Theses and Dissertations

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Open Access
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practice of University of Venda male students regarding male circumcision, Limpopo Province
(2017-05-18) Philips, Victor Eyo; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A. K.
Male circumcision is being promoted in University of Venda presently due to the South African recent awareness that it is a method of preventing the transmission of the Human Immunodeficiency virus. However, for effective implementation, it is necessary that the students believe in the procedure and have a positive attitude towards the procedure. Purpose of study The objective of the study was to assess the University of Venda male student knowledge and perception regarding male circumcision. Methodology Method to achieve this was a cross sectional quantitative study using anonymous questionnaire among the male students in university of Venda after obtaining their consent. Data was captured and analyzed using SPSS. Result A total of 285 male students participated in the study. Most of them (77.2%) were undergraduate below 30years of age (91.2%) while others were post graduate (22.8%). Majority of them are Christians (97.9%), singles (85.9%) and married (12.6%).Result obtained showed that most of the respondent (87.9%) are circumcised, only a minority few (12.1%) are not circumcised. As regards the meaning of male circumcision (75.2%) said that male circumcision is the complete removal of theforeskin. Majority of the respondents (86.6%) responded that circumcision is better than uncircumcision, showing a relatively good knowledge of benefits of male circumcision, one-third of the respondent (39.9% ,37.8%) showed a good knowledge regarding the merits of male circumcision as per reducing the rate of STIs and the risk of HIV/AIDS. Conclusion Conclusively,most of the University of Venda students have a good knowledge of male circumcision, only a few are not knowledgeable about male circumcision. Also a positive attitude was shownon male circumcision with only a few students showing a negative attitude.While majority of the respondents practice male circumcision.They also encourage their siblings to do so. Recommendations The study made a number of recommendations that were intended to improve knowledge, attitude and practice of male circumcision, it calls for long campaign to reach more uncircumcised Univen students in order to scale up male circumcision and train more personnel to administer the ritual safely and under more hygienic conditions.
Open Access
Challenges faced by community caregivers rendering services to children in drop-in-centres in Musina Municipality, South Africa
(2015-02-18) Mbedzi, Azwinndini; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A.
Open Access
Determinants of seeking eye care services among Grade 8 to 12 learners in Giyani, South Africa
(2016-05) Mulungwa, Justice; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A. K.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Educator's knowledge of the factors contributing to substance use among secondary school learners in Greater Giyani Municipality, Limpopo Province
(2018-09-21) Khosa, Aram; Shilubane, N. H.; Akinsola, H. A.
Globally, substance use is a significant public health problem around the world. Many schools encounter the challenge of learners using substances in and outside of the school premises. This problem affects the education system because learners who use substances display behaviours that negatively affect the quality of learning and teaching. The study aimed to determine the educators’ knowledge of the factors contributing to substance use among secondary school learners in Greater Giyani Municipality, Limpopo Province. A descriptive research design was employed, and the participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data was collected utilising a structured questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 programme. The study findings show substance use as a significant public health problem in schools. Some of the factors identified that contributed to substance use among learners by most educators were low-self-esteem, poor self-control, depression, meagre finances, academic environment, background, peer pressure, accessibility and availability of substances. Based on the findings a number of recommendations were made such as capacitating parents on parenting skills and also on strategies to assist teachers to fight against substance use by students. Instead of the media only displaying lucrative advertisements of alcohol, it must also provide education and awareness about substance use/abuse and its consequences. Further research is necessary to investigate learners’ and parents’ knowledge of the factors contributing to substance use.
Open Access
Evaluation of immunization coverage among 0 to 24 month old children in Dzimauli Village, Vhembe District, South South
(2015-07-16) Nyathi, Emmanuel Mzwakhe; Tshitangano, T. G.; Akinsola, H. A.
Open Access
An evaluation of the implementation of the performance management and development system policy at Donald Fraser Hospital, Vhembe District, South Africa
(2017-09-18) Singo, Azwimpheleli Jeanneth; Akinsola, H. A.; Mabunda, J. T.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
An evaluation of the level of awareness about occupational health and safety practices among workers at University of Venda
(2013-02-26) Nkuna, Thoko; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A. K.
Open Access
Experienced stressors by Educators in Public High Schools of Malamulele, Vhembe District
(2017-09-18) Nkuna, Clothilda Tsakani; Akinsola, H. A.; Mashau, N. S.
