Browsing by Author "Magida, Ayanda"

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A commuters’ perspective on the adoption of e-payment solutions in the minibus-taxi industry
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ramabale, Frank; Magida, Ayanda
Adopting electronic payment systems (e-payment) has become more widespread in many South African industries. Due to their convenience, security, accessibility, and efficiency, e-payment methods are widely perceived as the primary and preferred mode of transaction. Commuters' perceptions, experiences, and attitudes towards using e-payment solutions for travel are examined. A quantitative methodology was employed to gather various commuter perspectives and viewpoints and identify potential barriers to adoption. Data collection focused on Gauteng public transport commuters to ensure the study's relevance to the target population. This research offers valuable guidance for decision-makers in developing practical solutions that promote the broader adoption of e-payment systems within the public transportation sector. It provides valuable insights into the discourse on modernising and enhancing payment systems in public transportation while shaping the future of urban mobility. By comparing the results of this study with recent research, a further contribution is made to a more comprehensive understanding of user perceptions of adoption in this domain. Additionally, the study suggests government intervention and regulation to ensure the successful implementation and adoption of e-payment systems. Ultimately, the study's findings underscore the potential benefits of e-payments to enhance the overall experience, efficiency, convenience, and customer satisfaction for commuters using minibus taxis, fostering optimism about adopting e-payment adoption by both commuters and businesses. The digital revolution of urban transportation makes it imperative to understand commuters' behaviours and engagement with e-payment systems in the context of minibus.
Assessing the role of Digital Technology in bridging the gender gap for women in South Africa’s Fintech industry
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Hassen, Zaahida; Magida, Ayanda
Digital tech transforms finance and boosts inclusion. South Africa's fintech industry helps close gender gaps; research evaluates digital solutions to overcome barriers for women and promote progress in this evolving sector. Analysis shows how platforms and mobile banking improve inclusiveness for female empowerment towards financial equity across industries, including marginalised groups. This research aims to study how digital technology can reduce the gender gap in South Africa's fintech sector. The method used is quantitative, integrating the UTAUT framework and sampling 224 participants through a quota-based approach. Factors affecting women's acceptance of fintech are analyzed, including adoption levels, effort expectancy, social influence, enabling conditions, and behavioural intention for future trends among female professionals in the industry. The empirical analysis combined with experience-driven insights will enhance professional growth trajectories for underrepresented groups like females within larger organisational frameworks comprised mostly of elite bodies where access remains limited due to specific barriers hindering progressiveness. These efforts foster diversity, improve efficacy across value streams, and support the biodiversity agenda, increasing productivity when embraced rather than sidelined. South African women in fintech see digital tech as beneficial for financial inclusion and growth but face obstacles due to infrastructural and gender-specific work issues. Effort and social influence drive female utilisation of digital tech within the sector. Digital technology empowers South African fintech women for gender equality and economic growth. Suggestions include female-focused tech programs, inclusive regulatory policies, and collaborations between the government and private sector to promote diversity in fintech
Coaching as a practice to develop and support social service professionals in the Gauteng Provincial Government
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Hartmann, Amanda Marié; Magida, Ayanda
This research explored how Social Service Professionals (SSPs) in the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) perceive the role of coaching as a practice to develop and support the professionalisation of SSPs in the said department. For this basic qualitative study, semi-structured interviews assisted with data collection from fifteen (15) participants employed as SSPs in GDSD. Key findings are that coaching as a practice is non-existent for SSPs in GDSD and that the critical success factors for coaching in GDSD are no different from that in any other organisation. Most participants supported the contribution that coaching could be a practice to develop and support service professionals. Participants further indicated they would prefer a layered approach to introducing coaching to specific levels of staff in the SSP category. Participants favoured a systematic introduction of coaching to ensure its long-term sustainability and highlighted the organisational and personal hindrances that could impact its adoption and effectiveness as a practice. The study contributes to a body of knowledge on the relevance of coaching for SSPs.
