EUREKA: Social and Humanities
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Assessing the challenges faced by informal entrepreneurship
Full text linkInformal entrepreneurship is the bedrock of the economy and plays an integral part in lowering unemployment and poverty. Although there are studies, conducted on entrepreneurship in general in South Africa, limited research has been carried out specifically on informal entrepreneurship. Using neo-liberalism theory, the study sought to investigate the challenges, faced by informal entrepreneurship in South Africa. The usable data was collected from 242 informal entrepreneurs operating their businesses in a large municipality in North of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. The study adopted quantitative research approach and descriptive research design. The study employed random sampling technique under the ambit of probability sampling method. Data, collected through the close-ended questionnaire, were analysed using the Statistical Programme for the Social Sciences (SPSS) programme version 29.0. The closed-ended questions were designed in the form of a 5-point Likert scale and dichotomous questions where respondents had to choose the answer that best suited their choice. The non-parametric inferential statistics were utilised to identify the challenges, faced by informal entrepreneurship. The major challenges, found by this paper, include insufficient municipal services, lack of appropriate government support, lack of access to funding, and strict government policies and regulations. In relation to daily operational challenges, faced by informal enterprises, the results indicated unfair competition and lack of water and electricity on the site as key challenges, experienced when operating their businesses. Training, coaching, and mentoring should be provided to informal entrepreneurs as significant support mechanisms for informal SMMEs. The municipalities should profile informal enterprises and engage financial institutions, such as banks, to establish a semi-formal credit approach that would permit informal enterprises to borrow small and affordable sums of money for capital injectio
Relation between right to health, stress and health of migrant construction workers
Full text linkThis article is mainly focused on the relation between Right to Health, Stress and Health of Migrant Construction Workers. This article has researched the outcome of the earlier field studies and considered the concerned national and international laws and acts by means of review of literature. The author further analysed the Right to Health earlier studies, his long personal experience and outcome observational research, conducted by him in Labour chowk, Greater Noida India. He also brought out certain observations and suggestion at the end of the article.
Migrated construction workers experience numerous health problems, constituting a significant life stressors. Various sources demonstrate the existence of a positive association amongst stressful life events & the incidence of illnesses. Since the right to health is intrinsically connected to the right to life that is a fundamental right assured to all Indian citizens by Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Surveys in past demonstrate that violations of human rights, particularly Right to Health, persist in spite of international treaties, Indian Constitution, with best efforts. If the right to health is safeguarded or if violations of this right are not prevented, then migrant construction workers will experience numerous stressful life events, associated with health issues
Impact of COVID-19 responses on the construction professionals’ performance
Full text linkThe central objectives of this study are to investigate the mitigating measures, put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic in the construction industry in South Africa, as well as their effect on lower-level professionals’ performance from their own perspective. An empirical analysis was undertaken using data, collected from active construction sites. A total of 104 respondents, essentially construction workers and, to a lesser extent, project managers, completed a three-part Likert scale questionnaire, administered on a voluntary basis. The data was analyzed using Excel and SPSS statistics softwares. The results from descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, and the analysis of variance revealed that, firstly, the top five measures implemented include sanitization and hygiene, on-site access control using advanced technologies, keeping physical distance, training, and flexible working hours. Secondly, the findings suggest that direct health measures, such as sanitization, wearing personal protective equipment, keeping physical distance, and training, implemented by construction companies’ managers are the measures that improved their performance the most. However, the participants also indicated that actions, such as partial salary cuts and working in confine spaces, had a detrimental influence on their productivity.
The limitation of the study is the use of a convenient sample that hinders the generalizability of the findings.
