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Assessment of the practices and experiences on mentorship and mentoring of nurse educators in the school of nursing, University of Namibia
No full textThesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in nursing scienceMentoring in nursing academia is receiving more attention as many senior academics are
retiring and new nurse educators are joining nursing education. Mentoring is an important
tool for clinical practice, nursing education, administration, and research that contributes
to the competencies of many new nurse educators, who are recruited with a clinical
background and little or no experience in an academic environment. It is expected for an
expert nurse to become a novice in a new environment or role and needs mentoring to
become an expert nurse educator. Despite the emphasis on the mentoring relationship
among nursing academics, there is no established standard practice and nurse educators
experience difficulty in their new role in the absence of mentoring.
This study aimed to assess and describe the practices and experiences of nurse educators
in the School of Nursing1
at the University of Namibia on mentorship and mentoring. The
study adopted a comparative descriptive convergent parallel mixed method where
quantitative and qualitative data were collected at the same time, analyzed separately, and
merging occurred by comparing the two data sets and representing the merging results in
a narrative discussion. The target population was nurse educators who were registered
nurses by profession, teaching at the four campuses of the University of Namibia where
the School of Nursing was established among the 12 campuses. The researcher opted for
the same individuals in both quantitative and qualitative objectives that help to minimize
threats during data collection and allowed the results to be compared. Likewise, both
strands focused on the same study concepts of mentorship and mentoring to allow
interpretation and comparison.
For objective one, which was quantitative and focused on the practices, due to small
population of nurse educators employed in the School of Nursing the total target
population of 74 was included in the study as it was small and feasible for the researcher
to contact everyone using a self-administered questionnaire. The target population was
stratified as per campus and various teaching ranks. The mentees were nurse educators
who were registered nurses by profession who had worked for less than five years at the
School of Nursing while mentors should have worked for five years or more at the same school. The response rate for the quantitative strand was 82% (n= 40 questionnaires
received out of 49 for the mentees and 96 % for the mentors (n=24 questionnaires received
out of 25). Purposive sampling was done for objective two, which was qualitative to select
the participants who participated in the semi-structured interviews at each campus as per
respective study groups. For the qualitative strand, data saturation was determined per
campus due to the different settings and heterogenous teaching ranks that had different
experiences. A total of 36 mentees and 16 mentors participated across the different
campuses. The interpretation of data sets shows convergent and discordant results in the
quantitative data between the mentees and mentors in mentorship and mentoring practices.
Likewise, similar four main themes emerged from both groups, with some variants of
unique sub-themes across the groups. The quantitative results show that mentees and
mentors agreed on mentorship practices but had discordant results on mentoring aspects
as mentees disagreed with mentors’ positive ratings. Variables with significant p-values
were identified and compared first within each group of mentees and mentors first and
then finally with the finding from the qualitative data set.
Equally, the qualitative results also had convergent and discordant results between
mentees and mentors as well within each group supported by various sub-themes. The
common approach of primary data analysis integration procedure was used. The
representation of merging integration results was done by a side-by-side comparison of
significant p- values of quantitative and main themes and sub-themes of the qualitative
results through a narrative discussion.
The discussion narrated how qualitative themes and sub-themes either confirm,
disconfirm, or complemented the quantitative results or vice versa. This study concluded
that mentoring and mentorship practices were described differently by mentors and
mentees as well that positive and negative experiences emerged in both groups.
