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Participation of traditional leaders in economic development planning in Maphumulo Municipality
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Masters in Management Sciences specializing in Public Administration,
Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.Constitutional and legislative requirements require traditional leaders to be involved in
local economic development initiatives. However, there is a growing belief that
traditional leadership institutions are not included in government attempts for Local
economic development (LED). In most cases, a gap still exists and availing progress
reports to the public. The study sought to examine the role and potential influence of
traditional leaders in the economic development planning of their local areas to boost
rural areas' economies.
The study used an exploratory research design to ascertain the level of involvement
by the national, provincial, and local governments of traditional leadership in economic
development planning for their areas. The design was informed by qualitative
methodology, where the researcher interviewed Chiefs and 20 elected community
members in the Maphumulo area. This area was chosen because it was easily
accessible to the researcher. Data were analyzed by applying qualitative thematic
content analysis. The study is envisaged to promote local development by involving
traditional institutions in local government planning and budgeting within the
Maphumulo area.
The findings show that traditional leaders play an advisory role in the municipality and
that local LED engagement is made possible by these leaders' participation in these
policies. The results highlight the variety of parties participating in LED, including
councillors, ward committees, NGOs, government agencies, municipalities, residents,
and traditional and religious leaders. The outcomes show that LED participative tactics
have a limited amount of effectiveness. Participants lamented corruption and the
municipality's delayed reaction. The study also demonstrated the need for
institutionalized LED responses that include all relevant parties. Most participants
believed the municipality had the key to collaborating with the necessary regional
forces to promote LED.
Production, purification and characterisation of fish scale collagen and microbial collagenase and their application in the formation of bioactive collagen peptides
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the academic requirements for the degree Master of Applied Sciences in Biotechnology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.This study describes a biorefinery approach for the valorisation of fish waste to value-added
products such as collagen, collagenase and collagen peptides. Collagen from fish waste has
been recently explored as a substitute source for mammalian collagen, with fish scales and skin
being utilised the most. In the present study, acid soluble collagen (ASC) and pepsin-soluble
collagen (PSC) were extracted from scales of cape salmon (Atractoscion aequidens) and
northern red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus). Northern red snapper scales resulted in a
collagen yield of 2.17 ± 0.23% and 2.92 ± 0.31% for acid and pepsin treatments, respectively,
whereas cape salmon scales yielded 1.60 ± 0.12% ASC and 4.65 ± 0.39% PSC on weight-byweight basis. Various physicochemical techniques were used to characterise the extracted
collagen, including UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR),
Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), Differential
Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Zeta potential, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).
Maximum absorbance peaks at 232-233 nm for ASC and PSC of both northern red snapper and
cape salmon were observed on UV–vis spectroscopy profiles, which are mainly associated with
the peptide bond absorptions of the C=O, –COOH, and CONH2 groups in polypeptide chains
of collagen. FTIR spectra of cape salmon and northern red snapper collagens displayed the type
I collagen characteristic peaks, Amide A and B, as well as Amide I, II, and III, corresponding
to the main functional groups in the collagen protein. The presence of distinct α1 and α2 chains
and a β-chain observed on SDS-PAGE confirmed the type I nature of the extracted collagens.
The amino acid analysis showed the dominance of three amino acids: glycine, proline, and
alanine which are characteristic features of type I collagen. The differential scanning
calorimetry displayed the high denaturation temperatures of collagen from cape salmon scales
as 112.27°C (ASC) and 113.41°C (PSC), and for northern red snapper it was 110.09°C (ASC)
and 112.84°C (PSC). Zeta potential analysis demonstrated isoelectric point (pI) for collagens
at pH 5.6 (ASC) and 4.8 (PSC) for cape salmon and pH 6.7 (ASC) and 6.4 (PSC) for northern
red snapper. The extracted collagen protein also showed the ability to form fibrils in the
presence of low concentrations of NaCl, which is a promising characteristic for its biomedical
application.
