Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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Structures, Systems and Processes to Mainstream Youth Policy in Ekurhuleni
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mosikare, Dikeledi Rebecca; Pooe, Kagiso
The City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality has a highest share of youth unemployment in the Gauteng Province despite that it contributes to the largest economic share to the province’s economic distribution because of its strength in manufacturing among other metropolitan municipalities in the province. Also, the National Youth Policy (NYP) places municipalities as the centres where service delivery is important within the communities and compels municipalities to develop strategies in line with the youth developmental strategy to intervene rigorously into the lives of the youthful populations within their jurisdictions. Therefore, the study sought to explore structures, systems and processes set up to mainstream the National Youth Policy within the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) to understand how such a governance infrastructure benefits the youth. The findings revealed that the political instability within the CoE municipality interferes with the development of structures, systems and processes to mainstream the NYP policy to benefit the youth. The findings further revealed how the CoE mainstream the NYP according to political affiliations which renders the politically non-aligned youth at the periphery of human development.
A South African Perspective on Ethical Web Governance and University Social Responsibility
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Moodley, Yogasthrie; de Klerk, Danie
This study explores the intersection of ethical web governance and university social responsibility within the South African context. As universities increasingly integrate digital platforms into their operations, the ethical management of these resources becomes paramount. The study examines how South African universities implement ethical web governance practices and the subsequent impact on their social responsibilities such as transparency, accountability, and community engagement, by analysing web governance policies from various South African higher education institutions and drawing on interview data collected from key individuals at the University of the Witwatersrand. The research identifies best practices and areas for improvement, offering insights into how ethical web governance can enhance a university’s social responsibility. The findings further aim to provide actionable recommendations for South African higher education institutions to foster a more ethical and socially responsible digital presence.
Competition and Strategy in Private Higher Education in Ghana: Managing Complexity and Uncertainty
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) De Roy, Andrew Kwesi; Anning-Dorson, Thomas
This study examines the fundamental challenges threatening the viability, growth, development and long-term sustainability of Ghana's private higher education sector, with particular emphasis on the critical issue of diminishing student enrolment patterns and their implications for institutional survival. The study employed a multi-perspective mixed-methods research design that incorporated multiple stakeholder perspectives. Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to both final year senior high school students and current enrollees at private higher education institutions (PHEIs) in Ghana. To complement the quantitative data, qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including parents, employers, PHEI administrators and the regulator (Ghana Tertiary Education Commission). This methodological triangulation facilitated a deeper understanding of the complex factors that shape stakeholders’ selection of PHEIs and their subsequent impact on institutional sustainability. The empirical findings reveal a multifaceted decision-making framework employed by key stakeholders in selecting PHEIs. Specifically, student respondents identified a complex interplay of determinants, including institutional reputation, fee/cost, location/proximity, admission process, programme offerings, personal aspiration, recommendation, and physical facilities. Parental choices, in turn, also reveal related concerns yet with differing emphases: institutional prestige, cost of tuition, proximity, admission protocol, curriculum diversity recommendations, and infrastructural adequacy. It also showed that religious denomination moderated the process for students and parental choice of a decision to join or place their wards in a PHEI. Also, the choice criteria of employers, in turn are based on three fundamental parameters: institutional reputation, faculty expertise, and the professional competency exhibited by graduates/alumni at the workplace. The study brought several critical challenges in PHEI management to light that, if unresolved, may result in compromised operational viability and the long-term sustainability of such institutions. The research also ii delineates the regulatory framework implemented by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, whose oversight encompasses multiple dimensions of institutional governance: quality assurance mechanisms, mandatory annual reporting requirements, transparency in administrative processes, and the systematic evaluation of both institutional and programmatic accreditation