Ligand-functionalized polymeric materials for adsorptive recovery of palladium from acidic solutions
- Authors: Mahleba, Masivuye Momelezi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Palladium , Chemical kinetics , Thermodynamics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:80105
- Description: The large volumes of wastewater generated from the refining process have common characteristics in terms of pH, high concentrations of chloride, nitrate, cyanides, and, very interestingly, low concentrations of PGMs. The environmental release of PGMs such as Pd(II) poses significant ecological and financial concerns. Thus, the current study intended to develop materials for selective recovery of Pd(II) to alleviate its loss from wastewater and potentially allow for water reuse in refineries or other related sources. Three functionalized Merrifield resins, namely 1,2-ethanedithiol (M-EDT), 1,2-benzenedithiol (M-BDT), and 2-benzimidazolylmethylthio acetic acid (M-BITAA), were synthesized for the recovery of PGMs from simulated solutions. The obtained functionalized resins were characterized by using FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, CHNS, TGA, and SEM. FTIR results showed that the framework structure of the pristine Merrifield was relatively retained after functionalization, but a significant decrease in intensities was observed for all functionalized resins at 684 cm-1 and 1268 cm-1 attributed to benzyl-Cl and CH2-Cl vibrations, respectively. UV-Vis also confirmed thepresence of polystyrene moiety associated with the benzene ring for pristine Merrifield and functionalized resins at 279 nm. CHNS further indicated that, amongst the functionalized resins, M-BITAA (80–50%) showed the highest degree of functionalization followed by M-EDT (40–30%) and M-BDT (8–5%), respectively. The CHNS results confirmed the ligand loading, indicating high functionalization degree for M-BITAA compared to M-EDT and M-BDT. SEM micrographs of the Merrifield resins showed that M-BITAA slightly increased in diameter compared to pristine and other functionalized resins. For metal ion adsorption, M-BITAA exhibited the highest capacity for Pd(II) with about 26 mg.g-1 ,while M-EDT and M-BDT reached only 7 and 3 mg.g-1, respectively. The adsorbents obeyed the Langmuir isotherm model and favoured pseudo-first order and Elovich kinetic models in 0.8 and 0.5 M HCl solutions. Batch adsorption further showed, in a competitive study, that M-BITAA was not selective for Pd(II) but also an attractive sorbent for other PGMs such as Pt(IV) and Ir(III), which may be advantageous for solutions containing these PGMs. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Ligand-functionalized polymeric materials for adsorptive recovery of palladium from acidic solutions
- Authors: Mahleba, Masivuye Momelezi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Palladium , Chemical kinetics , Thermodynamics
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:80105
- Description: The large volumes of wastewater generated from the refining process have common characteristics in terms of pH, high concentrations of chloride, nitrate, cyanides, and, very interestingly, low concentrations of PGMs. The environmental release of PGMs such as Pd(II) poses significant ecological and financial concerns. Thus, the current study intended to develop materials for selective recovery of Pd(II) to alleviate its loss from wastewater and potentially allow for water reuse in refineries or other related sources. Three functionalized Merrifield resins, namely 1,2-ethanedithiol (M-EDT), 1,2-benzenedithiol (M-BDT), and 2-benzimidazolylmethylthio acetic acid (M-BITAA), were synthesized for the recovery of PGMs from simulated solutions. The obtained functionalized resins were characterized by using FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, CHNS, TGA, and SEM. FTIR results showed that the framework structure of the pristine Merrifield was relatively retained after functionalization, but a significant decrease in intensities was observed for all functionalized resins at 684 cm-1 and 1268 cm-1 attributed to benzyl-Cl and CH2-Cl vibrations, respectively. UV-Vis also confirmed thepresence of polystyrene moiety associated with the benzene ring for pristine Merrifield and functionalized resins at 279 nm. CHNS further indicated that, amongst the functionalized resins, M-BITAA (80–50%) showed the highest degree of functionalization followed by M-EDT (40–30%) and M-BDT (8–5%), respectively. The CHNS results confirmed the ligand loading, indicating high functionalization degree for M-BITAA compared to M-EDT and M-BDT. SEM micrographs of the Merrifield resins showed that M-BITAA slightly increased in diameter compared to pristine and other functionalized resins. For metal ion adsorption, M-BITAA exhibited the highest capacity for Pd(II) with about 26 mg.g-1 ,while M-EDT and M-BDT reached only 7 and 3 mg.g-1, respectively. The adsorbents obeyed the Langmuir isotherm model and favoured pseudo-first order and Elovich kinetic models in 0.8 and 0.5 M HCl solutions. Batch adsorption further showed, in a competitive study, that M-BITAA was not selective for Pd(II) but also an attractive sorbent for other PGMs such as Pt(IV) and Ir(III), which may be advantageous for solutions containing these PGMs. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Macroinvertebrates associated with seagrass at point-source pollutant inputs in the Knysna Estuary
- Authors: Benjamin, Saudiqa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Invertebrate communities -- South Africa , Estuaries -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75501 , vital:79931
- Description: Estuaries are important ecosystems that provide many functions, including filtering nutrients and other contaminants from surrounding catchments before they reach the ocean. These services are provided by habitats such as seagrasses. Increasing anthropogenic pressures and development threaten the integrity of such coastal ecosystems. Nutrient enrichment or eutrophication affects seagrass habitats globally, causing ecosystem degradation and loss of ecological and economic value. Nutrient enrichment can induce various changes to both the floral and faunal communities within estuarine environments. These effects include the proliferation of opportunistic algae and shifts in macroinvertebrate community structure from sensitive to resilient taxa. The aim of this study was to investigate the drivers and responses of Zostera capensis and the macroinvertebrates dwelling within its rhizosphere, to nutrient pollution at the Knysna Estuary, South Africa. This was achieved by quantifying seagrass metrics, sediment characteristics and macroinvertebrate indices at six polluted sites (referred to as point-sources) along the Knysna Estuary. Sampling was carried out quarterly from May 2023 to January 2024. Direct indices of nutrient pollution were measured as nutrient concentrations (N and P) in seagrass tissue of above- and belowground biomass, the overlying water column as well as in epiphytic tissue. A nutrient gradient was determined across the point-sources. Sites sheltered from wave action were more nutrient enriched than exposed sites, reflecting their depositional nature. Bongani River (which is linked to a wastewater treatment works) was identified as the most polluted site, however, δ15N isotopic signatures in Z. capensis leaves were not consistently indicative of enrichment. This could be related to seasonal trade-offs of nutrient requirements or poorly primary treated wastewater resulting in depleted δ15N signals (mean of 1.76 ± 4.65 ‰). Featherbed, which is an exposed site, was the least polluted. Seagrass metrics did not increase in response to high nutrient concentrations but rather a decrease in above- and belowground biomass was observed. This could be linked to long-term enrichment with nutrient levels exceeding plant growth needs, leading to reduced growth from direct effects such as NH4 + growth suppressant, or secondary effects such as overgrowth from other primary producers or sediment anoxia. Nutrient storage (N and P) in Z. capensis above- and belowground biomass did not differ overall. Epiphyte biomass increased in response to high nutrient concentrations and demonstrated a high nutrient storage capacity, suggesting that epiphytes responded more rapidly to nutrient enrichment. The highest epiphyte biomass was recorded at Bongani (61.6 ± 28.87 mg m-2), while Featherbed had the lowest (21.71 ± 21.63 mg m-2) epiphyte biomass. Nutrient enrichment effected a change in site-specific community composition of macroinvertebrates associated with the rhizosphere sediment. The dominance of general pollution-tolerant groups such as clitellates and polychaetes and the low abundance of pollution-sensitive groups such as burrowing amphipods was observed at Bongani compared to other sites. The Benthic Opportunistic Annelids Amphipods (BO2A) index highlighted the poor ecological status of Bongani and the comparatively less polluted conditions at Featherbed. Regression modelling suggested that sediment characteristics such as redox was the dominant driver of macroinvertebrate responses (abundance, richness and diversity). A well oxygenated habitat is a crucial metabolic requirement forvfauna. A higher sediment redox potential indicating aerobic conditions reflected higher macroinvertebrate abundance and richness. The rhizosphere sediment was predominantlyvsilty (2.8 ± 1.29 μm). Sandier sediment was negatively related to species richness andvsediment with higher clay content was negatively related to polychaete abundance. Thesevresults suggested that indirect effects of increasing organic matter and nutrient loading linked to sediment type can increase oxygen consumption, lowering redox potential whichvcollectively negatively affects the benthic fauna.vDeteriorating water quality is becoming more prevalent in South Africa and worldwide.vMonitoring effluent flows and the effects it has on water resources is vital to combatvpollution. This study showed that different indicators of nutrient enrichment such asvseagrass, macroinvertebrates and epiphytes can be effectively used in studies investigating pollution impacts on coastal environments. Although seagrass habitats have been shown tovimprove water quality through storage and filtering capacity, efforts should steer towardsvreducing excess nutrient input received from catchments. This is especially true in sensitivevareas where seagrass is exposed to long-term nutrient enrichment. Many studies have experimentally tested enrichment effects across various timeframes. However, more in-situvinvestigations should be conducted to assess combined seagrass and macroinvertebratevresponses to eutrophic conditions. This is necessary to protect the ecological functionsvprovided by these components which are intrinsically linked. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Life, Earth, Environmental & Agricultural Sciences Cluster, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Benjamin, Saudiqa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Invertebrate communities -- South Africa , Estuaries -- South Africa , Estuarine ecology -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75501 , vital:79931
- Description: Estuaries are important ecosystems that provide many functions, including filtering nutrients and other contaminants from surrounding catchments before they reach the ocean. These services are provided by habitats such as seagrasses. Increasing anthropogenic pressures and development threaten the integrity of such coastal ecosystems. Nutrient enrichment or eutrophication affects seagrass habitats globally, causing ecosystem degradation and loss of ecological and economic value. Nutrient enrichment can induce various changes to both the floral and faunal communities within estuarine environments. These effects include the proliferation of opportunistic algae and shifts in macroinvertebrate community structure from sensitive to resilient taxa. The aim of this study was to investigate the drivers and responses of Zostera capensis and the macroinvertebrates dwelling within its rhizosphere, to nutrient pollution at the Knysna Estuary, South Africa. This was achieved by quantifying seagrass metrics, sediment characteristics and macroinvertebrate indices at six polluted sites (referred to as point-sources) along the Knysna Estuary. Sampling was carried out quarterly from May 2023 to January 2024. Direct indices of nutrient pollution were measured as nutrient concentrations (N and P) in seagrass tissue of above- and belowground biomass, the overlying water column as well as in epiphytic tissue. A nutrient gradient was determined across the point-sources. Sites sheltered from wave action were more nutrient enriched than exposed sites, reflecting their depositional nature. Bongani River (which is linked to a wastewater treatment works) was identified as the most polluted site, however, δ15N isotopic signatures in Z. capensis leaves were not consistently indicative of enrichment. This could be related to seasonal trade-offs of nutrient requirements or poorly primary treated wastewater resulting in depleted δ15N signals (mean of 1.76 ± 4.65 ‰). Featherbed, which is an exposed site, was the least polluted. Seagrass metrics did not increase in response to high nutrient concentrations but rather a decrease in above- and belowground biomass was observed. This could be linked to long-term enrichment with nutrient levels exceeding plant growth needs, leading to reduced growth from direct effects such as NH4 + growth suppressant, or secondary effects such as overgrowth from other primary producers or sediment anoxia. Nutrient storage (N and P) in Z. capensis above- and belowground biomass did not differ overall. Epiphyte biomass increased in response to high nutrient concentrations and demonstrated a high nutrient storage capacity, suggesting that epiphytes responded more rapidly to nutrient enrichment. The highest epiphyte biomass was recorded at Bongani (61.6 ± 28.87 mg m-2), while Featherbed had the lowest (21.71 ± 21.63 mg m-2) epiphyte biomass. Nutrient enrichment effected a change in site-specific community composition of macroinvertebrates associated with the rhizosphere sediment. The dominance of general pollution-tolerant groups such as clitellates and polychaetes and the low abundance of pollution-sensitive groups such as burrowing amphipods was observed at Bongani compared to other sites. The Benthic Opportunistic Annelids Amphipods (BO2A) index highlighted the poor ecological status of Bongani and the comparatively less polluted conditions at Featherbed. Regression modelling suggested that sediment characteristics such as redox was the dominant driver of macroinvertebrate responses (abundance, richness and diversity). A well oxygenated habitat is a crucial metabolic requirement forvfauna. A higher sediment redox potential indicating aerobic conditions reflected higher macroinvertebrate abundance and richness. The rhizosphere sediment was predominantlyvsilty (2.8 ± 1.29 μm). Sandier sediment was negatively related to species richness andvsediment with higher clay content was negatively related to polychaete abundance. Thesevresults suggested that indirect effects of increasing organic matter and nutrient loading linked to sediment type can increase oxygen consumption, lowering redox potential whichvcollectively negatively affects the benthic fauna.vDeteriorating water quality is becoming more prevalent in South Africa and worldwide.vMonitoring effluent flows and the effects it has on water resources is vital to combatvpollution. This study showed that different indicators of nutrient enrichment such asvseagrass, macroinvertebrates and epiphytes can be effectively used in studies investigating pollution impacts on coastal environments. Although seagrass habitats have been shown tovimprove water quality through storage and filtering capacity, efforts should steer towardsvreducing excess nutrient input received from catchments. This is especially true in sensitivevareas where seagrass is exposed to long-term nutrient enrichment. Many studies have experimentally tested enrichment effects across various timeframes. However, more in-situvinvestigations should be conducted to assess combined seagrass and macroinvertebratevresponses to eutrophic conditions. This is necessary to protect the ecological functionsvprovided by these components which are intrinsically linked. