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Item The effectiveness of the Gauteng Informal Business Upliftment Strategy on spaza shops operating in the Alexandra Township, South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-03) Buthelezi, Jabulani; Motsepe, DikgangThe competitiveness and profitability of spaza shops owned by South Africans which operate in townships has been eroded by the settling of large retailers and immigrant owned spaza shops. With this challenge in mind, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) developed the Gauteng Informal Business Upliftment Strategy GIBUS). The overarching objective of this policy is to develop informal businesses such that they become more productive, competitive, profitable and are able to create employment (GIBUS, 2015). Spaza shops that operate in the Alexandra Township are faced with unbearable competition due to the large retailers that have settled into both the Pan African and the Alexandra Mall. This challenge as experienced by South African spaza shop owners has also been exacerbated by the infiltration of immigrant owned spaza shops. In this regard, the purpose of this research study is to examine the effectiveness of the GIBUS in improving the competitiveness and profitability of spaza shops owned by South Africans in the Alexandra Township. This research study follows a positivism paradigm. Quantitative research techniques were used for the purpose of data collection and analysis. The research design applied is cross- sectional. A questionnaire was used for the purposes of data collection and non-random purposive sampling was applied as a sampling strategy. The results from this research study indicate that for the majority of the respondents, their revenue did not increase and that they were also not able to create employment opportunities. This is against the backdrop of them having received both non-financial and financial support from the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller. Therefore, the support received did not assist them into being more competitive and profitable. This research study recommends that the both the non-financial and the financial programmes of the GIBUS be amended and be implemented more rigorously. In addition to this, accompanying initiatives to both the financial and non-financial programmes are recommendedItem Blockchain technology and international money transfers into the Nigerian Remittance market(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Bah, Aicha; Khumalo, JohnBlockchain has been making a buzz for a moment now. The nascent industry based on a “distributed ledger technology” is being globally explored especially by innovative start-ups and financial institutions looking to benefit from the technology. Revolutionized by the usage of cryptocurrencies in its processes, blockchain algorism is believed to have the potential to indubitably agitate the financial world. The promises of blockchain pretty much touch any domains imaginable provided the necessary resources are allocated towards its implementation. From governmental tools in election processes to individual peer-to-peer transactions, blockchain is being targeted by various parties seeking to extract the obvious advantages, the technology offers. This study focuses on how blockchain technology can benefit the Nigerian remittance market and observes how it has the potential to completely reinvent the financial and money transfer industry. Peer to peer money transfer methods have traditionally been done through financial institutions such as a bank or Western Union. In many regions around the world, especially on the African continent, the charges related to these transfers represent a high cost for the individuals performing them. Additionally, the regulations and required verifications on each step of an operation account for longer processing time. The main objective of this research is to explore an alternative financial solution for cheaper and more efficient remittance transactions internationally. The method used is a combination of desk research and qualitative field research that involves preliminary research on information already available about Blockchain technology, but also interviews with expert on the financial world. This research concluded that Blockchain technology and the use of cryptocurrencies into everyday transactions represents a real chance at entirely transforming the way individuals exchange money. A few limitations were observed in regard to regulations and control over its functioning. Either way, it is expected that both governmental entities and private corporations will lean towards exploring the “true” capabilities of this technologyItem Participants’ Perceptions of the effectiveness of CLEAR-AA’s Development Evaluation Training Programme in Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020-02-27) Ramasobana, Mokgophana; Morkel, CandiceIn the past few decades, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) capacity-building programmes and training budgets aimed at addressing the rising demand for M&E skills have been increasing. Over the same period, extensive research focusing on the broader evaluation capacity development (ECD) spectrum has been commissioned. However, insufficient research assessing the effectiveness of M&E capacity-building programmes has been conducted; therefore, their contribution towards building skills and knowledge is unknown. In this study, qualitative research aimed at assessing the effectiveness of the Development Evaluation Training Programme in Africa (DETPA), delivered by the Centre for Learning on Evaluation and Results – Anglophone Africa (CLEAR-AA), was used as a case study to begin to understand how Kirkpatrick’s (1959) training effectiveness