Theses and dissertations (Management Sciences)

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The role of digital marketing in the survival of Pietermaritzburg's small, micro and medium-sized beauty businesses
(2024) Makalima, Amanda Zamaswazi; Zogli, Luther-King Junior
Digital marketing has become increasingly important as a marketing communication tool. The rapid advancement of technology and increased internet access has transformed the way businesses interact with their customers. The beauty industry, being one of Africa's fastest-growing sectors, has also embraced digital marketing strategies to effectively engage with customers and drive business growth. This research aims to explore the role of digital marketing in the survival of small, micro, and medium-sized beauty businesses in Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Through qualitative research, this study investigates how beauty businesses in Pietermaritzburg incorporate digital marketing into their overall marketing strategies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 small salon owners in the area, using purposive sampling. The data collected was analysed through content analysis, employing the NVIVO software. The findings demonstrate that digital marketing plays a significant role in boosting revenue for beauty businesses. Among various digital marketing tools, social media platforms emerged as the most effective and widely utilised due to their accessibility and diverse features. While themes such as email marketing and websites also surfaced, they were not as dominant as social media. Interestingly, when examining the survival factor, this research confirms that digital marketing is indeed a valuable medium for beauty SMMEs (Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises) to attract and retain customers while driving revenue growth. However, it highlights the continued importance of personal connections. Business owners cited challenges related to digital marketing, including technical incompetency, resource constraints, and difficulty in measuring effectiveness. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, they acknowledged digital marketing as the best investment for the survival of their businesses, considering it the future of the industry. Furthermore, recommendations are proposed to enhance the role of digital marketing in the survival and growth of Pietermaritzburg's beauty SMMEs. Networking and knowledge sharing initiatives are recommended to improve digital marketing strategies, with a focus on creating forums for owners to exchange experiences and stay updated on industry trends. Collaborating with digital marketing experts is encouraged to gain valuable insights and support tailored campaigns. The study advocates for continuous adaptation of digital marketing strategies, emphasizing regular monitoring of performance indicators and experimentation with new approaches. Overall, the study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on digital marketing in the beauty industry and provides practical insights for small salon owners in Pietermaritzburg. The findings emphasise the importance of embracing digital marketing strategies to stay competitive in today's digital era. Ultimately, this research highlights the relevance and effectiveness of digital marketing as a vital tool for the survival and success of beauty businesses.
Challenges of service delivery in selected townships in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
(2024) Mpolweni, Nandiswa; Abange, Martin Mulunda
Municipalities, in terms of the new development mandates, must provide a democratic and accountable government for local communities by providing services to local communities in a sustainable manner, promoting social and economic development, and ensuring a safe, healthy environment. While municipalities attempt to fulfil these mandates to bring about social-economic development and a sound environment for their communities, they experience complex and multifaceted service challenges that vary from one municipality to another, reflecting the diverse political dynamics of the respective environments. This research examined service delivery challenges in selected Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality townships in Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape Province. It seeks to assess how effectively the integrated development plan, as a local government tool, plays a vital role in addressing service delivery challenges in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative methodology using individual interviews. The data was analysed thematically using NVivo software. The sample consisted of a minimum of 30 people: ten representatives from Motherwell township and ten from Walmer township, five municipal officials and five ward councillors. The study was intended to bring about service delivery strategies and provide policy recommendations to alleviate or overcome challenges in improving service delivery in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
The role of the unemployment insurance fund in poverty alleviation in South Africa
(2025) Nkabinde, Nhloso; Fagbadebo, Omololu; Dorasamy, Nirmala
This study examined the role of the Unemployment Insurance Fund in poverty alleviation in South Africa, exploring its impact, challenges, and potential areas for improvement. In the early 1940s, South Africa did not have an arranged or planned social and economic system to support unemployed individuals. During the early 1946 regime, unemployed individuals suffered as there were few government interventions, and charitable organisations were not persistent in helping them. The Unemployment Insurance Act No.30 was introduced in 1946, and it was the first official and formal legislation to help the unemployed in South Africa. The Unemployment Insurance Act helped the unemployed financially, although it was a short-term relief. This is because the Act aimed to help the unemployed temporarily while they were looking for another job. Although the target and aim of UIF was to financially assist the unemployed in South Africa, poverty as a socio-economic issue has remained a challenge in the country. This is because poverty has impacted the quality of life for certain people and has affected millions of citizens. This research aims to investigate and examine the role of the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) in alleviating poverty in South Africa. The outcomes are expected to provide reliable and valid data on the effectiveness of UIF as a measure to alleviate poverty in South Africa. The researcher used the qualitative method as it has the advantage of producing clear data that can be easily understood. The qualitative method was used to collect data on examining the impact of the UIF payments on poverty alleviation upon job losses in South Africa, its extent it fulfils its role in poverty alleviation, and to identify recommendations for the implementation and disbursement of UIF payments towards poverty alleviation and financial relief strains upon job losses in South Africa. The research findings can help the government to design and implement more effective policies regarding unemployment. The findings from the study helped with recommendations to reduce poverty and assist the unemployed. The research findings provided intuitive apprehension of the establishment of UIF in South Africa.
