Browsing by Author "Derera, Evelyn."

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Corporate social responsibility in small and medium enterprises in Pietermaritzburg.
(2015) Hlatywayo, Victor.; Derera, Evelyn.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been identified and adopted by large businesses as a business strategy that is used to enhance company performance. It is globally used to link business and society through sustainable development and good governance. Studies show that CSR in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is under researched and is still associated with large firms, even in emerging economies where SMEs play a pivotal role in the economic development of their countries. The main objective of this study is to explore the nexus between CSR and SMEs in Pietermaritzburg in South Africa. In particular, the study explores the perceptions, the drivers of CSR activities in SMEs, the challenges of implementing CSR initiatives and the strategies employed by SMEs to overcome some of the challenges they encounter. A non-systematic literature review approach was conducted where insights were drawn from a wide range of secondary sources such as peer reviewed journal articles, non-peer reviewed publications on the topic. Mixed methods was used to collect primary data. An exploratory sequential design was adopted as a mixed method technique to understand the interplay between CSR concepts in SMEs. Two hundred and forty-three (n=243) respondents participated in the study in their capacity as entrepreneurs, managers or supervisors and employees. A convenience sampling technique was used to select participants for the study. A thematic analysis technique was used to analyse qualitative data. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer software was used to analyse quantitative data. The empirical findings reveal that SMEs acknowledged CSR as business concept. The results indicated that their CSR activities are mainly hampered by lack of finance, management skills shortage, and minimal access to information and shortage of manpower. Finally, the results revealed that SMEs prefer to engage in partnerships with each other or large businesses when implementing CSR initiatives. Government should introduce regulatory framework as policy (e.g. tax incentives) that encourages SMEs to engage in CSR programs. This approach will redefine the voluntary nature of CSR and mitigate some of the daily challenges SMEs encounter in their pursuit for sustainable growth.
Effectiveness of institutional mechanisms on small businesses in Mokhotlong and Qacha’s Nek, Lesotho.
(2021) Molebatsi, Mokete Bernard.; Khoase, Refiloe Gladys.; Derera, Evelyn.
The Lesotho Government, like other governments, enacted the Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) Policy to address the issue of MSME development. It is perceived worldwide that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) constitute a large sphere of economic activity that accounts for the major share of employment and is a powerful force for poverty reduction. However, SMEs are exposed to today’s risky business environment, which compels economies to intervene by effectively implementing MSMEs policies. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of the institutional mechanism to assist MSMEs in the Mokhotlong and Qacha’s Nek districts in Lesotho. While economies have adopted mechanisms to develop Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), several studies have shown that most businesses still face challenges despite the efforts of their governments. Therefore, since the Lesotho Government had implemented the MSME Policy in 2016 to develop the sector, it is essential to assess the effectiveness of the implementation of the Policy in Lesotho. Primary data was collected through the use of questionnaires that were distributed to MSME owners in both districts. The questionnaires were hand-delivered to a sample size of 331, however, only 202 responses were received by the researcher. The list of MSMEs registered with the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) in both districts was used by the researcher to select the respondents using probability sampling also known as the random sampling method. For the respondents who did not indicate their physical addresses on the list a nonprobability sampling method, namely, convenience sampling, was used. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Windows Version 26 was used to analyse the collected data. The Government of Lesotho has put in place several initiatives to boost MSMEs by establishing the Ministry of Small Business, Cooperatives and Marketing and the MSME Policy among others. While some MSMEs benefited from the Policy, others faced some challenges. Due to perceived barriers such as access to finance, access to training and poor infrastructure, among others, some MSMEs decided to operate informally. The evaluation of the effectiveness of the implementation of the MSME Policy is vital as it might guide policymakers in amending the Policy by devising adequate strategies to create and enhance a conducive environment in which MSME owners can operate. Findings suggest that institutional mechanisms to assist MSMEs in Mokhotlong and Qacha’s Nek are ineffective in the development of MSMEs. The majority of respondents agreed that they are aware of the supporting institutions that are meant to assist MSMEs, and have received such assistance. However, a gap exists in the quality of services provided. Thus, the objective of the Policy will not be met if the various mechanisms put in place to assist MSMEs are not of the quality needed. In terms of the findings, the following recommendations can be made: • The institutional mechanism needs to be improved to achieve the set goals. • The supporting institutions should offer training based on the results of the assessment of the relevant needs of MSMEs. • The quality of service offered by the supporting institutions should be improved. • The market be opened to businesses that want to invest in financial institutions. • The use of new research findings be utilised by managers and policymakers to enable them to easily redesign policies based on scientific information.
