The emergence of privately managed terminals within selected ports in Africa: their effectiveness and shortfalls
- Authors: Tsotsotso, Molapo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Freight and freightage -- Africa , Shipping -- Economic aspects -- Africa , Business logistics -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73781 , vital:79537
- Description: The study examines the rise of privately managed terminals within selected African ports, analysing their effectiveness and shortcomings. A qualitative methodology was employed, combining thematic analysis of interview data with an extensive literature review. This approach explored the transition of port management from public to private entities in regions such as Southern, Western, North and East Africa. These public entities demonstrated a lack of capacity, expertise and technological advancement to run state of the art ports in order to benchmark themselves against the best in the world. The private sector deployed lot of capital and expertise to turn the fortunes around. Findings reveal that privatisation has significantly improved port operations, infrastructure, and efficiency by leveraging private sector investment and technological advancement. However, challenges such as insufficient peripheral infrastructure, political interference, and labour concerns persist, hampering the full potential of private participation. Notable examples include Maputo and Tangier Med, which showcased successful integration of private operators and public cooperation, while others, such as Durban, grapple with systemic inefficiencies despite privatisation efforts which are contested at the courts. The longer that case takes, the longer it will take to privatise. The study underscores the need for a holistic and implementable framework that aligns port operations with national socio-economic goals, ensuring equitable benefits for all stakeholders such as increase traffic, increase government taxes, competitive advantage, highly trained workforce and improved world ranking of the port, amongst other benefits. Future studies should address long-term socio-environmental impacts and optimising public-private partnerships in the African maritime sector. , Thesis (MMM) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Tsotsotso, Molapo
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Freight and freightage -- Africa , Shipping -- Economic aspects -- Africa , Business logistics -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73781 , vital:79537
- Description: The study examines the rise of privately managed terminals within selected African ports, analysing their effectiveness and shortcomings. A qualitative methodology was employed, combining thematic analysis of interview data with an extensive literature review. This approach explored the transition of port management from public to private entities in regions such as Southern, Western, North and East Africa. These public entities demonstrated a lack of capacity, expertise and technological advancement to run state of the art ports in order to benchmark themselves against the best in the world. The private sector deployed lot of capital and expertise to turn the fortunes around. Findings reveal that privatisation has significantly improved port operations, infrastructure, and efficiency by leveraging private sector investment and technological advancement. However, challenges such as insufficient peripheral infrastructure, political interference, and labour concerns persist, hampering the full potential of private participation. Notable examples include Maputo and Tangier Med, which showcased successful integration of private operators and public cooperation, while others, such as Durban, grapple with systemic inefficiencies despite privatisation efforts which are contested at the courts. The longer that case takes, the longer it will take to privatise. The study underscores the need for a holistic and implementable framework that aligns port operations with national socio-economic goals, ensuring equitable benefits for all stakeholders such as increase traffic, increase government taxes, competitive advantage, highly trained workforce and improved world ranking of the port, amongst other benefits. Future studies should address long-term socio-environmental impacts and optimising public-private partnerships in the African maritime sector. , Thesis (MMM) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The five stages of grief: perceptions of its Relevance within the South African context
- Authors: Domann, Celeste
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Grief -- Psychological aspects , Bereavement -- Psychological aspects , Loss (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74522 , vital:79738
- Description: Death and the grief that accompanies it are universal human experiences. However, the perception of these events varies significantly from context to context, with nuances in their expression. The Five Stage Model of Grief, conceptualised by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, is accepted as a universal model of the death and grieving process, gaining global recognition and precedence over other theories and models of grief. However, the findings leading to the development of the Kübler-Ross model were based entirely on the observation of Western participants who were dying, not bereaved individuals, prompting questions about its generalisability generally and to experiences of grief specifically. This study aimed to address the gap in understanding the phenomenon of grief in South Africa by focusing on psychologists and their experiences of grief and the application of the Kübler-Ross model. The global South relies on traditions and rituals as part of the grieving process, which the Five Stages of Grief model does not fully encompass. The study thus aimed to explore the relevance of the Five Stages of Grief model in contemporary South African and global contexts from the perspective of psychologists who have primary experience with grief counselling. The population from which the sample was drawn were HPCSA-registered clinical and counselling psychologists as well as registered counsellors who work with clients experiencing death and grief. The study drew on the qualitative research method, focusing on understanding and discovering the meanings of experiences, behaviours, and individual life histories. The study found that the Kübler-Ross model has applicability to the South African context but that cultural experiences may produce the need for a more critical application of the stages of grief. The study concludes that the Kübler-Ross model can be utilised, provided it is done so with criticality and adapted to the cultural and religious belief systems from within which grief is being expressed. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Domann, Celeste
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Grief -- Psychological aspects , Bereavement -- Psychological aspects , Loss (Psychology)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74522 , vital:79738
- Description: Death and the grief that accompanies it are universal human experiences. However, the perception of these events varies significantly from context to context, with nuances in their expression. The Five Stage Model of Grief, conceptualised by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, is accepted as a universal model of the death and grieving process, gaining global recognition and precedence over other theories and models of grief. However, the findings leading to the development of the Kübler-Ross model were based entirely on the observation of Western participants who were dying, not bereaved individuals, prompting questions about its generalisability generally and to experiences of grief specifically. This study aimed to address the gap in understanding the phenomenon of grief in South Africa by focusing on psychologists and their experiences of grief and the application of the Kübler-Ross model. The global South relies on traditions and rituals as part of the grieving process, which the Five Stages of Grief model does not fully encompass. The study thus aimed to explore the relevance of the Five Stages of Grief model in contemporary South African and global contexts from the perspective of psychologists who have primary experience with grief counselling. The population from which the sample was drawn were HPCSA-registered clinical and counselling psychologists as well as registered counsellors who work with clients experiencing death and grief. The study drew on the qualitative research method, focusing on understanding and discovering the meanings of experiences, behaviours, and individual life histories. The study found that the Kübler-Ross model has applicability to the South African context but that cultural experiences may produce the need for a more critical application of the stages of grief. The study concludes that the Kübler-Ross model can be utilised, provided it is done so with criticality and adapted to the cultural and religious belief systems from within which grief is being expressed. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The geology, archaeology and ichnology of pleistocene sequences in the Woody Cape Nature Reserve, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: van Tonder, Monique
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Ichnology , Geology , Archaeology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76233 , vital:80179
- Description: The palaeoenvironmental conditions and the palaeoecology of the eastern edge of the Palaeo- Agulhas Plain (PAP) remain enigmatic. This project focuses on the Quaternary geology, archaeology, and ichnology of the relatively understudied SANParks Woody Cape Nature Reserve, which is located within the northeastern portion of the PAP, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The aeolianite outcrops, as well as the Alexandria dune field capping the cliff sequence, offered key insights into this region and the past conditions that prevailed along this stretch of the South African coastline and its presently drowned offshore palaeo-ecosystem. The aeolianite cliffs are interspersed with palaeosols and rhizolithic horizons. The cliffs were logged geologically, and eight discrete units were identified within the stratigraphic profiles: six generations of aeolianite and two palaeosols. These units (aeolianite and palaeosols) were sampled for Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating of which five samples underwent further geological analyses. The geochronology results show that the Woody Cape cliffs range in age from ~0.4 kya – ~126 kya. This provides the first OSL ages for this region, which range from the Late Pleistocene to the Late Holocene. Significantly, these data show that the age of the Alexandria dune field extends back to at least the Last Interglacial, and that cementation and lithification of coastal dunes in this area has taken place until as recently as the Late Holocene. The palaeosols in the sequence, which are interpreted to represent times of landscape stability between dominant phases of dune deposition, dated to 28 ± 2 kya and 61 ± 4 kya. Coastal archaeological sites were documented within the Alexandria dune field and these revealed the presence of Later Stone Age pastoralist communities. Contributing to the eastward extension of the Cape South Coast Ichnology Project, a total of seventeen ichnological trackways were observed and investigated within the aeolianites. Photogrammetry provided increased diagnostic features of images for selected trackways. Identified trackways include a shod-toddler hominin, elephant, buffalo, bird tracks and vertebrate and invertebrate burrows. Ichnological studies therefore also revealed a Middle Stone Age hominin presence along the Woody Cape coast. This multi-disciplinary approach to an almost unstudied palaeo-environment allowed for a better understanding of the holistic PAP, adding to the southern and western components, as a fertile ecosystem for life, including hominins, especially during glacial periods. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: van Tonder, Monique
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Ichnology , Geology , Archaeology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76233 , vital:80179
