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Effectiveness of entrepreneurship development programme in the agribusiness sector in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
Get PDFSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Master in Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Youth Entrepreneurship and
Agribusiness Support (YEASA) program in the agribusiness sector of Ado Ekiti,
Nigeria, focusing on its contributions to local economic activities between 2017 and
2020. With a response rate of 96.15% (125 valid responses out of 130 distributed
questionnaires), the study provides reliable insights into the program's impact.
Employing descriptive statistics, one-sample t-tests, and reliability analyses using
SPSS Version 29, the findings are structured around three specific objectives:
assessing improvements in quality of life, examining employment generation, and
evaluating contributions to local economic development. Demographic analysis
revealed that 66.4% of participants were aged 26-40, with nearly equal gender
representation (52% male, 48% female). Educational attainment was high, with
72.8% holding at least a bachelor's degree. Motivational factors primarily included
improving income prospects and achieving better long-term futures. Participants
reported significant improvements in well-being, with increased confidence and living
standards. Employment generation was a notable success, as 94% acknowledged
YEASA’s contribution to job creation. YEASA also contributed to local economic
growth, with 84.2% agreeing it improves economic development. However,
government support remains insufficient, with participants expressing dissatisfaction
regarding funding and loans. These findings highlight YEASA's positive impact while
underscoring the critical need for policy enhancements, particularly in providing
targeted financial support and creating a more enabling regulatory environment, to
fully unlock the program's potential.
Digital transformation of South African Maritime Higher Education and Training (MHET)
Get PDFThesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the PhD in Information Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.Global learning patterns are changing as a result of the digital revolution (DT) in higher
education and training, and South Africa's marine industry is no exception. By
improving the education, knowledge, and skills of its people, South Africa, a
developing country, has the potential to become a developed one. A significant section
of South Africa's population did not have access to higher education 25 years ago.
There is still room for expansion even though there have been notable advancements
since then.
This paper explores the digital transformation of South African maritime higher education and
training (MHET), focusing on the integration of digital technologies and their implications for
curricula, teaching methodologies, and industry collaboration. The maritime sector is facing
increasing demands for skilled professionals, with digitalisation playing a pivotal role in the
development of competency-based training, simulations, and e-learning platforms. The paper
highlights key challenges and opportunities, such as limited infrastructure, digital literacy gaps,
and the need for industry-academia partnerships to ensure relevant and future-proof
education. Through a comprehensive review of current digital tools, strategies, and initiatives,
this study aims to provide a roadmap for advancing South Africa's maritime education system.
This paper explores lecturers' understanding of the benefits and challenges related to
blended learning (BL), online distance learning (ODL), and virtual exchange or
engagement (VE) compared to traditional face-to-face (F2F) teaching and learning at
maritime higher education and training (MHET) institutions in South Africa.
It also examines policy recommendations and the potential of emerging technologies, such as
virtual reality and artificial intelligence, in shaping a digitally competent workforce. Ultimately,
the paper advocates for a balanced approach that integrates traditional maritime knowledge
with cutting-edge digital practices to enhance the overall quality and accessibility of maritime
education in South Africa.
The results of this study should assist South African MHET institutions in developing
and evaluating the viability of certifying online distance learning (ODL) programs that
combine state-of-the-art digital technology, creative teaching approaches, and
traditional pedagogy. These ODL programs could be used as a template by MHET
institutions in other developing environments if they are implemented successfully
Storytelling and electoral conflicts : a community approach to peacebuilding – Chongwe, Zambia
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration: Peace Studies, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.Using an action research approach, this study explores storytelling as a communitybased peacebuilding approach for use by the Conflict Management Committee (CMC) in
Chongwe constituency in Chongwe District of Lusaka Province focusing specifically on
electoral conflicts.
Although there are currently electoral conflict management and peacebuilding
mechanisms that exist, previous work has not specifically addressed the role that
storytelling can play in the management of electoral conflicts. Part of the study was to
implement a storytelling community intervention and illuminate the potential that
storytelling holds for application by the electoral CMCs as an Indigenous method of
conflict management. This is in view of the fact that insufficient attention has been paid
to the role that Indigenous peace infrastructures such as storytelling can contribute to
peace during elections.
Through qualitative methodology and purposive sampling of 38 subject participants, the
research uncovers the lived experiences of conflict parties during and after elections. The
study used the 2021 Zambian general elections to establish a baseline for examining
cases of electoral mediation. The study revealed themes on the nature and prevalence
of community electoral conflicts, practice, role and effects of storytelling at the CMC,
Hybridisation of CMC electoral mediation and oral storytelling models to Improve the
process of electoral conflict mediation, and understanding context and conceptualisation
of storytelling as community peacebuilding for electoral conflicts in Chongwe
constituency.
The results show that although storytelling was underutilised in the electoral mediation
process at CMC, as a strategy and relational approach, it is an effective local tool for both
CMC electoral conflict management and community peacebuilding. This is despite the
vagaries of the digital age and the predominance of the liberal peace paradigm. The study
demonstrates that storytelling can contribute to improvements in individual, relational and
organisational functioning to resolve electoral conflicts. The study argues that a
complementary arrangement by the modern and traditional mediation approaches to form a hybrid model promises a comprehensive and inclusive approach to electoral conflict
management by the CMC.
