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An analysis of hybrid hidden Markov models for cetacean detection
Get PDFEdwardsr, D. J. E. 2025. An analysis of hybrid hidden Markov models for cetacean detection. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/6d13104b-e940-4f3d-aa3d-7ec19d1ee487Thesis (MEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Anthropogenic activities in the ocean have increasingly been found to be detrimental to sea life. Cetaceans are negatively affected by these activities which include environmental pollution, noise pollution and whaling. Research is underway to determine the impact of anthropogenic activities on cetaceans by monitoring behavior and tracking population changes. A popular method for collecting information is known as passive acoustic monitoring. Although useful, this method is limited since it involves manual processing of large amounts of data. The development of algorithms is therefore essential to process data efficiently for detection, classification and tracking of cetaceans. The hidden Markov model (HMM) is a useful machine learning model in this context. Developed in the parallel field of speech recognition, the HMM is well suited to processing sound. However, the HMM is still being developed in the field of cetacean detection. This field is challenging as there is a need to detect different cetacean species accurately in various ocean habitats, with multiple sources of noise interference and therefore varying quality of recorded data. It is possible that extensions developed for the HMM can be adapted and utilized in this context. The unique advantages of these extensions have the potential to improve the performance of the HMM in the ocean environment. In this thesis, two extensions to the HMM were explored. These are the factorial hidden Markov model (FHMM) and the Bayesian hidden Markov model (Bayesian HMM). In literature, the FHMM has proved capable of modelling several sources at once, allowing the model to both pre-process and handle noise. The Bayesian HMM has useful characteristics as well, with literature showing that in some cases a Bayesian approach allows the model to fit data more accurately. For the development of the FHMM extension, signals were combined with noise to determine the efficacy with which the FHMM model could detect a specific signal. Results of the FHMM were compared to more classic approaches such as the Gaussian mixture model HMM and Gaussian HMM. Two speech databases and one whale database were used for testing. Results were collected using an isolated speech approach and the Viterbi approach. It was found that the FHMM consistently produced higher performance metrics than the other models. The isolated speech approach produced the best results, which was to be expected since it is a popular approach for speech recognition systems. The whale database showed the strongest results, suggesting that this technique will have promising applications for cetacean classification and research. The Bayesian HMM expansion was explored using both synthetic and real data. It was shown in synthetic tests that the Bayesian approach has several advantages such as the ability to automatically select the number of components. Additionally, the Bayesian approach was able to fit models more accurately on synthetic data. However, the success of this model was limited to real data. When multi-class classifiers were created on the whale database, no clear increase in performance metrics were found. Additionally, the classic expectation maximization HMM approach took less time to train with a similar level of accuracy. The advantage of the Bayesian approach was therefore limited to being able to automatically select the number of components during training. A system named the adaptive noise-robust HMM (ANR-HMM) system was built using both the FHMM and the Bayesian HMM. This system combined the ability of the FHMM to model multiple sources to handle noise and the Bayesian HMM’s ability to train and select the number of components automatically. Threshold based re-training was implemented which allowed the system to update and retain accuracy in varying noise conditions. Final testing showed the ANR-HMM was useful in high to mid-range signal-to-noise ratio contexts. The extensions and functions were compiled into a library and packaged in a practical way for future detection and research. Further applications of these libraries would involve testing larger databases to determine how accurately the extensions and ANR-HMM perform in a variety of ocean habitats. Functionality should be tested in conjunction with other extensions to determine the most effective and accurate approach for the detection of cetaceans. This will more effectively support Ocean conservation.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Menslike aktiwiteite in die oseaan is toenemend gevind om nadelige uitwerking op seelewe to veroorsaak. Walvisse word negatief be¨ınvloed deur hierdie aktiwiteite wat mgewingsbesoedeling, geraasbesoedeling en walvisjag insluit. Navorsing word gedoen om die impak van menslike aktiwiteite op walvisse te bepaal deur monitering van gedrag, sowel as bevolkingsveranderinge. Passiewe akoestiese monitoring is ’n gewilde metode vir die insameling van inligting. Alhoewel nuttig, is hierdie metode beperk aangesien dit handmatige verwerking van groot hoeveelhede data behels. Die ontwikkeling van algoritmes is dus noodsaaklik om data doeltreffend te verwerk vir die opsporing, klassifikasie en waarneming van walvisse. Die hidden Markov model (HMM) is ’n nuttige masjienleermodel in hierdie konteks. HMM is ontwikkel in die parallelle veld van spraakherkenning en is dus geskik vir klank verwerking. Op die gebied van walvisnavorsing bly HMM egter steeds onder ontwikkeling. Hierdie veld is uitdagend aangesien daar ’n behoefte is om alle walvissoorte in hul verskeie oseaanhabitats akkuraat op te spoor, en moet dit geskied tussenin verskeie bronne van geraasbesoedeling en dus wisselende data kwaliteit. Dit word voorgestel dat vordering en navorsing in die gebruik van HMM uitbreidings vir hierdie doeleinde aangepas kan word. Die unieke voordele van hierdie uitbreidings het die potensiaal om die prestasie van HMM in die oseaanekosisteem drasties te verbeter. In hierdie proefskrif is twee uitbreidings van die HMM ondersoek, die factorial hidden Markov model (FHMM) en die Bayesian hidden Markov model (Bayesian HMM). In die literatuur het die FHMM bewys dat dit verskeie bronne tegelyk kan modelleer, wat die model toelaat om beide voorverwerking en verwerking van geraas te hanteer. Die Bayesian HMM het ook nuttige eienskappe, met literatuur wat toon dat ’n Bayesian benadering in sommige gevalle die model toelaat om data meer akkuraat te pas. Vir die ontwikkeling van die FHMM-uitbreiding is seine met geraas gekombineer. Hierdie metode kon die doeltreffendheid waarmee die FHMM-model ’n spesifieke sein opspoor bepaal. Resultate van die FHMM is vergelyk met meer klassieke benaderings soos die Gaussian mixture model HMM en Gaussian HMM. Twee spraakdatabasisse en een walvisdatabasis is vir toets