (n=32 per group); mice with pharmacologically inhibited interleukin 4 receptor (IL-4Rα┴) and their wild-type (WT) littermates. At day 4 (D4) post-infection with Trypanosoma brucei brucei, both WT and IL-4Rα┴ infected mice received repeated intraperitoneal injections of Iloprost (200μg/kg) for 3 days. Thereafter, the animals were assessed for locomotion, anxiety-like behaviour and reference memory using the open field test, elevated plus maze and novel object recognition task respectively. Blood samples were collected for parasitaemia and hemogram tests. The expression of target gene transcripts in the prefrontal cortices (PFC) and hippocampal (HPC) tissues was quantified using RT-PCR. Also, cytokine expression and methylation profiling were assessed using ELISA and EZ DNA methylation kits, respectively. IL-4R inhibition induced systemic inflammation in IL-4Rα┴ mice, whereas Iloprost treatment reversed this. Molecular analysis reveals downregulation of IL-4Rα genes in both the PFC and HPC of IL-4Rα┴ mice with IL-4 and IL-4Rα genes exhibiting decreased expression only in the HPC of IL-4Rα┴ infected mice, suggesting distinct regional responses to infection. Furthermore, IL-4Rα in synergy with Iloprost treatments not only reversed downregulated BDNF gene expression in the PFC but also attenuated the downregulation of TNF-α genes in both brain regions, while simultaneously suppressing the presence of trypanosome parasites in the CNS parenchyma by decreasing Pfr gene expression, NO, NF-κB and CXCL-10 levels in the PFC and HPC. The study further revealed hypomethylation within the promoter regions of IL-4, IL-4R, IL-13 and BDNF genes in both PFC and HPC of WT mice. In contrast, there was significant hypermethylation at xvi TNF-α, IL-4R, IL-4 and IL-13 promoter regions in the PFC and HPC of the Iloprost-treated infected groups for both WT and IL-4Rα┴ mice. Iloprost significantly (P<0.05) increased NF-kB levels but markedly decreased TNF-α in the HPC and PFC. This study revealed that Iloprost promotes angiogenesis and suppresses trypanosome-induced inflammation. IL-4 plays a role in cognitive learning, and prostacyclin is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, Iloprost treatment enhanced both IL-4 and IL-13 signalling, and contributed to the reversal of anxiety-like behaviours and cognitive deficits induced by CNS trypanosome infection. The findings suggest that Iloprost plays a significant role in suppressing neuroinflammation in trypanosome-infected mice and that activation of IL-4Rα pathway via upregulation of BDNF and IL-4 signalling, may contribute to the neuroprotective effects of Iloprost against cognitive challenge. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The effects of seasonality on the thermal physiology of Bradypodion ventrale in Gqeberha, South Africa
- Authors: Ibarzabal, Ivana Catherine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Reptile culture , Chameleons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lizards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75810 , vital:80037
- Description: Understanding if species respond to seasonal changes in their environments through phenotypic flexibility in their thermal physiological variables is the first step in understanding how species may be able to cope with large scale climate change. There is a relative lack of an understanding of chameleons thermal biology and how they may respond to seasonal changes, thus the over-arching aim of this investigation was to assess whether Bradypodion ventrale, an endemic South African species, displays variation in their thermal physiological variables across the four seasons (i.e. summer, autumn, winter, and spring. My objective was to conduct a seasonal comparison of preferred body temperature (Tpref) and both the upper (CTmax) and lower (CTmin) critical thermal limits in B. ventrale. For my second objective, I conducted experiments to assess optimal performance temperature (Topt) for digestion in summer. Here, my aim was to describe the relationship between temperature and digestive performance for B. ventrale, measured as gut passage time (GP) and apparent digestive efficiency (ADE). The aims of the investigation were addressed by collecting 104 individuals of B. ventrale (n= 44 males and n= 60 females) in Gqeberha, South Africa, and quantifying their thermal physiological variables within a laboratory. The Tpref was assessed using a standard cost-free thermal gradient approach, with trials conducted within each of the seasons. The CTmin and CTmax were assessed by temporarily exposing individuals to extreme temperatures of -2 oC and 47 oC, respectively, while making use of the righting response method to assess the body temperature associated with the point where individuals could no longer right themselves, and thus would be unable to evade threats. A T-type thermocouple was used to take body temperature measurements’ by inserting the T-type thermocouple probe in to the cloaca of an individual. Sex and site type (urban vs natural) were also considered, due to previous studies noting differences in lizards thermal physiological traits and these factors, but showed no significant results. It was further hypothesized that the Tpref, CTmin, and CTmax of B. ventrale would show seasonal differences, based on the observation that lizards have displayed seasonal variation in their thermal physiological variables. The Topt for digestion was assessed by collecting 25 B. ventrale individuals from natural habitats in Gqeberha and acclimating them for 7 Days, in groups of 5, to one of 5 set temperatures (22 oC, 25 oC, 29 oC, 31 oC, and 33oC). The GP time was quantified by inserting a small pieces of colourful plastic (2 x 2 x 0.5 mm3) in to a cricket that was subsequently ingested by a VI chameleon and monitoring the length of time taken to excrete the plastic. Digestive efficiency was assessed by monitoring cricket consumption and faeces production, then making use of a bomb calorimeter to determine the energetic content and substituted the output into an equation (McConnachie and Alexander 2004) to calculate the ADE. Given previous work on reptiles showing that GP generally shows a negative relationship with temperature, it was hypothesized that GP would decrease with increasing experimental temperature. In contrast, it was hypothesized that ADE would not be influenced by experimental temperature, this was based on the finding of past studies. Overall, the study revealed that B. ventrale showed seasonal acclimation in their Tpref and CTmin, but not in their