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Closures of theological institutions in Zimbabwe and what Organisational Memory (OM) could contribute to promote institutional sustainability
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2020.The closures of many theological institutions is of growing concern among theological educators and the
Church at large, in Zimbabwe. Despite government efforts, such as establishing the Zimbabwe Council for
Higher Education (ZimCHE) to regulate higher education providers by registering and accrediting them,
closures of theological institutions continue to be on the increase. This study focuses on the closures of
many theological institutions in Zimbabwe, in order to recommend interventions so as to promote
sustainability of the remaining institutions. The dissertation achieved its aim by conducting an extensive
study of relevant literature. A case-study was carried out at two theological institutions in Zimbabwe, with a
sample size of six respondents. In addition, a focus group discussion was held with six members at the third
site and investigated the participants’ views in relation to the research focus. Participants consisted of core
employees at various managerial levels and some students, at three theological institutions in Zimbabwe. As
a result, 12 respondents represented both the semi-structured interviews and the focus group discussion. The
study produced the following four key findings: non-compliance with regulatory requirements was the main
cause of the closures of theological institutions in Zimbabwe; closures of theological institutions in were not
only a national (Zimbabwean) problem but also an International problem, as the closures were spread
throughout the globe; closures of theological institutions had both positive and negative impacts;
organisational memory (OM) had the potential to contribute to the achievement of institutional
sustainability, by influencing institutional decision-making processes, as well as by helping organisations to
avoid repeating past mistakes. The main conclusions drawn from this study were that: current approaches to
curb the problem of the closures of theological institutions will be deficient as long as theological
institutions fail to take into account the significance of OM in their decision-making processes. The
recurring closures of theological institutions in Zimbabwe was partly due to the fact that, institutions were
not learning from their past, or the past of their sister institutions, hence continually repeating past mistakes.
Therefore, this study recommends that: theological institutions need to comply with policy guidelines;
policy enforcers should intensify their efforts and raise public awareness about the need for institutions to
comply with national policy guidelines as well as the consequences of non-compliance. Based on the
usefulness of OM in supporting institutional decision-making processes as well as in helping organisations
to avoid repeating past mistakes; the final recommendation of the study pointed towards the need for
theological institutions to consider OM as an important knowledge-based strategy, for their continuity
The effectiveness of employee engagement and organisational commitment at a selected chemicals manufacturing company in South Africa
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Masters in Human Resources Management, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.The 21st-century business environment requires that employees perform extrarole activities to gain and retain their organisation’s competitive advantage in the
industry in which they operate. Engaged and committed employees are crucial in
achieving and sustaining this competitive advantage. This quantitative study
aimed to assess the effectiveness of employee engagement and organisational
commitment. Data was collected from 135 participants through a structured
questionnaire and the responses were analysed using descriptive and inferential
statistical methods. The findings indicate that employees displayed higher job
engagement levels than their commitment to the company. However, the results
suggest that employees were effectively engaged and committed to the
organisation.
This study contributes significantly to the existing knowledge on employee
engagement and organisational commitment.
