Eco-leadership determinants necessary for effective sustainability implementation
- May,Jodé
- Authors: May,Jodé
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Retail trade -- Management , Leadership -- South Africa , Sustainability
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65683 , vital:74228
- Description: Sustainability is regarded globally as one of the key focus areas for organisations and requires also considering environmental and social performance in addition to economic performance. Eco-leadership is required to ensure operations impact society and the environment in a positive manner, in particular in the retail sector as customers have become conscious of their purchases being produced sustainably. The main objective of this study was thus to explore eco-leadership determinants necessary for sustainability implementation in retail organisations. The research was aimed at expanding knowledge about how retailers can implement or improve their sustainability status by following an eco-leadership approach. A literature review was conducted on what leadership in organisations entailed and how it can be described in terms of leaders’ characteristics, work practices and decisions. In addition a review on, leader qualities and leadership styles in general and of change leaders such as eco-leaders, sustainability strategies from both an environmental and socially responsible view in general and of the retail sector, was provided. The study followed a qualitative research approach using purposive sampling to identify the 11 participants from across the provinces in South Africa and retail product categories comprising of two hard-line retailers, five soft goods and consumables retailers, three FMCG retailers and one art retailer. A semi-structured interview guide was utilised to gather primary data using face-to-face, telephonic and email interviews. Content and constant comparative analysis was used to analyse the data. It appears that retailers ascribe eco-leadership in relation to resource management-, being people centred and practising sustainability leadership. All retailers seem to demonstrate their commitment to eco-leadership and serve society. Their sustainability status is publicised via digital and print media or visually displayed in-store. They practise eco-leadership as it is beneficial for their reputation or to ensure business continuity. Retailers use innovation and incorporate eco-leadership into their business models and have further plans to improve their sustainability. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: May,Jodé
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Retail trade -- Management , Leadership -- South Africa , Sustainability
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65683 , vital:74228
- Description: Sustainability is regarded globally as one of the key focus areas for organisations and requires also considering environmental and social performance in addition to economic performance. Eco-leadership is required to ensure operations impact society and the environment in a positive manner, in particular in the retail sector as customers have become conscious of their purchases being produced sustainably. The main objective of this study was thus to explore eco-leadership determinants necessary for sustainability implementation in retail organisations. The research was aimed at expanding knowledge about how retailers can implement or improve their sustainability status by following an eco-leadership approach. A literature review was conducted on what leadership in organisations entailed and how it can be described in terms of leaders’ characteristics, work practices and decisions. In addition a review on, leader qualities and leadership styles in general and of change leaders such as eco-leaders, sustainability strategies from both an environmental and socially responsible view in general and of the retail sector, was provided. The study followed a qualitative research approach using purposive sampling to identify the 11 participants from across the provinces in South Africa and retail product categories comprising of two hard-line retailers, five soft goods and consumables retailers, three FMCG retailers and one art retailer. A semi-structured interview guide was utilised to gather primary data using face-to-face, telephonic and email interviews. Content and constant comparative analysis was used to analyse the data. It appears that retailers ascribe eco-leadership in relation to resource management-, being people centred and practising sustainability leadership. All retailers seem to demonstrate their commitment to eco-leadership and serve society. Their sustainability status is publicised via digital and print media or visually displayed in-store. They practise eco-leadership as it is beneficial for their reputation or to ensure business continuity. Retailers use innovation and incorporate eco-leadership into their business models and have further plans to improve their sustainability. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Enhancing the optimal use of the properties for revenue generation at the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure
- Authors: Twala, Zolile Donald Linda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance and repair , Buildings -- Maintenance , Public works -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66068 , vital:74329
- Description: Literature on property management revealed that it became a challenge in many countries to manage and maintain properties, especially in the public sector. Concerning public infrastructure, research has confirmed that even in the most developed states, such as Canada and the United States of America (USA), the maintenance of public properties and related services was in danger due to fewer funds being budgeted for maintenance during their life cycle (Kaganova & Telgarsky, 2018). It was noted that there needed to be more studies conducted in South Africa under public infrastructure. This study aimed to explore how the NDPWI could improve the optimal use of properties under its custodianship to maximise revenue generation by carrying out the identified critical success factors from the property managers (internal) and client departments (external). Trying to find a well-maintained property creates more chances for the client departments or tenants to occupy the property for a more extended period while delivering their service to its clients and the NDPWI maximising the revenue generation. “The research applied a literature review and other sources, such as internal or media reports, as a background to discover meaning-making of insights from the property manager’s experiences, which were associated with their perceptions of property management challenges”. This research applied a qualitative research approach. Qualitative content was analysed, utilising a mixture of a deductive and inductive approach. The main reason for utilising both deductive and inductive approaches is that the researcher tried to understand and develop the theory around the NDPWI low-income generation utilising state properties to their optimal use and find out if all properties were well maintained and could, which allowed the NDPWI to maximise income generation. Five conclusions emerged from the findings of this study on insight from twenty-five (25) property managers who have been in their role for a minimum of five (5) years. The proof to substantiate these conclusions came directly from insights shared by the twenty-five (25) participants from their experience in property management. Conclusions were linked to the theories and reports that informed this study. Firstly, this study revealed that the majority of the participants agreed that the role of leadership in property management was critical for giving strategic direction within the organisation, ensuring that there were clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and ensuring there were no contradictions and confusion among the staff while executing their functions. Adequate talent was recruited, but skills were required to be strengthened. Secondly, the study revealed that the non-maintenance of state buildings contributed negatively to the client departments when executing their constitutional mandate efficiently and effectively in a safe environment. Poor building conditions were revealed as among the issues that the client departments needed to be occupying and optimally utilising; instead, they relied on leased inn properties from the private sector. Thirdly, the study revealed that the client relationship and quality of service they received from the NDPWI needed to be improved to ensure that clients were prioritised on their needs and expectations. NDPWI was taking too long to respond to the instruction of the client departments, and it was frustrating the client departments leading to some client departments proposing to devolve the power of the NDPWI to assist them. Fourthly, accessibility of the state properties was not as good as it was supposed to be, as the client departments would need the properties in specific areas, they needed to offer their services, and they could not get such properties under the NDPWI. They ended up looking for leased properties that meet their specification in the procurement instruction in good condition and safety. Fifthly, innovative technology could improve communication between the clients and help save time on conducting meetings in one common place. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Twala, Zolile Donald Linda
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Buildings -- Maintenance and repair , Buildings -- Maintenance , Public works -- South Africa , Infrastructure (Economics) -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66068 , vital:74329
- Description: Literature on property management revealed that it became a challenge in many countries to manage and maintain properties, especially in the public sector. Concerning public infrastructure, research has confirmed that even in the most developed states, such as Canada and the United States of America (USA), the maintenance of public properties and related services was in danger due to fewer funds being budgeted for maintenance during their life cycle (Kaganova & Telgarsky, 2018). It was noted that there needed to be more studies conducted in South Africa under public infrastructure. This study aimed to explore how the NDPWI could improve the optimal use of properties under its custodianship to maximise revenue generation by carrying out the identified critical success factors from the property managers (internal) and client departments (external). Trying to find a well-maintained property creates more chances for the client departments or tenants to occupy the property for a more extended period while delivering their service to its clients and the NDPWI maximising the revenue generation. “The research applied a literature review and other sources, such as internal or media reports, as a background to discover meaning-making of insights from the property manager’s experiences, which were associated with their perceptions of property management challenges”. This research applied a qualitative research approach. Qualitative content was analysed, utilising a mixture of a deductive and inductive approach. The main reason for utilising both deductive and inductive approaches is that the researcher tried to understand and develop the theory around the NDPWI low-income generation utilising state properties to their optimal use and find out if all properties were well maintained and could, which allowed the NDPWI to maximise income generation. Five conclusions emerged from the findings of this study on insight from twenty-five (25) property managers who have been in their role for a minimum of five (5) years. The proof to substantiate these conclusions came directly from insights shared by the twenty-five (25) participants from their experience in property management. Conclusions were linked to the theories and reports that informed this study. Firstly, this study revealed that the majority of the participants agreed that the role of leadership in property management was critical for giving strategic direction within the organisation, ensuring that there were clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and ensuring there were no contradictions and confusion among the staff while executing their functions. Adequate talent was recruited, but skills were required to be strengthened. Secondly, the study revealed that the non-maintenance of state buildings contributed negatively to the client departments when executing their constitutional mandate efficiently and effectively in a safe environment. Poor building conditions were revealed as among the issues that the client departments needed to be occupying and optimally utilising; instead, they relied on leased inn properties from the private sector. Thirdly, the study revealed that the client relationship and quality of service they received from the NDPWI needed to be improved to ensure that clients were prioritised on their needs and expectations. NDPWI was taking too long to respond to the instruction of the client departments, and it was frustrating the client departments leading to some client departments proposing to devolve the power of the NDPWI to assist them. Fourthly, accessibility of the state properties was not as good as it was supposed to be, as the client departments would need the properties in specific areas, they needed to offer their services, and they could not get such properties under the NDPWI. They ended up looking for leased properties that meet their specification in the procurement instruction in good condition and safety. Fifthly, innovative technology could improve communication between the clients and help save time on conducting meetings in one common place. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Exploring the leadership agility in industry 4.0 for company x in Gqeberha
- Authors: Cairncross, Merle Vera
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Industry 4.0 , Business intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65577 , vital:74193
- Description: In today’s dynamic business landscape, more organisations are progressively attempting to become agile by implementing agile corporate structures, processes and leadership frameworks. By effectively incorporating leadership agility into their processes, leadership can be better prepared to improve its decision-making agility, further able to deploy strategies for improved detection and response to failure as well as improve communication in the organisation. This treatise explores the critical role of leadership agility in enabling organisations to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving environment such as Industry 4.0 and capitalise on emerging opportunities. For this study, qualitative data was collected from functional level management by means of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. The interviews aimed to identify behaviours and beliefs that contribute to an agile organisation, examine barriers impeding agile decision-making and explore strategies to cultivate an agile decision-making culture. By understanding the key factors that enable leadership agility and promote agility within decision-making processes, this research aimed to provide valuable insights for organisations seeking to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0. Through literature analysis and interviews, the researcher concluded that agile leaders possess crucial competencies and behaviours that allow them to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. These include effective communication, openness to change, innovative thinking, flexibility, self-management, developing others and organisational awareness. Agile leaders strategize and prepare their organisations in Industry 4.0 by adopting an adaptive leadership style, cultivating an agile decision-making culture, encouraging continuous improvement, promoting creativity and innovation and responding swiftly to changes, thus gaining a competitive edge in Industry 4.0. Embracing leadership agility enables organisations to capitalise on Industry 4.0’s opportunities and navigate its challenges, ultimately fostering a competitive business environment. By organising and synthesising the knowledge obtained in this study, a framework is proposed for agile leadership, which consolidates , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Cairncross, Merle Vera
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Leadership -- South Africa , Industry 4.0 , Business intelligence
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65577 , vital:74193
