Magister Economicae - MEcon / The "new" South Africa faces a big challenge. Unemployment, poverty and economic hardship still characterise the life of the majority of South Africans. Most people expect this to change under democracy. This will only be possible, however, if the economy can grow fast enough. What type of economic policies can a future government adopt to bring about economic growth and the reduction of poverty? More specifically, can the government raise taxes in order to spend more on the poor without reducing economic growth? The increased expenditure, given the existing deficit, will pressurise government to increase taxes. If this were to happen, the question that comes to mind is whether a savings constraint will develop. At the moment South Africa is not experiencing a savings constraint. This can be attributed to the fact that investment declined more than saving over the past few years. However, if investment has to increase over the next few years to achieve higher economic growth, the question arises whether domestic saving will increase enough to finance it. This will be difficult if an increasing tax burden has a negative impact on saving. Saving has long been recognized as a major factor in the process of economic development, directly by its diversion of resources into the formation of capital, and indirectly through changes in technology which are implemented when new capital is put to use. Few would dispute that domestic saving is important for the financing of development and it is evident that a country will require higher saving rates if it wants to invest more.

Schooling is a social project of making futures. Youth and families navigate aspirations framed by perceptions of what is possible within starkly unequal conditions of possibility. In Cape Town, persistent colonial and apartheid geography that continues to normalize racialized inequality is made visible and reproduced in large part through schooling patterns and outcomes. The convergence of post-apartheid reforms and global neoliberal trends have accelerated processes of education marketization, including a growing sector of “affordable” private schools that claim to level uneven terrain and interrupt poverty by shaping upwardly mobile youth from township communities. Critics argue they fuel an educational crisis, causing further differentiation in an already inequitable system. Proponents point to failing state schools and assert families’ right to quality education. My research foregrounds perspectives and experiences of those confronted with this double bind between “choice” and “crisis.” Based on 21 months of ethnographic research including participant observation, 35 semi-structured interviews, six unfocused groups, and a 110-respondent educational autobiography survey, A Ticket to Life explores how students, alumni, families, and staff of a low-fee independent high school in Cape Town’s oldest township, navigate the racial and spatial politics of aspiration in an anti-Black city as well as how the school is embedded in the broader racialized politics of transnational education reform. Engaging anthropology, Black studies, and comparative education, I argue that the spatial and affective valences of aspiration are both violent and life-saving in the context of uneven geography, that deep investments in liberal individualist notions of aspiration compromise commitments to liberatory pedagogies, and that, in the context of global racial capitalism, aspiration is deployed as a portable logic to support the transnational spread of market-based education reforms. Nevertheless, youth, families, and educators (in schools and beyond) harness education as both a site and a strategy of struggle, in the process forging a capacity to conspire toward the inextricable goals of racial and spatial justice.

Background. Europe and North America have low rates of mental health service use despite high rates of mental disorder. Little is known about mental health service use among South Africans. Design. A nationally representative survey of 4 351 adults. Twelve-month DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 4th edition) diagnoses, severity, and service utilisation were determined using the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). Twelve-month treatment was categorised by sector and province. South Africans in households and hostel quarters were interviewed between 2002 and 2004 in all nine provinces. Outcome measures. 4 317 respondents 18 years and older were analysed. Bivariate logistic regression models predicted (i) 12-month treatment use of service sectors by gender, and (ii) 12-month treatment use by race by gender. Results. Of respondents with a mental disorder, 25.2% had sought treatment within the previous 12 months; 5.7% had used any formal mental health service. Mental health service use was highest for adults with mood and anxiety disorders, and among those with a mental disorder it varied by province, from 11.4% (Western Cape) to 2.2% (Mpumalanga). More women received treatment, and this was largely attributable to higher rates of treatment in women with mood disorders. Age, income, education and marital status were not significantly associated with mental health service use. Race was associated with the treatment sector accessed in those with a mental disorder. Conclusions. There is a substantial burden of untreated mental disorders in the South African population, across all provinces and even in those with substantial impairment. Greater allocation of resources to mental health services and more community awareness initiatives are needed to address the unmet need.

