Professionalising Agricultural Extension in Limpopo, South Africa: Challenges, Progress and Key Competencies | Chapter 1 | Agricultural Sciences: Techniques and Innovations Vol. 3

 

The journey towards professionalism in South Africa was championed by not a single person but a collective, each one doing a part in the process. The South African Society for Agricultural Extension made some efforts by participating in the Standard Generating Body, and it further developed an extension landscape which categorised its members towards professionalism. The paper argues that professionalism also affects agricultural extension in service delivery by creating demotivated cadres in agriculture. It also provides clarification of the concept of professionalism. It draws data from researchers who did extensive work in the area of professionalism and the registration of profession, the paper seeks to achieve the following: 1) provide concrete principles of professionalism, 2) identify critical obstacles associated with professionalism, 3) review progress on efforts done to date in South Africa about professionalism in extension, 4) and highlight the qualities extensionists are expected to possess. Only three districts in Limpopo, namely Capricorn, Vhembe and Sekhukhune, participated in a sample of 30 extension officers. They were interviewed on their opinions about the skills requirements of the extension profession. The majority of the respondents were male, constituting 70 per cent and 30 per cent female.

 

The results revealed that certain skills are important to be possessed by the extension practitioners as seen by their rating: public speaking 86%, writing 72%, listening 69%, research linkages 83%, leadership,76.6%, critical thinking 63%, supervisory 70% and communication planning 83.3%. But when respondents were asked to judge themselves on the functionality of those skills, it was found wanting. The study concluded that professionalising extension and advisory practitioners in South Africa should be considered highly by all stakeholders interested in agricultural development. The study recommended that an action plan needs to be developed in order to bring or maintain a variety of competences among the extension practitioners, who should strive for excellence in order to improve service delivery.

Author(s) Details

E. M. Zwane
Centre for Rural Community Empowerment, School of Agriculture, University of Limpopo, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/asti/v3/4902

 

Exploring Stakeholder Perceptions to Enhance Municipal Reputation: A Quantitative Study of Amahlathi Local Municipality, South Africa | Chapter 9 | New Advances in Business, Management and Economics Vol. 5

Service delivery protests have become increasingly violent in South Africa over the past decade, highlighting the pressing need for effective municipal reputation management. The Amahlathi Local Municipality has faced intense criticism for mismanaging funds, lacking oversight and accountability, and failing to provide basic services to its electorate. This study undertakes an empirical analysis of Amahlathi Local Municipality's (ALM) reputation among its stakeholders, addressing the scarcity of research on municipal reputation management in South Africa. Utilizing a quantitative methodology, a questionnaire was distributed to 383 citizens in ALM, yielding a response rate of 85.64% (328 respondents). The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential analysis (factor analysis and regression), revealing significant disparities between stakeholder expectations and perceived performance of ALM.

 

The findings highlight key factors influencing municipal reputation, including service delivery, communication, and accountability. Notably, ALM's reputation is compromised by inadequate service delivery, particularly in areas such as water and sanitation, roads, and waste management. These results contribute significantly to the understanding of municipal reputation management in South Africa, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and effective service delivery.

 

This research contributes theoretically, practically, and policy-wise. Theoretically, it advances knowledge on municipal reputation management in South Africa. Practically, it informs ALM's strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. Policy-wise, it highlights areas for improvement in service delivery and governance. The study's methodology comprised questionnaire design adapted from existing municipal reputation frameworks, random sampling of ALM citizens, and data analysis using descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and regression.

 

The study concluded that reputation management or branding is increasingly important for public organizations. It has much to do with social accountability, meaning that an organization, often without a formal obligation to do so, tries to provide information and justify its actions to various audiences. The point of departure in this study was to investigate ALM and the factors that affect how it manages its reputation. However, much research on the significance of corporate reputation management has been within the private sector, with limited research on its impact on the public sector, particularly in the developing world.

 

Author (s) Details

Pikolomzi Qaba
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Bongani I Dlamini
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

 

Please see the book here: https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/nabme/v5/3450

Business Decisions and Workforce Diversity: A Case Study of Discrimination Challenges in South Africa’s SME Hotel Sector | Chapter 8 | Business, Management and Economics: Research Progress Vol. 8

The hotel industry is a significant contributor to the global service economy, providing employment opportunities for individuals worldwide. However, the implementation of workforce diversity and inclusion policies remains a controversial topic that requires the attention of policymakers. In this regard, this article explores the implementation of workforce diversity in small and medium-sized (SME) organizations, particularly in hotels, to mitigate discrimination in South Africa.

