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- ItemA communications profile of a large sugar factory in Northern Natal(1988) Gasa, Nhlanhla A.; Zondi, S.J.A critical study of the communication problems at Mill F originated with the concern expressed by top management of the T-H company. These problems could be viewed against the rapid changes in the socio-political environment. The continual socio-political/ economic and technological changes result in a continual change in expectations and aspirations at certain levels of the work force. The lack of open sharing of the respective perceptions of Management and the workforce create a wide cleavage between the two groups leading to strained interpersonal and inter-group communications relationships in the workplace. The realisation of organisational goals and objectives becomes difficult to achieve in an environment characterised by diverse perceptions and attitudes. As the management/ worker relations become weaker, the union/worker relations become stronger. This situation is by no means unique in South Africa. A comparative study of the South African and Australian industrial relations systems had a remarkable thing in common - socio-political issues cannot be "divorced" from the workplace. The industrial relations systems and practices need to be understood within the framework of respective histories/ as well as economic, socio-political and legal systems of different countries. The Australian multiracial/ multilinguistic and multicultural society had one noticeable exception from its South African counterpart. The human relations climate on the shopfloor is relatively tension-free. The research findings are based on a stratified sample of 387 respondents from managerial/ supervisory and non-supervisory levels who participated in the research interviews out of a total of 526 employees. The communication structures/ processes and relationships were perceived by all levels of employees to be ineffective/ albeit for different reasons. Other non-communication related issues were raised which indicated that communication cannot be looked at in isolation. It was concluded that not only were the communication structures ineffective/ but also, the communication climate was tense due to perceived lack of trust and sincerity at various levels. Guidelines were suggested for improving communication. A holistic communication strategy which will be part of the manpower policy was developed with the management team in order for them to have 'ownership' of the document. Recommendations for future research that cover the broader human relations aspects were put forward.
- ItemAn investigation of the effect of labour law concessions on stakeholders in Kenyan Garment export processing Zones(2004) Kariuki, Simon Mwangi; Smith, N.J.At the moment Kenya is experiencing high unemployment rates, over-reliance on unprocessed commodity exports, few foreign direct investment inflows and low technological capacities. The establishment of Export Processing Zones (EPZs) has been seen as a way of helping the country overcome some of these challenges. However, the incentives that have accompanied the EPZ scheme, particularly the ceding of labour legislation by the Kenya government to EPZ investors, has created EPZ employer-employee labour relations hostilities (a labour relations gap). The purpose of this study was to establish the state of employer-employee labour relations in Kenyan garment EPZs. This was done by establishing the factors that influence the perceptions of EPZ workers towards the state of their working conditions. This study further explored the effect of labour law exemptions on EPZ investors, their employees and the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA). It further explored the effectiveness of existing communication and dispute settlement structures in the EPZ workplace. The survey method was largely used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. The respondents of the survey included EPZ employers, their employees and the EPZA. Three sets of questionnaires were used to collect data. One questionnaire was distributed to EPZ employers; the second to EPZ employees and the third was distributed to the EPZA. The collected data was then analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) program. The study found that the factors that significantly affected Kenyan EPZ employers and their employees* attitudes towards the state of their working conditions were*, age, gender, marital status, employment status, work section, leadership position in a company, salary scale and the location of an EPZ company in a public or private zone. The study also found that employment discrimination and the state of the working relationships in Kenyan garment EPZs had big employer-employee labour relations* gaps. Besides, the working facilities in Kenyan EPZs were relatively of high quality. The EPZ employer-employee training gap was found not to be large, while the employer-employee remuneration and interpersonal relationship gaps were found to be slightly above the acceptable levels. In addition, the study also found that employee strikes and negative publicity were the main problems EPZ investors encountered for being exempted from the minimum wage act and the factories act. Unions, politicians and Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) were the major groups/organizations that censured EPZ operators for being exempted from labour laws. The closer EPZ investors are located to each other, the more they influenced each other's employer-employee labour relations. The findings of the study also revealed that EPZ employees found unions, the EPZA and codes of conduct as ineffective employer-employee regulatory instruments, although some employers found these three regulatory instruments to be effective. Apart from the existing EPZ employer-employee regulatory structures the three groups also consulted the ministry of labour, when they found it difficult to resolve employer-employee working conditions' related problems amongst themselves in the zones. Furthermore, the findings established that the majority of employee-employer communication in the zones revolves around wages. The majority of the EPZ employees channelled their working conditions' grievances to their employers via workers committees and strikes/go slows, while the majority of employers use workers committees and open meetings to address their workers. Regarding the effectiveness of their communication channels, the majority of the sampled employees indicated that their communication channels were effective. This is a view that their employers also concurred with. Finally, the study found that the three groups (employers, their employees and the EPZA) suggested that the use of general alternative EPZ employer-employee regulatory instruments (the government, NGOs, unions and institutions of higher learning), trade instruments (preferential trade agreements and codes of conduct) and other instruments (existing laws, arbitration and unions) could ensure that EPZ working conditions improved. The majority of workers indicated that their employer-employee working relationships could be improved with a better EPZ employment structure; improvement of employer-employee communication structures. Employees also felt that educating them on their labour rights, on the roles unions play, along with more EPZA support and better remuneration structures were required as basic working conditions that would be deemed satisfactory to them. To minimize employer-employee hostilities (reduce the employer-employee labour relations gap) the study has recommended that EPZ employers, their employees and the EPZA adopt a compliance measuring instrument, to constantly evaluate their labour relations gaps, adopt a step by step dispute resolution approach/system to solve their working conditions' problems and a higher productivity code of conduct.