model could be applied to understand the DETPA training programme implemented in Africa. This is informed by DETPA’s popularity in the region and plans to scale up and implement the programme on an annual basis. Therefore, conducting this assessment contributes towards the improvement of the programme. Using Kirkpatrick’s model, semi-structured interviews were conducted aimed at assessing participants’ perceptions on whether or not the DETPA programme has contributed towards building their individual capacities (skills and knowledge), influenced their individual behavioural change as well as organisational behavioural change. The interviews were also aimed at ascertaining their perceptions regarding the gaps of programmes such as the DETPA. This study focused on the participants of the 2017 programme, which also marked the launch of the DETPA. For the purpose of research rigour interviews with different categories of respondents were conducted as follows: ten (10) DETPA 2017 participants, one (1) DETPA facilitator, two (2) DETPA moderators and four (4) line managers of participants. The findings are not generalizable, as the purpose of the study was not to conduct a quantitative analysis of the perceptions of participants, but to better understand how individual participants personally experienced the potential effects of the DETPA on their individual and organisational capacities. Based on the participant’s perceptions, the programme has been perceived to have the following effects: generally, the findings indicate that the overall programme was perceived by participants to have contributed positively to their M&E capacity development. It was specifically perceived to have contributed towards improving their skills and knowledge as well as to some extent to have contributed towards sustaining the transfer of skills. In addition, there was mixed feedback on whether the programme has contributed towards improving participants’ organisational performance. In terms of the perceived gaps in the programme, it was significant that participants proposed that CLEAR-AA should consider integrating the Made in Africa Evaluation (MAE) philosophy throughout the entire DETPA, as it is currently only included as a single module. This elevates the role of local or contextual approaches in understanding the effectiveness of training programmes delivered in the African diaspora. In conclusion, this study recommends that further empirical research should be conducted to better understand the mechanisms by which training influences skills and knowledge acquisition as well as organisational effectiveness in M&E, as well as to allow for the generalisation of these findings.Item Investigating policy exclusion of heterosexual male perpetrators in the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Silaule, Nichole; Chikane, RekgotsofetseGender-based violence (GBV) is not a minor novel societal challenge occurring in certain pockets of society. It is a pervasive global social justice issue, which transcends race, class, religion and geographical location. The policy exclusion of heterosexual male perpetrators within national policy presents a barrier to curbing gender-based violence and promoting social cohesion. A broad knowledge base exists regarding the drivers and implications of gender-based violence, however, there is a disconnect between gender-based violence national policy and the subjects inflicting the violence. This research therefore aims to broaden the discussion on the polarised narrative of heterosexual male perpetrators in the gender-based violence policy environment. A qualitative methodological approach is utilised to analyse the National Strategic Plan on Gender- based Violence and Femicide report and two associated reports in relation to the role and reference of heterosexual male perpetrators. Thematic content analysis and interpretive phenomenological analysis of the reports and 15 semi-structured interviews with government officials, non-governmental organisations and subject matter experts are methods used in the research to enhance the understanding of the data gathered. The intersectionality theory and ecological framework form the analytical lens shaping the research, these theories form the intersecting ecological factors at play informing policy and the policy stakeholders who passively and actively influence gender-based violence policy decisions. The findings show that factors in national policy formulation provide exclusionary barriers to heterosexual male perpetrators. The target group is not prevalent in stakeholder participation in consultations, patriarchal ideologies remain intact shaping gender-based violence and femicide policy. Local grassroots consultations with specific focus on un-converted heterosexual male perpetrators in various locations need to be provided platform. Also, applying inclusive gender transformative approaches in policy formulation are key determinates to effective policy implementation and inclusion of all policy stakeholders. In conclusion, the meaningful insights on gender-based violence perpetration will guide both future research and policy initiatives driven by government officials, civil society and private stakeholders in South African societyItem Impact of buyisa ubuntu food bank on livelihoods of kagiso residents during covid-19(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Sekhokoane, Lindeni; Pillay, PundyFood banks are set up as an option when governments are unable to safeguard the food security of their citizens. They intend to ease the numerous threats related to food insecurity. However, the ability of food banks to advance general food security outcomes is limited, even though they have a significant part to play in providing rapid solutions to extreme