Masters Degrees (Graduate School of Business and Leadership)
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/7378
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Item Examining emotional intelligence and self-efficacy to business management at a state-owned entity in South Africa.(2023) Ndimande, Philani Emmanuel.; Mashau, Pfano.The recent past has been challenging for the state-owned company because of mismanagement and abuse of leadership power. The devasting effects of weakening leadership, in critical business processes have resulted in a breach of business processes and the contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). The organisation has also suffured a devasting lost of critical skills due to the impact of COVID-19. All these issues are largely linked with the emotions of individuals, the calibre of leaders in this organisation and the overall approach to business management. The contamporary environment requires leaders that are able to work with others, lead and be prepared to be led, and ensure collaboration amongst stakeholders. This requires emotional intelligence and positive self-efficacy. It is necessary to examine the contribution of Emotional Intelligence and Self-efficacy in managing the state-owned entity. The study used a quantitative research approach to examine the relationships between variables. A census method of sampling was employed, and the entire population (n = 130) of management was studied through the distribution of the questionnaire made up of four tests; demographical questionnaire, GEIQ adopted questionnaire, GSE adopted questionnaire and BMT self-created questionnaire. Reliability, validity, and ethics were considered. The study findings revealed that demographics such as race, age, gender, and education had no statistical significance on EI and SE at this organisation. The correlation analysis revealed that there is correlation and statistical significance between the managers’ EI, SE, and business management in organisation. Recommendations from the study are such that all management levels and divisions, or departments of the organisation should be studied, and probability sampling should be considered to comprehensively study the variable. The methodology should be mixed-method approach gain full insight of managers’ emotions. The organisations can improve performance by giving continuous support to employees, this will create confidence in their capabilities and create a positive work environment. The emotional transitions in the organisation caused by COVID-19 and the repositioning strategy requires an effective change management process and transparency to be driven by top management. This study contributed to the sustainability of SOEs under the era of ethical leadership.Item Perceptions of teachers and school management teams on their participation in school-based professional development and its Impact on their teaching practice.(2023) Malope, Nosipho.; Chikandiwa, Christopher Tarisayi.The present study aims to investigate the viewpoints of educators concerning their participation in professional development initiatives within educational institutions. One facet of the research investigates the levels of participation and satisfaction among teachers and School Management Teams (SMTs). On the other hand, the other component focuses on the function of Subject Specialists as Departmental Heads (DH) in strategising and facilitating professional growth initiatives for educators at the institutional level. This study is grounded on the Continuing Professional Development (CPTD) policy, which mandates educators to amass 150 professional development points within three years. Professional development points can be obtained through diverse activities such as self-initiated, school-initiated, and externally initiated programmes. The research places particular emphasis on teacher development that educational institutions initiate. The study's results indicate that educators and School Management Teams (SMTs) were actively engaged in a diverse array of teacher development initiatives conducted within the school setting. The activities above hold significant value because they can furnish efficacious strategies that augment classroom practices. Nevertheless, the findings suggest that the SMTs were remiss in their obligation to report school-initiated activities to the South African Council for Educators (SACE), a crucial element in overseeing and promoting the professional growth of teachers. The present study employs a quantitative methodology, and the data were obtained through two survey instruments that the researcher developed. The questionnaires comprise several segments encompassing diverse topics. The Post Level 1 questionnaire for teachers comprises 25 questions, whereas the SMT questionnaire encompasses 31 questions. The themes that are covered in this study comprise various aspects such as engagement in teacher development initiatives, significance and influence of such activities, provision of resources to facilitate teacher development, duties and obligations of teachers, incentives for participation, guidance and assistance from School Management Teams (SMTs) (about SMT questionnaire solely), and allocation of time for teacher development. The adequacy of the sample size of 87 participants in this study should be emphasised, as it facilitated a thorough investigation of the research topic and yielded significant insights into the perspectives and encounters of educators and school administrators. The research was carried out within the Ehlanzeni district in Mpumalanga province, with a specific emphasis on a designated subset of educators and School Management Teams (SMTs) from the White Hazy1 Circuit, encompassing both primary and secondary schools. The statistical software package utilised for data analysis was SPSS version 27.0. The collected quantitative data is analysed using descriptive statistics, including graphs, cross-tabulations, and other figures, to present the results. The study utilised inferential methods, specifically correlations and chi-square tests, to analyse the data. The p-values