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Perceptions of employees regarding performance management systems in the private sector: a case study of First National Bank Zambia (FNBZ).
Full text linkThesis of Masters Degree in Business Administration.BSTRACT
This study explored the perception of employees regarding Performance Management System (PMS) at FNB Zambia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including survey data from 130 respondents and key informant interviews with departmental managers. The demographic
characteristics of the respondents were analysed, revealing a balanced representation across gender, diverse age-groups, education levels, marital status, and tenure lengths. Findings indicate that a significant portion of employees perceive the PMS as lacking in clarity regarding performance expectations and goals, fairness in implementation, and timely feedback provision. Job satisfaction levels were found to be relatively low, with mixed perceptions regarding the effectiveness of the PMS. Factors influencing the mixed perception referred to above, include communication from managers, training and development opportunities, rewards and recognition and peer feedback. Key informant interviews underscored the importance of clear goals, regular feedback, fairness, development opportunities, and alignment with organizational values in shaping employee perceptions of the PMS. Challenges such as lack of clarity, bias, insufficient feedback, limited development opportunities, and lack of recognition were identified.
Recommendations include improving communication, goal clarity, fairness, feedback mechanisms, and development opportunities within the PMS to enhance employee satisfaction and performance. Addressing these factors can contribute to a more effective and impactful performance management system aligned with organizational goals and employee needs.
Key words: Performance Management, Rewards, Recognition, Appraisal, Feedbac
The effect of bank credit to private sector on the growth of small and medium enterprises in the manufacturing sector in Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Business Administration.The manufacturing sector is key to the industrialization agenda in Zambia, which is driven by the private sector. The small and medium enterprises constitute a bigger proportion of the private sector and are regarded as the backbone of economic growth in the country. This study investigated the effect of bank credit or loans on the growth of SMEs in the manufacturing in Zambia between 2013-2023. The turnover or sale quarterly data for SMEs in manufacturing sector was used as a proxy for SME growth. Bank credit or loans disbursed to MSMEs in manufacturing was used as the key explanatory variable. However, other variables were included to help explain the growth movements in the model. Descriptive statistics, correlation matrix and the co-integration and error correction model (ECM) was used to test the hypotheses and answer the research questions. The study revealed that bank credit to the SMEs in the manufacturing sector though important, did not have statistically significant effect on the growth of the SMEs in the manufacturing sector both in the long run (p=0.132) and short run (p=0.133). In the same light, the effect of GDP on growth of SMEs in the manufacturing sector was not statistically significant though positive in both the long run (p=0.168) and short run (p=0.094). However, this study revealed that inflation had statistically significant negative effect on the growth (turnover) of SME in the manufacturing sector during the period considered in the long run (p=0.020) and short run (p=0.010). The study recommends that a stable macroeconomic environment is necessary for growth and survival of SMEs in manufacturing sector in Zambia. Further, the monetary authorities should address the rigidities in bank lending by relaxing some stringent conditions which prohibit SMEs from accessing credit to grow and survive
Factors influencing participation in community based micro-finance : a case of village banking in Kaunda square, Lusaka.
Full text linkThesis of Master in Business AdministrationCommunity-based micro-finance initiatives, notably Village Banking, are vital for financial inclusion and economic empowerment in marginalized communities globally. This study delves into the factors impacting participation in Village Banking in Kaunda Square, Lusaka, Zambia. Its main aim is to explore the factors influencing participation in Community-Based Micro Finance, focusing on Village Banking. Objectives include assessing perceived benefits, evaluating institutional facilitators or barriers, and analyzing socio-economic characteristics of participating households. Employing a mixed-method approach, this study adopted an interpretivist research philosophy. Purposive sampling was used, involving government officials, direct practitioners, and current participants. A total of 45 participants were involved in the study, including two government officials, two direct practitioners, and 41 current participants in Village Banking programs. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Key informants included government officials (n=2) and direct practitioners (n=2), selected based on their expertise and involvement in microfinance policies and practices. The study revealed that Village Banking participants in Kaunda Square were predominantly female, reflecting broader trends in microfinance. Participants perceived enhanced financial situations through the program, although challenges such as over-indebtedness persisted. Institutional factors such as accessibility and satisfaction with governance structures influenced participation. Socio-economic characteristics, including education and employment status, also played significant roles in decision-making. The findings underscored the importance of tailored outreach efforts, financial literacy programs, and collaboration with local authorities to enhance participation. Recommendations included gender-specific support, diversification of financial products, and targeted capacity-building initiatives to address socio-economic challenges. Community-based micro-finance initiatives like Village Banking held promise for economic
empowerment in Kaunda Square, Lusaka
Access to nutrition education and counselling by people living with HIV and aids in Lusaka district Zambia : a hermeneutic phenomenology approach.
