Theses and Dissertations

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Application of Government's Monitoring and Evaluation tool in the Non-Profit Sector: A study of selected Non-Profit Organisations in Mbashe Local Municipality
(University of Fort Hare, 2018-01) Kaso, Vuyiseka
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is an instrument used by established nations to accomplish good governance and an operative service delivery. South Africa adopted a culture of M&E and established a policy on Government-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation System. The National Government accepted the Policy Framework on Government-Wide M&E System in 2007. The objective of the GWMES is to develop a good quality of presentation of evidence and service delivery in Government. This development made it compulsory for Government Departments to develop and apply their own M&E systems. The Provincial-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation System are interrelated with the GWMES and it is an outcome-centered system. Key to the application of this system is an effective indicator and data management process. Indicators are necessary to conduct monitoring, evaluation and reporting within the context of PWMES. The Provincial DSD formally implemented their approved policy in 2010 and one of the objectives was to improve performance information and service delivery. The Auditor General South Africa (AGSA) identified some gaps on the presentation evidence report in the Provincial Department of Social Development (2012/13 report). There have been worries that the monitoring process is conducted on monthly bases in the Department, but NPOs become unsuccessful in complying with the obligations of the NPO Act. The documents of the Department consist of several audit reports that repeatedly stress the lack or non-existence of monitoring. The research method used is interpretative, using semi-structured interviews and content analysis to establish the relationship between what needs to be done according to legislation and what is done in practice.
Water insecurity and sanitation challenges in informal settlements : the case of Duncan Village in East London , South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2017) Sithole, Dorothy Nontobeko
Water supply and sanitation has been a primary logistical challenge since the dawn of civilization. Where water resources or infrastructure or sanitation systems are insufficient for the population, people fall prey to disease, dehydration, and in extreme cases, death. Access to safe drinking water and sanitation is essential to the enjoyment of other rights such as the rights to education, health, safety and an environment that is not harmful to human health or wellbeing. The aim of the study is to explore the challenges of water insecurity and inadequate sanitation in Duncan Village. The study is guided by the following objectives: (i) To assess the negative effects of water insecurity and inadequate sanitation in Duncan Village (ii) To analyse the extent to which water insecurity has exacerbated sanitation challenges in Duncan Village (iii) To investigate the effectiveness of community and institutional responses to water insecurity and sanitation challenges in Duncan Village. The study employed qualitative approach in collecting the data. The researcher interviewed 20 household heads in Duncan Village, 2 ward councillors and 2 key informants. The major findings of this study illustrate the frustration of members of Duncan Village due to limited access to water sources and sanitation facilities. It also highlights the limited intervention from the local government as well as that the community consists of people living in poverty otherwise they would have improved their situation e.g by buying water tanks or mobile toilets. It can be concluded that because they live in poor standards they have been deprived of their human rights (access to water and adequate sanitation). Living in informal settlements has made the people of Duncan Village accept the less privileged lifestyle and make do with what they have at their disposal. Furthermore, a connection is noted between housing and the delivery of basic services.
The relationship between economic dependency and the reporting behaviours of victims of intimate partner violence : a case study of Bothaville in the Free State province
(University of Fort Hare, 2015-06) Mwatsiya, Innocent
This research study explored the relationship between economic dependency and the reporting behaviours of victims of intimate partner violence. The study was conducted using qualitative methods. Data was gathered using semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis where themes were allowed to emerge from the raw data findings. The study intended to explore the experiences; reporting behaviours, coping strategies and available sources of support for victims of intimate partner violence. The study drew mainly from literature and the tenets of the Resource Theory as well as the Learned Helplessness Theory. The study established that economic dependency supported the existence of intimate partner violence owing to the fact that victims of intimate partner violence feared financial vulnerability should they report the perpetrator resulting in his arrest. It was also established that the relationship between economic dependency and the reporting behaviours of victims of intimate partner violence was compounded by the number of children the victim had including the number of family members dependent on the victims besides her own children. More dependents were linked to a lesser likelihood of reporting intimate partner violence. This was due to the fact that more dependents translated into a greater financial burden in the absence of the source of income; the perpetrator. On the other hand, the study also established that even those victims who were employed, though earning lesser money than their partners (the perpetrators), did not leave abusive relationships. This was linked to the possibility of learned helplessness as well as the possibility of their individual incomes being too little to afford them a life away from the perpetrator. The study also established that victims of intimate partner violence experienced physical violence more than all other forms of violence. Availability of support, frequency and severity of abuse were identified as determinants of the timing for reporting. The study established that families were the most active sources of social support for victims of intimate partner violence whilst all professional networks of support were discovered to be functional. The study made several following recommendations including awareness raising, introduction of policy amendments and the inclusion of victims of intimate partner violence in income generating projects. Lastly the study concluded that little has been done and much needs to be done regarding the alleviation of the conditions of victims of intimate partner violence across the divide.
