4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions
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Item On The Nature and Rationality of Desire(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2018) Mtshali, Khondlo; Leon, MarkItem Composing Augmented Spaces(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Ferreira, Jaco Louwrens; Harris, Cameron; Crossley, JonathanThis dissertation explores the notion of place as sensed, conveyed and created through soundscape composition. This is done by looking at works in the genre of soundscape composition and a concert presentation that took place in the Great Hall at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Spatiality in electroacoustic music is explored in relation to theories centred around the notion of place and practically applied to my concert presentation of Sound Spaces. Different forms of spatiality are explored from a compositional perspective with considerations for the listening space, the space created and occupied by the music itself and the methods of diffusion that allows for an augmentation of space. Sound Spaces forms the basis of my investigation of how spatiality in electroacoustic music and soundscape composition can be used to engage with the notion of place as created through the musical experience and illustrates how the notion of place can be incorporated as an active compositional domain in soundscape composition and electroacoustic music.Item The Sinners' Bench(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021) Bodenstein, Maren Irmela JohannaThe Sinners’ Bench’ is a memoir which follows the writer’s trawling through family archives, to discover answers to a secret which was revealed to her only a few weeks before her mother’s death. Namely, that her mother had had a love affair, and that her fourth child had been the fruit of this relationship. What particularly shocked the writer was that, as punishment, her mother, together with her four small children, had been made to sit on the church’s Sinners’ Bench. All this took place in Hermannsburg in Kwa Zulu Natal, where the family was living and where she herself grew up. To investigate this event, the writer explores the history of this tiny German-speaking village which was established by the Hermannsburg Missionary Society in 1884. By delving into letters and other documents, ‘The Sinners’ Bench’ looks at the German Lutheran diaspora in South Africa, its cultural and theological underpinnings, and its relationship to Nazism and to Apartheid. While the writer gains some insights into her parents’ complex interactions with their historical and cultural context, ultimately she fails to uncover the mysteries of their relationship to each other and to her mother’s loverItem Investigating the adoption and usage of the social relief of distress (SRD) grant: a case study of the orange farm community(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mbiti, Mary; Chikane, RekgotsofetseThe aim of the study was to understand the adoption rate of the SRD grant received by members of Orange Farm. Several studies about the effectiveness of some of the pre-SRD social protection grants were published (Gutura & Tanga, 2017; Waidler & Devereux, 2019). Such studies are important as they provide an idea of the usefulness of pre-existing grants to beneficiaries, which can be compared to the SRD grant. The research gap on the users’ end of the new R 350 SRD grant particularly in targeted poor communities like Orange Farm, has huge negative impacts on the government's policies regarding vulnerable groups and the social protection programmes meant to ameliorate their sufferings. This study adopted the Human Rights Framework for social protection. This study used a qualitative exploratory case study approach. The study was conducted in the Orange Farm community. Furthermore, the study used a purposive sampling method to collect data from the primary source. The primary source of data was in the form of semi-structured interviews. This study found that the 350 grant beneficiaries in Orange Farm have faced challenges with this grant, but they favour the grant to be further extended and increased as it has helped them. The beneficiaries mostly use their grant on basic needs like food and toiletries. The participants expressed that they really needed food parcels, but they were deprived of getting them. Participants also revealed that they need jobs and are interested in starting businesses, but the main problem is access to fundingItem The role of the Kgetlengrivier Citizens Group on the administration of water services(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Eckard, Lourensa; Pillay, PundyItem Influence of polyploidy on morphology, genetic differentiation and reproductive strategy amongst varieties of Rhodohypoxis baurii (Hypoxidaceae)(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Ferreira, Bianca Tasha; Goodman-Cron, Glynis V.; Glennon, Kelsey L.Evolutionary mechanisms, such polyploidy (increase in chromosome sets), alters plant morphology, gene flow and reproductive strategies, which can facilitate the generation or loss of species. Rhodohypoxis L. (Hypoxidaceae) is a small near-endemic Drakensberg genus comprising six species, one of which is Rhodohypoxis baurii. Rhodohypoxis baurii contains three morphologically distinct varieties, with varying ploidy-levels: R. baurii var. baurii (2×, 4×), R. baurii var. platypetala (2× 3× , 4×), and R. baurii var. confecta (2×). Therefore, R. baurii is an ideal system to evaluate whether polyploidy leads to lineage divergence or homogenization and contributes to biodiversity in this lineage. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of ploidy on morphology, genetic differentiation and reproductive strategy among varieties of Rhodohypoxis baurii (Hypoxidaceae), as well as to better recognise the three varieties. Thirty vegetative, floral, and reproductive traits were measured across 124 herbarium specimens and 43 individuals housed in the greenhouse. A matrix containing 20 quantitative and 12 qualitative characters was constructed and a Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) and Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling analysis (NMDS) were conducted. Important distinguishing morphological features that had a high eigenvalue (shown via a PCA) were selected for direct comparison using box and whisker box plots to compare means ± standard errors (SE). Certain morphological traits such as anther length, peduncle length and tepal sizes differed significantly among the varieties and ploidy levels, with polyploid individuals exhibiting the gigas effect. This was especially evident in R. baurii var. platypetala, which contained many polyploid individuals and exhibited larger flowers (longer and wider tepals) and larger anthers compared to other varieties. Rhodohypoxis baurii var. confecta and R. baurii var. platypetala are genetically, geographically and morphologically similar, differing only in flower colour, flower size and peduncle length. However, most of these differences can be attributed to differences in ploidy and /or altitude with R. baurii var. confecta occurring at higher altitudes and R. baurii var. platypetala containing multiple ploidy-levels. It is therefore evident that ecological differences and polyploidy have shaped the morphological differences in these two taxa. In addition, R. baurii var. baurii populations in the 7 Eastern Cape Drakensberg were morphologically, geographically and genetically distinct from all other populations and varieties, and may be a new/ undescribed taxon; however, this warrants further investigation. Out of 231 experimental crosses, 113 intra-varietal and inter-varietal crosses produced seeds. Rhodohypoxis baurii polyploid individuals show a shift away from sexual reproduction to asexual reproduction as they all showed higher rates of clonal reproduction than the diploid individuals. Moreover, crosses between polyploids yielded lower seed sets and lower germination rates than diploid-diploid crosses. Genetic differentiation and gene flow were quantified for 280 individuals among the varieties and ploidy-levels across 11 populations using 12 microsatellite markers labelled with the FAM NED dyes. Leaf material was collected from 237 individuals of Rhodohypoxis baurii (R. baurii var. confecta n = 88, R. baurii var. baurii n = 87, R. baurii var. platypetala n = 62) and flow cytometry conducted to estimate ploidy. A latitudinal ploidy gradient was evident across sampled populations that corresponds with shifts in reproductive strategy, and changes in the extent of gene flow. Population genetic structure coincided primarily with geographic localities, with diploid Northern Drakensberg populations having similar allelic diversity to one another. The Central and Southern Drakensberg mixed ploidy populations also showed similar allelic diversity but differed from the tetraploid Eastern Cape Drakensberg populations. Furthermore, gene flow was higher between geographically close populations irrespective of ploidy-level, with geographically isolated regions (such as the Eastern Cape Drakensberg) and outlying populations (i.e. Karkloof) showing unique genotypes, indicating little gene flow and allele sharing. Consequently, shifts in reproductive strategy and geographic isolation are likely changing gene flow patterns among varieties and ploidy levels which appears to be facilitating both lineage diversification and homogenization in this speciesItem Perspectives on data sharing by Southern African horticultural farmers(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Bailie, Kathleen AnnThis study examines the perceptions of data sharing among Southern African horticultural farmers utilising a Digital Agricultural Application (DAA). Employing a quantitative methodology, the study collected insights from farmers and agronomists, exploring the roles of