4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions
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Item Digital transformation within the public sector communication service in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Modiba, Dalson Nkoana; Sethibe, TebogoNeo-institutional theory (NIT) has been widely used in research concerning business, accounting, economics, management studies, health, education, political science, and sociology. The use of NIT, especially in the area of digital transformation (DT), is still in its embryonic stage. Furthermore, despite the benefits of DT, documented case studies about the successful implementation of DT initiatives are scant, especially in the public sector. In this study, NIT was utilised to examine the role of digital transformational leadership (DTL) and organizational agility (OA) in accelerating DT in a South African (SA) public sector communication service. Using a pre-tested survey instrument, the aim was to collect and evaluate additional quantitative data to answer the question: is NIT an appropriate model to use to assess DTL, OA, and DT relationships in a public service communication service within a South African context? The findings affirm that, in the South African context, there is indeed a linear relationship between DT and DTL, with DTL and OA as predictors. Both factors are significant predictors of DT, with the results accentuating the crucial role of DTL in the interplay of OA and DT. DTL was found to have a positive and significant effect on OA. OA was found to have a complementary mediating role in the relationship between DTL and DT. Consequently, this study provides crucial insights, especially for practitioners who are looking to explore and invest in the leadership traits required to build agile public service organizations to successfully implement DT initiatives. It also opens up avenues for further research, especially considering the fact that DT remains a complex digital dilemma even after several studies that have been conducted.Item The Impact of Demographic Indicators on Cybersecurity Behaviour of E-Commerce Users in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mberikwazvo, Weston ZorodzaiThis study aims to explore the cybersecurity behaviour of e-commerce users in South Africa, utilising a conceptual framework derived from some elements of both the Health Belief Model (HBM) and the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). The study investigates the impact of demographic indicators specifically age, gender, and educational level impact the cybersecurity behaviour seeking to understand and contribute to the understanding of cybersecurity practices in response to perceived cyberthreats. A sample of 316 participants was used for the study which varied across different genders, age groups and educational levels. An online survey making use of a questionnaire was used to gather responses to the different dimensions making up cybersecurity behaviour guided by the established conceptual framework. The responses were statistically analysed to establish any patterns and trends using techniques such as correlation analysis and factor analysis. Analysis of the dataset concluded that there was significant difference to the cybersecurity behaviour of e-commerce users in South Africa for each of the demographic indicators of educational level, gender, and age and thus the null hypothesis was rejected for all three factors. Also, the null hypothesis was rejected for a combination of all three demographic indicators and cybersecurity behaviour indicating that a significant difference exists. The results showed that participants in the 36 to 40 years age group showed the highest cybersecurity behaviour level, with the 18 to 20 years and the over 60 years age group showing the lowest. Females showed a lower cybersecurity level in comparison to males with the non-binary participants scoring the lowest. The cybersecurity level increased in general with the educational level of the participants. In a nutshell, the results show that in the context of South African e-commerce users customised interventions based on the educational level, gender, and age need to be consideredItem Exploring employee perceptions on the adoption of 4IR-driven job automation in the South African Food Manufacturing Industry(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Maphosa, GrantThe Fourth Industrial Revolution (or 4IR in short) is characterised by the latest technologies that mostly serve as solutions for automating tasks. Examples include the internet of things, cloud computing, artificial intelligence with machine learning and robotic process automation. The food value chain is no exception to this automation. All processes involved in converting the raw agricultural produce into finished goods for sale and consumption are expected to eventually integrate the 4IR technological advances, which automate job functions. In the South African Food manufacturing industry, these traditionally manual tasks are performed by a high number of employees, many of which perform lower-occupational level manual functions. The study’s purpose was to explore the South African Food manufacturing industry’s employee’s perceptions of this 4IR phenomenon, with the technologies that will be possibly automating their job functions or overall employment. This is to intentionally address the main research problem of not knowing the employee’s views on the subject, in addition to not being able to track the policymakers and employers’ efforts in managing the transition to 4IR-adoption in the industry. The research study was conducted through interviewing 14 participants who are employed by the South African Food manufacturing industry. They were expected to share their perceptions by answering open-ended questions, and their