4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions

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How Diversity and Inclusion May Transform South African Commercial Property Organisations at Top Management Level
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2017-08) Motshegare, Reabetswe Regina; Levy, Deborah
The purpose of this report is to outline contemporary transformation frameworks that emphasise diversity and inclusion and how the latter may likely transform Growthpoint Properties South Africa (Growthpoint S.A). The main focus of the consultancy report is to compare and contrast traditional transformation methodologies and contemporary diversity and inclusion methodologies as strategies to assist Growthpoint S.A transform its senior and executive management. The propositions are that; an effective transformation strategy for Growthpoint S.A is one that focuses on identification; inclusion; attraction; diversification and retention of key talent at senior levels. Furthermore, that once diversity and inclusion interventions are implemented, there will be transformation at senior and executive levels. Out of 15 executives in the management team, six representatives were interviewed. The limitations highlight that the majority of participants are South African and may have certain biased perceptions about the topic as opposed to the rest of the participants, who are foreign nationals. The methodology focuses on a thematic analysis and four themes namely: leadership; corporate culture; strategies and communication are identified. Following in-depth discussions, six recommendations are provided. These include 360-degree feedback; diversity and inclusion workshops; introduction of a diversity and inclusion forum; KPI’s that measure diversity and inclusion targets; workplace enhancement programmes that focus on diverse candidates and lastly, robust succession plans. The role of the researcher as a professional Human Resource Business Partner ensured that any work dealt with is approached ethically, and the researcher’s ability to do this ensured quality, reliability, validity and effectiveness of the research.
Exploring the role of school principals as instructional leaders Improving learner academic performance in Johannesburg South District Primary Schools
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Zuma, Chuma
This study explores the role of the principal as an instructional leader in four successful primary schools in the township. It examines instructional strategies used by principals of the four schools that may help to raise learner achievement and explores how these successful leaders use leadership styles and management approaches to improve learner academic performance in their schools. Sixteen participants were involved in this study. They include: four principals, four deputy principals, four departmental heads (DHs) and four teachers from the four schools. Data was collected using qualitative approaches; this being achieved through individual semi-structured interviews. The study found that the critical instructional leadership approaches used by these principals were promoting teamwork, active participation, collective decision making, sharing of responsibilities, collaboration and distribution of tasks amongst multiple leaders. The teachers and members of the school management team (SMT) confirmed the claims made by the principals. Data also indicated that the principals relied on a combination of different leadership styles and efficient and effective management approaches with their subordinates to save the enthusiastic implementation of instructional approaches that help to yield good learner results. The study suggests that there might be a strong link between leadership styles and learner performance. The data also suggests that the relevant leadership styles can contribute to institutional spirit against the main challenges which tend to depress performance in many schools in similar circumstances. The study makes specific recommendations for a broad-based research agenda to examine factors which contribute to success in schools operating in challenging circumstances.
An Evaluation of Democratization Processes in West Africa: A Comparative Analysis of Nigeria’s and Ghana’s Democratic Governance
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nevobasi, Aletta Adaaku
Since 2022, the robustness and endurance of democracy in Africa have been subject to debate due to the rise in military coup d'états in sub-Saharan Africa. The rise of military takeover highlights the possible democratic regression on the continent. Therefore, it is imperative to examine the level of consolidation of democracy on the continent. This research study aims to evaluate the strength and quality of democratic governance in Africa by comparing Nigeria and Ghana. By utilizing the Democracy Index devised by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), this analysis evaluated the internal dynamics of both nations to determine their operationality or non- operationality. The five categories are used to assess the state of democracy in each country. To achieve this, the analysis relied on the five categories utilized by the EIU index to evaluate the state of democracy. The categories are 1. Electoral processes and pluralism 2. Functioning of government 3. Political participation 4. Civil liberties and 5. Political culture. The EIU Index offers a comprehensive evaluation of democracy through the inclusion of objective and subjective indicators. These variables were selected for this research as they best provide a comprehensive framework of the key components of a democratic system. In the category of electoral processes and pluralism, this report will compare the 2019 presidential elections in Nigeria to the 2020 presidential elections in Ghana. Regarding civil liberties, this report compared the perception of civil liberties in relation to ethnicity. Additionally, the report compared the pervasiveness of corruption in both Nigeria and Ghana, in the years 2019 and 2022 in the category functioning of government. In terms of political participation, the report will assess the involvement of women in parliament and politics since both nations formally restored democracy (Nigeria in 1999 and Ghana in 1992). Lastly, the report examined militarism in Nigeria and neo-patrimonialism in Ghana within the category of political culture. In conjunction with the presented case studies, this research report incorporated public opinions to further analyze the quality of democracy. It specifically compared social variations in the practice and perception of democracy. The report concludes by emphasizing the significance of leadership in advancing democracy, asserting that leadership challenges in Nigeria and Ghana contribute to hindered consolidation. Consequently, the report advocates for a reimagining of leadership, with a particular focus on the concept of thought leadership, thought liberation, and critical consciousness as three pivotal elements for advancing democracy.
