Archive of Journal
Volume 76, Issue 12, Dec. 2020

STUDY OF DIRECT RESPONSE AND RELATED TO THE EARLY SELECTION OF DURUM WHEAT (TRITICUM DURUM DESF.) GENOTYPES GROWING UNDER SEMI-ARID CONDITIONS

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.13

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: This study which was leaded in agricultural experimental station of technical field crops institute (TFCI), (ITGC in French) of Setif, East Algeria. The objective of this study is to evaluate the direct response and related to two F4 and F5 generations for the early selection of three hybrids viz., Ofanto/MBB, Ofanto/Waha, and Ofanto/Mrb5 of durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) growing under semi-arid conditions. Analysis of variance shows the presence of genetic changes for all measured traits in parents. Direct and indirect early selection of crossbreeds of these three advanced generations shows that the same character taken as a selection criterion gives increased effectiveness for some traits in crossing without other. By comparison between the observed increases in grain yield, the highest increases in gain yield were chosen by selection on the basis of grain and economic yield, number of ears and indexes (DSI, SWI). The following up of response of lines with high grain yield indicates (G x E) interaction for most lines. Among these three hybrids, Ofanto/MBB combined most desirable characters (Production, resistance etc.) by lowering of canopy temperature (CT) and increasing of grain yield. Linear regression analysis (R2) shows a highly significant correlation between grain and economic yield (R2>0,900) and the number of spikes (R2>0,670), contrariwise no correlation between productive traits and those of resistance. The results of this study proved that the advanced line Ofanto/MBB has combined more desirable traits (Productivity and resistance, ext.) by lowering of a canopy temperature (CT) and increasing of grain yield.

Author(s): Abdelmalek Oulmi, Ali Guendouz, Nadjim Semcheddine, Benalia Frih, Noureddine Laadel, Abdelhamid Adjabi, Amar Benmahammed


ASSESSING THE FINANCIAL LITERACY OF INFORMAL BUSINESSES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.20

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Informal business activities have been identified as playing a pivotal role in the growth and development of countries across the globe. However, small and medium business enterprises in the South African informal business sector are perceived to be failing due to a combination of low financial literacy levels and ineffective use of management accounting techniques such as budgets and pricing tools. The aim of this study was to assess the level of financial literacy of informal business owners in the Vaal region of the Gauteng Province of South Africa. A quantitative method was employed via administering a semi-structured questionnaire to 224 informal business owners. The study revealed that informal business owners possess low level knowledge of financial literacy. The study recommends that it is imperative that government and the non-governmental sector’s (NGO) focus training initiatives on this as a matter of importance.

Author(s): Raphael Muchabaiwa, Anton M. Pillay, Jeremiah Madzimure


SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINES ALGORITHM FOR LAND COVER MAPPING USING GOOGLE EARTH ENGINE CASE STUDY SUB-WATERSHED OF OUED EL ARABE

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.10

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: With the rapid growth in big data, classification is becoming a necessary tool for practitioners and decision-makers in many fields of research. Several classifications techniques have been developed in the area of machine-learning and pattern recognition. In this paper, we try to present the outline of the main stages through which a supervised classification under the support vector machine algorithm is processed. We utilize a method for applying SVM learning algorithm for data classification and regression purposes under a cloud computing platform. We also point out that we have taken benefit of the various advantages offered by the Google Earth Engine platform through which we have found that in addition to guaranteed saving of time and effort, this platform has produced perfect results of high precision. The latter can be shown in two precision indicators that we used and which yielded very satisfactory results.

Author(s): Chakali Ahmed Nadjib, Zeraib Salah, Abderrahmane Ben Salem HACHI


PUBLIC OPINION ABOUT EVENTS IN THE POLITICAL, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL LIFE OF THE POPULATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE NORTH CAUCASIAN FEDERAL DISTRICT OF RUSSIA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.1