The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is high in South Africa. Behavioural conducts and lifestyle factors, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity are the major contributors to the development of NCDs among South Africans. Physical activity (PA) is a modifiable risk factor that is also low in cost for preventing and managing NCDs. PA for health outcomes remains low among black South Africans. Regular engagement in PA is influenced by the knowledge and perception that a person has about the influence of PA as a healthy lifestyle. No studies that investigate perceptions and knowledge of NCDs and PA among black South Africans could be found in literature. The main purpose of this study was to explore and determine the knowledge and perceptions of NCDs and PA among black South Africans. A total of 93 black South Africans from the Northern Cape and North West provinces voluntarily participated in the study. The participants consisted of groups of employed and unemployed men and women residing in an urban community, men working in unskilled labour conditions residing in rural areas and unemployed women residing in a deep rural area. The recruitment procedures included flyers, local radio announcements, participants recruited from previous researchers, mass communication, and word of mouth. A mixed method approach was performed that consisted of quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative methods were employed to determine the point prevalence of NCD risk factors among 93 participants. Of these participants, 54 participated in a survey to determine knowledge of NCDs and PA. Participants from deep rural areas were excluded from the survey owing to a high incidence of illiteracy. A qualitative exploration of perceptions of NCDs and PA was performed. The quantitative procedures included a survey for heart disease knowledge and PA knowledge questionnaires. This was followed by NCD risk factor profile measurements; weight, height, waist and hip circumference, resting blood pressure, peripheral blood measurements for glucose and total cholesterol and objective PA measurements using combined accelerometry and heart rate (Actiheart®) for seven consecutive days. Qualitatively, focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to explore perceptions of the PA and NCDs using an open-ended semi-structured questionnaire. SPSS version 22 was used in all quantitative statistical analyses. Descriptive statistics reporting means and standard deviations and frequencies were performed to determine knowledge of NCD risk factors and PA, and to determine the point prevalence of NCD risk factors. Partial correlation analyses were performed to determine the relationship between knowledge of heart disease, knowledge of PA and current PA and risk factors of heart disease. Statistical significance was set at p <0.05. Qualitative data was analysed. FGDs were audio recorded and transcribed for analysis. The Noticing, Thinking and Coding approach was used to analyse data using Atlas. ti7. Black South Africans have high risk profiles for NCDs. The highest prevalence was for systolic blood pressure (71%), physical inactivity (68%) and markers of overweight and obesity with 67%. NCD knowledge was 59 ± 8 % and the total sample mean for PA was 84 ± 16%. The results of this study found a significant relationship between NCD knowledge and activity levels among males (r = 0.38; p =0.03). Among women PA knowledge positively associated with PA, though not statistically significant (r = 0.29; p = 0.42). The knowledge of NCDs and NCD risk factors results from the qualitative exploration of this study showed that black South Africans have limited knowledge about NCDs and negative perceptions about NCDs. They have an undistinguished knowledge of PA and are unable to apply the PA knowledge for disease prevention or management. It is therefore concluded that among black South Africans there is limited knowledge and misconception about PA. Black South Africans also lack knowledge on NCDs and have negative perceptions about NCD. An improved understanding of the perceptions of the population about physical activity and disease outcomes should be assessed in future studies in order to ensure the adoption of physical activity for the management of risk factors for NCDs. / MSc (Biokinetics), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is high in South Africa. Behavioural conducts and lifestyle factors, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity are the major contributors to the development of NCDs among South Africans. Physical activity (PA) is a modifiable risk factor that is also low in cost for preventing and managing NCDs. PA for health outcomes remains low among black South Africans. Regular engagement in PA is influenced by the knowledge and perception that a person has about the influence of PA as a healthy lifestyle. No studies that investigate perceptions and knowledge of NCDs and PA among black South Africans could be found in literature. The main purpose of this study was to explore and determine the knowledge and perceptions of NCDs and PA among black South Africans. A total of 93 black South Africans from the Northern Cape and North West provinces voluntarily participated in the study. The participants consisted of groups of employed and unemployed men and women residing in an urban community, men working in unskilled labour conditions residing in rural areas and unemployed women residing in a deep rural area. The recruitment procedures included flyers, local radio announcements, participants recruited from previous researchers, mass communication, and word of mouth. A mixed method approach was performed that consisted of quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative methods were employed to determine the point prevalence of NCD risk factors among 93 participants. Of these participants, 54 participated in a survey to determine knowledge of NCDs and PA. Participants from deep rural areas were excluded from the survey owing to a high incidence of illiteracy. A qualitative exploration of perceptions of NCDs and PA was performed. The quantitative procedures included a survey for heart disease knowledge and PA knowledge questionnaires. This was followed by NCD risk factor profile measurements; weight, height, waist and hip circumference, resting blood pressure, peripheral blood measurements for glucose and total cholesterol and objective PA measurements using combined accelerometry and heart rate (Actiheart®) for seven consecutive days. Qualitatively, focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to explore perceptions of the PA and NCDs using an open-ended semi-structured questionnaire. SPSS version 22 was used in all quantitative statistical analyses. Descriptive statistics reporting means and standard deviations and frequencies were performed to determine knowledge of NCD risk factors and PA, and to determine the point prevalence of NCD risk factors. Partial correlation analyses were performed to determine the relationship between knowledge of heart disease, knowledge of PA and current PA and risk factors of heart disease. Statistical significance was set at p <0.05. Qualitative data was analysed. FGDs were audio recorded and transcribed for analysis. The Noticing, Thinking and Coding approach was used to analyse data using Atlas. ti7. Black South Africans have high risk profiles for NCDs. The highest prevalence was for systolic blood pressure (71%), physical inactivity (68%) and markers of overweight and obesity with 67%. NCD knowledge was 59 ± 8 % and the total sample mean for PA was 84 ± 16%. The results of this study found a significant relationship between NCD knowledge and activity levels among males (r = 0.38; p =0.03). Among women PA knowledge positively associated with PA, though not statistically significant (r = 0.29; p = 0.42). The knowledge of NCDs and NCD risk factors results from the qualitative exploration of this study showed that black South Africans have limited knowledge about NCDs and negative perceptions about NCDs. They have an undistinguished knowledge of PA and are unable to apply the PA knowledge for disease prevention or management. It is therefore concluded that among black South Africans there is limited knowledge and misconception about PA. Black South Africans also lack knowledge on NCDs and have negative perceptions about NCD. An improved understanding of the perceptions of the population about physical activity and disease outcomes should be assessed in future studies in order to ensure the adoption of physical activity for the management of risk factors for NCDs. / MSc (Biokinetics), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