- Description: The palaeoenvironmental conditions and the palaeoecology of the eastern edge of the Palaeo- Agulhas Plain (PAP) remain enigmatic. This project focuses on the Quaternary geology, archaeology, and ichnology of the relatively understudied SANParks Woody Cape Nature Reserve, which is located within the northeastern portion of the PAP, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The aeolianite outcrops, as well as the Alexandria dune field capping the cliff sequence, offered key insights into this region and the past conditions that prevailed along this stretch of the South African coastline and its presently drowned offshore palaeo-ecosystem. The aeolianite cliffs are interspersed with palaeosols and rhizolithic horizons. The cliffs were logged geologically, and eight discrete units were identified within the stratigraphic profiles: six generations of aeolianite and two palaeosols. These units (aeolianite and palaeosols) were sampled for Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating of which five samples underwent further geological analyses. The geochronology results show that the Woody Cape cliffs range in age from ~0.4 kya – ~126 kya. This provides the first OSL ages for this region, which range from the Late Pleistocene to the Late Holocene. Significantly, these data show that the age of the Alexandria dune field extends back to at least the Last Interglacial, and that cementation and lithification of coastal dunes in this area has taken place until as recently as the Late Holocene. The palaeosols in the sequence, which are interpreted to represent times of landscape stability between dominant phases of dune deposition, dated to 28 ± 2 kya and 61 ± 4 kya. Coastal archaeological sites were documented within the Alexandria dune field and these revealed the presence of Later Stone Age pastoralist communities. Contributing to the eastward extension of the Cape South Coast Ichnology Project, a total of seventeen ichnological trackways were observed and investigated within the aeolianites. Photogrammetry provided increased diagnostic features of images for selected trackways. Identified trackways include a shod-toddler hominin, elephant, buffalo, bird tracks and vertebrate and invertebrate burrows. Ichnological studies therefore also revealed a Middle Stone Age hominin presence along the Woody Cape coast. This multi-disciplinary approach to an almost unstudied palaeo-environment allowed for a better understanding of the holistic PAP, adding to the southern and western components, as a fertile ecosystem for life, including hominins, especially during glacial periods. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic and its associated precautionary measures on the mental health outcomes of children and adolescents in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
- Authors: Booi, Nikho
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020- , Child mental health -- Research -- Methodology , Adolescent psychology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74353 , vital:79699
- Description: The COVID-19 pandemic and its precautionary measures have disrupted lives worldwide, with insidious effects on the mental health of children and adolescents. Recognizing these impacts, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence and explore mental health outcomes among children and adolescents in Africa. To capture the nuanced impact of COVID-19 and its associated precautionary measures on children and adolescents’ mental health, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using the PRISMA-2020 guidelines (Page et al. 2021) for data collection and quality appraisal. Nine scientific databases and grey literature sources were searched to identify empirical studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Ultimately, 27 studies from Africa were included, encompassing a total sample of 31735 participants, split into age groups of children, 2-10 and adolescents, 11-19 years. Meta-analytic calculations were performed alongside the risk of bias assessments (RoBANS-2) tool to synthesize rigorous evidence from these studies. This meta-analysis revealed high prevalence rates of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and psychological distress among African children and adolescents, with female adolescents showing particularly high rates of depression and anxiety compared to males. Substance use, suicidal ideation, and PTSD presented lower prevalence rates, underscoring the limited representation of these outcomes in the literature reviewed. This study’s findings shed light on the mental health difficulties children and adolescents have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight areas for targeted mental health interventions in response to future pandemics. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Booi, Nikho
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020- , Child mental health -- Research -- Methodology , Adolescent psychology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74353 , vital:79699
- Description: The COVID-19 pandemic and its precautionary measures have disrupted lives worldwide, with insidious effects on the mental health of children and adolescents. Recognizing these impacts, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence and explore mental health outcomes among children and adolescents in Africa. To capture the nuanced impact of COVID-19 and its associated precautionary measures on children and adolescents’ mental health, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using the PRISMA-2020 guidelines (Page et al. 2021) for data collection and quality appraisal. Nine scientific databases and grey literature sources were searched to identify empirical studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Ultimately, 27 studies from Africa were included, encompassing a total sample of 31735 participants, split into age groups of children, 2-10 and adolescents, 11-19 years. Meta-analytic calculations were performed alongside the risk of bias assessments (RoBANS-2) tool to synthesize rigorous evidence from these studies. This meta-analysis revealed high prevalence rates of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and psychological distress among African children and adolescents, with female adolescents showing particularly high rates of depression and anxiety compared to males. Substance use, suicidal ideation, and PTSD presented lower prevalence rates, underscoring the limited representation of these outcomes in the literature reviewed. This study’s findings shed light on the mental health difficulties children and adolescents have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight areas for targeted mental health interventions in response to future pandemics. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The impact of COVID-19 sentimental index on African stock market returns
- Authors: Mpayipeli, Nonophela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Efficient market theory , Covid-19 -- Economic aspects , Stock exchanges
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73081 , vital:79330
- Description: This study investigates how the Covid-19 Sentimental index affects stock market returns for South African, Nigerian, Morocco and Namibia. Stock market activity heavily relies on investor sentiment especially when investors demonstrate fear and uncertainty like during the Covid-19 pandemic period. This study creates a Sentimental index from Google search trends and Covid-19 specific search terms to measure investor feelings which subsequently determines changes in stock market returns. The research analyses stock market and investor sentiment relationships through short and long-term analyses using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) in combination with Nonlinear ARDL (NARDL) methods. The research includes macroeconomic control variables that consist of interest rate data and exchange rate information while utilizing the ADS Index to represent U.S. business conditions. The study results demonstrate how emotional market volatility strongly influences stock market behaviour within emerging economies because of investors' psychological influences on these financial systems. The study enhances knowledge about sentiment effects on market efficiency in African stock exchanges while delivering practical recommendations to policymakers along with investors and financial regulators for stabilizing sentiment-driven market shaking. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mpayipeli, Nonophela
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Efficient market theory , Covid-19 -- Economic aspects , Stock exchanges
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73081 , vital:79330
- Description: This study investigates how the Covid-19 Sentimental index affects stock market returns for South African, Nigerian, Morocco and Namibia. Stock market activity heavily relies on investor sentiment especially when investors demonstrate fear and uncertainty like during the Covid-19 pandemic period. This study creates a Sentimental index from Google search trends and Covid-19 specific search terms to measure investor feelings which subsequently determines changes in stock market returns. The research analyses stock market and investor sentiment relationships through short and long-term analyses using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) in combination with Nonlinear ARDL (NARDL) methods. The research includes macroeconomic control variables that consist of interest rate data and exchange rate information while utilizing the ADS Index to represent U.S. business conditions. The study results demonstrate how emotional market volatility strongly influences stock market behaviour within emerging economies because of investors' psychological influences on these financial systems. The study enhances knowledge about sentiment effects on market efficiency in African stock exchanges while delivering practical recommendations to policymakers along with investors and financial regulators for stabilizing sentiment-driven market shaking. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The impact of financial sector development on unemployment: a study for South Africa from 1960 - 2021
- Authors: Mama, Nkosinathi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72948 , vital:79290
- Description: This study investigated the impact of financial sector development on unemployment in South Africa for the period 1960 to 2021. The study was inspired by historical events such as the great depression and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis which demonstrated a link between financial turmoil and elevated global unemployment rates. Employing an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study explored the impact of financial sector development on unemployment rate in South Africa. This technique was most suitable to this study due to its flexibility on integration order of variables and data requirements to produce robust results. Contrary to conventional economic expectations, the data suggests that an increase in domestic credit to the private sector (DCP) could worsen unemployment in the short run. In the long run, the study suggests that access to credit will have no impact on unemployment. On the other hand, results revealed that an increase in the efficiency of investments facilitated by the financial sector measured by gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) may have a negative impact on unemployment. The results demonstrated a significant and positive relationship between GFCF and unemployment in the long run. These findings suggested that the rigidities in the South African labour market and imperfection within the financial sector could be contributing to the country’s higher unemployment levels. Based on these findings, the study offers several policy recommendations. Policymakers can re-evaluate their priorities in attempts to curb unemployment. This can be achieved through promoting efficiency of investment allocation over depth. Thereby, promoting economic diversification and implementing labour market reform strategies that could address the complex interplay between financial sector development and unemployment. Continuous monitoring, research collaboration with public-private partnerships, and targeted education training programs are the proposed key instruments for refining and implementing effective policies. The study concluded by emphasising the importance of ongoing research to understand the evolving dynamics of financial sector development and unemployment, while also acknowledging the limitations of the study. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mama, Nkosinathi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Economic development -- South Africa , Financial institutions -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72948 , vital:79290
- Description: This study investigated the impact of financial sector development on unemployment in South Africa for the period 1960 to 2021. The study was inspired by historical events such as the great depression and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis which demonstrated a link between financial turmoil and elevated global unemployment rates. Employing an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study explored the impact of financial sector development on unemployment rate in South Africa. This technique was most suitable to this study due to its flexibility on integration order of variables and data requirements to produce robust results. Contrary to conventional economic expectations, the data suggests that an increase in domestic credit to the private sector (DCP) could worsen unemployment in the short run. In the long run, the study suggests that access to credit will have no impact on unemployment. On the other hand, results revealed that an increase in the efficiency of investments facilitated by the financial sector measured by gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) may have a negative impact on unemployment. The results demonstrated a significant and positive relationship between GFCF and unemployment in the long run. These findings suggested that the rigidities in the South African labour market and imperfection within the financial sector could be contributing to the country’s higher unemployment levels. Based on these findings, the study offers several policy recommendations. Policymakers can re-evaluate their priorities in attempts to curb unemployment. This can be achieved through promoting efficiency of investment allocation over depth. Thereby, promoting economic diversification and implementing labour market reform strategies that could address the complex interplay between financial sector development and unemployment. Continuous monitoring, research collaboration with public-private partnerships, and targeted education training programs are the proposed key instruments for refining and implementing effective policies. The study concluded by emphasising the importance of ongoing research to understand the evolving dynamics of financial sector development and unemployment, while also acknowledging the limitations of the study. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities of Chiadzwa-Marange, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mukamba, Adonia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Diamond mines and mining -- Zimmbambwe , Rural development -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73119 , vital:79348