food dearth. They are meant to be a temporary way out for households that are destitute but a key to attaining food security. The aim of the study is to explore the impact of Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank on beneficiaries during COVID-19, as well as to understand the coping strategies of these beneficiaries in the midst of the pandemic. Also, the purpose is to determine the extent to which the skills development program has empowered beneficiaries. In order to achieve this, the study sought to determine a) The difference that the Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank has made to beneficiaries' lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, b) the extent to which the Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank skills development programme has empowered beneficiaries, c) the coping strategies that were used by the beneficiaries in the absence of the food bank services. The study found that the food bank use in Kagiso Township is due to dire economic difficulties out of the immediate domain of control of beneficiaries, such as poverty and unemployment. The coping strategies utilised by beneficiaries in the absence of food bank services are unsustainable. In an attempt to address the issue of unemployment among the beneficiaries, structural theories of poverty suggest that macroeconomic policy, which stimulates economic growth, both locally and internationally, should also be seen as the key solution for sustainable job opportunities. The findings of the study further revealed that the Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank made a financial difference in the lives of the beneficiaries through volunteerism and employment. Again, the skills offered at the skills development programme made a difference in the lives of some of the beneficiaries. However, the study found that the choice of skills in this programme is limited, and some skills are not of interest to beneficiaries. It is therefore recommended that the Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank provides an avenue for beneficiaries to voice their expectations. It is also recommended that iv higher institutions of learning and businesses join forces to provide a variety of skills for people who are food insecure. Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank faced some distribution challenges, as a result, beneficiaries received food once in three months instead of three consecutive months. This negatively affects the impact of the Buyisa Food Bank on the lives of beneficiaries. To address the food distribution challenges, it is recommended that the Buyisa Ubuntu Food Bank sticks to the standard operating procedure manual, which states that once the beneficiary is approved, the food needs to be distributed to them for threeconsecutive months.Item Evaluating the influence of stakeholder participation in the m&e process of green technology projects (A case study of the SANEDI Biogas Digester Projects in South Africa)(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ndlovu, LinahGreen technology projects have become more recently one of the best alternative strategies for sustainable development against the growing concerns and threats of energy crisis, climate change, population growth and wealth disparity. In the endeavour to fulfil this essence over the past two decades, South Africa has fallen short and demonstrated below average uptake of green technologies compared to other developing countries. Research evidence supports the effective use of participatory M&E of projects and programmes in promoting better project performance, sustenance, and greater adoption of projects. To explore the influence of stakeholder participation levels on the implementation of green technology projects, a qualitative research approach making use of SANEDI’s biogas digester projects as a case study was adopted by this study. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews from eight participants representing internal and external stakeholders. The findings reveal that the level of stakeholder participation in M&E of projects was low to medium amongst external stakeholders during early project stages of inception and planning through to project implementation, monitoring and close out whereas internal stakeholders had high level of participation throughput the project cycle. among internal stakeholders. The low level of participation created downstream challenges in maintaining and operating the biogas digesters, low project acceptance and ownership levels by the community. The study concludes that meaningful stakeholder participation with balanced power dynamics is required throughout the project life cycle. A high level of stakeholder participation amongst internal and external stakeholders in M&E of projects from project inception to closeout allows stakeholders to enjoy decision making benefits that can help create more aligned stakeholder priorities and needs, build better community ownership levels and greater project uptake. The study also concludes that meaningful stakeholder participation supported by the provision and planning of financial resources, training and awareness create an enabling foundation for the sustainable implementation and uptake of green technologies.Item Assessing the challenges in attaining the predetermined organisational performance objectives in the Gauteng Office of the Premier(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Molapho, Makgaba SamuelThis research aims to assess the challenges in attaining the predetermined organisational performance objectives in the Gauteng Office of the Premier. In doing so, I have applied the strategy of qualitative research as well as the case study design. This enabled the research to use semi-structured