4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions
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Item Social workers’ experiences of providing psychosocial support to learners in foster care in Merafong city, Gauteng during the covid-19 pandemic(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Balopedi, Karabo MphoThe South African government attempted to curb a second wave of COVID-19 by banning activities individuals used as their coping mechanisms during the peak of the pandemic. This created a period of heightened stress which resulted in the increase in need for psychosocial services. Social workers within the Department of Social Development, were part of the individuals tasked with rendering psychosocial services. The aim of the study was to explore social workers’ experiences of providing psychosocial support to learners in foster care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Merafong City, Gauteng. It was a qualitative study, that was exploratory in nature following an instrumental case study design. The ecological perspective guided the study. The method of data collection was semi-structured interviews using a semi- structured interview guide as the research tool. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the 10 social workers who meet the inclusion criteria. The collected data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that there was lack of resources and no preparation or training to deal with the pandemic. There was also a fear of the virus being spread by social workers amongst themselves and to clients. The study also revealed that social workers needed to find alternative ways to provide services by being flexible, creative and adaptable to the new normal. The findings contribute to the South African knowledge base about the psychosocial support needs of social workers who render psychosocial services within traumatic circumstances like a pandemic. The identified gaps provide research opportunities for government and academics.Item The Perception of Bookkeepers on the Adoption of robotic process automation in the automotive industry in Gauteng(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Dlamini, Nozipho; Robert, VenterBackground: The automotive industry in Gauteng, South Africa, stands at the cusp of transformative technological integration, with Robotic Process Automation (RPA) emerging as a key driver of efficiency and innovation. However, the successful adoption of RPA hinges not only on technological prowess but also on the perceptions and attitudes of the Bookkeepers tasked with its implementation and utilization. Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of Robotic Process Automation on bookkeeping staff in Gauteng's automotive industry. By understanding their perspectives, this study aims to investigate the effects of Robotic Process Automation on bookkeeping staff in Gauteng's automotive industry. Method: In the study, a qualitative method approach was employed to comprehensively capture employee perceptions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders across the finance and controlling domains within an automotive company. Data analysis involved thematic coding of interview transcripts and statistical analysis of survey responses to uncover patterns, themes, and correlations. Results: Preliminary findings suggest a diverse range of attitudes towards RPA adoption among Bookkeepers in the Gauteng automotive industry. While some express enthusiasm for the potential efficiency gains and reduced mundane tasks, others harbor concerns regarding job displacement and skill obsolescence. Additionally, organizational culture, leadership support, and communication emerge as critical factors shaping employee perceptions and readiness for RPA implementation. The synthesis of qualitative data provides a rich understanding of the complex interplay between individual attitudes, organizational dynamics, and technological integration in the automotive sector.Item Internal crisis communication strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Gauteng Provincial Treasury department(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Khumalo, Sindisiwe; Malindini, KholiswaNever has there been a greater demand for internal communication than under COVID-19. It has spread uncertainty within organizations, reduced trust, and had a massive impact on individuals. This research examined the internal crisis communication strategies in the Gauteng Provincial Treasury (GPT) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, looking at identifying internal crisis communication strategies implemented by the Gauteng Provincial Treasury in response to the pandemic, how employees perceive existing strategies, and their preferred communication strategies during a crisis. The study employed an exploratory qualitative research methodology. To gain detailed insight into the internal crisis communication of the Gauteng Provincial Treasury, the researcher used semi-structured face-to-face interviews as a research instrument. First, the researcher interviewed a GPT communication manager to gain information on the internal crisis communication strategies utilized by the Department during the pandemic. The second set of interviews consisted of 12 employees of the GPT to examine their perceptions of the internal crisis communication strategies utilized by the