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, Life, Earth, Environmental & Agricultural Sciences Cluster, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Main thesis title: Exploring undergraduate nursing students’ post-COVID-19 pandemic academic learning experiences at a public nursing education institution in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Wittenschinskey, Claudine Helen
- Authors: Wittenschinskey, Claudine Helen
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , COVID-19 (Disease) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75116 , vital:79886
- Description: Globally, COVID-19 has not only affected public health socially, but also affected teaching and learning in higher education institutions, including nursing education institutions. COVID-19 pandemic learning experiences of undergraduate nursing students have been marked by challenges, resilience, and adaptability. The transition from face-to-face to online learning, disruptions in theoretical classroom learning, and in practical learning in clinical placements, had an emotional toll on students with lasting impact, and did not only shape undergraduate nursing students’ educational journey. The transition also brought about benefits, including enhanced self-directedness, student confidence, and increased access to information. It is essential to recognize and address the unique needs of these nursing students in the post–COVID 19 pandemic era, providing them with the support and resources necessary for their professional development. However, little is known on the learning experiences of undergraduate nursing students post-COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Therefore, this study aimed to explore and describe undergraduate nursing students’ post-COVID 19 pandemic academic learning experiences at a public nursing education institution (NEI) in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) to make recommendations for strengthening student support services, thereby contributing to nursing education teaching and learning. Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory underpinned the research. A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive, and contextual design was used. The study was conducted at a public NEI in NMB. A purposive, non-probability sampling was used to select undergraduate nursing students enrolled at the NEI. Four face-to-face, semi-structured focus group discussions with a total of 29 undergraduate nursing students were facilitated by an independent trained fieldworker, while the researcher served as observer. Thematic analysis, in line with Braune and Clarke (2007), was done by an independent coder. Four major themes derived from the data were: (1) Participants describe their academic learning experiences during and post the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) Participants experienced challenges in academic learning post -COVID 19 pandemic; (3) Participants explained what facilitates academic learning in the post COVID -19 pandemic era, and (4) Participants’ give recommendations for effective learning post the COVID -19 , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Wittenschinskey, Claudine Helen
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , COVID-19 (Disease) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75116 , vital:79886
- Description: Globally, COVID-19 has not only affected public health socially, but also affected teaching and learning in higher education institutions, including nursing education institutions. COVID-19 pandemic learning experiences of undergraduate nursing students have been marked by challenges, resilience, and adaptability. The transition from face-to-face to online learning, disruptions in theoretical classroom learning, and in practical learning in clinical placements, had an emotional toll on students with lasting impact, and did not only shape undergraduate nursing students’ educational journey. The transition also brought about benefits, including enhanced self-directedness, student confidence, and increased access to information. It is essential to recognize and address the unique needs of these nursing students in the post–COVID 19 pandemic era, providing them with the support and resources necessary for their professional development. However, little is known on the learning experiences of undergraduate nursing students post-COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Therefore, this study aimed to explore and describe undergraduate nursing students’ post-COVID 19 pandemic academic learning experiences at a public nursing education institution (NEI) in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) to make recommendations for strengthening student support services, thereby contributing to nursing education teaching and learning. Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory underpinned the research. A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive, and contextual design was used. The study was conducted at a public NEI in NMB. A purposive, non-probability sampling was used to select undergraduate nursing students enrolled at the NEI. Four face-to-face, semi-structured focus group discussions with a total of 29 undergraduate nursing students were facilitated by an independent trained fieldworker, while the researcher served as observer. Thematic analysis, in line with Braune and Clarke (2007), was done by an independent coder. Four major themes derived from the data were: (1) Participants describe their academic learning experiences during and post the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) Participants experienced challenges in academic learning post -COVID 19 pandemic; (3) Participants explained what facilitates academic learning in the post COVID -19 pandemic era, and (4) Participants’ give recommendations for effective learning post the COVID -19 , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Mandatory enforcement of the COVID -19 vaccination on employee socio-economic conditions and job security across business industries in Gqeberha
- Authors: Hutton, Vanessa Karen
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020- , Job security , South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72735 , vital:79252
- Description: This research sought to examine the impact of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination enforcement on employees' socio-economic conditions and job security across various business industries in Gqeberha. Specifically, the study explored how employee job security was jeopardised when individuals refused to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Such refusals led to restricted workplace access under mandatory vaccination policies implemented across businesses. The research was motivated by a desire to understand the full extent of the socio-economic and job security implications of mandatory vaccination, with a particular focus on the gendered experiences of employees. A quantitative research methodology was adopted for this study. An online survey questionnaire was distributed via the Question Pro platform to employees working in organisations where COVID-19 vaccination was mandated. Participation in the study was voluntary, and respondents were sampled using a probability sampling design, specifically simple random sampling, to align with the study’s quantitative approach. The sample was restricted to employees in industries where mandatory vaccination policies were enforced. The research was structured around scientifically formulated hypotheses, aiming to uncover relationships between mandatory vaccination policies and their inherent impact on employees' socio-economic conditions and job security. The study findings revealed several critical insights. First, respondents did not universally agree that mandating the COVID-19 vaccine was a necessary measure to prevent the spread of the virus. Second, many respondents confirmed that mandatory vaccination policies threatened their job security. Notably, the findings highlighted that women were more vulnerable to job insecurity, with many experiencing heightened risk of losing their employment upon refusal to vaccinate. This vulnerability had significant socio-economic repercussions, particularly for affected households The research is significant as it underscores the pressures organisations face during a pandemic to implement policies that, while aimed at public health protection, may inadvertently harm employees. The study highlights the need for organisations to reconsider their approaches to policy implementation, ensuring that mandates do not infringe on employees' constitutional rights or disproportionately impact vulnerable groups. In addition, the research provides actionable recommendations for human resources departments in corporate organisations. These include adopting more inclusive strategies for policy development, fostering transparent and open communication with employees, and ensuring , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Hutton, Vanessa Karen
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020- , Job security , South Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72735 , vital:79252
- Description: This research sought to examine the impact of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination enforcement on employees' socio-economic conditions and job security across various business industries in Gqeberha. Specifically, the study explored how employee job security was jeopardised when individuals refused to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Such refusals led to restricted workplace access under mandatory vaccination policies implemented across businesses. The research was motivated by a desire to understand the full extent of the socio-economic and job security implications of mandatory vaccination, with a particular focus on the gendered experiences of employees. A quantitative research methodology was adopted for this study. An online survey questionnaire was distributed via the Question Pro platform to employees working in organisations where COVID-19 vaccination was mandated. Participation in the study was voluntary, and respondents were sampled using a probability sampling design, specifically simple random sampling, to align with the study’s quantitative approach. The sample was restricted to employees in industries where mandatory vaccination policies were enforced. The research was structured around scientifically formulated hypotheses, aiming to uncover relationships between mandatory vaccination policies and their inherent impact on employees' socio-economic conditions and job security. The study findings revealed several critical insights. First, respondents did not universally agree that mandating the COVID-19 vaccine was a necessary measure to prevent the spread of the virus. Second, many respondents confirmed that mandatory vaccination policies threatened their job security. Notably, the findings highlighted that women were more vulnerable to job insecurity, with many experiencing heightened risk of losing their employment upon refusal to vaccinate. This vulnerability had significant socio-economic repercussions, particularly for affected households The research is significant as it underscores the pressures organisations face during a pandemic to implement policies that, while aimed at public health protection, may inadvertently harm employees. The study highlights the need for organisations to reconsider their approaches to policy implementation, ensuring that mandates do not infringe on employees' constitutional rights or disproportionately impact vulnerable groups. In addition, the research provides actionable recommendations for human resources departments in corporate organisations. These include adopting more inclusive strategies for policy development, fostering transparent and open communication with employees, and ensuring , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Market integration as a key enabling factor for increased levels of agriculture commercialisation
- Authors: Kant, Leigh-Ann
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Agricultural industries -- South Africa , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72836 , vital:79269
