Masters Degrees (Public Administration)

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Grievance and disciplinary procedures at the local government level.
(1992) Maharaj, Pamela.; Singh, Deoram.; Moodley, Sathiasiven.
No abstract available.
Skilled labour in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal.
(2005) Moodley, Dashenthren.; Hunter, Clive Robert.
This dissertation was compiled to place into context and to address the problem of skills shortages in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal. It is often said that the voice that shouts the loudest, and the one that has the most media coverage usually acquires the most buy-in and belief, however this is not the most reliable source. The current demise of the local footwear industry has been attributed to the lack of Government protection and the lack of productivity of the local workforce, in the wake of globalisation. This dissertation presents to the reader a review of recent literature on the topic of skills shortages and also encompasses and endeavours to address the issue of the shortage of skills in the footwear industry. The reader is also provided with an insight into the background of the South African footwear industry, which has been highlighted to give the reader an understanding of the problems facing the footwear industry. Due attention and consideration has also been placed on the effects of globalisation on competitiveness in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal, and how the lack of skilled labour and higher labour costs due to more labour being required, accentuates the apparent problem. A quantitative study of the skills shortage in the footwear industry of KwaZulu-Natal was also conducted and incorporated to provide more conclusive feedback and results. This process entailed conducting telephonic interviews with thirty-four Production managers of the total number of manufacturers, to assess the following: 1. The extent to which the KwaZulu-Natal footwear industry lacks skilled labour. 2. Whether the lack of skilled labour leads to the production of inferior quality footwear. 3. Whether or not manufacturing techniques require more labour as a result of individuals not being adequately skilled. 4. If the overall cost of the production of a shoe is rendered as being higher as a result of more labour being required to execute the production. 5. To determine if footwear manufactured in KwaZulu-Natal can compete with international standards with respect to the footwear industry. The research study considers and tests nine different hypotheses. The instruments used in the questionnaire were tested for reliability with the use of the Cronbach' s Alpha Coefficient, which is regarded as the most common way of measuring reliability. The study of the findings includes a descriptive statistical analysis and a correlation analysis of the variables. An interesting finding is the correlation between hypotheses two (The lack of skilled labour leads to inferior quality footwear) and four (As a result of more labour being required the overall cost of the shoe is higher) which produced an exceptionally high correlation, i.e. r = 0.58 and significance< 0.01. This implies that there is a strong correlation between inferior quality footwear produced by labour short of skill and the overall cost of the footwear. Bearing in mind that correlations simply show the degree of the relationship and do not show causality, the results appear to indicate that skilled labour produce higher quality footwear than unskilled labour, and that fewer skilled operators are required to do the same job. Findings of this nature are discussed in the study, which assist in the conclusion of the research conducted. The following recommendations have been formulated from a close study of the findings of this research study. 1. As a recommendation, employer-based surveys or interviews which gather information from individual employers on workers' specific skills in the footwear industry will help measure skills available (Barker, 1999:212). 2. To improve the return on their investment, to encourage employers to provide opportunities for their employees to acquire new skills, to encourage employees to participate in training programs, and to improve the employment prospects of those not currently employed. More emphasis needs to be placed on labour intensive manufacturing processes by government, as it is the view of the industry that nothing significant was being done (Stryker et al., 2001:6). 3. It is important that the industry has the correct apprenticeship programs in place to secure the existence of these skills. Barker (1999:233) states that new patterns of work often also require flexible and highly skilled workers. With restructuring of management it is common place where workers are required to function without direct supervision and to be able to correct small hiccups in the production process on their own initiative. 4􀀄 Job rotation will have the following benefits to the industry. The worker becomes more versatile thus learning new skills. With these new skills he can move to a higher paid position when a vacancy occurs. The company benefits in that they have a more highly skilled labour force that are able to step into a position when the need arises unlike the situation today where certain skilled positions have no 'back-up' (Human Sciences Research Council, 1999:33). 5. New market areas, new products, new ways of producing and providing services are reshaping the skills required. The industry has to keep abreast of the latest skills and technology available by having product fares inviting international companies to introduce modem technology locally. And in essence becoming more involved with the international industry from an innovation point of view (Bhorat et al., 2003:46). The writer has put forth an action plan to make implementation of these recommendations practical in the workplace.
The role of organised labour in dispute resolution in the eThekwini Municipality.
(2010) Pakkiri, Vadival.; Subban, Mogesperie.
