The accounting higher education sector is becoming increasing competitive, with institutions jostling for position in the eyes of prospective students. Without adequate attention to the quality of education provided, little headway will be possible, and the institution will have to settle for second, or even third, place in the student's mind. Institutions cannot rely on past successes to attract top students, and a new approach is needed. This research presents a possible answer to the quality problem faced at the University of Kwazulu-Natal (Pietermaritzburg campus) in the School of Accounting. It involves the use of SERVQUAL to measure students' satisfaction levels with the quality of service and education received. The approach involves gathering students' perceptions, analyzing them, and making suggestions about the correct path to follow in a bid to enhance the institution's standing in the accounting community. / Thesis (M.B.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.

This study investigated the internal and external constraints facing small business owners in the Pietermaritzburg (PMB) region. An attempt was further made to determine: whether the internal constraints or external factors constitute a greater burden on growth; whether policy focus should concentrate more on the internal constraints or external factors and determine the association between average growth (in terms of the number of employees) and the educational level and training of the owner/ manager, gender, ethnicity, business activity, legal status of the business and sources of start-up capital. Knowledge of the relative role of personal and environmental factors of this study in bringing about growth and expansion provides directions for government policy on Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) development. By means of factor analysis the numerous internal and external environmental variables affecting business growth in PMB were reduced to a set of three factors, classified as management, financial and external. Collectively they accounted for 59.21% of the total variance of the model. The internal factors (management and finance) accounted for 48.95% of variance and it was concluded that internal factors are more burdensome to growth than external factors. As a result government support should focus more on the internal constraints facing the small business sector. Further, multiple regression analysis was used to arrive at a parsimonious model that 'best' explained the regression model which accounted for 45.4% of variance with average growth. Average growth, in terms of the number of employees, was found to be a function of, the level of education of the owner / manager, legal status of the business, source of start-up capital, exposure to training and business support. Internal factors such as obtaining finance, cash flow, recruiting and retaining staff, shortage of managerial skills/ business expertise and lack of financial understanding prevent growth of the business. External factors such as the economy, taxation, regulation and laws, technology, competition, lack of business support and crime were found to inhibit the growth of the business. A significant difference was found to exist between average growth and gender, legal status, business activity, source of start-up capital and the educational level and training of the entrepreneur/owner. These results also have implications for the management of the SME's as well as business networks such as the Chamber of Commerce and financial institutions. / Thesis (MBA)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.

This study examines customer care at University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg (UNP). It investigates the quality of service received by students, from support departments, during registration. Data was collected via a simple random sample within the three libraries (Main, Law and Life Sciences) on campus. This ensured that students from the different faculties had an equal probability of being part of the survey, providing a true representation of the campus population. The research instrument was a questionnaire, 300 of which were administered to establish the attitude and helpfulness of staff from the departments of Finance, Financial Aid, Library, Risk Management Services, Student Admissions, Student Counselling and Student Housing. A total of 287 students responded. The software package that was used to run all the analyses was SPSS version 9. Results are graphically displayed in the form of bar graphs, tables and a pie chart. Interpretation of the results reveals that the overall rating for all departments ranged from average to excellent. Recommendations are made in light of the results of the survey and the literature reviewed. / Thesis (MBA.)- University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2002.

The importance of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) during programme implementation has driven many governments, organisations and donors to invest substantial means in developing comprehensive M&E and tools. However, research reveals that, while some of these comprehensive M&E systems have been successfully implemented, others could not be used to achieve the purposes for which resources were utilised in designing them. Some writers have explained that, even though great effort is invested in the development of M&E systems, not all of them actually get implemented, or even if they do, they are only partially implemented. One reason cited was the complexity of M&E systems, which makes implementation difficult. The Non-Governmental (NGO) sector in its implementation of social programmes, uses M&E systems and frameworks to monitor programmes for various reasons, including accountability and organisational learning purposes. A case study approach, using in-depth qualitative methods, was used to analyse the implementation of the M&E systems in SaveAct, an NGO based in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect primary data. Interviews were conducted with various role-players within the system to gather information about their experiences of implementing M&E systems. Documents and reports were analysed to investigate the nature of the M&E systems, and their purposes and uses and implementation successes and challenges. The findings of the study revealed that in SaveAct the M&E is done for the purpose of accountability to donors and for organisational learning and improvement in programmes. Two previous frameworks were designed for intensive evaluation purposes, but could not be fully implemented. Challenges that emerged include the comprehensive nature of the frameworks, lack of human capacity and limited finances for implementation. However, regular data collection for monitoring was being successfully undertaken. Some of the success factors identified include the simple and easy-to-understand data collection tools and the inclusion of M&E activities in the routine work of staff (mainstreaming). M&E systems that have simple tools which clearly outline the goals and where the functions are included in the daily routine of the staff, are more likely to be implementable. The conclusions of the study were that M&E systems can be made more implementable if they are designed with an understanding that the system components are interrelated and an attempt is made to see to it that each component is functional, to ensure the mode of action of the entire system. M&E systems and frameworks should be designed to be simple and clear. They should contain fewer tools and should be easily understood by the people who do the actual data collection. The tools with fewer questions were easier to implement than those with many questions. M&E functions in SaveAct were more successful when included in normal routine work of the staff, or mainstreamed, and not undertaken as a separate activity and also when they are located within planning and budgeting functions of the organisation. / Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2013.