doeleindes gebruik. Resultate is ingesamel deur ’n ge¨ısoleerde spraakbenadering en die Viterbi-benadering. Daar is gevind dat die FHMM konsekwent ho¨er prestasiemetrieke as die ander modelle gelewer het. Die ge¨ısoleerde spraakbenadering het die beste resultate opgelewer, wat verwag is aangesien dit ’n gewilde benadering vir sprekerherkenningstelsels is. Die walvisdatabasis het die sterkste resultate getoon, wat daarop dui dat hierdie tegniek belowende toepassings vir walvisklassifikasie en navorsing sal bied. Die Bayesian HMM-uitbreiding is ondersoek deur beide sintetiese en werklike data te gebruik. Dit is in sintetiese toetse getoon dat die Bayesian benadering verskeie voordele het, soos die vermo¨e om outomaties die aantal komponente te kies. Daarbenewens kon die Bayesian benadering modelle meer akkuraat op sintetiese data pas. Die sukses van hierdie model was egter beperk tot werklike data. Toe multi-klas klassifiseerders op die walvisdatabasis geskep is, is geen duidelike toename in prestasiemetrieke gevind nie. Daarbenewens het die klassieke verwagtingsmaksimerings-HMM-benadering minder tyd geneem om op te lei met ’n soortgelyke vlak van akkuraatheid. Die voordeel van die Bayesian benadering was dus beperk tot die vermo¨e om outomaties die aantal komponente tydens opleiding te kies. ’n Stelsel genaamd die adaptive noise-robust HMM (ANR-HMM) stelsel is gebou met behulp van beide die FHMM en die Bayesian HMM. Hierdie stelsel het die vermo¨e van die FHMM om verskeie bronne te modelleer om geraas te hanteer, gekombineer met die Bayesian HMM se vermo¨e om outomaties die aantal komponente tydens opleiding te kies. Drempelgebaseerde heropleiding is ge¨ımplementeer wat die stelsel toegelaat het om akkuraatheid in verskillende geraasomstandighede op te dateer en te behou. Finale toetsing het getoon dat die ANR-HMM nuttig was in ho¨e tot middel-reeks sein-tot-geraasverhouding kontekste. Die uitbreidings en funksies is in ’n biblioteek saamgestel en op ’n praktiese manier verpak vir toekomstige beskikbaarheid en navorsing. Verdere toepassings van hierdie biblioteke kan die gebruik en toets van ’n groter databasis behels. Die proses sal onder andere hulp bepaal hoe akkuraat die uitbreidings en ANR-HMM in ’n verskeidenheid oseaanhabitats presteer. Funksionaliteit moet in samewerking met ander uitbreidings getoets word om die mees effektiewe en akkurate benadering vir die opsporing van walvisse te bepaal. Dit sal oseaanbewaring meer effektief ondersteun.Master
Foundation phase educators' strategies to promote inclusive classroom culture
Get PDFThesis (MEdPsych)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Jagles, C. S. 2025. Foundation phase educators' strategies to promote inclusive classroom culture. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/7f27329a-c59f-4a8b-8353-ccd41980a702ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study aimed to examine the teaching strategies utilised by educators in the Foundation Phase to promote an inclusive classroom culture that addresses the needs of all learners, with a particular focus on average learners who are often overlooked in academic and literary settings. Average learners present a unique challenge as they neither need intensive support nor significantly excel. The study took place within the context of mainstream Foundation Phase classrooms in the Western Cape province and sought to uncover how educators can support the academic and social development of average learners to ensure they are neither neglected nor overshadowed by the attention given to high achievers and learners with special needs.
The study adopted a social constructivist perspective and used a participatory action learning and action research methodology which emphasised collaborative inquiry between educators and the researcher (Rowell et al., 2016). The educators, all of whom had extensive experience in the Foundation Phase, worked together to explore, implement, and reflect on strategies aimed at fostering a more supportive and inclusive classroom environment for average learners. Using the ecological systems theory of Bronfenbrenner and inclusive education models, the research explored how teacher expectations, classroom dynamics, and teaching strategies impact the learning experiences of average learners.
Data were collected through focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, and a reflexive researcher’s journal (Hathorn, 2020). Thematic analysis of the data provided important insights on the difficulties educators encounter while taking into account average learners’ needs, as well as practical strategies for promoting and creating a positive classroom culture. These strategies include differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, and the use of reflexive praxis to ensure every learner feels valued and engaged.
The findings revealed that strategies such as differentiated instruction, cooperative learning, and reflective teaching practices significantly promote inclusivity for average learners. The findings further highlighted the importance of raising awareness to recognise and support the often-overlooked average learners in classrooms, and the necessity for continued professional development to equip educators with effective, practical tools for inclusive teaching. This study contributes to the growing body of research on inclusive education and provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers aiming to create more equitable learning environments in the Foundation Phase.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die studie het ondersoek ingestel na opvoeders se strategieë in die Grondslagfase om 'n inklusiewe klaskamerkultuur te bevorder wat die behoeftes van alle leerders aanspreek, met spesifieke fokus op gemiddelde leerders wat dikwels in akademiese en literêre omgewings oor die hoof gesien word. Die navorsing is in die konteks van hoofstroom Grondslagfase-klaskamers in die Wes-Kaap provinsie gedoen en het ten doel gehad om te onthul hoe opvoeders die akademiese en sosiale ontwikkeling van gemiddelde leerders kan ondersteun om te verseker dat hulle nie verwaarloos of oorskadu word deur die aandag wat aan hoogpresterende leerders en leerders met spesiale behoeftes gegee word. Die studie is vanuit 'n sosiaal-konstruktivistiese perspektief benader en het 'n deelnemende aksie-leer- en aksienavorsingsmetodologie gebruik, wat samewerkende ondersoek tussen opvoeders en die navorser beklemtoon. Die opvoeders, wat almal uitgebreide ervaring in die Grondslagfase gehad het, het saamgewerk om strategieë te verken, te implementeer en te reflekteer op die bevordering van 'n meer inklusiewe en ondersteunende klaskameromgewing vir gemiddelde leerders. Deur Bronfenbrenner se ekologiese stelsels teorie en modelle van inklusiewe onderwys te benut, het die navorsing ondersoek hoe onderwyserverwagtinge, klaskamer dinamika en onderrigstrategieë die leerervarings van gemiddelde leerders beïnvloed. Data is versamel deur middel van semi-gestruktureerde onderhoude, fokusgroepbesprekings en die navorser se reflektiewe joernaal. Tematiese analise van die data het sleutelinsigte onthul oor die uitdagings wat opvoeders mee gekonfronteer word om die behoeftes van gemiddelde leerders aan te spreek, sowel as praktiese strategieë om 'n positiewe klaskamerkultuur te bevorder en te skep. Hierdie strategieë sluit gedifferensieerde onderrig, samewerkende leer en die gebruik van reflektiewe praktyk in om te verseker dat elke leerder waardeer en betrokke voel. Die bevindings het beklemtoon hoe belangrik dit is om meer aandag te gee aan gemiddelde leerders wat dikwels misgekyk word, en die noodsaaklikheid van voortdurende professionele ontwikkeling om opvoeders met effektiewe, praktiese hulpmiddels vir inklusiewe onderrig toe te rus.Hierdie studie dra by tot die groeiende navorsingsveld oor inklusiewe onderwys en bied waardevolle insigte vir opvoeders en beleidmakers wat streef om meer gelyke leeromgewings te skep.Master
