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Critical Success Factors for AI Cybersecurity Implementation in A South African State-Owned Entity: A Socio-Technical Approach
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Commerce (Information Systems), in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, School of Business Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cybersecurity is crucial for mitigating increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. However, existing research often focuses exclusively on either technical or social factors, leading to an imbalance in AI cybersecurity implementation priorities. This study addresses this gap by exploring the critical success factors (CSFs) for AI cybersecurity implementation in a South African state-owned entity (SOE) by applying a socio-technical lens. Using an interpretive case study approach, this research employed in-depth interviews with technical experts and end-users in the SOE. Thematic analysis was used to identify the key critical success factors. The findings reveal that successful AI cybersecurity implementation depends on technological advancements and their alignment with human, environmental, and organisational factors. The key technical CSFs identified include data quality, efficiency, scalability, and automation, while the social CSFs encompass change acceptance, top management support, cybersecurity awareness, human oversight, ethical considerations, and usability. A socio-technical perspective provides practitioners with a more balanced understanding of AI cybersecurity implementation, ensuring that security solutions are not only technically sound but also socially acceptable and effectively integrated within organisational structures. Based on these findings, the study develops a framework to guide policymakers, IT security professionals, and AI developers in implementing AI-driven cybersecurity solutions effectively. This research advances the application of socio-technical theory in organisational cybersecurity by illustrating how the interplay between technological and social factors can influence the successful implementation of AI-driven security solutions. Future research should examine how human oversight can be effectively integrated with AI in cybersecurity to enhance reliability, ethical compliance, and user trust in AI-enabled security solutions.MM202
EXPLORING THE PERCEIVED ROLE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION AMONG LEARNERS IN SOUTH AFRICA
No full textA South African Perspective on Ethical Web Governance and University Social Responsibility
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Management (Governance), in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, Wits School of Governance, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025This study explores the intersection of ethical web governance and university social responsibility within the South African context. As universities increasingly integrate digital platforms into their operations, the ethical management of these resources becomes paramount. The study examines how South African universities implement ethical web governance practices and the subsequent impact on their social responsibilities such as transparency, accountability, and community engagement, by analysing web governance policies from various South African higher education institutions and drawing on interview data collected from key individuals at the University of the Witwatersrand. The research identifies best practices and areas for improvement, offering insights into how ethical web governance can enhance a university’s social responsibility. The findings further aim to provide actionable recommendations for South African higher education institutions to foster a more ethical and socially responsible digital presence.MM202
Retrospective Review of Genetic Conditions in Patients with Congenital Heart Defects Attending a Quaternary Paediatric Cardiology Service in Johannesburg, South Africa
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Medicine in Medical Genetics, in the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common major birth defects, with an estimated incidence of 6 per 1000 livebirths. The causes of CHDs remain poorly understood. Genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute. The study aimed to retrospectively review patients with CHDs attending a cardiology service for confirmed genetic conditions. A review of 181 clinical records of children (0 months to 18 years) seen between 1 January 2019 – 31 December 2019 was conducted. Genetic testing was performed on 58/181 (32%) patients and 29/181 (16%) were confirmed to have a genetic syndrome. Trisomy 21 was the predominant chromosomal aneuploidy and 22q11.2 deletion the predominant copy number variant detected. Single gene causes and other chromosomal copy number variants were underrepresented due to unavailability or non-requisition of tests. We recommend routine, multidisciplinary genetic assessment of patients with CHDs with expanded genetic testing to improve diagnostic rates, direct management and optimize outcomes.MM202
A Description of Intimate Hygiene Practices During Pregnancy in a Cohort of Women in Johannesburg
