Society for the Study of Business & Finance- SSBFNET: E-Journals
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The role of proper language use in enhancing teaching and learning during English lessons
No full textThe effective use of proper language is the heartbeat of successful English pedagogy. Language is not merely a vehicle for instruction but a transformative instrument that shapes thought, engagement, and understanding. This article examines how the deliberate and consistent use of proper English by teachers enhances learner participation, comprehension, and cognitive growth during English lessons. Grounded in an interpretivist qualitative framework, the study synthesises recent empirical research conducted between 2022 and 2025 within multilingual South African classrooms. It reveals that linguistic precision and clarity in teacher discourse foster academic confidence, creativity, and equitable access to knowledge. The findings demonstrate that when teachers model grammatically accurate, contextually appropriate English, learners internalise both linguistic competence and critical thinking skills. Furthermore, the study highlights the pedagogical and ethical responsibility of educators to use language intentionally, as it has a direct impact on classroom culture and learner motivation. Proper language use, therefore, transcends correctness, it becomes a catalyst for intellectual empowerment and cultural inclusivity. The article concludes that teacher training programmes should integrate advanced linguistic proficiency to strengthen teaching quality and learner achievement. The argument resonates globally, positioning language mastery as a cornerstone for sustainable education systems striving toward excellence, diversity, and innovation in language teaching and learning.
 
Navigating catastrophic risks: A comparative study of predictive models for vehicle insurance pricing in South Africa
No full textThe South African insurance industry faces pricing challenges due to increasing catastrophic events driven by climate change and socio-economic uncertainties. The purpose is to find the best practices for vehicle pricing in South Africa. Five leading predictive models: Generalised Linear Models, Random Forest, XGBoost, Gradient Boosting Regressor, and Artificial Neural Networks are compared for estimating motor insurance premiums under normal and optimised conditions. Furthermore, analyses of catastrophic risk distribution are conducted. Results indicate that machine learning techniques, particularly XGBoost, achieve superior predictive accuracy under optimised conditions, along with the lowest RMSE and MAE. Traditional models like GLM ensure interpretability and regulatory compliance but struggle with non-linear complexities. However, integrating GLM with XGBoost enhances predictive performance. XGBoost is superior and GLM highly complies with the regulations. Gauteng is susceptible to malicious damage, KwaZulu-Natal is mostly exposed to floods and storms, and Western Cape is more vulnerable to droughts and earthquakes. These insights highlight the necessity of adaptive, data-driven risk management tailored to regional vulnerabilities. This research contributes to advancements in insurance pricing methodologies, offering actionable insights for policy development, disaster preparedness, and resilience-building strategies to address South Africa’s evolving risk landscape
The influence of digital technology on decision-making in the South African police service: A critical analysis
No full textThe rapid evolution of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies has reshaped organisational decision-making in policing environments worldwide. This study critically examines how digital technologies influence decision-making structures, behaviours, and processes within the South African Police Service (SAPS). A qualitative research design was employed, involving 25 semi-structured interviews with senior SAPS officials, document analysis, and non-participant observation of digital systems in use at selected operational environments. Data were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework, supported by NVivo 14 software. Findings indicate that digital tools—such as the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), e-dockets, crime-analytics dashboards, drones, CCTV, and the My SAPS mobile application—have enhanced communication, accountability, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. Yet progress remains uneven due to infrastructural disparities, varied digital literacy levels, challenges in ethical data governance, and leadership inconsistencies across divisions. Leadership commitment and organisational culture emerged as the strongest determinants of successful adoption. This study extends Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory to policing in a developing-country context, revealing that innovation adoption within SAPS is non-linear and deeply embedded in institutional culture and capacity. Practical implications include the need for integrated digital-policing strategies, enhanced digital-skills development, strengthened POPIA-aligned governance frameworks, and improved inter-divisional ICT alignment. The findings contribute empirical and conceptual insight into digital transformation in African law-enforcement organisations
The good, the bad and the ugly: Leadership instability, governance failures and institutional resilience in the South African police service (1994–2025)
