Theses and Dissertations (University of Pretoria)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/31741

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Clinician and patient views on antiretroviral treatment integration in primary health care clinics, Tshwane, South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2014) Hendricks, S.J.H. (Stephen); Bergh, Anne-Marie; stephen.hendriks@up.ac.za; Mathibe, Maphuthego Deliah
Background: Primary health care (PHC) clinicians and patients are major role players in the South African antiretroviral treatment programme. Understanding their perceptions of integrated care and the management of people living with HIV/AIDS in PHC facilities is necessary for successful implementation and sustainability. Objective: This study explored clinician and patient perceptions of integration of antiretroviral treatment in PHC clinics. Method: An exploratory, qualitative design was used. Four City of Tshwane PHC facilities were purposively selected, two urban and two rural. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 35 clinicians and four focus group interviews were conducted with HIV patients. Results: Models of care implemented were: full integration; partial integration; and separate services. Workload, staff development and support for integration affected clinicians’ performance and viewpoints. Promotion of privacy, reduced discrimination and increased access to comprehensive care were perceived as benefits of service integration and delays, poor patient care and patient dissatisfaction as negative aspects. In three facilities patients were satisfied with integration or semi-integration and felt common queues prevented stigma and discrimination, while the reverse was true in separate services. Single-month issuance of antiretroviral drugs and clinic schedule organisation were viewed negatively, as well as staff attitudes, poor communication and long waiting times. Conclusion: Integration of ART service in primary health services improved accessibility of the comprehensive service packages and coverage. The fully integrated model shared resources and had equitable work distribution amongst clinicians.
Peace mediation : the role of John 7:53–8:11 for possible conflict management in reformed churches in northwest region of Cameroon
(University of Pretoria, 2025-04) Hombana, Mphumezi; rogertem1@gmail.com; Tem, Roger M.
No abstract
Sabbatian influences on the Chassidic and Mitnagdic movements : an excursion into messianic Kabbalah and its disseminators in the aftermath of Shabbatai Tzvi
(University of Pretoria, 2024-08-30) Human, Dirk J.; baalshem@global.co.za; Michal, Gavin
This study hypothesises that as a result of a thorough analysis of the context and content of rabbinic texts, including the known associations of their authors − spanning the periods of Shabbatai Tzvi, the Baal Shem Tov and the Vilna Gaon − the conclusion can be reasonably drawn that the Chassidic and Mitnagdic movements had been fundamentally subjected to multiple Sabbatian influences and that a causal doctrinal and rabbinic link between Sabbatianism and both the Chassidic and Mitnagdic movements can be demonstrated.
Redefining the church's mission : towards a contextual and missional ecclesiology in responding to poverty in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2024-09) Dreyer, Willem Akkerhuys (Wim); bernardprinsloo@yahoo.com; Prinsloo, Christoffel Bernardus
This research critically examines the transformative potential of adopting a contextual and missional ecclesiology to enhance the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika's (NHKA) engagement with poverty alleviation in South Africa. Against the country’s severe socio-economic challenges, the study seeks to redefine the church's mission in addressing this pervasive issue more effectively. Central to this investigation is the hypothesis that a shift towards missional ecclesiology – rooted in the Trinitarian mission of God - can significantly empower the NHKA to respond more effectively to poverty. This approach calls for moving beyond traditional ecclesiology models to embrace responsive, contextually informed practices that align with the missio Dei. The research integrates historical reflections on the NHKA's involvement in poverty alleviation, theoretical explorations of missional ecclesiology, and practical considerations for the church's societal engagement. It aims to bridge the gap between ecclesiological theory and the practical realities of addressing socio-economic challenges in contemporary South Africa. Key concepts such as missional ecclesiology, diaconal ministry, and contextual theology are foundational to understanding the proposed shift in the NHKA’s approach to its mission. The study posits that by re-envisioning its mission and practices in light of these concepts, the NHKA—and other ecclesial bodies—can significantly enhance their impact on poverty alleviation. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader ecclesiology and social engagement discourse in South Africa. It highlights the church's potential as a transformative force in society, emphasising the importance of theological reflection, historical awareness, and actionable strategies in driving its mission forward. This thesis advocates for a missional reorientation of the church’s role in society, suggesting that deeper engagement with the gospel's transformative power can lead to more effective responses to the urgent challenge of poverty in South Africa.