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, in the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025Background: Intimate hygiene practices during pregnancy can influence maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Limited data exist on these practices among South African women. This study aimed to characterise intimate hygiene practices among pregnant women in Johannesburg and examine associations with demographic factors and preterm birth. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted on data from 18,076 pregnant women enrolled in the Group B Streptococcus Correlates of Protection Cohort Study in Johannesburg, South Africa. Participants completed questionnaires detailing their intimate hygiene practices, including frequency, methods, and products used. Statistical analyses assessed the prevalence of these practices, their association with demographic characteristics (age, race, education, occupation, dwelling type, parity, and HIV status), and preterm birth outcomes. Results: The mean age was 28.4 years (range 18–49). Most participants were Black (16,811; 93.0%), single (14,541; 80.4%), unemployed (11,691; 64.7%), and resided in urban areas (12,782; 70.7%). They reported a median intimate cleaning frequency of 14 times per week (IQR 8–14). Vaginal washing was reported by 6,312 women (34.9%). Among those who undertook vaginal washing, 62.5% used fingers, 35.7% used a cloth, and 0.4% used other objects. Over half (9,653; 53.3%) practiced douching, and 8,743 (48.4%) added products to their bathwater. Race was significantly associated with adding bathwater products (p < 0.00001). White women (39; 44.3%) had the highest proportion adding products. Tertiary-educated mothers were more likely to add products (396; 27.0%, p = 0.0041). Students had the highest rate of product use (154; 28.7%, p = 0.0018). Urban participants were more likely to add products (1,994; 25.2%) than semi-urban women (768; 23.2%, p = 0.025). Douching was also significantly associated with race (p < 0.00001), with the “Other” category (67; 65.1%) reporting the highest rate. Women with no schooling had the highest douching rate (53.2%, p = 0.0006). Semi-urban mothers douched the most frequently (4,757; 53.4%, p < 0.00001). Marital status was significantly associated with douching (p < 0.00001), with the highest prevalence among single women (6,658; 45.8%). Occupation was also significantly associated with douching (p = 0.016), with students having the highest douching prevalence (154; 28.7%). A significant association was observed between gestational age and the addition of products to bathwater for deliveries between 34 and <37 weeks compared to term deliveries (p = 0.045). Women who did not add products were more likely to deliver at term, while those who added products had a higher likelihood of delivering preterm. For deliveries <34 weeks compared to 34–<37 weeks, women who did not add products were more likely to deliver at 34–<37 weeks (p = 0.02). For deliveries at <34 weeks compared to 34–<37 weeks, women who douched were more likely to deliver at <34 weeks, while those who did not douche had higher proportions of deliveries at 34–<37 weeks (p = 0.035). In the combined preterm category (<37 weeks) compared to term deliveries, a statistically significant association was observed (p = 0.035), with women who douched being more likely to iv deliver preterm. Although some early preterm categories were more frequent among those who douched, overall no consistent statistically significant associations were found between hygiene practices and preterm birth outcomes. Conclusion: Intimate hygiene practices are prevalent among pregnant women in Johannesburg and are significantly associated with various demographic factors. While some associations with preterm birth were identified, no consistent significant association was established, warranting further studies.MM202
Plumerelated diamond formation in reworked Archean mantle SmNd age constraints from Voorspoed peridotitic and eclogitic diamonds Kaapvaal Craton
No full textValue creation and risk management in mining operations through an integrated reporting framework of geotechnical data, uncertainty, and materiality
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering, in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Mining Engineering , University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025The research considers a stance that every aspect of the mining operation is, at its root, dependant on the geomechanical / geotechnical integrity of the excavation. A mining operation would not be able to maintain production if the excavated workings in the rock mass cannot be kept ‘open’ - even if many other aspects of the mine are very favourable (e.g. metallurgical and/or mineral processing can produce excellent recoveries, commodity prices are high etc). The research is compelled through several contributing factors, including the recognition that: • There is no national inventory of mining geotechnical data (viz. a comprehensive or extensive database) readily available to offer insight into the factual account of data provision that has supported viable mining operations to date. Such aspects would include the type, quantity, quality, and spatial distribution of data (as well