Research Articles (University of Pretoria)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/121

This collection offers open access to the full text of research articles published by staff, students and affiliates of the University of Pretoria. These items are identical in content to their published counterparts. It is linked to the Research Information System and complements the Annual Research Report.

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Post-commencement finance creditors and post-commencement creditors – one and the same? Mashwayi Projects (Pty) Ltd v Wescoal (Pty) Ltd 2025 3 SA 441 (SCA)
Swart, Willem Jacobus Christiaan (LexisNexis, 2026-02)
Hierdie vonnisbespreking is 'n kritiese oorweging van die Hoogste Hof van Appèl se beslissing in Mashwayi Projects (Pty) Ltd v Wescoal (Pty) Ltd 2025 3 SA 441 (SCA), waarin die hof moes beslis wie almal as krediteure beskou moet word vir doeleindes van stemming oor 'n voorgestelde ondememingsreddingsplan ingevolge Hoofstuk 6 van die Maatskappywet 71 van 2008 (die Wet). Strydig met die beslissings van die verhoorhof, wat beslis het dat slegs skuldeisers ten tye van die aanvang van ondernemingsredding mag stem, het die Hoogste Hof van Appèl bevind dat die term "skuldeiser", soos gebruik in die betrokke bepalings van die Wet, sy gewone grammatikale betekenis behou en dus beide voor- en na-aanvang skuldeisers insluit, tensy die Wet uitdruklik anders bepaal. Die hof het voorts bevind dat 'n beperkende uitleg wat na-aanvang skuldeisers van stemming uitsluit, moontlik ongrondwetlik sal wees aangesien dit indruis teen die reg op gelyke beskerming in artikel 9 van die Grondwet van die Republiek van Suid-Afrika, 1996. Hoewel die beslissing die regsposisie van na-aanvangsfmansierings skuldeisers versterk, word in hierdie vonnisbespreking betoog dat die hof se uitlegmetodologie problematies is. Die hof het versuim om die term "skuldeiser" in konteks uit te lê met inagneming van die struktuur en doelstellings van Hoofstuk 6, soos voorgeskryf in artikel 5 van die Wet. Spesifieke verwysings na die statutêre raamwerk, insluitend bepalings wat betrekking het op 'n "geaffekteerde persoon", kompromieë met skuldeisers, en die prioriteitsreëling van eise ingevolge artikel 135, is onvoldoende verreken. Voorts word die regsposisie van Mashwayi Projects herbeskou. Hoewel die eise aan Mashwayi ná die aanvang van die ondememingsreddingsproses gesedeer is, het die eisoorsaak onderliggend aan die eis reeds voor daardie tyd bestaan. Daar word geargumenteer dat die fokus eerder op die ontstaan van die eis, en met die identiteit van die houer nie, behoort te val. Die hof se klassifikasie van Mashwayi as 'n na-aanvangsfmansierings skuldeiser is dus onvanpas. Die gevolgtrekking word gemaak dat alhoewel die beslissing van die HHA prakties voordelig mag wees vir die doeltreffende funksionering van ondernemingsreddings-prosesse, die hof onvoldoende gevolg gegee het aan 'n sistemiese en doelgerigte uitlegbenadering wat die Wet vereis, en dus 'n wanbalans geskep het tussen die belange van voor- en na-finansierings skuldeisers.
Level-crossing downsampling for quantization error reduction in sine wave estimation
De Beer, Dirk Johannes; Joubert, Trudi-Heleen (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, 2026-02)
This work introduces a digital postprocessing algorithm—level-crossing downsampling (LC-DS)—for estimating sine wave parameters from sequences of quantized values acquired by standard ADCs. LC-DS emulates level-crossing sampling by retaining only transition points, reducing correlated quantization error, and accelerating least-squares regression (LSR). Its performance is benchmarked against uniform LSR and calibrated sinefit to highlight accuracy and computational tradeoffs. Across a wide dynamic range, LC-DS consistently outperforms uniform sampling and approaches the accuracy of calibrated sinefit for low-level signals, while remaining up to two orders of magnitude faster for large datasets. Unlike conventional methods, LC-DS scales efficiently with data size, enabling real-time estimation without hardware modifications. Practical and simulated experiments, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, confirm robustness under conditions such as signal saturation. These results position LC-DS as a compelling alternative for applications requiring both high precision and computational efficiency.