This dissertation examined the social role of royal mothers with an analysis of the issues of rituals and gender within the context of the eMaswati kingship. The Siswati royal rituals have attracted attention from researchers in various fields of the social sciences, focusing on the iNgwenyama (King), the hereditary head of the Emalangeni (Royal family) and ruler of the eMaswati. With the recent shift in many of these fields towards a focus on gender roles, new needs arise from an understanding of the social role of eSwatini royal mothers. Royal mothers fulfilled a role based on sacred rituals which were oriented to the construction of the sociopolitical power of the Bukhosi (Monarchy). The iNdlovukazi (Queen Mother) and eMakhosikati (Queens) are a significant feature of the culture of the eMaswati. When the Umntfwana (Crown Prince) is ready to ascend the throne, the Nabo-Mntfwana (Mother of Crown Prince) is the first to ascend to the throne and becomes the iNdlovukazi (Queen Mother). In the same fashion, the Umntfwana (Crown Prince) at his coronation then becomes the iNgwenyama (King). Moreover, the iNdlovukazi is the biological mother of a reigning iNgwenyama; she is a social, political, and ritual authority, the mother of the Emalangeni (Royal family), and the supreme mother of the eMaswati. Finally, the iNdlovukazi and eMakhosikati are recognized as essential to the family organization, a symbol of Likhaya (motherhood). The Emalangeni (Royal family), the Dlamini clan, formed the nucleus of the eMaswati. Under these circumstances, throughout history, royal mothers have performed and fulfilled duties that other cultures reserved for male-gendered roles. During the reign of an iNgwenyama (King), royal mothers faced severe problems, especially in ensuring continuity. Presenting a historical perspective from the standpoint of the Emalangeni illuminates how the essential sources of the royal family originated with them. The results of the accounts also provide an analysis of who the iNdlovukazi (Queen Mother) is, how or when she becomes one, and under what circumstances. Moreover, the positions of mothers in the royal family, namely the eMakhosikati (Queens), are situated around their role to that of the iNdlovukazi.

Student Number : 9102146D - MA research report - School of Graduate School - Faculty of Humanities / This is a study of local integration of Congolese refugees from The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) living in Johannesburg. The point of departure is from Jacobsen’s assertion that refugees are de facto integrated when they are not in physical danger, are able to sustain livelihoods through access to land or employment, and can support themselves and their families, are socially networked into host communities so that intermarriage is common, ceremonies like weddings and funerals are attended by everyone and there is no distinction between refugees and local communities. The study looks at the amount of interaction between refugees and South Africans, the dynamics involved in social integration and the perception of integration by refugees and service providers. Refugees and service providers in Johannesburg were interviewed and conclusions are drawn from their responses and the literature consulted.