While the rest of the producers of pork enjoy exporting opportunities brought about by free trade agreements of the global village, South African pork producers struggle to enter the global market, let alone remain afloat. This has resulted in the locals focusing their production towards meeting local demands, which one can argue that local pork market has reached its maturity. Moreover, other countries import pork to South Africa, making it even more difficult for local producers to expand and remain profitable if they focus only on their local customers, which are a niche market. South Africa consumes far less pork compared to other countries, particularly those countries, which have a significant percentage of non-believers, such as China. Whereas other macroeconomic factors such as political and economic factors have an impact on limiting the demand for pork, religion is an important socio-cultural factor that has been overlooked when assessing the South African macro-environment. Consequently the oversight of local pork producers has caused them to misread or misunderstand the behaviour and the future trend of consumers. This study sought to establish the impact of religion as a socio-cultural environmental factor on the demand for pork in Pietermaritzburg, the capital city of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province. Non-probability sampling technique was used to identify 400 respondents. Data was collected by means of a pretested questionnaire. Subsequent to elimination of erroneous questionnaires, the total questionnaires were reduced from 400 to 375. Data was computed using Microsoft Excel version 2007. The findings showed that there was an inverse relationship between religion and demand for pork. Data was presented using different types of graphs and tables. The domestic pork market has reached its highest level of maturity; however, the respondents are open-minded about their limited influence for favourable future demands. It is recommended that the South African pork and processed pork producers diversify their reach by tapping strongly to foreign markets to remain sustainable and profitable as a significant percentage of local customers are prohibited by their religion from buying and consuming pork. / Thesis (MBA)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2012.

Thesis (M.Env.Dev.) - University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007. / Full text also available online. Scroll down for electronic link.

There has been a paucity of research concerning vocational training of learners with special education needs. The literature study focused on a vocational training and transition planning programme in the United States of America, which could provide as a useful guide to educators and school managers, when implementing vocational training and transitional planning in South Africa. Research was conducted using semi-structured interviews with educators and principals at special schools, observation of learners whilst performing skills training and documentary analysis, to explore whether learners with barriers to learning are receiving skills training that could position them for employment in the open labour market after they exit school. Findings revealed that principals and educators at special schools are faced with challenges in the learner’s microsystem, exosystem and macrosystem, resulting in the inadequate preparation of learners with special education needs for employment in the open labour market. Based on the findings, recommendations in terms of Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory were made, to increase the opportunity for learners who experience barriers to learning, to be engaged in meaningful employment. / Education Management / M. Ed. (Education Management)

Submitted in fulfillment of the requirements of the degree of Master of Technology: Nursing, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2015. / Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of nursing care plans in the management of patient care and to recommend guidelines for improving the quality of planned nursing care at a level 3 hospital in the Umgungundlovu district of KwaZulu-Natal. Method The case study was based on the conceptual model of care planning and employed both quantitative and qualitative research designs. The quantitative phase involved a retrospective audit of charts, using an itemised checklist to determine whether items relating to the phases of the nursing process were in evidence within the charts. The qualitative phase consisted of face-to-face interviews with registered nurses, who were asked about their understanding and use of the nursing process. Data derived were analysed using Nvivo 10 and presented as graphs, tables and written text extracts. Results The results show that the use of the standardised care plans at the study hospital had an impact on the understanding of the importance of the nursing process and the successful implementation of the care plans. Factors that had an impact on this included the registered nurses who failed to nurture the junior nurses, lack of understanding of the care plans and what was expected of the staff, staff attitudes and the heavy workload. Conclusion It was suggested that nurse leaders support the implementation and continued use of individualised care plans in order to improve critical thinking skills of nurses by implementing teaching and in-service programs, employing knowledgeable registered nurses, by developing and enforcing adherence to policies that favour care planning and nursing documentation.

