Public Administration

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/15182

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 228

A distributed knowledge-based support system for strategic management.
(1990) Ram, Vevekanand; Finnie, Gavin R.
Abstract available in pdf file.
Grievance and disciplinary procedures at the local government level.
(1992) Maharaj, Pamela.; Singh, Deoram.; Moodley, Sathiasiven.
No abstract available.
Management and development of cricket in South Africa with special reference to Natal.
(1993) Naidoo, Loganadhan Dalyiah; Bayat, Mahomed Saheed.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the management and development of cricket in South Africa with particular reference to Natal. The objectives of this evaluation included Highlighting the period of cricket prior to unification; Describing the unification process and the conditions necessary for unity; and Evaluation of the development programmes at national and provincial levels. The extensive area of investigation and the vastness of the area of study, restricts this research to specific aspects that are pertinent to the topic. The objectives of the study therefore focus on the following : To provide a theoretical foundation and analysis of administration, organisation and structure, and development, in order to establish whether the current situation did in fact meet with the objectives of the unification process; To investigate the effects of the apartheid policy on sport in South Africa; and To provide a critical appraisal of existing development programmes in order to enhance the knowledge and literature-base of cricket administration in South Africa. Within the framework of this research, and the theoretical foundations of cricket administration and development, the effects of the government's policy of "Apartheid", the emergence of the non-racial sports struggle, the unification process, and the structure of cricket with particular emphasis on the development programmes both at national and provincial levels, are discussed. The conclusion, which draws inferences from each chapter, provides certain recommendations pertaining to the following: The establishment of a National Sports Coordinating Body; The development of a National Development Policy; The establishment of a National Development Fund; The Development of Talented Players; The Development of Officials; The Development of Clubs; The Provision of Facilities; The establishment of School Cricket Unification; and Control and Accountability. It is hoped that the recommendations and suggestions made address some aspects of the various issues raised about the unification process in cricket in South Africa.
Studies of the nests of the fungus-growing termite Macrotermes natalensis (Isoptera: Macrotermitinae)
(1997) Kitto, Stephen Michael.; Miller, Raymond Martin.; Atkinson, P. R.
Monthly sampling of 71 laboratory nests, each with a pair of adults, revealed that eggs and first-instar larvae were observed in the third month, minor workers in the fourth month and minor soldiers in the seventh month. Mortality of the pairs was high, with only five pairs surviving over the 10 month period. Laboratory nests did not develop further than the copularium. Excavation of 30 nests, of differing sizes, revealed that five were juvenile nests, consisting of only thin shelving with a few flattened fungus combs scattered throughout, and all, even the youngest nest (3 to 5 years), had a small mound. The queens from these young nests were small and had white pleural and intersegmental membranes. Twenty mature nests had a medium to large mound with large air passages and a medium to large hive with a well defined fungus garden containing large fungus combs. The queens from these nests were medium- to large sized, with white to brown pleural and intersegmental membranes. The remaining five nests had mounds often covered with grass, and a hive that contained less fungus comb than expected. The mounds of these nests were classified using their sandy pediment or crumbly texture. These were senescent or declining nests. The queens had pale brown pleural membranes and brown intersegmental membranes, and were often flaccid. The royal cell was commonly found in the middle to upper part of the nursery (20 nests), but sometimes was found at the edge of the nursery (five nests). The royal cells of five nests were not found or had been destroyed during excavation. The "youngest" mound was one to two years old and the "oldest" was more than 25 years old. The youngest queen was estimated to be three to five years old and the oldest queen more than 27 years. The nest seems to remain subterranean for two or less years before producing a mound. Thirteen nests were vigorous and five declining. The remaining 12 nests could not be classified as no fungus comb was collected from the nests.
Pathways and barriers to inclusion: a case study of a girls' only school of industry in South Africa.
(2001) Hortop, Mark.; Muthukrishna, Anbanithi.
Since 1994 all education policy documents that have emerged in South Africa have stressed the principles of social justice and inclusion by foregrounding issues of equity, redress, quality education for all, equality of opportunity, and nondiscrimination. This study examined inclusionary and exclusionary attitudes and practices at a School of Industry for Girls in South Africa. The research was conducted in the qualitative research paradigm, and took the form of a small-scale ethnographic case study. The data collection techniques included observations and used observations, document analysis, questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that learners experience various barriers to learning and participation that are clearly embedded in the ethos, curriculum and cultures of the school. Various discriminatory attitudes and practices play themselves out and reflect an intersection of racism, gender discrimination and ableism. The study points towards the need for management and staff in collaboration with learners to interrogate and work towards minimising these exclusionary attitudes and practices prevalent at the school.
