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The New Public Management (NPM) has brought a trend toward the government to administer the performance of government personnel to enhance government performance and the distribution of government services. In 1998, in accordance with the White Paper on Local Government, in South Africa Performance Management (PM) was brought in to improve the performance of government employees and ensure a successful distribution of public services. PM led to the establishment of the Municipal Performance Management Systems (MPMS). However, currently, there is little information on the effectiveness of the usage of MPMS to ameliorate the delivery of municipal services. The study evaluated the fruitfulness of MPMS through exploring the perceptions of municipal employees towards MPMS, and the ability of MPMS to foster positive change in South African municipalities through lessons gained from practices. To address the questions posed by the study, a qualitative method of research was employed drawing heavily on secondary data to expand knowledge of the usability of MPMS in the local government of South Africa. Subsequently, the findings of the study show that the effectiveness of MPMS is affected by various issues such as insufficient information and knowledge concerning MPMS, lack of monitoring and evaluation, poor financial administration, lack of participation from all municipal employees, data accuracy & the reliability of performance indicators, and shortage of skills. In short, the study concluded that the usage of MPMS in South Africa is not 100% effective and could be enhanced through establishing training workshops, monitoring, and evaluation, incorporating all municipal personnel to take part in the MPMS, and offering financial and non-financial incentives to motivate employees.

In the context of rapid technological advancement and evolving financial ecosystems, this study investigates the interplay between financial literacy, digital finance, and financial behaviour among high school teachers in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. Structural equation modelling (SEM) approach was used to describe intricate relationships between latent constructs, namely, financial literacy, financial Behaviour and, digital finance Knowledge as well as observed variables (B7 to B22, C23 to C44, D45 to D56, demographics). Demographic variables include Gender, Age Category, Qualification Type, Teaching Duration, Financial Literacy Course and Field Employed. The model defined each construct as a linear combination of its observed variables as well as demographic variables under its measurement component, and hypothetical relationships among three latent variables under its structural component. We used Python software and machine learning code to create and estimate the model using observed data. The missing values in each observed variable were imputed with averages of the variables’ data. The tests of normality assumption for SEM were performed using histogram and q-q plots, Shapiro-Wilk test D'Agostino and Pearson's test.  Most data vectors violated the normality assumption. Diagonally Weighted Least Squares (DWLS) was used for parameter estimation as a suitable method that can provide better estimation for more complex models with many parameters. This method has an additional advantage of being less sensitive to outliers. The DWLS parameter estimation results, based on p-values, suggest that financial literacy and financial behaviour have a negative association which means that lacking financial behaviour results in financial literacy. A positive association between has been identified between financial behaviour and digital finance knowledge. Financial literacy and digital finance knowledge have a weak or no relationship. Thus, having or not having digital finance knowledge does not necessarily determine the possibility of experiencing financial literacy. Furthermore, among demographic variables, the financial literacy Course is the only demographic variable that has a significant impact, and only on Financial Behaviour and Financial literacy. The rest of the variables do not significantly influence the latent constructs. This study uniquely applies SEM using the DWLS estimator to explore personal finance dynamics in an emerging economy, offering concise insights into key relationships.

In the modern dynamic higher education landscape, the efficiency and effectiveness of frontline services have a significant impact on the student experience. Understanding first-time entry students' perspectives is critical in South African universities, where diverse challenges and opportunities intersect. These students begin their academic journey with a mixture of anticipation, expectations, and uncertainties, making their insights invaluable in assessing the efficiency of frontline services. By comprehending the perspectives of FTENs this paper seeks to uncover opportunities for improving frontline service delivery, enhancing student satisfaction, and fostering a supportive environment conducive to academic success. By addressing this research question: what insights and implications can be deduced regarding frontline service efficiency in the context of a South African university through an examination of FTENs experiences? Through a pluralistic research approach incorporating both qualitative and quantitative inquiry, employment of questionnaires and thematic content analysis, the study illuminates the nuanced challenges experienced by FTENs. The findings underscore a mixture of positive and negative implications, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement within the institution's service delivery framework. On one hand, a majority of participants reported positive service experiences, emphasizing the helpfulness, patience, and professionalism of the front-line administrative staff. The study also uncovered significant challenges faced by some students, including delayed responses, perceived staff frustration, and concerns regarding fairness and inclusivity. This research contributes to advancing a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between FTENs’ experiences and the institution’s effectiveness.