- Description: This study investigated market integration as a key enabling factor for increasing agricultural commercialisation among small-scale vegetable farmers in South Africa. Limited access to profitable markets has hindered these farmers’ ability to realise the full value of their produce, restricting their transition to higher levels of commercial farming. Using a quantitative research approach, this study examined the roles of vertical coordination, contract farming and other critical factors in facilitating market integration. Data were collected via electronic surveys targeting managers of agribusinesses engaged with small-scale farmers and analysed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Key findings revealed that vertical coordination significantly enhances commercialisation outcomes; while contract farming, though moderately effective, is constrained by challenges such as inconsistent quality and deficits in trust. Other variables, including joint initiatives and training, positively affected market integration efforts. Conversely, limited access to information and the high costs of traceability systems emerged as significant barriers. The study proposes a refined conceptual framework to address these challenges, emphasising the need for enhanced collaborative efforts, capacity building and policy support to create inclusive and sustainable agricultural value chains. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on agricultural development and offer actionable insights for agribusinesses, policymakers and stakeholders aiming to empower smallscale farmers and improve food security in South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Kant, Leigh-Ann
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Agriculture -- Economic aspects -- South Africa , Agricultural industries -- South Africa , South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72836 , vital:79269
- Description: This study investigated market integration as a key enabling factor for increasing agricultural commercialisation among small-scale vegetable farmers in South Africa. Limited access to profitable markets has hindered these farmers’ ability to realise the full value of their produce, restricting their transition to higher levels of commercial farming. Using a quantitative research approach, this study examined the roles of vertical coordination, contract farming and other critical factors in facilitating market integration. Data were collected via electronic surveys targeting managers of agribusinesses engaged with small-scale farmers and analysed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Key findings revealed that vertical coordination significantly enhances commercialisation outcomes; while contract farming, though moderately effective, is constrained by challenges such as inconsistent quality and deficits in trust. Other variables, including joint initiatives and training, positively affected market integration efforts. Conversely, limited access to information and the high costs of traceability systems emerged as significant barriers. The study proposes a refined conceptual framework to address these challenges, emphasising the need for enhanced collaborative efforts, capacity building and policy support to create inclusive and sustainable agricultural value chains. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on agricultural development and offer actionable insights for agribusinesses, policymakers and stakeholders aiming to empower smallscale farmers and improve food security in South Africa. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Mature nursing students’ experiences of psychosocial support from significant others while studying at a private nursing education institution
- Authors: Michaels, Shamell Nadine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Psychology , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Adult learning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74909 , vital:79840
- Description: Many men or women who enter private and public nursing education institutions are mature students who have multiple roles, such as being parents, partners, spouses, and carers. They have to divide their attention and energy between their existing roles and the academic requirements to obtain their qualification. Adaptation, support, and cooperation of their significant others is therefore necessary. Nurses are the largest portion of the health workforce across the world; thus the shortage of nurses in the health workforce is a major concern. Nursing education institutions have to support students effectively to reduce attrition from courses and ensure that skilled competent professionals enter the healthcare workforce. This requires an understanding of the factors that influence students’ academic engagement and success in nursing training. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of mature nursing students regarding the psychosocial support provided to them by significant others with the intention of using the information to make recommendations for nursing education institutions to enhance the psychosocial support of mature nursing students. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual design, with purposive sampling and semi-structured in-depth interviews, were used as the research method. Rich data was collected on two campuses of a private nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape. The researcher provided an in-depth discussion of the findings and validated the participants’ accounts with verbatim quotes. She also placed the findings in current literature related to the topic. All ethical principles and aspects to ensure trustworthiness were upheld during the study. Five main themes emerged from the data: Theme one related to the emotional support students received from their significant others. Theme two addressed the different forms of financial support that students received form their significant others. Theme three described the instrumental support significant others provided. Theme four described the coping mechanisms students developed, and theme five described the suggestions students made to enhance their educational experience. Recommendations for the private nursing college were derived from the findings and evidence-based research about the topic. The three primary recommendations were as follows: PNEI to develop strategies to facilitate the psychosocial support of students by nurse educators. PNEI to develop strategies to assist students in managing their workloads. 3) PNEI to include significant others in college orientation programs to facilitate their understanding of the students’ needs. Limitations of the study were identified, and general recommendations were made with regard to improving nursing practice, nursing education, and future research. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Michaels, Shamell Nadine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Nursing students -- South Africa -- Psychology , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Adult learning
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74909 , vital:79840
- Description: Many men or women who enter private and public nursing education institutions are mature students who have multiple roles, such as being parents, partners, spouses, and carers. They have to divide their attention and energy between their existing roles and the academic requirements to obtain their qualification. Adaptation, support, and cooperation of their significant others is therefore necessary. Nurses are the largest portion of the health workforce across the world; thus the shortage of nurses in the health workforce is a major concern. Nursing education institutions have to support students effectively to reduce attrition from courses and ensure that skilled competent professionals enter the healthcare workforce. This requires an understanding of the factors that influence students’ academic engagement and success in nursing training. This study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of mature nursing students regarding the psychosocial support provided to them by significant others with the intention of using the information to make recommendations for nursing education institutions to enhance the psychosocial support of mature nursing students. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual design, with purposive sampling and semi-structured in-depth interviews, were used as the research method. Rich data was collected on two campuses of a private nursing education institution in the Eastern Cape. The researcher provided an in-depth discussion of the findings and validated the participants’ accounts with verbatim quotes. She also placed the findings in current literature related to the topic. All ethical principles and aspects to ensure trustworthiness were upheld during the study. Five main themes emerged from the data: Theme one related to the emotional support students received from their significant others. Theme two addressed the different forms of financial support that students received form their significant others. Theme three described the instrumental support significant others provided. Theme four described the coping mechanisms students developed, and theme five described the suggestions students made to enhance their educational experience. Recommendations for the private nursing college were derived from the findings and evidence-based research about the topic. The three primary recommendations were as follows: PNEI to develop strategies to facilitate the psychosocial support of students by nurse educators. PNEI to develop strategies to assist students in managing their workloads. 3) PNEI to include significant others in college orientation programs to facilitate their understanding of the students’ needs. Limitations of the study were identified, and general recommendations were made with regard to improving nursing practice, nursing education, and future research. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Midwives’ experiences and perceptions of the implementation of maternal care guidelines regarding screening and management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in Polokwane Municipality, Limpopo
- Authors: Chauke, Mmantsi Margaret
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Hypertension in pregnancy , Midwifery -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Maternity nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74500 , vital:79735
- Description: Midwives play a crucial role in ensuring high quality maternity care through evidence-based guidelines. Their practice is grounded in the utilisation of evidence-based guidelines, which serve as a foundation for their decision-making process, ensuring timely and effective interventions. However, despite the availability of these guidelines, approximately 830 women globally die every day due to preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, of which 119 out of 100,000 women in South Africa. Existing literature indicates that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, are the leading causes of maternal mortality. The incidences are not declining and continue to be associated with unfavourable pregnancy outcomes. There is a paucity of literature focusing on midwives’ experiences and perceptions of the implementation of these guidelines. Therefore, this study aimed to assess midwives’ experiences and perceptions of the implementation of maternal care guidelines regarding screening and managing hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in Polokwane Municipality, Capricorn District, Limpopo Province. The Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) theoretical framework underpinned this qualitative, exploratory-descriptive, and contextual study. The setting was primary healthcare clinics, a community health centre, and district hospitals in Polokwane Local Municipality, Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Participants were purposively selected midwives working in the study setting, with a minimum of one year of experience, having managed hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. A qualitative study design was adopted, with an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approach. A total of 23 face-to-face, semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted. Data was transcribed verbatim using TurboScribe AI. Data analysis was conducted by the researcher and an independent coder, following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach to thematic analysis. Three primary themes emerged: midwives expressed caring in their practices, enhanced by the guidelines. However, they also described experiencing obstacles that hamper the implementation of maternal care guidelines during the screening and management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. They highlighted that women are not taking ownership of and involvement in their care due to personal challenges. An independent coder was employed to ensure trustworthiness and enhanced research quality. The study adhered to ethical principles guided by the Belmont Report: credibility, confirmability, and dependability. The researcher formulated seven recommendations based on the thematic findings. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Chauke, Mmantsi Margaret
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Hypertension in pregnancy , Midwifery -- South Africa -- Limpopo , Maternity nursing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74500 , vital:79735
