Asperger Syndrome is a developmental disorder and is characterized by problems in social interaction. These problems make it difficult for the child with Asperger Syndrome to have normal relationships. This particular syndrome has an enormous impact on the development of the child in middle childhood. This study is directed by the premise that the relationship of the child with Asperger Syndrome in middle childhood with members of the peer group can be improved with the help of parents and teachers. Due to this fact, guidelines are provided. The lack of a good relationship with the peer group experienced by the child with Asperger Syndrome was formulated as the research problem. The aim of the study was to advance the relationship between the child with Asperger Syndrome in middle childhood and members of his peer group. In order to achieve this goal, qualitative research was used and semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants. The data obtained was analyzed, verified against existing literature, and used to compile the guidelines. / Asperger Sindroom is 'n ontwikkeiingsteuring en word gekenmerk deur probleme in sosiale interaksie wat normale verhoudings vir die kind met Asperger Sindroom bemoeilik. Hierdie sindroom het 'n enorme impak op die ontwikkeling van die kind in die middelkinderjare. Hierdie studie is gerig deur die uitgangspunt dat die verhouding van die kind met Asperger Sindroom in die middelkinderjare met lede van die portuurgroep verbeter kan word met hulp van ouers en onderwysers. Daarom word riglyne in hierdie studie beskryf. Die gebrek aan gesonde verhoudinge met die portuurgroep wat deur die kind met Asperger Sindroom ervaar word is as navorsingsprobleem geformuleer. Die doel van studie was om die kind met Asperger Sindroom in die middelkinderjare se verhouding met die portuurgroep te bevorder. Ten einde hierdie doel te bereik, is die navorsingsproses deur kwantitatiewe navorsing gerig en semi-gestruktureerde onderhoude met deelnemers gevoer. Die data wat bekom is kon deur middel van data-analise en literatuurkontrole aangewend word om riglyne saam te stel. / Social Work / M. Diac. (Play Therapy)

Text in Afrikaans / Die doel van hierdie ondersoek is om die ekstrinsieke en intrinsieke oorsake van leermislukking met spesifieke verwysing na skole in die Windhoek stadsgebied te bepaal en om aanbevelings te doen hoe om leermislukking teen te werk. Leermislukking en druiping is onrusbarend hoog in skole in die Windhoek stadsgebied. Nadat die Ministerie van Onderwys die semi-outomatiese promoveringstelsel ingestel het, het druiping afgeneem maar leermislukking het toegeneem omdat leerders gepromoveer word sander dat hulle sukses in die vorige graad behaal het. Volgens die literatuurstudie lê die oorsake van leermislukking by die ouerhuis, die skool, die omgewing en in die leerder self. Die empiriese ondersoek toon ooreenkomste met die literatuurstudie wat betref die oorsake van leermislukking. Om die oorsake teen te werk • moet onderwysers beter opgelei word • moet die ouers meer bewus gemaak word van hulle rot in die leersukses van hulle kinders. • is meer skoolgeboue en onderwysers nodig om kleiner klasse te bewerkstellig. / The purpose of this research is to establish the extrinsic and intrinsic causes of learning failure with specific reference to schools in the Windhoek municipal area and to make recommendations to counteract learning failure. Learning failure and grade failing are disconcertingly high in schools in the Windhoek municipal area. After the Ministry of Education implemented the semi-automatic promotion system, grade failing decreased, but learning failure increased because learners are promoted without achieving success in a prior grade. According to the literature study, the causes of learning failure are to be found in the home, the school, the environment, and the learner. Similarities regarding the causes of learning failure were found in the empirical investigation and the literature study. To counteract these causes • teachers should be better trained • parents should become more aware of their role in the learning success of their children • more school buildings and teachers are needed to limit class sizes. / Educational Studies / M. Ed. (Spesiale Behoeftes Onderwys)