An evaluation of bank SMEs lending criteria and gender bias in Gweru, Zimbabwe.
(2018) Maponga, Stephen Enos.; Derera, Evelyn.; McArthur, Brian Walter.
The contribution of SMES and entrepreneurship to economic growth is virtually an accepted truth the world over, but there are some groups that remain marginalised in this sector. Women are viewed as unequal to men and are discriminated against, a factor which also impacts on their ability to start and grow sustainable SMESs. This is evident in Zimbabwe. This project, thus, studies gender biases in the accessibility of loans in Gweru, Zimbabwe. Guided by feminist theories, mostly perspectives of liberal and social feminists, this study aimed to establish the existence or non-existence of bias, against women entrepreneurs, in the bank lending criteria. Positioned within the pragmatic research paradigm, this mixed method study was conducted in Gweru, Zimbabwe and constituted three (3) target populations. These were 1485 women-owned or managed SMESs in Gweru, 10 SMES finance experts and 10 bank loan managers based in Gweru. Positioned within the pragmatic research paradigm, this mixed methodology used questionnaires from women SMESs (319), as well as in-depth interviews with bank SMES loan managers (10), Finance Experts (10), to get qualitative insight into the circumstances of women entrepreneurs in Gweru. Having determined the reliability of quantitative data through the Cronbach’s Alpha Smirnov Kolmogorov, regression models and the Kruskal Wallis tests were performed on the collected data to meet the objectives of this study. As this was a concurrent, parallel mixed methods research design, the qualitative data from interviews was used to validate and add qualitative insights to the quantitative data. The triangulation method was used to ensure validity. Findings revealed four important sub-constructs of bank SMES lending criteria for women entrepreneurs. These included 1) partnerships and guarantees, 2) financial history, 3) business planning and 4) experience and specialization. The findings of this study showed that women entrepreneurs, who have male guarantors and partners, are more likely to secure loans than those without. The applicant’s financial history is also very crucial to accessing bank loans. Women who access bank loans can sustain their businesses, as they positively turnaround Zimbabwe’s economy. Future research should focus its attention on financial inclusivity of women owner/managers of SMESs.
An evaluation of the policy and strategy framework for SMEs in Zimbabwe.
(2016) Mutungwe, Ceasario Blessing.; Derera, Evelyn.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are important to economic growth and employment creation however they are faced by numerous challenges. Government intervention through SME policies is necessitated by the challenges which are seen as market failure. In Zimbabwe there is the National Policy and Strategy for Small and Medium Enterprises formulated in recognition of the importance of SMEs and to alleviate the challenges they face. However in spite of the SME policy small businesses are still faced with many challenges therefore this study evaluates the National Policy and Strategy for SMEs in Zimbabwe to ascertain the steps that have been taken by the government to develop SMEs. The study evaluates the SME Policy in Zimbabwe using the seven elements by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). A mixed methods research approach was adopted employing both quantitative and qualitative research methods to gather data. The target population was divided into two groups which were nine hundred and forty-five (945) SME operators and fifteen (15) experts in the Central Business District of Harare Zimbabwe. A sample size of two hundred and seventy-two (272) SME operators was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s Sample Size Calculator and the sample size for experts was fifteen (15). Questionnaires were handed out to SME operators and interviews were conducted with experts to validate the responses from questionnaires. Using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) IBM 23.0 data gathered through questionnaires was analysed and using content analysis data from interviews was transcribed. This study found out that challenges faced by SMEs prior to the National Policy and Strategy for SMEs in Zimbabwe were still prevalent after its formulation. The objectives of the SME policy are yet to be met as SMEs cite the regulatory framework as challenge, most small businesses find it difficult to register their businesses and to access government guaranteed loans. Although there is the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Development to implement the policy most SMEs are of the view that it is inaccessible and underfunded to function.
The impact of interventions from supporting institutions on managerial competencies: a case of small, medium and micro-sized enterprises in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
(2019) Moise, Lusambya Lukendo.; Khoase, Refiloe Gladys.; Derera, Evelyn.
