Mineral matter affect various coal properties as well as the yield and composition of products released during thermal processes. This necessitates investigation of the effect of the inherent minerals on the products derived during pyrolysis, as pyrolysis forms the basis of most coal utilisation processes. A real challenge in this research has been quantifying the changes seen and attributing these effects to specific minerals. Thus far it has been deemed impossible to predict product yields based on the mineral composition of the parent coal. Limited research regarding these aspects has been done on South African coal and the characterisation of pyrolysis products in previous studies was usually limited to one product phase. A novel approach was followed in this study and the challenges stated were effectively addressed. A vitrinite-rich South African coal from the Highveld coal field, was prepared to an undersize of 75 μm and divided into two fractions. HCl/HF acid washing reduced the ash yield from 14.0 wt% d.b. to 2.0 wt% d.b. (proximate analysis). Pyrolysis was carried out with the North-West University (NWU) Fischer Assay setup at 520, 750 and 900°C under N2 atmosphere and atmospheric pressure. The effect of acid washing and the addition of minerals on the derived pyrolysis products were evaluated. Acid washing led to lower water and tar yields, whilst the gas yields increased, and the char yields were unaffected. The higher gas yield can be related to increased porosity after mineral removal as revealed by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) CO2 adsorption surface area analysis of the derived chars. Gas chromatography (GC) analyses of the derived pyrolysis gases indicated that the acid washed coal fraction (AW TWD) derived gas contained higher yields of H2, CH4, CO2, C2H4, C2H6, C3H4, C3H6 and C4s when compared to the gas derived from the raw coal fraction (TWD). The CO yield from the TWD coal was higher at all final pyrolysis temperatures. Differences in gas yields were related to increased tar cracking as well as lower hydrogen transfer and de-hydrogenation of the acid washed chars. Analyses of the tar fraction by means of simulated distillation (Simdis), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) –flame ionization detection (–FID) and size exclusion chromatography with ultraviolet (SEC-UV) analyses, indicated that the AW TWD derived tars were more aromatic in nature, containing more heavier boiling point components, which increased with increasing final pyrolysis temperature. The chars were characterised by proximate, ultimate, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier-transform (DRIFT) and BET CO2 analyses. Addition of either 5 wt% calcite, dolomite, kaolinite, pyrite or quartz to the acid washed fraction (AW TWD) was done in order to determine the effect of these minerals on the pyrolysis products. These minerals were identified as the most prominent mineral phases in the Highveld coal used in this study, by XRD and quantitative evaluation of minerals by scanning electron microscopy (QEMSCAN) analyses. It was found that mineral activity decreased in the order calcite/dolomite>pyrite>kaolinite>>>quartz. Calcite and dolomite addition led to a decrease in tar yield, whilst the gas yields were increased. Markedly, increased water yields were also observed with the addition of calcite, dolomite and pyrite. Kaolinite addition led to increased tar, char and gas yields at 520°C, whilst the tar yield decreased at 750°C. Pyrite addition led to decreased tar and gas yields. Quartz addition had no noteworthy effect on pyrolysis yields and composition, except for a decrease in char yield at all final pyrolysis temperatures and an increased gas yield at 520°C. Regarding the composition of the pyrolysis products, the various minerals had adverse effects. Calcite and dolomite affected the composition of the gas, tar and char phases most significantly, showing definite catalytic activity. Tar producers should take note as presence of these minerals in the coal feedstock could have a significant effect on the tar yield and composition. Kaolinite and pyrite showed some catalytic activity under specific conditions. Model coal-mineral mixtures confirmed synergism between coal-mineral and mineral-mineral interactions. Although some correlation between the pyrolysis products derived from the model coal-mineral mixtures and that of TWD coal was observed, it was not possible to entirely mimic the behaviour of the coal prior to acid washing. Linear regression models were developed to predict the gas, tar and char yields (d.m.m.f.) with mineral composition and pyrolysis temperature as variables, resulting in R2 coefficients of 0.837, 0.785 and 0.846, respectively. Models for the prediction of H2, CO, CO2 and CH4 yields with mineral composition and pyrolysis temperature as variables resulting in R2 coefficients of 0.917, 0.702, 0.869 and 0.978, respectively. These models will serve as foundation for future work, and prove that it is feasible to develop models to predict pyrolysis yields based on mineral composition. Extending the study to coals of different rank can make the models universally applicable and deliver a valuable contribution in industry. / MIng (Chemical Engineering), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

