UNAM Gā-aisib Repository (University of Namibia)
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An analysis of the impact of public secondary school principals’ leadership style on technology integration in the Oshana region of Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration (Management Strategy)Technology integration in public secondary schools is a challenge to many
Namibian schools. Principals’ leadership styles play a key role in changing
the way teachers and learners use the internet, integrate technology in
education as well as communicate through the internet. It is against this
background that the purpose of this study was to analyse the impact of the
secondary school principals’ leadership styles on technology integration in
the Oshana region of Namibia. The research strives to identify the leadership
styles that were used by public secondary school principals in the Oshana
region. The researcher applied the qualitative research method and the data
was collected using an interview guide. This study used 14 public secondary
school principals from the population of 24 public secondary schools. The
results indicate that different leadership styles were used by the principals
depending on the situation’s demands, and it has also been found that the
applied leadership styles had a significant role to play in the integration of
technology in schools. It is important that the MoEAC, schools, principals
and teachers take the findings of this study into consideration and implement
the strategies that would contribute to the effectiveness of technology
integration in schools
The role of cultural heritage towards socio-economic development in Namibia: Case of Oshikoto region
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Adult EducationNamibia is rich with diverse cultural heritage resources that can offer potential benefits to the national socio-economic development. Over the past years, cultural heritage has gained momentum recognition as an engine for socio-economic development worldwide. Through cultural heritage tourism and cultural and creative industries, cultural heritage activities generate income, create employment, reduce poverty, build social cohesion, stimulate community participation, preserve local culture and promote sustainable community’s development. Drawing its theoretical overviews from the Cultural Values Theory and Culture-Oriented Economic Development Model, this study explored the role of cultural heritage towards social-economic development in the Oshikoto Region of Namibia. The study focused on the socio-economic significance of cultural heritage tourism and cultural creative industries regarding the local community's livelihood. A qualitative study guided by the Interpretive Phenomenological design provided opportunities to cultural heritage practitioners to describe and discuss their meanings and perspectives on the phenomena of cultural heritage. The sample of 20 participants was drawn using purposive sampling criteria. The data were collected using in-depth interviews, a focus group discussion and documents analysis. Amongst many, the findings of the study revealed that cultural heritage through cultural heritage tourism and cultural creative industries, play significant roles in employment creation, income-generating, preserving local culture, history and identity, uniting people from different cultural backgrounds, learning different cultures and languages, and can be used as a tool for counselling and therapy. Also, the findings uphold that cultural heritage positively impact the community's livelihood by improving local's standard of living and quality of life by enhancing access to social services such as health care, clean water and education. ii Even though the cultural heritage sector has potential for socio-economic development, the findings established that it facing various challenges that are hampering the development, promotion and preservation of cultural heritage resources. The findings revealed that poor funding, poor documentation of cultural heritage resources, poor marketing and lack of marketplace for cultural heritage products are key challenges. Therefore, to address these challenges, the study calls for an increase in funding of the cultural heritage sector, intense research and documentation of cultural heritage resources in the region. The study further suggested the capacity building of cultural practitioners and the introduction of cultural heritage related training programmes embedded in lifelong skills and talents. Stakeholder collaboration, hosting of cultural events and festivals, the establishment of cultural villages and cultural routes, investment in facilities development and usage of related technology is highly suggested. It is hoped that this study will influence the cultural heritage actors in the Oshikoto Region to re-strategize and relooked at the available approach to cultural heritage resources development, promotion and preservation, hence, the study has presented recommendations for both practices and future researc
A comparison of intrathecal morphine or fentanyl on the duration of postoperative analgesia at Namibian teaching hospitals in Windhoek
No full textA thesis in partial fulfilment for the requirements for the Degree of Master of Medicine (Anesthesiology, Critical care and Pain management)Background: Pain management is a cornerstone in the management of femoral fractures. Poorly controlled perioperative pain is associated with detrimental short-term and long-term effects. Addition of intrathecal opioids has been shown to produce a dense block and enhance analgesic effect. The objective of the study was to compare the duration of postoperative analgesia of intrathecal morphine or fentanyl for femur fracture surgery at Namibian Teaching Hospitals in Windhoek.