- Description: Midwives play a crucial role in ensuring high quality maternity care through evidence-based guidelines. Their practice is grounded in the utilisation of evidence-based guidelines, which serve as a foundation for their decision-making process, ensuring timely and effective interventions. However, despite the availability of these guidelines, approximately 830 women globally die every day due to preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, of which 119 out of 100,000 women in South Africa. Existing literature indicates that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, are the leading causes of maternal mortality. The incidences are not declining and continue to be associated with unfavourable pregnancy outcomes. There is a paucity of literature focusing on midwives’ experiences and perceptions of the implementation of these guidelines. Therefore, this study aimed to assess midwives’ experiences and perceptions of the implementation of maternal care guidelines regarding screening and managing hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in Polokwane Municipality, Capricorn District, Limpopo Province. The Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) theoretical framework underpinned this qualitative, exploratory-descriptive, and contextual study. The setting was primary healthcare clinics, a community health centre, and district hospitals in Polokwane Local Municipality, Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Participants were purposively selected midwives working in the study setting, with a minimum of one year of experience, having managed hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. A qualitative study design was adopted, with an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approach. A total of 23 face-to-face, semi-structured, individual interviews were conducted. Data was transcribed verbatim using TurboScribe AI. Data analysis was conducted by the researcher and an independent coder, following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach to thematic analysis. Three primary themes emerged: midwives expressed caring in their practices, enhanced by the guidelines. However, they also described experiencing obstacles that hamper the implementation of maternal care guidelines during the screening and management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. They highlighted that women are not taking ownership of and involvement in their care due to personal challenges. An independent coder was employed to ensure trustworthiness and enhanced research quality. The study adhered to ethical principles guided by the Belmont Report: credibility, confirmability, and dependability. The researcher formulated seven recommendations based on the thematic findings. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Murdering for medicine: a scoping review of the psychology-based evidence of muthi murder in South Africa
- Authors: Landsberg, Melissa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Africans -- cultural beliefs , Africans -- Sociological aspects , Traditional medicine -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74611 , vital:79790
- Description: Muthi murder is a culturally embedded phenomenon that involves the violent harvesting of human body parts for use in traditional African medicine. While muthi murders are acknowledged as a crime in South Africa, explanations have primarily been informed by cultural interpretations and sensationalised by media coverage. It is thus worth considering whether an overemphasis on ethnographic particularity in understanding the motivations behind muthi murder risks neglecting or overlooking its inscription within broader psychological structures. This review aimed to ascertain the prevalence of psychologically based evidence for muthi murder within existing South African literature. To achieve its aim, the review applied Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) six-stage methodological framework for scoping reviews. This framework provided a structured approach to map and synthesise existing research on muthi murder systematically. The review moreover implemented a PCC (Population/Concept/Context) framework to develop an initial search strategy and formulate a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Five articles were identified for final review and thematic analysis. Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis was used to identify and unpack the predominant themes associated with the practice of muthi murder in South Africa. The research results conveyed that muthi murder practices in South Africa exist within a multifaceted arena that has been influenced by a confluence of sociocultural, economic, political, and psychological variables. Collectively, the dynamic interplay between these elements contributes to the distortion and perversion of traditional African belief systems that often result in the exploitation of vulnerable community members. This review augmented the concept of muthi murder by integrating psychological dimensions to cultivate a more nuanced and profound understanding of the complexities inherent to these acts. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Landsberg, Melissa
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Africans -- cultural beliefs , Africans -- Sociological aspects , Traditional medicine -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74611 , vital:79790
- Description: Muthi murder is a culturally embedded phenomenon that involves the violent harvesting of human body parts for use in traditional African medicine. While muthi murders are acknowledged as a crime in South Africa, explanations have primarily been informed by cultural interpretations and sensationalised by media coverage. It is thus worth considering whether an overemphasis on ethnographic particularity in understanding the motivations behind muthi murder risks neglecting or overlooking its inscription within broader psychological structures. This review aimed to ascertain the prevalence of psychologically based evidence for muthi murder within existing South African literature. To achieve its aim, the review applied Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) six-stage methodological framework for scoping reviews. This framework provided a structured approach to map and synthesise existing research on muthi murder systematically. The review moreover implemented a PCC (Population/Concept/Context) framework to develop an initial search strategy and formulate a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Five articles were identified for final review and thematic analysis. Braun and Clarke's (2006) thematic analysis was used to identify and unpack the predominant themes associated with the practice of muthi murder in South Africa. The research results conveyed that muthi murder practices in South Africa exist within a multifaceted arena that has been influenced by a confluence of sociocultural, economic, political, and psychological variables. Collectively, the dynamic interplay between these elements contributes to the distortion and perversion of traditional African belief systems that often result in the exploitation of vulnerable community members. This review augmented the concept of muthi murder by integrating psychological dimensions to cultivate a more nuanced and profound understanding of the complexities inherent to these acts. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds extracted from olive pomace
- Authors: van den Heever, Chrizé
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Nanoscience , Olive oil -- Analysis , Oils and fats, Edible
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76218 , vital:80178
- Description: Olive pomace extract is known to be abundant in valuable hydrophilic and hydrophobic bio-active compounds (BACs), which have very good antioxidant properties and are considered essential for human health. However, these BACs have been found to degrade significantly at higher temperatures, in the presence of light and oxygen. This limits the inclusion of the olive pomace extracts in cosmetic formulations, as they can degrade significantly over time under typical cosmetic product storage conditions. In this study we investigated nanoencapsulation, specifically nanoliposomes, to potentially slow down the degradation of the BACs, namely tyrosol and oleuropein in the aqueous pom-ace extract and squalene in the oil extract, to preserve their functionality and improve the capability for their incorporation into cosmetic formulations. Optimal nanoliposomes were obtained using the microfluidic hydrodynamic focussing technique. The parameters which were optimized using this method were flow rate ratio (FRR), total flow rate (TFR), total lipid concentration, cholesterol to phospholipid concentration, and pH. Using the optimized pa-rameters, we were able to synthesize nanoliposomes with an average hydrodynamic size of 250.47 ± 4.74 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.210 ± 0.023 and zeta potential of -42.8 ± 2.1 mV. An average encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of 60% for the hydrophilic compounds and 90% for the hydrophobic compounds was obtained. In vitro skin permeation behaviour of the BACs was assessed using the Franz diffusion cell method and a synthetic polyether sulfone (PES) membrane. Compared to the non-encapsulated BACs permeation, after one hour the pene-tration of tyrosol in the nanoencapsulated hydrophilic extract was increased by 40.2% and that of oleuropein by 38.1%. Similar, the penetration of squalene in the nanoencapsulated hydrophobic extract was increased by 27.8% after one hour, compared to the non-encapsu-lated squalene. The stability of the nanoliposomes and the encapsulated and non-encapsulated BACs was as-sessed over 12 weeks under different storage conditions (5°C, room temperature (RT) and 40°C). Nanoliposomes remained below 300 nm and had an average PDI of 0.25 after 12 weeks of storage at 5°C and RT. The greatest change in hydrodynamic size and PDI was observed between 8-12 weeks of storage at 40°C. The zeta potential remained in the stable range when stored at 5°C and RT, however at 40°C storage, there was a significant decrease, which was v likely a result of aggregation. The positive effect of nanoencapsulation of the olive pomace extracts on the stability of the BACs increased as the temperature increased with the most significant delay in degradation of the BAC’s observed at 40°C storage. Further research needs to be conducted to improve the long-term stability of the nanoliposomes, which could further improve the stability of the BACs encapsulated into the nanoliposomes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: van den Heever, Chrizé
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Nanoscience , Olive oil -- Analysis , Oils and fats, Edible
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76218 , vital:80178
- Description: Olive pomace extract is known to be abundant in valuable hydrophilic and hydrophobic bio-active compounds (BACs), which have very good antioxidant properties and are considered essential for human health. However, these BACs have been found to degrade significantly at higher temperatures, in the presence of light and oxygen. This limits the inclusion of the olive pomace extracts in cosmetic formulations, as they can degrade significantly over time under typical cosmetic product storage conditions. In this study we investigated nanoencapsulation, specifically nanoliposomes, to potentially slow down the degradation of the BACs, namely tyrosol and oleuropein in the aqueous pom-ace extract and squalene in the oil extract, to preserve their functionality and improve the capability for their incorporation into cosmetic formulations. Optimal nanoliposomes were obtained using the microfluidic hydrodynamic focussing technique. The parameters which were optimized using this method were flow rate ratio (FRR), total flow rate (TFR), total lipid concentration, cholesterol to phospholipid concentration, and pH. Using the optimized pa-rameters, we were able to synthesize nanoliposomes with an average hydrodynamic size of 250.47 ± 4.74 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.210 ± 0.023 and zeta potential of -42.8 ± 2.1 mV. An average encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of 60% for the hydrophilic compounds and 90% for the hydrophobic compounds was obtained. In vitro skin permeation behaviour of the BACs was assessed using the Franz diffusion cell method and a synthetic polyether sulfone (PES) membrane. Compared to the non-encapsulated BACs permeation, after one hour the pene-tration of tyrosol in the nanoencapsulated hydrophilic extract was increased by 40.2% and that of oleuropein by 38.1%. Similar, the penetration of squalene in the nanoencapsulated hydrophobic extract was increased by 27.8% after one hour, compared to the non-encapsu-lated squalene. The stability of the nanoliposomes and the encapsulated and non-encapsulated BACs was as-sessed over 12 weeks under different storage conditions (5°C, room temperature (RT) and 40°C). Nanoliposomes remained below 300 nm and had an average PDI of 0.25 after 12 weeks of storage at 5°C and RT. The greatest change in hydrodynamic size and PDI was observed between 8-12 weeks of storage at 40°C. The zeta potential remained in the stable range when stored at 5°C and RT, however at 40°C storage, there was a significant decrease, which was v likely a result of aggregation. The positive effect of nanoencapsulation of the olive pomace extracts on the stability of the BACs increased as the temperature increased with the most significant delay in degradation of the BAC’s observed at 40°C storage. Further research needs to be conducted to improve the long-term stability of the nanoliposomes, which could further improve the stability of the BACs encapsulated into the nanoliposomes. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Biomolecular & Chemical Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Navigating geopolitical turbulence: strategies for strengthening supply chain resilience in South Africa’s maritime industry
- Authors: Tshona, Solomzi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sea control -- South Africa , Naval strategy -- South Africa , Shipping -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73747 , vital:79500