Recommendations included the facilitation of good relationships as well as establishing
trust, respect, and healthy communication between mentors and mentees. It was also
recommended for the School of Nursing to have a school-specific orientation for nurse
educators and develop a formal mentoring programme. Finally, there was a need to revisit
the workload of nurse educators and develop a guideline for virtual mentoring of mentee
Experiences of Okahandja park informal settlement residents with the covid-19 preventative measures in Khomas region
No full textA mini thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master in Public HealthAbout seventy percent (70%) of Namibia's population comprises of people who live in circumstances that provide limited protection against the Coronavirus disease (COVID 19). One of Windhoek's informal communities, Okahandja Park lacks access to potable water, proper sanitation, and basic housing. It is also overcrowded. This study's goal was to discover and characterise how Okahandja Park informal settlement residents experienced the COVID-19 prevention guidelines. The study used the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) method and was qualitative. The study’s sample comprised of twenty-seven residents from Okahandja Park who were older than eighteen years. The data gathered was collected with high ethical standards in line with the University of Namibia’s (UNAM) ethical clearance standards. Data was collected using four focus group discussions, in-depth face-to-face interviews as research techniques. The Theory of Tesch, which produces themes and subthemes, was used to analyse the data. The investigation found that the Okahandja Park informal settlement residents were required to wear face masks at all times. The local stores and clinic were overcrowded due to the long lines that resulted from a limited number of people being permitted to enter facilities at a given time. Due to COVID-19, many citizens lost their employment since their employers could no longer afford to pay their monthly salaries. During COVID-19, participants struggled to live due to a lack of food and had to resort to a few coping techniques. Most of the inhabitants lacked sufficient cosmetics to maintain their hygiene practices at home. The study concluded that the WHO preventive measures during the lock down had both an adverse and favourable influence on the Okahandja Park informal settlement residents. The study recommends that public health measures for a pandemic like COVID-19 should be put in place, such that the Office of the President in Namibia and significant NGOs provide food distribution packages to vulnerable populations. In order to improve the informal settlers' abilities and knowledge to run their enterprises successfully, the Namibian Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade, and SMEs Development should offer them training and workshops on SMEs developmen
Assessing the use of cloud computing for records management in selected organisations in Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Records and Archives ManagementThis multi-case study assessed the use of cloud computing for records management in selected private organisations in Namibia. The study’s objectives were to assess the drivers and benefits of adopting cloud computing for records management; analyse the cloud computing services and deployment models adopted by the organisations; assess the risks of managing records in the cloud; and identify measures to mitigate risks of managing records in the cloud. A qualitative research approach using semi-structured interviews was employed for data collection. The study population comprised of Namibian organisations using cloud computing and offering cloud computing services for records management. Four private organisations were conveniently selected. Seven participants comprising information technology (IT) staff from cloud computing service-providing organisations and records management staff from both a cloud computing service client organisation and a cloud computing service provider were purposively selected for the study. Data was analysed through content analysis. The study found that Namibian organisations adopted cloud computing for records management. However, cloud providers refered to information managed on the cloud as ‘data’. The study findings established that organisations adopted cloud computing due to its flexibility and affordability. Significant lack of records management expertise in both cloud computing service providers and client organisations was evident. The study further established that records management legal and regulatory framework had not received comprehensive attention by both cloud computing service providers and client organisations. Namibia’s current legal and regulatory framework is weak on the management of electronic records. The introduction of new laws relating to managing electronic records will be instrumental to the success of using cloud computing to manage records. The findings also highlighted that managing records in the cloud presented some risks and challenges such as non-compliance with laws, uncertain records security, and poor knowledge of records management. The study concluded that the cloud computing services provided and adopted by the Namibian organisations were not fully viable for the proper management of electronic records and there was a need for the customisation of cloud computing services to meet records management standards and practices. The study proposed a framework for adopting cloud computing for records management in Namibia
Investigating strategies to improve superior sustainable performance in the Namibian mining industry
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in business administration management strategyThe mining industry is the primary sector anchor and the largest contributor to the gross domestic
product (GDP) of the Namibian economy and it can potentially drive the country towards
industrialization by adding value to its products via the implementation of the Mineral
Beneficiation Strategy (MBS). Unfortunately, the mining industry is currently unsustainable
because 52% of the operations have stopped production. This research is aimed at investigating
strategies that may potentially improve superior sustainable performance in the Namibian mining
industry. The research methodology applied, utilised the explanatory sequential mixed methods
research (MMR) approach. In this case, quantitative and qualitative data were collected by using
a self-administered open-ended questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide, respectively.
To improve superior sustainable performance, the data inferred that the mines should successfully
execute strategic projects such as the life of mine extension, increasing production, improving
efficiencies, and improving all-in sustaining cost (AISC). It was found that the major factors
negatively influencing superior sustainable performance include the following: a decline in
commodity prices, mine flooding due to underground water, geotechnical risks, depleted ore
reserves, declined ore grade, and mineralogical changes. The strategies to improve superior
sustainable performance were established by applying a SWOT/TOWS analysis model and by
creating an integrated strategy map that consider several mining operation sustainability aspects.