Methodology: This was a prospective randomised double blinded control study which was done in February – July 2021; in which 60 patients above 18 years scheduled for femur fracture surgeries received standard spinal anaesthesia with 0.5% heavy bupivacaine 12.5 mg plus 100 mcg morphine (ITM group) or 25 mcg fentanyl (ITF group). Data was collected using a form designed for the study and analysed with the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS for windows 26.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).
Results: Participants in the ITM group had a significantly longer time to first request for analgesic (14.5 ±8.03 hours) versus the ITF group (7.07 ± 3.07 hours), p =0.0001 and reduced total opioid consumption in 24 hours. The postoperative pain scores (verbal numerical rating scale) at rest and with movement were significantly lower in 2nd, 4th and 6th hour in the ITM group compared to the ITF group (p <0.05).
No significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of pruritus, nausea and vomiting. Respiratory depression was not observed in any participant in the two groups. Patient satisfaction with analgesia was superior in the ITM group (p =0.0001). No significant association was confirmed between type of femur fracture and the total opioid consumption in 24 hours.
Conclusion: Use of intrathecal morphine significantly increased the duration of postoperative analgesia and reduced the total opioid consumption
Estimation of groundwater recharge along a precipitation gradient for Savannah aquifers in Namibia with special emphasis on the impact of vegetation
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Science (Geology)The quantification of groundwater resources is essential especially in water scarce countries like Namibia as well as the assessment of the influence of vegetation on groundwater recharge for a better management and sustainability of savannah aquifers. This study has two specific objectives which are firstly to identify groundwater recharge processes and quantify such along a precipitation gradient in Namibian savannah aquifers. Secondly, to determine the influence of savannah vegetation on groundwater recharge by determining the active root depth and source water sources for S. mellifera and B. albitrunca. The study was carried out along a precipitation gradient at three sites namely: Tsumeb; Waterberg and Kuzikus/Ebenhaezer. The chloride mass balance (CMB) method and water stable isotope methods were used in determining groundwater recharge rates at the three sites. Precipitation samples from Tsumeb and Waterberg were collected during the rainy season from 2017 to 2018, while Kuzikus/Ebenhaezer samples were collected between 2014 and 2015. Groundwater samples were collected before, during and after rainy seasons from 2016 to 2017. A deuterium tracer was inserted at different plots with varying depths in December 2016 in order to assess the active root depths for both S. mellifera and B. albitrunca at Ebenhaezer farm. Both woody plants were sampled for the xylem and transpired water. A scattered distribution of rain sample isotopic ratios along the global meteoric water line in the areas was attributed to a seasonal effect. Local meteoric water line equations for Tsumeb, Waterberg and Kuzikus/Ebenhaezer were obtained as: δ2H = 7.78 δ18O + 6.74, (R 2 = 0.95); δ2H = 7.37 δ18O + 5.77, R2 = (0.97); δ2H = 7.16 δ18O + ii 9.88, (R 2 = 0.96) respectively. All the slopes obtained from three study sites are all lower than that of a global meteoric water line equation. A lower slope indicates that the local precipitation has experienced some sub cloud evaporation, leading to enrichment of heavy isotopes. Waterberg groundwater plots on the GMWL which indicates little or absence of evaporation. Tsumeb groundwater plots on/close to the GMWL with an exception of groundwater from the karst Lake Otjikoto which is showing evaporation. Groundwater from Kuzikus/Ebenhaezer shows an evaporation effect. All groundwater isotopic values from three sites match those of precipitation depleted in heavy stable isotopes, which indicates that recharge only take place during January, February and March where the precipitation is highest and depleted in heavy stable isotopes. CMB method revealed that savannah aquifers are recharged at low rates, mostly below 10% of the annual precipitation The analysis of woody plant water isotopes at Ebenhaezer farm revealed their source water and the active root depth for S. mellifera. Of 49 transpired water samples, only one S. mellifera sample showed a high deuterium content of 515.9 ‰ where the tracer was inserted at 2.5 m soil depth. Elevated deuterium contents were observed in two S. mellifera xylem samples where the tracer was applied at 2.5 m and 3 m, a possible sign of the active root depth for S. mellifera. However, the active root depth of B. albitrunca could not be determined due to the absence of the tracer in the sampling depths used. S. mellifera δ 18O values indicate that it is using both groundwater and soil water while B. albitrunca δ 18O values show that it is mainly using groundwater. Groundwater recharge rates from this study can be used to guide policy makers on decisions regarding safe yields for the sustainability of the aquifers
A ruthenium bipyridyl molecular dye sensitizer and an excited‑state intermolecular proton transfer‑active colorimetric probe for anions, with high affinity towards CN− in DMSO