This quantitative study explores the implementation of workforce diversity in (SMEs) hotels, to mitigate discrimination in South Africa. The data was collected using a 5-point Likert Scale. A systematic literature survey was conducted to gather current articles on the topic. Voluntary participants from seven SME hotels responded to questionnaires, with an initial 136 responses. After screening, 120 participants (88.24%) met all criteria for inclusion in the analysis.

This study reveals 61.8% of respondents said management is not committed to diversity. Many (98.3%) disagreed that there is a fair and equal treatment to everyone, 95% disagreed that everyone had the same access to opportunities. A high number (97.5%) reported experiencing discrimination and harassment, and there was disagreement (94.2%) about fair promotion decisions. People of color are disproportionately affected.

Given the gravity of the situation, it is incumbent on the government to intervene and help SMEs enforce workforce diversity policies. The government must enforce implementation of diversity, provide free diversity and discrimination training to employees and managers, and conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance. This research serves as a call to action, shedding light on the need for positive social change.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Nyamupachari Vareta
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

B.I Dlamini
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/bmerp/v8/3152

The Impact of Workplace Inequality and Discrimination on Individual Development and Organisational Performance: A Case Study of Durban’s Hospitality Sector, South Africa | Book Publisher International

Workplaces now consist of many cultures. This varied work environment allows employers opportunities to generate strategies that value diversity while eliminating workplace disparity and prejudice. This research examines the impact of workplace inequality and discrimination on individual development and organizational performance within the hospitality sector in Durban, South Africa.  Using a qualitative approach, the study explores employees' lived experiences through interviews, observations, and thematic analysis with NVivo software. The interviews were conducted face-to-face, audio-recorded, and transcribed. Findings reveal four major themes—recruitment practices, emotional responses, workplace discrimination, and inequality—underscoring the persistence of systemic racism and exploitation, particularly affecting Black employees, women, and foreign workers. The study highlights the negative repercussions on employee motivation, productivity, and organizational performance. According to the results, (95%) of participants say inequality and discrimination are serious against black people, in the hotel Industry. Most feel apartheid has not yet ended in South Africa. The results also show that (80%) of the participants find no relevance in learning or developing themselves in a toxic environment. Findings reveal four major themes—recruitment practices, emotional responses, workplace discrimination, and inequality—underscoring the persistence of systemic racism and exploitation, particularly affecting Black employees, women, and foreign workers. The study highlights the negative repercussions on employee motivation, productivity, and organizational performance.  Workers who are discriminated against suffer from low self-esteem and are traumatised. Emotional impact results in a lack of motivation, demoralisation, depression, etc. The social impact results in stress, poor relationships, and poor productivity. The lack of transparency reduces employee participation and turns them into an organisation's enemy. Practical recommendations include strengthening diversity management. The government must revisit its position on racism, enforce anti-discrimination policies, and enhance systematic training programs to foster inclusivity. These findings contribute valuable insights for HR managers, trade unions, and policymakers to address workplace disparities in the South African hotel industry.

 

Author (s) Details

Dr. Nyamupachari Vareta
Faculty of Management Sciences, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-36-7

Social Media Marketing in Non-professional Rugby Clubs: A Qualitative Viewpoint Using the Technology Acceptance Model | Chapter 7 | Information Management and Technology: The Proceedings of the 10 th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