The influence of government business development programmes on the innovativeness of women entrepreneurs in selected rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal
(2025) Mbatha, Zinhle Sinethemba; Kankisingi, Gustave Mungeni
Women entrepreneurs in rural KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, face numerous challenges that limit their business growth and innovation despite government efforts to empower them. This study investigates how government business development programmes influence the innovativeness of these women entrepreneurs. This study aimed to evaluate how effectively these programmes foster innovation among women-led businesses in rural areas. Specifically, to identify key factors that contribute to the success of these initiatives, including the training and support provided, and the overall impact on business growth and sustainability. By analyzing these aspects, we seek to understand how these programmes can be improved to meet the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in rural settings, ultimately leading to increased innovation and economic development in these communities. A mixed-method approach was used, combining semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and focus groups with women entrepreneurs selected from various rural communities in KZN. Findings reveal that while 80% of participants had registered businesses, many still faced barriers such as limited access to resources and inadequate programme support, which hindered their innovativeness. The study highlights key factors that affect programme success and identifies gaps in policy implementation. These insights contribute to a better understanding of how government initiatives can be tailored to support rural women entrepreneurs more effectively. The research recommends a new model to enhance women’s innovativeness, ultimately promoting their empowerment and economic development in rural KZN. Overall, this study provides valuable guidance for policymakers and programme designers aiming to improve the impact of business development interventions in rural settings.
Improving household satisfaction with government-provided houses in the city of Durban
(2025) Ndlovu, Rachel Nokuphila; Murwirapachena, Genius; Ifeacho, Christopher I.
The South African government provides low-cost houses to households whose combined average monthly income is below R3 500. This is done to promote an integrated society by developing sustainable human settlements and quality housing within a subsidy system for different income groups. Nevertheless, occupants frequently express dissatisfaction with their homes, often citing common complaints about the subpar quality of these houses. The government spends a lot of money on constructing these houses, and occupants ought to derive maximum satisfaction. This study sought to establish possible ways to improve household satisfaction with the low-cost houses provided by the government. The study adopted a descriptive crosssectional design, collecting quantitative data from 375 occupants of governmentprovided low-cost houses across the city of Durban. The principal component analysis and probit regression models were then used to estimate the key determinants of household satisfaction with government-provided houses. The results from the study are essential for informing public policy on the planning and construction of low-cost houses. More precisely, the results inform public policy on human settlements.
