2694 research outputs found
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The role of good governance in the provision of basic services: A case study of Collins Chabane Local Municipality
No full textM. AdminDepartment of Public and Development AdministrationThe purpose of this study is to provide a critical investigation of the role of good governance on the provision of basic services in Collins Chabane Local Municipality. This emanated from the realisation that whereas basic services are crucial for community’s well-being, serving as the basis for good health, stable economic conditions, and a general standard of living, it is however, worth mentioning that poor governance can impede timely provision of such services. To achieve the objectives of the study, the qualitative research methods were utilised. The research delved deeply into the interplay of good governance and basic service delivery. The interpretivist approach was considered and open-ended questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants who were purposefully selected from traditional leaders and municipal officials.
The researcher employed thematic analysis to analyse the qualitative data collected. The research underscores the vital role of efficient resource management and transparency in promoting good governance and effective public service delivery. The maximizing of resources and ensuring transparent decision-making are key to addressing community needs and building trust between citizens and government institutions.
The study identified these factors, along with citizen engagement, service efficiency, and equity, as essential components of good governance. The major findings were identified after the study are the following municipal performance and service delivery, accountability and transparency, community participation and challenges in service delivery such as financial constraints, corruption and mismanagement, infrastructure deficiencies and lack of skills and capacity. Based on these findings, the study recommended establishing clear norms and processes, leadership development, use of technology for service improvement, ant corruption measures and ethical conducts. Additionally, addressing the needs of marginalized groups, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and investing in capacity building for public officials are crucial steps to ensure that services are inclusive and effective. Implementing these recommendations
can help governments improve the quality, fairness, and responsiveness of public services, fostering greater trust and social cohesion within communities.National Research Foundation (NRF
Exploring African Indigenous Knowledge, Beliefs and Practices on Reproductive Health: A Case Study of Allandale Women in Mpumalanga
No full textDoctor of Philosophy in African StudiesDepartment of Arts and Social SciencesThis study explored African indigenous knowledge, beliefs and practices on reproductive health among women in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa. Women sexual and reproductive health in many African indigenous communities, like Allandale village, is an ongoing sensitive issue that is difficult to discuss in many contexts. As such, information, knowledge and practices relating to women reproductive health is shrouded in obscurity through religion, tradition and culture and no wonder why many rural women, including the girl-child, are left vulnerable. The study argues that little and/or no logical information exists on women reproductive health written from an African indigenous perspective. The study used three theories in exploring traditional medicine and its impact on reproductive health of rural women; Afrocentricity, Appreciative Inquiry approach and ethnomedical approach. The study adopted the qualitative research design since it sought to understand knowledge that was within indigenous communities. The researcher chose Allandale as the interview site due to its abundance of traditional medicine and the presence of traditional healers specializing in reproductive health. Indigenous women (18-50 years), traditional healers (diviner, traditional birth attendant, herbalist, traditional surgeon and faith healer) and elderly women (60 years and above) participated in the study. The study findings provided a panoramic view of a wide contextual analysis of reproductive health issues from an indigenous perspective. Most of the respondents perceived indigenous knowledge practices as efficacious in the preventive, promotive and curative aspect of reproductive health, with some key testimonials undergirding these views. The centrality of taboos, herbs, ceremonies, rituals and observance of social norms demonstrated the vantage point which indigenous knowledge occupied as it straddled the physical, biological social and spiritual aspects of diagnoses, prognosis, treatment, promotion and prevention of reproductive maladies that affected women. Based on the findings and conclusions, this study proposes the adoption of an African Indigenous Knowledge Framework on women's reproductive health
Departmental Heads’ Perceived Self-Efficacy on their Management and Leadership Roles in Public Primary Schools in Mopani East District, in Limpopo Province
No full textDoctor of Education in Educational ManagementDepartment of Educational StudiesThe management and leadership roles in schools are no longer the principal's obligation alone. The School Management Team (SMT), which comprises the school principal, deputy principals, and departmental heads (DHs), is vested with the responsibility of ensuring that a conducive atmosphere for the provision of quality education prevails in schools. DHs are critical in contributing to effective curriculum management and leadership in schools. Therefore, this study explored how the Departmental Heads’ self-efficacy impacts public primary school management and leadership roles. A multi-case study design to explore real-life experiences through detailed, in-depth data collection involving multiple sources of information was adopted. Through the purposive sampling strategy, the researcher selected eight (8) Departmental Heads (DHs) and eight (8) principals from selected primary schools, and two (2) Circuit Managers and two (2) Curriculum Advisors attached to Giyani Cluster and Mopani East District respectively. Credible data for the study was collected through individual semi-structured interviews, observations and document analysis. Data collection process was preceded by a pilot study conducted to eliminate flaws and ambiguities in the application of the chosen data collection instruments. To achieve the authenticity and trustworthiness of the research, the researcher ensured that the research met the credibility, dependability, authenticity and confirmability criteria. Data was analysed using the content analysis approach to present a topical, comprehensive and scientific product. The study revealed that DHs play a very critical role in curriculum management and leadership since they lead, manage and develop standards of excellence in the delivery of the curriculum. It was also revealed that most DHs have low levels of self-efficacy because of personal and contextual challenges that confront them. The study recommended that DHs be provided with adequate training opportunities and resources and monitored and supported in a well-coordinated manner
Exploring digital strategies used for English First Additional Language reacting by Grade 4 teachers: A case of Thohoyandou Cluster
No full textPhD (English Language Teaching (ELT))Department of English, Media Studies and LinguisticsThis study, grounded in the pragmatist paradigm, employs a mixed-methods approach underpinned by both positivist and interpretivist paradigms to investigate digital strategies for teaching English First Additional Language (EFAL) reading to Grade 4 learners in the Thohoyandou Cluster. A convergent parallel design was used to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings. The study is framed by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), alongside Shulman’s Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, Constructivist Learning Theory, and Cognitive Load Theory. Its aim was to explore how digital strategies can help address EFAL reading difficulties. One hundred Grade 4 EFAL teachers completed questionnaires for the quantitative phase, while ten teachers were purposively selected for semi-structured interviews and classroom observations in the qualitative phase. Data analysis involved SPSS Version 29 for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Findings suggest that digital strategies enhance learner engagement and language proficiency, contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive EFAL reading programme. However, systemic difficulties such as limited digital infrastructure and insufficient teacher training hinder full implementation. The study recommends that policymakers invest in targeted professional development to build teachers’ digital and pedagogical skills
The roles of geography departmental heads in curriculum delivery in secondary schools in Luvuvhu Circuit of the Vhembe East District, Limpopo Province
No full textDED in Curriculum StudiesDepartment of Professional and Curriculum StudiesGeography is an indispensable subject in developing learners’ geospatial competence. This study was premised on the fact that despite the Department of Basic Education’s support to improve teaching and learning over the years, learners are not performing as is expected. Studies have been conducted on the performance of learners in various subjects. However, not much has been studied concerning the factors that account for curricula delivery in Geography in secondary schools in the Luvuvhu Circuit. This study thus investigated the factors that contributed to the curricula delivery in geography in the said circuit. In particular, the study focused on the Geography Departmental Heads’ roles in curriculum delivery and its impact on learners’ performance in Geography. The study followed a qualitative phenomenological approach underpinned by the interpretivism paradigm and was conducted in four secondary schools. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants based on their experience, knowledge, and understanding of the issues affecting learners' geography performance. The participants comprised - 4 principals, 4 deputy principals, 4 Geography departmental heads, and 8 Geography teachers. Interviews were used to collect data. Individual interviews were utilised to collect data from the principals, deputy principals, and Geography departmental heads, while focus-group interviews were conducted with the geography teachers. Transformational Leadership Theory underpinned the study. Information obtained from the interviews was analysed thematically, and the findings were presented according to the study's objectives. The study recommended that thorough motivation and training of geography departmental heads and geography teachers for effective professional development may be implemented in schools to improve learners' academic performance in GIS and mapwork techniques. Parents and teachers share the common goal of learners' achievement; results show that parents' failure to monitor their children's school work or help them negatively impacts curriculum delivery. The study recommends that geography and English teachers liaise with each other to curb language barriers to learners; results suggested that the use of English as a medium of instruction is a stumbling block to effective curricula delivery in government schools.National Research Foundation (NRF
Effects of soaking and malting on thermal, functional and antinutritional properties of finger millet (Eluesine coracana L. Gaertn) flour
