ResearchSpace
ResearchSpace is the institutional repository of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, unlocking knowledge, empowering impact, and preserving UKZN's research legacy.
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Recent Submissions
Promoting gender equality in the Department of Public Works in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2023) Lukele, Faith Sanelisiwe.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
For many years, women worldwide have continued to experience discriminatory practices both in the workplace and in society. One of the discriminatory practices faced by women is their exclusion in leadership positions. Post-1994, the South African government has promulgated several different legislative frameworks and policies to redress gender equality, discrimination and empower women. Despite the government efforts, there seems to be a common consensus among scholarly researchers that gender inequality still prevails in the South African workplace After twenty-nine years of democracy. Against this background, the present study aims to promote gender equality in the South African workplace by focusing on the Department of Public Works. A quantitative research will be conducted to collect data so that information can be quantified and subjected to statistical treatment to support or refute “alternate knowledge claims. The study will be conducted in the Department of Public Works. Given the total population of about 200 employees, the sample size of 132 was selected using simple random sampling. However, the data was were collected from 124 through an online survey (questionnaire). The reliability and validity of the measuring instrument were measured through a pilot study. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social, version 27.0. The study concluded that the factors such as women empowerment, organisational culture, leadership commitment and organisational structure were the most important factors that contributed to reducing gender inequality in the Department of Public Works. Also, the results revealed that gender equality impacted employee retention and performance significant in the Department of Public Works. On the contrary, the study found no significant relationship between gender equality and employee job security. This study provides a better knowledge of the discriminatory practices against women, especially those in leadership position in the Department of Public Works. Therefore, the study will service as an important tool for promoting gender equality in the Department of Public Works and other Departments in South Africa. The study recommends that organisations, including the Department of Public Works implement gender balance policies and practices to help reduce gender inequality.
Re-conceptualizing fiscal decentralization framework to improve service delivery: a case of uMgungundlovu District Municipality.
(2023) Msomi, Buhlebakhe.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
This research explored the concept of fiscal decentralisation by proposing a comprehensive framework tailored to the unique context of the uMgungundlovu District Municipality. Fiscal decentralisation, a pivotal component of effective governance, aims to redistribute financial authority and responsibility between higher-level governments and local authorities. This research aimed to redefine the fiscal decentralisation framework within the uMgungundlovu District Municipality, with a focus on crafting a comprehensive model that accommodates the distinctive socio-economic and political intricacies of the region. The research problem stems from the absence of a customized fiscal decentralisation framework tailored to the nuances of the district, as the conventional one-size-fits-all approach to fiscal decentralisation seem to fall short in effectively addressing the unique challenges faced by uMgungundlovu. In doing so, it sought to address the research problem of how fiscal decentralisation can be effectively structured and implemented to promote local development and efficient resource allocation. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilised purposive sampling to select 19 participants with in-depth knowledge and experience in local governance and fiscal matters. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse these qualitative data, identifying recurring patterns, concepts, and insights related to fiscal decentralisation within uMgungundlovu District Municipality. The findings underscore the need for community participation in fiscal decision-making, emphasizing the need for a re-conceptualized framework that empowers both local governments and actively involves communities in budgetary discussions. The findings thus stressed the importance of capacity building and institutional strengthening at the local level, addressing challenges in human resources, financial management, and technological infrastructure. The research recommends targeted interventions to enhance local government capabilities. Moreover, it contributes to the theoretical foundations of fiscal decentralization by promoting a context-specific approach, incorporating community perspectives, and offering practical guidance for policymakers to design and implement effective policies aligned with the realities of local governance. Based on the study's outcomes, it is recommended that uMgungundlovu District Municipality develop a clear and inclusive fiscal decentralisation framework tailored to its unique socio-economic context. This framework should address issues of revenue generation, allocation, and expenditure, while also emphasising mechanisms for transparent governance and community involvement.
Effects of digital transformation on employee morale in the business banking department of a financial organization.