The contribution of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) sector in the economic and social development of a country has been recognised worldwide. Governments around the world have designed interventions to promote the growth of the SMME sector in an attempt to stimulate national economic growth. The South African government, through public and private supporting institutions, devised interventions to provide financial and non-financial support to SMMEs. However, despite these interventions, the failure rate of small businesses in South Africa is still high. Numerous scholars identified lack of managerial competencies as one of the main causes to the failure of SMMEs. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of interventions from supporting institutions on managerial competencies of Small, Medium and Micro-Sized Enterprises (SMMEs) within the context of Pietermaritzburg city in South Africa. The nature of this study is descriptive. A quantitative survey was conducted on a sample of 148 SMMEs’ owners and managers, identified through convenient and snowball sampling. Data were collected by means of personally administered questionnaires. Frequency analysis, crosstabulation analysis with chi-square, Spearman correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were statistical methods employed to analyse the data. The study found that government and private supporting institutions are not the primary sources of developing the managerial competencies of SMMEs’ owners and managers. SMME’s owners and managers rely more on job experience, formal education/training, and In-house training. Most SMMEs’ owners and managers are not utilising different interventions designed by supporting institutions, due to some challenges such as lack of awareness, lack of finance, and too much bureaucracy and red tape. Despite the non-utilisation of services offered by supporting institutions, the study found that receiving interventions from supporting institutions has a significant impact on developing some managerial competencies of SMME’s owners and managers such as conceptual skills and technical skills. Based on the research findings, practical recommendations were provided on how to promote SMMEs through interventions that enhance the managerial competencies of SMMEs’ owners and managers.
The implementation of total quality management: a case study of a construction company in Zimbabwe.
(2020) Nhemachena, Memory.; Derera, Evelyn.
In the construction industry and services, total quality management (TQM) is recognised as a productive management philosophy as it increases the quality and production of businesses. Research reveals ways in which TQM can be effectively implemented in the construction industry: aiding in reducing costs, increasing job satisfaction, and promoting healthier customer and supplier relations. This study sought to examine how TQM can be implemented in a construction firm in the most effective and competent ways. The main objective of this study is to evaluate how a selected construction organisation implements TQM using some of the fundamentals of TQM, namely, top management involvement, employee empowerment, organisational culture, communication, and technology, in a developing country such as Zimbabwe. Furthermore, the study investigates the challenges of implementing TQM initiatives and the strategies engaged in the organisations to overcome some of the challenges encountered. The study was guided by a constructivist research paradigm, employing a qualitative research approach. As the study sought to understand and explain how a selected company is implementing TQM in Zimbabwe, an explanatory case study approach was employed. The study used a census research approach. The target population was made up of all managers responsible for implementing TQM in the organisation. According to the company database provided by the Human Resources Manager (HRM), there were fifteen managers involved in the organisation. These managers occupied senior, middle and low-level management positions. The target population and the sample size were therefore, made up of the fifteen managers. However, only seven managers managed to contribute to the study, achieving a response percentage of 46.6%. Primary data was gathered using in-depth interviews. Data were analysed using NVivo software. The key findings of the study revealed that TQM implementation is affected by a lack of top management commitment to business operations. In addition, the hostile economic situation in the country is hindering TQM implementation as most companies are failing to upgrade to modern technology as well as train their employees on TQM activities. The conclusions drawn from this study are that TQM is essential to the construction industry. Therefore, top management should be actively involved for successful TQM implementation. For a successful implementation of TQM, managers should be accountable in terms of the procedures and financial resources. TQM can be improved by operational performance in the workplace. The complete potential of TQM is realised through the training and education of everyone at all levels in order to create TQM awareness, interest, aspiration, and achievement.
Investigating a male-dominated space : a study of women entrepreneurs in the construction industry in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
(2015) Aneke, Evelyn Omayemi.; Derera, Evelyn.