- Description: The extraction of metals and minerals has had, and continues to have, material implications for society. Given the significant growth in alluvial diamond mining activities witnessed in Chiadzwa, a rural community situated just southwest of Zimbabwe's third largest city, Mutare. This study focuses on the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities of Chiadzwa-Marange, Zimbabwe. It assesses the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of alluvial mining on rural communities. It also establishes the measures put in place by mining companies and governments to mitigate and enhance the effects of alluvial diamonds. It further identifies policy gaps and recommends strategies for improving the positive implications while mitigating the negative impact of alluvial diamond mining. The study was influenced by the Resource Curse Theory, Political Ecology Theory and the Conflict Theory. The study was an explorative case study utilising qualitative data collection methods. Qualitative data were gathered through a systematic review of the literature and bibliometric research. The bibliometric research findings discussed the current state of the research and probable future directions on the study topic. Documents were selected using non-probability sampling methods, including purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The systematic review employed qualitative content analysis and bibliometric analysis to examine the collected data. Whilst the bibliometric analysis used VOS viewer software to perform bibliometric network visualizations, trend, and clustering and citation analysis on the study topic. Both the systematic literature review and bibliometric research were, carried out using multiple data bases. The study findings showed that the implications of alluvial diamond mining activities for the Chiadzwa community were two-fold, namely, positive and negative. A major finding of this study was that the adverse effects of alluvial diamond mining outweighed the potential positive benefits of alluvial diamond mining for the host community. Hence, there was a need to avert this gap. It was evident from the study findings that alluvial diamond mining activities continued to have adverse implications on the well-being and lives of the Chiadzwa people. As such, the host community were largely excluded from the significant benefits of alluvial diamond mining. The findings were further corroborated by a bibliometric analysis carried that examined 2,159 publications on alluvial diamond mining. The keywords "Zimbabwe," "diamond," and "mining," which had a total link strength of 2,385 emerged as the most frequently occurring terms. This highlights the significance of research focused on understanding the impact of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining activities in the Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.This signified the importance of research to understand the implications of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining taking place in Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.The diamond discoveries in Chiadzwa mirror other African countries where natural resources are becoming a curse rather than a blessing to countries. The study contributes to our understanding of the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities in Zimbabwe and other regions experiencing the same phenomena. Given the adverse implications, it is recommended that multi-stakeholder platforms, improved legal frameworks, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and effective monitoring mechanisms be used to ensure sustainable and equitable alluvial diamond mining practices in the Zimbabwean mining sector. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mukamba, Adonia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Diamond mines and mining -- Zimmbambwe , Rural development -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe , Economic development -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73119 , vital:79348
- Description: The extraction of metals and minerals has had, and continues to have, material implications for society. Given the significant growth in alluvial diamond mining activities witnessed in Chiadzwa, a rural community situated just southwest of Zimbabwe's third largest city, Mutare. This study focuses on the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities of Chiadzwa-Marange, Zimbabwe. It assesses the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of alluvial mining on rural communities. It also establishes the measures put in place by mining companies and governments to mitigate and enhance the effects of alluvial diamonds. It further identifies policy gaps and recommends strategies for improving the positive implications while mitigating the negative impact of alluvial diamond mining. The study was influenced by the Resource Curse Theory, Political Ecology Theory and the Conflict Theory. The study was an explorative case study utilising qualitative data collection methods. Qualitative data were gathered through a systematic review of the literature and bibliometric research. The bibliometric research findings discussed the current state of the research and probable future directions on the study topic. Documents were selected using non-probability sampling methods, including purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The systematic review employed qualitative content analysis and bibliometric analysis to examine the collected data. Whilst the bibliometric analysis used VOS viewer software to perform bibliometric network visualizations, trend, and clustering and citation analysis on the study topic. Both the systematic literature review and bibliometric research were, carried out using multiple data bases. The study findings showed that the implications of alluvial diamond mining activities for the Chiadzwa community were two-fold, namely, positive and negative. A major finding of this study was that the adverse effects of alluvial diamond mining outweighed the potential positive benefits of alluvial diamond mining for the host community. Hence, there was a need to avert this gap. It was evident from the study findings that alluvial diamond mining activities continued to have adverse implications on the well-being and lives of the Chiadzwa people. As such, the host community were largely excluded from the significant benefits of alluvial diamond mining. The findings were further corroborated by a bibliometric analysis carried that examined 2,159 publications on alluvial diamond mining. The keywords "Zimbabwe," "diamond," and "mining," which had a total link strength of 2,385 emerged as the most frequently occurring terms. This highlights the significance of research focused on understanding the impact of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining activities in the Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.This signified the importance of research to understand the implications of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining taking place in Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.The diamond discoveries in Chiadzwa mirror other African countries where natural resources are becoming a curse rather than a blessing to countries. The study contributes to our understanding of the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities in Zimbabwe and other regions experiencing the same phenomena. Given the adverse implications, it is recommended that multi-stakeholder platforms, improved legal frameworks, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and effective monitoring mechanisms be used to ensure sustainable and equitable alluvial diamond mining practices in the Zimbabwean mining sector. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities of Chiadzwa-Marange, Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mukamba, Adonia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Diamond mines and mining -- Zimbabwe -- Chiadzwa-Marange , Rural communities -- Zimbabwe -- Chiadzwa-Marange , Finance, Public -- Zimbabwe -- Chiadzwa-Marange
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73094 , vital:79332
- Description: The extraction of metals and minerals has had, and continues to have, material implications for society. Given the significant growth in alluvial diamond mining activities witnessed in Chiadzwa, a rural community situated just southwest of Zimbabwe's third largest city, Mutare. This study focuses on the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities of Chiadzwa-Marange, Zimbabwe. It assesses the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of alluvial mining on rural communities. It also establishes the measures put in place by mining companies and governments to mitigate and enhance the effects of alluvial diamonds. It further identifies policy gaps and recommends strategies for improving the positive implications while mitigating the negative impact of alluvial diamond mining. The study was influenced by the Resource Curse Theory, Political Ecology Theory and the Conflict Theory. The study was an explorative case study utilising qualitative data collection methods. Qualitative data were gathered through a systematic review of the literature and bibliometric research. The bibliometric research findings discussed the current state of the research and probable future directions on the study topic. Documents were selected using non-probability sampling methods, including purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The systematic review employed qualitative content analysis and bibliometric analysis to examine the collected data. Whilst the bibliometric analysis used VOS viewer software to perform bibliometric network visualizations, trend, and clustering and citation analysis on the study topic. Both the systematic literature review and bibliometric research were, carried out using multiple data bases. The study findings showed that the implications of alluvial diamond mining activities for the Chiadzwa community were two-fold, namely, positive and negative. A major finding of this study was that the adverse effects of alluvial diamond mining outweighed the potential positive benefits of alluvial diamond mining for the host community. Hence, there was a need to avert this gap. It was evident from the study findings that alluvial diamond mining activities continued to have adverse implications on the well-being and lives of the Chiadzwa people. As such, the host community were largely excluded from the significant benefits of alluvial diamond mining. The findings were further corroborated by a bibliometric analysis carried that examined 2,159 publications on alluvial diamond mining. The keywords "Zimbabwe," "diamond," and "mining," which had a total link strength of 2,385 emerged as the most frequently occurring terms. This highlights the significance of research focused on understanding the impact of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining activities in the Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.This signified the importance of research to understand the implications of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining taking place in Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.The diamond discoveries in Chiadzwa mirror other African countries where natural resources are becoming a curse rather than a blessing to countries. The study contributes to our understanding of the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities in Zimbabwe and other regions experiencing the same phenomena. Given the adverse implications, it is recommended that multi-stakeholder platforms, improved legal frameworks, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and effective monitoring mechanisms be used to ensure sustainable and equitable alluvial diamond mining practices in the Zimbabwean mining sector. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mukamba, Adonia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Diamond mines and mining -- Zimbabwe -- Chiadzwa-Marange , Rural communities -- Zimbabwe -- Chiadzwa-Marange , Finance, Public -- Zimbabwe -- Chiadzwa-Marange