interviews to collect primary data that informs challenges in attaining the predetermined organisational performance objectives in the Gauteng Office of the Premier. The population of this study is Gauteng Office of the Premier and from this population I have sampled 9 participants using a purposive sampling technique. I have located this research in the academic field of organisational performance studies. This field was suitable for my incumbent research due to its aspect connecting to the research problem. Furthermore, I have established attributes of organisational performance and linked them to interpretative frameworks of this research to answer empirical results. The interpretative frameworks of this study are bureaucracy theory, government management frameworks, Government Wide Monitoring and Evaluation (GWM&E) framework, and programme logical model. Using these frameworks as a lens of interpreting research findings, the study indicates that the organisational structure of Gauteng Office of the Premier is not fit for purpose, and it is not approved by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). As a result, the organisational structure hinders the office of the premier ability to employ human resources that will achieve predetermined objectives. The findings also point out the challenges of data collection, duplication, and alignment of budget to office priorities. Moreover, it was found that stakeholders are non-compliant and do not conform to the implementation of monitoring and evaluation system. As a result, the Gauteng office of the premier is unable to perform because is depended on stakeholders to achieve the office mandate. Lastly, the findings pointed that challenges of attaining predetermined objectives are linked to components of logical model.Item Research report amalgamation of umkhonto we sizwe combatants with the south african police service(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Mokotedi, Prince Nkitsing; Nieuwkerk, Anthoni vanDisarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) processes are usually implemented in post-conflict situations as part of broader Security Sector Reform. In South Africa, following the demise of the apartheid government, combatants of Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC), were amalgamated with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 1995 as one of the key elements of the agreement for a new peaceful and democratic state. The SAPS was established in terms of the provisions of the interim Constitution of 1993, and was comprised of the former SAP, which had the largest number officers, and 10 former Bantustan police forces. There was an expectation that there will be tensions during the amalgamation of MK with SAPS because of the historical bitter enmity between the combatants of MK and the members of the former apartheid police forces. Members of MK were expected to adapt and adjust to a new environment which had command structures as well as organisational culture that was alien to theirs. This study investigated the acculturation strategies of the former combatants, and evinced that MK combatants had strong military identities and that police was resistan external factors. The study found that these cultural incompatibilities made it difficult for MK combatants to effectively amalgamate with SAPS.Item Participatory research in south africa’s socio-economic impact assessment systems (seias)(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Mokone, Plantina Tsholofelo; Abrahams, CarynPR is an integral part of the SEIAS methodology. When applied completely and effectively, it can expand the range of alternatives created for decision-making by allowing policymakers to document and interpret a policy challenge with those affected most. 2 PR promotes close collaboration between policymakers and the participants— traditionally considered the ‘subjects’ of a study. PR allows them to establish a research agenda, collect data, conduct critical analysis, and devise activities to achieve social change. According to Booysen (2007:172), participation in public policy (PP) decision-making is crucial. This involvement affords people and groups a ‘transformational voice’, enabling them to affect outcomes. This reasoning has severe implications for the ideals of democracy (Booysen, 2007Item Environmental, social, governance investing and the preservation of retirement savings in south africa(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mogashoa, Lebogang; Hobden, ChristineOne of the big problems facing retirement funds in South Africa is premature withdrawal of retirement savings by members, also known as lack of preservation and there is a need to understand the factors driving this phenomenon. This study aimed to investigate if and how ESG investing by retirement funds featured in member decision-making on whether to preserve their retirement savings. The study was designed as a qualitative case study and utilised semi- structured interviews to collect data. The study utilised two state-related retirement funds that are regulated under the Pension Funds Act as a case study. The members of these funds and a few key informants were interviewed, and the interview data was analysed utilising thematic analysis on a software system called Delve. The data was analysed and discussed utilising the prospect theory. The study found that while members generally had very low knowledge about retirement fund investments and ESG, they had largely positive attitudes towards various issues that fall under ESG. However, there was no evidence that ESG was a direct factor in their decision-making. Notwithstanding this, there was evidence that ESG could indirectly feature in this regard, insofar as various ESG issues are perceived