The scarcity of water and energy in South Africa impacts multiple domestic and economic sectors, such as agriculture, industry, energy production, and ecosystems. This leads to diminished output, environmental degradation, and loss of biodiversity. The challenges are closely associated with the ongoing overexploitation of natural resources, attributable to the transformative effects of industrialisation and urbanisation. Current trends in energy and resource consumption, agricultural systems, and urban expansion are largely unsustainable and necessitate strategic interventions to mitigate environmental damage and promote long-term resilience. In the absence of oversight, these trends could exacerbate detrimental climate change patterns and limit economic growth. This study investigates the ongoing challenges related to the manufacturing sector's impact on water and energy resource depletion, while also assessing the potential cost savings from adopting cleaner production technologies. This study provides a significant contribution by presenting empirical evidence from the iLembe District, utilising a quantitative research design. A survey was performed across multiple factories in the iLembe Municipal District of South Africa. Of the 262 businesses surveyed, 184 out of 191 responses were considered reliable for data analysis. The study objectives were evaluated through descriptive and correlation analyses to assess the impact of digital technology on water, energy, and operational cost savings in manufacturing organisations within the district. The findings suggest that manufacturing organisations in the iLembe Municipal District demonstrated a lack of commitment to adopting digital technology as a waste management strategy to decrease electricity and water consumption. Respondents concurred that their organisations have achieved cost reductions by implementing cleaner production processes. The research demonstrated that digital technology has a beneficial effect on water and energy conservation, cost reduction, and the improvement of organisational performance. Management must understand the beneficial effects of digital technology to guarantee sustainable organisational performance..

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa, revealing their inadequate financial reserves and insufficient strategic assistance. In response, the government implemented financial and non-financial measures to promote innovation and enhance corporate resilience. This study assessed the efficacy of these approaches in aiding SMMEs during and post-pandemic, emphasising innovation uptake and sustainability results. A positivist paradigm and quantitative design were utilised, surveying 201 small, medium, and micro enterprise (SMME) owners and managers in eThekwini Municipality via structured questionnaires. Data analysis utilising SPSS (version 28.0) identified significant deficiencies in governmental assistance frameworks, especially with accessibility and communication. Participants indicated inadequate communication regarding funding initiatives, challenges in accessing newly implemented programs, and minimal influence on business recovery and innovation. The findings reveal a continual disparity between policy objectives and actual support, emphasising the necessity for enhanced communication tactics and more accessible tools to bolster SMME resilience during crises

Significant reputational and operational risks to organisations are mostly caused by cyberattacks, such as ransomware and data breaches, making effective communication key. The study seeks to answer the following research questions: 1) What challenges are encountered during cyber crisis communication, and 2) which crisis communication strategies are most effectively used by organisations during cyberattacks, and how they align with SCCT? The study was qualitative in nature, using existing literature and case studies of prominent cyberattacks that happened globally in 2020, where cyberattacks were at their peak due to the work-from-home setup. The study applied Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) to guide the research. Findings highlight key challenges in crisis communication, such as balancing transparency with confidentiality, countering misinformation, ensuring timely communication when the organisation is under pressure and reaching marginalised populations. Regarding research question two, the findings identified five key themes: transparency spectrum, timeliness and proactiveness, channel usage, message focus and the COVID-19 context. To enforce effective communication during cyberattacks, organisations must develop pre-approved communication toolkits, use internal decision processes to balance risk and openness, conduct vulnerability-sensitive communication planning and Audits and Regulatory Compliance.

