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Innovation Strategies for a South African Bank to Form Strategic Partnerships with FinTechs to Gain a Competitive Advantage
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Management in the field of Digital Business, in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025In the rapidly evolving South African financial landscape, traditional banking institutions face the dual challenge of maintaining competitiveness, while simultaneously leveraging cutting edge technological advancements. This study investigated the innovation strategies that a South African bank can adopt to form strategic alliances with FinTechs, aiming to capture a competitive advantage within the South African banking industry. The purpose of this study was to identify the key drivers for forming strategic partnerships with FinTechs, the opportunities and challenges that come with such alliances, and as well as their effect on a banking institution’s competitive advantage. The research focused on the traditional banking sector, which must sustain and enhance existing structures, while adjusting to changes brought about by financial technologies. A qualitative research method was employed, with data collected by way of semi- structured interviews. The interview participant were executives and senior managers involved in the development and implementation of innovation strategies as well as strategic partnerships with FinTechs. Thirteen participants were selected from various departments within the bank, thus providing a comprehensive view of that bank's approach to innovation and collaboration with FinTechs. Key findings revealed that internal factors such as organizational culture and technological capabilities; along with external factors like regulatory changes and prevailing market conditions, significantly influence the bank’s innovation strategies. Strategic collaborations with FinTechs appeared to offer several advantages, including but not limited to improved operational efficiency, increased market reach, and enhanced customer experience. However, potential drawbacks such as reputational risk, regulatory risk, market saturation, and cultural fit need to be managed effectively. The study emphasized the importance of strategic fit and alignment between the bank and FinTechs ensuring that both entities share common goals and values. Additionally, a customer-centric approach was crucial in selecting FinTech partners and developing solutions that meet customer needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of FinTech partnerships were essential to ensure their success and make necessary adjustments. The study contributed to the existing body of knowledge (BoK) in banking innovation and strategic partnerships. It did so by providing insights into the strategic considerations and implications of banking innovation and partnership strategies within the South African context. Managerial implications included recommendations for creating an environment 3 where innovation can flourish, enhancing existing technological infrastructure, addressing regulatory issues, and developing effective risk management frameworks. By leveraging the attendant strengths of FinTechs, the South African bank can improve its competitive advantage and create more value for its customers.MM202
Conversion of Limonene to Carvone by Oxidative Biocatalysis
No full textA dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, to the Faculty of Science, School of Chemistry, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025Flavour and fragrances play an important role in our daily lives. R-(−)-carvone, an oxygen containing monoterpene, is the characteristic odour found in spearmint. It is commercially important and used in the baking, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. However, demand greatly exceeds the natural supply, and the bulk of carvone is produced synthetically. Unfortunately, the chemical synthesis of carvone from the sustainable natural compound limonene produces harmful by-products such as nitrosyl-chloride. Hence, we aimed to use biocatalysis to convert limonene to carvone in an environmentally friendly manner. We used lipoxygenase (LOX) rich soybean meal to facilitate the conversion of limonene to carvone. Two soybean preparations were compared for efficiency, ground soybean (GSB) and milled defatted soybean (MDS). GSB unfortunately produced excessive emulsions that trapped our product and made the reaction workup difficult. Since both GSB and MDS provided similar conversions, we opted to use MDS throughout going forward for ease of product extraction. Our study sought to characterise the enzyme activity and thereby confirm that LOX was indeed responsible for conversion of limonene to carvone. We found that the maximum enzyme activity occurred at the pH 8.5, using a 0.1 M sodium borate buffer. A temperature study was also conducted, and it was found that the enzyme activity was highest at 50°C and temperatures higher than this causes the enzyme to denature. Reactions excluding oxygen did not proceed, therefore we can confirm that they involve an oxidative biocatalyst that utilises molecular oxygen. The conversion was also demonstrated to require the intermediate peroxidation of fatty acids. These results are consistent with LOX activity. We decided to investigate which isozyme of LOX is responsible for the conversion. Calcium is a known inhibitor of LOX-3 activity but increases the activity of LOX-1 and LOX-2. After adding calcium salts to the reaction, the conversion rate increased. This result, and the optimal pH of 8.5, are consistent with the activity of LOX-1. It was determined that the optimal MDS to substrate ratio was 10:1. The highest conversion obtained for the reaction was at 58% when adding FeSO4.7H2O to the reaction, implying a synergistic Fenton reaction. Finally, carvone was successfully isolated and purified using column chromatography and the chemical identity confirmed using GC-MS and NMR.APBioTHRIPDSITIACSIR Industrial Biocatalysis HubMMM202
The Business Performance of small-scale tomato farmers in the Thulamela Local municipality
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Management in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation, in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025This study investigates the determinants of business performance among small-scale tomato farmers in Thulamela Local Municipality, South Africa, focusing on three critical factors: access to capital, technology adoption and labour productivity. Small-scale farming plays a vital role in South Africa's rural economy, contributing to food security and employment. However, these farmers face significant challenges, including limited financial resources, low adoption of modern technologies and labour inefficiencies, which hinder their business performance and sustainability. The study aims to identify strategies to enhance the business performance of smallholder tomato farmers by examining the impact of these key determinants. Using a quantitative research approach, data were collected through structured surveys from a stratified random sample of 100 small-scale tomato farmers in Thulamela. The data were analysed using SAS software's exploratory factor analysis (EFA), reliability testing, correlation analysis and regression modelling. The findings reveal that technology adoption (β = 0.495, p < 0.001) is the strongest predictor of business performance, followed by access to capital (β = 0.361, p < 0.001) and labour productivity (β = 0.293, p = 0.001). These results align with the Resource-Based View (RBV), Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT) and Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF), highlighting the importance of financial, technological and human resources in enhancing smallholder business performance. The study’s key recommendations include expanding microfinance programmes, subsidising agricultural technology and strengthening workforce training initiatives. In conclusion, this study underscores the interconnectedness of financial, technological and human capital in driving smallholder business performance. By addressing these determinants, small-scale tomato farmers can achieve greater productivity, profitability and resilience, contributing to broader economic development and food security in South Africa.MM202