Religious (in)tolerance in digital narratives : a critical analysis of how religious studies professionals can play a role in the responsible use of digital narratives
(University of Pretoria, 2024-08) Beyers, Jaco; marykestryds@gmail.com; Strydom, Maryke
This thesis was focused on the complex relationship between religion, tolerance, religious education, and narrative. The digital world is lending a steady stream of narratives toward humanity on a daily basis. Narratives are not just a mere form of entertainment but form part of the information received by humans. The thesis explored how narratives can potentially impact the human mind through narrative theories. Narrative theories showcase why narratives may help increase the effectiveness of fact-based learning. The constant availability of narratives leads to questions about the accuracy of the information found within the narratives. Narratives contain information on a myriad of topics and disciplines. This thesis focused on religious people and phenomena as portrayed in narratives. Although not all narratives are concerned with religion, a large amount of information on religion can be found within narratives. This thesis was based on a quantitative literature review. The main concern was how the responsible use of narratives can be encouraged through religious education settings (non-confessional). The thesis is not a curriculum for a specific context but rather considers the use of digital narratives within religious education settings in a global technology and narrative-forward context. The thesis showcased why digital narratives and the information found therein are important. As many different geographical spaces are becoming more multireligious, propagating tolerant multireligious societies is important. Narratives can have accurate and valuable information that people can learn from throughout their lives. This can partly be achieved through para- social interaction with narrative characters, building curiosity about phenomena found in narratives and practising a conscious retrospective reflection. However, many narratives have inaccurate, stereotypical, or dehumanising views on religious constructs and the people who adhere to them. These types of depictions can lead to an increase in intolerance if digital narrative users do not view the information critically. Therefore, there is a duality of (in)tolerance within the information found within digital narratives. As narratives may create or inhibit tolerance, it is of great importance for religious studies specialists to take note of the dualistic nature of narratives. Therefore, the large number of digital narratives within the public sphere has implications for religious education.
Worship and church building in small congregations : challenge and potential – an empirical-theological analysis of the practice of worship in correlation with church building in small free church congregations in Switzerland
(University of Pretoria, 2024-08) Ott, Bernhard; Lombaard, Christo; rafael.vonarx@bluewin.ch; Von Arx, Rafael
This thesis examined the worship service of small free church congregations in Switzerland and its effects on church development. Social science research was carried out using grounded theory methods to answer the question of which liturgical forms and content, from the perspective of worship participants, make it difficult or support church development. This revealed that worship in small churches represents a staged activation that leads to the congregation being built up. In concrete terms, this means that worship participants are so encouraged by the worship experience that they want to let others participate in the worship service and the spiritual experiences associated with it. They therefore begin to put a lot of effort into designing the worship service so that first-time visitors can feel comfortable in addition to regular visitors. This means that worship participants are involved in working in the worship service, but also in other areas of the church. This in turn leads to joint development of strategies to further develop the worship service and the church. These strategies then shape the characteristics of the congregation, which contribute to regular worshipers identifying more with the congregation, but also to outsiders becoming aware of the congregation and attending the service. These observations make it clear that the worship service of small congregations plays a central role in building up the congregation. The most important liturgical elements emerged as the sermon, praise and fellowship. Since these three core elements in particular were assessed very differently due to different individual needs, a final clarification of the initial question was only possible to a limited extent. Only the SWOT analysis carried out afterwards, with its strong practical relevance, enabled a differentiated evaluation. There it became clear that it was less about the individual elements and more about the interplay between worshipers, liturgical forms and the associated interactions. In detail, it was shown that the liturgical forms in the worship service of small free church congregations contribute to the building of the congregation when the worship participants attend the service with spiritual expectations and can help shape it through (spontaneous) participation. Other important factors are the integration of the different generations in the worship service and the worship service information on other congregational activities.