Leadership styles and the retention of transaction managers in South African investment banks
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Stellenberg, Cheryll; Ndaba, Zanele
This research aims to explore the relationship between transformational leadership and the retention of highly skilled employees, specifically within the context of transaction managers in South African investment banks. While existing studies have established the positive impact of transformational leadership on employee retention, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding its application to highly skilled professionals in the transaction management role within the South African investment banking sector. This study seeks to fill this void by examining the extent to which transformational leadership practices contribute to the retention of these specialised professionals. The study used a qualitative method, conducting semi-structured interviews with transaction managers from several banks. The qualitative Delve tool data analysis programme was employed to conduct an inductive investigation into the truth behind the four pillars of transformational leadership and its impact on the retention of transaction managers in Johannesburg banks' investment banking divisions. The following four pillars were also chosen as higher-order themes: (1) idealised influence, exemplified by a transformational leader serving as a role model; (2) inspirational motivation, reflecting a leader's ability to effectively communicate a compelling vision and motivate followers to align their goals with the company's; (3) intellectual stimulation, denoting a leader engaging followers' minds in challenging activities; and (4) individualised consideration, signifying a leader actively observing and addressing followers' expressed needs. Retention is a top priority for any organisation, with a well-designed plan aiming to reduce personnel turnover rates, resulting in lower expenses and higher revenue and profitability. Simultaneously, such an approach should improve employee morale and productivity. In light of the awareness that individuals often leave due to managers rather than the company itself, there is an increased focus on assessing the level of leadership within organisations. 3 This study seeks to enhance the current knowledge base by offering empirical evidence on how transformational leadership specifically affects the retention of highly skilled transaction managers in South African investment banks. The findings may offer valuable insights for organisational leaders, human resource practitioners, and policymakers in the financial sector, helping them tailor leadership practices to enhance employee retention in this specialised role.
Senior Managers’ perception of their role in facilitating digital transformation in the public sector – South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mosia, Emanuel Mmuelli; Craffert, Leona
Digital transformation is a new phenomenon in the public sector. Previous studies have also found that public sector is performing poorly compared to private sector in their endeavours to transform. The study was intended to establish how senior managers perceive their role in facilitating digital transformation of the Department, excluding the actual assessment of digital maturity. The study drew guidance from Unified Model of Digital Maturity and Dynamic Capabilities Framework which both demonstrate the role of senior managers in the rapid changing environment due to technological disruptions. The study used semi- structured interviews to collect data from the population of 386 senior managers, where 15 senior managers were interviewed either face-to-face or virtually. The study finds that senior managers understanding of their role in facilitating digital transformation is fair to average. Their understanding of digital transformation is a simple switch from paper to paperless. Additionally, silo approach was found to be one of the impeders of digital transformation in the Department. The Department should be developing digital transformation strategy to guide the senior managers, coalesce all the efforts and be intentional in investing in digital transformation of the Department.
