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The fast-changing technological environment compels organisations to make swift and adaptive strategic choices, necessitating the use of tools and systems that can effectively manage complexities, foresee challenges, and capitalise on opportunities; as a result, there is a growing trend towards the adoption of human resource analytics to improve decision-making processes in the ever-evolving field of human resources. Despite the increasing use of HR metrics and analytics in human resource management, HR professionals have been relatively slow to embrace a data-driven approach, and existing research on data-driven decision-making in HRM often lacks the comprehensive frameworks necessary to provide practical guidance for the effective integration of human resource analytics. Hence, this study aims to explore the utilisation of human resource analytics to improve decision-making processes within organisations, highlighting both the potential benefits and the challenges that may arise. A systematic literature review revealed that the adoption of Human Resource Analytics offers organisations significant benefits, such as enhanced decision-making, better alignment with strategic objectives, improved employee experiences, a stronger competitive advantage, and reduced time expenditures. However, challenges persist, including concerns related to data privacy and security, the quality, integrity, and accuracy of data, a lack of data literacy and skills among employees, and inadequate technological infrastructure. To address data security concerns, HR technology providers must adopt robust security measures, including encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Additionally, they should develop user-friendly data management systems and analytical tools that enable HR professionals to derive valuable insights from the data effectively.

Several official dating institutions viz: SARB, NBER, OECD, CEPR, and others, provide Business Cycle (BC) chronologies with lags ranging from three months to several years. This is problematic for the various oppressed as it poses limits to the usefulness of BC indicators in terms of forecasting and policy implementation at large. In this article, we propose the construction of composite indicators as accurate measures of business cycles in South Africa. We use this composite index to facilitate comparison of both a non-parametric Bry and Boschan dating algorithm and a parametric Markov Switching dating method, in terms of performance and accuracy of dating business cycle turning points in South Africa. Utilising data spanning the period 2000M1 – 2018M12, empirical evidence obtained is such that, composite indices are better than single indicators due to information rich. Further, while the parametric and non-parametric methods’ performances are matched in terms of the number of turning points identified, however, the non-parametric method is more accurate in identifying these turning points. Due to its accuracy the non-parametric method proved to be a promising method of dating business cycle turning points in South Africa and alleviate the problems which are currently facing the South African Reserve Bank, the private sector and the economy at large.

This study evaluates the socioeconomic contributions of the Youth Employment in Agribusiness and Sustainable Agriculture (YEASA) program in Ekiti State, Nigeria. By enhancing local economic activities and addressing youth unemployment, YEASA provides a compelling model for sustainable development. This research examines its impact through the lens of employment generation, quality-of-life improvements, and economic contributions between 2017 and 2020. Data were collected from 125 beneficiaries and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods. Findings reveal significant improvements in living standards, confidence levels, and entrepreneurial ventures, with 94% of participants acknowledging YEASA’s role in job creation. However, challenges such as limited government support and financial barriers persist. This paper highlights the importance of tailored entrepreneurship development programs in fostering inclusive economic growth, offering actionable insights policy and program enhancement insights.

Despite decades of investment in HIV prevention, South Africa continues to experience high rates of new infections among youth aged 15 to 24. This integrative literature review study explores how prevention fatigue and the normalization of HIV have contributed to a growing crisis of complacency among young people, leading to emotional disengagement and declining participation in prevention efforts. Guided by social constructivism, the Health Belief Model (HBM), and the concept of prevention fatigue, the study systematically reviewed peer-reviewed literature, national policy documents, and program evaluations published between 2010 and 2024. Thematic analysis revealed three key findings: a diminished perception of HIV risk due to normalization; emotional burnout and desensitization stemming from repetitive prevention messaging; and a disconnection between traditional HIV communication strategies and the lived digital, cultural, and social realities of youth. The study argues that knowledge alone is insufficient to sustain behavior change and calls for a fundamental shift in prevention strategy design. Recommendations include the use of emotionally intelligent messaging, digital innovation, and youth-led content creation to re-energize prevention efforts. This study contributes to the discourse by reframing youth disengagement not as ignorance, but as a product of systemic oversaturation and social repositioning of HIV in the post-crisis era.

