Masters Degrees (Graduate School of Business and Leadership)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7378

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Leading through multiple disruptions in a printing organisation in Durban, South Africa.
(2023) Mooninthan, Cadene.; Proches, Cecile Naomi Gerwel.
The past few years in South Africa has been both economically and psychologically challenging for many South Africans and organisations in the country. The country has faced multiple disruptions and many social and economic challenges. Through these disruptions, organisations were required to be consistently knowledgeable and innovative to rise above the competition as the world of business is changing and growing at a rapid pace. Operating in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) business environment requires strong and effective leadership to guide and lead the organisation forward toward growth and success. Leading through the multiple disruptions has become increasingly challenging for many leaders and organisations, however, this study has been restricted to a printing organisation in Durban which is the InsideData Group. The study aimed to identify the multiple disruptions affecting the printing organisation in Durban, to understand the leadership response to the multiple disruptions, and to identify what leadership practices should be implemented to effectively deal with the multiple disruptions in the future. This study focused on gaining a leadership perspective on the challenges of being an effective leader while managing the multiple disruptions in the organisation. The research was conducted by applying a qualitative research approach. The data was collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with 10 senior-level leaders in the organisation. A non-probability sampling method was conducted to select the participants which was purposive sampling. The data analysis was conducted using the thematic data analysis approach. The findings of the study highlighted the identification of the recent multiple disruptions, their impact on the organisation, the challenges that leaders encountered during these disruptions, the leadership response to the disruptions, the different leadership styles used in the organisation, how leaders managed organisational performance, and the methods of business improvement to be implemented to manage the multiple disruptions. The study offers recommendations to leaders on leadership practices to consider when faced with future disruptions such as implementing leadership training programs, developing a network of teams, maintaining communication and transparency, and instilling effective leadership styles and traits in current leaders or new recruits. The study also provides recommendations for further research which is to gain an employee perspective on the multiple disruptions and their leadership expectations. This study can also be extended by incorporating leaders in different printing organisations.
Investigating the factors that influence employee retention at Vector Logistics in South Africa.
(2023) Taylor, Daniel.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
Employee retention can be acknowledged as an important area of study due to the implications for company management. This area of study has become even more important with the occurrence of what has been termed The Great Resignation as millions of employees are resigning from their jobs post-COVID-19. Employee retention is the effort an employer makes to keep desirable employees to continue meeting organisational objectives. Without an active effort to keep employees engaged, employees can be attracted to other opportunities and may leave the company. The study focused on Vector Logistics in South Africa. Consumers need products from various industries including food, electronics, textiles, and furniture among many others, making the logistics industry important for the delivery of these products and the functioning of the economy. Furthermore, fuel, energy, truck-building and other cost increases result in logistics companies searching for ways to keep costs low to prevent cost increases to customers. This study was commissioned to review the factors influencing employee retention at Vector Logistics in South Africa. The information gathered was used to highlight which strategies have been implemented and the success of each. A quantitative study was developed to achieve these aims with a close-ended questionnaire provided to the sample of the 28 employees of the HR department at Vector Logistics in South Africa. Therefore, the study will assist Vector Logistics with insights into manpower which is the most important asset in a company. By providing insights into factors influencing employee retention, the study will help Vector Logistics implement better strategies to retain employees.
Promoting gender equality in the Department of Public Works in KwaZulu-Natal.