by members to affect the security of their retirement savings, investment returns on their retirement savings and their sense of ethicsItem Potential of the district development model (ddm) to address social and economic challenges in the O.R tambo district(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Matshaya, Zintle ApiweThis study examines the District Development Model’s (DDM) impact on service delivery and socioeconomic development in the O.R. Tambo region of the Eastern Cape. The South African government has faced challenges in reducing service delivery backlogs due to insufficient project planning and implementation tools. The preservation of the independence of the three branches of government is a pivotal aspect of South African democracy and governance, albeit one that may impede government efficacy. The notion that the three branches of government ought to operate independently has impeded cooperation. The DDM methodology advocates for fostering interdependence among spheres as a means of enhancing their respective independence. The DDM facilitates the synchronisation of project planning, budget allocation, and execution throughout the three governmental spheres. The initiative fosters inter- sectoral cooperation aimed at tackling socioeconomic challenges within a given district, such as poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. The DDM is an implementation strategy that is derived from the Constitution (Section 154) and aims to eradicate bureaucratic barriers within the government. District municipalities and their respective hubs serve as a means to localise government planning, budgeting, and implementation. This study employed a qualitative research design, which involved conducting interviews with government officials from all three spheres, as well as distributing questionnaires to other participants. These strategies were devised to gather DDM perspectives from various offices and spheres. The utilisation of government documents such as reports and policies served as a means of triangulation and enhancement of the research. The study finds that the utilisation of the DDM serves as an intervention strategy to facilitate the successful completion of projects and attainment of policy objectives by government agencies. The study also identified systemic and structural challenges that hinder the effective execution of the policy throughout the governmental apparatus. Enhancement of stakeholder involvement is imperative to ensure 2 institutional cognizance and acceptance of the DDM. The involvement of the public via intergovernmental relations structures and oversight systems was deemed to be of utmost importance. The research revealed that the misplacement of the DDM within municipalities acted as an obstacle to the integration of Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP). The successful implementation of the DDM, being an operational plan, necessitates the application of pragmatism. The research findings indicate that the adherence and execution of DDM necessitate more robust legal mandates. This report provides recommendations for further research on the DDM. The text examines the potential of the DDM and the possible obstacles that may arise during its national implementation or the implementation of analogous governmental innovations or policiesItem Exploring South Africa’s Renewable Energy Programme and its Potential Role in Khutsong Township Economic Development(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mashamaite, Phemelo Michelle; Pooe, KagisoThe South African government has initiated the REI4P, a pioneering large-scale renewable energy competitive tender aimed at diversifying power generation through private sector involvement. This procurement strategy addresses the national service delivery of electricity insecurity by promoting alternative renewable sources. However, a notable gap exists in the planning and implementation systems of the REI4P, lacking a clear framework for integrating informal township-based SMMEs into the emerging renewable energy landscape. This study investigates how Merafong City can leverage the REI4P as a catalyst for LED to concurrently facilitate the seamless integration of Khutsong Township-based SMMEs. The research affirms the existence of regulatory frameworks that MCLM can leverage the REI4P into an LED initiative. Furthermore, it identifies the MCLM’s potential to transform into a Local Renewable Energy Development Zone, offering a strategic solution to challenges linked with the impact of electricity insecurity in Khutsong SMMEs business operations. Addressing these challenges is crucial for alleviating poverty, reducing unemployment, and mitigating social issues such as crime and drug abuse in the township. Despite these potential benefits, the study highlights barriers to successful implementation, particularly the absence of a clear framework for integrating informal township-based SMMEs into the renewable energy landscape. Additionally, challenges in MCLM audit performance pose substantial obstacles to both renewable energy integration and the development of Khutsong SMMEs and LED. This research demonstrates the need for comprehensive strategies to address these barriers and maximise the positive impact of the REI4P on both economic development and social well- being in Merafong CityItem Assessing the dpsa’s, and partners’, perspectives on digitalisation for improving efficiencies in the south african public sector(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Lukhele, Nompumelelo; Chikane, RekgotsofetseThe purpose of this research was to explore the perspectives of public sector officials placed in the e-Government Services and Information Management unit of the DPSA, and partners, who are responsible for