Introduction: It has been noted that stress is considered a major global health challenge. This is because it affects the well-being of service providers, especially those working in the human service sector, such as educators. The sources of stress are attributed to social factors, discipline of students, occupational pressures and workload. Studies have shown that stress is a silent killer that affects the health and productivity of educators, leading to mental, physical, emotional and behavioral illnesses. Educators in the Malamulele North East Circuit are confronted with work challenges and continue experiencing stress. Purpose: The study aimed at finding out the experienced stressors by educators in public high schools of Malamulele North East circuit, Vhembe District. Method: The study was conducted in Malamulele North East public high schools. Malamulele North East is situated in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative approach using explorative and descriptive design was adopted for the study. A sample of twelve educators was chosen from the target population by means of convenience sampling and data was collected through a face to face individual in-depth interview. Interviews and discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed and coded into larger themes, categories and sub-categories. Results: The following themes were derived from data analysis: factors considered to be sources of stress, perceived effects of stress among high school educators, strategies that educators use to cope with stress and strategies to manage the experiences of stress for educators. The study showed that different factors at schools have a great impact on educators. All the educators were affected by stressors in their work daily and adopted some coping strategies. However, these educators required continued intervention to manage the stress. Conclusions: The findings showed that all educators were experiencing stress in their work environment and were affected personally as well as professionally. Hence, the DOE needs to design strategies for continues support in order to manage the stress.
Open Access
Factors contributing to high blood pressure among adults at Folovhodwe Village in Mutale Municipality, Vhembe District in Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2013-12-10) Ramaano, Ntovholeni Sylvia; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A.
Open Access
Factors contributing to substance abuse among the youth in Atteridgeville, Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa
(2018-09-21) Mulaudzi, Hulisani; Akinsola, H. A.; Manganye, B. S.
The abuse of substances among the youth is a global health problem which has a negative impact on their health and wellbeing, families, educational and professional life, as well as communities and limits their hopes and dreams. An estimated 246 million persons globally (about one out of twenty people) between 15 and 64 years have abused substances in the past three years. The global drug problem has increased to such an extent that more than 1 out of 10 drug abusers is affected by either disorder or drug dependence. The aim of the study was to explore the factors contributing to substance abuse among the youth in Atteridgeville, Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The study was conducted in Atteridgeville community. Atteridgeville is a portion of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, west of Pretoria in South Africa. The design was qualitative in nature, using exploratory design. The researcher purposively chose the participants from the target population. The population and sampling method was on participants aged between 15 and 35 years, with substance abuse problem, who were referred to Atteridgeville Medical Health Centre for counselling. The researcher used a semi-structured interview guide for gathering data. In-depth interview was used to collect data. A proposed total of number of 20 participants was suggested, and it was guided by data saturation. Data was analysed by using thematic content analysis. A measure of trustworthiness was ensured. Ethical consideration was observed in this study. The findings states that substance abuse problem was identified and certainly noticed by everyone in the community. New drugs remain unchallenged, drug dealers are known, yet, not a single law enforcement institution attempt to raid their houses to search and arrest them. Community involvement is not enough to end the scourge of substance abuse problems in the community. Some police officers were identified and known to be part of drug dealings or have family relatives who are drug dealers. The researcher therefore recommends that parents should be involved in the community forums to deal with substance abuse problems. The community policing and law enforcement should be equipped by developing a tactical team specifically looking at the drug problems in the local communities. In conclusion, the research revealed that, South African citizens are people who see a problem happening but lacks to implement strategies to deal it immediately.
Open Access
Factors contrituting to overweight and obesity amongst secondary school learners in Lwamondo Village of Vhembe District, South Africa
(2016-02-10) Nedzingahe, Nyambeni Sarah; Akinsola, H. A.; Mashau, N. S.
Open Access
Factors influencing household solid waste management practices at Ha-Mandiwana Village, Makhado Municipality, South Africa
(2016-05) Mandiwana, Charity Mashudu; Mashau, N. S.; Akinsola, H. A.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Factors influencing occupational health and safety practices among farm workers at the University of Venda Farm
(2016-05) Mtengwa, G. R.; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A. K.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
The impact of the rehabilitation programme for cerebral palsy patients admitted into a care centre, Mopani, South Africa.
(2018-05-18) Ngoveni, Jamela; Akinsola, H. A.; Tshitangano, T. G.