- ItemService quality, empowerment and ethics in the South African hospitality and tourism industry and the road ahead using ISO9000/1(2008) Nicolaides, Angelo; Moodley, S.The study investigates the concept of quality service in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry. What quality service means to different customers may vary considerably from individual to individual and from country to country. It is nevertheless an indispensable aspect of business which has far more points of congruence than diversity. Customers are the very lifeblood of a service industry business and indeed all businesses. It is therefore vital that management permanently remove any and all of the obstacles which appear in quality service provision. What is the remedy to poor service and how can management be proactive in the pursuit of excellence in quality service provision? This research strives to analyze various opinions and theories on what it is precisely that quality service means and how hospitality and tourism managers can benefit their operations by ongoing commitment to quality service provision and by genuinely empowering and motivating their employees. South Africa as a growing international tourist destination needs to improve its service provision to meet global standards-ISO9000/1 is the ideal tool. To an extent, using the WEB and Internet can also greatly improve the Tourism and Hospitality industry quality service provision in South Africa and give the country a strategic competitive advantage in the international marketplace. Ethical behaviour in the hotel industry is also non-negotiable. Ethics is “good economics”. Suggestions are made as to how an ethics policy including a formal code of conduct can be developed which defines the standards of personnel behaviour in hotels. All employees can and should be motivated to provide excellence in service quality and positively influence the behaviour of employees under their charge. An appropriate and conducive to business approach is not only desirable but non-negotiable. ISO9000/1 certification implementation in the hotel industry has many benefits for companies which hold it and addresses most of the issues stated above.
- ItemA comparative investigation into the applicability of gain-sharing programmes for the improvement of productivity in the automotive sector of South Africa(2009) Zondo, Robert Walter Dumisani; Nel, K.A.; Contogiannis, E.; Kaseeram, I.Productivity has generated tremendous interest among economists. South Africa lacks both short and long-term growth in productivity. This includes commitment and participation in productivity initiatives at shop floor level and companies are faced with the challenge of promoting competition and innovation in productivity improvement amongst employees. South Africa’s labour productivity, in the manufacturing sector, is low when compared to Korea, the United States of America (USA), Taiwan, Japan, France and the United Kingdom (UK). It has increasingly been recognised, that by introducing a carefully crafted incentive scheme, it may be possible to induce South African workers to work both harder and smarter using existing technologies in new and better ways to enhance their productivity. Gain-sharing could be an appropriate method as has been the experience of industry in the USA and parts of Europe. The literature review defines gainsharing is a formula-based company-wide programme that provides for employees to share in the financial gains of a company as a result of its improved performance. It is a monetary reward that helps boosts a company’s productivity and radically reduces the cost of waste, spoilage, rejects, and rework. It can be used to replace bonus piecework schemes where quality is lost to quantity. The study focuses on gainsharing, given the low productivity level in the South African automotive parts-manufacturing industries. It is a comparative study and investigates the applicability of gainsharing programme for the improvement of productivity in this sector. Study objectives were achieved by examining the production and related experience of Company A and COMPANY B. These two automotive parts-manufacturing companies have adopted gainsharing strategy. The second objective of the study assessed whether gainsharing or other control variables are responsible for company productivity improvements. The research established that gainsharing improves productivity and reduces spoilage and absenteeism rates. Employees and management have gained confidence on gainsharing programme. Participants feel that de-layering, trade union participation, company age, ongoing training and equipment upgrade also play an important role in productivity improvement.
- ItemAn investigation into the implementation of e-learning in the Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law at the University of Zululand(2010) Chimbwanda, Doreen Vongai; Nel, K.A.; Vezi, M.F.Electronic learning, is used to refer to computer based learning or learning online either via the internet or intranet. According to Brockbank (2002) e-learning is essentially the e-commerce of knowledge. This research focused on the e-learning programme that was introduced at the University of Zululand (Unizul) and the impact it had on lecturing staff and students of the Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law. Literature generally states that the benefits of such a programme outweigh the disadvantages involved. To collect data survey questionnaires and a focus group were used. These were analysed using parametric and non-parametric statistics. Results revealed that the programme was poorly implemented and advertised at the institution as a proportion of the sample of lecturing staff and students did not know what e-learning was or that it was being implemented at Unizul.