No full textMSC in Food Science and TechnologyDepartment of Food Science and TechnologyIn sub-Saharan Africa and India, finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) is a crucial food crop, holding the sixth position in cereal productivity, just after maize, wheat, rice, and sorghum. Despite its nutritional value, the underutilisation and neglect of finger millet have been widely documented. This research explored how soaking and malting impact the colour, pasting behaviour, thermal properties, crystallinity, and functional characteristics of both light and dark brown finger millet, along with sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) (included as reference). A central composite rotation design was applied with Design Expert software, focusing on soaking and malting durations of 24, 48, and 72 h. Sorghum flour exhibited high values for b*, c and hue, while the dark brown finger millet flour (DBFM) showed the highest L* value. The light brown finger millet flour (LBFM) recorded the highest redness (a) value. Gelatinisation onset temperatures were highest in LBFM, reaching 110.67°C, compared to 109.67°C for DBFM and 109.24°C for sorghum flour (SF), indicating slight thermal variation among the flours. The highest peak viscosity was observed in DBFM after 18 h of soaking and 24 h of malting. Tannin content ranged from 0.06 to 0.62 mg/100 g in LBFM, 0.15 to 0.84 mg/100 g in DBFM, and 0.21 to 0.77 mg/100 g in SF. Oxalic acid levels varied from 0.64 to 1.93 mg/100 g in LBFM, 0.93 to 1.56 mg/100 g in DBFM, and 0.50 to 1.45 mg/100 g in SF. Significant tannin models were identified in LBFM and SF, while all oxalic acid models were statistically significant across all flour varieties. Regarding functional properties, DBFM exhibited the highest pH, titratable acid (TTA), loose bulk density, and dispersibility. Sorghum flour demonstrated higher oil absorption capacity (OAC) and water absorption capacity (WAC), whereas LBFM exhibited the highest packed bulk density. Results indicated that soaking and malting significantly influenced the pasting properties and crystallinity of the flours. Scanning electron microscopy revealed structural modifications due to enzymatic activity during processing. Surface plots were generated, and ANOVA and regression analyses were performed to assess the data. These results offer important information for food processors on improving the colour characteristics, pasting behaviour, thermal and overall functional quality of finger millet and sorghum throughout processing. The models developed to evaluate these properties were dependable, as the lack-of-fit tests were not significant, and the coefficients of determination (R²) were relatively high, ranging from 0.3403 to 0.8721 on functional properties of the flour, indicating strong model performance. These results emphasise that soaking and malting have a considerable impact on the microstructure and functional properties of finger millet and sorghum flours. By optimising these processing conditions, the bioavailability of nutrients and beneficial compounds can be improved, leading to better flour quality for diverse uses
Molecular characterization of microbial communities in small-scale biodigesters using whole genome shotgun metagenomic approach
No full textMSC in BiochemistryDepartment of Biochemistry and MicrobiologyIncreasing attention has been directed towards the role of microbial communities in anaerobic digestion (AD). During AD, microorganisms degrade organic waste, such as animal excrement, through four key phases: hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and methanogenesis, resulting in digestate and biogas production. Advances in metagenomic techniques, surpassing traditional culture-based methods, have enabled a deeper characterization of the microbial populations involved in this process. However, a knowledge gap remains regarding small-scale biodigesters, particularly those in rural areas. This study employs whole-genome shotgun metagenomics integrating data from metagenomic reads, contigs, and metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) can achieve a more comprehensive understanding of microbial taxonomy and functional capabilities in biodigesters. This study investigates the microbial communities in small-scale biodigesters, using taxonomic data from various sources to reveal the functional roles of the microorganisms. The research identified 4 superkingdoms, 115 phyla, 107 classes, 189 orders, 322 families, 738 genera, and 2046 species. Bacteria dominated ranging from 79 to 89%, whereas archaea accounted for 11 to 20% of the community. The eukaryotic microbial’s relative abundance was less than 1%. Both read-based and contig-based classifiers found Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes to be the most abundant bacterial phyla, followed by Actinobacteria and Chloroflexi in cow dung-fed biodigesters. The archaeal community was dominated by Euryarchaeota, with Methanomicrobiales and Methanobacteriales as the predominant orders. Functional analysis reveals that most identified microorganisms contribute indirectly to methanogenesis by playing crucial roles in hydrolysis and acidogenesis through genes involved in the metabolism of organic molecules broken down during the four phases of anaerobic digestion. RAST analysis annotated 11 methanogen-related enzymes and their abundance across different samples. Future research should focus on cultivating and monitoring these identified microbes to determine optimal conditions for maximizing biogas production in laboratory settings, thus advancing environmental bioaugmentation strategies.National Foundation Research (NRF) and DSI-TI
Efficacy of district development model in coordination of support to land redistribution projects: a case of Makhado Local Municipality, South Africa
No full textMaster of Urban and Regional PlanningDepartment of Urban and Regional PlanningThe efficacy of the District Development Model (DDM) in coordinating support for land reform in South Africa is uncertain. This study sought to examine the efficacy of the DDM in coordinating support for land reform projects in Makhado local municipality, South Africa. Specifically, the study was guided by the following objectives: to outline and describe the institutional arrangement for the provision of support to land reform projects; to identify challenges that prohibited institutional coordination; to evaluate measures provided by the DDM to address inadequate institutional coordination against these challenges; and to recommend suggestions on how the DDM could improve coordination in land reform support. The study employed a qualitative research methodology, including document analysis and key informant interviews with officials from national and provincial Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), Vhembe district, Makhado local