Magister Theologiae - MTh / A number of biblical scholars have observed that the Bible has been used by dominant groups in certain societies to justify and condone discrimination and oppression. Slavery, colonialism and apartheid are often cited as examples of racial oppression based on particular understandings of the Bible. Some biblical scholars have pointed to the fact that theologians who work in contexts of racially liberated societies, such as South Africa, are slow in recognizing the injustices caused by gender discrimination. Instead, male privilege continues to be upheld particularly through the Biblical justification of male headship. The popularity of the 'Mighty Men' Conference is a case in point as it encourages men to take their supposedly rightful, "God-given" place as prophet, priest and king in marriage and family relationships. The emerging popularity of male-headship theology thwarts whatever gains have been made in the areas of gender justice and equality in various spheres of society, including the church. Headship theology often goes unquestioned because it is supported by particular interpretation/understanding of biblical texts which are quoted out of context to support and justify male dominance. For example, Luke 7: 36-50 is often interpreted in showing the "sinful" woman as one who needs forgiveness.

Magister Commercii - MCom (Economics) / Described by Mohr (2008:1) as "one of the most hotly debated economic issues in South Africa", the inflation rate is underpinned by its impact on the average South African. A rapid increase in the cost of goods and services could have devastating consequences on the both the growth and development of the country, making it an imperative to effectively manage a change in general prices. The SARB applies an Inflation Targeting (IT) framework to manage the inflation rate and the thesis will interrogate the applicability of this framework within a low growth environment. More specifically, the thesis will ask whether it is prudent to increase the interest rate in a low growth environment. The thesis will employ a mixed research method, namely, a qualitative and quantitative method. However, the qualitative method will be the primary research method and the conclusions derived thereof will be tested within a qualitative model. The qualitative method will take the form of historical narrative which is designed to investigate the behaviour of the inflation rate at a micro level. The choice of this qualitative historical narrative derives from the inconclusive nature of the existing empirical quantitative studies and the resulting lack of a consensus on the effectiveness of the IT framework. This lack of consensus necessitated the use of a different approach to interrogate the IT framework hence the application of the qualitative historical narrative. The narrative will be primarily derived from the economic reports and data of the main authority on South Africa's monetary policy, the South Africa Reserve Bank (SARB). The narrative will also utilise the economic reports and data from reputable sources such as Statistics South Africa, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, the European Central Bank (ECB), the US Federal Reserve System, and the People's Bank of China (PBC).

Though many studies address the issue of immigrants in schools, relatively little research attention has been given to the education experience of immigrants who have migrated from one developing country to another (or "South-South" migration), although this accounts for about half of all migration worldwide. The studies that do exist in this realm tend to focus on the classroom experience of immigrant students without due consideration of the policy context that influences the immigrant students' school experience. Consequently, although we are learning more about immigrant student experiences in classrooms in developing countries, to date, we lack information about the policy context in which educational stakeholders in developing countries find themselves when attempting to incorporate immigrant students into an education system that, more often than not, is struggling with issues of poverty and lack of resources. This is especially true in the African context where continental migration rates continue to increase yet immigration education policies tend to be unclear, if not altogether absent. Using the case of South Africa, an African country beset by xenophobia--most notably, the infamous xenophobic riots of 2008, this exploratory baseline sociological study sought to document how the social context of a developing country nfluences educational policy implementation and interpretation with regard to access for immigrant students. This qualitative study, which took place from December 2010 to November 2011, employed semi-structured interviews with 17 educational stakeholders at both the meso and the micro organizational levels of the educational bureaucracy as well as NGOs to better understand how policy was interpreted and implemented for immigrant students. Additionally, this study employed a reviewof existing policy documents as well as a qualitative case study using tenets of ethnographic observation. Data analysis for this study employed methods of themed coding and frequency identification. The data analysis revealed little consensus on how education policy regarding access for immigrant students should be applied, leading to disparate understandings and lack of access for some immigrant students depending on country of origin. The data also revealed that immigrant education policy interpretation was heavily influenced not only by organizational type and role, but personal experience of the actor as well. Additionally, the findings indicated that the role of the principal was paramount in how education policy was applied in schools, and because of the policy confusion, principals in some cases were able to employ innovative methods to obtain resources that aided the immigrant learners in their school. The findings also revealed that although xenophobia does exist in the South African socio-cultural fabric, it was not the primary determinant used to grant or deny access to immigrant students. The institution of South African schooling, centered around success on a final qualifying exam, emerged as the driver of educational stakeholder policy interpretation and implementation regarding immigrant student access. Overall, the data revealed that the education situation in Cape Town was the result of a combination of which policies actors used as their interpretive framework, the specialized demographics of the Western Cape polity, and the interactions and politics between the organizations of the educational institutions and immigrant service organizations in Cape Town. Study findings are discussed in detail with reference to agenda for future research and actionable recommendations for policymakers.