Social media has transformed the interactions among fans, clubs, and athletes, providing evidence of its increasing significance in sport. The growing professionalisation of sport has led to the increased adoption of business practices and marketing. However, not all sport organisations are considered professional, and many may lag in the adoption of such applications. Rugby’s growth internationally demonstrates the sport’s ability to inspire and engage a global audience in a professional rugby context. There are a limited number of studies that investigate social media marketing (SMM) by rugby teams, but several do focus on professional rugby. Hence, this study investigates Western Province Super League (WPSL) rugby clubs (amateur sport teams) SMM usage in terms of channels, external factors, determinants, behavioural intentions, and age by WPSL rugby determinants and behavioural intentions. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) serves as the theoretical underpinning, which responds to the need for further research on non-professional sport organisations. The study used a qualitative approach via cross-sectional and multiple-case study design and utilised twelve semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection technique. The researchers adopted an inductive approach and utilised ATLAS.ti (a qualitative data analysis package) to formulate themes and codes for subsequent analysis. This study found that brand exposure and awareness, relationship building, sponsorship attractiveness, community participation/ engagement, information sharing, and others were the primary drivers and advantages of SMM usage. Findings also revealed positive SMM behavioural intentions that included community relationships, greater reach, family feeling, player portfolio enhancement, an important contact point, and membership growth. The rugby clubs believed that employing SMM added substantial value to their marketing efforts. From a practical standpoint, rugby club social media coordinators could enhance fan engagement and relationship management by providing graphic updates (photos and video footage) about players and teams, creating blogs, organising competitions, establishing video channels, and overseeing community activities. From a theoretical perspective, the study adds to the limited qualitative research on the TAM, especially in a sport and digital marketing context. The study furthers knowledge of SMM, non-professional sport, and organisational behaviour in the context of WPSL rugby clubs in South Africa.

 

Author (s) Details.

 

Justin Marthinus
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Rodney Duffett
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Brendon Knott
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa.

 

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-37-4/CH7

Talent Management Practices and Intellectual Capital: Enhancing Innovativeness in the KwaZulu-Natal Automotive Sector | Chapter 9 | Contemporary Issues of Business and Management: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

 The study examined the complex interactions between talent management practices, intellectual capital, and innovation in the South African automotive industry. The study aimed to understand the variables that affect talent management strategies and intellectual capital, and how those variables influenced innovation. The main objective was to offer insights that might boost competitive advantage, encourage growth, and support the region's automakers' recuperation and long-term viability thereby providing guidance for management to consider the changing technological environment and industry dynamics. In-depth interviews were used to record participants’ viewpoints and experiences. The academic significance of this study will expand understanding the link and relation of how the practices in talent management influence intellectual capital and how the dimensions of human capital influence innovation. This research maps out which approaches are valuable for organisations within the automotive industry using learnings from Company X as a case study. In doing so, the study will furnish ways in which best-practices in the talent management process can be designed effectively and which methods of intellectual capital can foster an innovative organisational culture. The research design, participant selection, data collection procedures, and analytic techniques such as constant comparison and thematic analysis constituted the study’s methodology. The qualitative case study approach offered a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the subject matter, while also acknowledging its inherent limits. The results highlighted the importance of talent management in fostering an atmosphere that encourages original thought and value to existing research. The study recommends organisations critically assess their current strategies, focus on areas in need of development, and leverage the company’s existing competencies. Relevant recommendations were presented regarding talent management, intellectual capital, and innovation considering the context of the KwaZulu-Natal's automotive industry as the region’s and industry’s diverse past and approaches, influence talent management practices.

The conversation on organisational practices is enriched by the areas that have been highlighted for improvement, as well as by the emphasis placed on the value of creative cultures and people management techniques. The study highlights the need for a more thorough investigation of talent management dynamics within the broader framework of the automotive industry. This study also shows that human, structural, and relational factors all play important roles and have a tremendous impact that intellectual capital has on value creation and performance. With Company X’s highly qualified workforce and culture of ongoing improvement, Company X serves as an example of how good people management promotes innovation. This study establishes the groundwork for further research, encouraging ongoing innovation and enhancement of organisational procedures.

 

Author (s) Details

Nosihle Dlamini
University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.

