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The public administration performance of the coalition-led government on implementing the Integrated Development Plan (2016-2021) in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng Province, South Africa
Get PDFThesis (MPAM.) -- University of Limpopo, 2024An IDP is a legal requirement and guides projects and development at the local sphere
of government. The City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality (COT) found itself under
a coalition for the first time since the democratic dispensation in South Africa. Coalitions
in South African municipalities have been unstable and have at times affected
administrative performances of municipalities. This study looked at how the coalition-led
City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality’s administrative performed in implementing
the IDP during the 2016-2021 period. The objectives of the researcher included
determining performance challenges facing coalition-led governments in the local
government sphere of the South African political-administrative system. The other
objective was to determine public administrative challenges that faced the City of
Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality’s coalition-led government between 2016 - 2021.
The researcher employed the qualitative research methodology to achieve the aim and
objectives of the study. Semi-structured interviews were organised by the researcher to
interview selected participants. Purposive sampling was employed by the researcher to
select participants. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data collected from the
semi-structured interviews.
Study findings revealed that the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality delayed
adopting budgets which directly resulted to projects being stalled. Councillors should be
educated on the dire consequences of not implementing budgets on time as
communities bear the cost. The study revealed also revealed that even though the
councillors who served under the coalition government were from different political
organizations, their party’s ideology was not a factor. Service delivery topped the priority
items of the council. The study’s findings are crucial and can be of help to the
municipality and other municipalities who may have to undertake the process of IDP
implementation. Though the challenges faced by the other municipalities, the study was
conducted in the COT therefore the findings and recommendations are only suitable for
the CO
Developing support strategies to enhance tuberculosis treatment adherence in Sekhukhune District Clinics, Limpopo Province
Get PDFThesis (M. (Nursing Science)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024Background: South Africa (SA) is among the countries that are challenged by Tuberculosis (TB). Active TB patients require daily administration of medicines for six months or longer with no interruption. This can be achieved through great adherence as well as a proper support system. The study aimed to develop support strategies to enhance TB treatment adherence in the Sekhukhune District clinics, in the Limpopo Province.
Method: The study used a quantitative research method. The method was considered to be relevant to this study as the research aimed to develop support strategies to enhance TB treatment adherence at selected clinics in the Sekhukhune District. Data was collected from five selected clinics in the Sekhukhune District, using questionnaires and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29. A total of 90 respondents from a population of 116 participated in the study. Simple random probability sampling was used. The questionnaires were piloted in a different setting to ensure reliability. The outcomes of the analysis were presented as frequencies and percentages in tables, bar graphs and pie charts. Ethical standards were considered throughout the study.
Results: The study revealed that several factors contribute to TB treatment adherence. These factors include but are not limited to demographic, patient-related, socio-economic,
healthcare system, disease and medication-related, as well as adherence and supportrelated factors. The results of the study revealed that there is a lack of support from family as well as the community and there is also a lack of knowledge about TB and its treatment. Support strategies were developed to enhance TB treatment adherence in selected clinics in the Sekhukhune District of the Limpopo province.
Conclusion: The study concluded that several factors hinder the adherence to TB treatment at the Sekhukhune District clinics in the Limpopo Province. Inadequate support and information about TB treatment, the treatment side effects, the comorbidities and the lack of Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) supporters are the main findings of this study
Economic analysis of cassava starch production vis-a-vis starch production from Maize and Potatoes in South Africa
Get PDFThesis (M.Sc. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024South Africa is a net importer of cassava starch and its derivatives. Yet, demand for cassava starch is increasing on a global scale. Without a supply and developed value chain, South Africa may continue as a net importer with a consequent unfavourable trade balance and a reduced Gross Domestic Product. Therefore, it is important to explore the economics of locally produced cassava starch and contrast it with currently produced starch (such as maize) in the country, to contribute to decision-making for developing a cassava starch value chain in South Africa.
The study aimed to carry out an economic analysis of starch production from cassava, vis-à-vis starch production from maize and potatoes in South Africa, through the determination of the demand and supply patterns of cassava maize and potato starch, analysis of the profitability of cassava and maize starch production and modelling alternative scenarios of cassava starch production in South Africa whilst determining the costs and benefits. Time series data was extracted from the trade map in the form of yearly imports and exports of cassava, maize and potato starch. The patterns were determined using a graphical analysis, which illustrated that starch imports were significantly higher than maize starch imports. A gross margin analysis was performed to determine the profitability of maize and cassava starch production.