(2023) Dookie, Deepak.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
Many organizations are undergoing digital transformation to remain competitive. Digital transformation in these organizations involves replacing old software with new software or automating manual processes. Organizations undergo this transformation without considering the effect on employees. This digital transformation process has a direct impact on employees. The study aimed to uncover the effects this transformation has on employee morale; the benefits of digital transformation and the strategies organizations should follow when implementing digital transformation. A quantitative study was conducted in the business banking division of a large financial services organization. The sampling technique used was stratified random. There was a total of fifty people that was sent a questionnaire within the business banking division of the financial services organisation. It was found that the benefits of digital transformation included streamlining of the operational process in the department, reducing manual activities, automating repetitive tasks, and minimizing errors. Respondents also showed positive results towards digital transformation increasing efficiency and allowing for more efficient data gathering and utilization of that data to gain valuable insights. Data from the questionnaire showed that employee morale increased with the introduction of digital transformation. Employees can do more meaningful work with the automation of tasks, thus doing more complex work and having a sense of accomplishment when complete. Digital transformation leads to increased motivation in employees with the desire to learn new skills and grow their career. Strategies needed to successfully implement digital
transformation included training of employees on the new technologies to boost confidence and increase morale. Employees want to be included in the transformation process by providing inputs to decision-making. There needs to be clear and transparent communication from leaders during digital transformation. The data showed that employees require rewards while undergoing the transformation journey as this increases morale and allows adoption and culture shift to happen quickly. Lastly employees should be provided feedback regularly to show that their opinion matters, this increases morale. It is recommended that organizations embrace digital transformation totally and utilize the strategies identified in the study.
The exploration of the influence of risk management on the success of construction projects.
(2023) Sithole, Bokang.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.
This dissertation explores the influence of risk management on the success of construction projects. The construction industry is inherently risky, with various uncertainties and challenges that can impact project outcomes. Effective risk management practices have been recognized as critical factors for achieving project success and minimizing adverse consequences. The objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how effective
risk management practices contribute to project success in the construction industry. The study adopts a qualitative research approach, utilizing interviews as the primary method of data collection. The research is situated within the context of the construction industry in Kwazulu Natal
South Africa looking at Raubex KZN. The Raubex KZN company is known for its rapid urbanization and diverse range of construction projects, especially in roadworks, providing an ideal setting to examine the interplay between risk management and project outcomes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of key stakeholders involved in construction projects within Raubex KZN. The sample size of 12 participants represents various roles, including project managers, construction managers, quality managers, health and safety officers and site engineers, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of risk management practices and their influence on project success. Through the qualitative analysis of interview data, themes and patterns emerged regarding the role of risk management in construction projects. The findings shed light on the strategies, processes, and challenges associated with risk identification, assessment, mitigation, and monitoring. Furthermore, the study uncovers the impact of risk management practices on project schedule adherence, cost control, quality assurance, and safety performance. The
results provide valuable insights into the perceptions, experiences, and perspectives of industry professionals regarding risk management and its effect on project success.
Exploring the livelihoods of ride-hailing drivers in Polokwane’s central business district.
(2024) Morakaladi, Choene Arthur.; Chasomeris, Mihalis Georgiou.
This study investigated ride-hailing drivers' livelihoods in the City of Polokwane, Limpopo Province. This qualitative exploration provided an understanding of the industry's dynamics by directly incorporating the experiences and perspectives of drivers. Through in-depth interviews
with 15 ride-hailing drivers, thematic analysis and NVivo software revealed multifaceted challenges impacting income levels. Surge pricing, access to resources, safety concerns, competition regulation, driver incentives, financial planning, app efficiency, and the potential benefits of loyalty programmes all emerged as pivotal factors influencing the livelihoods of ride-hailing professionals. Beyond highlighting challenges, the study uncovers potential avenues for improvement, including exploring loyalty programmes. By assessing the feasibility and benefits of loyalty initiatives, the research opens a discourse on how such programmes could contribute to the livelihoods of ride-hailing drivers. As the ride-hailing industry continues to evolve, understanding these factors becomes imperative for developing initiatives that foster a sustainable and supportive environment for those driving the industry forward. The study not only contributes valuable insights into the complex dynamics inherent in the ride-hailing sector but also provides specific recommendations aimed at enhancing the overall well-being and financial resilience of the drivers.