This study focuses on the relationship between body image and the Muslim religious dress code of South African Indian Muslim female adolescents. During the literature search conducted by the researcher no research specifically on body image of female adolescents when wearing the Muslim dress code in South Africa could be found. South African Indian Muslim adolescents are faced with challenges in a changing environment. In the aftermath of 9/11 South African Indian Muslim adolescent females are undergoing changes on how they view the Muslim religious dress code and the impact it has on their body image. A new Muslim identity depicted by the Muslim religious dress code is adopted. The goal of this study was to determine how the Muslim adolescent female views the relationship between her body image and wearing the Muslim religious dress code. A phenomenological Gestalt, field theory approach was followed within a qualitative case study design. Furthermore, The Social Identity Theory served as additional theoretical framework. Analysis was done using Creswell’s application of Tesch’s Method. The participants for this study consisted of a sample size of six South African Indian Muslim female adolescents between the ages of 14 and 16. Of note, all the female participants attended the same school in Johannesburg and all participants wore the Muslim religious dress code to school. The qualitative data were collected in the form of unstructured in-depth interviews and projection-type photos with the participants. The researcher’s objective was to understand and interpret the meanings the participants gave to their perceptions and experiences, which was further supported through participant observation, self-reflective notes and field and observational notes. The interviews were recorded on tape and DVD. Recordings were transcribed verbatim, analysis of contents and the data was then coded into categories from which themes and sub-themes emerged. Central themes and patterns of the experiences were interpreted and analysed within the context of the study. The researcher ensured that data was gathered from different data sources as described and data was considered from multiple dimensions to ensure triangulation. The findings of the study revealed that the Indian Muslim female adolescent was able to negotiate the wearing of the Muslim religious dress code with confidence and this resulted in a positive body image. / MA (Psychology), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

The general purpose of this study was to explore the perception of discrimination under the middle managers in a selected South African mining company, as well as the associated impacts thereof on the individual and organisation. Although discrimination is a global phenomenon with a vast amount of scientific studies conducted on this topic, literature remains rather silent on the prevalence of discrimination among middle managers; especially within the South African mining industry. Organisational discrimination is defined as actions within an organisation which are biased towards certain individuals or groups. Literature suggests that discrimination is still very prevalent within organisations, both locally and internationally. It is typically influenced by aspects such as culture, and human resources practices and systems. The impacts are widespread with specific impacts on the individual’s mental or physical health, as well as productivity. South Africa however implemented a plethora of legislative measures to redress past inequalities and eliminate discrimination in its current form. This study followed a qualitative approach by means of a survey conducted through an open-ended questionnaire. The results indicated a high personal experience of discrimination within the specific mining company amongst the middle management team members. Their perception of discrimination towards their colleagues was also measured as above average. This exposure to discrimination impacted on their productivity and to a lesser extent on their personal well-being. Their perception of the potential impacts of this discrimination was reportedly higher than their actual experience thereof. The main discriminatory actions associated with this perception was centred on the notion, namely that middle managers were not recognised nor rewarded within this company. General benefits were withheld and expected promotions denied. The study’s results also confirm the perception that discrimination towards the middle management team will ultimately impact on the company’s overall performance. The study suggests that this high level, as well as the specific types of discrimination within this mining company, is related to a company specific culture. It further suggests that it is also exacerbated by the current socio-political reforms within the South African mining industry. The study concludes by suggesting that the perception of discrimination within a company is as harmful as the event itself, and should therefore form an integral part of any internal programme aimed at addressing this issue. / MBA, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2015

This dissertation focuses on the nature and manifestation of tragedy within African experience in selected plays written by black South African playwrights. The plays under discussion are We Shall Sing for the Fatherland (1973) by Zakes Mda, The Hungry Earth (1978) by Maishe Maponya, and Sarafina (1985) by Mbongeni Ngema. The many conflicting statements regarding the "death" and existence of tragedy in contemporary drama lead one to ask the following two fundamental questions: Can there be tragedy in contemporary South African drama and what structural devices are there to account for the manifestation of this elusive phenomenon? This dissertation works towards defining the concept of an African vision of tragedy by examining the nature and form in which tragedy manifests itself in South African drama. Secondly, it considers the extent to which this phenomenon is similar or different from conventional elements and structural forms of Western tragic drama. This dissertation argues that there exists a distinct and viable vision of tragedy in black South African drama which can be called African. It contends that dramatic texts do not all have the same degree of profundity of tragic vision because their subject matter, techniques and depth of artistic exploration differ, and vary according to their cultural roots. The basis on which old forms of tragedy are used to interpret the version of contemporary tragedy is therefore called into question, and as a result, the analysis of structural forms and thematic preoccupations of contemporary tragedy needs a set of criteria different from that of Euro-American drama. The portrayal of a tragic hero as a common man whose tragic stature is measured in terms of his ability to feel, to be aware of forces closing down on him in The Hungry Earth, the manifestation of tragedy as generated not only by individual volition, but by an economic structure established by those in power in We Shall Sing for the Fatherland, and, finally, the mingling of tragicomic elements of entertainment and communication to accommodate both tragedy and comic elements without destroying the integrity of either in Sarafina, indicate a definite development and imitation of tragedy from emphasis on form to meaning. By asking a question like: "What constitutes tragedy in black South African drama, and how are such processes represented and modelled in the selected plays?" this dissertation enters into a dialogue of global and local perspectives of tragedy in order to contribute to our understanding of an African, and specifically South African, concept of tragedy firmly rooted in its socio-cultural context. / Thesis (M.A. (English))--Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, 2003.