The scope and applicability of total quality management (TQM) to the public schooling system.
(2003) Govender, Sithambaram.; Sing, Deoram.
Total Quality Management (TQM) is an industrial or manufacturing theory that has greatly assisted business to transform to become more competitive in the global market. The South African public education system is currently facing various challenges and obstacles that must be overcome in order to cater for the demands of the 21 51 century. Much of the focus thus far has been on addressing the imbalances and inequities of the past. Now that the battle for equality is slowly being won, the focus is changing to quality in education provision. Total Quality Management offers an opportunity to attain quality in the education sector. Many writers abroad have adapted the principles of TQM to the education environment. Case studies in the United States of America and United Kingdom in particular, point to the success of TQM. Given the South African education scenario, this study explores the scope and applicability of Total Quality Management to the South African public schooling system. In February 2000, President Thabo Mbeki expressed the need to pay special attention to the improvement of the quality of management of our schools. The practice of TQM offers an opportunity to improve the quality of management in our schools. In addition, there has been much discussion and debate around whether schools are preparing learners for the real world. It is the express desire of the Minister of Education, Professor Kader Asmal, to create an education system for the 21 51 century. One of the cardinal principles of TQM is giving the customer what the customer needs- the customer in this case being the learner, the parent, tertiary institutions, commerce and industry and society at large. Currently there is ample evidence to suggest that there is a huge gap between what society expects and what schools and tertiary institutions are providing. Today, it is becoming increasingly evident that customer choice and customer perception of quality is of paramount importance. Therefore, schools that can offer quality in terms of product and customer service will survive and prosper. TQM is about meeting and exceeding customer expectations of service. There is ample evidence to suggest that TQM has carried the burden of being responsible in many cases for improving quality and productivity. Schools are constantly faced with rising costs. Parents are being called upon to pay increasingly more for the education of their children. Schools are constantly searching for innovative ways of cutting costs without compromising quality. TQM helps to systematically identify sources of error, and eradicate costly waste. This study explores whether TQM can do for the public schooling system what it has done for business. The scope and applicability of TQM to the public schooling system is investigated through carefully structured questionnaires administered to school-based personnel at different ranks, working in rural and urban schools, as well as ' advantaged' and 'disadvantaged' schools. In addition, chairpersons of school governing bodies/members and departmental officials are interviewed. The research carefully examines the many concerns around implementing TQM in public schools. There is concern that the principles of industry would not find favour in an education environment. A business-like approach to education may result in many meaningful aspects of schools and schooling being compromised or lost. The study ascertains whether some of the basic ingredients for quality management are present in our schools. Despite certain concerns, the majority were optimistic that TQM can be implemented. The conclusions arrived at and the recommendations made indicate that the theory, principles and practices of TQM can be adapted and applied to the South African schooling system. The argument that the vast backlogs in education do not favour the application of quality management in education is challenged. It is concluded that TQM offers the best possible opportunity to address inferior quality learning in certain quarters. Based on the success stories, a carefully structured implementation plan for TQM is suggested. Applying TQM will ensure a high quality public education.
Skilled labour in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2005) Moodley, Dashenthren.; Hunter, Clive Robert.