The potential of the South African economy to achieve desired growth is greatly hampered by the systematic exclusion of women entrepreneurial activity in the key industries that drive the economy. One such industry is the construction industry that contributes positively to the South African’s economy. Yet, this industry is highly male-dominated. Despite seeming improvements in women’s entrepreneurial participation in different industries, there is still a yawning gap between the percentages of men and women in the construction industry, particularly in terms of entrepreneurship. The construction industry has remained largely closed to women entrepreneurs and posing overwhelming challenges to the few women who have found their way into the industry. This study explores these challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the construction industry in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The study adopts a descriptive as well as an exploratory approach. This study is mainly qualitative with a small section of quantitative data used to triangulate and deepen the understanding of women’s experience investigated. The snowball sampling technique was deployed in identifying the research participants, which is under the Non-probability sampling technique. In-depth interviews are conducted amongst sixteen (16) women entrepreneurs operating small businesses in the construction industry. Data collected was analysed thematically. Themes that emerged from the analysis of data are presented and discussed under relevant headings formulated from specific research objectives. The study revealed that the desire to empower themselves and other women is a strong motivation for establishing small businesses in the construction industry. Most participants believed that women in the construction industry are unique and different from women in other industries and are further strengthened by the construction environment. The study also suggest that women face primarily socio-cultural challenges, particularly patriarchal attitudes, in the construction industry both at start-up and later stages of their businesses. Other key challenges were financial, productivity and promotion related. In addition, partnering with men, developing a good support system. Further still, participants are aware of external support initiatives and have benefited from them, but they are unanimous in pointing to the need for more publicity. Thus, policy makers need to be aware of the specific challenges, motivation and needs of women entrepreneurs in specific industries so as to produce policies accordingly. Such policies for construction industries, need to take the socio-cultural issue of male dominance seriously and offer means to a balance by granting more women awareness, access and helping them establish and sustain their businesses. It is recommended that, similar research should be carried out in more provinces in South African since a literature gap exists. These studies could assist policy makers in deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the construction industry.
An investigation of challenges affecting the implementation of project management practices : a case study of Msunduzi Expanded Public works Programme clearing project.
(2019) Mkhwanazi, Makhosazana Ntandokazi.; Khoase, Refiloe Gladys.; Derera, Evelyn.
In 2003, the Expanded Public Works Programme was introduced as a complementary measure to decrease the growing unemployment and poverty rates in South Africa. EPWP focused on expanding methods of labour-intensive production through government-funded projects in order to produce more employment prospects. Recent studies have raised questions on the effectiveness of EPWP in achieving both its environmental and poverty alleviation goals. Recent studies have identified that EPWP has been facing poor performance and inability to meet set annual targets due to poor Project Management. It is against this background that this study investigated the challenges affecting the implementation of Project Management practices in the Msunduzi EPWP clearing project. The study was undertaken in Pietermaritzburg, which is situated in KwaZulu-Natal Province. This study was exploratory; it adopted a qualitative case study approach, primarily investigating the Msunduzi EPWP project. In-depth interviews were used to interview the target population of thirty-one. The target population comprised of all the people in the Project Management level of the Msunduzi EPWP project, including the EPWP board members who oversee Project Management issues for the EPWP projects. Data collected was analysed thematically. Themes that emerged from the analysis of data are presented and discussed under relevant headings formulated from specific research objectives. The results revealed that majority of the people managing the teams do not possess any Project Management qualification. There was also evidence of lacking of training, the Project Manager and contractors were not receiving relevant training to aid them in their job roles. Lack of resources posed as a major contributor to poor Project Management, which has resulted in poor auditing and reporting. There was also no efficient system of Monitoring and Evaluation. The results also revealed that top management intervention in resolving existing Project Management challenges was minimal, it was stated that no strategies have been implemented as a resolution to all identified challenges. In addition, the study revealed that internal administrative delays caused non-compliance in several Project Management practices. This has caused serious implications on the performance of the Msunduzi EPWP project. Several recommendations were established by the researcher to address the Project Management challenges identified in this study. The researcher anticipates that the recommendations will benefit a number of people including government, local leadership, Project Managers, scholars, project workers, contractor, implementing agent‟s, and suppliers.
The invisible glass ceiling : a comparative study of women in management positions in private and public sector in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
(2019) Khwela, Buhle Charlotte.; Derera, Evelyn.; Kubheka, Zamanguni Fortunate.