No full textSince the transition to democracy in 1994, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has undergone extensive transformation while simultaneously confronting institutional instability, political interference, and persistent corruption allegations. A central and often controversial feature of this period has been the leadership tenure of National Police Commissioners. Apart from General George Fivaz, no National Commissioner has completed a full term of office. Instead, resignations, suspensions, removals, and criminal investigations have characterised the leadership landscape, contributing to widespread public perceptions that SAPS Commissioners are inherently corrupt. This article presents a conceptual and descriptive analysis of SAPS leadership from 1994 to 2025, drawing on publicly available reports, parliamentary proceedings, commissions of inquiry, Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) investigations, Auditor-General reports, and scholarly literature. The study highlights three dimensions of SAPS leadership over three decades: the good, including achievements in transformation, community policing, and specialised operational capacities; the bad, encompassing policy inconsistencies, managerial weaknesses, and resource misalignment; and the ugly, featuring high-profile corruption scandals, political interference, Marikana, intelligence dysfunction, and the criminal conviction or removal of multiple Commissioners. Using governance and public administration frameworks, the article analyses structural conditions that have produced leadership instability, including the blurred political–administrative interface, cadre deployment, and weak oversight institutions. The article concludes that although SAPS has pockets of excellence and resilience, leadership instability has had a measurable and negative impact on organisational performance, public trust, and the integrity of policing. The study proposes actionable reforms to stabilise leadership, depoliticise appointments, and strengthen accountability systems
Bridging policy and practice: Governance and sustainability of community-based homestays in South Africa
No full textTourism is increasingly recognised as a catalyst for inclusive development in the Global South. In South Africa, community-based homestays (CBHs) empower rural communities while conserving cultural and environmental assets, yet implementation remains uneven. This study examines the governance and sustainability of CBHs through a case study of the Makwarani village in Limpopo Province. Using an interpretivist qualitative design, ten semi-structured interviews were analysed thematically within Collaborative Governance, Social Exchange, and Sustainable Livelihoods frameworks. Findings reveal that tourism both preserves and commercialises local culture, generates seasonal income, and fosters social cohesion while also producing inequality, environmental strain, and governance fragmentation. Participants stressed the need for equitable benefit-sharing, strong institutional coordination, and community participation. The study concludes that inclusive governance, capacity development, and collaborative management are essential to bridge the policy–practice gap and achieve sustainable, community-driven tourism in South Africa
Strengthening community voices: Traditional leaders’ efforts to curb gender-based violence in rural Vhembe communities
No full textThis paper investigates the role of traditional leaders (Mahosi) in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in the Vhembe District of Limpopo in South Africa. Grounded by Community-based social change theory (CBSC) and informed by gender theory and it explains how the Mahosi are dealing with GBV within cultural and social constructs of their own environments. Through qualitative interviews with ten Mahosi across five municipalities, the research identifies three key strategies: promoting community dialogue, applying cultural accountability mechanisms, and collaborating with formal service providers. While some Mahosi demonstrate transformative leadership by adapting traditional norms and supporting survivors, others reinforce patriarchal structures that may undermine justice and silence victims. The study also reflects on how hegemonic masculinity and gendered power relations influence these responses. Findings suggest that traditional leadership can be both a facilitator of justice and a barrier to gender equality, depending on the level of critical engagement and partnership with broader systems. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on culturally relevant GBV interventions and emphasises the need for capacity-building and policy alignment to ensure that traditional authority supports, rather than hinders, efforts to eliminate GBV
Data security and privacy: Role of regulatory frameworks in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3