Full text linkProper nutrition plays a crucial role in the well-being of people living with HIV (PLWHIV), impacting their immune system, overall health, and quality of life. Nutrition education and counselling (NEC) are essential components of comprehensive HIV care and support. However, there is limited research exploring how PLWHIV access NEC and how this access influences their nutritional knowledge, motivation, and behavioural skills. The purpose of this hermeneutic
phenomenological study was to uncover the lived experiences of PLWHIV regarding their access to NEC. The study used a qualitative approach and applied hermeneutic phenomenological research design. A purposive homogenous sample of 25 PLWHIV was used in this study. Semi structured interviews were conducted with 25 PLWHIV receiving care at a health care center. The collected data was analysed using Ajjawi & Higgs six stages of data analysis. The study revealed eight major themes which include: knowledge of nutrition education, acquired nutrition knowledge and skills, accessibility and acceptability of nutrition education and counselling, the benefit of nutrition education, types of nutrition counselling, frequency of nutrition counselling, challenges in accessing nutrition education and counselling, and recommendations from participants. Participants demonstrated a good understanding of nutrition education and reported acquiring knowledge and skills related to healthy eating and dietary practices through NEC. The accessibility and acceptability of NEC varied among participants, with some experiencing positive and others negative aspects. Participants received nutrition counselling, including group and individual sessions, focusing on food intake, health conditions, screening, and maintaining a balanced diet. Transportation issues, a shortage of health personnel, and the limited availability of nutritionists were significant barriers for many participants in accessing healthcare. Participants recommended enhancing nutrition education and counselling access, increasing patient-nutritionist interaction, and integrating nutrition support with trained community health workers to address manpower limitations. Overall, participants perceived NEC as beneficial, leading to improved health and nutritional status. The study demonstrates that nutrition education
and counselling play a significant role in improving the dietary practices and overall well-being of PLWHIV. While challenges related to accessibility and acceptability exist, participants generally found nutrition education to be informative and beneficial, leading to positive health outcomes. This study contributes to understanding the strengths and challenges of NEC implementation, supporting the Information-Motivation-Behavioural Skills Model (IMB). It emphasises the importance of tailoring NEC services to meet the specific needs of PLWHIV and enhance their nutritional knowledge, motivation, and behavioural skills. By addressing these aspects, NEC can be an effective tool for promoting better dietary practices and improving the quality of life for PLWHIV. The study's findings offer guidance for improving the accessibility and effectiveness of nutrition education and counselling programmes for PLWHIV. The findings have
implications for HIV care and support programmes in Zambia and similar settings, highlighting the significance of NEC in comprehensive HIV care
An assessment of the factors affecting the adoption of ATM cash deposit services. a case study of ABSA bank Zambia, Lusaka.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Business Administration GeneralCommercial banks' investments in information technology (IT) have helped to streamline operations, boost competitiveness, and expand the number and quality of services offered. The Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is arguably the most ground-breaking electronic innovation in the world. ATMs are the most extensively used electronic delivery method for banks in Zambia. Cost savings, customer happiness, and competitiveness are the reasons to install and expand the existing ATM network. Despite the availability of good ATM facilities for depositing money, long queues at banks persist during working hours, customers depositing money at the counter to bank tellers. Therefore, the study aimed at assessing the factors affecting the adoption of ATM Cash Deposit Services. The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, the effect of facilitating conditions and the effect of social influence on consumer’s intentions to adopt ATM cash deposit services. To achieve the objectives, the study conducted a survey of 397 ABSA bank customers. The study used a mixed method research and employed descriptive and causal research designs. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression and Fisher exact test were used for data analysis. From the results, the study found that; lack of knowledge, lack of awareness, easiness of ATMs to use, Trust for ATMs, security and safety of ATMs, and ATM errors, are significant factors that affect customers’ use of ATMs for depositing money. In addition, the study found that having friends who use the ATMs to deposit money had a statistically significant effect on using the ATM for depositing money. Age and Gender were also found to have significant effect on using ATMs for depositing money. The results were statistically significant at 0.05 P-value. The study therefore recommended that; Banks should provide adequate knowledge to customers on how to use ATMs for depositing money; ensure and guarantee the safety of customers when depositing money; regularly changing the quality of notes; and provide adequate information to customers on the safety and reliability of ATMs when depositing money
Exploring experiences of special education trainee teachers on braille reading skills: a study of a private University in Tanzania.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Education in Special EducationThis study examined the experience of Special Education Trainee Teachers in Braille reading skills, with particular focus on factors contributing to the lag of Braille reading skills to Special Education Trainee Teachers at private teacher training university in Tanzania. The study addressed the following four objectives, namely;(i); Explore special education trainee teachers experience in Braille reading skills (ii); strategies and support systems lecturers use in teaching Braille reading to trainee special teachers (iii); challenges special education Trainee Teachers experience in learning Braille Reading and (iv); assessing the extent to which Braille literacy has been integrated into special education teacher trainee curriculum. Embedded design using quantitative and qualitative techniques was employed. Questionnaires, semi-structured interview and observation checklist were used to collect data from respondents. The sample consisted of 40 respondents drawn from one private University distributed as: 35 third year special education trainee teachers and 5 lecturers. Respondents were selected using simple random and purposive sampling technique. The data was analysed using descriptive calculations whereby, percentage and frequency was obtained and presented on tables and qualitative data were analysed in form of themes direct quotation was analysed. The study revealed a significant challenge