- Description: In today’s dynamic business landscape, more organisations are progressively attempting to become agile by implementing agile corporate structures, processes and leadership frameworks. By effectively incorporating leadership agility into their processes, leadership can be better prepared to improve its decision-making agility, further able to deploy strategies for improved detection and response to failure as well as improve communication in the organisation. This treatise explores the critical role of leadership agility in enabling organisations to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving environment such as Industry 4.0 and capitalise on emerging opportunities. For this study, qualitative data was collected from functional level management by means of semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. The interviews aimed to identify behaviours and beliefs that contribute to an agile organisation, examine barriers impeding agile decision-making and explore strategies to cultivate an agile decision-making culture. By understanding the key factors that enable leadership agility and promote agility within decision-making processes, this research aimed to provide valuable insights for organisations seeking to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0. Through literature analysis and interviews, the researcher concluded that agile leaders possess crucial competencies and behaviours that allow them to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0. These include effective communication, openness to change, innovative thinking, flexibility, self-management, developing others and organisational awareness. Agile leaders strategize and prepare their organisations in Industry 4.0 by adopting an adaptive leadership style, cultivating an agile decision-making culture, encouraging continuous improvement, promoting creativity and innovation and responding swiftly to changes, thus gaining a competitive edge in Industry 4.0. Embracing leadership agility enables organisations to capitalise on Industry 4.0’s opportunities and navigate its challenges, ultimately fostering a competitive business environment. By organising and synthesising the knowledge obtained in this study, a framework is proposed for agile leadership, which consolidates , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School , 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Exploring the role of livelihood diversification of household food security in Umzimvubu Local Municipality
- Authors: Tikilili, Noluthando
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66054 , vital:74324
- Description: The study sought to explore the role of livelihood diversification for household food security in rural communities of Umzimvubu Local Municipality for sustainable development. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm as it gave the researcher appropriate information from a group of participants who better understand the livelihood assets. The qualitative research approach was adopted for the study due to its ability to appreciate the opinions, feelings and experiences of distinct individuals in order to give meaning to their behaviours. To gain better inferences and insights into this phenomenon, the researcher used semi-structured interviews with smallholder farmers who depend on practising farm activities for their livelihoods. The findings of the study revealed that due to retrenchment and the increase in unemployment rate, families are experiencing income inadequacy that has urged rural households to engage mostly in on-farm activities as a way of generating income and supplementing their livelihoods to sustain their families. Additionally, the findings unveiled that the efforts by government as well as non-government stakeholders to mitigate the effects of poverty by introducing the local entrepreneurs to the formal market, were evident. However, there are no consistent and stable programmes and policies to extend the market, or to encourage commercial farmers and smallholder farmers to work together to improve rural economies and transfer the much-needed skills to subsistence farmers. The study recommends that the government should play a leading role in capacitating rural communities and adequate funding should be made available to execute off-farm and non-farm activities to tackle the issues of food security and eliminating poverty. Also, with the emergence of a changing climate, there is a need for the Eastern Cape government to erect irrigation schemes, which can be done to sustain on-farm production and productivity for the rural communities. There is a need for the government to facilitate the introduction of stable and consistent programmes and efficient and effective policies which will enforce the commercial and small-holder farmers to work together and ensure that the much-needed skills and expertise are transferred to the marginalised group whilst improving the rural economy and meeting the market demands. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Tikilili, Noluthando
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Food security -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Sustainable agriculture -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Food industry and trade -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66054 , vital:74324
- Description: The study sought to explore the role of livelihood diversification for household food security in rural communities of Umzimvubu Local Municipality for sustainable development. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm as it gave the researcher appropriate information from a group of participants who better understand the livelihood assets. The qualitative research approach was adopted for the study due to its ability to appreciate the opinions, feelings and experiences of distinct individuals in order to give meaning to their behaviours. To gain better inferences and insights into this phenomenon, the researcher used semi-structured interviews with smallholder farmers who depend on practising farm activities for their livelihoods. The findings of the study revealed that due to retrenchment and the increase in unemployment rate, families are experiencing income inadequacy that has urged rural households to engage mostly in on-farm activities as a way of generating income and supplementing their livelihoods to sustain their families. Additionally, the findings unveiled that the efforts by government as well as non-government stakeholders to mitigate the effects of poverty by introducing the local entrepreneurs to the formal market, were evident. However, there are no consistent and stable programmes and policies to extend the market, or to encourage commercial farmers and smallholder farmers to work together to improve rural economies and transfer the much-needed skills to subsistence farmers. The study recommends that the government should play a leading role in capacitating rural communities and adequate funding should be made available to execute off-farm and non-farm activities to tackle the issues of food security and eliminating poverty. Also, with the emergence of a changing climate, there is a need for the Eastern Cape government to erect irrigation schemes, which can be done to sustain on-farm production and productivity for the rural communities. There is a need for the government to facilitate the introduction of stable and consistent programmes and efficient and effective policies which will enforce the commercial and small-holder farmers to work together and ensure that the much-needed skills and expertise are transferred to the marginalised group whilst improving the rural economy and meeting the market demands. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Factors contributing to operational excellence in a pharmaceutical manufacturer in East London, South Africa
- Authors: Monakali, Xolani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Performance , Production management , Industrial management Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65795 , vital:74268
- Description: To ensure that high quality, secure and effective pharmaceutical goods are consistently produced and supplied to the appropriate end user, pharmaceutical manufacturing companies operate in a highly regulated environment. The idea that quality is not assessed is incorrect; rather, it is built, is at the heart of this production environment. Since fulfilling deadlines on time in full is the benchmark for good customer service, to achieve this results in numerous quality limits that have an impact on the quick delivery of medicines. Companies are often competing for the same clients; thus, there is increasing competition, which is mostly due to the availability of reasonable and inexpensive generics. The most profitable company will be the one which operates and produces at low cost, with great efficiency and economies of scale. Furthermore, the generic pharmaceutical firm is not immune from the fundamental purpose of business, which is to make money for the shareholders and add value for the clients. In order to maintain competitiveness in a pharmaceutical company which operates in East London, South Africa, this study aims to identify the factors that lead to perceived operational excellence. Respondents were given a standardised questionnaire; thus the study employed a quantitative research methodology. The sample size for the study was determined by randomly selecting 100 employees, composed of Operators, General Assistants, Production Team Leaders, Production Pharmacists, Pharmacist Assistants and Artisans from Pharmaceutical Company X. With the aid of a research assistant, the questionnaire was distributed to and answered by respondents. The gathered data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 for Windows. The results of the study were then shown in cross tabulations, pie charts and bar graphs. The main outcomes of the study revealed that the majority of consumers believed pharmaceutical products were of a high calibre in terms of quality. Furthermore, the majority of participants agreed that operational excellence is important in companies that produce fast-moving consumer goods, like the pharmaceutical industry does. The survey also revealed the need for operational excellence in the pharmaceutical industry. Given that quality in the pharmaceutical industry has grown to be a crucial issue, the study suggests that the importance of pharmaceutical product quality needs to be more widely understood. Academics, pharmaceutical companies and legislators will all benefit from the study. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Monakali, Xolani
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Organizational effectiveness , Performance , Production management , Industrial management Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa -- East London
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65795 , vital:74268
- Description: To ensure that high quality, secure and effective pharmaceutical goods are consistently produced and supplied to the appropriate end user, pharmaceutical manufacturing companies operate in a highly regulated environment. The idea that quality is not assessed is incorrect; rather, it is built, is at the heart of this production environment. Since fulfilling deadlines on time in full is the benchmark for good customer service, to achieve this results in numerous quality limits that have an impact on the quick delivery of medicines. Companies are often competing for the same clients; thus, there is increasing competition, which is mostly due to the availability of reasonable and inexpensive generics. The most profitable company will be the one which operates and produces at low cost, with great efficiency and economies of scale. Furthermore, the generic pharmaceutical firm is not immune from the fundamental purpose of business, which is to make money for the shareholders and add value for the clients. In order to maintain competitiveness in a pharmaceutical company which operates in East London, South Africa, this study aims to identify the factors that lead to perceived operational excellence. Respondents were given a standardised questionnaire; thus the study employed a quantitative research methodology. The sample size for the study was determined by randomly selecting 100 employees, composed of Operators, General Assistants, Production Team Leaders, Production Pharmacists, Pharmacist Assistants and Artisans from Pharmaceutical Company X. With the aid of a research assistant, the questionnaire was distributed to and answered by respondents. The gathered data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 for Windows. The results of the study were then shown in cross tabulations, pie charts and bar graphs. The main outcomes of the study revealed that the majority of consumers believed pharmaceutical products were of a high calibre in terms of quality. Furthermore, the majority of participants agreed that operational excellence is important in companies that produce fast-moving consumer goods, like the pharmaceutical industry does. The survey also revealed the need for operational excellence in the pharmaceutical industry. Given that quality in the pharmaceutical industry has grown to be a crucial issue, the study suggests that the importance of pharmaceutical product quality needs to be more widely understood. Academics, pharmaceutical companies and legislators will all benefit from the study. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Factors contributing to the productivity of operations at the port of Ngqura, Gqeberha
- Authors: Mlonzi, Aluta Phathuxolo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Port Ngqura (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Industrial productivity , Operations research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65773 , vital:74236
- Description: Ports are the gateway to economic trade and a huge contributor to South Africa’s economy. Productivity has become a critical component for ports in the port industry as a means of enhancing market potential and competitiveness (Kuo, Lu, and Le, 2020). Therefore ports must investigate their productivity factors to stay competitive. This study sought to determine the factors that contribute to productivity at the Port of Ngqura. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study where data was obtained by conducting interviews with a sample of ten employees from Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet National Port Authority. Out of the ten employees identified, only four participants took part in the study. According to the respondents, the key factors contributing to productivity at the Port of Ngqura include the staff, efficient staff training, equipment, technology, and infrastructure. Furthermore, the respondents highlighted the importance of technology, specifically the planning and operations systems such as NAVIS and SPARCS, in optimising productivity. Infrastructure was also emphasised as a significant factor affecting productivity. Only the views of employees working at the Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet Port Authority at the Port of Ngqura were considered. The study achieved a low response rate. Based on the empirical research, the study could conclude by making the following recommendations that the Port of Ngqura should prioritise enhancing its operations by making significant investments in equipment and infrastructure. Through the adoption of an efficient human resource strategy, the port should also handle workforce problems brought on by resignations, voluntary separation plans (VSPs), and contract terminations. Planning for succession effectively is crucial to maintaining institutional knowledge. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mlonzi, Aluta Phathuxolo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Port Ngqura (Port Elizabeth, South Africa) , Harbors -- South Africa -- Port Elizabeth , Industrial productivity , Operations research
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65773 , vital:74236
- Description: Ports are the gateway to economic trade and a huge contributor to South Africa’s economy. Productivity has become a critical component for ports in the port industry as a means of enhancing market potential and competitiveness (Kuo, Lu, and Le, 2020). Therefore ports must investigate their productivity factors to stay competitive. This study sought to determine the factors that contribute to productivity at the Port of Ngqura. A qualitative research approach was employed in the study where data was obtained by conducting interviews with a sample of ten employees from Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet National Port Authority. Out of the ten employees identified, only four participants took part in the study. According to the respondents, the key factors contributing to productivity at the Port of Ngqura include the staff, efficient staff training, equipment, technology, and infrastructure. Furthermore, the respondents highlighted the importance of technology, specifically the planning and operations systems such as NAVIS and SPARCS, in optimising productivity. Infrastructure was also emphasised as a significant factor affecting productivity. Only the views of employees working at the Transnet Port Terminals and Transnet Port Authority at the Port of Ngqura were considered. The study achieved a low response rate. Based on the empirical research, the study could conclude by making the following recommendations that the Port of Ngqura should prioritise enhancing its operations by making significant investments in equipment and infrastructure. Through the adoption of an efficient human resource strategy, the port should also handle workforce problems brought on by resignations, voluntary separation plans (VSPs), and contract terminations. Planning for succession effectively is crucial to maintaining institutional knowledge. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Factors influencing employee engagement in a flexible work environment: a study of the Road Accident Fund