The participation of women in the workplace has increased immensely around the world, and this is also evident in South Africa. Women are no longer employed as unskilled or semi-skilled labor. Women’s access to education and training, as well as legislation enforced by governments, has afforded women opportunities to penetrate occupations that were previously male-dominated. Women continue to enter into all the functional areas of organizations, even as line managers. Whilst female representation in lower and middle management is on the increase, there is still a yawning gap between the percentages of men and women in both public and private sectors in senior management. This under-representation of women in senior management has been attributed to what is termed the ‘glass ceiling’. This study explores the existence of the ‘glass ceiling’, and compares its existence in the public and the private sectors in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The study adopts an exploratory approach and is qualitative. In-depth interviews were conducted with twenty-four (24) women managers who are employed in the public and private sector in lower, medium and senior management positions. The study revealed that a glass ceiling exists in the public and private sector, however, it is more evident in the private sector. Organizational culture emerges as the main barrier that hinders women’s progress in the private sector, while in the public sector, historical patriarchy is the main reason why women are clustered in middle management. The study found that while ‘old boy’s networks’ exist strongly in the private sector, women working in the public sector are successfully reaping the rewards of their education. In addition, the study revealed that some women are not confident that they are cut out for the boardroom, and others do not aspire to progress to top management. Further, women applaud the government for legislation to redress the marginalization of women and have benefited from such, but they are unanimous about the need for more women in top management positions. It is recommended that similar research be carried out in all the provinces of South Africa since a literature gap exists. These studies could assist in creating more awareness about the existence of the ‘glass ceiling’.
Predictors for the successful initiation of Lean in South African public hospitals: the Genesis of the ‘LEAN SPRInT’
(2019) Naidoo, Logandran.; Derera, Evelyn.; Fields, Ziska.
Abstract available in pdf.
Promoting sustainable community development through corporate social responsibility initiatives : a case study of a manufacturing organization in Zimbabwe.
(2017) Chibwe, Tatenda.; Derera, Evelyn.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been identified and adopted by large businesses as a business strategy to enhance company performance. It is globally used to link business and society through sustainable development and good governance. Studies show that CSR in large firms, specifically in developing countries or emerging economies are under researched and is still associated with large firms from developed countries. Companies in emerging economies play a pivotal role in the economic development of their countries. The main objective of this study, is to ascertain how a manufacturing organisation is promoting sustainable community development by engaging CSR initiatives in an emerging country, like Zimbabwe. In particular, the study explores the perceptions large businesses have towards CSR, the drivers of CSR activities in the large firms and what they are engaging in to make a lasting impression in the communities where they are located. Furthermore, the study seeks to explore the benefits and challenges of implementing CSR initiatives and the strategies employed by the organizations to overcome some of the challenges they encounter, and to promote community development through these programs. A non-systematic literature review approach was conducted where insights were drawn from a wide range of secondary sources such as peer reviewed journal articles and non-peer reviewed publications on the topic. Qualitative research methods were used to collect primary data. An exploratory case study approach was adopted as a qualitative method technique to understand the benefits that are brought about by implementing CSR related strategies internally and externally by the organisation. Fourteen (n=14) managers were invited to participate in the study. Convenience sampling technique was used to select participants for the study. Content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The empirical findings reveal that the large business in the case acknowledged CSR as a business concept. The results indicated that their CSR activities are mainly hampered by the prevailing volatile economic environment, which is further strained by having a specific department or allocated manager to deal with CSR as a business strategy, minimal access to information and a shortage of manpower. Finally, the results revealed that the large business preferred to raise money through various internal and external programs and engage in partnerships with other large businesses as a solution to implement CSR initiatives in the surrounding communities. The government needs to introduce a regulatory framework in a policy that encourages large businesses to engage in CSR initiatives especially, considering the harsh economic environment. This approach will redefine the voluntary nature of CSR and mitigate some of the daily challenges that communities encounter in their pursuit for sustainable development.
Promoting sustainable community development through corporate social responsibility initiatives: a case study of a manufacturing organization in Zimbabwe.