as changes therein over time) associated with respective “types” of mineralised ore bodies, mining method selection, hydrogeological regime, etc. • The interpretation and application of scientific, engineering, and risk principles are often quite inconsistent within- and between- different mining operations. • The content and clarity of rock-related reporting is often highly variable - especially beyond the assessment of project viability to the actual performance over time of rock engineering, geomechanical stability, and geotechnical design dimensions of a mining excavation. • Practical realities in business (e.g. limited budget availability to particular cost centres, differing corporate priorities etc.) may limit the implementation of rock engineering decisions. The research identifies and compiles various information from a wide range of specialised topics that are commonly studied individually in smaller settings (e.g. rock mechanics, aspects prescribed under law, risk, subjective belief, governance as well as reporting transparency for mining projects [distinguished from the requirements of reporting of mineral resources and/or mineral reserves]). The topics are then related to each other, and their roles toward a holistic understanding of risk-related aspects of a mining operation are explored - with rock and geotechnical engineering as a central tenement of that consideration. The research advances the discourse of value creation and risk management in mining engineering, through: • The description of the complex interplay of components and organisations within the mining industry, as well as the potential for improving their coalescence. • The identification of opportunities created from reporting rock-related information and the demonstration of technical competence. These opportunities could be applied toward the goals of risk management, value creation, sustainability, and growing investor confidence. • The motivation that access to relevant geoscientific data is supported through the current regulatory framework; • Various geoscientific data could be retrospectively shared by mining organisations; and • The articulation of a proposition for voluntary disclosure. v Publications as part of this Research The publications that have been prepared from this research include: 1) The reporting of geotechnical data, uncertainty, materiality for hard rock mining operations. Additional publications that have been drafted and are being finalised, include: 1) Mandatory Codes of Practice in the South African Mining Industry. 2) An overview of legislated and regulated elements regarding ‘competency’ in mining operations. 3) An overview of the elements of section 54 and section 55 notices issued to South African mining operators. 4) What does it matter? An exploration of the language used in assessments wih regard to characteristics of risk-related elements. 5) Mining disasters and the resulting inquests undertaken to investigate and determine cause and responsibility. 6) An overview of the South African Mines Reportable Accidents Statistics System (SAMRASS). 7) 8) Mines Rescue Services of South Africa. 9) A comparison of mining rock-related, higher education learning programmes in South Africa, Australia, and Canada. 10) A comparison of the mining geotechnical elements required for reporting as part of the SAMREC Code, NI43-101 and JORC Codes. 11) An insight into various ‘risk reports’ generated by organisations across the globe, with interest in mining.MM202
Factors contributing to the absence of women in senior management roles in the South African Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Business Administration, in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry is essential in the local and global economy because, it contributes significantly to country's GDP. It creates significant job opportunities and drives consumer spending through its high demand for everyday products such as food, toiletries, beverages and cleaning supplies. This makes it a key player in the distribution and retail sectors. This research project is about the factors that contributes to the absence of women in senior management roles in the South African FMCG industry. Purposive sampling and a qualitative research approach were used in this investigation. Sixteen females from the FMCG industry were interviewed through MS teams, telephonically and in person. These are women who holds different positions in the FMCG industry for the benefit of getting different views as to why women's representation in top management roles within the FMCG industry is inadequate. The research focused on four categories which are gender disparity, organisational culture, self-perception theory and career planning advancement. During the analysis of the results, it was discovered that indeed there is less consideration for women when appointing for senior management roles in the FMCG industry. Glass ceiling theory was considered however the focus remained with the four categories that exist to a great extend in the FMCG industry. Women would like to occupy the senior roles however, due to lack of proper governance and research studies to identify the root cause, give guidance and solution to the problem this issue persist. This research has action plans for both the employers and employees to implement to eradicate this imbalance in the workplace.MM202