determined the statistical significance of the results. A statistical significance was attributed to a significance level lower than 0.05. The study's results have significant policy implications that warrant consideration. The initial step is for the School Management Teams (SMTs) to ensure appropriate planning and allocation of time for teacher development within the school premises following the policy guidelines. Subsequently, Subject Matter Teachers (SMTs) must give precedence to their involvement in and documentation of Continuing Professional Teacher Development (CPTD) endeavours, as it is a compulsory obligation stipulated by the SACE Act No.31 of 2008. Notably, the present study did not investigate the effects of teacher development programmes implemented within school settings on students' academic achievement. Therefore, it is recommended that additional research be conducted to explore this aspect.Item Analysing the perceived leadership skills and competencies required by project managers in KwaZulu-Natal Sappi Saiccor.(2024) Muthwa, Nkosinathi Clive.; Mkhize, Msizi Vitalis.Leadership is described as the procedure by which a person seeks to persuade other group members to achieve collective goals. Leadership is also considered as a procedure by which individuals bring out the greatest qualities in themselves and others. The aim of the research was to analyse the leadership skills and competencies required for managing projects in KwaZulu-Natal Sappi Saiccor. A quantitative method was done to achieve the research's aims. Convenience sampling method was used to collect data by distributing questionnaires to 72 Sappi Saiccor employees who are working within targeted selected departments. Out of the 72 employees, 55 of them participated on this study. This translated to 76% participance response rate which is regarded to be high enough for validity and reliability of the results. The data received were examined utilising statistical software. The first objective was to determine managers perceptions and the leadership competencies required by project managers in KZN Sappi Saiccor. The research found that there is a statistically significant difference among managers perceptions and leadership competencies required by project managers at KZN Sappi Saiccor. The second objective was to examine managers perceptions and leadership skills required by project managers in KZN Sappi Saiccor. The study found that there is a statistically significant difference among managers perceptions and leadership skills required by project managers in KZN Sappi Saiccor. The third objective was to examine different leadership styles and their effect on successful execution of project in KZN Sappi Saiccor. The study found that there is a statistically significant difference among leadership styles and their effect on successful execution of projects in KZN Sappi Saiccor. The fourth objective was to examine the relationship between leadership skills and competencies and demographic variable. These outcomes demonstrate that just the characteristics of managers’ perceptions (cognitive activation and personalised attention) clarify variations in leadership competencies, alongside cognitive activation being of greater importance. Research suggests that national culture significantly impacts the efficiency of leadership. According to the literature, a leader's skills have a significant impact on worker competencies. Leadership skills influence competencies to varied degrees. Research suggests that leadership skills lead to greater competencies. Research keywords: Leadership skills, competencies, leadership styles, projects management, managers perception.Item Investigating impact of coronavirus lockdown regulations on public transport operations recovery of eThekwini Municipality.(2024) Dube, Nkosinathi Blessing.; Ngwenya, Tony Charles Simphiwe.The COVID-19 pandemic prompted worldwide lockdown measures, significantly impacting public transportation systems. This study examines the effects of lockdown regulations on public transport operations in eThekwini Municipality, South Africa, and assesses potential solutions. Using a quantitative approach, a survey was conducted with 50 randomly selected residents of eThekwini Municipality. The results reveal that awareness and preparedness are the primary factors influencing the impact of COVID-19 lockdown regulations on public transport activities. Additionally, demographic factors such as age, ethnicity, and years of experience were found to influence attitudes, preparedness, awareness, and responsibility towards public transportation during the lockdown. The study recommends enhancing staff training and developing capabilities to handle pandemic-related impacts in the transport sector. This research contributes valuable insights to assist decision-makers in eThekwini Municipality in making informed choices regarding transportation service delivery in the context of public health crises.Item Framework for sustainable facilities management practices in eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality.(2024) Maluleke, Nkhensani.; Dubihlela, Jobo.Sustainable Facilities Management is crucial in managing facility infrastructure and equipment. The eThekwini municipality suffers from an ageing infrastructure and poor urban management. The steady supply of Facilities Management services is important to reduce the downtime of employees and for the organization’s image as well as to ensure successful service delivery to the public. Sustainable Facility Management practices foster a culture of continuous improvement, drive innovation, adopt new technologies, and contribute to facilities' resilience and risk management. The study investigates current sustainable facilities management practices and examines existing challenges. The case study uses exploratory design and interpretivism paradigms to construct and generate meaning. The study adopted a qualitative research method to generate a new perspective on sustainable facilities management through in-depth Interviews. The target population comprises eThekwini Municipality employees who contribute to