Coaching as a practice to develop and support social service professionals in the Gauteng Provincial Government
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Hartmann, Amanda Marié; Magida, Ayanda
This research explored how Social Service Professionals (SSPs) in the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) perceive the role of coaching as a practice to develop and support the professionalisation of SSPs in the said department. For this basic qualitative study, semi-structured interviews assisted with data collection from fifteen (15) participants employed as SSPs in GDSD. Key findings are that coaching as a practice is non-existent for SSPs in GDSD and that the critical success factors for coaching in GDSD are no different from that in any other organisation. Most participants supported the contribution that coaching could be a practice to develop and support service professionals. Participants further indicated they would prefer a layered approach to introducing coaching to specific levels of staff in the SSP category. Participants favoured a systematic introduction of coaching to ensure its long-term sustainability and highlighted the organisational and personal hindrances that could impact its adoption and effectiveness as a practice
Commercialisation of customised pharmaceutical compounded creams and ointments in a community pharmacy setting
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Matulodi, Itumeleng Bianca; Magida, Ayanda
This research intended to discover and explore a business opportunity for high-quality, cost-effective creams/ointments and the therapeutic benefits to the end-user in a community pharmacy setting. A mixed research method was utilised in the proposed business venture in the form of primary and secondary data collection, solidifying methods in answering the research questions. A random sample size of 120 adults was used for the quantitative survey questions and 80 adults for the qualitative survey. Microsoft Excel spreadsheet was utilised to enter all the data and to make inferences from the primary and secondary data obtained. The Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28 was used to code data and run the statistical analysis. The research results revealed that the cream combination may be prescribed by either the GP/Specialist and will not depend on gender, age, the frequency of prescribing, and whether the individual is using it for the first time or more. There was a perfect association between price and cream. Pharmaceutical compounded creams/ointments have a critical part in providing patient- centric products and services for individuals who may be underserved. This is a business that can be leveraged.
Customer resistance of self-service kiosks in the South African fast-food industry
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Anderson, Samantha; Magida, Ayanda
Self Service Kiosks (SSKs) have recently been introduced into the fast-food service setting in South Africa. They provide customers with a different method of service delivery where customers can place fast-food orders without the need to interact with a cashier. Customers however continue to resist using SSKs despite businesses investing in such technology. Businesses do not invest in technology with the intention that it will not be used. This study explored why customers resist SSKs at fast-food outlets in South Africa and whether there are context specific reasons for such resistance. Although innovation resistance research is gaining more attention than it previously has, in a South African context such research is scarce. Innovation resistance in respect of SSKs has also not received significant research attention. A majority of the SSK research is focused on adoption. A qualitative research design that was exploratory in nature was adopted for this study. A qualitative approached allowed for a deeper understanding of why customers resist SSKs and provided an opportunity to gather new information in a South African context. Data was collected at a singular level, being that of fast-food customers only. Multiple methods were adopted to recruit participants and included posting on social media and utilising the snowballing approach. All research participants were selected according to a purposive sampling method. To be eligible to participate in the research they had to have chosen not to use a SSK in a fast-food outlet in South Africa. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted. Most of the interviews were conducted online. The interviews were recorded, and transcribed, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that customers resist SSKs for a variety of reasons and that resistance and adoption can co-exist. Further to this, the findings also confirmed that resistance can occur in many forms and does not always result in rejection. For instance, customers may be opposed to using the SSKs but still have to use it where they have no other alternative but to use it. The reasons for SSK resistance that were identified, fall into groups that relate to SSK iii characteristics, customer characteristics, situational factors, and social factors. With reference to the SSK literature, similar groupings of reasons are considered for innovation adoption thus highlighting the complex relationship between resistance and adoption
Digital payments adoption of informal small and medium enterprises in South Africa’s township economy
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mabaso, Nompilo; Magida, Ayanda