School-based induction programmes largely focus on informing beginner teachers about the school culture and infrastructure, yet, the core business of education is teaching and learning. A consensus is, however, growing among educators and researchers that despite the positive experiences novice teachers experience during school-based induction programmes, they also experience challenges which affect their perceptions of school-based induction. Despite those challenges in the education sector, hope for the future, as guided by Vision 2030, still remains with one essential human resource: the teachers themselves. Therefore, if novice teachers are to impact profoundly on the learners’ academic achievement, then quality induction programmes must be in place in Namibian schools in order to support their instructional growth. A comprehensive nation-wide induction effort with high emphasise on mentoring will accelerate novice teacher efficacy and consequently learner learning. The purpose of this research study was to identify beginner teachers’ perceptions of school-based induction at selected primary schools in Windhoek and suggested a framework which may inform future research efforts and improve the application of school-based induction. To do this, a qualitative research methodology was preferred to assess the perceptions of novice teachers at the selected schools. Eight beginner teachers and four Heads of Departments participated in the study. The result draws attention to the professional enculturation of beginner teachers, but notably, compels practical reconsideration on how school-based induction is practised in light of beginner teacher growth and sustainability. / Educational Leadership and Management / M. Ed. (Educational Management)

This study focused on parental involvement in the learning of children at a private school in Windhoek. Nine parents with children at the Private School were used as participants. This was a qualitative study where semi-structured interviews were used. Findings were that parental involvement leads to children’s academic achievement, enhances children’s self-esteem, encourages children’s participation in sports, and strengthens relationships between parents and teachers thereby facilitating the development of the school. Ways of parental involvement examined included helping with homework, attending parent meetings, and providing children with resources. Barriers to parental involvement included lack of time, economic challenges, lack of understanding of what parental involvement entails and lack of transport. The study established that parental involvement can be achieved through addressing barriers to parental involvement by educating parents on parental involvement and through creating a conducive environment at school level for parents to be involved. / Adult Basic Education (ABET) / M. Ed. (Adult Education)

Poor health care delivery in rural communities is a major problem facing the health sector in Namibia. Patients who visit rural communities often wait on queues for several hours every day before they can be examined by a medical practitioner. This is detrimental to the health care process and impacts negatively on the efficiency and effectiveness of the sector. Mobile phones can however be employed as tools to improve work processes in such hospitals and as a result improve health care delivery in rural communities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the health care services provided to patients at Outpatient Departments (OPDs) in rural hospitals through the use of data collection instruments such as interviews, questionnaires, document analysis, expert validation and photographs in order to compile a Mobile Health Service Framework (MHSF) to improve healthcare delivery processes in OPDs. From an interpretive paradigm perspective, the qualitative design was used together with a case study approach. Three hospitals in rural communities were used as case studies. These were Okuryangava Hospital, Katutura Hospital and Khomasdal Hospital. Interviews were conducted and questionnaires distributed to the participants. The findings revealed that there is a high concentration of mobile phone usage in rural communities and there is a high usage of the SMS feature on such mobile phones. / Computing / M. Sc. (Computing)

Theses (MDF)--Stellenbosch University, 2013. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) capitalise on the distinctive advantage of the private sector’s capacity and experience in providing public infrastructure and services. This collaborative arrangement pools the resources and strengths of each partner in order to attain the anticipated project objectives. Municipalities are faced with a number of challenges; among them the consistent increase in urban population growth and resource constraints. This then inhibits infrastructure provision and puts pressure on the public institution to deliver basic services such as water and sanitation, and solid waste disposal. In light of this, private sector participation can enhance urban development through capacity building and delivery of the necessary infrastructure and services. This study examined the performance of an operation and maintenance PPP project in the area of solid waste management in the Municipality of Windhoek. More specifically, it assessed the extent to which this particular project has contributed to infrastructure development and service delivery at the municipal level, the factors that contributed to the success of the PPP arrangement, the lessons that can be learnt from, and the challenges associated with such an undertaking. By applying a case study methodology and utilising typical performance indicators of a PPP, the author attempted to determine the effectiveness of this PPP project. The study revealed that engaging a competent private sector partner can be an effective way of delivering critical services needed for attaining the desired goal. On the other hand, the study found that a lack of explicit quantitative targets and/or deliverables incorporated in the contract agreement makes it difficult to assess and measure the performance of the project. Furthermore, the study discovered the importance of clearly identifying, prioritising and apportioning all risks associated with the project at the time of contract formulation to avoid any undesirable consequences such as non-compliance, which can lead to penalties for the contracted partner. The study observed that the factors contributing to the success of the project were the keen interest of both partners in the long-term sustainability of the project, the presence of an experienced contractor, and having clear monitoring mechanisms in place.