Between policy and practice : the political : administrative dynamics of policy implementation in Gauteng Province, South Africa
(2025) Banda, Douglas John Chikhowe; Dorasamy, Nirmala; Mbandlwa, Zamokuhle
Political executives, including the Premier, Members of the Executive Council, and Director-Generals, have effectively implemented policies in Gauteng Province, showcasing strong governance. While these executives have adopted well-designed policies, challenges remain in translating decisions into actionable outcomes within the province. This study reveals that political executives in Gauteng are developing and implementing mechanisms and practices aimed at enhancing policy effectiveness. The thesis posits that the culture and values of political executives must be central to discussions about public policy implementation. It begins by defining policy implementation as the application of techniques to benefit communities, followed by four key reasons why these aspects are vital in Gauteng Province: Firstly, political executives embody the value systems essential for determining whether policies will achieve their intended goals; secondly, the success of policy implementation in Gauteng relies on the legitimacy of the existing cultural and value frameworks to reach desired outcomes; thirdly, addressing the tensions inherent in policy implementation is crucial in a democratic context; and fourthly, Policy implementation influences culture and values, creating feedback loops that reshape the environment for future policy initiatives across different departments in Gauteng. The discussion draws upon various themes from public policy, particularly integrating elements of complexity, change theory, and institutional theory, supported by both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Questionnaires and semistructured interviews were utilized to gather and analyze data, focusing on how political executives effectively implement policies in Gauteng. The political executives navigated the factors influencing voting behaviour, particularly through a recent "realist" perspective on the democratic process in policy implementation. While the thesis does not aim for a comprehensive review of policy implementation, it identifies key themes, findings, and gaps in policy implementation, using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and NVivo software to assist political executives in refining policy implementation strategies in their respective departments. These insights contribute to developing solutions such as contextual framework, for the impact and implications of implementing policies in Gauteng Province, South Africa.
Challenges experienced by employees living with disabilities at a selected cluster in the eThekwini municipality
(2025) Xulu, Charity Thandazile; Anwana, Emem O.
The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges faced by employees with disabilities in a selected cluster of the eThekwini Municipality. The main objectives were to examine the factors hindering career progression for employees with disabilities; evaluate the municipal employment policy to identify obstacles to its implementation; analyse employees’ perceptions of the challenges they face; and provide recommendations for enhancing employment opportunities for persons with disabilities within the municipality. A qualitative case study design was adopted, using semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection method. Convenience sampling was applied to select participants who were readily available and willing to participate. Findings revealed that managing employees with disabilities presents significant challenges. Participants reported insufficient support from human resources, management, and colleagues, leading to feelings of marginalisation, unrealistic performance expectations, biased evaluations, and assumptions about their work capabilities. Career advancement was often hindered due to both the nature of their disabilities and perceptions of reduced performance. The study also found that the eThekwini Municipality lacks an effective employment policy to address these issues. Communication barriers, including the need for sign-language interpreters and accessible written materials, further complicated workplace inclusion.
The adoption of information communication technology (ICT) in small and medium enterprises (SMES) in tourism sector in Eastern Cape province
(2024) Mbinda, Bukelwa; Agbenyegah, Albert
This study focuses on the factors influencing ICT adoption in tourism SMEs in the Eastern Cape and proposes practical solutions to drive digital transformation and business growth. Many SMEs fail to adopt ICT due to a lack of skills and knowledge, which negatively affects productivity, long-term income, and overall business growth. The aim of the study was to examine both internal and external factors affecting ICT adoption in the tourism sector. A mixed-methods approach was used, with 114 SME owner-managers participating in surveys, in addition to follow-up semi-structured interviews conducted with eight participants from Eastern Cape municipalities. Non-probability sampling was employed to ensure the participants were relevant and the findings accurate. The study was grounded in theoretical literature and a conceptual framework, with clearly defined hypotheses guiding its direction. Key areas derived from the objectives and literature review were tested against these hypotheses, and each premise examined using Cronbach’s reliability scores to ensure robustness and validity, in addition thematic analysis was applied to identify key patterns in the data. The findings reveal ICT adoption in SMEs is shaped by a combination of external pressures and internal dynamics. Adoption is particularly influenced by the perceived ICT benefits for business, with SMEs more likely to use ICT solutions when they understand its advantages. The study highlights the need for better training, awareness campaigns, and verifiable case studies to demonstrate how ICT adoption can improve business performance and close existing gaps. This research provides valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners, representing a significant contribution to advancing ICT adoption among SMEs in the Eastern Cape and across South Africa’s tourism industry
Funding modalities for non-profit organisations in Mpumalanga Province
(2025) Zondi, Nonkululeko Confidence Princess; Fagbadebo, Omololu
There is a significant increase in the number of non-profit organisations registered in South Africa each year. By the end of September 2022, 266,531 NPOs were registered. This number increased from 248,902 in 2021 to 228,822 in 2020. Studies have shown that NPOs contribute enormously to solving social problems where the state cannot provide society with the most needed support. To this end, funding is crucially important for NPOs to function effectively in their service delivery drive. This study examined the relationship between the challenges and funding arrangements for NPOs in South Africa, focusing on NPOs in Mpumalanga Province. The number of donors is decreasing while charitable organisations that need support to sustain their organisations and programs are increasing. Using qualitative methods of data collection and analysis, the study identified financing options for NPOs in the Province and explored different routes and methods of raising funds for financing the activities of the NPOs. With data from indepth interviews, the study noted the disparities in funding and the implications for the activities of the NPOs. The study recommends the primacy of awareness programs and capacity-building forums for NPOs in Mpumalanga Province, where NPOs discuss challenges and share ideas about what works and how to improve when it comes to raising funds.