- Authors: Goqo, Nondumiso Zama
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Road Accident Fund (South Africa) , Employee motivation , Flexible work arrangements , Work-life balance Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65600 , vital:74200
- Description: Employee engagement is a critical aspect of organisational success, and with the increasing adoption of flexible working arrangements (FWAs), understanding its determinants becomes crucial. However, many organisations are struggling to keep employees engaged while offering them flexible working patterns. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors that influence employee engagement among employees of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa after the introduction of flexible working arrangements. To achieve the main aim of this study, a literature study was undertaken on employee engagement and a flexible working environment. The main focus of the literature study was to determine the factors with the most potential to influence employee engagement in the context of a flexible working environment. These factors emerged as work-life balance, employee wellbeing, leadership, rewards and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility. This led to conducting an empirical study utilising a self-administered online survey as the data collection instrument to determine the influence of these factors on the engagement of RAF employees. A scale was developed to determine these factors and the current engagement level of employees at the RAF was measured using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) (2002). A descriptive and correlational research design was employed, utilising a convenience sampling method with a final sample of 413 achieved. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential techniques, including Cronbach’s Alpha, frequency distributions, measure of central tendencies and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), product moment correlation, t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square tests. This included the testing for potential relationships between the variables of interest.The results of the empirical study revealed some of factors that were identified in the literature review of this study were found to have a positive influence on the engagement of employees working in the flexible working environment offered by the RAF. These factors are employee well-being, leadership, reward and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility (time). The factors that were excluded by the results were work-life balance and workplace flexibility (place). These exceptions imply that these factors have less influence on the overall employee engagement levels at the RAF. Moreover, the levels of engagement of RAF employees were found to be at a moderate level. Furthermore, the results indicated that regardless of whether employees utilised FWAs or not, their levels of engagement remained at a moderate level. In other words, the utilisation of FWAs did not appear to significantly impact on the overall engagement levels of employees, and both groups exhibited similar moderate engagement levels. The findings also suggest that the RAF should maintain and enhance the factors that have a positive influence on employee engagement. In addition, the organisation should work on addressing those factors that do not play as significant a role in influencing engagement as the other factors. By taking these steps, the RAF can effectively enhance the overall level of employee engagement among its workforce. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Goqo, Nondumiso Zama
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Road Accident Fund (South Africa) , Employee motivation , Flexible work arrangements , Work-life balance Personnel management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65600 , vital:74200
- Description: Employee engagement is a critical aspect of organisational success, and with the increasing adoption of flexible working arrangements (FWAs), understanding its determinants becomes crucial. However, many organisations are struggling to keep employees engaged while offering them flexible working patterns. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors that influence employee engagement among employees of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa after the introduction of flexible working arrangements. To achieve the main aim of this study, a literature study was undertaken on employee engagement and a flexible working environment. The main focus of the literature study was to determine the factors with the most potential to influence employee engagement in the context of a flexible working environment. These factors emerged as work-life balance, employee wellbeing, leadership, rewards and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility. This led to conducting an empirical study utilising a self-administered online survey as the data collection instrument to determine the influence of these factors on the engagement of RAF employees. A scale was developed to determine these factors and the current engagement level of employees at the RAF was measured using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) (2002). A descriptive and correlational research design was employed, utilising a convenience sampling method with a final sample of 413 achieved. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential techniques, including Cronbach’s Alpha, frequency distributions, measure of central tendencies and exploratory factor analysis (EFA), product moment correlation, t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square tests. This included the testing for potential relationships between the variables of interest.The results of the empirical study revealed some of factors that were identified in the literature review of this study were found to have a positive influence on the engagement of employees working in the flexible working environment offered by the RAF. These factors are employee well-being, leadership, reward and recognition, learning and development, employee involvement, effective communication and workplace flexibility (time). The factors that were excluded by the results were work-life balance and workplace flexibility (place). These exceptions imply that these factors have less influence on the overall employee engagement levels at the RAF. Moreover, the levels of engagement of RAF employees were found to be at a moderate level. Furthermore, the results indicated that regardless of whether employees utilised FWAs or not, their levels of engagement remained at a moderate level. In other words, the utilisation of FWAs did not appear to significantly impact on the overall engagement levels of employees, and both groups exhibited similar moderate engagement levels. The findings also suggest that the RAF should maintain and enhance the factors that have a positive influence on employee engagement. In addition, the organisation should work on addressing those factors that do not play as significant a role in influencing engagement as the other factors. By taking these steps, the RAF can effectively enhance the overall level of employee engagement among its workforce. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Financial deepening and economic performance in South African commercial banks
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Nomthandazo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Economic development , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Performance -- Measurement , Liquidity (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65829 , vital:74271
- Description: Financial deepening and economic growth have received much attention in the literature. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the relationship between financial deepening, and bank performance especially within the context of South African commercial banks. This research aims to investigate the empirical relationship between financial deepening and the performance of all South African commercial banks from 1987 to 2019. The research adopts a descriptive research design and utilizes secondary data along with time series analysis techniques. The research empirically investigates the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance, using financial deepening indicators such as Market Capitalisation (MC), Credit to the private sector (CR), Money Stock (MS), and Bank liquidity (BL). Control variables such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Inflation rate (IF), and Lending interest rate (LR) are also considered. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance of South African commercial banks. The findings indicate that financial deepening has both short-term and long-term impacts on bank performance. Each component of the financial deepening indicators demonstrates a strong and statistically significant relationship with bank performance. This empirical evidence suggests that financial deepening has made a positive contribution to the profitability of South African commercial banks. Furthermore, the analysis reveals a long-run equilibrium relationship between financial deepening and the economic performance of the South African banking sector. This research addresses the gap between theoretical beliefs and empirical evidence by establishing a robust and positive contribution of financial deepening to the profitability of South African commercial banks. The findings highlight the significance of financial deepening in enhancing bank performance in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mpongoshe, Nomthandazo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Economic development , Banks and banking -- South Africa , Performance -- Measurement , Liquidity (Economics)
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65829 , vital:74271
- Description: Financial deepening and economic growth have received much attention in the literature. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the relationship between financial deepening, and bank performance especially within the context of South African commercial banks. This research aims to investigate the empirical relationship between financial deepening and the performance of all South African commercial banks from 1987 to 2019. The research adopts a descriptive research design and utilizes secondary data along with time series analysis techniques. The research empirically investigates the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance, using financial deepening indicators such as Market Capitalisation (MC), Credit to the private sector (CR), Money Stock (MS), and Bank liquidity (BL). Control variables such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Inflation rate (IF), and Lending interest rate (LR) are also considered. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance. The autoregressive distributed lag bounds testing (ARDL) method is employed to test the relationship between financial deepening and bank performance of South African commercial banks. The findings indicate that financial deepening has both short-term and long-term impacts on bank performance. Each component of the financial deepening indicators demonstrates a strong and statistically significant relationship with bank performance. This empirical evidence suggests that financial deepening has made a positive contribution to the profitability of South African commercial banks. Furthermore, the analysis reveals a long-run equilibrium relationship between financial deepening and the economic performance of the South African banking sector. This research addresses the gap between theoretical beliefs and empirical evidence by establishing a robust and positive contribution of financial deepening to the profitability of South African commercial banks. The findings highlight the significance of financial deepening in enhancing bank performance in South Africa. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Formulating an operational efficient strategy for the national health laboratory services in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sizila, Wandile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Organizational effectiveness , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65993 , vital:74294
- Description: This treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote areas, wireless internet technology, mobile applications and software. The region also needs to practice good corporate governance, update its policies regularly and budget for all operations, including quasi fiscal activities. Lastly, support departments need to comply with an ISO certification. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023 , Abstract.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sizila, Wandile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Strategic planning , Organizational effectiveness , Success in business
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65993 , vital:74294
- Description: This treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote areas, wireless internet technology, mobile applications and software. The region also needs to practice good corporate governance, update its policies regularly and budget for all operations, including quasi fiscal activities. Lastly, support departments need to comply with an ISO certification. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023 , Abstract.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2022-04
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Formulating an operational efficient strategy for the national health laboratory services in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sizila, Wandile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: National Health Laboratory Service (South Africa) , Public health laboratories -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lean manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65990 , vital:74295
- Description: This treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sizila, Wandile
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: National Health Laboratory Service (South Africa) , Public health laboratories -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Lean manufacturing
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65990 , vital:74295
- Description: This treatise presents the formulation of an operational efficient strategy for the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) in the Eastern Cape. Operational inefficiency in the NHLS has the potential to delay laboratory results delivery for necessary health intervention, which may have a negative impact on individuals’ health or lead to death. The aim of the study is to highlight inadequacies that may cause poor service delivery and formulate an operational plan for the NHLS in the Eastern Cape. Strategic efficiency is derived from the resource-based and agent theories. Even though there is a difference between service and manufacturing industries, the operational strategic framework can be used in both. A strategic framework is implemented by assessing market requirements and using the top-down or bottom-up approach. To monitor and regulate these strategies, one can utilise, among others, scorecards, corporate social responsibility and risk management. This is a qualitative research study using semi-structured interviews to gather information from 11 participants. The study targeted managers in the NHLS Eastern Cape region, with a non-probability method, as the large number of managers in the entire region made it impossible to do a random study. Furthermore, the data were analysed by the thematic analysis method. The literature review identified six factors that influence public sector efficiency, namely, compliance issues, ethics, financial expense management, resource optimisation, accountability and service delivery. The primary study revealed several inadequacies in the NHLS Eastern Cape, namely, inefficient human resources practices, underutilising technology, ambiguous policies, delayed turnaround time, lack of financial training for management and lack of support from cross-functional departments. In addition, the results of the study warrant the following recommendations: Proper orientation of staff, with modules pertaining not only to their duties and reporting structure but also to the policies of the organisations and conduct; SWOT analyses and surveys could also be used to assess internal staff and external factors that may hinder efficiency; the installation of solar panels for laboratories, starting with the vulnerable labs in remote , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
How procurement industry trends can lessen the impact of procurement delays at Eastern Cape Department of Health (ECDOH)
- Authors: Mgijima, Celelwa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public contracts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Purchasing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65749 , vital:74234