Cassava starch production scenarios in South Africa were modelled using 3 scenarios, which were informed by the extracted starch yield. The cost and benefits of the scenarios were evaluated using Net Present Value, Internal Rate of Returns and Benefit Cost Ratio. These economic indicators revealed that cassava starch production is a viable and worthwhile project. However, one of the scenarios illustrated that the project should be rejected if the extracted starch yield is low. This is because a low extraction efficiency will render cassava starch production unprofitable. Lastly, the study conducted a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the sensitivity of the Net Present Value to the investment cost, discount rate and annual growth rate. It is recommended that the significantly high imports should be used as a driver to develop a cassava value chain in South Africa.Department of Science Innovatio
Improvement of the alcohol content and an investigation of fermentation and maturation temperatures on the chemical and sensory characteristics of unpasteurised starter culture-based marula fruit wine
Get PDFThesis (M.Sc. (Microbiology)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024Marula fruit wine is an alcoholic beverage that is produced through fermentation of marula fruit juice. The traditional marula fruit wine has a low alcohol content and spoils quickly. This study investigated the production of a high alcohol wine through starter culture-based fermentation of unpasteurised marula fruit juice. The influence of varying fermentation and maturation temperatures (15 °C and 25 °C) on chemical and sensory properties were explored. Selected chemicals, nutritional content and sensory characteristics were evaluated. The fermentation rate at 25 °C surpassed that at 15 °C, with wines reaching 1.0 °Brix in 10 days and 30 days, respectively. Alcohol content increased gradually and reached 12% as sugar got utilised. A pH of 3.44 – 3.88 deterred spoilage microorganisms yet Bacillus species, commonly found in soil and associated with winemaking, were observed in the wines at 15 °C and 25 °C post fermentation. Evaluation of organic acids revealed citric acid dominance (3.28 – 5.70 g/L), along with malic acid (2 – 6 g/L) and low levels of acetic acid (< 2.1 g/L), contributing to desirable sensory characteristics. While temperature variations did not significantly influence higher alcohols, levels at 25 °C were higher than at 15 °C. Mineral concentrations fell below dietary recommendations, with notable potassium and sodium quantities. Protein content ranged from 7.5 to 11 μg/mL. The antioxidant, vitamin C, ranged from 96.6 – 128.7 μg/mL in the 25 – 4 °C wine during the storage phase. The interactions of the chemicals and yeasts contributed to the sensorial characters of the wine. The wine fermented and stored at 15 °C, i.e., 15 – 15 °C and 15 – 4 °C demonstrated to be the most appreciated for taste. This could be attributed to the residual sugar content and higher alcohols for its sweetness and fruity taste. The findings demonstrated that varying temperature did not influence most of the selected nutritional content. Additionally, 25 °C should be used to initiate fermentation, 15 °C for maturation and finally 4 °C for aging to balance the rate of fermentation progression and the production of good wine character. Despite a general understanding of the impact of temperature on flavour development and chemical contribution, the full extent of its influence remains a subject of ongoing exploration
Effects of dysfunctional uterine bleeding among women in the selected primary health care facility at Ehlanzeni District, Mpumalanga Province
Get PDFThesis (M. Nursing)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is a worldwide health problem marked by irregular menstrual cycles and excessive bleeding. It affects women all over the world. It affects between 10% and 30% of women in the United States. It is a major public health issue in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in South Africa, and is a leading cause of iron deficiency anaemia and gynaecological referrals. According to studies, dysfunctional uterine bleeding has an impact on women's physical, social, and mental well-being, as well as their quality of life. However, there is a lack of awareness among women about the importance of seeking medical and psychological help.
This study investigated the effects of Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB) through qualitative research. The researcher conducted interviews with 12 women at Nkwalini clinic and analyzed the data using Tesch's Open Coding method. The study employed both exploratory and descriptive designs to gather in-depth information about the experiences of the participants. Measures such as credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability were implemented to ensure the trustworthiness of the study. Overall, the research aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effects of DUB and contribute to the existing knowledge in this area.