Learning-based moving horizon autonomous control of a chemical reactor
Sun, Bei; Kong, Peng; Le Roux, Johan Derik; Craig, Ian Keith; He, Mingfang; Yang, Chunhua (Elsevier, 2025-12)
This paper proposes a learning-based moving horizon autonomous control of a chemical reactor (LMHAC) approach for chemical reactor with multiple operating conditions. In the proposed LMHAC scheme, model-based control, model-free control and process modeling are integrated in a moving horizon framework. A control switching logic makes a selection between model predictive control (MPC) and adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) depending on whether the model parameters are known or unknown under the current operating condition. To be compatible with the moving horizon framework, the conventional ADP is fitted into a finite horizon composed of two different stages, namely a learning stage and a control-identification stage. In the learning stage, a constrained finite-horizon ADP (CFADP) first learns an approximated optimal controller from the collected input-state information pair generated by an initial admissible control. In the control-identification stage, the approximated optimal control is applied to the process to generate a sequence of input-state information pairs which is then utilized in turn to identify the unknown model parameters. The LMHAC framework is capable of providing the optimal or nearly optimal control for different operating conditions online and incrementally enlarge the known domain of system dynamics. The feasibility and performance of the proposed approach are illustrated via a case study.
Opening the black box of disaster recovery in SMEs : unpacking the antecedent roles of anticipation capabilities, risk management culture and supply chain agility
Acquah, Innocent Senyo Kwasi; Arhin, Michael; Tchouchu, Emmanuel; Botwe-Koomson, Allswell (Emerald, 2026)
PURPOSE : This study examines how risk management culture fosters disaster recovery and analyses the serial mediation roles of anticipation capabilities and supply chain agility, while assessing opportunities to improve risk management culture, anticipation capabilities and supply chain agility to enhance disaster recovery. Further, the study examines the necessity of risk management culture, anticipation capabilities and supply chain agility for disaster recovery. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : We combined Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling, Importance-Performance Map Analysis and Necessary Condition Analysis to explore the sufficient and necessary roles of risk management culture, anticipation capabilities and supply chain agility in enhancing or enabling disaster recovery among a sample of 357 Ghanaian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. FINDINGS : The findings suggest that risk management culture and supply chain agility, but not anticipation capabilities, have a positive influence on disaster recovery. Moreover, anticipation capabilities and supply chain agility serially mediate the positive nexus between risk management culture and disaster recovery. Furthermore, the findings indicate that risk management culture and supply chain agility, rather than anticipation capabilities, are necessary for effective disaster recovery. ORIGINALITY/VALUE : We present one of the first attempts to broaden our understanding of the drivers of disaster recovery among SMEs, while also providing managers with actionable insights regarding the sufficient and necessary antecedents of disaster recovery.