Subsequently, protease producers were isolated from environmental samples on casein agar
plates, which resulted in 56 bacterial cultures. Among them, seven isolates displayed potent
collagenolytic properties during further screening on gelatin agar plates. The best
collagenolytic protease-producing isolate was identified as Bacillus sp. strain SC2 by 16S
rRNA gene sequencing and was subjected to enzyme production in media containing fish scales
as the main carbon source. The initial enzyme production by Bacillus sp. strain SC2 was 13.3
± 0.34 U/mL, which was improved to 21.89 ± 0.90 U/mL (~1.65 fold) by supplementing the
fermentation media with starch and peptone as additional carbon and nitrogen sources,
respectively. Subsequently, the collagenolytic protease was purified to homogeneity using
ammonium sulphate precipitation and diethylaminoethyl anion exchange (DEAE)-cellulose
chromatography. The purified collagenase (~53.62 kDa) exhibited optimal activity at pH 8.0
and 40°C and showed stability over a pH range of 7.0 to 9.0 and temperatures ranging from 4
to 50°C. However, the collagenolytic protease activity was substantially inhibited in the
presence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), proposing that this collagenase belongs
to the metalloprotease family. In contrast, the enzyme activity of collagenase was enhanced in
the presence of Ca2+, Zn2+, Mg2+, and Ba2+ ions, while it was reduced in the presence of Hg2+,
Ag, Pb, and Fe3+ ions, SDS and Tween 80 surfactants, and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride
(PMSF). The Km and Vmax of the purified collagenase were shown to be 2.24 ± 0.15 mg/mL
and 1.28 ± 0.08 × 10-3 mg/mL/min, respectively. Subsequently, the purified collagenase was
used to produce collagen peptides from cape salmon and red snapper collagen. The collagen
peptides thus formed exhibited bioactivities such as antioxidant, antihypertensive and
antidiabetic potential.
Anticorrosion behaviour of Rhizophora mangle L. Bark-extract on concrete steel-rebar in saline/marine simulating-environment
No full textThis paper investigates anticorrosion behaviour of the bark-extract from Rhizophora mangle L on steel-rebar in concrete slabs in 3.5% NaCl medium of immersion (for simulating saline/marine environment). Corrosion-rate, corrosion-current, and corrosion-potential were measured from the NaCl-immersed steel-reinforced concrete cast with admixture of different plant-extract concentrations and from positive control concrete immersed in distilled water. Analyses indicate excellent mathematical-correlation between the corrosion-rate, concentration of the bark-extract admixture, and electrochemical noise-resistance (ratio of the corrosion-potential standard deviation to that of corrosion-current). The 0.4667% Rhizophora mangle L. bark-extract admixture exhibited optimal corrosion-inhibition performance, η = 99.08±0.11% (experimental) or η = 97.89±0.24% (correlation), which outperformed the positive control specimens, experimentally. Both experimental and correlated results followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm which suggests prevalent physisorption mechanism by the plant-extract on the reinforcing-steel corrosion-protection. These findings support Rhizophora mangle L. bark-extract suitability for corrosion-protection of steel-rebar in concrete structure designed for immersion in the saline/marine environmental medium
Leveraging principal component analysis of crime trends to drive innovation in industry, policy, and society
No full textGiven the multifaceted nature of crime trends shaped by a range of social, economic, and demographic variables, grasping the fundamental drivers behind crime patterns is pivotal for crafting effective crime deterrence methodologies. This investigation adopted a systematic literature review technique to distill thirty key factors from a corpus of one hundred scholarly articles. Utilizing the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for diminishing dimensionality facilitated a nuanced understanding of the determinants deemed essential in influencing crime trends. The findings highlight the necessity of tackling issues such as inequality, educational deficits, poverty, unemployment, insufficient parental guidance, and peer influence in the realm of crime prevention efforts. Such knowledge empowers policymakers and law enforcement bodies to optimize resource allocation and roll out interventions grounded in empirical evidence, thereby fostering a safer and more secure societal environment.</jats:p
Tribalism : a thorny concern in Nigerian politics : a discursive review and appraisal
No full textThis paper conducts a review and appraisal of discourse surrounding tribalism,
which is deeply entrenched in Nigerian politics at different levels of government as
the polity of the country has often experienced significant tension along tribal/ethnic
lines. Using digital media data, with specific focus on discourses produced during
the 2023 general elections in the country, this study reviews and analyses the
discourse of tribalism in Nigerian political communication. In an election heavily
contested by the All Progressives Congress (APC), the People’s Democratic Party
(PDP), and the Labour Party (LP), with candidates representing three major ethnic
groups in Nigeria involving Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo respectively, the entrenched
nature of the tribalism mindset in the country was fully exposed. Although tribalism
in Nigerian politics has been in existence for a long time, it was only recently
witnessed on a large scale on social media given that it is the first time that three
popular presidential candidates have emerged from the country’s three most popular