(2017) Chibwe, Tatenda.; Derera, Evelyn.;
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been identified and adopted by large businesses as a business strategy to enhance company performance. It is globally used to link business and society through sustainable development and good governance. Studies show that CSR in large firms, specifically in developing countries or emerging economies are under researched and is still associated with large firms from developed countries. Companies in emerging economies play a pivotal role in the economic development of their countries. The main objective of this study, is to ascertain how a manufacturing organisation is promoting sustainable community development by engaging CSR initiatives in an emerging country, like Zimbabwe. In particular, the study explores the perceptions large businesses have towards CSR, the drivers of CSR activities in the large firms and what they are engaging in to make a lasting impression in the communities where they are located. Furthermore, the study seeks to explore the benefits and challenges of implementing CSR initiatives and the strategies employed by the organizations to overcome some of the challenges they encounter, and to promote community development through these programs. A non-systematic literature review approach was conducted where insights were drawn from a wide range of secondary sources such as peer reviewed journal articles and non-peer reviewed publications on the topic. Qualitative research methods were used to collect primary data. An exploratory case study approach was adopted as a qualitative method technique to understand the benefits that are brought about by implementing CSR related strategies internally and externally by the organisation. Fourteen (n=14) managers were invited to participate in the study. Convenience sampling technique was used to select participants for the study. Content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. The empirical findings reveal that the large business in the case acknowledged CSR as a business concept. The results indicated that their CSR activities are mainly hampered by the prevailing volatile economic environment, which is further strained by having a specific department or allocated manager to deal with CSR as a business strategy, minimal access to information and a shortage of manpower. Finally, the results revealed that the large business preferred to raise money through various internal and external programs and engage in partnerships with other large businesses as a solution to implement CSR initiatives in the surrounding communities. The government needs to introduce a regulatory framework in a policy that encourages large businesses to engage in CSR initiatives especially, considering the harsh economic environment. This approach will redefine the voluntary nature of CSR and mitigate some of the daily challenges that communities encounter in their pursuit for sustainable development.
Psychosocial determinants of entrepreneurial readiness: the role of TVET institutions in Nigeria.
(2021) Adeniyi, Adeshina Olushola.; Gamede, Vangeli Wiseman.; Derera, Evelyn.
Scholarly works in recent times have made substantial efforts to identify that aspects of entrepreneurship that can stimulate entrepreneurial readiness for venture creation. Perhaps some of the most investigated subjects are personality traits, education, and social values. Previous studies on the need for entrepreneurial skills have established a disparity between the curriculum, pedagogical methods and the required skills for business creation. As a result, identifying the determinants of entrepreneurial readiness is of utmost necessity considering the increasing rate of youth unemployment in Nigeria. This current study aimed at determining psychosocial factors of entrepreneurial readiness by examining the influence of entrepreneurship education (EE), entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO) on entrepreneurial readiness. This research study was sustained by the pragmatism philosophical paradigm. Case study research design was employed, and the mixed method approach was used in the collection of data for the purpose of triangulation of results. Through the use of triangulation technique, questionnaires were administered to a sample of 301 exit level students of three selected Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in South-West Nigeria, using convenience sampling strategy. A response rate of 96% from the students was achieved. With the adoption of purposive sampling technique, nine entrepreneurship teachers were selected for in-depth interviews from the three selected TVET institutions. Eight of the respondents granted the interviews, which was 88% response rate. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data was achieved through the use of NVivo 12 software. SPSS version 25 was used in analysing the quantitative data. Descriptive and inferential statistics which include, Pearson’s correlation and regression analyses of the quantitative data were conducted to achieved the research objectives. Three hypotheses were formulated to test the conceptual model through multiple regression analysis. A significant association was found between EE and entrepreneurial readiness. ESE searching, planning and implementing were found to be significantly associated with entrepreneurial readiness, but ESE marshalling has no significant association with entrepreneurial readiness. IEO as a whole showed significant association with entrepreneurial readiness, while risk-taking propensity was non-significant with entrepreneurial readiness. The study established that the exit level students lack the skills to gather economic or business resources towards starting a business. The study also revealed that entrepreneurship curriculum at the selected TVET institutions lacks practical approach. There is no evidence in literature that attempts a mixed method approach to determine psychosocial factors of students’ entrepreneurial readiness in the context of TVET institutions in Nigeria. The outcome of this study revealed that EE, ESE and IEO are psychosocial determinants of entrepreneurial readiness.
A review of government initiatives to stimulate women entrepreneurship in South Africa : 1955-2009.
(2011) Derera, Evelyn.; O'Neill, Richard Charles.