Classifying consumer zero-waste behaviours in South Africa : applying the 5R framework through discriminant analysis
Botha, Euodia Isabella; Jordaan, Yolanda (Emerald, 2026)
PURPOSE : The purpose of this study is to identify zero-waste activities that drive zero-waste behaviour frequency among South African consumers, using the 5R (refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle and rot) framework and from a motivation-opportunity-ability (MOA) framework perspective. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH : A cross-sectional study was conducted among South African adults, using an online self-administered questionnaire distributed via a paid social media advertisement, which resulted in 486 respondents. Discriminant analysis was used to determine which zero-waste activities effectively distinguish consumers in relation to how often they engage in zero-waste behaviours as a whole. FINDINGS : Three components of the 5R framework were classifiers of zero-waste behaviour, namely, reduce, reuse and recycle. The findings of this study indicate a significant difference between the groups, based on 5 (of the 30) zero-waste activities in the 5R framework, which included avoiding using paper unnecessarily, separating recycling into different containers, using reusable products rather than disposable ones, repurposing items for alternative uses and buying smart (e.g. reusable, refillable and rechargeable products). ORIGINALITY/VALUE : This study mainly contributes to understanding zero-waste behaviours among consumers from a 5R perspective. The findings also contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible production and consumption) by focusing on the implementation of zero-waste practices. By applying the MOA framework, this study provides targeted strategies to guide policymakers, businesses, and marketing practitioners on the appropriate zero-waste activities to focus on to achieve maximum impact. This study also offers practical ideas for promoting zero-waste behaviours, ultimately creating positive brand perceptions and tapping into the growing demand for sustainable product alternatives.
“If we don’t work together, there is no pudding” : informal foodways and culinary agency in a South African female prison
Steyn, Francois; Messif, Krinesha George (Common Ground Research Networks, 2026-02-20)
Poorly prepared or unpalatable food is often referred to as “prison food,” a term used to describe the tasteless meals served in correctional facilities This article examines the intertwined dynamics of food, emotional experience, innovation, and interpersonal relationships among women who serve prison sentences, with emphasis on the significance of informal foodways within correctional facilities. Personal interviews were conducted with twenty-three women who were imprisoned in a South African correctional center, and the data collected was thematically analyzed. The results show that female inmates often perceive prison food not merely as sustenance but as a symbol of punishment and emotional distress associated with their confinement. The deprivation of the basic human right to prepare and enjoy food exacerbates feelings of powerlessness, igniting a complex emotional response that includes anxiety and frustration. The research delineates four critical aspects of food culture in prisons: the prison shop and purchasing power, food bartering, cooking methods, and the importance of collective cooking in forging relationships among inmates. Given the absence of nutritional guidance and involvement in meal preparation, the study posits that the food experience significantly influences the overall psychological well-being of inmates. Strategies that include improving food quality and promoting culinary engagement are essential.
Stakeholder perceptions of a workplace-based screening programme for artisanal and small-scale miners in Zimbabwe
Malhotra, A.M.; Kavenga, F.; Ncube, R.T.; Madziva, G.; Moyo, F.; Chigaraza, B.; Marambire, E.; Kasozi, S.; Timire, C.; Calderwood, C.J.; Nyambo, A.; Ndlovu, K.; Zungu, Muzimkhulu; Moyo, D. (Oxford University Press, 2026)
BACKGROUND : Artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) experience high prevalence of disease, notably tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficieny virus (HIV), silicosis, sexually transmitted infections, substance misuse, and mercury and cyanide toxicity. Despite this, targeted healthcare interventions are limited. AIMS : To explore the perceptions of ASMs and their leaders/representatives in relation to a 5-year targeted health screening intervention for ASMs in Zimbabwe. Screening included TB, HIV and silicosis. Insights were also gathered from healthcare staff, academics and national stakeholders involved in the project. METHODS : Focus-group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 31 participants (13 ASMs and ASMs’ representatives, 6 healthcare staff and academics, and 12 representatives from national organizations). Participants were asked to reflect on their experience and understanding of health screening activities for ASMs, as well as what further healthcare activity is required. RESULTS : Artisanal and small-scale miners felt that screening activity was beneficial. Fear and stigma were the main barriers to healthcare access during initial implementation; however, this was alleviated through collaboration with ASMs leadership and peer-officers. Health priorities identified for future healthcare activity included development of a health-screening checklist for ASMs, strengthening access to information, decentralization of occupational health services and addressing a greater package of health. Cross-collaboration between the mining sector, Ministry of Health and Childcare and other national stakeholders was identified as a priority. CONCLUSIONS : Targeted health screening and care is needed for this neglected and vulnerable group. The workplace screening offered a model to address this; however, more work is needed to ensure that ASMs in other locations and with additional health priorities are reached.