Citizen-centric perspectives on election administration and democratic process in Nigeria's fourth republic
No full textElections are inevitable for democratic nourishment and their processes are a pathway to ideal legitimate political leadership. The core intent of the paper is to appraise two decades (1999-2019) of the democratic process in Nigeria's elections administration vis-a-vis citizen-centric viewpoint with reference to Lagos State. This research relies on primary and secondary sources of data collection. It adopted participatory democratic theory, precisely Dahl Polyarchy as a theoretical foundation. The findings of the study revealed that the 2003, 2007, and 2011 general elections were marred with various irregularities, but the non-interference disposition in 2015 by incumbent governments and leadership of INEC projected the mandate with fairness through better technological innovations. It was also revealed that the 2019 general elections possessed a typical element of the 2011 general elections with the conspicuous low turnout as its climax. The paper recommended among others, that there is a need for more continuity of the technological initiative in election administration, electoral management system (EMS) research, Continuous updating of voters' registers, and adjustments of operational and administration of logistics to make INEC more trustworthy referees in future elections
Mapping evidence on strategies used that encourage Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake and adherence amongst female sex workers in South Africa
No full textFemale sex workers (FSWs) in South Africa have a high HIV prevalence. To reduce the rate of new infections, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was introduced to FSWs; however, studies show that FSWs’ uptake and adherence to PrEP has been inconsistent. This study explored existing evidence related to strategies used to encourage PrEP uptake and adherence. Utilizing the scoping review framework, seven peer-reviewed articles were analyzed thematically. The themes were (1) PrEP promotion and distribution, (2) PrEP counselling and using educational resources, and (3) using instant messaging and rewards programs. The suggestions from the literature include a generalized PrEP promotion and distribution approach not aimed towards high-risk groups to avoid stigma. PrEP pick-up points should include sex work-friendly healthcare facilities as well as community-based venues. PrEP counselling should be conducted prior to PrEP administration to prepare users on how to deal with side effects. Information, education, and communication materials should be colorful and consist of catchy phrases targeted to the whole population. Instant messaging has been found to be effective in encouraging adherence. FSWs should be instrumental in informing intervention best practices. Future interventions aimed at FSWs should focus on holistic wellness that incorporates the psychosocial aspects of HIV prevention
Enhancing service delivery via Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at uMzimkhulu Local Municipality, South Africa
No full textMunicipalities in South Africa face numerous challenges that hinder efficient service delivery. One of these challenges is the lack of implementation of required services, leading to citizen dissatisfaction and protest actions. This study aims to investigate methods for improving service delivery in public institutions in South Africa through the implementation of work-integrated learning (WIL) programmes. Data for this study was collected from the uMzimkhulu local municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically from the Harry Gwala District. A total of 56 participants took part in the study, including 28 WIL students and 28 mentors. This ensured representation from all departments within the municipality. Two separate sets of questionnaires were used to collect data from these two groups. Data analysis was performed using the Statistics Packaging for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The study identified several challenges that currently hinder the effective implementation of WIL programmes within the municipality. As a result, it is recommended that the municipality provide training for WIL students and establish efficient monitoring and evaluation processes for the WIL programmes. Additionally, the municipality should involve students in WIL programmes in matters related to progressive initiatives and provide further support to enhance their ability to handle client services. It is also advised that the municipality prioritise the development of facilities and resources for WIL students to fully engage them in their work
Examining front-line administrative services in a selected public higher education institution
No full textThe South African government’s commitment to people-friendly public service since 1994 has influenced the quality of service provided by front-line administrative staff in public higher learning institutions. This study explores the experiences of front-line administrative staff at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), focusing on the challenges faced and their impact on teaching, learning, and overall academic activities. Against the backdrop of public higher education institutions (HEIs) in South Africa, the study addresses the persistent challenges in service delivery and the crucial role of front-line administrative staff. Employing a post-positivist paradigm, the research adopts a hybrid methodological approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. A survey design is utilized to gather data from first-time entry students (FTENs) enrolled in the Business and Information Management program at DUT, employing convenience sampling and a self-administered questionnaire. The study’s findings illuminate the inefficiencies in front-line administrative services, elucidating their impact on diverse stakeholders and emphasizing the pressing need for enhancement. The study found that the majority of students perceived the services positively, with only a small number expressing dissatisfaction and nearly all participants noted the institution’s adherence to the Batho Pele Principles positively, though a few had contrasting experiences. The findings further revealed areas of improvement for the service. By focusing on the experiences of FTENs, the study contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing service delivery in public higher learning institutions. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the fulfilment of the core mission of HEIs providing quality education and fostering a positive learning environment