Worldwide there are millions of children and adolescents with adisability. The United Nations Children’s Fund estimates the worldwide prevalence to be 150 million children under 18 years older, the World Health Organization also estimates that there are 93 million children with impairment. This study focused at describing the impact of rehabilitation programme for the young adult living with cerebral palsy admitted in a care centre Mopani District, South Africa. The study utilized a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional survey method. Data was collected using an observational check list. The target population is young adults’ aged 18- 35 yearswith cerebral palsy in a Care Centre. Sampling was not necessary in this study since the targeted population was small in number. Confidentiality of respondents’ information was maintained where study subjects wereidentifiedusing codes. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the results of the analysis are presented in the form of tables and charts to enhance clarity. The results are presented according to the objectives. The conclusion and recommendationswere made based on the findings. The study results show that there were more females than males (ratio 3:1) and the range of age distribution was 20 to 37 years. The study also finds out that cerebral palsy condition was accompanied by other complications such as blindness, mental retardation, epilepsy and hydrocephalus. The study indicated that rehabilitation can only have minimal effects but it can improve the quality of life of the patient. With regard to communication outcome of the rehabilitation programme it indicates progress following rehabilitation between 57% and 80% could use expressive language and follow basic instructions. The study also observed that patients made a steady improvement right through from those who spent 4 to 8 years to those who had been there for long, 15 years and above. Since cerebral palsy can affect motor development as well as social development, the rehabilitation seems beneficial to focus on intervention programme on the cognitive stimulation of children and young adults with cerebral palsy.
Open Access
The influence of family dynamics on adolescents deviant and sexual risk behaviour in a migration affected community in South Africa: an evidence for public health intervention
(2018-05-18) Anyanwu, Felix Chima; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A. K.
The well-being of adolescents’ population is a major concern to policy makers, educators and researchers all over the world. Research has shown that adolescents engage in deviant and risky sexual behaviour, and such behaviour may have consequences for their present or future health. Likewise, it has been shown that adolescents are also known to conform to societal norms if they are given proper guidance. In the light of this, the present study proposed to explore and explain the influence of family dynamics in the occurrence of adolescents deviant and sexual risk behaviour. This study involved a sequential explorative, descriptive and analytic mixed method design, combining both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The study was divided into three (3) phases. Phase 1 was purely qualitative in nature, where a total of 10 parents and 13 adolescents were engaged in an in-depth interview. Phase 2 was quantitative in nature, using a cross-sectional analytic design involving 388 adolescents, while Phase 3 was the development of a public health intervention to mitigate the influence of family dynamics on adolescent deviant and sexual risk behaviour. The qualitative data were analysed using thematic content analysis, while the quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. The Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, multinomial and binary logistic regression were used to compare differences between the dependent and independent variables. The level of statistical difference was set at p<0.05. Couple conflicts was a common finding in the study. In addition, many families suffered severe financial constraints and some parents were disconnected from their children physically, emotionally and financially (particularly the fathers). Adolescents claim that the age difference between them and their parents remains a barrier to communication, in addition, some participants claimed that they received little or no sex education from their parents. The present study found a high level of recent physical violence (30%), alcohol (52.9%) and drug use (10%) among participants. The level of sexual activity in this study was high, with 60.1% of the participants being sexually active and 23.1% having been pregnant. In addition, only 35.6% using condoms regularly. There was gender difference among participants on the following variables: cigarette smoking, teenage pregnancy and having multiple sexual partners. Furthermore, participants differed significantly across age group on the following variables: cigarette smoking, sexual activity, having friends who are sexually active, reported pregnancy and currently having iii a relationship. However, ‘relationship with mother’ was the family dynamic variable that recorded a wider effect on deviant and sexual risk behaviour. Furthermore, age, duration of stay in the community, living with siblings, relationship with mother, having enough money at home, being supported emotionally at home and parental love for each other, were predictors of deviant and sexual risk behaviour in the present study. There was also low level of risk perception and low level of skill for self-protection among the participants. As part of the objectives of the present study, the study findings were used to develop an evidence-based public health programme targeted at vulnerable adolescents and adolescents at high risk for deviant and sexual risk behaviour. It is hoped that this programme will be able to empower parents and caregivers to apply better parenting practices to forestall undue exposure of adolescents to factors that contribute to deviant and sexual risk behaviour. The present study demonstrated that although adolescents have the propensity for deviant behaviours, many may transit to adulthood without much adverse sequelae even in the face of harsh family social and economic adversities. However, a proportion of the adolescent population in this community remains vulnerable due to the effects of family de-structuring, poverty and unemployment.