This research expounds on the impact of Organised Labour in Dispute Resolution at eThekwini Municipality. The research will identify the positive and negative aspects of the stakeholders within the environment of labour relations. The necessity of this research is that very little research has been conducted in the dispute resolution environment at eThekwini Municipality. In any labour contract, there will always be disputes between the stakeholders concerned. In some instances, the conclusion of the dispute is a win-win situation or winner takes all. In the open market, the engaging of the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration is the forum available to resolve disputes. In the local government sector, however, organised labour caters for the needs of its members by taking their grievances to the bargaining council under the auspices of the South African Local Government Bargaining Council. Local government is the sphere that is closest to the public at which delivery of services takes place. The manner in which this is conducted depends largely on the Municipality's institutional capacity. The institutional capacity also influences its regulatory role. The co-operative governance approach encourages multiple stakeholder arrangements to deal with labour relations issues. These arrangements will provide an illustration of the role of various stakeholders in achieving peace and harmony in the workplace. Organised Labour will always have a profound effect on the economy, politics and social services. Its contribution and development to society is highly influential and ensures its recognition. The challenge is to develop systems and procedures that will serve the labour relations environment. This research will set out to explore the dispute resolution mechanism that exists currently, and the effect it has in the Municipality. In this way there will be a definitive significance on the approach to formalise the roles employed by management and organised labour.
Effect of total quality management implementation at Pfisterer (Pty) Ltd.
(2012) Mbambo, Bheki.; Bozas, Alexander Robert.
According to history, organisational success is crucial for the sustainability. The main focus for any business is to retain customers whiles in the process gaining more. Both Public and Private Sector have identified Total Quality Management as a tool for survival. TQM is largely used in the private sector; the disadvantage is that there is little empirical knowledge about whether it works positively or not. This study contributes to empirical knowledge of the effects of TQM implementation at PFISTERER a manufacturing firm. This research analyses the relationship between TQM implementation and four intermediate outcomes which are: teamwork, job satisfaction, trust, and customer feedback. The study mainly focuses on the effectiveness of TQM implementation on these outcomes which are deemed crucial. Quantitative analyses was applied for this study, a random sample of 62 employees was selected. The results show that TQM implementation does impact positively on the outcomes which are trust, teamwork, job satisfaction and customer feedback. The study conducted at PFISTERER revealed that there are positive results that flow from a well implimented Total Quality Management. Key findings from literature, fieldwork, conclusions and recommendations are illustrated in this study. Organisations implementing TQM must ensure that there is top management commitment. Employees should be empowered to take unilateral decisions, they must be always be involved in decision-making. This will bring about trust, teamwork, good customer feedback and job satisfaction.
Impact of expanded public works programme on social development within eThekwini municipality: a case of KwaMashu Hostel.
(2012) Zwane, Zamazulu Cherity.; Qwabe, Bongumusa.
Abstract The South African government launched the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in 2003.The programme is intended to provide communities with training and work experience in order to enhance their ability to earn a living in the future. In broad terms, EPWP is a poverty-alleviation mechanism through which people are provided with income and skills to sustain themselves in the future. The programme is implemented in all three spheres of government. Since its inception, unemployment and poverty in the country still remain rife. This study therefore provides an analysis of the EPWP and its failures to address unemployment and poverty in the country. From a methodological standpoint, the study was based on the information gathered through interviews in communities that are still trapped in poverty. Furthermore, questionnaires were administered with municipal and government officials and hostel dwellers in order to ascertain their perceptions about the programme. KwaMashu, within the eThekwini Municipality, was selected as a study area. The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, in conjunction with the municipality, identified this area as a recipient of the EPWP given the magnitude of the unemployment and poverty rate in the area. In the final analysis the study reflects a host of challenges regarding the implementation of the programme. The study therefore provides some recommendations for the improvement of the programme in order to have the desired effects.
Breaking the glass ceiling - a case of Durban corporate women.
(2012) Makaula, Siphosenkosi Zanoxolo.; Bozas, Alexander Robert.