- Description: Maritime trade is a fundamental pillar of global commerce, with South Africa playing a crucial role in international shipping due to its strategic location along the Cape Route. However, geopolitical turbulence—including trade wars, territorial disputes, piracy, and regulatory shifts—poses significant risks to the stability and efficiency of South Africa’s maritime value chain. This study examines the impact of geopolitical instability on South Africa’s maritime industry, with a particular focus on port operations, trade routes, supply chain resilience, and policy responses. The research employs a qualitative secondary data analysis approach, drawing on academic literature, industry reports, and policy documents to assess the vulnerabilities of South Africa’s maritime sector and explore strategies for enhancing supply chain resilience. The study is guided by Supply Chain Resilience Theory, Geopolitical Risk Theory, and Port Competitiveness Theory, which provide a framework for understanding how geopolitical risks affect maritime logistics and how South Africa can adapt to these challenges. Findings reveal that maritime chokepoints such as the Suez Canal, Strait of Hormuz, and South China Sea continue to shape global trade patterns, with disruptions in these areas often leading to higher transportation costs, rerouting of vessels, and delays in cargo shipments. South Africa, though relatively insulated from direct territorial conflicts, remains vulnerable to piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, shifts in global shipping alliances, and the economic consequences of sanctions imposed on key trade partners. The study highlights existing policy frameworks, including the National Ports Act (2005), the Integrated Maritime Strategy, and Operation Phakisa, and assesses their effectiveness in mitigating geopolitical risks. However, challenges such as underinvestment in port infrastructure, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and fragmented regional cooperation continue to hinder South Africa’s ability to build a resilient maritime supply chain. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhanced regional collaboration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), investment in smart port technologies, diversification of trade routes, and policy reforms to strengthen maritime security. These measures are crucial for safeguarding South Africa’s maritime industry against global disruptions and ensuring sustainable economic growth in an era of increasing geopolitical uncertainty. , Thesis (MMM) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Tshona, Solomzi
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Sea control -- South Africa , Naval strategy -- South Africa , Shipping -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73747 , vital:79500
- Description: Maritime trade is a fundamental pillar of global commerce, with South Africa playing a crucial role in international shipping due to its strategic location along the Cape Route. However, geopolitical turbulence—including trade wars, territorial disputes, piracy, and regulatory shifts—poses significant risks to the stability and efficiency of South Africa’s maritime value chain. This study examines the impact of geopolitical instability on South Africa’s maritime industry, with a particular focus on port operations, trade routes, supply chain resilience, and policy responses. The research employs a qualitative secondary data analysis approach, drawing on academic literature, industry reports, and policy documents to assess the vulnerabilities of South Africa’s maritime sector and explore strategies for enhancing supply chain resilience. The study is guided by Supply Chain Resilience Theory, Geopolitical Risk Theory, and Port Competitiveness Theory, which provide a framework for understanding how geopolitical risks affect maritime logistics and how South Africa can adapt to these challenges. Findings reveal that maritime chokepoints such as the Suez Canal, Strait of Hormuz, and South China Sea continue to shape global trade patterns, with disruptions in these areas often leading to higher transportation costs, rerouting of vessels, and delays in cargo shipments. South Africa, though relatively insulated from direct territorial conflicts, remains vulnerable to piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, shifts in global shipping alliances, and the economic consequences of sanctions imposed on key trade partners. The study highlights existing policy frameworks, including the National Ports Act (2005), the Integrated Maritime Strategy, and Operation Phakisa, and assesses their effectiveness in mitigating geopolitical risks. However, challenges such as underinvestment in port infrastructure, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and fragmented regional cooperation continue to hinder South Africa’s ability to build a resilient maritime supply chain. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhanced regional collaboration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), investment in smart port technologies, diversification of trade routes, and policy reforms to strengthen maritime security. These measures are crucial for safeguarding South Africa’s maritime industry against global disruptions and ensuring sustainable economic growth in an era of increasing geopolitical uncertainty. , Thesis (MMM) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Nutritional status, diet diversity, food insecurity and lifestyle factors of pregnant women at community: oriented primary care sites in Pretoria East
- Authors: Beeforth, Marion
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Pregnancy -- Nutritional aspects , Food supply -- South Africa -- Pretoria , Diet
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74328 , vital:79696
- Description: Informal settlement and inner-city living are increasingly becoming home to urban communities in South Africa. The study describes the food insecurity, diet diversity, and lifestyle factors of pregnant women attending an inner-city clinic or living in an informal settlement and how birth outcome is affected. A quantitative, comparative, descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study with a convenience study sample of 170 pregnant women as participants was conducted at the Woodlane Village Clinic in Moreletta and the Skinner Street Clinic in the Tshwane CBD. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) was completed to determine low, medium and high food insecurity. The Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) score was calculated as a proxy of micronutrient adequacy using one open-list 24-hour recall. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score and the WHO-Assist V3.0 indicated the depression and suicide ideation prevalence, as well as alcohol, recreational drug and tobacco use and desire during pregnancy. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Nelson Mandela University Faculty Postgraduate Studies Committee (FPGSC), reference number H17-HEA-DIET-004. The NHRD reference number is GP_201803_007, and the study adhered to the principles set out in the Declaration of Helsinki (2013). Statistically significant differences between the two clinics were found regarding maternal age (p < 0.0005), citizenship (p < 0.0005), education (p < 0.0005), and employment status of both women and men (p < 0.0005) at the two sites. The association between diet diversity, food insecurity, depression score, and alcohol, recreational drug and tobacco use during pregnancy was investigated, and birth outcome was described. Self-employment of one partner and the other partner's unemployed or part-time employment had a positive association with MDD-W equal or more than five, consequently indicating a good DD. Furthermore, having a grant also indicated that a DDS of five was achieved. There was no statistically significant difference between other demographic factors. A positive association was not found between a higher education level of participants or partner or participant and partner and adequate DD. Skinner Street Clinic, despite the high-rise buildings and access to electricity and services, has statistically significantly more participants (20.73%), indicating severe food insecurity compared to the Woodlane Clinic (5.19%), where a poor living environment and lack of services are more common (p < 0.004). It is postulated that the access to food and food security in city dwellers are affected mainly by income and that those with less income can only buy smaller amounts or cheaper food, with very little food production. In this study 40.25% of participants (n = 64) experienced food insecurity, thus double the South African prevalence (Dlamini, 2023). Coping mechanisms significantly differed among the two sites for food intake (p = 0.02) and general coping mechanisms (p = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the two sites (p = 0.446) for depression. When screened for antenatal depression using the screening tool (EPDS), 36.23% of participants at the Woodlane Clinic and 43.37% at the Skinner Street Clinic screened positive for antenatal depression. The suicide ideation among the Woodlane clinic participants was 30.43% (n = 21) compared to 13.25% for the Skinner Street Clinic participants (n = 11); the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.010) although the practical value was small (V = 0.21). There was a statistically significant difference between the two sites for ever-use alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs (p < 0.0005) as well as for use during pregnancy (p < 0.004), with the Skinner Street clinic ever-using nearly four times that of the Woodlane clinic. Smoking, even second-hand smoking, is harmful and can increase the risk of intrauterine growth restriction. Both sites have fewer caeser section births than the South African, or the global average of 21%. South Africa is in epidemiological, health, and nutritional transition, and factors that affect nutritional status affect birth outcomes. The importance of promoting a healthy dietary pattern to help women enter pregnancy with normal BMI forms part of public health initiatives needed to curb the obesity pandemic that starts in utero. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Beeforth, Marion
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Pregnancy -- Nutritional aspects , Food supply -- South Africa -- Pretoria , Diet
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74328 , vital:79696
- Description: Informal settlement and inner-city living are increasingly becoming home to urban communities in South Africa. The study describes the food insecurity, diet diversity, and lifestyle factors of pregnant women attending an inner-city clinic or living in an informal settlement and how birth outcome is affected. A quantitative, comparative, descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional study with a convenience study sample of 170 pregnant women as participants was conducted at the Woodlane Village Clinic in Moreletta and the Skinner Street Clinic in the Tshwane CBD. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) was completed to determine low, medium and high food insecurity. The Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W) score was calculated as a proxy of micronutrient adequacy using one open-list 24-hour recall. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score and the WHO-Assist V3.0 indicated the depression and suicide ideation prevalence, as well as alcohol, recreational drug and tobacco use and desire during pregnancy. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Nelson Mandela University Faculty Postgraduate Studies Committee (FPGSC), reference number H17-HEA-DIET-004. The NHRD reference number is GP_201803_007, and the study adhered to the principles set out in the Declaration of Helsinki (2013). Statistically significant differences between the two clinics were found regarding maternal age (p < 0.0005), citizenship (p < 0.0005), education (p < 0.0005), and employment status of both women and men (p < 0.0005) at the two sites. The association between diet diversity, food insecurity, depression score, and alcohol, recreational drug and tobacco use during pregnancy was investigated, and birth outcome was described. Self-employment of one partner and the other partner's unemployed or part-time employment had a positive association with MDD-W equal or more than five, consequently indicating a good DD. Furthermore, having a grant also indicated that a DDS of five was achieved. There was no statistically significant difference between other demographic factors. A positive association was not found between a higher education level of participants or partner or participant and partner and adequate DD. Skinner Street Clinic, despite the high-rise buildings and access to electricity and services, has statistically significantly more participants (20.73%), indicating severe food insecurity compared to the Woodlane Clinic (5.19%), where a poor living environment and lack of services are more common (p < 0.004). It is postulated that the access to food and food security in city dwellers are affected mainly by income and that those with less income can only buy smaller amounts or cheaper food, with very little food production. In this study 40.25% of participants (n = 64) experienced food insecurity, thus double the South African prevalence (Dlamini, 2023). Coping mechanisms significantly differed among the two sites for food intake (p = 0.02) and general coping mechanisms (p = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the two sites (p = 0.446) for depression. When screened for antenatal depression using the screening tool (EPDS), 36.23% of participants at the Woodlane Clinic and 43.37% at the Skinner Street Clinic screened positive for antenatal depression. The suicide ideation among the Woodlane clinic participants was 30.43% (n = 21) compared to 13.25% for the Skinner Street Clinic participants (n = 11); the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.010) although the practical value was small (V = 0.21). There was a statistically significant difference between the two sites for ever-use alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs (p < 0.0005) as well as for use during pregnancy (p < 0.004), with the Skinner Street clinic ever-using nearly four times that of the Woodlane clinic. Smoking, even second-hand smoking, is harmful and can increase the risk of intrauterine growth restriction. Both sites have fewer caeser section births than the South African, or the global average of 21%. South Africa is in epidemiological, health, and nutritional transition, and factors that affect nutritional status affect birth outcomes. The importance of promoting a healthy dietary pattern to help women enter pregnancy with normal BMI forms part of public health initiatives needed to curb the obesity pandemic that starts in utero. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Offshore trusts: an analysis of the South African income tax advantages and risks