digital trust, perceived risks, and perceived benefits in influencing their decisions to share farm data. The findings indicated that, contrary to expectations, perceived risks and digital trust had a lesser impact on data sharing decisions, whereas perceived benefits significantly motivated farmers to share data. Factor and regression analyses challenged the initial assumptions, highlighting the complexity inherent in the decision-making processes of farmers. The research thus suggests that enhancing perceived benefits could be more effective in promoting data sharing than mitigating perceived risks. ii The study's results have been contextualised within the broader academic discourse, explaining deviations from, and nuances of, established research. It discussed the implications of these findings for developers of DAA and agribusiness stakeholders, aiming to enhance technology adoption within agriculture. By integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications, such as incorporating community feedback mechanisms like testimonial systems and discussion forums into DAA, visibility of benefits was enhanced and trust was established, thereby encouraging adoption through positive peer influence. This analysis sheds light on the factors influencing data sharing among Southern African horticultural farmers and informs future technology and policy efforts to strengthen the digital agricultural ecosystemItem The perceived impact of stuttering on career advancement and prejudice following disclosure in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Rakumako, Patience Lerato; Matshabaphala, JohnnyThis research examined the influence of stuttering on career advancement given the discrimination people who stutter encounter after disclosure in South Africa. Focused on the professional obstacles encountered by people who stutter (PWS), the study explores their inclination towards careers involving limited public speaking. Addressing gaps in existing literature, it contributes by examining the impact of disclosure and determining equal opportunities for individuals with and without speech impairments.Authors of previous research have highlighted the importance of categorizing stuttering as a disability.To fulfill the research objectives, a qualitative research design was used, specifically incorporating the use of interviews. The study involved conducting interviews with six individuals who have a history of stuttering and are employed in South Africa. The interviews explored the participants' experiences, perceptions, and challenges related to stuttering and its impact on career advancement. The interviews were conducted virtually, recorded in audio format, and transcribed for analysis. The study revealed the multifaceted impact of stuttering on career advancement emphasizing the profound awareness of the condition rooted in childhood experiences and associating it with nervousness or pressure. Career challenges varied, with some facing obstacles in interviews, while others asserted that stuttering did not impede their professional growth. Post-disclosure, the majority reported a supportive workplace atmosphere,with rare instances of bias.This research supports business practices by raising awareness of the challenges PWS face in the workplace and advocating for inclusive policies, equal opportunities,and supportive environmentsItem Exploring the CSR Leadership Competencies that contribute to successful sustainable development in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Oliphant, Chanell; Mogotsi, KeratiloeCorporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from ad-hoc giving towardsstrategic sustainable focus projects, with many organisations creating departmentsor CSR-focused positions. However, critiques abound regarding the sustainabilityof CSR projects aimed at social change and uplifting, and industry thought leadersacknowledge a skills shortage or deficit in South Africa. For sustainable CSR, it isnecessary to understand the competencies required by CSR professionals and howthe competencies contribute towards sustainable CSR. Thus, the study exploredwhat functional, social, and cognitive, competencies CSR professionals need tomanage and execute CSR initiatives for practical, sustainable development throughCSR, applying the holistic managerial competency model. Data was collectedthrough semi-structured face-to-face interviews, with 18 CSR professionals. Thestudy found that, in practice, CSR professionals employ various competenciesintegratively. Social competency elements that understand the context to navigatesocial dynamics and positively impact collaboration and cognitive competencieselements that support a development mindset in CSR are needed. Functionalcompetency elements enable managing projects, which supports the successfulexecution of projects and identifying value-creation opportunities for greater impact.Meta-competencies, like motivation, reflection, and perseverance, facilitate