ABSTRACT The glass ceiling is a concept that most frequently refers to barriers faced by women who attempt, or aspire, to attain senior positions as well as higher salary levels in corporations, government, education and non-profit organisations; it can also refer to racial and ethnic minorities and men when they experience barriers to advancement. A glass ceiling appears to exist in many organisations and also maybe a glass cliff, in which women are promoted into risky upper-level positions in which failure and subsequent loss of the high-level position is likely. This research investigated perceptions that Durban corporate women have towards the notion of glass ceiling barriers at work. A sample was chosen on a non-probability basis using convenience sampling of corporate women within Durban. Ninety participants completed the questionnaire. The data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study differ to the statements made in the questionnaire to answer the objectives, the majority of respondents did not agree with the statements. The perception of women is that they do not experience glass ceiling barriers to career advancement. Women also feel confident and respected by colleagues, subordinates and leadership, are capable of executing their designated duties. Women also showed confidence in the Employment Equity Act, to suggest that the transformation charter is followed at their organisations. Recommendations of the study suggested that; there is paucity of research done on this topic in South Africa. South African researchers and academics should research and write more about contemporary issues faced by South African corporate women. The term “glass ceiling” is generally viewed as a myth; there should be an academic and corporate debate around the issue of glass ceiling barriers so as to make non-academic members of the public understand the term and its impact in society. Outcries over gender-based transformation should not be viewed as sexist and racial issues but rather as a labour relations matter and a matter supported by the transformation charter.
The entrepreneurial orientation and intention of UKZN MBA students.
(2012) Ramkissor, Manoj.; Cassim, Shahida Banu.
Abstract The global economy is in a state of uncertainty and not forecasted to grow at a rate that will realise economic prosperity for all. Entrepreneurship is recognised as a potential remedy to this problem as it is posited to offer stimulus to economic growth. However the actualisation levels of entrepreneurial activity has been low, especially in South Africa. MBA students are identified as a segment of the population that can stimulate entrepreneurial activity since the tendency to pursue entrepreneurship is positively correlated with maturity, education, experience and corporate exposure. This study examines the entrepreneurship profile of the 2012 cohort of MBA students enrolled at the University of Kwa-zulu Natal (UKZN). There is no evidence of a study of this nature having been conducted at UKZN and as such the study represents new research. By evaluating the entrepreneurship profile of the MBA students the study seeks to identify how the actualisation of entrepreneurship may be enhanced. The entrepreneurship profile of the students is established by measuring the extent of Entrepreneurial Intention (EI) and Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO). Both EI and EO impact on the likelihood of entrepreneurial actualisation. A census survey is administered to evaluate EO (as measured by self-efficacy) and EI (as measured by the dimensions of risk-taking, innovativeness and proactivity). Statistical analysis reveals high levels of EO and EI and strong correlations between the two factors. Variances in EI are accounted for by the dimensions of risktaking, innovativeness and proactivity. Proactivity is found to be the best predictor of EI followed by innovativeness and risk-taking. No significant differences are noted in gender, age, race and entrepreneurial awareness. The study benefits students and organisations as it provides an assessment of the likelihood of entrepreneurial actualisation, which is a source of competitiveness and economic prosperity. UKZN benefits from the creation of a benchmark study for future research on evaluating the propensity of students to engage in entrepreneurial activity. In addition to high EI and EO, the study identifies that external factors in the environment, the preparation of individuals for entrepreneurship and the availability of entrepreneurial opportunities positively impact on the actualisation of entrepreneurship. Consequently UKZN, local industry and government must devise strategies that positively influence these factors in order to stimulate entrepreneurial activity.
Constraints in the implementation of the national certificate vocational (NCV) policy.
(2013) Goba, Petronella Duduzile.; Mubangizi, Betty Claire.
Policy changes within the Further Education and Training (FET) sector have been debated by scholars like Simon McGrath (2006), Cloete (2009) and Papier (2009). McGrath (2006) examined policy development within the FET sector and how that relates to the broader policy development within the South African context. McGrath further investigated the extent to which policy has been implemented and highlighted challenges remaining for the sector, post-policy implementation. Papier established a range of factors that caused poor performance of the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Policy learners in 2007 and 2008. Other Scholars like Cloete (2009) have revealed in their study that FET Colleges have low levels of institutional autonomy and are a provincial competency which is also a hindrance to effective implementation of the policy. Further Education and Training Colleges are the delivery arm of government to skill the nation whose skills deficit remains worryingly high. The FET Act 16 of 2006 led to the implementation of the National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Policy whose intention was to increase the impact of FET colleges in skilling the nation. It is now five years since this Act was promulgated and since the NCV policy was implemented. Based on studies by McGrath (2006), Cloete (2009) and Papier (2009), this research investigated how the NCV policy was implemented and the implications thereof. The research focused attention on the constraints that affected effective implementation of NCV policy given the history and context within which FET Colleges operate. The view in this research was that lecturers, though key strategic players and a critical component of the College system were not ready to implement the NCV Policy. The research identified constraints that affected effective implementation of NCV policy framework; the role played by the College and, in addition, ascertained causes of policy implementation failures. Against this backdrop, the research determined the pros and cons of the implementation process and the effects that some of these had on employee morale. Specifically, the research targeted Elangeni College for FET, which consists of eight (8) Campuses. By closely examining NCV policy implementation, together with the implementation of FET ACT 16 of 2006 which resulted in qualified and competent staff leaving the sector, the research shed new light on this area, which has not been thoroughly researched.
