Masters Degrees (Graduate School of Business and Leadership)
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7378
Browse
Recent Submissions
Item The impact of remote teaching and learning on engineering students at University of KwaZulu-Natal.(2022) Oliver, Sijabulile Happiness.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis in December 2019 had adversely affected humankind globally in an immeasurable way. Higher education throughout the world was affected as continued learning amidst massive universities closures required the unprecedented decision to make a rapid transition from face-to-face to online learning. This sudden and immediate shift to remote online learning due to COVID-19 pandemic was characterised in South Africa by the Department of Higher Education and Training as Remote Teaching and Learning (RTL). Using a qualitative research methodology, this study is aimed at exploring and evaluating the impact and influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the curriculum and quality of teaching and learning delivery using the method of RTL for engineering students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Fifteen (15) participants were selected for the study within UKZN’s department of Civil Engineering & Land Surveying (CE&LS) cluster; these participants comprised both students and academics where data was collected from, using unstructured, open-ended, online interviews. Non-probability purposive sampling was utilised as a sampling method and a thematic analysis method was used to outline codes, themes and patterns in the presentation, discussion and analysis of data. The results revealed that the effective of use of blended learning is dependence on educational technology (Ed-Tech). Having a conducive home environment, access to study materials, interactive and effective participation in blended learning is paramount for assessing the impact of RTL on UKZN engineering students amid COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, inadequate network connectivity and/or load shedding and not having appropriate resources are some of the challenges that students were faced with which hinders their participation in online learning. The study found that most of the students RPs that indicated that they did not have a conducive environment at home, had to change their daily routine, and / or move from their homes to residences in order for them to be in a conducive environment for online learning. The findings revealed that RPs had sufficient digital skills to participate seamlessly and effectively in online v learning. Furthermore, the results revealed that there was suitable support from ICS staff / LAN Manager when students had to access systems remotely.Item An analysis of strategic knowledge management and sharing: a case of Eswatini Water Services Corporation.(2022) Simelane, Vusane Qiniso.; Mtembu, Vuyokazi Ntombikayise.Abstract available in PDF.Item Sustainable economic development partnerships for community based organisations: a case of Tronox Sands Mining and Umhlathuze municipality.(2020) Dhlodhlo, Lindelani Mkhumbuzi.; Sibanda, Mabutho.Abstract available in PDF.Item Engen refinery work process recalibration as an efficient maintenance strategy for oil and gas industries.(2022) Sokotshe, Mongezi.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.Abstract available in PDF.Item 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.Item An investigation of formal learning and experiential learning in the form of internships as facilitative mechanisms for employability and work readiness: a case study of the work experience and internship program of the KwaZulu-Natal clothing and textile SETA.(2022) Phillip, Luntu Leon.; Luthuli , Nomkhosi Hlengiwe.The clothing and textile industry is an important driver of economic growth and development. Moreover, it is a labour-intensive industry. But due to technological advancement, the labour dynamic in the industry is becoming more technologyintensive, thus requiring a skilled workforce from higher education institutions (hereafter HEIs). There exists a gap between graduate skills and the industry skills demand. There is also high unemployment in South Africa. On the other hand, employers are also struggling to find employees with practical knowledge. Furthermore, there is a challenge in incorporating experiential learning into formal learning to facilitate learners’ employability. Thus, graduates find it difficult to integrate easily into a work environment due to a lack of practical skills and knowledge. This study investigates how formal learning at the Durban University of Technology and the SETA internship program can facilitate employability and work readiness. This qualitative study employs inductive thematic analysis to interpret data collected using semi-structured interviews with 30 respondents, including students, interns, lecturers, employers, recruitment agents, and SETA representatives. The findings revealed that the theoretical contents taught in HEIs are adequate. However, HEIs still need to develop curricula that increase practical components, aligning with the needs of the industry to produce quality graduates. Secondly, the findings showed that employers must provide adequate mentoring support for learners in internship programs. Thirdly, employers and learners are unaware of SETA's roles in facilitating internship placements and funding. Lastly, the findings identified employable skills relevant to the industry. This study recommends that to increase the employability of learners after graduation, there is a need to adopt an effective model through a partnership between HEIs, employers, and government where all stakeholders play active roles that facilitate the integration of experiential learning into formal learning, which helps learners develop relevant specific skills for employability in the industry.Item Investigating the importance of women in leadership: case of an architectural organisation in KwaZulu-Natal.(2022) Naidoo, Luresha Sasha.