The impact of short-term training and development on the growth and performance of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMES) in Umkomaas Kwazulu-Natal
(2025) Xulu, Winnie Snegugu; Mbandlwa, Zamokuhle
Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) play a vital role in driving economic growth, employment, and community development, particularly in emerging economies like South Africa. However, many SMMEs encounter considerable operational and strategic challenges, primarily stemming from a shortage of skilled labour and managerial expertise. To address these skill gaps, short-term training and development programmes are often proposed, aimed at enhancing the capability of SMMEs to thrive and operate efficiently. This study explores the effects of short-term training interventions on the growth and performance of SMMEs in Umkomaas, KwaZulu-Natal, with the objective of assessing the effectiveness of these programmes within a localised South African context. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study gathers insights through in-depth interviews with 10 SMME owners and managers who have participated in short-term training initiatives. Thematic analysis is utilised to uncover prevalent themes related to skills acquisition, operational enhancements, and the perceived influence of training on business outcomes. The research aims to evaluate whether short-term training has a direct positive impact on critical performance metrics. Preliminary findings suggest that targeted, skills-centric training can significantly bolster the operational and financial performance of SMMEs, although the degree of impact may vary based on business size, industry, and resource availability. These results underscore the potential of short-term training programmes to facilitate regional economic development through sustainable growth in SMMEs. Moreover, this study offers important recommendations for policymakers, training providers, and business development agencies concerning the design of effective training programmes tailored to the specific needs of SMMEs in Umkomaas and comparable communities. By identifying best practices and areas for enhancement, this research contributes to the broader conversation on capacity building and the essential role of targeted training in promoting economic resilience in local economies.
Systems approach to the influence of human resource management practices on Zimbabwean state-owned enterprises’ survival
(2025) Mutangandebvu, Brian; Kekwaletswe, Ray M.; Hardman, Stan
Human resource management systems and practices are essential to organizational survival. The thesis addresses the appropriate use of Human Resources Management (HRM) practices as well as internal and external challenges and issues, in the context of Zimbabwean State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The thesis argues that following international best practices and putting policies and standard operating procedures in place is key to survival and sustainability of an enterprise. The research problem is that these need to be operationalised cognizant of the context of an enterprise and that of the country, to minimise issues while improving organizational outcomes. The study examined issues related to the inappropriate application of HRM practices as well as internal and external challenges arising within state-owned enterprise environments. The study followed a Soft Systems Methodology to explore and explain human resource management practices within state-owned enterprises. Purposeful sampling was used to source data from participants selected from three chosen state-owned enterprises. Semi-structured interviews provided the profound data and insights. Findings showed that inflation, natural disasters, political interferences, leadership style, recruitment and selection were derailing the efforts of HRM practices in supporting organizational survival. The study also found that lack of professionalism within SOEs allows corruption, in different shades. This subsequently leads to organizational instability, often forcing the organization to close or cease its operations. The original contribution of the thesis is a theoretical and practical HRM framework, which may inform the improvement of HRM practices for State-Owned Enterprises’ survival, notably in Zimbabwe. This framework is informed by interpretation of the study findings and the existing literature. The conceptualised HRM framework may greatly help managers and legislators by offering insightful information about organizational culture, employee experiences, and the efficacy of current standard operating procedures. A contextualised approach to organizational growth, policy implementation, and personnel management may be informed by this framework. The effectiveness of human resource management practices may subsequently contribute to the improvement and support organizational survival, notably in the context of Zimbabwe State-Owned Enterprises.