Romance in the workplace, perceptions, performances and pitfalls.
(2013) Dlamini, Ntokozo Eunice.; Manion, Gillian Lesley.
ABSTRACT The purpose of this article is to create, through a comprehensive review of historic and contemporary literature, critical contributors to the development of workplace romance as a challenge, its effects on the organization's performance and its employees, as well as strategies for action. This study analyses the impact of workplace romance in organisations. The study further explores the extent to which workplace romance influences employee performance and the perceived influence on the relationship between employees and employers, as well as between co-workers. It further establishes differences in perceptions of workplace romance. The increase of female workers in organisations has impacted on and has therefore increased the possibility of workplace romance occurring. This study employs quantitative analysis because the study seeks explanations and predictions that generate meaningful analysis of the data. The population of this study is currently registered MBA students, due to the small number it was decided to do a census. The nature of the study and the small population of 100 deemed acceptable to use census. An electronic questionnaire sent via QuestionPro was used to collect the data. The questionnaire was pretested to ascertain whether it was suitable, and would yield the desired results. The electronic questionnaire was perceived to be the least inconvenient sampling method. It was also compatible with SPSS, a widely used computer software tool for the analysis of quantitative data. Organisations need to develop healthy working environments for their employees, middle management and top management. In South African, law does not cover the dissolved workplace romance apart from where there are allegations of sexual harassment. The study can benefit organisations in identifying these problems, and recommends strategies that can be used in dealing with dilemma of romance in the workplace. Organisation may also develop a policy on workplace romance. This will protect not only employees, but the organisation against publicity of lawsuit.
The conflict between poverty and nature conservation: lessons from the Dukuduku on-site resettlement project.
(2013) Dube, Nomsa.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.; Subban, Mogesperie.
Analysis of rural local economic development in the Mthonjaneni local municipality.
(2013) Zulu, Khulekani Calalabo.; Mubangizi, Betty Claire.
Local government has a constitutional mandate to promote social and economic development for its citizens within the available financial capacity. The sphere of local government is therefore charged with the responsibility of influencing the shape and direction of local economic development (LED) in its area if the government in general is to attain the national objectives and service delivery targets aimed at creating more job opportunities and eliminating poverty. Effective and constructive local economic development initiatives are needed especially in rural areas to deal with unemployment and poverty that have an adverse effect on society. The rural people of Mthonjaneni Municipality are also affected by these socio-economic challenges hence the study analyses the municipality’s role and capability in assisting its communities. The study indicates that with the advent of democracy people within all communities of South Africa wish to see evidence of local government changing their lives for better through LED projects. This expectation becomes a challenge and a perfect opportunity for local government to make meaningful impact by developing LED strategies aimed at improving the standard of living for its citizens. The LED strategy is a locally driven process through which all LED stakeholders work to create a conducive and sustainable environment that enhance economic stability. The research looks at the concept of rural LED as defined by many scholars and investigate its implementation with the Mthonjaneni Municipality as well as the impact it has on its community. The study provides a background of the Mthonjaneni Municipality by looking at the demographic factors and its geographic location; the current state of rural LED in the municipality together with any other future LED initiatives. Further, by using qualitative research methods, the study analyses whether rural LED initiatives especially municipal funded projects, are successful in alleviating poverty in the Mthonjaneni Municipality. The study established that there are gaps requiring special attention by the Mthonjaneni Municipality in terms of deploying more financial and human capital resources.
Career progression of women in higher education: a case study of Universities of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2015) Zungu, Mamotse Ketura Onica.; Singh, Anesh Maniraj.