The key contribution of this study is the identification of new factors that enhanced, other than remote work, or were an impediment to fieldworkers’ performance in the construction industry during the recent global health crisis. These outcomes might help to further understand the psychological effect of COVID-19 measures and the resulting influence on job performance. Another possible implication of the findings could be for the construction company decision-makers to consider as paramount the maximum utility of their field workers in order to preserve the overall productivity and strengthen the resilience of their businesses in times of health crises
Multilingualism from the meso-level: a universities initiative in South Africa
Full text linkGlobally, multilingualism has become a subject of interest in academic, social and political spheres. In addition, there is consensus among academics as well as politicians regarding the transformation of the linguistic landscape across the world. The common consent is based on the fact that multilingualism has become a norm, especially in the Global North countries that had been declared monolingual societies due to various political considerations. Research has shown that most countries that have been promoting a monolingual ideology have accepted the multilingual state of affairs in most communities and effort is being made to promote multilingualism. However, multilingualism as a concept is understood differently in different parts of the world. Therefore, multilingualism from the Global South perspective should be viewed differently from the Global North perspective. The study was qualitative, therefore, for data collection, a focus group discussion was conducted with four medical students who took the two modules during their first year at a selected South African university. These participants were willing to participate in the research. The results show that languages cannot be separated as standalone entities and should be considered individually. Besides, students use their already existing language practices in order for them to acquire the target languages, a remarkable quality of multilingualism where students can tap into their existing language practices in order to enhance their learnin
Bridging troubled waters: deans reflections on leading and managing teaching in a South African university
Full text linkInstitutions of higher education are at a crossroads, needing to harmonise academic excellence with the changing demands of society. The deans are at the heart of navigating this complex landscape, whose leadership is pivotal in moulding the educational environment. This insight is drawn from a qualitative case study that used semi-structured interviews for data collection and a narrative method for analysis. The study revealed that these challenges encompass resistance to change, a disproportionate emphasis on research at the expense of teaching, shortcomings in curriculum development, and the inadequate incorporation of technology into teaching practices. Additionally, deans contend with issues like student unrest, poor attendance in classes, and an excessive administrative workload. Yet, through fostering a culture of collaboration, advocating for professional development, and implementing transformational leadership tactics, deans have the potential to convert these obstacles into avenues for enhancement. This approach could significantly elevate the quality of teaching and increase faculty engagement. The study recommends implementing robust support systems and continuous leadership training for deans, fostering collaboration, and revising policies to address challenges, ensuring enhanced teaching and learning management. These efforts align with Agenda 2063's goals of improving education quality and leadership capacity to drive Africa's socio-economic transformatio
Challenges faced by the diversion programmes on young offenders
Full text linkThe diversion programmes provide the platform for the young in conflict with the law a chance to improved social behaviour and be responsible in their communities. However, studies, done on the diversion programmes, focused on factors influencing crime and rates of recidivism of the juveniles. This paper explores the challenges, faced by the diversion programmes on young offenders in East London (Eastern Cape Province), South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and a case study research design to answer the objective of the study. Twenty-five (25) participants took part in the study and were selected purposively. Semi-structured and unstructured interview guides were employed to collect data from the participants. Two themes were identified and the themes identified were the types of diversion programmes, provided to young offenders, and the challenges, faced by the diversion programmes on offenders. It was found that the wilderness therapy, community outreach programme, substance abuse, life skills and community pre-trial programmes were the types of diversion programmes, offered to young offenders. The various types of programmes help offenders to gain insight into what triggers them to commit crimes and teaches them how to avoid re-offending. Also, challenges, such as the lack of transport, psychological issues, shunning relationships and high caseloads, plague the programmes. The challenges hinder the quantity and quality of services, provided to offenders. Also, it leads to poor relationships and communication between the offenders and the community. The study concludes the challenges prevented the young offenders to be empowered and change their behaviours for the better. It is recommended that the government and other stakeholders in the diversion programmes should design and implement legal and policy frameworks, which could improve the effectiveness of the programme
The influence of employee fit dimensions on job satisfaction and intention to stay in selected South African municipalities