Sino-African relations: a comparative case study analysis of the foreign policy objectives, internal factors and external factors influencing Sino -Namibian and Sino-South African relations
Get PDFThesis (MA)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Shatona, L. 2025. Sino-African Relations: A Comparative Case Study Analysis of the Foreign Policy Objectives, Internal Factors and External Factors Influencing Sino -Namibian and Sino-South African Relations. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/8296d208-c6d7-407f-aabb-4fbfb3af3326ENGLISH ABSTRACT: China’s interest in establishing diplomatic relations with African countries has made Sino-African relations a major topic of interest to several scholars. The Sino-African relationship is not new, it has a long-shared history and engagement with many African countries since the 1950s and throughout the decolonisation of the continent. In Southern Africa, China’s relations with Namibia and South Africa had roots during Apartheid and culminated in the establishment of diplomatic relations with both countries during the 1990s, following the end of Apartheid. China’s reasons for and interests in establishing ties with African countries such as Namibia and South Africa vary. They range from strategic economic opportunities, such as a desire to access African raw materials, to political interests, such as reforming the existing international system and weakening Taiwan’s diplomatic influence in Africa. Conversely, Namibia and South Africa’s foreign policies towards China are influenced by various objectives and internal and external factors. However, there is a lack of literature that draws comparisons between Namibia and South Africa's foreign policies within the context of Sino-African relations. There is also limited research on the Sino-Namibian relationship which makes this study a unique point of interest. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of the Sino-Namibian and Sino-South African relationships to broadly analyse the similarities and differences between the two relationships. The comparison is based on the foreign policy objectives of the two African countries, the internal and external determinants of the foreign policies of both countries within the context of relationships with China. The study used the theory of Realism to analyse the national interests of both countries in their relations with China, as well as the Role Approach to identify and explain the national roles that Namibia and South Africa occupy in their relationships with China. The Sino-Namibian and Sino-South African relationships share many similarities and vast differences. The two countries of Namibia and South Africa share similar foreign policy viewpoints on China and South-South cooperation. Internally, both countries have natural resources, similar historical experiences, and similar views on multilateralism. They aspire to align with like-minded countries. However, there are vast internal differences in population, geography, economy, and strategic importance, where South Africa outranked Namibia. Externally, both countries are perceived differently internationally and occupy different positions within the international system. The findings illustrate that the Sino-South African relationship is comparably more significant than the Sino-Namibian relationship. This can be due to both China and South Africa acknowledging each other’s importance within the international system as regional powers. The study provides information on the factors influencing the Sino-Namibian and Sino-South African relationships. Therefore, this makes the study unique as they are few, if any, similar studies that compare Namibia and South Africa in this regard. Furthermore, more studies are required to cover many aspects of Sino-Namibian relationship.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar nie.Master
Design and optimisation of a modular photovoltaic – concentrating solar power hybrid plant
Get PDFGardiner, B. W. 2025. Design and Optimisation of a Modular
Photovoltaic – Concentrating Solar Power Hybrid Plant. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/8531e11b-d1db-4b0b-8805-dd69a3679108Thesis (MEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies in a hybrid plant is a potential solution to some challenges faced by standalone PV systems. While PV technology is cost-effective, its output is limited to sunlight hours and is variable. Installing additional PV capacity without mitigating this variability can result in several drawbacks such as curtailment, diminishing returns, and the “duck-curve” phenomenon. To address this variability challenge, one approach is to store generated PV electricity in a battery energy storage system (BESS); however, these are expensive in large-scale utility projects. Alternatively, a PV system can be combined with a flexible power generation system, such as CSP technology, that can generate power as PV output diminishes. However, two primary challenges of establishing a CSP system is the long construction time and significant upfront capital required. These challenges could be mitigated by utilising a modular plant layout. This approach involves integrating several smaller-scale systems to collectively achieve the same capacity as a single, large-scale system. Therefore, this study investigates the design and optimisation of a hybrid plant comprising an array of 30MWe PV-CSP modules. Additionally, gas-fired systems are incorporated to provide backup power and ensure firm power generation. Each module integrates a PV system, a power tower CSP with thermal energy storage, and a gas-fired system for backup power. This configuration leverages the benefits of both PV and CSP technologies while the modular approach addresses the challenges associated with large-scale CSP systems, such as high upfront costs and lengthy construction periods. Based on performance and cost data, it was unclear whether gas-fired internal combustion engines (ICEs) or steam boilers were more cost effective as the gas-fired component. Hence, two module configurations were investigated: PV-CSP-ICE and PV-CSP-Boiler. A Python-based application was developed to integrate existing models with custom computational models to simulate each module configuration