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Access status: Open Access ,
Influence of the Taxicab transportation business on drivers’ economic empowerment in Lesotho, Maseru: a case study
(University of the Free State, 2024) Mokoatsi, Mohapi Peter; Marais, Lochner; Rani, Kolisa
This study examined the economic empowerment of taxicab drivers with performance-based contracts in Maseru, Lesotho. The study used qualitative research methodologies; specifically, purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews were conducted in Sesotho to interview Maseru Mall Taxi Rank operators. Thematic analysis was performed on the data collected while adhering to confidentiality and ethical guidelines. The study drew on empirical evidence and literature, revealing noteworthy findings in several critical areas. First, the study found a significant increase in economic empowerment among drivers, consistent with global trends in similar industries. Performance-based contracts are a stimulant, providing drivers with job security and a clear path to successful entrepreneurship via cab ownership. This transformation improves individual economic position and helps to drive general economic growth, as indicated by increasing cab owner turnover and returns. Furthermore, performance contracts provide drivers with significant financial insights, allowing them to make informed decisions and pursue various savings and investing strategies. This newfound financial knowledge promotes personal well-being and encourages a culture of responsible financial management within the taxicab industry.
Access status: Open Access ,
Small and informal enterprise development in deprived areas
(University of the Free State, 2024) Matsho, Jim; Marais, J. G. L.
The research investigated small and informal enterprises' business problems and experiences in a deprived context of the King Cetshwayo District Municipality in northern KwaZulu-Natal within the forestry value chain. The research followed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs. An interview guide was used, and it is available both in English and iSiZulu. Most participants from the sample of 12 operate transport businesses that move timber from the forestry timber small-scale farmers' area(s) to the processing plants in the Richards Bay industrial complex. The data analysis provides the following themes: capacity building, finances, financial systems, machine(s), operational challenges, and records management. The study limitations include the following: study area size, small sample size, unavailability of participants, business conditions, and human capacity. The study found eight key challenges SMMEs face in deprived areas, with finance access being the main challenge, including mentorship, regulatory compliance, and economies of scale, among others identified. It was found that proper maintenance and implementation of financial systems are critical to the SMME ecosystem. The study provides twelve recommendations addressing the eight main findings to address the research question, which is as follows: dedicated funding for SMMEs in the forestry value chain, increased funding be made available for entrepreneurs, promotion of finance and accounting systems, additional trucking capacity for increased demand, improved efficiency and monitoring systems with the operation, upskill contractor personnel through HEIs, embark on capacity building programme focusing on locals, implementation of filling system and protocol(s), implementation of the Enterprise Development Program (EDP) for SMMEs inclusion, a dedicated mentorship program for the forestry value chain entrepreneurs, legislation introduction mainly targeted forestry SMMEs to reduce compliance costs and measurement of productivity. It also offers further research study area suggestions for future research projects. Lastly, the study concludes and reiterates that SMMEs drive sustainability, employment creation, and economic contribution in deprived areas.
Access status: Open Access ,
Beyond the books: exploring the well-being support needs of MBA students
(SAIMS (Southern African Institute for Management Scientists), 2025) Sinra, Ronald; Massyn, Liezel
Well-being among postgraduate students is now being considered crucial to academic success and personal development. Yet, they report high levels of stress, anxiety, and loneliness, which impact their general study experience. This qualitative study explores the well-being needs of MBA students, and what they require in terms of support to excel academically and in life. Data were collected through 14 semi-structured interviews with MBA students and analysed using thematic analysis. The main themes identified were Current Well-Being, Support, Demands, and Resources. The research indicates that such issues discussed under institutional support could bring a big change in the academic life of MBA students. Recommendations include collaboration with student counselling services for custom-made offerings, mentorship programmes and enhanced peer support. These findings add to the emerging body of literature on student well-being in higher education and provide pragmatic recommendations to enhance MBA students' well-being.
Access status: Open Access ,
Advertising and brand loyalty in the South African Solar Industry
(University of the Free State, 2024) Dippenaar, Zané; Rukuni, Tarisai Fritz; Nkwei, Emile Saker
The South African solar market is expanding rapidly, and it is expected to grow from 5.44 GW in 2023 to 9.24 GW by 2028, driven by decreasing costs of photovoltaic modules, supportive government policies, and high electricity demand. This growth has attracted an influx of both domestic and international business-to-business solar distributors in the market leading to intense competition. It is becoming more necessary for distributors in the solar industry to develop customer brand loyalty while taking into consideration the significance of advertising, competitive advantage, commitment, trust and brand awareness. It is upon this background that the current study aimed to develop a model based on the moderated mediation effect of brand awareness on the relationship between below-the-line advertising and brand loyalty through competitive advantage, commitment, and trust in the South African business to-business solar industry. This study adopted a positivist research paradigm, employing a quantitative research methodology to achieve its objectives. Data collection was through a questionnaire distributed to a convenience sample of 427 solar installation companies subscribed to IBC SOLAR’s platforms in South Africa. SmartPLS 4 was utilised to perform data analysis, including descriptive analysis, structural equation modelling, as well as mediation and moderation analysis. The structural equation modelling results indicated that below-the-line advertising did not affect brand loyalty directly. However, competitive advantage and commitment positively influenced brand loyalty, demonstrating that companies with a stronger competitive edge and higher levels of commitment enjoy greater brand loyalty. Trust, on the other hand, was not a significant predictor of brand loyalty. Furthermore, brand awareness moderated the mediation effects of competitive advantage and commitment to the advertising-brand loyalty relationship. At higher levels of brand awareness, these mediations were statistically significant, while at lower levels, they were not. Trust did not demonstrate significant mediation at any level of brand awareness. This study has major implications for theory and practice leading to the improvement of customer brand loyalty within the business-to-business solar distributors, which is essential for achieving competitive advantage.