(2023) Lukele, Faith Sanelisiwe.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
For many years, women worldwide have continued to experience discriminatory practices both in the workplace and in society. One of the discriminatory practices faced by women is their exclusion in leadership positions. Post-1994, the South African government has promulgated several different legislative frameworks and policies to redress gender equality, discrimination and empower women. Despite the government efforts, there seems to be a common consensus among scholarly researchers that gender inequality still prevails in the South African workplace After twenty-nine years of democracy. Against this background, the present study aims to promote gender equality in the South African workplace by focusing on the Department of Public Works. A quantitative research will be conducted to collect data so that information can be quantified and subjected to statistical treatment to support or refute “alternate knowledge claims. The study will be conducted in the Department of Public Works. Given the total population of about 200 employees, the sample size of 132 was selected using simple random sampling. However, the data was were collected from 124 through an online survey (questionnaire). The reliability and validity of the measuring instrument were measured through a pilot study. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social, version 27.0. The study concluded that the factors such as women empowerment, organisational culture, leadership commitment and organisational structure were the most important factors that contributed to reducing gender inequality in the Department of Public Works. Also, the results revealed that gender equality impacted employee retention and performance significant in the Department of Public Works. On the contrary, the study found no significant relationship between gender equality and employee job security. This study provides a better knowledge of the discriminatory practices against women, especially those in leadership position in the Department of Public Works. Therefore, the study will service as an important tool for promoting gender equality in the Department of Public Works and other Departments in South Africa. The study recommends that organisations, including the Department of Public Works implement gender balance policies and practices to help reduce gender inequality.
Effects of digital transformation on employee morale in the business banking department of a financial organization.
(2023) Dookie, Deepak.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
Many organizations are undergoing digital transformation to remain competitive. Digital transformation in these organizations involves replacing old software with new software or automating manual processes. Organizations undergo this transformation without considering the effect on employees. This digital transformation process has a direct impact on employees. The study aimed to uncover the effects this transformation has on employee morale; the benefits of digital transformation and the strategies organizations should follow when implementing digital transformation. A quantitative study was conducted in the business banking division of a large financial services organization. The sampling technique used was stratified random. There was a total of fifty people that was sent a questionnaire within the business banking division of the financial services organisation. It was found that the benefits of digital transformation included streamlining of the operational process in the department, reducing manual activities, automating repetitive tasks, and minimizing errors. Respondents also showed positive results towards digital transformation increasing efficiency and allowing for more efficient data gathering and utilization of that data to gain valuable insights. Data from the questionnaire showed that employee morale increased with the introduction of digital transformation. Employees can do more meaningful work with the automation of tasks, thus doing more complex work and having a sense of accomplishment when complete. Digital transformation leads to increased motivation in employees with the desire to learn new skills and grow their career. Strategies needed to successfully implement digital transformation included training of employees on the new technologies to boost confidence and increase morale. Employees want to be included in the transformation process by providing inputs to decision-making. There needs to be clear and transparent communication from leaders during digital transformation. The data showed that employees require rewards while undergoing the transformation journey as this increases morale and allows adoption and culture shift to happen quickly. Lastly employees should be provided feedback regularly to show that their opinion matters, this increases morale. It is recommended that organizations embrace digital transformation totally and utilize the strategies identified in the study.
The exploration of the influence of risk management on the success of construction projects.
(2023) Sithole, Bokang.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.
This dissertation explores the influence of risk management on the success of construction projects. The construction industry is inherently risky, with various uncertainties and challenges that can impact project outcomes. Effective risk management practices have been recognized as critical factors for achieving project success and minimizing adverse consequences. The objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how effective risk management practices contribute to project success in the construction industry. The study adopts a qualitative research approach, utilizing interviews as the primary method of data collection. The research is situated within the context of the construction industry in Kwazulu Natal South Africa looking at Raubex KZN. The Raubex KZN company is known for its rapid urbanization and diverse range of construction projects, especially in roadworks, providing an ideal setting to examine the interplay between risk management and project outcomes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of key stakeholders involved in construction projects within Raubex KZN. The sample size of 12 participants represents various roles, including project managers, construction managers, quality managers, health and safety officers and site engineers, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of risk management practices and their influence on project success. Through the qualitative analysis of interview data, themes and patterns emerged regarding the role of risk management in construction projects. The findings shed light on the strategies, processes, and challenges associated with risk identification, assessment, mitigation, and monitoring. Furthermore, the study uncovers the impact of risk management practices on project schedule adherence, cost control, quality assurance, and safety performance. The results provide valuable insights into the perceptions, experiences, and perspectives of industry professionals regarding risk management and its effect on project success.