As acoes extenionistas como abordagem colaborativa em arte e communidade. Extension actions as a collaborative approach in art and community
No full textThe role of transformational leadership in the elevator industry in Gauteng
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, 2025Modern management of organisational units becomes more complex, so adequate leadership strategies must be provided to achieve success. A case study of Schindler Lifts SA is used to highlight the problems of leadership within South Africa's elevator industry and its effects on employee motivation and performance. This study focuses on transformational leadership impact in the South African context as a gap in studies of such phenomenon is found. The research method consists of qualitative approach within an interpretivist paradigm using interview as source of data, with 25 participants consisting of 10 managerial and 15 non managerial employees. We used convenience and purposive sampling technique and used thematic analysis to mine insights. Transformational leadership has been shown to increase motivation, productivity, and trust, and hence performance. However, a resistance to change and out of alignment leadership are challenges. Schindler Lifts SA has dealt with these through leadership development programmes, organised communication, and engagement. Finally, it is argued that transformational leadership is crucial for performance development in the elevator industry. Leadership training, improved communication, and feedback mechanisms that help execute the recommendations are suggested as strategic ones. Embracing transformational leadership positions Schindler Lifts SA to strengthen market position while driving innovation in South Africa’s competitive elevator sector.MM202
Enhanced Drug Delivery of Platinum II Complexes Using AcetamideFunctionalized PAMAM Dendrimers Synthesis Characterization and Anticancer Activity Against A549 Lung Cancer Cells
No full textGreening History Teaching Justifying the Inclusion of SocioEnvironmental History in the South African Further Education and Training History Curriculum
No full textThe function of plants collected by bush Karoo rats Otomys unisulcatus Do dried up food plants represent stored food
No full textExploring the Influence of Organisational Structure on Employee Performance in the Mining Industry, South Africa
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 research was conducted to explore how organizational structure influenced employee performance within the South African mining industry. The study was guided by the need to address the challenges posed by hierarchical and centralized structures commonly found in mining organizations. By adopting a qualitative research design, a comprehensive methodology was employed, grounded in an interpretivist approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with employees and leaders across specific mining operations in South Africa. The target population comprised individuals at various levels within mining organizations, including managerial and operational roles. A purposive sampling strategy was utilized to select 12 participants whose insights were deemed essential for understanding the relationship between organizational structure and employee performance. The sample size was determined based on the principle of data saturation, ensuring the depth and richness of the findings. Thematic analysis was applied to identify key patterns and themes from the collected data. The research revealed that hierarchical structures significantly slowed decision-making processes, leading to inefficiencies and delayed responses to safety and operational challenges. It was found that centralized decision-making limited the autonomy of local managers, resulting in frustrations and reduced adaptability to dynamic operational demands. Departmental silos were identified as a critical barrier to effective collaboration, hindering the alignment of departmental objectives and the implementation of cross-functional solutions. Participants’ perceptions indicated that rigid structures negatively affected employee engagement and morale, as workers felt disconnected from decision-making processes and undervalued in their roles. Conversely, decentralized structures, which allowed for greater flexibility and local autonomy, were perceived to enhance operational efficiency and employee satisfaction. The findings contributed to a deeper understanding of how organizational structures influence employee performance and operational outcomes in high-risk, resource- dependent industries. Recommendations were provided to promote decentralized decision- making, improve cross-departmental collaboration, enhance communication channels, and implement continuous training programs. While the study’s limitations were acknowledged, including its context-specific findings and small sample size, its contributions to organizational management practices within the mining industry were deemed significant. Future research was suggested to expand on these findings and explore broader comparative analyses across different regions and sectors.MM202
The Enforcement of Mandatory Workplace Policies Which Are Not Included in the Contract of Employment
No full textA research report submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Laws, in the Faculty of Commerce Law and Management, School of law, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025The Research Report attempts to contribute to the existing legal framework by providing practical guidelines and solutions for employers on how to enforce mandatory workplace policies that are not included in the employment contract, in a manner that will mitigate non-compliance or challenges to the policy. It is common practice that employers develop and implement mandatory workplace policies mostly to regulate and guide the conduct of employees under the circumstances where such policies apply. Sometimes, mandatory policies are challenged by employees who refuse to comply for various reasons. The issue is that there is no legislative precedent to guide employers with uniform authority on whether a mandatory policy can be implemented and how it should be enforced. Equally, there is no legislative precedent on how to mitigate or resolve problems and challenges of non-compliance to mandatory policy. The Research Report uses a literature review in attempting to guide employers by providing an analysis of the procedural steps to be followed when implementing and enforcing a policy, the rights and obligations of parties to comply with a mandatory policy once enforced, the legal position relating to such a policy and, the consequences of non-compliance. The Research Report concludes that employers can implement and enforce mandatory policies under the current legal framework and, once a workplace policy is enforced, that policy is elevated to the same level as an agreement or contract, therefore, any conduct of non-compliance with such a workplace policy is misconduct and unlawful.MM202