- ItemCustomer satisfaction amongst black customers in the fast food restaurant industry(2011) Forjoe jnr, Paul; Contogiannis, E.; Williams, A.J.The purpose of this study was to validate the five dimensions (tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy) of service quality contained in the DINESERV Instrument (Stevens, Knuston, and Patton, 1995), in a fast food restaurant and explore the differences in perceived service quality for customers. The study focused on black consumers as they are the majority race group in South Africa and also considered an important client group to many fast food enterprises. Chicken is the most popular fast food item in South Africa (Euromonitor International, 2005: 1, 6). With KFC being the dominant global player in fast food in South Africa, it was the restaurant of focus where information was collected from. A questionnaire containing the modified DINESERV instrument was distributed to staff and students of the University of Zululand. The questionnaire was provided in both English and Zulu. Cronbach Coefficient Alpha was used to test construct reliability of the DINESRV instrument. ANOVA was used to determine the difference of dimension scores in the five service dimensions. Correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between customers‟ perceived service quality and characteristics such as gender, age, and education achieved. The results of the questionnaire revealed both the DINSERV instrument and service dimension to be reliable. Responsiveness was regarded the most important dimension of service quality with Assurance being the least. Empathy was shown to be the most important dimension of the dining experience. Black consumers in the Umhlathuzi Municipality believe that empathy is the dimension that fast food restaurants are least successful in achieving when compared to the other dimensions. Also it was found that black customers of the Umhlathuzi Municipality visit chicken restaurants because of the taste that chicken restaurants create, variety of menu and value for money. The author recommends that chicken fast food restaurants consider expanding their number of outlets as well as offering both grilled and fried chicken to increase service quality and choice. Programs can also be designed using elements in DINESERV to improve the empathy dimension in fast food restaurants. Further research must however be done to explore the reasons why fast food restaurants are less successful in achieving empathy and also why people choose restaurants.
- ItemThe impact of the financial advisory and intermediary services act of 2002 on consumer awareness and financial service providers in South Africa(University of Zululand, 2011) Ramchander, Manduth; Contogiannis, E.; Naidoo, D.A.The financial services industry is characterized by product suppliers having more information than consumers regarding product features and services. The purpose of this study is to explore this information asymmetry with particular reference to the Insurance Industry. Financial advisors, acting as intermediaries, are charged with the task of resolving this asymmetry through mandatory disclosures demanded by regulation. In South Africa, the Financial Services Board (FSB) monitors, regulates and supervises the financial services industry through the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act of 2002 (RSA, 2002) and The Code of Conduct (RSA, 2003) for Financial Advisors. This study distinguishes financial products from other products and highlights the need for disclosures regarding product features, fees charged and contractual limitations of financial advisors. The dissertation starts with a review of literature on asymmetric information, regulatory interventions and consumer literacy. The subsequent sections deal with the methodology used, followed by results obtained and analysis. Using multistage sampling a national survey was conducted to establish whether consumers: are knowledgeable of the features of basic insurance products; are aware of disclosures they are entitled to; and are aware of the consumer education initiatives of the Financial Services Board. The empirical survey also captures consumers’ perceptions of their financial advisor’s knowledge of financial products on the market. The extent of and the reasons for premature termination of policies are also established. A survey was conducted amongst a sample of compliance officers to capture their perceptions regarding the disclosure of fees that are charged by financial advisors; clients’ knowledge regarding the features of Life Insurance products; premature termination of policies and some general practices amongst financial advisors. The surveys were supplemented by an interview held with managers at the Financial Services Board.
- ItemInformation asymmetry and obstacles on SMMEs growth in the rural Areas of uThungulu district municipality of KwaZulu-Natal(University of Zululand, 2012) Nkonde, Sipho David; Contogiannis, E.; Vezi, M.F.; Kaaseram, I.Information asymmetry is regarded as factors that affect SMMEs and issues hindering SMMEs growth which include management skills, market access and lack of training. This is supported by Rogerson (2008) that several challenges facing SMMEs development in South Africa have been unapproachable. Number of factors have been identified which relate to markets access and marketing, business management skills, training, finance and inadequate institutional support. The SMME sector is regarded as a potential employment creator and contributes significantly to the economic growth of South Africa. SMMEs have the major share of the development and almost half of the total employment in the economy. While argument still exists about the comparative contribution of SMMEs to the economy, this sector contributes a massive share of employment which contributes significantly in the economy. However, SMMEs are facing challenges that prevent them from growing, and causing a large percentage of SMMEs to shut down in their first two years of operation. This study aims to discover the information asymmetry and obstacles on SMMEs growth in uThungulu district municipality. An investigation was conducted among owners in all local SMMEs in the district to identify obstacles perceived as central to SMMEs growth. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data. The research findings indicate that lack of training and management skills are one of the challenges faced by SMMEs since the majority of entrepreneurs have only matric qualifications. The use of technology was also identified as an obstacle on SMMEs growth.