Employee turnover is a significant issue for organizations worldwide, affecting stability, productivity, and innovation. In South Africa, public service departments face challenges in retaining qualified personnel as they migrate to higher-paying jobs. The study aims to investigate factors contributing to high turnover of Heads of Department or Accounting Officers within the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) in Mpumalanga Province. In order to gather information from a sample of 67 employees and to propose empirically supported strategies to lower employee turnover, increase retention, and boost organisational effectiveness, the study used qualitative research methodology, interviews, and semi-structured interviews. Main findings of the study demonstrate that (i) employees are leaving due to negative factors within the department and short-term employment contracts (ii) employees with limited skills or experience being placed in key positions, further contributing to dissatisfaction and high turnover (iii)due to a lack of attention to addressing employee turnover, the department suffers from low morale, poor service delivery, and negative public perception, ultimately impacting the organization's performance. The findings are recommended for sharing with the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and other government departments in South Africa as it could provide a reliable approach of dealing with staff turnover throughout the public sector.

Substance abuse refers drug use is associated with sexual risk behaviour, violence, and mental health and suicide risks. Many individuals who are addicted to drugs resort to criminal activities in order to finance their addiction. This can lead to an increase in theft, burglary, and even violent crime in communities where drug abuse is prevalent. The purpose of this paper is to outline the elements that influence of the impact of drugs and substance abuse in South Africa and Africa Communities. The findings of drug usage in the informal community serve as the foundation for the conclusions drawn in this article regarding substance abuse in South Africa. Young people in South Africa misuse and consume alcohol at significant rates. Unemployment, a lack of effective mentoring, a lack of family values, inadequate parental advice, and a loss of hope were some of the contributing reasons. To achieve the study's goals, a literature review using secondary data to evaluate and deconstruct the research problem. This study's major goal was to look at the causes and motivations behind young people's alcohol abuse. The inquiry concentrated on young people's excessive and unusual alcohol consumption.

The core responsibility of school principals involves working with people’s emotions. As leaders within educational organizations, principals must develop emotional intelligence to effectively guide teachers and learners while managing their daily responsibilities. Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and regulate one’s own emotions, as well as influence the emotions of others. Given that schools are emotionally charged environments, this study investigates the role of emotional intelligence in primary school leadership, highlighting its significance in addressing everyday challenges. Emotional intelligence equips principals with the skills to communicate effectively, demonstrate empathy, manage conflicts, and engage constructively with stakeholders such as teachers, students, parents, and education officials. Employing a qualitative case study design grounded in a constructivist paradigm, the research focuses on three primary school principals through interviews, observations, and field notes. The findings reveal key challenges, including learner misconduct, disengaged teachers, and interpersonal staff conflicts. The study concludes by recommending the assessment and development of principals’ emotional intelligence to enhance overall school performance. The article further recommends various workshop-based strategies to support leadership development. These include sessions focused on self-awareness and reflective practice to help principals better understand their emotional triggers, strengths, and areas for growth.

This research explores the social and environmental impacts of fast fashion in Durban-based SMME, focusing on sustainability opportunities and challenges in the local clothing industry. Adopting a qualitative research design, using content analysis and snowball sampling, the study investigates the practices of apparel enterprises, the role of consumer behaviour, and the adoption of green business models and circular economy principles. Key findings indicate that there is greater awareness and implementation of sustainable practices in large businesses, including the use of renewable energy and fair labour practices. But there is insignificant implementation by small businesses owing to financial constraints and resource limitations. The study finds gaps in consumer education about the negative impacts of fast fashion and calls for specific education and policy intervention. The research uses dynamic capabilities theory to justify how companies reshape resources in reaction to pressures for sustainability and defines community involvement as a new aspect of sustainable action. Its recommendations involve investment in sustainable design, education for consumers, and collaboration among multiple stakeholders. The research adds to sustainability discourse and calls for localized, adaptive strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of fast fashion in emerging markets.