Navigating affordability challenges and opportunities in mixed-income housing: a case study of Cornubia in South africa
No full textThis article offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex dynamics within the Cornubia mixed-income housing development. Positioned as a microcosm of challenges in creating sustainable living environments for affordable housing, the paper navigates through theoretical discussions to propose actionable strategies. The study employs a rigorous qualitative methodology rooted in a relativist perspective, utilizing semi-structured interviews, context-sensitive approaches, and local collaboration to delve into participants’ affordability challenges and the constraints/limitations of living in the Cornubia mixed-income housing. The findings, driven by the experiences of 254 low-income residents, illuminate two key themes on affordability: high living costs and affordable living in Cornubia. Findings highlight three factors that exacerbate high costs of living: Electricity, Water, and Transport. These multifaceted challenges underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions. In the context of sustainable development, the study identifies key areas for lasting impact, aligning with environmental sustainability and social equity goals
The influence of store atmospherics on customers' satisfaction at selected South African retail outlets
No full textIn the retail environment, customers are stimulated by the look and feel of a store and how it is laid out. Certain store elements create an atmosphere that attracts customers to certain outlets as their preferred shopping destination. Therefore, retailers need to ensure the customers’ shopping experience is enjoyable. This study aimed to examine the influence of atmospheric store elements on the factors that influence customers` satisfaction. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in four retail outlets in Cape Town, South Africa, with data collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to the outlets’ customers. A systematic random sample of 388 responses was achieved. The information collected was analyzed using relevant descriptive and inferential statistics. Although small, positive correlations were found between the independent variables (cleanliness, lighting, music, floor adverts, employee efficient service, employee appearance) and the dependent variables (positive image of store, pleasant mood, time spent in store, intention to revisit store). As such, the study highlighted the importance of store atmospherics to the factors that encourage customers` satisfaction. Since little research has been done into store atmospherics in the South African context of grocery stores, this study has contributed new knowledge in this field
Performance analysis of precoding schemes for massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering: Electronic and Computer Engineering, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.The transformative impact of Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology on
terrestrial wireless networks is indisputable, revolutionizing applications ranging from social
media (WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook) to video streaming and online gaming.
Massive MIMO (M-MIMO), an advanced system scaling up MIMO with hundreds of antennas,
has emerged to meet escalating demands for capacity and data throughput. This technology
serves multiple user equipment (UEs) concurrently, encompassing mobile phones, tablets,
smart cars, smartwatches, smart homes, and intelligent industries, utilising the same timefrequency resources. Despite its superior performance, M-MIMO faces challenges, notably
pilot contamination (PiC). PiC occurs when identical pilot sequences interfere across home and
adjacent cells, leading to channel estimation errors and degraded system performance.
This study investigates the performance of linear and non-linear precoding schemes for
mitigation of pilot contamination. The main focus is assessing the efficacy of various precoding
strategies in the presence of channel interference errors and explore their impact on critical
performance metrics. The recommendation in terms of performance comparison of M-MIMO
by this research may be used to further optimise the performance of the M-MIMO systems.
Theoretical analyses and simulations are employed to unravel the complexities of precoding
schemes, providing a nuanced understanding of their strengths, limitations, and practical
implications in wireless communication scenarios.
The research confronts challenges encompassing computational complexity, realistic channel
modelling, imperfect channel state information (CSI), trade-offs, practical validations,
interference management, and standardisation. These challenges necessitate interdisciplinary
collaboration, advanced modelling techniques, and realistic simulations in the context of
analysing the performance of M-MIMO precoding schemes.
The study employs precoding structures such as Zero-Forcing (ZF), Minimum Mean Square
Error (MMSE), Neumann Series Approximation (NSA), Lattice Reduction-Lenstra-LenstraLovász (LR-LLL), and Tomlinson-Harashima Precoding (THP) for simulation, comparison,
and analysis in the context of M-MIMO. The chosen metrics for evaluation are the bit-error rate (BER), spectral efficiency (SE), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and Achievable Sum Rate
(ASR).
The outcomes of this research unequivocally demonstrate the superior performance of
nonlinear precoding over linear precoding in the context of M-MIMO systems. The analysis,
conducted using MATLAB® simulations, reveals that nonlinear precoding strategies
outperform their linear counterparts in mitigating pilot contamination, addressing channel
estimation errors, and enhancing overall system performance.
Examining the contribution of public spaces to the implementation of inclusive urban strategies : a case study of eThekwini Municipality
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree Master of the Built Environment: Urban and Regional Planning, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.This thesis explores the multifaceted role of public spaces in urban environments,
demonstrating that they are not merely physical locations but dynamic social areas where
power relations, cultural practices, and everyday experiences converge. Drawing on the
theoretical frameworks of David Harvey’s ‘‘Spatial Matrix’’ and Henri Lefebvre’s ‘Spatial
Triad’, this research emphasises that public spaces are socially produced entities that
can both reflect and challenge broader social, economic, and environmental inequalities.