Exploring the livelihoods of ride-hailing drivers in Polokwane’s central business district.
(2024) Morakaladi, Choene Arthur.; Chasomeris, Mihalis Georgiou.
This study investigated ride-hailing drivers' livelihoods in the City of Polokwane, Limpopo Province. This qualitative exploration provided an understanding of the industry's dynamics by directly incorporating the experiences and perspectives of drivers. Through in-depth interviews with 15 ride-hailing drivers, thematic analysis and NVivo software revealed multifaceted challenges impacting income levels. Surge pricing, access to resources, safety concerns, competition regulation, driver incentives, financial planning, app efficiency, and the potential benefits of loyalty programmes all emerged as pivotal factors influencing the livelihoods of ride-hailing professionals. Beyond highlighting challenges, the study uncovers potential avenues for improvement, including exploring loyalty programmes. By assessing the feasibility and benefits of loyalty initiatives, the research opens a discourse on how such programmes could contribute to the livelihoods of ride-hailing drivers. As the ride-hailing industry continues to evolve, understanding these factors becomes imperative for developing initiatives that foster a sustainable and supportive environment for those driving the industry forward. The study not only contributes valuable insights into the complex dynamics inherent in the ride-hailing sector but also provides specific recommendations aimed at enhancing the overall well-being and financial resilience of the drivers.
The impact of irregular expenditure and non-compliance on the financial sustainability of the eThekwini Municipality.
(2023) Mdluli, Brian Ayanda.; Pelser, Theunis Gert.; Dubihlela, Jobo.
Abstract available in PDF.
Is servant leadership radical enough for the 21st century? the case study of an information technology company in South Africa.
(2022) Shandu, Phelisa.; Taylor, Simon Michael.
The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on both work and daily life, which is what motivated this investigation. In addition to causing worldwide turbulence, the pandemic has challenged well-established leadership models. It suddenly became a norm for millions of people, particularly knowledge workers, to work remotely. For most organizations with remote workers for the first time the shift has resulted in a different dynamic from the management perspective. Considering the uncertainties and complexities associated with the pandemic, the question is whether servant leadership can deliver a leadership approach that can cope with the challenges of the modern workplace. A qualitative study was conducted with a purposeful sample of IT professionals from a Cape Town-based private company. A sample of line managers from the selected company was included in the study. Study participants were interviewed through Microsoft Teams for 45-60 minutes and digitally recorded for later review. Prior to the interviews the participants were required to complete an online Google questionnaire to understand their values and beliefs. An analysis of the interview transcripts and observations for common themes was conducted using content analysis. The study’s results revealed that servant leadership, if effectively implemented, can benefit an organization, allowing employees to feel cared for and trusted, thus motivating them to provide quality service to clients. Servant leadership can also strengthen learning organizations through talent development and retention. Future directions for research are presented, along with limitations of this study.
Assessing the emotional agility of internal auditors while remote working at eThekwini Municipality.
(2022) Shah, Narishaa.; Martins, Ana Maria de Azevedo.
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered many workforce environments driving almost a forceful directive for employees to work from home. Such a shift in workforce dynamics had many ripple effects on private and public sector businesses and employees. The Internal Audit Unit at the eThekwini Municipality had compelled its Leadership to start looking differently at how Internal Audit operates and conducts work as a professional unit within the municipality. Having to work under such conditions affected many aspects within the work environment; hence the department had seen the need to assess its working environment allowing staff to work remotely to ensure it maintained its effectiveness and productivity whilst keeping its employees safe during the various lockdown levels declared by the president of South Africa. This study used a qualitative research method where interview questions were posed to senior managers of the Internal Audit Unit within a local municipality in South Africa to assess the emotional agility factors and how they impacted the workforce during remote working. The dissertation comprises of two important parts, a comprehensive literature review and fieldwork. The target population consisted of 17 members of the Leadership committee of the Internal Audit Unit in the eThekwini Municipality. Interviews had been administered on ten randomly selected senior managers where the results were thematically assessed against two conceptual frameworks. The study results aimed to provide Internal Audit leaders with tools and information needed to understand how to better manage employee engagement, commitment, and development of remote working employees. The findings may be used at other similar organisations in the same industry, i.e., other metros in the country to obtain an understanding of how internal auditors assess employee engagement, commitment, and development during remote working and the decisions taken to ensure optimum productivity. Internal Audits in other public sectors and private sectors have not been included as part of the research as it is assumed that each entity has its own challenges and opportunities. The factors considered in this study can be used as a benchmark for other Internal Audit entities to consider in their employee management and remote working strategy.