- Description: This research study came about as a result of healthcare failures and underperformance at the Eastern Cape Department of Health, causing procurement delays. Procurement is central to the government service delivery system as it promotes goals that are secondary to the primary aim of procurement, such as using procurement to promote social, industrial, or environmental policies. The ultimate goal of the study was to research the root cause for procurement delays and how improvements can be brought about through studying procurement industry trends. The critical step to resolve bottlenecks in the procurement system is to investigate the root cause. Six causes of procurement delays emerged from the literature due to: (1) procurement staff, (2) procurement irregularities, (3) poor budget planning and demand forecasting, (4) poor communication, (5) procurement structure, and, (6) manual systems used for procurement transactions. Guided by these causes of procurement delays, the researcher developed a questionnaire to understand the cause of delays at the Eastern Cape Department of Health. An interpretivism research paradigm (quantitative) was selected to analyze research on best practices. The researcher distributed questionnaires as a method for collecting data from the identified sample size of 90. The purpose of the questionnaire was to validate the data collected during the literature review. Out of the distributed sample, 69 responses were received and used for analysis, thus representing a 74% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The researcher used descriptive analysis to interpret data. The study's key findings indicated that ECDOH employees had been fairly trained on the SCM policies within the department. However, there is a concerning representation of 40,6% of employees who have not been provided with training, which could impact responsiveness to the procurement process. The study further revealed that 85,5% of employees understood the impact of procurement delays due to irregular expenditure (an Auditor General repeat finding for the ECDOH). , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mgijima, Celelwa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Government purchasing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Public contracts -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Purchasing -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65749 , vital:74234
- Description: This research study came about as a result of healthcare failures and underperformance at the Eastern Cape Department of Health, causing procurement delays. Procurement is central to the government service delivery system as it promotes goals that are secondary to the primary aim of procurement, such as using procurement to promote social, industrial, or environmental policies. The ultimate goal of the study was to research the root cause for procurement delays and how improvements can be brought about through studying procurement industry trends. The critical step to resolve bottlenecks in the procurement system is to investigate the root cause. Six causes of procurement delays emerged from the literature due to: (1) procurement staff, (2) procurement irregularities, (3) poor budget planning and demand forecasting, (4) poor communication, (5) procurement structure, and, (6) manual systems used for procurement transactions. Guided by these causes of procurement delays, the researcher developed a questionnaire to understand the cause of delays at the Eastern Cape Department of Health. An interpretivism research paradigm (quantitative) was selected to analyze research on best practices. The researcher distributed questionnaires as a method for collecting data from the identified sample size of 90. The purpose of the questionnaire was to validate the data collected during the literature review. Out of the distributed sample, 69 responses were received and used for analysis, thus representing a 74% response rate, which is considered acceptable. The researcher used descriptive analysis to interpret data. The study's key findings indicated that ECDOH employees had been fairly trained on the SCM policies within the department. However, there is a concerning representation of 40,6% of employees who have not been provided with training, which could impact responsiveness to the procurement process. The study further revealed that 85,5% of employees understood the impact of procurement delays due to irregular expenditure (an Auditor General repeat finding for the ECDOH). , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Immigration and human development outcomes in post-apartheid South Africa
- Authors: Nyagweta, David Tinashe
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Emigration and immigration -- Economic aspects , South Africa -- Emigration and immigration -- Economic aspects , Emigration and immigration -- Government policy
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65912 , vital:74283
- Description: Immigration remains an issue of constant and recuring debate which in many instances has reached extreme limits of violent confrontation. South Africa has been at the forefront of this debate given the history of migration that has led to the creation of the modern state. In this context, the current era has presented contestations on the implications of immigration to the country and how that relates to human development. With this backdrop, this thesis sought to investigate international immigration and its relation to human development outcomes within context of the democratic era in South Africa. Thus, the study focused on evaluating the differences between immigrants and non-immigrants in terms of physical and mental health, subjective wellbeing, and education. Furthermore, the study evaluated the relationship between immigration concentration across provinces and human development outcomes in aggregate. The comprehensive results focusing on both the full and racial specific sample identified that there are no significant differences between immigrants and non-immigrants in terms of health pinned to self-reported health. This finding supports small scale studies in South Africa and other countries which divert from the immigrant-paradox paradigm although this could be accounted for by convergence adjustments to the healthy immigrant effect. In terms of mental health and subjective wellbeing, the results showed that immigrants are significantly less likely to report depressive level scores on the CEDS-10 scale. Thus, the study demonstrated that the healthy immigrant effect holds in relation to depression. Contrarily, in terms of satisfaction with life, no significant differences are found between immigrants and non-immigrants, thus pointing to possible sudden convergence upwards in satisfaction with life, particularly considering most immigrants are from countries with lower levels of satisfaction with life. In relation to education findings, it was demonstrated that there are no significant differences between immigrant and non-immigrant students in terms of progression. Thus, neither the straight-line nor immigrant-paradox argument prevails as found mostly in the Global North. Lastly, regional analysis which accounted for human development across provinces showed that a significant positive relationship exists between immigration concentration and human development overall coupled with the component accounting for education diverting from panel studies. Furthermore, insignificant relationship is found in terms of health and income supporting findings by the study of no differences between immigrants and non-immigrants. Thus, this thesis proved that the pessimistic view on immigrants significantly diverting from the overall health and education levels coupled with negative relationship with human development are not supported empirically within the context of post-apartheid South Africa. Results of this study provide evidence that is critical to formulate policy, both in terms of immigration and further factors identified as important markers, on issues of education and physical and mental health such as race, gender, and wealth. In this regard, the differences in findings from those in countries especially in Global North challenge policies based on theoretical and empirical formulations that lack account for countries especially in the Global South which have increased levels of both inequality and poverty. Thus, it is critical that policies reflect the socioeconomic issues a country faces and informed by research that takes regional factors within a country to account. The study prescribes policies which aim to reduce discrimination due to unproved assumptions and those that aim to ensure that racial and income inequality are tackled within the country. In terms of immigration, rollout of awareness projects and campaigns, coupled with regional policies and projects rooted in communities to ensure participation of both sending and receiving countries will create platforms for better structuring of policies to tackle immigration especially given the integration goals of the African Union. Moreover, critical revaluation of policies and implementation thereof is critical given results identify inequality with those that are African, Coloured, and from poorer households facing lower levels of health, education and high levels of depression scores coupled with life dissatisfaction. Policies should thus, focus on ensuring that redistributive investments are enabled and implemented efficiently for better outcomes in terms of access to education, health, and economic opportunities for the disadvantaged. In enabling such projects with considerations of societal needs and immigration policies, strides could be made given that most contestations arise out of increased inequalities and socioeconomic destitution. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Nyagweta, David Tinashe
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Emigration and immigration -- Economic aspects , South Africa -- Emigration and immigration -- Economic aspects , Emigration and immigration -- Government policy
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65912 , vital:74283
- Description: Immigration remains an issue of constant and recuring debate which in many instances has reached extreme limits of violent confrontation. South Africa has been at the forefront of this debate given the history of migration that has led to the creation of the modern state. In this context, the current era has presented contestations on the implications of immigration to the country and how that relates to human development. With this backdrop, this thesis sought to investigate international immigration and its relation to human development outcomes within context of the democratic era in South Africa. Thus, the study focused on evaluating the differences between immigrants and non-immigrants in terms of physical and mental health, subjective wellbeing, and education. Furthermore, the study evaluated the relationship between immigration concentration across provinces and human development outcomes in aggregate. The comprehensive results focusing on both the full and racial specific sample identified that there are no significant differences between immigrants and non-immigrants in terms of health pinned to self-reported health. This finding supports small scale studies in South Africa and other countries which divert from the immigrant-paradox paradigm although this could be accounted for by convergence adjustments to the healthy immigrant effect. In terms of mental health and subjective wellbeing, the results showed that immigrants are significantly less likely to report depressive level scores on the CEDS-10 scale. Thus, the study demonstrated that the healthy immigrant effect holds in relation to depression. Contrarily, in terms of satisfaction with life, no significant differences are found between immigrants and non-immigrants, thus pointing to possible sudden convergence upwards in satisfaction with life, particularly considering most immigrants are from countries with lower levels of satisfaction with life. In relation to education findings, it was demonstrated that there are no significant differences between immigrant and non-immigrant students in terms of progression. Thus, neither the straight-line nor immigrant-paradox argument prevails as found mostly in the Global North. Lastly, regional analysis which accounted for human development across provinces showed that a significant positive relationship exists between immigration concentration and human development overall coupled with the component accounting for education diverting from panel studies. Furthermore, insignificant relationship is found in terms of health and income supporting findings by the study of no differences between immigrants and non-immigrants. Thus, this thesis proved that the pessimistic view on immigrants significantly diverting from the overall health and education levels coupled with negative relationship with human development are not supported empirically within the context of post-apartheid South Africa. Results of this study provide evidence that is critical to formulate policy, both in terms of immigration and further factors identified as important markers, on issues of education and physical and mental health such as race, gender, and wealth. In this regard, the differences in findings from those in countries especially in Global North challenge policies based on theoretical and empirical formulations that lack account for countries especially in the Global South which have increased levels of both inequality and poverty. Thus, it is critical that policies reflect the socioeconomic issues a country faces and informed by research that takes regional factors within a country to account. The study prescribes policies which aim to reduce discrimination due to unproved assumptions and those that aim to ensure that racial and income inequality are tackled within the country. In terms of immigration, rollout of awareness projects and campaigns, coupled with regional policies and projects rooted in communities to ensure participation of both sending and receiving countries will create platforms for better structuring of policies to tackle immigration especially given the integration goals of the African Union. Moreover, critical revaluation of policies and implementation thereof is critical given results identify inequality with those that are African, Coloured, and from poorer households facing lower levels of health, education and high levels of depression scores coupled with life dissatisfaction. Policies should thus, focus on ensuring that redistributive investments are enabled and implemented efficiently for better outcomes in terms of access to education, health, and economic opportunities for the disadvantaged. In enabling such projects with considerations of societal needs and immigration policies, strides could be made given that most contestations arise out of increased inequalities and socioeconomic destitution. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Improved service delivery through financial management mechanisms: a case of O. R Tambo District Municipality
- Dunywa, Petronella Andiswa Xoliswa
- Authors: Dunywa, Petronella Andiswa Xoliswa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Financial management , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Corporations -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65589 , vital:74199
- Description: The study investigated how effective and efficient financial management mechanisms can lead to improved service delivery in the O. R Tambo District Municipality. The study targeted the political leadership, senior and middle management, and key Budget and Treasury Office (BTO) personnel. The non-probability sampling method was used in the study with semi structured interviews conducted on a seventy-one sample size. The results of the interviews were analysed and pointed to the importance of sound financial management systems being critical to enhancing service delivery in the O. R Tambo District. The levels of understanding the role of financial management systems in municipalities differed across levels of authority but there was a general consensus of how effective and efficient financial management mechanisms affect service delivery. In conclusions municipalities need to continuously strive to skill and reskill personnel to maximize on efficiency and improved service delivery. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Dunywa, Petronella Andiswa Xoliswa
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Financial management , Finance, Public -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Corporations -- Finance
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65589 , vital:74199