Department and their views on how they would like to be communicated during a crisis (COVID-19 pandemic). The results revealed that the Gauteng Provincial Treasury implemented the Transparency strategy by providing employees with information about what had occurred and the steps taken; the department intended to lower the uncertainty brought on by the crisis and subsequently foster a sense of security among employees. However, failing to provide timely and consistent communication during the crisis negatively influenced employees’ perception of that communicationItem Corruption and the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises in Gauteng(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Chetty, Melanie; Venter, RobIn most countries SMEs are vital to economic advancement and sustainability of small businesses are critical to a nation`s socioeconomic stability; otherwise, the country faces stagnation in its economy. Corruption is a global challenge which threatens sustainable economic development and adherence to good governance creates an environment where corruption struggle to flourish. this study examine the impact of corruption on SMEs in Gauteng using a quantitative research methodology whereby 77 respondent were located in Gauteng.Item Antibacterial stewardship practices in South Africa during the COVID-19 era: A retrospective review(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Spinickum, Logan Jade; Leigh-de Rapper, StephanieBackground: Several mechanisms may facilitate and steer the development of antibiotic resistance patterns. The most prominent driver associated with antibiotic resistance has been indicated as inappropriate use or consumption of antibiotics. The sudden emergence of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-2019) changed the conventional practices related to drug utilisation through the repurposing of antibiotics. Despite the implementation of antibiotic stewardship programs, the pressure that COVID-19 placed on healthcare systems resulted in poor prescribing and antibiotic review practices, potentially exacerbating antibiotic resistance. Moreover, the public health sector faces various challenges that make it difficult to consistently assess and quantify antibiotic usage; while providing quality review, feedback, and intervention, especially in low- and-middle-income countries like South Africa. As a result, there is a paucity of information concerning antibiotic utilisation in the public healthcare sector, even following the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is essential to determine the extent of antibiotic use to improve antibiotic utilisation, patient outcomes and stimulate viable policies and initiatives to strengthen public healthcare drug surveillance amidst the challenges of increased infectious diseases, resistance, and health personnel shortages. Aim of study: The aims of the study were to determine, analyse and compare antibiotic consumption amongst intensive care unit (ICU) patients admitted in a Gauteng public hospital during the pre-COVID-19 era and commencement of the COVID-19 era. Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional data analysis of 335 medical files of ICU patients hospitalised in a Gauteng Provincial Tertiary Hospital (GPTH) between January 2017 and December 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to examine patient characteristics and antibiotic prescribing variables. Results: The study found that the more frequently prescribed antibiotics were amoxicillin/clavulanate (pre-pandemic = 31.99%; COVID-19 = 38.43%), followed by ceftriaxone (pre-pandemic = 15.44%; COVID-19 = 14.55%), piperacillin/tazobactam (pre-pandemic = 11.40%; COVID- 19 = 8.58%) and azithromycin (pre-pandemic = 7.73%; COVID-19 = 19.78%). Common bacterial pathogens detected in both periods included Acinetobacter baumannii (pre-pandemic = 29.2%; COVID-19 = 20.9%), Enterobacter cloacae (pre-pandemic = 10.4%;COVID-19 = 14.0%), Escherichia coli (pre-pandemic = 22.9%; COVID-19 = 25.6%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (pre-pandemic = 25.0%; COVID-19 = 18.6%). Resistance was predominantly observed in ciprofloxacin (pre-pandemic = 11.4%; COVID-19 = 12.9%), piperacillin/tazobactam (pre-pandemic = 12.7%; COVID-19 = 0.1%), cefotaxime (pre-pandemic = 13.2%; COVID-19 = 14.7%), and cefepime (pre-pandemic = 12.7%; COVID-19 = 11.2). Resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics observed a decrease trend moving from the pre-pandemic period into the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: The macrolide and penicillin (in combination with beta-lactamase inhibitor(s)), classes demonstrated an increase in prescribing and use across the pre-pandemic period transitioning into the COVID-19 pandemic. While overall resistance observed a decline moving into the COVID-19 pandemic. However, “Watch” category antibiotic resistance increased slightly. An increase in prescribing and use of macrolides coupled with an increase in “Watch” category antibiotic resistance, highlights the need for improved antibiotic stewardship programs in public healthcare and pathogen-directed prescribing, to combat inappropriate and unnecessary use of antibiotics.Item Healthcare professionals’ experiences in private practice of point-of-care testing for diabetic patients in Gauteng(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Ghirdari, Sumesh; Zhuwao, PatrikThis