theapplication of these competency elements. The study found that collaborationcompetency was a common thread across competencies. The findings of this studyhave implications for organisations with CSR functions and CSR professionals. Itprovides a repository for CSR professionals of the competencies they already haveand need to develop. In addition, organisations can use the identified competencieswhen hiring and developing CSR professionals. The study recommends that ifsustainability is the focus of organisations, organisations in South Africa must drawtheir attention to intensifying collaboration efforts with a strategic developmentmindset for sustainable CSRItem Trans-crustal and temporal perspectives of Palaeoproterozoic porphyry copper deposit formation (Haib deposit, Namibia)(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Jogee, Bibi AyeshaPorphyryِcopperِdepositsِareِtheِworld’sِprimaryِsourceِofِcopperِwhichِisِanِessentialِcriticalِ metal in the green energy sector. These deposits are most often temporally found within the Phanerozoic Eon and occur principally at convergent plate boundaries. The Haib porphyry copper deposit is a rare example of a Palaeoproterozoic porphyry copper deposit. The Haib porphyry copper deposit is hosted by the rock types of the Richtersveld Subprovince. The Richtersveld Subprovince consists of an older volcano-sedimentary sequence, the Orange River Group (ORG), which was intruded by an extensive composite cogenetic suite of plutonic rocks, the Vioolsdrif Intrusive Suite (VIS). The Vioolsdrif Intrusive Suite is subdivided into several subunits, known as the Vuurdood Subsuite (mafic-ultramafic), Gaobis Diorite, Khoromus porphyry, Goodhouse Subsuite (Granodiorite) and the Ramansdrif Alkali Granite. These subsuites are variably composed of diorites, granodiorites, monzogranites, quartz- feldspar porphyry granodiorites and leucogranites as well as poorly-described clinopyroxenites and gabbros (named the Kokerboom Intrusion in this study). The age-range for the Richtersveld Subprovince is between approximately 1910 and 1865 Ma. The mineralization occurs as disseminations, blebs and veins in the feldspar porphyry andesites and quartz-feldspar porphyry granodiorites. The age of mineralization is bracketed at 1884ِ ±ِ 2ِMa. The Haib porphyry copper deposit is in close vicinity to clinopyroxene and amphibole-rich cumulates, which host novel sulphide mineralization, and present lines of evidence suggesting these are the deeper parts of the porphyry copper system. The mineralization is characterized into two main phases based on drill-core sample descriptions, petrographic observations, mineral liberation maps and isotopic analyses. Previous studies show that garnet and/or amphibole fractionation is related to the petrogenesis of porphyry copper deposits. The Haib porphyry copper deposit shows evidence for amphibole fractionation as opposed to garnet fractionation, which is supported by petrological and geochemical observations in this study. The Haib porphyry copper deposit also has limited ranges in δ65Cuِ andِ δ 56Fe signatures supporting exposure at deeper crustal levels of an arc system. Typical cumulates from deep crustal arc sections (arclogites) are coarse-grained, show cumulate textures and are composed of garnet-clinopyroxene-amphibole-iron-titanium oxides and in some cases plagioclase. The mafic-ultramafic cumulates such as the clinopyroxenites observed in the Kokerboom Intrusion, in close proximity to the Haib porphyry copper deposit, are coarse-grained, are composed of clinopyroxene-amphibole-iron-titanium oxides and consist of non-cotectic proportion of mineral phases. They also comprise a high modal abundance of pyroxene (>70 %) and show distinct cumulate textures. This study has demonstrated that the clinopyroxene and amphibole-rich cumulates which belong to the ultramafic end member of the Kokerboom Intrusion form part of the Vuurdood Subsuite. This conclusion was made through the analysis of lithological characteristics, mineral and alteration assemblages, major and trace element geochemistry and U-Pb age data. Various lines of evidence from this study indicate that the Haib porphyry copper deposit represents the deeper levels of the porphyry system. These lines of evidence include the lack of shallow alteration assemblages (propylitic and argillic alteration), the presence of early dark micaceous veins, the coarse-grained nature of the Vioolsdrif Intrusive Suite (clinopyroxenites, granodiorites, diorites, gabbros), which is indicative of slow cooling at mid-crustal batholith depths, and the presence of clinopyroxene and amphibole rich cumulates of the Kokerboom Intrusion. The clinopyroxenites are mafic, dense, and usually occur at mid- to lower-crustal levels. Geothermobarometry conducted on rocks of the Vioolsdrif Intrusive Suite yield anapproximate depth of crystallization between ~4-12 km which forms part of the mid-crustal levels of an arc system.