- Description: The study investigated how effective and efficient financial management mechanisms can lead to improved service delivery in the O. R Tambo District Municipality. The study targeted the political leadership, senior and middle management, and key Budget and Treasury Office (BTO) personnel. The non-probability sampling method was used in the study with semi structured interviews conducted on a seventy-one sample size. The results of the interviews were analysed and pointed to the importance of sound financial management systems being critical to enhancing service delivery in the O. R Tambo District. The levels of understanding the role of financial management systems in municipalities differed across levels of authority but there was a general consensus of how effective and efficient financial management mechanisms affect service delivery. In conclusions municipalities need to continuously strive to skill and reskill personnel to maximize on efficiency and improved service delivery. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Influence of digital marketing activities on brand awareness in Zimbabwean polytechnics
- Authors: Bhebe, Bekimpilo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Industrial marketing , Digital media , Brand name products Brand choice
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65545 , vital:74186
- Description: The heightened competition for skilled students, capable staff, and government funding has spurred Zimbabwean higher education institutions to engage in competitive efforts. Due to the intense competition in the higher education sector, higher education institutions have become more market-oriented than before. Furthermore, the increased offering of online programmes by higher education institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic period has increased the bargaining power of students. Higher education institutions have therefore taken initiatives to promote their institutions through various interactive digital marketing activities. Digital marketing activities have brought about innovative changes and opportunities for higher education marketers. Higher education marketers, specifically university marketers, are taking advantage of the opportunity to market their institutions through digital marketing activities, thereby gaining a competitive advantage over other institutions of higher education such as polytechnics. There is, therefore, a need for polytechnics to effectively utilise digital marketing activities such as websites, text messaging, social media marketing and email marketing for brand awareness purposes so that they gain a competitive advantage over other institutions of higher learning. The study aimed to empirically evaluate the influence of digital marketing activities on brand awareness of Zimbabwe polytechnics and to propose a model that can be adopted by Zimbabwean polytechnics in an attempt to enhance their brand awareness. As such, a conceptual model was constructed from the literature review to investigate the relationship between digital marketing activities (independent variable) and brand awareness (dependent variable). Based on the comprehensive literature review, four digital marketing activities (website, text messaging, social media marketing and email marketing) were identified in the Zimbabwean polytechnic context. The study further identified the digital marketing activities sub-factors that were adopted in the development of a customised measuring instrument that was used to evaluate the influence of digital marketing activities on brand awareness of Zimbabwean polytechnics. These sub-factors included web design, navigation, interactivity and relevance for website; personalisation, interactivity, timeliness and reliability for text messaging; interactivity, sharing of content, advocacy and credibility for social media marketing and personalisation, interest, informativeness, interactivity and efficiency for email marketing. Furthermore, five hypotheses were formulated and three hypotheses were supported while two hypotheses were rejected. The positivist paradigm, the descriptive research design and the quantitative approach were used in the current study. The study‟s target population consisted of the registered student population of the two Zimbabwean polytechnics in the Midlands province, in the Applied Sciences, Commerce and Engineering divisions. The respondents were selected using non-probability sampling, specifically convenience sampling. Data was collected through an email survey, whereby a web-based self-administered questionnaire was distributed to the Applied Sciences, Commerce and Engineering students with assistance from the Information Technology Departments of the two polytechnics. The measuring instrument consisted of three sections with section A having nominal scales to gather demographic data from respondents. Section B consisted of scaled items that measured the influence of digital marketing activities, while section C measured brand awareness focussing on the three levels of brand awareness. A total of 500 completed questionnaires were received from the two polytechnics. Out of the 500 completed questionnaires, a total of 492 questionnaires had usable responses. Therefore, the current study had a response rate of 98.4%. The study further used descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to interpret the data. The descriptive statistics utilised included frequency measures of central tendency and measures of dispersion or variation. Regarding inferential statistics, the study utilised the CFA, Pearson‟s correlation coefficient, regression analysis, p-value independent sample t-test, ANOVAs and the Welch Robust test, Tukey HSD test, the Games-Howell test and the Cohen‟s d tests. The findings of the study revealed a significant relationship and a strong correlation between digital marketing activities and brand awareness. Regarding website use and brand awareness, a significant relationship and a moderate correlation were determined. The results further revealed an insignificant relationship but a moderate correlation between text messaging and brand awareness. The empirical results also revealed a significant relationship and a strong correlation between social media marketing and brand awareness. Finally, an insignificant relationship and a moderate correlation were revealed between email marketing and brand awareness in the current study. Based on the empirical results, this study gave recommendations to polytechnic marketers. Under the website use items, the study revealed that the respondents had a less positive experience with the web design of the polytechnics' websites. It was recommended that polytechnic marketers should take pragmatic steps to enhance their polytechnic web designs so that students can take note of the college information on well-organised polytechnic websites. The study also found that the respondents felt the need to experience more personalisation and timeliness of the polytechnics' text messaging. Therefore the polytechnic marketers were advised to personalise their text messages each time that they send them to students enabling them to build long-lasting relationships with students. Regarding the timeliness of text messaging, the polytechnic marketers were advised to send text messages to students at the right time when they need the information so that the disseminated information is readily accepted by the students. The polytechnic marketers were also advised to provide up-to-date polytechnic information on their social media pages after the respondents indicated the need to experience more sharing of content on the colleges' social media pages through the provision of up-to-date information. Lastly, the empirical results revealed that the respondents felt the need to experience more personalisation and the provision of interesting content through polytechnic email marketing. Therefore the Zimbabwean polytechnic marketers were strongly recommended to personalise the students' emails to motivate students to engage with them personally. The polytechnic marketers were further recommended to include interesting content in students' emails so that they draw the students' attention to polytechnic information in their emails. The study made the following important contributions. Firstly, the study made contributions to theory, literature, knowledge, society and marketing practitioners within the context of digital marketing activities and brand awareness in Zimbabwean polytechnics. Secondly, the current study provided the measuring instrument and a model that adds to scholarly work and provides a basis for future research in the marketing of Zimbabwean polytechnics. Thirdly, the study will assist in the enhancement of brand awareness of Zimbabwean polytechnics, enabling them to attract academically gifted students who will become productive workers, self-reliant entrepreneurs and responsible citizens. Lastly, the model will also provide a basis for future reference for polytechnic marketers in their marketing efforts for competitive advantage purposes. The current study had limitations that comprised uneven sample distribution, the adoption of limited social media variables and the exclusion of external stakeholders from the current study. Finally, the study made recommendations for future areas of study. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Bhebe, Bekimpilo
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Internet marketing , Industrial marketing , Digital media , Brand name products Brand choice
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65545 , vital:74186
- Description: The heightened competition for skilled students, capable staff, and government funding has spurred Zimbabwean higher education institutions to engage in competitive efforts. Due to the intense competition in the higher education sector, higher education institutions have become more market-oriented than before. Furthermore, the increased offering of online programmes by higher education institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic period has increased the bargaining power of students. Higher education institutions have therefore taken initiatives to promote their institutions through various interactive digital marketing activities. Digital marketing activities have brought about innovative changes and opportunities for higher education marketers. Higher education marketers, specifically university marketers, are taking advantage of the opportunity to market their institutions through digital marketing activities, thereby gaining a competitive advantage over other institutions of higher education such as polytechnics. There is, therefore, a need for polytechnics to effectively utilise digital marketing activities such as websites, text messaging, social media marketing and email marketing for brand awareness purposes so that they gain a competitive advantage over other institutions of higher learning. The study aimed to empirically evaluate the influence of digital marketing activities on brand awareness of Zimbabwe polytechnics and to propose a model that can be adopted by Zimbabwean polytechnics in an attempt to enhance their brand awareness. As such, a conceptual model was constructed from the literature review to investigate the relationship between digital marketing activities (independent variable) and brand awareness (dependent variable). Based on the comprehensive literature review, four digital marketing activities (website, text messaging, social media marketing and email marketing) were identified in the Zimbabwean polytechnic context. The study further identified the digital marketing activities sub-factors that were adopted in the development of a customised measuring instrument that was used to evaluate the influence of digital marketing activities on brand awareness of Zimbabwean polytechnics. These sub-factors included web design, navigation, interactivity and relevance for website; personalisation, interactivity, timeliness and reliability for text messaging; interactivity, sharing of content, advocacy and credibility for social media marketing and personalisation, interest, informativeness, interactivity and efficiency for email marketing. Furthermore, five hypotheses were formulated and three hypotheses were supported while two hypotheses were rejected. The positivist paradigm, the descriptive research design and the quantitative approach were used in the current study. The study‟s target population consisted of the registered student population of the two Zimbabwean polytechnics in the Midlands province, in the Applied Sciences, Commerce and Engineering divisions. The respondents were selected using non-probability sampling, specifically convenience sampling. Data was collected through an email survey, whereby a web-based self-administered questionnaire was distributed to the Applied Sciences, Commerce and Engineering students with assistance from the Information Technology Departments of the two polytechnics. The measuring instrument consisted of three sections with section A having nominal scales to gather demographic data from respondents. Section B consisted of scaled items that measured the influence of digital marketing activities, while section C measured brand awareness focussing on the three levels of brand awareness. A total of 500 completed questionnaires were received from the two polytechnics. Out of the 500 completed questionnaires, a total of 492 questionnaires had usable responses. Therefore, the current study had a response rate of 98.4%. The study further used descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to interpret the data. The descriptive statistics utilised included frequency measures of central tendency and measures of dispersion or variation. Regarding inferential statistics, the study utilised the CFA, Pearson‟s correlation coefficient, regression analysis, p-value independent sample t-test, ANOVAs and the Welch Robust test, Tukey HSD test, the Games-Howell test and the Cohen‟s d tests. The findings of the study revealed a significant relationship and a strong correlation between digital marketing activities and brand awareness. Regarding website use and brand awareness, a significant relationship and a moderate correlation were determined. The results further revealed an insignificant relationship but a moderate correlation between text messaging and brand awareness. The empirical results also revealed a significant relationship and a strong correlation between social media marketing and brand awareness. Finally, an insignificant relationship and a moderate correlation were revealed between email marketing and brand awareness in the current study. Based on the empirical results, this study gave recommendations to polytechnic marketers. Under the website use items, the study revealed that the respondents had a less positive experience with the web design of the polytechnics' websites. It was recommended that polytechnic marketers should take pragmatic steps to enhance their polytechnic web designs so that students can take note of the college information on well-organised polytechnic websites. The study also found that the respondents felt the need to experience more personalisation and timeliness of the polytechnics' text messaging. Therefore the polytechnic marketers were advised to personalise their text messages each time that they send them to students enabling them to build long-lasting relationships with students. Regarding the timeliness of text messaging, the polytechnic marketers were advised to send text messages to students at the right time when they need the information so that the disseminated information is readily accepted by the students. The polytechnic marketers were also advised to provide up-to-date polytechnic information on their social media pages after the respondents indicated the need to experience more sharing of content on the colleges' social media pages through the provision of up-to-date information. Lastly, the empirical results revealed that the respondents felt the need to experience more personalisation and the provision of interesting content through polytechnic email marketing. Therefore the Zimbabwean polytechnic marketers were strongly recommended to personalise the students' emails to motivate students to engage with them personally. The polytechnic marketers were further recommended to include interesting content in students' emails so that they draw the students' attention to polytechnic information in their emails. The study made the following important contributions. Firstly, the study made contributions to theory, literature, knowledge, society and marketing practitioners within the context of digital marketing activities and brand awareness in Zimbabwean polytechnics. Secondly, the current study provided the measuring instrument and a model that adds to scholarly work and provides a basis for future research in the marketing of Zimbabwean polytechnics. Thirdly, the study will assist in the enhancement of brand awareness of Zimbabwean polytechnics, enabling them to attract academically gifted students who will become productive workers, self-reliant entrepreneurs and responsible citizens. Lastly, the model will also provide a basis for future reference for polytechnic marketers in their marketing efforts for competitive advantage purposes. The current study had limitations that comprised uneven sample distribution, the adoption of limited social media variables and the exclusion of external stakeholders from the current study. Finally, the study made recommendations for future areas of study. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Investigating the competitiveness of small and medium-sized management consulting enterprises in serving state-owned enterprises: subtitle if needed. If no subtitle follow instructions in manual
