UNAM Gā-aisib Repository (University of Namibia)
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The lived experiences of resilience among Namibian children in middle childhood who have been exposed to parental divorce
No full textA mini thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Clinical PsychologyDivorce remains a primary contributor to family instability within Africa, hence,
increasing amounts of children are exposed to the impacts thereof. Given that the
family unit has been identified as central to the development and healthy adjustment
of children, the mere presence of its breakdown constitutes as a risk to the Namibian
youth. However, research shows that not all children react uniformly to the impact of
parental divorce and are able to thrive. Therefore, this study aimed to understand how
some children are capable of resilience amidst the risks associated with the exposure
to parental divorce. Consequently, this study focused primarily on identifying and
understanding positive factors that nurture the capacity for resilience, among children
aged 9-12 years, post parental divorce. A non-experimental, mixed-methods approach
with a multiple case-study design was employed to acquire comprehensive information
on the lived experiences of 24 children within middle childhood. Purposeful sampling
were used to ensure the assembly of relevant data required for this study. The Children
and Youth Resilience Measurement scale was administered to all 24 participants in
order to test each participant for resiliency. To eliminate some of the challenges
associated with gathering qualitative data from younger children, QMethodology, with
visual material, was utilised and administered to all 24 participants. The data of 12
participants were used for analysis who measured high on resiliency during the CYRM
scale administration. For data analysis, the PQ Method 2.35 software program, was
used to conduct by-person factor analysis. Four factors emerged from the analysis
process as statistically significant in fostering resilience, namely Quality Parent-Child
Relationships, Healthy School Attachment, Strong Community Attachment as well as
Effective Parent Conflict Resolution and Relationships. These results highlighted the
multisystemic nature of resilience, emphasising the importance of individual, familial
and environmental/community protective factors when considering resources which
nurture resilience within children exposed to parental divorce. Therefore, it becomes
critical for support to extend beyond the perimeters of the nuclear family and include
efforts to nurture stable relationships with extended family members, peer groups, the
school system and the wider community. Furthermore, among some methodological
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recommendations for future studies include exploring the complex dynamic and
resultant impact of siblings and stepparents on children’s capacity for resilienc
Diplomatic and consular privileges and immunities abuse in relation to the principle of reciprocity vis-à-vis the victims’ rights guarantee in Namibia and international law
No full textA thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master of lawsThe purpose of this study was to investigate the status of diplomatic and
consular law on the privileges and immunities accorded to diplomatic and
consular mission premises, as well as diplomatic and consular agents in
terms of the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relations of
1961 and 1963, and in relation to the principle of reciprocity from a
Namibian perspective. Moreover, the study sought to assess whether the
current setup breeds diplomatic and consular privilegesand immunities
abuse. The study further aimed to investigate and examine how abuse of
diplomatic and consular privileges as well as immunities undermine the
constitutional rights of the victim person, and whether it is necessary to
amend the current Namibian and international legal framework on diplomatic
law. This investigation and discussion primarily focused on the mission
premises and its ancillaries, as well as the diplomatic agent with regards to
the criminal, civil, labour and administrative legal aspects. This study did not
make use of a population, as its research method is strictly qualitative,
considering that it did not entail data collection. The study engaged only
existing literature and case law on diplomatic law to find solutions to the
target problem. Moreover, the study, through its foreign jurisdictions –
caselaw and Namibian non-judicial cases – revealed that the status quo of
the legal framework of diplomatic law breeds abuse by diplomatic and
consular agents at the expense of the victim person’s constitutional rights
due to a lack of sufficient remedies. The study also enquired on which
doctrine (human rights law v diplomatic law) takes precedence in cases of
these abuses. The study recommended a reasonable balance between
human rights law and diplomatic law without derogating from the doctrine of
diplomatic law by suggesting amendments to both Diplomatic Privileges Act
71 of 1951 andVienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relation
Indigenous knowledge for sustainable livelihoods: Evaluating non-timber forest product value chains for San communities in Northern Namibia
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the cotutelle dual degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Natural sciences of the University of Cologne and Doctor of Philosophy in Geography of the University of NamibiaThe commercialisation of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) has been primarily
promoted in the Global South for its potential to enhance subsistence and income
opportunities for indigenous communities residing in or adjacent to forested areas.