Access status: Open Access ,
Well-being needs of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students at the University of Free State
(University of the Free State, 2024) Sinra, Ronald Wesley; Massyn, Liezel
Well-being among postgraduate students is increasingly recognised as crucial for academic success and personal development. Yet, many experienced high levels of stress, anxiety, and isolation, impacting their overall academic experience. This qualitative research study explores the well-being of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students at the University of Free State, aiming to identify the well-being needs and support required, in addition to the services provided by the institution. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and interpretive phenomenological design. A population of 131 MBA students who were enrolled were approached to participate voluntarily. From the initial voluntary sample group of 25 MBA students, 14 semi-structured interviews were conducted, and reflexive thematic analysis was appointed to answer the main research question. The thematic analysis led to the identification of five themes and a variety of subthemes coupled with them: 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁, 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀, 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀. 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁: Students highlighted the significance of both emotional and institutional support systems. Positive relationships with faculty and fellow students cultivated a sense of belonging and enhanced their resilience. 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹-𝗕𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 is where participants reported a complex interplay of emotional, social, and academic well-being, emphasising the importance of a balanced lifestyle to maintain mental health during their studies. 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 indicated in the findings revealed specific needs related to academic guidance, mental well-being resources, and work-life balance, emphasising the necessity for tailored support services. 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 that refer to the demands of the MBA program, including intensive coursework and time pressures, were identified as significant stressors, contributing to feelings of being overwhelmed and burnout. 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 relate to the students’ expression of the need for better access to resources, including communication, collaboration and peer learning, information technology, counselling services, and stress management workshops, to help them navigate their academic challenges effectively. The findings emphasise the critical role of institutions in supporting student well-being, suggesting that a structured approach that addresses these themes can significantly enhance the overall academic experience of MBA students. This result contributes to the growing body of literature on student well-being in higher education. It offers practical to implement effective support systems for MBA students. Various recommendations to support the well-being needs of MBA students better were identified in this study. These speak to the 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭-𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘉𝘈 𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘮, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭-𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘴, 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘦𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘴, 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘺 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘺, 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬-𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 approaches. Ultimately, gradual implementation of the recommended initiatives will eventually enhance the overall well-being of MBA students.
Access status: Open Access ,
Strengthening local government capability for inclusive economic governance: an analysis of local economic development and rural entrepreneurship in South Africa
(Springer, 2026) Modirapula, Tshalofelo David; Dlamini, Nokulunga Linet; Gabela, Bongeka
This article examines how local government capability shapes inclusive economic governance, local economic development (LED) and rural entrepreneurship in South Africa’s periphery. Despite comprehensive LED frameworks, strategies often prioritise attracting formal, private-sector businesses while neglecting the development of rural entrepreneurs. This oversight undermines rural entrepreneurship’s potential to drive job creation, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth. By systematically reviewing peer-reviewed and grey literature, the study identifies institutional constraints affecting LED and rural development. Anchored in Institutional Capacity Theory and Economic Location Theory, the findings reveal significant capability deficits in rural municipalities, limiting their ability to support grassroots entrepreneurship. The paper advocates for recalibrated LED approaches that prioritise institutional strengthening, context sensitivity, and targeted support for rural entrepreneurial ecosystems. Strengthening municipal planning and investing in local capabilities are essential for enabling rural communities to thrive in a globalised economy.
Access status: Open Access ,
Analysing the legality of the right to development in South Africa
(University of the Free State, 2024) Moseli, Khothalang; Ngang, Carol Chi
This doctoral dissertation undertakes a critical examination of the legal status of the right to development in the South African context. It engages with the core research question: What is the legality of the right to development in South Africa? The study situates this inquiry within a broader historical and theoretical milieu, tracing the evolution of the right to development through international human rights instruments and analysing its incorporation and recognition within domestic legal frameworks. Through a comprehensive analysis of constitutional provisions, statutory laws, and relevant case law, this thesis critically evaluates the formulation and practical enforcement of the right to development in South African. The thesis also considers the socio-economic realities facing marginalised communities and the implications of these realities for the realisation of the right to development. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, the thesis highlights the nexus between legal, political, and social factors that shape the practical application of the right to development. Ultimately, the findings reveal the complexities surrounding the legal recognition and enforceability of the right to development in South Africa, emphasising the need for enhanced legal recognition and implementation strategies to ensure equitable access to development opportunities for all citizens, especially the poor, vulnerable and marginalised. This thesis enriches the broader discourse on human rights and development, offering nuanced insights for policymakers, legal practitioners, and scholars through an interdisciplinary lens.