Widening readership – a case study of the translation of indigenous law
(University of Pretoria, 2015-03) Titlestad, Peter J.H.; idette.noome@up.ac.za; Noomé, Idette
This thesis explores the translation into English of an Afrikaans academic text in the field of legal anthropology focusing on the indigenous law practised among the Nkuna of Ritavi: Boonzaaier’s (1990) Die familie-, erf-, en opvolgingsreg van die Nkuna van Ritavi met verwysing na ander aspekte van die privaatreg. It aims to discover how to produce accountable translations of such texts for different audiences to widen access to information on indigenous law. Such texts are now used in court cases under common law and in the higher indigenous courts, but are not all available in a lingua franca. This qualitative study presents an autoethnographic research narrative, and uses the critical friend methodology to underpin the practical translation of the case study text. Central historical translation theories of equivalence are reviewed. They persist in the Anglo-American translation tradition, which requires ‘transparent’ translation, rather than word-for-word faithfulness. Choices regarding functional equivalence depend on the Skopos (purpose) of texts. Hermeneutic theories, including Iser’s reader aesthetic theories and Gadamer’s concept of horizons of expectations, illuminate the position of translators as readers. The autoethnographic research narrative reveals a sympathetic widening of the translator’s horizons in engaging with the text in the context of her cultural, educational, socio-political and socio-economic positioning. The study shows that feminist theory provides useful metatextual strategies to increase the visibility, and hence accountability, of translators. Post-colonial theories highlight the importance of power relations surrounding translations in the South African context. The study argues that most translation theory focuses on literary translation, not ‘use’ texts such as the case study text, but the concept of ethnographic research narratives and various aspects of ethnographic texts allow literary translation theories to be applied to Boonzaaier’s text. A ‘negotiation’ model of translation is shown to be useful, especially linked to the critical friend methodology (the author of the case study text was interviewed about indeterminacies in the text and about its Skopos). The translation is complicated by the fact that the text focuses on elements of Nkuna culture, which differs from the cultures associated with the start language (Afrikaans) and the target language (English). The annotated academic translation for academics and members of the judiciary reveals problems in translating gender terms which require explicit intervention in the translation. Generic problems in such texts include differential treatment of men and women under indigenous law, non-equivalent legal terminology in the Nkuna and common law systems, and opposing legal and social paradigms – differences which need to be made explicit rather than elided to achieve a ‘thick translation’. Because of the time that has passed since the start text was written (1990), the text also requires updating regarding applicable national legislation and geopolitical designations. Other areas addressed are specific Nkuna terms, currency changes, and the use of tenses in the text. The thesis also explores interactions with aspects which may be offensive or disturbing to readers. The thesis proposes Plain English possibilities for a diverse Nkuna readership, in the context of the language debates in South Africa. Plain English is, by default, essential in South African conditions to widen access to scientific material. South Africa differs from countries where Plain English norms initially developed, so these norms require adjustment. The thesis shows the applicability of interlingual translation theories for intralingual (Plain Language) translation, and recommends further testing of the strategies in the field. It also recommends the use of autoethnography and the critical friend methodology in Translation Studies.