This dissertation was compiled to place into context and to address the problem of skills shortages in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal. It is often said that the voice that shouts the loudest, and the one that has the most media coverage usually acquires the most buy-in and belief, however this is not the most reliable source. The current demise of the local footwear industry has been attributed to the lack of Government protection and the lack of productivity of the local workforce, in the wake of globalisation. This dissertation presents to the reader a review of recent literature on the topic of skills shortages and also encompasses and endeavours to address the issue of the shortage of skills in the footwear industry. The reader is also provided with an insight into the background of the South African footwear industry, which has been highlighted to give the reader an understanding of the problems facing the footwear industry. Due attention and consideration has also been placed on the effects of globalisation on competitiveness in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal, and how the lack of skilled labour and higher labour costs due to more labour being required, accentuates the apparent problem. A quantitative study of the skills shortage in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal was also conducted and incorporated to provide more conclusive feedback and results. This process entailed conducting telephonic interviews with thirty-four Production managers of the total number of manufacturers, to assess the following: 1. The extent to which the KwaZulu-Natal footwear industry lacks skilled labour. 2. Whether the lack of skilled labour leads to the production of inferior quality footwear. 3. Whether or not manufacturing techniques require more labour as a result of individuals not being adequately skilled. 4. If the overall cost of the production of a shoe is rendered as being higher as a result of more labour being required to execute the production. 5. To determine if footwear manufactured in KwaZulu-Natal can compete with international standards with respect to the footwear industry. The research study considers and tests nine different hypotheses. The instruments used in the questionnaire were tested for reliability with the use of the Cronbach' s Alpha Coefficient, which is regarded as the most common way of measuring reliability. The study of the findings includes a descriptive statistical analysis and a correlation analysis of the variables. An interesting finding is the correlation between hypotheses two (The lack of skilled labour leads to inferior quality footwear) and four (As a result of more labour being required the overall cost of the shoe is higher) which produced an exceptionally high correlation, i.e. r = 0.58 and significance< 0.01. This implies that there is a strong correlation between inferior quality footwear produced by labour short of skill and the overall cost of the footwear. Bearing in mind that correlations simply show the degree of the relationship and do not show causality, the results appear to indicate that skilled labour produce higher quality footwear than unskilled labour, and that fewer skilled operators are required to do the same job. Findings of this nature are discussed in the study, which assist in the conclusion of the research conducted. The following recommendations have been formulated from a close study of the findings of this research study. 1. As a recommendation, employer-based surveys or interviews which gather information from individual employers on workers' specific skills in the footwear industry will help measure skills available (Barker, 1999:212). 2. To improve the return on their investment, to encourage employers to provide opportunities for their employees to acquire new skills, to encourage employees to participate in training programs, and to improve the employment prospects of those not currently employed. More emphasis needs to be placed on labour intensive manufacturing processes by government, as it is the view of the industry that nothing significant was being done (Stryker et al., 2001:6). 3. It is important that the industry has the correct apprenticeship programs in place to secure the existence of these skills. Barker (1999:233) states that new patterns of work often also require flexible and highly skilled workers. With restructuring of management it is common place where workers are required to function without direct supervision and to be able to correct small hiccups in the production process on their own initiative. 4􀀄 Job rotation will have the following benefits to the industry. The worker becomes more versatile thus learning new skills. With these new skills he can move to a higher paid position when a vacancy occurs. The company benefits in that they have a more highly skilled labour force that are able to step into a position when the need arises unlike the situation today where certain skilled positions have no 'back-up' (Human Sciences Research Council, 1999:33). 5. New market areas, new products, new ways of producing and providing services are reshaping the skills required. The industry has to keep abreast of the latest skills and technology available by having product fares inviting international companies to introduce modem technology locally. And in essence becoming more involved with the international industry from an innovation point of view (Bhorat et al., 2003:46). The writer has put forth an action plan to make implementation of these recommendations practical in the workplace.
An analysis of the theory and practice of governance in the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Authority.
(2005) Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.; Singh, D.
South Africa's negotiated settlement and its transition to a democratically elected government has often been referred to as a small miracle. Despite that, the country faces major governance challenges, ie. it has to embark on a comprehensive governance programme. The main aim of this study is to discuss and review the state of governance in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. The concept of governance has a broader relevance than the narrow and traditional term of government. The latter refers conventionally to the actions of a narrow set of government institutions. On the other hand, however, governance encompasses a wider range of issues and actors and the interactions among them. The interest in and importance of governance has followed a longer interest in the concept of civil society. With the advent of democracy, the South African government, together with its nine provincial administrations, has committed itself to maintaining and working with civil society structures. The design and implementation of public sector projects increasingly reflect : a partnership approach between government at all levels, the private sector and civil society. One aspect of governance in South Africa, which this study has also paid some attention to, is what is called good governance. One hallmark of the new Constitution is that a decentralised political system has been created which allows opportunities for wider consultation and participation by civil society, public sector, and the private sector in promoting good governance. This research is motivated by theoretical and practical concerns. It has attempted to cast light on governance issues of KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Authority by identifying some important and common dynamics of governance processes within this province. Further it has attempted to show how general principles of good governance can guide legislators, public officials, the private sector and civil society as they continue to grapple with governance challenges. The study has revealed that essentially there are four suggested properties of governance: Firstly, it is the degree of trust that exists between classes, clans and political elites about the nature, purpose and the rules of sociopolitical interactions and practices. Without trust, individuals and organised interest groups will see