Walter Sisulu University
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Exploring of Artificial Intelligence in Academia: A Case of Selected Higher Education Institutions in the Eastern Cape
Get PDFIn an age where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the educational sector worldwide, this study investigated its profound impact on academic projects within higher learning institutions in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, revealing the critical challenges and its groundbreaking benefits. The study focused on two regions within the Eastern Cape, Mthatha and East London. The qualitative research design was employed in this study, utilising online surveys to gather information from the participants. The methods included thematic analysis of responses to capture the patterns and themes related to the usage of AI, as well as the perceptions, experiences, and concerns of the participants regarding AI in higher education institutions. The key findings unveiled that although there is an increasing awareness and utilisation of AI-powered tools amongst scholars, there are also considerable ethical concerns relating to privacy, bias, and the digital divide. The study revealed the need for extensive AI literacy, ethical guidelines, and substantial infrastructure to support the integration of AI in higher academic institutions. Collaboration efforts amongst stakeholders were recommended to promote knowledge sharing, furnish targeted training, and develop AI infrastructure, facilitating an environment favourable to technological advancements while increasing or enhancing the educational experience...Degree: M. Public Administratio
The Role of Agri-Preneurship in Solving Socio-Economic Challenges in Nqabane Location, Mbhashe Municipality, Eastern Cape
Get PDFAgriculture has been a cornerstone of human society since its inception, evolving significantly regarding its meaning and goals. This study examines the role of agri-preneurship in addressing socio-economic challenges in Nqabane, Mbhashe Local Municipality. Specifically, the study aims to (1) assess the impact of the "triple challenges" (poverty, inequality, and unemployment) on unemployed youth in Nqabane, (2) explore how agri-preneurship can help mitigate these challenges, and (3) recommend strategies for leveraging agri-preneurship to tackle these issues. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing a closed-ended questionnaire administered to 100 youth agri-preneurs in Nqabane. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 27) and AMOS software for structural equation modeling. Confirmatory factor analysis identified the items corresponding to specific factors in the research instrument, while Cronbach’s alpha assessed the reliability of the factor structure. Findings reveal that most youths experience inequality, while unemployment affects all participants. Furthermore, the majority believe that agri-preneurship can effectively address poverty, inequality, and unemployment. The study also found broad support for youth involvement in agri-preneurship, recognizing its role in poverty reduction and its contribution to the country’s GDP. Based on the study’s findings, the study recommends promoting agri-preneurship through targeted training programmes, such as workshops on sustainable farming, business management, marketing, and financial literacy. Partnerships with local governments, NGOs, and educational institutions are essential for providing resources and support to empower youth for successful agricultural careers. The study concludes a pressing need for promoting youth agri-preneurship in rural areas.Degree: M. Public Administratio
Ithumbu
No full textThe necklace, reminiscent of an intricate intestinal weave, is a striking bead collar that showcases a traditional design with alternating bands of deep navy, vibrant turquoise, and stark white, interspersed with bold black lines. This exquisite piece is adorned with nine pearlescent buttons arranged in a vertical line, each framed delicately with finely woven cotton fabric. The focal point of this necklace is its ornate fringe, cascading with round white pearls that add an element of elegance and sophistication. Crafted with care, the beadwork is executed on durable sinew, reflecting the artistry and skill of its makers. This traditional ornamentation holds a special significance for both middle-aged and adult men and women of AbaThembu community from the Qebe location, symbolising their rich cultural heritage. The combination of pearl buttons, lustrous pearls, and vibrant glass beads makes this necklace a decorative accessory and a statement of identity and tradition.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Isiyambane
No full textAn elaborate neckband features a long, flowing fringe made of soft white cloth. This delicate white base is elegantly adorned with a narrow band of rich black fabric, which serves as a striking contrast. Interspersed throughout the design are vibrant beads in varying hues, including deep crimson lake red, shimmering white, and radiant turquoise blue. The centrepiece showcases ornate fronds, crafted from an intricate arrangement of these glass beads, cascading beautifully in a harmonious blend of white, turquoise blue, and crimson lake red, adding a touch of opulence to the overall appearance.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Ithumbu