Launching the IUCN Microbial Conservation Specialist Group as a global safeguard for microbial biodiversity
Gilbert, Jack A.; Peixoto, Raquel S.; Scholz, Amber Hartman; Dominguez Bello, Maria Gloria; Korsten, Lise; Berg, Gabriele; Singh, Brajesh; Boetius, Antje; Wang, Fengping; Greening, Chris; Wrighton, Kelly; Bordenstein, Seth; Jansson, Janet K.; Lennon, Jay T.; Souza, Valeria; Thomas, Torsten; Cowan, Don A.; Crowther, Thomas W.; Nguyen, Nguyen; Harper, Lucy; Haraoui, Louis-Patrick; Ishaq, Suzanne L.; Redford, Kent (Nature Research, 2025-10)
Despite its importance, microbial life is largely absent from global conservation frameworks. Launched in July 2025, the Microbial Conservation Specialist Group (MCSG) was established as a Species Survival Commission (SSC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The IUCN is the world’s leading authority in environmental science and policy, renowned for shaping conservation priorities across governments, non-governmental organizations and international treaties. The MCSG convenes a coalition of microbiologists, ecologists, traditional knowledge experts and conservation leaders to develop and advocate for conservation tools, strategies and policies that explicitly integrate microbiology into global biodiversity governance. Despite the importance of microorganisms for ecosystem function, their role has been seen as too abstract or complex to integrate into policy. Elevating microbial perspectives within global conservation has required overcoming a deep-rooted tendency to overlook the invisible.
Alleviation of adverse effects associated with α-glucosidase inhibitors by Ocimum basilicum L., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Salvia officinalis L. reveals novel selective inhibition of Bacillus α-glucosidase by acarbose
Van der Merwe, Lané; Bester, Megan Jean; Serem, June Cheptoo; Apostolides, Zeno (Elsevier, 2026-04)
Ocimum basilicum L., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Salvia officinalis L. have literature-supported ethnobotanical claims of reducing hyperglycaemia and gastrointestinal discomfort. Thus, they contain potent potential for reducing gastrointestinal adverse side effects associated with the use of the type 2 diabetes medication, acarbose. The adverse effects are predominantly theorised to be caused by excess carbohydrate fermentation by gut bacteria. Therefore, the aim of this study was to subject herbal extracts as well as compounds identified in the herbs to in silico and in vitro investigation for selective inhibition of a gut bacterial enzyme, Bacillus α-glucosidase, compared with human α-glucosidase. In silico molecular docking was employed to filter and select top performing compounds that exhibited the highest selective Bacillus α-glucosidase inhibition, followed by pharmacokinetic examination of the selected compounds. In vitro enzyme kinetics, hepatocellular carcinoma cell line cytotoxicity and the reduction of hepatic lipid accumulation in a hepatocellular carcinoma/oleic acid cellular model of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease was examined. A metabolomic study on the concentration of the selected compounds in the herbs as well as a comparative analysis on abundant metabolites between herbs were analysed through an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based study. Molecular docking revealed cinnamic acid, coumaric acid, epicatechin, hesperetin, linalool, menthol, octenol, terpineol, umbelliferone, and vanillic acid as the top predicted compounds with the highest predicted selective inhibition of Bacillus α-glucosidase. These findings were validated through in vitro assessment, in which the primary finding and the most unexpected result was obtained through enzyme kinetics, where compared with all compounds, acarbose exhibited the most potent inhibition and selectivity towards Bacillus α-glucosidase. Only umbelliferone significantly reduced cell viability and therefore validated its predicted toxicity that was obtained through pharmacokinetic studies. O. basilicum, M. chamomilla, and S. officinalis were evaluated against Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze for cytotoxic effects, where only M. chamomilla produced a significantly higher EC50, substantiating the herbs potent anti-cancerous abilities. Compounds and herb extracts were not found to reduce hepatic lipid accumulation. The novel finding was related to acarbose inhibition and specifically its potent selectivity of Bacillus α-glucosidase which discredits and disproves the theory that excess bacterial fermentation is the cause behind acarbose's reported adverse effects. Thus, this research study rather proves that acarbose negatively affects gut bacterial enzymes, promoting microbiome dysbiosis and therefore future research should at the forefront focus on the rehabilitation of diabetic patients' gut microbiome and intestinal health. HIGHLIGHTS • Type 2 diabetes (T2D) medication, acarbose, causes adverse gastrointestinal side effects. • It is theorised this is due to excess carbohydrate fermentation by gut bacteria. • However, acarbose proved potent selective inhibition towards Bacillus α-glucosidase. • Disproving the theory, showing acarbose negatively affect gut bacterial enzymes. • Leading to possible future pathogenic Bacillus α-glucosidase inhibition by acarbose.
