Search

Municipal waste management is a major challenge for local governments in South Africa and Namibia, as in other developing countries. The circular economy concept in waste management is an alternative sustainable development framework that has the potential to combat resource depletion, pollution, and poverty while achieving the SDGs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the current waste management systems in Langebaan and Swakopmund municipalities resulting from municipal policies, procedures, and practices in the context of a circular economy. A mixed method approach was used to collect qualitative and quantitative data through structured in-depth interviews, document analyses, and direct observation. The study found that the Langebaan and Swakopmund municipalities have not yet fully implemented the circular economy concept into their waste management systems. A mix of waste consisting of papers, plastics, cans, tyres, and organic products is dumped into landfills weekly at a rate of about 85%. The main challenges to implementing the circular economy concept include: lack of technical solutions, inadequate regulatory frameworks, insufficient financial resources, lack of private sector involvement, insufficient human resource capacity, and inadequate information and knowledge. A conceptual framework was therefore proposed to guide the municipalities of Langebaan and Swakopmund in implementing the circular economy concept in their waste management systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy has emerged as a promising solution to address the challenges of climate change, energy security, and socio-economic development. South Africa, with its abundant renewable energy resources, has made significant strides in the utilization of renewable energy over the past decade. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the progress of renewable energy advancement in South Africa, examining the policies, initiatives, and achievements in various renewable energy sectors. This study explores the country's transition from a heavily coal-dependent energy system to a diversified and sustainable energy mix. It analyses the growth of renewable energy technologies, such as wind power and solar photovoltaic (PV), highlighting the key milestones, challenges, and opportunities. Furthermore, this paper discusses the role of government support, regulatory frameworks, and private sector investments in driving renewable energy deployment in South Africa. Finally, it identifies the prospects and potential areas for further advancement in the renewable energy sector. This review aims to contribute to the understanding of South Africa's renewable energy journey and provides valuable insights for policy-makers, researchers, and stakeholders involved in the sustainable energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Africa, like many developing countries, procurement is seen and used as a strategic tool to promote socioeconomic development, including the promotion of competition, among other objectives. The South African commuter bus industry is structured to procure – through competitive tendering – SMMEs within the industry’s mainstream. These contracts are subsidized by the government – their origins date back to the 1940s – to ease the financial burden on black African communities. However, since its establishment, some challenges are hindering the effective procurement of these services, thus affecting the provision of these services. This paper highlights the challenges faced by Gauteng Province in the procurement of subsidised commuter services. The paper employs a mixed-methods research approach, and the research instrument was a face-to-face semi-structured interview questionnaire. Based on the findings of the study, Gauteng commuter bus industry operations are challenged with poor policy implementation, a lack of funds to support the industry’s operational needs, and a deficiency in administrative skills, among other challenges. The paper recommends that the Gauteng government revisit the guiding policies for the establishment of the industry and employ the best procurement practice(s) for this industry, considering the complex nature of South Africa (being influenced by the apartheid era and the government is faced with maintaining a balance between the blacks and the whites among citizens). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many stakeholders have severe concerns about providing curriculum support to schools. South African districts have minimal authority beyond planning and focusing objectives on district settings, but they are in charge of implementing all areas of educational operations, including curriculum, funds, and resources. Curriculum support has come under scathing criticism from teachers and principals who describe it as difficult and unsustainable. This paper aims to investigate challenges faced by curriculum advisors when offering curriculum support to schools in the Waterberg District in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. From a qualitative standpoint, coupled with the case study research design, this study used a purposive sample to select 15 (n = 15) participants. Data were collected through literature reviews and the application of semi-structured Key Informant Interviews and analysed using Thematic Analysis. Main findings of the study include (i) understaffing of curriculum advisors, (ii) heavy workloads, (iii) incompetence, (iv) a lack of skill and pedagogical training that are requisite for the task, and (v) a time constraint to handle curriculum challenges. This paper intends to consider the intervention strategies and responses of teachers, school principals and the Department of Basic Education to challenges faced by curriculum advisors in offering curriculum support to schools. This paper concludes that adequate operational resources should be made available since they can improve everyone's access to high-quality teaching and learning resources. It is recommended that adequate funding be made available to address the district's financial issues so that curriculum advisors can easily provide curriculum support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Widowhood in Africa presents unique challenges for women due to cultural and social factors. This paper discusses the challenges of widowhood in African contexts with a view that various social, cultural, legal, financial, and economic issues are at the centre of the challenges widows face in Africa. A thematic literature review was used to examine the multifaceted challenges faced by widows in African societies. Findings show that widows in Africa face multiple challenges, including limited healthcare access, property rights, social support, and harmful traditional practices, impacting their well-being across various dimensions. Cultural attitudes, legal barriers, resource constraints, limited awareness, and the complex interplay of these factors hinder effective interventions. The literature review also found that changing cultural norms, improving access to education and economic opportunities, and strengthening social protection systems are crucial steps towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for widows. The paper concludes that comprehensive and coordinated strategies are necessary to address these multifaceted challenges, including legal reforms, economic empowerment, awareness campaigns, and the provision of essential resources. Further, collaborative implementation of these strategies can promote gender equality, reduce poverty, and enhance the lives of widows in African countries. Further, there is a need for the urgency of comprehensive interventions and support systems to alleviate the hardships faced by widows in African societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All disease, but especially non-communicable diseases, are related to dysfunction of one or more regulatory systems. In developing countries, long-term management of patients with chronic diseases has many challenges and is generally not financially viable, but Africa in particular, which is rich in diverse ethnomedicines presents a more feasible long-term therapeutic approach in this niche. However, despite comprehensive preclinical investigations on numerous plant-derived candidate medicines, only a small portion of these reach the patient as recognised medicines. In this review, we use the example of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren)-which is globally consumed as aromatic, caffeine-free tea-to illustrate the hurdles that need to be overcome in the low-to middle-income countries, before progression of ethnomedicines to official treatment regimens can be achieved. In terms of methodology, regulatory system focused rooibos papers indexed on PubMed for