using hourly time series data over a full year to generate economic and performance metrics. Moreover, a Python-based financial model was developed to evaluate the financial performance of each configuration over its economic life. The PV-CSP-Boiler module configuration is more cost-effective than the PV-CSP-ICE configuration, primarily attributed the boiler system’s lower installation cost. To investigate the possible economic benefits of a modular plant layout, a single 120MWe plant was compared with a plant comprising 4 x 30Mwe modules. Both layouts incorporate the PV-CSP-Boiler configuration and generate approximately 1023GWhe annually once all components are constructed. Despite the earlier revenue generation of the modular layout, the large-scale plant demonstrates better economic performance across all investigated metrics. This is primarily attributed to the modular plant’s 9% higher levelised cost of electricity (LCOE). Based on the modular approach’s additional advantages, such as less susceptibility to single points of failure and greater flexibility in plant capacity, a more comprehensive financial and economic analysis is necessary to determine which option is the better investment for a given application.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie uitdagings kan versag word deur ‘n modulêre aanleguitleg te gebruik. Hierdie benadering behels die integrasie van verskeie kleinerskaalse stelsels om gesamentlik dieselfde kapasiteit as ‘n enkele, grootskaalse stelsel te bereik. Daarom ondersoek hierdie studie die ontwerp en optimering van ‘n hibriedaanleg bestaande uit ‘n reeks 30MWe fotovoltaïese-gekonsentreerde sonkrag modules. Daarbenewens word gasaangedrewe stelsels geïnkorporeer om rugsteunkrag te verskaf en vaste kragopwekking te verseker. Elke module integreer ‘n fotovoltaïese-stelsel, ‘n kragtoring-gekonsentreerde sonkrag met termiese energieberging, en ‘n gasaangedrewe stelsel vir rugsteunkrag. Hierdie konfigurasie benut die voordele van beide fotovoltaïeseen gekonsentreerde sonkrag-tegnologieë terwyl die modulêre benadering die uitdagings wat verband hou met grootskaalse gekonsentreerde sonkrag-stelsels, soos hoë aanvangskoste en lang konstruksieperiodes, aanspreek. Gebaseer op prestasie- en kostedata, was dit onduidelik of gasaangedrewe interne verbrandingsenjins of stoomketels meer koste-effektief was as die gasaangedrewe komponent. Dus is twee modulekonfigurasies ondersoek: fotovoltaïese-gekonsentreerde sonkrag-Interne verbrandingsenjin en fotovoltaïese-gekonsentreerde sonkrag-Ketel. ‘n Python-gebaseerde toepassing is ontwikkel om bestaande modelle met pasgemaakte berekeningsmodelle te integreer om elke modulekonfigurasie te simuleer met behulp van uurlikse tydreeksdata oor ‘n volle jaar om ekonomiese en prestasiemaatstawwe te genereer. Daarbenewens is ‘n Python-gebaseerde finansiële model ontwikkel om die finansiële prestasie van elke konfigurasie oor sy ekonomiese lewe te evalueer. Die fotovoltaïese-gekonsentreerde sonkrag-Ketel modulekonfigurasie is meer koste-effektief as die fotovoltaïese-gekonsentreerde sonkrag-Interne verbrandingsenjins konfigurasie, hoofsaaklik toegeskryf aan die ketelstelsel se laer installeringskoste. Om die moontlike ekonomiese voordele van ‘n modulêre aanleguitleg te ondersoek, is ‘n enkele 120MWe aanleg vergelyk met ‘n aanleg bestaande uit 4x30MWe modules. Beide uitlegte inkorporeer die fotovoltaïese-gekonsentreerde sonkrag-Ketel konfigurasie en genereer ongeveer 1023GWhe jaarliks sodra die konstruksie van alle komponente voltooi is. Ten spyte van die vroeër inkomstegenerering van die modulêre uitleg, toon die grootskaalse aanleg beter ekonomiese prestasie oor alle ondersoekte maatstawwe. Dit word hoofsaaklik toegeskryf aan die modulêre aanleg se 9% hoër genivelleerde koste van energie. Gebaseer op die modulêre benadering se addisionele voordele, soos minder vatbaarheid vir enkele faalpunte en groter aanpasbaarheid in aanlegkapasiteit, is ‘n meer omvattende finansiële en ekonomiese analise nodig om te bepaal watter opsie die beter belegging vir ‘n gegewe toepassing is.Master
Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA in historically mycobacterium bovis-free African buffalo (syncerus caffer) herds in South Africa
Get PDFMhlophe, S. K. 2025. Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex (MTBC) DNA in Historically Mycobacterium bovis Free African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) Herds in South Africa. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: hhttps://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/8e4ba016-575d-473e-a9f1-88dea9aa2699Thesis (MSc)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis investigated the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA, specifically Mycobacterium bovis, in African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) herds in South Africa (SA) that were historically free of this pathogen. Chapter 1 establishes tuberculosis (TB) as a persistent global health threat, emphasizing MTBC’s complex adaptation strategies, genomic diversity, and host-specific preferences. M. bovis is a multi-host pathogen, which impacts human, wildlife and livestock health; infection intensifies ecological pressures, particularly in SA’s unique biodiversity hotspots. African buffalo serve as maintenance hosts for M. bovis, particularly in game reserves and parks where the disease is endemic in SA. These buffalo can perpetuate M. bovis transmission within ecosystems where they roam, increasing cross-species infection risks to other wildlife and livestock. This chapter also highlights the critical ecological role of African buffalo as a keystone species, underscoring the challenges of controlling M. bovis in complex multi-host systems, such as the Kruger National Park (KNP). Chapter 2 describes a novel, culture-independent, mycobacterial direct detection approach, using Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ (ONT) targeted next generation sequencing (tNGS), on oronasal swabs from African buffalo. This method addresses considerable limitations of conventional mycobacterial culture, which is often slow and vulnerable to contamination. This direct detection method enabled the identification of MTBC, MTBC cooccurring with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), and NTM DNA in buffalo that presented with evidence of immune sensitization, by employing PCR amplification of multiple Mycobacterium targets, followed by ONT tNGS. These results support the use of ONT tNGS as a complementary tool for investigating TB in valuable wildlife, such as the buffalo investigated in the study. The study concludes that rapid detection could facilitate early diagnosis, which is critical to prevent the spread of disease. This chapter has also been accepted for publication, with the candidate as first author. In Chapter 3, the broader implications of this research are discussed. The findings advocate for using ONT tNGS in monitoring M. bovis within low-risk, high-value African buffalo populations, sustaining ecotourism, and protecting biodiversity. By applying advanced detection technology, this research supports improved disease management strategies, particularly within complex multi-host ecosystems, like those found in SA. These insights underscore the need for innovative diagnostics that aid in curtailing TB spread, which protects animal health, the wildlife industry, and associated livelihoods.