and reaccreditation procedures. This research enhances scholarly understanding by making several substantial contributions across various domains, including theoretical frameworks, empirical literature, management practices, and policy development. The theoretical contribution of the study is rooted in its innovative amalgamation of three distinct theoretical lenses, which serve to clarify competitive dynamics and strategic management within the realm of PHEI. For example, the application of stakeholder theory illustrates that the decision-making processes within higher education institutions require a thorough evaluation of the varied interests of multiple stakeholders, including students, academic faculty, managers of PHEIs, alumni, governmental entities, and members of the community. This theoretical framework posits that the formulation of competitive strategies within higher education institutions must intrinsically integrate the diverse expectations and needs of these complex stakeholder groups. Impliedly, the strategic alignment of HEIs with stakeholder interests facilitates value creation across constituent groups, thereby enhancing institutional competitive positioning. The institutional theory also brought to the fore the adaptive responses of tertiary institutions to environmental pressures and competitive dynamics within the higher education sector. This theoretical lens explained how the HEIs simultaneously pursued conformity with regulatory frameworks, accreditation requirements and sectoral benchmarks, while endeavouring to establish distinctive competitive advantages. Navigating the duality of conformity and strategic positioning of the HEIs bring in its wake complexities in the institutions’ operations, governance, and strategic direction. Regarding the decision theory, study ultimately expands the theory by providing evidence that the selection of PHEIs by parents and students is moderated by their religious affiliation. Based on the study’s conclusion, it is recommended that private higher education iii institutions implement distinctive pedagogical frameworks characterised by industry-integrated program delivery mechanisms. Specifically, institutions should forge strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders to facilitate experiential learning opportunities through structured internships and industrial attachments. Such collaborative initiatives would augment the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical competencies, thereby fostering the cultivation of skills pertinent to the industry. Moreover, this collaboration between industry and academia has the potential to facilitate a seamless transition for students from academic settings to professional environments, thereby improving graduate employability outcomes. The execution of these recommendations has the potential to substantially enhance the competitive positioning of institutions, while concurrently addressing the disparity between theory and practice in
A gender perspective on career preferences and self-efficacy in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Setiba, Nontokozo
To advance the study of entrepreneurship, this study examines how gender, career preferences, and self-efficacy interact in the South African context, applying Intersectional-Marxist Feminist frameworks to investigate systemic restrictions on women's participation in entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial self-efficacy, as an indicator of an individual's perception of their ability to perform entrepreneurial activities, is influenced by gender expectations, sectoral involvement, and local economic environments. Although there has been extensive research on gender variation in entrepreneurship, there are limited studies on how racial politics, economic stratification, and structural inequalities affect self-efficacy and career choice in South Africa. The survey data was collected among 188 respondents utilizing a questionnaire that was scripted on Qualtrics. The study employs a quantitative design, making use of survey data analyzed with SPSS to investigate differences in risk-taking among women and men, confidence in leadership, innovation, and financial control. Statistical analysis, including t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, correlation, and regression analysis, is used to determine significant predictors of entrepreneurial preference and career outcomes. Evidence indicates that males have higher scores in risk-taking and leadership self-efficacy than females, with age and education levels playing significant roles in predicting entrepreneurial confidence. Self-efficacy ratings also vary depending on industry and region, and the finance and technology sectors achieve the highest levels of confidence scores, while Gauteng and Western Cape have the entrepreneurial tendencies most reported. The research adds to the theoretical literature on gendered entrepreneurship through the application of Intersectional-Marxist Feminism to analyze structural constraints on female entrepreneurs. The research underscores the importance of policy interventions, mentorship initiatives, and gender-mainstreamed finance support systems in reducing systemic barriers and closing self-efficacy gaps and promoting inclusive entrepreneurship. The research offers real-world implications for policymakers, educators, and industry players to create focused strategies for advancing gender equity in business and economic growth.