Anisha Ramsaroop
University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-29-9/CH9

The Role of University Education in Fostering Student Entrepreneurship: The Case of Durban University of Technology, South Africa | Chapter 5 | Contemporary Issues of Business and Management: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

 South Africa faces challenges of economic sluggishness. Thus, the significant role and positive influence of entrepreneurship and the advancement of entrepreneurial culture in educational, economic and social expansion in South Africa cannot be underestimated. Due to higher unemployment rates constantly corroding job prospects, it is acknowledgeable to accept that entrepreneurship would be reflected as the succeeding career option, nevertheless, university alumni possess very slight attention to becoming entrepreneurs. The study aims to identify the role of university education in promoting entrepreneurship among students. Using mixed approach of qualitative and quantitative, the researcher collected information through the use of questionnaires and structured interviews with student entrepreneurs.  A sample size of 253 was used.  For structured interviews, a sample of 10 was used.  Quantitative data were processed using SPSS Version 28, through graphs and tables. The results revealed that the approach to introducing graduates to the entrepreneurial mindset and the range of abilities required in the global labour market is to incorporate entrepreneurship education within the curriculum. The study revealed such an approach needs support from other government institutions. The study concluded that there was a significant relationship between entrepreneurship education and business success among alumni as it nurtured the foundation for networking and corroborations that contributed to the development of an entrepreneurial mindset.

 

Author (s) Details

Mary-Ann Nokulunga Nhleko
Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Joe Kumbirai Karambakuwa
Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Musawenkosi Ngibe
Information and Corporate Management, Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-29-9/CH5

The Effect of Job Insecurity and Turnover Intention on Organisational Citizenship Behaviour in an Eastern Cape University | Chapter 4 | Contemporary Issues of Business and Management: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

The main objective of this study was to investigate the combined effect of job insecurity and turnover intention on Organisational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB) of employees at a university in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.

Using a positivist paradigm, the study was descriptive in nature. The population of academics and administrative staff at the university under study is 2050. Raosoft was used to calculate the sample size, and the recommended sample size was 324. However, the researchers opted for a larger sample of 377. The researcher had access to a detailed sample frame and therefore used simple random sampling. The researcher used SPSS v.25 to analyse the data. This study employed a survey method using an electronic questionnaire to collect data. Inferential statistical tests used include the Multiple Regression analysis, Pearson correlation and Simple Linear Regression. The study concludes that job insecurity and turnover intention have a negative effect on the OCB of employees at the university under study. The concluded that job insecurity has a negative effect on the OCB of employees, the turnover intention has a negative effect on the OCB of employees, and job insecurity has a positive effect on the turnover intention of employees at a university in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge on the importance of OCB and the factors affecting OCB. Recommendations provided to managers and practitioners are based on the conclusion of the study.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Nyasha Chimucheka
University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

 

Olabanji Oni
University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

 

Mtutuzeli Dywili
University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-29-9/CH4

Entrepreneurship Education in KwaZulu-Natal High Schools: Fostering Skills and Mindsets | Chapter 14 | Economics and Entrepreneurship: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

Entrepreneurship is increasingly recognized as a critical driver of economic growth, innovation, and job creation, particularly in developing countries like South Africa, where high unemployment rates and economic inequalities persist. In this context, entrepreneurship education has become a pivotal strategy in preparing the younger generation to embrace entrepreneurial mindsets and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the modern economy. South Africa's National Development Plan emphasizes the need to develop entrepreneurial capacity at all levels of education, particularly in high schools, where early exposure to entrepreneurial concepts can ignite interest and cultivate essential skills for future business ventures. This study explores the role of entrepreneurship education in fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and skills in KwaZulu-Natal government-funded high schools, in South Africa. Using a quantitative research approach, the study revealed that a majority of educators perceive entrepreneurship education as essential for equipping students with entrepreneurial skills, enhancing economic literacy, and contributing to the reduction of unemployment. Key entrepreneurial skills such as creativity, innovation, and risk-taking were highlighted as critical outcomes of the curriculum. However, the results also showed inconsistencies in the implementation of outreach programs, limited collaboration with industry professionals, and the need for greater institutional support. The study concludes that while entrepreneurship education in KwaZulu-Natal high schools positively impacts students, several areas require improvement. Key recommendations include enhancing curriculum design to include more experiential learning, providing professional development for educators, strengthening public-private partnerships to offer practical learning opportunities, increasing governmental support for program implementation, and establishing regular assessments to ensure the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Thandukwazi Richman Ncube
Department of Finance and Information Management, Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

Mpubane Emanuel Matlala
Department of Finance and Information Management, Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-53-4/CH14

The Promotion of Entrepreneurship as Catalyst for Inclusive Industrialization in South Africa | Chapter 13 | Economics and Entrepreneurship: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