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Respondents and experts were asked to speak about socially significant events in their opinion that have taken place in the Russian Federation and the republics of the North Caucasus Federal District in recent years. The opinions of respondents and experts about political events in Ukraine and Crimea were often emotionally colored, however, economic problems were mentioned twice more often by the survey participants, from which it can be concluded that the residents of the North Caucasus are more concerned about events directly related to their material well-being : falling living standards, falling ruble exchange rate, consequences of sanctions, falling oil prices on the world market. Military actions of the Russian military corps in Syria were mentioned in isolated cases. The annexation of Crimea was perceived by respondents in every fifth case as a positive event, and actions in eastern Ukraine in every fourth case as negative. Despite excessive media coverage of the 2014 Sochi Olympics, respondents mentioned it as a positive event in 1.67% of cases, while experts stopped at it in 3%, evaluating this event as “unnecessary”, “an attempt to embellish the image of the head of state” , "An opportunity to steal a lot of money." In total, positive events were mentioned by respondents in 23.4%, negative - in 38.1%, respondents found it difficult to answer in 39.0% of cases.

Author(s): Dzutsev Khasan Vladimirovich, Dibirova Aminat Parukovna, Kornienko Natalya Vladimirovna


EFFECT OF CLIMATIC FACTORS ON THE EVOLUTION OF THE WHITE DATE PALM SCALE PARLATORIA BLANCHARDI AT BISKRA OASIS, ALGERIA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.17

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Abstract The date palm is the main agricultural base in the southern region of the Saharan Atlas, Algeria and especially at Biskra , Algeria .This crop is threatened by insect pests, such as the white date palm scale Parlatoria blanchardi (Targioni-Tozzetti, 1868) (Hemiptera?Diaspididae). This devastating pest causes premature dryness of the date palm trees, and leads to total loss of the palm. During this study, the white date palm scale completes four cycles or four generations per year. The first generation occurs in early summer during the two study seasons, 2017 and 2018. The second generation is mentioned in mid-July in 2017 and mid-August in 2018. The third generation appears at the end of September in 2018 and mid-October,2018. The fourth generation is mentioned at the end of December in 2017 and mid-January in 2018. Keywords Date palm, Biskra, oasis, date scale, population , dynamic, temperature, humidity

Author(s): Mehenni Mokhtar, Tarai Nacer


DOES LEVERAGE-PERFORMANCE VARY WITH FIRM SIZE? EVIDENCE FROM INDIA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.9

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: This study evaluates whether the relationship between leverage and firm performance is impacted by firm size from a sample of 900 listed non-financial Indian firms over the ten-year period, 2010-2019. The threshold panel regression method developed for non-dynamic panels with individual effects is applied. The advantage of this approach is that the number of thresholds and their locations are endogenously determined. The study finds a non-linear relationship between leverage and firm performance which is contingent on firm size. A single threshold level of firm size is found to split the sample into two groups, small firms with total assets of INR 1461.167 million or less and large firms with total assets exceeding INR 1461.167 million. Leverage is found to diminish firm performance in case of both small and large firms. However, the negative impact is less severe on large firms although they employ a higher level of leverage and rely more on short-term sources. The study offers empirical findings to understand the relationship between leverage and firm performance in the context of an emerging market with less-developed bond market. Both large and small firms are found to rely heavily on short-term funds. Leverage is found to have a negative association with firm performance for all firm sizes. But small firms that employ less leverage with a lower proportion of funds from short-term sources suffer a higher reduction in performance for leverage increases. The findings of this research call for immediate development of corporate bond market which can be easily accessed by firms of all sizes in order to avert the negative effect of expensive leverage on the growth and performance of these Indian firms.

Author(s): Lakshmi Kalyanaraman

THE CHALLENGES OF USING SOCIAL MEDIA IN TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SOUTH AFRICAN HIGHER EDUCATION CONTEXT