no reason to actively engage in public life. The second element is the extent to which there are effective relations of reciprocity in the public realm. Reciprocity exists if associations and parties are allowed to form, to defend and promote stakeholder interests within the public realm via political competition, pressure, negotiations and conflict resolution. The third element is the degree of accountability, i.e. whether the governors can be held accountable by the governed via institutionalised procedures and processes. This cannot be sustained over time without the eventual implementation of structures of accountability and trust across society. Fourthly, the nature of authority, i.e. how political leaders make policies and implement them in a way that resolves the problems of ordinary citizens and promotes the legitimacy of the public realm - what many in South Africa refer to as the capacity to govern. The conclusion drawn from this study is that if a government wants to promote and practise good governance, it must try to involve all stakeholders, namely civil society, public officials and the business sector, when making decisions concerning the delivery of services. This requires consultation with these stakeholders or their representatives. Leaders in politics, government institutions, private sector and civil society should announce good governance as the only option. Given that governance involves a number of new challenges for everyone, the researcher examined how each segment can contribute to the practice of good governance in the province. The study has identified the quest for good governance as the most formidable challenge, not only facing the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Authority, but also the country as a whole. All concerned are urged to find ways and means of reversing the trend towards declining governability and institutional decay. In the final analysis the following recommendations were made: • Good governance must result in better delivery of services; • Good governance programmes must change society for the better; • To promote good governance, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Authority must consistently implement growth-oriented and market-friendly economic policies; • Legislators must ensure that there are mechanisms for enforcing accountability and transparency; and • Government must encourage citizen participation, and governance must be undertaken to improve the general welfare of a society.
Women in management : a comparative study of the public (education) and private (banking) sectors in Durban.
(2005) Bob, Roshini.; Soni, Dhirajlal Vallabh.
This study utilises a multi-conceptual framework to critically and comparatively examine central issues and concerns relating to women in management generally and more specifically in the public and private sectors. The case studies of the banking and education sectors in the Durban area form the focus of this effort. Specifically, the main aspects of the primary research undertaken pertain to: perceptions of employees (both at management and non-managerial staff levels) in the banking and education sectors towards women in management; an appraisal from a management perspective, of existing policies and programmes aimed at eliminating gender discriminatory practices within the private and the public sectors; an examination of the impact that gender equity practices has on human resource planning, especially at the management level, in the private and public sectors; and an assessment of training and support programmes in place to assist women managers. Questionnaire surveys were undertaken with 50 female managers from each sector, 25 male managers from each sector and 25 non-managerial staff from each sector. Therefore, in total 200 interviews were conducted. Additionally, participatory focus group discussions were conducted with groups of both female and male managers and non-managers. The study reveals that women form an integral part of human resources in the banking and education sectors. For several decades women have entered jobs in these sectors and many women have moved up to managerial levels. However, most of these positions remain at lower and middle-management levels. Additionally, there are several problems that women in management experience. The main conclusion is that there are no notable and significant differences between women in management in the public and private sectors. This reinforces ILO's (1998) position that the challenges faced by women in management are ongoing and widespread. Problems facing women in management are complex and multidimensional. There are numerous factors that contribute to existing trends and explain the poor participation and performance of women in leadership positions. No single strategy or initiative can address the challenges faced by women in management and increase women's presence in leadership positions in both the public and private sectors. It is therefore imperative that issues pertaining to women in management be addressed from a range of perspectives: policy aspects, raising awareness of key considerations, improving skills and competencies of women (especially creating conditions and opportunities for development and capacity building), changing institutional and corporate structures and procedures as well as changing attitudes of men and women towards women in management and leadership positions. In essence, it is necessary to create a more enabling, women-friendly environment.
Primary health care delivery : a case study of KwaZulu-Natal with special reference to physiotherapy.
(2009) Nadasan, Thayananthee.; Penceliah, Yoganandee.
The delivery of primary health care (PHC), as promulgated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and in South Africa, is of fundamental importance. Physiotherapy is an essential component of the health care delivery system and must promote PHC during clinical training and practice. In KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), PHC service delivery has been a problem for various reasons such as the history of the country (apartheid era pre- 1994), financial constraints, lack of human resources, physical infrastructure and time constraints. Service delivery within the health sector is reported frequently in the media as physiotherapists and radiographers embarked on a strike latter part of 2009 in KZN due to a discrepancy in the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD). Physiotherapists have highlighted that they were overworked, carrying the strain of vacancies, due to frequent resignations to migrate to the private sector. The aim of the research was to explore the promotion of PHC delivery in KZN. The objectives explored the empowerment of students and staff in the Health Science Disciplines to PHC service delivery. In addition, managers at provincial and local levels were included in the study. Barriers and factors that enhance the promotion of PHC were identified. The research design comprised of a survey, a quantitative and qualitative case study of KZN, using questionnaires or semi-structured interviews. The findings indicated that the physiotherapy staff lacked PHC training (p=0.000) and 48.7% of the Disciplines in Health Sciences indicated that the rural needs were not being addressed with regards to PHC service delivery (p=0.018). Each discipline operated within its own silo, without any consultation and inter-disciplinary collaboration, to the detriment of effective delivery of PHC services. Fragmentation and duplication of PHC services existed between Provincial and Local Governments as indicated by 46% of the managers, which is disconcerting post 15 years of democracy in South Africa. The main objective of the National Health Plan and Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) was to readdress the inequalities and fragmented health services. Numerous recommendations are made which will improve the journey towards transformation, comprehensive PHC service delivery, and the quality of life of all citizens
The role of organised labour in dispute resolution in the eThekwini Municipality.