- ItemSmartphones and regular cellular phones: assessing their impact on students’ education at the University of Zululand(University of Zululand, 2012) Mokoena, Sello; Contogiannis, E.; Williams, A.J.Mobile phones are everywhere and mobile learning is emerging as a potential learning environment at the University of Zululand. The aim of the research is to assess the impact of mobile phones on students‟ learning at the University of Zululand pertinent to the study is the work by Thornton and Houser (2005) also searched the use of mobile phone capabilities to enhance Japanese students‟ learning for English lessons. The University of Zululand is dominated by black-African students, making the study focus to be based on this group. The research information was collected from this group as they are the majority population on the Campus. The study drew evidence from a structured questionnaire which was designed and distributed to postgraduate and undergraduate students in all Faculties. The median test / Wilcoxon‟s signed test rank was used to determine the objectives of the study. Further more; analysis using a chi-square test was employed for an association test between the study factors, to further determine whether there is a significant association between the students‟ opinion regarding mobile phone as a useful tool for learning the type of mobile phone the students use, and the gender of the students. Another association test was done to further determine whether there is a significant association between each mobile phone capability, the type of mobile phone the students use, and the gender of the students. Finally a binomial test was employed to determine whether there is a significant difference between the proportion of smartphone users and regular cellular phone users. The findings of the study revealed that students consider that their mobile phones are useful tools for their learning regardless of their mobile phone type and gender. Other findings were that students consider that the ability of each mobile phone capability is a useful function for their learning independent of their mobile phone type and gender. This result revealed that regular cellular phone users may have the experience of smartphone capabilities. Students contended that their mobile phones are distracting during lectures when they are in use. They preferred to use their mobile phones for learning in other environments where they viewed them as useful for learning, not during lectures. The final study findings revealed that there are many more users of smartphones at the University of Zululand than the regular cellular phone users. The researcher recommends that there is a need for higher learning institutions to incorporate the students‟ mobile phone for learning activities to enhance students‟ learning. Wellstructured and well-defined requirements for using the student mobile phone for learning are needed. A practical investigation of students‟ learning using the mobile phone is needed, and they have to be assessed for capturing the investigation results to evaluate their performance while they are learning to use their mobile phones.
- ItemAdoption of benchmarking by Kenyan and South African electricity sectors and its impact on small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs)(2012) Wabuyabo, Okonga Brigitte Mukabana; Contogiannis, E.; Kaseeram, I.The current study aimed at establishing the impact of the adoption of benchmarking strategy in the Kenyan and South African electricity sectors, first on KPLC and Eskom and second, on the Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) of the two countries. It focused on critically analysing the positive and negative factors that may have influenced the adoption of this strategy by KPLC and Eskom. The second objective was to gain a comparative understanding of the nature of the overall relationship between the outputs of these electricity sectors and those of the businesses which rely on electricity, represented by the manufacturing sectors of Kenya and South Africa, respectively. In addition it aimed to establish if there were other adoptions of benchmarking strategy used by global electricity sectors that could be adopted by KPLC and Eskom to enhance positive impact. The research was motivated by the various electricity consumers’ complaints against KPLC and Eskom. Both sectors, like many others in developing economies, have faced consumer complaints in relation to high and frequent increases in electricity tariffs and prolonged and sometimes, unplanned power outages. This could have negatively affected the economies of these countries in general and the economic well-being of the SMMEs in particular. The recurrence of the blackouts which the researcher assumed to represent the level of efficiency of power supply was used to indicate the sectors’ service quality. Majority of the SMMEs interviewed indicated such problems as wastage of merchandises, loss of work-time, conflicts with clients and therefore, loss of business opportunities and generally resulting in inefficient business operation. The results from the manufacturing sector also indicated that losses were experienced as a result of the outages. For example, the study established that a 1% rise in kWh of electricity production resulted in a 48% rise in galvanised sheeting output, per month. Therefore, a 1% drop in the supply of electricity would therefore lead to a 48% drop in galvanized sheeting production per month. These losses were supported by earlier documented evidence. For example, Eberhard et al., (2008: 4) argue that rampant power outages result in extensive damage and losses with the informal sector experiencing as high as 16% loss in their income. However, it is worth pointing out that despite the consumer complaints, the presence of electricity was noted to have enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness with which the SMMEs and the manufacturing sectors ran their businesses. In fact, a majority of SMMEs interviewed indicated that it was difficult to start and or run a business without relying on electricity. The study recommended that the electricity sectors need to benchmark other countries that appear to have achieved higher rates of national electrification on global perspective. Such countries as Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt and Libya have achieved almost 100% national electrification level. However, as much as there were consumer complaints in Kenya and in South Africa, the latter had attained higher levels of national electrification as compared to the former. South Africa’s level of national electrification stands at 70% as of 2011 (Sub-Saharan Africa Power Outlook, 2011: 4). Kenya is said to have always battled with national electrification levels lower than those of sab-Saharan Africa which are the lowest in the world. For example, Abdullaha and Markandya, (2010) reveal that in 2000, these rates were 42% for Kenya and 51% for sub-Saharan Africa. This scenario points to the fact that in many ways, KPLC needs to benchmark Eskom in several ways. For example, Kenya’s tariffs are much higher than those of Eskom and this is occasioned by the fact that whereas as KPLC relies heavily on hydro-electric generation, Eskom relies more on nuclear and renewable source of electricity. This research also advocated for special tariffs for SMMEs considering their contribution to their countries’ economy. The SMMEs were noted to be efficient sources of employment and producers of some of the inputs required by larger companies. Therefore, this study recommended that the governments and their stakeholders like KPLC and Eskom needed to support SMMEs. In addition, this study suggested several other ways through which the sustainability of SMMEs can be guaranteed. Such initiatives as Public-Private-Partnership (PPP), Inter-enterprise Self-Help Programmes and incorporation of the education sector in support of growth and development of SMMEs were suggested. Similarly, this advocacy springs from the fact that the SMMEs operate a highly competitive environment, while KPLC and Eskom enjoy “natural” monopoly and also enjoy the benefits of economies of scale since they are large companies as opposed to SMMEs, which are small enterprises.