the past three decades (n = 112) were accessed. Papers reporting duplication of previous results were excluded, as well as review papers. Topics covered includes the high standard of ethnomedicine drug discovery and efficacy testing research performed in Africa (and South Africa in particular in the case of rooibos), the potential bias in terms of preclinical research focus, ethnomedicine ownership and the requirement for independent clinical trial coordination and/or management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research studies as well as anecdotal evidence suggest that there are challenges regarding the NHI plan implementation. These include problems such as an increase in illnesses and a shortage of personnel to drive the project in South African public hospitals. This is exacerbated by the existing situation of most government-funded healthcare institutions, which are characterized by bad administration, insufficient budget, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient drug supply, as highlighted in several studies. The hospital under investigation is one such facility, with a history of patients sleeping on the floor and people being turned away owing to a shortage of experts and an overburdened staff. This situation is concerning, given that the government claims to be providing appropriate funds to the institution. The hospital under research is highly regarded by the surrounding community. However, a visit by the Health MEC in 2014 revealed that the facility had insufficient sanitary standards and a high complaint rate. Based on the foregoing, as well as the difficulties that both employees and patients are confronted with at the  selected hospital, the question that emerges is whether the hospital is fit for the implementation of the NHI.Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the preparation for the launch of the national health insurance scheme at a Johannesburg hospital.Setting: The study was conducted at a hospital situated in eastern suburbs of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.Method: The study employed a qualitative method with an explorative, descriptive, qualitative study design. The population consisted of selected hospital employees, such as doctors, dispensary officers, hospital managers, human resources workers, facility managers, and administration record officials who were employed at the selected hospital. Purposive sampling was used to select participants.Sample Size: Category saturation was used to determine the sample size. The participants for the study were chosen using purposeful sampling, with the researcher aiming for those who were familiar with the NHI scheme at the institution. Semi structured interviews and a focus group discussion were used to gather data. The data from the focus group discussion and semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.Results: The investigation found that the hospital was preparing to for the NHI implementation, but that was riddled with lack of resources, poor infrastructure, lack of training, delays in development and poor technological advances.Recommendations: The paper suggests that human resources be increased, infrastructure be upgraded, medicines and equipment be increased, and enough training on NHI implementation be provided.Contribution: The paper adds to the body of knowledge regarding the NHI in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective – This paper explores the challenges experienced by mathematics teachers and learners of seven high schools in South Africa. A mixed method approach involving interviews and questionnaires was used. Methodology – The sample included 7 principals or deputy principals, 7 departmental heads who supervised mathematics, 1 mathematics teacher who taught mathematics in grades 10 to 12, and 1 mathematics teacher who taught Mathematics in grades 8 and 9. In addition, 1 learner from each grade 8 to 12 was included in the sample. Each participant was interviewed using a structured interview schedule, followed by participants completing a questionnaire. Findings – Vygotsky's socio-cultural and conceptual development theories in mathematics education formed the basis of this study. The 'Inputs, Processes and Output" model of Howie and Kilpatrick's model of the five strands of achieving 'mathematics proficiency was adopted. We identified many systemic, societal, and pedagogical challenges that teachers and learners experienced, which affected their mathematics teaching and learning. Our findings correlated with research in the literature review. Novelty – The researchers concluded there were always intervention strategies that could assist in minimizing or eradicating the challenges faced by the teachers and learners of mathematics, thus improving their socio-economic standing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Policymakers and scholars universally accept and recognize the influence of small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs) on stimulating economic growth and job creation. To succeed and prosper, SMMEs need to establish a sound financial management function. Therefore, it is vital to investigate the financial challenges these firms are experiencing. The objective of this paper was to investigate possible challenges that SMMEs experience when applying for credit from banks. The study sought to answer the main research question - 'What challenges are encountered by SMMEs when applying for credit from banks?' The study adopted a qualitative research methodology. The population used in this research was derived from SMMEs and banking officials in the Vhembe District Municipality area. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample of 10 research participants. An interview guide was used to gather data from the participants. Data was analyzed using Atlas.ti. The results indicated that most SMMEs in the Vhembe district are not adequately supported, especially in the areas of financial resources, as well as in financial literacy skills and expertise. Specifically, this study identified that the credit application challenges faced by SMMEs are related to - lack of collateral security, lack of financial application education, complex bank credit access regulations, non-satisfaction of banks' qualifying criteria, as well as stringent credit system, and documentation requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Principals as crucial change agents are required to ensure that education changes are successfully implemented, and that school improvement takes place. This paper focuses on the challenges that principals experience regarding aspects within the education system. The qualitative approach and phenomenological design were utilized, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposely selected participants (13 principals). As national department, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa is strategically structured to service and support all the entities within the education system. The DBE places enormous pressure on principals to ensure that academic standards are met, quality teaching and learning takes place and that continuous education changes are implemented successfully. The importance of the education districts and Circuit Managers within the DBE to give continuous and relevant support is accentuated. This paper emphasizes that the challenges mentioned by the participants are ironically associated with aspects within the education system - the system that is supposed to support principals. Recommendations are made to the DBE to implement relevant strategies and planning through education districts and Circuit Managers to improve the indispensable support to principals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community reintegration of offenders is one of South Africa's methods of rehabilitating offenders who have served a portion of their sentence in a correctional centre. However, overcrowding in the rural correctional facilities that have limited resources have exposed the correctional officials to enormous work-related challenges. This paper discusses the work-related challenges experienced by correctional officials at Rooigrond Correctional Centre, a rural correctional centre in North West Province in South Africa. This study employed a qualitative research approach and a descriptive research design to capture the challenges experienced by correctional officials during reintegration of offenders at Rooigrond Correctional Centre. Due to the different ranks of the correctional officials who participated in the study, a quota sampling technique was used to involve ten correctional officials in face-to-face interviews. Thematic data analysis was used, which showed that correctional officials experience a plethora of challenges which have an impact on work