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.18

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: As social media is progressively visible in South African higher education institution, facilitators utilize technology to facilitate and advance education as well as promote constructive learning. The purpose of this study is to examine the challenges of using online networking in education within the environment of South African higher education. It is considerable extra significant to comprehend the natural surroundings of technology in the progression of learning more than just a technology integration on its own. No matter in what way eye catching a recent technology can turn into, that recent technology is just an ordinary application that is utilized frequently to transmit learning material accessible on social media. Technology should never ever replace learning, but it will support learning processes, advance education effectiveness, and improve student education involvements. Students and lecturers should take advantage of a social media learning to make learning more manageable. Students feel comfortable to utilize the web applications that they already know. Social media applications are an open means, which also implies that they are open to unrestricted community. It is lecturers� responsibility to make sure this learning environment is safe for the best interest of student learning. It is also the obligation of lecturers to teach students and prepare them with logical and thoughtful abilities during the process of using social media means. A clever implementation of social media applications can involve students in collaborative learning, which is the strategy to an effective learning. However, the utilization of social media in teaching can occasionally be very challenging to lecturers. Students understands social media better so they can work cooperatively with their lecturers to make an online learning possible.\nKeywords: challenges, social media, higher education, teaching and learning.

Author(s): Jeremiah Madzimure

EVALUATION OF THE BLOOM’S TAXONOMY FOR USE IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.16

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to evaluate the Bloom’s Taxonomy by reflecting on critical viewpoints on the model as well as to explain how an educator use them in the classroom. Bloom’s Taxonomy is a model of learning developed by Benjamin Bloom in 1956 and later modified in 2001 by Anderson (his former student). The aims of the model are to make students aware of what there were learning as well as to categorise goals of any curriculum in terms of cognitive skills. Bloom’s Taxonomy represents the process of learning through its six levels: remember, understand, apply, analyse, evaluate and create. As a teacher or lecturer, this is a useful tool one can use to set questions and design objectives aim at improving student’s cognitive skills and abilities since this framework can develop learning from simple to complex. Over and above, the teacher can approach learning from all domains.

Author(s): Jeremiah Madzimure

EXAMINING THE THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES UNDERLYING COLLABORATIVE LEARNING

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.15

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Collaborative learning is a widely used educational approach. The purpose of this article is to examine the theoretical perspectives underlying collaborative learning in higher education. In collaborative learning, learners actively participate in group activities where they share knowledge and expertise. An exploration of constructivism shows that it supports the great potential of collaborative learning in enhancing the learning experience. It contributes to an understanding of how collaborative learning improves the academic, social, and psychological aspects of learning. Constructivism forms the theoretical basis for the application of collaborative learning in the classrooms. Social constructivism stresses the importance of reciprocal interaction among group members in the construction of knowledge. This coincides with the nature of collaborative learning, in which students interact with each other on learning tasks to attain a shared goal. Constructivism supports the idea that when students collaborate, they learn more since they are involved in the construction of their own knowledge by interacting with their peers and their lecturer.

Author(s): Jeremiah Madzimure

DEVELOPMENT OF AN INTERVENTIONAL TOOL FOR THE TREATMENT OF FRACTURES BY TRADITIONAL HEALTH PRACTITIONERS IN SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.14

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Traditional health practitioners continue to treat fractures using traditional methods. The clinical impact of fractures is substantial with some patients suffering long-term disability or deformity if the fracture was not treated adequately. If traditional health practitioners had a guide to assess, manage, treat and/or refer patients, the rehabilitation outcomes could improve for the patient. The aim of this study was to develop an interventional tool for the management of fractures by Zulu and Māori practitioners in the traditional setting. All the traditional health practitioners (38/38, 100%) surveyed in South Africa and New Zealand were aware of the serious impact that fractures could have on a patient and indicated that a tool would be beneficial in the management of fractures. By analysing the information on how fractures were identified, diagnosed and treated with traditional medicines by traditional Zulu herbalists (Izinyanga) in Kwazulu-Natal in South Africa and experts in Māori medicine (TohungaRongoā) in New Zealand, an interventional tool adapted from an existing Ayurvedic guideline for the management and treatment of fractures specifically for Zulu and Māori traditional health practitioners, was developed. The modified interventional tool outlines an introduction to fractures, types of fractures, causative factors, patient presentation, examination of the injury, a suggested management plan, traditional Zulu and Māori medicine treatment, a dietary plan, supportive rehabilitation measures and expected outcomes post injury. The interventional tool on the management of a patient who presents with a suspected fracture may be beneficial to traditional health practitioners, biomedically-trained health practitioners and patients as well which would improve patient outcomes in the management of fractures. The tool may also serve as a valuable source of information for incorporating traditional medicine practices into mainstream public health systems in South Africa and New Zealand. Efforts should be made to distribute this tool (once translated into isiZulu and Te Reo Māori) to traditional health practitioners. It would be beneficial for traditional health practitioners in both countries to simultaneously attend a basic biomedical training course on the management of fractures.