- ItemThe role of social media in the marketing communication mix: a case study of South African banks(University of Zululand, 2013) Chikandiwa, Sarah Tsitsi; Contogiannis, E.; Heeralal, S.The advent of Social Media has brought in skepticism, experimentation and possible misuse of Social Media and traditional marketing communication. This study thus, aims to identify the position of Social Media in the Marketing Communication Mix, the challenges and opportunities presented by Social Media and how Social Media can be effectively implemented in organizations. An exploratory mixed research method is used. This is done through using a case study of the South African Banking Industry, herein referred to as South African Banks. From the case study, the researcher uses 29 purposively selected employees within 6 South African banks. These employees are managers and directors who have direct involvement with Social Media. 68 conveniently selected customers of South African Banks are used as a source of information together with 6 Social Media experts which were selected using judgmental and snow ball sampling. Data collection instruments used in the study are electronic questionnaires for banks and customers and telephonic interviews for Social Media experts. Findings indicate that Social Media is not the sixth element in the Marketing Communication Mix but it should be integrated in the Marketing Communication Mix with each of the elements. The research proposes an integration of the Social Media department with every unit in the organization to enable unified messages to be sent to the customers.
- ItemCompliance with the consumer protection act in South Africa: a case study of retail companies in KwaZulu-Natal(University of Zululand, 2013) Chirwa, Nathan Boston; Contogiannis, E.Owners of businesses had different perspectives (particularly retailers) when the Consumer Protection Act was implemented. The majority of them thought that it will pose a threat or risk to many businesses while others thought that it would have a negative impact on the functioning and operation of their businesses. Similarly, others thought it would bring more challenges and few opportunities for ongoing businesses. To maximize full protection of consumers in the market, the Consumer Protect Act imposes heavy administrative fines on improper business conduct, which would put a burden on the businesses. This study seek to find out about the compliance measures taken by the Retail Companies regarding the Consumer Protection Act. Retailers are targeted by disgruntled buyers because they are closer to the consumers than suppliers. Retailers are also the last link in the supply chain of goods and have closer relationship with consumers, hence there is a need to take necessary measures that would reduce or eliminate compliance risks, and that would serve as compliance measures within and beyond retail companies. An exploratory study was conducted through survey instruments in which data was gathered just once in time. Probability stratified random and non-probability purposive sampling was used. A sample of 20 respondents (Managers and Supervisors) was drawn and self-administered questionnaires were given to each respondent. The research findings indicated clearly that the majority of the Retail Companies were complying with the Consumer Protect Act, and they have compliance measures in place. Major findings have revealed that, the old consumer policies (instruments) used in retail companies were outdated and were not functioning in the interest or benefit of the consumer. As a result, they had to implement new instruments that enhanced the functioning of the CPA. Above all, the findings have also shown that, the implementation of the CPA did not have a negative impact on the businesses.
- ItemA comparative study of challenges faced by women in leadership: a case of Foskor and the Department of Labour in Mhlathuze Municipality(University of Zululand, 2013) Maseko, Thembelihle Innocentia; Contogiannis, E.; Isike, C.This study is a comparative investigation of challenges faced by women in leadership/management in the public and private sector, using Foskor and the Department of Labour in Mhlathuze Municipality as a case analysis. Literature was sourced to support the study from the following areas: gender equity in leadership positions, gender and leadership in South Africa, gender inequality in management: globally and in South Africa, affirmative action and discrimination within organization, gender differences in leadership, gender stereotype, challenges to women in leadership, inequity in education, recruitment, employment and advancement, government policies supporting and promoting status and welfare, black women in management facing dual challenges, mentoring, and key issues pertaining to women in management. The theoretical framework used for this research was the transformational leadership. A descriptive design grounded on qualitative approach of interviews was used to elicit data from respondents with a sample size of 30. The method of data analysis was the use of SPSS and content. Based on analysed data, the following findings were reached: from both sectors women are suffering from domestic constraints, psychological factors, pressure at work and home, while some men said that the place for women is the kitchen. Women are suffering from cultural factors as such finding it difficult to take orders from men. There are similar challenges faced by women in both sectors. The findings also indicate that women at Foskor are disproportionally represented, while in the Department of Labour they are proportionally represented. Foskor needs to follow the Employment Equity Act in terms of balancing gender in the working environment. From the foregoing findings, several recommendations were attained such as: that recruitment, selection and placement in organisation should avoid tokenistic patterns. When advertising for posts, organisations need to adhere to the Employment Equity Act. Organisations should restructure their framework to avoid favouritism.