Initiatives for reducing the cost of electrical power were recommended i.e., building a nuclear
power plant, green hydrogen plant and the Kudu gas power station. Further research should focus
on the policy regarding tax relief for mining companies that are struggling to remain sustainabl
Exploring factors that hinder the implementation of audit recommendations in the Ministry of Works and Transport, Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of science (Accounting and Finance)Audit recommendations in audit reports draw attention to actions that are prone to advance institutions’ performance when implemented. The suitable and well-timed implementation of audit recommendations agreed by those in charge of an entity is a critical and significant part of realising the whole advantage of an audit. The main aim of this study was to explore factors hindering the implementation of audit recommendations in the Ministry of Works and Transport (MWT), Namibia. The re occurrence of audit findings in the MWT and lack of empirical research on factors delaying the implementation of audit recommendations represent a gap in the public sector financial management literature. To fill this gap, the researcher carried a qualitative exploratory research. The population for this study was made up of 60 staff members of the finance division in the MWT. A purposive sampling method was used to select a sample of 20 people from the population. The instruments used for data collection were semi-structured interviews guides and a self-administered questionnaire with open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was used to analyse and present the data. The study established that the implementation of audit recommendations at the MWT is hindered by lack of funds due to poor planning, poor communication, lack of training, management ignorance and lack of accountability and responsibility. The study concluded that the management at the MWT is not giving enough support, dedication and commitment towards the implementation of audit recommendations. The study recommended that the MWT take heed on all audit recommendations to help reduce the risk of fraud, theft, corruption, asset misappropriation and mismanagement of public funds and resources
An investigation into the impact of accessibility to micro-finance on the performance of small-scale enterprises in Windhoek Havana informal settlement
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in business administration management strategyBusiness development has emerged as a driver of economic development, and in the quest
to drive job creation and food security, among others, goverments have explored measures
aimed to facilitate SME development. One of the key challenges affecting successful pro gression of SMEs is funding and even though governments in conjunction with the private
sector, the issue has peristed and Namibia is not an exception. In view of this, the study
sought to determine whether the existence of microfinance institutions in Namibia has an
impact on SMEs in Windhoek, in terms of performance, using the case of Havana informal
settlement.. The study employed a mixed research approach, which enabled the researcher
to staticatically conclude empirical findings aimed to assess the extent to which micro
funding is accessible to SMEs in an in-depth and objective manner. To fulfil this, an ex planatory research design was used and rationale was to obtain answers pertaining to the
status of micro financing in Namibia. A survey questionnaire was used to collect primary
data from the sampled population in the Havana informal settlement, Windhoek. Second ary data was obtained from annual reports of financial institutitions. The informants of
the study consisted of 50 business owners residing in Havana and were selected using a
non-probability method, namely random sampling method. The findings suggest that there
is evidence to justify lack of micro financing opportunities and surprisingly, most of the
participants have never benefitted from such schemes. Overall, accessibility to micro fi nancing was deemed less useful and there is bad perception about this as existing funding
schemes were not considered to be effective. The study recommended revision of policies
governing micro financing, stimulating joint projects, establishment of public private part nerships, investing in research and development and benchmarking Namibias’ efforts with
ii
international successful micro funding opportunities available for SMEs. The outcomes
of the study reveal a need to review SME funding schemes, so that concrete measures
could be adopted to address challenges thereo
Tackling environmental problems: are people and the environment antithetical?
No full textThe paper is structured as follows: it discuss the different beliefs held about nature, the environment, and environmental problems and the implications of these beliefs. We then discuss the underlying causes of these problems and why we need to use a holistic approach, including a call to change our environmental behaviour. Finally, we present a framework for integrating nature into every aspect of life. WE argue that we must incorporate nature in every sphere of society, from homes to schools to town planning and health and technology. We propose
a framework called: “Nature-integrated in Whole Systems,” basing our argument on the axiom that nature and
people are intimately interlinked, so interlinked that one cannot live without another. The framework acknowledges
the complex interdependencies between social, economic, and environmental systems and the necessity to address these interdependencies in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. To support our argument, we draw upon
relevant literature, including studies on the interrelationship between human well-being and ecosystem integrity and examples of nature-integrated approaches to environmental management.In the era where human communities have been plunged into unprecedented environmental problems, scientists and policymakers have been forced to revisit and reflect on the relationship between humanity and the natural environment. In light of all these developments, fundamental questions have been asked, such as, should nature be left alone? Are humans separate from nature? Is it too late to turn back the clock? How can we tackle the climate crisis? At the core of these questions lies the issue of the human-environment relationship, with humans being both dependent on and simultaneously harming the environment. Although the dependence of humans on natural systems is acknowledged, there seems to be uncertainty about balancing human well-being, ecosystem, and environmental integrity. It appears as though these three factors cannot co-exist harmoniously. In this contribution, we discuss the axioms of the environment and humanity and extract lessons that can be used to address the increased environmental concerns that have challenged the world. We also present a rationale for using an interdisciplinary, holistic approach to address environmental problems, proposing a Nature-integrated in Whole Systems Framework. We argue that environmental problems cannot be successfully addressed without incorporating human dimensions and treating systems as wholes. We base our argument on the fact that the challenges facing humanity are so intertwined that addressing one issue without considering the others is futile.