The experiences of women leaving an abusive marriage
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-02-07) Thompson, Merise Clare
The focus of this study is to determine the experiences of women leaving an abusive marriage. These experiences are classified in terms of support factors and challenges when leaving. Included in this study are the circumstances that contributed to making a decision to leave the abusive situation and the long-term effects on the participants. Domestic violence is a highly prevalent phenomenon that is found all over the world, including South Africa. According to some research, the extent of family violence warrants an urgent solution to be devised, as a comparison is drawn between family violence and human rights violations. This study was conducted, using Interpretative Phenomenological Methodology. Fifteen women were interviewed by way of using semi-structured questions. The scope of this study included investigating: the types of abuse; childcare issues; the process of leaving, including the role of the justice, medical and religious institutions; long-term effects of abuse and the role of self-worth in deciding to leave. It was found that there was a significant correlation between the literature and the evidence found through this study in terms of challenging and support factors. Challenging factors for participants included: isolation; financial dependence on the abuser; perceived or real lack of social support; a lack of awareness around the effects of the abuse on the children and a diminished sense of self. In contrast to this are the support factors which included: family support, financial independence, evidence of harm to the children and a renewed sense of value in the 'self'. Recommendations for practice describe ways in which the medical, justice and social service departments can enhance their services to families who are living in abusive circumstances by using a strengths-based approach.
Perception of males on the relationship between sexual risk taking behaviours and HIV/ AIDS in Nkonkobe Municipality
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-06) Sonjani, Zolani Mario
The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of males on the relationship between sexual risk taking behaviours and HIV/AIDS in Nkonkobe Municipality with the following objectives: to explore the risk taking behaviours relevant in Hogsback Township and Msobomvu location; to explore the perceptions of males regarding the relationship between sexual risk taking behaviours and HIV/AIDS; to determine the perceptions of males towards HIV/AIDS test; to suggest strategies to ameliorate the lives of males in Hogsback Township and Msobomvu location. A research method that was employed in this study was quantitative and it took the form of mini survey.
International Students in South African Universities: An Examination of their Academic Choices, Challenges and Social Integration at the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-04-14) Olujobi, Omobola Olaitan
International students have become major role players in international education across the globe. Their enrollment in different universities has increased in the past few decades worldwide. Most of these students bring rich cultural diversity and skills to their various host institutions and countries. These trends signal the need to examine and understand international students within the South African context. Against this background, this study explores the factors that influence academic choices of international students, academic and social challenges they face and the role of social capital in influencing international student integration at the Universities of Fort Hare and Rhodes in South Africa. A qualitative research design was employed in this study. Thirty international students were selected (and interviewed) using purposive sampling and snowballing. The study found that some of the main factors that influence the academic choices of international students include availability of scholarships and funding, recommendations of the institution by family and friends, availability of preferred course and the reputation of the institution. Some of the main challenges faced by international students in these two institutions include language barriers, financial difficulty, expensive but improperly maintained accommodation and culture shock. These challenges impede the smooth integration of international students into their new academic and social environment. However, the students employ several strategies in attempt to address the challenges they face. These include joining a student or community social organization, community engagement and making friends. These social networks and organizations serve as a support system and connection hub for the students. The study recommends that it is pertinent for the University of Fort Hare and Rhodes University to meet the needs and expectations of its international students through regular surveys that give them room to speak about their experiences. The need for efficient International Offices at both institutions is crucial as well as the employment of open-minded multicultural trained staff in these offices. The study also suggests the need for the both institutions to provide affordable and comfortable accommodation for its international students.