No full textIthumbu is a unique neckband traditionally worn by young men in isiXhosa-speaking communities. This wide collar neckband, measuring approximately six inches in width, is meticulously crafted with horizontal bands adorned with beads in navy, white, red, and turquoise blue, each edged with black amaso beads. The design of Ithumbu not only reflects the cultural values and aesthetic preferences of isiXhosa-speaking groups but also symbolises the wearer's social identity and status within the community.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Iguza
No full textThe calabash, an exquisite decorative piece, is partially adorned with an intricate beadwork design that captivates the eye. Its surface is a vibrant tapestry of colours—crisp white, deep blue, rich black, warm orange, earthy green, and warm brown, each hue blending harmoniously to create a stunning visual impact. This calabash, a cherished symbol of artistry, is carried by middle-aged men and women from the amaBomvana subcultural group, nestled within the isiXhosa-speaking communities. While it serves no practical purpose, its beauty speaks to the rich cultural heritage and creativity of its makers, making it a valuable object of admiration.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Idiliza lengalo
No full textThe accessory features two elegantly crafted armlets made of white beads intricately woven onto sturdy brass bracelets. These armlets are adorned with vibrant turquoise triangles that catch the eye, while ten playful beaded streamers hang gracefully. Each streamer begins and ends with soft wool pompoms in a delightful array of colours: crisp white, vibrant turquoise, deep navy, bold red, and soft pink. This stunning piece is often worn by young adults, adding a touch of artistic flair to their outfits.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Isiphondo for young unmarried women
No full textDelicate little horns adorned her neck, an intricately crafted necklet from which hung a pair of miniature horns, skilfully carved from wood and embellished with vibrant beaded bands of colour. In times past, women donned small blue buck horns as protective charms against malevolent spirits. As these natural adornments became scarce, artisans began to shape wooden replicas to carry on the tradition. However, this custom is fading, with many opting for small glass bottles instead. In this particular instance, a young unmarried woman draped in soft pink wool proudly sported the whimsical charm around her neck.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Umgangxo womfana
No full textThe intricately beaded body harness is worn by young men from the abaThembu subcultural group, a subset within the isiXhosa-speaking community. This traditional garment features a metal-encased mirror embellished with long bead streamers and is typically worn during the entlombeni dance. Crafted with meticulous care, the harness incorporates tin, glass mirror, beads, and pink wool pompoms and prominently features the use of yellow and green beads, symbolising fertility and the promise of new life.Purchased from Mrs Joan BrosterForms part of: Walter Sisulu University Beadwork Collectio
Vertical price transmission of wheat in South Africa
Get PDFThe ability of markets to communicate food price signals at different levels of marketing chains is critical to understanding the nature of the competition in the chain, and development of strategies to address challengers of information symmetry and food insecurity. This study examined vertical transmission of wheat price among the main value chain, looking at the pricing behaviour of certain role players in the wheat production/supply and distribution of bread which is a major staple food consumed in South Africa. A nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model (NARDL) model was used to analyse the yearly time series data for the period of 2000 to 2022. The results of the stationarity test showed that all variables were of order one, I(1). The study used two pairs, namely farmgate price and retail price and farmgate price and wholesale price, to examine the existence of asymmetry between these prices, with rainfall and temperature as control variables. The results indicate the existence of positive long-run asymmetry of 35,9% between farmgate price of wheat and retail price of bread, and 3,49% asymmetry between farmgate price and wholesale price of wheat. In order to develop informed policies on food security, this study suggests that the government should enhance regular access to data and sustain its monitoring and communication of food price information across the whole country. The other thing that is recommended by the study is the provision of subsidies for wheat farmers to help the wheat industry, reduce the cost of bread production, and make bread more affordable and accessible for consumers.Thesis (Masters) -- Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences, 202