However, in practice, the traded NTFPs predominantly benefits companies in the
Global North, leading to substantial income disparities and insufficient compensation
for indigenous producers. This dissertation evaluates the integration of indigenous
peoples as NTFP producers and knowledge holders into global value chains (GVCs)
and regional value chains (RVCs), as well as the effectiveness of international
legislation as a strategy to enhance their value capture within these chains. The
dissertation’s primary objective is to contribute conceptually to global discussions on
equitable profit distribution from natural resources, focusing on vulnerable forest dependent indigenous communities.
Using a mixed-method approach, including interviews, focus group discussions,
participant observations, and secondary statistical data analysis, the study begins by
assessing the impact of integrating San NTFP harvesters from northern Namibia into
GVCs and RVCs on their livelihoods. It then evaluates the roles of international and
national legislation in ensuring fair benefit-sharing for these harvesters and
communities, while exploring their challenges in enhancing value capture and the
requirements for value upgrading opportunities.
The findings reveal that, despite the increased global commercialisation and value of
Namibia’s NTFPs, including Devil's Claw export worth over 143 million USD
annually, individual San NTFP harvesters earned an average of only 1,538 NAD (80
USD) in 2021. Furthermore, the benefit-sharing regulations and initiatives have not
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effectively translated into fair benefit-sharing; only a few Namibian NTFP-harvesting
communities established benefit-sharing agreements with multinational companies.
While communities with benefit-sharing agreements have established local processing
facilities and community enterprises to benefit through partnerships, the San
communities in Bwabwata National Park and Okongo Constituency, lacking such
agreements, face challenges in setting up similar structures. This hinders their value
capture and bargaining power, ultimately leaving them susceptible to exploitation by
intermediate companies and individual traders.
In conclusion, this thesis emphasises the urgency of addressing persistent inequalities
in benefit-sharing for indigenous and local communities in Namibia. Future research
should explore the potential for reforms in ABS regulation to rectify legal gaps and
ensure compliance for all value chain actors engaged in the use of NTFPs. Future
research should also assess the feasibility of increasing value capture within the
producing communities in Namibia for highly valued and globally demanded NTFP
Social support, resilience, and mental health of students in a university in Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in clinical psychologyAim: Mental health challenges have become a major concern for university
students. University life can cause stress for some students, which, if left
untreated, can lead to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, eating
disorders, and sleep disorders. The current study aimed to describe the levels of
social support, resilience, and mental health of undergraduate students at UNAM’s
main campus, as well as to describe the relationships between these variables.
Methods: This descriptive correlational study used a quantitative approach. The
research instruments included a socio-demographic questionnaire, the MSPSS-12
(to measure social support), the CD-RISC-10 (to measure resilience), and the
GHQ-12 (to measure mental health). A convenience sample (n=146) of full-time
undergraduates was used. The study received ethical clearance from the
Decentralised Ethics Committee (CDC) by the University of Namibia’s Research
Ethics Policy and Guidelines. The SPSS version 29 was used for the analysis of
the data. Specifically, descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlations were
employed. Results: This study had more (n=105; 72%) female participants than
male participants with the youngest being 18 years old and the oldest 55 years old.