The use of cash for making and receiving payments in South Africa’s townships continues to grow, despite the proliferation of alternative payment methods. Merchants operating informal businesses are reluctant to accept payments digitally, which further contributes to the socio-economic burdens experienced in townships. This study investigated merchants’ intention to use digital payment acceptance methods, specifically in the informal sector. The UTAUT2 was employed, extended with the Perceived Risk Theory. The study adopted a quantitative research approach. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 120 respondents online and face-to-face. The questionnaire was based on previously researched and theorised literature. Factor analysis, particularly Principal Components Analysis, was used to analyse the results. Correlation analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis, followed by multiple regression. The findings revealed that the independent variables Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Price Value and Perceived Trust all positively influenced the behavioural intention of informal merchants to use digital payment acceptance methods. Performance Expectancy had the strongest influence, whilst Perceived Risk was not found to have a negative influence on the behavioural intention of informal merchants to adopt
Digital Transformation of the Magistrate Courts in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Zikalala, Khanyisile; Magida, Ayanda
Technology tools have been on the rise in multiple industries, and court administrators in South Africa can improve court service delivery by implementing more digital tools to manage court processes. To understand how digital transformation of court processes can enhance service delivery, a study was conducted with eight participants selected based on their roles and experiences within the Department of Justice (DOJ) and as users of the court services. The study involved face-to-face and virtual interviews and an analysis of the DOJ's strategy documents. The manual administration of court processes in South Africa has increased corruption. This manual system permits the manipulation of court documents, resulting in unjust outcomes and unnecessary delays in court hearings. The findings revealed that digital transformation of court processes is necessary to improve service delivery, but internal and external challenges could impede the implementation of the digital transformation strategy. The DOJ's modernization plan provided a detailed execution plan, identified the challenges faced during the execution of the plan, and suggested mitigating action items to minimize the risks. Change management is essential for addressing internal barriers to successfully implementing the digital strategy, requiring management to give it priority. The lawyers representing the citizens advocated for those who do not have access to digital tools, stating that digital transformation would benefit both people with and without access to digital tools. The transformation would also reduce the number of cases held in court buildings, allowing more focus on less digitally developed areas. The study underscores the imperative of digitizing court processes, not only for enhancing service delivery within the judicial system but also for upholding the right to impartial justice for all. The digitization of court processes will reduce instances of fraudulent cases and promote transparency within the broader legal framework, and the DOJ's modernization plan provides a detailed execution plan to overcome the challenges that could impede the implementation of the plan.
Digital Transformation Opportunities and Challenges in the South African Mining Sector
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mthimkhulu, Ntokozo; Magida, Ayanda
The sustainability of the South African mining sector is under threat due to multiple factors affecting the sector, these include high production, and labour costs, the decline in global commodities prices, aging infrastructure, plant and equipment, and strict health, safety, and environmental regulations. Most South African mining companies are operating old mines that are reaching their end of life. Therefore, South African mining companies are looking for innovative ways to remain sustainable and competitive. The purpose of this research was to understand the potential Digital Technologies and Solutions that the South African mining sector can adopt, in addition to explore some of the Drivers and perceived Barriers to their adoption in their mining and operationsprocesses. A qualitative, exploratory research method was used to conduct the study, and thematic approach analysis was employed to explore the study objective. Nine participants were interviewed from different South African mining companies operating different commodities, and only participants in senior, middle, and junior management roles were selected for this study. Participants’ interview responses were recorded, and transcribed, and data analysis using a thematic approach was applied. Six themes emerged from the data analysis; these themes were composed of twenty-five categories. These categories were identified as drivers and barriers for South African mining companies to adopt potential digital technology and solutions in their mining and operations. The barriers due to the South African mining sector’s complex environment were identified as the reasons for the slow adoption of digital technologies and solutions by the mining sector. The mining sector must adopt digital technologies and solutions that are suitable for their environment
Digitalisation and gender inclusion in financial services in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Smith, Talicia Lucia; Magida, Ayanda