We propose that we need to integrate nature into every aspect of life
An analysis of the impact of reduced donor funding on sustainability of Namibia network of aids service organisations (NANASO)
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master of science in accounting and financeThe aim of this study was to analyse the impact of reduced funding on sustainability of
the projects carried out by NGOs in Namibia. The sub objectives of the study was to
analyse the impact of reduced level of financing by donors on the project sustainability of
NANASO in Namibia, to analyse the impact of stakeholder participation on the project
sustainability of NANASO in Namibia and finally to determine ways in which NANASO
can become financially sustainable in the event of donor reduced funding. This study is
significant to NANASO, other NGOs, the government, public and private sector, as well
as researchers as it intends to identify the outcomes of reduced donor funding on NGO
project sustainability. Sustainability of NANASO and other NGOs is crucial as their
objectives and activities contributes to the reduction of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in the
community. The findings of this study will also serve as a basis for future research in the
same line of study. The research design for this study was descriptive research design and
was deemed suitable as it reported the situation as it is without changing any variables of
the impact of reduced funding and sustainability of NGOs. The approach used to collect
data for this study was a quantitative one. Probability sampling in the form of multi stage
sampling was used to select the sample for the study from the population. Data was
collected using questionnaires having both open and closed ended questions. Quantitative
data was analysed through inferential statistics using the Statistical Packages for Social
Sciences (SPSS). The findings of the study revealed that reduced donor funding has a
negative impact on project sustainability as it impacts on the adequacy of resources needed
for the project and on the attainment of objectives as there will be limited financial
resources. It was recommended that to ensure project sustainability after reduced funding,
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NANASO should consider collaboration with other NGOs and also working closely with
various stakeholders from both the public and private sector
Assessing the impact of corporate governance on the performance of the Namibia Institute of Pathology
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master in business administration management strategyThe study investigated the impact of corporate governance on the Namibia Institute of
Pathology’s performance. The research was descriptive in nature, taking a mixed methods approach, consisting of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Primary data
was gathered using both structured and non-structured questionnaires distributed to
the persons who make up the governance of Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP),
namely: members of the board of directors and the Chief Executive Officer of NIP.
Secondary data was acquired from NIP's annual reports covering a period of 5 years
(2017-2021). Seven out of eight respondents completed the questionnaire, which is
87.5% of the sample. Quantitative information was displayed as percentages,
frequency distributions, means, and standard deviations based on the total replies.
Whereas quantitative data was analysed using both correlation and regression. The
findings of this study established that larger board sizes are prone to conflicts, making
it difficult to reach a consensus. Conversely, a larger board is most likely to possess
variable skills and experience to make informed decisions. The study established that
board members are appointed by all stakeholders with no direct political influence.
Moreover, it was revealed that NIP board members were comprised only of non executive members. With regards to board committees, it was found that the NIP board
operates primarily through committees. However, it was noted that there is no
committee for auditing the board of the NIP. The study also establishes that board
meetings had a high turnout and that all board members possess the necessary
qualifications. Multiple regression analysis revealed that all components of corporate
governance had no significant effect on NIP's performance. Finally, the study
recommends that the shareholders form an independent audit committee to audit the
board committees for accountabilit
Foliar nutrient content responses to bio-inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Rhizobium on three herbaceous forage legumes
No full textThe current study investigated the effects of inoculating AMF and Rhizobia bacteria on the chemical and nutritional composition of three herbaceous forage legumes (lablab, cowpea, and mucuna). It is hypothesized that the chemical composition of these three forage legumes could vary due to dual inoculation with AMF and RhizobiumSmallholder livestock production in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa has been hampered by a lack of high-quality feed. As such, improving ruminant nutrition using optimized production of herbaceous forage legumes has been suggested. However, the production of forage legumes for livestock feed is poor in communal areas in the province due to the necessity to use high levels of chemical fertilizers to provide high-quality feed that meets animal nutrient demands. The current study aimed at investigating the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Rhizobium inoculation on the chemical composition of three herbaceous forage legumes, namely, Vigna unguiculata (cowpea), Lablab purpureus (lablab), and Mucuna pruriens (mucuna). The field trials were established over two growing seasons (2017/2018 and 2018/2019) at the University of Fort Hare Research Farm (South Africa) and were carried out as a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial experiment arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 12 treatments that were replicated 4 times. The 12 treatments included three legume species (cowpea, lablab, and mucuna), two AMF (with and without AMF inoculation), and two Rhizobia inoculations (with or without). The results showed that the dual inoculation of AMF and Rhizobia bacteria significantly (p < 0.05) increased the contents of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber, hemicellulose, ash, magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) of three herbaceous forage legumes. Furthermore, solo inoculation with AMF or Rhizobia bacteria resulted in substantially higher potassium (K), Ca, and Mg cation ions, and Ca/P, Zn, manganese (Mn), and Fe concentrations in forage legumes than in other treatments. In conclusion, the dual inoculation produced optimal nutrient accumulation in both growing seasons when compared to single inoculation and uninoculated forages. Therefore, this could assist in alleviating livestock malnutrition in smallholder farmingArbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Chemical constituents, Dual inoculation, Forage nutrient
optimization, Livestock malnutrition, Rhizobium, Sustainable productio