- Authors: Reynolds, Graham Robert
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Income tax -- South Africa , Tax evasion -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73638 , vital:79490
- Description: The use of offshore investment trusts by South African individuals gives rise to certain income tax advantages and risks. The primary objective of this study was to critically analyse the possible income tax advantages and risks associated with the use of an offshore investment trust by South African resident individuals. The research identified certain advantageous income tax planning opportunities stemming from the use of an offshore investment trust, namely the ability to defer the significant South African income tax event, possible loopholes presented by the present wording of certain income tax provisions pertaining to the vesting of accumulated trust capital in resident beneficiaries (albeit subject to interpretation) and structuring advantages, such as loop structures for reinvestment back into South Africa and possible avoidance of controlled foreign company provisions. The abovementioned tax planning opportunities have the potential to defer or reduce the possible South African income tax consequences that would otherwise be applicable. Notwithstanding the above, the research identified, analysed and described numerous instances of anti-avoidance provisions, potential adverse interpretational issues concerning certain provisions contained within the Income Tax Act relevant to South African beneficiaries receiving distributions from offshore trusts and practical challenges from an income tax perspective for resident beneficiaries of offshore trusts. The abovementioned observations present as significant income tax risks which should be evaluated, and their potential impact assessed, prior to the establishment of an offshore trust. The research explores the above income tax risks in more detail. The scope of the study is limited to the South African income tax implications applicable to an offshore investment trust, South African resident individual beneficiaries thereof and those resident individuals who may have capitalised or financed the offshore trust. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Accounting, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Reynolds, Graham Robert
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Income tax -- South Africa , Tax evasion -- South Africa , Taxation -- Law and legislation -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/73638 , vital:79490
- Description: The use of offshore investment trusts by South African individuals gives rise to certain income tax advantages and risks. The primary objective of this study was to critically analyse the possible income tax advantages and risks associated with the use of an offshore investment trust by South African resident individuals. The research identified certain advantageous income tax planning opportunities stemming from the use of an offshore investment trust, namely the ability to defer the significant South African income tax event, possible loopholes presented by the present wording of certain income tax provisions pertaining to the vesting of accumulated trust capital in resident beneficiaries (albeit subject to interpretation) and structuring advantages, such as loop structures for reinvestment back into South Africa and possible avoidance of controlled foreign company provisions. The abovementioned tax planning opportunities have the potential to defer or reduce the possible South African income tax consequences that would otherwise be applicable. Notwithstanding the above, the research identified, analysed and described numerous instances of anti-avoidance provisions, potential adverse interpretational issues concerning certain provisions contained within the Income Tax Act relevant to South African beneficiaries receiving distributions from offshore trusts and practical challenges from an income tax perspective for resident beneficiaries of offshore trusts. The abovementioned observations present as significant income tax risks which should be evaluated, and their potential impact assessed, prior to the establishment of an offshore trust. The research explores the above income tax risks in more detail. The scope of the study is limited to the South African income tax implications applicable to an offshore investment trust, South African resident individual beneficiaries thereof and those resident individuals who may have capitalised or financed the offshore trust. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Accounting, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Opto-electronic and structural characterization of GaSb/GaAs quantum rings
- Authors: Viljoen, Joshua
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Optoelectronic devices -- Materials , Quantum theory , Organometallic compounds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76250 , vital:80181
- Description: The optical and some structural properties of type-II Gallium Antimonide (GaSb) quantum ring ensembles embedded in a Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) matrix were studied. The unique properties possessed by type-II GaSb/GaAs QRs, a consequence of its electronic levels and spatial separation of charge carriers, have made them potential candidates for use in a variety of optoelectronic devices such as infrared photodetectors, lasers, light-emitting diodes, intermediate-band solar cells, as well as memory storage devices. In this work, the structural characteristics were studied using high resolution Xray diffraction (HRXRD) and electron microscopy imaging techniques, including crosssectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photoluminescence experiments were conducted to investigate the optical properties, namely temperature dependent photoluminescence (TDPL) and excitation power dependent photoluminescence (EDPL). SEM confirmed that the nanostructure (QR) density in sample A was ~1×1010 cm-2, and since samples B and C were grown using the same growth recipe, their QR density per layer is assumed to be the same. SEM also showed that sample A possessed a bimodal size distribution of the GaSb/GaAs nanostructures. High-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy iv (HAADF-STEM) determined the height of a single uncapped QR to be ~3 nm. Crosssectional TEM images of samples A, B and C showed good crystalline quality without observable dislocations, demonstrating the structural integrity and high-density stacking capability of GaSb/GaAs QR layers. HRXRD confirmed the structural integrity and uniform barrier spacings across different samples, with variations in strain observed for different layer configurations. Low-temperature PL also confirmed a bimodal QR size distribution, likely influenced by alloy fluctuations and Anderson localization. TDPL analysis suggested significant deep non-radiative defect sites, with extracted activation energies indicating QRs possess holes that are heavily charged. EDPL showed blue shifts consistent with capacitive charging and band bending, with interlayer coupling influencing charge transfer. Sub-peaks in the QR ensemble PL emissions were attributed to individual hole charge states, with energy separations matching capacitive charging effects. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Viljoen, Joshua
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Optoelectronic devices -- Materials , Quantum theory , Organometallic compounds
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76250 , vital:80181
- Description: The optical and some structural properties of type-II Gallium Antimonide (GaSb) quantum ring ensembles embedded in a Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) matrix were studied. The unique properties possessed by type-II GaSb/GaAs QRs, a consequence of its electronic levels and spatial separation of charge carriers, have made them potential candidates for use in a variety of optoelectronic devices such as infrared photodetectors, lasers, light-emitting diodes, intermediate-band solar cells, as well as memory storage devices. In this work, the structural characteristics were studied using high resolution Xray diffraction (HRXRD) and electron microscopy imaging techniques, including crosssectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photoluminescence experiments were conducted to investigate the optical properties, namely temperature dependent photoluminescence (TDPL) and excitation power dependent photoluminescence (EDPL). SEM confirmed that the nanostructure (QR) density in sample A was ~1×1010 cm-2, and since samples B and C were grown using the same growth recipe, their QR density per layer is assumed to be the same. SEM also showed that sample A possessed a bimodal size distribution of the GaSb/GaAs nanostructures. High-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy iv (HAADF-STEM) determined the height of a single uncapped QR to be ~3 nm. Crosssectional TEM images of samples A, B and C showed good crystalline quality without observable dislocations, demonstrating the structural integrity and high-density stacking capability of GaSb/GaAs QR layers. HRXRD confirmed the structural integrity and uniform barrier spacings across different samples, with variations in strain observed for different layer configurations. Low-temperature PL also confirmed a bimodal QR size distribution, likely influenced by alloy fluctuations and Anderson localization. TDPL analysis suggested significant deep non-radiative defect sites, with extracted activation energies indicating QRs possess holes that are heavily charged. EDPL showed blue shifts consistent with capacitive charging and band bending, with interlayer coupling influencing charge transfer. Sub-peaks in the QR ensemble PL emissions were attributed to individual hole charge states, with energy separations matching capacitive charging effects. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Organisational culture impacts on the performance of a commodity trading company X in South Africa
- Authors: Majoka, Abigail
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Corporate culture , Organisational behaviour , Organization -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72927 , vital:79280
- Description: This research explores the links between organisational culture and company performance in Commodity Trading Company X, a multinational operating in South Africa’s dynamic and supercompetitive downstream oil and gas industry. The research acknowledges that the sector faces volatile commodity markets, regulatory complexities, and socio-economic diversity. It examines how organisational culture factors impact the company’s performance, adaptability to emerging changes, and innovation-competitiveness in the marketplace. In a quantitative methodology, 122 employees returned survey responses showing significant associations between organisational culture dimensions and performance metrics. The findings show that leadership styles, strategies for employee engagement, and the ability to adapt are related to engendering a resilient culture that promotes performance sustainability. Main insights include clear and open communication of values and organisational changes, incorporating inclusive leadership, and promoting employee work-life balance, teamwork, and cooperation between departments. These findings support that organisational culture is an enabler and a result of operational success, influencing employee morale, decision-making, and the company’s responsiveness to changes in the external markets. Recommendations are summarised under three key themes: enhancing the cultural fit to better align it with strategic objectives, hybrid organisational models, and linking culture development to performance results. These findings have relevance not only for Commodity Trading Company X but are also of contribution value for a better understanding of the role of culture as a driver of company performance in the global commodity trading sector. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Majoka, Abigail
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Corporate culture , Organisational behaviour , Organization -- Research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72927 , vital:79280
- Description: This research explores the links between organisational culture and company performance in Commodity Trading Company X, a multinational operating in South Africa’s dynamic and supercompetitive downstream oil and gas industry. The research acknowledges that the sector faces volatile commodity markets, regulatory complexities, and socio-economic diversity. It examines how organisational culture factors impact the company’s performance, adaptability to emerging changes, and innovation-competitiveness in the marketplace. In a quantitative methodology, 122 employees returned survey responses showing significant associations between organisational culture dimensions and performance metrics. The findings show that leadership styles, strategies for employee engagement, and the ability to adapt are related to engendering a resilient culture that promotes performance sustainability. Main insights include clear and open communication of values and organisational changes, incorporating inclusive leadership, and promoting employee work-life balance, teamwork, and cooperation between departments. These findings support that organisational culture is an enabler and a result of operational success, influencing employee morale, decision-making, and the company’s responsiveness to changes in the external markets. Recommendations are summarised under three key themes: enhancing the cultural fit to better align it with strategic objectives, hybrid organisational models, and linking culture development to performance results. These findings have relevance not only for Commodity Trading Company X but are also of contribution value for a better understanding of the role of culture as a driver of company performance in the global commodity trading sector. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Perceptions of mental illness among emerging adults who self-identify as Coloured in the Nelson Mandela Bay
- Authors: Frieslaar, Bianca Simone