Digital transformation and increased digitalisation have been identified as significant opportunities for women’s participation and gender inclusion in the workforce to support substantial economic growth. This study explores the perceived role of gender inclusion during the rapid digitalisation of the world of work during the pandemic. This study further seeks to understand the experience of women leaders in the formal sector from 2019 to 2021 in South Africa (SA). An interpretive phenomenological approach was adopted for this study, using semi-structured interviews. The snowballing sampling method was used to reach women leaders across the financial services industry. The data was analysed using thematic analysis and a hybrid analytical approach to developing the code book and subsequent themes. The research findings indicated a delicate and complex relationship between digitalisation and gender inclusion influenced by the internal gender inclusion strategy, the digital workplace design, digitalenablers, social implications, culture and well-being of women leaders as they worked virtually. While women leaders experienced the rapid surge of digitalisation during the virtual working phenomenon as positive, there were pros and cons identified for women leaders working almost, ultimately impacting their ability to stay with organisations. While organisations offer world-class digital transformation strategies, invest in the best technologies, or leverage increased digitalisation to change how people work. The key takeaway is that with the complexities of human behaviour and the entrenched gender stereotypes in financial services, digitalisation may not be enough to keep women as active and contributing members of the future workforce
Employees’ Perceptions and Attitudes on technological adoption in the banking sector
(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Carolissen, Ashley; Magida, Ayanda
The prediction of technology adoption within the financial services, specifically at Absa BankRetail and Business Banking, will help the research study understand the adoption level and aims to make recommendations to the executive c-suite level as to what to do to improve adoption. The study sought to further understand employees’ perceptions and attitudes toward technological adoption and the underlying external factors influencing their behaviour. Examines employees’ perceptions and attitudes toward technological adoption and the underlying external factors influencing it. An online quantitative survey was used to collect data among the retail and Business Banking business unit population. A convenience sampling method was used. The data was analysed using the SPSS statistical tool and the Chi-Square test to evaluate the independent and dependent variables as well as the Kendall Tau C coefficient to measure the ordinal and dependent variables. Based on the three predictors Behavioural Expectancy (BE), Facilitating Conditions (FC) and Behavioural Intention (BI), the hypotheses were tested using a total of n=120 respondents which represent 10% of the population of people working in the Retail and Business Banking business unit. The approach taken was using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to conceptualise the predictions. The overall Cronbach reliability test suggests a very strong consistency for Behavioural Expectancy (BE) with an overall alpha of 87%, whilst the results for Facilitating Conditions (FC) were 46% and Behavioural Intention (BI) 49%, indicating a very low consistency. The study indicates that employees are constantly looking for ways to further advance their knowledge and skills. The sense of belonging to something bigger and being part of a learning organisation is evident, and the more intensive technology is used, the easier the adoption.
Exploring digital transformation challenges and opportunities in a short-term insurance company during hard lockdown
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nyoni, Thembinkosi; Magida, Ayanda
Organisations have been digitalising, and by 2020, COVID-19 ignited acceleration towards digitalisation, with many organisations trying to enable two parties to business, employees, and customers to work remotely and access products, respectively. The objective of this study is to explore digitalisation challenges under COVID 19 lockdown, contribute to the existing body of knowledge of digitalisation and the success of future digitalisation initiatives. Due to benefits associated with digitalisation, prior to 2020, some organisations had opted to lead in this phenomenon, while others had brainstormed an idea with consideration of pros and cons. Since Covid 19 lockdown did not allow for formal steps to be taken to end up agreeing on digitalising, it was of interest to conduct a study around the development on challenges encountered and opportunities availed during the rushed approach. The research adopted a qualitative approach and gathered data through Microsoft teams virtual meetings on a one-on-one basis with seven participants out of ten invited. This approach allowed the researcher to take advantage of its strengths such as allowing participants to express their opinions freely. Participants were sampled using purposive sampling to ensure the right participants with the required level of authority were interviewed. Content analysis was used to unpack the collected data and required themes emerged. Findings identified challenges that were encountered by the leadership while digitalising during the Covid 19 lockdown. In as much as some maybe generic and expected in any project and environment, the most notable unique ones were restricted movement, collaboration difficulties, working with IT and testing system usability, external factors and logistics, and change management and client behaviour. These unique challenges align to the generalisation that if Covid 19 lockdown imposed a unique business environment, implementation of digitalisation initiatives during the lockdown faced unique challenges too. iii Antithetically, opportunities were identified during and after digitalising under Covid 19, realised, and seized because of digitalising under Covid-19 lockdown conditions. The most glaring opportunities included continuous improvement culture, effective decision making, work life balance, and lots of learnings. During the implementation, continuous improvement culture and effective decision making were immediately seized while work life balance and lots of learnings showed up at the end of the digitalisation initiatives. Considering theoretical frameworks applicable to this study, two were identified but were not of much value since they were put together during the Covid 19 lockdown, and these are the three block Digital Transformation Framework by Zaoui and Souissi (2020), the seven pillar Digital Transformation Framework by Javadi (2022). While the findings suggest that there were unique challenges and opportunities identified due to the lockdown situation, it implies that unique environments present unique challenges to be carefully considered when implanting a digitalisation initiative, while looking out for unique opportunities to look out for. Lastly, recommendations for further studies were put together seeing that digital transformation is still a new phenomenon