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73094 , vital:79332
- Description: The extraction of metals and minerals has had, and continues to have, material implications for society. Given the significant growth in alluvial diamond mining activities witnessed in Chiadzwa, a rural community situated just southwest of Zimbabwe's third largest city, Mutare. This study focuses on the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities of Chiadzwa-Marange, Zimbabwe. It assesses the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of alluvial mining on rural communities. It also establishes the measures put in place by mining companies and governments to mitigate and enhance the effects of alluvial diamonds. It further identifies policy gaps and recommends strategies for improving the positive implications while mitigating the negative impact of alluvial diamond mining. The study was influenced by the Resource Curse Theory, Political Ecology Theory and the Conflict Theory. The study was an explorative case study utilising qualitative data collection methods. Qualitative data were gathered through a systematic review of the literature and bibliometric research. The bibliometric research findings discussed the current state of the research and probable future directions on the study topic. Documents were selected using non-probability sampling methods, including purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The systematic review employed qualitative content analysis and bibliometric analysis to examine the collected data. Whilst the bibliometric analysis used VOS viewer software to perform bibliometric network visualizations, trend, and clustering and citation analysis on the study topic. Both the systematic literature review and bibliometric research were, carried out using multiple data bases. The study findings showed that the implications of alluvial diamond mining activities for the Chiadzwa community were two-fold, namely, positive and negative. A major finding of this study was that the adverse effects of alluvial diamond mining outweighed the potential positive benefits of alluvial diamond mining for the host community. Hence, there was a need to avert this gap. It was evident from the study findings that alluvial diamond mining activities continued to have adverse implications on the well-being and lives of the Chiadzwa people. As such, the host community were largely excluded from the significant benefits of alluvial diamond mining. The findings were further corroborated by a bibliometric analysis carried that examined 2,159 publications on alluvial diamond mining. The keywords "Zimbabwe," "diamond," and "mining," which had a total link strength of 2,385 emerged as the most frequently occurring terms. This highlights the significance of research focused on understanding the impact of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining activities in the Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.This signified the importance of research to understand the implications of alluvial diamond discoveries and mining taking place in Chiadzwa-Marange community in Zimbabwe.The diamond discoveries in Chiadzwa mirror other African countries where natural resources are becoming a curse rather than a blessing to countries. The study contributes to our understanding of the implications of alluvial diamond mining for rural communities in Zimbabwe and other regions experiencing the same phenomena. Given the adverse implications, it is recommended that multi-stakeholder platforms, improved legal frameworks, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and effective monitoring mechanisms be used to ensure sustainable and equitable alluvial diamond mining practices in the Zimbabwean mining sector. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2022
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The implications of electric vehicle implementation for employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector
- Authors: Coetzee, Marius George
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Electric vehicles -- South Africa , Automotive Industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72022 , vital:79178
- Description: The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is steadily gaining momentum, with over one million EV sales recorded in 2022, which accounts for 1.3% of total vehicle sales. This shift, largely driven by climate change initiatives and the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has led many countries to announce plans to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape province which is a hub for the country’s automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), is significantly impacted by these technological advancements. The automotive industry in the province, which contributes 13% to the provincial GDP and employs approximately 55,000 people, is vital to the Eastern Cape’s economy. However, the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs may bring about socio-economic challenges, particularly in terms of employment within this critical sector. This study investigated the potential impact of EV adoption on employment in the Eastern Cape's automotive industry, with a focus on three core areas: EV charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development. The shift towards EVs is expected to disrupt ICE vehicle production, which raises concerns regarding job losses due to the reduced complexity of EVs, which contain significantly fewer moving parts than do ICE vehicles (that is, 20 versus 2,000, respectively). This could lead to a decline in demand for automotive components, which would likely result in factory closures and job reductions across the province. The study sought to answer the central question: "What effect does EV implementation have on employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector?" To explore this, the study examined the roles of charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development, with the aim of providing insights into the broader socio-economic consequences of South Africa’s transition to EVs. An online survey was conducted to collect data for this study; this survey targeted 60 respondents, with 35% of these respondents having completed the questionnaire, thus resulting in a research sample of 21 participants. The hypotheses testing, which was , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Coetzee, Marius George
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Unemployment -- South Africa , Electric vehicles -- South Africa , Automotive Industry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72022 , vital:79178
- Description: The global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is steadily gaining momentum, with over one million EV sales recorded in 2022, which accounts for 1.3% of total vehicle sales. This shift, largely driven by climate change initiatives and the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has led many countries to announce plans to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape province which is a hub for the country’s automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), is significantly impacted by these technological advancements. The automotive industry in the province, which contributes 13% to the provincial GDP and employs approximately 55,000 people, is vital to the Eastern Cape’s economy. However, the transition from ICE vehicles to EVs may bring about socio-economic challenges, particularly in terms of employment within this critical sector. This study investigated the potential impact of EV adoption on employment in the Eastern Cape's automotive industry, with a focus on three core areas: EV charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development. The shift towards EVs is expected to disrupt ICE vehicle production, which raises concerns regarding job losses due to the reduced complexity of EVs, which contain significantly fewer moving parts than do ICE vehicles (that is, 20 versus 2,000, respectively). This could lead to a decline in demand for automotive components, which would likely result in factory closures and job reductions across the province. The study sought to answer the central question: "What effect does EV implementation have on employment levels in the Eastern Cape’s automotive sector?" To explore this, the study examined the roles of charging infrastructure, battery manufacturing, and skills development, with the aim of providing insights into the broader socio-economic consequences of South Africa’s transition to EVs. An online survey was conducted to collect data for this study; this survey targeted 60 respondents, with 35% of these respondents having completed the questionnaire, thus resulting in a research sample of 21 participants. The hypotheses testing, which was , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of local regulatory requirements on timelines to implement an active pharmaceutical ingredient supplier change in South Africa
- Authors: Lessingh, Theresa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry , Pharmacy , Drug carriers (Pharmacy)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74633 , vital:79792
- Description: Regulatory convergence and harmonisation are anticipated to increase efficiency within regulatory systems by reducing the regulatory burden on national regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry companies. In 2019, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) initiated the process of adopting the European Union guidelines related to submission of variations to the product dossier, with some local South African requirements for submission. The local South African requirements are contained within the South African guidelines, reference documents and communications to industry. The aim of this study was to determine whether current local SAHPRA regulatory documentation requirements influence the timeline for compilation of a submission for an API change in South Africa that is supported by a certificate of suitability (CEP), and whether the requirements are clearly outlined. Data was collected from one marketing authorisation holder on the timelines to collect documentation from active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) suppliers and finished pharmaceutical product (FPP) manufacturers for submission to SAHPRA. Although data obtained during this study was limited due to the extended timelines to obtain the supporting documentation, the data indicated that the local SAHPRA requirements do have an influence on the timelines for submission of API variations. There is also a great variability between suppliers to supply documentation. The data on the number of deficiencies noted by SAHPRA for previously submitted variations, showed similarities to a previous study performed by Moeti (2022). The modules related to the analytical controls (3.S.S.4) and information regarding the reference standards used by the FPP manufacturer (3.2.S.5) are most affected, where deficiencies are found. Increased awareness by persons responsible for the selection of new API suppliers with regards to the specific requirements for these modules is recommended. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Lessingh, Theresa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry , Pharmacy , Drug carriers (Pharmacy)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74633 , vital:79792
- Description: Regulatory convergence and harmonisation are anticipated to increase efficiency within regulatory systems by reducing the regulatory burden on national regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry companies. In 2019, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) initiated the process of adopting the European Union guidelines related to submission of variations to the product dossier, with some local South African requirements for submission. The local South African requirements are contained within the South African guidelines, reference documents and communications to industry. The aim of this study was to determine whether current local SAHPRA regulatory documentation requirements influence the timeline for compilation of a submission for an API change in South Africa that is supported by a certificate of suitability (CEP), and whether the requirements are clearly outlined. Data was collected from one marketing authorisation holder on the timelines to collect documentation from active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) suppliers and finished pharmaceutical product (FPP) manufacturers for submission to SAHPRA. Although data obtained during this study was limited due to the extended timelines to obtain the supporting documentation, the data indicated that the local SAHPRA requirements do have an influence on the timelines for submission of API variations. There is also a great variability between suppliers to supply documentation. The data on the number of deficiencies noted by SAHPRA for previously submitted variations, showed similarities to a previous study performed by Moeti (2022). The modules related to the analytical controls (3.S.S.4) and information regarding the reference standards used by the FPP manufacturer (3.2.S.5) are most affected, where deficiencies are found. Increased awareness by persons responsible for the selection of new API suppliers with regards to the specific requirements for these modules is recommended. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of online marketing strategies on student preference of university: The case of Nelson Mandela University