The impact of innovation climate and diversity on inclusive leadership and innovative work behaviour in South African organisations
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11-04) Scheepers, Caren; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Lombard, Wilhelmus Hermanus Adriaan
Businesses need to innovate to remain competitive in their respective markets. Diversity and the appointment of a diverse workforce are promoted as enablers of innovation within organisations. However, appointing diversely without creating inclusivity and promoting an innovative climate, proves to have negative effects on innovation within the organisation. Therefore, to fully harness the advantages of a diverse workforce, several other aspects need to be considered to promote innovation that will assist organisations in remaining competitive in their markets. The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of innovation climate on the relationship between inclusive leadership and innovative work behaviour. Furthermore, differences in race and gender within the leader-follower relationship were tested to measure the impact of the relationship on innovative work behaviour which could stem or promote innovation. This study used a mono-method quantitative methodology with a survey questionnaire as measurement instrument. The unit of analysis was knowledge workers within South African organisations, reporting to a direct manager/supervisor within their organisation. The outcome proved the existence of a significant relationship between inclusive leadership and innovative work behaviour. Full mediation was measured when implementing innovation climate as mediator proving that innovation climate improves the relationship between inclusive leadership and innovative work behaviour. Finally, no evidence was obtained in so far as gender or race diversity impacting the relationship between inclusive leadership and innovative work behaviour. The study therefor adds to literature a method for testing innovative work behaviour through inclusive leadership in developing countries.
Role demands, constraints and choices: The impact of context and stakeholder expectations on business incubator managers’ strategic agency
(University of Pretoria, 2024-10) Marks, Jonathan; Olivier, Johan L.; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gwarega, Dambudzo
Completing this doctorate thesis has been a challenging yet rewarding journey, and it would not have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement of many individuals. First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my supervisors, Prof. Jonathan Marks and Prof. Johan Olivier. Your insightful guidance, constructive criticism, and support have been invaluable. I am also immensely grateful to the GIBS Doctorate Admin office for their support. Dr. Vivienne Spooner, Mamello Ngwenya, and Mpho Alaardt, your regular updates, follow-ups, and advice on administrative matters ensured everything ran smoothly, especially when I needed an extension of time to complete my thesis. Thank you to the participating organisations and individual research respondents for agreeing to participate in this study during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic. Your willingness to share your experiences was crucial to the success of this research. Special thanks to Dr. Gabi Nudelman, who became my academic friend abroad and encouraged me to push through the most challenging moments of data analysis. Your mantra, ""The only way out is through,"" kept me motivated and determined to go through the maze and complete the journey. I would also like to acknowledge the various doctorate cohorts for the inspiration, critique, and challenges during our work-in-progress sessions. Your intellectual camaraderie and shared experiences have been a source of strength. As the journey became lonely, I held on to the encouragement from those who graduated ahead of me and shared their stories. Your success stories have been a beacon of hope. To my wife, Josie, and our sons, Tino, TG, and Thabo, I cannot thank you enough for your understanding and holding the fort as we navigated life in a foreign land amidst my studies. Your patience, love, and support have been my anchor. To Mashudu, thank you for your invaluable assistance in typing significant portions of this thesis. Finally, to my friends and extended family who felt isolated during the study period and everyone who has been a part of this journey, your support, encouragement, and belief in me have made this achievement possible.
The role of trust in family business succession planning
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03) Mamabolo, Anastacia; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Khenisa, Boipelo
Trust plays a pivotal role in the sustainability and longevity of family businesses, particularly in succession planning. Unlike corporate enterprises governed by formal structures, family businesses rely on interpersonal relationships, making trust a crucial factor in leadership transitions. However, succession planning remains a significant challenge for many family-owned businesses, often leading to disputes, instability, and, in some cases, business failure. This study explores the role of trust in family business succession planning by examining strategies used to appoint future leaders, the impact of trust on leadership transitions, and the factors influencing trust development. A qualitative research approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with founders, successors, and key stakeholders from various family businesses in South Africa. Thematic analysis was conducted using Atlas.ti to identify patterns and key insights. Findings indicate that trust facilitates business continuity, smooth transitions, and leadership development. However, trust is influenced by internal family dynamics, governance structures, and external market conditions. The study underscores the need for structured succession planning, transparent communication, and leadership mentoring to sustain trust and ensure long-term success. The findings provide valuable insights for family businesses, policymakers, and scholars in understanding the complexities of trust in succession planning.