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie tesis ondersoek die opsporing van Mycobacterium tuberculosis-kompleks (MTBC) DNA, spesifiek Mycobacterium bovis, in Suid-Afrikaanse (SA) kuddes van Afrika-buffels (Syncerus caffer) wat histories vry van hierdie patogeen was. Hoofstuk 1 beklemtoon tuberkulose (TB) as 'n aanhoudende wêreldwye gesondheidsbedreiging, met die fokus op die komplekse aanpassingsmeganismes, genomiese diversiteit en gasheerspesifieke voorkeure van MTBC. M. bovis is 'n multi-gasheer patogeen wat 'n impak het op menslike, wild- en veegesondheid; infeksie verhoog ekologiese druk, veral in SA se unieke biodiversiteithotspots. Afrika-buffels dien as onderhoudsgashere vir M. bovis, spesifiek in wildreservate en parke waar die siekte endemies is in SA. Hierdie buffels kan M. bovis-oordrag in ekosisteme waarin hulle beweeg, handhaaf en sodoende die risiko van kruisspesie-infeksie na ander wilden vee-spesies verhoog. Hierdie hoofstuk beklemtoon ook die kritieke ekologiese rol van Afrika-buffels as 'n sleutelspesie en die uitdagings verbonde aan die beheer van M. bovis in komplekse multi-gasheerstelsels soos die Krugerwildtuin (KNP). Hoofstuk 2 beskryf 'n nuwe, kultuuronafhanklike, mikobakteriese direkte opsporingsbenadering deur gebruik te maak van Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) se geteikende volgende-generasie-sekwensering (tNGS) op oronasale deppermonsters van Afrika-buffels. Hierdie metode spreek die beduidende beperkings van konvensionele mikobakteriële kultuur aan, wat dikwels stadig en vatbaar is vir kontaminasie. Hierdie direkte opsporingsmetode het die identifisering van MTBC, MTBC saam met nie-tuberkulose mikobakterieë (NTM), en NTM DNA in buffels met tekens van immuunsensitisering moontlik gemaak, deur gebruik te maak van PCR-amplifikasie van verskeie Mycobacterium-teikens, gevolg deur ONT tNGS. Hierdie resultate ondersteun die gebruik van ONT tNGS as 'n aanvullende instrument vir die ondersoek van TB in waardevolle wildspesies soos die buffels wat in hierdie studie ondersoek is. Die studie bevind dat vinnige opsporing vroeë diagnose moontlik maak, wat krities is om die verspreiding van die siekte te voorkom. Hierdie hoofstuk is ook aanvaar vir publikasie, met die kandidaat as eerste skrywer. In Hoofstuk 3 word die breër implikasies van hierdie navorsing bespreek. Die bevindinge pleit vir die gebruik van ONT tNGS in die monitering van M. bovis binne lae-risiko, hoëwaarde Afrika-buffelpopulasies, om ekotoerisme te ondersteun en biodiversiteit te beskerm. Deur gevorderde opsporingstegnologie toe te pas, ondersteun hierdie navorsing verbeterde siektebestuurstrategieë, spesifiek binne komplekse multi-gasheer-ekosisteme soos dié in SA. Hierdie insigte beklemtoon die behoefte aan innoverende diagnostiek wat die verspreiding van TB kan beperk en sodoende diergesondheid, die wildbedryf en lewensbestaan kan beskerm.Master
Corporate social responsibility perceptions : a South African institutional investor perspective
Get PDFThesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Nel, K. 2025. Corporate social responsibility perceptions: A South African institutional investor perspective. Unpublished doctoral dissertation. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/8f4ab97b-9826-47c2-8828-26c3f6aa4a7dENGLISH SUMMARY: Companies are placing increased emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities to address social and economic issues and to create value for stakeholders. Given the importance of corporate investment in CSR activities, it is essential to understand how CSR practices and performance are perceived by investors. Institutional investors can have a substantial impact on responsible corporate practices, given the size of their investments and related voting and negotiation powers. By reflecting on institutional investors' perceptions of sustainability practices, researchers can obtain a better understanding of the complexities related to responsible investment. However, there is limited scholarly evidence about how institutional investors process CSR information and which sustainability factors influence their decisions. Companies and investors in developing countries are challenged with multiple sustainability concerns that differ from the drivers of CSR in developed countries. Therefore, this study explored South African institutional investors' perceptions of CSR practices. Four research objectives were addressed. Firstly, CSR terminology was explored from an investment perspective. A systematic literature review was performed by conducting content and thematic analyses on 94 articles. The findings confirm that CSR has remained relevant in the investment context. Eight key dimensions were identified to describe CSR in this context, namely social concerns, stakeholders, economic factors, environment, action, voluntarism, ethics, and sustainability. These eight core dimensions were combined in a comprehensive, context-specific CSR definition. Secondly, the main CSR themes that institutional investors value were identified. This was done by analysing the sustainability themes on which selected local asset managers focused in their stewardship reports as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that they addressed through their investment mandates. The findings of the content analysis indicate that prioritised sustainability themes include climate action, infrastructure development and social considerations. Promising investment opportunities in companies that address social issues related to the health and well-being of society (SDG 3) and broadening access to quality education (SDG 4) were highlighted. Thirdly, South African institutional investors' perceptions of CSR concerns were explored through conducting semi structured interviews with asset managers. The findings revealed that CSR should form part of the primary purpose of an investee company. Asset managers focus on material and industry specific CSR concerns when making investment decisions. Factors that hindered the inclusion of CSR practices in decision-making included the relatively small local investable market, a limited client demand for sustainable investments, and insufficient disclosure of material sustainability information. The interviewees were positive about social and economic infrastructure investment opportunities. Refined regulation and client education could improve CSR practices in the local investment context. Lastly, the challenges that asset managers face to include social factors in their sustainable investment decisions were explored. The interview findings suggest that the considered asset managers focused on respecting human rights and maintaining healthy stakeholder relationships. Prominent challenges to incorporate social considerations in investment decisions included difficulty to measure social impact, the lack of standardised sustainability reporting guidelines pre-2023 and social washing. The need was therefore identified to develop a social impact measurement specifically for institutional investors in emerging markets.