with mastering Braille reading skills, attributed to three main factors: lack of specific strategies, motivation from university learning materials, and insufficient Braille literacy integration into the curriculum. The result particularly showed that about 54.29% of responses indicated that, there was no specific strategy lecturers uses when teaching, 82.85% of the findings shows that there were a lot of challenges Special Education Trainee Teachers encounter when learning different Braille reading skills and 74.3% of responses shows that to low extent Braille literacy skills has been integrated into the curriculum. However, the test results revealed that 54.28% of the Special Education Trainee Teachers failed to master overall reading skills like word sign, contracted and uncontracted Braille unfamiliar words when reading comprehension skills test. This failure is said to be the result the major three mentioned factors. The findings suggest improvements in pre-service training, teaching materials, and curriculum through using the updated and specific strategies to import knowledge among trainee teacher also motivation and session to be practical and physical based for the student’s teacher. Key words: Braille reading, experiences, Braille literacy, Special Education Trainee Teachers
Evaluation of the relevance of senior secondary schools geography topics in addressing contemporary societal needs in Kasama district of northern Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Education in Geography EducationFor any subject to remain relevant in the system, it has to meet the needs of society and as Zambia continues to evolve in the 21st century, it is essential to critically examine the contents of the senior secondary school geography curriculum to assess if it contextually addresses the modern societal needs. Thus, the purpose of the study sought to evaluate the relevance of senior secondary school geography topics in addressing contemporary societal needs in Kasama District, Zambia. The study employed an evaluative case study in a qualitative research design. A homogeneous and expert purposive sampling techniques were utilized in selecting participants and schools were data was collected this was so to ensure representation across various demographic groups and to target individuals with expertise and specialized knowledge in geography education. A cyclic evaluative theoretical model called the Context, input, process and product (CIPP) was employed to evaluate the relevance of geography to societal needs Data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted with ten teachers and three lectures, alongside a focus group discussion comprising ten students taking geography as a course of study. Primary data analysis applied were thematic analysis and document analysis. Inductive thematic analysis was used because it allowed for identification of recurrent patterns and themes within the collected qualitative data providing insights within the perceived relevance of geography topics in addressing societal needs. Furthermore, document analysis involved examining important documents in the curriculum, such as senior secondary school geography syllabus, geography text books and other relevant materials to further contextualize the discoveries and evaluate the alignment between the curriculum and societal needs. The findings of the study clearly suggested that some senior secondary school geography topics were irrelevant to the needs of society. More so, the topics that look at alien
country and physical geography were abstract to their understanding of concepts being taught as well as societal challenges. The findings also shed more light on the effectiveness of geography topics in preparing students meet real world challenges in Kasama district. In assessing the practical application of geography education in addressing societal issues, this study contributes on ongoing efforts to enhance societal impact of geography education. The insights generated in this research can inform curriculum developers to ensure that geography curriculum remain responsive to the changing needs of the needs of society in Kasama district.
Key words: Evaluation, societal needs, relevance, senior secondary geography topics
Teachers’ perceptions on the use of corporal punishment in selected public secondary schools of Kahama urban district, Tanzania.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Education in Educational Psychology.The purpose of the study was to explore teachers’ perceptions on the use of corporal punishment in selected public secondary schools of Kahama Urban District, Tanzania. Three objectives guided the study: to establish teachers’ views on how useful corporal punishment was in controlling unwanted behaviour of secondary school students; to explore teachers’ perceptions on the effects of using corporal punishment in controlling unwanted behaviour of secondary school students; and to find out the alternative strategies teachers can use in controlling unwanted behaviour of secondary school students. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and a case study design. The sample included 12 participants who were selected based on purposive sampling. The study used semi-structured interviews to collect data and employed thematic analysis to analyse data based on the objectives. The findings on the first objective indicated thatcorporal punishment was useful and it was used as a tool for behavioural change, a reminder, a source of respect and discipline for teachers, an enhancer of pass rates, and a symbol of teachers’ authority and power. On the second objective, effects identified were that corporal punishment could lead to truancy, fear and distress, physical harm or death, a feeling of shame and distrust, confusion, and be a source of conflicts. On the third objective, the study indicated that teachers could use alternatives to corporal punishment such as providing guidance and counselling to students, fostering parentteacher cooperation, building friendships with misbehaving students, assigning manual work, and offering motivation to students who exhibit good behaviour. On the first objective, the study concludes that teachers should refrain from using corporal punishment in order to avoid negative outcome that may affect students. On the second objective, the study concludes that corporal punishment negatively affects students when applied excessively to them, and on the third objective, the study concludes that teachers can prioritise the use of alternative strategies over corporal punishment when dealing with unwanted behaviours of secondary school students. The study therefore, recommends secondary school teachers should be enriched with alternative strategies to corporal punishment through various training programmes. The study also recommends that despite the usefulness of corporal punishment that the study has found, teachers
should abstain from using corporal punishment to avoid negative effects that may happen to students. Since the study has discovered that there are alternative strategies to corporal punishment that teachers can use to control students' unwanted behaviours. The study recommends that teachers should use these alternative strategies instead of corporal punishment
Land use land cover change and perception of drivers in the Bangweulu wetland and surrounding areas, Zambia.