Central to this study is the concept of inclusivity, which highlights the potential that welldesigned public spaces can generate for urban communities.
Through a city-wide public space strategy rooted in inclusivity and the right to the city,
urban planners have a critical role to play in addressing these inequalities and fostering
public spaces that are accessible, equitable, and vibrant. This thesis argues that
strategic, data-driven planning and continuous community engagement are essential to
maximising the dividends that public spaces can provide. Drawing upon research findings
obtained through a mixed-methods approach, this study proposes a conceptual model for
optimizing the benefits of a Public Space Dividend. The model highlights both the
immediate advantages for individuals and communities and the long-term contributions
to broader urban development objectives, including social cohesion, economic resilience,
environmental sustainability, and enhanced civic engagement.
Future research should continue to explore innovative approaches to public space design
that prioritise underrepresented groups and create environments where everyone feels
welcome and valued. The findings of this research underscore that the future of urban
living hinges on creating inclusive, resilient public spaces that reflect the diverse
populations they serve.
The influence of COVID-19 on the productivity of small and medium enterprises : a case study of Mtubatuba Local Municipality
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Masters in Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.Despite multiple calls for interventions in rural businesses, the productivity shocks experienced
by rural SMEs from the COVID-19 pandemic remain inconclusive, thus spurring attention from
researchers. Although many studies were carried out on the COVID-19 pandemic and SMEs in
South Africa, a large portion concentrated on urban areas, but overlooking rural areas. The dire
need for empirical studies, particularly in the confines of South African rural SMEs, cannot be
overemphasised. Hence, the current study sought to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on
SMEs’ productivity in Mtubatuba Local Municipality. The study employed a descriptive research
design and a quantitative research approach, in which a closed-ended structured questionnaire
was utilised to solicit data from a sample of 187 respondents from Mtubatuba Local Municipality.
The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version
29.0 and Microsoft Excel. The findings revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic had a
multifaceted impact on SMEs in Mtubatuba Local Municipality, measured using the Relative
Importance Index and Relative Severity Index, which categorised the various factors into
financial impact, operational disruptions, inventory and supply chain challenges, and workforce
issues. In addition, the findings indicated that SMEs in Mtubatuba Local Municipality seized the
opportunities presented by the pandemic and adjusted their businesses through selling ondemand products such as airtime, traditional medicines and herbs, headache pills, and adapting
to internet and social media marketing. Using the Relative Importance Index and Relative
Severity Index, the study demonstrated that high absenteeism rates and financial strains
severely affected SMEs. The study recommended that SMEs should formalise their
businesses; have insurance; invest in alternative means of productivity such as internet use;
adopt remote and hybrid working; set aside emergency funds; and adhere to health and safety
guidelines.
Food for thought: how culture shapes intentions to reduce food waste in South Africa
No full textIn the context of increasing food scarcity, the issue of household food waste has garnered significant attention, particularly in developing nations. Despite its critical importance, there remains a paucity of empirical research exploring the underlying behavioral and cultural factors that shape individuals’ intentions to reduce food waste within their homes. This article seeks to bridge this gap by drawing on the theory of planned behavior to examine how personal cultural values impact attitudes toward food waste reduction, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC), which serve as key determinants of behavioral intention. To empirically test the proposed model, a comprehensive quantitative survey was conducted among 529 South African consumers. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling, revealing that consumers who exhibit stronger adherence to cultural dimensions such as uncertainty avoidance and long‐term orientation, coupled with lower scores on power distance, are likely, through the influence of attitude, subjective norms, and PBC, to possess higher intentions to actively reduce food waste. These findings offer valuable insights for marketers and policymakers, highlighting the potential to leverage cultural values in designing effective interventions aimed at encouraging more sustainable consumer behaviors and reducing household food waste
An evaluation of Life Orientation as a pathway to environmental sustainability: the case of Sithokozile secondary school in KwaDabeka (KZN)
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the Degree of Masters in Management Sciences, Specialising in Public Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.Life Orientation is a fundamental subject required for attaining the National Senior Certificate
(NSC) in South Africa, playing a crucial role in shaping learners' understanding of personal and
social responsibility toward environmental sustainability. This study evaluates Life Orientation as
a pathway to environmental sustainability at Sithokozile Secondary School in KwaDabeka (KZN).
Employing a quantitative approach rooted in positivism, the study utilised systematic random
sampling to select students aged 16 and older from a class register provided by the form teacher,
resulting in a sample size of 110 students. This methodology was chosen to quantify the
relationship between Life Orientation skills and environmental sustainability practices.
The findings reveal that learners effectively apply Life Orientation skills to promote environmental
sustainability. For instance, 62% of respondents reported engaging in interpersonal discussions,
reflecting their sense of social responsibility. However, a significant concern arises as nearly half
(44.5%) acknowledged their involvement in the destruction of plants and trees for urbanization,
highlighting a conflict between their stated values and actual behaviours.
These results underscore the potential of Life Orientation to foster sustainable practices while
identifying critical gaps in learners’ understanding that require further education.
Recommendations for enhancing the curriculum and creating a more sustainable school
environment are discussed, aiming to bridge the gap between values and actions.