- Authors: Luhanga, Grace
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Word-of-mouth advertising
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72894 , vital:79275
- Description: The growing reliance on digital platforms has transformed marketing in higher education, compelling institutions to adapt and innovate their approaches to student engagement. This study investigates the influence of online marketing strategies—specifically social media marketing, electronic word-of-mouth, email marketing, search engine optimisation, and search engine marketing—on students’ university preferences. The research is framed by theoretical models and literature on digital marketing in higher education, integrating concepts such as trust, engagement, and visibility. A positivist paradigm and quantitative methodology guided the research, employing a cross-sectional survey distributed to a sample of university-bound students. The survey instrument, validated through exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha testing, yielded reliable data from 448 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression and t-tests, were employed to analyse the data. Empirical results revealed statistically significant positive relationships between all five online marketing strategies and students' preferences for higher education institutions. Social media marketing and search engine optimisation emerged as the most influential variables, with social media platforms fostering engagement and brand awareness, and search engine optimisation enhancing discoverability. The study also highlighted gender- based differences in perceptions, particularly in search engine marketing and search engine optimisation, where male respondents rated these strategies higher than females. The findings underscored the critical role of data-driven and personalised marketing in shaping student decisions. They emphasise the need for higher education institutions to refine their digital strategies, integrating tools such as targeted email campaigns, optimised websites, and interactive content on social media platforms. Recommendations include leveraging eWOM through testimonials, utilising analytics for strategy refinement, and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance student interactions. This research provides actionable insights for academia and practitioners, highlighting the dynamic interplay between digital marketing strategies and student decision-making processes. It contributes to the broader discourse on technology's role in modern v education marketing, offering a roadmap for institutions aiming to remain competitive in a digitally saturated landscape. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Luhanga, Grace
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Word-of-mouth advertising
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72894 , vital:79275
- Description: The growing reliance on digital platforms has transformed marketing in higher education, compelling institutions to adapt and innovate their approaches to student engagement. This study investigates the influence of online marketing strategies—specifically social media marketing, electronic word-of-mouth, email marketing, search engine optimisation, and search engine marketing—on students’ university preferences. The research is framed by theoretical models and literature on digital marketing in higher education, integrating concepts such as trust, engagement, and visibility. A positivist paradigm and quantitative methodology guided the research, employing a cross-sectional survey distributed to a sample of university-bound students. The survey instrument, validated through exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha testing, yielded reliable data from 448 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including multiple regression and t-tests, were employed to analyse the data. Empirical results revealed statistically significant positive relationships between all five online marketing strategies and students' preferences for higher education institutions. Social media marketing and search engine optimisation emerged as the most influential variables, with social media platforms fostering engagement and brand awareness, and search engine optimisation enhancing discoverability. The study also highlighted gender- based differences in perceptions, particularly in search engine marketing and search engine optimisation, where male respondents rated these strategies higher than females. The findings underscored the critical role of data-driven and personalised marketing in shaping student decisions. They emphasise the need for higher education institutions to refine their digital strategies, integrating tools such as targeted email campaigns, optimised websites, and interactive content on social media platforms. Recommendations include leveraging eWOM through testimonials, utilising analytics for strategy refinement, and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance student interactions. This research provides actionable insights for academia and practitioners, highlighting the dynamic interplay between digital marketing strategies and student decision-making processes. It contributes to the broader discourse on technology's role in modern v education marketing, offering a roadmap for institutions aiming to remain competitive in a digitally saturated landscape. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of organisational culture on employees’ social engineering susceptibility
- Authors: Mokobane, Ntsewa Benjamin
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Social engineering , Human-computer interaction , Computer security
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74094 , vital:79642
- Description: Social engineering is becoming a way to open a path for successful data breaches in organisations. It targets employees and tricks them into giving unauthorised access to social engineers. Social engineers trick employees using techniques such as psychological persuasion. Employees interpret the persuasion, guided by, among other things, the beliefs, values, and attitudes fostered by their organisational cultures. This study investigated the influence of organisational culture on employees’ social engineering susceptibility. The overall goal of the study is to contribute to a solution to mitigate the success of social engineering attacks. Such a solution would save organisations billions of dollars, reputational damage, and possible collapse from the impact of data breaches. The researcher followed a positivist paradigm and quantitative approach. Two questionnaires were deployed to collect data from 20 participating organisations. The purpose of Questionnaire 1 was to uncover the existence of different organisational cultures among the participating organisations. This was an essential step because the continuation of the study depended on the existence of different organisational cultures. There were 371 respondents who completed Questionnaire 1. Questionnaire 2 was used to collect data to investigate employees’ social engineering susceptibility. There were 374 respondents who completed Questionnaire 2. The two sets of data were merged to analyse social engineering susceptibility per type of dominant organisational culture by applying SEM with IBM SPSS AMOS 27 statistical tool. Seventeen hypotheses were developed and tested. Results analysis showed four dominant cultures among the 20 participating organisations with 371 participants: clan, adhocracy, market, and hierarchy. The existence of four dominant cultures allowed the study to proceed with the analysis of data collected through Questionnaire 2. Both measurement and structural models met minimum requirements for a good fit, validity, and reliability. The empirical results confirm that openness personality trait, perceived benefits, and perceived risks cause variance in employee security attitude. Furthermore, security attitude causes variance social engineering susceptibility. Thus confirming four hypotheses. The non-confirmed hypotheses regard the four types of organisational culture-to-security attitude and four types of organisational culture-to-social engineering susceptibility, trust-to-security attitude and extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness and neuroticism personality traits. Future research may investigate relationships at the organisational level, improve the proposed structural model with additional independent variables and more intervening variables. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mokobane, Ntsewa Benjamin
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Social engineering , Human-computer interaction , Computer security
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74094 , vital:79642
- Description: Social engineering is becoming a way to open a path for successful data breaches in organisations. It targets employees and tricks them into giving unauthorised access to social engineers. Social engineers trick employees using techniques such as psychological persuasion. Employees interpret the persuasion, guided by, among other things, the beliefs, values, and attitudes fostered by their organisational cultures. This study investigated the influence of organisational culture on employees’ social engineering susceptibility. The overall goal of the study is to contribute to a solution to mitigate the success of social engineering attacks. Such a solution would save organisations billions of dollars, reputational damage, and possible collapse from the impact of data breaches. The researcher followed a positivist paradigm and quantitative approach. Two questionnaires were deployed to collect data from 20 participating organisations. The purpose of Questionnaire 1 was to uncover the existence of different organisational cultures among the participating organisations. This was an essential step because the continuation of the study depended on the existence of different organisational cultures. There were 371 respondents who completed Questionnaire 1. Questionnaire 2 was used to collect data to investigate employees’ social engineering susceptibility. There were 374 respondents who completed Questionnaire 2. The two sets of data were merged to analyse social engineering susceptibility per type of dominant organisational culture by applying SEM with IBM SPSS AMOS 27 statistical tool. Seventeen hypotheses were developed and tested. Results analysis showed four dominant cultures among the 20 participating organisations with 371 participants: clan, adhocracy, market, and hierarchy. The existence of four dominant cultures allowed the study to proceed with the analysis of data collected through Questionnaire 2. Both measurement and structural models met minimum requirements for a good fit, validity, and reliability. The empirical results confirm that openness personality trait, perceived benefits, and perceived risks cause variance in employee security attitude. Furthermore, security attitude causes variance social engineering susceptibility. Thus confirming four hypotheses. The non-confirmed hypotheses regard the four types of organisational culture-to-security attitude and four types of organisational culture-to-social engineering susceptibility, trust-to-security attitude and extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness and neuroticism personality traits. Future research may investigate relationships at the organisational level, improve the proposed structural model with additional independent variables and more intervening variables. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Technology, School of Information Technology, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of psychological capital on the work engagement of employees selling insurance in South Africa
- Authors: Lufundo, Siyamthanda
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Human capital -- Psychological aspects , Employee motivation , Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72883 , vital:79274
- Description: Employees who sell insurance work in a challenging work environment. Job demands include having to recruit and convince potential clients to buy insurance products so that the employees are able to achieve sales targets. Employees who sell insurance face diverse people and are often subjected to rejection and criticism. These demanding work-related conditions can result in stress, burnout, a lack of job satisfaction, and a decrease in productivity; with these issues impacting both the employee and the organisation. The concepts of psychological capital (PsyCap) and work engagement offer valuable insight into how employees can not only cope with a stressful work environment but also thrive in a high-pressure environment. Both constructs have been applied in research in various work settings in South Africa, but not in the insurance industry. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate PsyCap among employees who sell insurance in South Africa and to determine how it influences their work engagement. A non-experimental research design, specifically a correlational and descriptive design, was used for this study. Convenience sampling and snowball sampling were employed in the study, with 113 respondents completing an online questionnaire as the data-collecting tool. The Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ-24) was used to measure PsyCap and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17) was used to measure work engagement among the sample of employees who sell insurance in South Africa. The study found that the respondents had high levels of PsyCap and experienced work engagement. Furthermore, the study found a positive relationship between PsyCap and work engagement, with PsyCap being a predictor of work engagement. It was evident that the respondents used their personal resources to cope with job demands and that this led to work engagement. Future research can consider personal resources other than PsyCap that employees can use to deal with high job demands. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Lufundo, Siyamthanda