coordinating and drafting the Digital Government Policy Framework, on the implementation of digitalisation in the context of improving public sector efficiencies. This was justified as important because, the attitudes and perceptions of policy developers about digitalisation will influence the directionality of policies they develop on the implementation of digitalisation or the digital transformation agenda more broadly. The research primarily questioned what the perspectives of these officials are on the implementation of digitalisation in the context of improving public sector efficiencies in South Africa. The study adopted qualitative research methods. Semi-structured interviews and case studies were adopted to respond to the research questions. The main findings were that there is a need for government to strengthen the legitimacy of government digital transformation through releasing decisive political will; there is a need for elevation of the position of the Chief Information Officer in government departments; and lastly there is a need for the establishment of a central agency that will guide transformation of public service administration to perform important functions required to successfully transition to a digital government. The study concludes by emphasising the risks at local, regional, and international levels that the South African government faces if the urgency to act is underminedItem An analysis of the main barriers to effective corporate governance at the SABC(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Loliwe, WendySouth Africa is a highly structured country with numerous rules, practices and regulations. These laws are imperative in the successful running of companies including State-owned Companies (SOCs). The SOCs including the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) are governed by corporate governance framework which define the principles of fairness, accountability, responsibility and transparency – where role players are identified, those responsible for the corporate governance and to whom they are accountable. South Africa further considers its best corporate governance practises through implementation of various versions of the King Reports of Good Corporate Governance which have their foundations in effective and ethical leadership. In some instances, SOCs can be forced into complying with those laws which can lead to poor corporate governance and dysfunctionality of a company. In the case of the SABC, there were numerous allegations of maladministration, financial mismanagement, unethical conduct, abuse of power, political interference and governance challenges. The study is therefore concerned with the effective corporate governance at the SABC. It examines the main barriers to effective corporate governance rules and practices within the SABC or, put differently, why good corporate governance has eluded the SABC. The study applied the qualitative approach. The primary data was collected though semi-structured interviews - from former and current members of the boards of directors, government as a shareholder, former and current officials, representatives of the regulator and other experts in public broadcasting. The secondary data has been examined from various archival resources such as SABC Annual Financial Statements and Reports and policies which are useful for triangulation. It was found that the main barriers identified include political parties interference, lack of board commitment to fulfill its oversight role, abuse of shareholder’s power, no consequence management in transgression and performance monitoring systems, iii lack of adherence to the regulatory framework, appointments of unqualified and unskilled board member, lack of transparency and disclosure, and SABC funding. Based on the findings, it was concluded that The SABC has enough applicable legislation and internal policies to protect itself from abuse by the shareholder and ensure good corporate governance but effective enforcement of existing laws and regulations constitutes a major challenge for the development and implementation of corporate governance.Item The annual financial statements process and accountability in provincial government expenditure: gauteng province(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Jass, Andiswa Oyama; Niekerk, Robert vanConcerns about accountability in government continue to pose a serious challenge for the South African government, resulting in poor service delivery and the mismanagement of public resources. This study sought to examine the preparation and review process of the Annual Financial Statements and fiduciary accountability in provincial government expenditure which articulates the annual objectives of departments and how the citizens were serviced by the government fiscus in a particular financial year. The research presents an analysis of the three selected departments in the Gauteng Province; with a specific focus on the Gauteng Department of Education, Human Settlements and the Provincial Treasury. The study aimed to examine financial accountability in relation to the technical processes underlying the gathering of the data for the preparation of the Annual Financial Statements in the selected government departments in the Gauteng Province. Furthermore, the study aimed to understand the financial governance processes and structures and how these processes are institutionalised by the Gauteng Provincial Government to effect financial accountability. The main objectives of the study were to analyse whether there are sufficient processes and procedures in the preparation of Annual Financial Statements in these selected government departments in the Gauteng Province through the examination of the role of the Accounting Officers and the