This study’s findings revealed that social support and resilience were positively
related (r = 0.619; p = <0.0001). Social support negatively affected mental health
(r=-0.672 p=<.001). This study found that a larger number of female participants
experienced anxiety and depression than male participants. Resilience negatively
affected mental health (r=-0.653 p=<.001). If individuals are not resilient, they
become vulnerable to mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. However,
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when individuals have adequate social support, they tend to be resilient to stressful
situations and consequently experience good mental health. Conclusion:
Appropriate interventions may be put in place for mental health, to raise awareness
of the importance of good mental health and resilience to maintain overall well being. This study recommends interventions that may identify, prevent, and treat
mental health illnesses should be easily accessed on campus and these may include
meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness techniques. The
university should consider psycho-education on mental health as a module
compulsory for all first-year students as this will equip them with crucial
information on stress, resilience, and ways to cope when they face challenges. The
findings of this study could be used as a point of reference to inform higher
learning institutions’ policymakers, service providers, and stakeholders involved
in the implementation of mental health awareness, interventions, and prevention
services in higher learning institutions
An assessment of the perceptions of residents on the governance of relocations in Okalongo settlement in Northern Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in arts in development studiesThe main aim of the study was to determine the different roles performed by those
involved in the relocations carried out in the Okalongo Settlement. Additionally, it aimed
to investigate the level of their involvement in the process and examine their expectations
for the new arrangements. The researchers successfully collected and analyzed data by
using a combination of methodologies. The study asked specific questions about the
contributions made by stakeholders to the relocations and aimed to understand the various
ways in which stakeholders participated in the relocation process within the Okalongo
Settlement. Lastly, it sought to examine how well different stakeholders followed the
established relocation procedures in Okalongo. A mixed-method approach was used to
collect and analyze the data. The findings of the study showed that while some
stakeholders fulfilled their assigned roles in the relocations, others did not fulfill their
responsibilities adequately. Additionally, although a majority of stakeholders actively
participated in the relocation process, some residents expressed dissatisfaction. The study
also revealed that 62.5% of participants believed that stakeholders had adhered to the
relocation procedures, while 53.5% agreed that stakeholders had followed these
procedures. However, a significant percentage of 78.39% remained neutral about the
adherence of stakeholders to the relocation procedures. Furthermore, a substantial 83.0%
of respondents disagreed that communication with stakeholders was effectiv
Teachers and learners in Otjiwarongo circuit’s experiences of pedagogy and online pedagogy during the COVID-19 pandemic
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master of education in educational technologyScholars and practitioners worldwide acknowledge that online pedagogy is one of the
most effective instruments for developing a successful teaching and learning environment.
This research sought to investigate how online learning and teaching may be applied in a
resource-limited context to benefit both teachers and learners at two chosen schools in the
Otavi town circuit. This study used Active Learning Theory and Experiential Learning
Theory as its theoretical underpinnings. It used a multiple-case study methodology and
qualitative technique. Participants were drawn from two schools in the Otjiwarongo circuit
using a purposive sampling approach. Data collection instruments included semi structured interviews, focus group discussions, and observation checking lists. The study
examined the teachings of teachers and learners in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 who employed
online pedagogy during the COVID-19 epidemic. The findings showed that poor
connectivity issues, a lack of computer literacy, and a lack of information technology
devices presented challenges for both teachers and learners. Despite the fast growth of
information and communication technology, the schools in this research were not
equipped to accept it. This study contends that online learning in Namibian schools still
has various problems that must be solved if it is to be successful. As a result, the study
suggests that the Namibian government invest in providing information and
communication technology infrastructure in schools, as well as capacity building in online
pedagogies for teachers and learners, in order to create an effective online learning
environmen
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices on infertility among adults visiting the gynaecology and urology clinics at Intermediate Katutura Hospital and Windhoek Central Hospital, Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Public HealthInfertility is one of the global burdens, an under-observed but significant health
problem affecting one in four couples in developing countries. A total number of 48
million couples are affected by infertility globally and a total number of 186 million
individuals globally. In Namibia, about 15% of couples struggle with infertility.
Although causes of infertility are equally shared among male and female factors each
accounting for 30%, infertility is highly stigmatised, and women are usually blamed
for it. The study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices on infertility among
adults visiting the Gynaecology and Urology clinics at Intermediate Hospital Katutura
and Windhoek Central Hospital in Windhoek, Namibia. A convergent parallel mixed
method approach was used in this study. A total number of 118 respondents were
recruited to fill in the questionnaire and 18 interviews held. The study was conducted
on respondents aged 21 to 79 years, including both males and females. Participants
had varying levels of education, ranging from no formal education to tertiary
education, and different employment statuses, including employed, self-employed,
and unemployed. Additionally, respondents came from diverse tribal backgrounds.