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Human capital -- Psychological aspects , Employee motivation , Psychology, Industrial
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72883 , vital:79274
- Description: Employees who sell insurance work in a challenging work environment. Job demands include having to recruit and convince potential clients to buy insurance products so that the employees are able to achieve sales targets. Employees who sell insurance face diverse people and are often subjected to rejection and criticism. These demanding work-related conditions can result in stress, burnout, a lack of job satisfaction, and a decrease in productivity; with these issues impacting both the employee and the organisation. The concepts of psychological capital (PsyCap) and work engagement offer valuable insight into how employees can not only cope with a stressful work environment but also thrive in a high-pressure environment. Both constructs have been applied in research in various work settings in South Africa, but not in the insurance industry. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate PsyCap among employees who sell insurance in South Africa and to determine how it influences their work engagement. A non-experimental research design, specifically a correlational and descriptive design, was used for this study. Convenience sampling and snowball sampling were employed in the study, with 113 respondents completing an online questionnaire as the data-collecting tool. The Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ-24) was used to measure PsyCap and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17) was used to measure work engagement among the sample of employees who sell insurance in South Africa. The study found that the respondents had high levels of PsyCap and experienced work engagement. Furthermore, the study found a positive relationship between PsyCap and work engagement, with PsyCap being a predictor of work engagement. It was evident that the respondents used their personal resources to cope with job demands and that this led to work engagement. Future research can consider personal resources other than PsyCap that employees can use to deal with high job demands. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of rain-fed organic and conventional crop farming systems on soil water content and water use efficiency in South Africa’s Southern Cape
- Authors: Eckert, Catherine Jessica
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Soil fertility -- South Africa , Crop yields , Agricultural systems -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75650 , vital:79978
- Description: In water-scarce regions, where droughts are frequent, efficient water use in agriculture is critical, especially in the context of climate change. This research investigates the effects of rain-fed organic and conventional monocrop and rotated crop farming practices on soil water retention and water use efficiency (WUE) at the Nelson Mandela Comparative Organic Farming Systems Research Trials, located at Nelson Mandela University’s George Campus in South Africa’s Southern Cape. The study compares the WUE of organic and conventional monocrop cabbage, as well as organic and conventional rotated cabbage, sweet potatoes, and cowpeas across four growing seasons (2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18). Soil water content (SWC) was monitored during the 2016-17 and 2017- 18 seasons, and a fallow period in 2019-20 to evaluate the residual effects of organic and conventional treatments. HYDRUS-1D was used to model SWC in the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, providing insights into transpiration, evaporation, percolation, and water storage as percentages of total rainfall. The findings indicate that organic farming generally enhances soil water retention in the upper soil layers, showing significant differences across multiple seasons. In monocrops, the organic system consistently exhibited higher SWC up to 70 cm, while the conventional system retained more water at deeper soil depths. Rotated crops showed variable results, with the organic system often outperforming the conventional one at shallower depths. WUE results revealed that conventional monocrop cabbage typically achieved the highest WUE, particularly in wetter seasons, whereas organic systems excelled in drier conditions. For rotated crops, conventional systems generally exhibited better WUE, though organic rotations performed better under drought conditions. The HYDRUS-1D simulations confirmed that organic systems had superior water retention and less negative change in water storage, supporting better WUE and productivity during drier periods. Moreover, organic rotated sweet potatoes consistently demonstrated superior WUE compared to their conventional counterparts, underscoring the importance of crop selection in organic farming systems. These findings suggest that organic practices, by improving soil water retention, enhance crop resilience and contribute to sustainable agricultural productivity in water-limited environments. Improving soil water retention through organic farming practices is a viable strategy to enhance crop production in water-scarce regions, contributing to food security, water conservation, and the overall resilience of agricultural systems. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Eckert, Catherine Jessica
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Soil fertility -- South Africa , Crop yields , Agricultural systems -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75650 , vital:79978
- Description: In water-scarce regions, where droughts are frequent, efficient water use in agriculture is critical, especially in the context of climate change. This research investigates the effects of rain-fed organic and conventional monocrop and rotated crop farming practices on soil water retention and water use efficiency (WUE) at the Nelson Mandela Comparative Organic Farming Systems Research Trials, located at Nelson Mandela University’s George Campus in South Africa’s Southern Cape. The study compares the WUE of organic and conventional monocrop cabbage, as well as organic and conventional rotated cabbage, sweet potatoes, and cowpeas across four growing seasons (2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18). Soil water content (SWC) was monitored during the 2016-17 and 2017- 18 seasons, and a fallow period in 2019-20 to evaluate the residual effects of organic and conventional treatments. HYDRUS-1D was used to model SWC in the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, providing insights into transpiration, evaporation, percolation, and water storage as percentages of total rainfall. The findings indicate that organic farming generally enhances soil water retention in the upper soil layers, showing significant differences across multiple seasons. In monocrops, the organic system consistently exhibited higher SWC up to 70 cm, while the conventional system retained more water at deeper soil depths. Rotated crops showed variable results, with the organic system often outperforming the conventional one at shallower depths. WUE results revealed that conventional monocrop cabbage typically achieved the highest WUE, particularly in wetter seasons, whereas organic systems excelled in drier conditions. For rotated crops, conventional systems generally exhibited better WUE, though organic rotations performed better under drought conditions. The HYDRUS-1D simulations confirmed that organic systems had superior water retention and less negative change in water storage, supporting better WUE and productivity during drier periods. Moreover, organic rotated sweet potatoes consistently demonstrated superior WUE compared to their conventional counterparts, underscoring the importance of crop selection in organic farming systems. These findings suggest that organic practices, by improving soil water retention, enhance crop resilience and contribute to sustainable agricultural productivity in water-limited environments. Improving soil water retention through organic farming practices is a viable strategy to enhance crop production in water-scarce regions, contributing to food security, water conservation, and the overall resilience of agricultural systems. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The influence of social responsibility on the transgenerational success of family businesses in South Africa
- Authors: Scheepers, Jessica
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Social responsibilty of business -- South Africa , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73662 , vital:79492
- Description: It is well documented that family businesses play a significant role in the global and South African economies. Despite the importance of these businesses, they are faced with high failure rates. One of the contributing factors to this high failure rate is their lack of social responsibility (SR) involvement. Several research studies show that SR is of utmost importance to any form of business, because when SR is implemented successfully into their business activities, these businesses tend to perform better than those who do not. Behaving in a socially responsible manner can increase a business’s competitive advantage (in strengthening their brand image, reputation and ongoing stakeholder involvement and commitment), ultimately leading to improved financial performance (by reducing costs and increasing revenue) and potential for transgenerational success. Therefore, this study investigates the family influence on the choice, implementation and outcomes of SR practices in successful transgenerational family businesses in South Africa. In this study, socioemotional wealth (SEW), the non-financial emotional remuneration earned when owning a family business, served as a proxy for family influence. The theory of SEW has been proven to be a reliable scientific lens to explain several family business phenomena (e.g. SR practices), due to its width and vigour. Furthermore, SEW was considered an appropriate theoretical perspective because as a theory it was developed from actual family business phenomena. The theory contends that the family’s efforts to make affective endowments (and increase their SEW) explain many of their strategic and operational business decisions. Therefore, it can be argued that, as with all decisions, family business decisions relating to why and how to engage in SR are greatly influenced by the extent to which the outcomes of those decisions contribute to increasing SEW. The research design and methodological framework commonly known as the “research onion” was used to describe the procedures followed and the choices made by the researcher when conducting the study. By positioning this research study in the interpretivism paradigm, it was possible to study a family in their own environment in order to gain a deeper understanding of the research topic at hand. In addition, an abductive approach to theory development was adopted in which a conceptual framework was developed from existing literature explaining the role of SEW (as a proxy for family influence) on the SR practices of family. A qualitative research method was chosen as it enabled the researcher to address the research objectives with strategies that provided a descriptive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. As the aim of this study was to investigate SR in a natural setting, namely successful transgenerational South African family businesses and to investigate how the family influences the choice and execution of SR practices, a case study research strategy was adopted. By using a multi-case study strategy, data collected from eight family businesses and 25 key informants were thematically analysed. Based on the practices adopted by the participating families and their family businesses, this study provides a holistic framework outlining how the family, through striving to uphold their values, protect their reputation and build relationships with stakeholders, as well as the operational and social context in which their businesses operate, influences their SR practices. Family business owners are provided with a comprehensive guideline to understand how their SR decisions influence both their financial and non-financial (social) performance outcomes and ultimately their transgenerational potential and success. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Scheepers, Jessica