responses were analysed qualitatively. Their responses were coded and grouped to themes, and findings led to recommendations such as accelerating the change management process to identify upskilling requirements sooner.Item An investigation of cybersecurity implementation challenges among South African SMEs(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Fakir, JeetenIn today's technologically driven world, cybersecurity implementation among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is of paramount importance, particularly in developing nations like South Africa, where cybercrime is prevalent. Due to inadequate cybersecurity practices, weak policy execution, and low public awareness, cybercriminals are targeting South Africa. Furthermore, local SMEs have limited budget, skills and resources dedicated to cybersecurity, which enhances the problem in the current South African context. Drawing upon a literature review encompassing global perspectives on cybersecurity and SMEs, this study focuses on the South African context to provide insights tailored to the local SME landscape. This research investigates the cybersecurity implementation challenges faced by SMEs, by exploring the influence that subjective norms, attitude, perceived behavioural control, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness has on the intention to implement cybersecurity among South African SMEs. This quantitative study employed a survey which was distributed on social media to SMEs across the country to answer the research objectives. Key findings highlight the significant gaps in cybersecurity awareness and resources among South African SMEs, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity education and support. The investigation indicates that subjective norms, attitude, perceived behavioural control, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness contribute significantly to influencing cybersecurity implementation among South African SMEs. The identified factors provide a foundation for addressing the research objectives by emphasising the importance of subjective norms, attitudes, control perceptions, ease of use, and usefulness perceptions in the context of cybersecurity implementation. Ultimately, this research underscores the imperative for collaborative efforts between government, academia, and industry to address cybersecurity challenges faced by South African SMEs and foster a more resilient digital ecosystem.Item Accelerating Digital Government through Public Sector Innovation in South Africa: The Role of Open Government Data(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Delwa, Qinisile; Mzyece, MjumoThe study aimed to explore the impact of Open Government Data (OGD) on achieving a digital government in South Africa. The study investigated OGD as a public sector innovation and how it contributes to an enhanced approach to designing service- delivery-oriented digital solutions. Experiences of other countries using OGD and its social and economic potential were explored, identifying and comparatively contrasting how such opportunities can be further exploited within the unique circumstances of South Africa. Furthermore, the study reflected on the conception of public sector innovation in practice by observing how this finds expression in existing open government data initiatives to identify potential diffusion mechanisms and opportunities. The motivation for this study is to demonstrate public sector innovation in practice, using OGD as an example of the potential value of public sector innovation that still needs to be explored. The study approach was a qualitative comparative case study where semi-structured interviews were conducted with public sector experts involved in open data projects and independent and retired experts. The data from the interviews was analysed thematically in an inductive approach. The key findings of this research report indicate that South Africa has not made significant progress in digital transformation due to fragmentation and a disjointed strategic approach. The research confirmed the vital role of data, specifically open government data, in advancing digital transformation. Furthermore, based on the case studies, the research findings indicate that open government data-driven public sector innovations hold great potential to accelerate digital government transformation in South AfricaItem Business model innovation for digital health entrepreneurship in primary healthcare in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Chindongo, DalitsoIntroduction and Background: The study investigates the real-life encounters of entrepreneurs in the digital health sector in South Africa, with a focus on their innovative approaches in improving primary healthcare services. It compares seven different digital health ventures (A - G), and explores the challenges related to accessing high quality healthcare, examining how incorporating digital health technologies (DHTs) and developing creative business models is improving Primary Healthcare services in South Africa. Research Problem and Objectives: The central research question examines how digital health entrepreneurs can enhance the accessibility and quality of healthcare services through innovative business models, thereby addressing the challenges identified in primary healthcare. Methodology: For this research a qualitative approach was taken, involving a multiple case study of the seven digital health ventures operating in South Africa. The data collection comprised semi-structured interviews with CEOs/Founders and performing document analysis. The Business Model Canvas and Systems Thinking frameworks were employed in analyzing the gathered data. Key Findings: Accessing Quality Healthcare Challenges: Digital health ventures are tackling geographical and socio-economic challenges