Modal expressions in Xhosa, Part II : Possibility
Crane, Thera Marie; Savić, Stefan; Slater, Onelisa; Bernander, Rasmus (Peeters Online Journals, 2025-12)
This study reports on modal expressions of possibility in Xhosa, a Bantu language of South Africa. Combining analysis of occurrences in a small corpus and the native-speaker intuitions of one of the authors, we describe patterns and restrictions in the distribution of four markers of possibility: auxiliary(-like) kwazi and nakho, and prefixes noku-and nga-. Results confirm the generalisation that further grammaticalisation (e.g. auxiliary > affix) corresponds to more subjective meanings. Our corpus data further suggest the significance of the category of existential possibility in Xhosa and its position in pathways of semantic change. Source lexical and constructional meanings are also significant in the usage patterns of Xhosa modal expressions. Finally, our results suggest that semantic expansion from participant-internal possibility (i.e. ability) functions to participant-external (circumstantial or goal-based) may occur via purpose and result clauses.
Mosquitoes then and now : culicine mosquito research in and around Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Thompson, P.N. (Peter N.); Guarido, Milehna M.; Kemp, Alan (Southern African Wildlife Management Association, 2025-02)
The exceptional biodiversity of the Ndumo area and Maputaland in general, with its tropical biota, is reflected in the high diversity of culicine mosquitoes occurring in the area and, along with their vectors, a high diversity of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses). Research interest in the area was driven by the need to identify risks associated with the occurrence of arboviruses potentially affecting human and livestock health in the area, as well as the risk of introduction of arboviruses from elsewhere. We give an overview of the mosquito and arbovirus-related research that has taken place at Ndumo and elsewhere along the lower Phongolo River floodplain since the first expedition in 1955. Intensive work was done on mosquitoes and arboviruses for about 15 years, after which a period of 45 years saw only one focused mosquito study (1989-1993). More recently, interest was inspired once again by the threat of emerging and re-emerging arboviruses and we have been studying culicine mosquitoes and their associated viruses in the Ndumo area since 2016. We describe our recent findings with respect to occurrence and abundance of culicine mosquito species, compare them to historical findings, discuss possible reasons for apparent changes observed, and propose priorities for future research in the area.