(2010) Pakkiri, Vadival.; Subban, Mogesperie.
This research expounds on the impact of Organised Labour in Dispute Resolution at eThekwini Municipality. The research will identify the positive and negative aspects of the stakeholders within the environment of labour relations. The necessity of this research is that very little research has been conducted in the dispute resolution environment at eThekwini Municipality. In any labour contract, there will always be disputes between the stakeholders concerned. In some instances, the conclusion of the dispute is a win-win situation or winner takes all. In the open market, the engaging of the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration is the forum available to resolve disputes. In the local government sector, however, organised labour caters for the needs of its members by taking their grievances to the bargaining council under the auspices of the South African Local Government Bargaining Council. Local government is the sphere that is closest to the public at which delivery of services takes place. The manner in which this is conducted depends largely on the Municipality's institutional capacity. The institutional capacity also influences its regulatory role. The co-operative governance approach encourages multiple stakeholder arrangements to deal with labour relations issues. These arrangements will provide an illustration of the role of various stakeholders in achieving peace and harmony in the workplace. Organised Labour will always have a profound effect on the economy, politics and social services. Its contribution and development to society is highly influential and ensures its recognition. The challenge is to develop systems and procedures that will serve the labour relations environment. This research will set out to explore the dispute resolution mechanism that exists currently, and the effect it has in the Municipality. In this way there will be a definitive significance on the approach to formalise the roles employed by management and organised labour.
Effect of total quality management implementation at Pfisterer (Pty) Ltd.
(2012) Mbambo, Bheki.; Bozas, Alexander Robert.
According to history, organisational success is crucial for the sustainability. The main focus for any business is to retain customers whiles in the process gaining more. Both Public and Private Sector have identified Total Quality Management as a tool for survival. TQM is largely used in the private sector; the disadvantage is that there is little empirical knowledge about whether it works positively or not. This study contributes to empirical knowledge of the effects of TQM implementation at PFISTERER a manufacturing firm. This research analyses the relationship between TQM implementation and four intermediate outcomes which are: teamwork, job satisfaction, trust, and customer feedback. The study mainly focuses on the effectiveness of TQM implementation on these outcomes which are deemed crucial. Quantitative analyses was applied for this study, a random sample of 62 employees was selected. The results show that TQM implementation does impact positively on the outcomes which are trust, teamwork, job satisfaction and customer feedback. The study conducted at PFISTERER revealed that there are positive results that flow from a well implimented Total Quality Management. Key findings from literature, fieldwork, conclusions and recommendations are illustrated in this study. Organisations implementing TQM must ensure that there is top management commitment. Employees should be empowered to take unilateral decisions, they must be always be involved in decision-making. This will bring about trust, teamwork, good customer feedback and job satisfaction.
Impact of expanded public works programme on social development within eThekwini municipality: a case of KwaMashu Hostel.
(2012) Zwane, Zamazulu Cherity.; Qwabe, Bongumusa.
Abstract The South African government launched the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in 2003.The programme is intended to provide communities with training and work experience in order to enhance their ability to earn a living in the future. In broad terms, EPWP is a poverty-alleviation mechanism through which people are provided with income and skills to sustain themselves in the future. The programme is implemented in all three spheres of government. Since its inception, unemployment and poverty in the country still remain rife. This study therefore provides an analysis of the EPWP and its failures to address unemployment and poverty in the country. From a methodological standpoint, the study was based on the information gathered through interviews in communities that are still trapped in poverty. Furthermore, questionnaires were administered with municipal and government officials and hostel dwellers in order to ascertain their perceptions about the programme. KwaMashu, within the eThekwini Municipality, was selected as a study area. The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, in conjunction with the municipality, identified this area as a recipient of the EPWP given the magnitude of the unemployment and poverty rate in the area. In the final analysis the study reflects a host of challenges regarding the implementation of the programme. The study therefore provides some recommendations for the improvement of the programme in order to have the desired effects.