Author(s): Nireshnee Ramchundar, Manimbulu Nlooto


A COMPARATIVE QUALITATIVE STUDY OF THE TYPES OF TRADITIONAL TREATMENT OF FRACTURES BY TRADITIONAL HEALTH PRACTITIONERS IN KWAZULU-NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA AND THE NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND: A SURVEY-BASED STUDY

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.12

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Traditional methods for the treatment of fractures world-wide include the physical manipulation (resetting) of bones and traditional remedies in various dosage forms. Although traditional bone-setting is no longer widely practiced in most developed countries, traditional remedies (plant or animal derived) are still used to treat fractures. Traditional health practitioners administer a variety of herbal medicines for bone strengthening, pain relieving, inflammation reduction and speedy recovery of fractures. The aim of this study was to determine the types of treatment administered for fractures according to Zulu medicine practices in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa and Māori medicine practices in the North Island of New Zealand. Traditional health practitioners who routinely practice in urban, semi-urban and rural areas of three districts each in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa and in the North Island of New Zealand were surveyed between October 2018 and September 2019. A mixed method study was conducted by a survey, and a moderator with a single focus group of three traditional health practitioners, resulting in qualitative research based on their practices in the management of fractures and fracture-related injuries. In both South Africa and New Zealand, traditional health practitioners included in this study practiced in a similar way, mainly as Zulu herbalists or Izinyanga in South Africa (22/26, 84.6%) and as Tohunga-Rongoā or traditional Māori practitioners who are experts in medicine and healing (12/12, 100%) in New Zealand. Although the respondents were mainly Zulu herbalists in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, four practiced as diviners (Izangoma). Most of the respondents were male practitioners(20/38, 52.6%) who practiced for 11-20 years (13/26, 50%) in South Africa and the same length of time in New Zealand (5/12, 41.7%). It was interesting to note that traditional health practitioners interviewed in this study in both New Zealand and SA, no longer practiced the manipulation of bones or bone-setting. Rather they used traditional herbal mixtures with presumed fracture-healing activity. Traditional health practitioners surveyed in this study identified 47 traditional medicines from South Africa and 27 traditional medicines from New Zealand with presumed fracture-healing activity. The formulae for preparing these traditional medicines were documented. Traditional medicine preparations of Umhlabelo (Talinum caffrum) and Umahlanganisa (Drimia delagoensis) in South Africa, and Harakeke (Phormium tenax) and Tutu (Coriaria arborea) in New Zealand were most prescribed by traditional health practitioners to treat fractures. The use of a support structure for fractures to limit mobility (and prevent further injury) and promote healing by Zulu traditional health practitioners should be encouraged. Further investigation is warranted on the phytochemical compositions of the two most commonly used herbal mixtures identified above, each in South Africa and New Zealand.

Author(s): Nireshnee Ramchundar, Manimbulu Nlooto


AVAILABILITY OF AND ACCESS TO LEARNING AND TEACHING SUPPORT MATERIALS IN TEACHING THE ACCOUNTING COMPONENT OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.8

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Learning and teaching support materials (LTSMs) are important recipe for driving effective classroom teaching and learning. The reason is simple, teachers teach better and learners learn quicker when tangible materials (LTSMs) are used to demonstrate learning. This study investigated the availability of and access to LTSMs in teaching the accounting component of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) in South African Schools. Since the goal of EMS, as a subject in the South African schools, is to equip learners with real-life skills for personal and community development, investigating the availability and access to materials to realise this goal is vital. The study adopts a qualitative research design. Nine participants who are teachers of EMS were purposively selected from seven high schools within the King Cetshwayo District, in the KwaZulu Natal Province of South Africa. One-on-one interview served as the data collection instrument, and data collected was analysed thematically based on the major variables of the study such as the availability of, types and access to LTSMs, as well as the challenges faced by teachers in their attempt to access and use LTSMs to teach the accounting component of EMS. Findings of the study revealed the engagement of unqualified teachers teaching EMS, low access to charts and other visual LTSMs, over-dependence on textbook as LTSM, and willingness of teachers but lack of access to the relevant visual LTSMs. The study recommends, among others, the appointment of EMS trained teachers to teach the subject, training and re-training of current teachers of EMS, and extended collaborations between schools, Banks and other financial institutions that can provide useful tools and materials to aid the teaching and learning of EMS in schools, especially the Accounting component of the subject.