The study evaluated the training and development in Vereeniging cluster. The South African Police Service is the principal law enforcement institution and has a crucial role in contributing to the safety and security of South African citizens, including those who visit the country. Based on this it is essential that the organisation has skilled employees who will be able to meet the objectives and future challenges of the organisation. Training and development, therefore, is regarded as an important tool by an organisation, to facilitate the learning and development of all employees of the South African Police Service. Training and development identify, assure and develop individual competencies that will assist them to perform their current and future jobs. The research was conducted in the Vereeniging cluster. Only six stations were considered part of the target population. The respondents were randomly selected from the following stations: Heidelberg, Meyerton, Kliprivier, DeDeur, Ratanda and Vaal Marina. The systematic sampling method was used, where each unit had a chance of being selected. The duty list was utilised to obtain the sample. Structured questionnaires were utilised to obtain the responses from the respondents. The results of the findings indicated that employees were not satisfied about the recruitment and selection procedure and need assessment is not done before employees are sent for training. Respondents indicated that training equipment is not sufficient to assist them to acquire more knowledge during the facilitation of the learning programme. The results also highlighted that post-training appraisal is not done after each learning programme, which is important to determine the need for re-training, if any. The study concludes and recommends that the SAPS should focus on ensuring that the skills development facilitators understand the primary role of skills development. Training practices should be in line with the training standards and requirements and should be systematic and transparent / M Development and Management--North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, 2015.

Published Articles / The dawn of a democratic South Africa in 1994 established a society entrenched in Human Rights milieu. As such, public schools are meant to align their policies with the rule of the law. Particularly, section 10 (1) of South African Schools Act, 84 1996 (hereafter SASA) respectfully prohibits the administration of corporal punishment directed at a learner in public schools. The subsequent section 10 (2) of SASA admonishes that any person contravening section 10 (1) of SASA is liable on conviction to a sentence which could be imposed for assault. These mentioned provisions of the school legislation are consistent with section 10 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (RSA) which affords every person the inherent right to dignity of the person. Against the afore-mentioned legislative provisions, teachers have resorted to the use of sarcasm as a tool to inflict punishment in the manner that it could be equated with corporal punishment. Sarcasm is a form of language that is used to cause emotional and psychological harm, belittle, ridicule and humiliate the person it directed at. Judged against the provisions of the legislation governing schools in South African public schools, sarcasm could be said to be a direct violation of fundamental rights of learners to dignity of the person. In order to explore the intonation of sarcasm as supplement for corporal punishment the research paper employed a qualitative critical emancipatory research (CER) approach. Data gathered through a purposive sample of ten secondary teachers was analysed by the use of textual oriented discourse analyses.

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The South African Post Office is investing large amounts of money in IT. Organisations were encouraged by the notion that investing in IT correlates with higher returns and the delivery of expected results by replacing the human component in organisations. The employment of IT within business has often resulted in the replacement of old problems with new and the expected business benefits of IT not realised. The primary research objective was to determine the relationship between IT expenditure and the financial performance of a firm. The secondary research objective was to explore the perceived value of IT investment in SAPO. / Graduate School of Business Leadership / MBL

Nurses constitute the largest professional group in South Africa's health care services. Factors contributing to South African nurses' emigration were studied qualitatively by analysing expatriate nurses' responses to open-ended questions, and quantitatively by analysing newly registered nurses' responses to structured questionnaires. These results were contextualised within Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory, revealing that nurses' inability to meet their physiological needs, due to inadequate remuneration, was the major factor contributing to nurses' emigration potential. While improved salaries might enable more nurses to remain in South Africa, expatriate nurses would not return to South Africa unless certain esteem and self-actualisation needs could also be satisfied. Improving nurses' salaries is essential to address South African nurses' emigration potential. However, improved working conditions, enhanced workplace security, improved levels of job satisfaction and the appointment of nurses into currently frozen posts are also necessary, as is governmental and public recognition of the value of the profession. The South African nursing profession, health care services, Government and society should urgently address factors contributing to South African nurses' emigration potential; otherwise a serious shortage of nurses could cause the collapse of this country's health care services. / Health Studies / DLITT ET PHIL (HEALTH ST)

The Public Internet Terminal (PIT) is the Department of Communication initiative that aims to bring electronic communication to all South African citizens. It was launched in 1998 as a joint venture between the Department of Communications (DoC) and the South African Post Office (SAPO).This study postulates that the massive roll out of the Public Internet terminals (PIT‘s) has enhanced the lives of the poor by providing easy access to government services. It further assumes that the PITs are able to facilitate access of eService‘s to all the citizens in particular where electronic services are not freely available such as in the rural and remote under serviced areas of South Africa. In addition, it explores the envisaged value added initiatives stipulated in the memorandum of understanding entered in between the Department of Communication (DOC) and the South African Post Office (SAPO).