Entrepreneurship has long been recognized as a critical driver of economic growth, job creation, and innovation, particularly in the context of developing countries. In South Africa, entrepreneurship holds significant promise as a key component for fostering inclusive industrialization and advancing socio-economic development. The promotion of entrepreneurship within the industrialization agenda has the potential to empower marginalized communities, promote equitable access to economic opportunities, and drive sustainable economic growth. Despite the recognized importance of entrepreneurship in fostering inclusive industrialization, South Africa continues to face significant challenges in harnessing the full potential of entrepreneurship for economic development. Therefore, this study aims to assess the existing body of literature on the promotion of entrepreneurship as a catalyst for inclusive industrialization in South Africa. Specifically, seeking to identify key themes, challenges, and opportunities related to the integration of entrepreneurship into industrialization strategies in South Africa. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure transparency, rigor, and reproducibility. A comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases, including Scopus (Elsevier), Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Sabinet, Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC), Journal Storage (JSTOR), and EBSCOhost, were conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2020-224. Key themes identified include the role of entrepreneurship in job creation, economic empowerment, and innovation within the industrialization context. The results highlighted the challenges such as access to finance, regulatory barriers, skills shortages, and market access constraints faced by entrepreneurs in South Africa. Additionally, the results identified opportunities for enhancing entrepreneurship through policy interventions, capacity-building initiatives, and stakeholder collaborations to foster inclusive industrial development. The study recommends the need for targeted policy interventions to address barriers to entrepreneurship, such as improving access to finance, streamlining regulatory processes, and enhancing skills development programs.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Mpubane Emanuel Matlala
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Thandukwazi Richman Ncube
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-53-4/CH13

Exploring the Influence of Intrinsic Motivation on Entrepreneurial Creativity and Growth in Manufacturing SMEs |Chapter 10 | Economics and Entrepreneurship: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

Intrinsic motivation, entrepreneurial creativity, business growth, SMEs, eThekwini District Municipality, South AfricaSmall and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and generating employment opportunities, especially in emerging economies like South Africa. Recognizing the pivotal role of intrinsic motivational factors in SMEs, success is imperative, as they are increasingly recognized as fundamental determinants of entrepreneurial creativity and growth within this sector. Despite considerable research on intrinsic motivation's impact on creativity and innovation, its specific implications for South African SMEs remain largely unexplored. Drawing upon Self-Determination Theory (SDT), this quantitative study looks into the relationship between intrinsic motivational factors, entrepreneurial creativity, and business growth within the eThekwini District Municipality's Manufacturing SMEs. Through a quantitative study, this research explores the relationship between intrinsic motivational factors, entrepreneurial creativity, and business growth within the eThekwini District Municipality Manufacturing SMEs. A comprehensive questionnaire was administered to 68 SME owners to collect survey data, the research investigates how intrinsic motivation influences creativity and subsequent business growth. The findings underscore the significance of intrinsic motivation in driving creativity, with respondents perceiving it as essential for unlocking creative potential. Moreover, the study highlights the association between self-motivation and heightened creativity, supported by statistical analyses. Notably, SME owners' willingness to take risks is found to be significantly related to business growth, emphasising the strategic importance of intrinsic motivation in fostering entrepreneurial success and advancing national economic goals. By clarifying the mechanisms through which intrinsic motivation drives SME prosperity, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to support SME development and contribute to South Africa's economic advancement.

 

Author (s) Details

Thandukwazi Richman Ncube
Durban University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-53-4/CH10

Financial Vulnerability, Customer Engagement and Satisfaction in South African Banks: A Structural Equation Model | Chapter 4 | Economics and Entrepreneurship: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

This study investigates the impact of financial vulnerability on customer engagement and satisfaction within the South African banking sector under a persistent inflation and prolonged contractionary monetary policy environment.