research reports experiences from healthcare professionals (HCPs) on point-of-care (POC) testing, for diabetic patients in private practice, at primary healthcare level in Gauteng, South Africa. While there are many benefits to POC testing in an emergency setting, it might not provide the same benefits at a primary care level. Studies have produced mixed results over many years in terms of cost-effectiveness and health outcomes in a primary care setting. Despite mixed conclusions as to whether POC testing is beneficial at a primary care level, some practitioners still utilise POC devices. POC testing at a primary care level has many potential benefits. This research reports insights through a qualitative study based on a phenomenological research design, from healthcare professionals (HCPs) that are currently using or have used POC devices in their private practice. The study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. The research highlighted the need for new business models, which may further emphasize the benefits of POC. The main themes uncovered were improved patient outcomes, reduced decision time, compliance, HCP satisfaction and practice efficiency. The research concluded that HCPs were experiencing various benefits from using POC testing. Moreover, it uncovered some benefits that were not highlighted in literature review, such as the reduced risk of contracting COVID-19 and the role of POC in a care-coordinated model. While POC testing has been in existence for many years, much more research needs to be done in private practice in GautengItem The lived experiences of caregivers: psychological and social implications of caring for patients with Bipolar Disorder(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-05) Nicolau, Mikaela Diane; Kasese-Hara, MambweDue to the nature of the illness, bipolar disorder (BD) has detrimental effects on the diagnosed patients as well as their caregivers (Hajda et al., 2016). Vast amounts of research have been published on the impact and implications experienced by caregivers of mentally ill patients however, a majority of research assessing the psychological and socio-economic status of the caregivers has been quantitative in nature (Sharif et al., 2020). This study sought to understand the psychological and social implications of caring for a patient with BD, with a specific focus on caregivers in the Gauteng region. The middle-class was chosen as Ayalew et al. (2019) found that the higher the caregiver’s income, the fewer implications they experienced as a caregiver. A phenomenological framework was used to conduct this study. The qualitative method of data collection was face-to-face, in-depth interviews with six participants (two males, four females), who were selected using purposive sampling. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the data analysed by means of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. For the caregivers in the current study, managing the patient’s unpredictable behaviour and dealing with the varying symptoms of the disorder presented a challenge. They described the caregiving role as an emotional rollercoaster, signifying the chaotic, up-and-down nature of the disorder. Being a mother-caregiver led to shared experiences among the caregivers, with similar implications being expressed. Being a wife, however, presented significantly greater caregiver implications. The male caregivers have adapted to their roles better than the females. The theme of financial implications was interesting in this study, as these implications varied among the respondents. The researcher found it interesting that five of the participants spoke about neglecting their needs without any probing, yet they also acknowledged the importance of self-care and being aware of their mental state. The participants in this study expressed the need for support groups, which are lacking in the country. Whilst the findings of this study were in line with much published research, the researcher notes that there is a scarcity of literature covering some of the themes and subthemes presented, and therefore further research should be conducted.Item Socio-economic Perspectives in the Redevelopment of Hostels in South Africa: A Case of Wolhuter Hostel, Jeppestown(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020-11) Madonsela, Thando Kwenza; Sihlongonyane, MfaniseniHostels in the South Africa context are synonymous with the migrant labour system. The dominant feature of these pre-democratic hostels is that they catered for single-sex employees as opposed to worker families. This contributed to the destruction of the social fabric in terms of culture, traditions, and the destruction of the black families at large. In post-democratic South Africa, Hostel accommodation continues to paint a grim picture within our human settlement’s spaces. Socio-economic difficulties manifest themselves in mostly inadequate living conditions or poor housing circumstances that are largely conditioned by the unequal and distorted access to opportunities. To this day, most hostels that are not yet redeveloped or refurbished continue to present images of dirty menacing buildings associated with a public stigma of notoriety. This research study explores socio-economic perspectives in the redevelopment of hostels in South Africa. The study will consist of