Four main themes emerged from this study: The impact on physical and daily productivity, economic impact, psycho-social well-being, and marital and relationship instability. DUB was found to have a negative influence on women's quality of life in these areas. The study emphasized the importance of prioritizing health to enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism, and promote overall well-being. It also highlighted the need for effective utilization of healthcare services by referring patients to appropriate stakeholders. Ultimately, the study aimed to raise awareness of the challenges faced by women with DUB and advocate for comprehensive support and treatment
Navigating challenges and enhancing effectiveness : insights from tutors on the art of tutorial delivery
Get PDFJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal Issue 4, Volume 8, 2024This study investigated the challenges faced by tutors in delivering effective tutorial sessions and the strategies they employed to enhance the learning experience in higher education. The study employed a qualitative research approach to explore tutors' challenges and strategies in delivering effective tutorial sessions, emphasizing in-depth understanding and rich descriptive insights. The research was grounded in the interpretivism paradigm, which seeks to understand participants' experiences and perspectives within their social and educational contexts. The study utilized a case study design, focusing on a specific group of tutors to provide detailed insights into their experiences and practices in higher education tutorial delivery. The sample size comprised 28 purposefully selected tutors. Participant selection was guided by relevance to the research focus, and data collection was concluded upon reaching data saturation. Grounded in Social Constructivism and Situated Learning Theory, the researcher used semi-structured interviews to collect data from the purposefully selected participants. The data collection process was restricted by data saturation. Accordingly, reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze data. The findings revealed that tutors encounter diverse student needs, difficulties in fostering active participation, knowledge gaps, and time constraints. To address these challenges, tutors employed strategies such as creating supportive learning environments, utilizing active learning techniques, incorporating technology, adapting to individual learning styles, and providing constructive feedback. The study concluded with the insights gathered from experienced tutors highlighting the significant challenges they face, such as accommodating diverse learning styles, addressing knowledge gaps, and managing time constraints. The recommendations for professional development, mentoring, flexible curriculum design, and regular feedback mechanisms, are aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of tutorial delivery and ultimately improving student learning outcomes in higher education. By implementing these recommendations, educational institutions can enhance the effectiveness of tutorial delivery, ultimately leading to improved student engagement, academic success, and a richer learning experience in higher education
Detection of chromium and mercury in water using rGO incorporated Cu-based nanomaterials
Get PDFThesis (M. Sc. (Chemistry)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024Heavy metal ions can build up for years or even decades in a number of body organs. Heavy metal poisoning symptoms have the potential to be fatal and to cause permanent harm. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), heavy metals such as chromium, nickel, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, and arsenic are classified as the most toxic, hence it is important to be able to find simple, rapid methods to detect them in either wastewater or drinking water. In this research study, Cu-based nanomaterials on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) are prepared and then used as an electrocatalyst for the detection of chromium(III) and mercury(II). Copper oxide (CuO) and copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared using co-precipitation method and chemical reduction method, respectively. Copper chloride dihydrate (CuCl2.2H2O) was employed as a metal source in both methods. In the case of copper sulfide nanoparticles, thioacetamide (TAA) was employed as the sulfur source in the presence of GSH (Glutathione), which was employed as a capping agent. Both CuONPs and CuSNPs were also coated with Gold (Au) to form polyhedral hetero-structure composed of both gold nanoparticles and CuO nanoparticles. The prepared CuO, CuS, CuO-Au and CuS-Au were then incorporated on RGO using different chemical processes in order to produce CuO/RGO, CuS/RGO, CuO-Au/RGO and CUS-Au/RGO nanocomposites. All prepared nanoparticles and nanocomposites were characterized with ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. In addition, glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs) modified with CuO, CuS, CuO-Au, CuS-Au CuO/RGO, CuS/RGO, CuO-Au/RGO and CUS-Au/RGO were prepared, and the electrochemical activities of each modified electrode were investigated using the [Fe(CN)6]3-/4- probe via cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). CuS-Au/RGO exhibited high electron transfer with low resistance charge transfer (Rct) by EIS analysis. Therefore, was chosen as the material of interest during the development of the electrochemical sensor for both Cr(III) and Hg (II) heavy metal ions. The sensor parameters such as scan rate, pH and deposition potential and time were optimized. The CUS-Au/RGO showed good stability and reactivity at pH of 6.17. The fabricated sensor exhibited very low detection limits of 2 ppb for Hg(II) and 2 ppb for Cr(III). However, the CuS-Au/RGO nanocomposite based electrochemical sensor evidently demonstrated to have a strong binding affinity and preference for Hg(II) than Cr(III