An exploration of the effectiveness of community home -based care programmes in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDS in rural areas in Zimbabwe : the case of Shurugwi district
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-10) Mangwiro, Vongai Patience
The aim of the dissertation was to explore the effectiveness of Community Home-based Care programmes in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDs in rural areas in Zimbabwe in Shurugwi. Triangulation method was used to collect and analyze data from one hundred and sixty four respondents using survey questionnaires and in-depthinterviews. Theoretically, the study was underpinned by the Basic Needs Approach which supports that every human being needs food, shelter and health in order for one to have a meaningful life. The findings of the study showed that CHBC programmes are effective in improving the conditions of the patients and also in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDS in societies. Nevertheless, the findings show that patients still suffer in the long-run to improve their conditions because of lack of resources and food, shortage of funds and CHBC kits, and donor fatigue. Resultantly, this gives a double burden to all the caregivers when they provide palliative care to patients. Conclusively, more should be done to improve the conditions of the patients because they still face problems in the fight against HIV arid AIDS.
An appraisal of gender-focused non-governmental organizations as agents of women empowerment and gender equality in Zimbabwe : A case of Harare City
(University of Fort Hare, 2017-09) Mafa, Itai; Kang'ethe, S.M.
It is the realization that women around the globe are alienated in terms of accessing resources and opportunities essential for their holistic development that has necessitated the crafting of the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) Number 3 by the United Nations as well as other relevant gender instruments such as the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 5. Zimbabwe, the focal country of the current study is not immune to the prevalence of gender inequality as it is a signatory to both commitments. Due to the overwhelming and arduous nature of the task, the government of Zimbabwe has long borrowed a hand from developmental agents such as Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other philanthropic organizations. Apart from NGOs' different visions and missions, a National Gender Policy (NGP) has also been put in place as a benchmark and a guideline to the eradication of gender disparities in Zimbabwe. It is against this background that this research has been undertaken in order to appraise gender-focused NGOs in Harare city on their interventions to promote women empowerment and gender equality in Zimbabwe. This broad aim was broken into four objectives: to investigate the gender issues prevalent in Harare; to find out how women NGOs are fighting such disparities, to discuss perceptions pertaining to NGOs' interventions as well as discussing the challenges faced by these gender NGOs. In order to achieve this, the utility of the mixed method paradigm was preferred in the current study with the focus group discussion, a key informant method and a mini-survey chosen as data collection techniques. The feminist theory and its concomitant branches together with the political-economy theory were selected as lenses framing the study. The findings revealed that women in Zimbabwe continue to suffer infringement of their rights as social injustice and subjugation continue with a manifestation of gender disparities such as domestic violence, susceptibility to poverty, HIV/AIDS and economic exclusion. The findings further unearthed the emergence of 'pornographic revenge' and the spreading of violence against women in public places. Moreover, women NGOs have been found tilting away from traditional methods of interventions, taking advantage of the advancement in technology and the popularity of the social media. Findings from the current study again discovered that there was little evidence to trace and pin-point the impact of NGOs in promoting women empowerment and gender equality mainly because of the immeasurability nature of some of the achievements by NGOs. Additionally, research participants opined that Zimbabwe's political and economic environment, religious and cultural factors appeared to largely thwart the efforts by NGOs thereby compromising the effectiveness of NGOs interventions. Again, the paucity of resources made it almost impossible for them to operate and translate their visions into practical programs and projects. From these findings, it can then be concluded that gender NGOs in Harare lack the necessary resources, support and an enabling environment to adequately annihilate gender disparities for the empowerment of women, and the attainment of gender equality in Zimbabwe. The principles of empowerment for self-reliance as emphasized in Social Work Practice are not adequately implemented for the holistic development of women - the very factors necessary for sustainability. Salient recommendations forwarded include NGOs initiating indigenous ways of fundraising and shunning the dependency on international donors; putting in place tracking systems or panels that can ensure that policies such as gender-sensitized budgeting are effectively implemented; adopting innovative-advocacy methodologies such as a gender call centre and perhaps a gender TV show; including gender issues in the basic educational curriculums in order to socialize children into gender parity attitudes. Such radical shifts as supported by radical feminists may increase the effectiveness of the interventions being made by women NGOs in Harare.
The post-institutional integration challenges faced by orphans and vulnerable children: A case study of Highfield Community in Harare, Zimbabwe.
(University of Fort Hare, 2018-09-12) Goteka, Vera
The aim of the study was to explore the post institutional integration challenges faced by Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) in Highfield Community, Harare, Zimbabwe. The outcomes of the study encompassed issues pertaining of psychological, economic and social challenges. The qualitative method was adopted for the study to provide a deep understanding of the phenomenon under study. The data collection instruments used were in-depth interviews and focus groups. The following theories were adopted to guide the study: Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, the Bidimensional Acculturation Model and the Empowerment Theory. The sample in this study was made up of 21 participants 16 were the discharged children from the institution while 5 participants were the focus group consisting of professionals from the Department of Child Welfare and Protection Services, Department of Social Services and Hupenyu Hutsva Children's Home. This was in line with the nature of the study which was qualitative.