No full textThe growing usage of digital health technologies and medical devices can expose patient data and medical systems to cyberattacks. The paper examines how cybersecurity issues affect SDG 3 and how well current regulatory frameworks protect healthcare data. The study used PRISMA and used thematic synthesis. Digital health data security, IoT medical devices and patient safety, data integrity, ransomware threats, lack of cyber awareness, regulatory compliance, securing telemedicine, and long-term data protection could hinder SDG3 achievement. These issues endanger patient safety, delay emergency responses, and damage digital health system trust. While present legislative frameworks provide core protection for healthcare data, they fail in numerous key areas. Some frameworks have delayed breach notification, implementation issues and resource limits, weak or optional security standards, lack of healthcare-specific focus, and old or inflexible frameworks. Thus, while existing frameworks improve data governance, their limited adaptability, outmoded restrictions, and inconsistent implementation reduce their usefulness in tackling healthcare\u27s developing cybersecurity issues. Healthcare systems are vulnerable to cyberattacks, compromising patient safety, trust, and general health and well-being. The paper advises obligatory data protection, safe IoT legislation, staff training, and revised telemedicine rules to improve hospital cybersecurity. To fulfil SDG 3, it recommends harmonised cross-border legal frameworks and targeted capacity building in low- and middle-income countries
Thematizing the factors affecting the acceptance of digital technologies: a qualitative insight into a least developed country
No full textThis qualitative study explores the complex factors that affect the acceptance of digital technologies (ADT) in the setting of a least developed country (LDC). In-depth interviews using purposive and convenience sampling techniques were conducted with business professionals (n=40) in Bangladesh, acknowledging the distinct challenges and opportunities that these settings present. Qualitative research offers the chance to delve into professional experiences and obtain comprehensive insights into how they view digital technologies in the real world. In order to provide a theoretical framework for future research, this study employed grounded theory and thematic analysis to explain the factors of the acceptance of digital technologies (ADT). This study proposed five factors to re-conceptualize ADT based on three theories. The study offered a novel insight into factors for ADT from the viewpoints of varied professions, which provided a framework that may serve as the basis for explaining ADT
The significance of instructional leaders in promoting inclusive education strategies to enhance learners’ performance
No full textSouth Africa\u27s commitment to equitable education necessitates the adoption of inclusive practices that address the diverse needs of learners. Instructional leaders, including principals, deputy principals, and department heads, play a crucial role in integrating inclusive education strategies into school curricula and in implementing inclusive practices to enhance learner performance. The study examines how instructional leaders foster inclusive educational environments that promote academic success for all learners. The research employs a qualitative methodology to adopt the transformative leadership theory, emphasising equity, social justice, and systemic transformation. A multiple-case study design facilitated an in-depth understanding of leadership practices across varied school contexts. Data collection methods encompass semi-structured interviews. The research selected instructional leaders from primary and secondary schools in Limpopo Province. Anticipated findings suggest that leaders who demonstrate collaborative, visionary, and supportive leadership styles are more effective in promoting inclusive education strategies, thereby enhancing learner engagement and performance. However, limited resources, inadequate professional development, and resistance to change may hinder the successful adoption of inclusive practices. The study will recommend forming collaborative learning communities and strategically allocating resources to bolster inclusive education initiatives. The instructional leaders\u27 capabilities enable schools to create more inclusive environments that cater to the diverse needs of all learners
Facilitating organisational development through digital workplace in the railway industry: A serial mediation of digital leadership and psychological safety
No full textRail is one of the most efficient forms of transport in the whole world for both passengers and freight. Although the sector is thriving in the developed world, the same cannot be said of the sector in less developed countries where it is burdened by the ageing infrastructure, financial constraints, operational inefficiencies and environmental concerns. However, the digital workplace can be a panacea to the above predicaments. As such, the study sought to assess the influence of the digital workplace on organisational development in the railway industry, moderated by digital leadership and psychological safety. Guided by the positivism research philosophy and the deductive approach, the study adopted a quantitative research design where a survey was utilised to collect primary data from 194 participants working in the railway industry in Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South provinces.The study found that digital workplace has a positive impact on organisational development. It was concluded that digital workplace, digital leadership and psychological safety are important in improving organisational development. There is need to invest in robust digital infrastructure which prioritises the rollout of secure and high speed digital communication platforms across all railway stations and operational points to ensure real-time information sharing.