- Authors: Mpapele, Fanisa Monaliza
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- Management , Business consultants , Government business enterprises -- South Africa Government corporations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65811 , vital:74270
- Description: This dissertation examines the competitiveness of management consulting (MC) of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in serving state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in South Africa (SA). The research focused on the preparedness, scalability, and sustainability of MC SMMEs in addressing the strategic challenges faced by SOEs. The mixed-method approach combined self-administered interviews with management consultants and a comprehensive literature review. The qualitative research method allowed for an in-depth exploration of the factors influencing the competitiveness of MC SMMEs. The interviews revealed that MC SMMEs possess the necessary technical expertise and skills, yet they face hurdles related to scalability and sustainability inherent in SMMEs. These challenges include limited access to funding, inadequate marketing capacities, and delayed payment for services rendered. The study highlights that MC SMMEs can handle high-value projects for SOEs but they encounter difficulties within the SOE environment, which is marked by ethical concerns. It emphasises the importance of vigilance and maintaining discipline in service delivery to address these challenges. Additionally, the research provides practical recommendations for SOEs to support and facilitate the growth of MC SMMEs, enabling innovative solutions in their services. By evaluating the competitiveness of MC SMMEs in serving SOEs, this research contributes to understanding the MC industry landscape in SA. It aims to assist in strengthening the capabilities and credibility of local MC SMMEs, fostering their growth and sustainability. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, and stakeholders seeking to enhance the role of MC SMMEs in driving economic growth and innovation within the context of SOEs. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mpapele, Fanisa Monaliza
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Small business -- South Africa , New business enterprises -- Management , Business consultants , Government business enterprises -- South Africa Government corporations -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65811 , vital:74270
- Description: This dissertation examines the competitiveness of management consulting (MC) of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in serving state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in South Africa (SA). The research focused on the preparedness, scalability, and sustainability of MC SMMEs in addressing the strategic challenges faced by SOEs. The mixed-method approach combined self-administered interviews with management consultants and a comprehensive literature review. The qualitative research method allowed for an in-depth exploration of the factors influencing the competitiveness of MC SMMEs. The interviews revealed that MC SMMEs possess the necessary technical expertise and skills, yet they face hurdles related to scalability and sustainability inherent in SMMEs. These challenges include limited access to funding, inadequate marketing capacities, and delayed payment for services rendered. The study highlights that MC SMMEs can handle high-value projects for SOEs but they encounter difficulties within the SOE environment, which is marked by ethical concerns. It emphasises the importance of vigilance and maintaining discipline in service delivery to address these challenges. Additionally, the research provides practical recommendations for SOEs to support and facilitate the growth of MC SMMEs, enabling innovative solutions in their services. By evaluating the competitiveness of MC SMMEs in serving SOEs, this research contributes to understanding the MC industry landscape in SA. It aims to assist in strengthening the capabilities and credibility of local MC SMMEs, fostering their growth and sustainability. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, and stakeholders seeking to enhance the role of MC SMMEs in driving economic growth and innovation within the context of SOEs. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Key drivers for enhancing sustainable livelihoods of national park adjacent communities in Uganda: subtitle if needed. If no subtitle follow instructions in manual
- Authors: Kiconco, Michelle
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship , Sustainable development -- Uganda , Economic development -- Uganda , Sustainable tourism , Tourism -- Social aspects -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65655 , vital:74221
- Description: The growing concern about the negative impact of tourism on the social, cultural, and economic systems of local communities has caused policymakers to envision improved methods of tourism management. Governments realise that the feasibility of protected areas is dependent on giving considerable attention to the livelihoods of host communities and, according to them, a greater role in the management of protected areas. The worrying poverty rate of national park adjacent communities in Uganda has prompted an inquiry into the key drivers that could enhance sustainable livelihoods. As such, an inquiry into the intervention of tourism social enterprises in enhancing the livelihood of park adjacent communities has been sought. Presently, limited academic research has been conducted on the influence of vulnerability context, livelihood capital access and livelihood strategies on enhancing the sustainable livelihood outcomes of national park adjacent communities. Furthermore, the links between tourism social entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods have hardly been explored in literature. Against this background, the primary objective of this study is to investigate the influence of vulnerability context, livelihood capital access and livelihood strategies on the sustainable livelihood outcomes of national park adjacent communities where tourism social entrepreneurship is practised in Uganda. Considering the primary objective of the study and the researcher’s assumptions, a positivistic research paradigm with a deductive approach to theory development was adopted. A quantitative methodological approach was selected, and a survey research strategy and a cross-sectional approach were employed. The study used a questionnaire to gather primary data from potential respondents who were selected through simple random sampling. From the data collection, 364 usable questionnaires from Uganda Community Tourism Association (UCOTA) – exemplifying a tourism social enterprise were obtained. The primary data collected was analysed to investigate the hypothesised relationships between the independent and dependent variables. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed to establish the factor structure of the variables and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for each of the factors was assessed based on various goodness-of-fit indices. The suitability of the measuring instrument was determined by the validity and reliability tests from which the average variance extracted (AVE) estimates and squared correlations between the constructs and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were reported; validity and reliability assessments of the factors were conducted to confirm the suitability of the measuring instrument. A modified hypothesised model was derived based on these analyses, after which the descriptive statistics and correlation results on the dependent and independent variables were then reported. The study used Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) statistical technique to test the significance of the hypothesised relationships. Significant relationships between resilience to shock and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being) and also resilience to seasonality and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being) for the case of vulnerability context. With regard to livelihood capital access, a significant relationship was found between social capital access and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being). A significant relationship between tourism-related strategies and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being was also found).This study has contributed to the body of knowledge of sustainable livelihoods in general as well as how vulnerability context, livelihood capital access and livelihood strategies influence sustainable livelihood outcomes of national park adjacent communities where tourism social entrepreneurship is practised. Theoretically, this study contributes to the application and extension of the sustainable livelihood framework by integrating a theory of access and the capability approach in assessing livelihoods. Practical recommendations were made that could enhance the sustainable livelihood of national park adjacent communities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Kiconco, Michelle
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Social entrepreneurship , Sustainable development -- Uganda , Economic development -- Uganda , Sustainable tourism , Tourism -- Social aspects -- Uganda
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65655 , vital:74221
- Description: The growing concern about the negative impact of tourism on the social, cultural, and economic systems of local communities has caused policymakers to envision improved methods of tourism management. Governments realise that the feasibility of protected areas is dependent on giving considerable attention to the livelihoods of host communities and, according to them, a greater role in the management of protected areas. The worrying poverty rate of national park adjacent communities in Uganda has prompted an inquiry into the key drivers that could enhance sustainable livelihoods. As such, an inquiry into the intervention of tourism social enterprises in enhancing the livelihood of park adjacent communities has been sought. Presently, limited academic research has been conducted on the influence of vulnerability context, livelihood capital access and livelihood strategies on enhancing the sustainable livelihood outcomes of national park adjacent communities. Furthermore, the links between tourism social entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods have hardly been explored in literature. Against this background, the primary objective of this study is to investigate the influence of vulnerability context, livelihood capital access and livelihood strategies on the sustainable livelihood outcomes of national park adjacent communities where tourism social entrepreneurship is practised in Uganda. Considering the primary objective of the study and the researcher’s assumptions, a positivistic research paradigm with a deductive approach to theory development was adopted. A quantitative methodological approach was selected, and a survey research strategy and a cross-sectional approach were employed. The study used a questionnaire to gather primary data from potential respondents who were selected through simple random sampling. From the data collection, 364 usable questionnaires from Uganda Community Tourism Association (UCOTA) – exemplifying a tourism social enterprise were obtained. The primary data collected was analysed to investigate the hypothesised relationships between the independent and dependent variables. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed to establish the factor structure of the variables and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for each of the factors was assessed based on various goodness-of-fit indices. The suitability of the measuring instrument was determined by the validity and reliability tests from which the average variance extracted (AVE) estimates and squared correlations between the constructs and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were reported; validity and reliability assessments of the factors were conducted to confirm the suitability of the measuring instrument. A modified hypothesised model was derived based on these analyses, after which the descriptive statistics and correlation results on the dependent and independent variables were then reported. The study used Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) statistical technique to test the significance of the hypothesised relationships. Significant relationships between resilience to shock and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being) and also resilience to seasonality and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being) for the case of vulnerability context. With regard to livelihood capital access, a significant relationship was found between social capital access and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being). A significant relationship between tourism-related strategies and sustainable livelihood outcomes (improved well-being was also found).This study has contributed to the body of knowledge of sustainable livelihoods in general as well as how vulnerability context, livelihood capital access and livelihood strategies influence sustainable livelihood outcomes of national park adjacent communities where tourism social entrepreneurship is practised. Theoretically, this study contributes to the application and extension of the sustainable livelihood framework by integrating a theory of access and the capability approach in assessing livelihoods. Practical recommendations were made that could enhance the sustainable livelihood of national park adjacent communities. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Main thesis title: An assessment of the quality of the service delivery effort in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
- Swartz, Joël Ralitswana Peter
- Authors: Swartz, Joël Ralitswana Peter
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Service delivery -- South Africa , Public participation and city councils -- South Africa , Community based resources -- Development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66028 , vital:74310
- Description: The provision of services to people in South Africa is a constitutional right that all spheres of the South African government are bound to. South Africa’s Bill of Rights also lays it out that all SA citizens are entitled to these services. The functions of the national, provincial, and local spheres of government are to ensure that all that the Constitution and Bill of Rights promise, are provided and implemented. Service delivery is therefore a mandated activity that all municipalities are obligated to provide to their residents locally. The primary objective of this study is to assess the quality of the service delivery effort from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The study was conducted by using a qualitative case study approach. A total of 12 participants were chosen for the study and in-depth interviews were implemented as data collection tool to accomplish the study’s objectives. The qualitative data analysis tool Atlas.ti was employed to present emerging themes from the collected data. The findings of the study highlighted the challenges experienced in the NMBM prevent a high level of service delivery to residents. The study participants agreed that the service delivery effort in the NMBM is below that what the various stakeholders, mainly the residents, expected. The effective management of the limited financial and human resources are the major themes that emerged during the interviews. The study recommends that the service delivery value chain be reviewed, and that policies and strategies be genuinely implemented. The study also suggests that proactive communication with residents be improved. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Swartz, Joël Ralitswana Peter
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Service delivery -- South Africa , Public participation and city councils -- South Africa , Community based resources -- Development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66028 , vital:74310