and personal levels. This paper makes significant conclusions and recommendations to improve the work-related experiences of the correctional officials in overcrowded, low-resourced rural correctional facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South African land question have not been addressed by a current democratic government well known as a progressive government which come into power in 1994. This has resulted of having many challenges regarding land occupation and land use in South Africa. Especial on farm owner and farm-dweller's occupation rights. These tensions have caused an eviction of farm-dwellers by white farm-owners in South Africa. It has been well documented that eviction of farm-dwellers in many rural countryside is still taking place either illegally or legalized by rural magistrates using a common law. This paper will illustrate aftermath of eviction by tracing those who were being evicted between 1985 and1995 on what happened to them, where did they relocate after eviction and new livelihoods after eviction. Those were third to fourth generation after the promulgation of the 1913 Land Act. Again, it will also outlined challenges that have faced by farm-dwellers after eviction, new livelihoods after were being evicted, role of a land refrom program in assisting those farm-dwellers that were being evicted and why most of farm-dwellers after eviction still prefer to live in a farming area rather than communal areas or former homeland areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore and describe the challenges experienced by nurses caring for persons diagnosed with intellectual disability. Caring for persons with intellectual disability is understood be challenging for families. This could be worse for nurses due to the challenging behaviour the persons with intellectual disability present with. This may be exacerbated by the attitudes nurses have towards persons with intellectual disability. The researchers ask the following questions: "What are the challenges experienced by nurses caring for persons with intellectual disability?" We employed an exploratory-descriptive research design, using in-depth individual face-to-face interviews to explore the nurses' experiences. Using Tesch's method of open coding, two overarching themes emerged: (1) Care-related challenges and (2). Facilitation of a supportive, caring environment. The findings of the study demonstrate that the experienced challenges are related to the mental status of the persons diagnosed with intellectual disability, the therapeutic environment, shortage of specialized personnel and role ambiguity. Hence, the nurses yearn for a supportive environment that includes family support and support from the institution's management, including the provision of psychosocial support, which plays a pivotal role in achieving a safe, caring environment. The findings of this study could be used to develop strategies to facilitate a supportive, caring environment to minimize these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethical challenges of genetic counselling for schizophrenia include effective communication of critical scientific information in an easily understood manner by patients and relatives, and the ability to ensure communication is unencumbered by medical jargon. Levels of literacy in the target population may limit this process, making it difficult for patients to attain the desired levels of informed consent to make crucial decisions during genetic counselling. Multilingualism in target communities may further complicate such communication. This paper outlines the ethical principles, challenges and opportunities facing clinicians when conducting genetic counselling for schizophrenia and how these might be met, drawing on lessons from South African studies. The paper draws on reflections of clinician and researcher experiences gained from clinical practice or research on the genetics of schizophrenia and psychotic disorders in South Africa. The context of genetic studies in schizophrenia is used to illustrate the ethical challenges in genetic counselling for schizophrenia, both in clinical and research settings. Attention is also drawn to multicultural and multilingual populations, particularly where the preferred language lacks a well-developed scientific language of communication for some of the genetic concepts that have to be presented during the genetic counselling process. The authors describe the ethical challenges and how to address these to empower patients and relatives to make well-informed decisions despite these obstacles. Principles applied by clinicians and researchers during the genetic counselling are described. Potential solutions, including the establishment of community advisory boards to address potential ethical challenges inherent to the genetic counselling process, are also shared. Genetic counselling for schizophrenia still faces ethical challenges which require a balance of principles of beneficence, autonomy, informed consent, confidentiality and distributive justice, while striving to present accuracy in the science that guides the process. Evolution in language and cultural competency therefore needs to occur alongside scientific advances in genetic research. Key stakeholders need to partner and build capacity and expertise in genetic counselling through the provision of funding and resources. The goal of partnerships is to empower patients, relatives, clinicians and researchers to share scientific information in a manner guided by empathy while retaining scientific accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pragmatic changes existed within the regulatory structures and institutionsfor water resource management in South Africa since 1994. The paper examined the trajectory of agricultural water demand and supply, governance, conservation, and implication for extension services. Prominent institutional repositories were consulted for this review including scientific materials obtained from the online library of various universities by engaging in Online Public Access CatLog (OPAC), Cat Plus and Digital Collections, and numerous scientific papers and grey literatures. However, the study answered the following questions:(i) Are there water demand and supply issues in South Africa? (ii) What are the water conservation approaches used in South Africa? (iii) What are the implications of water management for agricultural extension service in South Africa? The review nurtures government confidence in ameliorating management issues and recommended changesto address the financial, environmental, and capacity limitations inherent in water sector. Though the sector has witnessed considerable improvement since 1994, the performance of the sector in relation to its objectives have not been encouraging. The distribution of water for agriculture and industrial uses are still highly uneven with vagueness and lack of transparency with respect to institutional roles and responsibilities. The paper, therefore, endorse the up skilling of farmers to minimizing the negative environmental impacts of irrigation, reducing the production cost, and enhance the sustainability of irrigated farming in South Africa. Government and extension should do more to support and conscientize farmers towards appropriate irrigation systems aimed at minimizing water losses. There is a need for sustained efforts to manage existing water infrastructures by all stakeholders for the benefit of the farming communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing learner-on-teacher violence remains a severe challenge to school management Teams worldwide. School violence is a worldwide challenge, and it also seems to be getting worse in South Africa, where it is not sufficiently reported or addressed. Thus, this study aims to explore School Management Teams' perspectives on the challenges of addressing learner-on-teacher violence in selected South African secondary schools. The paper adopted the Invitational Leadership theory to guide and interpret the findings. A qualitative research approach was used to understand leadership challenges in addressing learner-on-teacher violence in secondary schools. Eight participants were purposively selected for the study. The data was generated through one-on-one semi-structured interviews with principals, Heads of Departments, and teachers. The findings revealed that the challenges SMTs face when addressing learner-onteacher violence include inadequate policies, lack of parental involvement, insufficient Department of Basic Education support, and lack of support from other stakeholders. Therefore, this paper recommends that the Department of Basic Education capacitates SMTs in reviewing policies and supporting them in implementing them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows how four major challenges in the ocean economy is linked to the 15 global challenges and the sectors that are influenced by these challenges. The ocean is becoming a focal point in the discourse on growth and sustainable development, both at national and international levels. Human aspirations and economic growth exert pressure on the ocean and the marine ecosystem and, therefore, constitute challenges for sustaining growth and ocean economy development. This conceptual paper analyses definitions of the ocean economy, the ocean economy's contribution toward world economic growth, the 15 global challenges, and specific challenges in the South African ocean economy. Four critical challenges are highlighted, firstly, pollution, which includes environmental disasters such as oil spills and dumping at sea, secondly, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, thirdly, climate change and, finally, disease events. As both private and public sectors should address these challenges, this research identifies possible reform measures for further consideration by these sectors to find possible solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transdisciplinary research has gained traction globally for mapping pathways for sustainable urbanisation. The involvement of local communities is believed to central to knowledge co-production needed to address sustainability challenges. But working with local communities can be challenging. This paper is structured around the authors' personal reflections on undertaking transdisciplinary household energy conservation projects in Ghana and South Africa. The paper reflects on the assumptions and challenges of doing transdisciplinary research in urban Africa and suggests some guidelines for consideration when doing transdisciplinary projects. An inductive analysis of our reflections showed five key challenges: lack of integration, divergent problem identification, tensions in knowledge co-production, asymmetrical power relations, and distrust and managing expectations. We draw on our collective experiences to develop guidelines for conducting transdisciplinary research in urban Africa. These guidelines are not prescriptive but can be useful for a growing and broader audience interested in undertaking transdisciplinary research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to examine the challenges of remote learning that were faced by students in four rural institutions of higher learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It is well documented that in South Africa as well as globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the teaching and learning in higher institutions of education. A call was made by the Department of Higher Education and Training that mandated universities to adopt remote learning to save the academic year. That call was a blanket statement that did not consider the context of different universities, given the inequalities that existed prior to the outbreak of COVID-19 between the historically disadvantaged universities and the well-established ones. The study adopted a qualitative approach that made use of a desktop research methodology, as well as the media (Television, radio and newspapers), and social media as sources of data gathering to document the challenges. One of the key findings was that some students studying at rural institutions of higher learning experienced challenges of limited skills as well as the convenience of and access to technology and other tools of trade. The paper concludes that such students were proposing that, 'we are together but not together". The root of such grievance is that they were grossly affected by the geographical and historical position of the universities they were enrolled at and the situation was deepened and exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper recommends the equal redistribution of resources especially to previously disadvantaged Black universities. The paper further recommends that the Department of Education introduce online learning to students from as early as high school so that there will be continuity and ease in remoting learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper seeks to illustrate the propinquity between mobile phone technology and the profitability of immigrant entrepreneurs’ businesses and whether there is a positive effect. The outcome should ascertain if mobile technology could be propounded as a credible source of competitive advantage. The paper uses a qualitative approach, using content analysis as the research design tool. Data analysis was done through the conceptual content analysis approach. Various online databases such as EBSCOhost, Google scholar, JSTOR, and Science Direct were accessed for literature. Different terms (keywords) such as; “Mobile phone technology”, “mobile marketing”, and “mobile payment” were searched. The data collected through a systematic literature review were compiled, analysed, and generated conclusions. This paper deduces that immigrant entrepreneurs stand to gain a competitive edge by using mobile phone technology, thereby improving business performance. Future researchers need to expand the scope of their study to other sectors and industries globally. The paper exhibits the significance of apps and websites as mobile technology tools that can positively impact business performance. This paper outlines how mobile technology is now an essential catalyst in the performance of various business sectors. Results are essential to app and website developers, entrepreneurs and the business society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small-scale commercial farming has been recognised as a congruent strategy for local economic development. However, there are entrepreneurial challenges that are aggravated by the state of the economy, natural factors and weak agrarian edification system limiting growth in this sector. The fact that small-scale commercial farming is prioritized in the development agendas of the majority of African nations reflects how important it is in promoting food security and job creation. A number of agronomic limitations, including a limited farming entrepreneurship skill, severe climate change, drought, limited access to cash, and water shortages, have been recognized as major obstacles to the growth of smallscale commercial farming. As a result, the study presents the obstacles to entrepreneurship and small-scale commercial farmers in South Africa's rural areas. Two hundred and seventeen small-scale commercial farmers were chosen using a multi-stage sample technique. Quantitative data were collected through a survey in which structured questionnaires were used. Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 26 and Microsoft Excel version 2016 software were used as data analysis tools. Friedman means ranking technique was used to categorize the challenges in ascending order. Pearson chi-square was used to determine the relationship between the variables. The computed results revealed that financial, water, access to the market, crops and animal diseases were the most prevalent challenges. Subsequently, these farmers have poor financial management, marketing, packaging, cross-breeding and human management skills and this is exacerbating the challenges faced. Based on the results of this investigation, the paper recommends that the establishment of training programmes to improve entrepreneurship skills should be offered to these farmers, depending on the type of farming. Agricultural policies should be based on current evidence and should also be based on regular assessments. This improves the readjustment of relevant policies for the development of small-scale commercial farming. The study recommends that building of strong government intervention, farming stakeholder participation in policy formulation and adequate support for small-scale commercial farmers' schemes in rural areas should be prioritised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper addresses the challenges and prospects of universities of technology as research institutions in South Africa. Currently, universities of technology have suffered a great deal of polarity in terms of academic works and research quality. Ideas, innovations, and trajectories from such institutions are not received with the same energy and vitality as those from traditional universities. While one can attribute the laxity thereof to the historical development of the universities of technology, mainly starting as Technikons and teaching universities, one cannot categorically assume that this is the entire reason for such a lack of enthusiasm for studies emanating from such institutions. Nowadays, universities of technology engage in as much research as traditional universities as they also have centers, directorates, and