Exploring the employment opportunities through social networking platforms for black South African millennials at selected Universities in KwaZulu-Natal
(2025) Mdletshe, Thenjiwe Slindile; Hawkins-Mofokeng, Raymond Hilary
This study was conducted to explore the employment opportunities available to Black South African millennials through social networking platforms (SNSs). The study was motivated by the existing gap in literature regarding studies focusing on Black South African millennials, their SNS use behaviours, as well as contextual challenges. The study aim was to explore employment opportunities for Black South African Millennials through LinkedIn. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Six hundred and nine (n = 609) students from Durban University of Technology, the University of KwaZulu-Natal and Mangosuthu University of Technology participated in the survey. Eleven interviews were also conducted with personnel from the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) and two separate recruitment agencies. The participants for both samples were recruited using purposive sampling and the data that was gathered from them was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), including Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The findings revealed that SNSs especially LinkedIn provide a convenient and effective way for Black South African millennials to access employment opportunities. This study provide valuable insights to equip Black South African millennials to effectively leverage SNSs to secure employment opportunities. It also provides recruiters with knowledge to enhance the appeal of their recruitment strategies for this population group. This study contributes towards combating youth unemployment in South Africa by offering strategies for securing employment that are effective even on the global market.
Geospatial analysis of fatal road traffic accidents following ambulance responses in Cape Town
(2025) Sobuwa, Simpiwe; Murwirapachena, Genius
Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a leading global health concern and are projected to rank as the seventh leading cause of death by 2030, with low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Africa, facing the greatest burden. In Cape Town, South Africa, pedestrians are disproportionately vulnerable to RTA fatalities. This study aimed to examine demographic, temporal and geographic patterns of fatal RTAs to guide safety and emergency response interventions. Using data from the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness Emergency Medical Services (WCGHW EMS) from January 2021 to May 2024, descriptive statistics and geospatial analyses were conducted on 784 RTA cases, including 167 fatalities. Males accounted for 70.7% of deaths, and pedestrian accidents represented 65.3% of fatalities, with nighttime RTAs posing nearly twice the mortality risk of daytime incidents. Fatalities clustered in poorly lit eastern suburbs, including Gugulethu, Nyanga, Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha, which had a two-fold higher mortality risk compared to other areas. These findings highlight the critical need for improved infrastructure, including better lighting and pedestrian facilities, alongside enhanced emergency response systems. Targeted interventions addressing these vulnerabilities are essential to reducing RTA fatalities in Cape Town and similar settings.
Employee turnover within higher education : a case study of Walter Sisulu University
(2025) Koninga, Siyabonga; Dorasamy, Nirmala
Employee turnover poses a significant challenge for higher education institutions, affecting operational efficiency and organisational performance. This study examined factors influencing turnover intentions at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), South Africa, focusing on job satisfaction, organisational commitment, career development, and pay satisfaction. The research aimed to inform effective retention strategies by analysing the relationship between these factors and turnover intentions. The study employed a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional survey design. Data was collected through structured questionnaires distributed to a stratified random sample of 320 academic and non-academic staff members at WSU. Participants were selected using simple random sampling, and out of 320 questionnaires distributed, 123 were returned fully completed, resulting in a 38.47% response rate. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28, which included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. Key findings revealed that employee turnover significantly impacts WSU's operational functions, aligning with existing literature on turnover's disruptive nature in academic institutions. Contrary to some previous studies, job satisfaction and organisational commitment showed minimal impact on turnover intentions at WSU. Career development opportunities and pay satisfaction, while positively related to retention, were not decisive factors in turnover intentions. These findings suggest a complex interplay of factors that influence employee decisions to stay or leave the institution. The study's implications highlight the need for a multifaceted approach to employee retention at WSU. While competitive compensation and career development opportunities are important, they should be part of a comprehensive strategy addressing various aspects of the work environment. The research underscores the importance of regular assessments of employee needs and perceptions to develop targeted retention initiatives. Future research could explore additional factors such as leadership styles, work-life balance, and organisational culture to provide a more comprehensive understanding of turnover dynamics in higher education settings. Based on these findings, the study recommends that WSU strengthen leadership development and recognition systems, expand career development opportunities, and adopt flexible work arrangements to improve employee retention. These strategies can help stakeholders create a supportive work environment that fosters loyalty and enhances institutional performance.