Factors driving the adoption of platform-based solutions in rural/underserved markets
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022-03) Nhlapo, Palesa; Magida, Ayanda
Rural to urban migration causes an increase in economic activities, however, this trend also leads to a strain on urban infrastructure such public and private services e.g. transport, energy and health care infrastructure. The migration trend was overlaid with the platform business model such as online platform services which attempt to assist in addressing the infrastructure issues caused by the urban migration. There are factors which intervene in the migrant’s decision to either move from the rural area to the urban areas which is typically their place of work. Where the rural area provided more benefits, which caused the potential migrant to remain in the area, the factors are described as pull factors. If the rural area provides less reasons for the migrant to remain in the rural area, these factors are seen as push factors – which drive the migrant to move the urban area. These movements are largely pushing migrants to urban areas which causes a strain on urban infrastructure. Globally, online platforms services (e-commerce, e-government,social media, fintechs) are gradually becoming a key part of communication, job productivity, and daily living activities for both employers and customers. Locally, factors which drive migration to urban areas were also being influenced by online platform services which are becoming more accessible in the daily facilitation of life by both the employers and employees. In the studies reviewed, there has not been much done to evaluate whether technologies such as online platform services could aid in addressing the urban migration issue. There are polarities in thought that observe that while urban migration causes an increase in rural economic activities, it also causes strain on urban infrastructure as the population increases beyond the capacity of the urban infrastructure. The study investigated whether factors such as family, employer, employee, and online platforms caused an effect in the reduction of urban migration. Employers were found to be typically located in urban areas. The hard lock-down enforced due to the covid-19 pandemic helped satisfy that employee, employers, family and online platform services can be used to maintain productivity remotely (away from urban areas). The study found that (1) the employee was likely to migrate to urban areas based on their level of education and their province of origin, (2) the employers used online platform services to enable 2 productivity and there was adoption and lastly (3) there was low family influence on the decision to migrate. A recommendation for future research would be to investigate the migration efficiencies created in the context of the employer or the rural/underserved economy by the adoption of the online platform services.
Factors influencing the adoption of mobile banking among lower-income groups in Gauteng
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Msimanga, Bongani; Magida, Ayanda
The focus of the study was to determine factors that influence the adoption of mobile banking among lower income groups in Gauteng. The theoretical framework was based on TAM, UTAUT, Theory of Perceived Risk and Trust Transfer Theory. (SPSS v27) was used to check the quality of the data from 200 respondents in Cities, Towns and Townships in and around Gauteng where data was collected using a self- administered survey to address the research objectives. This quantitative study aimed to investigate the role of Perceived Trust (PT), Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU), Perceived Cost (PC), Perceived Risk (PR), and Facilitation Conditions (FC) in the application of behavioural intention (BI) towards mobile banking services. The initial hypotheses for the following constructs were supported: PC was accepted to have a negative effect on BI; PEOU was accepted toe have a significant positive effect on BI; PR2 was found to have a significant effect on BI; and FC had a significant positive effect on BI. However, the initial hypothesis for PR1 was rejected because it had no significant effect on BI. Age and PEOU variables had no significant relationship, and the hypothesis of income and PC having a significant relationship was also rejected. In the past there are studies that looked at mobile banking adoption in South Africa. However, none of them have focused of mobile banking adoption among lower income groups in Gauteng. This study focuses on factors influencing adoption of mobile banking among lower income groups in Gauteng where they are found to be an important contributor to financial institutions
Gaps and Challenges in Supply Chain Management in South African Government Departments: the role of implementing an Integrated Financial Management Systems
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tshabalala, Lerato Matokoloho; Magida, Ayanda
