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Welcome to the University of Venda Institutional Repository, an open digital archive of the research output of the University of Venda. Univen IR contains theses and dissertations, research papers as well as conference papers. For further information and assistance please contact Mr Keith Malabi at +27 15 9628564 or +27 15 962 8314 during office hours

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Nsiyeto eka swinwana swa swirungulwana swa Xitsonga

(2025-09-19) Maswanganyi, Khazamula Negroes; Hlungwani, M. C.; Chauke, M. T.

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The (MIS)Match between the Curriculum and Assessment Policy and Classroom Practice in English First Additional Language: A Case of Secondary Schools in Limpopo Province, South Africa

(2025-09-05) Chauke, Gezani Thomas; Maluleke, M. J.; Sikitime, T. E.

This study explored the use of English First Additional Language (EFAL) as a Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT) in three Non-Native Speakers of English (NNSE) rural high schools, in Limpopo province. This was triggered by the realisation that the silence that arises in the classroom when learners exclusively use English as a LoLT makes teaching and learning ineffective, and much unproductive than what the curriculum policy was meant to deliver. In reaction, this study was conceived, with the aim of exploring the (mis)match between the Curriculum and Assessment Policy and the language practice that emerge when English EFAL is used as a LoLT in Grade 10 EFAL classrooms. To achieve this, a qualitative approach grounded on constructivist research paradigm was adopted, due to the social nature of this study; and employed a combination of multiple case study design and action research for data collection. Multiple data collection instruments including semi-structured interviews; focus-group interviews; and observation were employed, to gather data from 4 EFAL teachers and their 15 learners. These participants were purposively selected from a population of Grade 10 EFAL classes in the selected high schools; to gather data that explored (i) the teaching and learning patterns that emerge when English is used as a LoLT; (ii) EFAL learners’ and teachers’ perceptions about the use of English as a LoLT (iii) how the teaching approaches and LTSM employed shape the learning process in EFAL classrooms. The findings from the study confirmed that there are indeed patterns of policy-practice mismatches that arise from the three objectives of the study, and this study treats them as the research gaps it sought to address. These include knowledge and pedagogical gaps, among others. These findings are critical because likely to have significant implications on language policy direction, transformative impact on the current teaching practice and teachers’ indepth understanding of the harms they cause to learners due to limited understanding of their realities.

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Caregiver Challenges in Caring for Children Living with Intellectual Challenges: a Case of Three Centres in Thulamela Local Municipality

(2025-09-05) Mugovhoro, Talifhani; Baloyi, T. V.

Intellectual disability poses a significant challenge on a global scale. This study aims to explore the challenges faced by caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities in daycare centres in Thulamela Local Municipality. The study adopted the qualitative approach, utilising an exploratory research design to achieve its objectives. Non-probability sampling, specifically the purposive sampling method, was employed to select participants based on specific criteria. A total of six caregivers from three identified daycare centres participated in the study. Data was gathered through face-to-face semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically. The ecosystem theory served as a framework for understanding the interactions between individuals and their environments. The findings revealed that caregivers encounter numerous challenges while providing care to children with intellectual disabilities. Key challenges identified included health issues, low income and a lack of formal training. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems to assist caregivers in managing their responsibilities effectively.

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Youths’ Knowledge Systems and Perceptions on Small-Scale Farming Entrepreneurship in Greater Tzaneen Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

(2025-09-05) Mokhomola, Temoso; Mukwevho, M. H.; Morwe, K. G.