- ItemBlack economic empowerment in Richards bay:challenges and lessons for small businesses(University of Zululand, 2014) Dlamini, P.B; Contogiannis, E.; Van Heerden, C.J.Since 1994 the South African government introduced legislation to provide new economic opportunities to all people in South Africa, particularly those who were previously disadvantaged. Black Economic Empowerment was introduced to substantially increase the number of Black people having ownership and control in enterprises and especially in the priority sectors identified by the government. Promotion of small businesses is a key element in the government’s strategy of addressing the imbalances of the past and to create employment and income generation. The purpose of the study is to find out about the Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) progress in the fertilizer value chain in Richards Bay, the challenges they are facing and the lessons they have learned. A major focus of the section on Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) was the codes governing qualifying small businesses in Richards Bay and to also find out what people think about Black Economic Empowerment (BEE). Based on the findings the study reveals that the majority of BEE has a positive impact on small businesses in Richards Bay. Most of small business owners or managers have a little bit of understanding about BEE. Practical recommendations were made to guide and support small business and encourage them to be registered and have the Black Economic Empowerment certificate, and comply at least with two of the seven elements.
- ItemDeveloping women entrepreneurs: the influence of enactus networks on women- owned SMMEs in Kwa Zulu-Natal(University of Zululand, 2018) Vezi-Magigaba, Makhosazana FaithThe extent to which women entrepreneurs interact with the entrepreneurial networks in their local environment as well as the impact that entrepreneurial networks bring to bear on the growth of women-owned Small, Medium, and Micro enterprises (SMMEs) during the process of developing their enterprises from 2005 to 2015 was studied. The research explored and described the socio-economic impact of Enactus (a student organisation that works with business leaders and academics to improve the lives of communities using an entrepreneurial approach) entrepreneurial networks on women owned SMMEs in the agricultural food processing sector in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The justification for the study was that despite the growing number of women-led businesses and a significant increase in the number of initiatives, policies and resources designed to promote and develop women’s entrepreneurship have been insufficient. Women that have established SMMEs in South Africa have achieved limited growth. Based on those observations, the study explored the research question: Do entrepreneurial networks empower the growth of women-owned enterprises in developing countries? The Social network theory was adopted in this study as the relevant background theory in dealing with the research problem. Three key concepts are linked to this theory: women entrepreneurship, empowerment through networks, and growth of enterprises owned by women entrepreneurs. These key concepts were critically analysed, gaps explored, and links established and discussed in order to build the theoretical ground. The study utilised a cross-sectional and causal-comparative research design from the case study of 314 respondents sampled for this study. The sample comprised 234 women entrepreneurs, 8 key informants, and 72 programme-facilitators. Engaging in the Enactus networks was the independent variable. The growth of women-owned enterprises was the outcome of interest with the following indicators as dependent variables: an increase of business returns; an increase of assets; expansion of business (vertically or horizontally); an increase of household income; and participation in trade fairs. Measurement of the growth of women-owned enterprises was along two dimensions: economic and socio-cultural arenas. The study utilised an integrated mix of research approaches (qualitative and quantitative) and data collection methods. The study found that a high proportion of women entrepreneurs engaged in Enactus networks in KwaZulu-Natal had become empowered in almost all indicators. However, the translation of this empowerment into actual growth of women-owned SMMEs, for instance from small to medium enterprises, had mixed results; with just fewer than half of the surveyed sample indicating that they had moved from small to medium enterprises. The reasons behind resistance to change from small to medium enterprises were unclear. However, the majority of surveyed women entrepreneurs in the agro-processing sector showed a shift from micro to small enterprises. The study therefore concludes that there is a need to rethink strategies of networking to include both formal and informal entrepreneurial networks, as well as networking successful and young women entrepreneurs to enhance learning for change, and the growth of women-owned SMMEs in South Africa. In this light, the study recommended amongst others, engaging formal institutional structures and processes as well as changing women’s attitudes in an attempt to make entrepreneurial networks work for women to grow