ethnic groups. Through a multimodal discourse analysis, the study reveals instances
of tribalist discourse in the country vis-à-vis the social context and implications for
the democracy, national cohesion, and the development of the country
The impact of COVID-19 on SME profitability : insights from South Africa
No full textThis study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on SME profitability, performance, and operational efficiency. The data were gathered using a structured questionnaire targeting SMEs affiliated with the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship (CSE), Productivity SA, Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce (JCCI), and Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). A purposive sampling was utilized, specifically choosing SME owners or senior management representatives. The Krejcie & Morgan formula was used to calculate a suitable sample size of 348, resulting in an 81% response rate with 282 participants successfully completing the questionnaire. The instruments’ dependability was validated by Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.906 and 0.769 for the impact of COVID-19 on SMEs and profitability variables, respectively. The findings indicated that the average effect of COVID-19 on SME was 40.3546, with a standard deviation of 7.61450. The average profitability was 5.4921, with a standard deviation of 1.92297. An analysis using a one-sample t-test revealed that the influence of COVID-19 on SMEs did not show a statistically significant impact (p = 0.156). However, the effect on profitability was statistically significant (p = 0.001). These findings emphasize the diverse consequences of the pandemic on the functioning of SMEs, specifically pointing out considerable decreases in profitability. The study recommends that government agencies and financial institutions increase support for SMEs to help them recover from the profitability challenges brought on by the pandemic. Tailored financial relief programs, accessible credit facilities, and long-term recovery strategies should be implemented to cushion SMEs against future economic shocks
Strategies for empowering and retaining women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields : a systematic literature review
No full textDespite the increasing integration of women into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
fields, gender disparities persist, particularly in engineering disciplines. Research indicates that women are
significantly underrepresented in engineering roles across various nations, with cultural, institutional, and
educational barriers contributing to these disparities. Efforts to address these issues have included educational
reforms, mentoring programs, and policy changes, yet challenges remain in achieving gender equity and retaining
women within these fields. This study aims to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at
improving gender equity in STEM education and careers. The research seeks to answer how different strategies,
such as peer mentoring and inclusive curriculum designs, impact women's recruitment, retention, and
advancement in engineering. The ultimate goal is to identify practices that can significantly reduce gender gaps
in STEM disciplines. This study employs a systematic literature review to assess the impact of gender equity
initiatives in STEM fields. The review synthesizes existing research findings from multiple global contexts,
evaluating the success and scalability of various interventions. Sources include academic papers, reports on
educational programs, workplace studies, and direct feedback from participants in gender-focused initiatives. This
approach aims to gather comparative insights into effective practices for promoting gender equity in STEM.
Anticipated outcomes of this study include identifying key factors that contribute to successful gender equity
programs in STEM. These may include the critical role of institutional support, the effectiveness of mentoring
networks, and the importance of culturally sensitive curriculum reforms. The study is expected to provide a set of
validated approaches that can be adopted and adapted by educational institutions and corporate entities alike. The
review is anticipated to conclude that a multifaceted approach, combining top-down policy changes with bottom up educational and cultural reforms, is most effective in promoting gender equity in STEM. These strategies are
likely to be more successful when they are integrated into the core mission of institutions rather than implemented
as peripheral programs. Recommendations focus on long-term commitments to these changes and the continuous
assessment of their impact on reducing gender disparities
Evaluating TVET colleges’ challenges to achieve institutional goals : a case of uMfolozi TVET college in KwaZulu-Natal
Full text linkThesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Master of Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, like uMfolozi TVET
College in KwaZulu-Natal, play a crucial role in skill development and workforce
readiness. However, they face various challenges that hinder effective teaching and
learning, including issues related to professional development, organizational culture,
and employee satisfaction. The aim of the study was to identify these challenges and
provide insights for enhancing the overall functioning of the institution.
A quantitative research approach was adopted for this study, employing a structured
questionnaire to gather data from a sample of 70 employees at uMfolozi TVET
College. Descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and correlation analysis were used to
analyse the data collected.