Habitat, plant communities and threats to the Robertson Granite Renosterveld
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Science, to the Faculty of Science,, School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025The Robertson Granite Renosterveld (FRg3) vegetation type is found north of La Colline in the Breede River Valley near Robertson at altitudes of between 250 – 850 m a.s.l. This vegetation type is identified as understudied because of the isolated character of its granite pluton, which made it virtually unknown and led to it being identified as a priority for scientific research. As a result, the current study aims to improve the current understanding of plant communities, important habitat characteristics, threats, and identify dominant and endemic species in the FRg3. To investigate the species composition and communities within the FRg3, 53, 10m x 5m plots were sampled across the vegetation type for cover abundance of all the plant species coupled with environmental variables (altitude, and the ground covers of herbaceous vegetation, litter, bare ground, and rock). In addition, soils (~0-10 cm depth) were tested for pH (KCl), total organic carbon (C), soil texture (sand, silt, and clay), exchangeable phosphorus (P), and extractables of boron (B), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca). Fire is an important ecological disturbance in the Fynbos biome; therefore, Google Earth Engine (GEE) was explored to assess the fire history (2000-2023) of the FRg3 and map the outputs using image collections from MODIS/061/MCD64A1. The plant communities were classified using dissimilarity hierarchical cluster analysis, which showed that the FRg3 comprises five major plant communities, the following four of these communities are found in fire affected areas: Dodonaea viscosa – Euryops tenuissimus; Dicerothamnus rhinocerotis - Dodonaea viscosa, Passerina obtusifolia–Restio capensis, and Muraltia heisteria – Restio capensis; and the fifth community (Pteronia paniculata–Dicerothamnus rhinocerotis) is found in areas that have not burnt since 2000. The FRg3 had three major fires (2000, 2006, and 2017) over 24 years (2000-2023). In 2000, approximately 35% of the FRg3 burnt, while in 2006 and 2017 the fire burnt approximately 24% and 53% respectively. There have been overlaps in areas burned by multiple fires (2000 & 2017 = 23%; 2006 & 2017 = 22%), and almost half (47%) of the vegetation type did not burn at all over the 24 years. The soil analysis showed significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) in pH, Na, and texture (sand and clay) across the five communities. The FRg3 still retained most (99%) of its natural vegetation in 2023; however, there are disturbances and threats to the vegetation type, such as land clearing for agricultural purposes, and alien invasive plants such as Hakea sericea were observed within the vegetation type in 2023. The 24- year (2000-2023) changes in vegetation structure of the FRg3 were investigated using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), which was computed from Landsat 5 and 8 over five different time periods (2000 – 2006, 2006 – 2013, 2013 – 2017, 2017 – 2023, and 2000 – 2023). This analysis showed an increase in FRg3 biomass (taller vegetation) between 2000 and 2006, largely because the area that burnt in 2000 had recovered despite the fire in 2006 which only burnt the small northern portion of the FRg3. The FRg3 lost most of its above ground biomass in 2017 due to a fire that burnt over half of it. The FRg3 had the most biomass in 2013 and 2023, likely due to the lack of natural or anthropogenic disturbances.Joan Wrench Kirstenbosch Scholarship FundMMM202
A comparative analysis of the GSE Composite Index (GSE-CI) and the JSE Top 40 Index performance during COVID 19
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Business Administration, in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025This study evaluates the performance of the Ghana Stock Exchange Composite Index (GSE- CI) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Top 40 Index (JSE Top 40) during the COVID-19 epidemic by means of comparative research. The study assesses stock market behavior across important indicators including volatility, liquidity, macroeconomic variables (e.g., GDP growth, inflation, interest and exchange rates), and resilience to market shocks using quantitative techniques based on Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) and the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM). The results show that although both indexes saw notable early 2020 drops, the JSE Top 40 showed better recovery and less volatility than the GSE-CI. While liquidity and GDP growth had a more favorable effect, especially in the JSE, regression and correlation studies show that inflation and exchange rate volatility harmed both markets. By stressing the importance of macroeconomic stability, investor education, and better market infrastructure to strengthen market resilience and investment strategy in African economies, the report offers insightful analysis for investors, legislators, and regional financial market participants.MM202