- Description: The provision of services to people in South Africa is a constitutional right that all spheres of the South African government are bound to. South Africa’s Bill of Rights also lays it out that all SA citizens are entitled to these services. The functions of the national, provincial, and local spheres of government are to ensure that all that the Constitution and Bill of Rights promise, are provided and implemented. Service delivery is therefore a mandated activity that all municipalities are obligated to provide to their residents locally. The primary objective of this study is to assess the quality of the service delivery effort from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The study was conducted by using a qualitative case study approach. A total of 12 participants were chosen for the study and in-depth interviews were implemented as data collection tool to accomplish the study’s objectives. The qualitative data analysis tool Atlas.ti was employed to present emerging themes from the collected data. The findings of the study highlighted the challenges experienced in the NMBM prevent a high level of service delivery to residents. The study participants agreed that the service delivery effort in the NMBM is below that what the various stakeholders, mainly the residents, expected. The effective management of the limited financial and human resources are the major themes that emerged during the interviews. The study recommends that the service delivery value chain be reviewed, and that policies and strategies be genuinely implemented. The study also suggests that proactive communication with residents be improved. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Perceived critical factors impacting digital literacy at a South African automotive manufacturer
- Authors: Sandan, Mahmoodah
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Internet literacy , Computer literacy , Information society , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65924 , vital:74287
- Description: This treatise explores the critical factors affecting digital literacy within a South African Automotive Manufacturer. Previous research conducted within the organisation revealed that employees were not using digital tools to its full potential, and according to the literature, digital capabilities are one of the main drivers for organisational agility. There is a lack of research on digital literacy and organisational agility in a South African automotive context. As technology progresses rapidly, organisations must innovate to remain agile and relevant. This qualitative research study was conducted through a constructivist worldview, allowing the researcher and participant an opportunity to interact during an interview session to uncover experiences and thoughts relating to digital literacy within the organisation. The study enrolled 14 participants, and this was sufficient to achieve meaningful saturation of the data. The study highlighted low confidence levels in technology adoption within the organisation, often causing anxiety and apprehension among employees. This psychological barrier stems from a lack of digital literacy skills underpinned by insufficient training to fully understand the benefits technology may provide to the user and the organisation. The lack of awareness may be linked to ineffective communication techniques the organisation employs when relaying training or information relating to available resources. Furthermore, to enhance digital literacy skills, the study found that individuals need to have good foundational knowledge from which to build and have supportive leadership that assists in acquiring the necessary resources and training. This study provides insights into digital literacy within a South African Automotive Manufacturer. It will allow management to develop strategies to improve digital literacy levels and establish a learning culture where employees have higher levels of self-efficacy. When an organisation embraces digital technology, it increases productivity and fosters innovation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Sandan, Mahmoodah
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Internet literacy , Computer literacy , Information society , Automobile industry and trade
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65924 , vital:74287
- Description: This treatise explores the critical factors affecting digital literacy within a South African Automotive Manufacturer. Previous research conducted within the organisation revealed that employees were not using digital tools to its full potential, and according to the literature, digital capabilities are one of the main drivers for organisational agility. There is a lack of research on digital literacy and organisational agility in a South African automotive context. As technology progresses rapidly, organisations must innovate to remain agile and relevant. This qualitative research study was conducted through a constructivist worldview, allowing the researcher and participant an opportunity to interact during an interview session to uncover experiences and thoughts relating to digital literacy within the organisation. The study enrolled 14 participants, and this was sufficient to achieve meaningful saturation of the data. The study highlighted low confidence levels in technology adoption within the organisation, often causing anxiety and apprehension among employees. This psychological barrier stems from a lack of digital literacy skills underpinned by insufficient training to fully understand the benefits technology may provide to the user and the organisation. The lack of awareness may be linked to ineffective communication techniques the organisation employs when relaying training or information relating to available resources. Furthermore, to enhance digital literacy skills, the study found that individuals need to have good foundational knowledge from which to build and have supportive leadership that assists in acquiring the necessary resources and training. This study provides insights into digital literacy within a South African Automotive Manufacturer. It will allow management to develop strategies to improve digital literacy levels and establish a learning culture where employees have higher levels of self-efficacy. When an organisation embraces digital technology, it increases productivity and fosters innovation. , Thesis (MBA) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, Business School, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
Postgraduate student experience and retention at South African public higher education institutions
- Authors: Smith, Carly Kim
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , College dropouts -- South Africa , Academic achievement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66005 , vital:74296
- Description: A country’s economic growth and global competitiveness as a knowledge-based economy can be enhanced by an educated workforce. Therefore, the completion of postgraduate qualifications is of high importance to any country. In South Africa, according to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), it is necessary to improve postgraduate (PG) output and practice skills to promote socioeconomic development. Despite an increase in PG enrolments at public higher education institutions (PHEIs), South Africa reported an increase in PG student dropouts and therefore it is evident that student retention is a challenge. To foster student retention, the interactions between PHEIs and students on their student journeys are important since positive experiences can contribute to the retaining of students. The positive experiences of students depend on different aspects, challenges and dispositions during the student journey. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the variables that influence PG student experience for PG student retention at South African PHEIs. Based on an extensive review of the South African higher education landscape, marketing literature, also in the context of the study, a hypothesised model of the variables possibly influencing PG student experience for PG student retention was proposed. The four independent variables identified were higher education service quality, service design, student engagement and student satisfaction. The hypothesised model presented student experience as the intervening variable and student retention as the dependent variable. This positivistic study followed a deductive approach and a quantitative research methodology. During the empirical investigation, a survey strategy using a self-administered questionnaire collected data from a convenience sample of PG students registered at 15 South African PHEIs. A total of 435 usable questionnaires were returned and analysed statistically. Both descriptive and inferential statistics, including a Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson’s correlations, regression analyses, SEM for mediation as well as t-tests and ANOVAs, were employed in the data analysis. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023 , A country’s economic growth and global competitiveness as a knowledge-based economy can be enhanced by an educated workforce. Therefore, the completion of postgraduate qualifications is of high importance to any country. In South Africa, according to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), it is necessary to improve postgraduate (PG) output and practice skills to promote socioeconomic development. Despite an increase in PG enrolments at public higher education institutions (PHEIs), South Africa reported an increase in PG student dropouts and therefore it is evident that student retention is a challenge. To foster student retention, the interactions between PHEIs and students on their student journeys are important since positive experiences can contribute to the retaining of students. The positive experiences of students depend on different aspects, challenges and dispositions during the student journey. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the variables that influence PG student experience for PG student retention at South African PHEIs. Based on an extensive review of the South African higher education landscape, marketing literature, also in the context of the study, a hypothesised model of the variables possibly influencing PG student experience for PG student retention was proposed. The four independent variables identified were higher education service quality, service design, student engagement and student satisfaction. The hypothesised model presented student experience as the intervening variable and student retention as the dependent variable. This positivistic study followed a deductive approach and a quantitative research methodology. During the empirical investigation, a survey strategy using a self-administered questionnaire collected data from a convenience sample of PG students registered at 15 South African PHEIs. A total of 435 usable questionnaires were returned and analysed statistically. Both descriptive and inferential statistics, including a Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson’s correlations, regression analyses, SEM for mediation as well as t-tests and ANOVAs, were employed in the data analysis. The validity and reliability of the measuring instrument were confirmed. The main empirical results of the regression analyses revealed that statistically significant relationships exist between the independent variables (higher education service quality, service design, student engagement and student satisfaction) and the intervening variable (student experience). A significant relationship was also found between the intervening variable (student experience) and the dependent variable (student retention). Therefore, all the formulated hypotheses were accepted. The SEM analysis revealed that an indirect-only mediation exists, implying that student experience mediates the relationships between the independent variables and student retention. No model modification was required since the goodness-of-fit indices showed that the hypothesised model is a good fit. Finally, the differences in mean scores across biographic and demographic variables revealed significant differences in how males and females perceive both student experience and student retention. In addition, the ANOVAs indicated that research doctorate, course work master’s and honours students (level of education) had different perceptions regarding only student experience. The study contributed on a theoretical level since it added to the body of knowledge on the retention of PG students through student experience within the South African PHEI context. The study also contributed on national innovation, human capital, national budgetary, PHEI budgetary and individual PG student levels. The final contribution of the research was at a practical level through the study’s recommendations and the development of a PHEI student experience for student retention implementation framework. Therefore, should this study’s recommendations and framework be implemented, it may assist to reduce the student dropout at PHEIs and this may positively contribute to South Africa’s socioeconomic development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Smith, Carly Kim
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Education, Higher -- South Africa , College dropouts -- South Africa , Academic achievement -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66005 , vital:74296
- Description: A country’s economic growth and global competitiveness as a knowledge-based economy can be enhanced by an educated workforce. Therefore, the completion of postgraduate qualifications is of high importance to any country. In South Africa, according to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), it is necessary to improve postgraduate (PG) output and practice skills to promote socioeconomic development. Despite an increase in PG enrolments at public higher education institutions (PHEIs), South Africa reported an increase in PG student dropouts and therefore it is evident that student retention is a challenge. To foster student retention, the interactions between PHEIs and students on their student journeys are important since positive experiences can contribute to the retaining of students. The positive experiences of students depend on different aspects, challenges and dispositions during the student journey. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the variables that influence PG student experience for PG student retention at South African PHEIs. Based on an extensive review of the South African higher education landscape, marketing literature, also in the context of the study, a hypothesised model of the variables possibly influencing PG student experience for PG student retention was proposed. The four independent variables identified were higher education service quality, service design, student engagement and student satisfaction. The hypothesised model presented student experience as the intervening variable and student retention as the dependent variable. This positivistic study followed a deductive approach and a quantitative research methodology. During the empirical investigation, a survey strategy using a self-administered questionnaire collected data from a convenience sample of PG students registered at 15 South African PHEIs. A total of 435 usable questionnaires were returned and analysed statistically. Both descriptive and inferential statistics, including a Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson’s correlations, regression analyses, SEM for mediation as well as t-tests and ANOVAs, were employed in the data analysis. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Management Sciences, 2023 , A country’s economic growth and global competitiveness as a knowledge-based economy can be enhanced by an educated workforce. Therefore, the completion of postgraduate qualifications is of high importance to any country. In South Africa, according to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), it is necessary to improve postgraduate (PG) output and practice skills to promote socioeconomic development. Despite an increase in PG enrolments at public higher education institutions (PHEIs), South Africa reported an increase in PG student dropouts and therefore it is evident that student retention is a challenge. To foster student retention, the interactions between PHEIs and students on their student journeys are important since positive experiences can contribute to the retaining of students. The positive experiences of students depend on different aspects, challenges and dispositions during the student journey. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the variables that influence PG student experience for PG student retention at South African PHEIs. Based on an extensive review of the South African higher education landscape, marketing literature, also in the context of the study, a hypothesised model of the variables possibly influencing PG student experience for PG student retention was proposed. The four independent variables identified were higher education service quality, service design, student engagement and student satisfaction. The hypothesised model presented student experience as the intervening variable and student retention as the dependent variable. This positivistic study followed a deductive approach and a quantitative research methodology. During the empirical investigation, a survey strategy using a self-administered questionnaire collected data from a convenience sample of PG students registered at 15 South African PHEIs. A total of 435 usable questionnaires were returned and analysed statistically. Both descriptive and inferential statistics, including a Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson’s correlations, regression analyses, SEM for mediation as well as t-tests and ANOVAs, were employed in the data analysis. The validity and reliability of the measuring instrument were confirmed. The main empirical results of the regression analyses revealed that statistically significant relationships exist between the independent variables (higher education service quality, service design, student engagement and student satisfaction) and the intervening variable (student experience). A significant relationship was also found between the intervening variable (student experience) and the dependent variable (student retention). Therefore, all the formulated hypotheses were accepted. The SEM analysis revealed that an indirect-only mediation exists, implying that student experience mediates the relationships between the independent variables and student retention. No model modification was required since the goodness-of-fit indices showed that the hypothesised model is a good fit. Finally, the differences in mean scores across biographic and demographic variables revealed significant differences in how males and females perceive both student experience and student retention. In addition, the ANOVAs indicated that research doctorate, course work master’s and honours students (level of education) had different perceptions regarding only student experience. The study contributed on a theoretical level since it added to the body of knowledge on the retention of PG students through student experience within the South African PHEI context. The study also contributed on national innovation, human capital, national budgetary, PHEI budgetary and individual PG student levels. The final contribution of the research was at a practical level through the study’s recommendations and the development of a PHEI student experience for student retention implementation framework. Therefore, should this study’s recommendations and framework be implemented, it may assist to reduce the student dropout at PHEIs and this may positively contribute to South Africa’s socioeconomic development.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