municipality and the land reform beneficiaries from Mulelu, Muananzhele and Tshivhazwaulu farm projects. Findings revealed that the DDM had not effectively resolved coordination challenges, as sector departments continued to operate in silos despite its introduction. Furthermore, the absence of clear legislative frameworks defining the role of local governments in land reform, coupled with inadequate financial and human resources, hindered meaningful collaboration. The study underscored that without structural reforms and enhanced accountability mechanisms, the DDM would remain an ineffective tool for intergovernmental coordination in land reform. Key recommendations included establishing structured engagement platforms to foster intergovernmental collaboration; introducing legislative amendments to clearly define and fund local government’s role in land reform; enhancing collaboration between national and provincial DALRRD to prevent siloed operations and strengthen municipal involvement; implementing performance monitoring mechanisms to track commitments and ensure accountability; and integrating land reform initiatives into municipal Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and budgets. Future research should explore strategies to improve collaboration, assess potential legislative reforms, and investigate mechanisms for strengthening intergovernmental coordination.National Research Foundation (NRF
Leadership role challenges experienced by Nurse Managers at selected hospitals in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
No full textMPHDepartment of Public HealthIntroduction:The leadership position involves directing Nurse Managers to collaborate on making group decisions for better healthcare outcomes.The researcher is concerned about the impact of poor public health management due to unequal distribution of resources. The Department of Health is facing numerous litigations, resulting in the payment of substantial amounts of money to patients. This has led to significant strain on the health system.
Purpose: The purpose of this research project was to explore and describe the leadership role challenges experienced by Nurse Managers at selected hospitals, Vhembe district , Limpopo province.
Methodology:The study adopted a qualitative approach with a phenomenological study design targeting Nurse Managers, both women and men aged between 30-60 years to explore the challenges they experience in their leadership roles. The sample was chosen using purposive sampling method to identify participants until data was saturated at twelve (12) participants. The participants with at least two (2) years of working experience and who were willing to participate and who were on duty on the day of data collection were included. Data was collected using an individual in-depth interview. Face-to-face unstructured interviews were conducted by applying one central question. The interviews were recorded using an audiotape and transcribed verbatim.. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Credibility, transferability, confirmability and dependability were ensured to measure trustworthiness The ethical protocols were observed throughout the study three (3) themes and seven (7) subthemes emerged from the collected data.
Results:The study findings indicated that Nurse Managers are facing many challenges in their leadership roles, the biggest challenge being the shortage of human and material resources, which include the aging infrastructure, the lack of financial resources and poor communication by top management contributing to increased workload. The results will be published in an accredited journal as a means of dissemination. All the necessary measures were taken to ensure the legitimacy of the research results.
Conclusions: The Nursing profession is facing a lot of challenges like shortage of staff, shortage of equipment and the quadruple burden of diseases that need the Department of Health to take action. The World Health Organization reported that the lack of healthcare providers, particularly Nurse Managers, will impede national and international efforts to improve the health and well-being of the world's population. Managing units requires passion and dedication from those who understand their roles and responsibilities. The demands placed on Nurse Managers in the healthcare industry have become more complex in recent times
Keywords: Challenges,Experienced,Hospitals, Leadership role, Nurse Manager
Three Quaternary Catchments in Vhembe District Municipality: A GIS Approach
No full textMENVSCDepartment of Geography and Environmental SciencesThis study investigates microbiological water safety risks in three quaternary catchments within the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM) using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The aim is to assess the abundance and distribution of faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in surface and groundwater sources across wet and dry seasons and to examine the impact of land use on FIB levels. Using GIS, we analyzed FIB concentrations in rivers and boreholes. The study found higher FIB levels during the wet season due to increased runoff. Significant contamination was observed in the Mutshindudi and Luvuvhu rivers, and in groundwater sources, notably in A91E, A91F, and A91G boreholes. Land use significantly influenced groundwater contamination, with bare soils, cultivated lands, and vegetation showing higher FIB levels. Furthermore, there were no significant differences (P = 0.05) in FIB levels between water treatment plants and households (e.g., faecal coliforms: Z = -1.342, p = 0.180; E. coli: Z = -0.535, p = 0.593). One-Way ANOVA indicated significant differences in FIB levels across land use categories during the wet season (e.g., A91E E. coli: F (3,15) = 16.601, p < 0.001).In conclusion, GIS proves to be a vital tool in assessing and managing microbial water safety risks, offering essential insights for sustainable water management in rural areas.National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation, under Tshwane University of Technology South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARCHI) for Water Quality and Wastewater Managemen