No full textA ruthenium bipyridyl-dye sensitizer (N) based on the naphthyl-thiazole anchoring-ancillary ligand was synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods of UV–Vis, 1H NMR, FTIR and fluorescence. The functional properties of N were investigated through its photoinduced and intramolecular based charge transfer mechanisms. Subsequently, N displayed interesting charge transfer-based properties (ESIPT) that are complementary to molecular photovoltaic and chemosensing properties. The properties were investigated and studied in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), due to its polar nature and solubility of the dye. Dye sensitizer exhibitions were investigated through solvatochromism effect on the optoelectronic properties, while chemosensing abilities were inspected through colorimetric activities, upon molar addition of anions. Thus, it was established that a dual functional N is a potential dye sensitizer with optoelectronic properties displaying high molar extinction coefficients in acetone. In addition, it was found that N is a colorimetric and fluorometric probe selective and sensitive to biologically important anions of CN−, F−, OH− and AcO− through fluorescence enhancement, as a result of hydrogenbonding leading to deprotonation. The sensing probe, however, displayed more strongly association with CN−
Investigating the Income Generating Activity Fund (IGA) and its effect on women entrepreneurs in Windhoek Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration EntrepreneurshipThe purpose of this study was to establish how the Income Generating Activities fund
(!GA) has impacted women entrepreneurs in Windhoek, Namibia. The study used a
qualitative research design. A phenomenology approach was used as it looked at ways
women entrepreneurs made sense of the world around them. Judgmental sampling was
used to select a sample of 10 women entrepreneurs who were willing to give useful
information for the purpose of the research. The data collection method used was in depth interviews using an interview guide as an instrument. The Timmons model of
entrepreneurship framework was used as an entrepreneurial model was to identify
factors that contribute to the success of a business. There are three main factors:
opportunity, resources and the team, which have been used in the real world by
practitioners and academics who have found the Timmons model of Entrepreneurship
useful in assessing the phases that an entrepreneur goes through to establish an
enterprise. There were 61/86 females who received funding. It was found that 9/10
were very satisfied with with their material and or equipment and 8/1 0 of the women
faced no challenges. As a result respondents wanted more equipment and or material
in the future. The women entrepreneurs were happy with the way the !GA fund was
being run. As a result of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare
(MGECW) helping to finance 8/10 of women entrepreneurs in Windhoek. There needs
to be an ongoing consensus to keep the number of women financed in the same range,
this allows more women the opportunity to start their business. Thereby by
empowering more women to be active in the Namibian economy
The social information needs of people with albinism: A case study of Khomas region, Namibia.
No full textThis paper focuses on the social information needs of people with albinism (PWA) in Khomas region, Namibia, and the sources of information used PWA to meet their information needs. The study applies Moore’s model of social information needs and Wilson’s model of information behaviour to investigate and understand the
information needs and sources used by PWA to find information. The study was carried out using a qualitative case design within interpretivism paradigm and semi-structured face-to-face interviews were used to collect data from participants. Sixteen participants took part in the study, eight were males, and eight were female
participants. Among these participants, two were children with albinism. The following information was identified as being crucial to PWA namely: skin- and eye-related information, information on what is albinism and its causes, disability grants, educational information, and emotional and psychological support. Additionally, the study established that PWA use formal, informal, and human sources of information to find information
Examining the readiness of the Namibia College of Open Learning in adopting automation technologies for improved service delivery
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration (Management Strategy)The 4th industrial revolution is upon all industries operating in different sectors of the
economy. An organisation aiming to remain competitive by delivering improved
service is left with no choice but to embrace the 4th industrial revolution. The highest demand by NAMCOL’s customers for services such as student registration, materials and other services leads to customers spending time in long queues yearning for service delivery. The study examined the readiness of the Namibia College of Open Learning in adopting automation technology for improved service delivery. Automation is one the elements for the 4.0IR together with internet of things, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and cyber physical systems.