Women experience abuse from their partners. Adolescent relationship abuse is the main focus of this study. The research intends to create awareness about the abuse of women, research adolescent attitudes and beliefs, challenge cultural norms that oppress women, convey assertive communication as a way out of an abusive situation. Educational theatre, aimed at the mental empowerment of the target audience, should offer a self-discovery to the audience,· and therefore, lead to a change of belief and attitude. The target audience should gain experience from a fictional situation and be prepared for a possible real life situation. / Thesis (M.A.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2001.

Waste minimisation involves reducing waste (emissions, effluent, solid waste) in companies, at source. v 7, 8 Its benefits include cost savings, environmental improvement, increased throughput and risk and liability reduction. 7, 8, 13 Through implementation of a structured waste minimisation programme, companies can identify waste minimisation opportunities: broad focus areas that will benefit from a more detailed waste minimisation assessment. More specific waste minimisation solutions can then be identified. In this study, the waste minimisation opportunity was identified by the company, Ben Booysen, a priori. Ben Booysen is a local air-conditioning and refrigeration company in Pietermaritzburg, which services air-conditioner units. They identified the waste minimisation opportunity of optimising the process conditions for cleaning the airconditioner units. At the time at Ben Booysen, Alukleen, an acid cleaner (RT Chemicals®, RTCM 64) , was applied manually (by a paintbrush) at an effective dilution of 1:3 to clean the aluminium air-conditioner coils. Handy Andy and green soap were used to clean the plastic covers of the units. Concerns about the effluent, cost and safety of handling Alukleen led to their identification of this waste minimisation opportunity. The initial objectives of this project were thus the qualification and quantification of the species present in Alukleen; the quantification of the species present in the Ben Booysen effluent and the subsequent comparison of these values to limits for disposal to stormwater and Darvill. A further objective was the optimisation of the cleaning system with regard to Alukleen concentration and contact (soaking) time. Wet chemical analysis was employed as a qualitative tool for identification of the components present in Alukleen. This analysis indicated that fluoride, sulfate, sulfide, arsenite and chloride ions are present in Alukleen. Further quantitative analysis using the Ion chromatograph, the ICP-OES and a fluoride ion selective electrode indicated that only sulfate (152600 ppm) and fluoride (25400 ppm) are present in significant quantities. Studies were conducted on aluminium coil pieces in which both the contact (soaking) times and Alukleen concentrations were varied. These tests indicated that the effect of soaking time on the cleanliness achieved was negligible. Although a greater amount of dirt was removed when using more concentrated Alukleen solutions, etching of the metal occurred at higher concentrations, resulting in a loss of sheen and malleability of the metal. Etching of the aluminium air-conditioner coils by Alukleen, as indicated by both digital photography and electron microscopy, resulted in extending the objectives of this project to include the investigation of alternative aluminium cleaners. Hence, the cleaning action of three degreasers was investigated: Powerkleen (RT Chemicals®, RTCMI23), Technicians' Choice (Auto Brite (PTY) Ltd.) and Klengine (Auto Brite (PTY) Ltd.) . Powerkleen was found to be the most effective degreaser and did not compromise the metal's sheen or malleability. Further studies were then conducted to characterise the major components ofPowerkleen and to optimise its use with regard to concentration and contact (soaking) time. The suitability oftwo methods of application was also tested. The main component of Powerkleen, determined through the use of ICP-OES, was found to be potassium hydroxide, present at a concentration of 0.711 M. The optimum Powerkleen concentration range for cleaning the aluminium coils was found to be between a 1:20 and 1:40 dilution. Contact (soaking) time of Powerkleen with the aluminium coils was found to have a negligible effect on the mass of dirt removed by the degreaser. Application of the Powerkleen to the aluminium coils by an air gun at a pressure of 4 bars (for units serviced at Ben Booysen) and by a pump bottle (for units serviced in industry) were both found to achieve an acceptable degree of cleanliness of the aluminium. A feasibility analysis (technical , economical and environmental) indicated that a 1:40 dilution of Powerkleen is a feasible, cost-effective and environmentally compliant alternative to Alukleen. Implementation of the Powerkleen cleaning system would result in a R5030 annual saving with a payback period of 5.9 months and an internal rate of return of 214.9%. It would further eliminate the fluoride effluent problems associated with Alukleen and reduce the quantity of chemical raw materials required for the process from 2100 Llannum to 260 Llannum. In industry, an effective dilution of 1:39 would be used for the sake of eas y dilution. A 1:79 dilution of Powerkleen was also found to be a feasible replacement for Handy Andy and green soap in the cleaning of the plastic covers of the units. / Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2003.