institutional arrangements in the government departments. The study critically focused on the technical process underlying the gathering of the data for the preparation of the Annual Financial Statements and analysed the reasons for the different audit outcomes as expressed by the office of the Auditor-General of South Africa. The study adopted a qualitative methodology, using a case study to investigate how financial governance and accountability are prioritized in an institutional environment such as a government department. The sample size for the study comprised fifteen (15) participants who are in strategic roles in the preparation and review process of the Annual Financial Statements. The data were collected using primary and secondary data sources. The primary data were gathered through semi-structured interviews whilst the secondary data were extracted from various sources such as departmental websites and archives. The study made use of thematic data analysis to analyse the data.Item Accelerating socio-economic justice through inclusive economic-and-employment growth(University of the Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Isaacs, Nandipha; Pillay, PundyThis paper posits that the labour market, through paying jobs, is an important lever for moving people out of poverty to address the social and economic consequences of apartheid in South Africa. The paper explores different parameters related to employment growth, namely the relationship between economic growth and employment growth, which types of business (small versus large) contribute most to employment growth, which sectors contribute most to employment growth, the barriers to employment growth experienced by entrepreneurs, and interventions required to ensure employment growth is inclusive. This research applied the ARDL model to understand the relationship between employment growth and economic growth on an aggregate level, at a sector level and a business size level, using StatsSA and SARB data for the period 2009 - 2019. This was supplemented by interviews with entrepreneurs and subject matter advisors who provided additional insights into the dynamics of employment growth. The findings of the report highlight that there is a positive relationship between economic growth and employment growth in South Africa, confirming that economic growth has contributed positively to the labour market, despite high and rising unemployment. Key sectors also show a positive relationship with economic growth. The findings revealed as well that small business employment has a negative relationship with economic growth. This paper also highlights that indicators that are affected by apartheid are still used in recruitment and promotion decisions, pointing to the need for company practices and policies to be re-looked to ensure Black Africans are not locked out of the economy.Item Anaysis of the public participation process in the gauteng etolls initiative(2021) De Freitas, Manuel Simão FrançaThis study analyses the public participation processes led by SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency Limited) within the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP). The public appeared to have been against this project from the beginning claiming that they were not properly consulted on this project. The term public is defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary “as a group of people having common interests or characteristics”. The common interest in this study was the etolls initiative.Item Examining the extent which the SAIVCET support institute for TVET colleges in South Africa has accomplished its primary roles one to six(2023-02) Tutu, BongiweThe National Development Plan (NDP) envisions South Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on higher education and skills development. Since its adoption in 2012, it has emphasised the crucial role of Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges as the major institutions to improve education, skills development and to enhance economic growth. Despite this realization, there are shortfalls that remain within TVET colleges, whereupon the NDP states, “the FET (TVET) system is not effective, it is too small and the output quality is poor” (NDP, 2012: 40). The Department of Higher Education and Training (DEHET) established the South African Institute for Vocational and Continuing Education and Training (SAIVCET) to support the TVET colleges. The SAIVCET was established on six primary roles and three implementation objectives. Using the qualitative survey research approach, adopting questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to gather and assess data, this research examines the extent to which the institute has accomplished the six primary roles and fulfilled the purpose behind its establishment. Through the purposive sampling of the research participants used, this research has found that the rationale and importance for the SAIVCET to strengthen the TVET and CET sector is unquestionable. However, research findings and conceptual analysis indicates that there have been challenges to the formal implementation of the SAIVCET. The institute was projected for 2012, however has yet to be established due to funding and governance constraints. As a result, SAIVCET has no governance structure. In the interim, a “SAIVCET Project” which is an informal body was formed to fulfil some of the functions and primary roles of the main SAVICET body. In a recent 2020/21 DHET Annual Performance Plan, the SAIVCET is still presented as a planned initiative, which has been projected for implementation in the period 2020 – 2025 (DHET, 2020: 10). In examining the primary roles of the SAIVCET support institute for TVET colleges in South Africa, this research has found that, the