units overseeing the administration and management of research. Using the Durban University of Technology as a case study, through interviews with research focus area leaders and strategic members of the institution’s research and innovation section, the study investigates the possible challenges of research administration and management as a potential challenge to understand the necessary areas for improvement and the prospects that lie within research outputs in universities of technology by suggesting new research management strategies. Four themes emerged from the study: improving the administrative support system, insufficient financial resources, institutional attitude to research culture, and inadequacies in postgraduate enrolment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Local Action Group approach has gained recognition in South Africa in the last decade as a solution to rural development challenges. Although rural development has shown relative success in the Eastern Cape Province, poverty remains a major concern. Yet, the challenges hindering the success of these groups as a facilitator of rural development are not well documented. Thus, the goal of this study is to document the challenges facing Local Action Group initiatives in the small-scale agribusiness and non-farm enterprise sectors and provide context-based solutions. The paper took a mixed methods approach, using purposive and snowball sampling techniques to select 400 households. Questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides were concurrently utilised to collect data. The results show that financial inadequacy, lack of markets, lack of community cooperation, drought and lack of business management skills. Thus, there is need for upscaling stakeholder mobilisation and instilling a sense of project ownership and cooperation among community members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Socioloski Pregled is the property of Srpsko Sociolosko Drustvo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the past few years, South Africa has experienced an enormous increase in the amount and types of illicit drug manufacturing, distribution and use. This has resulted in an increase in the burden of crime and health risks in the community. The patterns of drug availability and drug use have been linked to regional and country variations, socio-economic status, racial and geographical differences. Because of the dramatic increase in the availability of various illicit drugs, identified South Africa as one of the drug centres of the world. This raises concerns about whether law enforcement agencies perform their functions effectively. This paper focuses on the illicit drug networks that hinder the effectiveness of law enforcement in South Africa. The modus operandi (MO) used to produce and smuggle illicit drugs and the challenges experienced by law enforcement to prevent and combat illicit drugs will be discussed. The data was collected through in-depth interviews with experts within the Criminal Justice System (CJS) in South Africa. The study conducted in 2017/2018 in terms of the scientific measurements, has adopted a qualitative approach. Data was collected from a target population consisting of 11 South African Police Service (SAPS) drug-related crime experts, including members of the SAPS specialised detectives of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), crime intelligence members, border police, the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) and commanders at ports of entries. A documentary study was used as a secondary method of data collection. Data obtained from interviews were analysed by identifying common themes from the respondents' descriptions of their experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical informatics has enormous potential to ensure healthcare quality in both developed and developing countries. This paper examines the status and challenges of clinical informatics in the South African health care sector, In a recent survey of major international research databases such as Scopus, it was observed that there is a gap in knowledge on clinical informatics particularly as related to the status and challenges in the country's healthcare facilities . The current status and challenges of clinical informatics in South Africa has not been examined. The present study explores the the current status of clinical informatics in the South African healthcare system as well as the challenges facing the development of clinical informatics in South Africa. Through a literature review, the paper provides a conceptual background of clinical informatics, discusses the status and challenges of clinical informatics in South Africa. The last part of the paper discusses the implications of the reviewed literature through a PEST analysis. The paper provides invaluable information on clinical informatics in South Africa that can be used to inform and support further studies in this growing field. The paper is a contribution to discussions and debates on the development of social informatics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acceleration of access to information through the provision of library and information services to rural communities is recognised with much appreciation by the library and information services (LIS) sector in South Africa. As more community libraries are being built and public libraries refurbished, it becomes important to investigate whether these library and information service centres meet the information needs of the communities they serve. This paper is a report of a qualitative and quantitative study that investigated the prospects and challenges for public and community libraries in Limpopo Province, South Africa. For data collection, a questionnaire with closed- and open-ended questions was distributed to staff in selected public and community libraries in Limpopo Province to complete. The study revealed that most of the challenges to the provision of access to library and information services in Limpopo Province are related to outdated and irrelevant materials, small buildings, lack of databases, insufficient internet access and connectivity, as well as lack of materials for people living with disabilities. It seems, therefore, that there are information needs that cannot be met by even newly established and improved libraries and information service centres. Studies of this nature in the country will make it possible to propose possible solutions and strategies for the future improvement of LIS, especially for future implementation of the national LIS policy for South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various factors such as socio-cultural conditions, geographical area and infrastructural development can inhibit access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). The aim of this paper is to report on the challenges that women in Pretoria encounter when accessing ICTs. The paper presents the results of a case study that was conducted in order to explore the challenges that women-owned Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) encounter. A qualitative research approach was followed in order to understand the challenges faced by women in the SMME sector. The findings of the study revealed that women were interested in using ICTs and that the main challenge that inhibited them from using ICTs was related to finance. Recommendations are provided to advice on how the challenges identified in the findings can be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the paper is to identify and analyse the needs and challenges of the new generation of first-year students in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa. The objective of the paper is to establish what these needs and challenges are, and how lecturers in this faculty could support and guide the students in order to enhance student learning and in so doing, improve the students' chances at success in their study careers. The theoretical framework of this paper draws on the views of Maslow (1954 & 1970), Rogers (1970, 1983, 2003) and Monteith (1996). These theorists maintain that students need a number of different knowledge bases that they can access and integrate to help them reach their educational goals. They need to know about themselves as learners, about the nature and requirements of different learning or educational tasks, and about a variety of study skills and learning strategies. It is hoped that the analysis and the findings from the research presented in this paper will contribute to a better understanding of the needs that the new generation of students have, and that the recommendations made will provide new ways in which the students could be assisted and guided in the learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study advances research and practice related to adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of South Africa (SA). The study evaluated AI adoption by South African manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs); established the challenges faced by manufacturing SMEs in adopting AI; and developed a framework for adopting AI for manufacturing SMEs' growth and survival. The study adopted a systematic literature review approach. Articles from Scopus and Google scholar databases, ranging from the years 2018 to 2024, were used. Of the 206 articles found, 54 were shortlisted. The systematic review analysis was performed using the PRISMA framework. The results identified AI adoption by South African manufacturing SMEs is low, limiting their innovation and productivity. The results also show, despite the numerous benefits AI adoption can offer manufacturing SMEs in the country, a major constraint is the lack of a framework to enhance adoption and implementation. Hence, this study was conducted to develop a framework to improve AI adoption by South African manufacturing SMEs. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge and provide new insights to manufacturing SME owners/managers, policymakers and practitioners into AI adoption to enhance manufacturing SMEs' ability to compete on the global stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Africa is richly endowed with rock art but interest in its conservation has not been given much priority. The country has been slow in developing adequate and effective conservation protocols due to lack of research interest in conservation. There are three main challenges that affect the conservation of rock art: 1) absence of coherent monitoring systems for conservation interventions; 2) lack of local expertise in rock art conservation; and 3) limited financial resources for conservation leading to an over-reliance on donor funding. In this paper we draw from the 'Four Rock Art Sites Conservation Project' a Rock Art Research Institute initiative funded through the US Ambassadors fund for Cultural Preservation, and outline how these challenges have plagued conservation practice in South Africa. We highlight the positive outcomes of the project and propose recommendations' for conservation management in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In South Africa's diverse population, queer voices emerge as change agents, proposing new and critical solutions to reform sexual and reproductive healthcare services in the pursuit of inclusivity and equality. Our research aimed to explore and describe queer individuals' perceptions and solutions for promoting sexual-reproductive healthcare services and needs (SRHSN) in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Methodology: An explorative-descriptive study was performed for this research. A total of 22 queer individuals was recruited using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) within a queer-inclusive non-governmental organization (NGO) clinic in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Semi-structured interviews and an interview guide were utilized to collect data using English. Thematic content analysis was applied using NVivo 14. Results: Four main themes and related sub-themes were revealed from the study including the creation of healthcare equity for queer individuals, empowering and supporting healthcare providers (HCPs) to enhance skills, knowledge, and expertise, raising awareness on queer-related issues, and different stakeholders' involvement. Conclusion: As we navigate South Africa's complex landscape of SRHSN for queer individuals, the crucial opinions and solutions offered by queer people not only challenge the status quo but also reveal an approach to a better, more equitable, empathetic, and accommodating healthcare system for everyone. Future studies should ensure the inclusiveness of queer individuals with the interest of improving their health not just for research outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with challenges of implementing blockchain (BC) technology in maritime at developing countries, with a research focus on Montenegro and South Africa. Research design and categories analyzed in the paper are chosen due to the search of relevant secondary literature resources. Selected experts in Information Technology (IT) and maritime from aforementioned developing countries were asked about their perception of BC as disruptive technology, its implementation, and implications on maritime and other industries, through a questionnaire, which contains both quantitative and qualitative parts. The results should give the readers insights into the experts' standpoints concerning rational blockchain adoption in maritime and other industries in developing and transitional economies. The paper is organized into six sections: (1) introduction, (2) literature review on blockchain in maritime, (3) research problem and design, (4) results, (5) discussion, and (6) conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: There is limited literature on the challenges encountered during household surveys on alcohol consumption in low- and middle-income countries. This paper aims to describe the problems encountered during data collection for the IAC study in South Africa and put forward recommendations for addressing identified challenges.Methods: Data on methodological and other challenges emerged from feedback sessions held with fieldworkers, supervisors, observations made of and follow up meetings with project investigators, based on the pilot and main study of 2844 adults and adolescents in Tshwane (South Africa).Results: Challenges identified included the following: delays in software development which resulted in postponement of data collection with subsequent budgetary implications; difficulties in identifying the full range of alcohol beverages during the adaptation of the questionnaire as manufacturers sometimes changed quantities and packaging to enhance sales; a resultant lengthy questionnaire which negatively impacted on participation; potential participants sometime being afraid to allow fieldworkers onto premises due to high crime rates in many participating areas and religious beliefs concerning alcohol consumption that prevented some parents from consenting to their adolescent children’s participation.Conclusion: When planning community surveys on alcohol use, it is important to anticipate and prepare for these and other challenging conditions that arise in the preparation for, and execution of fieldwork. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This qualitative study explored the challenges faced by social workers delivering trauma-related services (TRS) in the resource-limited Waterberg District, Limpopo, South Africa. Using a phenomenological design guided by the ecosystem and trauma-informed perspectives, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 experienced social workers. Data analysis followed Tesch’s eight steps, with data verification per Lincoln and Guba’s model. The findings highlighted the need for trauma-informed organisational structures and workforce support in the Waterberg District, advocating for integrating trauma informed principles into policies and procedures to enhance professional effectiveness and capacity for service delivery to trauma victims. The findings further underscored the urgent necessity for improved training and education for social workers to tackle issues related to trauma adeptly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a sequel to a 2004 article that reviewed South Africa’s introduction of new sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights laws, policies and programmes, a decade into democracy. Similarly to the previous article, this paper focuses on key areas of women’s SRH: contraception and fertility, abortion, maternal health, HIV, cervical and breast cancer and sexual violence. In the last decade, South Africa has retained and expanded its sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) policies in the areas of abortion, contraception, youth and HIV treatment (with the largest antiretroviral treatment programme in the world). These are positive examples within the SRHR policy arena. These improvements include fewer unsafe abortions, AIDS deaths and vertical HIV transmission, as well as the public provision of a human papillomavirus vaccine to prevent cervical cancer. However, persistent socio-economic inequities and gender inequality continue to profoundly affect South African women’s SRHR. The state shows mixed success over the past two decades in advancing measurable SRH social justice outcomes, and in confronting and ameliorating social norms that undermine SRHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The right to health is enshrined