Development and implementation of a lean manufacturing framework at a selected South African steering wheel manufacturer
(2025) Nyathi, Kamukhelo; Ramdass, Kemlall R
National and international market pressures have compelled South African local manufacturers to prioritise quality and productivity improvements to remain competitive and reduce product costs. This study examines a South African steering wheel manufacturer’s process cost benchmarking against a European affiliate, highlighting significant cost variances. Using Lean Manufacturing principles, the research identifies and addresses inefficiencies across manufacturing processes, focusing on waste categories: overburden (muri), variation (mura), and waste (muda). Given the paucity of directly related South African literature, this research employs an exploratory qualitative methodology. Data collection involved focus group discussion, interviews, and participant observation, allowing the researcher to interact closely with participants and observe contextual details firsthand. The target population comprised managers, operators, and support staff directly involved in the manufacturing process at the steering wheel manufacturer. A purposive sample of 25 participants across these roles was selected to capture diverse perspectives and insights into the existing process inefficiencies. Thematic analysis, supported by the NVivo software was utilised to identify patterns and themes, which facilitated a detailed examination of the findings. Triangulation was used to ensure data consistency across the research instruments, supporting a well-rounded thematic proposition. The literature review provided insights into Lean Manufacturing’s drivers and barriers, informing the creation of a Lean framework tailored to the South African context. The investigation uncovered that Lean Manufacturing is shaped not just by internal tools and cultural enablers, but by interconnected themes that collectively reveal the functioning of drivers and barriers throughout the value chain. The resulting Lean Manufacturing Framework represents a pivotal development for South Africa's automotive components sector, addressing competitive and operational challenges within the industry. It offers a replicable model for other component manufacturers facing similar market pressures. The research makes a significant contribution to the literature by providing a novel dual lens framework that combines themes, moving lean practices beyond a tool-centric perspective to strategically integrated operations, finance, and stakeholder relations.
Educating teachers for peace in a context of violence
(2025) Hemson, Crispin; Plüg, S; Harris, Geoffrey Thomas
Arising from violent community conflicts in 2021 in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, an action research project was launched with the aim of developing people in educational roles – tutors, teachers, students, activists – as facilitators of dialogues and discussions on sensitive issues that often involve questions of violence. The overarching research question was, ‘In a society that has experienced historical violence, how can understandings of contexts, of students and of ourselves inform the pedagogy of a teacher education that aims to build peace?’ The emphasis was thus on pedagogy; there is very limited scholarship regarding the pedagogy used to promote peace within teacher education, and much less still on this work in a context of extreme violence. South Africa meets the criteria for what is termed chronic violence. Such violence is evident not only in the broader society, but specifically within education. The study took a critical paradigm and used dynamic realism as the philosophical basis, which combined process ontology and phenomenology. An eclectic theoretical framework drew on Galtung, Freire, Bronfenbrenner, Bourdieu and Zembylas; this focused attention on how violence or peace become part of the dispositions or habitus in specific fields of practice, and the role of transformative learning in advancing positive change. A pilot over six weeks in 2021 and one session in 2022, much of which was constrained by the need to work online during the Covid19 lockdowns, was followed by a much longer intervention phase from April to October 2023, with roughly 30 participants completing the programme in each phase. Thematic analysis was used to develop themes from the data that was generated. This data drew in part also on my experiences within the course and the ways in which I understood the continuity from my history as an educator. Arising from the synthesis of themes from both phases of the study, the final themes were as follows: The pervasiveness and costs of violence and trauma in this context; the significance of a safe space; the centrality of emotions; the value of questioning; embracing diversity; ‘beyond facilitation’: education as personal development and healing; the time taken to develop depth. The implications are spelt out for teacher education, though with some caution with regards to how readily transferable the findings are to the context of formal teacher education: first, teacher education in such contexts needs to take recognition of the reality and consequences of violence. Secondly, it needs a vision of teacher education as an oasis of peace that develops a habitus of peace amongst staff and students. Developing teacher educators as agents of peace as a logical first step because their role in the system is of critical importance. It is acknowledged that the recommendations are far-reaching and a strategy for implementation is touched on. The study contributes to knowledge, first, by being one of the few studies on pedagogy for peace in a context of violence and by its emphasis on the consistency of pedagogy between education and teacher education. The need for investing in the development of teacher educators is a key point made. A specific theoretical contribution is the notion of teacher education in a context of violence as a ‘benign order’, given the chaotic interactions across fields of practice. This would also be a productive area for further research.