Investigating the factors that influence digital transformation at a South African university
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ngubeni, Mpendulo Desiree; Gobind, Jenika
This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the success of digital transformation at a South African university. Most higher education institutions have initiated digital initiatives, integrating technology into their campuses to offer a modern educational experience. However, the digital transformation process remains inconsistent across universities due to a complex interplay of factors. This study aimed to answer the research question: What the key factors contributing to the successful implementation of digital transformation in the context of a South African public university? The study was grounded in the Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) framework, which considers technological, organisational, and environmental contexts when assessing the adoption of new technologies. A quantitative research design was employed, using an online survey to collect data from staff members across various departments at the university. The final convenience sample consisted of 138 respondents. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to test the hypothesised relationships. The results revealed that, within the technological environment, only the factor of technology infrastructure had a significant impact on digital transformation. Among organisational factors, both management support and technology orientation were found to significantly influence the success of digital transformation. In terms of environmental factors, government support emerged as a significant determinant, while competitive pressure and relative advantage were not statistically significant. Based on the findings, the study recommends that universities invest in upgrading and maintaining robust IT infrastructure, provide targeted training to enhance digital competencies among staff, and institutionalise digital strategies through dedicated leadership structures. Furthermore, collaboration with government should be strengthened by aligning institutional digital goals with national policy frameworks and advocating for more streamlined funding channels to support technology adoption. The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on digital transformation in South African universities, providing implementable strategies for university administrators, policymakers, and stakeholders. The iii study highlighted the weight of a comprehensive, integrated method to digital change, considering equal internal and external factors to drive successful change in higher education institutions.
Female technopreneur role models and technopreneurial intentions among South African female technology students
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Ngoma, Nokukhanya Primrose; Urban, Boris
Purpose – The objective was to investigate the influence that female technopreneur role models (Female TRM) have on the technopreneurial intentions (TI) among female technology students in South Africa. The theory of planned behaviour, social learning theory, and institutional theory were applied to understand role models' theoretical influence on technopreneurial intentions among female tech students in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach—This research adopted a quantitative approach, and the data was collected through an online questionnaire from 274 consenting female technology students in South Africa. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis and Mediation analysis were applied to analyse the influence of Female TRM, attitude towards technopreneurship, technopreneurial self-efficacy, and the perception of the normative institutional environment on technopreneurial intentions. Findings – The mediation analysis results found the influence of female technopreneur role models on technopreneurial intentions to be positive but not significant among female technology students in South Africa. However, the knowledge of female technopreneur role models has a positive significant influence on technopreneurial self-efficacy. A positive attitude towards technopreneurship emerged as the most significant predictor of technopreneurial intentions based on the results of the hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Lastly, positive perceptions of the normative institutional environment positively influence the knowledge of female tech role models among female tech students in South Africa. Practical implications - The findings of the study show that there needs to be an emphasis on celebrating and promoting female technopreneur role models because they significantly increase the self-confidence of potential female technopreneurs. To shift ii technopreneurial intentions, policies and programs aimed at enhancing the desirability of technopreneurship will significantly increase intentions and are likely to shift the gender gap in technopreneurship among female technology students in South Africa. Originality/value – New empirical evidence was generated to evaluate the effectiveness of the role model recommendation in closing the technopreneurship gender gap in South Africa.
Impact of enterprise development training on the performance of small retail businesses in Gauteng
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Kazhila, Cleopatra Mwansa; Urban, Boris
Context - Small, Medium, Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which include small retail businesses, are considered as how South Africa's national development plan (NDP) will achieve its socio-economic goals. The NDP aims to ensure growth and sustainability in the country by having 90% of jobs created by SMMEs by 2030. Motivation of the study – Many other research studies have investigated how enterprise development training affects small and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa, but few, if any, have zoomed into how it affects small retail enterprises' performance, particularly in the region of Gauteng. It has, however, been argued that SMME owners who possess the right skill set will be able to obtain a significant advantage over their rivals who have not received skill training. Research purpose – This research study, therefore, sought to investigate the impact of enterprise development training on the performance of small retail businesses in the Gauteng province. Methodology – The study was quantitative and comprised 34 closed-ended questions which were designed to draw primary data from the sample population using an electronic interview survey questionnaire. Data from 132 respondents was received, cleaned out and then analysed using various mathematical modelling tools such as the Little MCAR test, regression analysis and multiple linear regression. Main findings – This research study finds that enterprise development training has an impact on the performance of small retail businesses in the Gauteng province. Contributions / Value Add – This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by showing that enterprise training development has an impact on small retail businesses in Gauteng. It also inspires SMME owners of small retail businesses to embrace enterprise training as it has huge potential to unleash them in the South ii African economy. Policy makers have also been challenged to consider making internet connectivity affordable among small retail businesses.