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Social responsibilty of business -- South Africa , Family-owned business enterprises -- South Africa , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73662 , vital:79492
- Description: It is well documented that family businesses play a significant role in the global and South African economies. Despite the importance of these businesses, they are faced with high failure rates. One of the contributing factors to this high failure rate is their lack of social responsibility (SR) involvement. Several research studies show that SR is of utmost importance to any form of business, because when SR is implemented successfully into their business activities, these businesses tend to perform better than those who do not. Behaving in a socially responsible manner can increase a business’s competitive advantage (in strengthening their brand image, reputation and ongoing stakeholder involvement and commitment), ultimately leading to improved financial performance (by reducing costs and increasing revenue) and potential for transgenerational success. Therefore, this study investigates the family influence on the choice, implementation and outcomes of SR practices in successful transgenerational family businesses in South Africa. In this study, socioemotional wealth (SEW), the non-financial emotional remuneration earned when owning a family business, served as a proxy for family influence. The theory of SEW has been proven to be a reliable scientific lens to explain several family business phenomena (e.g. SR practices), due to its width and vigour. Furthermore, SEW was considered an appropriate theoretical perspective because as a theory it was developed from actual family business phenomena. The theory contends that the family’s efforts to make affective endowments (and increase their SEW) explain many of their strategic and operational business decisions. Therefore, it can be argued that, as with all decisions, family business decisions relating to why and how to engage in SR are greatly influenced by the extent to which the outcomes of those decisions contribute to increasing SEW. The research design and methodological framework commonly known as the “research onion” was used to describe the procedures followed and the choices made by the researcher when conducting the study. By positioning this research study in the interpretivism paradigm, it was possible to study a family in their own environment in order to gain a deeper understanding of the research topic at hand. In addition, an abductive approach to theory development was adopted in which a conceptual framework was developed from existing literature explaining the role of SEW (as a proxy for family influence) on the SR practices of family. A qualitative research method was chosen as it enabled the researcher to address the research objectives with strategies that provided a descriptive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. As the aim of this study was to investigate SR in a natural setting, namely successful transgenerational South African family businesses and to investigate how the family influences the choice and execution of SR practices, a case study research strategy was adopted. By using a multi-case study strategy, data collected from eight family businesses and 25 key informants were thematically analysed. Based on the practices adopted by the participating families and their family businesses, this study provides a holistic framework outlining how the family, through striving to uphold their values, protect their reputation and build relationships with stakeholders, as well as the operational and social context in which their businesses operate, influences their SR practices. Family business owners are provided with a comprehensive guideline to understand how their SR decisions influence both their financial and non-financial (social) performance outcomes and ultimately their transgenerational potential and success. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The necessity of business education for successful engineering leaders in South Africa
- Authors: Scheepers, Juan-Pierre
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Business education , Leadership -- South Africa , Executive engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73650 , vital:79491
- Description: This research document examines the significance of business education for South African leaders. The research assesses the perspectives of aspiring and established engineering leaders on the necessity of business education to advance their professional careers and improve the country's socio-economic stance. Three secondary research objectives are established to answer the overarching primary research objective: to explore the perception, importance, and impact of business education for engineers in South Africa. The secondary research objectives seek to address the specific business skills and knowledge areas considered crucial for engineers in South Africa, to investigate the potential benefits of incorporating business education into the tertiary engineering curricula in South Africa, and to investigate whether the Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) could be a viable solution to the lack of business education for South African engineering leaders. This study sought to foster an understanding of how business education can enable South African engineers to thrive in leadership positions while stimulating the economy and innovation. In addressing these objectives, a qualitative research methodology was employed, and data was collected from a sample of fourteen engineers from different disciplines across the country. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted to obtain the data while following ethical procedures which ensured anonymity. Software technology, more specifically, Atlas.ti was utilised to uncover and establish various patterns and themes relative to the research objectives. The findings from the research indicated that business acumen is crucial. However, an MBA qualification is not necessarily deemed as essential, although it provides engineers with the crucial skills to equipping them to excel in their careers. Moreover, the integration of business education with the engineering curriculum highlighted the need to remain engineers and the probability of providing elective modules at honours level, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 8, of an engineering qualification. It is important to bridge the gap between technical proficiency and business acumen to prepare engineers for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Additionally, the recommendations stress the importance of collaboration between university, industry and engineering regulatory bodies. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Scheepers, Juan-Pierre
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Business education , Leadership -- South Africa , Executive engineering
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73650 , vital:79491
- Description: This research document examines the significance of business education for South African leaders. The research assesses the perspectives of aspiring and established engineering leaders on the necessity of business education to advance their professional careers and improve the country's socio-economic stance. Three secondary research objectives are established to answer the overarching primary research objective: to explore the perception, importance, and impact of business education for engineers in South Africa. The secondary research objectives seek to address the specific business skills and knowledge areas considered crucial for engineers in South Africa, to investigate the potential benefits of incorporating business education into the tertiary engineering curricula in South Africa, and to investigate whether the Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) could be a viable solution to the lack of business education for South African engineering leaders. This study sought to foster an understanding of how business education can enable South African engineers to thrive in leadership positions while stimulating the economy and innovation. In addressing these objectives, a qualitative research methodology was employed, and data was collected from a sample of fourteen engineers from different disciplines across the country. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted to obtain the data while following ethical procedures which ensured anonymity. Software technology, more specifically, Atlas.ti was utilised to uncover and establish various patterns and themes relative to the research objectives. The findings from the research indicated that business acumen is crucial. However, an MBA qualification is not necessarily deemed as essential, although it provides engineers with the crucial skills to equipping them to excel in their careers. Moreover, the integration of business education with the engineering curriculum highlighted the need to remain engineers and the probability of providing elective modules at honours level, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 8, of an engineering qualification. It is important to bridge the gap between technical proficiency and business acumen to prepare engineers for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Additionally, the recommendations stress the importance of collaboration between university, industry and engineering regulatory bodies. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The personality development of Kurt Cobain through an Erikson Ian Lens: a psychobiography
- Authors: de Villiers, Kerry Alison
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Cobain, Kurt, -- 1967-1994 , Personality development -- South Africa , Developmental psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74511 , vital:79736
- Description: The objective of psychobiography is a better understanding of individuals, and these case studies add meaning and value to research. Kurt Cobain was chosen for this study through a purposiv e sampling method due to his contributions to the world of music as well as his enigmatic personality personality. The primary aim of this study was to present the reader with a basic description of his life, and a secondary aim was to accomplish an in in-depth analysis of Kurt Cobain’s personality through an Erik Erikson lens . Due to these aims and the nature of psychobiography, it may be said that this is a qualitative study based on a single case method, described as explorative and descriptive. Data was analysed accor ding to Miles, Huberman and Saldaña’s (2014) approach which consists of data reduction, data display and data verification. This study was guided by Erik Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development . The theory allowed for an in in-depth description of Cobain’s experiences and personality development throughout his lifetime lifetime. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: de Villiers, Kerry Alison
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Cobain, Kurt, -- 1967-1994 , Personality development -- South Africa , Developmental psychology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74511 , vital:79736
- Description: The objective of psychobiography is a better understanding of individuals, and these case studies add meaning and value to research. Kurt Cobain was chosen for this study through a purposiv e sampling method due to his contributions to the world of music as well as his enigmatic personality personality. The primary aim of this study was to present the reader with a basic description of his life, and a secondary aim was to accomplish an in in-depth analysis of Kurt Cobain’s personality through an Erik Erikson lens . Due to these aims and the nature of psychobiography, it may be said that this is a qualitative study based on a single case method, described as explorative and descriptive. Data was analysed accor ding to Miles, Huberman and Saldaña’s (2014) approach which consists of data reduction, data display and data verification. This study was guided by Erik Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development . The theory allowed for an in in-depth description of Cobain’s experiences and personality development throughout his lifetime lifetime. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The post-covid-19 socio-economic effects on small businesses in the city of Tshwane, Gauteng
- Authors: Ajayi,Johnson Olumayowa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Small business -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71937 , vital:79159