Hyaena-mediated landscapes of fear : the influence of active spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta) den sites on the detection probability and occupancy probability of a mammal community
Jansen Van Vuuren, Amauree; Curveira-Santos, Gonçalo; Swanepoel, Lourens; Valeix, Marion; Fritz, Herve; Venter, Jan A. (Southern African Wildlife Management Association, 2025-11)
African ecosystems support a diverse variety of predator species and have the highest diversity of large carnivores on earth. Apex predators play a crucial role in these ecosystems. Through hunting and creating a landscape of fear, apex predators influence the populations and behaviours of smaller predators and prey. According to the mesopredator release hypothesis, the absence of an apex predator leads to an increase in mesopredator populations, resulting in higher predation pressure on their prey and a subsequent decline in prey populations. The spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta) is a key apex predator with several activity hotspots, the largest being the den, where landscapes of fear may be most pronounced. While there is substantial literature on factors influencing hyaena den site selection, the impact of these dens on the presence of potential prey and competitively inferior species remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine the influence of perceived risk associated with hyaena dens on the occupancy and detection probabilities of prey species within the ecosystem. We used camera traps set up around dens to assess these probabilities, providing a detailed analysis of mesopredator and prey species' responses to hyaena activity. Our results indicate a correlation between increased hyaena activity and reduced occupancy and detection probabilities in mesopredator and prey species. These findings suggest that hyaena dens create landscapes of fear, influencing mesopredator and prey species' distribution and behaviour.
Is evangelicalism now politically prophetic or prophetically political? Interrogating clergy and ‘politricks’ in the 21st century
Patrick , Hosea Olayiwola; Ndlovu , James; Patrick, Rhoda Titilopemi Inioluwa; Akpan, Udoh James; Olasupo, Olusola (Adonis and Abbey Publishers, 2025-12)
In the 21st century, the intersection of religion and politics in Africa has become increasingly pronounced, with clergy having an important effect on forming political landscapes. This paper explores whether evangelicalism is now politically prophetic or prophetically political by examining the influence of religious leaders on political outcomes. The distinction between being politically prophetic and prophetically political is subtle yet significant: the former aligns religious voices with specific political agendas, while the latter involves speaking truth to power regardless of political affiliations. Using Nigeria and Zimbabwe as case studies, this paper adopts a descriptive narrative framework and a qualitative desktop review approach. It draws on the Marxian theory to rationalise theocratic influence and followership dogma, suggesting that clergy involvement in politics serves elite interests and maintains the status quo. The paper argues that religious prophecies significantly impact political participation and voter behaviour, often leading to controversies and questions about the authenticity of these prophecies. The analysis highlights the dual roles of religious leaders as both spiritual guides and political influencers, raising important questions about the integrity of the prophetic voice in the realm of politics. The challenge lies in maintaining this integrity while engaging with the political realities of the 21st century. The paper concludes that while the intersection between interest, politics, and religion will continue to shape political participation, there is a need to ensure the integrity of the prophetic voice while engaging with present-day political realities.
Usability of a blood-based HIV self-test kit in Lusaka province, Zambia : a cross-sectional analysis
Mwamba, Fales Z.; Mwape, Mwansa; Simfukwe, Brenda C.; Musunga, Nowella M.; Mathebula, Evans Mantiri; Mupeta, Geofrey (AOSIS, 2025-12-20)
BACKGROUND : Despite progress toward the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 targets, Zambia faces persistent gaps in HIV testing coverage. The Ministry of Health implemented blood-based HIV self-testing (HIVST) to improve accessibility. This study evaluated the CheckNOW™ HIVST kit’s usability in Lusaka province health facilities. OBJECTIVE : To determine usability, awareness and user-friendliness of the CheckNOW™ HIVST among Zambian adults. METHODS : We conducted a cross-sectional study from 04 September 2023 – 22 September 2023 across four high-volume healthcare facilities. A total of 323 CheckNOW™ HIVST kits were distributed, with 316 consenting adults successfully enrolled in the study. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered via face-to-face interviews following test completion, capturing information on socio-demographics, HIV testing history and user perception of the self-testing process. Descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis. RESULTS : Among 316 participants, 56.3% (178/316) were female, and 41.5% (131/316) were aged 25–34 years. The majority (95.0%, 300/316; p < 0.001) found the CheckNOW™ kit easy to use, while 65.0% (206/316) had prior awareness of HIVST. Additionally, 83.6% (264/316; p < 0.001) followed the test instructions correctly and independently. A high proportion (98.7%, 312/316; p < 0.001) expressed willingness to test again, and 99.7% (315/316; p < 0.001) would recommend it to others. CONCLUSION : The CheckNOW™ blood-based HIVST kit demonstrated high usability and ease of use, supporting its potential to expand HIV testing coverage in Zambia. However, increased awareness efforts are necessary to maximise uptake and ensure broader accessibility. What this study adds: This study provides the first evidence that blood-based HIV self-testing is feasible and acceptable within Zambian clinical settings. It offers a critical new strategy to expand testing coverage and reach key populations by integrating self-testing into routine health services.