Background: Farming entrepreneurship is a cornerstone of the South African economy. However, the number of youths who are participating in farming entrepreneurship is unsatisfactory. This poses a serious concern to food security in the country. The aim of the study was to explain the youth’s knowledge system about farming entrepreneurship in selected rural-based areas of Greater Tzaneen Municipality in Limpopo Province. Methods: The study adopted an explanatory sequential mixed methods design wherein the quantitative approach was dominant while the qualitative approach served to complement the quantitative results. The quantitative research data were collected through self-administered structured questionnaires, whilst qualitative data were collected through focus groups composed of 10 participants. The questionnaire and Interview guide were pre-tested before the actual data collection process. The study adopted Stratified sampling and purposive sampling. Trustworthiness measures of credibility, confirmability, transferability and dependability were considered. The quantitative data were analysed through descriptive statistics analysis. By employing descriptive statistics analysis, the researcher had gained valuable insight from the data. While qualitative data was analysed using content thematic analysis. The researcher adhered to the ethical principles of informed consent, voluntary participation, anonymity, confidentiality, privacy, and the principle of respect. Results: The findings from this study reveal mixed perceptions among youth concerning small-scale farming entrepreneurship. while some expressed positive views, the overwhelming majority hold negative perceptions. These negative perceptions appear to be rooted in several factors, including labour-intensive, associated with the old generation, financial support, weather conditions, and risk tolerances. The study finds these perceptions create a significant challenge for encouraging youth engagement in small-scale farming entrepreneurship. Recommendations: The study recommends that there is a need for the South African Government (National Agricultural Marketing Council) to amend policies related to farming entrepreneurship. The policies must stretch as far as to accommodate the needs of small-scale farmers. By providing non-funding support and funding support. This includes providing access to arable land, resources, and market connections. Conclusion: Based on an overview of prevailing circumstances on the youth’s perceptions and knowledge regarding small-scale farming entrepreneurship. The study concludes that many young people hold negative views about small-scale farming, mainly due to tough physical work, lack of funds, and climate uncertainty. By combining results from the quantitative survey with qualitative focus group interviews, the research sheds light on how these challenges influence youth perceptions and attitudes, offering a fuller picture of why farming entrepreneurship is seen this way.

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The impact of human resource management practices in the provision of basic services: A case of Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

(2025-09-05) Soares, Lauren Diniz; Maemu, E.; Matloga, S. T.

This study focused on evaluating the impact of human resource management practices (HRP) in the provision of basic services: A case of Collins Chabane Local Municipality (CCLM) situated in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study sought to test how human resource management practices, particularly recruitment and selection, impact the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of basic service provision within local government, particularly in CCLM. By examining the relationship between HRP (Human Resource Management Practices) and basic service provision, this research intends to provide valuable insights for policymakers, human resource professionals, and municipal managers seeking to optimize their workforce and management strategies. The mixed-methods approach was employed in the study by combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews. A non-probability purposive sampling method was used for qualitative data, while a probability-based sampling ensured broader representation in the quantitative aspect. The study used non-probability purposive sampling method in qualitative data due to the need to capture in-depth perspectives from relevant stakeholders and probability-based sampling method was used with quantitative data to ensure statistical representativeness and generalizability. The choice of a qualitative methodology was made to foster receptiveness to ideas, experiences, opinions, and emotions, as well as to delve into the perceptions of research respondents. Concurrently, a quantitative approach was employed to enable the researcher to have a sophisticated statistical analysis and effective comparison of gathered data. Information gathered through questionnaires was analysed using International Business Machinery: Statistical Products and Service Solutions (IBM: SPSS) version 29, because of its reliability, advanced features, support, and compatibility with the research, statistical analysis was used to analyse this data. Information gathered through interviews was analysed using the NVivo version 14 and thematically analysed to gain rich insights of the study and generate new knowledge from the study. The major findings of the study are: • HRM practices negatively impact service provision due to inefficiencies and poor recruitment processes. • Bureaucratic delays hinder the timely filling of critical positions. • High staff turnover, driven by dissatisfaction, leads to talent loss and decreased productivity. • Limited diversity and inclusion due to societal biases and HRM constraints affect workforce effectiveness. • Cadre deployment negatively impacts HRM practices, influencing service provision. The following recommendations are proposed based on the study's findings: • The study recommends that the municipality streamline HRM processes by reducing bureaucratic delays to ensure timely recruitment. • The municipality should enhance training, recruitment transparency, and employee wellness programs to improve workforce efficiency. • The study recommends that the municipality implements retention strategies to address high staff turnover and boost job satisfaction. • The study also recommends that the municipality fosters diversity and inclusion through bias training for hiring panels. • Lastly, the researcher recommends that a merit-based recruitment system be adopted to mitigate the negative effects of cadre deployment. This study highlights the urgent need for HRM reforms in CCLM to improve workforce efficiency for the provision of basic services in local government.