This study examines the impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on economic growth in South Africa over the period 2000 to 2023. An Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was employed to assess the relationship between FDI inflows and Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while controlling for key macroeconomic variables. The findings reveal that FDI exerts a significant positive influence on economic performance, with a 1% increase in FDI inflows associated with a 1.93% rise in GDP. However, high inflation exerts a detrimental effect, with a coefficient of -1.99, highlighting the importance of macroeconomic stability. The analysis also indicates that trade openness contributes positively to economic growth, while political risk remains a substantial deterrent to investment, as shown by a coefficient of -3.11. These findings underline the importance of maintaining a stable political environment, managing inflation effectively, and enhancing trade liberalisation to maximise the benefits of FDI. Policy recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks and fostering trade openness.

Emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are transforming the global education sector, with Artificial Intelligence playing a crucial role in enhancing teaching, learning, and administrative processes. In South Africa, AI-driven innovations have the potential to bridge educational gaps, improve student engagement, and personalize learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms, automated grading systems, and intelligent tutoring applications are revolutionizing education by making it more efficient and accessible. However, despite these advancements, the adoption of AI in South African education faces significant challenges. Key challenges include data privacy concerns, ethical considerations, and a shortage of AI-skilled educators. These challenges create an uneven distribution of AI’s benefits, limiting its potential to improve learning outcomes on a national scale. Highlighting the need to explore the opportunities and barriers associated with the adoption of emerging AI technologies in South African education. Therefore, this study adopts a comprehensive literature review aiming to explore emerging AI technologies in the educational context in south Africa. To achieve this, the research will address the following questions: What impact have new technologies had on South Africa’s development? and in what ways can emerging technologies supporting South Africa's development initiatives. The findings indicate that AI tools have shown success in improving learning outcomes, increasing student engagement, and streamlining administrative tasks in well-resourced schools. However, their impact is uneven due to infrastructural and systemic challenges; also, the widespread adoption is hindered by a persistent digital divide, limited internet access, and a shortage of AI-trained educators, especially in rural areas. Additionally, ethical concerns such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the absence of clear regulatory frameworks pose significant barriers.

Manufacturing firms significantly contribute to worldwide environmental deterioration by generating substantial waste, emitting greenhouse gases, contaminating water, and depleting natural resources. The situation in South Africa is particularly alarming, as just a minimal percentage of trash is effectively managed. Many municipal landfills are overwhelmed, and illicit dumping is prevalent. The industrial industry's persistent ecological imprint, along with the swift depletion of natural resources, highlights an urgent necessity for sustainable waste management strategies that can reduce environmental damage and improve corporate accountability. While existing literature recognises the environmental consequences of manufacturing and outlines general waste management strategies, there is a significant deficiency in empirical research assessing the efficacy of specific waste disposal methods, especially within the South African manufacturing sector. This study aims to objectively evaluate the efficacy of three waste management techniques inside manufacturing firms in the iLembe Municipal District of South Africa. A total of 262 firms were polled; however, only 191 responses were obtained, of which 184 were considered valid for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were utilised to summarise the central tendency and dispersion of the data, encompassing means, standard deviations, and percentages. Correlation analysis was conducted to evaluate the strength and direction of linear relationships between continuous variables, specifically to assess the impact of waste re-use practices, examine the appropriateness of in-house recycling practices, and determine the efficacy of incineration as effective waste disposal methods. The findings indicate that in-house recycling, waste reuse, and incineration are extensively employed in the district, with chemical waste being the most predominant. This study provides empirical evidence of the beneficial impact of efficient waste management on organisational performance, hence facilitating more sustainable and strategic decision-making in the industrial industry.