CTmax. My study found that B. ventrale displayed a higher Tpref and CTmin in summer, compared to the other seasons. In contrast, B. ventrale showed no seasonal differences in their CTmax. Furthermore, my study also showed that their digestive performance is thermally dependent at the experimental temperatures used. Gut passage time had a negative relationship with temperature, showing that GP was only significantly longer at 22 oC. Experimental temperatures did have a significant influence on the ADE of B. ventrale, who displayed inconsistent trends in their thermal dependence between the experimental temperatures. No significant difference was observed between ADE at 25 oC or ADE at 33 oC, but ADE at 29 oC was significantly lower, compared to the other experimental temperatures. Apparent digestive efficiency could not be determined at 22 oC due to the low volume of faeces produced, thus 25 oC was the lowest temperature tested for ADE. Collectively, the thermal physiological variables studied offers us some insights into the thermal niche of B. ventrale. Furthermore, the findings suggest that B. ventrale displays seasonal acclimitization in their Tpref and CTmin and a high Topt for digestion, implying that the species may be able to persist despite the predicted 1 – 2.3 oC projected temperature increase for Gqeberha, being limited only by their CT , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Ibarzabal, Ivana Catherine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Reptile culture , Chameleons -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lizards -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75810 , vital:80037
- Description: Understanding if species respond to seasonal changes in their environments through phenotypic flexibility in their thermal physiological variables is the first step in understanding how species may be able to cope with large scale climate change. There is a relative lack of an understanding of chameleons thermal biology and how they may respond to seasonal changes, thus the over-arching aim of this investigation was to assess whether Bradypodion ventrale, an endemic South African species, displays variation in their thermal physiological variables across the four seasons (i.e. summer, autumn, winter, and spring. My objective was to conduct a seasonal comparison of preferred body temperature (Tpref) and both the upper (CTmax) and lower (CTmin) critical thermal limits in B. ventrale. For my second objective, I conducted experiments to assess optimal performance temperature (Topt) for digestion in summer. Here, my aim was to describe the relationship between temperature and digestive performance for B. ventrale, measured as gut passage time (GP) and apparent digestive efficiency (ADE). The aims of the investigation were addressed by collecting 104 individuals of B. ventrale (n= 44 males and n= 60 females) in Gqeberha, South Africa, and quantifying their thermal physiological variables within a laboratory. The Tpref was assessed using a standard cost-free thermal gradient approach, with trials conducted within each of the seasons. The CTmin and CTmax were assessed by temporarily exposing individuals to extreme temperatures of -2 oC and 47 oC, respectively, while making use of the righting response method to assess the body temperature associated with the point where individuals could no longer right themselves, and thus would be unable to evade threats. A T-type thermocouple was used to take body temperature measurements’ by inserting the T-type thermocouple probe in to the cloaca of an individual. Sex and site type (urban vs natural) were also considered, due to previous studies noting differences in lizards thermal physiological traits and these factors, but showed no significant results. It was further hypothesized that the Tpref, CTmin, and CTmax of B. ventrale would show seasonal differences, based on the observation that lizards have displayed seasonal variation in their thermal physiological variables. The Topt for digestion was assessed by collecting 25 B. ventrale individuals from natural habitats in Gqeberha and acclimating them for 7 Days, in groups of 5, to one of 5 set temperatures (22 oC, 25 oC, 29 oC, 31 oC, and 33oC). The GP time was quantified by inserting a small pieces of colourful plastic (2 x 2 x 0.5 mm3) in to a cricket that was subsequently ingested by a VI chameleon and monitoring the length of time taken to excrete the plastic. Digestive efficiency was assessed by monitoring cricket consumption and faeces production, then making use of a bomb calorimeter to determine the energetic content and substituted the output into an equation (McConnachie and Alexander 2004) to calculate the ADE. Given previous work on reptiles showing that GP generally shows a negative relationship with temperature, it was hypothesized that GP would decrease with increasing experimental temperature. In contrast, it was hypothesized that ADE would not be influenced by experimental temperature, this was based on the finding of past studies. Overall, the study revealed that B. ventrale showed seasonal acclimation in their Tpref and CTmin, but not in their CTmax. My study found that B. ventrale displayed a higher Tpref and CTmin in summer, compared to the other seasons. In contrast, B. ventrale showed no seasonal differences in their CTmax. Furthermore, my study also showed that their digestive performance is thermally dependent at the experimental temperatures used. Gut passage time had a negative relationship with temperature, showing that GP was only significantly longer at 22 oC. Experimental temperatures did have a significant influence on the ADE of B. ventrale, who displayed inconsistent trends in their thermal dependence between the experimental temperatures. No significant difference was observed between ADE at 25 oC or ADE at 33 oC, but ADE at 29 oC was significantly lower, compared to the other experimental temperatures. Apparent digestive efficiency could not be determined at 22 oC due to the low volume of faeces produced, thus 25 oC was the lowest temperature tested for ADE. Collectively, the thermal physiological variables studied offers us some insights into the thermal niche of B. ventrale. Furthermore, the findings suggest that B. ventrale displays seasonal acclimitization in their Tpref and CTmin and a high Topt for digestion, implying that the species may be able to persist despite the predicted 1 – 2.3 oC projected temperature increase for Gqeberha, being limited only by their CT , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04