In order to address the following research objectives: examining NAMCOL’s
infrastructure in place for adaptation to the 4.0IR, analysing the employees’ skills
towards adaption of 4.0IR at NAMCOL, determining the implementation status of
automation at NAMCOL and analysing the challenges experienced by NAMCOL in
adopting automation; interviews were conducted. The whole population for the study
was sampled using a census method. The responses were analysed using Qualitative Data Analysis software (QDA). The responses revealed mixed views towards the objectives.
The study revealed that NAMCOL has started to embrace the automation technology but have to improve its infrastructure. The study further concludes that not all employees are at the same level that is required for automation. Additionally, the implementation of automation is moving at a snail’s pace. Lastly, the study revealed that there are numerous challenges affecting adoption of automation, such as lack of funds, skills gaps and insufficient infrastructure.
The study made the following recommendations: that NAMCOL solicits for more
funds, establish an e-library, partners with international educational institutions,
provides more training to its employees to fill up the skills gap and aligns the strategic plan to fin in with the 4.0IR
A feminist stylistic and framing theory exploration of selected news reports on intimate partner violence in the Namibian newspaper (2019-2020)
No full textA research project submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts (English studies)In Namibia, ‘intimate partner violence’ remains a huge concern. A variety of sources may have presented ‘intimate partner violence’ as a phenomenon but not many seem to have touched on the writing style perpetuating and presenting the events. This study aimed at exploring, examining and analysing the language usage by The Namibian male and female writers when reporting on ‘intimate partner violence’. The study intended to reveal the crucial role that news media houses play in the local community. Amongst the frequently reported headlines covered in The Namibian newspaper and creating a captivating sensation is the topic of ‘intimate partner violence’. Although either gender can commit violence in the case of ‘intimate partnership, the spectacle creates curiosity and interest to the public especially when the violent tendency seems subjected mostly towards one specific gender. In Namibia’s case, and based on the news reports, it appears that the male gender dominates the category of perpetrators. This qualitative study analysed the discourse of news reports on ‘intimate partner violence’ published in The Namibian newspaper between 2019 and 2020. Data of this study was analysed using relevant scholars’ analysis as established through desktop study. The researcher examined the news texts for stylistic features at the word, phrasal and sentence levels in order to construe textual meaning, application of sexism, assigning blame and justification of the crime. The findings were interpreted through the lenses of the Framing and Feminist Stylistic Theories. The study’s major findings reveal that the intimate partner violence phenomenon was nonchalantly presented. The victims’ voices were mostly silent whereas the perpetrators were actively presented. The study concluded that most news reports seemed commercially packaged and lacked enlightenment. The study strongly recommends further research in media discourses and framing with special focus to intimate partner violence in Namibia
Academic challenges faced by learners with visual impairments at two inclusive education secondary schools in Namibia
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Education (Inclusive Education)This qualitative case study explored the academic challenges facing learners with visual impairments (LWVI) in two inclusive secondary schools in Namibia. Purposive and convenient sampling were used to select two secondary schools and 11 participants (eight LWVI and three support teachers). The research instruments were semi-structured interviews and observation schedules, supported by still pictures. Data were analyzed using case-oriented qualitative content analysis. The data were presented in the form of a report. The findings indicate that LWVI are faced with multiple challenges. The study also shows that school infrastructure is not conducive for LWVI and that these learners are not fully included academically in mainstream secondary schools due to the lack of learning materials. LWVI are not enabled to do subjects such as Mathematics, Accounting, Geography, and Physical Science because teachers are not trained to teach graphs and
mathematical formulae in braille to LWVI. Apart from this LWVI are unable to use
computers during Information Communication and Technology (ICT) lessons due to a lack of computer programmes that support the teaching and learning of persons with visual impairments. In addition, LWVI are not fully integrated into the classroom because the teacher-learner ratio is too high for their teachers to attend to every learner. Teachers are unable to modify their teaching methods to accommodate LWVI. Lack of support from parents and other stakeholders in education is another challenge for LWVI. The researcher thus recommends that the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture should restructure school buildings to accommodate LWVI. The Ministry should also provide professional development for Mathematics, Geography, Accounting, and Physical Science teachers to use available information and communication technologies to enable them to teach these subjects to LWVI. Schools should also buy computer programmes that support the
teaching of LWVI