Author(s): Rachel G. Mkhasibe, Mirriam R. Khumatake, Sunday Olawale Olaniran, Mncedisi C. Maphalala


IN HIGHER EDUCATION THE EFFECT OF LEADERSHIP STYLE ON THE SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING: THE ROLE OF THE PERCEIVED SUPERVISOR SUPPORT

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.7

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: There are many determinants of the happiness in business life. One of them is the leadership style of the organization�s manager. The subjective well-being of the employee is influenced by the leadership style, as well as the perceived executive support. This study aims to identify the role of perceived supervisor support in the effect of leadership style on subjective well-being. The universe of this study is a foundation university. In the convenience sampling method, 287 academicians were applied the Task Oriented and Relationship-Oriented Leadership Scale, Perceived Supervisor Support Scale and the Subjective Well-Being Scale harmonized to the workplace. Data were analyzed by SPSS and AMOS programs. According to the results of the study, it was seen that leadership styles had a non-significant direct effect on subjective well-being. However, with the concrete support perceived in the mediating role, it was determined that the leadership style had a significant and positive effect on subjective well-being. Accordingly, it has been concluded that the leadership style has a partial mediation role in the perceived management support of the subjective well-being. When these results are considered; The leadership style of the academic staff working at universities is influenced by the manager�s happiness in the workplace. However, in addition to the adopted leadership style, when the academic staff is given executive support, the happiness is increasing.

Author(s): Rukiye Celik, Begum Yalcin, Serife Alev Uysal


LUXURIOUS LIFESTYLE IN THE COTEMPORARY MUSLIM UMMAH A CRITICAL STUDY OF THE QUR'AN AND THE PROPHETIC TRADITIONS

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.4

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: The entire Muslim ummah, particularly the gulf regions have in the last few decades experienced influx of wealth, which has greatly altered lifestyle of the people. The newly obtained affluence of Muslim individuals, communities, and ruling elites has brought prosperity, on the one hand, and caused extravaganza to make its way into daily life, on the other. The Qur’an and the Prophetic traditions inspire the mankind, in general, and, particularly, the Muslim ummah to earn and spend. The Qur’anic verses and the Prophetic traditions seriously seek to eradicate the poverty from the surface of the earth. Psychologically, arrival of too much wealth catapult the wealthy to somewhat self-indulgence. The Qur’an and the Prophetic traditions caution the Muslim ummah against repercussions of unbridled opulence. The present article attempts to identify reasons for the negativity of superfluity, moral and spiritual impacts of luxurious lifestyle, and remedy to control the negativity of affluence. The methodology applied therein is the combination of critical analysis and deductive analogy. The conclusion arrived at in the deliberation is that the excessive wealth ultimately leads to self-indulgence which is very much damaging to the essence of humanity.

Author(s): Hamda Bint Khalifah Almuheiri, Mohammed Abullais


EXPLORING THE REASONS FOR UNDERUTILIZATION OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SERVICES IN PAKISTAN: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.19

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: The underutilization of primary health care services has been a major problem in Pakistan’s health care system. The country has gone through health care reforms for improving the utilization of primary health care at public facilities during the last decade. The most important among these reforms include outsourcing the delivery of primary health care to People’s Primary Health Care Initiative through public-private partnership. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the reasons for underutilization of PHC services at basic health units (BHUs) in the rural area of Pakistan. Theoretical thematic analysis was used in this study. BHUs were selected randomly, whereas purposive sampling technique was used to select the participants from the catchment areas of 10 study sites. Results: The findings of this study revealed several reasons for underutilization of PHC services at BHUs. The inadequate provision of medicines, the unavailability of doctors, inadequate laboratory and diagnostic services, obstetric care, and poor infrastructure of BHUs were the main reasons of underutilization. In addition, the inconvenient location of BHUs, the staff absenteeism, charging fee for public services, private practice of doctors, non-responsiveness of staff and poor perceptions about the quality of care also hindered community’s use of PHC services. Conclusion: The findings suggest policymakers and management of People’s Primary Health Care Initiative (PPHI) taking sustainable measures for improving the utilization of PHC services at BHU through ensuring the provision of PHC services.