Worldwide, women entrepreneurs play a major role in the economic growth and development of any nation, yet women are still facing a multiplicity of challenges in the small business sector. Women entrepreneurs could play a more significant role in the small business sector given all the necessary support. The main objective of this study was to review the South African government initiatives that were designed to stimulate women entrepreneurship during 1995 to 2009. This topic is exploratory as well as descriptive in nature. As a result of this, qualitative and quantitative data was collected in order to address the research objectives of the study. A non probability sampling technique, known as snowballing was used to identify the research participants. The sample for the study was made up of two different groups of participants; namely women entrepreneurs and experts from the field of entrepreneurship. Data was analysed using content analysis. Although content analysis is often used for analysing qualitative data, it has a limitation in that it sometimes fails to interpret delicate and intricate texts (Denscombe, 2003:221). Because of this limitation, Kruskal Wallis and Chi square tests were used in order to complement content analysis. These two data analysis tools were adopted because of the non parametric nature of the research data. The main limitation of the study was that primary data was collected in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal due to limited resources. In addition to this, the sampling technique used has a disadvantage in that the results of the research cannot be generalized to the population at large. However, the empirical results in conjunction with the literature review could assist in policy evaluation of the initiatives that could stimulate the development of women entrepreneurs in this country to a higher level. The empirical findings of the study revealed that women entrepreneurs are still experiencing a lot of barriers to entry into the small business sector such as access to finance, lack of entrepreneurial training and lack of information, just to mention a few. The results also revealed that the government support programmes are failing to address the barriers to entry that women are experiencing in the small business sector. In as much as the government is making progress in providing support programmes towards women entrepreneurship, the empirical findings also revealed that the majority of women entrepreneurs are not aware of the available support programmes that are targeting them. Lack of awareness of the available government initiatives was cited as the major reason why women are not benefiting fully from the government support programmes. Based on the research findings, it could be recommended that the government should review the current policies and programmes that are designed to assist women entrepreneurs in this country in order to evaluate the weaknesses and strengths that are inherent in the system. Future programmes should be designed based on empirical research in order to match the actual needs of women entrepreneurs in relation to the challenges that they encounter. This is crucial because women in the small business sector are a heterogeneous group with different needs and challenges. For this reason, a small business research foundation should be established with the core mandate of carrying out on-going research on the small business sector in this country.
The role of sense of community in promoting community based entrepreneurship in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa : an exploratory study of agricultural co-operatives.
(2017) Mkhize, Mthokozisi Lungisani.; Derera, Evelyn.
Research on the sense of community theory has been investigated in relation to studies that addresses crime prevention (Polk, 2010), suicide (Whitlock, 2006) and decrease child abuse (Greenfield, 2010). However, there is a dearth of research studies that addresses the relationship between sense of community and community-based entrepreneurship. Community-based entrepreneurship could play a more significant role in rural economic development given all the psychological community factors that influence this phenomenon are well known. The main objective of this study was to understand the role of sense of community in promoting community-based entrepreneurship in rural areas. This topic is exploratory in nature. As a result of this, quantitative data using a questionnaire was collected in order to address the research objectives of the study. A non-probability sampling technique, known as judgment was used to narrow down the research population from over one hundred agricultural cooperatives to three agricultural cooperatives used in this study. The three agricultural cooperatives represented a target population of this study in which a census survey was conducted. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS statistical package tool version 20.0. Furthermore, a Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was used to analyse the relationship between the variables of the sense of community theory in the context of community-based entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the empirical results were synthesized with the literature review to assist during data analysis. The empirical findings of the study revealed that sense of community plays a major role in the success of community-based entrepreneurship. For example, the level of sense of belonging and openness promotes social cohesion and social capital within agricultural cooperative members. The results also revealed that sense of community theory could be used to understand failures and success of community-based entrepreneurship. According to the Indaba Report (2012), the failures of the agricultural cooperative were only associated with the shortage of finances and lack of marketing skills. Therefore, based on these research findings, it could be recommended that the government must also acknowledge the sense of community as a contributing factor in the failures or success of agricultural cooperatives. Then it can be concluded that this study filled a research gap on how the role of sense of community promotes community- based entrepreneurship. For this reason, future research on community-based entrepreneurship should take into consideration the psychological aspects that influence this phenomenon. The main limitation of the study was that primary data was only collected in three agricultural cooperatives from more than one hundred agricultural cooperatives in Nkandla KwaZulu-Natal due to limited resources. As a result, the findings of the research cannot be generalized to the entire population of agricultural cooperatives in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, but only to the selected agricultural cooperatives.