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.The built environment is customarily known to be a male-dominated industry. Sub-sector industries such as architecture, engineering and quantity surveying forms part of the greater built environment. Numerous studies indicates that the built environment has major gender imbalances. For instance, 25% of the architectural professions are female in South Africa. Women have been gradually entering the industry through proving their talent and passion in the recent years and their enrolment has been increasing. However, the number of women in architecture is still intractably low. Therefore, indicating a need for further research within the architectural industry. The study investigated the importance of women in leadership in the architectural profession and aimed to advance knowledge and evaluate the impact of women in architectural leadership. Simultaneously, the study did not intend to discredit men but rather pursue research that contributes to creating a more gender balanced industry. Research insight was gained through analysing leadership literature and gaining in depth knowledge of women in leadership and the challenges that women are accosted to. In addition, the leadership approaches that women deploy was explored. Furthermore, a mixed method research approach was employed for this study, consisting of a quantitative investigation on 40 people comprising of both male and females in the architectural profession and a qualitative investigation on women in the architectural industry. The samples were purposefully and conveniently sampled. The data was transcribed in a descriptive manner for the quantitative data set while a thematic analysis was utilised for the qualitative data set. The location of the study was an architectural organisation in KwaZulu-Natal. The findings indicated that major gender imbalances exist within the selected industry and various challenges that obstruct the success of women in architectural leadership such as lack of recognition and gender-based stereotypes. Furthermore, women in architecture deploy a more transformational and authentic style of leadership which was noted to be the most ideal form of leadership necessary for the architectural industry, therefore, confirming the importance of women in architectural leadership. Lastly, the study suggests recommendations to create a more gender balanced industry through including more women in leadership.Item An investigation of sustainable leadership practices of port executive in the Port of Durban.(2021) Zungu, Nontobeko Londiwe.; Kanyangale, MacDonald.Ship and port activities in a port such as Durban in South Africa are key in ensuring sustainability and growth of the economy in acceptable ways that meet the needs of industries and all citizens. While the practices of sustainability by strategic leaders of a port are critical in ensuring sustainable operations in every part of port activity, little is known about what members of the port executive actually do when it comes to leading sustainability at the port of Durban in South Africa. The objective of this qualitative study is to explore the sustainable leadership practices of Port Executives at the Port of Durban in South Africa. This exploratory study was conducted using qualitative in-depth interviews with nine experienced members of the port executive to explore their day-to-day practices of sustainable leadership in the port environment with multiple stakeholders whose activities have various environmental impacts at societal level while others relate to organisational sustainability of the port of Durban. The participants in this study were selected using purposive sampling technique because they are involved in shaping the strategic direction of shipping and port activities which affect sustainability and operations in the long term. Data were gathered using semi structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis to get dominant themes depicting sustainable leadership practices, practices of reinforcing green management, challenges of becoming sustainable leaders and key competences of sustainable leadership of a hybrid port. Results reveal a variety of four sustainable leadership practices by port executives at the port of Durban. These include prioritisation of environmental sustainability, commitment to strategic partnerships, strategic thinking about the business and people, and community building and corporate social responsibility. The key gaps in the sustainable leadership practice of port executive include silo behaviour, poor communication and strategic failure to develop green human capital. Port executives enforced green management practices by driving and reinforcing waste management practices and green innovation. However, this was predominantly operational, weak, but also poorly strategized to create and develop a lasting sustainability culture at the port. More importantly, lack of sustainability literacy within the upper echelon and sustainability expertise among employees undermined the practice of sustainable leadership by Port Executive. The study has proposed a framework of sustainable leadership competences for a port and also areas of future research.Item Employee reactions to change management in a selected printing company - a case study of Uniprint.(2021) Munisamy, Povinisha.; Vilakazi, Blessing Fika Mlondi.he research investigated employee reactions to change management in a selected printing company, Uniprint. Firstly, the study determined the key contributing factors to managing change and whether the selected printing company ensured that these factors were present through the change management process. Thereafter, the employee reactions to change management was investigated. Further to this, the extent of employee involvement in change management was ascertained. Finally, the role of leadership and the human resources (HR) department in change management was established. The research methodology consisted of mixed methods: namely, both quantitative and qualitative approaches. There were structured interviews with open-ended questions as well as questionnaires containing closed-ended questions. The researcher interviewed 5 employees within both managerial and operational positions and distributed 126 questionnaires amongst the other employees. The interviews provided the detail that the researcher required and the questionnaires broadened the research because they provided more views since it was completed by a broader range of respondents. The purposive sampling technique was used as the research methodology was both quantitative and qualitative, and the researcher relied on her judgement in selecting the respondents for the research. The research findings revealed that the key contributing factors to managing change were communication, planning, teamwork, and a budget. In investigating the employee reactions, the research identified gaps wherein there were negative employee reactions when there was no transparency and open communication from leadership and HR, and, when employees were not involved in the change management process. When employees were involved in change management there were positive employee reactions because employees felt valued which ultimately impacted their jobs and work environment.Item The role of leadership in managing change in the fast-moving consumer goods industry.