Abstract Women account for 51% of the South African labour force but their representation at more senior management levels is insignificant (Stats SA). Women experience barriers in their career progression, such as family-related, societal and organisational barriers. The main aim of this study was to determine the career progression of women in Higher Education. Purposive judgement sampling was used to select the participants for this study. The questionnaire was administered using QuestionPro. A total of 111 responses out of 360 questionnaires resulted in a 31% response rate. Due to the low response rate obtained, the results could not be generalised to the institutions of Higher Education, specifically Universities of Technology. Salient findings from the study were that the majority of the respondents in this study were African, aged between 36-45 years of age, were married, had up to two dependents, were lecturers with a master’s degree and had more than 10 years and above of working experience. The respondents felt that they had not progressed in their careers and the main reason given for this was that they had not applied for promotion. The findings also revealed that the majority of respondents did not experience barriers in their careers, but the organisational barriers identified by 43% of the respondents were lack of internal networking opportunities, no support from line managers and ethnicity. In addition, the majority of respondents felt that there were no invisible barriers (glass-ceiling) preventing them from progressing in Higher Education. The invisible barriers experienced by 24% of the respondents were slower promotion rate, lack of career development opportunities and significant gaps in earnings. For women to progress in their careers, Higher Education Institutions (HEI) could promote being an equal opportunity employer by providing training and development, mentorship, networking, gender empowerment, flexible working arrangements and work-life balance.
The value of sport and recreation in education: a case study of Ndwedwe area.
(2015) Mkhonza, Johannes Martin Muntu.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
ABSTRACT Childhood represents the most physically active stage of human development. Children like to play games and participate in physical activity and sports, and they certainly love to compete. Of the great number of books written on physical training, the majority refer to elite athletes and only a few discuss training programmes designed specifically for children. The objective of the study was to investigate the array of facilities that exists for sporting activities in disadvantaged schools and communities. Children in the initial stage should participate in low-intensity training programme, in which the emphasis is on ‘FUN’. It should be noted that there is a great link between Physical Education (PE) and sport. Schools that have a sound programme of PE are likely to perform better. PE is regarded as a basic of sport or foundation if one may want to call it, while on other hand it is not all learners who are capable of taking part in competitive sport, hence recreation cater for those learners. Scholars agree that recreation is the nursery for sport. It has been noted that in recreation, it is where most of the participants are going for fun and enjoyment. Within the fun and enjoyment one may end up discovering some talent which may end up forcing him to compete in elite sports. Some researchers are likely to show that learners who have PE at school show some enjoyment participating in and perform better in sports activity. The use of the questionnaire was deemed appropriate in this study. This study was conducted with selected high school learners. A sample of 300 learners participated in this study. The findings reveal that approximately all the respondents agree that the shortage of sport facilities at Ndwedwe has a negative impact and compromises the youth of Ndwedwe to be exposed to different codes of sport.
Equitable share formula and fiscal capacity in municipalities with particular reference to Msunduzi Municipality.
(2015) Mpumela, Xolile.; Subban, Mogesperie.
The apartheid regime left its imprint on South Africa's municipalities with systematic under-investment in municipal infrastructure in black areas. Deprivation of communities with limited access to basic services including water, sanitation, refuse collection and roads created skewed settlement patterns as one of ‘enduring planned and deliberate’ poverty. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 established ‘wall-to-wall’ local government with municipalities to address past inequalities. There was no equally corresponding increase in the tax base of communities within municipalities. As a result, they are faced with fiscal imbalances in raising adequate funds to meet mandated functions with municipalities heavily dependent on intergovernmental transfers from national government. Twenty one years into democracy, municipalities continue facing infrastructural disparities evidenced by significant increases in service delivery protests. A suitable redistributive approach is envisaged as current local government funding arrangements may not be addressing objectives of development and redistribution adequately. National Treasury recently completed a review of the 2008 LGES formula and introduced a new formula for the equitable distribution of funds to municipalities. The purpose of the study was to assess the appropriateness of the new LGES formula as a resource allocation and mechanism for equitable resource sharing in government, deemed a focal point in addressing municipal fiscal challenges, using Msunduzi Municipality as reference. Underpinned by the pragmatic paradigm or philosophical worldview, the study used mixed methods research design which included review of documented data, as well as questionnaires for empirical data. The key research question was if the current Local Government Equitable Share formula fiscally capacitates municipalities such that they are able to provide basic services to communities? The study revealed that there is insufficient data available at the local government level to support the design of an appropriate LGES formula. The formula is unable to accurately quantify fiscal structural gaps in municipalities, and therefore fails to respond to basic service needs of municipalities. Furthermore, the LGES formula cannot be effective if the restraints on municipal own revenue sources are unresolved. National government must identify constraints to revenue generation and collection in municipalities to provide appropriate and sustainable financial support whilst promoting economic development, good governance and social progress for all financially ‘ailing’ municipalities.