in the South African Constitution as well as a range of international and regional human rights treaties which South Africa accepts. Yet empirical data reveals some of the challenges faced by South African youth--childhood diseases, HIV/AIDS and such like. There are evidently challenges realising the right to health in practice. Nevertheless, South African courts have led the international field in recognising the justiciability of economic and social rights such as the right to health. Having reviewed the applicable laws and jurisprudence, the paper will conclude that a more holistic human rights-based approach offers perhaps the best way forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin and development of counselling psychology in South Africa has been profoundly influenced by the country's sociopolitical history and the impact of apartheid. As a result of this, counselling psychologists in the country face a number of challenges and opportunities for the future. In this paper we provide a portrait of counselling psychology in South Africa by describing the current character of the specialty and the context in which South African psychologists work. We critically discuss the challenges that the specialty faces to meet the country's mental health care needs, contest the current Scope of Practice; affirm multiculturalism without essentialising or reifying race and ethnicity, and build an evidence base for community interventions in the country. We also consider how, in the future, counselling psychologists in South Africa may make a more meaningful contribution within public health and the country's health care and education systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this research is to explore the challenges being encountered when applying and implementing fair value accounting requirements, focusing specifically on the determination of fair value per International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 13: Fair value measurement (IFRS 13) in the South African capital market. Design/methodology/approach: Data are collected from 20 detailed interviews, primarily with preparers and interpretively analysed to identify how individuals internalise the requirements of IFRS 13 and the challenges associated with its application. The researchers focus specifically on South Africa because of its status as a developing economy and, at the same time, its extensive experience in applying IFRS. Findings: South African preparers appear reluctant to change from a conventional cost-based measurement approach to one grounded in fair value. Primary concerns include the perceived usefulness of fair value accounting and its conceptual appropriateness, given its perceived de-emphasis of the traditional stewardship role of financial reporting. Related challenges to the application of IFRS 13 include concerns about the cost of determining fair value; the inherent subjectivity of fair value measures and the practical difficulty of calculating fair values when markets are not efficient or where business environments are complex and dynamic where Level 1 inputs are not widely available for all assets and liabilities. These challenges encourage preparers to choose accounting policies, which minimise the use of fair value or apply the provisions of IFRS 13 legalistically. Research limitations/implications: Data are collected from a group of respondents from a single developing economy. Additional research on the application of IFRS 13 in other developing markets will be required to conclude on the relevance of economic, cultural and social factors for the understanding and implementation of new accounting standards by practitioners. Practical implications: Standard setters and regulators cannot assume that new accounting standards will be interpreted and applied as intended. Even when compliance with IFRS is mandatory, preparers have considerable discretion when it comes to operationalising accounting prescriptions. Unless the challenges raised by preparers are addressed, misapplication of IFRS is likely to continue. Originality/value: The research makes an important empirical and practical contribution by providing primary evidence on the operationalisation of IFRS 13 in a novel setting. It complements earlier research which has focused primarily on the conceptual/theoretical dimension and on American and European perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Africa, racial prejudices and cultural insensitivity affect and define relationships. These socialforces constitute enormous challenges and present immense barriers to non-relative child fostering and protection. This paper reports findings of a doctoral study that adopted a qualitative approach to explore the experiences of foster parents caring for non-relative foster children in De Deur, Gauteng Province, South Africa. A sample of 20 non-relative foster parents who fostered children from another cultural or racial group was purposively selected from the caseload of Vereeniging Child and Family Welfare Society, De Deur satellite office. Data was collected using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. The findings indicated that the foster parents experienced stigmatisation and discrimination; undue external interference; rejection and isolation and care scrutiny and suspicion. The study concluded that negative public perceptions and attitudes towards non-relative foster parents are pervasive. They have not been properly dealt with in the South African context and undermine the concept of 'Ubuntu'. These could result in resentment and hamper relationship building between foster parents and foster children. Deliberate positive government policy intervention and social engineering is recommended for attitude and behaviour change in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of Physical Science education in rural South African schools is a matter of significant concern, particularly in the context of the country's development goals aimed at uplifting education standards in these areas and nurturing a more skilled workforce. Physical Science plays a pivotal role in enhancing scientific literacy across the nation. This qualitative study, framed within Vygotsky's sociocultural theory, sought to identify the challenges faced by Physical Science educators in improving Grade 12 results in rural schools in Vuwani. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and classroom observations involving a purposive selection of ten Physical Science educators from among 49 schools within the district. Thematic analysis was applied to the collected data, yielding insightful interpretations. The findings, primarily from interview responses, reveal that Physical Science educators in Vuwani grapple with various challenges. These challenges encompass resource scarcity, excessive workloads, inadequate support from school management teams (SMT), insufficient training when curricula change, overcrowded classrooms, and suboptimal learning environments. This study underscores the importance of fostering collaborative partnerships between schools, local communities, and business sectors. In particular, it recommends that businesses extend their support to rural schools, addressing infrastructure deficiencies and resource shortages. Such collaborative initiatives between government entities and businesses can enhance the overall quality of education in rural areas, ultimately mitigating the skills deficit and contributing to the nation's socioeconomic development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biggest challenge that micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) face in order to become successful is access to microfinance, particularly microcredit. However, that is not the only challenge they face. The article looks at the current landscape of MSMEs in South Africa and some of the challenges they face preventing their success. It considers current consumer-credit legislation and points out that it is not sufficiently supportive of improving the microcredit environment. It highlights the need to reform current credit legislation and other relevant legislation. It argues that better coordination between various South African government agencies is required. It also briefly considers whether the solution is to simply amend existing consumer-credit legislation and accompanying legislation or to rather create a single microcredit-specific statute. The article in essence examines the advantages and disadvantages of a single statute versus a concerted effort applying the statutory provisions in harmony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The South African government has increased its support to historically disadvantaged universities in recent years. One of the major foci of this support is to increase research