Open Access
Inmates' perception of the factors contributing to human immunodeficiency virus transmission in Thohoyandou Correctional services in Limpopo Province
(2017-10-18) Radzilani, Tshilidzi Anna; Akinsola, H. A.; Mabunda, J. T.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Knowledge, attitude and practice of coal mineworkers pertaining to Occupational Health and Safety at the Leeuwpan Mine in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
(2018-09-21) Mavhunga, Khuthalo; Ramakuela, N. J.; Akinsola, H. A.
The occupational health and safety of coal mine workers is one of the major occupational challenges in the mining industry. Coal mine workers face the looming perils of potential falls of volatile rocks, the ergonomic challenges caused by bending and lifting heavy objects in their daily work, the challenges caused by inhaling coal mine dust which can cause coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP) and a plethora of other hazards in both underground and open cast mines on a daily basis. The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of coal mineworkers pertaining to occupational health and safety at the Leeuwpan mine in Mpumalanga province of South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative, cross sectional descriptive design. Self-reported questionnaires with closed-ended questions were administered to the eligible participants. The study targeted the 3200 coal mineworkers who were employed at the Leeuwpan mine in Lephalale. A sample of 356 mineworkers was used as derived from Slovin’s formula and data was collected over a period of 5 days at the Leeuwpan mine. Measures to ensure validity and reliability were ensured and ethical considerations were observed. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 was used to analyse the data. Results and recommendations are based on the findings of the study.
Open Access
Knowledge, attitudes and behaviour towards HIV/AIDS among youth in Namakgale Township in Mopani District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2017-09-18) Netshivhuyu, Gudani; Akinsola, H. A.; Goon, D. T.
Background: Young people in sub-Saharan Africa are most-at risk of HIV infection. This elevated risk in the young black population may be explained by the lack of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes towards the epidemic and risky sexual behaviours. Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and behaviour among youth towards HIV infection and to explore the possible aetiological factors associated with the youth’s vulnerability to HIV infection. Methods and materials: This survey adopted a descriptive, cross-sectional design and a quantitative approach.The survey population comprised of all youth aged 15-24 years visiting two Namakgale clinics. An expected sample of (n=152) youths was recruited through convenience sampling. Pretesting of the questionnaire was conducted on 15 youths at Mashishimale Clinic. Data was collected using self-completed questionnaire. The data was captured using Microsoft Excel and then analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 22. Results: Knowledge on HIV: The majority (77%) of the respondents could distinguish HIV and AIDS and had knowledge that HIV could cause AIDS. The majority of respondents (80%) had knowledge of how HIV was transmitted. The majority of the respondents, (84.9%) knew that HIV/AIDS could not be cured. However, misconceptions about HIV transmission still exist for example, 13.2 % of youth stated that mosquito bites could transmit HIV and whilst 22.4% believed that witchcraft could cause HIV. The main source of HIV information was television (89%). Attitudes towards PLHIV: About 82.9% disagreed that all PLHIV should live away from Namakgale while 72. 4% stated that if their relative had HIV they would care for them. Overall, Namakgale youth held positive attitudes towards PLHIV. Risky sexual behaviours: About 61.8% of females, compared to their male counterparts (38.2%) ever had sex. 61.8% of females compared to 50.0% of males have had sex before their 15th birthday. 36.5% have had 3-5 lifetime sexual partners in comparison to 29.6% of their female counterparts. 44.2% of males did not use condoms at last sex compared to their female counterparts (33.3%). iv Recommendations: There is an urgent need for intensifying awareness campaigns on HIV and AIDS as well as school-based interventions for youths who still harbour myths and misconceptions about HIV transmission. Policy makers and the media should focus more on late adolescents (15- 19 years) risky sexual practices such as intergeneration sex (age group between sexual partners is 10 years or more), transactional sex etc.
Open Access
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of caregivers on the disposal of soiled disposable nappies in the rural areas of Makhado Municiplity
(2016-05) Muthevhuli, Ranwedzi Paul; Akinsola, H. A.; Mabunda, J. T.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of University of Venda resident students regarding substance abuse, Thohoyandou, South Africa
(2013-12-10) Ajao, Babajide; Akinsola, H. A.; Tshitangano, T. G.;