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Maatskappye plaas toenemend klem op korporatiewe sosiale verantwoordelikheid (KSV) aktiwiteite om sosiale en ekonomiese kwessies aan te spreek en om waarde vir belanghebbendes te skep. Gegewe die belangrikheid van korporatiewe investering in KSV aktiwiteite, is dit noodsaaklik om te verstaan hoe KSV-praktyke en prestasie deur beleggers waargeneem word. Institusionele beleggers kan gegewe die grootte van hul beleggings en verwante stem- en onderhandelingsmagte 'n wesenlike impak op verantwoordelike korporatiewe praktyke he. Navorsers eur na te dink oor institusionele beleggers se persepsies van volhoubaarheidspraktyke. Daar is egter beperkte wetenskaplike bewyse rakende die maniere waarop institusionele beleggers KSV-inligting verwerk en watter volhoubaarheidsfaktore hul besluite beinvloed. Maatskappye en beleggers in ontwikkelende lande word uitgedaag met veelvuldige bekommernisse rakende volhoubaarheid wat nie noodwendig dieselfde is as die dryfkragte van KSV in ontwikkelde lande nie. Hierdie studie het dus Suid- Afrikaanse institusionele beleggers se persepsies van KSV-praktyke ondersoek. Vier navorsingsdoelwitte is aangespreek. Eerstens, is KSV-terminologie vanuit 'n beleggingsperspektief ondersoek. 'n Sistematiese literatuuroorsig is uitgevoer deur middel van inhoud en tematiese ontledings op 94 ewekniegeevalueerde artikels. Die bevindinge bevestig dat KSV relevant bly in die beleggingskonteks. Agt kerndimensies is geidentifiseer om KSV in die beleggingskonteks te beskryf, naamlik sosiale bekommernisse, belanghebbendes, ekonomiese faktore, omgewing, aksie, vrywilligheid, etiek, en volhoubaarheid. Hierdie agt kerndimensies is gekombineer in 'n omvattende, konteksspesifieke definisie. Tweedens, is die hoof KSV-temas waaraan institusionele beleggers van waarde heg geidentifiseer. Dit is gedoen deur die volhoubaarheidstemas waarop geselekteerde plaaslike batebestuurders in hul volhoubaarheidsverslae gefokus het, asook die Volhoubare Ontwikkelingsdoelwitte (SDG's) wat hulle deur hul beleggingsmandate aangespreek het, te ontleed. Die bevindinge van die inhoudsontleding dui daarop dat geprioritiseerde volhoubaarheidstemas klimaataksie, infrastruktuurontwikkeling en sosiale oorwegings insluit. Belowende beleggingsgeleenthede in maatskappye wat maatskaplike kwessies wat verwant is aan die gesondheid en welstand van die samelewing (SDG 3) en uitbreiding van toegang tot kwaliteit onderwys (SDG 4) is uitgelig. Derdens, is Suid-Afrikaanse institusionele beleggers se persepsies van KSV-kwessies ondersoek deur semi-gestruktureerde onderhoude met batebestuurders te voer. Die bevindinge het aan die lig gebring dat KSV deel moet vorm van die primere doel van 'n maatskappy waarin bele is. Batebestuurders fokus op wesenlike en bedryfspesifieke KSV kwessies wanneer beleggingsbesluite geneem word. Faktore wat die insluiting van KSV-praktyke by besluitneming belemmer het, sluit in die relatief klein plaaslike belebare mark, 'n beperkte klientvraag na volhoubare beleggings en onvoldoende openbaarmaking van wesenlike volhoubaarheidsinligting. Die batebestuurders was positief oor maatskaplike en ekonomiese infrastruktuurbeleggingsgeleenthede. Verfynde regulering en kliente-opvoeding kan KSV-praktyke in die plaaslike beleggingskonteks verbeter. Laastens, is die uitdagings wat batebestuurders in die gesig staar om sosiale faktore in hul volhoubare beleggingsbesluite in te sluit ondersoek. Die onderhoud bevindinge dui daarop dat die batebestuurders daarop gefokus het om menseregte te respekteer en gesonde belangegroepverhoudings te handhaaf. Prominente uitdagings om sosiale oorwegings deel van die beleggingsbesluit te maak, sluit in probleme om sosiale impak te meet, die gebrek aan gestandaardiseerde volhoubaarheidsverslaggewingsriglyne voor 2023 en misleidende sosiale aansprake. 'n Behoefte is dus geidentifiseer om 'n gemeenskaplike impakmeting spesifiek vir institusionele beleggers in ontwikkelende markte te ontwikkel.Doctora
A bridge between past and present : the bidirectional function of the chronicler’s genealogies (1 Chronicles 1-9) in the late persian period Israel
Get PDFThesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Koo, B. 2025. A Bridge between Past and Present: The Bidirectional Function of the Chronicler’s Genealogies (1 Chronicles 1-9) in the Late Persian Period Israel. Unpublished doctoral dissertation. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/97f9fd0f-bab3-43eb-b87a-6cfcb6821da1ENGLISH SUMMARY: This study was conducted to reveal that the genealogies of Chronicles, especially those in 1 Chronicles 1-9, serve as a bridge between the past and the present, and between Chronicles and other biblical texts. Chronicles has long been marginalized in Old Testament studies, and the genealogies in particular have been overlooked. However, as studies of Chronicles have become more active in recent decades, interest in genealogies has also increased. This study used literary analysis, especially comparative analysis with the Pentateuch, and rhetorical criticism of the literature of the post-exilic community in the late Persian period, as its methodology. Through this, it was possible to understand the intentions and perspectives of the Chronicler and to grasp the context and needs of the community at that time. The results of the study confirmed that the genealogies of Chronicles were used as theological and literary tools beyond mere historical records. The genealogies emphasize the concept of “All Israel” to suggest a comprehensive community identity, present the Davidic dynasty and the Jerusalem-centered political system as an ideal model, and emphasize the importance of the priesthood and the worship community centered on the temple. In addition, they explain Israel’s identity through themes such as God’s selection, covenant, retribution, and purification. This study has revealed that the genealogy of Chronicles is not only an important element that shows the unity of Chronicles as a whole, but also plays a key role in understanding the literary development of the Old Testament. Through this, it is confirmed that Chronicles is not simply a repetition of Israel’s history, but an important part of the literary history of the Old Testament. The significance of this study is that by revealing the bidirectional function of the genealogy of Chronicles, it increases the understanding of the unity of Chronicles and, furthermore, provides new insights into the study of the literary formation of the Old Testament.