Breaking the glass ceiling - a case of Durban corporate women.
(2012) Makaula, Siphosenkosi Zanoxolo.; Bozas, Alexander Robert.
ABSTRACT The glass ceiling is a concept that most frequently refers to barriers faced by women who attempt, or aspire, to attain senior positions as well as higher salary levels in corporations, government, education and non-profit organisations; it can also refer to racial and ethnic minorities and men when they experience barriers to advancement. A glass ceiling appears to exist in many organisations and also maybe a glass cliff, in which women are promoted into risky upper-level positions in which failure and subsequent loss of the high-level position is likely. This research investigated perceptions that Durban corporate women have towards the notion of glass ceiling barriers at work. A sample was chosen on a non-probability basis using convenience sampling of corporate women within Durban. Ninety participants completed the questionnaire. The data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study differ to the statements made in the questionnaire to answer the objectives, the majority of respondents did not agree with the statements. The perception of women is that they do not experience glass ceiling barriers to career advancement. Women also feel confident and respected by colleagues, subordinates and leadership, are capable of executing their designated duties. Women also showed confidence in the Employment Equity Act, to suggest that the transformation charter is followed at their organisations. Recommendations of the study suggested that; there is paucity of research done on this topic in South Africa. South African researchers and academics should research and write more about contemporary issues faced by South African corporate women. The term “glass ceiling” is generally viewed as a myth; there should be an academic and corporate debate around the issue of glass ceiling barriers so as to make non-academic members of the public understand the term and its impact in society. Outcries over gender-based transformation should not be viewed as sexist and racial issues but rather as a labour relations matter and a matter supported by the transformation charter.
Implementing the national curriculum statement : a case study of FET history educators in the Umlazi District, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2012) Pillay, Gengatharen.; Penceliah, Yoganandee.
The study focused on education within a public administration paradigm. It highlights the development of curriculum policy in South Africa after 1994 by detailing the theories and models used in analysing public policy. Specific reference is made to the implementation of education policy, inter alia, the National Curriculum Statement: A case study of FET History in the Umlazi District, KwaZulu-Natal. An attempt at transforming South Africa’s education policy post-1994 came with the implementation of the policy model known as Curriculum 2005 (C2005), which was officially launched on 24 March 1997. The principles of C2005 signalled a new era for education policy-making and implementation in South Africa. During the implementation of the C2005 policy, there was a groundswell of disconcert among educators regarding the complexities and the concomitant difficulties in effecting the new modes of assessment. In 1999, former Minister of Education, Professor Kader Asmal, embarked on a ‘listening campaign’ out of which emerged his ‘Call to Action’. A Review Committee was subsequently appointed to investigate the structure and design of C2005. It recommended a policy shift referred to as the Revised National Curriculum Statements (RNCS) for the General Education and Training (GET) and Further Education Training (FET) phases. In 2006, the interim policy referred to as Report 550, was replaced with the new policy known as the National Curriculum Statement (NCS) for the FET phase. The essence of the NCS emphasised the development of a high level of knowledge and skills for all learners. The training of educators and implementation of the NCS policy occurred between 2006 and 2008 across all public schools in the Republic of South Africa. The first cohort of learners matriculated under the new NCS in 2008 and the results were less than satisfactory, leading to widespread criticism. Arguably, the implementation of the NCS led to a decline in the percentage pass rates of learners writing the National Senior Certificate examinations (Grade 12). In 2009, the national pass percentage was 60.6% while in KwaZulu-Natal the pass percentage was 61.1%. Education stakeholders complained about the inadequate subject-specific training and the demanding administrative workload. The primary aim of this study was to ascertain the levels of efficacy of the implementation of the NCS policy with specific reference to FET History in the Umlazi District, KwaZulu-Natal. In order to corroborate the hypothesis of this study an empirical investigation was undertaken which consisted of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Data gathered was analysed using the Predictive Analytic Soft Ware (PASW) Statistics version 18.0. The findings of the research study reveal specific trends and scenarios. Generally, FET History educators and Curriculum Specialists from the Umlazi District and from other districts within the province of KwaZulu-Natal, indicate the NCS was not effectively implemented because of the following key reasons: · All role players were not adequately consulted. · The FET training workshops lacked depth, were inadequate and often poorly co-ordinated. · There were far too many and often-contradictory policy documents which led to an increased administrative burden on FET educators. · The lack of effective monitoring and evaluation of the NCS implementation across the grades in the FET band. · Inadequate provision of relevant resource materials such as textbooks, and where available, these were not effectively used. · Content overload, especially in Grade 12. · Ambiguous and unattainable assessment requirements. · Insufficient and poorly trained Curriculum Specialists. The job description of Curriculum Specialists needs urgent and swift clarification. Based on these findings several detailed and practical recommendations were suggested. In addition, a curriculum implementation model has been developed to assist FET History educators specifically with any further curriculum-related matters.