The study discovered that the knowledge on infertility is limited, 37.1% do not identify
infertility as a disease and 75.2% believe contraceptives causes infertility. Participants
believe witchcraft and curses causes infertility. Seeking medical services is listed as
the initial option when struggling with infertility. Adoption and in vitro fertilisation
(IVF) are acceptable options when struggling with infertility. Knowledge on infertility
is limited among respondents, the misconception about contraceptives is widespread.
An average practice on infertility is noted and the act of assigning blame for infertility
is widespread in various communities. Raising awareness on infertility is
recommended to increase infertility knowledge, reduce stigma, and create awareness.
Dedicated fertility clinics in state hospitals are required to offer specialised services to
individuals struggling with infertility. Research recruiting individuals dealing with
infertility is encouraged, in order to understand their experiences better. The
misconceptions of contraceptive usage leading to infertility need to be tackled through
the health campaign
An analysis on the effects of leadership styles and emotional intelligence, on work engagement and job satisfaction at a selected parastatal in Windhoek, Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in industrial psychologyThe current work environment is highly complex, multi-dimensional, and ever-changing
and thus increasing the call for research on the current leadership style and emotional
intelligence in organisations. Leadership style and emotional intelligence are known to be
key determinants of work engagement and job satisfaction. The studies sought to explore to
collect the variance of leadership style and emotional intelligence on work engagement and
job satisfaction among NamPower employees. A quantitative study was conducted to
accomplish the objectives of the study. Convenience sampling was used to obtain data. The
study employed a cross-sectional research design and gathered data via online
questionnaires. The data was analysed using Process Macro and SPSS version 27. There
was a total of 135 NamPower employees who responded and gave their feedback for this
study. The findings revealed that for the linear relations between leadership style and
emotional intelligence. The results revealed that there was a statistically significant
relationship between leadership style and emotional intelligence (r=430**; p=<.001). On
the other hand, leadership style and job satisfaction (r=-.148; p=.086) had no significant.
Leadership style and work engagement (r=-.142; p=.101). Emotional intelligence had a
negative and statistically significant relationship to job satisfaction (r= -.242**; p=.005).
Emotional intelligence had a low to moderate relationship to work engagement (r=.415**;
p=<.001) and lastly Work engagement was negatively related to job satisfaction (r= -.477**;
p=<.001
Documenting the history and practices of animal skin tanning and leather conservation among the Ovahimba and Ovaherero communities in Kaoko, Kunene region, Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in full fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master of arts in history (material culture)This study delves into the traditional practices of animal skin tanning and leather
conservation among the Ovaherero and Ovahimba communities, Bantu-speaking groups
that settled in Namibia during the early 16th century. Spanning from the 19th to the 21st
century, it aims to document the historical evolution of these practices within these
communities. Skin and leather have held a profound significance in Ovaherero culture,
serving purposes ranging from clothing to shelter and adornment. The study employed an
ethnographic research methodology, and the findings reveals that these materials not only
signify cultural identity but also reflect societal traditions, landscapes, and available
resources. However, colonialism, formal education, Christianity, and climate change have
exerted significant influences, leading to the alteration or abandonment of traditional
practices such as leather-making. Despite these challenges, communities have persisted in
sourcing skins from wildlife and domesticated animals, utilizing animal fat mixed with
herbs and minerals for preservation. The study concludes that the enduring practice of skin
tanning and leather conservation among these communities embodies resilience and
facilitates intergenerational knowledge transfer. Through their daily activities, community
members uphold leather as a tangible link to their heritage, preserving its intrinsic cultural
value while navigating the complexities of modernit
Bioeconomy for sustainable environment management practices
No full textThe bioeconomy has the potential to play a key role in sustainable environmental management practices by utilizing bio-based resources, reducing environmental impact, and promoting biodiversity and ecosystem services. In this chapter, we explore the principles of sustainable environmental management practices and their application in the bioeconomy. We discuss the use of bio-based solutions for environmental challenges, the circular economy and its relationship with the bioeconomy, and the importance of social and environmental responsibility in the bioeconomy. Additionally, we examine current policy and regulatory frameworks related to bioeconomy and sustainable environment management practices and the future prospects for the fiel