Actions speak louder than words : are we role modelling what we hope for?
Cordier, Werner (South African Medical Association, 2025-12)
Role modelling in academic settings represents a powerful force that shapes the next generation of scholars, professionals and citizens. When we, as role models, demonstrate factors such as intellectual curiosity, ethical rigour and respectful communication, we create a platform for further professional development of our students. The implicit messages we send through our actions – what constitutes professional behaviour, what it means to be an academic, and what drives scholarship – often speak louder than our explicit teachings. Care should therefore be taken to ensure these messages are translated appropriately. Role modelling is a powerful learning device that bridges formal academic content related to such matters and highlights its authenticity. It is particularly well-suited for behavioural learning, especially when we consider the vast array of contextual factors, such as sociodynamic interactions, that are not easy to translate in a text or lecture.
Macroeconomic shocks and SMME’s employment in South Africa : evidence from ARDL and ECM approaches
Adesile, Olusegun; Habanabakize, Thomas (Adonis and Abbey Publishers, 2025-12)
Small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) play a significant role in any country’s economy and specifically in job creation. However, the potency of SMMEs depends on various factors that include macroeconomic factors such as fuel or petroleum price, interest rate, and exchange rate fluctuations. The current study aims to investigate macroeconomic shocks and SMME’s employment in South Africa. To achieve this objective, the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and Error-Correction Models were applied to time series data spanning from 2009 to 2022. The study findings revealed that petrol price and interest rate negatively influence SMME’s employment in both the long-run and the short-run. However, the exchange rate was found to have a positive effect on employment in the long-run as well as the short-run. Consequently, the study for the South African SMME employment growth The study recommends that the South African government adopt “Sustainable Energy and Economic Growth Policy” as this policy could assist in stabilising energy costs, reducing fuel price volatility through strategic reserves or subsidies, and implementing inflation-control measures such as improving supply chains and promoting local production. By addressing high energy costs and inflation, the policy would create a favourable environment for SMMEs to thrive, invest, expand, and generate employment, leading to overall economic growth
Experiences with interactive video assessment in higher education to enhance teaching and learning
West, Joyce Phillis (Unit for Distance Education, Faculty of Education, University of Pretoria, 2024-12)
When designing quality educational experiences, decisions must be made based on the latest educational technologies available. Interactive videos are one of the most advanced digital information technology and multimedia content developments. Therefore, using interactive videos requires significant investment in technology and human resources, which could be challenging in countries experiencing socio-economic or digital inequalities. Using a four-phased sequential exploratory mixed-method research design, this study aimed to explore lecturers’ (n=20) and students’ (N=800) experiences with interactive videos in South Africa to discover the underlying drivers for adopting interactive videos and identify factors that could hinder adoption. During the exploration, the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework informed the study on instructional design principles to consider when creating educational experiences (i.e., social presence, cognitive presence, and teaching presences) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) provided insight into determinants (i.e., perceived usefulness; perceived ease of use; behavioural intention to use technology) that directly or indirectly could explain lecturers’ behavioural intentions to adopt interactive videos. This study found that interactive videos have significant benefits and advantages that can positively impact teaching and learning experiences, making them a valuable application for lecturers and students. Findings also show the diverse possibilities for using interactive videos to promote a teacher and cognitive presence online. Findings from this study could help support and guide the adoption of interactive videos in higher education.
