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A Critical Review of South Africa’s National Disability Policy: Are Higher Education Institutions Meeting the Mandate?
Emeldah C. Munjanja and Eleanor A. Hendricks
DOI: 10.15604/ejss.2024.12.02.001
Abstract
The South African government introduced the Disability Policy in 2015 to support the inclusion and rights of differently abled students in higher education. Despite these efforts, differently abled students continue to encounter significant barriers in higher education, calling into question the effectiveness of current policy implementation. This study examines the implementation of the Disability Policy at selected institutions in the Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Eastern Cape, to evaluate if the mandate is being fulfilled. Using a qualitative approach, fifteen differently abled students and five staff members from Disability and Student Counselling Units were selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews provided in-depth insights into the challenges and successes of policy implementation. Data was thematically analyzed, revealing persistent barriers such as inadequate staff training, insufficient resources, and a lack of clear guidelines within the policy. Additionally, some students hesitated to access support due to low awareness or stigma associated with disclosure. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive improvements, including policy reviews, increased budget allocations, and enhanced training for institutional staff on disability policy and inclusivity practices. The study advocates for a proactive, collaborative approach to ensure effective policy implementation, ultimately guiding policymakers on bridging the gap between policy and practice in South African higher education.
Keywords: Differently Abled Students, Higher Education Institutions, National Disability Policy Of South Africa, Disability Unit and Student Counselling Unit
Long Run Wealth Convergence Clubs in U.S. States: A Story of Growth Rates Not Levels
Gregory Brock and Vicente German-Soto
DOI: 10.15604/ejss.2024.12.01.002
Abstract
Whether convergence wealth clubs exist across U.S. states is the aim of this study with wealth being defined as either home equity or stock market holdings. Using the nonlinear econometric Phillips and Sul “log t test” method that permits multiple equilibria, overall wealth and stock market per capita wealth are found to β-converge in growth rates but not levels across a long period of time that includes the two main shocks to the U.S. economy since WWII. Per capita housing also exhibits convergence in growth rates but with several clubs of states that do not all converge and/or converge at quite different speeds. The control variables of per capita consumption and personal income converge in growth rates like convergence of Gross State Product found in the literature. More participation by households in the stock market, especially in states with low housing wealth is recommended to avoid lagging wealth levels in some states, especially in the middle class. As with per capita income, America is divided by wealth suggesting that if there were a new wealth tax it would fall disproportionally on a club of states but not all if the tax focused on housing wealth.
Keywords: Wealth Convergence, U.S. States, Home Equity, Stock Market Holdings, Multiple Equilibria
From ‘Administration’ to ‘Management’ of Development in South Africa: A Structural and Policy Perspective
Modupi Selepe and Kevin K. Meso
DOI: 10.15604/ejss.2024.12.02.003
Abstract
The paper endeavors to demonstrate why the multiples structural inequalities of South Africa’s economy continue unabated; and, why the socio-economic context of South Africa fails to demonstrate characterizations of having shifted from the age of colonial administration during apartheid to development management thinking and practice in a democratic state. The paper employs a heavy reliance on the conceptual approach to scientific research writing through utilizing secondary literature sources solicited through desktop analysis and survey. Published scientific journal articles, conference proceedings, doctoral thesis and government reports are the cornerstone for the literature review presented in this paper. It finds that the transition from development administration to development management is frustrated by a grim structural and planning heritage of South Africa, chiefly characterized by economic and financial exclusion which cuts across various socio-economic dimension of most rural and urban inhabitants of South Africa. The paper concludes that the realization of development management ideals in South Africa is contingent on appropriate policy design which will direct national, provincial and local government planning and service delivery efforts.
Keywords: Development Administration, Development Management, Financialization, South Africa
Responsiveness to the Changing Global Order Towards a Contemporary Workplace: Business Case for Menstruation Leave in South Africa
Mokgadi Ngoepe-Ntsoane
DOI: 10.15604/ejss.2024.12.02.004
Abstract
Gender inequality remains one of the most complex issues facing society today, particularly in the workplace. This is evident in challenges like low productivity and deficient performance, often perpetuated by male-dominated employers. Young women’s menstrual cycles contribute to difficulties such as physical pain, mood disorders, lack of concentration, and intimidation, leading to lower self-confidence and poor representation in job interviews. These factors create an environment of inferiority for many women. This study aims to assess how work environments can be reformed to improve performance and provide better working conditions for women. While efforts to reduce gender inequality have been made in recent years, significant disparities remain, particularly in developing countries, where decent and quality employment opportunities for women are scarce. The study addresses Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality and reports on a wider qualitative research project that explores menstrual leave policies globally through a desk-top study. The study is grounded in Bosadi Womanwood theory, which emphasizes the importance of individual experiences in creating knowledge. South Africa has yet to adopt a menstrual leave policy in the workplace. The study urges the South African government to consider such a policy, allowing women time off during menstruation. Results from the study aim to help policymakers reconsider frameworks based on objectification and ambivalent sexism, advocating for gender-responsive policy reforms in South Africa.
Keywords: Menstrual Leave, Menses, Periods, Complexity; Female Participation in the workforce; Menstrual Leave Policy
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