output. Despite these efforts, there is growing evidence to suggest that research output in rural based universities is still low. Ironically, the factors hindering research progress in these universities not clearly understood. Based on this notion, this paper focused on exploring the factors inhibiting progress of research students at the University of Venda, which is one of the Rural-based higher learning institutions in South Africa. A mixed research approach involving case study and survey designs was followed. Respondents were selected using a stratified sampling technique. Data were collected using semi-structured interview guides and questionnaires. Qualitative data were analyzed using Atlas ti version 8 software techniques such as networks and primary document tables. While the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, IBM) 25 was utilized to analyze quantitative data. Results reflected numerous issues categorized into 3 major factors. Lack innovation and motivation, self-management, confidence, research skills, and peer influence were students' related factors that deter progress. Poor research background, lack of supervisory skills, conflicting opinions, poor incentives, poor communication skills, work load, and ignorance were supervisory related factors that immerged, while lack of students funding for research, limited workshops and conferences, poor facilities, rigid policies guiding claims of research funds, poor supervisory rewards were among the structural factors that affects academic research students. The study recommends a review of the existing pedagogy, and periodic workshop on research skills training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Africa and Ukraine share similar challenges for staff in the healthcare sector. Health care workers in South Africa have borne the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic whereas in Ukraine health care workers, amidst the war have had to show valour and a tough spirit in caring for their patients under very trying circumstances. Arising from the above tragedies, health care workers have shown incredible bravery both in Ukraine and in South Africa, however they display extreme burn out. In Ukraine, nurses are working in the conflict zone and have to manage complex patient mental and physical health issues. Some have even been subjected to violence from traumatized patients. This article assesses the healthcare situation both in Ukraine and South Africa and provides a descriptive report utilizing The Swanson’s theory of caring. The elements of Swanson’s theory consisting of maintaining belief, knowing, being with, doing for, and enabling can be linked to characteristics such as supporting patients and colleagues, being sensitive, affectionate and empathetic while feeling a sense of responsibility towards the department and patients. The study, based at selected South African public central hospitals in two provinces, adopted a descriptive exploratory paradigm. Qualitative techniques were used to administer an interview schedule to 322 frontline participants. The results revealed that despite high commitment levels, the participants still faced challenges that impact their daily work life. The study conducted in South Africa on Quality of Work life (QWL) experiences of frontline healthcare workers leaves recommendations for the Ukrainian health care sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe problems of climate change, inequality, poverty, and unemployment have compelled the South African government to pass legislation that introduced programmes aimed at achieving energy security, promoting economic development, and realising environmental protection. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme objective is to increase the share of renewable sources in the national energy mix, deliver jobs and economic empowerment for black communities (Africans, Coloureds, and Indians) and cut harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Independent power producers (IPPs) must demonstrate that their projects contribute to job creation and broad-based black economic empowerment during the bidding process. To date, studies suggest that IPPs are missing this government target. This study investigated this phenomenon through face-to-face interviews with key informants involved in the IPP process at two solar parks in Limpopo province. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse and interpret the field notes. Findings reveal that the process of involving local communities in the governance of the IPP process is highly fragmented, leaving room for powerful stakeholders to thrive over vulnerable community members. The lack of monitoring by the government IPP office enables a prominent not-for-profit organisation to abscond from its responsibility of setting up a community trust for the benefit of local residents. Also, limited skills in the local communities mean that young people are employed in low-paying construction jobs that end after project commissioning. Lack of awareness and knowledge about IPP commitments made during the bidding process are responsible for the ‘wait and see' approach of local leaders and community members. In the short-term, awareness and capacity-building interventions for local leaders and community members are urgently required to conscientise beneficiaries. It is imperative to create a participatory governance framework that prioritises vulnerable stakeholders as a long-term solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academics must be encouraged to reflect on their teaching, to apply new pedagogies to support student learning and to report on the results of these actions, which really forms part of programmes relating to Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). However, there seems to be resistance among some academics to get involved in these programmes due to fear of change or discrimination. The purpose of this article is to highlight the perceptions of four academics from different engineering fields towards such a programme from a University of Technology in South Africa. A qualitative study is employed where a focus group interview was used to gather data which are correlated to the SoTL unicycle detailed in the article. A benefit of joining an SoTL programme includes ‘developing a teaching action plan’ while a key challenge relates to time concerns. An implication may be to stimulate awareness among non-participating academics about what an SoTL programme really engenders. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

It has been discovered that pre-service teachers who teach Business Studies (BS) as one of the Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) subjects in South African schools during teaching practice (TP) do not get enough assistance from their mentor teachers as they ought to because they are overloaded with much teaching work at this time. Therefore, the study aims to explore the different trajectories that pre-service teachers take in their preparation for teaching Business Studies, the challenges 4th-year pre-service teachers who specialize in EMS subjects encounter, how they overcome them, and how these trajectories impact their teaching practice experience. Six fourth-year pre-service teachers who taught Business Studies in Grades 10 and 12 were selected for the study to reflect on their experiences during teaching practice; hence, reflection was used as the data source for the study. Experiential learning theory was used as the lens of the study. At the same time, the interpretivism paradigm was adopted to understand individual pre-service experiences. A case study was used as the design, and thematic analysis was adopted to analyze the data generated. The study found that pre-service teachers who teach BS during TP face challenges such as a lack of Learning and Teaching Support Materials (LTSM), being assigned too much work to do, and the fact that BS has too much content to teach. Despite the challenges, these pre-service teachers were creative enough to develop solutions, like designing posters without teaching resources and using practical examples to explain content for better understanding and parental involvement in class decisions such as discipline. The research question was "How can pre-service teachers who teach Business Studies during TP mitigate challenges encountered"? With two objectives; identifying the challenges pre-service encountered in teaching BS while on TP and exploring how pre-service teachers who taught BS while on TP mitigated the challenges faced. Overall, the study seeks to contribute to improving the quality of Business Studies education in South Africa by providing insights into the preparation and experiences of pre-service teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]