Benford’s law and electoral integrity: A forensic analysis of African elections
(University of Pretoria, 2025-04-14) Saville, Adrian; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Vilakazi, Zwelithini Edward
This study examines the applicability of Benford’s Law (BL) as a forensic auditing tool for detecting anomalies in electoral results. BL, which predicts the expected distribution of leading digits in naturally occurring numerical datasets, has been widely employed in financial fraud detection and academic research validation. While prior studies have explored BL’s potential in election forensics, its reliability in distinguishing between genuine fraud and natural statistical deviations remains inconclusive. Using electoral data from Zimbabwe and Kenya, contrasted with benchmark cases from more stable democracies that are South Africa and Botswana, this research applies multiple BL digit tests (first-digit, second-digit, and first-two-digit analyses) alongside complementary statistical measures (chi-square, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mean Absolute Deviation, and p-value tests). The results indicate that while BL can flag irregularities in election data, its limitations as a standalone tool necessitate caution. False positives may arise due to legitimate data quirks, and contextual factors can distort digit distribution patterns. The study concludes that BL should serve as a preliminary screening mechanism rather than definitive proof of electoral manipulation. To enhance election integrity, future forensic audits should integrate BL with advanced statistical techniques or machine learning models. These findings contribute to methodological debates in election forensics and provide practical recommendations for strengthening post-election audit frameworks.
The paradox of flexibility: Exploring the dichotomy of employer-initiated flexible working arrangements and return-to-office directives on knowledge workers’ motivation in the contemporary workplace post-Covid-19
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11-07) Meintjes, Anel; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mofokeng , Molotsi Ntsieng Hendrick
The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic precipitated a substantial transformation in business operations. With the imposition of lockdowns and social distancing measures, organisations across the globe were compelled to transition from conventional office-based work to adopt flexible working arrangements, prominently featuring working from home. This adaptive response was critical for sustaining business continuity and meeting organisational objectives within a complex and restrictive business environment. This qualitative exploratory research aims to explore the paradox of flexible working arrangements as initiated by employers to circumvent business challenges during COVID-19 and the new emerging concept known as return-to-office directives, where employers are now mandating employees to adopt pre-COVID-19 office centric setups. Managers are confronted with the paradoxical dilemma of whether to continue with flexible working arrangements or implement return-to-office directives. Each alternative presents significant unintended repercussions. This study aims to establish the effect of these concept on employees’ motivation, specifically knowledge workers. The primary research question sought to examine the impact of management’s decision to implement return-to-office directives, which mandate the physical presence of knowledge workers in the office, on their motivation level and attitude towards their work. To fully address the primary research question, managers were also asked to provide recounts of their perception of their staff’s motivation towards work after implementing return-to-work directives in addition to data obtained from knowledge workers. A qualitative research approach was considered appropriate, the researcher adopted interpretivism philosophy to complement it. Given the exploratory nature of the study, the theory development was inductive. Due to time constrains the study was cross sectional and used semi-structured interviews to collect data from participants purposefully drawn from researcher’s professional network. The findings showed that implementing return-to-office directives does not affect employees’ motivation, even thou the elements of discomfort, inconveniences were noted as well as challenges of dealing with transition was experienced, the level of motivation remained unaffected. Flexible working arrangements were found to enhance employees’ motivation. This finding corroborated the literature. Consequently, a framework was developed to elucidate the effects of flexible working arrangements and return-to-work directives on organisations to help business leaders make informed decisions about workplace policies and their repercussions on employees’ motivation, productivity and workplace effectiveness.