extent to which the SAIVCET, even as acting through the SAIVCET Project, fulfilled its primary roles is poor. The findings indicate that the SAIVCET has attained average to poor results in effectively fulfilling of its primary roles. Each of the primary roles received consolidated scores that are below average (below 50 percent) from the participants’ primary data. The conceptual framework and analysis further indicates the lacking impact of the institute, particularly under assessments of the Good governance framework and the Education policy implementation framework. This research recommends DHET uphold publishing annual reports to the functions and progress of the SAIVCET and SAIVCET Project, in order to enable public awareness and engagement on developments within higher education. Further, this research recommends a two-year progress review of the SAIVCET once it has been established. Further, this research study recommendscoordinated efforts among various ministries, stakeholders, public and private sectors and higher education institutions, on the functions and resources for SAIVCET. Furthermore, this study recommends an institutional push for shifts in mind-sets, particularly among employers with bias when selecting candidates from higher education institutions and TVET colleges. Furthermore, this research recommends funding and resources, which are allocated without reservations, but for the sole purpose of advancing progress, transformation and human development. This requires rigid policy interventions within South Africa’s education system. This research can be used to build on new and existing studies of frameworks on TVETs and SAIVCET.Item Measuring equity in public health financing across provinces in South Africa(2021) Maake, MarumoThe post 1994 government in South Africa has been struggling over the years to address the socio-economic imbalances that existed during the apartheid period. In that period public health services were severely fragmented. While efforts were made over the years to address the inequalities, health indicators suggest that huge challenges still exist. Therefore, this research assesses whether the allocation of public health resources are equitably distributed, using expenditure as a proxy. The methodology used entailed the development of a needs-based formula to measure if the public health expenditure is allocated based population needs across provinces. The formula requires the weighting of the public sector population for its different need factors such as age and sex characteristics, burden of disease and socio-economic indicators such as deprivation indices. The findings of the research revealed that the distribution of public health resources are skewed towards certain provinces. This means that there is an inequitable distribution of health services across provinces and therefore the health allocations are not based on the needs of the population. Critical priority areas such as medicines, medical supplies and laboratory services are worst affected by the skewed distribution.Item Rehabilitation outcomes measurement instruments usage in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng healthcare(2022-11) Buthelezi, Mnqobi BasilThere is a lack of rehabilitation outcome data collection and use in South Africa. Important to note in this study discussion are Rehabilitation Outcome Measures which are tools (FIM, BI, MRS, FAI, NEADL) used to collect data and measure the extent of change during and post rehabilitation period. This research purpose aims to evaluate the awareness, and use of rehabilitation outcome data measuring instruments, the available capacity, opportunities of learning and constraints that exist across different settings in public and private rehabilitation healthcare in KZN and GP. A quantitative research strategy was utilised. A cross-sectional, survey design plan of data collection framework was used. Face-to-face primary data collection was conducted in the proposed research sites. Purposive sampling targeting 13 rehabilitation public-private healthcare facilities in KZN, and GP was used. Stratified sampling together with 100% sampling in a small population was conducted. Community of Rehabilitation Multidisciplinary Teams (RMTs) of seven (7) members in public and private hospitals, composed of medical officer(s), nurse(s), clinical psychologist(s), physiotherapist(s), occupational therapist(s), speech/audio therapist(s) and social worker(s) took part in the study. SPSS assisted in results analysis; frequencies and non-parametric Chi-square of independence statistics were utilised to sort any significant associations. Results indicated that 253 subjects participated in the study. Analysed results suggested that n=153 (60.5%) participants were not provided with rehabilitation outcome measuring tools by the facility they were working for. Results suggested a significant negative association in Public Rural Settings (FIM=49.7%, BI=43.8%, MRS=41.9%, p=0.001, FAI=17.6%, p=0.037) and Public Urban Settings (FIM=43.2%, BI=36.5%, MRS=40.5%, p=0.001 and FAI=35.3%, p=0.037) of public healthcare facilities as they were not using rehabilitation OMs. A significant association in use of rehabilitation OMs was found in Private Urban Rehabilitation Healthcare facilities (FIM=56.0%, BI=35.6%, MRS=64.5%, p=0.001 and FAI=47.1%, p=0.037). Public healthcare facilities in KZN and GP were not using rehabilitation outcome measures, while GP Private rehabilitation healthcare facilities were using them. In conclusion, it is recommended that National Rehabilitation Policy (NRP) is subjected to reviews to incorporate standardisation of rehabilitation OMs. A diagnostic evaluation exercise is necessary for Theory Of Change development focusing on rehabilitation healthcare services.