The purpose of this study was to identify the information needs and information-seeking behaviour of community library users in Msunduzi branch libraries, Pietermaritzburg. Identifying the information needs and information-seeking behaviour of community library users in the Msunduzi branch libraries helped to determine whether the Msunduzi branch libraries met their needs or not. The study involved a quantitative investigation into the information needs and information-seeking behaviour of community library users in Msunduzi branch libraries, within the context of community information and community information services. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The instrument used for collecting data was the self-administered questionnaire. The instrument consisted largely of closed questions and a few open-ended questions. A sample of 200 registered members of Northdale, Woodlands, Eastwood and Sobantu Libraries was surveyed, with 196 respondents giving a response rate of 98%. The validity and reliability of the instrument were established by pre-testing the questionnaire with ten community library users at Georgetown Branch Library. The data was captured onto the computer via Microsoft Excel. The data was then tabulated, and then appropriate analysis was conducted on each question’s data. These were presented in the form of graphs. The community library user’s information needs and information-seeking behaviour was identified using Wilson’s second 1981 model of information behaviour which suited the group under study. The results of the study indicated that the demographic and socio-economic status of the four communities influenced the information needs and information-seeking behaviour of the users. It is evident that in all four communities the information needs of the users were basically related to personal existence, survival and development. In terms of information-seeking behaviour, it can also be concluded that the community library users often used the information providers and information sources which they knew best or those which where the most convenient. Barriers experienced by the respondents were insufficient and relevant materials in the libraries and the lack of internet access. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to address certain problems presented in the study. / Thesis (M.I.S.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2013.

Urbanisation through the process of habitat loss and fragmentation has caused drastic changes in ecosystem dynamics around the world. Many species can no longer survive in these urban areas; however there are those species that have been able to survive and in fact thrive in the newly created habitats. With increasing urbanisation it is important that animals are able to adjust to a life in close association with humans. One such group of organisms which has adjusted well to urbanisation is the suborder Megachiroptera (Chiroptera). Some species from this suborder have benefited from increased food and roost resources in certain urban areas. Exotic fruiting plants (introduced purposely and accidentally) as well as increased cultivated gardens have provided additional food sources in some urban environments, while man-made structures, and increased suitable vegetation, have provided additional roosting opportunities. Although these urban dwelling species live in close association with humans, very little is known of their ecology in urban areas. Wahlberg's epauletted fruit bat Epomophorus wahlbergi is one such species of which little is known of its suburban ecology despite its increased presence in many urban areas. This study on the ecology of E. wahlbergi was conducted from February to October 2011 in the urban environment of Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The aim was to examine foraging movements and habitat use of E. wahlbergi in this urban environment. The objectives were to determine seasonal differences in foraging movements and home range sizes in this urban environment. In addition the roosting dynamics and roost characteristics of E. wahlbergi in this urban environment were determined. In late summer, it was found that individual E. wahlbergi movements ranged considerably, with some bats making extensive flights to different parts of town while others stayed in particular areas throughout; no bats were recorded to have left the urban environment. Some of the larger distances covered in a single night's movements were two and five km. In late summer roosting fidelity varied between individual bats; all the individual bats changed their roosts at least once during late summer. Some individuals had as many as three known daytime roost sites. There was a difference in home range size between the sexes; with females occupying a larger home range size than males. This variation in movement patterns of individual bats suggests that their social interactions, roost site preferences, or dietary preferences vary between individuals in late summer. A significant difference in home range size and habitat use by E. wahlbergi was found between winter and spring, with home range sizes being larger in winter. The increased home range sizes and habitat use in winter were a consequence of bats feeding on the fruits of the alien invasive Syringa (Melia azedarch) with few other trees in fruit. Consequently bats had to move greater distances for food in winter. In spring, fruit availability was greater and more varied including both indigenous and exotic fruits. Consequently in winter, the bats were more reliant on a few fruiting species to meet their dietary requirements than during spring. Bats changed their roosts regularly in summer, winter and spring. There was considerable variation in roost temperatures however roost temperatures were higher than ambient temperatures. Roosts in man-made structures were higher in temperature than those in natural vegetation. This study suggests the importance of temperature in the selection of daytime roosts, however other factors such as predator avoidance and proximity to food resources are also considered in selection of daytime roosts. Within the order Chiroptera, species from the suborder Microchiroptera have generally not been well represented in urban areas, it is important that the reasons for this be better understood. Further research is still required to better understand the ecology of urban dwelling species as well as to understand the reasons why many species are not able to adjust to urban environments. / Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2012.