Strategic intellectual capital management : case study in the banking and financial services sector in Zimbabwe.
(2016) Kehle, Kudzai Emmanuel.; Chiweshe, Nigel Tawanda Farayi.; Derera, Evelyn.
In today’s dynamic and competitive business environment, one way organisations can achieve and sustain competitive advantages is through the leveraging of valuable, inimitable, rare intangible assets. These intangible assets make up the organisation’s intellectual capital which consists of human capital, structural capital and relational capital. Each organisation has its intangible assets or intellectual capital which must be leveraged well in order to succeed. That efficient use of company resources can impact on profitability and competitiveness. This research sought to explore the extent to which the management of intellectual capital was being pursued within a participant institution in the banking and financial services sector in Zimbabwe to gain competitive advantage. The Zimbabwean banking and financial services sector provides an ideal research platform for such an investigation as much prior similar scholarship has been conducted in the context of developed, first world economies. With the world moving towards a knowledge-based economy, knowledge circulates at every level of business; as such it is of growing importance for knowledge intensive firms to reflect on their intellectual capital as a source of sustained competitive advantage. The case study research method was used to help with the understanding of the complex issues within the organisation’s real life setting. A mixed-methods research approach was used which in essence entailed the use of both qualitative and quantitative data collection tools. Data collection was to proceed by documents review, questionnaire based surveys and semi structured in-depth interviews. The findings revealed that the participant institution was leveraging its intellectual capital through good staff hires, enhancing of employee skills, adequately investing in information systems and being mindful of its customer and stakeholder relations. The findings have implications for strategic management in that it allows managers to identify the activities and factors of value which companies can devote resources to in order to augment their competitive position.
Women's economic empowerment and entrepreneurship in agriculture : a case of Mashonaland West Province in Zimbabwe.
(2015) Derera, Evelyn.; Phiri, Maxwell Agabu.
Gender equality and women’s empowerment has been widely acknowledged as an important goal for international development, especially within the agricultural sector. The agricultural sector is a critical sector for many developing economies, particularly Zimbabwe which is agro based. Women are active players in agriculture and they make enormous contributions towards food production and income generating activities through entrepreneurship. This study combines three under researched contemporary discourses in research namely women’s economic empowerment, women entrepreneurship and agriculture. The study explores the nexus between women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship in agriculture in Mashonaland West province in Zimbabwe. In particular, the main aim of the study is to investigate whether economic empowerment of women through entrepreneurship in agriculture can lead to improved quality of lives for women. A mixed method approach was used to collect data from a sample of two hundred and forty eight (248) women involved in agricultural entrepreneurship. Two types of non-probability sampling techniques known as purposive and convenience sampling were used to identify the women. Data was collected in three phases. The first phase collected qualitative data using two focus groups involving fourteen (14) women entrepreneurs. The second phase used a questionnaire survey to collect quantitative data from two hundred and thirty four (234) women entrepreneurs. Data collection was wrapped up with in-depth interviews with ten (10) women who had also participated in the questionnaire survey. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data, while descriptive and inferential statistics such as Principal Component Analysis and ANOVA were used to analyse quantitative data. The results revealed that economic empowerment has indeed improved the lives of women and their families. The results also indicated that women are generally receiving support from the government in the form of agricultural inputs, training, agriculture equipment, with a few women receiving farming loans. The results also revealed that although the quality of women’s livelihood has improved, lack of skills in agriculture and entrepreneurship is hampering the full potential of economic empowerment among women. In addition, the study revealed that the majority of women are involved in agriculture out of necessity to provide food for their families and as a result of poverty, rather than as an entrepreneurial venture. This has serious implications on economic development and food security in Zimbabwe, bearing in mind that the economy is mainly dependent on agriculture. Therefore, policy makers should find ways of changing the mindset of Zimbabweans and encourage people, especially women and the youth to consider agriculture as a profitable business venture. In addition, more support is required to capacitate women with the necessary skills that would enable them to take agriculture entrepreneurship to a higher level that contributes significantly to the Zimbabwean economy. Future research should focus on finding ways to economically empower women in rural areas, especially in Zimbabwe where the majority of the population is living in poverty.