- Description: The study is a descriptive, narrative-exploratory research study investigating the post- COVID-19 effects on small businesses in the City of Tshwane. The COVID-19 pandemic was an abrupt disruption to global order. This study used both the exploratory and narrative approach of the qualitative methodology to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the trade and manufacturing sectors in the post-COVID-19 era. The open-ended interview guide was used to collect primary data; the study used a hybrid method of qualitative data analysis, i.e., both content and thematic methods for the qualitative data analysis. To achieve trustworthiness, the following were considered: data credibility, dependability, confirmability, validity and reliability. The empirical data analysis was completed deductively, deriving themes after coding captured data. Descriptive statistics were also evaluated to provide demographic information about the participants. The results from both data analysis methods were compared and verified to establish the data's trustworthiness. The findings show the impact of COVID-19 on small business activities, which have been devastating and caused a significant disruption in global economic activity; many small businesses closed down, sources of income were impoverished, and many jobs were lost. There were also adverse effects on the government revenue generation capacity and capability to respond to pandemics. In conclusion, it is recommended that governments proactively respond to future outbreaks by providing tactful COVID-19 awareness training and intervention skills through public engagement. it's imperative to provide adequate support to all small businesses. It recommended that the government and stakeholders articulate further investigations into the COVID-19 pandemic disruption, providing overarching insight into the phenomenon experienced. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Ajayi,Johnson Olumayowa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 (Disease) -- Economic aspects , Small business -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/71937 , vital:79159
- Description: The study is a descriptive, narrative-exploratory research study investigating the post- COVID-19 effects on small businesses in the City of Tshwane. The COVID-19 pandemic was an abrupt disruption to global order. This study used both the exploratory and narrative approach of the qualitative methodology to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the trade and manufacturing sectors in the post-COVID-19 era. The open-ended interview guide was used to collect primary data; the study used a hybrid method of qualitative data analysis, i.e., both content and thematic methods for the qualitative data analysis. To achieve trustworthiness, the following were considered: data credibility, dependability, confirmability, validity and reliability. The empirical data analysis was completed deductively, deriving themes after coding captured data. Descriptive statistics were also evaluated to provide demographic information about the participants. The results from both data analysis methods were compared and verified to establish the data's trustworthiness. The findings show the impact of COVID-19 on small business activities, which have been devastating and caused a significant disruption in global economic activity; many small businesses closed down, sources of income were impoverished, and many jobs were lost. There were also adverse effects on the government revenue generation capacity and capability to respond to pandemics. In conclusion, it is recommended that governments proactively respond to future outbreaks by providing tactful COVID-19 awareness training and intervention skills through public engagement. it's imperative to provide adequate support to all small businesses. It recommended that the government and stakeholders articulate further investigations into the COVID-19 pandemic disruption, providing overarching insight into the phenomenon experienced. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The promotional effect of copper on alumina and activated carbon supported NIMO hydrodeoxygenation catalysts
- Authors: Mugwena, Rinae Eulander
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fossil fuels , Biomass energy , Renewable energy sources
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76075 , vital:80113
- Description: The rapid depletion of oil reserves and the environmental issues caused by heavy reliance on fossil fuels throughout society's explosive growth have forced the world to find alternative sources of fuel. Fossil fuels for transportation and industrial purposes can be satisfactorily replaced with biofuels such as biodiesel and bioethanol liquid fuels. Unfortunately, use of these bioderived fuels is discouraged because of their high concentration of oxygen-containing compounds. Several studies have been conducted to remove the oxygen-containing compounds, most of which have focused on removing aromatic oxygenated compounds due to the difficulty of removing oxygen from these compounds. Hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) catalysts are a crucial part of the HDO process. However, the currently employed hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) catalysts suffer from deactivation due to the high oxygen content in bio-oil, thus producing fuel sources that cannot comply with the required fuel quality standards. Unsupported NiMo and CuNiMo catalysts were synthesized and characterized to understand the interactions between the metals (Ni, Mo, and Cu) in the catalysts and guide on understanding the use of Cu as an additional promoter metal. Single crystal XRD revealed the interaction between Ni and Mo showing how octahedral MoO surrounds Ni forming an octahedral sphere. Other characterization techniques such as FT-IR, UV/Vis, SEM-EDS, TEM, XRD, ICP, and TGA/DSC were also employed to elucidate the relationships. The alumina and activated carbon supported NiMo/γ-Al2O3, NiMo/AC, CuNiMo/γ-Al2O3, and CuNiMo/AC catalysts were also prepared and characterized using similar techniques to further understand the idea of promoting using copper and the possibility of migrating from the conventional γ-Al2O3 support which suffers deactivation due to dealumination. It was observed that the general uptake of metals is much higher for the γ-Al2O3 support compared to the AC support. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy showed better dispersion of Ni and Mo in the γ-Al2O3 catalyst when Cu was introduced. The catalysts were also evaluated in the HDO of phenol model fuel and the catalytic activity followed the trend: CuNiMo/γ-Al2O3 (46.1%) > NiMo/γ-Al2O3 (42.1%) > NiMo/AC (25.1%) > CuNiMo/AC (5.6%). HDO studies showed much higher improvement in catalytic activity when Cu was introduced to γ-Al2O3 supported NiMo while in the case of AC-supported NiMo, the activity was unusually lower regardless of the remarkably higher total metal content in the catalyst. Through this work, we recommend the use of Cu as a promoter in γ-Al2O3 supported NiMo catalysts for HDO. Further work is needed to fully understand the disparities observed when Cu is used as a promoter in the AC supported NiMo catalysts. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Mugwena, Rinae Eulander
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Fossil fuels , Biomass energy , Renewable energy sources
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76075 , vital:80113
- Description: The rapid depletion of oil reserves and the environmental issues caused by heavy reliance on fossil fuels throughout society's explosive growth have forced the world to find alternative sources of fuel. Fossil fuels for transportation and industrial purposes can be satisfactorily replaced with biofuels such as biodiesel and bioethanol liquid fuels. Unfortunately, use of these bioderived fuels is discouraged because of their high concentration of oxygen-containing compounds. Several studies have been conducted to remove the oxygen-containing compounds, most of which have focused on removing aromatic oxygenated compounds due to the difficulty of removing oxygen from these compounds. Hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) catalysts are a crucial part of the HDO process. However, the currently employed hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) catalysts suffer from deactivation due to the high oxygen content in bio-oil, thus producing fuel sources that cannot comply with the required fuel quality standards. Unsupported NiMo and CuNiMo catalysts were synthesized and characterized to understand the interactions between the metals (Ni, Mo, and Cu) in the catalysts and guide on understanding the use of Cu as an additional promoter metal. Single crystal XRD revealed the interaction between Ni and Mo showing how octahedral MoO surrounds Ni forming an octahedral sphere. Other characterization techniques such as FT-IR, UV/Vis, SEM-EDS, TEM, XRD, ICP, and TGA/DSC were also employed to elucidate the relationships. The alumina and activated carbon supported NiMo/γ-Al2O3, NiMo/AC, CuNiMo/γ-Al2O3, and CuNiMo/AC catalysts were also prepared and characterized using similar techniques to further understand the idea of promoting using copper and the possibility of migrating from the conventional γ-Al2O3 support which suffers deactivation due to dealumination. It was observed that the general uptake of metals is much higher for the γ-Al2O3 support compared to the AC support. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy showed better dispersion of Ni and Mo in the γ-Al2O3 catalyst when Cu was introduced. The catalysts were also evaluated in the HDO of phenol model fuel and the catalytic activity followed the trend: CuNiMo/γ-Al2O3 (46.1%) > NiMo/γ-Al2O3 (42.1%) > NiMo/AC (25.1%) > CuNiMo/AC (5.6%). HDO studies showed much higher improvement in catalytic activity when Cu was introduced to γ-Al2O3 supported NiMo while in the case of AC-supported NiMo, the activity was unusually lower regardless of the remarkably higher total metal content in the catalyst. Through this work, we recommend the use of Cu as a promoter in γ-Al2O3 supported NiMo catalysts for HDO. Further work is needed to fully understand the disparities observed when Cu is used as a promoter in the AC supported NiMo catalysts. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
The psychological effect of witnessing domestic violence by adolescents in South Africa: a systematic review
- Authors: Gumbi, Asanda
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Family violence -- South Africa , Victims of family violence -- South Africa , Adolescent psychology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74567 , vital:79756
- Description: The adolescent stage of any child is most critical and exposure to domestic violence can have dire consequences on their mental health. Although a lot of work has been done in examining the impact of domestic violence on adolescents, there still exists a deficit in understanding the mediating variables that dictate psychological outcomes. This gap will be filled by undertaking a systematic review of the psychological impact of exposure to domestic violence amongst South African adolescents and the variables that moderate these impacts. Utilizing Petticrew and Roberts’ (2006) systematic review approach, various academic databases like The Campbell Collaboration, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Wiley Online Library were sifted for relevant literature. A thematic approach yielded the following psychological outcomes: emotional dysregulation, post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, and low self-esteem. Findings showed that children’s psychological responses to domestic violence depends largely on their socio-economic standing, the social support systems that exist, and the perceived culture of violence. This study highlights the urgent need for timely mental health policy change and intervention development to address south African adolescents’ domestic violence exposure outcomes. The obtained results aid in structuring the most needed support for South African adolescents. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Gumbi, Asanda
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Family violence -- South Africa , Victims of family violence -- South Africa , Adolescent psychology -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74567 , vital:79756
- Description: The adolescent stage of any child is most critical and exposure to domestic violence can have dire consequences on their mental health. Although a lot of work has been done in examining the impact of domestic violence on adolescents, there still exists a deficit in understanding the mediating variables that dictate psychological outcomes. This gap will be filled by undertaking a systematic review of the psychological impact of exposure to domestic violence amongst South African adolescents and the variables that moderate these impacts. Utilizing Petticrew and Roberts’ (2006) systematic review approach, various academic databases like The Campbell Collaboration, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Wiley Online Library were sifted for relevant literature. A thematic approach yielded the following psychological outcomes: emotional dysregulation, post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, and low self-esteem. Findings showed that children’s psychological responses to domestic violence depends largely on their socio-economic standing, the social support systems that exist, and the perceived culture of violence. This study highlights the urgent need for timely mental health policy change and intervention development to address south African adolescents’ domestic violence exposure outcomes. The obtained results aid in structuring the most needed support for South African adolescents. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04