Effects of digital transformation on employee morale in the business banking department of a financial organization.
(2023) Dookie, Deepak.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
Abstract available in PDF.
The effectiveness of the operation pay on time initiative on KwaZulu-Natal provincial departments.
(2022) Mlamula, Nomzamo Ladyfair.; Tefera, Orthodox.
SMMEs are continuously faced with the dilemma of late and non-payment of invoices with these delays becoming increasingly detrimental to the country's economy. The Provincial Government Departments are the major culprits of this unwelcome practice as they work against the Country's Economic Growth Strategy stipulated in the National Development Plan 2030 (NDP). Despite all procedures and efforts employed to assist departments in complying and making payments on time, the struggle continues for SMMEs. The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Departments (KZNPDs) are dedicated to paying their service providers within the 30days payment interval and following the full terms of a contractual agreement. The KZN Department of Treasury developed an initiative called "Operation Pay on Time (OPOT)". The initiative is aimed to assist all KZNPDs to ensure payments are made on time to service providers. This is a case study research based on the KZN Department of Treasury’s initiative “OPOT”. Accordingly, the research study endeavoured to establish the effectiveness of the assistance provided to curb the issue of late or non-payment. The objective is to firstly establish the underlying factors of late or non-payment and evaluate the effectiveness of the OPOT initiative on the identified factors to stimulate efficiency in KZNPDs. The investigation comprised a mixed-method approach where information was gathered using a means of survey and interview sessions with descriptive and inferential statistics being utilized. Additionally, explanatory and thematic analyses were also used to describe and dissect subject information. The study participants comprised 10 senior managers and 60 finance officials in KZNPDs. Using a convenient sampling strategy, key informants and survey respondents were selected. The total number of observations (n) and proportion (%) in a variable was computed using the “tab” command of Stata 11. The graph box displaying the median and distribution of observations was created using the “graph box” command of Stata 11. Relationships between two categorical variables were investigated using Chi-Square analysis and results were reported with three parameters i.e., number of observations (n) Chi, and P-value. Examination of data disclosed that KZNPDs are struggling to ensure payments are made on time as a result of unresolved petty issues. The study revealed that the OPOT initiative is effective, however exhibiting some shortfalls of no proper systems or elements of controls in place. Furthermore, the study divulged that the OPOT initiative would be more effective when the factors of late or non-payment of invoices are filtered into any initiative or assistance provided and are post-effect rather than an after-effect initiative.
Investigating the implementation of the code of conduct for learners: a case study of Volksrust circuit schools.
(2021) Mngomezulu, Dawn Nontuthuzelo.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah. ; Vilakazi, Blessing Fika Mlondi.