The research aimed to identify and analyse the current gaps and challenges faced in supply chain management (SCM) within South African government departments. The descriptive case study research design was chosen utilizing a qualitative method approach, which was informed by the nature of the research problems under consideration. Semi-structured interviews were used to delve deeper into the topic and reveal patterns in opinions and thought patterns. The findings of the study or the identified challenges that are associated with corruption, lack of supplier knowledge, risks and challenges identified; implementing an IFMS to address challenges in government supply chain management; familiarity with available IFMS in the market; factors that should be considered when evaluating IFMS and technological infrastructure and upgrades. Eleven interviews were conducted as part of the study, comprising a diverse group of participants representing various National Government Departments. The selection of participants was guided by the aim of capturing various experiences and perspectives related to supply chain management within government departments. A purposive sampling approach was employed, targeting individuals with significant experience and expertise in SCM. Overall, this qualitative research study contributes to the existing literature by providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of SCM in South Africa government departments. The findings of the study can inform policymakers, government officials, and stakeholders involved in SCM processes, assisting them in identifying areas for improvement and making informed decisions regarding the implementation of an IFMS
Implementation of digital transformation in a public entity
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mokhabela, Kolwani Star; Magida, Ayanda
Public entities strive to have digital transformation in their organisations; they strategise and organise themselves; however, they face challenges with implementation. This study aims to investigate the progress that one South African public entity (PE) has made towards digital transformation, the processes followed in implementing, unpack the challenges and recommend strategies that any public entity can use for better future implementations. A qualitative methodology was followed using semi-structured interviews conducted on a sample of fifteen participants within the public entity who are role players or have participated in digital transformation processes from executives, management and project team members. A thematic analysis of the data was made. Conclusions and recommendations were made around the capabilities and challenges of the public entity, integration of processes, performance measurement, IT skills and overall motivation for employee engagement and adoption of digital transformation and how all these phenomena have a close interaction with each other to achieve a better chance of success on future DT implementations
Job satisfaction of healthcare professionals in two East London public hospitals in South Africa in the context of Covid-19
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Dlodlo, Nkosilathi; Magida, Ayanda
Introduction: Job satisfaction of healthcare workers is important to provide better patient care and with the prediction by the World Health Organization (WHO) that there would be a shortage of healthcare workers by 2030. The Covid-19 pandemic affected healthcare workers differently and hence the reason for the study. The aim is to explore and understand healthcare workers’ job satisfaction during the Covid 19 pandemic and make recommendations for human resource management to keep healthcare workers satisfied. Methodology: data collection was done from the 10th of October 2022 to the 5th of January 2023, with 203 participants from Cecilia Makiwane Hospital (CMH) and Frere Hospital (FH). Convenience sampling was done through an online survey that compromised of demographic and modified job satisfaction survey questions (JSS). Results: 82% of the participants were dissatisfied with the pay and remuneration; 76% were dissatisfied with supervision from the hospital management, and 83% were dissatisfied with contingent rewards. The healthcare workers were only moderately satisfied with their relationships with co-workers, which had a 41% satisfaction level. Conclusion: there is a need to improve on financial and non-financial components that would then motivate the healthcare workers and inevitably lead to better job satisfaction levels through regular assessment and improved policies that meet the needs of the healthcare workers
Organisational, training and operational strategies for the development of digital skills in insurance SMEs in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Masvaure, Tendai; Magida, Ayanda
Many organizations and institutions have been driving the development of digital skills worldwide. This study explored the organizational and training strategies for developing of digital skills in insurance SMEs in South Africa. Despite the call by many organisations and government actions, many small to medium organizations still find it difficult to adopt digital skills. The literature review indicated that, indeed, there are various degrees of relations between digital skills development and organizational strategies. However, the applicability of these studies was limited because most of them were carried out in other industries and, in most cases, outside South Africa. The study used a qualitative research approach to deduce the impact of organisational and training strategies on digital skills development. Data was collected using interviews and a detailed interview guide from 12 interviews. The data was collected from small to medium insurance companies chosen to be part of the study using purposive sampling. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis to group the data into major themes. The findings showed that management strategies are critical for developing digital skills in the insurance sector due to their ability to control all aspects of the organization. In addition, training strategies used impact digital skills development, as do operational strategies used in SMEs. The significant findings point out that costs, management strategies, and compliance requirements influence digital skills in the sector. The study closed off by recommending that the government enact policies that make it less costly for SMEs to equip their employees, in addition, private organizations are advised to invest more in digital skills since they make operations more efficient. Lastly, the study recommends further studies be carried out on the role of digital skills on the performance of SMEs in the insurance sector.