Effects of HR analytics on HRM practices : an integrative review
No full textThe current study investigates the impact of HR analytics on human resource management (HRM) practices. Based on a review of HRM literature, it is clear that HR analytics is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool that influences HRM practices, particularly in supporting strategic decision-making. The primary motivation for this study stems from a noticeable gap in research regarding the impact and adoption of HR analytics within organizations, especially in South Africa. A comprehensive analysis of academic journal articles from reputable databases revealed that HR analytics positively influences human resource management practices and enhances HRM efficiency by integrating various functions and enabling managers to make informed decisions. It is recommended that organizations consider key factors that contribute to the effective implementation of HR analytics to maximize its advantages and achieve a competitive edge. This study underscores the importance of utilizing HR analytics for South African organizations aiming to harness data-driven insights to improve HR processes, increase employee satisfaction, and boost overall business performance. Consequently, both employees and the organization stand to benefit significantly from this strategic approach
Commercial products and environmental benefits of algal diversity
No full textThe major products from algae that are used and produced commercially today include whole macroalgae/seaweed as raw or processed food, extracted microalgae for high-value pigments, and whole microalgal species as health supplements, all food-grade material intended for human consumption. Microalgal commercial pigment products mostly include β-carotene and astaxanthin utilized as food additives/colorants. Spirulina is cultivated and produced on a large scale, often marketed and sold as a health-promoting ingredient. Animal feed, especially aquaculture feed from microalgal biomass, is another major product produced from Arthrospira and Chlorella species. There is a multitude of other bioproducts produced from extracted and residual microalgal biomass, such as biofuels, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, animal (livestock) feed, plastics, and fertilizers; however, commercialization of these products is still facing many cost and energy-related challenges and are currently still a work-in-progress. Environmental benefits of algae are mainly its capability to sequester excess CO2 emissions from the atmosphere due to its photosynthetic nature and also play a pivotal role in bioremediation applications.Copyright: 2024. Elsevier. Due to copyright restrictions, only the abstract is available. For access to the full text item, please consult the publisher's website. The definitive version of the work is published in Biodiversity and bioeconomy: status quo, challenges, and opportunities. Amsterdam: Elsevier. doi: 10.1016/C2021-0-02137-
Food industry waste management : technologies for value chain addition
No full textFood loss and waste (FLW) generation leads to serious socio-economic and environmental problems such as excess greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, pollution, natural resource depletion as well as food insecurity. This is indicative of unsustainable food production and consumption system for a growing world population. Food production industries use various waste management methods for the removal of FLW. These approaches include best and worst practices such as dumping (landfill), incineration, recycling, reusing, treatment technologies [viz. anaerobic digestion (AD)] feeding schemes etc. with each technique containing several advantages and disadvantages. The technologies used for the disposal of FLW from the various food manufacturing sectors have been shown. Furthermore, the impact of FLW across the entire food supply chain as well as on the triple bottom line (i.e. socially, environmentally, economically) has also been explained in this chapter. Solutions to FLW management through FLW minimization/prevention practices, incremental approaches (amelioration of existing practices) and radical innovations (development of novel techniques) have also been elucidated to improve the current systems in place, exercising better control over FLW.Copyright: 2025. Springer. Due to copyright restrictions, only the abstract is available. For access to the full text item, please consult the publisher's website. The definitive version of the work is published in Solid waste management. Cham: Springer. doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-78420-
Rural community perceptions on land use change and its effects on their agricultural practices in Vulindlela Traditional Area, KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa
No full textThis study assessed the level of awareness among the Vulindlela rural community regarding land use and land cover changes occurring in their community. Additionally, this study sought to examine the effects of these land use and land cover changes on the agricultural practices of the Vulindlela rural community. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Secondary data from Statistics South Africa and the Msunduzi Local Municipality were used to determine the relationship between population growth and housing unit expansion. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews to capture the community’s perceptions of land use change and its impacts on agricultural activities. The study results indicated a strong relationship (r = 0.81, t = 2.39, df = 3, p = 0.10) between population growth and an increase in housing units. Respondents also noted that land use and cover change has occurred in Vulindlela. The driver of this change is an increase in residential housing units built on land designated for agriculture (crop and pastoral fields). Residential development on agricultural fields is a result of the de-agrarianisation by the local community. De-agrarianisation drivers in Vulindlela include a lack of agricultural equipment, high costs (time and money) associated with agriculture, inadequate government support, increased dependence on government grants and lack of interest in the younger generation in agriculture