Benefits and barriers to digitalisation of loan bursary repayment in the National Manpower Development Secretariat (NMDS) of Lesotho
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Hlaele, Makhauhelo; Magida, Ayanda
The National Manpower Development Secretariat (NMDS) in Lesotho continues to face critical challenges in recovering disbursed student loan bursaries, largely due to its reliance on outdated, manual repayment methods such as cash payments, unenforced stop orders, and bank deposits. These inefficiencies contribute to persistently low recovery rates, affecting the sustainability of the NMDS fund and the country’s broader goals for higher education access. This study explored how digital payment systems can be adopted to improve the operational efficiency of loan bursary repayments and enhance recovery outcomes. Guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) theory, the research employed an interpretivist paradigm and a qualitative case study design. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with seven purposively selected participants, including NMDS administrators and IT personnel. Thematic analysis revealed that while digitalisation offers transformative benefits—such as enhanced repayment tracking, reduced fraud, and streamlined administrative processes— it is hindered by low digital literacy, infrastructural gaps, funding constraints, and lack of regulatory enforcement. The study incorporated a comparative analysis of student loan repayment models in South Africa (NSFAS), Kenya (HELB), and Uganda (HESFB), revealing valuable lessons for phased implementation, automation of deductions, and strategic partnerships. The research concludes with a detailed implementation roadmap for NMDS, structured around short-, medium-, and long-term strategies. These include conducting a digital readiness assessment, piloting integrated systems, updating legal frameworks, and building digital capabilities. The findings offer practical guidance for policy reform and digital transformation in higher education financing and contribute to the growing body of knowledge on public- sector innovation in developing countries.
Impact of Educational Interventions on Mitigating Skills Shortages in the South African Mining Sector
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Nhlapo, Sinenhlanhla Randy; Oro, Oro Ufuo
fficient in mining operations. Furthermore, the educational curricula have not kept up with the technological advancements and rapid adoption of modern technologies, further contributing to the skills shortage challenge. This study recommends enhancing training programmes with experiential learning methods, aligning educational curricula with modern technologies, and increasing collaboration between mining companies and government to promote STEM education in schools. These strategies aim to build a future-ready workforce, ensuring the sector’s sustainability and competitiveness in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
Graduate employee adaption to organisational culture and performance
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025) Naude, Barend; Gobind, Jenika
This study outlined the integration of graduate employees into organisational culture and performance system settings, focusing on a South African retail organisation. This research explored the distinctive contributions that graduates, with contemporary academic knowledge and new insights, can offer to the dynamics, culture and operational performance of the organisation. This case study probed graduate integration, the influence of graduate integration on organisational culture in the medium term, performance indicators for the immediate to medium term, and the challenges and opportunities presented during the induction process. The central aim of the inquiry was an assessment of how organisational leadership, mentorship and onboarding processes facilitate or hinder assimilation into existing corporate frameworks. The study portrays the dual role of graduates as disruptors and enhancers of organisational culture, underlining the potential contributions of graduates in driving innovation, process improvement and collaboration, while gaps in soft skills and cultural misalignment act as potential barriers. These findings provide recommendations that can be acted upon by corporate leaders, HR professionals and policymakers in their quest to optimally integrate and develop graduate talent while reinforcing a culture of inclusion, continuous learning and performance excellence. The research contributed a deeper insight into workforce development strategies and their implications for organisational growth and adaptability within a dynamic and competitive business environment.

Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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