Exloring the quality of life of disabilty grant beneficiaries: The case of Magaleni and Debe-nek townships in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Eastern Cape Province.
(University of Fort Hare, 2017) Gamnca, Nondwe
The aim of this study was to explore the quality of life enjoyed by disability grant beneficiaries through a case study conducted in the townships of Debe Nek &ind Magaleni in the Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study utilized a qualitative approach through interviews conducted with a sample of 32 participants from the relevant population of beneficiaries of disability grants, family members and social workers. The study used individual interviews as a method of data collection, with different questions presented to disability grant beneficiaries, family members and social workers respectively.
The perceptions of the university of Fort Hare students of the inadequate response towards combatting HIV/AIDS by the youth.
(University of Fort Hare, 2016-06) Mharadze, Runwork
The research aimed at exploring the perceptions of the University of the Fort Hare students of the inadequate response towards combatting HIV/AIDS by the youth, Alice campus. The study intended to achieve the following objectives: (i) to establish the behavior challenges making the youths of the institutions of Higher Learning vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. (ii) To determine the knowledge levels among the UFH youths concerning HIV/AIDS. (iii) To cross-examine the UFH student's attitudes and feelings towards an inadequate behavior response to HIV/AIDS by the youths in South Africa. The researcher sieved the literature reviewed in the study from several researchers, and the structural functionalist theory molded the study. The following assumptions stimulated the development of the study: (i) the youths at the UFH face behavioral factors making them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. (ii) The inadequate behavior response among the UFH students towards combating HIV/AIDS reviews their underutilization of the available institutional HIV/AIDS support structures. The following hypotheses guided the study: (i) if the knowledge levels of students are not enough concerning HIV/AIDS, and then the noticeable higher degree of a lack of expertise, lack of professionalism, and lack of innovativeness among the caregivers to motivate students to visit the university HIV/AIDS health support structures are the prevailing menace. (ii) If the knowledge levels of students are enough concerning HIV/AIDS, and then the noticeable higher degree of expertise, professionalism, and of innovativeness among the caregivers motivating students to visit the university HIV/AIDS health support structures are a reassurance.
Child-Headed households and community social networks in Hogsburg area, South Africa: dynamics and implications for social work interventions.
(University of Fort Hare, 2016-11) Mabemba, Tafadzwa
Child-headed households consist of children who stay alone below the age of 17. The eldest child is responsible for other sibling's support and care rather than by an adult who is responsible for the wellbeing of children. This study aimed at exploring the dynamics of child-headed households and community social networks as well as the implications for social work interventions. The work was guided by resilience theory and sustainable livelihoods approach. The study adopted qualitative research design using purposive and theoretical sampling. The data was specifically drawn from Hogsburg area through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The participants for the study were child-headed households from the age of 10 to 17 years, community members and social workers. An analysis of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions shows that child-headed households in Hogsburg area face various challenges including social, economic, psychological and mental problems, which affects their livelihoods. The findings revealed that child-headed household encounter various challenges as a result of inadequate provision of community social networks and social work interventions. It was therefore, concluded that in order for child-headed households to have an improved way of living, there is need of partnership and collaboration between informal and formal community social networks. It is recommended that the government through social development department and civil organizations working with children should enhance a good working relationship that contributes to the development of childheaded households. Additionally, non-governmental organizations should be linked and allowed to work with child-headed households in Hogsburg area regardless of the area's political affiliations.
Old age grant and food security in South Africa: The case of Goshen Village community, Amathole Municipality.
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-06) Ncube, Ntombizehlile
The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the Qld Age Grant on boosting the food security of the rural-household dwellers in the Goshen community in the Amathole Municipality in South Africa. The study investigated the extent to which the Old Age Grant ensures the food security of its beneficiaries at the household level. This study was conducted in the Goshen Community, a· rural area in the Eastern Cape. Methodological triangulation was adopted for this study, in that a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods of collecting data was employed. The data was collected by making use of household survey questionnaires and focus group discussions. The findings show that inhabitants of this rural area face numerous challenges, as the grant is not sufficient to provide food security to their households. The results revealed that the grant contributes towards household food security to a certain extent, but that it does not eliminate poverty. It was found that although the Old Age Grant does have its positive aspects, as it helps to provide people with food, its main drawback was made evident by the fact that it does not enable its beneficiaries to achieve independence from the grant system, as most of them never attain food security.