through telehealth and mobile health (mHealth solutions). Real world experiences demonstrate how these digital health ventures connect healthcare professionals with specialists, enhancing access for rural and underserved areas that make use of Primary Healthcare services in South Africa. iii The focus is on personalized and community specific interventions that prioritize patient centered care adapted to local settings, going beyond the generic digital health tools analysed in existing literature on digital health entrepreneurship. The incorporation of Digital Health Technologies (DHTs) The digital health ventures demonstrate real world use cases of DHTs like using AI based analysis, for treatment and telehealth for monitoring from a distance. These uses are in line with. going beyond the knowledge found in current research on Digital Health. Research results illustrate the significance of customizing DHT implementations to address community requirements shedding light on the obstacles and possibilities of merging technologies, in various healthcare settings. Innovative Business Models: The digital health ventures employ unique and customized revenue models, such as subscription fees and strategic partnerships, that go beyond the generic models discussed in the literature. Case studies based on the digital health ventures, illustrate the practicalities of partnership models, showcasing collaborations with healthcare providers and public health organizations, which enhance the understanding of business model adaptability in the digital health ecosystem. Conclusions and Implications: The study concludes that innovating business models, in primary healthcare could transform healthcare services in South Africa. Digital health entrepreneurship not only improves primary healthcare outcomes, but also enhances patient engagement. The research also emphasizes the significance of forming partnerships, establishing sustainable revenue models, and implementing supportive policies to maximize the advantages of digital health solutions.Item An assessment of the necessity of implementing a blockchain based land registry in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024-08) Jeram, Deelan; Saghatforoush, Ehsan; Azasu, SamuelBackground statement: Several nations have recently implemented blockchain-based land management systems, focusing on land registration, titling, recordation, and information management, to enhance transparency, trust, data security, data quality, and immutability through consensus mechanisms. This technology streamlines access and tracking of land records, reducing fraud, corruption, record manipulation, and property resale while lowering transaction costs. These advantages aim to address issues of inefficient and untrustworthy land records in less developed countries. Problem: South Africa faces challenges, ranking 108 out of 190 in property registration according to the World Bank, with lengthy procedures (7), extended transaction times (23 days), and high costs (8% of property value). In contrast, blockchain-adopting countries like Sweden and Georgia are ranked at 9 and 5, respectively. Despite these inefficiencies blockchain technology has not yet made an inroad into the land registration or transaction process. Aim – The aim of this study is to investigate the potential use of blockchain technology to digitize land registration in South Africa. Methods: This paper investigates a blockchain property registry pilot project in Khayelitsha, South Africa, using Peled's theoretical framework and employs qualitative research methodologies, including case study analysis and expert interviews, supplemented by a systematic literature review. Outcomes: The study reveals significant challenges in South Africa's land registration, including unreliable land records, informal land tenure systems, limited access for marginalized communities, corruption, weak legal frameworks, post-colonial property rights legacy, and inefficient real estate transactions. Despite the promise of blockchain, these issues persist, hindering progress. Eight key factors obstruct blockchain adoption in South Africa's land registry, including legal barriers, organizational resistance, technological hurdles, resource constraints, political and social factors, and trust-related issues. The case study identifies additional obstacles, such as misalignment of interests, lack of formal agreements, data quality issues, and further legal barriers. Nonetheless, the pilot project managed to create a "pseudo title deed" with potential benefits for the city. This study suggests the application of blockchain in state-subsidized housing developments to enhance data security and enable electronic land transactions. It emphasizes the need for a combination of expertise, infrastructure readiness, and procedural changes to facilitate innovation in the public sector. Despite the potential, the study concludes that South Africa's land registry is not yet prepared for widespread blockchain implementation, citing legal, technological, and organizational challenges. Significance: This research is the first to explore the limited adoption of blockchain technology for land registration in South Africa, contributing valuable insights to the field. This paper identifies critical factors for successful blockchain-based property registry implementation, offering insights for legislation, policy development, and land registration system design to address inequalities and improve land tenure in developing countries. It outlines a potential path for South Africa's Deeds Registry to implement blockchain technology in state-subsidized housing developments.Item Capital Structure and Financial Performance of State-Owned Enterprises in South Africa: Does Corporate Governance matter?