The relationships examined were hypothesized based on the SABI model, which underpins the functional analysis of interactions provided by the interdependence theory. Utilizing a structural equation modeling approach, data were collected from 314 bank customers through the questionnaire method. The analysis reveals a significant and positive relationship between financial vulnerability and customer engagement (p < 0.05), indicating that customers with lower financial resilience engage more with their banks. Furthermore, a direct and significant link (p < 0.05) between financial vulnerability and customer satisfaction suggests that current financial hardships do not diminish overall satisfaction levels. However, a positive relationship between customer engagement and customer satisfaction is not statistically significant, suggesting that customer interactions were not a determining factor of their satisfaction level. These findings imply that monetary policymakers and banks should adapt their strategies to support financially vulnerable customers, promote customer engagement, and thus enhance bank-customer long-term relationships. However, the study is limited by the demographic scope of the sample, necessitating further research to validate these insights across diverse customer segments.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Sophie Kasse-Kengne
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-53-4/CH4

Female Agripreneurs' Strategies for Coping with Climate-Driven Food System Disruptions | Chapter 3 | Economics and Entrepreneurship: The Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD), Edition 1

Climate change continues to disrupt food systems around the globe. Climate change adaptation efforts for enhanced food production and quality contribute to increased production costs. The study sought to investigate the coping mechanisms that significantly contribute towards the sustainability of female agripreneurs in a dire situation brought by the discrepancies within the food systems synergy due to climate change. The study was conducted in the Thulamela local municipality in the Limpopo Province. Structured questionnaires were handed to 173 study participants during the in-person interview sessions, who were selected using the purposive sampling technique. A Binary Logistic Regression model was used to determine the observed discrepancies within the food production system caused by climate change. The Binary Logistic Regression model was used for its strength to provide a precise understanding of the relationship between business ownership, which is dichotomous and observed climate change discrepancies, which propelled the development of coping mechanisms. The study used three coping mechanism approaches related to the agribusiness's scope: industry, commerce, and trade. The study findings also indicated that female agripreneurs prioritized indigenous crops to minimize the cost of production while integrating traditional climate change strategies for other commodities. Within the commerce segment, new marketing initiatives, such as using marketing influencers and home delivery, enhanced customer recruitment and retention in the absence of marketing contracts. The study recommends the regulation of agricultural markets at a regional level to minimize market price volatility.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Mpho Tshikororo
Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, Faculty of Science, Engineering & Agriculture, University of Venda, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-49238-53-4/CH3

Infiltration of Bapedi Culture by Early Western Christian Missionaries: Compliance and Cultural Resistance | Chapter 1 | Current Progress in Arts and Social Studies Research Vol. 9

It is deeply regretted that early Christian missionaries brought the good and bad to Africa. It is apparent that the coming into existence of the missionaries with the Bapedi people was conflict-ridden, and hence created a pull-and-push situation. This chapter highlights the history of Christianity in South Africa, particularly in the Bapedi society, but also scrutinizes the work of the Berlin (German) Missionary Society and other missionaries who infiltrated Bapedi culture, as well as the response by Bapedi people; resistance and compliance from 19 July 1860 – 8 July 2018. To achieve the objectives of this study, the following primary research questions were considered: a) How do people understand one another when they do not share a common cultural experience? and b) were the missionaries successful in accomplishing their mission by indoctrinating and detribalising Bapedi people to forget about their cultural heritage and identity? A contextual approach was employed, and data was collected through observations, interviews, and video recordings of rituals, and social and cultural ceremonies. Relevant sources to the context of this study in the form of published journal articles, book chapters, books and theses were also consulted to compare and complement data collected from the field research. It has emerged from this study that missionary activities in South Africa and elsewhere in the continent have generated a great deal of debate in the scholarly arena. During observations and interviews, it was also established that the missionaries were ignorant of the fact that Christianity in Bapedi society had to make provision for Bapedi traditional beliefs, customs and practices if it wanted to succeed. It was concluded that the missionaries did not take into consideration the traditional beliefs, customs and practices of the Bapedi people. Instead of adding towards Bapedi cultural practices, they applied the principle of elimination by substitution.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Morakeng Edward Kenneth Lebaka
Department of Biblical and Ancient Studies, School of Humanities, College of Human Sciences, Muckleneuk Campus, University of South Africa (UNISA), Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, City of Tshwane, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/cpassr/v9/2578

Harnessing Twitter for Enhanced Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Communication in South Africa | Chapter 13 | Managing Higher Education and Enterprises in Developing Countries Beyond COVID-19: Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics

 Context: In South Africa, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges utilize Twitter predominantly as a unidirectional broadcasting medium, which limits the platform’s interactive potential. This study examines the adoption and implementation of Twitter as a communication medium within these institutions, recognizing the absence of a uniform social media policy to guide their online engagement practices. The investigation explores the strategic use of Twitter for information dissemination across various stakeholders, framed by the social media-Integration-Theory Model.