Ramifications of drug abuse among female adolescents in Mission Location, Mnquma Municipality, Eastern Cape.
(University of Fort Hare, 2016) Bala, Samkelo
Substance abuse among adolescents is a major problem in South Africa and the whole world. The trend of using substances among adolescents in both genders is increasing in South Africa. Currently in South Africa, the females are also abusing substances equally to their male counterparts. This study explored the ramifications associated with substance abuse among female adolescents in Mission Location at Butterworth. The study intended to achieve the following specific objectives: (i) to document the types of substances used by female adolescents; (ii) To establish the behaviors associated with excessive substance abuse among the female adolescents, and (iii) To examine socio-emotional and psychological disorders caused by substance among the female adolescents. The study used a qualitative approach, was explorative and descriptive in design used a case study as the specific research design. For data collection, the study employed in-depth interviews, focus groups, secondary data and key informants methods. The study used non-probability methodology of sample selection, but specifically, purpose sampling technique, and sampled (26) participants, which comprised of (7) female adolescents, (9) guardians or parents and community members, and (10) key informants. Data was analysed qualitatively through content thematic analysis.
The development of an innovative strategy to address child sexual abuse investigations in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
(University of Fort Hare, 2024-11) Nqaphi, Sivuyile
The research concentrated on establishing an approach to examine child sexual abuse cases in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The aim of the study was to identify the causes of delays in the investigation processes of child sexual abuse cases. The study further analysed the disputes among the child sexual abuse (CSA) actors, primarily concentrating on the duties and functions each fulfilled throughout the investigation of child sexual abuse cases. Additionally, the ecosystem theory was employed as a theoretical framework to dissect the major core issues within the study. A qualitative research methodology employing a case study design was implemented within an Intervention Research paradigm. The study utilised a purposive sampling strategy to recruit individuals with specific competence and knowledge of child sexual abuse investigations, providing a diverse cohort comprising law enforcement personnel, social workers, legal experts, and healthcare specialists. A total of 68 people were interviewed, comprising 30 from the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations Unit, 14 from governmental stakeholder groups, 4 from non-governmental organisations, 3 from private social workers and psychologists, and 17 participants in focus group discussions. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, followed by thematic analysis. The study found that several participants expressed apprehensions over the lack of social workers to aid the forensic assessment of the victims. In contrast, others highlighted issues related to DNA collection and the absence of crime kits for procuring buccal samples (cheek swabs). The researcher discovered that the NPA and SAPS possess investigative aids; , there is a deficiency in these aids, which are also inadequately maintained. In such instances, it obstructs the investigative process. Many interviewees identified the scarcity of human and physical resources as a challenge, citing insufficient personnel and vehicles for investigating child sexual abuse cases. The extended duration required to get DNA forensic results is a significant obstacle despite the substantial dependence of prosecutors and courts on such evidence, especially in cases involving juvenile victims. Interviews with participants revealed inadequate directives, policies, or protocols to guide the stakeholders. They further underscored the deficiency of collaboration and comprehension among stakeholders, which complicates the provision of services such as counseling and placement for sexually assaulted children. It is possible to draw the conclusion that there are difficulties in addressing the issue of child sexual abuse due to a confluence of factors, one of which is a deficiency of resources to address the issue. In addition, it is suggested that there should be a collective coordination among the various actors that can be found within the value chain in order to ensure the proper implementation of the procedure that is required to speed up investigations. The proposal of a joint child sexual abuse investigation model to be developed from the study. Thus, the research recommends that a pilot study be conducted to implement the proposed model.
The Effects of Xenophobia on the South African universities learning environment.
(University of Fort Hare, 2010-03) Wotshela, Nontsikelelo
This study explores the effects of xenophobia on the South African universities learning environment. The xenophobic attacks that have been taking place in the South African communities are the reason this study is conducted. The objectives of the study are to examine how xenophobia affects students at the University of Fort Hare; how the university deals with cases of xenophobia as well as to examine the intervention strategies that social service practitioners employ in cases of xenophobia. The study used the Isolation Hypothesis of xenophobia; Authoritative Personality theory; Conservation of Resources Theory; Social Modelling Theory; as well as Bill of Rights. This study is qualitative in nature and exploratory seeks at examining on how students have been affected by xenophobia. Purposive sampling, non-probability in particular has been utilised to selected participants for individual and focus group participants. The interview schedules were used to collect data for both individual and focus group participants. Triangulation was used for data analysis. The findings established that xenophobia does exist at the university of Fort Hare.
