http://hdl.handle.net/11189/1918 2026-08-12T10:52:45Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10633 Title: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for Accredited Public Administration Qualifications Authors: Van der Waldt, Gerrit; Fourie, David; Hendrickse, Rozenda; Nambalirwa Lubinga, Stellah Abstract: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) serves as a pivotal mechanism in facilitating access to education and training, particularly within the context of the South African Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) when accrediting Public Administration qualifications. However, the absence of standardised guidelines for Skills Development Providers (SDPs) in implementing RPL poses challenges in ensuring consistency and fairness in assessment processes. This article presents an empirical study aimed at uncovering potential guidelines for SDPs to conduct RPL assessments for credit against PSETA accredited Public Administration qualifications. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative data collection through interviews with quantitative analysis of RPL assessment outcomes. Participants include representatives from SDPs, PSETA, and learners who have undergone RPL assessments. Through thematic analysis and statistical techniques, the study identifies key challenges, best practices, and stakeholder perspectives regarding RPL implementation. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10632 Title: Dancing in diversity: towards a typology of South African LGBT nightclub consumers Authors: Hattingh, Chris Abstract: This study investigates the nuanced motivations, leisure behaviours, and preferences of postmodern LGBT nightclub consumers in South Africa through a quantitative approach. Using cluster analysis as a market segmentation technique, three distinct consumer segments were identified: Social Butterflies, Adrenaline Junkies, and LGBT Nightlife Aficionados. The emergence of these groups challenges the assumption of homogeneity within the LGBT nightclub market and highlights the importance of targeted marketing strategies. The findings demonstrate the limitations of a uniform approach and advocate for tailored campaigns that address the specific motivations, leisure behaviours and preferences of each consumer group. By offering a typology of LGBT nightclub consumers, the study provides practical insights for leisure and entertainment venue operators aiming to attract and retain a new generation of LGBT consumers. These insights have the potential to enhance competitiveness and foster customer loyalty within South Africa’s evolving nightlife landscape. In addition to its practical implications, the study contributes to the broader hospitality and leisure literature by illuminating the diversity within the LGBT community. It also calls for further research to explore the complexities of LGBT nightlife across different venues and regions. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10622 Title: Impact of informal human resource practices on employee outcomes in private tertiary education institutions Authors: Saruchera, Sibonginkosi; Gie, Liiza Abstract: This article examines the impact of informal human resource practices on academic turnover, performance deterioration, absenteeism, and a decline in employee development in private tertiary education institutions. It proposes a formal human resource management model for private tertiary education institutions based on a mixed-methods approach, through which the researcher concurrently collected quantitative data using a questionnaire and qualitative data using structured interviews. Combined purposive sampling and stratified sampling produced 171 academic questionnaire responses and eight human resources business partners' online interviews. The study found that career development and growth, working conditions and work-life balance, performance management and recognition, recruitment and selection, employee training and development, and remuneration contributed to the key challenges faced by private tertiary education institutions. Adopting a formal human resource management model may enhance academic performance, employee development, reduce absenteeism, and retain academic staff while improving their institutional reputation as both an employer and a preferred choice for students. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/11189/10621 Title: Chemopreventative potential of Salsola tuberculatiformis Botch and Compound A in the differential regulation of IL-1Ra:IL-1α in UVB exposed skin keratinocytes Authors: Magcwebeba, Tandeka; McEvoy, L.; Hayward, S.; Tait, T.; Quanson, Jonathan Luke; Kelbe, L.; Gelderblom, W.C.A.; Lilly, Mariska; Swart, Amanda C.; Swart, Pieter Abstract: Background: Salsola tuberculatiformis Botsch, commonly known as Gannabos, is a Namibian shrub known for its contraceptive properties in rats and its ability to modulate adrenal steroidogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. Due to the labile nature of the active compounds in the shrub, a more stable synthetic analogue, Compound A, was synthesized. This compound has demonstrated similar contraceptive and steroidogenic properties as the original extract from S. tuberculatiformis. Additionally, Compound A has shown potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects in skin, raising the question of whether the S. tuberculatiformis extract might exhibit similar properties. Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties of S. tuberculatiformis extract and Compound A, particularly their effects on UVB-induced inflammation, cell growth parameters, and oxidative status in HaCaT cells. Methods: The biological activity of S. tuberculatiformis extract and Compound A was assessed using a cytochrome P450 assay. Anti/pro-inflammatory effects were evaluated by measuring IL-1 α and IL-1Ra production using an ELISA assay. Additionally, the study monitored cell viability through ATP production, apoptosis via Caspase-3 activity, and oxidative stress using the DCFDA assay. Results: S. tuberculatiformis extract inhibited IL-1 α production at lower concentrations while increasing IL-1Ra at higher concentrations. This was associated with reduced cell viability and increased pro-oxidant (ROS) and pro- inflammatory activity (intracellular IL-1 α ). Compound A, on the other hand, reduced IL-1Ra and IL-1 levels by inducing apoptosis. However, at higher concentrations, Compound A significantly increased extracellular IL-1Ra levels and enhanced pro-apoptotic and pro-oxidant activity. The extract exhibited different anti-inflammatory effects compared to Compound A, as evidenced by the increased intracellular IL-1Ra: IL-1 α α ratio. Conclusion: The data suggest that S. tuberculatiformis acts as an anti-inflammatory agent at low concentrations by inhibiting intracellular IL-1 α production, while at higher concentrations, it regulates pro-inflammatory signaling through IL-1Ra. These anti/pro-inflammatory effects may have potential relevance in wound healing. Compound A displayed a novel indirect anti-inflammatory effect by removing inflamed and damaged cells via apoptosis and ROS production. The pro-oxidant activity of Compound A, potentially due to aziridine formation, appears to accelerate the progression of damaged cells into apoptosis. 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z