The Code of conduct for learners (CCL) as a subject has been of interest among scholars around the world, this is understandable because the subject is still an enigma to many schools. A considerable amount of time in a normal school day is dedicated to behaviour management. Thus, an investigation into its implementation is being explored as the use of corporal punishment has been for a long time a quick fix to unbecoming behaviour that threatens to disturb the tranquillity necessary for a conducive learning and teaching environment. Since the abolishment of corporal punishment educators’ contact time with learners is characterised mainly by teaching and behavioural management, where the latter involves the management of the school to resolve. In cases where school management and teachers are found guilty of contravening the law by using corporal punishment, the disregard of use Code of conduct for learners (CCL) measures to deal with behaviour is primarily the cause. This study through a qualitative enquiry was employed to explore the understanding of the implementation processes and how leadership acumen at different levels affects the implementation thereof in schools. Therefore, Distributive Leadership, Learning Teams and Systemic Thinking are the theoretical underpinnings of the study. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore the alignment of all leadership roles in the CCL implementation process and how far it is informed by the school's shared vision. Thematic analysis of the data was used to interpret the findings. The study found that there are critical information gaps across all leadership levels, these suggest that distributive leadership is essential in school management and that schools are complex institutions and they will benefit from employing systems thinking through well-planned learning teams interactions. The results of the study have the potential to draw attention to monitoring the implementation of CCL and reviewing the guidelines for consideration by SGB in implementing CCL. It may add to the body of knowledge that explores behaviour management in schools as a multidimensional and interconnected phenomenon from systems thinking perspective.
Transformation challenges faced by black South Africans in the construction sector within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport.
(2021) Mngomezulu, Simangele Nozipho.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
In 2017, the KwaZulu Department of Transport conducted a spend analysis by population, using racial groups in the construction sector and the following was the conclusion; for the budget of R4 Billion the beneficiaries were 18% black Africans, 28% Indians, 15% white, 5% coloured, 8% other and 26% with no detail. Meanwhile population demographics indicates the Black South African population dominates KwaZulu-Natal by 87%, followed by the Indian/Asian population who are at 7,9%, white people account for 3,9% of the population, whereas coloured people account for only 1,2% (Statssa 2016). The data above is a clear indication of the lack of transformation in the construction sector specifically for the previously disadvantaged individuals which are Black South African. The KwaZulu Natal Department of Transport core functions are construction, upgrading, maintenance and control of the provincial road network. The research methodology used is mixed method, which encompasses both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative methodology used the purposive sampling and the quantitative used the probability sampling methods. The main findings of the research clearly indicated that there is lack transformation in the construction sector to support the previously disadvantaged individuals mainly Black South Africans, there is lack of adequate skills to perform in the sector, lack of financial resources and financial support from the financial institution, poor and lack of clear policy with regards to driving the agenda of economic transformation and lack of measurable contractor development programmes. The research recommendation is mainly the implementation of the transformation programmes with various interventions that will act as a nerve centre in bridging the gap in the transformation with clear targets which must be monitored and evaluated, supported by policies which will encompass all the stakeholders such as Construction Industry Development Board, National Treasury and all the institutions within the Built Environment. Mainly the purpose of the study is to to underpin the areas of improvement necessary in order for the KZN Department of Transport to bridge transformation gaps while attaining inclusive participation in the construction sector specifically for black South Africans.
The impact of remote working in Engen Petroleum Limited, South Africa, emanating from the COVID-19 pandemic.
(2022) Mohan, Sudhir.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
This study examines the impact of remote working during the COVID 19 pandemic on employee retention and work-life balance at Engen Petroleum Limited South Africa. South Africa had the most reported cases in Africa resulting in the South African government declaring one of the strictest lockdowns in the world on 23 March 2020. Developments in cloud technology and globalisation have given rise to new flexible work arrangements known as remote working which became prevalent in many organizations, allowing employees to perform work away from the traditional office environment. Due to a lack of stable internet connectivity in some areas in South Africa, remote working was a challenge. Only 53 per cent of South African’s use the internet and people with the least connectivity live in poorer rural areas. To prevent the spread of the virus, many organizations implemented remote working. The advent of remote working in South Africa seriously impacted the informal sector of the economy. The study adopted a quantitative approach. Data was collected via an online survey that was distributed to employees of Engen Petroleum Limited South Africa that were working remotely. A total of 67 respondents were received from various departments within the organization. The data was analysed using statistical software to test the impact of remote working on the constructs of employee retention, work-life balance, productivity and job satisfaction. The study found that remote working had an overall positive impact on employee retention, work-life balance and job satisfaction with productivity either increasing or remaining unchanged. Management needs to invest in a substitute for “water cooler conversations” and similar social interactions that are lacking in the remote working environment. The study recommends that the building of trust between managers and employees will assist in determining the effectiveness of remote working. The manager team need to explore innovative ways of improving communication that will ensure that remote workers are included in the activities of the organization. The organization needs to have an awareness of the setup that remote workers have at their homes to provide the required human resource support.