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Mental illness -- South Africa , Colored people (South Africa) -- Attitudes , Colored people (South Africa) -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74544 , vital:79751
- Description: The onset of mental health disorders often occurs in the adolescent and/or young adult stage, as this life stage encompasses several challenges due to relationship and career changes. Emerging adulthood has been demarcated as the period between 18 to 29 years of age, which has been identified as a stressful stage. Despite the challenges that the emerging adult faces, they are less likely to seek help, particularly when comparing them to middle-age or older adults. A possible reason for this is the stigma associated with seeking help, as stigmas negatively influence help-seeking behaviour. It is known that poorer mental health outcomes are linked to ethnic minority groups, and a possible cause is due to the stigma amongst the ethnic minority populations. When considering perceptions of mental illness, there appears a need for research to be conducted to explore cultural and system-level barriers. Considering the proposition that Coloured peoples’ identities are unique due to their heritage and being a minority group, the researcher opted to gather data about the perceptions of mental illness among emerging adults who self-identify as Coloured. The research design employed a qualitative, interpretivism, and ethnographic approach; whereby a purposive and the non-probability strategy was employed. As a result, nine participants who participated in a semi-structured interview made up the sample for this study. The study finds that, while it is the view of the participants that there is resistance within the Coloured community to normalize and fully accept mental illness, there is also a degree of acceptance when individuals have personal experience with it, either directly or through a loved one. Mental illness is recognized as a real issue, though its full complexity is not yet fully understood. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Frieslaar, Bianca Simone
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Mental illness -- South Africa , Colored people (South Africa) -- Attitudes , Colored people (South Africa) -- Psychology
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/74544 , vital:79751
- Description: The onset of mental health disorders often occurs in the adolescent and/or young adult stage, as this life stage encompasses several challenges due to relationship and career changes. Emerging adulthood has been demarcated as the period between 18 to 29 years of age, which has been identified as a stressful stage. Despite the challenges that the emerging adult faces, they are less likely to seek help, particularly when comparing them to middle-age or older adults. A possible reason for this is the stigma associated with seeking help, as stigmas negatively influence help-seeking behaviour. It is known that poorer mental health outcomes are linked to ethnic minority groups, and a possible cause is due to the stigma amongst the ethnic minority populations. When considering perceptions of mental illness, there appears a need for research to be conducted to explore cultural and system-level barriers. Considering the proposition that Coloured peoples’ identities are unique due to their heritage and being a minority group, the researcher opted to gather data about the perceptions of mental illness among emerging adults who self-identify as Coloured. The research design employed a qualitative, interpretivism, and ethnographic approach; whereby a purposive and the non-probability strategy was employed. As a result, nine participants who participated in a semi-structured interview made up the sample for this study. The study finds that, while it is the view of the participants that there is resistance within the Coloured community to normalize and fully accept mental illness, there is also a degree of acceptance when individuals have personal experience with it, either directly or through a loved one. Mental illness is recognized as a real issue, though its full complexity is not yet fully understood. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Perceptions of nurse educators and student nurses regarding substance abuse and its management at a nursing college in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sululu, Nomthandazo Monica
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Drug abuse -- Eastern Cape , Drug addiction -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76847 , vital:80564
- Description: Substance abuse is a global problem affecting individuals of all age groups and presents with complications which are detrimental to an individual’s mental, physical, social well-being. Globally, over 11 per cent of people who use drugs, or around 29.5 million people, are estimated to suffer from drug use disorders (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).2017:13). The problem of substance abuse and the consequences thereof are of concern about university and college students due to the variety of effects that substance abuse has on the person’s abilities to cope with life challenges. Nursing students are at risk for developing substance abuse behaviours due to inordinate levels of stress and burn-out, and the high demands of nursing schools. A qualitative, explorative, and descriptive study design was used. Purposive sampling of nurse educators and student nurses was used to participate in separate focus groups. Tesch’s method of thematic synthesis was used to analyse data and help draw meaning from the content. Data was collected using four focus groups that were conducted and the discussions were digitally recorded. The collected data was then transcribed verbatim. Three main themes emerged. Results reveal that both nurse educators and students view substance abuse as multifaceted problem and a coping mechanism influenced by a variety of personal and environmental factors. Firstly, substance abuse impacts student nurses negatively, secondly, this takes place across three domains of their well-being and lastly, there is no structured way to manage this scourge on campus. To ensure trustworthiness of the study, Guba and Lincoln’s criteria were used, namely: credibility, confirmability, dependability, and transferability. The researcher complied with the ethical principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. 5 Recommendations were made, based on the findings elicited from the focus group discussions. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Science, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Sululu, Nomthandazo Monica
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Drug abuse -- Eastern Cape , Drug addiction -- Eastern Cape , Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/76847 , vital:80564
- Description: Substance abuse is a global problem affecting individuals of all age groups and presents with complications which are detrimental to an individual’s mental, physical, social well-being. Globally, over 11 per cent of people who use drugs, or around 29.5 million people, are estimated to suffer from drug use disorders (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).2017:13). The problem of substance abuse and the consequences thereof are of concern about university and college students due to the variety of effects that substance abuse has on the person’s abilities to cope with life challenges. Nursing students are at risk for developing substance abuse behaviours due to inordinate levels of stress and burn-out, and the high demands of nursing schools. A qualitative, explorative, and descriptive study design was used. Purposive sampling of nurse educators and student nurses was used to participate in separate focus groups. Tesch’s method of thematic synthesis was used to analyse data and help draw meaning from the content. Data was collected using four focus groups that were conducted and the discussions were digitally recorded. The collected data was then transcribed verbatim. Three main themes emerged. Results reveal that both nurse educators and students view substance abuse as multifaceted problem and a coping mechanism influenced by a variety of personal and environmental factors. Firstly, substance abuse impacts student nurses negatively, secondly, this takes place across three domains of their well-being and lastly, there is no structured way to manage this scourge on campus. To ensure trustworthiness of the study, Guba and Lincoln’s criteria were used, namely: credibility, confirmability, dependability, and transferability. The researcher complied with the ethical principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. 5 Recommendations were made, based on the findings elicited from the focus group discussions. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Science, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Pharmaceutical industry practice for the visual inspection of parenteral products within Africa
- Authors: Thomas, Merle Delaine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Drugs -- Inspection -- Africa , Drugs -- Africa -- Safety measures -- Evaluation , Pharmaceutical industry -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75022 , vital:79875
- Description: This research paper explored and identified the visual inspection practices of parenteral products used by pharmaceutical companies in Africa. It aimed to address the paucity of literature published on visual inspection, specifically within Africa. It also compared the current global practices and guidelines to the visual inspection practices utilised within Africa. A quantitative non-experimental research design in the form of an online survey questionnaire was administered to collect data from participating pharmaceutical companies in Africa. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics in the form of graphs, charts, and tables, and the results were compared to those obtained from the PDA survey and international guidelines. This study has documented the visual inspection practices of pharmaceutical companies in Africa and provided evidence of the practices implemented by companies producing parenteral products. Whilst the study found that visual inspection methods were different and unique for each company; it was evident that all companies generally default to MVI as an inspection method. The study’s results revealed significant similarities between the data obtained from international companies and those from pharmaceutical companies within Africa. It concluded that many companies in Africa align their visual inspection practices with global benchmarks and best practices. Furthermore, the challenges with visual inspection experienced by pharmaceutical companies in Africa align with the challenges published in the literature. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Thomas, Merle Delaine
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Drugs -- Inspection -- Africa , Drugs -- Africa -- Safety measures -- Evaluation , Pharmaceutical industry -- Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75022 , vital:79875
- Description: This research paper explored and identified the visual inspection practices of parenteral products used by pharmaceutical companies in Africa. It aimed to address the paucity of literature published on visual inspection, specifically within Africa. It also compared the current global practices and guidelines to the visual inspection practices utilised within Africa. A quantitative non-experimental research design in the form of an online survey questionnaire was administered to collect data from participating pharmaceutical companies in Africa. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics in the form of graphs, charts, and tables, and the results were compared to those obtained from the PDA survey and international guidelines. This study has documented the visual inspection practices of pharmaceutical companies in Africa and provided evidence of the practices implemented by companies producing parenteral products. Whilst the study found that visual inspection methods were different and unique for each company; it was evident that all companies generally default to MVI as an inspection method. The study’s results revealed significant similarities between the data obtained from international companies and those from pharmaceutical companies within Africa. It concluded that many companies in Africa align their visual inspection practices with global benchmarks and best practices. Furthermore, the challenges with visual inspection experienced by pharmaceutical companies in Africa align with the challenges published in the literature. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Phenotypic plasticity of chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) in Southern African biomes: a camera trap data approach
- Authors: Dzingwena, Locadia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Baboons -- Southern, Africa , Chacma baboon -- Behavior -- Southern, Africa , Baboons -- Behavior -- Southern, Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75639 , vital:79977