the sustainability of facilities management. The sample was selected through a judgemental sampling method. The study adopted thematic analysis and the findings categorized into themes. The findings project standard operating procedure “SOP” as a dominant theme in answering research questions. Findings show that sustainability practices emerge within the SOP and management strategies. The study uncovers benefits identification methods and key factors that drive SFM. Lack of awareness is a dominant barrier that influences the availability of funds, departmental coordination as well as the implementation of sustainability initiatives. eThekwini centralized building services to one department, however, the findings suggest prioritization of facility management structures throughout the units to improve coordination within the departments. The study recommends using computer systems to streamline the municipality's inventory tracking, budgeting, and asset management. The study encountered limitations in governance and ethical concerns.Item An assessment of employee perception on the procurement process of a Southern African sugar company.(2024) Gopal, Naveshan.; Chasomeris, Mihalis Georgiou.In today's business landscape, competition is fierce, and procurement is a critical component of any organisation's success. Efficient and cost-effective procurement of goods and services, along with streamlined procurement processes, are crucial in helping businesses gain a competitive edge. However, the success of any procurement process depends not only on its technical aspects but also on how the people involved perceive and experience the process. Therefore, to gain valuable insights into the procurement practices of a Southern African sugar company, this study aims to explore the perceptions of its employees regarding its procurement process. To achieve the aim the researcher conducted a comprehensive literature review and used a mixed-methods research approach. This approach was deemed most suitable for the study. Considering the research design an online survey consisting of both open-ended and closed-ended questions was designed and disseminated to participants recruited for the study. To ensure that the study covered all aspects of the procurement process, the survey tested the perceptions of four departments, namely agricultural, engineering, operational support, and procurement. Each department was divided into three groups of employees, including line managers, middle managers, and senior managers. Participants were from three geographical locations, namely local, foreign, and the head office. Furthermore, participant data was evaluated according to years of work experience, specifically up to five years, five to ten years, ten to fifteen years, and greater than fifteen years. The online survey was designed using the principles of a mixed-method research approach. The survey questions were categorised according to the following themes: planning, supplier selection, specific management and contract management. The close-ended questions used a 5-point Likert scale, analysed quantitatively and used Factor Analysis. The open-ended questions were designed and analysed using NVivo version 14. The study recommends regular feedback and updates to bridge communication gaps, tailored training programmes to enhance planning skills, evaluating, and enhancing procurement systems, addressing skills gaps, enhancing awareness of procurement function, better communication between departments, and regular performance evaluations.Item Perceptions for the effectiveness of the hybrid model for software developers at LexisNexis (Pty) Ltd.(2023) Gwejana, Luyanda.; Majola, Priscilla Xoliswa.Abstract available in PDF.Item Impact of the coronavirus pandemic on wellbeing of healthcare workers in a haemodialysis facility, KwaZulu-Natal.(2022) Ramnarain, Rakhee.; Proches, Cecile Naomi Gerwel.Abstract available in PDF.Item An exploration of the potential to host Formula One in South Africa.(2024) Singh, Yashika.; Chasomeris, Mihalis Georgiou.Abstract available in PDF.Item Exploring succession planning in the technical laboratories at a multinational organisation, South Africa.(2023) Maharaj, Saroja.; Proches, Cecile Naomi Gerwel.Abstract available in PDF.Item The causes and consequences of cost and time overrun on KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission funded projects.(2023) Gigaba, Sithembiso Promise.; Chikandiwa, Christopher Tarisayi.Abstract available in PDF.Item The role of middle managers in the implementation of growth strategy at a South African Company.(2022) Ngozo, Samkeliso.; Kanyangale, Macdonald.Abstract available in PDF.Item Challenges of corona virus disease on the gambling sector: a case study of KwaZulu- Natal Gaming and Betting Board route operators.(2022) Gumede, Tholakele Zandile.; Dubihlela, Jobo.Abstract available in PDF.Item Exploring performance management and employee development at a correctional facility in South Africa.(2022) Jali, Silungile.; Martins, Ana Maria De Azevedo.Abstract available in PDF.Item Assessing the challenges affecting small to medium construction companies in Maphumulo Local Municipality, Kwazulu-Natal post coronavirus pandemic.(2023) Dlomo, Syandisa Minenhle.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.Abstract available in PDF.Item Exploring leadership competencies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Library in a digital age.(2024) Magagula, Mbongiseni Phillip.; Kanyangale, MacDonald.Digitalization as a mega-trend is affecting the library sector, triggering challenges and opportunities that demand new competencies for leaders of academic librarians. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore library leadership competencies in the digital age according to the perspectives of library leaders at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm and non-probability sampling method to purposively select nine library leaders from the University of KwaZulu-Natal for in-depth interviews. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis. The results from the study have shown that library leaders at the University of KwaZulu-Natal demonstrate a variety of five leadership styles and three key leadership competencies for the academic library to adapt to the changes brought by digitalization. The leadership struggles with clarity on the direction at UKZN, collective and shared leadership, an inclusive, partnership and alignment style, and the autocratic and adaptive leadership styles. Secondly, this study revealed three leadership competencies used by leaders of the academic library at UKZN to deal with adaptive change and provide services in a digital age. These leadership competences include developing people and programmes to achieve change within rules; strategic thinking competences; and leading teams. Lastly, the study provided a Leadership Competencies framework for library leaders in the digital age at UKZN, comprising seven different leadership competences and four tasks and roles by leaders at UKZN, which are necessary for effective academic library leadership in the digital era. The study recommended a variety of leadership competences that are key to leading the academic library through adaptive challenges in the digital era. Areas for future research were also highlighted.Item An exploratory study of the financial sustainability of philanthrojournalism in South Africa.(2024) Khanyile, Charity.; Yalezo, Bhasela.This research study delves into the intricate dynamics of donor funding for news organisations in South Africa, aiming to uncover the advantages and drawbacks of relying predominantly on external financial support. Through a qualitative approach and employing a case study design, the research explores the multifaceted challenges of achieving financial sustainability in philanthrojournalism within the South African context. The study places a keen focus on examining the potential influence that donors may exert on the editorial independence of these entities. Furthermore, it investigates the feasibility of integrating donor funding with traditional revenue sources. Grounded in the interpretivist research paradigm, the study utilises a nonprobability purposive sampling method to select its sample, while data collection hinges on semi-structured interviews. Fifteen potential participants were approached, however only 14 responded. The data analysis is anchored in thematic analysis, facilitating the exploration of emerging patterns and themes within the dataset. Drawing its theoretical framework from Resource Dependency Theory, this research uncovers notable challenges related to sustainability, stemming from the inherent dependence on external sources, which may not always align with the overarching goals and mission of news entities. Moreover, the findings indicate that donor funding may apply noteworthy influence on news agendas and priorities, potentially affecting the coveted editorial independence of these companies. In light of these findings, the study offers several recommendations to navigate the complex terrain of donor-funded newsrooms. It reiterates the necessity for news organisations to strike a delicate balance between accommodating donor interests and preserving editorial autonomy, thereby safeguarding their credibility and independence. This study underscores the critical significance of establishing explicit boundaries and ethical guidelines to maintain editorial independence in the context of donor-funded media outlets. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding financial sustainability in the evolving landscape of news organisations and offers valuable insights into the dynamics of donor funding in the realm of journalism.Item Exploring the role of eThekwini Electricity unit leadership in establishing an effective organisational cybersecurity culture.(2021) Ramchunder, Naren.; Majola, Priscilla Xoliswa.Abstract available in PDF.Item Evaluation of the intrapreneurship orientation in a pharmaceutical manufacturing company in KwaZulu-Natal.(2022) Chetty, Rangini.; Ngwenya, Charles Tony Simphiwe.Abstract available in PDF.Item Investigation of poor service delivery of road infrastructure in uMshwathi local municipality.(2023) Gwala, Phumlani Mpilwenhle.; Yalezo, Bhasela.This study examines the poor service delivery of road infrastructure development in uMshwathi local municipality, in the Kwa Zulu Natal province. The study seeks fundamental evidence that points out the prolonged poor road infrastructure development and verification of the challenges that beget the status quo. The extant literature notes that inadequate road infrastructure is more prominent in municipal wards falling under traditional authority (Ingonyama Trust) while the municipal wards enjoy adequate road infrastructure. This study adopted a qualitative exploratory research approach. Document analysis was conducted to gain their insight and understanding of the challenges and impact of poor road infrastructure on the livelihood of the people. The qualitative analysis allowed for an in-depth analysis of both institutional and structural challenges of road infrastructure and its impact on the livelihoods of residents thereof. Umshwathi municipality is a land dominated by agricultural landscapes and derives its economy from mainly farming, while the residents practice large-scale subsistence and commercial farming. Road infrastructure development becomes a critical component and the only solution to assist residents to diversify their economy and ease travel. However, the majority of its rural dwellers still live in abject poverty and are very much excluded from participating in some commercial activities and enjoying all the liberties accorded to them in the South African Constitution. Poor road infrastructure development in the municipality especially in the rural sectors causes this exclusion. Poor road infrastructure development is caused by a lack of synergy between national and local governance structures and dilemmas brought about by institutional and structural challenges. The poor road infrastructure development affects negatively the residents, as well as their livelihood and welfare, is hampered; thus, creating secondary challenges for the community.