Using Theory U and drama as a tool for the leadership development of drama students.
(2021) Motimele, Napoleon.; Proches, Cecile Gerwel.
The process of play production is one of the instruments that can be used to develop the leadership skills of drama students; however drama lecturers are not focusing on leadership development during the process of play production. Hierarchical leadership is no longer as effective in modern society; a collective leadership model is required to meet the challenges currently faced, as is evidenced by the current COVID-19 pandemic. Previous studies have highlighted play production as a vital instrument to develop students, for them to know the power of speaking, listening and expressing an idea. Studies have also indicated that drama is not just about being in the spotlight on stage and television, but is couched in teamwork, collaboration and community. This study sought to explore the field of leadership development through play production at Durban University of Technology (DUT). The objectives of the study were to investigate the similarities and differences in processes of play production and Theory U, to explore how these processes may complement each other as a modality for creative innovation, and to determine the potential contribution of utilising Theory U in developing leadership through play production. Qualitative research methodology was employed in the research. The study also drew on secondary data. Email interviews were conducted with 15 drama graduates who had entered leadership positions in academia, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and business. A purposive sampling technique was used to choose participants with requisite knowledge to be able to provide information related to the research topic, and thematic analysis was used to analyse their responses. The study found that Theory U promotes leadership development and if play production can be facilitated with the objectives of leadership training borne in mind by lecturers, the process can be enhanced so that there is inherent leadership training built into drama programmes. The leadership skills that students learn through play production include flexibility, teamwork, collaboration, creativity, time movement, problem solving, as well as addressing social and political matters. It is thus recommended that the Department of Drama and Production Studies at the Durban University of Technology should utilise Theory U in the play production process, aiming to formally develop the leadership skills of drama students.
Investigating the effectiveness of the project management system utilized by the eThekwini Water and Sanitation Unit to implement capital projects.
(2022) Mathenjwa, Sabelo Edgar.; Tefera, Orthodox.
Amongst many, water and sanitation services are essential services that municipalities are mandated to provide for their local communities in South Africa. These services are provided through infrastructure projects which are drawn from the National Development Plan (NDP) and Integrated Development Plan (IDP). They form an integral part in driving economic growth within the municipalities. The project management system (PMS) is one way of minimizing the risks of project failure during the implementation process. This research seeks to explore the PMS utilized by eThekwini Water and Sanitation (EWS) when implementing its capital projects. The study was aimed at exploring all inefficiencies associated with the PMS that is utilized by EWS when implementing capital projects. The qualitative research method alongside with the guided interview questionnaire were used to collect data for this study. The targeted population was employees who directly participate in project implementation and development of the policies and frameworks within the EWS, such as engineers, project managers, senior managers, and deputy heads. The data that was collected by means of interviews (physical and MS Teams) was thematically analysed using NVivo software. The emerged themes were used to develop findings and address the research objectives. The dual interview approach enabled efficient data collection under the COVID-19 conditions by allowing flexibility to have physical and virtual interviews. The key and significant findings and recommendations were drawn from the research results to address the research objectives. The research results revealed that females are still less represented in senior engineering positions at EWS. Most of the staff received a project management (PM) short course but none of them have a formal PM qualification or accreditation. It was found that when implementing projects at EWS, the legislative and financial requirements are given the highest attention while the PM requirements are lacking. The PMS was found to be lacking, no PM framework in place and the current organisational structure was found to be not ideal for successful projects implementation. On a brighter side, it was found that Multidisciplinary Project Team (MDPT) Business Process Map (BPM) led to improved projects delivery performance. There was a general finding regarding the lack of PM resources such qualified PM staff, funding/budget, skills, accountability, and leadership. The focus areas of improvement were recommended and the suitable project management framework for EWS was provided.