Omnichannel shopper behaviour in the emerging South African Fourth Industrial Revolution environment
(2025) Reddy, Tessa; Maharaj, Mandusha; Thakur, Surendra C.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is transforming global retail through emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, mobile applications, and social media platforms. In South Africa, where digital adoption is rising amid unique socio-economic challenges, the omnichannel retail model has gained relevance. Yet, limited empirical research examines how South African consumers navigate omnichannel environments, particularly across different product types. This study investigates omnichannel shopper behaviour in South Africa within the 4IR context, comparing decision-making for high-involvement (smartphones) and low-involvement (groceries) products. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional design, data were collected from 428 purposively sampled omni-shoppers within socio-economic measures (SEMs) 6–10. A single questionnaire was administered to all respondents, with separate sections for each product category, ensuring equal sample sizes (n = 428). Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) tested a conceptual framework integrating behavioural theories and digital enablers. Findings show that, for high-involvement purchases, extensive information search and perceived risk significantly influenced purchase behaviour, with AI tools and social media exerting strong effects during the pre-purchase stage. Low-involvement decisions were shaped mainly by convenience and affordability, with AI and social media playing a supportive role. Both models confirm and extend the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), and Consumer Decision-Making Model (CDM) within an emerging market. Recommendations include leveraging AI and social media for engagement, integrating online–offline channels for convenience, reducing perceived risks, and adopting mobile-first strategies to expand reach. This research delivers a validated omnichannel shopper model tailored to South Africa’s 4IR retail environment, advancing theoretical understanding and providing actionable insights for retailers and policymakers seeking inclusive, technology-driven strategies.
The impact of social media platforms on the dissemination of information : TVET college students’ perspectives
(2025) Rwairwai, Namhla Zama; Sishi, K. K.; Zogli, Luther-King Junior
The study examined the impact of social media platforms on information dissemination from the perspectives of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College students, focusing on their access, interaction and dissemination of information. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed to analyse the data, providing both a broad overview of social media usage trends and a deeper understanding of the factors that influence how information is shared and received on social media platforms. Simple random sampling was used to extract 271 respondents for the study from a population of approximately 842 respondents at a selected TVET college. The quantitative research approach was adopted, and questionnaires were used as the main data collection instrument, for which the psychometric properties of validity were established using content and construct validity, as well as pilot testing. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics version 29) was used to analyse the quantitative data. The quantitative findings indicated that TVET college students are influenced by social media platforms, with the majority of students indicating that it is important to re-share information posted on social media by other users. In addition, findings suggested that most students do not partake in the sharing of false information on social media. Moreover, the study established that most students use social media to know what is happening around the world. The findings also identified WhatsApp as the most frequently utilised platform for accessing information. The findings further revealed varying perspectives on the nature of information shared on social media by the students, with some participants expressing concerns about credibility and accuracy, while others acknowledged the value of social media, and some exhibited scepticism regarding controversial content and misinformation. Lastly, the study identified a significant relationship between gender and the usage of social media. The study underscored the need for strategic interventions by social media companies to enhance the educational potential of these platforms and to mitigate the spread of misinformation. It recommends digital literacy initiatives, responsible sharing practices, collaboration with influencers, increased transparency, promotion of corrective behaviour and diversification of information sources.