The evolving perceptions of trust within the community about both national and local government have substantial ramifications for the long-term viability of the nation's democracy and the degree of societal trust. This study sought to evaluate the degree of public trust among South African adults in their national and municipal governments, as well as to analyse the variables influencing this trust. The report underscores considerable scepticism in South African national and local administrations, attributable to performance deficiencies, inadequate service delivery, absence of transparency, and insufficient community participation. Individuals associated with the ANC exhibit comparatively more trust owing to past allegiance. We advocate promoting reforms to restore public trust by enhancing governance processes, increasing transparency, and ensuring efficient service delivery, especially for marginalised areas.

This paper examines the effect of indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship in further advancing socioeconomic development in Ghana. It emphasizes how culturally imbibe knowledge systems and traditional practices contribute to long-term development. Specifically in tourism-related industries like agriculture, crafts, and traditional medicine. A quantitative survey was conducted with 362 indigenous entrepreneurs from three administrative regions of Ghana. Structured questionnaires were employed to gather data about innovative techniques and socioeconomic results. The data was asses using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to find the underlying scope of the innovation and multiple regression analysis. This focus on the relationship between indigenous innovation and socioeconomic factors. The results show a significant relationship between indigenous innovation techniques and major socioeconomic outcomes. The study findings portray a significant and positive correlation between indigenous innovation practices and key socio-economic outcomes, such as employment generation , income growth and cultural continuity. The relationship was significant at p < 0.001. These findings point out that indigenous innovation is not only as a driver of local economic development, but rather is a vehicle for preserving cultural identity and community resilience. The study presents novel empirical evidence from the Global South, challenging conventional innovation paradigms in stressing the socio-cultural relevance of indigenous knowledge systems. It provides new insights on how grassroots entrepreneurial behaviors anchored in tradition can supplement national development initiatives and enhance the broader debate on inclusive innovation.

Trigonometry is currently an examinable section in the subject of mathematics and is assessed in grade 12 examinations. This study addresses the challenge that teachers’ knowledge and the supply of quality learning support material is inadequate in trigonometry in secondary schools The purpose is to determine how Mathematical models/manipulatives helped grade 12 learners adopt more interactive approaches toward the learning of three-dimensional trigonometric problems and whether the use of models improves the learning of mathematics. The study used a qualitative approach with a case study research design. The interpretive paradigm framed the analysis of the learners' interactions with the Mathematical manipulatives. This case study was conducted at a school in KwaZulu-Natal (n=16) in South Africa. Grade 12 mathematics learners participated in the research, engaging in qualitative assessments in structured activity worksheets consisting of questions on 3-dimensional trigonometric problems and semi-structured interviews. Findings emanating from the data analysis reveal that the use of manipulatives is beneficial to learners when solving 3D trigonometric problems and suggest that the use of manipulatives shows a reduction in task difficulty by linking the concrete to the abstract, and manipulatives encourage mathematical fluency.

Instagram has emerged not only as a social networking platform but also as a vital digital marketing tool for fashion brands. However, missed marketing opportunities persist due to factors such as limited computer literacy, unfamiliarity with digital tools, and resistance to new media. The aim of the study is to explore the opportunities for leveraging Instagram as an effective marketing tool within the fashion industry in Durban. Specifically, it seeks to identify how fashion businesses can utilise Instagram to enhance brand visibility, engage with their target audience, and maximize promotional efforts to drive success in the digital marketplace. This quantitative study employed a purposive sampling method and focused on descriptive analysis through a structured online questionnaire distributed to 130 fashion businesses in Durban. The findings underscore Instagram's efficacy in enabling fashion businesses to effectively showcase products, engage visually with their target audience, and amplify brand awareness. The platform's visual-centric nature inherently supports robust brand marketing and promotion, particularly in the fashion sector. Recommendations highlight the imperative for fashion brands to strategically leverage Instagram to enhance visibility and augment brand perception. Success on Instagram necessitates a well-coordinated marketing approach to ensure impactful brand promotion and engagement with followers.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration has become increasingly prevalent in various industries, transforming business processes and creating new opportunities. As AI continues to shape the future of work, organisations such as Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) must scrutinize their readiness to develop a workforce competent in AI. AI competencies are fundamental to successfully enacting and integrating these technologies. As a result, several organisations have invested in workforce readiness, albeit these efforts are affected by several actors and determinants. Consequently, organisations must examine the workforce readiness for AI integration as a technology of the future. This paper aims to explore the integration of AI in organisations such as HEIs to ascertain workforce readiness. Addressing three pivotal research questions, it delves into the extent to which the workforce in HEIs is developed and competent in AI, the contributing factors shaping the integration of AI into HEIs’ workforce, and the overall readiness of HEIs in fostering workforce development within the realm of AI. Employing a systematic content analysis review, the study provides pragmatic findings, serving as a reference point to elevate workforce readiness and pinpoint critical determinants. The study identified factors contributing to AI competency development that serve as valuable insights for other institutions aiming to design and implement effective workforce development programs in AI. Also, the findings provide significant implications for institutions seeking to enhance their workforce's competency in AI.   Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Higher Education Institutions, HEIs, Workforce, Readiness.