(2021) Munyaka, Jean-Jacques Bahati.; Mutambara, Emmanuel.Abstract available in PDF.Item Examining local sourcing strategies utilised by a logistics service provider in Durban.(2023) Vandayar, Kishan.; Vilakazi, Blessing Fika Mlondi.The study explored local sourcing strategies adopted by a logistics service provider (LSP) operating in Durban, South Africa. In an era marked by global supply chain disruptions, understanding the dynamics of local sourcing becomes crucial for enhancing supply chain resilience, reducing costs, and contributing to local economies. Through a qualitative research methodology, the study delved into key themes encompassing reasons behind local sourcing, types of locally sourced products, purchase classification methods, sourcing strategies, and critical supplier selection criteria. The study included eight participants, namely participants A-H. The participants were selected based on the inclusion criteria as described by the researcher. Whilst there was only one participating organisation in the dissertation, other candidates participated in their own capacity. This allowed the research more insight on how local sourcing was viewed in relation to the participating organisation. The first theme unveiled the rationale driving LSPs' preference for local sourcing. The findings emphasised the potential for local sourcing to alleviate costs associated with global procurement, fostering economic growth and sustainability in the region. The second theme identified various product categories that LSPs source locally, ranging from packaging materials to machinery. Notably, insights from participant interviews suggested that certain technical products were sourced locally through intermediaries due to their specialised nature. The third theme centred on purchase classification methods, revealing the prevalence of the Kraljic Portfolio Matrix among LSPs in Durban. While the Kraljic Matrix considers risk and importance, an additional classification method—disbursement and trade spend—was revealed by a participant. The fourth theme highlighted diverse sourcing strategies, such as multiple sourcing, single sourcing, strategic partnerships, and collaborative planning. Participants underscored the importance of aligning strategies with specific goods categories to balance risk and supplier competition. Critical supplier selection criteria form the fifth theme, emphasising price competitiveness, product quality, delivery reliability, lead time, and supplier financial stability. These criteria reflected the multifaceted nature of decision-making whereby LSPs must navigate complex trade-offs to optimise sourcing outcomes. Thereafter, the researcher provides recommendations such as diversification of sourcing strategies, strengthening relationships with suppliers and continuous evaluation of suppliers to further assist LSP’s in their sourcing practices. In conclusion, the study contributed substantially to supply chain management discourse by shedding light on the underexplored realm of local sourcing strategies followed by South African LSPs.Item Exploring the challenges of human capital management in a global organisation.(2023) Gajadhar, Manjith.; Proches, Cecile Naomi Gerwel.Human capital is viewed as key asset of the organisation and by effectively implementing the practices of human capital management, Diebold Nixdorf would be able leverage the skillset, knowledge, and experience of its workforce to achieve sustainable competitive advantage again. The aim of this study was to identify the challenges of implementing the practices of human capital management in a global organisation and to determine the measures that can be undertaken to overcome these challenges. The study examines the concepts and elements of human capital management by referencing available literature. The study follows a qualitative methodology approach with purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight human resource staff and three line managers via Microsoft Teams. Participants were selected based on their position in the company and their role in human capital management. Participants from Europe and America were chosen for the study. A thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Many challenges were determined from the data collected from the interview. One of the many key findings of the study is the high attrition rate which had a negative performance impact on the organisation which in turn had impacted the company’s revenue. It was further observed that managers had experienced challenges in managing a geographically diverse workforce due to government legislation and a culturally diverse workforce. The study also discussed other challenges faced by the company in implementing the practices and processes of human capital management and provided recommendations to overcome these challenges, which can also be adopted by other global companies. The study also investigated the impact of human capital management on the performance of the organisation. Furthermore, the study discussed the measures taken to embed human capital management changes in the organisation.Item Evaluating the rate of return pricing methodology for ports in South Africa: a scenario analysis.