Information communication technology access, usage and impact in primary schoolteaching and learning: The case of Nkonkobe area, Eastern Cape.
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-01) Chita, Silas Mlulami
This study examines ICT access, usage and impacts in primary school teaching and learning in Nkonkobe in the Eastern Cape Province. One of the major motivations for this study was that while the general advantages of ICT are well established and known, it however remains unclear whether South African schools, especially Eastern Cape primary schools have access to ICT hardware and software for teaching and learning. If they do have access to ICT, do they use it? For what? How frequent do they use it? Are teachers skilled enough to use this ICT in teaching and learning? Are learners benefiting from ICT usage? Against this background and questions, this research looks at whether selected urban, peri-urban, and rural primary schools in Nkonkobe Municipality have access to ICT. It also examines the role and impact of ICTs in primary school teaching and learning in Nkonkobe, Eastern Cape. The results of the study show that while urban and peri-urban primary have access to ICT, rural primary schools lack basic ICT hardware such as desktop computers and laptops. The urban and peri-urban primary schools are utilizing ICT in their daily teaching and school administration activities. Learners in urban primary schools also use ICT for their educational development. On the other hand rural primary schools are deprived of full ICT access and usage. Some of the rural schools only rely on television sets and cellphones for use in teaching and learning activities. Learners in rural primary schools are thus not benefiting much from ICT usage in teaching and learning.
Coping with poverty: A study of strategies adopted by sigle mothers in Chiredzi town Zimbabwe.
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-09) Mafa, Itai
This research sought to assess the effectiveness of the survival strategies that are employed by single mothers in alleviating and averting poverty in Chiredzi Town, Zimbabwe. The researcher wanted to investigate whether the survival strategies implemented in towns of developing countries are able to rescue single mothers from the grasps of poverty. A qualitative inquiry was utilized in this research due to its ability to delve beneath what the physical eye can see. Also, purposive sampling, which is a non-probability sampling method was used for both in-depth interviews and the focus group since the researcher optimized two methods of data collection. Triangulation in this research project assisted to increase the trustworthiness of the findings, thereby substantiating the results thereof. An interview guide was used as a data collection tool while responses were captured with an audio recorder.
Are child socila grants creating dependency culture among beneficiaries? A case study of Nkonkobe Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2014-09) Gutura, Priscilla
The aim of the study was to investigate whether beneficiaries of child social grants (CSG and FCG) in Nkonkobe Municipality are dependent on the grants. Using the triangulation method, two hundred beneficiaries were administered questionnaires and twenty-five in-depth interviews were conducted. The major findings of this study outline the greatest level of discretionary spending of child grants on school fees, labour force participation, nutrition and health in addition to investments in human and physical capital. It is also acknowledged in the study that child grants impact positively, beyond individual recipients, on household members. It can be concluded that social grants have certainly alleviated suffering. However, confirmation of the existence of an unintended effect, that of a dependency culture emerging among child social grants in Nkonkobe municipality or the increase thereof, could not be established through the quantitative data analysis. The issue of possible pervasive incentives with a qualitative study was positive.
Child Support Grant and Child Poverty Alleviation: Experiences of Caregivers in Alleviating Child Poverty
(University of Fort Hare, 2016) Vaaltein, Sive
Patel (2015) argues that "social security policies address structural problems or an underlying cause of poverty and inequality in the society. In addition it creates a minimum standard of living below which the population should not fall". This dissertation explores the experiences of caregivers who receive the Child Support Grant (CSG - a social assistance or social security policy) to alleviate child poverty in Buffalo City Metropolitan (BCM). The question this study seeks to address is: How does the CSG address child poverty in BCM? International instruments regulating South Africa on policy issues relating to child poverty are at the back drop of the discussion and exploration of the CSG as means to alleviate child poverty in a context such as BCM. Theoretically framing the study using the Social Development Approach (SDA) assisted in viewing the CSG from a developmental contribution point of view, when examining the caregiver's experiences of using the CSG to alleviate child poverty. The child focused multidimensional model (CFMDM) further brought into perspective aspects of child poverty, which became the focus for this study.

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