The transition from high school to higher education or the workforce represents a critical phase in a learner's life. Career orientation programs play a vital role in navigating this transition, with universities positioned to enhance high school career orientation initiatives through their resources, expertise, and industry connections. The aim of this paper is to highlight the key role that universities play in enhancing school career orientation programs. The paper is looking at providing current challenges facing these programs and also providing some future prospects.  This paper adopts a qualitative approach, reviewing existing literature on the impact of university involvement in these programs. The findings reveal that university involvement provides several strengths and highlights areas for potential improvement in current practices. The article recommends the enhancement of career guidance, improved access to resources, increased industry exposure, and strengthened mentorship and support, developing structured collaboration frameworks between universities and high schools, implementing continuous evaluation mechanisms for these programs, and focusing on tailored support for under-resourced schools and re such as enhanced career guidance, improved access to resources, increased industry exposure, and strengthened mentorship and support. Consequently, the highlights that collaboration between universities and high schools is essential for bolstering career orientation initiatives at the high school level.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) function in unstable macroeconomic contexts, especially in emerging markets characterised by significant economic volatility. SMEs are crucial for job creation and poverty alleviation; however, they encounter various challenges that impede their growth. Small and medium-sized enterprises in the Mashonaland West Province of Zimbabwe face limitations due to political and economic instability. This research examines operational challenges through a qualitative methodology. Data were gathered from 21 purposefully selected SME owner-managers, each possessing a minimum of five years of managerial experience, across five districts. Inductive thematic analysis, facilitated by NVivo software, was employed to examine open-ended interview responses. Identified key obstacles include cash shortages, inadequate working capital, elevated inflation, foreign currency limitations, increasing costs, and inconsistent government policies. Recommendations for policy include the revision of monetary policy, stabilisation of the local currency, adjustment of tax structures, and enhancement of price control mechanisms. Managers of small and medium enterprises are advised to enhance cash flow and inventory management practices. Future research should undertake comparative studies among developing countries.

Shortly after the inception of the new South African democracy in 1994, a series of national policies were introduced to overhaul the educational landscape in the country. Joubert (2007) highlighted the optimism placed in the potential of educational policies to reshape the system and drive social change. In 2000, the Safe Schools Project was initiated in South Africa to establish secure, well-disciplined learning environments that uphold innocence and prioritize human dignity. This study explores the implementation of school safety policy in two secondary schools in Alfred Nzo West, with a particular focus on the challenges and successes encountered in the process. It employs constructivism paradigm and follows a qualitative research approach. Data was collected through observation/field notes and semi-structured interviews with school principals, school governing bodies, and grade 12 learners. The research further uses the theory of change because it provides a framework for understanding and illustrating how a project, policy, strategy, or program, when implemented, leads to the intended outcome. The finding reveals that school safety policies are implemented in schools through the application of rules aligning with the policies and making use of posters and printouts that explain the policy to learners, parents and all staff members.

Multilingualism also contributes to a more inclusive learning environment, reflecting the truth about the first and second language diversity of many?South Africa higher education (HE) students. This paper contributes to a multilingual perspective on the decolonization of knowledge in the teaching and learning practices at?South African higher education institutions. The study?aims to make sense of diverse conceptualisation of curriculum by the universities to examine students’ experiences on epistemic access in decolonisation discourses. A multilinguistic approach to curriculum work incorporates epistemological perspectives?while challenging the dominance of Eurocentric knowledge systems. Curriculum development?that resonates with local histories and global realities, is required in strengthening the relevancy of education in South African schools. In addition, the multilinguistic ideal is not only pedagogically beneficial, but also an important decolonising tool, making higher education in?South Africa reflective of its multilingual society and all students. A systematic qualitative literature review will be implemented in this study and the review process in this application will be?underpinned by literature and statistical evidence supplied by South African universities. This paper seeks to highlight that higher education can be supported to the fullest through reframing the social justice and?resilience theories. From a multilingual standpoint, the findings of this study will contribute to understandings of students’ perceptions of epistemic access and contribute towards the?epistemic decoloniality discourse in South African universities.

This study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of four popular educational technology tools Mentimeter, Google Forms, Socrative, and Kahoot within the context of higher education. The aim is to critically evaluate their respective strengths and weaknesses, focusing on their utility, functionality, and effectiveness in enhancing the learning experience and engagement among college and university students. Mentimeter is a dynamic presentation tool allowing real-time audience engagement through live polls, quizzes, and interactive presentations. Its strengths lie in its user-friendly interface, diverse question types, and real-time feedback capabilities, fostering active participation and knowledge retention. However, limitations include its potential dependency on stable internet connectivity and limited complex assessment features. Google Forms, a versatile survey tool integrated with the Google ecosystem, offers flexibility in creating surveys, quizzes, and assessments. Its strengths include ease of use, data management through Google Sheets, and customizable question formats. However, while suitable for basic assessments, it may lack some advanced features required for complex evaluations and interactive learning. Socrative provides a platform for formative assessment, enabling teachers to create quizzes, assessments, and exit tickets. Its strengths lie in its instant grading, diverse question types, and the ability to track individual student progress. However, its interface might be less intuitive for some users, and its interactive features may be limited compared to other tools. Kahoot is a game-based learning platform that gamifies quizzes and assessments, promoting engagement and motivation among students. Its strengths include its gamified approach, competitive atmosphere, and ease of use. However, its design might favor rote memorization over deeper learning, and it may not be suitable for all types of educational content or assessment formats. This comparative analysis highlights the distinct advantages and limitations of each tool, offering insights for educators and institutions seeking to leverage technology for effective teaching and learning strategies in higher education. Understanding these strengths and weaknesses can aid educators in making informed decisions about selecting and integrating appropriate educational technologies to enhance student engagement, participation, and learning outcomes. Further research and practical implementations can delve deeper into optimizing the use of these tools to cater to diverse educational needs and contexts in higher education.