Methods: Adopting a qualitative approach, the research analyzed a year’s worth of Twitter content from 36 TVET colleges in South Africa, following ethical guidelines sanctioned by the University Research Ethics Committee.

Results: The analysis yielded a novel framework to classify the nature of tweets from TVET colleges, uncovering four central themes: responsive communication to student inquiries and concerns; updates on academic schedules and events; fostering connections between students, colleges, and prospective employers; and amplifying the colleges’ branding through showcasing campus life and activities.

Conclusion: The findings illuminate the multifaceted role of Twitter as a communication conduit in TVET colleges, underscoring its potential to extend beyond mere information dissemination to more dynamic interactions. The study advocates for a comprehensive social media strategy across TVET colleges to fully leverage social media’s capabilities, ensuring more robust and reciprocal communication channels.

Author(s) Details:

Sangu Nyamanhare,
University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

Liezel Cilliers,
University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/MHEEDCBCPICBMD/article/view/13204

Exploring the Perceptions of Postgraduate Students Using Social Media when Seeking Employment | Chapter 11 | Managing Higher Education and Enterprises in Developing Countries Beyond COVID-19: Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics

Social media has rapidly increased in popularity, and its growth has influenced business operations and methods of communication, including how organisations review and implement their recruitment strategies. Recruitment is an integral activity to the organisational function of human resource management. Traditional methods of this activity have evolved whereby organisations focus on using social media as a recruitment method.

Based on Six Degrees of Separation and Resource-based View theories, this paper aimed to investigate postgraduate students' perceptions of using social media when seeking employment. A quantitative research methodology was adopted, and a hundred and forty respondents participated in this study by completing questionnaires. Findings indicated that ninety-five percent of Honours students have professional social media accounts. The most salient finding was that over seventy percent of the respondents indicated using social media for job seeking, with LinkedIn and Facebook being the most favoured. This study found that social media is a popular tool many individuals and organisations use. It is recommended that further research under this context is undertaken with a broader demographic of postgraduate students, especially as they are a large segment of job seekers.

Author(s) Details:

Suman Dayanand,
University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Ashika Maharaj,
University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/MHEEDCBCPICBMD/article/view/13202

The Relevance of the Liability of Newness in a Post-COVID-19 South African Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprise Dispensation | Chapter 8 | Managing Higher Education and Enterprises in Developing Countries Beyond COVID-19: Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics

Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are major socioeconomic contributors globally. In South Africa, these business entities supply roughly 50% towards the national Gross Domestic Product, and employment opportunities for at least 60% of the national workforce. Unfortunately, research shows that South African SMMEs have among the highest failure rates in the world, with approximately 75% failing after operating for only three years. In 1965, Arthur Stinchcombe considered the high risk of SMME failure and developed a theory called the liability of newness, where all possible reasons for it can fit into four distinct categories. Even though this theory is older than a half-century, within the ambit of this study, the primary objective was to ascertain the relevance of the liability of newness in a post-COVID-19 South African SMME dispensation. Non-empirical, qualitative, exploratory research was conducted through an online desktop review to achieve the latter. From the research conducted, it became apparent that although the liability of newness is still relevant in a post-COVID-19 South African dispensation, two categories appear to be more relevant, at least theoretically speaking.

Author(s) Details:

Juan-Pierré Bruwer,
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/MHEEDCBCPICBMD/article/view/13199

Examining Community and Government Responses to Floods in South African Informal Settlements | Chapter 4 | Recent Research Advances in Arts and Social Studies Vol. 3