Although telehealth use in social work practice is not a new concept, its adoption has significantly increased in recent years due to growth in technology use and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there exist gaps in understanding how social workers are using and experiencing telehealth in their practice. This scoping review synthesizes literature on the use of telehealth in social work practice. Guided by Arksey and O’Malley, we will search for literature on five databases: Web of Science, PUBMED, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Using Rayyan screening software, two independent reviewers will screen articles at the title, abstract, and full-text levels. Key characteristics and key themes of the selected articles that meet the inclusion criteria will be charted on a Microsoft Excel sheet. Qualitative thematic analysis will be used to analyze the themes. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) will be used to report the scoping review processes. The review will contribute to the broader understanding of telehealth in social work practice and inform the development of best practices and current gaps in research on telehealth in social work practice. The results will be disseminated to researchers, schools of social work, and practitioners through manuscript publications and relevant conferences.

The aim of this study is to explore the dimensions used to measure the success of MSMEs in Durban Central. Despite the vital role MSMEs play in the area's economic landscape, there is a lack of research on the specific success dimensions used by these businesses. A cross-sectional and descriptive research design was employed for this study, utilising a quantitative approach. 217 MSMEs in the retail sector of Durban Central received structured questionnaires. Statistical analysis, including descriptive and inferential statistics, was conducted using SPSS version 29. The findings suggest that MSMEs in Durban Central predominantly rely on financial metrics, such as turnover/sales and net profit, to measure their success. While financial indicators offer valuable insights into economic viability and financial health, there is a growing recognition of the importance of integrating non-financial metrics, such as customer referrals and product/service innovation, into performance assessment systems. This study contributes to the literature by shedding light on the dimensions used to measure the success of MSMEs in Durban Central, an area where research in this domain is scarce. Through a thorough examination of both financial and non-financial metrics, the study offers a comprehensive understanding of MSME performance evaluation practices in the region. The study recommends the significance of integrating non-financial dimensions into performance assessment systems and provide practical insights for enhancing MSME competitiveness and sustainability in the dynamic business environment of Durban Central.

This study aims to assess the e-learning difficulties faced by students at South African public higher education institutions, given the increasing reliance on online learning as a core mode of teaching and learning. The researchers critically analyzed previous research on technology in higher education to identify gaps in existing knowledge. The study adopted the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the theoretical framework to guide the investigation. A quantitative research method was employed, using surveys distributed to experts from various faculties, departments, and students. This approach enabled the collection of data regarding the perceived challenges and barriers to e-learning. The findings revealed that students encountered significant challenges in e-learning, including issues related to digital literacy, limited access to resources, unreliable internet connectivity, and high data costs. These barriers are exacerbated by the disadvantaged and poverty-stricken backgrounds of many students in South African public institutions. Additionally, educators and course designers also face challenges in effectively implementing e-learning solutions. Addressing these challenges is essential for the successful adoption and integration of e-learning in South African higher education institutions. The study suggests that overcoming systemic issues—such as improving digital literacy, enhancing infrastructure, and reducing data costs—could unlock the full potential of e-learning. This could lead to more inclusive, accessible, and effective higher education. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by identifying specific barriers to e-learning adoption in South African public higher education institutions. It emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges to harness the potential of technology-enhanced learning and promote inclusivity in higher education. The findings provide insights into how policy makers, educators, and institutions can better support students and course designers in the transition to e-learning environments.