South Africa’s international competitiveness and the 4th Industrial Revolution
- Authors: Mchunu, Siyabonga Raymond
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Industry 4.0. , Technological innovations --21st century , Economic growth, development, planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65718 , vital:74231
- Description: Economic growth and development are of major concern for the economy of many countries around the globe including South Africa. The production function predicts that economic growth and development are determined by the quality and quantity of inputs. Economic theory recognizes that there is a positive relationship between productivity, economic growth, and development. Industry 4.0 is predicted to be a major enhancer of productivity. In recent years, the 4th Industrial Revolution has been considered as influential for industrial growth and development. South Africa’s growth in manufactured products requires elements that are characterized by the 4th industrial revolution given the growing but relatively low manufacturing output over the recent period. The adoption of new technologies in the production processes requires structural changes in production requirements and this has implications for the factor market. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of competitiveness on South Africa’s industrial development over the past 20 years (1998 - 2018), in the context of the 4th industrial revolution. A quantitative approach was used to examine the relationship between industry 4.0 and competitiveness and ultimately between competitiveness and industrial development. This study focused on the manufacturing sector and a sample of three industries were randomly selected and they are, the chemicals, the automotive, and the iron and steel industries. The countries of focus are South Africa relative to Germany, China, and the US. A panel data regression analysis technique was employed, and the study utilizes fixed and random effects methods. This analysis method was used to answer the research questions and to address the research aim and objectives. Two models were used to address the aim of the study. The first model determines the relationship between industry 4.0 and competitiveness controlling for capital intensities and labour productivity. The second model determines the relationship between competitiveness and industrial development controlling for trade finance, the real effective exchange rate, trade agreements, and distance. The study found that for South Africa relative to Germany, the fixed effects estimation (estimation 3) shows a positive and significant effect of relative investment on relative total factor productivity controlling for capital intensities, labour productivity, and fixed effects. The random effects estimation (estimation 4) showed a significant and positive effect of relative total factor productivity on the export ratio. The relative real effective exchange rate and the trade agreement dummy were insignificant, but they had the correct signs which are positive. With regards to the findings for South Africa relative to China, the random effects estimation (estimation 3) shows that relative investment has a positive effect on total factor productivity, on average ceteris paribus. The fixed effects estimation (estimation 2) shows that relative total factor productivity is positively correlated to the export ratio, but it is insignificant. The relative interest rate is positively correlated to the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus and this variable is significant. Estimation 3 shows that the relative total factor productivity is positively correlated to the export ratio, but it is insignificant. The relative interest rate variable is positively related to the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus and this variable is highly significant. The relative real effective exchange rate shows insignificant results with regards to its effect on the export ratio for all the estimations with the exception of the pooled OLS estimation. The findings for South Africa relative to the US show that there is a positive and significant relationship between relative total factor productivity and the relative investment in the fixed effects estimation. In the fixed effects estimation (estimation 1), relative investment is positively related to relative total factor productivity, on average ceteris paribus. In the fixed effects estimation (estimation 2), relative investment is positively related to relative total factor productivity, on average ceteris paribus. The relative capital intensity and relative labour productivity variables are insignificant, and the direction of correlation is contrary to expectations. The random effects estimation (estimation 3) shows a negative correlation between relative investment and relative total factor productivity. The estimate is insignificant, and this is contrary to the expectations. On the other hand, the correlation between the relative capital intensity and the relative labour productivity has the expected signs even though both variables are insignificant. The random effects estimation shows that there is a positive and significant relationship between the export ratio and the relative total factor productivity for estimations 2 and 3. The random effects estimation (estimation 2) shows that relative total factor productivity is positively related to the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus. The random effects estimation (estimation 3) shows that an increase in relative total factor productivity also results in an increase in the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus. The relative interest rate and the relative real effective exchange rate variable are insignificant in estimations 2 and 3 but both variables had the expected positive signs in terms of correlation. The recommendations of this study which are informed by the empirical literature discussed and findings are that trade and industry policymakers should provide a policy that directs the investment of resources to new technologies that are being used in the production process of goods and services by the firms/investors to achieve industrial development in the modern day and age. Clarity is required with regards to returns from industry 4.0 investment which may be expected over time since there may be a need for capital budgeting. Provide incentives for the use of labour enhancing industry 4.0 technologies for manufacturers to encourage the employment of labour since labour productivity is important for competitiveness. To complement industrial policy with other relevant policies such as labour and environmental policies. Labour policies are vital for sustainable accommodative industrial policy for Industry 4.0. Factor in a provision for trade finance to further facilitate and stimulate the movement of goods into international markets since trade finance was an important factor for industrial development. Mitigate the barriers that hinder the movement of industry 4.0 technologies locally and internationally. The positive contributions of Industry 4.0 that were determined by this study echo the need for investment into education and training to provide the necessary skilled labour for smart production since this is regarded as a prerequisite for a wholistic implementation of Industry 4.0 and finally outline the necessary standards and regulations for the safe and sustainable use of digital technologies. Suggested future research is to investigate the effect of Industry 4.0 on competitiveness and industrial development in the primary and tertiary sectors to provide the literature which sets out insights on these sectors and informs policy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12
- Authors: Mchunu, Siyabonga Raymond
- Date: 2023-12
- Subjects: Industry 4.0. , Technological innovations --21st century , Economic growth, development, planning
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/65718 , vital:74231
- Description: Economic growth and development are of major concern for the economy of many countries around the globe including South Africa. The production function predicts that economic growth and development are determined by the quality and quantity of inputs. Economic theory recognizes that there is a positive relationship between productivity, economic growth, and development. Industry 4.0 is predicted to be a major enhancer of productivity. In recent years, the 4th Industrial Revolution has been considered as influential for industrial growth and development. South Africa’s growth in manufactured products requires elements that are characterized by the 4th industrial revolution given the growing but relatively low manufacturing output over the recent period. The adoption of new technologies in the production processes requires structural changes in production requirements and this has implications for the factor market. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of competitiveness on South Africa’s industrial development over the past 20 years (1998 - 2018), in the context of the 4th industrial revolution. A quantitative approach was used to examine the relationship between industry 4.0 and competitiveness and ultimately between competitiveness and industrial development. This study focused on the manufacturing sector and a sample of three industries were randomly selected and they are, the chemicals, the automotive, and the iron and steel industries. The countries of focus are South Africa relative to Germany, China, and the US. A panel data regression analysis technique was employed, and the study utilizes fixed and random effects methods. This analysis method was used to answer the research questions and to address the research aim and objectives. Two models were used to address the aim of the study. The first model determines the relationship between industry 4.0 and competitiveness controlling for capital intensities and labour productivity. The second model determines the relationship between competitiveness and industrial development controlling for trade finance, the real effective exchange rate, trade agreements, and distance. The study found that for South Africa relative to Germany, the fixed effects estimation (estimation 3) shows a positive and significant effect of relative investment on relative total factor productivity controlling for capital intensities, labour productivity, and fixed effects. The random effects estimation (estimation 4) showed a significant and positive effect of relative total factor productivity on the export ratio. The relative real effective exchange rate and the trade agreement dummy were insignificant, but they had the correct signs which are positive. With regards to the findings for South Africa relative to China, the random effects estimation (estimation 3) shows that relative investment has a positive effect on total factor productivity, on average ceteris paribus. The fixed effects estimation (estimation 2) shows that relative total factor productivity is positively correlated to the export ratio, but it is insignificant. The relative interest rate is positively correlated to the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus and this variable is significant. Estimation 3 shows that the relative total factor productivity is positively correlated to the export ratio, but it is insignificant. The relative interest rate variable is positively related to the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus and this variable is highly significant. The relative real effective exchange rate shows insignificant results with regards to its effect on the export ratio for all the estimations with the exception of the pooled OLS estimation. The findings for South Africa relative to the US show that there is a positive and significant relationship between relative total factor productivity and the relative investment in the fixed effects estimation. In the fixed effects estimation (estimation 1), relative investment is positively related to relative total factor productivity, on average ceteris paribus. In the fixed effects estimation (estimation 2), relative investment is positively related to relative total factor productivity, on average ceteris paribus. The relative capital intensity and relative labour productivity variables are insignificant, and the direction of correlation is contrary to expectations. The random effects estimation (estimation 3) shows a negative correlation between relative investment and relative total factor productivity. The estimate is insignificant, and this is contrary to the expectations. On the other hand, the correlation between the relative capital intensity and the relative labour productivity has the expected signs even though both variables are insignificant. The random effects estimation shows that there is a positive and significant relationship between the export ratio and the relative total factor productivity for estimations 2 and 3. The random effects estimation (estimation 2) shows that relative total factor productivity is positively related to the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus. The random effects estimation (estimation 3) shows that an increase in relative total factor productivity also results in an increase in the export ratio, on average ceteris paribus. The relative interest rate and the relative real effective exchange rate variable are insignificant in estimations 2 and 3 but both variables had the expected positive signs in terms of correlation. The recommendations of this study which are informed by the empirical literature discussed and findings are that trade and industry policymakers should provide a policy that directs the investment of resources to new technologies that are being used in the production process of goods and services by the firms/investors to achieve industrial development in the modern day and age. Clarity is required with regards to returns from industry 4.0 investment which may be expected over time since there may be a need for capital budgeting. Provide incentives for the use of labour enhancing industry 4.0 technologies for manufacturers to encourage the employment of labour since labour productivity is important for competitiveness. To complement industrial policy with other relevant policies such as labour and environmental policies. Labour policies are vital for sustainable accommodative industrial policy for Industry 4.0. Factor in a provision for trade finance to further facilitate and stimulate the movement of goods into international markets since trade finance was an important factor for industrial development. Mitigate the barriers that hinder the movement of industry 4.0 technologies locally and internationally. The positive contributions of Industry 4.0 that were determined by this study echo the need for investment into education and training to provide the necessary skilled labour for smart production since this is regarded as a prerequisite for a wholistic implementation of Industry 4.0 and finally outline the necessary standards and regulations for the safe and sustainable use of digital technologies. Suggested future research is to investigate the effect of Industry 4.0 on competitiveness and industrial development in the primary and tertiary sectors to provide the literature which sets out insights on these sectors and informs policy. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, 2023
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2023-12