The intentions of this research were to determine the general knowledge, transmission knowledge and prevention knowledge of AIDS prior to commencing an AIDS awareness-training programme; establish the general knowledge, transmission knowledge and prevention knowledge of AIDS after completing an AIDS awarenesstraining programme; to determine whether there is a significant difference in the subject's general knowledge, transmission knowledge and prevention knowledge of AIDS after completing an AIDS awareness-training programme and to establish whether there is a significant difference between the pre-test and retest scores in terms of general knowledge, transmission knowledge and prevention knowledge of AIDS, among the respective biographical variables. The results of the study established that all participants had some General Knowledge, Transmission Knowledge and Prevention Knowledge on AIDS. Employees who participated in the programme had improved their knowledge on AIDS after attending the training programme. The results of the study had found no significant difference between pre-test and retest score for age groups, race groups, religious groups, marital status groups and language groups. The results did however indicate some variation in pre-test scores and retest scores between the gender groups. The literature review examined AIDS from a biological perspective, a global and South African perspective and an Industrial relations perspective. The workplace issues pertaining to AIDS were discussed and responses to the AIDS crisis were highlighted. AIDS policies, training programmes and employee's assistance programmes were analysed, as options for organisations, in their fight against AIDS. A questionnaire was used to establish the general knowledge, transmission knowledge and prevention knowledge of AIDS of the 307 employees that participated in the programme. The findings in this study support the perception by companies that providing awareness training programmes will assist by increasing the knowledge of what is AIDS, how is it transmitted and how it can be prevented. This study revealed that after a training programme, employees were more knowledgeable on AIDS than before the training programme. / Thesis (MBA)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2008.

Organizational culture statements are established to pronounce and promote core values for employees to live while performing roles and responsibilities. It is essential for employees to be knowledgeable of cultural expectations. When considering organizational alignment, research has indicated there is deficient linkage when analyzing applied strategies versus envisioned strategies focusing on employees’ actual lived experiences. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to survey whether the corporate health care employees’ lived experiences mirrored the stated cultural values associated with the theoretical framework concerning artifacts, espoused values, and basic assumptions. Through an online survey, this phenomenological study analyzed cultural experiences of 10 corporate health care employees, ranging from administrative support to the executive level. This study revealed experiences by employees based on stated cultural values and expectations. Many of the participants’ lived experiences linked back to the organization’s advertised cultural values. Results relative to behaviors emulating the culture statement were expressed based on employees’ alignment with the organizational mission and vision. They feel included, recognize integrity, and have an appreciation for serving the community. Other findings linked to the communication mediums were based on utilization, frequency, and access to appropriate communication tools. Findings also demonstrated leaders’ behaviors which align with innovation and granting autonomy for optimal performance. These results may influence social change by providing insight for better understanding employees’ lived experiences, thus creating improved alignment, replication of behaviors, mutual respect, and collaboration.

Social engineering attacks pose an escalating threat to organizations. This thesis conducted a semi-comprehensive literature review using the PRISMA method to address common attack methods, reducing susceptibility among employees, and the need for awareness training. Findings highlight severe consequences, exemplified by Yahoo and Sony data breaches. Phishing and spear-phishing are prevalent attack methods, exploiting the human element and bypassing high-techsecurity systems. To mitigate risks, organizations should adopt a multi-layered approach, combining technological solutions with employee awareness training. By enhancing employees' ability to identify and respond to social engineering attempts, susceptibility to attacks can be significantly reduced. Ongoing research and updated defense strategies are crucial to countering evolving attack vectors. The study emphasizes the collective responsibility in cybersecurity, combining technical and non-technical measures effectively. This thesis contributes to knowledge by providing insights into attack methods, countermeasures, and the importance of employee awareness training. The rigorous PRISMA method ensures a transparent approach, offering valuable guidance for organizations aiming to enhance their security posture against social engineering attacks.