Evaluating public sector service delivery at KwaZulu-Natal provincial hospitals : a case study of the Durban Metropolitan and Ilembe region.
(2012) Ndlovu, Simphiwe Emmanuel.; Kader, Abdulla Dawood.
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa,1996 (Act 108 of 1996) and the Patients’ Rights Charter (Patients’ Rights Charter: Online) guarantee all citizens the right to basic health care services (South Africa, 1996: chapter 3). Furthermore, the White Paper on the Transformation of the Public Service (South Africa, 1997) states that the delivery of healthcare should be guided by the principles contained in the framework of Batho Pele, a Sotho term meaning “People First”. Hospitals play an important role in delivering healthcare. However, strong allegations have been made about the inability of various provincial hospitals to provide health care in line with the Constitution and the Patients’ Rights Charter. Customer satisfactionis a vital measure of performance for firms, industries and national economies (Anderson et al., 1994).The growing health care literature suggests that patient satisfaction should motivate strategic decisions in the healthcare sector (Andaleeb, 2001). Research has indicated that the services provided by a company or institution can be measured by determining the inconsistency between what the customer wants (expectations) and how the customer experiences the service (perceptions). Little research has been conducted to date in KwaZulu-Natal provincial hospitals to evaluate the progress made in improving service delivery of healthcare; the healthcare system and the administration thereof, which is a major cause of poor service delivery in the provincial hospitals. This research study aims to contribute towards the identification of health care requirements by articulating the expectations of patients. Following a literature review which provided insight into the conceptual and contextual framework of public administration and the role of knowledge management in enhancing public sector service delivery, empirical data were gathered by means of questionnaires administered to patients, nurses and doctors at three hospitals in iLembe region and eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal – Addington, King Edward VIII and Stanger Hospitals – that serve urban, rural and semirural communities. The study’s findings revealed that there is indeed, reason for concern with regard to the identified service delivery goals and with regard to improving the health care system in general. The findings show that there is a weak, non-significant, negative linear relationship between the services offered at the three provincial hospitals compared with the expectations of patients who were admitted to these hospitals during the time the research was conducted. There is a need for further research regarding the interface between public sector provincial hospital services and service delivery, and the quality of services offered by hospitals in order to comply with Batho Pele Principles. It is anticipated that the study’s recommendations will assist hospitals in the eThekwini Metro and iLembe region in dealing with the challenges they face with regard to hospital service delivery and the monitoring and evaluating of Batho Pele Principles in the quest for a more efficient and effective delivery mandate.
The entrepreneurial orientation and intention of UKZN MBA students.
(2012) Ramkissor, Manoj.; Cassim, Shahida Banu.
Abstract The global economy is in a state of uncertainty and not forecasted to grow at a rate that will realise economic prosperity for all. Entrepreneurship is recognised as a potential remedy to this problem as it is posited to offer stimulus to economic growth. However the actualisation levels of entrepreneurial activity has been low, especially in South Africa. MBA students are identified as a segment of the population that can stimulate entrepreneurial activity since the tendency to pursue entrepreneurship is positively correlated with maturity, education, experience and corporate exposure. This study examines the entrepreneurship profile of the 2012 cohort of MBA students enrolled at the University of Kwa-zulu Natal (UKZN). There is no evidence of a study of this nature having been conducted at UKZN and as such the study represents new research. By evaluating the entrepreneurship profile of the MBA students the study seeks to identify how the actualisation of entrepreneurship may be enhanced. The entrepreneurship profile of the students is established by measuring the extent of Entrepreneurial Intention (EI) and Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO). Both EI and EO impact on the likelihood of entrepreneurial actualisation. A census survey is administered to evaluate EO (as measured by self-efficacy) and EI (as measured by the dimensions of risk-taking, innovativeness and proactivity). Statistical analysis reveals high levels of EO and EI and strong correlations between the two factors. Variances in EI are accounted for by the dimensions of risktaking, innovativeness and proactivity. Proactivity is found to be the best predictor of EI followed by innovativeness and risk-taking. No significant differences are noted in gender, age, race and entrepreneurial awareness. The study benefits students and organisations as it provides an assessment of the likelihood of entrepreneurial actualisation, which is a source of competitiveness and economic prosperity. UKZN benefits from the creation of a benchmark study for future research on evaluating the propensity of students to engage in entrepreneurial activity. In addition to high EI and EO, the study identifies that external factors in the environment, the preparation of individuals for entrepreneurship and the availability of entrepreneurial opportunities positively impact on the actualisation of entrepreneurship. Consequently UKZN, local industry and government must devise strategies that positively influence these factors in order to stimulate entrepreneurial activity.