This article analyses the Shambe Sonke Programme (SSP) in South Africa, a poverty alleviation initiative aimed at generating income and fostering economic independence through infrastructure maintenance and community engagement in rural regions. This paper employs qualitative research methodology to examine communication practices, challenges, and regional implementation disparities within the SSP, concentrating on three provinces: KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Eastern Cape. Data were collected via interviews with officials from the Department of Transport (DoT) and focus groups involving SSP contractors, predominantly African men and women, utilising content analysis based on Giddens’ Structuration Theory. The findings indicate substantial communication deficiencies between the Department of Transportation and SSP contractors, impeding the contractors' comprehension of program objectives, eligibility criteria, and accessible economic opportunities. The absence of communication hinders contractors' capacity to leverage SSP resources for income generation, thereby limiting the program's efficacy in poverty alleviation. The study identifies regional disparities in the impact of SSP, noting that KwaZulu-Natal’s Zibambele sub-program demonstrates superior outcomes attributed to proactive support systems and robust public-private partnerships (PPPs), which furnish contractors with resources for small-scale farming and business initiatives. Delayed payments and insufficient training in Mpumalanga and Eastern Cape hinder contractors' economic mobility. The study advocates for the enhancement of communication channels, the development of localised implementation strategies, and the improvement of public-private partnerships across provinces to achieve more consistent outcomes in the SSP. The findings highlight the necessity for flexible, community-focused strategies in public programs and collaborative partnerships as essential avenues for effective poverty alleviation.

The study investigates the relationship between financial literacy and savings among individuals in South Africa, utilising data from the National Income Dynamics Study. The theoretical framework highlights the importance of financial literacy, encompassing knowledge, behaviour, and attitudes towards financial planning. Empirical analysis using OLS, Logit, Probit, and Tobit models reveals a positive correlation between financial literacy and savings. Higher financial literacy levels are associated with increased savings propensity, with significant coefficients observed across various models. The findings underscore the critical role of financial education in enhancing savings behaviour, suggesting that improved financial literacy can lead to better financial outcomes and contribute to economic growth. The study’s results have policy implications, advocating for targeted financial literacy programmes to boost savings rates and support economic development in South Africa.

A discussion of pharmaceutical test data protection is a potentially broad area for scholarly investigation. During preclinical and clinical drug testing, test data that evidences safety, effectiveness, and quality is generated to obtain marketing approval by drug regulatory authorities. Depending on the nature of the information and the jurisdiction, such information may be protected as a trade secret or a patent. Protecting patents and pharmaceutical test data in the SADC has significant ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI). While it is essential to incentivise research and development, it is also crucial to ensure that patients have access to safe and effective medicines and that the public interest is protected. SADC members have diverse approaches and laws on patents and pharmaceutical test data protection. While some countries have comprehensive legal frameworks that balance intellectual property rights with the public interest, others have outdated or incomplete frameworks. The lack or inadequacy of legal frameworks for patents and pharmaceutical test data protection in some SADC countries can negatively affect public health. This paper surveys and calibrates the existing legal frameworks within the SADC region by identifying gaps and suggesting possible law reform solutions inspired by the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property (TRIPS) Agreement, other international frameworks, and comparative law. Using the reward theory as its theoretical lens and linking the main arguments to the obligation of patentees to disclose their inventions fully, the paper concludes that the SADC region requires adequate legal frameworks.