The impact of electrical energy theft on revenue collection at Eskom in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
(2022) Matli, Nontobeko Samukelisiwe.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
South Africa’s state-owned company, Eskom has been experiencing a decline in revenue and an increase in non-technical energy losses(NTL). Research has shown that most utilities including those from first-world countries are struggling with non-technical energy losses and have employed advanced technological solutions which are aimed at reducing losses . In this study, the researcher investigates the motives behind energy theft from Eskom KwaZulu-Natal Operating Unit electricity consumers and recommends solutions to eradicate or reduce the NTL . Increase revenue collection by reducing customers that engage in energy theft activities in Eskom KwaZulu-Natal Operating Unit. In the context of this study the perception that electricity is a right, refers to the phenomenon that all energy consumers must be supplied with exceptional power quality, irrespective of whether they are from affluent or less affluent communities. Nonprobability sampling technique was employed to select 60 participants that are directly supplied by Eskom or are Eskom employees based in KwaZulu-Natal. A quantitative research approach was used to investigate the probable cause of increasing non-technical energy losses, and an online survey questionnaire was distributed to the potential participants. The results were divided into three sections section A, section B, and section C. The results were analyzed utilizing the Chi-square test. The results suggest that the increase in non-technical energy losses is attributed to consumers having easy access to the Eskom infrastructure. Most socio-economic groups find electricity tariffs unaffordable and consequently decreasing Eskom’s ability to collect revenue. The result of this study ensuing past research has proven that technological solutions applied in isolation will not address the increasing non-technical losses in utilities. The increase in NTL experienced by Eskom affects the larger masses of South Africa as energy access has a direct correlation to GDP growth and the livelihoods of households. A collaborative approach is needed between Eskom and the government to address the rising pressures induced by NTL, the use of theoretical knowledge in new technologies, reviewing tariff structures, new policies to help reduce energy theft, and joint partnerships between Eskom and the community leaders and strengthening law enforcement.
An investigation into supply chain challenges at Durban North liquor distributors in eThekwini Metro, KwaZulu-Natal
(2022) Mavundla, Sandile.; Yalezo, Bhasela.
The liquor industry plays an important role in the South African economy. It contributes greatly towards job creation as well as economic growth. The fragmented structure of the industry provides an opportunity for firms of different sizes to play a role in the liquor supply chain. The large companies act as suppliers and manufacturers, while medium-sized companies are involved mainly in wholesale distribution, and the smaller companies act as retailers who connect with the final consumers. Although the industry is a strategic player in the economy, it is not without challenges. Some of the challenges include high operating costs due to statutory controls, yet margins are low. As a result, the industry is highly competitive. The aim of this research was to investigate supply chain challenges within the liquor industry, with an intention to propose solutions to unlock the industry’s full potential. A qualitative research design was adopted in this study, in which the researcher interviewed customers to understand the liquor supply chain challenges from their perspective. A research sample was drawn from a list of targeted participants who deal with the distributor Durban North Liquor Distributors. A purposive sampling strategy was used to draw a sample of clients from different wards around eThekwini Municipality. According to the research findings, the distributor provides an impeccable customer service. However, the challenges identified include lack of and inconsistent communication around nonavailability of products and anticipated time of delivery. The respondents also highlighted that the prevalence of receiving incorrect products that were not part of the initial order was high, which points to the lack of quality controls at Durban North Liquor Distributors. Due to a centralised distribution strategy, the respondents also felt that the distributor should improve on delivery plans. Recommendations include that the distributor should standardise the ordering system by using e-commerce platforms, and immediately communicate non-available items to customers, before sending orders for picking. In addition, there is a need to conduct quality control before dispatching orders. Finally, to address the delivery constraints caused by centralised distribution, the distributor should complement their fleet by procuring the transport services of third-party transport service providers, so as to improve geographical coverage, within customers’ operating hours.