The study revealed several critical findings, including a deficiency in positive self-talk
and resilience among employees, leading to decreased job satisfaction and
performance. Respondents expressed a lack of regular training opportunities and
challenges in building professional relationships. Additionally, a significant concern
regarding logistical support related to housing, transportation, and meals was
identified. The findings also indicated a perceived lack of accountability and
commitment to good practices from top management.
The research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive training programs, a
culture of accountability, and enhanced logistical support to address the identified
challenges. The study contributes to the literature on TVET colleges by providing
empirical evidence on the barriers to employee performance and satisfaction and
emphasizing the role of effective leadership in fostering a supportive organizational
culture.
To address the identified challenges, the study recommends: (1) investing in regular
training programs tailored to employee roles, (2) fostering a collaborative working
environment through team-building initiatives, (3) promoting a culture of accountability
and continuous improvement, (4) addressing financial and logistical challenges
affecting employees, and (5) enhancing leadership commitment to ethical practices
and support for staff. Ultimately, these interventions can strengthen institutional
performance, improve employee well-being, and ensure that TVET colleges remain
pivotal drivers of skills development and socio-economic growth.
Development and implementation of a lean manufacturing framework at a selected South African steering wheel manufacturer
Full text linkSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Quality Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.National and international market pressures have compelled South African local
manufacturers to prioritise quality and productivity improvements to remain
competitive and reduce product costs. This study examines a South African steering
wheel manufacturer’s process cost benchmarking against a European affiliate,
highlighting significant cost variances. Using Lean Manufacturing principles, the
research identifies and addresses inefficiencies across manufacturing processes,
focusing on waste categories: overburden (muri), variation (mura), and waste (muda).
Given the paucity of directly related South African literature, this research employs an
exploratory qualitative methodology. Data collection involved focus group discussion,
interviews, and participant observation, allowing the researcher to interact closely with
participants and observe contextual details firsthand. The target population comprised
managers, operators, and support staff directly involved in the manufacturing process
at the steering wheel manufacturer. A purposive sample of 25 participants across
these roles was selected to capture diverse perspectives and insights into the existing
process inefficiencies. Thematic analysis, supported by the NVivo software was
utilised to identify patterns and themes, which facilitated a detailed examination of the
findings. Triangulation was used to ensure data consistency across the research
instruments, supporting a well-rounded thematic proposition. The literature review
provided insights into Lean Manufacturing’s drivers and barriers, informing the creation
of a Lean framework tailored to the South African context. The investigation uncovered
that Lean Manufacturing is shaped not just by internal tools and cultural enablers, but
by interconnected themes that collectively reveal the functioning of drivers and barriers
throughout the value chain. The resulting Lean Manufacturing Framework represents
a pivotal development for South Africa's automotive components sector, addressing
competitive and operational challenges within the industry. It offers a replicable model
for other component manufacturers facing similar market pressures. The research
makes a significant contribution to the literature by providing a novel dual lens
framework that combines themes, moving lean practices beyond a tool-centric
perspective to strategically integrated operations, finance, and stakeholder relations.
Challenges experienced by employees living with disabilities at a selected cluster in the eThekwini municipality
Full text linkSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Master of Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges faced by employees with disabilities in
a selected cluster of the eThekwini Municipality. The main objectives were to examine the factors
hindering career progression for employees with disabilities; evaluate the municipal employment
policy to identify obstacles to its implementation; analyse employees’ perceptions of the
challenges they face; and provide recommendations for enhancing employment opportunities
for persons with disabilities within the municipality.
A qualitative case study design was adopted, using semi-structured interviews as the primary
data collection method. Convenience sampling was applied to select participants who were
readily available and willing to participate. Findings revealed that managing employees with
disabilities presents significant challenges. Participants reported insufficient support from human
resources, management, and colleagues, leading to feelings of marginalisation, unrealistic
performance expectations, biased evaluations, and assumptions about their work capabilities.
Career advancement was often hindered due to both the nature of their disabilities and
perceptions of reduced performance. The study also found that the eThekwini Municipality lacks
an effective employment policy to address these issues. Communication barriers, including the
need for sign-language interpreters and accessible written materials, further complicated
workplace inclusion.