- ItemDeveloping women entrepreneurs: the influence of enactus networks on women- owned SMMEs in Kwa Zulu-Natal(University of Zululand, 2018) Vezi-Magigaba, Makhosazana FaithThe extent to which women entrepreneurs interact with the entrepreneurial networks in their local environment as well as the impact that entrepreneurial networks bring to bear on the growth of women-owned Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs) during the process of developing their enterprises from 2005 to 2015 was studied. The research explored and described the socio-economic impact of Enactus (a student organisation that works with business leaders and academics to improve the lives of communities using an entrepreneurial approach) ntrepreneurial networks on women-owned SMMEs in the agricultural food processing sector in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The justification for the study was that despite the growing number of women-led businesses and a significant increase in the number of initiatives, policies and resources designed to promote and develop women’s entrepreneurship have been insufficient. Women that have established SMMEs in South Africa have achieved limited growth. Based on those observations, the study explored the research question: Do entrepreneurial networks empower the growth of women-owned enterprises in developing countries? The Social network theory was adopted in this study as the relevant background theory in dealing with the research problem. Three key concepts are linked to this theory: women entrepreneurship, empowerment through networks, and growth of enterprises owned by women entrepreneurs. These key concepts were critically analysed, gaps explored, and links established and discussed in order to build the theoretical ground. The study utilised a cross-sectional and causal-comparative research design from the case study of 314 respondents sampled for this study. The sample comprised 234 women entrepreneurs, 8 key informants, and 72 programme-facilitators. Engaging in the Enactus networks was the independent variable. The growth of women-owned enterprises was the outcome of interest with the following indicators as dependent variables: an increase of business returns; an increase of assets; expansion of business (vertically or horizontally); an increase of household income; and participation in trade fairs. Measurement of the growth of women-owned enterprises was along two dimensions: economic and socio-cultural arenas. The study utilised an integrated mix of research approaches (qualitative and quantitative) and data collection methods. The study found that a high proportion of women entrepreneurs engaged in Enactus networks in KwaZulu-Natal had become empowered in almost all indicators. However, the translation of this empowerment into actual growth of women-owned SMMEs, for instance from small to medium enterprises, had mixed results; with just fewer than half of the surveyed sample indicating that they had moved from small to medium enterprises. The reasons behind resistance to change from small to medium enterprises were unclear. However, the majority of surveyed women entrepreneurs in the agro-processing sector showed a shift from micro to small enterprises. The study therefore concludes that there is a need to rethink strategies of networking to include both formal and informal entrepreneurial networks, as well as networking successful and young women entrepreneurs to enhance learning for change, and the growth of women-owned SMMEs in South Africa. In this light, the study recommended amongst others, engaging formal institutional structures and processes as well as changing women’s attitudes in an attempt to make entrepreneurial networks work for women to grow
- ItemCompensation structure and employee commitment: the case of academics at a comprehensive tertiary institution(University of Zululand, 2019) Ngxito, Nomfundiselo ConstanceCompensation is a complex concept which is influenced by a number of factors. The purpose of the study was to evaluate and analyse the effects of the compensation structure on employees’ commitment at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU), which is a comprehensive tertiary institution. It is the observation of this researcher that, based on nine years experience in Human Resources Management at UNIZULU, retaining academic employees at the Institution is challenged by competitorswho are steadily poaching academic employees, resulting in a high turnover over the past few years. In addition, based on this researcher’s engagements with academic employees of UNIZULU, some academics are demoralised which, in turn, affects their performance and commitment towards the institution. This researcher, therefore, saw the need to embark on this study and attempt to make a significant contribution to improving the employee benefits, particularly compensation, at UZ. In addition, this study attempts to generate new knowledge on the impact of a good compensation plan on the commitment and performance level of academic staff of a university. Apart from contributing to literature the study will also contribute to practice and formulate a theory that will promote adequate compensation for academic staff, not only at UNIZULU but generally for the world. Hence, for the purpose of this study, the following factors were considered: the working conditions of employees, lack of company policies, employee remuneration, employee benefits, academic workload, and inadequate resources. The study employed a quantitative data collection approach through which academic staff at UNIZULU were surveyed. From the findings it is recommended that UNIZULUattend to these factors as their abandonment is detrimental to the commitment and retention of the academic staff at UNIZULU.