Evaluating the implementation of performance management system in Ugu District Municipality.
(2015) Mbili, Sihle Maxwell.; Nzimakwe, Thokozani Ian.
Municipal Integrated Development Plan (IDP). The municipality is required in terms of MSA to promote a culture of performance management among its political structures, political office-bearers and councillors and in its administration; and to administer its affairs in an economical, effective, efficient and accountable manner. In view of the above, it is evident that a performance management system can be regarded as one of the cornerstones of the new constitutional dispensation and that a performance management system can be considered as a practical instrument for the improved delivery of services within the municipal context. This study therefore seeks to evaluate the implementation the implementation of performance management system in Ugu district municipality with a view to improving service delivery and minimising the number of complaints which are the result of service delivery challenges. In achieving this purpose, a whole range of research methods such as interviews, focus groups and document analysis were used to collect data on the subject matter. The relevant data was analysed and was compared with legislative guidelines on the subject matter. The findings and conclusions of the study indicated that certain constraints affect the effective implementation of the performance management system by the Ugu district municipality and these include, among other things, the role of oversight structures which is not exercised, the lack of monitoring and evaluation of performance, the lack of alignment of performance review outcomes with personal development plans, and an inability to utilise the performance management system to improve services that are delivered to the community. Given the above, the researcher has made some recommendations on how to improve the performance management system of the municipality. Key recommendations require that the municipality’s targets should be outcome-based; monitoring and evaluation of performance from planning to verification of information reported on should take place; there should be mechanisms to ensure that budget is derived from the IDP; the municipality should ensure capacitation of performance oversight committees and that local communities should be allowed to participate in the planning and review of performance.
A community perception of service delivery: a case study of Impendle local municipality.
(2015) Muthwa, Emmanuel Xolani.; Dassah, Maurice Oscar.
With an ever increasing number of service delivery protests recorded each year, an inquiry into the quality of public service in South Africa might well be overdue. The fact that most service delivery protests have turned violent, upsetting community life and damaging private and public property is an urgent call for action from government. Yet as some have argued, this state of public service, though not deliberate, might be largely a direct consequence of government action. The government is thus accused of laxity in staffing, monitoring and evaluation, as well as implementing the audit and evaluation reports. As the prime implementer of government policy, programmes and projects, local government bears much of the brunt of this government inaction. The result is compromised quality in service delivery. This study investigates one such impact of government action on a Category B municipality. As a victim of boundary re-adjustments in 2009, Impendle Municipality has not received any financial complement to meet the service demands of its expanded jurisdiction. The assumption has been that with the increased number of communities within the municipality and no complementary budgetary increase, service quality at Impendle Local Municipality will be compromised. Using the service quality (SERVQUAL) theory, the study investigated this assumption through an assessment of: access, communication, competence, courtesy, credibility, reliability, responsiveness, securities and tangibles. Using mixed methods of data collection and analysis, the study purported to understand community perceptions on the quality of municipal services. Data was gathered through a triangulation of focus groups (conducted in each of the four wards within the municipality) and self-administered questionnaires with 80 of the 7432 municipal residents. The data was then triangulated in analysis to assess the community perceptions on the status of service quality. The study concluded that, in as much as the quality of service is low at Impendle, the problem is more with procedural issues of service delivery than it is an impact of boundary re-adjustments. Lack of access, poor communication, unstandardized service, and lack of reliability, credibility and courtesy, were viewed by participants as major issues compromising service delivery. However, the fact that these challenges are direct contraventions of the South African blueprint on service delivery – Batho Pele – re-affirms the need for effective co-operative governance in South Africa.
Management of cultural diversity for performance enhancement: a case study in eThekwini Municipality.
(2016) Mngomezulu, Thabile Daphney.; Subban, Mogesperie.