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie studie is gedoen om te onthul dat die geslagsregisters van Kronieke, veral die in 1 Kronieke 1-9, dien as ‘n brug tussen die verlede en die hede, en tussen Kronieke en ander Bybelse tekste. Kronieke is vir ‘n lang periode gemarginaliseer in Ou-Testamentiese studies, en veral die geslagsregisters is oor die hoof gesien. Soos studies van Kronieke egter in die afgelope dekades meer aktief geword het, het belangstelling in geslagsregisters ook toegeneem. Hierdie studie het literere analise, veral vergelykende analise met die Pentateug, en retoriese kritiek op die literatuur van die post-ballingskapgemeenskap in die laat-Persiese tydperk as metodologie gebruik. Hierdeur was dit moontlik om die bedoelings en perspektiewe van die Kronis te verstaan en om die konteks en behoeftes van die destydse gemeenskap te begryp. Die resultate van die studie het bevestig dat die geslagsregisters van Kronieke as teologiese en literere hulpmiddels gebruik is en nie as blote historiese rekords nie. Die geslagsregisters beklemtoon die konsep van “Die hele Israel” om ‘n omvattende gemeenskapsidentiteit voor te stel, die Dawidiese dinastie en die Jerusalem-gesentreerde politieke stelsel as ‘n ideale model voor te stel, en die belangrikheid van die priesterskap en die aanbiddingsgemeenskap wat by die tempel gesentreer is, te beklemtoon. Daarbenewens verduidelik hulle Israel se identiteit deur temas soos God se verkiesing, verbond, vergelding en reiniging. Hierdie studie het aan die lig gebring dat die geslagsregisters van Kronieke nie net ‘n belangrike element is wat die eenheid van Kronieke as geheel aantoon nie, maar ook ‘n sleutelrol speel in die verstaan van die literere ontwikkeling van die Ou Testament. Hierdeur word bevestig dat Kronieke nie bloot ‘n herhaling van Israel se geskiedenis is nie, maar ‘n belangrike deel van die literatuurgeskiedenis van die Ou Testament. Die betekenis van hierdie studie is dat deur die tweerigtingfunksie van die genealogiee van Kronieke te openbaar, dit die begrip van die eenheid van Kronieke verhoog en verder nuwe insigte verskaf in die bestudering van die literere vorming van die Ou Testament.Doctora
Reimagining and reigniting confidence in intermediate phase pre-service teachers through their approach to Visual Arts education
Get PDFThesis (DPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Biyela, S. 2025. Reimagining and reigniting confidence in intermediate phase pre-service teachers through their approach to Visual Arts education. Unpublished doctoral dissertation. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/b1446541-cfc6-441a-b0b9-a90207569e04ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The South African Revised White Paper on Arts, Culture and Heritage (RSA, 2013:10) highlights the impact of “the absence of an effective educational system, high rates of illiteracy, and extreme poverty, which compound the cultural deprivation of the majority”. These issues were exacerbated by colonialism and apartheid. The Revised White Paper emphasises the crucial role of arts, culture and heritage in societies and their value in driving development and social change. Art education should be a key tool for social transformation and tackling societal challenges in democratic South Africa. The aim of the study was to practically explore a range of pedagogical approaches (teaching methods and practices) to build capacity and confidence in student teachers who will be delivering the Intermediate Phase Visual Arts curriculum in the South African context. The study's theoretical framework centres around decoloniality and decolonisation in and through art education. The objectives of the study were to design and deliver the Visual Arts teacher training course throughout 2021–2023 at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), critically reflect on personal experiences of teaching and learning in Visual Arts in the South African context, critically reflect on experiences of teaching and learning with student teachers enrolled in the BEd Intermediate Phase studies programme at CPUT and, lastly, to contribute insight into relevant pedagogical approaches to teacher training, specifically in Visual Arts for the Intermediate Phase in the South African context. Within the broad context of interpretive, qualitative research, an action research design in the context of a case study was used. This allowed for in-depth insight into the teaching and learning experiences of Bachelor in Education students enrolled for the Visual Arts course at CPUT from multiple perspectives in a real-life context. Data was collected through individual interviews, group discussions, observation and reflections written by the students and analysed through inductive content analysis. An autoethnographic component was included as part of the research since this enabled the researcher to take an active, systematic view of personal experiences concerning student participants. It was revealed that the following aspects contributed to student teachers’ confidence and capacity: exposure to art, complexities in negotiating sociocultural diversity and process, and development and ownership. Other responses suggested hidden longings, feelings of shame and deprivation, finding self, own voice and a safe space, embracing imperfections and lastly, teamwork and community. The results of the research revealed that there is a need to create inclusive pedagogies in art education for South African classrooms. Capacity and confidence can be built in future teachers if Visual Arts teacher-training courses introduce a variety of techniques, especially techniques focusing on freedom and experimentation, to create safe environments for students who have not had prior exposure to art, if it includes regular visits and exposure to local, contemporary art, by using pedagogical approaches that are reflexive, include group work, are responsive to local contexts and encourage the use of indigenous languages and symbolism.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar nie.Doctora
Reading Ezekiel 4 and 37 through a lens of trauma and migration in the context of the Dutch Reformed Church
Get PDFThesis (MTh)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Hutten, K. 2025. Reading Ezekiel 4 and 37 through a Lens of Trauma
and Migration in the Context of the Dutch Reformed Church. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/bbee36e2-a8d9-4984-ab88-3d1e0f1d0edfENGLISH SUMMARY: Migration is a primary axis of human existence, and people have been moving across the globe throughout history. For many, migrating is a choice, but others are forced to flee their homes due to life-threatening circumstances. Forced migration produces many distressing experiences, leaving refugees and migrants traumatised, but it also impacts the receiving community. Therefore, this study focuses on the forced aspect of migration and the associated trauma through a migration theology lens. The prophetic tradition of the Old Testament offers much insight into migration in the ancient world, showing that the experiences then do not differ much from what people in migration experience today. The book of Ezekiel is such a book and shows the journey of a prophet and a community who have experienced war, destruction, and exile and now have found hope in their time of suffering. The texts of Ezekiel 4 and Ezekiel 37:1-11 show how the prophet Ezekiel navigates his trauma