The aims concerning this study were to examine societies’ responses to flood in informal conclusions of South Land of the Sahara and the existing government blueprints to mitigate the impact of floods on poor societies in informal settlement of On west side when facing north Africa. In order to be responsible to the above research objective, this study used the existent secondary concerning qualities not quantities data. These include visual and audio entertainment transmitted via radio waves and videos from materials shared on YouTube channels policies as well as TV news situated online and diverse classifications of articles convenient online. These sources held victims of flood testimonies, expert’s study as well as official reports.The findings have proved that despite repeated incident of flood in informal settlements, societies have not grown collective strategy to put oneself in the place of another floods. It was evident that the response is willing and un-coordinated. That means that skilled are no educational and training possible to assist communities handle floods where they occur.Weak assets and form of livelihoods undertaken by casual dwellers, do not allow ruling class to recover from flood effectively. The judgments have also shown that the management intervened, still, the interventions have not happened effective in addressing the latent problems that lead to exposure to flood. This means that government mediation is reactive alternatively pre-emptive.  The study recommends long term policy, if challenges related to flood in informal conclusions are to be addressed. While this study exposed some important judgments, as a desk-based study, it presents few limitation. It is main that further study is conducted that includes people and those affected by floods.

Author(s) Details:

Joseph Rudigi Rukema,
School of Social Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Sinazo Nomsenge,
School of Social Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/RRAASS-V3/article/view/12813

Analysis of the Indicators of Household Food Insecurity in Frances Baard District Municipality of South Africa | Chapter 5 | Recent Trends in Arts and Social Studies Vol. 8

 Food anxiety is becoming a global question. To ensure that households are bread secure, numerous instruments to measure and evaluate food indicators endure be developed utilizing the food indicators calculation. Only a few research have investigated the evolution of household cooking insecurity signs. This study aims to assess and measure food anxiety indicators in the Frances Baard District Municipality. A quantitative research design was secondhand in this study, that includes descriptive, correlational, and descriptive research. For this study, a basic random sampling method was used, accompanying a sample size of 536 respondents. A total of 70.2 allotment of the 536 households are large, with four or more things. The findings show a positive and significant connection between not having some food [r= (534) = 0.452, p 0.001], household appendages eating few meals [r= (534) = 0.439, p 0.001], and a deficiency of food for the households. These findings plan that an increase in food-worried households in this municipality ability reduce food freedom by 11.6 percent (B = -0.499, p = 0.030). Home snack security could be discounted by 11.2 percent (B = -0.547, p = 0.032) if household members retire hungry. Food safety indicators in households should be used to determine food insecurity in the Frances Baard Municipality. Households accompanying many dependents have a difficult time getting food. To minimise cooking insecurity, it is suggested that household agriculture and food flowers be promoted and financed. The study revealed that women are generally affected by food anxiety, government concede possibility develop measures to address food danger for women.

Author(s) Details:

Gothatamang Norman Jonathan Shushu,
University of the Free State, South Africa.

Victor Mbulaheni Mmbengwa,
University of Limpopo, South Africa.

Jan Willem Swanepoel,
University of the Free State, South Africa.

Benjamin Manasoe,
University of the Free State, South Africa and Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/RTASS-V8/article/view/11882

Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment of Small-scale Agro-processors in South Africa: Implications for Small Business Development and Entrepreneurship Research | Chapter 7 | An Overview on Business, Management and Economics Research Vol. 2

 Entrepreneurship has existed gaining recognition and attention across the earth as an essential source of economic progress and employment production. Furthermore, entrepreneurship has progressively attracted the governments and administrative institution's attention in current years. This stage's purpose was to analyse entrepreneurialism's influence on the economic authorization of small-scale agro-processors in South Africa.  This research was carried out in the five provinces of South Africa of Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, Free State and Mpumalanga. Moreover, the study met on the influence of entrepreneurship on the financial empowerment of tiny agro-processors in those provinces. A concurrent assorted-methods research design consisting of a almost-structured inquiry with 503 tiny agro-processors was conducted. A layered sampling design was used, and data were analysed utilizing a multiple reversion method. The study establish that entrepreneurship considerably influences the economic empowerment of tiny agro-processors compared to money and infrastructure. The verdicts of this study can inform policymakers, government instrumentalities and scholars that approach to market and undertaking costs are essential entrepreneurship limits which will expedite the economic empowerment of tiny agro-processors in South Africa. The key limitation of the study is that the research was only transported in five provinces of South Africa and secondly, the skilled is a small-capacity of the population, which create the results inaccurate cause the data is not enough.

Author(s) Details:

Benjamin Manasoe,
Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa and Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, Faculty of Management Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa.

Victor Mbulaheni Mmbengwa,
Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa.

Joseph Nembo Lekunze,
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, Business School, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/AOBMER-V2/article/view/11921