an interface between theoretical foundations, and empirical evidence. This research, data collection was sourced both from primary and secondary sources. Qualitative investigative methods were used to get an in-depth understanding of the subject. The research follows a case-study approach, that of Wolhuter Hostel, Jeppestown in Gauteng and undertook interviews of sixteen hostel dwellers plus a fucus group discussion. The study makes recommendations on policy reforms such introducing more responsive programmes in human settlements. It is also aimed at introducing an improved approach to the planning and redevelopment of the hostels by strengthening neighbourhood and precinct planning. The study contributes to the understanding and insight on hostels and their redevelopment and considering socio-economic perspectives in human settlements planning and development.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 Exploring entrepreneurship education in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) for self- employment: a case study of interns in Gauteng(2021) Ditlopo, Elizabeth JanetThis study focused on exploring the extent to which TVET Colleges’ entrepreneurship education programme prepares students for self- employment. The main aim of the study was to understand, in detail, the experiences of interns’ learning of the entrepreneurship education programme at given TVET Colleges in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. The specific questions that the study sought to answer were: what the experiences of interns from the two TVET Colleges are, in terms of how entrepreneurship education prepares them for setting up new businesses; what the important course components in the entrepreneurship programme are; what the challenges confronting interns in relation to their study of entrepreneurship education are; and what the strategies of improving entrepreneurship education programmes at TVET Colleges in South Africa, to boost self-employment, are. This study employed a qualitative approach using a case study method. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview technique. Participants were recruited using a non-probability sampling method known as purposive sampling. A total of 12 participants were recruited and they consented to participate in the study. The participants included 12 interns at two selected TVET Colleges in Gauteng, South Africa, studying the N6 NATED entrepreneurship education programme. All interviews were conducted in private rooms at the selected TVET Colleges following successful appointments with participants and their institutions. All interviews were audio-recorded, and the researcher drafted detailed field notes following each interview. Audiofiles were transcribed by the researcher, and transcripts were read and re-read to identify common patterns and emerging themes in relation to meanings as well as understandings in relation to the study of entrepreneurship education programme at TVET Colleges as provided by study participants. Data were analysed using a thematic content analysis method. Verbatim quotations were used to illuminate the key themes. The findings of this study suggested that interns’ experiences in relation to studying entrepreneurship education begins with an entrepreneurial intention and builds up to the acquiring of a knowledge base as well as relevant skills for eventually becoming business owners. Further, the study found that the teaching of entrepreneurship education at the specific TVET Colleges had vi a positive impact on its students. The study also revealed that there are important course components of the entrepreneurship programme – Financial Accounting; Business Management; Computer Literacy – which provide students with the relevant skills required to start and manage their own businesses in this highly technological era. Factors such as a lack of sufficient funding and government support for TVET Colleges, as well as the difficulty in understanding some course components of the entrepreneurship education programme, especially for science-oriented students, serve as barriers in achieving the objective of becoming self-employed in Gauteng, South Africa. Additionally, the study found there are ways to improve the entrepreneurship education programme at TVET Colleges including the adequate provision of funding as well as support from the government for the TVET Colleges; and the introduction of effective mentorship programmes for students and interns studying the entrepreneurship programme. In conclusion, this study argues that, in order to understand the experiences of interns studying the entrepreneurship education programme at TVET Colleges, which will bring about selfemployment within Gauteng, South Africa, the entrepreneurial approach and contextually-based factors need to be duly considered. The study suggests that there is a positive impact of studying the entrepreneurship education programme, especially in light of the need for self-employment in South Africa; however, issues varying from insufficient funding and government support, to difficulty in understanding required course components, need to be put in perspective. More so, the study suggests that there is need to focus on learning re-orientation, especially for sciencebased students, to ensure effective understanding of the relevant knowledge and skills for becoming self-employed.