and finds hope in the midst of it. Ezekiel 4 focuses on the experience of destruction, and the victims of trauma often blame themselves, which alters their understanding of identity. Thus, the prophet Ezekiel tries to make sense of the exilic community’s circumstances. Ezekiel 37, on the other hand, offers a scenario of hope amid the exilic community’s suffering, with the dry bones rising out of the ashes. These texts show that the book of Ezekiel is both disaster and survival literature. It depicts the suffering and trauma of war and migration. However, it also depicts a prophet who guides the community toward survival and optimism for the future. Migration differs depending on the context; therefore, this study concentrates on the South African context and how local communities respond to the challenge of refugees. Many people come to South Africa in search of asylum after having experienced extremely traumatising events in their own countries. However, South Africa is currently not responding compassionately but is instead leaning towards xenophobia. The Dutch Reformed Church has an important role to play by responding to the refugee dilemma and speaking up against the injustice refugees experience. This study investigates the role the DRC leadership and individual congregations should play in the lives of refugees. By understanding the challenges refugees and the receiving communities face, this study suggests ways for the Church to position itself in the current situationAFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Menslike bestaan is oor die jare heen deur migrasie beinvloed en regdeur die geskiedenis reis mense oral oor wêreld. Vir baie mense is migrasie 'n keuse, maar ander word gedwing om hul tuistes te verlaat as gevolg van lewensbedreigende omstandighede. Gedwonge migrasie veroorsaak baie ontstellende ervarings, wat vlugtelinge en migrante getraumatiseerd laat. Dit het ook 'n impak op die gemeenskap wat die vlugtelinge en migrante ontvang. Daarom fokus hierdie studie op die gedwonge aspek van migrasie en die trauma wat daarmee gepaard gaan deur 'n lens van migrasieteologie. Die profetiese tradisie van die Ou Testament bied goeie insig oor migrasie gedurende die antieke tye en toon dat die ervarings van die antieke wereld nie veel verskil van wat mense vandag tydens migrasie beleef nie. Die boek Esegiel verskaf insig oor die reis van 'n profeet en 'n gemeenskap wat oorlog, vernietiging en ballingskap ervaar het. Deur die trauma wat hulle ervaar, vind hulle tog ook hoop. Die tekste van Esegiel 4 en Esegiel 37:1-14 wys hoe die profeet Esegiel sy trauma oorkom en te midde daarvan, hoop vind. Esegiel 4 fokus op die ervaring van vernietiging en trauma tydens ballingskap. Slagoffers van trauma blameer dikwels hulself, wat hul begrip van identiteit verander. Daarom probeer die profeet Esegiel sin maak van die omstandighede van die gemeenskap. Esegiel 37 skets ‘n prentjie van hoop tydens die lyding gedurende hulle ballingskap, en vergelykbaar is met die visioen, van droe bene wat uit die as uit opstaan. Hierdie tekste wys dat die boek van Esegiel beide ramp en oorlewing as temas het. Dit beeld die lyding en trauma van oorlog en migrasie uit, maar wys ook hoe Esegiel die gemeenskap lei na oorlewing en hoop vir die toekoms. Migrasie verskil tussen kontekste en die fokus van hierdie studie is op die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks en wat die plaaslike samelewing se reaksie is op die uitdaging van vlugtelinge. Baie mense kom na Suid-Afrika opsoek na asiel nadat hulle uit hul tuislande moes vlug. Suid-Afrika reageer egter met xenofobie eerder as met liefde en deernis. Die Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk het 'n belangrike rol om te speel deur op die vlugteling uitdaging te reageer en teen die onreg wat vlugtelinge ervaar, op te staan. Hierdie studie ondersoek daarom die rol wat die NG Kerk se leierskap en individuele gemeentes moet speel in die lewens van vlugtelinge. Hierdie studie stel wyses voor waarop die Kerk haarself kan posisioneer om die huidige uitdaging van vlugtelinge in Suid-Afrika beter te kan hanteer.Master
The compositional portrayal of narrative structure in adventure video games: a study of the creative approaches in GRIS
Get PDFThesis (MMus)--Stellenbosch University, 2025.Loubser, M. M. N. 2025. The compositional portrayal of narrative structure in adventure video games: a study of the creative approaches in GRIS. Unpublished masters thesis. Stellenbosch: Stellenbosch University [online]. Available: https://scholar.sun.ac.za/items/bbff2ec8-5db1-4f1c-9f6a-d164034b5492ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis examines the compositional techniques used to portray narrative structure in the adventure video game GRIS. Video game music has evolved into a critical component of the gaming experience, particularly within narrative-driven genres like adventure games, where music enhances emotional immersion and communicates themes. This study explores how GRIS uses musical compositions to support and convey its storyline, which is centred around grief and emotional healing. The research adopts a grounded theory approach, conducting an in-depth case study analysis of GRIS, focusing on how its music aligns with the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Through action research cycles and personal gameplay analysis, the study reveals the distinct compositional strategies that correlate with each stage, incorporating diegetic and non-diegetic elements to amplify player engagement and reinforce the narrative's emotional depth. This study aims to contribute to the growing field of video game music research, emphasizing the importance of music as a narrative tool in gaming. Findings encourage further discourse on the intersection of music and narrative within interactive media and suggest practical insights for composers and developers.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie tesis ondersoek die komposisie-tegnieke wat gebruik word om narratiewe struktuur uit te
beeld in die avontuur-videospeletjie GRIS. Videospeletjie-musiek het ontwikkel tot 'n kritieke
komponent van die spelervaring, veral binne narratief-gedrewe genres soos avontuur-speletjies, waar
musiek emosionele betrokkenheid verhoog en temas kommunikeer. Hierdie studie verken hoe GRIS
musikale komposisies gebruik om sy storielyn, gesentreer rondom rou en emosionele herstel, te
ondersteun en oor te dra. Die navorsing neem 'n grounded theory-benadering aan en voer 'n
diepgaande gevallestudie-analise van GRIS uit, met fokus op hoe die musiek in lyn is met die vyf
stadia van rou: ontkenning, woede, bedinging, depressie en aanvaarding. Deur aksienavorsingsiklus
en persoonlike speletjie-analise openbaar die studie die unieke komposisiestrategiee wat met elke
stadium verband hou en gebruik diegetiese en nie-diegetiese elemente om spelerbetrokkenheid te
versterk en die narratief se emosionele diepte te verhoog. Hierdie studie beoog om by te dra tot
die groeiende veld van videospeletjie-musieknavorsing en beklemtoon die belangrikheid van musiek as
'n narratiewe instrument in
interaktiewe media.Master