A new democratic South Africa in 1994 led to the final Constitution with transformation of the Public Service to an effective, efficient and economical one in meeting citizens’ needs. Chapter two of the Republic of South Africa Constitution Act, 1996 is in keeping with citizens’ rights in the management of cultural diversity. Reinforcement of diversity in the Constitution formalizes 11 official languages and recommends that communities be treated equally regarding cultures, friendship, humanity and tolerance amongst all South African groups. This is premised on promoting and protecting their rights through equal distribution of resources and equitable rendering of services. In laying the foundation for diversity management in both the citizenry and the public administration context, diversity in organizations is at the heart of development. This research argues for an organization that respects differences rather than seeking to level them out and an important consequence where people are no longer forced to “belong” to a common ethnicity, or culture. Instead of focusing on diversity as the means of defining population or gender, diversity management and culture should be intently explored in order to improve organizational decision-making and performance. The intent is whether cultural diversity is a contributor to better performance of managers in the eThekwini Municipality, and finding a connection between them. As local government in the forefront of service delivery, strategies and policies on diversity ensuring the satisfaction of its employees, is thus an organizational performance imperative. One of the benefits of sensitizing employees to cultural diversity issues is that it makes them more effective in dealing with all fellow employees. A key objective includes: determining the connection between cultural diversity and performance in eThekwini Municipality in particular; and exploring the influence of organisational culture on managers’ performance. A key research question underpinning the study included focus on cultural diversity factors influencing managers’ performance. The theoretical framework locates diversity as a direct influence on performance because of its exclusive cognitive resources. The research is grounded on the theory that cultural diversity contributes to improved or enhanced performance. A sample of 148 participants informed surveys and 2 participants were interviewed using a mixed methods approach and thematic trends in organisational environment, cultural diversity, leadership and management skills and compliance were covered. Agreement to close gaps between males and females in senior management positions was evident. By improving cultural knowledge, the ability to better meet the employees, clients, communities and customers’ expectations would contribute to an effective work environment vis-a-vis improved performance.
Efficacy of hybrid enterprise resource planning at Sabmiller, Prospecton Brewery in KwaZulu-Natal: the end-users’ perspectives.
(2016) Msomi, Msawenkosi Mnqobi Daniel.; Maharaj, Manoj.
ABSTRACT The implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system assists a company to integrate all business activities thereby creating cohesiveness and efficiency. The ERP system enhances communication and sharing of information. The system is installed into the companies’ computer network infrastructure. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the hybrid ERP system at SABMILLER (Prospecton Brewery) in KwaZulu-Natal. The quantitative method to collect data was utilized. A closed-end questionnaire was designed using the Likert scale of rating. The target population identified for this study was the brewery’s manufacturing systems end-users. The total number of users in the target population was 337 from which 201 was the sample frame. However, the breweries management eventually only allowed for 31 questionnaires to be distributed which does not allow for the results of this study to be generalised to the larger population. However, there was a 100% response from the selected sample. The findings revealed that after embedding Infor’s ERP (APS), particularly supply chain related problems improved drastically. A collective majority of 90.3% of the respondents indicated that interdepartmental systems integration improved significantly, whilst a further 83.9% agreed that there was an increase in the integration of all business activities. Ninety six point five percent (96.5%) of the respondents agreed that the inventory planning improved, 93.5% indicated that there was an improvement in materials resource planning, whilst 90.3% of the respondents agreed that the implementation of hybrid ERP software improved the brewery’s manufacturing systems efficiency. In addition, a collective majority of 96.8% of the respondents agreed that optimum manufacturing systems back-up had since been attained. Practical recommendations from the findings include the fact that it is essential for top management to ensure that the project leader has a list of roles and responsibilities which is critical to the success of any ERP system implementation. The project leader must ensure that vendor support is at an optimal level as required by the brewery, that training is on-going, and that there is constant feedback from end-users regarding any challenges that they may face. The challenges should be dealt with immediately, hence ensuring the efficacy of the hybrid ERP system.
A critique of service delivery in rural municipalities with particular reference to Ndwedwe local municipality.
(2016) Msomi, Eugene Sibusiso.; Reddy, Purshottama Sivanarain.