Gender equality in the workplace: A case for Generation z women
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Ndletyana, Dorothy; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Dodzo, Cordellia Eve
Gender bias continues to be a pervasive issue in the workplace, impacting career progression, remuneration, and overall job satisfaction for women. It is one of the main reasons why women’s careers stagnate. Although considerable research has examined gender bias, gender discrimination and gender inequities, only a limited number of studies investigate how Generation Z (Gen Z) women experience and navigate workplace gender bias, and their views on how to address gender bias in the workplace. This study aims to analyse the experiences of Gen Z women in the workplace, focusing on their methods for combating gender bias and their views on eliminating systemic inequities. An interpretivist perspective was adopted for this study. Through a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, utilising semi-structured interviews, the lived experiences of female Gen Z professionals were explored to gain insight into their experiences with gender bias in the workplace. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, revealing the strategies that are employed by Gen Z women to navigate gender bias and their views on how gender bias can be eliminated. This study enhances the sparse research on Gen Z's employment experiences and offers suggestions for organisations to foster more inclusive cultures. It underscores the necessity for focused gender-equity measures that cater to the unique expectations and advocacy strategies of Gen Z women.
Deconstruction for selective reuse of structural building elements – a case study to identify opportunities and challenges
(University of Pretoria, 2025-01) Van der Merwe, Johann E.; emmamarycarson@gmail.com; Carson, Emma Mary
The construction industry accounts for roughly 70% of global natural resource consumption (United Nations Environment Programme, 2017) and is responsible for roughly 39% of global greenhouse gas emissions (World Green Building Council, 2019). Due to a lack of consideration for waste management in early design stages (Esa et al., 2017), 50% of all construction and demolition waste is created during the End-of-Life (EoL) stage. A proposed solution to these issues is selective reuse. It is hypothesised that selective reuse in the construction industry can potentially target 3 billion tons of raw materials globally, promoting emissions reduction, waste reduction, energy savings and raw materials preservation (Cai and Waldmann, 2019; Bertin et al., 2020). However, the feasibility of reuse of structural elements is reliant on its deconstruction methodology as well as its condition prior to reuse. Furthermore, the process to assess this feasibility (accounting for time, cost and emissions) has only been considered theoretically, focussing on hypothetical structures. The aim of this study is to investigate a process to evaluate the extent of benefit of deconstructing for selective reuse. By considering a real structure with input from relevant professionals, the study considers the sensitivity of various steps in such a process. Through the development of a structural condition assessment system, digital twin and material inventory, the study investigated the extent of benefit of deconstructing for selective reuse, comparing various extents of reuse using a Life-cycle Assessment based evaluation and cost quantification process. The study considered the emissions and costs associated with the structure’s End-of-Life, namely deconstruction or demolition and subsequent transport and disposal. Furthermore, a quantification of costs and emissions associated with the refurbishment of reused items was made. During the Life-cycle Assessment calculations, Embodied Carbon Factors from various data sources and databases were included, including data from relevant professionals. It was found that increased reuse is associated with decreased equivalent carbon dioxide emissions and decreased costs, but a certain degree of reuse is required for the emissions and costs associated with deconstruction to be justified. It was found that the choice of Embodied Carbon Factor database had little influence on the overall trends and conclusions established. Moreover, the study investigated the sensitivity of various assumptions made. The equivalent emissions calculated from the Life-cycle Assessment were found to be insensitive to the Embodied Carbon Factors and factors chosen for demolition and construction emissions as well as the Embodied Carbon Factors and factors chosen for waste processing and disposal of steel and timber. Aside from raw materials and their associated emissions, the transportation emissions’ assumptions (specifically its Embodied Carbon Factor and assumed distance) are most influential to total embodied carbon. Furthermore, the equivalent emissions were found to be sensitive to the assumptions and Embodied Carbon Factors used to account for waste processing and disposal of concrete. The assumed transportation related assumptions and the waste disposal for a material in which a high quantity is present, have been shown to require careful consideration.