This study examines the advocacy role of Civil Society specifically Faith based organisations, using the Pietermaritzburg Agency for Community Social Action (PACSA) as a case study. A focus on religion and advocacy is beneficial because Faith based organisations generally deliver services for the public good. The study was conducted in the city of Pietermaritzburg situated in the Province of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa using a faith based non- profit organisation. The specific objectives of the study identified the advocacy strategies and techniques employed by PACSA and the challenges as well as the successes encountered by PACSA in its advocacy work. The study employed the issue of democracy and policy advocacy and the correlation of policy advocacy and effective governance. The study analysed its findings by using a theoretical framework for policy advocacy by Sheldon Gen and Amy Conley Wright. The combined logic model has three major categories of elements: inputs, activities, and outcomes and it was used because it is commensurate to analysis of the research questions that is; 1) What do policy advocates do to try to affect public policy, 2) what are their requisite inputs to perform these activities, and 3) what are the expected outcomes for their efforts. A qualitative methodology shaped the research design; data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings are presented under the main themes identified within data collected through face-to-face interviews and PACSA’s documents. PACSA’s advocacy work is based on needs of the people, not only should Civil Society Organisations ensure that their initiatives meet crucial social demands, but they also need to strengthen their presence at the grassroots level, to influence policy making. This research revealed that Faith based organisations can be involved in policy advocacy work and at the same time act in faith in the process of advocating for people within the society. The research has shown that Faith based organisations can be involved in several projects as long as their main concern being ‘human dignity’. / Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2013.

A dissertation submitted in partial fulfiIIment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts (Clinical Psychology) in the Department of Psychology, University o f Zululand, 2005. / Correctional officers in correctional institutions play a significant role in creating and maintaining the environment within the prison. As a result many issues related to correctional officers have been examined, for instance researchers found that correctional officers experience excessive stress that leads to physical illness, cost money, family problems or inability to perform duties appropriately (Finn, 2000). Most studies examining causes and negative consequences of correctional officers stress were conducted in Western countries, few studies have examined stress and stress related problems among correctional officers in other countries. Thus the present study examined the sources and the extent of stress among correctional officers in South Africa and the effect of these on job satisfaction.

Young women working in SMEs are increasingly being affected by HIV and AIDS, and SMEs are expected to respond to HIV and AIDS through workplace policies and programmes. This requires commitment from SMEs to help young women who face various gendered vulnerabilities to HIV and AIDs. The study, whose purpose was to investigate young women workers’ experiences of the HIV and AIDS response of small and medium enterprises in a semi urban area in KwaZulu-Natal, used a qualitative approach and collected data from three SMEs in Pietermaritzburg during the period of the study. Findings of the study indicate that the majority of respondents from all three SMEs agree on experiencing limited or no HIV and AIDS policies and programmes in SMEs. With reference to incomplete or limited responses, two SMEs provide financial assistance for funerals. However, some aspects such as education and awareness, monitoring, management commitment, provision of medical aid, facilitation of peer education, appointment of an HIV officer and more were not evident. Thus recommendations were made on how SMEs should respond, and future research ideas were outlined. / Health Studies / M. A. (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)