The unbundling of a South African state-owned enterprise represents a significant structural transformation aimed at improving operational efficiency, financial sustainability, and energy transition. However, this restructuring raises concerns about its socio-economic impact on employees. This study investigates this implication by exploring employee job security and working conditions. Grounded in Organizational Change Theory, the study employs a qualitative approach and obtain insights from interviews. Findings indicate that employees experience heightened job insecurity, worsened working conditions, and uncertainty regarding future employment prospects. Despite some optimism about potential market competition most employees perceive the unbundling as poorly managed and lacking transparency. The study calls for improved employee engagement, targeted policy interventions, and enhanced communication strategies. Transparent communication strategies are recommended to mitigate employee anxiety during unbundling. These findings contribute to academic discourse on entity restructuring while providing policy-relevant insights for ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable transition. In this volatile environment, employee and external stakeholder concerns are crucial for organisation’s sustainability and competitive advantage. 

Funerals are culturally significant across the continent, often entailing substantial financial costs many families cannot easily bear. This study explores the role of funeral insurance in alleviating financial and social pressures related to burial practices in African countries. The research employs desktop research, analysing secondary data from government reports, academic literature, insurance industry publications, case studies, and media articles. Thematic analysis was applied to identify key themes such as financial alleviation, societal pressures, and migration’s influence on burial customs. Findings indicate that funeral insurance provides crucial financial support, particularly for families in urban areas and migrant workers, by covering burial-related expenses and ensuring adherence to cultural practices. However, the study also highlights the role of societal expectations, which often encourage lavish funerals, leading to overspending despite the intention of financial relief. Additionally, migration has significantly impacted funeral practices, with many individuals wishing to be buried in their rural hometowns despite the logistical challenges and costs involved. The study concludes that while funeral insurance is essential in mitigating financial strain, it must be complemented by efforts to shift societal attitudes towards simpler, more sustainable funeral practices. The research recommends improving the affordability and accessibility of funeral insurance, fostering financial literacy, developing culturally relevant insurance products, and addressing the social pressures associated with extravagant funerals. Future research should explore regional variations, alternative financial mechanisms, and longitudinal trends further to understand the dynamics of funeral insurance in Africa.

This study investigates the factors influencing investment decision-making within South Africa's financial markets, focusing on psychological, demographic, and external market elements. Drawing from Prospect Theory, the research reveals a deviation from traditional behavioral assumptions, highlighting that external market dynamics, rather than individual risk perceptions or demographic traits, predominantly guide investor behavior. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected through structured questionnaires from 120 randomly selected South African investors aged 18 and older with market experience. Structural equation modelling assessed factors influencing risk perception and subsequently, investment behavior. The findings demonstrate that market-related variables significantly influence risk perception (? = 0.653, p < 0.001) and decision-making, aligning with the Efficient Market Hypothesis. In contrast to Prospect Theory's expectations, risk perception had no significant direct effect on investment choices (? = -0.009, p = 0.933). Cognitive biases and emotional influences exerted a moderate impact, while demographic characteristics, including gender, education, and experience, showed minimal influence on investment decisions, suggesting that practical market experience outweighs formal training. With robust construct validation (CR = 0.711 to 0.951), the study enhances the reliability and credibility of the findings. It highlights global regulatory frameworks as crucial for investor confidence. These results contribute to behavioral finance literature and support practical implications for policy, market transparency, and investor education. Future research should consider diverse populations and qualitative investors' perspectives.