The nexus of employment and trade : case study of tomato sector in South Africa (1996-2018)
Get PDFThesis (M. Sc. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024Tomato is a significant commodity produced and traded by South Africa. The commodity plays an important role in job creation. South Africa is known as self sufficient producer of fresh tomatoes due to its resource endowments. South Africa exports fresh tomato produce to Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, and Lesotho. However, unjustified trade bans from neighbouring countries such as Namibia and Botswana threaten jobs in South African agricultural trade. Trade plays a vital role in employment creation and can be captured by the variable which is calculated as domestic employment in gross export. Tomato sector exports contribute to the economy and can enhance foreign exchange rates in the country. The study aims to analyse relationship between domestic employment in gross agricultural exports and tomato sector trade from 1996 to 2018, the study focused on South Africa. The objectives of this study were to establish the causality, long-run and short-run relationship between domestic employment in gross agricultural exports and tomato sector trade in South Africa. Secondary data was employed in this study for tomato imports and exports as well as domestic employment in gross agricultural exports. The objectives were examined using a Vector auto-regressive (VAR) model and Granger causality test. Max-Eigen and trace test from the Johansen co-integration test revealed that domestic employment in gross agricultural exports and tomato sector trade does not have a long-term co-integration. The Granger causality test revealed that domestic employment in gross export in agriculture (EMP) does not cause the amount of tomato exported (export quantity of tomato) (EXPT) in the short term. Furthermore, domestic employment in gross export in agriculture (EMP) does not cause import quantity of tomato (IMPT) in the short run. The study recommends policymakers implement short term policies to address the deviations observed in domestic employment in gross export in agriculture and tomato trade quantities (import quantity and export quantity)
Multilingualism in South African universities is a fallacy : a critical realist perspective
Get PDFJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal Issue 3, Volume 8, 2024 Special IssueThis paper explores the empirical, real, and actual trajectories in South African universities regarding multilingualism and decolonisation. It employs the critical realist approach to uncover these trajectories through reviewed literature. It investigates whether the policy is followed in implementing African indigenous languages (AILs) against the hegemony of English and Afrikaans in South African universities. The paper found that multilingualism is still an area that requires attention, even though ample legislation and policies were drafted to necessitate decolonised practices that foster it. This paper argues that the notion of decolonisation and the use of multilingualism can be placed at the centre of curriculum transformation. However, the paper again argues that actual events like a disconnect between basic and higher education systems, digitalisation, intellectualisation of African languages and confidence of the African language users in the academia can hinder multilingualism. African learners come to universities with unique African language repertoires, but English is still mostly used as a medium of instruction in most South African universities. This paper makes recommendations that can rescue the situation, some of them which are funding African languages digitalisation, awarding African languages research outputs, and widely conducting studies on the African students and academics’ perceptions on multilingual education
Utilising robotics to foster 21st century skills and competencies in physical sciences teaching and learning : a systematic review
Get PDFJournal article published in African Perspectives of Research in Teaching and Learning Journal
Issue 2, Volume 8, 2024This systematic review investigates the integration of robotics into physical sciences education and its effectiveness in promoting 21st-century skills and competencies among learners. The sample consists of empirical studies and theoretical articles published between 2010 and 2023, focusing on various educational settings and grade levels. The data analysis involved thematic coding for qualitative data and meta-analysis techniques for quantitative findings. With the increasing emphasis on STEM education and the demand for innovative teaching approaches, robotics has emerged as a promising tool for enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes in the physical sciences. Through a comprehensive analysis of these studies, the review examines the impact of robotics on critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and other essential skills in the context of teaching and learning physical sciences. The findings highlight the potential of robotics to transform physical sciences education by providing hands-on, experiential learning experiences that foster the development of key skills needed for success in the digital age. Additionally, the review identifies challenges and opportunities for the integration of robotics into the physical sciences curriculum and suggests directions for future research and practice in this field