(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Khumalo, Nomathemba; Chipeta, ChimwemweThe study examines the relationship between capital structure and financial performance of South African State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) considering corporate governance factors. Using empirical data derived from financial reports and audited statements of 21 major SOEs listed in the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) of South Africa, this study employs a quantitative methodology, specifically employing Fixed Effect (FE) and Generalized Methods of Moments (GMM) regression models on annual data from 2010 to 2022 to examine variables that affect financial performance of the South African SOEs.The research reveals mixed relationships between capital structure factors and financial performance, yet these relationships lack significance. Similarly, corporate governance demonstrates diverse relationships with financial performance, however, a significant negative correlation exists between board composition and return on assets. When examining the effect of corporate governance on capital structure in influencing financial performance, the study indicates an insignificant impact on financial performance. The policy implications of the study suggest that enhancing corporate governance practices, combating corruption, promoting strategic investments, efficient resource allocation, and government support for SOEs as drivers of economic growth should be guided by a clearly defined funding policy to enhance the financial performance of SOEs.Item An integrated power generation plan considering carbon emission constraint(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Koopman, Sabrina; Ye, YuxiangIn the context of South Africa's energy crisis, this research report examines the optimization of South Africa's power generation system, considering coal, onshore wind, and solar PV technologies within a carbon emissions constraint. The primary objective is to minimise costs while addressing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions in a country heavily reliant on coal-fired power. The methodology comprises two main components: system modelling of solar and wind generation, and a mathematical framework featuring cost minimization as the objective function with a power balance constraint and a carbon emissions constraint as the two key constraints. This approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of potential energy mixes that balance economic and environmental concerns. The study's findings indicate that a more sustainable and balanced energy mix is achievable in South Africa through significant expansion of renewable energy capacities. While this transition requires substantial short-term investment and infrastructure development, it offers long-term benefits including reduced carbon emissions and enhanced energy system resilience. The optimization results suggest that further integration of renewable energy technologies is possible, albeit at a higher cost. The research highlights the increasing cost-effectiveness of renewable energy and emphasises the importance of capitalising on this trend in emerging markets like South Africa. In conclusion, this thesis demonstrates that South Africa can significantly reduce its carbon emissions within the next five years by improving its energy mix through increased integration of renewable energy generation technologies. These insights are crucial for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers in shaping South Africa's future energy landscape and contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.Item Factors determining the supply of micro insurance in the South African insurance market(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Chikumbu, Dudzai Christopher; Mushai, AlbertAccess to financial services by low-income households is an important tool for meeting the millennium development goals and development. Micro insurance is a crucial financial service designed to provide affordable and accessible insurance solutions to low-income populations often excluded from traditional insurance markets. However, there is a dearth in literature especially in the South African context, looking at micro insurance from a supply-side perspective. This study sought to explore the factors determining the supply of micro insurance in the South African insurance market. Through the use of a purposive sampling method, 25 business development and market executives from selected insurance service providers participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data and the inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse data. Seven main themes emerged from the data. The study found that among other factors, the decision to supply or not to supply microinsurance in South Africa is mainly influenced by a combination of factors such as the distribution channels, pricing considerations, transaction costs, availability of historical data, and the regulatory framework. The study suggests strategies that leverage market insights, foster innovation, and advocate for supportive policies to expand access to affordable and sustainable microinsurance solutions for low-income populations. This would help in increasing the demand for, and supply of microinsurance in South Africa. The study concluded that while microinsurance holds promise as a tool for promoting financial inclusion in South Africa, its success depends on addressing regulatory framework challenges, the design of the products, balancing affordability and profitability, awareness issues and sustainability challenges. Through the application of a critical perspective and engaging stakeholders across sectors, policymakers, and civil society organisations, insurers can work together to unlock the full potential of microinsurance in improving the lives of low-income communities