Community-based tourism as a strategy to advance cultural tourism enterprises for socio-economic development of communities in the northern region of Ghana
(2025) Halawayhi, Fusheini; Jugmohan, Sean; Giampiccoli, Andrea
Community-based tourism (CBT) is a form of tourism that aims to increase community participation in tourism-related activities. It utilizes local tourism resources such as water bodies, mountains, festivals and other forms of cultural practices. This study investigated how community cultural tourism enterprises (CCTEs) can be used to promote CBT and community socio-economic development in Northern Ghana. Purposive sampling was utilized to select a sample of 27 CCTEs that fall under the following broad categories: historical towns and villages, art and craft, cultural profession, spirituality, cultural performance, the hotel industry, cultural cuisine, Atlantic-slave trade villages and talk shows. A qualitative design was adopted, with case studies conducted to determine how the participants could grow their enterprises which will, in turn promote CBT in this region. In-depth- interviews and observation were employed to gather data that were analyzed by means of a qualitative framework which involved coding, familiarization, identification of themes, mapping and interpretation. The study revealed that CCTEs in the Northern region of Ghana are typical of their kind as they are either owned by communities or individual community members. It was also found that involvement in CCTEs is gendered, with women and men running separate enterprises. The participants suggested television coverage, financial and logistic support, broadening market networks, managerial training and tourism promotion as a means to empower their CCTEs and promote CBT in the region. Based on the findings, a policy framework is proposed to achieve these objectives.
The influence of HIV/AIDS prevention marketing communication campaigns on young adults in Imbali, Pietermaritzburg
(2025) Mkhize, Kabelo Terence; Moodley, Padhma; Madondo, Elvis
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection continues to plague the world, with the virus continually spreading in many regions. The latest published HIV/AIDS statistics indicate that 38 million individuals were living with HIV globally in 2019. In South Africa, HIV-infected individuals were estimated at 8.2 million in 2021, with a prevalence of 19.5% within the 15-49 age group. Reducing HIV incidence is imperative as a potential catalyst for decreasing HIV prevalence in young adults. The objectives of the study were to examine the influence of HIV/AIDS prevention marketing communication campaigns on young adults; to determine the level of awareness of HIV prevention marketing communication campaigns employed by the government and NGOs; to investigate the influence of HIV marketing communication campaigns in reducing HIV risky sexual behaviour; to determine the challenges that young adults face in reducing risky sexual behaviour; and to develop HIV/AIDS marketing communication prevention strategies. The study was conducted in Imbali, a peri-urban area in the uMsunduzi Municipality in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study using a quantitative research approach amongst young adults. The data was analysed using SPSS version 29. Participants were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. Validity was ensured by using a validated questionnaire, which measured the impact of communication campaigns and the contributions of knowledge and attitudes towards HIV to reduce risky behaviour. A key study finding was noting participants reporting a positive change in risky sexual behaviour, including adopting safe sex practices and halting engaging with multiple partners after hearing or seeing an HIV prevention marketing communication advert, highlighting the effectiveness of these campaigns in some of the participants. Also, a significant proportion of participants recognised HIV as a serious problem within the community. The study highlighted the need for more advocacy programs focusing on males, to encourage more HIV testing to potentially change risky sexual behaviour. Men reported reluctance to access HIV testing services. The significance of this study was identifying the benefit of HIV prevention marketing communication campaigns in changing risky sexual behaviour. Although this was from a sample that was purposively selected, there is merit in determining such a benefit in a large sample, that would be randomly selected. Generally, awareness regarding HIV infection is a major preventive tool for reducing the spread of the HIV pandemic.

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