Full text linkThesis for Master of Science degree in Integrated Water Resources ManagementWetlands are essential for the natural function of ecosystems, because they regulate floods and have many other significant functions. However, land use-land cover (LULC) changes are the
main drivers of wetland deterioration globally, and Zambia is no exception. This study examined LULC changes in the Bangweulu Wetland and surrounding areas using remote sensing and GIS techniques, while questionnaires and key informants were used to identify the drivers of the observed changes. The general objective of the study was to assess land use /land cover (LULC) changes in the Bangweulu Wetland and surrounding areas. To realize this, land use was reclassified into five categories, namely, settlements, grassland, cropland, water and forest.
The findings revealed a decrease in forest coverage from 45,298.93 km2 in 1990 to 33,233.52 km2 in 2020. Similarly, the area of grasslands decreased from 32,557.91 km2 in 1990 to 26,418.19 km2 in 2020, while the area of water decreased from 2410.72 km2 in 1990 to 2278.31 km2 in 2020. Conversely, settlement land expanded from 356.69 km2 in 1990 to 2,210.38 km2 in 2020, while cropland increased from 165.27 km2 in 1990 to 5,108.13 km2 in 2020. The study also revealed several significant drivers of LULC change in the Bangweulu Wetland and
surrounding areas. Population growth scored highest, with a mean of 3.76 out of 5, followed by the expansion of human settlements (3.66 out of 5), the decline of ecosystem services (3.57 out of 5) and the decline of forests (2.64 out of 5). In comparison, minor drivers such as the built environment (2.21 out of 5), recreation (1.54 out of 5) and industry (1.34 out of 5) exerted less influence on land use changes. The factors influencing the perceived causes of LULC included agricultural development and energy-related factors, driven by an increase in market demand for charcoal and cash crops leading to heightened agricultural activities and the conversion of forest cover. Understanding these drivers and local perceptions is crucial for informing effective land
management strategies and promoting sustainable development. This knowledge can guide policies and interventions aimed at addressing the underlying causes of LULC changes and conserving the vital ecological functions of the Bangweulu Wetland
Employing bayesian vector autoregression method as an alternative technique for forecasting tax revenue in Zambia.
Full text linkThesis of Master of Science in Statistics.Tax revenue forecasting is of critical importance for a government in ensuring adequacy and stability in tax and expenditure policies, as it also contributes to the budget and strategic planning of a country. Henceforth, several tax types need to be projected for the specific fiscal year using models that are statistically sound and with a smaller margin of error. This study explored the Bayesian Vector Auto-Regression (BVAR) method as an alternative technique for forecasting tax revenue in Zambia. The study forecasted Corporate Income Tax (CIT), Personal Income Tax (PIT),Value-Added Tax (VAT) and Total tax revenue (TTR) using Bayesian vector autoregression (BVAR) models with quarterly data from 2010Q1 to 2023Q4 and the results were compared with Autoregressive Moving Averages (ARIMA) and Error, Trend, Seasonal (ETS). Based on the RMSE, the results of BVAR model with the Normal-Wishart prior was the best model for measuring the accuracy forecasting of the CIT, PIT, VAT and TTR. In most cases, ETS is the second best after BVAR and was superior to ARIMA. The results suggest that the BVAR model is best suited to be used to forecast tax revenues in Zambia with the ETS model as an alternative. The study suggests that the BVAR forecasting methods may also be extended to other smaller taxes to investigate whether they will fit these taxes accurately as it does for major taxes.
Key Words: ARIMA,BVAR, ETS, RMSE, Personal income taxes, Corporate Income tax, Economic growth, Gross fixed capital formation, Inflation rate, Stock market performance, value added taxes, Zambia