Full text linkThis study looked into the impact of employee fit aspects, such as person-job fit, person-environment fit, and person-organization fit on work satisfaction and intention to stay in several South African towns. Data from employees in various departments and levels of the municipality were obtained using a quantitative research design. Standardised measurement devices were used to evaluate employee fit dimensions, work happiness, and intention to stay. The findings show that employee fit characteristics have a positive link with job satisfaction and intention to stay. Higher degrees of person-job fit, person-environment fit, and person-organization fit were linked to enhanced job satisfaction and intention to stay with the organisation. These findings highlight the significance of matching individuals to their job positions, work environments, and organisational cultures to enhance employee well-being and retention. Theoretical implications emphasise the importance of person-environment fit theory, social exchange theory, and organisational support theory in understanding the mechanisms that underpin these interactions. Practical implications include that South African municipalities' human resource management policies should prioritise the measurement and promotion of employee fit characteristics in order to build a good work environment and increase employee engagement and retention. Overall, this study adds to the current literature on organisational behaviour and human resource management by giving empirical evidence of the favourable effects of employee fit characteristics on job satisfaction and desire to stay within municipal contexts in South Africa
An investigation into the causes and impact of service delivery protests on political stability: perceptions from the social contract and relative deprivation
Full text linkService delivery protests in South African municipalities are common due to governance issues. The ongoing discussions around service delivery protests in South Africa are an indication of a much-needed holistic approach to addressing the needs of the people. The objective of this study is to explore the reasons behind and effects of service delivery protests on political stability with perspectives, gained from the ideas of the social contract and relative deprivation. This study explored the individualized experiences, attitudes, and motives of persons engaging in service delivery protests using a qualitative research methodology based on an interpretivism approach. A detailed knowledge of the complex dynamics underpinning these protests was revealed using in-depth interviews, content analysis, and participant observation. The research has found that when promises of basic services and socioeconomic growth are not kept, there is a perceived breakdown of the social contract between residents and the government. Additionally, relative deprivation appeared as a major element influencing protest mobilization as people and communities perceived injustice and discontent when they contrasted their socioeconomic situation to others. Protests in the delivery of services have been found to have a variety of effects on political stability. Although they can spur government responsiveness and policy change, they also present stability hazards and the possibility of bloodshed. The study suggests a Cooperative government model to reduce protests and promote stability. This model focuses on protection, participation, and provision to ensure effective decision-making and service delivery that meets the people's needs
The author's modification of the existing praxis classification among children with special needs in the context of their psycho-speech development
Full text linkThe well-known value for the speech development of children is a mastering of all praxis types. Unfortunately, no attention is paid to general praxis in the existing speech therapy literature. In addition, experts do not have a unified approach to the classification of all existing praxis types. The lack of a unified approach to the classification of main praxis types introduces some misunderstanding of its use. The purpose of the study is to develop the methodological and methodical basis for manual praxis among preschoolers with speech disorders using adaptive physical education.
Materials and Methods: analysis of existing literature on research issues, systematization of the received information and its further classification; and generalization.
The role of wrist functions among preschool children with speech disorders is considered. The analysis of the coordination wrist functions as the basis of manual praxis was made. The phylogenetic value of each coordination function is described. The prospects of combining the possibilities of physical education and occupational therapy in the development of wrist praxis are separately considered.
A new author's classification of praxis was created based on: the ontogenetic principle of movement construction according to M. Bernstein; the topographic principle; the degree of praxis complication; and the degree of praxis development. The main methodological directions of the manual praxis development among preschoolers with speech disorders in combination with other types of praxis are formulate
Mentor teachers’ and student teachers’ experiences on teaching practice: an influx of teachers in training
Full text linkThis study examined mentor teachers' and student teachers’ experiences in teaching practice and examined how student teachers can be prepared to meet mentor teachers’ expectations. This interpretive qualitative case study purposively sampled three secondary schools, and in each research site, two student teachers and two mentor teachers were sampled respectively. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews and focus group interviews with student teachers and mentor teachers were used as data collection methods. The findings reported that participants perceived teaching practice as an important exercise for student teachers and this is where student teachers receive in-service practical in-house training to apply pedagogical theoretical knowledge into practice. Mentor teachers were not pleased by the unprofessional behavior, demonstrated by student teachers, and thus perceived teaching practice value as depreciating. The large number of student teachers, placed in the schools, was overwhelming and mentors felt overcrowded. The findings revealed that mentor teachers felt insufficient as they did not understand their role as mentor teachers. The mentor teachers perceived modules, offered in universities, as rigid and outdated, thus suggested the introduction of coding and robotics subjects in their module packing. Inversely, student teachers were reported discouraged and unhappy as mentor teachers perceived them as a relief, and learner indiscipline emerged as a problem for all student teachers. Quality of learners was a concern for student teachers and remarkably, daunted/killed their love and passion for the teaching profession. The study recommends a relationship between teachers' training institutions, schools, and the Department of Basic Education and workshops for mentor teachers