Access status: Open Access ,
Culture as a barrier to the realisation of sexual minority rights in Zimbabwe
(University of the Free State, 2025) Muganyi, Tanaka; Kamga, Gerard; Westman, Claire
Homophobia is a well-known problem in Zimbabwe, as homosexuality is believed not to be part of African culture. As a result, 10% of the estimated homosexual individuals in Zimbabwe, most of them face abuse, discrimination and exclusion in all spheres of life. The Zimbabwean legal system of human rights is completely silent on sexual minority rights despite the Constitutional non-discrimination clause and international human rights and instruments that call for the protection of such rights. This study aims to explore the cultural barrier to the realization of sexual minority rights in Zimbabwe, with hopes to promote and pave the way for the progressive realisation of such rights. This research is a desktop study and makes use of a combined research method. Firstly, a critical perspective research method will be utilised to analyse how cultural and traditional values of Zimbabwe are a barrier to the full realisation of sexual minority rights. Secondly, a deconstructive perspective research method will be used to examine how the existing laws regarding homosexuality are wrongly constructed, which calls for change. Lastly, an analysis on avenues that can be taken in an effort to protect and realize sexual minority rights in Zimbabwe will be carried out.
Access status: Open Access ,
Geography teachers’ reflection on the Curriculum implementation in rural schools of South Africa
(Society for Research and Knowledge Management, 2025-07-30) Molapo, Karabo
The need for geography teachers to understand and reflect on the practices requires interrogation of their ability to provide better implementation of the curriculum in the classroom. The implementers have enforced the implementation, but reflection by geography teachers is not well addressed for better implementation. This study examines geography teachers’ reflections on curriculum implementation in rural schools. Qualitative and case study designs reflect on the curriculum implementation in rural schools. The interpretivism paradigm was employed to check teaching practices since 2012 up to date in rural schools to understand the daily practices on the implementation of the geography curriculum. A convenient sample consisted of ten geography teachers. Individual semi-structured interviews and document reviews were used as data collection methods. The realist social theory on curriculum was used as a lens for the present paper. Geography teachers do not reflect on their daily classroom teaching practices, such as lesson plans and content knowledge. The study concluded that collaborative teaching practices, mastery of geography content, and pedagogical analysis are significant in curriculum implementation in South African rural schools. Proper assessment by the School Management Team should be in place among schools to constantly review the lesson plan used by geography teachers in line with the policy framework on the curriculum implementation in South African rural schools.
Access status: Open Access ,
The search for high energy gamma-ray emission from two white dwarf pulsar candidates Euve J0317-85.5 and J1912-4410 using fermi-LAT data
(University of the Free State, 2025) Minnie, Lurgasho Hristo; Meintjes, Petrus J.; Maritz, Jacques
The discovery of the first fast spinning, highly magnetic neutron star or "pulsar" (Hewish, Bell, Pilkington, Scott, and Collins (1968)) opened the doors to the possibility that fast spinning, highly magnetic white dwarfs could mimic the same behavior seen in these pulsars. Indeed, the first discovery of a binary "white dwarf pulsar" AR Scorpii by Marsh et al. (2016) confirmed that possibility. EUVE J0317-85.5 (J0317) is an isolated magnetic white dwarf which showed optical (Barstow et al. (1995)) and far-ultraviolet (FUV, Ferrario, Vennes, Wickramasinghe, Bailey, and Christian (1997)) pulsations at a spin period of 725 seconds (12 minutes) and its first harmonic ~362.9 seconds. This was also confirmed with new optical data from the BOOTES-6 and 7 robotic telescopes. Using archival X-ray data from ROSAT, possible soft X-ray pulsations were also found at the first harmonic. Observations from 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪-LAT revealed low-level γ-ray pulsations in the 0.5-10 GeV energy range at both the spin period 𝘗=724.65±0.54s at ~4.01σ (~3.72σ using the H-test Test Statistic) and its first harmonic 𝘗=362.65±0.29s at ~3.77σ (~3.61σ using H-test Test Statistic). The γ-ray light curve phase-folded on the rotation period was phase-aligned with the new BOOTES-6 and BOOTES-7 optical folded light curves using the same spin ephemeris suggesting a similar origin of the optical and γ-ray photons in J0317. 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪-LAT observations of the con firmed white dwarf pulsar J191213.72-441045.1 (J1912) revealed γ-ray pulsations in the 0.5-10 GeV energy range at a period 𝘗=319.99±0.35s at ~5.74σ (~4.73σ with H-test Test Statistic) or which the phase-folded γ-ray light curve is also in phase with the optical folded light curves using the same spin ephemeris provided by Pelisoli, Marsh, et al. (2023). In both of these systems, the γ-rays could be produced by the curvature radiation mechanism in which electrons slide along the magnetic field line emitting γ-rays modulated at the white dwarf rotation period.