The experiences of middle managers enacting strategic roles in financial services organisations in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Meyerowitz, Danielle; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gumede, Gugulani Pearl
For organisations to remain competitive in uncertain turbulent markets, growing research on emergent strategic approached calls for business leaders to open up strategy formulations processes and include actors outside the corporate elites, such as middle managers, in so called open strategy processes (Brielmaier & Friesl, 2023). This to afford them the unique insights and perspectives to guide strategy formulation for strategic agility. However, there is limited knowledge about the practical applications of such approaches beyond theory (Brielmaier & Friesl, 2023), and less about the middle managers perspectives when invited to join open strategy processes notwithstanding the dynamics of their interactions with senior leadership (Rouleau & Balogun, 2011; Splitter et al., 2023) This cross-sectional interpretivist study employs exploratory qualitative research methods to explore the experiences of middle managers in organisation’s strategy formulation processes. Data was gathered from 14 semis-structured interviews with middle managers from the financial services sector in South Africa and thematically analysed to gain their unique lived experiences. Findings indicated that the majority of middle managers were being included in strategy formulation with positive experiences of inclusion, however a new perspective were the negative consequences of inclusion that impaired their ability to effectively participate. These findings have important significant for business leaders adopting open strategy process as they provide pertinent insights that can guide the preparation of middle managers for inclusion in strategy formulation. In addition, this research addresses the call for research that gives light on the dynamic of interdiscursive interactions between senior leaders and middle managers from the middle managers unique perspective.
International entrepreneurial orientation of South African ventures
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Ntshakala, Thembekile; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gongxeka, Nombulelo
The study examines Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) on the internationalisation of South African Ventures focusing on export market participation. EO is investigated in terms of innovativeness, proactivity, and risk-taking, as well as in terms of the moderating influence of environmental factors, including government support expressed as policies, incentives, and infrastructure. Targeting small, medium, and large South African exporting firms, a quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted utilising a standardised research instrument distributed through convenience sampling. Exporters provided data, which was examined to determine how EO characteristics relate to international performance. Key findings suggest that whilst innovativeness showed an inverse relationship, proactiveness, and risk-taking positively correlated with improved export performance. Government support failed to moderate these relationships, such as policies, incentives, and infrastructure, and enhanced the benefits of EO on internationalisation. The primary challenges in South Africa identified turned out to be institutional support lacking and infrastructural constraints. The study concludes that effective internationalisation depends on both internal entrepreneurial capacities and external institutional elements. Recommendations stress the need to match government export support programs with the requirements of firms to promote sustainable economic development through increased export activity.
The role of automotive manufacturers in the supply chain diversity programmes of black-owned motor dealers in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03) Zwane, Steven; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gasa, Marcia
Automotive franchise dealerships in Suth Africa are predominantly white owned. Research shows that inclusion of black ownership in the automotive supply chain has historically been skewed toward upstream. This research set out to explore why, despite regulatory requirements, efforts by the OEMs, industry bodies and the interest by black investors, there are still a few black-owned automotive franchise dealers. Research confirms that there has been limited study on the progress of BBBEE in the downstream supply chain of the automotive industry with a particular focus on black dealership owners. Qualitative research was undertaken to explore this knowledge gap on BBBEE through diversity and inclusion, supplier selection, supply diversity and sort to gain understanding on the supplier development plans of the 7 manufacturing OEMs. Thematic analysis of the results shows that the selection processes and actions of the OEM do not align with their ambitious plans to transform the dealer network. OEMs have since changed the selection of dealer investors to include black ownership requirements, which they deviate from at their discretion. This is further aided by the absence of regulatory policing on compliance on such aspect of transformation. The results do not show concrete supplier development programmes to bring about the necessary transformation. The OEM stringent requirements to qualify for dealerships with high barriers of entry remain in place. These barriers include capital and extensive experience in the automotive industry, experience which the black investors with the capital do not have, and capital which black potential investors that have experience cannot access.