Thesis (MPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2013. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Health statistics on adolescents in Namibia indaicate high incidences of teenage unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, baby dumping, maternal ill health, early marriages and STIs including HIV. These are indicators of underutilisation of adolescent friendly health services (AFHS) by adolescents as education on these problems are covered in it. Although Government has made some strides to esure implementation starts, there is a recognisable lack of its adoption by health workers. The aim of this study was to establish the reasons for the slow adoption of AFHS practices by health workers at Katutura Health Centre. A quantitative non-experimental cross-sectional descriprive research approach was used in this study. Evidence using both primary data collected in the field through self-administered semi-structured questionnaires (with both open and closed questions) and secondary data collected in the literature review was employed . A census of the entire population of health workers was prefered over sampling. A total of 56 health workers accepted to participate in the study and the questionnaire, 46 of which returned it within a stipulated three weeks data collection period. Descriptive statistics was utilised together with frequencies, mean and basic collection. Eighty two percent of the sample participated in the study of which 67% respondents were female and 33% were male. The majority of the respondents (78.3%) had tertiary education. The results indicated: AFHS were not known to the majority of health workers; there is slow adoption of AFHS; and the programme introduction could have been done better. Factors significantly associated with adoption of AFHS are knowledge of such services, sex, level of education, job position, work experience and effective implementation of the programme. A probability value of p<0.05 was adopted. The programme is well appreciated despite concerns of lack of training and proper implementation. Key recommendations were on staff recruitment, retention and training of health workers; creation of space for implementing AFHS and marketing the programme. The system is in place, what is left is to tighten some loose ends and programme is up and running. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Gesondheid statistieke oor die jeug in Namibië verwys na hoë voorkoms van ongewenste tiener swangerskappe en onveilige aborsies, weg gooi van babas, swak moederlike gesondheid, vroeë huwelike en seksueel oordraagbare siektes, insluitend MIV. Dit is aanwysers van die onderbenutting van jeug vriendelike gesondheidsdienste (AFHS) deur die jeug, as die onderwys op hierdie probleme gedek word. Hoewel die regering 'n paar implementerings begin het, is daar 'n beduidende gebrek van aanneming deur gesondheidswerkers. Die doel van hierdie studie was om die redes vas te stel vir die stadige aanvaarding van AFHS praktyke deur gesondheidswerkers by Katutura Gesondheids Sentrum. 'n Kwantitatiewe, nie-eksperimentele navorsingsbenadering is gebruik in hierdie studie. Bewyse uit beide primêre data wat ingesamel is in die veld deur middel van self-geadministreerde semi-gestruktureerde vraelyste (met beide oop en geslote vrae) en sekondêre data wat ingesamel is in die literatuuroorsig was gebruik. 'n Sensus van die hele bevolking van gesondheidswerkers is verkies in plaas van steekproefneming. 'n Totaal van 56 gesondheidswerkers het aanvaar om deel te neem aan die studie en die vraelys, waarvan 46 teruggedien is binne die vasgestelde tydperk van drie weke se data-invorderingstermyn. Beskrywende statistiek is gebruik saam met frekwensies, gemiddelde en basiese versameling. Tagtig en twee persent van die steekproef het deelgeneem aan die studie, waarvan 67% respondente vroulik en 33% manlik was. Die meerderheid van die respondente (78,3%) het tersiêre opleiding. Die resultate het aangedui: AFHS is nie bekend aan die meeste van gesondheidswerkers nie, en daar is stadige aanneming van AFHS; en die program inleiding kon beter gedoen gewees het. Faktore wat beduidend verband hou met die aanneming van AFHS is kennis van sodanige dienste, geslag, vlak van onderwys, werk posisie, werkervaring en doeltreffende implementering van die program. 'n Waarskynlikheid waarde van p <0,05 is aangeneem. Die program is goed waardeer ten spyte van kommer aan 'n gebrek van opleiding en behoorlike implementering. Belangrikste aanbevelings was op die personeel werwing, behoud en die opleiding van gesondheidswerkers; skepping van ruimte vir die implementering van AFHS en bemarking van die program. Die stelsel is in plek, wat oorbly om gedoen te word, is om 'n paar los punte te versterk en die program is aan die gang.