The impact of agricultural skills training programmes delivered by Shukela Training Centre (Pty) Ltd.
(2022) Madlala, Nolwazi Protasia.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.
This study is necessary to gain perspective on the impact of training offered by Shukela Training Centre (Pty) Ltd to its clients by analysing its credibility, effectiveness, and relevancy to the sugar industry members. Through all the factors, mentioned above, the quality, impact and relevance of training will be improved. The South African Sugar Industry stakeholders showed scepticism during the Development Committee Meeting held in 2022 with regards to supporting the approval of the Grant Development Account funds. The Grant Development Funds are funds held for transformation of small-scale and land reform growers’ association under the South African Sugar Association. The reason behind the fear is the belief that the funds are not utilised constructively with regards to the credibility of the meaning and content of the training. Based on the concerns from the committee there has been a request for a study to be pursued. The training must be driven more by the client's requirements to be more relevant. The quality, content, and relevance of the training will be focused on. This would result in the department supporting its financial expenses and making a profit in a long run. The important function of doing this study is to answer objectives such as establishing whether the respondents have attended the Agricultural Training at Shukela Training Centre (Pty) Ltd, to determine whether the training met the learners’ expectations, to explore ways in which the agricultural training offerings can be improved or enhanced at Shukela Training Centre (Pty) Ltd (STC) and to find an indication whether the credit-bearing courses are preferable to learners versus the current skills courses. The population for this study was done for all the sugarcane growers in the database, which is inclusive of the commercial, land reform inclusive of restitution projects namely trusts and CPAs, and small-scale growers. There would also be sugarcane stakeholders which are namely the millers such as Tongaat Hulett Sugar, Umfolozi Sugar Mill, Gledhow Sugar Company, RCL Sugar, UCL, Illovo Sugar and grower associations such as South African Cane Growers association and South African Farmers Development Association and the Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development. Microsoft forms were used to create the survey in order to be able to collect the customers or growers’ feedback. A total of twenty-eight surveys were collected from grower participants along with sugar industry stakeholders. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages was utilized to analyze all the data retrieved from the study. The coded results were first imputed on an Excel spreadsheet and then further transferred to the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) for analysis and all results were presented with the aid of frequency and percentage distribution tables. It was recommended that STC must provide innovative training based on and the -world agricultural situations. The course must be customized to meet the needs of the client and must be delivered by the client’s premises or by the training centre. The programmes must be designed with subject matter expertise. The training must include gamification and innovative techniques which must be applied to all the training uptakes being part of monitoring and the evaluation process. STC must also include community development as part of its portfolio so that the community can be assisted to start a small business and look for employment opportunities. This will assist in promoting self-sufficiency creating a future that is sustainable for the community. The study shows that the training programmes have a positive impact on the sugarcane grower performance and livelihood. However, it is suggested that a further cost benefit analysis can be done to further reveal the magnitude of the impact of these training skills training programmes offered by STC.
A study into prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials due to COVID-19 in South Africa.
(2021) Lakman, Ushir.; Pelser, Theunis Gert.
The purpose this study is to determine the prospective changes in consumer behaviour and buying patterns of graduate millennials post COVID 19 in South Africa. To this end, a quantitative research project has been undertaken. Primary data was collected via a survey. Several theories were discussed such as consumer behaviour models, the buy decision process and dynamic consumer journey to gain a better understanding of the research that was conducted. Additionally, technology adoption models such as the TRA, TPB, TAM, ETAM and in particular MOCA is discusses as the study is seeking to determine behavioural movement toward online purchasing because of the pandemic. Research was conducted on the pandemic as well as the economy of South Africa as these are important consideration when conducting a study on consumer behaviour. This study seeks to contribute to the existing knowledge on technology adoption and consumer behaviour, particularly to determine whether the switch to online purchases during the pandemic is a permanent development or just as a result of consumers being forced to due to the pandemic. These findings may prove valuable to retailers and developers. It could provide a new lens with which to inform their marketing decision as well as development plans for the future.

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