Overcoming barriers to technology adoption: Enhancing data accuracy and employee productivity in rubber manufacturing
(University of Pretoria, 2025-04-01) Pelser, Theuns; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Zuma, Trevor Matthew
The amalgamation of innovative technologies into manufacturing and production systems has transformed industry and allowed businesses to realise high levels of effectiveness and increased productivity, enabling them to achieve competitive advantage. Research on the barriers that might impede technology adoption within rubber manufacturing operations is limited. The aim of this research was to analyse the difficulties related to the use of technology in industrial processes, particularly the obstacles that may impede efficient data input, when employing a Data Management System (DMS). The study was aimed at helping determine the underlying factors contributing to employee resistance and insufficient data entry when using DMS. A quantitative study was conducted, data was gathered through surveys and made use of ordinal data . The data was analysed using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The analysis indicated that challenges such as difficulty operating the DMS, insufficient training, limited technical support, and inadequate infrastructure hindered the adoption process. These barriers were manifested with inconsistent data input, employee frustration, and reduced engagement with technological systems. The insights gained from the results are valuable for practitioners and operational specialists involved in technology implementation in business. Harnessing thorough insights of these barriers is vital for developing functional strategies to promote technology integration across sectors.
Exploring the influence of organisational culture on women's perceptions of gender diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the manufacturing sector
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Kinnear, Lisa; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Molapo, Nkhethoa
Women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles within male dominated industries like the South African manufacturing sector, despite decades of corporate commitments to gender diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) (Simionescu, Gherghina, Tawil, & Sheika, 2021). Research shows that at the current pace of change, it may take over a century to achieve gender parity in managerial positions (United Nations, 2023). This study critically examines how organisational culture shapes women’s perceptions of DEI initiatives, employing Schein’s Model of Organisational Culture as a theoretical framework (Schein, 2010). Specifically, it investigates how cultural artifacts, espoused values, and underlying assumptions influence workplace experiences, career progression, and retention of women. Through a qualitative, interpretive research approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with women leaders across multiple manufacturing organisations. Thematic analysis revealed persistent structural and cultural barriers, including exclusion from informal power networks, gendered leadership biases, and performative DEI strategies that fail to drive substantive change. Findings suggest that while many organisations have formal DEI policies, their effectiveness is undermined by entrenched cultural norms that reinforce male-dominated hierarchies. Women reported scepticism regarding the authenticity of these initiatives, often perceiving them as compliance-driven rather than transformative. Furthermore, the study highlights the critical role of leadership accountability, mentorship, and the establishment of psychologically safe work environments. The study provides evidence that meaningful gender diversity cannot be achieved through policy alone but requires cultural transformation at all levels of the organisation. This research contributes to both academic and industrial discussions on workplace diversity by offering practical recommendations for manufacturing organisations to bridge the gap between DEI rhetoric and lived reality. By challenging deeply ingrained cultural biases and reshaping leadership structures, organisations can create environments where women are not only present in leadership but also able to thrive.
The enablers and barriers of career progression for women into senior management positions in the manufacturing industry
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Singh, Khavitha; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mhlaba, Zamalotshwa Zanele
This study aimed at examining the barriers and enablers which inhibit women’s promotions into senior leadership positions, within South Africa’s manufacturing sector. The research employed qualitative, exploratory design to gain insights from interviews involving semistructured interviews of senior female leaders. Structural barriers, like entrenched gender stereotypes, the glass ceiling effect, limited mentorship opportunities and work life imbalance, hindered women’s advancement. Supportive leadership practises, effective mentorship and sponsorship, transformational leadership and career resilience, on the other hand, were found to be the critical enablers of progression. Overall, these findings showed how organisational culture combined with societal norms, as well as individual agency, worked together to construct career trajectories. This piece of work contributed to the literature on gendered organisational practises by offering a nuanced understanding, and also included practical recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders to create a more inclusive work environment conducive for equal representation among its ranks at the senior level. Overall, the research pointed out that more systemic change was needed at organisations.

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