Dissertation submitted in compliance with the requirements for the Master’s Degree in Technology: Nursing, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2016. / Life expectancy has increased rapidly since the beginning of the twentieth century and people aged 65 and older form the fastest growing segment of the population. With the onset of old age, comes social, physical and psychological challenges that result in morbidity and loss of independent life. For some of the socially and economically marginalized elderly this often means living in a long term facility. This study determined the effect of a dance and music programme on balance and function in the residents of a selected old age home in Pietermaritzburg. Aim of the study The study determined the effect of a dance and music programme on the balance and functional ability of the residents of the old age home. Methodology A pre-test/post-test experimental design was used in this study. The eligible participants were randomly assigned to two groups, the experimental and the control groups. The experimental group participated in the 12 week programme of a dance and music programme offered twice weekly while the control group received standard care. Both groups’ functional abilities and balance capabilities were assessed before and after the intervention. Results The results revealed that dance and music programme did not statistically improve balance and function. Function improved in the experimental group post-test compared to the pre-test. Positive feelings expressed during the classes indicate that the intervention had a positive effect on the participants. Conclusion The dance and music programme improved function. It is recommended that residents of the geriatric home be offered this dance and music programme as a long term activity. / M

This study is about refugee women from the Great Lakes Region, who are living in Pietermaritzburg and face many challenges that contribute to their vulnerability to HIV and AIDS. These include the challenges of language barriers, lack of communication, gender based violence, and other socio-economic problems. This dissertation seeks to investigate critically some of the gender-based challenges that the refugee women from Great Lakes Region face in Pietermaritzburg which can make them vulnerable to HIV and AIDS. Though there is much literature written on the challenges of women refugees in Africa, there is not much written on the challenges of refugee women who live in cities. This study was involved to eight women and two male church leaders of the French-Swahili church in Pietermaritzburg where these refugee women fellowship. / Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.

Dementia of Alzheimer‟s Type is a degenerative neurocognitive disease accounting for majority of Dementia‟s. It affects millions of people worldwide and thousands of people in South Africa. Apart from the economic burden this illness places on the country, it has detrimental effects for those who provide care for individuals with this illness, who are mostly spouses. The spousal caregivers bears great financial, social and emotional burden which worsens as the disease progresses. The aim of this study is to phenomenologically explore and describe the lived experiences of spousal caregivers in caring for the spouses with Dementia of Alzheimer‟s Type. This South African study was therefore qualitative in nature and was conducted in the province of KwaZulu- Natal, in the city of Pietermaritzburg. Eight participants were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The main findings of this study are the negative emotional affects that the caregiving role creates. Caregiver stress and strain is experienced as well as the experiences of various losses including lack of intimacy and ruined expectations for the future as the disease progresses. The caregiving role also created negative implications for the social lives of caregivers and coping mechanisms were seen to be very important. / Psychology / M.A. (Psychology)

Young women working in SMEs are increasingly being affected by HIV and AIDS, and SMEs are expected to respond to HIV and AIDS through workplace policies and programmes. This requires commitment from SMEs to help young women who face various gendered vulnerabilities to HIV and AIDs. The study, whose purpose was to investigate young women workers’ experiences of the HIV and AIDS response of small and medium enterprises in a semi urban area in KwaZulu-Natal, used a qualitative approach and collected data from three SMEs in Pietermaritzburg during the period of the study. Findings of the study indicate that the majority of respondents from all three SMEs agree on experiencing limited or no HIV and AIDS policies and programmes in SMEs. With reference to incomplete or limited responses, two SMEs provide financial assistance for funerals. However, some aspects such as education and awareness, monitoring, management commitment, provision of medical aid, facilitation of peer education, appointment of an HIV officer and more were not evident. Thus recommendations were made on how SMEs should respond, and future research ideas were outlined. / Health Studies / M. A. (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)

Upon close examination of Education White Paper 6: Building an Inclusive Education System, it became evident that, special schools have a crucial role to play. EWP6 clearly outlines the roles of special schools as resource centres. This entails a paradigm shift from a medical to a social model.The purpose of this research was to investigate the role of resource centres in supporting learners who require high levels of support, in an inclusive education system in the Pietermaritzburg district. The study was conducted at a special school with 23 respondents. The triangulated data were collected through participant observations, open-ended questionnaire and interviews. This study revealed that not only are SSRCs totally committed to the paradigm shift but SSRCs are “leading " the way with regard to implementing inclusive strategies like SIAS process, the curriculum changes and alternate means of assessment. SSRCs are valuable resources that are currently under utilized. / Inclusive Education / M. Ed. (Inclusive Education)