The internal factors that influence incremental technological innovation in a South African organisation
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Gobind, Dhiyaksha; Magida, Ayanda
In today’s fast-changing digital world, technological innovation is necessary for organisations to ensure long-term sustainability and market success. In large, complex organisations, numerous factors influence the success or failure of innovation. These factors can be categorised as technological, organisational, and environmental. This study explored the internal factors that influence incremental technological innovation in an organisation. Organisation X forms part of a federated business model and, as a result, has a shared technology platform. The study applied qualitative research methods with an interpretive paradigm that helped to evaluate the human experience and the understanding they attach to it. A purposive sampling method was applied using the researcher’s professional network to interview 12 participants at various management levels in the organisation. While there was a predetermined interview guide, the instrument format offered flexibility to explore the topics. The primary data collection method was in the form of online interviews on a cloud-based collaboration software. The data was analysed using the thematic analysis approach, and the results highlighted an interplay of the themes as they were interdependent. After applying the factors explored by the study within the technological, organisational, and environmental contexts, the research findings revealed significant areas that required focus and optimisation. The results indicated that organisational culture, processes, and leadership styles significantly influence technological innovation. The research provides practical recommendations to solve for the gaps and inefficiencies revealed by the study. These valuable recommendations include setting up Centres of Excellence, defining Proof of Concept strategies and reconfiguring project teams working on the latest technology innovations
Leadership during Digital Transformation in the South African Banking Sector
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mahadeo, Zane Jonathan; Mazonde, Nomusa
This paper investigated the pivotal role of leadership in the context of digital transformation within the South African (SA) banking sector. The study delved into the various leadership styles, competencies, and practices adopted by banking leaders to propel digital transformation initiatives. As part of this research, qualitative research methods, were applied which included in-depth interviews with senior leaders in the SA banking sector. Through their perceptions and experiences the research sought to uncover critical leadership practices, including the identification of the most suitable leadership styles, the cultivation of a digital culture, and the implementation of effective change management strategies. Moreover, the paper aims to identify the current challenges faced by leaders in navigating the digital transformation landscape. This research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on leadership during digital transformation in the SA banking sector. It will also enable organisation to harness the full potential of digital advancements and implement competitive strategies to succeed in the ever-evolving banking industry
Exploring the mindsets and behaviours necessary for cultivating data-driven decision making within an organisation
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Jacobs, Jef Andreas; Ngubane, Samukelo; Wotela, Kambidima
The advancement of data storage and processing technologies and the exponential growth in data generated by online activity and smart devices has stimulated a desire by organisations to be more data-driven in their decision making. Adopting a data-driven approach to decision making is associated with improved organisation performance and innovation. However, most organisations are struggling to realise these benefits because crafting clear data use strategies and cultivating a culture of data-driven decision making appears to be more challenging than investing in relevant technologies or implementing organisational processes. Given this situation, the purpose of this study is to investigate the mindsets and associated behaviours of leaders and their teams who are successfully leveraging data to improve market competitiveness or impact. Using a qualitative research strategy and semi-structured interview processes with six experienced professionals, this research paper identifies six mindsets and associated behaviours that senior decision makers should adopt to help overcome the common people related challenges that hinder effective data-driven decision making in organisations. Prime examples include senior leaders as data advocates who communicate and reflect of data-driven decisions and leaders who encourage quick experimentation with an openness to failure. Based on these findings the study recommends that senior decision makers, working in organisations that have invested in data related technologies and skills, acknowledge that their attitudes and behaviours have a direct impact on how successful any data strategy and investment will be. These influential leaders or managers need to understand and believe in the data- driven decision making process and they need to ensure the implementation of key activities that ensure informed actions are eventually taken on the back of data collected. Research in this field mostly predominantly discusses issues related to numerical techniques, technological innovations and studies around impact. This study contributesto the current body of knowledge by investigating leadership and managerial aspects of data use or Big Data in organisational decision making
Transformational leadership and employee engagement at CHAL hospitals in Lesotho
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Doti, Mmello; Wotela, Kambidima; Malatji, Hlologelo
Purpose: This study aimed at improving services at CHAL health facilities and to add to the studies that were conducted previously on the impact of transformational leadership on employee engagement. The impact was investigated through attempting to find relationships between key aspects of transformational leadership, employee engagement and productivity. The aim was to continuously explore ways to enhance profitability and efficient ways of delivering meaningful services for CHAL Health facilities. Research Design, methodology & approach: The study was done from data collected from the employees of two CHAL Hospital. A quantitative study was conducted using the following measures: Cronbach Alpha coefficient for reliability and Correlation Matrix to measure the correlations between variables under transformational leadership and employee engagement domains. Findings and recommendations: The main finding of the study was that transformational leadership has positive relationship with employee engagement. It was also established that employee engagement is a perfect strategy to enhance organisational performance, competitiveness and efficiency. Future recommendation was to acquire leadership skills for all levels of management and establish a goal oriented organisational culture for improving employee engagement
Internal audit mechanism enabling Lesotho revenue authority leadership to achieve corporate goals
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Mothebe, Lekata; Wotela, Kmbidima; Gobind, Jenika
Purpose: The main purpose of the study is to examine how internal audit contributes to the achievement of corporate goals or objectives. The extent to which internal audit is independent is likely to determine the objectivity and quality of the audit reports this function issues. The research further investigates the relationship between internal audit and the leadership of the organisation. Methodology: The researcher used qualitative methodology to conduct this explanatory research. Semi-structured questions were developed, and interviews held with purposively selected participants to understand their views regarding the internal audit. Qualitative methodology does not require too many participants to make findings and conclusions, and therefore a sample of 15 people was selected for the interviews. However, only 12 participated. Findings: Internal audit is a tool or mechanism that leadership uses to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of processes across all departments. The work of the internal audit function becomes more valuable when it is engaged as strategic partner of the organisation. Presence of reliable risk management processes, strong control environment and good governance is a result of effective leadership.

4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions

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