Author(s): Sanaullah Panezai, Mokbul Morshed Ahmad, Shahab e Saqib


LEADING FROM THE MIDDLE FOR IMPROVING TEACHING AND LEARNING OUTCOMES: PERSPECTIVES FROM TWO EDUCATION DISTRICTS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.6

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: District officials’ leadership is crucial in scaling up improvement for teaching and learning as it provides immediate support to schools. In this paper, we explore leadership practices as discussed by district officials in two district offices in Gauteng, South Africa. The paper explores instructional leadership practices of district officials aimed at improving teaching and learning in schools. It also tries to address the gap created by the tendency for studies to focus more on school leadership, rather than foregrounding district leadership’s essential role in the enhancement of teaching and learning in schools. A case study methodology we adopted, used in-depth interviews with purposively selected six (6) executive management district officials. The findings revealed that district officials’ leadership practices entailed developing a philosophy of shared vision between the districts and schools, providing clear directions for schools to follow, role modelling and close curriculum supervision, as well as, promoting district-community collaboration. The paper recommends a need for school district officials to engage proactively in all aspects influencing the enhancement of teaching and learning in these contexts.

Author(s): Pinkie Euginia Mthembu, Thamsanqa bhengu, Vitallis Chikoko


TYPES OF SENTENCES IN MQAPHELI MNGADI'S CARTOONS

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.3

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: This article examines the types of sentences used by Mqapheli Mngadi in his cartoons. This is done as it has been observed that Mngadi employs different types of sentences, in quite an artistic manner, in his works. The types of sentences to be considered include simple sentences, compound sentences and complex sentences. Each type will be defined and then applied to the relevant cartoons, revealing how it is used. The cartoons to be considered will be provided as part of the discussion, to illustrate where the sentences are found. The different sections of this paper are: Introduction, Simple sentences, Compound sentences and Complex sentences. A concluding remark will be provided towards the end of the article. The concepts of ‘cartoon’ and ‘sentence’ will be defined as part of the introductory section of the discourse.

Author(s): Zilibele Mtumane, Sizwe Zwelakhe Dlamini


THE TRIUMPH AND PROSPERITY OF EDUCATION IN AFRICA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.21

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: In view of the importance of education in the development of Africa, the present investigation looked at education at Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary, Tertiary and University levels, in the past thirty years. The investigation also looked at the goals of education as proposed by African Union Ministers of Education in the last 20 years. The study then critically examined the extent to which such goals have been, are being and will be achieved by the set date of 2015. The results showed that some goals have been accomplished; others will be realised by the year 2015, whereas the remnant will be met beyond the set date. Fifteen African countries selected from five major geographical regions of Africa, linguistically represented by French, English and Arabic participated in the study. The Theme of the Triumph and Prosperity of Education in Africa is the amazing story of the triumph and prosperity of Ed for the past thirsty years, in bringing about total transformation or revolution, if you wish, in the entire system of education. It is a story that both Africans and other peoples of the world eagerly await to hear in this century.

Author(s): Tuntufye S. Mwamwenda, Phindile Lukhele Olorunju


LECTURERS' PERSPECTIVES ON THE RELEVANCE OF THE UNIVERSITY CURRICULUM TO THE AFRICANISATION IDEALS IN POST-APARTHEID: A CASE OF RURAL SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.5