Constraints in the implementation of the national certificate vocational (NCV) policy.
(2013) Goba, Petronella Duduzile.; Mubangizi, Betty Claire.
Policy changes within the Further Education and Training (FET) sector have been debated by scholars like Simon McGrath (2006), Cloete (2009) and Papier (2009). McGrath (2006) examined policy development within the FET sector and how that relates to the broader policy development within the South African context. McGrath further investigated the extent to which policy has been implemented and highlighted challenges remaining for the sector, post-policy implementation. Papier established a range of factors that caused poor performance of the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Policy learners in 2007 and 2008. Other Scholars like Cloete (2009) have revealed in their study that FET Colleges have low levels of institutional autonomy and are a provincial competency which is also a hindrance to effective implementation of the policy. Further Education and Training Colleges are the delivery arm of government to skill the nation whose skills deficit remains worryingly high. The FET Act 16 of 2006 led to the implementation of the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Policy whose intention was to increase the impact of FET colleges in skilling the nation. It is now five years since this Act was promulgated and since the NCV policy was implemented. Based on studies by McGrath (2006), Cloete (2009) and Papier (2009), this research investigated how the NCV policy was implemented and the implications thereof. The research focused attention on the constraints that affected effective implementation of NCV policy given the history and context within which FET Colleges operate. The view in this research was that lecturers, though key strategic players and a critical component of the College system were not ready to implement the NCV Policy. The research identified constraints that affected effective implementation of NCV policy framework; the role played by the College and, in addition, ascertained causes of policy implementation failures. Against this backdrop, the research determined the pros and cons of the implementation process and the effects that some of these had on employee morale. Specifically, the research targeted Elangeni College for FET, which consists of eight (8) Campuses. By closely examining NCV policy implementation, together with the implementation of FET ACT 16 of 2006 which resulted in qualified and competent staff leaving the sector, the research shed new light on this area, which has not been thoroughly researched.
Romance in the workplace, perceptions, performances and pitfalls.
(2013) Dlamini, Ntokozo Eunice.; Manion, Gillian Lesley.
ABSTRACT The purpose of this article is to create, through a comprehensive review of historic and contemporary literature, critical contributors to the development of workplace romance as a challenge, its effects on the organization's performance and its employees, as well as strategies for action. This study analyses the impact of workplace romance in organisations. The study further explores the extent to which workplace romance influences employee performance and the perceived influence on the relationship between employees and employers, as well as between co-workers. It further establishes differences in perceptions of workplace romance. The increase of female workers in organisations has impacted on and has therefore increased the possibility of workplace romance occurring. This study employs quantitative analysis because the study seeks explanations and predictions that generate meaningful analysis of the data. The population of this study is currently registered MBA students, due to the small number it was decided to do a census. The nature of the study and the small population of 100 deemed acceptable to use census. An electronic questionnaire sent via QuestionPro was used to collect the data. The questionnaire was pretested to ascertain whether it was suitable, and would yield the desired results. The electronic questionnaire was perceived to be the least inconvenient sampling method. It was also compatible with SPSS, a widely used computer software tool for the analysis of quantitative data. Organisations need to develop healthy working environments for their employees, middle management and top management. In South African, law does not cover the dissolved workplace romance apart from where there are allegations of sexual harassment. The study can benefit organisations in identifying these problems, and recommends strategies that can be used in dealing with dilemma of romance in the workplace. Organisation may also develop a policy on workplace romance. This will protect not only employees, but the organisation against publicity of lawsuit.
The conflict between poverty and nature conservation: lessons from the Dukuduku on-site resettlement project.
(2013) Dube, Nomsa.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.; Subban, Mogesperie.

Browse

Browsing Public Administration by Issue Date