The adoption of digital platforms for student services at the University of the Witwatersrand
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Khoetha, Katlego; Magida, Ayanda
Technology's rapid growth has transformed how universities interact with their students, prompting the implementation of cutting-edge strategies like digital platforms. This research focused on examining the use and acceptability of various digital platforms in the context of the University of the Witwatersrand, particularly for student services. The study incorporated key concepts of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) to determine the factors driving the adoption of digital platforms. A quantitative technique, the research asked undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at the University of the Witwatersrand to complete an online questionnaire using the Qualtrics software. Using this thorough approach, the data was directly analysed, looking at how the theoretical framework and actual examples interact. The analysis's findings identified the UTAUT2 constructs that have the biggest impact on individual readiness to accept and use digital platforms for student services. The findings also demonstrated the possibility of this study helping the University of the Witwatersrand obtain an in-depth understanding of the primary factors that influenced students' use of digital platforms. In the end, having this understanding will help to successfully incorporate the idea of digital platforms into the context of university student services. The University of the Witwatersrand will be able to make wise decisions on implementing and optimising digital platforms for improved student engagement and support as a result of this research, which is expected to provide useful insights. The results are anticipated to improve digitalization efforts inside higher education institutions and enable the delivery of more effective and efficient student services in the rapidly changing technology environment
The adoption of digital technologies by public high school educators in Gauteng
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Zuma, Mlungisi; Magida, Ayanda
The prevalence of technology in society is increasing and transforming every aspect of modern-day civilization. Technology has transformed industries and will continue making inroads in every industry that technology can disrupt. In education technology has shown its effect by reforming learning and the teaching processes. Technology is argued to inspire inclusion, reinforce subject learning, boost collaboration, and play a part in increased innovation in both educators and learners. However, technology comes with a lot of challenges that create gaps in access. These gaps are concerned with the discrepancy of technology access and usage, whereby those in underprivileged environments cannot fully access technology due to the absence of infrastructure and resources. Therefore, to ensure the gap between those who have access and those who do not is decreasing, strategies and policies must be put in place to address suchinequality. Although technology use in education is increasing, what contributes to this adoption of technology by educators in the classroom has not been extensively explored in South Africa. This quantitative study aimed to investigate the factors influencing public school educators' adoption of digital technologies in the classroom, focusing on high school educators in Gauteng, South Africa. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology adoption model was utilised as the framework to observe factors influencing public school educators' adoption of digital technologies in the classroom. This study focused on a model that examines the factors influencing individuals' intention to use technology and their actual usage behaviour. The model identified three main factors that directly influence intention: social influence, effort expectancy, and performance expectancy. Additionally, it highlighted two direct factors that impact usage behaviour: facilitating conditions and intention. The associations between these factors and intention and usage behaviour are further influenced by mediating factors such as experience, voluntariness, age, and gender, as suggested by Venkatesh et al. (2003). These mediating factors play a role in shaping the relationship between the main factors and individuals ‘intentions and behaviour regarding technology usage. iii Data was collected using an online survey and the survey was sent to Gauteng educators and 104 educators responded. Both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Females were at 52.9% and males were at 47.1%. The location of schools where educators were based was 34.6% based in urban areas and 65.4% in townships. Most of the respondents were in the age category of 26-35 years (46.2%), the following category 46-55 years (21.2%), followed by 36-45 years (16.3%), under 25 years (10.6%) and lastly 56 and older years (5.8%). The results from this research study indicated that younger educators tend to utilise more ICT in the classroom when compared to older educators. Furthermore, the results showed that as the educator’s age increases, their frequency of using ICT decreases. Therefore, government representatives, technology leaders in education and school management should propose comprehensive ICT development courses that will equip educators of all kinds with the necessary technology skills to assist them in implementing these technologies in the classroom.