The outcomes of the 2016 local government elections reflect the dissatisfaction of the citizens with the government’s pace of service delivery. These results also indicate that the ruling party, African National Congress (ANC) has not kept promises of the improved and high quality of services. This is particularly relevant for Ndwedwe community which is still lacking basic municipal services. South Africa consists of three levels of government, namely the national, provincial as well as local government. Out of these levels of government, the local government sphere becomes the most important since it is closest to the people and it is mandated by the Constitution (RSA, 1996) to deliver services to the citizens efficient, effectively and economically. Local government is divided into three (3) categories: namely metropolitan, district and local councils. The majority of local councils are concentrated in rural areas and have backlogs on basic services and infrastructure. The current study was conducted at Ndwedwe Local Municipality to gauge the resultant impacts of local government restructuring and transformation process for small rural municipalities in the Province of Kwa Zulu-Natal. To this end, the South African local government has contributed significantly in improving social lives for local citizens and facilitating local democracy. The current study argues that, while the Ndwedwe Municipality has benefited through democratic processes of South African local government, there is much which needs to be addressed regarding its service delivery and communication strategies. For example, a significant progress has been made in the delivery of water and sanitation, electricity and housing, however this is not enough since these services have not yet reached the majorities of citizens of this local authority. Furthermore, community participation strategies and IDP processes of the municipality need to be improved by incorporating values of good governance such as openness, transparency and more consultation. Access to basic services like medical care, clean running water and sanitation, compounded by non-availability of facilities within the Ndwedwe area was among major challenges highlighted in the current study. These challenges result in the spread of numerous diseases caused by polluted water and poor health care services. Against this background, it is recommended that the Ndwedwe Local Municipality prioritize its budget towards the development of infrastructure and the escalation of services in the communities of Ndwedwe area. Facilities like parks and sports fields for youth should be mobilized through collaboration with other metro councils and the private sector to take the Ndwedwe youth off the street. The study has reviewed the relevant literature of local government to documents contemporary trends in local government and to identify service delivery gaps which need immediate attention. The revitalization of the South African local government is also essential in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals which are designed to steer socio-economic opportunities for local citizens. The study used the mixed method approach to obtain sufficient empirical data from the community members and officials of Ndwedwe Local authority. The community members were drawn from three areas of Ndwedwe, namely, Maphephetheni, Njoboyinye and Thafamasi. Quantitative research was conducted to gauge the perceptions of the residents about the services provided by the municipality. Qualitative research was conducted with the municipal officials who shed some light about services provided by the municipality and the challenges which have been encountered along the way. The findings of the study clearly indicate that the Ndwedwe area comprises a highly illiterate population, which makes it extremely difficult for the municipality to obtain appropriate skills to assist in the development of the area. Furthermore, the Ndwedwe area is also confronted by a high level of unemployment which is a culmination of the scarcity of academic skills mentioned above. Education centres should be opened for the majority of youth and adults who have missed educational opportunities for a number of reasons and this should be done in collaboration with the Kwa Zulu-Natal Department of Education. In addition, community projects through the Department of Public Works should be a matter of priority in the Ndwedwe area in order to minimize the unemployment rate by creating job opportunities.
The processing domestic of violence cases by the department of justice and constitutional development: the case of Ntuzuma Magistrate Court in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2016) Mbambo, Nonhlanhla Cynthia.; Ruffin, Fayth Anese.
Domestic violence is a universal experience faced in most parts of the world. Many years ago domestic violence was considered a private matter therefore perpetrators were not necessarily brought to justice for their abusive behaviours. In 1998, however, the South African government enacted the Domestic Violence Act (DVA) to provide a public justice forum to address domestic violence. The DVA provides victims with an accessible legal tool to stop certain abuses taking place within their domestic relationships. This study aims at determining whether the processing of domestic violence cases is effective at the Ntuzuma Magistrates Court. This study seeks to determine the factors that facilitate or hinder the processing of domestic violence (DV) cases in Ntuzuma Magistrates Court while exploring the experiences of the Inanda/Ntuzuma/KwaMashu (INK) community regarding the services from the DV section in the Ntuzuma Magistrates Court. Through interviews of court personnel and a focus group of community members, stakeholder perceptions on application of the DVA and administration of DV case processing at Ntuzuma Magistrates Court are examined. The role of cultural competency in DV case processing is also considered from the perspectives of study participants. Data were analysed using a combination of thematic, content and matrix analysis. Findings reveal a problem of what appears to be ineffective administrative processing of domestic violence cases with reference to the finalisation of DV cases, case withdrawals and insufficient personnel to operate court administration. Lastly, the study concludes with recommendations for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development to undertake as a way of improving court administration. These recommendations include increasing court personnel, rearranging division of work, and taking justice to the people through outreach programmes or community Izimbizos where community members would be educated about administration and court services to improve access to justice for domestic violence matters.

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