Reading challenges in Sepedi : a critical analysis of language education policies in South African Grade 1 classrooms
Zondi, Nombuyiselo Caroline; West, Joyce Phillis; Bipath, Keshni (NISC Pty (Ltd) and Informa Limited (trading as Taylor & Francis Group), 2026)
Research on reading instruction in indigenous African languages remains limited, particularly regarding how language education policies influence literacy outcomes. This gap is especially evident in the context of Sepedi, predominantly spoken in Limpopo province, South Africa. This study explores the critical gaps that language education policies must address to support effective reading instruction in Grade 1 Sepedi classrooms. Grounded in Shulman’s theory of pedagogical content knowledge, specifically curriculum knowledge, it employs a qualitative design through document analysis, using content and thematic analysis to examine five national language-education policies. The findings reveal significant policy misalignment, including contradictory stances on multilingualism, inconsistent terminology and a lack of coherent instructional guidance. Most policies fail to reflect Sepedi’s orthography, particularly in the teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness in the early years/Foundation Phase and offer limited support for teachers. The absence of structured progression in reading instruction and poor alignment across policies contribute to weak literacy outcomes in Sepedi-speaking classrooms. This study shifts attention from learner or teacher deficits to curriculum-level incoherence. Recommendations are made to revise the Sepedi Home Language CAPS to provide structured, language-specific reading instruction. Strengthening teacher training in curriculum knowledge and expanding access to culturally relevant, linguistically appropriate reading materials are also recommended to improve literacy outcomes in the Foundation Phase.
Cassava production in South Africa : understanding smallholder farmers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice towards cassava production
Light, Ngobeni; Nakedi, Makhura Moraka; Petronella, Chaminuka; Manana, Mamabolo; Kenneth, Nhundu (Adonis and Abbey Publishers, 2025-12)
Cassava is widely recognised for its resilience to climate change and its ability to thrive under drought conditions. However, despite these advantages, cassava remains unpopular in the South African food market. This study examines the socio-economic factors influencing farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to cassava production and their implications. Data were collected from 117 farmers across three provinces in South Africa and analysed using a multinomial logistic regression model and the KAP framework. The results indicate significant knowledge gaps, with only 12% of respondents demonstrating adequate knowledge of cassava cultivation. Moreover, negative attitudes toward cassava production were more prevalent than positive ones, and most farmers were not adhering to recommended cultivation practices. Socio-demographic factors such as organisational membership, age, gender, marital status, education level, and farming experience were found to have mixed effects on cassava production. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions such as farmer training programmes, awareness campaigns on the benefits of cassava, educational workshops and seminars, and the provision of incentives, particularly for youth and female farmers.
Investigating gender differences in English comprehension skills among South African Sesotho learners
Thibedi, Tshepiso Promise; Roux, Karen; Graham, Marien Alet (Adonis and Abbey Publishers, 2025-12)
This study explores the relationship between reading comprehension (RC) and listening comprehension (LC) among Grade 4 Sesotho home language (HL) learners in South African primary schools, with a specific focus on gender differences across these two skills. As English serves as the Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT) from Grade 4 in many South African schools, learners face the challenge of acquiring academic content in a second language. Using the Simple View of Reading model as the theoretical framework, the study employed a cross-sectional, quantitative comparative correlational design, analysing data from 84 learners (38 boys and 46 girls) in Gauteng Province. Data were collected using the Annual National Assessments and analysed using Spearman correlations and Mann-Whitney tests. Results revealed a significant positive correlation between RC and LC, but gender differences in these skills were statistically insignificant. These findings fill a gap in the existing literature by examining the comprehension skills of South African Sesotho learners and suggest that while gender does not play a significant role in RC and LC, further research should explore the developmental trajectory of these skills over time. The study recommends longitudinal research to better understand the causal factors influencing comprehension skills in multilingual learning environments.

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