The ongoing issues of unemployment and inequality in South Africa require a unified approach to improve employability through the development of transversal skills. This project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8), which advocates for decent work and sustainable economic development. Transversal abilities, including communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptation, are recognised as essential for success at both individual and organisational levels. However, there is a significant lack of research examining the direct economic effects of these talents in the South African environment, especially regarding earnings and employment opportunities. This article investigated the paramount transversal talents, assessed their returns in the labour market, and analysed their importance for workforce development in South Africa. The findings revealed significant disparities in the economic returns linked to various transversal abilities, with high-demand competencies like project management and business strategy yielding the greatest economic advantages. These findings highlight the necessity for focused skill development programs to improve employability and reduce labour market inequalities in South Africa. It offers implementable sanctions for policymakers, employers, and educators, enabling the synchronisation of skill development policies with the evolving demands of the labour market and promoting inclusive economic growth in South Africa.

South Africa's transition to democracy in 1994 resulted in the formation of a Government of National Unity, which intended to promote inclusivity and unity in a highly divided society. Since then, coalition governments have continued to play an important part in the country's political scene, generating concerns about their effectiveness in promoting nationalism, reconciliation, and social cohesion. This paper utilised a systematic literature review to examine existing research to obtain an understanding of the topic matter by methodically gathering and evaluating 50 pertinent studies, papers, and publications as well as textual analysis to the collected data, which helped in delving further into speeches, policy documents, and other written materials relevant to South African coalition governments and the Government of National Unity. This paper recommends that future South African coalition governments should prioritise systems that promote conversation, consensus-building, and societal cohesion. Furthermore, efforts should be made to remove structural inequities and historical injustices that are impeding the country's progress towards a more inclusive and united society. This paper concludes that South African coalition governments, as well as the Government of National Unity, have far-reaching ramifications for nation-building, reconciliation, and social cohesion. Additionally, policymakers must prioritise inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in political decision-making processes.

The Universal Testing and Treatment (UTT) program aimed to improve human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) outcomes by initiating immediate antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, UTT faced challenges, including high attrition rates and loss to follow-up (LTFU), particularly in South Africa, where implementation has sometimes led to increased treatment discontinuation. This study investigated HIV UTT program uptake and LTFU rates among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in Moretele Sub-district, South Africa. A quantitative, observational retrospective design evaluated UTT effectiveness in rural HIV care. Adult clients initiating ART between January 2020 and January 2022 across nine clinics in Moretele Sub-district were included. A random sample of 500 medical records was analyzed using Tier.net and DHIS software for record identification. Data analysis using STATA 18.0 included descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and logistic regression to identify factors influencing retention. Of 203 records analyzed, (30.8%) were aged 30–39, and 52.8% were female. Most clients were single (61.8%) and employed (51.6%). Same-day ART initiation was high (83.8%), yet 70% were LTFU, 25% transferred, 4.4% stopped treatment, and 0.6% died. Clients aged 30–39 had higher odds of LTFU (adjusted OR = 1.77; p=0.007). Gender, marital, and income status showed no significant association. While UTT enables rapid ART initiation, high LTFU rates, especially among younger, male, and employed individuals, hinder success. Strategies to improve retention should focus on same-day initiators and community engagement. This study highlights critical challenges in UTT implementation, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address LTFU and enhance retention in HIV care programs.

The complications that arise during policy implementation frequently stand in stark contrast to the principles of simplicity in policy formation within public administration. This gap stems from the distinctions between the practical difficulties of implementing a policy, such as unexpected variables, stakeholder resistance, and resource restrictions, and the conceptual clarity, broad goals, and explicit directions involved in its formulation. South Africa has introduced many promising policies to address socio-economic inequalities, boost economic growth, and improve public services. However, despite strong policy frameworks, the country often struggles to implement these policies effectively. This paper seeks to explore the challenges associated with policy implementation in the South African government. In addressing these difficulties, a qualitative method was employed, wherein case studies related to policy implementation failures in South Africa were unpacked and discussed as points of reference. There are significant challenges regarding policy implementation in South Africa. For the basis of this study, justice theory is applicable. There is also a strong tendency for political involvement in policy implementation, as party members are awarded tenders and contracts to implement various programs for stated policies; as a result, these policies often fail. This paper proposes the use of the 7-C protocol as a tool for monitoring policy implementation and limiting political interference. The distinctiveness of the 7-C Protocol in the policy setting lies in its ability to reconcile communication efficiency with public accountability.