(2023) Mbele, Mondli Eugene.; Chasomeris, Mihalis Georgiou.Port pricing plays a strategic role in the management of ports and port operations, and it is an important aspect that informs long-term port infrastructure investment plans and broader policy objectives. The South African government regards the maritime industry as a catalyst for economic growth and acknowledges the need to promote an efficient and effective transport system. However, port costs in South Africa are high by global standards and this has a negative impact on the country’s economic growth and port competitiveness. While port costs in South Africa have improved over the years, they remain elevated. Specifically, container cargo dues and the total port costs to users in container ports are above the global sample average by 166% and 146% respectively. Consequently, the Ports Regulator of South Africa aims to implement a tariff strategy that will decrease container cargo dues to 36% below the benchmarked average. The study mainly adopted a quantitative scenario methodology but has some elements of qualitative scenario methodology. This study will recalculate the National Ports Authority’s required revenue tariff application for 2023/24 using adjusted input components (i.e., the Regulatory Asset Base, Asset beta, Tax Rate, and Excessive Tariff Increase Margin Credit) informed by an evidence-based preliminary empirical and theoretical literature analysis. This will establish a sound theoretical foundation for each scenario and relies upon in-depth analysis. The recalculated required revenue tariff application for 2023/24 demonstrates that port tariffs could be reduced significantly. That is, scenarios 1 and 2 show that tariffs could increase at a slower rate which is below the upper inflation target band of 6%. Furthermore, scenario 3 shows that port tariffs could decrease by 10,4%, while scenario 4 shows that port tariffs could decrease to 2,4%. The study shows that there is scope to reduce South Africa’s port tariffs by improving the accuracy of the components of the revenue required model, thereby fostering South Africa’s trade competitiveness, and stimulating economic development in South Africa.Item The effect of emotional intelligence in enhancing job satisfaction for quantity surveyors in South Africa.(2023) Harinarain, Nishani.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.Abstract available in PDF.Item The potential impact of female leadership on the petroleum industry in Durban.(2021) Munyaka, Nonsikelelo Thembelihle.; Martins, Ana Maria De Azevedo.Abstract available in PDF.Item The impact of agricultural skills training programmes delivered by Shukela Training Centre (Pty) Ltd.(2022) Madlala, Nolwazi Protasia.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.Abstract available in PDF.Item The role of leadership in implementing a safety culture in a chemical manufacturing company, KwaZulu-Natal.(2022) Mphafudi, Motheiwane Emmanuel.; Proches, Cecile Naomi.Abstract available in PDF.Item The impact of remote working in Engen Petroleum Limited South Africa emanating from the COVID-19 pandemic.(2022) Mohan, Sudhir Rajendrapersadh.; Yalezo , Bhasela.Abstract available in PDF.Item Investigating the potential impact of autonomous vehicles, a KwaZulu-Natal civil engineer’s perspective.(2023) Chetty, Kyle.; Chummun, Bibi Zaheenah.This dissertation paper examines the potential impact of autonomous vehicles from the perspective of fifteen civil engineers based in KwaZulu-Natal. With the advent of this groundbreaking autonomous vehicle technology, it is crucial to assess its implications on various aspects of transportation systems and infrastructure development. The study examines the potential benefits and challenges of adopting autonomous vehicles, including their impact on traffic congestion, road safety, and environmental sustainability. Autonomous vehicles are still in the research and development phase, but several influential stakeholders are already establishing partnerships to strengthen their position in future transportation markets. The invention of automobiles has shaped our society, influencing how we commute, where we live, and how we build our cities and infrastructure. While automotive vehicles offer transportation freedom and contribute to economic growth, they also pose sustainability challenges. Issues like safety, environmental impact, traffic congestion, and time spent on operation highlight the need for more sustainable transportation solutions. Autonomous vehicles can sense their environments to perform at least some aspects of safety-critical control (like steering, throttling, or braking) without direct human input. This dissertation aims to develop a strong foundation for anticipating the potential impacts of vehicle automation advancements in South Africa. User acceptance of autonomous vehicles is a crucial concern in the transportation industry. It's vital not to underestimate their potential impact and implications. These vehicles have the capacity to make a significant positive global impact, making them valuable assets for governments and automotive industries alike. The study will utilize a qualitative research approach involving a sample of fifteen (15) civil engineers employed in the road infrastructure sector within the KwaZulu-Natal region. This research will provide valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, engineers, and stakeholders involved in the future integration of autonomous vehicles in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond through a comprehensive review of existing literature and expert interviews. The study suggests future research should compare regions in South Africa, use quantitative methods, track long-term impacts, collaborate across disciplines, study public perceptions, examine legal frameworks, assess environmental impacts, monitor technological advancements, analyze economic implications, and engage local communities. The study concludes that autonomous vehicles offer significant potential for revolutionizing transportation in South Africa. They promise improved efficiency, enhanced safety features, and various societal impacts, including changes in urban planning and job creation. Despite initial costs, long-term benefits such as reduced accidents and increased efficiency outweigh them.Item 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.