The purpose of this study was to describe factors associated with noncompliance to hand hygiene standards among nurses in one public hospital in Windhoek, Namibia. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional research design was employed using a stratified sample comprising three categories of nurses (registered, enrolled and auxiliary nurses). Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire. Based on the results, there were more institutional than individual factors associated with noncompliance to hand hygiene. Compliance to hand hygiene was found to be lowest when nurses provide care for patients in non-isolation rooms, when the perceived risk of acquiring infection from patients was low and following brief encounters with patients. Dryness of the skin caused by hand hygiene agents and lack of active participation in hand hygiene promotion at individual level contributed to noncompliance to hand hygiene among nurses. In addition, the results showed that, institutionally there were no rewards/encouragement for hand hygiene, no sanctions for non-compliers and no workshops, seminars and continuing educational courses on hand hygiene. The study produced interesting insights into the vital role that good leadership plays in the implementation of hand hygiene policy guidelines. The key recommendations for this study included development of good leadership, characterized by dedication for hygiene standards to encourage staff to maintain hygiene practice and to ensure that there are adequate resources for the implementation of hand hygiene policy as well as rewards/incentives for compliers and sanctions for noncompliers / Health Studies / M.A. (Nursing Science)

Thesis (MPhil (Public Management and Planning))--University of Stellenbosch, 2006. / This assignment presents the analysis of poor public participation in the Khomas Regional Council where there is a need for popular participation in the development initiatives and projects. Public participation, allows the public to participate in programmes and projects through established institutions and structures. The main objective of the study was to conduct three months’ internships to investigate the importance of community participation. The study envisaged assessing the effectiveness of the Council to deliver basic services such as drinking water, adequate shelter, and sanitation to the community by taking the limited resources into consideration. The study also analysed some challenges the Council is facing in the implementation of the sustainable human settlement projects. The complex and multidimensional nature of public participation is dealt with. As a result, participation can give women and other groups of people who are usually marginalized from the community activities the opportunity to influence development initiatives in their communities. In terms of design and methodology, the active participation and direct involvement as well as working with Council’s staff and the community at large formed the basis of the study. The survey on public participation conducted by Regional Council revealed that absence of public participation policy and legislation makes it difficult for Councillors to implement the public participation process. There is lack of information sharing and communication breaks down between councilors and residents. Lack of capacity building and resources for Constituency Development Committee members prevails in Khomas region. There is confusion regarding political meetings and there is also poor attendance to meetings. In addition, the study recommends that Council should forge a constant consultation and collaboration between the Regional Council and citizens. Establish mechanisms and structures through which citizens can initiate voluntary and interested groups to facilitate their participation in the Regional affairs. Create forums for meetings, workshops, seminars and conferences to discuss and debate pertinent issues. Strengthen the capacity of Regional Development Coordinating Committee (RDCC), Constituency Development Committee (CDCs) and other structures.

Thesis (MDF)--Stellenbosch University, 2011. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Deforestation, increasing pollution levels, diminishing non-renewable energy reserves, the resulting global warming, and climate change are areas of concern to environmentalists and the whole global village. It appears that the solution lies in the exploitation of renewable, clean and sustainable energy resources. Solar energy is one of the renewable, clean and environmentally friendly energy resources readily available in most tropical countries of the world, including Namibia. The research was conducted in the Rocky Crest suburb of Windhoek, Namibia. The research focused on the exploration barriers in the diffusion of solar water heaters (SWHs) for generating hot water for Rocky Crest residents. The investigation involved data collection from the stakeholders, including the residents of Rocky Crest suburb, SWH suppliers, financial institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) in Namibia. The results of this study introduce information that can largely benefit the Rocky Crest residents, MME, NGOs, financial institutions and relevant stakeholders. It can also act as a departure point for further studies on the subject of renewable energy sources, their exploitation and the impact thereof. Furthermore, solutions to the current problems of diminishing non-renewable energy reserves and the impact of pollutant energy sources can be identified and implemented.