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: The need to Africanise university education in Africa started before South Africa (SA) got her independence and has been received with mixed feelings. Lecturers acknowledge the measures that have been taken by some African countries in an attempt to decolonise, Africanise and internationalise the university curriculum. The pace SA moved with towards the transformation was slow until the university students started protesting demanding free decolonised higher education. The efforts by government to address the challenge was premised on the acknowledgement of challenges threatening higher education in SA. Literature attests that some institutions of higher learning in SA are beginning to experience a paradigm shift from the colonised to the decolonised curriculum in terms of the curriculum design and implementation (content, methodologies (pedagogies), research, language and policy to be adopted) to bring about the much-desired change. This study acknowledges the need for education to be reflective of the society and times in which it is offered and therefore, explored the perceptions of university lecturers regarding the relevance of the university curriculum to the Africanisation ideals in the post-colonial era. It raised questions related to what makes knowledge, knowledge; and what makes knowledge relevant. The study was informed by the constructivist theory. The study adopted a qualitative approach and a case study design. Convenient and purposive sampling techniques were used to choose the rural university and thirty participants. Data was derived from interviews. Thematic frames were used to present and analyse data. The study found that the current curriculum was not relevant to Africanisation ideals, not addressing the society’s needs and not speaking to the job market hence having many unemployed university graduates. It further established that some academics were caught up in a dilemma not knowing how to migrate from the old system to Africanisation and fear that the system may re-colonise itself. The paper concludes that the university curriculum should be redesigned in order to address the Africanisation ideals and society’s needs and lecturers need to be workshopped and debate on the relevance of the Africanised curriculum. The study recommends the need to change the curriculum and organise seminars and workshops to help university lecturers unpack and demystify the perceptions surrounding the relevance of the university curriculum.

Author(s): Marongwe Newlin, Sibanda Jabulani, Kasumba Harry, Munienge Mbodila


EMPLOYER BRANDING AS A SOURCE OF COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN MICROFINANCE COMPANIES IN GHANA

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.2

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: The study assesses employer branding as a source of competitive advantage using compensation, employer employee relationship, working environment/culture and training and development as variables. The population for the study was made up of 800 employees from 9 microfinance companies from the city of Accra from which a sample of 269 was selected using convenience sampling. A mixed method design was adopted for the study. Purposive sampling was used to select Human Resource Managers to collect qualitative data whilst convenience sampling method was used to collect quantitative data. The researcher used questionnaire and interview schedule as research instruments for the study. The questionnaires were administered to credit officers, marketing officers and all those who have the responsibility of marketing and sale of products of a microfinance Company whilst One HR Manager from each of the companies was interviewed on strategic issues. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics whilst qualitative data was analysed using content analysis and Nvivo software. The psychometric properties (validity and reliability) of the questionnaire were assessed using Factor Analysis and Cronbach's Coefficient Alpha respectively. The questionnaire was piloted and the pilot testing process confirmed that respondents understood the questionnaire and hence, no modifications or adjustments were required in construction, wording and measurement. The study found that job analysis, recruitment and selection practices are sources of competitive advantage. The study identified training as the only component of employer branding that is used to develop the employer brand. Employer branding impacted on competitive advantage. Based on the results of the study, recommendations were presented to enhance the competitiveness of the companies through employer branding.

Author(s): Alexander Amankwa, Sanjana Brijball Parumasur


IMPROVE THE LIFE OF NETWORK IN WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS USING CLUSTER BASED EEEMR PROTOCOL

Volume 76, Dec 2020
doi: 10.21506/j.ponte.2020.12.11

View Abstract   Hide Abstract   |   PDF Version
Abstract: Energy efficient routing is a one of the major trusted area in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). The wireless sensor network composed of a large number of sensor nodes which has limited energy resource. The sensor nodes are working through the battery, energy saving becomes more vital issue in WSNs. The routing algorithms assure that the concept of energy saving without affecting the Quality of Service (QoS). Parameters like Throughput, End to End Delay, Overhead and Packet Delivery Ratio in the existing algorithm in EEEMR Protocol. The development of cluster based sensor networks have recently shown to decrease the system delay, overhead and increase the system throughput and packet delivery ratio. Simulation is performed using NS2 and results shows that the proposed system is better than the system the Enhanced Energy Efficient Multipath Routing (EEEMR) Protocol is implemented. The EEEMR Protocol is modification of AOMDV Protocol. In this paper, we are implementing Clustering existing system. The proposed system energy consumption is decreased by 13% compared to the existing system.

Author(s): K. Hari Krishna, Tapas Kumar, Y. Suresh Babu