- Description: Southern Africa's diverse biomes, ranging from deserts to forests, pose unique challenges to its wildlife. To survive, wild animals must adjust to different pressures through phenotypic variations and / or genetic changes, with behavioural variability as an immediate form of adaptation. The chacma baboon (Papio ursinus), a highly adaptable, social, non-human primate species, occupying almost all the biomes of southern Africa, yet little is known about its diel activity patterns and reproductive phenology in different environments, makes an ideal model to explore behavioural response to environmental diversity. Using an 8-year camera trap dataset from 29 sites across South Africa and Zimbabwe, we examined diel activity variations of chacma baboons across six biomes: savanna, nama-karoo, fynbos, forest, thicket, and grassland. Activity metrics, including wake-up, sleeping, and peak activity times, were quantified using kernel density functions. Our results revealed a 2.84% decrease in overall chacma baboon activity levels from south to north, although wake-up and sleep times remained consistent across latitudes. Within a day, chacma baboons were more active in the morning and the afternoon. Activity levels declined with higher temperatures and precipitation but increased at night in response to predator activity. These findings underscore the species' behavioural flexibility, revealing trading-offs between energy demands and thermoregulatory needs whilst avoiding predation to cope with the dynamic environmental pressures of southern Africa. We also investigated variations in the reproductive phenology of chama baboons by analysing camera trap data from 2017 to 2019 across six sites in three South African biomes (fynbos, savanna, and nama-karoo). Results indicated asynchronous reproduction across sites, with significant differences in birth timing between fynbos and savanna populations. For instance, chacma baboons in the fynbos site De Hoop Nature Reserve exhibited reproductive phenology distinct from those in Madikwe Game Reserve in savanna habitats (KS test: D=0.67, p=0.008), likely reflecting on different environmental conditions in these biomes. Rainfall emerged as the primary driver of reproductive timing, likely due to its influence on food and water availability, although the extend of its influence varied among sites. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Dzingwena, Locadia
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Baboons -- Southern, Africa , Chacma baboon -- Behavior -- Southern, Africa , Baboons -- Behavior -- Southern, Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/75639 , vital:79977
- Description: Southern Africa's diverse biomes, ranging from deserts to forests, pose unique challenges to its wildlife. To survive, wild animals must adjust to different pressures through phenotypic variations and / or genetic changes, with behavioural variability as an immediate form of adaptation. The chacma baboon (Papio ursinus), a highly adaptable, social, non-human primate species, occupying almost all the biomes of southern Africa, yet little is known about its diel activity patterns and reproductive phenology in different environments, makes an ideal model to explore behavioural response to environmental diversity. Using an 8-year camera trap dataset from 29 sites across South Africa and Zimbabwe, we examined diel activity variations of chacma baboons across six biomes: savanna, nama-karoo, fynbos, forest, thicket, and grassland. Activity metrics, including wake-up, sleeping, and peak activity times, were quantified using kernel density functions. Our results revealed a 2.84% decrease in overall chacma baboon activity levels from south to north, although wake-up and sleep times remained consistent across latitudes. Within a day, chacma baboons were more active in the morning and the afternoon. Activity levels declined with higher temperatures and precipitation but increased at night in response to predator activity. These findings underscore the species' behavioural flexibility, revealing trading-offs between energy demands and thermoregulatory needs whilst avoiding predation to cope with the dynamic environmental pressures of southern Africa. We also investigated variations in the reproductive phenology of chama baboons by analysing camera trap data from 2017 to 2019 across six sites in three South African biomes (fynbos, savanna, and nama-karoo). Results indicated asynchronous reproduction across sites, with significant differences in birth timing between fynbos and savanna populations. For instance, chacma baboons in the fynbos site De Hoop Nature Reserve exhibited reproductive phenology distinct from those in Madikwe Game Reserve in savanna habitats (KS test: D=0.67, p=0.008), likely reflecting on different environmental conditions in these biomes. Rainfall emerged as the primary driver of reproductive timing, likely due to its influence on food and water availability, although the extend of its influence varied among sites. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science, School of Environmental Sciences, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Political leadership and economic growth: investigating African presidents, their educational attainment and influence on economic growth
- Authors: Julius, Claire
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Leadership -- Africa , Economic development -- Econometric models , Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72798 , vital:79263
- Description: This study examines the role of African presidents’ educational backgrounds in influencing economic growth on the continent. It seeks to answer two key questions: which types of education are most effective in driving economic growth in Africa, and which levels of education are most critical for fostering such growth. The research employs the Cross-Sectionally Dependent Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) and Panel Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PQ-ARDL) models to analyse a reduced-form growth equation using time-series data from 1975 to 2021. These models are particularly suited for evaluating both short- and long-term effects of education, while capturing its impact across different growth phases of the economy. The findings indicate that both the type and level of education significantly influence economic growth, with their impacts varying depending on the economic growth phase. Specific fields of study, including economics, civil service, and engineering, are more strongly associated with positive economic outcomes when held by African presidents. Furthermore, the level of education enhances these effects, but only when paired with these high-impact fields. The results also highlight that the influence of education is context-dependent, varying with economic conditions; certain qualifications yield greater effectiveness during periods of economic expansion, while others prove more impactful during economic contractions. This study provides important implications for policymakers by offering evidence-based recommendations on prioritising specific educational qualifications for political leaders to promote economic growth. It highlights the strategic importance of education in fostering effective political leadership and driving developmental outcomes. The originality of this research lies in its integration of CS-ARDL and PQ-ARDL models to explore the distributional effects of presidential education on economic growth—a perspective previously unexplored in the African context. This contribution enhances the discourse on the role of leadership in economic development and provides a valuable foundation for informed policymaking in Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Julius, Claire
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Leadership -- Africa , Economic development -- Econometric models , Africa -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72798 , vital:79263
- Description: This study examines the role of African presidents’ educational backgrounds in influencing economic growth on the continent. It seeks to answer two key questions: which types of education are most effective in driving economic growth in Africa, and which levels of education are most critical for fostering such growth. The research employs the Cross-Sectionally Dependent Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) and Panel Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PQ-ARDL) models to analyse a reduced-form growth equation using time-series data from 1975 to 2021. These models are particularly suited for evaluating both short- and long-term effects of education, while capturing its impact across different growth phases of the economy. The findings indicate that both the type and level of education significantly influence economic growth, with their impacts varying depending on the economic growth phase. Specific fields of study, including economics, civil service, and engineering, are more strongly associated with positive economic outcomes when held by African presidents. Furthermore, the level of education enhances these effects, but only when paired with these high-impact fields. The results also highlight that the influence of education is context-dependent, varying with economic conditions; certain qualifications yield greater effectiveness during periods of economic expansion, while others prove more impactful during economic contractions. This study provides important implications for policymakers by offering evidence-based recommendations on prioritising specific educational qualifications for political leaders to promote economic growth. It highlights the strategic importance of education in fostering effective political leadership and driving developmental outcomes. The originality of this research lies in its integration of CS-ARDL and PQ-ARDL models to explore the distributional effects of presidential education on economic growth—a perspective previously unexplored in the African context. This contribution enhances the discourse on the role of leadership in economic development and provides a valuable foundation for informed policymaking in Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
Political leadership and economic growth: investigating African presidents, their educational attainment, and influence on economic growth
- Authors: Julius, Claire
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Endogenous growth (Economics) -- Developing countries -- Econometric models , Economic development -- Developing countries -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72802 , vital:79264
- Description: This study examines the role of African presidents’ educational backgrounds in influencing economic growth on the continent. It seeks to answer two key questions: which types of education are most effective in driving economic growth in Africa, and which levels of education are most critical for fostering such growth. The research employs the Cross-Sectionally Dependent Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) and Panel Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PQ-ARDL) models to analyse a reduced-form growth equation using time-series data from 1975 to 2021. These models are particularly suited for evaluating both short- and long-term effects of education, while capturing its impact across different growth phases of the economy. The findings indicate that both the type and level of education significantly influence economic growth, with their impacts varying depending on the economic growth phase. Specific fields of study, including economics, civil service, and engineering, are more strongly associated with positive economic outcomes when held by African presidents. Furthermore, the level of education enhances these effects, but only when paired with these high-impact fields. The results also highlight that the influence of education is context-dependent, varying with economic conditions; certain qualifications yield greater effectiveness during periods of economic expansion, while others prove more impactful during economic contractions. This study provides important implications for policymakers by offering evidence-based recommendations on prioritising specific educational qualifications for political leaders to promote economic growth. It highlights the strategic importance of education in fostering effective political leadership and driving developmental outcomes. The originality of this research lies in its integration of CS-ARDL and PQ-ARDL models to explore the distributional effects of presidential education on economic growth—a perspective previously unexplored in the African context. This contribution enhances the discourse on the role of leadership in economic development and provides a valuable foundation for informed policymaking in Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04
- Authors: Julius, Claire
- Date: 2025-04
- Subjects: Economic development -- South Africa , Endogenous growth (Economics) -- Developing countries -- Econometric models , Economic development -- Developing countries -- Econometric models
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/72802 , vital:79264
- Description: This study examines the role of African presidents’ educational backgrounds in influencing economic growth on the continent. It seeks to answer two key questions: which types of education are most effective in driving economic growth in Africa, and which levels of education are most critical for fostering such growth. The research employs the Cross-Sectionally Dependent Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) and Panel Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PQ-ARDL) models to analyse a reduced-form growth equation using time-series data from 1975 to 2021. These models are particularly suited for evaluating both short- and long-term effects of education, while capturing its impact across different growth phases of the economy. The findings indicate that both the type and level of education significantly influence economic growth, with their impacts varying depending on the economic growth phase. Specific fields of study, including economics, civil service, and engineering, are more strongly associated with positive economic outcomes when held by African presidents. Furthermore, the level of education enhances these effects, but only when paired with these high-impact fields. The results also highlight that the influence of education is context-dependent, varying with economic conditions; certain qualifications yield greater effectiveness during periods of economic expansion, while others prove more impactful during economic contractions. This study provides important implications for policymakers by offering evidence-based recommendations on prioritising specific educational qualifications for political leaders to promote economic growth. It highlights the strategic importance of education in fostering effective political leadership and driving developmental outcomes. The originality of this research lies in its integration of CS-ARDL and PQ-ARDL models to explore the distributional effects of presidential education on economic growth—a perspective previously unexplored in the African context. This contribution enhances the discourse on the role of leadership in economic development and provides a valuable foundation for informed policymaking in Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2025
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2025-04