- ItemMeasuring Service Quality Delivered to Undergraduate Students in the Department of Business Management, University of Zululand(University of Zululand, 2019) Enakrire, Blessing OmotejohwoPurpose: This study examined the measuring of service quality delivered to undergraduate students in the Department of Business Management at the University of Zululand. The purpose was to conceptualise and have critical thinking of the services rendered to undergraduate students at the Business Management Department, and whether it is commensurate to the provision of modern facilities, and other resources used by lecturers on daily basis in the institution. Approach: A quantitative research design grounded on survey method was employed for the study. The census research approach was used to select 106 third-year undergraduate students at the Business Management Department. The survey used questionnaire as instrument to collect data from third-year business management undergraduate students. The targeted population was 106 third-year undergraduate students, and 106 questionnaires were administered to them. Of the 106 questionnaires administered, only 87 were received back, which was also used in analysis of the results for the students. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used for analysis of this study. Results: Findings from the study revealed that modern facilities were used to deliver quality services of teaching, research, and supervision of students. Many of the respondents attested to availability of physical facilities used by lecturers at the Department of Business Management, which are appealing to the undergraduate students. It revealed that the institution provides the students with adequate support in terms of bursary and reading materials in the library. Provision of adequate and qualified academic staff was observed to have helped and to have strengthened the services of teaching, learning and supervision offered to students at the Department of Business Management. Office space of lecturers was not big and adequate to facilitate discussion classes and group presentations when the need arises. The majority of respondents attested to adequate study guide materials at the Department of Business Management. Most of the lecturers are always willing, sympathetic and reassuring to assist students whenever they have challenges with their studies. The student population of the Business Management Department does not give the lecturers much opportunity and the time required for adequate and quality time for teaching, learning and supervision. The majority indicated consultation hours offered 2 by lecturers and tutors as another factor. Many respondents emphasised that they did not have challenges with frequent communication in written and spoken standard English language. Some of the students have issues with local languages such as isiZulu, isiXhosa and isiNdebele used as substitute, while attending to their studies as well as group work with fellow students. The results also indicated that respondents find it difficult to adapt considering the large numbers of students in classes, as this has some implications on their academic performance. There was no counselling guidance, which could help them if their lecturers, tutors and colleagues were unable to help with their academic performance or pursuit. Based on the findings, several recommendations were made which include: the need to have efficient, effective and quality services delivered on a regular basis. The need to have more recent and diverse materials that could meet the broad needs of the students. The need to have wide or adequate offices space by lecturers in order to facilitate the discussion classes and group presentations whenever they chose to do so. The willingness, sympathy and reassurance given to students whenever there is need, arises from strengthened and re-awakened effort of lecturers. Originality/value: Students were satisfied with the services rendered to them through available modern facilities used by lecturers. The credence made on effective and efficient services rendered by lecturers at different intervals in teaching, learning and supervisory roles. Improved consultation hours of lecturers and tutors could assist students’ inadequacy in study and materials required. The willingness and reassurance by lecturers and Department of Business Management to the students could strengthen and re-awaken their morals.
- ItemThe role of education in promoting entrepreneurship culture among the youth: a case study of University of Zululand(University of Zululand, 2019) Radebe, Thobile NokuthulaEntrepreneurship education is broadly considered an important factor in promoting an entrepreneurial culture among higher education students. Considering the importance of entrepreneurship to economic growth, job creation and poverty alleviation, there is a need to train entrepreneurs and to equip them with an entrepreneurial culture that promotes entrepreneurship. However, the South African education system is lacking when it comes to entrepreneurship education. The education system seems to promote the white-collar jobs rather than self-employment and the methodology that is used to teach entrepreneurship studies focuses more on the theory of entrepreneurship than on its practice. Against this background, this study sought to identify the role of education in promoting an entrepreneurship culture among the youth, focusing on the University of Zululand as a case study. The researcher used primary data for this study. The study adopted a mixed methods approach where data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules from 374 University of Zululand students and 11 heads of departments from the university’s faculties. The results from the study show that there was no consistent promotion of entrepreneurship across the university’s faculties and departments. There was a need to improve the entrepreneurship curriculum, as it was found that it did not equip students with an entrepreneurship culture. Entrepreneurship studies were done in business-related departments and were not readily promoted in non-business departments. A policy implication arose from these findings is that there is a need for the development of entrepreneurship-based curriculum as a way of promoting entrepreneurship. The policymakers were also encouraged to develop incubation centres for grooming entrepreneurs at higher learning institutions
- ItemConsumer perceptions towards the marketing of functional foods in the Umhlathuze region(University of Zululand, 2020) Osunsanmi, Adeshola SekinatA healthy lifestyle has been embraced by the populace as a result consumption of healthy food is given prevalence. Consumers nowadays prioritized purchasing healthy foods such as functional foods. To address this issue, greater varieties of healthy foods have been introduced by the food industry to reduce debilitating diseases such as cancer diabetes mellitus, obesity amongst others. In this present study consumer’s perceptions regarding the marketing of functional foods in the uMhlathuze municipality were investigated. A quantitative research method was adopted for this study. Questionnaires were administered to a total number of 384 consumers at Richards bay shopping malls (230) and Empangeni shopping malls (154) respectively. The findings of the study showed that consumers' behaviour towards purchasing functional foods is influenced by the following: advertisements on social media accounts, health benefits of functional foods, health professional’s recommendations, food quality, food price, and family obligation or concerns. Thus, the study recommends that for the food industry to boost their sales and consumers’ acceptability of functional foods, they need to improve the awareness of functional food. This can be done through advertisements, especially on social media accounts such as Google, YouTube, and Facebook as well as providing detailed health benefits of the food by providing this information on the food packages. Also, the food quality should not be compromised and the prices of food should not be unnecessarily hiked up.